Materials

15 pages, 31782 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation and Experimental Investigation of Cold-Rolled Steel Cutting

by Jarosław Kaczmarczyk and Adam Grajcar

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1263; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071263 - 23 Jul 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4510

The paper presents results of the investigations on numerical computations and experimental verification concerning the influence of selected parameters of the cutting process on the stress state in bundles of cold-rolled steel sheets being cut using a guillotine. The physical model and, corresponding [...] Read more.

The paper presents results of the investigations on numerical computations and experimental verification concerning the influence of selected parameters of the cutting process on the stress state in bundles of cold-rolled steel sheets being cut using a guillotine. The physical model and, corresponding to it, the mathematical model of the analysed steel sheet being cut were elaborated. In this work, the relationship between the cutting depth and the values of reduced Huber–Mises stresses as well as the mechanism of sheet separation were presented. The numerical simulations were conducted by means of the finite element method and the computer system LS-DYNA. The results of numerical computations are juxtaposed as graphs, tables, and contour maps of sheet deformation as well as reduced Huber–Mises strains and stresses for selected time instants. The microscopic tests revealed two distinct zones in the fracture areas. The ductile and brittle zones are separated at the depth of ca. 1/3 thickness of the cut steel sheet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Machining—Recent Advances, Applications and Challenges)

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19 pages, 26523 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation and Experimental Validation of Sheet Laser Forming Processes Using General Scanning Paths

by Álvaro Navarrete, Felipe Cook, Diego Celentano, Marcela Cruchaga and Claudio García-Herrera

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1262; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071262 - 23 Jul 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3473

Abstract

This work presents numerical simulations and an experimental validation of sheet laser forming processes using general scanning paths with different laser beam operating parameters (i.e., power, diameter, and scanning speed) in two specific graphite coated stainless steel blanks (i.e., with thicknesses of 0.3 [...] Read more.

This work presents numerical simulations and an experimental validation of sheet laser forming processes using general scanning paths with different laser beam operating parameters (i.e., power, diameter, and scanning speed) in two specific graphite coated stainless steel blanks (i.e., with thicknesses of 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm for the AISI 302 and 304 alloys, respectively). To this end, three specific laser forming tests involving single S-shaped, multiple circular, and single piecewise linear scanning paths are carried out. On the other hand, the numerical simulation of these tests is performed via a coupled thermomechanical finite element formulation, accounting for large viscoplastic strains, temperature-dependent material properties, and convection-radiation phenomena. The final bending angles provided by this model are found to be in good agreement with the experimental measurements for all of the cases studied. Therefore, this modeling framework can be established as a reliable approach to predict the material thermomechanical response during sheet laser forming using general scanning paths. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal Materials and Non-conventional Mechanical Manufacturing Processes)

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15 pages, 2769 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Quasi-Static Uniaxial Compression Properties and Constitutive Equation of Spherical Cell Porous Aluminum-Polyurethane Composites

by Haiying Bao and Aiqun Li

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1261; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071261 - 23 Jul 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3375

Abstract

Quasi-static uniaxial compression properties and the constitutive equation of spherical cell porous aluminum-polyurethane composites (SCPA-PU composites) were investigated in this paper. The effects of relative density on the densification strain, plateau stress and energy absorption properties of the SCPA-PU composites were analyzed. It [...] Read more.

Quasi-static uniaxial compression properties and the constitutive equation of spherical cell porous aluminum-polyurethane composites (SCPA-PU composites) were investigated in this paper. The effects of relative density on the densification strain, plateau stress and energy absorption properties of the SCPA-PU composites were analyzed. It is found that the stress-strain curves of SCPA-PU composites consist of three stages: The linear elastic part, longer plastic plateau segment and densification region. The results also demonstrate that both the plateau stress and the densification strain energy of the SCPA-PU composites can be improved by increasing the relative density of the spherical cell porous aluminum (SCPA), while the densification strain of the SCPA-PU composites shows little dependence on the relative density of the SCPA. Furthermore, the applicability of three representative phenomenological models to the constitutive equations of SCPA-PU composites are verified and compared based on the experimental results. The error analysis result indicates that the Avalle model is the best model to characterize the uniaxial compression constitutive equation of SCPA-PU composites. Full article

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17 pages, 12012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Parametric Relationships for Chip Geometry in Dry Machining of the Ti6Al4V Alloy

by Yezika Sánchez Hernández, Francisco Javier Trujillo Vilches, Carolina Bermudo Gamboa and Lorenzo Sevilla Hurtado

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1260; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071260 - 23 Jul 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3762

Abstract

The Ti6Al4V alloy is included in the group of difficult-to-cut materials. Segmented chips are generated for a wide range of cutting parameters. This kind of chip geometry leads to the periodic variation of machining forces, tool vibrations, and work part-tolerance inaccuracies. Therefore, the [...] Read more.

The Ti6Al4V alloy is included in the group of difficult-to-cut materials. Segmented chips are generated for a wide range of cutting parameters. This kind of chip geometry leads to the periodic variation of machining forces, tool vibrations, and work part-tolerance inaccuracies. Therefore, the analysis of chip morphology and geometry becomes a fundamental machinability criterion. However, few studies propose experimental parametric relationships that allow predicting chip-geometry evolution as a function of cutting parameters. In this work, an experimental analysis of the influence of cutting speed and feed rate on various chip-geometric parameters in dry machining of the Ti6Al4V alloy was carried out. In addition, the chip morphology and chip microstructure were studied. A clear dependence of certain chip-geometric parameters on the cutting parameters studied was found. From the experimental data, several parametric relationships were developed. These relationships were able to predict the evolution of different geometric parameters as a function of cutting speed and feed, within the tested range of values. The differences between the proposed models and the experimental data were also highlighted. These parametric equations allowed quantifying the value of parameters in which the trend was clear. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Special Issue of the Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES))

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15 pages, 3347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Single Step Process for Crystalline Ni-B Compounds

by Mahboobeh Shahbazi, Henrietta Cathey, Natalia Danilova and Ian D.R. Mackinnon

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1259; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071259 - 22 Jul 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3525

Abstract

Crystalline Ni₂B, Ni₃B, and Ni₄B₃ are synthesized by a single-step method using autogenous pressure from the reaction of NaBH₄ and Ni precursors. The effect of reaction temperature, pressure, time, and starting materials on the composition [...] Read more.

