Journal Description
Materials
Materials
is an international peer-reviewed, open access journal on materials science and engineering published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Portuguese Materials Society (SPM), Spanish Materials Society (SOCIEMAT) and Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES) are affiliated with Materials and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Ei Compendex, CaPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, Astrophysics Data System, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering) / CiteScore - Q2 (Condensed Matter Physics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Materials.
- Companion journals for Materials include: Electronic Materials and Construction Materials.
Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Study of the Rolling Effect on MoS2–Carbon Fiber Density and Its Consequences for the Functionality of Li-Ion Batteries
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2825; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122825 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, an electrode slurry composed of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and vapor-grown carbon fiber (VGCF) prepared through a solid-phase synthesis method was blade-coated onto copper foil to form a thick film as the anode for lithium-ion batteries. In previously reported
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In this study, an electrode slurry composed of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and vapor-grown carbon fiber (VGCF) prepared through a solid-phase synthesis method was blade-coated onto copper foil to form a thick film as the anode for lithium-ion batteries. In previously reported work, MoS2-based lithium-ion batteries have experienced gradual deformation, fracture, and pulverization of electrode materials during the charge and discharge cycling process. This leads to an unstable electrode structure and rapid decline in battery capacity. Furthermore, MoS2 nanosheets tend to aggregate over charge and discharge cycles, which diminishes the surface activity of the material and results in poor electrochemical performance. In this study, we altered the density of the MoS2–carbon fiber/Cu foil anode electrode by rolling. Three different densities of electrode sheets were obtained through varying rolling repetitions. Our study shows the best electrochemical performance was achieved at a material density of 2.2 g/cm3, maintaining a capacity of 427 mAh/g even after 80 cycles.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Lithium Battery Technologies)
Open AccessArticle
Understanding the Structural and Catalytic Properties of Al(IV)-2 Acidic Sites of ZSM-5
by
Yan Tong, Li Zhang, Hong Ma, Yi Wang and Xiaolong Liu
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2824; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122824 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
It is crucial to identify the structures of active sites to understand how catalysts function and to use that understanding to develop better catalytic materials. ZSM-5 zeolites with dominant Al(IV)-2 sites have been developed in this work. 1H-27Al 2D HMQC
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It is crucial to identify the structures of active sites to understand how catalysts function and to use that understanding to develop better catalytic materials. ZSM-5 zeolites with dominant Al(IV)-2 sites have been developed in this work. 1H-27Al 2D HMQC and 2D 1H TQ(DQ)-SQ NMR experiments have been performed to investigate the structural properties of this acidic site. The Al(IV)-2 sites have Brønsted and Lewis acid characteristics. The catalytic performance of Al(IV)-2 sites has been tested by n-dodecane cracking reactions. The catalytic results show that the Brønsted acidic strength of the Al(IV)-2 sites is comparable to that of the Al(IV)-1 sites, but the Al(IV)-2 sites’ Lewis acid characteristics provide extra catalytic activity. We have gained valuable insights into the characteristics of Al(IV)-2 acid sites within these materials.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zeolitic Materials: Structure, Properties, and Applications II)
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Open AccessArticle
Preparation of Cellulose Fiber Loaded with CuO Nanoparticles for Enhanced Shelf Life and Quality of Tomato Fruit
by
Senthilkumar Palanisamy, Nandhana Varnan, Shanmugam Venkatachalam, Kumarakuru Kuppuswamy, Gayathri Devi Selvaraju, Devanesan Sanjeevi Ranjith Santhosh Kumar, Rajendran Kamalabai Selvakesavan, Gokul Bangaru and Devaraj Bharathi
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2823; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122823 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
The present study reports on the preparation of a cellulose fiber (CF) composite from D. lutescens, combined with copper oxide nanoparticles (DL@CF/CuO), to prolong the shelf life of tomatoes after harvest. The isolated cellulose fiber material was comprehensively characterized using XRD, FTIR,
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The present study reports on the preparation of a cellulose fiber (CF) composite from D. lutescens, combined with copper oxide nanoparticles (DL@CF/CuO), to prolong the shelf life of tomatoes after harvest. The isolated cellulose fiber material was comprehensively characterized using XRD, FTIR, and FE-SEM analyses. The DLCF and DL@CF/CuO nanoparticles exhibited crystalline cellulose, as indicated by the XRD investigation. Both DLCF and DL@CF/CuO showed O-H and C-H FTIR spectra with identifiable vibrational peaks. The FE-SEM images depicted the dispersion of DL@CF/CuO-based fibers in a cellulose fiber matrix containing CuO nanoparticles. A 0.3% (wt/wt), a solution of DL@CF/CuO was coated onto the surface of early ripening tomato fruits. After a 25-day storage period at 25–29 °C and 85% RH, the results showed a significant extension in the shelf life of the tomato fruits, in line with changes in physiological properties and fruit quality. The extension of shelf life in tomato fruit epidermis treated with DL@CF/CuO was confirmed through FE-SEM analysis. L929 fibroblast cells were treated with the developed DL@CF/CuO nanocomposite, and no signs of toxicity were detected up to 75 µg/mL. Additionally, the DL@CF/CuO nanocomposite exhibited significant antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus. In conclusion, this study provides novel insights for sustainable food security and waste control in the agricultural and food industries.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biopolymer Food Packaging Film/Coating in Postharvest Fruit Preservation)
