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Materials, Volume 15, Issue 2 (January-2 2022) – 298 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): The direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) configuration proposed here can be used for a variety of applications that benefit from the nature of periodic microstructures produced at high throughput and uniformly. In this work, a diffractive fundamental beam-mode shaper (FBS) is combined with a DLIP optical setup to generate a square-shaped top-hat intensity distribution in the interference volume. Experiments showed that by utilizing top-hat shaped interference patterns, it is possible to produce periodic structures which are 44.8% deeper as well as 60% more homogeneous at the same throughput, or to produce microstructures with comparable height and homogeneity at 53% higher throughput, compared to Gaussian intensity distribution. View this paper
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16 pages, 5020 KiB  
Case Report
3D Printing of Customizable Phantoms to Replace Cadaveric Models in Upper Extremity Surgical Residency Training
by Elisha Raeker-Jordan, Miguel Martinez and Kenji Shimada
Materials 2022, 15(2), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020694 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2073
Abstract
Medical phantoms are commonly used for training and skill demonstration of surgical procedures without exposing a patient to unnecessary risk. The discrimination of these tissues is critical to the ability of young orthopedic surgical trainees to identify patient injuries and properly manipulate surrounding [...] Read more.
Medical phantoms are commonly used for training and skill demonstration of surgical procedures without exposing a patient to unnecessary risk. The discrimination of these tissues is critical to the ability of young orthopedic surgical trainees to identify patient injuries and properly manipulate surrounding tissues into healing-compliant positions. Most commercial phantoms lack anatomical specificity and use materials that inadequately attempt to mimic human tissue characteristics. This paper covers the manufacturing methods used to create novel, higher fidelity surgical training phantoms. We utilize medical scans and 3D printing techniques to create upper extremity phantoms that replicate both osseous and synovial geometries. These phantoms are undergoing validation through OSATS training of surgical residents under the guidance of attendings and chief residents. Twenty upper extremity phantoms with distal radius fracture were placed into traction and reduced by first- and second-year surgical residency students as part of their upper extremity triage training. Trainees reported uniform support for the training, enjoying the active learning exercise and expressing willingness for participation in future trials. Trainees successfully completed the reduction procedure utilizing tactile stimuli and prior lecture knowledge, showing the viability of synthetic phantoms to be used in lieu of traditional cadaveric models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Additive Manufacturing and Its Biomedical Application)
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14 pages, 6750 KiB  
Article
Properties of Blended Cement Containing Iron Tailing Powder at Different Curing Temperatures
by Heng Wang, Fanghui Han, Shaochang Pu and Hongbo Zhang
Materials 2022, 15(2), 693; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020693 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1645
Abstract
The properties of blended cement containing 0%, 20%, and 50% iron tailing powder (ITP) at 20 °C and 60 °C were investigated by determining the hydration heat, microstructure, and compressive strength. The addition of ITP decreases the exothermic rate and cumulative hydration heat [...] Read more.
The properties of blended cement containing 0%, 20%, and 50% iron tailing powder (ITP) at 20 °C and 60 °C were investigated by determining the hydration heat, microstructure, and compressive strength. The addition of ITP decreases the exothermic rate and cumulative hydration heat of blended cement at 20 °C. The high temperature increases the hydration rate and leads to the hydration heat of blended cement containing 20% ITP higher than that of Portland cement. Increasing the amount of ITP decreases the non-evaporable water content and Ca(OH)2 content as well as compressive strength at both of the two studied temperatures. The addition of ITP coarsens the early-age pore structure but improves the later-age pore structure at 20 °C. The high temperature significantly improves the early-age properties of blended cement containing ITP, but it is detrimental to the later-age properties development. The reaction of ITP is limited even at high temperature. The large ITP particles bond poorly with surrounding hydration products under early high-temperature curing condition. The properties of blended cement containing a large amount of ITP are much poorer at high temperature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industrial Solid Wastes for Construction and Building Materials)
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15 pages, 2234 KiB  
Article
Anion Recognition by a Pincer-Type Host Constructed from Two Polyamide Macrocyclic Frameworks Jointed by a Photo-Addressable Azobenzene Switch
by Patryk Niedbała, Magdalena Ceborska, Mart Mehmet, Wiktor Ignacak, Janusz Jurczak and Kajetan Dąbrowa
Materials 2022, 15(2), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020692 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2463
Abstract
A sterically crowded light-responsive host 1 was synthetized with a 93% yield by applying a post-functionalization protocol utilizing the double amidation of 4,4′-azodibenzoyl dichloride with a readily available 26-membered macrocyclic amine. X-ray structures of two hydrates of trans-1 demonstrate a very [...] Read more.
A sterically crowded light-responsive host 1 was synthetized with a 93% yield by applying a post-functionalization protocol utilizing the double amidation of 4,4′-azodibenzoyl dichloride with a readily available 26-membered macrocyclic amine. X-ray structures of two hydrates of trans-1 demonstrate a very different alignment of the azobenzene linkage, which is involved in T-shape or parallel-displaced π⋯π stacking interactions with the pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide moieties from the macrocyclic backbone. Despite the rigidity of the macrocyclic framework, which generates a large steric hindrance around the azobenzene chromophore, the host 1 retains the ability to undergo a reversible cistrans isomerization upon irradiation with UVA (368 nm) and blue (410 nm) light. Moreover, thermal cistrans back-isomerization (ΔG0 = 106.5 kJ∙mol−1, t½ = 141 h) is markedly slowed down as compared to the non-macrocyclic analog. 1H NMR titration experiments in DMSO-d6/0.5% water solution reveal that trans-1 exhibits a strong preference for dihydrogenphosphate (H2PO4) over other anions (Cl, MeCO2, and PhCO2), whereas the photogenerated metastable cis-1 shows lower affinity for the H2PO4 anion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Organic Functional Materials)
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15 pages, 3259 KiB  
Article
Tribocorrosion Behavior of NiTi Biomedical Alloy Processed by an Additive Manufacturing Laser Beam Directed Energy Deposition Technique
by Mihaela Buciumeanu, Allen Bagheri, Filipe Samuel Silva, Bruno Henriques, Andrés F. Lasagni and Nima Shamsaei
Materials 2022, 15(2), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020691 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2630
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to experimentally assess the synergistic effects of wear and corrosion on NiTi alloy in comparison with Ti-6Al-4V alloy, the most extensively used titanium alloy in biomedical applications. Both alloys were processed by an additive manufacturing laser [...] Read more.
