Next Issue
Volume 10, July
Previous Issue
Volume 10, May
 
 
materials-logo

Journal Browser

Journal Browser

Materials, Volume 10, Issue 6 (June 2017) – 117 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): SPARC (green)—RUNX2 (red)—DAPI (blue) staining of SAOS-2 cells were incubated for 48 h on polished and grit-blasted ZCe-A, alumina, and 3Y-TZP samples. The composition effect is more widespread on ZCe-A cells and showed improved osteogenic marker expression. With regard to the roughness effect, grit-blasted surfaces (especially ZCe-A) favor cellular proliferation and differentiation. ZCe-A dental implants were used in a pilot study in dogs and showed excellent performance in terms of BIC and interaction with soft tissues. View the paper
  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Section
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
2061 KiB  
Article
Experimental and Theoretical Modal Analysis of Full-Sized Wood Composite Panels Supported on Four Nodes
by Cheng Guan, Houjiang Zhang, Xiping Wang, Hu Miao, Lujing Zhou and Fenglu Liu
Materials 2017, 10(6), 683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060683 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5278
Abstract
Key elastic properties of full-sized wood composite panels (WCPs) must be accurately determined not only for safety, but also serviceability demands. In this study, the modal parameters of full-sized WCPs supported on four nodes were analyzed for determining the modulus of elasticity ( [...] Read more.
Key elastic properties of full-sized wood composite panels (WCPs) must be accurately determined not only for safety, but also serviceability demands. In this study, the modal parameters of full-sized WCPs supported on four nodes were analyzed for determining the modulus of elasticity (E) in both major and minor axes, as well as the in-plane shear modulus of panels by using a vibration testing method. The experimental modal analysis was conducted on three full-sized medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and three full-sized particleboard (PB) panels of three different thicknesses (12, 15, and 18 mm). The natural frequencies and mode shapes of the first nine modes of vibration were determined. Results from experimental modal testing were compared with the results of a theoretical modal analysis. A sensitivity analysis was performed to identify the sensitive modes for calculating E (major axis: Ex and minor axis: Ey) and the in-plane shear modulus (Gxy) of the panels. Mode shapes of the MDF and PB panels obtained from modal testing are in a good agreement with those from theoretical modal analyses. A strong linear relationship exists between the measured natural frequencies and the calculated frequencies. The frequencies of modes (2, 0), (0, 2), and (2, 1) under the four-node support condition were determined as the characteristic frequencies for calculation of Ex, Ey, and Gxy of full-sized WCPs. The results of this study indicate that the four-node support can be used in free vibration test to determine the elastic properties of full-sized WCPs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Simulation of Advanced Composite Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

2475 KiB  
Article
Improving Sorbents for Glycerol Capture in Biodiesel Refinement
by Brandy J. Johnson, Brian J. Melde, Martin H. Moore, Anthony P. Malanoski and Jenna R. Taft
Materials 2017, 10(6), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060682 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3501
Abstract
Biodiesel is produced by transesterification of animal fat, vegetable oil, or waste cooking oil with alcohol. After production costs, the economic viability of biodiesel is dependent on what steps are necessary to remove impurities following synthesis and the effectiveness of quality control analysis. [...] Read more.
Biodiesel is produced by transesterification of animal fat, vegetable oil, or waste cooking oil with alcohol. After production costs, the economic viability of biodiesel is dependent on what steps are necessary to remove impurities following synthesis and the effectiveness of quality control analysis. Solid-phase extraction offers a potentially advantageous approach in biodiesel processing applications. Nanoporous scaffolds were investigated for adsorption of glycerol, a side product of biodiesel synthesis that is detrimental to engine combustion when present. Materials were synthesized with varying pore wall composition, including ethane and diethylbenzene bridging groups, and sulfonated to promote hydrogen bonding interactions with glycerol. Materials bearing sulfonate groups throughout the scaffold walls as well as those post-synthetically grafted onto the surfaces show notably superior performance for uptake of glycerol. The sorbents are effective when used in biodiesel mixtures, removing greater than 90% of glycerol from a biodiesel preparation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Porous Materials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

8883 KiB  
Article
Ultrasonic Measurements on β Cyclodextrin/Hydroxyapatite Composites for Potential Water Depollution
by Daniela Predoi, Mihai Valentin Predoi, Simona Liliana Iconaru, Moncef Ech Cherif El Kettani, Damien Leduc and Alina Mihaela Prodan
Materials 2017, 10(6), 681; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060681 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4468
Abstract
This paper presents structural, morphological and preliminary ultrasonic characterizations of the β-Cyclodextrin/hydroxyapatite (CD-HAp) composites synthesized by an adapted co-precipitation method. The structural and morphological properties were evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). The specific surface area, pore [...] Read more.
This paper presents structural, morphological and preliminary ultrasonic characterizations of the β-Cyclodextrin/hydroxyapatite (CD-HAp) composites synthesized by an adapted co-precipitation method. The structural and morphological properties were evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). The specific surface area, pore size and pore volume were determined using the methods of Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) and Barrett–Joyner–Halenda (BJH), respectively. The novelty of our study consists in preliminary ultrasonic measurements conducted on CD-HAp composite, uniformly dispersed in distilled water. The benefit of this non-destructive method was to facilitate and simplify the characterization techniques of nanoparticles. Our experiments proved that the efficiency of lead ion removal by CD-HAp composites depended on the initial concentration of lead. The maximum adsorption capacity of the solid phase, for Pb2+ indicated a higher rate of removal by the CD-HAp_2. These adsorption results bring valuable insight into the beneficial contribution of our compounds, for the removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. Furthermore, in the present study, was evaluated the toxic effect of lead ions adsorbed by hydroxyapatite from contaminated water on HeLa cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sorption Materials for Environment Purification)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