Open AccessArticle
Three-Dimensional-Printed Composite Structures: The Effect of LSCF Slurry Solid Loading, Binder, and Direct-Write Process Parameters
by
Man Yang, Santosh Kumar Parupelli, Zhigang Xu and Salil Desai
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2822; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122822 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this research, a direct-write 3D-printing method was utilized for the fabrication of inter-digitized solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) using ceramic materials. The cathode electrode was fabricated using the LSCF (La0.6Sr0.2Fe0.8Co0.2O3-δ) slurry loading
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In this research, a direct-write 3D-printing method was utilized for the fabrication of inter-digitized solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) using ceramic materials. The cathode electrode was fabricated using the LSCF (La0.6Sr0.2Fe0.8Co0.2O3-δ) slurry loading and the Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) binder. The rheological parameters of slurries with varying LSCF slurry loading and PVB binder concentration were evaluated to determine their effect on the cathode trace performance in terms of microstructure, size, and resistance. Additionally, the dimensional shrinkage of LSCF lines after sintering was investigated to realize their influence on cathode line width and height. Moreover, the effect of the direct-write process parameters such as pressure, distance between the nozzle and substrate, and speed on the cathode line dimensions and resistance was evaluated. LSCF slurry with 50% solid loading, 12% binder, and 0.2% dispersant concentration was determined to be the optimal value for the fabrication of SOFCs using the direct-write method. The direct-write process parameters, in addition to the binder and LSCF slurry concentration ratios, had a considerable impact on the microstructure of cathode lines. Based on ANOVA findings, pressure and distance had significant effects on the cathode electrode resistance. An increase in the distance between the nozzle and substrate, speed, or extrusion pressure of the direct writing process increased the resistance of the cathode lines. These findings add to the ongoing effort to refine SOFC fabrication techniques, opening the avenues for advanced performance and efficiency of SOFCs in energy applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D-Printed Composite Structures: Design, Properties and Application)
Open AccessArticle
A Study of the Internal Deformation Fields and the Related Microstructure Evolution during Thermal Fatigue Tests of a Single-Crystal Ni-Base Superalloy
by
Cui Zong, Sujie Liu, Guangcai Ma, Yi Guo and Zhaohui Huang
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2821; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122821 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ni-base superalloys operate in harsh service conditions where cyclic heating and cooling introduce deformation fields that need to be investigated in detail. We used the high-angular-resolution electron backscatter diffraction method to study the evolution of internal stress fields and dislocation density distributions in
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Ni-base superalloys operate in harsh service conditions where cyclic heating and cooling introduce deformation fields that need to be investigated in detail. We used the high-angular-resolution electron backscatter diffraction method to study the evolution of internal stress fields and dislocation density distributions in carbides, dendrites, and notch tips. The results indicate that the stress concentrations decay exponentially away from the notch, and this pattern of distribution was modified by the growth of cracks and the emission of dislocations from the crack tip. Crack initiation follows crystallographic traces and is weakly correlated with carbides and dendrites. Thermal cycles introduce local plasticity around carbides, the dendrite boundary, and cracks. The dislocations lead to higher local stored energy than the critical value that is often cited to induce recrystallization. No large-scale onset of recrystallization was detected, possibly due to the mild temperature (800 °C); however, numerous recrystallized grains were detected in carbides after 50 and 80 cycles. The results call for a detailed investigation of the microstructure-related, thermally assisted recrystallization phenomenon and may assist in the microstructure control and cooling channel design of turbine blades.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)
Open AccessArticle
Atomic-Scale Insights into the Effects of the Foaming Degree on the Glass–Ceramic Matrix Derived from Waste Glass and Incineration Bottom Ash
by
Ying Wei, Ziwei Chen and Hao Wang
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2820; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122820 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Precise management of the inverse correlation between the total porosity and compressive strength is crucial for the progress of foaming glass–ceramics (FGCs). To deeply understand this relationship, we investigated the atomic-level transformations of five CO2-foaming FGC samples using molecular dynamics simulation.