Crystalline Ni₂B, Ni₃B, and Ni₄B₃ are synthesized by a single-step method using autogenous pressure from the reaction of NaBH₄ and Ni precursors. The effect of reaction temperature, pressure, time, and starting materials on the composition of synthesized products, particle morphologies, and magnetic properties is demonstrated. High yields of Ni₂B (>98%) are achieved at 2.3–3.4 MPa and ~670 °C over five hours. Crystalline Ni₃B or Ni₄B₃ form in conjunction with Ni₂B at higher temperature or higher autogenous pressure in proportions influenced by the ratios of initial reactants. For the same starting ratios of reactants, a longer reaction time or higher pressure shifts equilibria to lower yields of Ni₂B. Using this approach, yields of ~88% Ni₄B₃ (single phase orthorhombic) and ~72% Ni₃B are obtained for conditions 1.9 MPa < P_max < 4.9 MPa and 670 °C < T_max < 725 °C. Gas-solid reaction is the dominant transformation mechanism that results in formation of Ni₂B at lower temperatures than conventional solid-state methods. Full article

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18 pages, 5644 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Injectable Self-Setting Monetite Based Bioceramics for Orthopedic Applications

by Naresh Koju, Prabaha Sikder, Bipin Gaihre and Sarit B. Bhaduri

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071258 - 22 Jul 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6135

Abstract

The present study is the first of its kind dealing with the development of a specific bioceramic which qualifies as a potential material in hard-tissue replacements. Specifically, we report the synthesis and evaluation of smart injectable calcium phosphate bone cement (CPC) which we [...] Read more.

The present study is the first of its kind dealing with the development of a specific bioceramic which qualifies as a potential material in hard-tissue replacements. Specifically, we report the synthesis and evaluation of smart injectable calcium phosphate bone cement (CPC) which we believe will be suitable for various kinds of orthopedic and spinal-fusion applications. The smart nature of this next generation orthopedic implant is attained by incorporating piezoelectric barium titanate (BT) particles into monetite-based (dicalcium phosphate anhydrous, DCPA) CPC composition. The main goal is to take advantage of the piezoelectric properties of BT, as electromechanical effect plays a vital role in fracture healing at the defect site and bone integration with the implant. Furthermore, radiopacity of BT would help in easy detection of the CPC presence at the fracture site during surgery. Results reveal that BT addition favors important properties of bone cement such as good compressive strength, injectability, bioactivity, biocompatibility, and even washout resistance. Most importantly, the self-setting nature of the bone cements are not compromised with BT incorporation. The in vitro results confirm that the developed bone-cement abides by the standard orthopedic requirements making it apt for real-time prosthetic materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioceramics: Bioinert, Bioactive, and Coatings)

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19 pages, 5188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hierarchical Characterization and Nanomechanical Assessment of Biomimetic Scaffolds Mimicking Lamellar Bone via Atomic Force Microscopy Cantilever-Based Nanoindentation

by Brian Wingender, Yongliang Ni, Yifan Zhang, Curtis Taylor and Laurie Gower

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071257 - 22 Jul 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4487

Abstract

The hierarchical structure of bone and intrinsic material properties of its two primary constituents, carbonated apatite and fibrillar collagen, when being synergistically organized into an interpenetrating hard-soft composite, contribute to its excellent mechanical properties. Lamellar bone is the predominant structural motif in mammalian [...] Read more.

The hierarchical structure of bone and intrinsic material properties of its two primary constituents, carbonated apatite and fibrillar collagen, when being synergistically organized into an interpenetrating hard-soft composite, contribute to its excellent mechanical properties. Lamellar bone is the predominant structural motif in mammalian hard tissues; therefore, we believe the fabrication of a collagen/apatite composite with a hierarchical structure that emulates bone, consisting of a dense lamellar microstructure and a mineralized collagen fibril nanostructure, is an important first step toward the goal of regenerative bone tissue engineering. In this work, we exploit the liquid crystalline properties of collagen to fabricate dense matrices that assemble with cholesteric organization. The matrices were crosslinked via carbodiimide chemistry to improve mechanical properties, and are subsequently mineralized via the polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process to promote intrafibrillar mineralization. Neither the crosslinking procedure nor the mineralization affected the cholesteric collagen microstructures; notably, there was a positive trend toward higher stiffness with increasing crosslink density when measured by cantilever-based atomic force microscopy (AFM) nanoindentation. In the dry state, the average moduli of moderately (X51; 4.8 ± 4.3 GPa) and highly (X76; 7.8 ± 6.7 GPa) crosslinked PILP-mineralized liquid crystalline collagen (LCC) scaffolds were higher than the average modulus of bovine bone (5.5 ± 5.6 GPa). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bone Substitute Materials)

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11 pages, 3692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First-Principles Study on the Adsorption and Dissociation of Impurities on Copper Current Collector in Electrolyte for Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Jian Chen, Chao Li, Jian Zhang, Cong Li, Jianlin Chen and Yanjie Ren

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071256 - 21 Jul 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4481

Abstract

The copper current collector is an important component for lithium-ion batteries and its stability in electrolyte impacts their performance. The decomposition of LiPF₆ in the electrolyte of lithium-ion batteries produces the reactive PF₆, which reacts with the residual water and [...] Read more.