1722 KiB  
Article
Bias Stress and Temperature Impact on InGaZnO TFTs and Circuits
by Jorge Martins, Pydi Bahubalindruni, Ana Rovisco, Asal Kiazadeh, Rodrigo Martins, Elvira Fortunato and Pedro Barquinha
Materials 2017, 10(6), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060680 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5570
Abstract
This paper focuses on the analysis of InGaZnO thin-film transistors (TFTs) and circuits under the influence of different temperatures and bias stress, shedding light into their robustness when used in real-world applications. For temperature-dependent measurements, a temperature range of 15 to 85 °C [...] Read more.
This paper focuses on the analysis of InGaZnO thin-film transistors (TFTs) and circuits under the influence of different temperatures and bias stress, shedding light into their robustness when used in real-world applications. For temperature-dependent measurements, a temperature range of 15 to 85 °C was considered. In case of bias stress, both gate and drain bias were applied for 60 min. Though isolated transistors show a variation of drain current as high as 56% and 172% during bias voltage and temperature stress, the employed circuits were able to counteract it. Inverters and two-TFT current mirrors following simple circuit topologies showed a gain variation below 8%, while the improved robustness of a cascode current mirror design is proven by showing a gain variation less than 5%. The demonstration that the proper selection of TFT materials and circuit topologies results in robust operation of oxide electronics under different stress conditions and over a reasonable range of temperatures proves that the technology is suitable for applications such as smart food packaging and wearables. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxide Semiconductor Thin-Film Transistor)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

8610 KiB  
Article
Effect of Carbon in Fabrication Al-SiC Nanocomposites for Tribological Application
by Bartosz Hekner, Jerzy Myalski, Tomasz Pawlik and Małgorzata Sopicka-Lizer
Materials 2017, 10(6), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060679 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5017
Abstract
Aluminium-based hybrid composites are a new class of advanced materials with the potential of satisfying the demands in engineering applications. This paper describes the effects of carbon addition on the formation and properties of AMC with SiC nanoparticles reinforcement. The composites were produced [...] Read more.
Aluminium-based hybrid composites are a new class of advanced materials with the potential of satisfying the demands in engineering applications. This paper describes the effects of carbon addition on the formation and properties of AMC with SiC nanoparticles reinforcement. The composites were produced via mechanical alloying followed by hot pressing. Three forms of carbon, graphite (GR), multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and, for the first time, glassy carbon (GC), were used for the hybrid composites manufacturing and compared with tribological properties of Al-SiC composite without carbon addition. GC and CNTs enhanced formation of Al-SiC composite particles and resulted in a homogeneous distribution of reinforcing particles. On the other hand, GR addition altered mechanochemical alloying and did not lead to a proper distribution of nanoparticulate SiC reinforcement. Hot pressing technique led to the reaction between Al and carbon as well as SiC particles and caused the formation of Al4C3 and γ-Al2O3. The subsistence of carbon particles in the composites altered the predominant wear mechanisms since the wear reduction and the stabilization of the friction coefficient were observed. GC with simultaneous γ-Al2O3 formation in the hybrid Al-SiC(n)-C composites turned out to be the most effective additive in terms of their tribological behaviour. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

1787 KiB  
Communication
Temperature and Copper Concentration Effects on the Formation of Graphene-Encapsulated Copper Nanoparticles from Kraft Lignin
by Weiqi Leng, H. Michael Barnes, Zhiyong Cai and Jilei Zhang
Materials 2017, 10(6), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060677 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4009
Abstract
The effects of temperature and copper catalyst concentration on the formation of graphene-encapsulated copper nanoparticles (GECNs) were investigated by means of X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance, and transmission electron microscopy. Results showed that higher amounts of copper atoms facilitated the [...] Read more.
The effects of temperature and copper catalyst concentration on the formation of graphene-encapsulated copper nanoparticles (GECNs) were investigated by means of X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance, and transmission electron microscopy. Results showed that higher amounts of copper atoms facilitated the growth of more graphene islands and formed smaller size GECNs. A copper catalyst facilitated the decomposition of lignin at the lowest temperature studied (600 °C). Increasing the temperature up to 1000 °C retarded the degradation process, while assisting the reconfiguration of the defective sites of the graphene layers, thus producing higher-quality GECNs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)
Show Figures

Figure 1

11282 KiB  
Article
Material Flow Analysis in Indentation by Two-Dimensional Digital Image Correlation and Finite Elements Method
by Carolina Bermudo, Lorenzo Sevilla and Germán Castillo López
Materials 2017, 10(6), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060674 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4298
Abstract
The present work shows the material flow analysis in indentation by the numerical two dimensional Finite Elements (FEM) method and the experimental two-dimensional Digital Image Correlation (DIC) method. To achieve deep indentation without cracking, a ductile material, 99% tin, is used. The results [...] Read more.
The present work shows the material flow analysis in indentation by the numerical two dimensional Finite Elements (FEM) method and the experimental two-dimensional Digital Image Correlation (DIC) method. To achieve deep indentation without cracking, a ductile material, 99% tin, is used. The results obtained from the DIC technique depend predominantly on the pattern conferred to the samples. Due to the absence of a natural pattern, black and white spray painting is used for greater contrast. The stress-strain curve of the material has been obtained and introduced in the Finite Element simulation code used, DEFORM™, allowing for accurate simulations. Two different 2D models have been used: a plain strain model to obtain the load curve and a plain stress model to evaluate the strain maps on the workpiece surface. The indentation displacement load curve has been compared between the FEM and the experimental results, showing a good correlation. Additionally, the strain maps obtained from the material surface with FEM and DIC are compared in order to validate the numerical model. The Von Mises strain results between both of them present a 10–20% difference. The results show that FEM is a good tool for simulating indentation processes, allowing for the evaluation of the maximum forces and deformations involved in the forming process. Additionally, the non-contact DIC technique shows its potential by measuring the superficial strain maps, validating the FEM results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanoindentation in Materials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