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Precise management of the inverse correlation between the total porosity and compressive strength is crucial for the progress of foaming glass–ceramics (FGCs). To deeply understand this relationship, we investigated the atomic-level transformations of five CO2-foaming FGC samples using molecular dynamics simulation. The short-range and intermediate-range structures of the FGCs with varying total porosities (36.68%, 66.28%, 66.96%, 72.21%, and 79.88%) in the system were elucidated. Na cations were observed to exhibit a strong interaction with CO2, accumulating at the surface of the pore wall and influencing the oxygen species. Therefore, the change in the atomic structure of the matrix was accompanied by an increase in the total porosity with an increasing CO2 content. Specifically, as the total porosity increased, the bridging oxygen content within the FGCs rose accordingly. However, once the total porosity exceeded 66.96%, the bridging oxygen content began to decline. This observation was significant considering the role of the bridging oxygen content in forming a continuous cross-linked network of chemical bonds, which contributed to the enhanced mechanical strength. Consequently, the influence of the total porosity on the oxygen species resulted in a two-stage reduction in the compressive strength. This study offers valuable insights for the development of high-strength lightweight FGCs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Sustainable Construction and Building Materials (2nd Edition))
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Open AccessArticle
The Use of Microfiltration for the Pretreatment of Backwash Water from Sand Filters
by
Małgorzata Wolska, Małgorzata Kabsch-Korbutowicz, Agata Rosińska, Anna Solipiwko-Pieścik and Halina Urbańska-Kozłowska
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2819; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122819 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
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Tests of microfiltration efficiency used for the pretreatment of backwash water from sand filters were conducted at two water treatment plants treating surface water and infiltration water. Microfiltration efficiency was evaluated for three membrane modules: two with polymeric membranes and one with a
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Tests of microfiltration efficiency used for the pretreatment of backwash water from sand filters were conducted at two water treatment plants treating surface water and infiltration water. Microfiltration efficiency was evaluated for three membrane modules: two with polymeric membranes and one with a ceramic membrane. This study showed that the contaminants that limit the reuse of backwash water from both plants by returning them to the water treatment line are mostly microorganisms, including pathogenic species (Clostridium perfringens). Additionally, in the case of backwash water from infiltration water treatment, iron and manganese compounds also had to be removed before its recirculation to the water treatment system. Unexpectedly, organic carbon concentrations in both types of backwash water were similar to those present in intake waters. Microfiltration provided for the removal of organic matter, ranging from 19.9% to 44.5% and from 7.2% to 53.9% for backwash water from the treatments of surface water and infiltration water, respectively. Furthermore, the efficiency of the iron removal from backwash water from infiltration water treatment was sufficient to ensure good intake water quality. On the other hand, manganese concentrations in the backwash water, from infiltration water treatment, pretreated using the microfiltration process exceeded the levels found in the intake water and were, therefore, an additional limiting factor for the reuse of the backwash water. In both types of backwash water, the number of microorganisms, including Clostridium perfringens (a pathogenic one), was a limiting parameter for backwash water reuse without pretreatment. The results of the present study showed the possibility for using microfiltration for the pretreatment of backwash water, regardless of its origin but not as the sole process. More complex technological systems are needed before recirculating backwash water into the water treatment system. The polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane proved to be the most effective for DOC and microorganism removal from backwash water.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Experimental Investigation on the Influence of Water on Rockburst in Rock-like Material with Voids and Multiple Fractures
by
Guokun Liu, Xiaohua Li, Zhili Peng and Wei Chen
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2818; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122818 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