The copper current collector is an important component for lithium-ion batteries and its stability in electrolyte impacts their performance. The decomposition of LiPF₆ in the electrolyte of lithium-ion batteries produces the reactive PF₆, which reacts with the residual water and generates HF. In this paper, the adsorption and dissociation of H₂O, HF, and PF₅ on the Cu(111) surface were studied using a first-principles method based on the density functional theory. The stable configurations of HF, H₂O, and PF₅ adsorbed on Cu(111) and the geometric parameters of the admolecules were confirmed after structure optimization. The results showed that PF₅ can promote the dissociation reaction of HF. Meanwhile, PF₅ also promoted the physical adsorption of H₂O on the Cu(111) surface. The CuF₂ molecule was identified by determining the bond length and the bond angle of the reaction product. The energy barriers of HF dissociation on clean and O-atom-preadsorbed Cu(111) surfaces revealed that the preadsorbed O atom can promote the dissociation of HF significantly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Approaches Applied to Materials Development and Design Predictions)

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17 pages, 2833 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Preliminary Research on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Alternative Lightweight Aggregates Produced by Alkali-Activation of Waste Powders

by Piergiorgio Tataranni, Giulia Maria Besemer, Villiam Bortolotti and Cesare Sangiorgi

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071255 - 21 Jul 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3691

Abstract

There is growing interest in construction field issues related to environmental protection, energy saving and raw materials. Therefore, the interest in recycling waste materials to produce new construction ones is constantly increasing. This study proposes a new methodology to produce lightweight aggregates (LWAs) [...] Read more.

There is growing interest in construction field issues related to environmental protection, energy saving and raw materials. Therefore, the interest in recycling waste materials to produce new construction ones is constantly increasing. This study proposes a new methodology to produce lightweight aggregates (LWAs) by alkali-activation of two different waste powders: a digested spent bentonite clay and a basalt powder. Metakaolin, as secondary precursor, was added to the mixtures according to mix-design proportions, to improve the mechanical properties of the final materials, while a specific activators mix of Sodium Silicate and Sodium Hydroxide enabled the alkali-activation. The expansion process, on the other hand, was obtained using Peroxide within the liquid mix. The experimental LWAs were analyzed and tested in compliance with the EN 13055-1 standard. A more in-depth analysis on LWAs’ air voids content and porosity was also carried out by the means of Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. The results were compared with those obtained from commercial Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate, which represents one of the most common LWAs in the construction field. According to the presented preliminary results, the use of alkali-activated waste powders seems to be a suitable solution for the production of eco-friendly LWAs by allowing the recycling of waste materials and energy saving for their production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Smart Materials for the Built Environment)

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20 pages, 7066 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Residual Compressive Strength and Behavior of Corrosion-Damaged Carbon Steel Tubular Members

by Jin-Hee Ahn, Seok-Hyeon Jeon, Young-Soo Jeong, Kwang-Il Cho and Jungwon Huh

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1254; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071254 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3812

Abstract

Local corrosion damage of steel structures can occur due to damage to the paint-coated surface of structures. Such damage can affect the structural behavior and performance of steel structures. Compressive loading tests were, thus, carried out in this study to examine the effect [...] Read more.

Local corrosion damage of steel structures can occur due to damage to the paint-coated surface of structures. Such damage can affect the structural behavior and performance of steel structures. Compressive loading tests were, thus, carried out in this study to examine the effect of local corrosion damage on the structural behavior and strength of tubular members. Artificial cross-sectional damage on the surface of the tubular members was introduced to reflect the actual corroded damage under exposure to a corrosion environment. The compressive failure modes and compressive strengths of the tubular members were compared according to the localized cross-sectional damage. The compressive loading test results showed that the compressive strengths were affected by the damaged width within a certain range. In addition, finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted with various parameters to determine the effects of the damage on the failure mode and compressive strength of the stub column. From the FEA results, the compressive strength was decreased proportionally with the equivalent cross-sectional area ratio and damaged volume ratio. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Damage and Mechanical Properties of Steels)

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13 pages, 5048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Phase Evolution and Physical Properties of Binary Copper Oxide Thin Films Prepared by Reactive Magnetron Sputtering

by Weifeng Zheng, Yue Chen, Xihong Peng, Kehua Zhong, Yingbin Lin and Zhigao Huang

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071253 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 4738

Abstract

P-type binary copper oxide semiconductor films for various O₂ flow rates and total pressures (P_t) were prepared using the reactive magnetron sputtering method. Their morphologies and structures were detected by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrometry, and SEM. A phase diagram [...] Read more.

P-type binary copper oxide semiconductor films for various O₂ flow rates and total pressures (P_t) were prepared using the reactive magnetron sputtering method. Their morphologies and structures were detected by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrometry, and SEM. A phase diagram with Cu₂O, Cu₄O₃, CuO, and their mixture was established. Moreover, based on Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM) and conductive AFM (C-AFM), by measuring the contact potential difference (V_CPD) and the field emission property, the work function and the carrier concentration were obtained, which can be used to distinguish the different types of copper oxide states. The band gaps of the Cu₂O, Cu₄O₃, and CuO thin films were observed to be (2.51 ± 0.02) eV, (1.65 ± 0.1) eV, and (1.42 ± 0.01) eV, respectively. The resistivities of Cu₂O, Cu₄O₃, and CuO thin films are (3.7 ± 0.3) × 10³ Ω·cm, (1.1 ± 0.3) × 10³ Ω·cm, and (1.6 ± 6) × 10¹ Ω·cm, respectively. All the measured results above are consistent. Full article

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15 pages, 3336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microsegregation Model Including Convection and Tip Undercooling: Application to Directional Solidification and Welding

by Thomas Billotte, Dominique Daloz, Bernard Rouat, Guillaume Tirand, Jacob R. Kennedy, Vincent Robin and Julien Zollinger

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071252 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4158

Abstract

The microsegregation behavior of alloy filler metal 52 (FM 52) was studied using microprobe analysis on two different solidification processes. First, microsegregation was characterized in samples manufactured by directional solidification, and then by gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). The experimental results were compared [...] Read more.