4156 KiB  
Article
Soft Ionic Electroactive Polymer Actuators with Tunable Non-Linear Angular Deformation
by Wangyujue Hong, Abdallah Almomani, Yuanfen Chen, Reihaneh Jamshidi and Reza Montazami
Materials 2017, 10(6), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060664 - 21 Jun 2017
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4141
Abstract
The most rational approach to fabricate soft robotics is the implementation of soft actuators. Conventional soft electromechanical actuators exhibit linear or circular deformation, based on their design. This study presents the use of conjugated polymers, Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) to locally vary ion permeability of [...] Read more.
The most rational approach to fabricate soft robotics is the implementation of soft actuators. Conventional soft electromechanical actuators exhibit linear or circular deformation, based on their design. This study presents the use of conjugated polymers, Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) to locally vary ion permeability of the ionic electroactive polymer actuators and manipulate ion motion through means of structural design to realize intrinsic angular deformation. Such angular deformations are closer to biomimetic systems and have potential applications in bio-robotics. Electrochemical studies reveal that the mechanism of actuation is mainly associated with the charging of electric double layer (EDL) capacitors by ion accumulation and the PEDOT:PSS layer’s expansion by ion interchange and penetration. Dependence of actuator deformation on structural design is studied experimentally and conclusions are verified by analytical and finite element method modeling. The results suggest that the ion-material interactions are considerably dominated by the design of the drop-cast PEDOT:PSS on Nafion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

3640 KiB  
Article
Ternary CNTs@TiO2/CoO Nanotube Composites: Improved Anode Materials for High Performance Lithium Ion Batteries
by Mahmoud Madian, Raghunandan Ummethala, Ahmed Osama Abo El Naga, Nahla Ismail, Mark Hermann Rümmeli, Alexander Eychmüller and Lars Giebeler
Materials 2017, 10(6), 678; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060678 - 20 Jun 2017
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5774
Abstract
TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) synthesized by electrochemical anodization are discussed as very promising anodes for lithium ion batteries, owing to their high structural stability, high surface area, safety, and low production cost. However, their poor electronic conductivity and low Li+ ion diffusivity [...] Read more.
TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) synthesized by electrochemical anodization are discussed as very promising anodes for lithium ion batteries, owing to their high structural stability, high surface area, safety, and low production cost. However, their poor electronic conductivity and low Li+ ion diffusivity are the main drawbacks that prevent them from achieving high electrochemical performance. Herein, we report the fabrication of a novel ternary carbon nanotubes (CNTs)@TiO2/CoO nanotubes composite by a two-step synthesis method. The preparation includes an initial anodic fabrication of well-ordered TiO2/CoO NTs from a Ti-Co alloy, followed by growing of CNTs horizontally on the top of the oxide films using a simple spray pyrolysis technique. The unique 1D structure of such a hybrid nanostructure with the inclusion of CNTs demonstrates significantly enhanced areal capacity and rate performances compared to pure TiO2 and TiO2/CoO NTs, without CNTs tested under identical conditions. The findings reveal that CNTs provide a highly conductive network that improves Li+ ion diffusivity, promoting a strongly favored lithium insertion into the TiO2/CoO NT framework, and hence resulting in high capacity and an extremely reproducible high rate capability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Renewable Energy Conversion Materials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

10532 KiB  
Review
Binary Phase Diagrams and Thermodynamic Properties of Silicon and Essential Doping Elements (Al, As, B, Bi, Ga, In, N, P, Sb and Tl)
by Ahmad Mostafa and Mamoun Medraj
Materials 2017, 10(6), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060676 - 20 Jun 2017
Cited by 58 | Viewed by 18727
Abstract
Fabrication of solar and electronic silicon wafers involves direct contact between solid, liquid and gas phases at near equilibrium conditions. Understanding of the phase diagrams and thermochemical properties of the Si-dopant binary systems is essential for providing processing conditions and for understanding the [...] Read more.
Fabrication of solar and electronic silicon wafers involves direct contact between solid, liquid and gas phases at near equilibrium conditions. Understanding of the phase diagrams and thermochemical properties of the Si-dopant binary systems is essential for providing processing conditions and for understanding the phase formation and transformation. In this work, ten Si-based binary phase diagrams, including Si with group IIIA elements (Al, B, Ga, In and Tl) and with group VA elements (As, Bi, N, P and Sb), have been reviewed. Each of these systems has been critically discussed on both aspects of phase diagram and thermodynamic properties. The available experimental data and thermodynamic parameters in the literature have been summarized and assessed thoroughly to provide consistent understanding of each system. Some systems were re-calculated to obtain a combination of the best evaluated phase diagram and a set of optimized thermodynamic parameters. As doping levels of solar and electronic silicon are of high technological importance, diffusion data has been presented to serve as a useful reference on the properties, behavior and quantities of metal impurities in silicon. This paper is meant to bridge the theoretical understanding of phase diagrams with the research and development of solar-grade silicon production, relying on the available information in the literature and our own analysis. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