To investigate the influence of water content on the rockburst phenomena in tunnels with horizontal joints, experiments were conducted on simulated rock specimens exhibiting five distinct levels of water absorption. Real-time monitoring of the entire blasting process was facilitated through a high-speed camera
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To investigate the influence of water content on the rockburst phenomena in tunnels with horizontal joints, experiments were conducted on simulated rock specimens exhibiting five distinct levels of water absorption. Real-time monitoring of the entire blasting process was facilitated through a high-speed camera system, while the microscopic structure of the rockburst debris was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a particle size analyzer. The experimental findings revealed that under varying degrees of water absorption, the specimens experienced three stages: debris ejection; rockburst; and debris spalling. As water content increased gradually, the intensity of rockburst in the specimens was mitigated. This was substantiated by a decline in peak stress intensity, a decrease in elastic modulus, delayed manifestation of pre-peak stress drop, enhanced amplitude, diminished elastic potential energy, and augmented dissipation energy, resulting in an expanded angle of rockburst debris ejection. With increasing water content, the bond strength between micro-particles was attenuated, resulting in the disintegration of the bonding material. Deformation failure was defined by the expansion of minuscule pores, gradual propagation of micro-cracks, augmentation of fluffy fine particles, exacerbation of structural surface damage akin to a honeycomb structure, diminishment of particle diameter, and a notable increase in quantity. Furthermore, the augmentation of secondary cracks and shear cracks, coupled with the enlargement of spalling areas, signified the escalation of deformation failure. Simultaneously, the total mass of rockburst debris gradually diminished, accompanied by a corresponding decrease in the proportion of micro and fine particles within the debris.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Analysis of Damage and Failure of Concrete-Like, Brittle and Quasi-Brittle Materials (Second Volume))
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Open AccessArticle
Preparation of Expanded Graphite-VO2 Composite Cathode Material and Performance in Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
by
Jiaye Li, Jing Zhao, Zebin Wang, Huan Liu, Qing Wen, Jinling Yin and Guiling Wang
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2817; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122817 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Due to safety problems caused by the use of organic electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries and the high production cost brought by the limited lithium resources, water-based zinc-ion batteries have become a new research focus in the field of energy storage due to their
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Due to safety problems caused by the use of organic electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries and the high production cost brought by the limited lithium resources, water-based zinc-ion batteries have become a new research focus in the field of energy storage due to their low production cost, safety, efficiency, and environmental friendliness. This paper focused on vanadium dioxide and expanded graphite (EG) composite cathode materials. Given the cycling problem caused by the structural fragility of vanadium dioxide in zinc-ion batteries, the feasibility of preparing a new composite material is explored. The EG/VO2 composites were prepared by a simple hydrothermal method, and compared with the aqueous zinc-ion batteries assembled with a single type of VO2 under the same conditions, the electrode materials composited with high-purity sulfur-free expanded graphite showed more excellent capacity, cycling performance, and multiplicity performance, and the EG/VO2 composites possessed a high discharge ratio of 345 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, and the Coulombic efficiency was close to 100%. The EG/VO2 composite has a high specific discharge capacity of 345 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 with a Coulombic efficiency close to 100%, a capacity retention of 77% after 100 cycles, and 277.8 mAh g−1 with a capacity retention of 78% at a 20-fold increase in current density. The long cycle test data demonstrated that the composite with expanded graphite effectively improved the cycling performance of vanadium-based materials, and the composite maintained a stable Coulombic efficiency of 100% at a high current density of 2 A/g and still maintained a specific capacity of 108.9 mAh/g after 2000 cycles.