The purpose of the present study was to experimentally assess the synergistic effects of wear and corrosion on NiTi alloy in comparison with Ti-6Al-4V alloy, the most extensively used titanium alloy in biomedical applications. Both alloys were processed by an additive manufacturing laser beam directed energy deposition (LB-DED) technique, namely laser engineered net shaping (LENS), and analyzed via tribocorrosion tests by using the ball-on-plate configuration. The tests were carried out in phosphate buffered saline solution at 37 °C under open circuit potential (OCP) to simulate the body environment and temperature. The synergistic effect of wear and corrosion was found to result in an improved wear resistance in both materials. It was also observed that, for the process parameters used, the LB-DED NiTi alloy exhibits a lower tendency to corrosion as compared to the LB-DED Ti-6Al-4V alloy. It is expected that, during the service life as an implant, the NiTi alloy is less susceptible to the metallic ions release when compared with the Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biomaterials for Medical Applications)
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19 pages, 4273 KiB  
Article
Statistical Models Supporting the High-Performance Self-Compacting Concrete (HPSCC) Design Process for High Strength
by Aleksandra Kostrzanowska-Siedlarz and Jacek Gołaszewski
Materials 2022, 15(2), 690; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020690 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1906
Abstract
The type of test ingredients used for obtaining self-compacting high-performance concrete (HPSCC) has been carefully selected to be universal. For this purpose, an extensive statistical analysis of the obtained results of the literature research was carried out. Then, universal and adapted to the [...] Read more.
The type of test ingredients used for obtaining self-compacting high-performance concrete (HPSCC) has been carefully selected to be universal. For this purpose, an extensive statistical analysis of the obtained results of the literature research was carried out. Then, universal and adapted to the typical range, highly fit statistical models are presented that can support the HPSCC design process for achieving high strength. For this purpose, a broad plan of statistical research was used, namely multivariate selection of sidereal points, which allowed the use of as many as five variable factors at three levels of variability. The sidereal points were equal to the respective minimum and maximum input values. Additionally, based on the analysis of variance (ANOVA) for factorial systems with the interaction of the obtained test results, the significance of the impact of the tested material factors on the compressive strength of the HPSCC tested was determined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Material Modifications of High Performance Concrete Properties)
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12 pages, 21467 KiB  
Article
Magnetic Induction Assisted Heating Technique in Hydrothermal Zeolite Synthesis
by Supak Tontisirin, Chantaraporn Phalakornkule, Worawat Sa-ngawong and Supachai Sirisawat
Materials 2022, 15(2), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020689 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1964
Abstract
The magnetic induction assisted technique is an alternative heating method for hydrothermal zeolite synthesis with a higher heat-transfer rate than that of the conventional convection oil bath technique. The research demonstrates, for the first time, the application of the magnetic induction heating technique [...] Read more.
The magnetic induction assisted technique is an alternative heating method for hydrothermal zeolite synthesis with a higher heat-transfer rate than that of the conventional convection oil bath technique. The research demonstrates, for the first time, the application of the magnetic induction heating technique with direct surface contact for zeolite synthesis. The magnetic induction enables direct contact between the heat source and the reactor, thereby bypassing the resistance of the heating medium layer. A comparative heat-transfer analysis between the two methods shows the higher heat-transfer rate by the magnetic induction heating technique is due to (1) eight-time higher overall heat-transfer coefficient, attributed to the absence of the resistance of the heating medium layer and (2) the higher temperature difference between the heating source and the zeolite gel. Thereby, this heating technique shows promise for application in the large-scale synthesis of zeolites due to its associated efficient heat transfer. Thus, it can provide more flexibility to the synthesis method under the non-stirred condition, which can create possibilities for the successful large-scale synthesis of a broad range of zeolites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heat and Mass Transfer in Porous Materials)
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8 pages, 6428 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Analysis of the Fatigue Resistance of Four Single File Canal Preparation Instruments
by Mohammad I. Al-Obaida, Abdulmohsen A. Alzuwayer, Saqer S. Alanazi and Abdulrahman A. Balhaddad
Materials 2022, 15(2), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020688 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1767
Abstract
Instrument separation during root canal therapy is inevitable in endodontics with several unfavorable clinical consequences. Therefore, examining the cyclic flexural fatigue resistance of commonly used rotary endodontic files is crucial. This study aimed to determine the cyclic flexural fatigue resistance of four nickel–titanium [...] Read more.