4118 KiB  
Article
Incipient Fault Detection for Rolling Element Bearings under Varying Speed Conditions
by Lang Xue, Naipeng Li, Yaguo Lei and Ningbo Li
Materials 2017, 10(6), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060675 - 20 Jun 2017
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4003
Abstract
Varying speed conditions bring a huge challenge to incipient fault detection of rolling element bearings because both the change of speed and faults could lead to the amplitude fluctuation of vibration signals. Effective detection methods need to be developed to eliminate the influence [...] Read more.
Varying speed conditions bring a huge challenge to incipient fault detection of rolling element bearings because both the change of speed and faults could lead to the amplitude fluctuation of vibration signals. Effective detection methods need to be developed to eliminate the influence of speed variation. This paper proposes an incipient fault detection method for bearings under varying speed conditions. Firstly, relative residual (RR) features are extracted, which are insensitive to the varying speed conditions and are able to reflect the degradation trend of bearings. Then, a health indicator named selected negative log-likelihood probability (SNLLP) is constructed to fuse a feature set including RR features and non-dimensional features. Finally, based on the constructed SNLLP health indicator, a novel alarm trigger mechanism is designed to detect the incipient fault. The proposed method is demonstrated using vibration signals from bearing tests and industrial wind turbines. The results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method for incipient fault detection of rolling element bearings under varying speed conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Health Monitoring for Aerospace Applications 2017)
Show Figures

Figure 1

4393 KiB  
Article
The Synthesis of the Core/Shell Structured Diamond/Akageneite Hybrid Particles with Enhanced Polishing Performance
by Jing Lu, Yongchao Xu, Dayu Zhang and Xipeng Xu
Materials 2017, 10(6), 673; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060673 - 20 Jun 2017
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3781
Abstract
In this study, the synthesis of the core/shell structured diamond/akageneite hybrid particles was performed through one-step isothermal hydrolyzing. The hybrid particle was characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectra. The test results overall reveal that the [...] Read more.
In this study, the synthesis of the core/shell structured diamond/akageneite hybrid particles was performed through one-step isothermal hydrolyzing. The hybrid particle was characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectra. The test results overall reveal that the akageneite coating, phase β-FeO(OH), was uniformly coated onto the diamond surface. The polishing performance of the pristine diamond and hybrid particles for the sapphire substrate was evaluated respectively. The experimental results show that the hybrid particles exhibited improved polishing quality and prolonged effective processing time of polishing pad compared with diamond particles without compromising the material remove rate and surface roughness. The improved polishing behavior might be attributed to the β-FeOOH coating, which is conducive to less abrasive shedding and reducing the scratch depth. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

452 KiB  
Review
Additive Manufacturing Processes: Selective Laser Melting, Electron Beam Melting and Binder Jetting—Selection Guidelines
by Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss, Sri Kolla and Jürgen Eckert
Materials 2017, 10(6), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060672 - 19 Jun 2017
Cited by 523 | Viewed by 26891
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing or rapid prototyping, is gaining increasing attention due to its ability to produce parts with added functionality and increased complexities in geometrical design, on top of the fact that it is theoretically possible to produce [...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing or rapid prototyping, is gaining increasing attention due to its ability to produce parts with added functionality and increased complexities in geometrical design, on top of the fact that it is theoretically possible to produce any shape without limitations. However, most of the research on additive manufacturing techniques are focused on the development of materials/process parameters/products design with different additive manufacturing processes such as selective laser melting, electron beam melting, or binder jetting. However, we do not have any guidelines that discuss the selection of the most suitable additive manufacturing process, depending on the material to be processed, the complexity of the parts to be produced, or the design considerations. Considering the very fact that no reports deal with this process selection, the present manuscript aims to discuss the different selection criteria that are to be considered, in order to select the best AM process (binder jetting/selective laser melting/electron beam melting) for fabricating a specific component with a defined set of material properties. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

6306 KiB  
Article
Study on Temper Embrittlement and Hydrogen Embrittlement of a Hydrogenation Reactor by Small Punch Test
by Kaishu Guan, Jerzy A. Szpunar, Karel Matocha and Duwei Wang
Materials 2017, 10(6), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060671 - 19 Jun 2017
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5772
Abstract
The study on temper embrittlement and hydrogen embrittlement of a test block from a 3Cr1Mo1/4V hydrogenation reactor after ten years of service was carried out by small punch test (SPT) at different temperatures. The SPT fracture energy Esp (derived from integrating [...] Read more.
The study on temper embrittlement and hydrogen embrittlement of a test block from a 3Cr1Mo1/4V hydrogenation reactor after ten years of service was carried out by small punch test (SPT) at different temperatures. The SPT fracture energy Esp (derived from integrating the load-displacement curve) divided by the maximum load (Fm) of SPT was used to fit the Esp/Fm versus-temperature curve to determine the energy transition temperature (Tsp) which corresponded to the ductile-brittle transition temperature of the Charpy impact test. The results indicated that the ratio of Esp/Fm could better represent the energy of transition in SPT compared with Esp. The ductile-to-brittle transition temperature of the four different types of materials was measured using the hydrogen charging test by SPT. These four types of materials included the base metal and the weld metal in the as-received state, and the base metal and the weld metal in the de-embrittled state. The results showed that there was a degree of temper embrittlement in the base metal and the weld metal after ten years of service at 390 °C. The specimens became slightly more brittle but this was not obvious after hydrogen charging. Because the toughness of the material of the hydrogenation reactor was very good, the flat samples of SPT could not characterize the energy transition temperature within the liquid nitrogen temperature. Additionally, there was no synergetic effect of temper embrittlement and hydrogen embrittlement found in 3Cr1Mo1/4V steel. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from SSTT2016)
Show Figures