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(This article belongs to the Section Energy Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Oxidant Concentration on the Oxide Layer Thickness of 304 Stainless Steel
by
Kerong Wang, Haixu Liu, Ning Liu, Xiaoming Chen and Jiapeng Chen
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2816; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122816 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ultra-thin 304 stainless steel can be used to flexibly display substrates after they have been subjected to chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). The thickness of the chemical oxide layer directly affects the polishing efficiency and surface quality of 304 stainless steel. In the study
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Ultra-thin 304 stainless steel can be used to flexibly display substrates after they have been subjected to chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). The thickness of the chemical oxide layer directly affects the polishing efficiency and surface quality of 304 stainless steel. In the study presented in the following paper, the thickness variation of the chemical oxide layer of 304 stainless steel was analyzed following electrochemical corrosion under different oxidant concentration conditions. Furthermore, the impact of the oxidant concentration on the grooves, chips, and scratch depth–displacement–load curves was investigated during a nano-scratching experiment. Through this process, we were able to reveal the chemical reaction mechanism between 304 stainless steel materials and oxidizers. The corrosion rate was found to be faster at 8% oxidant content. The maximum values of the scratch depth and elastic–plastic critical load were determined to be 2153 nm and 58.47 mN, respectively.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Steel Materials: Recrystallization, Phase Transformation and Microstructure Analysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Simultaneously Regulating Electrochemical Corrosion Behavior and Wettability of Magnesium–Neodymium Alloy by Self-Layered Chemical Conversion Coating
by
Keke Yang, Yulian Kuang, Bingqian Xu, Changyang Liu and Guosong Wu
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2815; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122815 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Rapid corrosion in aqueous solutions of magnesium alloys is one of the major obstacles to their wide application, and coating plays a crucial role in their corrosion protection. Recently, protection- and function-integrated coatings have attracted much attention in the research field of magnesium
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Rapid corrosion in aqueous solutions of magnesium alloys is one of the major obstacles to their wide application, and coating plays a crucial role in their corrosion protection. Recently, protection- and function-integrated coatings have attracted much attention in the research field of magnesium alloys. In this work, a simple chemical conversion process is proposed to fabricate a composite coating on a magnesium–neodymium alloy through immersion in an aqueous solution made of Ca(OH)2 and NaHCO3. After the immersion process, a coating consisting of two spontaneously formed layers is acquired. The top flower-like layer is composed of Mg5(OH)2(CO3)4∙4H2O, Mg(OH)2 and CaCO3, and the inner dense layer is speculated to be Mg(OH)2. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, polarization tests, and hydrogen evolution are combined to evaluate the corrosion resistance in simulated body fluid, simulated seawater solution, and simulated concrete pore solution, which reveals that the coated sample has better corrosion resistance than the uncoated one. After the coated sample is modified with fluorinated silane, a water-repellent surface can be achieved with an average water contact angle of 151.74° and a sliding angle of about 4°. Therefore, our results indicate that effective corrosion protection and potential self-cleaning ability have been integrated on the surface of the magnesium alloy in this study. In addition, the formation mechanism of the self-layered coating is discussed from the viewpoint of the interaction between the substrate and its external solution.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review and Feature Papers in "Metals and Alloys" Section)
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Open AccessArticle
Experimental Study on Durability and Bond Properties of GFRP Resin Bolts
by
Mingan Lin, Fuming Zhang and Wei Wang
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2814; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122814 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) anchor bolts are a new type of high-performance nonmetallic anchor with significantly higher tensile strength, a lighter weight, better corrosion resistance, and a lower cost than steel bars. Therefore, exploring the durability and bonding performance of GFRP anchor systems
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Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) anchor bolts are a new type of high-performance nonmetallic anchor with significantly higher tensile strength, a lighter weight, better corrosion resistance, and a lower cost than steel bars. Therefore, exploring the durability and bonding performance of GFRP anchor systems is of great importance for the structural design of protective engineering, especially in coastal environments. However, insufficient research has been conducted on the durability of GFRP resin bolts in seawater conditions, with no universal standard on the pullout testing of GFRP bolts. To study the durability and bonding performance of GFRP resin bolts, durability experiments were conducted in this work using artificial seawater, and the pullout tests were conducted using a large-scale concrete platform with different compressive strengths (21.2, 40.8, and 61.3 MPa). The results of the durability experiments