Instrument separation during root canal therapy is inevitable in endodontics with several unfavorable clinical consequences. Therefore, examining the cyclic flexural fatigue resistance of commonly used rotary endodontic files is crucial. This study aimed to determine the cyclic flexural fatigue resistance of four nickel–titanium (NiTi) rotary files used as a single canal preparation technique: WaveOne, Reciproc, Protaper F2, and Unicone medium instruments. According to the manufacturer’s instructions, each file was rotated freely within a 1.3 mm deep and 1.3 mm wide V-shaped groove in a stainless-steel block with a 40° and 5 mm radius of curvature. Cyclic fatigue resistance was compared between the NiTi files by verifying the time needed to crack. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Scheffé post hoc with a significant level set at p < 0.05. Our results demonstrated that the WaveOne instrument had the highest cyclic flexural fatigue resistance among the tested groups (p ≤ 0.05), while Unicone had the lowest cyclic flexural fatigue resistance. This study concluded that WaveOne size 25/0.08 could illustrate a superior cyclic flexural fatigue resistance when instrumenting root canals with the lowest possibility to cause instrument separation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanics, Fatigue and Fracture of Metallic Materials)
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14 pages, 39429 KiB  
Article
Directional Growth of cm-Long PLGA Nanofibers by a Simple and Fast Wet-Processing Method
by Erik Betz-Güttner, Martina Righi, Silvestro Micera and Alessandro Fraleoni-Morgera
Materials 2022, 15(2), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020687 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1790
Abstract
The development of aligned nanofibers as useful scaffolds for tissue engineering is an actively sought-for research objective. Here, we propose a novel improvement of an existing self-assembly-based nanofabrication technique (ASB-SANS). This improvement, which we termed Directional ASB-SANS, allows one to produce cm2 [...] Read more.
The development of aligned nanofibers as useful scaffolds for tissue engineering is an actively sought-for research objective. Here, we propose a novel improvement of an existing self-assembly-based nanofabrication technique (ASB-SANS). This improvement, which we termed Directional ASB-SANS, allows one to produce cm2-large domains of highly aligned poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanofibers in a rapid, inexpensive, and easy way. The so-grown aligned PLGA nanofibers exhibited remarkable adhesion to different substrates (glass, polyimide, and Si/SiOx), even when immersed in PBS solution and kept at physiological temperature (37 °C) for up to two weeks. Finally, the Directional ASB-SANS technique allowed us to grow PLGA fibers also on highly heterogeneous substrates such as polyimide-based, gold-coated flexible electrodes. These results suggest the viability of Directional ASB-SANS method for realizing biocompatible/bioresorbable, nanostructured coatings, potentially suitable for neural interface systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic Nanofibers: Fabrication, Properties and Applications)
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15 pages, 6446 KiB  
Article
Wettability and Adhesion of Polyethylene Powder Treated with Non-Equilibrium Various Gaseous Plasma in Semi-Industrial Equipment
by Hana Jelínek Šourková, Zuzana Weberová, Jakub Antoň and Petr Špatenka
Materials 2022, 15(2), 686; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020686 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1679
Abstract
Plasma treatment of polyethylene powder was carried out in low-pressure gaseous plasma sustained in a semi-industrial reactor powered with a microwave source, in which it was specifically worked with the residual atmosphere. Timed applications of plasma-treated powder in air atmosphere were carried out [...] Read more.
Plasma treatment of polyethylene powder was carried out in low-pressure gaseous plasma sustained in a semi-industrial reactor powered with a microwave source, in which it was specifically worked with the residual atmosphere. Timed applications of plasma-treated powder in air atmosphere were carried out to study their influence on the adhesion. Based on wettability and adhesion, a treatment time of 5 min was selected for the study of other working gases (nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, argon and a mixture of nitrogen and hydrogen). The measurements of wettability showed the highest adhesion increase for nitrogen. The highest increase of adhesion and of surface oxygen contain shown by oxygen treatment. By contrast, treatment with hydrogen resulted in increased roughness of the sintered surface of the powder. The selection of appropriate working gases which are not standard in industrial processes enables one to atypically regulate the adhesion or wettability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Modification to Improve Properties of Material)
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3 pages, 186 KiB  
Editorial
Recovery of Waste Materials: Technological Research and Industrial Scale-Up
by Franco Medici
Materials 2022, 15(2), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020685 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1532
Abstract
An increase in population, booming economy, rapid urbanization and the rise in living standards have exponentially accelerated waste production [...] Full article
24 pages, 7111 KiB  
Article
Classification of Hot-Rolled Plates Using the Mahalanobis Distance of NMIs in Ti-Stabilized Austenitic Stainless-Steel Produced by Secondary Metallurgy
by Franci Vode, Franc Tehovnik, Gorazd Kosec and Darja Steiner Petrovič
Materials 2022, 15(2), 684; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020684 - 17 Jan 2022
Viewed by 1697
Abstract
Three charges of scrap-based, Ti-stabilized, Cr-Ni-Mo austenitic stainless steel in the form of hot-rolled steel plates were characterized. Based on automated metallographic analyses of representative microstructures, a quality characterization in terms of cleanliness of the hot-rolled steel plates was performed. Elevated contents of [...] Read more.
Three charges of scrap-based, Ti-stabilized, Cr-Ni-Mo austenitic stainless steel in the form of hot-rolled steel plates were characterized. Based on automated metallographic analyses of representative microstructures, a quality characterization in terms of cleanliness of the hot-rolled steel plates was performed. Elevated contents of impurities, especially Pb, Bi, and oxygen, which affect the hot workability of stainless steels, were detected. The recycled FeTi-cored wire was the main source of the elevated levels of impurities detected in the hot-rolled, Ti-stabilized, stainless-steel plates. Related to this, elevated levels of nonmetallic inclusions (NMIs) and segregations were formed. The three charges were classified based on calculations of the Mahalanobis distance (MD) between the inclusions. The charge with the smallest number of nonmetallic inclusions was set as the reference class. The selection of outlier inclusions based on their MDs and their back-representation into ternary diagrams gave relevant metallurgical information about the abnormalities. The advantage of this technique is that the calculations of the MD and the threshold can be fully automated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Processes and Systems)
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18 pages, 7466 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Thermal Plasma Arc Systems for Treatment of Various Wastes in Recovery of Metals
by Sneha Samal and Ignazio Blanco
Materials 2022, 15(2), 683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020683 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3612
Abstract
Thermal plasma systems are being used for the recovery of metals from complex waste and minerals. The latter contain multiphase metals in various forms that are extremely tedious to separate. Thermal plasma arc melts the waste and minerals for qualitative plasma products for [...] Read more.