Figure 1

6179 KiB  
Article
New Insights in the Long-Term Atmospheric Corrosion Mechanisms of Low Alloy Steel Reinforcements of Cultural Heritage Buildings
by Marie Bouchar, Philippe Dillmann and Delphine Neff
Materials 2017, 10(6), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060670 - 19 Jun 2017
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4789
Abstract
Reinforcing clamps made of low alloy steel from the Metz cathedral and corroded outdoors during 500 years were studied by OM, FESEM/EDS, and micro-Raman spectroscopy. The corrosion product layer is constituted of a dual structure. The outer layer is mainly constituted of goethite [...] Read more.
Reinforcing clamps made of low alloy steel from the Metz cathedral and corroded outdoors during 500 years were studied by OM, FESEM/EDS, and micro-Raman spectroscopy. The corrosion product layer is constituted of a dual structure. The outer layer is mainly constituted of goethite and lepidocrocite embedding exogenous elements such as Ca and P. The inner layer is mainly constituted of ferrihydrite. The behaviour of the inner layer under conditions simulating the wetting stage of the RH wet/dry atmospheric corrosion cycle was observed by in situ micro-Raman spectroscopy. The disappearance of ferrihydrite near the metal/oxide interface strongly suggests a mechanism of reductive dissolution caused by the oxidation of the metallic substrate and was observed for the first time in situ on an archaeological system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fundamental and Research Frontier of Atmospheric Corrosion)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

4643 KiB  
Article
Influence of Tension Stiffening on the Flexural Stiffness of Reinforced Concrete Circular Sections
by Francesco Morelli, Cosimo Amico, Walter Salvatore, Nunziante Squeglia and Stefano Stacul
Materials 2017, 10(6), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060669 - 18 Jun 2017
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6780
Abstract
Within this paper, the assessment of tension stiffening effects on a reinforced concrete element with the circular sections subjected to axial and bending loads is presented. To this purpose, an enhancement of an analytical model already present within the actual technical literature is [...] Read more.
Within this paper, the assessment of tension stiffening effects on a reinforced concrete element with the circular sections subjected to axial and bending loads is presented. To this purpose, an enhancement of an analytical model already present within the actual technical literature is proposed. The accuracy of the enhanced method is assessed by comparing the experimental results carried out in past research and the numerical ones obtained by the model. Finally, a parametric study is executed in order to study the influence of axial compressive force on the flexural stiffness of reinforced concrete elements that are characterized by a circular section, comparing the secant stiffness evaluated at yielding and at maximum resistance, considering and not considering the effects of tension stiffness. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

1895 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Characterization of Bio-Oil Phenol Formaldehyde Resin Used to Fabricate Phenolic Based Materials
by Yong Cui, Xiaopeng Hou, Wenliang Wang and Jianmin Chang
Materials 2017, 10(6), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060668 - 18 Jun 2017
Cited by 49 | Viewed by 5720
Abstract
In this study, bio-oil from the fast pyrolysis of renewable biomass was used as the raw material to synthesize bio-oil phenol formaldehyde (BPF) resin—a desirable resin for fabricating phenolic-based material. During the synthesis process, paraformaldehyde was used to achieve the requirement of high [...] Read more.
In this study, bio-oil from the fast pyrolysis of renewable biomass was used as the raw material to synthesize bio-oil phenol formaldehyde (BPF) resin—a desirable resin for fabricating phenolic-based material. During the synthesis process, paraformaldehyde was used to achieve the requirement of high solid content and low viscosity. The properties of BPF resins were tested. Results indicated that BPF resin with the bio-oil addition of 20% had good performance on oxygen index and bending strength, indicating that adding bio-oil could modify the fire resistance and brittleness of PF resin. The thermal curing behavior and heat resistance of BPF resins were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Results showed that adding bio-oil had an impact on curing characteristics and thermal degradation process of PF resin, but the influence was insignificant when the addition was relatively low. The chemical structure and surface characteristics of BPF resins were determined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The analysis demonstrated that adding bio-oil in the amount of 20% was able to improve the crosslinking degree and form more hydrocarbon chains in PF resin. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

4239 KiB  
Article
Biosynthesis and Characterization of AgNPs–Silk/PVA Film for Potential Packaging Application
by Gang Tao, Rui Cai, Yejing Wang, Kai Song, Pengchao Guo, Ping Zhao, Hua Zuo and Huawei He
Materials 2017, 10(6), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060667 - 17 Jun 2017
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6755
Abstract
Bionanocomposite packaging materials have a bright future for a broad range of applications in the food and biomedical industries. Antimicrobial packaging is one of the bionanocomposite packaging materials. Silver nanoparticle (AgNP) is one of the most attractive antimicrobial agents for its broad spectrum [...] Read more.
Bionanocomposite packaging materials have a bright future for a broad range of applications in the food and biomedical industries. Antimicrobial packaging is one of the bionanocomposite packaging materials. Silver nanoparticle (AgNP) is one of the most attractive antimicrobial agents for its broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against microorganisms. However, the traditional method of preparing AgNPs-functionalized packaging material is cumbersome and not environmentally friendly. To develop an efficient and convenient biosynthesis method to prepare AgNPs-modified bionanocomposite material for packaging applications, we synthesized AgNPs in situ in a silk fibroin solution via the reduction of Ag+ by the tyrosine residue of fibroin, and then prepared AgNPs–silk/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composite film by blending with PVA. AgNPs were synthesized evenly on the surface or embedded in the interior of silk/PVA film. The prepared AgNPs–silk/PVA film exhibited excellent mechanical performance and stability, as well as good antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. AgNPs–silk/PVA film offers more choices to be potentially applied in the active packaging field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Performance of Nanocomposite Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