The microsegregation behavior of alloy filler metal 52 (FM 52) was studied using microprobe analysis on two different solidification processes. First, microsegregation was characterized in samples manufactured by directional solidification, and then by gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). The experimental results were compared with Thermo-Calc calculations to verify their accuracy. It was confirmed that the thermodynamic database predicts most alloying elements well. Once this data had been determined, several tip undercooling calculations were carried out for different solidification conditions in terms of fluid flow and thermal gradient values. These calculations allowed the authors to develop a parametrization card for the constants of the microsegregation model, according to the process parameters (e.g., convection in melt pool, thermal gradient, and growth velocity). A new model of microsegregation, including convection and tip undercooling, is also proposed. The Tong–Beckermann microsegregation model was used individually and coupled with a modified Kurz-Giovanola-Trivedi (KGT) tip undercooling model, in order to take into account the convection in the fluid flow at the dendrite tip. Model predictions were compared to experimental results and showed the microsegregation evolution accurately. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of Alloy Metals for Low-Mass Structures)

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16 pages, 4668 KiB

Open AccessReview

Durability Modeling Review of Thermal- and Environmental-Barrier-Coated Fiber-Reinforced Ceramic Matrix Composites Part I

by Ali Abdul-Aziz

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071251 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5142

Abstract

This paper is a Part I of a literature review documentation describing the currently available and used techniques that are being explored by material scientists and researchers in the field of materials characterizations and testing for both thermal and environmental barrier coatings (TBCs [...] Read more.

This paper is a Part I of a literature review documentation describing the currently available and used techniques that are being explored by material scientists and researchers in the field of materials characterizations and testing for both thermal and environmental barrier coatings (TBCs and EBCs, respectively). This review contains relevant information regarding the most common coating applications and their impact on the durability and life of both the coatings and the substrate materials. It also includes a description of the methodologies of coating applications and their pros and cons. A discussion of the applicability, failure modes and modeling approaches that are presently available and utilized by active researchers in the field is also included. Part II will illustrate an in-depth assessment of various aspects of the available and developing life prediction models for both TBC and EBC and the influence of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on their thermal and mechanical stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Damage Detection and Characterization of High Performance Composites)

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8 pages, 2173 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Different-Shaped Ultrafine MoNbTaW HEA Powders Prepared via Mechanical Alloying

by Yonggang Tong, Peibu Qi, Xiubing Liang, Yongxiong Chen, Yongle Hu and Zhenfeng Hu

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1250; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071250 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 4728

Abstract

Different-shaped ultrafine MoNbTaW high-entropy alloy powders were firstly prepared by a convenient mechanical alloying method. The phase composition and microstructure of the powders were characterized. The powders are ultrafine with nano-sized grains and a good homogeneous microstructure. All the powders have a single [...] Read more.

Different-shaped ultrafine MoNbTaW high-entropy alloy powders were firstly prepared by a convenient mechanical alloying method. The phase composition and microstructure of the powders were characterized. The powders are ultrafine with nano-sized grains and a good homogeneous microstructure. All the powders have a single body-centered cubic solid solution phase and form the high-entropy alloy during mechanical alloying. These powders with different shapes are quite attractive for developing high-performance MoNbTaW high-entropy alloy bulk and coatings combined with a following sintering, spraying, or additive manufacturing technique. Full article

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13 pages, 2750 KiB

Open AccessArticle

3D-Printed Low-Cost Dielectric-Resonator-Based Ultra-Broadband Microwave Absorber Using Carbon-Loaded Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Polymer

by Jian Ren and Jia Yuan Yin

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071249 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 7052

Abstract

In this study, an ultra-broadband dielectric-resonator-based absorber for microwave absorption is numerically and experimentally investigated. The designed absorber is made of the carbon-loaded Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) polymer and fabricated using the 3D printing technology based on fused deposition modeling with a quite [...] Read more.

In this study, an ultra-broadband dielectric-resonator-based absorber for microwave absorption is numerically and experimentally investigated. The designed absorber is made of the carbon-loaded Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) polymer and fabricated using the 3D printing technology based on fused deposition modeling with a quite low cost. Profiting from the fundamental dielectric resonator (DR) mode, the higher order DR mode and the grating mode of the dielectric resonator, the absorber shows an absorptivity higher than 90% over the whole ultra-broad operating band from 3.9 to 12 GHz. The relative bandwidth can reach over 100% and cover the whole C-band (4–8 GHz) and X-band (8–12 GHz). Utilizing the numerical simulation, we have discussed the working principle of the absorber in detail. What is more, the absorption performance under different incident angles is also simulated, and the results indicate that the absorber exhibits a high absorptivity at a wide angle of incidence. The advantages of low cost, ultra-broad operating band and a wide-angle feature make the absorber promising in the areas of microwave measurement, stealth technology and energy harvesting. Full article

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10 pages, 5595 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication and Tribological Performance of Zr-Coated Carbide against 40Cr Hardened Steel

by Wenlong Song, Zixiang Xia, Shoujun Wang and Xuan Zhang

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1248; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071248 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2943

Abstract

In order to enhance the tribological performance of YT14 carbide, pure Zr coating was deposited on the substrate surface using a multi-arc ion plating method. The surface topography, adhesion strength, thickness, and micro-hardness of the Zr coating were tested. Dry sliding friction experiments [...] Read more.

In order to enhance the tribological performance of YT14 carbide, pure Zr coating was deposited on the substrate surface using a multi-arc ion plating method. The surface topography, adhesion strength, thickness, and micro-hardness of the Zr coating were tested. Dry sliding friction experiments against a 40Cr hardened steel ring were conducted with Zr-coated carbides and traditional ones. The average coefficients of friction were measured and compared. The wear characteristics of the samples were examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The test results indicated that the Zr coating deposited on the carbide surface exhibited excellent adhesive strength and lower hardness. The average friction coefficient of Zr coated carbide decreased by 20%–30% in comparison with that of the uncoated one. The Zr coated carbide could reduce the adhesive wear compared with the uncoated one, and the main tribological degradation mechanisms of the coating were abrasive wear, coating flaking and delamination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Thin Films and Interfaces)

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14 pages, 11359 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combination of Laser Material Deposition and Laser Surface Processes for the Holistic Manufacture of Inconel 718 Components

by Jon Iñaki Arrizubieta, Magdalena Cortina, Jose Exequiel Ruiz and Aitzol Lamikiz

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071247 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4406

Abstract

The present work proposes a novel manufacturing technique based on the combination of Laser Metal Deposition, Laser Beam Machining, and laser polishing processes for the complete manufacturing of complex parts. Therefore, the complete process is based on the application of a laser heat [...] Read more.