indicated that the strength variations of the GFRP rods and epoxy resin materials in artificial seawater environments were less than 5%. Subsequently, indoor pullout tests using steel tubes filled with epoxy resin were conducted, and the test results indicated a critical anchor length value. Pullout tests of the GFRP resin bolts embedded in large-scale concrete blocks were also conducted with different strengths. According to the test results, all GFRP resin bolts embedded in the three concrete blocks with different compressive strengths exhibited rod fracture failure. The failure mode was not controlled via the compressive strength of the concrete blocks due to the high bonding strength between the resin and the rod, as well as between the resin and the concrete. Therefore, this GFRP resin anchor system could fully utilize the tensile strength of GFRP rods. This research offers significant practical value in verifying the safety and reliability of GFRP resin bolts in corrosive marine service environments, and it contributes to the application and development of GFRP materials in the engineering field, serving as a valuable reference for the structural design and further study of GFRP bolts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Research of Reinforced Concrete Materials (2nd Edition))
Open AccessArticle
Thermal, Microstructural, and Mechanical Analysis of Complex Lattice Structures Produced by Direct Energy Deposition
by
David G. Andrade, Carlos Zhu, Hélio C. Miranda and Dulce M. Rodrigues
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2813; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122813 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Lattice structures have gained attention in engineering due to their lightweight properties. However, the complex geometry of lattice structures and the high melting temperature of metals present significant manufacturing challenges for the large-scale fabrication of these structures. Direct Energy Deposition (DED) methods, such
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Lattice structures have gained attention in engineering due to their lightweight properties. However, the complex geometry of lattice structures and the high melting temperature of metals present significant manufacturing challenges for the large-scale fabrication of these structures. Direct Energy Deposition (DED) methods, such as the Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technique, appear to be an interesting solution for overcoming these limitations. This study provides a detailed analysis of the manufacturing process of carbon steel lattice structures with auxetic geometry. The study includes thermal analysis using infrared thermography, microstructural characterization through metallography, and mechanical evaluation via hardness and mechanical testing. The findings reveal the significant impact of heat input, thermal cycles, and deposition sequence on the morphology and mechanical properties of the lattice structures. Fast thermal cycles are related to areas with higher hardness values, smaller strut diameters, and porous formations, which shows that controlling heat input and heat dissipation is crucial for optimizing the properties of lattice structures produced using WAAM.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanics and Analysis of Advanced Materials and Structures - 2nd Volume)
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Determination of Fluorine by Ion-Selective Electrode and High-Resolution Continuum Source Graphite Furnace Molecular Absorption Spectrometry with Respect to Animal Feed Safety
by
Zofia Kowalewska, Karolina Goluch, Waldemar Korol, Rafał Olchowski and Ryszard Dobrowolski
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2812; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122812 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fluorine, depending on its concentration and chemical form, is essential or toxic to humans and animals. Therefore, it is crucial to be able to determine it reliably. In this study, fluorine was determined in animal feed after extraction with HCl (gastric juice simulation).
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Fluorine, depending on its concentration and chemical form, is essential or toxic to humans and animals. Therefore, it is crucial to be able to determine it reliably. In this study, fluorine was determined in animal feed after extraction with HCl (gastric juice simulation). The standard potentiometric method with a fluoride-selective electrode (ISE) and newly developed high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry (HR-CS GFMAS) method was applied. Feed samples turned out to be a challenge for HR-CS GFMAS. Chemical interferences (formation of competing molecules, CaF, GaCl, and GaP, instead of the target GaF molecule) and spectral effects (including a phosphorous molecule spectrum and atomic lines) were identified. An additional difficulty was caused by reagent contamination with F and memory effects. Difficulties were eliminated/reduced. The quality of ISE analysis was multi-directionally verified (including comprehensive proficiency testing). A risk of inaccuracy at low F concentration, where the calibration relationship is nonlinear, was investigated. The results of both methods were consistent, which confirms the accuracy of the methods and informs that the extracted fluorine is in fluoride form. The results of extensive ISE tests conducted in Poland in 2021–2023 have shown that, in most cases, the fluoride content is significantly lower than the threshold values.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrochemical Material Science and Electrode Processes)
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Manufacturing of 3D-Printed Hybrid Scaffolds with Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Coating in Static and Dynamic Culture Conditions
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Yanny Marliana Baba Ismail, Yvonne Reinwald, Ana Marina Ferreira, Oana Bretcanu, Kenneth Dalgarno and Alicia J. El Haj