Thermal plasma systems are being used for the recovery of metals from complex waste and minerals. The latter contain multiphase metals in various forms that are extremely tedious to separate. Thermal plasma arc melts the waste and minerals for qualitative plasma products for powder industries. In this overview, we briefly report a description of the various thermal plasma systems and their uses in recovering metal from metal-containing materials in the form of waste or minerals. Various plasma arc systems, such as transferred, nontransferred, and extended arc, have enabled the development of an efficient and environmentally friendly way to recover valuable metals from industrial wastes such as red mud and minerals such as ilmenite. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Use of Green Technologies in Various Areas)
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28 pages, 19065 KiB  
Review
Synthesis and Potential Applications of Lipid Nanoparticles in Medicine
by Ewelina Musielak, Agnieszka Feliczak-Guzik and Izabela Nowak
Materials 2022, 15(2), 682; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020682 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 5772
Abstract
Currently, carriers of active ingredients in the form of particles of a size measured in nanometers are the focus of interest of research centers worldwide. So far, submicrometer emulsions, liposomes, as well as microspheres, and nanospheres made of biodegradable polymers have been used [...] Read more.
Currently, carriers of active ingredients in the form of particles of a size measured in nanometers are the focus of interest of research centers worldwide. So far, submicrometer emulsions, liposomes, as well as microspheres, and nanospheres made of biodegradable polymers have been used in medicine. Recent studies show particular interest in nanoparticles based on lipids, and at the present time, are even referred to as the “era of lipid carriers”. With the passage of time, lipid nanoparticles of the so-called first and second generation, SLN (Solid Lipid Nanoparticles) and nanostructured lipid carriers and NLC (Nanostructured Lipid Carriers), respectively, turned out to be an alternative for all imperfections of earlier carriers. These carriers are characterized by a number of beneficial functional properties, including, among others, structure based on lipids well tolerated by the human body, high stability, and ability to carry hydro- and lipophilic compounds. Additionally, these carriers can enhance the distribution of the drug in the target organ and alter the pharmacokinetic properties of the drug carriers to enhance the medical effect and minimize adverse side effects. This work is focused on the current review of the state-of-the-art related to the synthesis and applications of popular nanoparticles in medicine, with a focus on their use, e.g., in COVID-19 vaccines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipid and Detergent Related Materials for Drug Delivery)
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20 pages, 51220 KiB  
Article
Morphological Study of Bio-Based Polymers in the Consolidation of Waterlogged Wooden Objects
by Zarah Walsh-Korb, Ingrid Stelzner, Juliana dos Santos Gabriel, Gerhard Eggert and Luc Avérous
Materials 2022, 15(2), 681; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020681 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2196
Abstract
The removal of water from archaeological wooden objects for display or storage is of great importance to their long-term conservation. Any mechanical instability caused during drying can induce warping or cracking of the wood cells, leading to irreparable damage of the object. Drying [...] Read more.
The removal of water from archaeological wooden objects for display or storage is of great importance to their long-term conservation. Any mechanical instability caused during drying can induce warping or cracking of the wood cells, leading to irreparable damage of the object. Drying of an object is commonly carried out in one of three ways: (i) air-drying with controlled temperature and relative humidity, (ii) drying-out of a non-aqueous solvent or (iii) freeze-drying. Recently, there has been great interest in the replacement of the standard, but limited, polyethylene glycol with biopolymers for wood conservation; however, their behaviour and action within the wood is not completely understood. Three polysaccharides—low-molar-mass (Mw) chitosan (Mw ca. 60,000 g/mol), medium-molar-mass alginate (Mw ca. 100,000 g/mol) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs)-are investigated in relation to their drying behaviour. The method of drying reveals a significant difference in the morphology of these biopolymers both ex situ and within the wood cells. Here, the effect these differences in structuration have on the coating of the wood cells and the biological and thermal stability of the wood are examined, as well as the role of the environment in the formation of specific structures. The role these factors play in the selection of appropriate consolidants and drying methods for the conservation of waterlogged archaeological wooden objects is also investigated. The results show that both alginate and chitosan are promising wood consolidants from a structural perspective and both improve the thermal stability of the lignin component of archaeological wood. However, further modification would be necessary to improve the biocidal activity of alginate before it could be introduced into wooden objects. CNCs did not prove to be sufficiently suitable for wood conservation as a result of the analyses performed here. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biopolymers for Potential Applications)
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9 pages, 1380 KiB  
Article
Morphology Design and Fabrication of Bio-Inspired Nano-MgO–Mg(OH)2 via Vapor Steaming to Enable Bulk CO2 Diffusion and Capture
by Hasanthi L. Senevirathna, Shunnian Wu, W. P. Cathie Lee and Ping Wu
Materials 2022, 15(2), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020680 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1873
Abstract
The absorption of CO2 on MgO is being studied in depth in order to enhance carbon engineering. Production of carbonate on MgO surfaces, such as MgCO3, for example, has been shown to hinder further carbon lattice transit and lower CO [...] Read more.