The present work proposes a novel manufacturing technique based on the combination of Laser Metal Deposition, Laser Beam Machining, and laser polishing processes for the complete manufacturing of complex parts. Therefore, the complete process is based on the application of a laser heat source both for the building of the preform shape of the part by additive manufacturing and for the finishing operations. Their combination enables the manufacture of near-net-shape parts and afterwards removes the excess material via laser machining, which has proved to be capable of eliminating the waviness resulting from the additive process. Besides, surface quality is improved via laser polishing so that the roughness of the final part is reduced. Therefore, conventional machining operations are eliminated, which results in a much cleaner process. To validate the capability of this new approach, the dimensional accuracy and surface quality as well as the microstructure of the resulting parts are evaluated. The process has been validated on an Inconel 718 test part, where a previously additively built-up part has been finished by means of laser machining and laser polishing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Special Issue of the Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES))

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15 pages, 4206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Grain Refinement Mechanism of 6061 Aluminum Alloy Processed by Combined SPD Methods of ECAP and MAC

by Zhenwei Zhang, Junli Wang, Qinglong Zhang, Supeng Zhang, Qingnan Shi and Huarong Qi

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1246; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071246 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4487

Abstract

Equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) and multi-axial compression deformation (MAC) are severe plastic deformation (SPD) processes that produce bulk nanostructured materials with ultrafine grains. The grains could be observably refined by multi-pass of ECAP and MAC. This research proposed new routes of cyclic [...] Read more.

Equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) and multi-axial compression deformation (MAC) are severe plastic deformation (SPD) processes that produce bulk nanostructured materials with ultrafine grains. The grains could be observably refined by multi-pass of ECAP and MAC. This research proposed new routes of cyclic equal channel compression (CECC), which combines ECAP and MAC to increase the mechanical properties of 6061 aluminum alloy. The tests, which are conducted through electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscope (TEM), were performed on the grain size, recrystallization distribution, misorientation distributions, dislocations, and secondary phase distributions of CECC-processed 6061 aluminum alloys on the purpose of exploring the mechanism of grain refinement. MEM is the short form for the CECC processing route of MAC + ECAP + MAC, which is one ECAP pass between two MAC passes. The tests results showed that the average grain size could reach to as much as 1.1 μm after two MEM deformation circles named MEM-MEM, with the non-annealing average grain size being 21 μm and recrystallization annealed average grain size being 28 μm. The dislocation cells, which could be transformed into sub-grains with the increase of the strain, were formed by the slip and the accumulation of dislocations. The secondary phase was Mg₂Si, which could prevent the refined grains from growing up again by pinning at the grain boundaries. Above all, the dislocation proliferation and secondary phases will both lead to the grain refinement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials and Their Applications)

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13 pages, 4692 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Combination of Vancomycin and Cefazolin Lipid Nanoparticles for Overcoming Antibiotic Resistance of MRSA

by Ketki Bhise, Samaresh Sau, Razieh Kebriaei, Seth A. Rice, Kyle C. Stamper, Hashem O. Alsaab, Michael J. Rybak and Arun K. Iyer

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071245 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7375

Abstract

Vancomycin is the treatment of choice for infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Clinically, combinations of vancomycin (VAN) and beta-lactams have been shown to improve patient outcomes compared to VAN alone for the treatment of MRSA bloodstream infections. However, VAN is known [...] Read more.

Vancomycin is the treatment of choice for infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Clinically, combinations of vancomycin (VAN) and beta-lactams have been shown to improve patient outcomes compared to VAN alone for the treatment of MRSA bloodstream infections. However, VAN is known to cause nephrotoxicity, which could be ameliorated using biocompatible lipid drug delivery systems or liposomes. Previous attempts have been made for encapsulation of VAN in liposomes; however, drug loading has been poor, mainly because of the high aqueous solubility of VAN. In this study, we report a robust method to achieve high loading of VAN and cefazolin (CFZ) in unilamellar liposomes. Liposomes of sizes between 170–198 nm were prepared by modified reverse phase evaporation method and achieved high loading of 40% and 26% (weight/weight) for VAN and CFZ, respectively. Liposomal VAN reduced minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values 2-fold in comparison to commercial VAN. The combination of liposomal VAN (LVAN) and liposomal CFZ (LCFZ) demonstrated a 7.9-fold reduction compared to LVAN alone. Rhodamine dye-loaded liposomes demonstrated superior cellular uptake in macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells. Fluorescent images of LVAN-encapsulating near-infrared (NIR) dye, S0456 (LVAN-S0456) clearly indicated that LVAN-S0456 had reduced renal excretion with very low fluorescent intensity in the kidneys. It is anticipated that the long circulation and reduced kidney clearance of LVAN-S0456 compared to VAN-S0456 injected in mice can lead to enhanced efficacy against MRSA infections with reduced nephrotoxicity. Overall, our developed formulations of VAN when administered alone or in combination with CFZ, provide a rational approach for combating MRSA infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Health Care Diagnostics)

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13 pages, 9503 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructure, Tensile, and Creep Behaviors of Ti-22Al-25Nb (at.%) Orthorhombic Alloy with Equiaxed Microstructure

by Wei Wang, Weidong Zeng, Yaling Sun, Haixiong Zhou and Xiaobo Liang

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071244 - 20 Jul 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3818

Abstract

This article investigates the tensile and creep behaviors of the Ti-22Al-25Nb (at.%) alloy with equiaxed microstructure. The experimental results show that the equiaxed microstructures are formed by isothermal forging in the α₂ + B2 + O phase region, and then heat treating [...] Read more.