64501 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Behavior of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Beams Bonded with External Carbon Fiber Sheets
by Viktor Gribniak, Vytautas Tamulenas, Pui-Lam Ng, Aleksandr K. Arnautov, Eugenijus Gudonis and Ieva Misiunaite
Materials 2017, 10(6), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060666 - 17 Jun 2017
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 7234
Abstract
This study investigates the mechanical behavior of steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) beams internally reinforced with steel bars and externally bonded with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets fixed by adhesive and hybrid jointing techniques. In particular, attention is paid to the load resistance and [...] Read more.
This study investigates the mechanical behavior of steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) beams internally reinforced with steel bars and externally bonded with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets fixed by adhesive and hybrid jointing techniques. In particular, attention is paid to the load resistance and failure modes of composite beams. The steel fibers were used to avoiding the rip-off failure of the concrete cover. The CFRP sheets were fixed to the concrete surface by epoxy adhesive as well as combined with various configurations of small-diameter steel pins for mechanical fastening to form a hybrid connection. Such hybrid jointing techniques were found to be particularly advantageous in avoiding brittle debonding failure, by promoting progressive failure within the hybrid joints. The use of CFRP sheets was also effective in suppressing the localization of the discrete cracks. The development of the crack pattern was monitored using the digital image correlation method. As revealed from the image analyses, with an appropriate layout of the steel pins, brittle failure of the concrete-carbon fiber interface could be effectively prevented. Inverse analysis of the moment-curvature diagrams was conducted, and it was found that a simplified tension-stiffening model with a constant residual stress level at 90% of the strength of the SFRC is adequate for numerically simulating the deformation behavior of beams up to the debonding of the CFRP sheets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

65512 KiB  
Article
Thermal Stability and Fire Properties of Salen and Metallosalens as Fire Retardants in Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
by Aditya Ramgobin, Gaëlle Fontaine, Christophe Penverne and Serge Bourbigot
Materials 2017, 10(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060665 - 17 Jun 2017
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5949
Abstract
This study deals with the synthesis and evaluation of salen based derivatives as fire retardants in thermoplastic polyurethane. Salens, hydroxysalens and their first row transition metal complexes (salen-M) were synthesized (Copper, Manganese, Nickel and Zinc). They were then incorporated in thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) [...] Read more.
This study deals with the synthesis and evaluation of salen based derivatives as fire retardants in thermoplastic polyurethane. Salens, hydroxysalens and their first row transition metal complexes (salen-M) were synthesized (Copper, Manganese, Nickel and Zinc). They were then incorporated in thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with a loading as low as 10:1 weight ratio. The thermal stability as well as the fire properties of the formulations were evaluated. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that different coordination metals on the salen could induce different decomposition pathways when mixed with TPU. The Pyrolysis Combustion Flow Calorimetry (PCFC) results showed that some M-salen have the ability to significantly decrease the peak heat release rate (−61% compared to neat TPU) and total heat released (−63% compared to neat TPU) when formulated at 10:1 wt % ratio in TPU. Mass Loss Cone Calorimetry (MLC) results have shown that some additives (salen-Cu and salen-Mn) exhibit very promising performance and they are good candidates as flame-retardants for TPU. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flame Retardant Polymeric Materials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

4005 KiB  
Article
Ultra High Strain Rate Nanoindentation Testing
by Pardhasaradhi Sudharshan Phani and Warren Carl Oliver
Materials 2017, 10(6), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060663 - 17 Jun 2017
Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6294
Abstract
Strain rate dependence of indentation hardness has been widely used to study time-dependent plasticity. However, the currently available techniques limit the range of strain rates that can be achieved during indentation testing. Recent advances in electronics have enabled nanomechanical measurements with very low [...] Read more.
Strain rate dependence of indentation hardness has been widely used to study time-dependent plasticity. However, the currently available techniques limit the range of strain rates that can be achieved during indentation testing. Recent advances in electronics have enabled nanomechanical measurements with very low noise levels (sub nanometer) at fast time constants (20 µs) and high data acquisition rates (100 KHz). These capabilities open the doors for a wide range of ultra-fast nanomechanical testing, for instance, indentation testing at very high strain rates. With an accurate dynamic model and an instrument with fast time constants, step load tests can be performed which enable access to indentation strain rates approaching ballistic levels (i.e., 4000 1/s). A novel indentation based testing technique involving a combination of step load and constant load and hold tests that enables measurement of strain rate dependence of hardness spanning over seven orders of magnitude in strain rate is presented. A simple analysis is used to calculate the equivalent uniaxial response from indentation data and compared to the conventional uniaxial data for commercial purity aluminum. Excellent agreement is found between the indentation and uniaxial data over several orders of magnitude of strain rate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanoindentation in Materials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

5145 KiB  
Article
Nanoscaled Mechanical Properties of Cement Composites Reinforced with Carbon Nanofibers
by Salim Barbhuiya and PengLoy Chow
Materials 2017, 10(6), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060662 - 16 Jun 2017
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 3944
Abstract
This paper reports the effects of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on nanoscaled mechanical properties of cement composites. CNFs were added to cement composites at the filler loading of 0.2 wt % (by wt. of cement). Micrographs based on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) show that [...] Read more.
This paper reports the effects of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on nanoscaled mechanical properties of cement composites. CNFs were added to cement composites at the filler loading of 0.2 wt % (by wt. of cement). Micrographs based on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) show that CNFs are capable of forming strong interfacial bonding with cement matrices. Experimental results using nanoindentation reveal that the addition of CNFs in cement composites increases the proportions of high-density calcium-silicate-hydrate gel (HD-CSH) compared to low-density CSH gel. It was also found that the inclusion of CNFs increases the compressive strength of cement composites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Performance of Nanocomposite Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

1963 KiB  
Communication
Probing Transition-Metal Silicides as PGM-Free Catalysts for Hydrogen Oxidation and Evolution in Acidic Medium
by Thomas Mittermeier, Pankaj Madkikar, Xiaodong Wang, Hubert A. Gasteiger and Michele Piana
Materials 2017, 10(6), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060661 - 16 Jun 2017
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5776
Abstract
In this experimental study, we investigate various transition-metal silicides as platinum-group-metal-(PGM)-free electrocatalysts for the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR), and for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic environment for the first time. Using cyclic voltammetry in 0.1 M HClO4, we first [...] Read more.
In this experimental study, we investigate various transition-metal silicides as platinum-group-metal-(PGM)-free electrocatalysts for the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR), and for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic environment for the first time. Using cyclic voltammetry in 0.1 M HClO4, we first demonstrate that the tested materials exhibit sufficient stability against dissolution in the relevant potential window. Further, we determine the HOR and HER activities for Mo, W, Ta, Ni and Mo-Ni silicides in rotating disk electrode experiments. In conclusion, for the HOR only Ni2Si shows limited activity, and the HER activity of the investigated silicides is considerably lower compared to other PGM-free HER catalysts reported in the literature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells)
Show Figures