The absorption of CO2 on MgO is being studied in depth in order to enhance carbon engineering. Production of carbonate on MgO surfaces, such as MgCO3, for example, has been shown to hinder further carbon lattice transit and lower CO2 collecting efficiency. To avoid the carbonate blocking effect, we mimic the water harvesting nano-surface systems of desert beetles, which use alternate hydrophobic and hydrophilic surface domains to collect liquid water and convey condensed droplets down to their mouths, respectively. We made CO2-philic MgO and CO2-phobic Mg(OH)2 nanocomposites from electrospun nano-MgO by vapor steaming for 2–20 min at 100 °C. The crystal structure, morphology, and surface properties of the produced samples were instrumentally characterized using XRD, SEM, XPS, BET, and TGA. We observed that (1) fiber morphology shifted from hierarchical particle and sheet-like structures to flower-like structures, and (2) CO2 capture capacity shifted by around 25%. As a result, the carbonate production and breakdown processes may be managed and improved using vapor steaming technology. These findings point to a new CO2 absorption technique and technology that might pave the way for more CO2 capture, mineralization, and fuel synthesis options. Full article
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16 pages, 20233 KiB  
Article
Rheological and Chemical Evolution of HMA and WMA Binders Based on Ageing Kinetics
by Ao Huang, Gang Liu, Virginie Mouillet, Saannibe Ciryle Somé, Tingwei Cao and Haoliang Huang
Materials 2022, 15(2), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020679 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1428
Abstract
It is fundamental to predict or estimate the rheological behavioural evolutions of binders and mixture to ensure a durability service life of the whole infrastructure. This study compared the long-term ageing kinetics of hot mix asphalt (HMA) and warm mix asphalt (WMA) produced [...] Read more.
It is fundamental to predict or estimate the rheological behavioural evolutions of binders and mixture to ensure a durability service life of the whole infrastructure. This study compared the long-term ageing kinetics of hot mix asphalt (HMA) and warm mix asphalt (WMA) produced with the same base bitumen. The difference in the component was that the WMA contained 1% of Cecabase warm agent and 5.5% of water by the weight of bitumen, to obtain a large expansion ratio (47 times). Rolling thin-film oven test (RTFOT) and pressure ageing vessel (PAV) laboratory ageing were carried out on the binder with or without the warm agent. The oven ageing procedure was conducted on the loose HMA and WMA mixtures for 0, 3, 6, and 9 days. Research results indicated that the dual effect of the studied warm agent and the foaming water sharply decreased the viscosity of the binder at a high temperature. Compared with the HMA, the warm agent improved the ageing resistance of the asphalt binder. However, higher content, such as 5.5 wt.%, of foaming water deteriorated viscosity due to a thinner bitumen film, which was more susceptible to oxidation. Therefore, less than 2 wt.% of warm agent and foaming water was recommended in the foamed WMA preparation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Long-Life and Circular Pavement Materials)
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8 pages, 1058 KiB  
Article
Rapid Fabrication of Smooth Micro-Optical Components on Glass by Etching-Assisted Femtosecond Laser Modification
by Bao-Xu Wang, Jin-Yong Qi, Yi-Ming Lu, Jia-Xin Zheng, Ying Xu and Xue-Qing Liu
Materials 2022, 15(2), 678; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020678 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2395
Abstract
Femtosecond laser (fs-laser) is unfavorable in applications for the fabrication of micro-optical devices on hard materials owing to the problems of low fabrication efficiency and high surface roughness. Herein, a hybrid method combining fs-laser scanning, subsequent etching, and annealing was proposed to realize [...] Read more.
Femtosecond laser (fs-laser) is unfavorable in applications for the fabrication of micro-optical devices on hard materials owing to the problems of low fabrication efficiency and high surface roughness. Herein, a hybrid method combining fs-laser scanning, subsequent etching, and annealing was proposed to realize micro-optical devices with low roughness on glass. Compared to traditional laser ablation, the fabrication efficiency in this work was improved by one order of magnitude, and the surface roughness was decreased to 15 nm. Using this method, aspherical convex microlenses and spherical concave microlenses that possess excellent focusing and imaging properties are realized on photosensitive glass. The diameter and height of the microlenses were controlled by adjusting the fabrication parameters. These results indicate that the fs-laser-based hybrid method will open new opportunities for fabricating micro-optical components on hard materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Laser Assisted Processing and Manufacturing)
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16 pages, 3670 KiB  
Article
Effects of Low-Temperature Construction Additives (LCAs) on the Performance of Asphalt Mixtures
by Yuanyuan Li, Jianlin Feng, Anqi Chen, Fan Wu, Shaopeng Wu, Quantao Liu and Ruifang Gong
Materials 2022, 15(2), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020677 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1649
Abstract
Green production of asphalt materials is very important to promote energy savings and emission reduction during the construction and maintenance of asphalt pavement. A low-temperature construction additive (LCA) made from the waste plastic and waste rubber is proposed, which belongs to a class [...] Read more.
Green production of asphalt materials is very important to promote energy savings and emission reduction during the construction and maintenance of asphalt pavement. A low-temperature construction additive (LCA) made from the waste plastic and waste rubber is proposed, which belongs to a class of environmentally friendly additives for asphalt mixtures. Marshall stability was tested to evaluate the mechanical performance of LCA-modified asphalt mixtures (LCA-AMs). In order to determine the best preparation parameters of LCA-AMs, the influence of the content and LCA addition method on the strength of LCA-AMs was studied. In addition, the impact of epoxy resin (ER) on the mixtures’ performances was evaluated. The results show that the LCA can significantly reduce the formation temperature of asphalt mixtures, and the resulting asphalt mixtures have good workability in a lower temperature range (90–110 °C). The ER should be added to the LCA-AMs after 4 h of curing. All the volumetric properties satisfy the technical requirements. The low-temperature crack resistance and fatigue resistance of LCA-AMs were obviously improved with appropriate dosages of ER, which can effectively improve the mechanical performance of the asphalt mixtures. The ER can significantly increase the rutting resistance and water sensitivity of LCA-AMs, therefore making it feasible to improve the mixture performance by the enhancement provided by a low dosage of ER. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Testing of Materials and Elements in Civil Engineering (2nd Edition))
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14 pages, 2248 KiB  
Review
An Overview Regarding Microbial Aspects of Production and Applications of Bacterial Cellulose
by Raluca Elisabeta Lupașcu, Mihaela Violeta Ghica, Cristina-Elena Dinu-Pîrvu, Lăcrămioara Popa, Bruno Ștefan Velescu and Andreea Letiția Arsene
Materials 2022, 15(2), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020676 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3341
Abstract
Cellulose is the most widely used biopolymer, accounting for about 1.5 trillion tons of annual production on Earth. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a form produced by different species of bacteria, representing a purified form of cellulose. The structure of bacterial cellulose consists of [...] Read more.