This article investigates the tensile and creep behaviors of the Ti-22Al-25Nb (at.%) alloy with equiaxed microstructure. The experimental results show that the equiaxed microstructures are formed by isothermal forging in the α₂ + B2 + O phase region, and then heat treating in α₂ + B2 + O and B2 + O phase regions. The equiaxed particles are determined by isothermal forging and solution heat treating, and the acicular O phase is obtained by adjusting the aging temperature. The strengths of the alloy are sensitive to the thickness of the secondary acicular O phase. Increase in aging temperature improves strength and reduces the ductility. Deformation of the alloy mainly depends on the volume fraction and deformability of the B2 phase. During the high-temperature tensile deformation, the flow stress decreases with the increasing deformation temperature and increases with the increasing strain rate. The microstructure obtained by higher aging temperature (HT-840) has better creep resistance, due to the coarsening of the secondary acicular O phase. Full article

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41 pages, 6763 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis and Experimental Validation of a Piezoelectric Harvester with Enhanced Frequency Bandwidth

by Haim Abramovich and Idan Har-nes

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1243; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071243 - 19 Jul 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4042

Abstract

The use of a single bimorph as a harmonic oscillator aimed at harvesting vibrational energy is not effective due to its inherent narrow frequency bandwidth stemming from the need to adjust the natural frequency of the harvester to the platform excitation frequencies. Therefore, [...] Read more.

The use of a single bimorph as a harmonic oscillator aimed at harvesting vibrational energy is not effective due to its inherent narrow frequency bandwidth stemming from the need to adjust the natural frequency of the harvester to the platform excitation frequencies. Therefore, the present research focuses on the development, manufacturing, and testing of an advanced system based on three bimorphs, capable of adjusting their natural frequencies using tip end masses, and interconnected by springs, thus enlarging the system’s bandwidth. An analytical model was developed for three bimorphs interconnected by two springs with three end masses. The model can predict the output generated voltage from each bimorph, and then the total output power is measured on a given outside resistor as a function of the material properties, the geometric dimensions of the vibrating beams, the end-masses, and the spring constants. The analytical model was then compared with data in the literature, yielding a good correlation. To further increase the reliability of the model, a test set-up was designed and manufactured that included three bimorphs with three end-masses connected by two springs. The system was excited using a shaker, and the output voltage was measured for each bimorph for various configurations. Then, the analytical model was tuned based on the test results by introducing two factors, the quality and the stiffness factors, and the predictions of the calibrated analytical model were compared with the experimental results, yielding a good correlation. The calibrated analytical model was then used to perform a comprehensive parametric investigation for two and three bimorphs systems, in which the influences of various parameters—like spring constant, mass value, thickness, and width and length of the bimorph and the substrate beam—on the output generated power were investigated. The main conclusion from this parametric investigation was that by correctly choosing the geometric sizes of the cantilevers, the adequate tip end masses, and the ratio between constants of the springs, the frequency bandwidth is expanded yielding a higher harvested power. Typical harvested power of the present designed system can reach up to 20 mW at the first natural frequency and up to 5 mW for the second natural frequency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Piezoelectric Materials and Devices)

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19 pages, 10819 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental and Numerical Studies on Recrystallization Behavior of Single-Crystal Ni-Base Superalloy

by Runnan Wang, Qingyan Xu, Xiufang Gong, Xianglin Su and Baicheng Liu

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1242; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071242 - 19 Jul 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4558

Abstract

The recrystallization (RX) behavior of superalloy during standard solution heat treatment (SSHT) varies significantly with deformation temperature. Single-crystal (SX) samples of Ni-base superalloy were compressed to 5% plastic deformation at room temperature (RT) and 980 °C, and the deformed samples were then subjected [...] Read more.

The recrystallization (RX) behavior of superalloy during standard solution heat treatment (SSHT) varies significantly with deformation temperature. Single-crystal (SX) samples of Ni-base superalloy were compressed to 5% plastic deformation at room temperature (RT) and 980 °C, and the deformed samples were then subjected to SSHT process which consists of 1290 °C/1 h, 1300 °C/2 h, and 1315 °C/4 h, air cooling. RT-deformed samples showed almost no RX grains until the annealing temperature was elevated to 1315 °C, while 980 °C-deformed samples showed a large number of RX grains in the initial stage of SSHT. It is inferred that the strengthening effect of γ’ phases and the stacking faults in them increase the driving force of RX for 980 °C-deformed samples. The RX grains nucleate and grow in dendritic arms preferentially when the microstructural inhomogeneity is not completely eliminated by SSHT. A model coupling crystal plasticity finite element method (CPFEM) and cellular automaton (CA) method was proposed to simulate the RX evolution during SSHT. One ({111} <110>) and three ({111} <110>, {100} <110>, {111} <112>) slip modes were assumed to be activated at RT and 980 °C in CPFEM calculations, respectively. The simulation takes the inhomogeneous as-cast dendritic microstructure into consideration. The simulated RX morphology and density conform well to experimental results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamic Recrystallization and Microstructural Evolution in Alloys)

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11 pages, 5000 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Properties of Nanosized Stoichiometric Cobalt Ferrite Spinel

by Vilém Bartůněk, David Sedmidubský, Štěpán Huber, Marie Švecová, Pavel Ulbrich and Ondřej Jankovský

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1241; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071241 - 19 Jul 2018

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5141

Abstract

Nanoparticles with controllable sizes of ferrite spinel CoFe₂O₄ were formed by thermal treatment of cobalt-iron glycerolate. Thermal behavior during the heating was studied by differential thermal analysis combined with thermogravimetry. The precursor, as well as the prepared nanoparticles, were analyzed [...] Read more.