Figure 1

1905 KiB  
Article
Experimental Investigation of the Acoustic Nonlinear Behavior in Granular Polymer Bonded Explosives with Progressive Fatigue Damage
by Zhanfeng Yang, Yong Tian, Weibin Li, Haiqiang Zhou, Weibin Zhang and Jingming Li
Materials 2017, 10(6), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060660 - 16 Jun 2017
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3797
Abstract
The measurement of acoustic nonlinear response is known as a promising technique to characterize material micro-damages. In this paper, nonlinear ultrasonic approach is used to characterize the evolution of fatigue induced micro-cracks in polymer bonded explosives. The variations of acoustic nonlinearity with respect [...] Read more.
The measurement of acoustic nonlinear response is known as a promising technique to characterize material micro-damages. In this paper, nonlinear ultrasonic approach is used to characterize the evolution of fatigue induced micro-cracks in polymer bonded explosives. The variations of acoustic nonlinearity with respect to fatigue cycles in the specimens are obtained in this investigation. The present results show a significant increase of acoustic nonlinearity with respect to fatigue cycles. The experimental observation of the correlation between the acoustic nonlinearity and fatigue cycles in carbon/epoxy laminates, verifies that an acoustic nonlinear response can be used to evaluate the progressive fatigue damage in the granular polymer bonded explosives. The sensitivity comparison of nonlinear and linear parameters of ultrasonic waves in the specimens shows that nonlinear acoustic parameters are more promising indicators to fatigue induced micro-damage than linear ones. The feasibility study of the micro-damage assessment of polymer bonded explosives by nonlinear ultrasonic technique in this work can be applied to damage identification, material degradation monitoring, and lifetime prediction of the explosive parts. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

2632 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Antimicrobial Poly (Lactic Acid)/Nano-Composite Films with Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
by Zhuangzhuang Chu, Tianrui Zhao, Lin Li, Jian Fan and Yuyue Qin
Materials 2017, 10(6), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060659 - 16 Jun 2017
Cited by 131 | Viewed by 6548
Abstract
Antimicrobial active films based on poly (lactic acid) (PLA) were prepared with nano-silver (nano-Ag) and nano-zinc oxide (nano-ZnO) using a solvent volatilizing method. The films were characterized for mechanical, structural, thermal, physical and antimicrobial properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images characterized the fracture [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial active films based on poly (lactic acid) (PLA) were prepared with nano-silver (nano-Ag) and nano-zinc oxide (nano-ZnO) using a solvent volatilizing method. The films were characterized for mechanical, structural, thermal, physical and antimicrobial properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images characterized the fracture morphology of the films with different contents of nano-Ag and nano-ZnO. The addition of nanoparticles into the pure PLA film decreased the tensile strength and elasticity modulus and increased the elongation of breaks—in other words, the flexibility and extensibility of these composites improved. According to the results of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the glass transition temperature of the PLA nano-composite films decreased, and the crystallinity of these films increased; a similar result was apparent from X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The water vapor permeability (WVP) and opacity of the PLA nano-composite films augmented compared with pure PLA film. Incorporation of nanoparticles to the PLA films significantly improved the antimicrobial activity to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli. The results indicated that PLA films with nanoparticles could be considered a potential environmental-friendly packaging material. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

7234 KiB  
Article
Fatigue Lifetime of Ceramic Matrix Composites at Intermediate Temperature by Acoustic Emission
by Elie Racle, Nathalie Godin, Pascal Reynaud and Gilbert Fantozzi
Materials 2017, 10(6), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060658 - 16 Jun 2017
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4916
Abstract
The fatigue behavior of a Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) at intermediate temperature under air is investigated. Because of the low density and the high tensile strength of CMC, they offer a good technical solution to design aeronautical structural components. The aim of the [...] Read more.
The fatigue behavior of a Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) at intermediate temperature under air is investigated. Because of the low density and the high tensile strength of CMC, they offer a good technical solution to design aeronautical structural components. The aim of the present study is to compare the behavior of this composite under static and cyclic loading. Comparison between incremental static and cyclic tests shows that cyclic loading with an amplitude higher than 30% of the ultimate tensile strength has significant effects on damage and material lifetimes. In order to evaluate the remaining lifetime, several damage indicators, mainly based on the investigation of the liberated energy, are introduced. These indicators highlight critical times or characteristic times, allowing an evaluation of the remaining lifetime. A link is established with the characteristic time around 25% of the total test duration and the beginning of the matrix cracking during cyclic fatigue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Life of Materials at High Temperatures)
Show Figures