Cellulose is the most widely used biopolymer, accounting for about 1.5 trillion tons of annual production on Earth. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a form produced by different species of bacteria, representing a purified form of cellulose. The structure of bacterial cellulose consists of glucose monomers that give it excellent properties for different medical applications (unique nanostructure, high water holding capacity, high degree of polymerization, high mechanical strength, and high crystallinity). These properties differ depending on the cellulose-producing bacteria. The most discussed topic is related to the use of bacterial cellulose as a versatile biopolymer for wound dressing applications. The aim of this review is to present the microbial aspects of BC production and potential applications in development of value-added products, especially for biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bacterial Cellulose Composites)
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20 pages, 8166 KiB  
Article
Non-Linear Dynamic Analysis on Hybrid Air Bearing-Rotor System under Ultra-High Speed Condition
by Laiyun Song, Guoqin Yuan, Hongwen Zhang, Yalin Ding and Kai Cheng
Materials 2022, 15(2), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020675 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1700
Abstract
The non-linear dynamic behavior of a hybrid air bearing-rotor system is very complicated and requires careful attention when designing to avoid spindle failure, especially under ultra-high speed condition. In this paper, the rotor trajectory of a hybrid air bearing-rotor system is obtained by [...] Read more.
The non-linear dynamic behavior of a hybrid air bearing-rotor system is very complicated and requires careful attention when designing to avoid spindle failure, especially under ultra-high speed condition. In this paper, the rotor trajectory of a hybrid air bearing-rotor system is obtained by solving the unsteady Reynolds equation and motion equations simultaneously. The typical non-linear behavior of hybrid air bearing-rotor systems is illustrated with the analysis of the rotor trajectory, the phase angle, time domain vibration and power spectral density. Furthermore, the influences of the rotor mass, external load, rotating speed and unbalanced mass on the non-linear behavior are investigated. Finally, the effect of structure parameters on the rotor trajectory is studied and the phenomenon under ultra-high speed condition is illustrated, which provides some new guidelines on the ultra-high speed air spindle design. Full article
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21 pages, 3385 KiB  
Article
Study of Rolling Motion of Ships in Random Beam Seas with Nonlinear Restoring Moment and Damping Effects Using Neuroevolutionary Technique
by Naveed Ahmad Khan, Muhammad Sulaiman, Carlos Andrés Tavera Romero, Ghaylen Laouini and Fahad Sameer Alshammari
Materials 2022, 15(2), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020674 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2463
Abstract
In this paper, a mathematical model for the rolling motion of ships in random beam seas has been investigated. The ships’ steady-state rolling motion with a nonlinear restoring moment and damping effect is modeled by the nonlinear second-order differential equation. Furthermore, an artificial [...] Read more.
In this paper, a mathematical model for the rolling motion of ships in random beam seas has been investigated. The ships’ steady-state rolling motion with a nonlinear restoring moment and damping effect is modeled by the nonlinear second-order differential equation. Furthermore, an artificial neural network (NN)-based, backpropagated Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) algorithm is utilized to interpret a numerical solution for the roll angle (x(t)), velocity (x(t)), and acceleration (x(t)) of the ship in random beam seas. A reference data set based on numerical examples of the mathematical model for a rolling ship for the LM-NN algorithm is generated by the numerical solver Runge–Kutta method of order 4 (RK-4). The LM-NN algorithm further uses the created data set for the validation, testing, and training of approximate solutions. The outcomes of the design paradigm are compared with those of the homotopy perturbation method (HPM), optimal homotopy analysis method (OHAM), and RK-4. Statistical analyses of the mean square error (MSE), regression, error histograms, proportional performance, and computational complexity further validate the worth of the LM-NN algorithm. Full article
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17 pages, 5254 KiB  
Article
Properties of Old Concrete Built in the Former Leipziger Palace
by Andrzej Ambroziak and Elżbieta Haustein
Materials 2022, 15(2), 673; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020673 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1854
Abstract
This research aims to determine the mechanical, chemical, and physical properties of old concrete used in the former Leipziger Palace in Wrocław, Poland. The cylindrical specimens were taken from the basement concrete walls using a concrete core borehole diamond drill machine. The determination [...] Read more.
This research aims to determine the mechanical, chemical, and physical properties of old concrete used in the former Leipziger Palace in Wrocław, Poland. The cylindrical specimens were taken from the basement concrete walls using a concrete core borehole diamond drill machine. The determination of the durability and strength of old concrete was based on specified chosen properties of the old concrete obtained through the following set of tests: measurements of dry density, tests of water absorption, specification of concrete compressive strength and frost resistance, determination of the modulus of elasticity, measurement of the pH value, determination of water-soluble chloride salts and sulphate ions, and X-ray diffraction analyses. Large dispersions of the compressive strength (10.4 MPa to 34.2 MPa), density (2049 kg/m3 to 2205 kg/m3), water absorption (4.72% to 6.55%), and stabilized secant modulus of elasticity (15.25 Gpa to 19.96 GPa) were observed. The paper is intended to provide scientists, civil engineers, and designers with guidelines for examining and assessing the long-term durability of old concrete, and also extending knowledge in the field of archaeological restoration and the protection of old concrete structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High Performance Concrete and Concrete Structure)
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12 pages, 2108 KiB  
Article
Prospective Clinical Evaluation of Posterior Third-Generation Monolithic Zirconia Crowns Fabricated with Complete Digital Workflow: Two-Year Follow-Up
by Mustafa Gseibat, Pablo Sevilla, Carlos Lopez-Suarez, Verónica Rodríguez, Jesús Peláez and María J. Suárez
Materials 2022, 15(2), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020672 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2086
Abstract
Clinical studies on the behavior of posterior translucent monolithic zirconia restorations are lacking. We assessed the clinical outcome and survival rate of posterior third-generation monolithic zirconia crowns over a 2-year period. A total of 24 patients, requiring 30 posterior full-contour restorations were selected. [...] Read more.