Nanoparticles with controllable sizes of ferrite spinel CoFe₂O₄ were formed by thermal treatment of cobalt-iron glycerolate. Thermal behavior during the heating was studied by differential thermal analysis combined with thermogravimetry. The precursor, as well as the prepared nanoparticles, were analyzed by a broad spectrum of analytic techniques (X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy). The particle size of nanoparticles was obtained from Transmission electron microscopy and also calculated using Scherrer formula. A vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) in a Physical Property Measurement System was used to analyze the magnetic properties of nanoparticles. Full article

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15 pages, 6159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Characteristics Study for Surface Composite of AMMNCs Matrix Fabricated by Friction Stir Process

by Essam B. Moustafa

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071240 - 19 Jul 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3545

Abstract

In the present work, Aluminum Metal Matrix Surface Nano Composites (AMMSNCs) were manufactured using Friction Stir Processing (FSP). Moreover, the fabricated surface composite matrix was exposed to a different number of tool passes with different processing parameters. The tensile test and microstructure examinations [...] Read more.

In the present work, Aluminum Metal Matrix Surface Nano Composites (AMMSNCs) were manufactured using Friction Stir Processing (FSP). Moreover, the fabricated surface composite matrix was exposed to a different number of tool passes with different processing parameters. The tensile test and microstructure examinations were used to study the mechanical properties of the composite surface. The dynamic properties were predicted using modal analysis and finite element methods. After this, dynamic characterization was achieved by combining the numerical and experimental methods to investigate the effects of changing the number of passes on the natural frequency and the damping capacity of the AMMSNCs manufactured using FSP. The results indicated that the damping capacity and dynamic behavior improved with an increased number of FSP passes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology)

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13 pages, 4244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of the Direct Ageing Procedure on the Age Hardening Response of Al-Mg-Si 6101 Alloy

by Piotr Osuch, Monika Walkowicz, Tadeusz Knych and Stanislaw Dymek

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1239; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071239 - 19 Jul 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4586

Abstract

Al-Mg-Si alloys are used not only as construction material, but also as a material for electrical conductors. For this application, it is crucial for the alloy to achieve a balance between strength and electrical properties. This is achieved in practice by a combination [...] Read more.

Al-Mg-Si alloys are used not only as construction material, but also as a material for electrical conductors. For this application, it is crucial for the alloy to achieve a balance between strength and electrical properties. This is achieved in practice by a combination of strain and precipitation hardening. The current paper focuses on a heat treatment procedure in which the EN AW 6101 alloy is cooled by a flowing air stream from the solutionizing temperature down to the artificial ageing temperature. The proposed procedure, unlike the common heat treatment leading to the T6 temper, allowed for the precipitation of the coarser β” phase with the presence of relatively wide precipitate-free zones. The age hardening response was investigated by Brinell hardness measurements, eddy current testing and microstructural observations using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The applied heat treatment resulted in slightly lower strength (compared to the T6 temper), but improved electrical performance of the alloy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)

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9 pages, 2815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electronic Band Structure Variations in the Ceria Doped Zirconia: A First Principles Study

by Sahar Ramin Gul, Matiullah Khan, Yi Zeng, Maohua Lin, Bo Wu and Chi-Tay Tsai

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071238 - 19 Jul 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3982

Abstract

Using first principle calculations, the effect of Ce with different doping concentrations in the network of Zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) is studied. The ZrO₂ cell volume linearly increases with the increasing Ce doping concentration. The intrinsic band gap of ZrO₂ [...] Read more.

Using first principle calculations, the effect of Ce with different doping concentrations in the network of Zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) is studied. The ZrO₂ cell volume linearly increases with the increasing Ce doping concentration. The intrinsic band gap of ZrO₂ of 5.70 eV reduces to 4.67 eV with the 2.08% Ce doping. In 4.16% cerium doped ZrO₂, the valence band maximum and conduction band minimum come closer to each other, about 1.1 eV, compared to ZrO₂. The maximum band gap reduction of ZrO₂ is observed at 6.25% Ce doping concentration, having the value of 4.38 eV. No considerable shift in the band structure is found with further increase in the doping level. The photo-response of the ZrO₂ is modulated with Ce insertion, and two distinct modifications are observed in the absorption coefficient: an imaginary part of the dielectric function and conductivity. A 2.08% Ce-doped ZrO₂ modeled system reduces the intensities of peaks in the optical spectra while keeping the peaks of intrinsic ZrO₂. However, the intrinsic peaks related to ZrO₂ completely vanish in 4.16%, 6.25%, 8.33%, and 12.5% Ce doped ZrO₂, and a new absorption hump is created. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Processes and Systems)

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17 pages, 21122 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beam Diameter Dependence of Performance in Thick-Layer and High-Power Selective Laser Melting of Ti-6Al-4V

by Wentian Shi, Yude Liu, Xuezhi Shi, Yanjun Hou, Peng Wang and Guohua Song

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071237 - 18 Jul 2018

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 4910

Abstract

A 400 W high-power laser was used to fabricate 200-µm-thick Ti-6Al-4V samples to evaluate the effects of small (50 μm) and large (200 μm) beam diameter on density, microstructure and mechanical properties. A series of single-track experiments demonstrated that it was challenging for [...] Read more.