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2811; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122811 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Three-dimensional printing (3DP) has emerged as a promising method for creating intricate scaffold designs. This study assessed three 3DP scaffold designs fabricated using biodegradable poly(lactic) acid (PLA) through fused deposition modelling (FDM): mesh, two channels (2C), and four channels (4C). To address the
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Three-dimensional printing (3DP) has emerged as a promising method for creating intricate scaffold designs. This study assessed three 3DP scaffold designs fabricated using biodegradable poly(lactic) acid (PLA) through fused deposition modelling (FDM): mesh, two channels (2C), and four channels (4C). To address the limitations of PLA, such as hydrophobic properties and poor cell attachment, a post-fabrication modification technique employing Polyelectrolyte Multilayers (PEMs) coating was implemented. The scaffolds underwent aminolysis followed by coating with SiCHA nanopowders dispersed in hyaluronic acid and collagen type I, and finally crosslinked the outermost coated layers with EDC/NHS solution to complete the hybrid scaffold production. The study employed rotating wall vessels (RWVs) to investigate how simulating microgravity affects cell proliferation and differentiation. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) cultured on these scaffolds using proliferation medium (PM) and osteogenic media (OM), subjected to static (TCP) and dynamic (RWVs) conditions for 21 days, revealed superior performance of 4C hybrid scaffolds, particularly in OM. Compared to commercial hydroxyapatite scaffolds, these hybrid scaffolds demonstrated enhanced cell activity and survival. The pre-vascularisation concept on 4C hybrid scaffolds showed the proliferation of both HUVECs and hMSCs throughout the scaffolds, with a positive expression of osteogenic and angiogenic markers at the early stages.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Materials, Intelligent Structures and Innovative Applications of 3D Printing and Bio-Printing Methods)
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of the Acousto-Optic Figure of Merit and the Maximum Value of the Elasto-Optic Constant of Liquids
by
Pavel A. Nikitin and Vitold E. Pozhar
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2810; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122810 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
The elasto-optic properties of liquids on the basis of the first principles of acousto-optics were theoretically investigated. A relationship for calculating the elasto-optic constant of liquids using only the refractive index was obtained. The refractive index values corresponding to the maximum elasto-optic constant
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The elasto-optic properties of liquids on the basis of the first principles of acousto-optics were theoretically investigated. A relationship for calculating the elasto-optic constant of liquids using only the refractive index was obtained. The refractive index values corresponding to the maximum elasto-optic constant for polar and nonpolar liquids were determined. Calculations for about 100 liquids were performed and compared with known experimental data. This study significantly extends our understanding of the acousto-optic effect and has practical applications for predicting the elasto-optic constant of a liquid and estimating its wavelength dispersion.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acousto-Optical Spectral Technologies (2nd Edition))
Open AccessArticle
Research on Thermal Stability and Flammability of Wood Scob-Based Loose-Fill Thermal Insulation Impregnated with Multicomponent Suspensions
by
Nerijus Augaitis, Saulius Vaitkus, Agnė Kairytė, Sigitas Vėjelis, Jurga Šeputytė-Jucikė, Giedrius Balčiūnas and Arūnas Kremensas
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2809; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122809 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
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Loose-fill thermal composite insulation produced from surface-modified wood scobs has been explored as a potential fire-resistant material for building envelopes. This work involves fire resistance behavior comparisons between four coating systems consisting of liquid glass, liquid glass-tung oil, liquid glass-expandable graphite, and liquid
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Loose-fill thermal composite insulation produced from surface-modified wood scobs has been explored as a potential fire-resistant material for building envelopes. This work involves fire resistance behavior comparisons between four coating systems consisting of liquid glass, liquid glass-tung oil, liquid glass-expandable graphite, and liquid glass-tung oil-expandable graphite. The techniques of thermogravimetric and differential thermogravimetric analyses, gross heat combustion via a calorimetric bomb, cone calorimetry, SEM imaging of char residues, and energy dispersive spectrometry for elemental analysis, as well as propensity to undergo continuous smoldering, were implemented. The coating technique resulted in greater thermal stability at a higher temperature range (500–650 °C) of the resulting loose-fill thermal composite insulation, reduced flame-damaged area heights after the exposure of samples at 45° for 15 s and 30 s, with a maximum of 49% decreased gross heat combustion, reduced heat release and total smoke release rates, improved char residue layer formation during combustion and changed smoldering behavior due to the formation of homogeneous and dense carbon layers. The results showed that the highest positive impact was obtained using the liquid glass and liquid glass-expandable graphite system because of the ability of the liquid glass to cover the wood scob particle surface and form a stable and strong expanding carbon layer.