Figure 1

2154 KiB  
Article
Warm White Light-Emitting Diodes Based on a Novel Orange Cationic Iridium(III) Complex
by Huaijun Tang, Guoyun Meng, Zeyu Chen, Kaimin Wang, Qiang Zhou and Zhengliang Wang
Materials 2017, 10(6), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060657 - 16 Jun 2017
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4792
Abstract
A novel orange cationic iridium(III) complex [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 (TPTA: 3,4,5-triphenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole, dPPOA: N,N-diphenyl-4-(5-(pyridin-2-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)aniline) was synthesized and used as a phosphor in light-emitting diodes (LEDs). [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 has high thermal stability with a decomposition temperature (Td) [...] Read more.
A novel orange cationic iridium(III) complex [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 (TPTA: 3,4,5-triphenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole, dPPOA: N,N-diphenyl-4-(5-(pyridin-2-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)aniline) was synthesized and used as a phosphor in light-emitting diodes (LEDs). [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 has high thermal stability with a decomposition temperature (Td) of 375 °C, and its relative emission intensity at 100 °C is 88.8% of that at 25°C. When only [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 was used as a phosphor at 6.0 wt % in silicone and excited by a blue GaN (GaN: gallium nitride) chip (450 nm), an orange LED was obtained. A white LED fabricated by a blue GaN chip (450 nm) and only yellow phosphor Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ (YAG:Ce) (1.0 wt % in silicone) emitted cold white light, its CIE (CIE: Commission International de I’Eclairage) value was (0.32, 0.33), color rendering index (CRI) was 72.2, correlated color temperature (CCT) was 6877 K, and luminous efficiency (ηL) was 128.5 lm∙W−1. Such a cold white LED became a neutral white LED when [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 was added at 0.5 wt %; its corresponding CIE value was (0.35, 0.33), CRI was 78.4, CCT was 4896 K, and ηL was 85.2 lm∙W−1. It further became a warm white LED when [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 was added at 1.0 wt %; its corresponding CIE value was (0.39, 0.36), CRI was 80.2, CCT was 3473 K, and ηL was 46.1 lm∙W−1. The results show that [(TPTA)2Ir(dPPOA)]PF6 is a promising phosphor candidate for fabricating warm white LEDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Luminescent Materials 2017)
Show Figures

Figure 1

6030 KiB  
Article
Crack Identification in CFRP Laminated Beams Using Multi-Resolution Modal Teager–Kaiser Energy under Noisy Environments
by Wei Xu, Maosen Cao, Keqin Ding, Maciej Radzieński and Wiesław Ostachowicz
Materials 2017, 10(6), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060656 - 15 Jun 2017
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4162
Abstract
Carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates are increasingly used in the aerospace and civil engineering fields. Identifying cracks in carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminated beam components is of considerable significance for ensuring the integrity and safety of the whole structures. With the development of [...] Read more.
Carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates are increasingly used in the aerospace and civil engineering fields. Identifying cracks in carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminated beam components is of considerable significance for ensuring the integrity and safety of the whole structures. With the development of high-resolution measurement technologies, mode-shape-based crack identification in such laminated beam components has become an active research focus. Despite its sensitivity to cracks, however, this method is susceptible to noise. To address this deficiency, this study proposes a new concept of multi-resolution modal Teager–Kaiser energy, which is the Teager–Kaiser energy of a mode shape represented in multi-resolution, for identifying cracks in carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminated beams. The efficacy of this concept is analytically demonstrated by identifying cracks in Timoshenko beams with general boundary conditions; and its applicability is validated by diagnosing cracks in a carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminated beam, whose mode shapes are precisely acquired via non-contact measurement using a scanning laser vibrometer. The analytical and experimental results show that multi-resolution modal Teager–Kaiser energy is capable of designating the presence and location of cracks in these beams under noisy environments. This proposed method holds promise for developing crack identification systems for carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Health Monitoring for Aerospace Applications 2017)
Show Figures

Figure 1

3192 KiB  
Article
Microstructure and Dielectric Properties of LPCVD/CVI-SiBCN Ceramics Annealed at Different Temperatures
by Jianping Li, Mingxi Zhao, Yongsheng Liu, Nan Chai, Fang Ye, Hailong Qin, Laifei Cheng and Litong Zhang
Materials 2017, 10(6), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060655 - 15 Jun 2017
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4308
Abstract
SiBCN ceramics were introduced into porous Si3N4 ceramics via a low-pressure chemical vapor deposition and infiltration (LPCVD/CVI) technique, and then the composite ceramics were heat-treated from 1400 °C to 1700 °C in a N2 atmosphere. The effects of annealing [...] Read more.
SiBCN ceramics were introduced into porous Si3N4 ceramics via a low-pressure chemical vapor deposition and infiltration (LPCVD/CVI) technique, and then the composite ceramics were heat-treated from 1400 °C to 1700 °C in a N2 atmosphere. The effects of annealing temperatures on microstructure, phase evolution, dielectric properties of SiBCN ceramics were investigated. The results revealed that α-Si3N4 and free carbon were separated below 1700 °C, and then SiC grains formed in the SiBCN ceramic matrix after annealing at 1700 °C through a phase-reaction between free carbon and α-Si3N4. The average dielectric loss of composites increased from 0 to 0.03 due to the formation of dispersive SiC grains and the increase of grain boundaries. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

5750 KiB  
Article
Effect of Zinc Phosphate on the Corrosion Behavior of Waterborne Acrylic Coating/Metal Interface
by Hongxia Wan, Dongdong Song, Xiaogang Li, Dawei Zhang, Jin Gao and Cuiwei Du
Materials 2017, 10(6), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma10060654 - 14 Jun 2017
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 6512
Abstract
Waterborne coating has recently been paid much attention. However, it cannot be used widely due to its performance limitations. Under the specified conditions of the selected resin, selecting the function pigment is key to improving the anticorrosive properties of the coating. Zinc phosphate [...] Read more.
Waterborne coating has recently been paid much attention. However, it cannot be used widely due to its performance limitations. Under the specified conditions of the selected resin, selecting the function pigment is key to improving the anticorrosive properties of the coating. Zinc phosphate is an environmentally protective and efficient anticorrosion pigment. In this work, zinc phosphate was used in modifying waterborne acrylic coatings. Moreover, the disbonding resistance of the coating was studied. Results showed that adding zinc phosphate can effectively inhibit the anode process of metal corrosion and enhance the wet adhesion of the coating, and consequently prevent the horizontal diffusion of the corrosive medium into the coating/metal interface and slow down the disbonding of the coating. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Previous Issue
Next Issue
Back to TopTop