Clinical studies on the behavior of posterior translucent monolithic zirconia restorations are lacking. We assessed the clinical outcome and survival rate of posterior third-generation monolithic zirconia crowns over a 2-year period. A total of 24 patients, requiring 30 posterior full-contour restorations were selected. All abutments were scanned, and crowns were milled and cemented with a self-adhesive dual cure cement. Crowns were assessed using the California Dental Association’s criteria. Gingival status was assessed by evaluating the gingival index, plaque index, periodontal probing depth of the abutments and control teeth, and the margin index of the abutment teeth. Statistical analyses were performed using the Friedman and the Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. During the 2-year follow-up, no biological or mechanical complications were observed, and the survival and success rate was 100%. All restorations ranked as satisfactory throughout the follow-up period. The gingival index and plaque index were worse at the end of the 2-year follow-up. The margin index was stable during the 2 years of clinical service. No significant differences were recorded in periodontal parameters between crowns and control teeth. Third-generation monolithic zirconia could be a reliable alternative to posterior metal–ceramic and second-generation monolithic zirconia posterior crowns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospects for Dental Materials in Prosthodontics)
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19 pages, 4811 KiB  
Article
Bioconjugation Strategy for Ceramic Membranes Decorated with Candida Antarctica Lipase B—Impact of Immobilization Process on Material Features
by Joanna Kujawa, Marta Głodek, Izabela Koter, Guoqiang Li, Katarzyna Knozowska and Wojciech Kujawski
Materials 2022, 15(2), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020671 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1797
Abstract
A strategy for the bioconjugation of the enzyme Candida antarctica lipase B onto titania ceramic membranes with varied pore sizes (15, 50, 150, and 300 kDa) was successfully performed. The relationship between the membrane morphology, i.e.,the pore size of the ceramic support, and [...] Read more.
A strategy for the bioconjugation of the enzyme Candida antarctica lipase B onto titania ceramic membranes with varied pore sizes (15, 50, 150, and 300 kDa) was successfully performed. The relationship between the membrane morphology, i.e.,the pore size of the ceramic support, and bioconjugation performance was considered. Owing to the dimension of the enzyme (~33 kDa), the morphology of the ceramics allowed (50, 150, and 300 kDa) or did not allow (15 kDa) the entrance of the enzyme molecules into the porous structure. Such a strategy made it possible to better understand the changes in the material (morphology) and physicochemical features (wettability, adhesiveness, and surface charge) of the samples, which were systematically examined. The silane functionalization and enzyme immobilization were accomplished via the covalent route. The samples were characterized after each stage of the modification, which was very informative from the material point of view. As a consequence of the modification, significant changes in the contact angle, roughness, adhesion, and zeta potential were observed. For instance, for the 50 kDa membrane, the contact angle increased from 29.1 ± 1.5° for the pristine sample to 72.3 ± 1.5° after silane attachment; subsequently, it was reduced to 57.2 ± 1.5° after the enzyme immobilization. Finally, the contact angle of the bioconjugated membrane used in the enzymatic process rose to 92.9 ± 1.5°. By roughness (Sq) controlling, the following amendments were noticed: for the pristine 50 kDa membrane, Sq = 1.87 ± 0.21 µm; after silanization, Sq = 2.33 ± 0.30 µm; after enzyme immobilization, Sq = 2.74 ± 0.26 µm; and eventually, after the enzymatic process, Sq = 2.37 ± 0.27 µm. The adhesion work of the 50 kDa samples was equal to 136.41 ± 2.20 mN m−1 (pristine membrane), 94.93 ± 2.00 mN m−1 (with silane), 112.24 ± 1.90 mN m−1 (with silane and enzyme), and finally, 69.12 ± 1.40 mN m−1 (after the enzymatic process). The materials and physicochemical features changed substantially, particularly after the application of the membrane in the enzymatic process. Moreover, the impact of ceramic material morphology on the zeta potential value is here presented for the first time. With an increase in the ceramic support cut-off, the amount of immobilized lipase rose, but the specific productivity was higher for membranes possessing smaller pores, owing to the higher grafting density. For the enzymatic process, two modes of accomplishment were selected, i.e., stirred-tank and cross-flow. The latter method was characterized by a much higher effectiveness, with a resulting productivity equal to 99.7 and 60.3 µmol h−1 for the 300 and 15 kD membranes, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymers, Multifunctional Nanomaterials, and Composites)
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19 pages, 10668 KiB  
Article
Productivity Enhancement by Prediction of Liquid Steel Breakout during Continuous Casting Process in Manufacturing of Steel Slabs in Steel Plant Using Artificial Neural Network with Backpropagation Algorithms
by Md Obaidullah Ansari, Somnath Chattopadhyaya, Joyjeet Ghose, Shubham Sharma, Drazan Kozak, Changhe Li, Szymon Wojciechowski, Shashi Prakash Dwivedi, Huseyin Cagan Kilinc, Jolanta B. Królczyk and Dominik Walczak
Materials 2022, 15(2), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020670 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2700
Abstract
Breakout is one of the major accidents that often arise in the continuous casting shops of steel slabs in Bokaro Steel Plant, Jharkhand, India. Breakouts cause huge capital loss, reduced productivity, and create safety hazards. The existing system is not capable of predicting [...] Read more.