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Open AccessArticle
Segregated Conductive Polymer Composite with Fe3O4-Decorated Graphite Nanoparticles for Microwave Shielding
by
Ludmila Yu. Matzui, Oleksii A. Syvolozhskyi, Ludmila L. Vovchenko, Olena S. Yakovenko, Tetyana A. Len, Olena V. Ischenko, Anna V. Vakaliuk, Victor V. Oliynyk, Volodymyr V. Zagorodnii, Antonina Naumenko, Maria Cojocari, Georgy Fedorov and Polina Kuzhir
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2808; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122808 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs)—the segregated ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)-based composites with hybrid filler—decorated with Fe3O4 were developed. Using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, it was shown that the decorated component has the shape of separate granules, or their clusters
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Graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs)—the segregated ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)-based composites with hybrid filler—decorated with Fe3O4 were developed. Using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, it was shown that the decorated component has the shape of separate granules, or their clusters were distributed evenly over the GNPs surface. The individual Fe3O4 nanoparticles are predominantly rounded, with diameters of approximately 20–60 nm. The use of GNPs/Fe3O4 as a filler leads to significant decreases in the percolation limit φc, 0.97 vol% vs. 0.56 vol% for GNPs/UHMWPE- and (GNPs/Fe3O4)/UHMWPE segregated composite material (SCM), respectively. Modification of the GNP surface with Fe3O4 leads to an essential improvement in the electromagnetic interference shielding due to enhanced microwave absorption in the 26–37 GHz frequency range in its turn by abundant surface functional groups and lattice defects of GNPs/Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanoscale and Low-Dimensional Functional Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Post-Processing Effect on the Corrosion Resistance of Super Duplex Stainless Steel Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
by
Zbigniew Brytan, Mengistu Dagnaw, Jana Bidulská, Róbert Bidulský and Mohd Ridha Muhamad
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2807; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122807 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study examines the microstructural characteristics and corrosion resistance of super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) produced through laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The analysis shows that the as-printed samples mainly exhibit a ferritic microstructure, which is due to the fast-cooling rates of the
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This study examines the microstructural characteristics and corrosion resistance of super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) produced through laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The analysis shows that the as-printed samples mainly exhibit a ferritic microstructure, which is due to the fast-cooling rates of the LPBF technique. X-ray and microstructure analyses reveal the presence of minor austenite phases in the ferritic matrix. The process of solution annealing led to a more balanced microstructure. Analyses of corrosion resistance, such as potentiodynamic polarization tests and EIS, indicate that heat treatment has a significant impact on the corrosion behavior of SDSS. Solution annealing and stress relieving at 400 °C for 1 h can improve corrosion resistance by increasing polarization resistance and favorable EIS parameters. However, stress relieving at 550 °C for 5 h may reduce the material’s corrosion resistance due to the formation of chromium nitride. Therefore, stress relieving at 400 °C for 1 h is a practical method to significantly enhance the corrosion resistance of LPBF-printed SDSS. This method offers a balance between microstructural integrity and material performance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microstructure, Mechanical Properties and Additive Manufacturing of Steels)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Water to Cement Ratio on Properties of Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement Mortars
by
Małgorzata Gołaszewska, Jacek Gołaszewski and Bartosz Chmiela
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2806; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122806 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cements are a promising alternative to Portland clinker, however, a thorough understanding of their properties is needed for their broader use in the industry. One of the topics that requires a good understanding is the effect of the w/c ratio
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Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cements are a promising alternative to Portland clinker, however, a thorough understanding of their properties is needed for their broader use in the industry. One of the topics that requires a good understanding is the effect of the w/c ratio on the properties of CSA cements. To this end, the aim of this paper was to provide research into the effects of a w/c ratio in the range of 0.45–0.6 on the properties of fresh and hardened CSA pastes and mortars. For fresh mortars, consistency and setting time, as well as plastic shrinkage tests, were conducted, and were complemented by hydration heat tests, carried out on pastes. For hardened mortars, tests of compressive and flexural strength and dry shrinkage, as well as SEM photography, were conducted. It was found that, regardless of a higher hydration rate, the increase in w/c ratio decreased flexural and compressive strength, as well as shrinkage, while increasing consistency, setting time, and hydration heat. Also observed was a significant decrease in strength between 3 and 7 days of curing in mortars with a high w/c ratio. It can be concluded that, regardless of the hydration rate, low w/c ratios in CSA mortars provide better properties than high w/c ratios.
Full article
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