A 400 W high-power laser was used to fabricate 200-µm-thick Ti-6Al-4V samples to evaluate the effects of small (50 μm) and large (200 μm) beam diameter on density, microstructure and mechanical properties. A series of single-track experiments demonstrated that it was challenging for the small-beam laser to fabricate smooth and defect-free scan tracks. A larger beam diameter efficiently avoided process instability and provided a more stable and uniform melt pool. By increasing the beam diameter, the density of multilayer samples reached 99.95% of the theoretical value, which is much higher than that achieved with the small beam diameter. However, it was difficult to completely eliminate defects due to serious spatter and evaporation. Moreover, all of the generated samples had relatively coarse surfaces. For the large beam diameter of 200 µm, the optimal yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and elongation were 1150 MPa, 1200 MPa and 8.02%, respectively. In comparison, the small beam diameter of 50 µm resulted in values of 1035 MPa, 1100 MPa and 5.91%, respectively. Overall, the large-diameter laser is more suitable for high-power selective laser melting (SLM) technology, especially for thick layers. Full article

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11 pages, 4944 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Pin-On-Disc Techniques for the Study of Tribological Interferences in the Dry Machining of A92024-T3 (Al–Cu) Alloys

by Jorge Salguero, Juan Manuel Vazquez-Martinez, Irene Del Sol and Moises Batista

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071236 - 18 Jul 2018

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 5323

Abstract

One of the main criteria for the establishment of the performance of a forming process by material removal is based on cutting tool wear. Wear is usually caused by different mechanisms, however, only one is usually considered as predominant or the controller of [...] Read more.

One of the main criteria for the establishment of the performance of a forming process by material removal is based on cutting tool wear. Wear is usually caused by different mechanisms, however, only one is usually considered as predominant or the controller of the process. This experimental research is focused on the application of Pin-on-Disc wear tests, in which the tribological interference between UNS A92024-T3 Aluminum–Copper alloy and tungsten carbide (WC–Co) has been studied. The main objective of this study is focused on the determination of the predominant wear mechanisms involved in the process, as well as the characterization of the sliding and friction effects by using SEM and Energy Dispersion Spectroscopy (EDS) techniques, as applied to WC–Co (cutting tool material)/Al (workpiece material) which are widely used in the aerospace industry. Performed analysis prove the appearance of abrasive wear mechanisms prior to adhesion. This fact promotes adhesion mechanisms in several stages because of the surface quality deterioration, presenting different alloy composition in the form of a Built-Up Layer (BUL)/Built-Up Edge (BUE). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Special Issue of the Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES))

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17 pages, 2608 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Physical Property Characterisation of Spheroidal and Cuboidal Nuclear Waste Simulant Dispersions

by Jessica Shiels, David Harbottle and Timothy N. Hunter

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071235 - 18 Jul 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3898

Abstract

This study investigated dispersions analogous to highly active nuclear waste, formed from the reprocessing of Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF). Non-radioactive simulants of spheroidal caesium phosphomolybdate (CPM) and cuboidal zirconium molybdate (ZM-a) were successfully synthesised; confirmed via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction [...] Read more.

This study investigated dispersions analogous to highly active nuclear waste, formed from the reprocessing of Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF). Non-radioactive simulants of spheroidal caesium phosphomolybdate (CPM) and cuboidal zirconium molybdate (ZM-a) were successfully synthesised; confirmed via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. In addition, a supplied ZM (ZM-b) with a rod-like/wheatsheaf morphology was also analysed along with titanium dioxide (TiO₂). The simulants underwent thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and size analysis, where CPM was found to have a D50 value of 300 nm and a chemical formula of Cs₃PMo₁₂O₄₀·13H₂O, ZM-a a D50 value of 10 μm and a chemical formula of ZrMo₂O₇(OH)₂·3H₂O and ZM-b to have a D50 value of 14 μm and a chemical formula of ZrMo₂O₇(OH)₂·4H₂O. The synthesis of CPM was tracked via Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy at both 25 °C and 50 °C, where the reaction was found to be first order with the rate constant highly temperature dependent. The morphology change from spheroidal CPM to cuboidal ZM-a was tracked via SEM, reporting to take 10 days. For the onward processing and immobilisation of these waste dispersions, centrifugal analysis was utilised to understand their settling behaviours, in both aqueous and 2 M nitric acid environments (mimicking current storage conditions). Spheroidal CPM was present in both conditions as agglomerated clusters, with relatively high settling rates. Conversely, the ZM were found to be stable in water, where their settling rate exponents were related to the morphology. In acid, the high effective electrolyte resulted in agglomeration and faster sedimentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials for Nuclear Waste Immobilization)

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12 pages, 1745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Acid, Ethanol, and Anthocyanin Pigment on the Optical and Mechanical Properties of a Nanohybrid Dental Composite Resin

by Sukhyun Hwang, Shin Hye Chung, Jung-Tae Lee, Yong-Tae Kim, Yoo Jin Kim, Soram Oh and In-Sung Luke Yeo

Materials 2018, 11(7), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11071234 - 18 Jul 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4223

Abstract

This study investigated the influences of acidity, ethanol, and pigment on the optical properties, microhardness, and surface roughness (R_a) of a nanohybrid dental composite resin. A total of 108 disc-shaped specimens were fabricated using a nanohybrid dental composite and allocated into [...] Read more.

This study investigated the influences of acidity, ethanol, and pigment on the optical properties, microhardness, and surface roughness (R_a) of a nanohybrid dental composite resin. A total of 108 disc-shaped specimens were fabricated using a nanohybrid dental composite and allocated into 36 different storage solutions according to the levels of pH (2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.5), ethanol (0%, 20%, and 40%), and anthocyanin pigment (0%, 2.5%, and 12.5%). Measurements of the colorimetric parameter and the amount of color change (ΔE), translucency parameter (TP), microhardness, and surface roughness (R_a) were performed at 24 h (baseline), 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-weeks. Repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a Tukey honestly significant difference test and Pearson correlation analysis were carried out (α = 0.05). Pigment of 12.5% or 40% ethanol significantly increased the ΔE (P < 0.001, P = 0.048, respectively). Pigment of 2.5% or 12.5% significantly decreased the TP (P = 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). Microhardness of composite resin stored in pH 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 solution was lower than that for pH 5.5 (P < 0.001). Pigment, ethanol, and pH did not influence the R_a. TP change and ΔE, and R_a and ΔE had a significant positive correlation (P < 0.05). In conclusion, pigment and ethanol levels influenced the optical properties and acidity affected the microhardness of composite resin. Full article

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