Breakout is one of the major accidents that often arise in the continuous casting shops of steel slabs in Bokaro Steel Plant, Jharkhand, India. Breakouts cause huge capital loss, reduced productivity, and create safety hazards. The existing system is not capable of predicting breakout accurately, as it considers only one process parameter, i.e., thermocouple temperature. The system also generates false alarms. Several other process parameters must also be considered to predict breakout accurately. This work has considered multiple process parameters (casting speed, mold level, thermocouple temperature, and taper/mold) and developed a breakout prediction system (BOPS) for continuous casting of steel slabs. The BOPS is modeled using an artificial neural network with a backpropagation algorithm, which further has been validated by using the Keras format and TensorFlow-based machine learning platforms. This work used the Adam optimizer and binary cross-entropy loss function to predict the liquid breakout in the caster and avoid operator intervention. The experimental results show that the developed model has 100% accuracy for generating an alarm during the actual breakout and thus, completely reduces the false alarm. Apart from the simulation-based validation findings, the investigators have also carried out the field application-based validation test results. This validation further unveiled that this breakout prediction method has a detection ratio of 100%, the frequency of false alarms is 0.113%, and a prediction accuracy ratio of 100%, which was found to be more effective than the existing system used in continuous casting of steel slab. Hence, this methodology enhanced the productivity and quality of the steel slabs and reduced substantial capital loss during the continuous casting of steel slabs. As a result, the presented hybrid algorithm of artificial neural network with backpropagation in breakout prediction does seem to be a more viable, efficient, and cost-effective method, which could also be utilized in the more advanced automated steel-manufacturing plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Processes and Systems)
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12 pages, 5105 KiB  
Article
Effect of Material Anisotropy on the Mechanical Response of Automotive Steel under High Strain Rates
by Sheng Yin, Yi Xue, Haotian Cui, Xinhua Pei, Chundong Hu, Yangxin Wang and Qingchao Tian
Materials 2022, 15(2), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020669 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1426
Abstract
A constitutive model for automobile steel with high elongation needs to be established to predict the dynamic deformation behavior under hydroforming applications. In order to clarify the confusing discrepancy in the essential parameters of the classical Cowper-Symonds (C-S) model, a series of automobile [...] Read more.
A constitutive model for automobile steel with high elongation needs to be established to predict the dynamic deformation behavior under hydroforming applications. In order to clarify the confusing discrepancy in the essential parameters of the classical Cowper-Symonds (C-S) model, a series of automobile structural steels have been employed to investigate the strain rate response by conducting tensile dynamic deformation. Metallographic microscopy and orientation distribution functions were used to characterize the microstructure and texture components of the steels. The microstructure observation discloses that the matrix of all steels is mainly of ferrite and the texture constituent provides a framework for steel to withstand external deformation. The C-S model can be applied to simulate the dynamic deformation with satisfied expectations. It is concluded that the essential parameters D and p in the model show a specific relationship with the steel grade, and the parameter D is proportional to the steel grade and related to material anisotropy, while the parameter p is inversely proportional to the steel grade and has close links with the grain boundary characteristics. Full article
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10 pages, 5147 KiB  
Article
Study on Oxygen Evolution Reaction Performance of Jarosite/C Composites
by Junxue Chen, Sijia Li, Zizheng Qu, Zhonglin Li, Ding Wang, Jialong Shen and Yibing Li
Materials 2022, 15(2), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020668 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1730
Abstract
In the electrolysis of water process, hydrogen is produced and the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) dominates the reaction rate of the entire process. Currently, OER catalysts mostly consist of noble metal (NM) catalysts, which cannot be applied in industries due to the [...] Read more.
In the electrolysis of water process, hydrogen is produced and the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) dominates the reaction rate of the entire process. Currently, OER catalysts mostly consist of noble metal (NM) catalysts, which cannot be applied in industries due to the high price. It is of great importance to developing low-cost catalysts materials as NM materials substitution. In this work, jarosite (AFe3(SO4)2(OH)6, A = K+, Na+, NH4+, H3O+) was synthesized by a one-step method, and its OER catalytic performance was studied using catalytic slurry (the weight ratios of jarosite and conductive carbon black are 2:1, 1:1 and 1:2). Microstructures and functional groups of synthesized material were analyzed using XRD, SEM, FI-IR, etc. The OER catalytic performance of (NH4)Fe3(SO4)2(OH)6/conductive carbon black were examined by LSV, Tafel, EIS, ECSA, etc. The study found that the OER has the best catalytic performance when the weight ratio of (NH4)Fe3(SO4)2(OH)6 to conductive carbon black is 2:1. It requires only 376 mV overpotential to generate current densities of 10 mA cm−2 with a small Tafel slope (82.42 mV dec−1) and large Cdl value (26.17 mF cm−2). Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Electromaterials for Environment & Energy)
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15 pages, 6304 KiB  
Article
Modelling and Performance Analysis of MgB2 and Hybrid Magnetic Shields
by Michela Fracasso, Fedor Gömöry, Mykola Solovyov, Roberto Gerbaldo, Gianluca Ghigo, Francesco Laviano, Andrea Napolitano, Daniele Torsello and Laura Gozzelino
Materials 2022, 15(2), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020667 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1876
Abstract
Superconductors are strategic materials for the fabrication of magnetic shields, and within this class, MgB2 has been proven to be a very promising option. However, a successful approach to produce devices with high shielding ability also requires the availability of suitable simulation [...] Read more.
Superconductors are strategic materials for the fabrication of magnetic shields, and within this class, MgB2 has been proven to be a very promising option. However, a successful approach to produce devices with high shielding ability also requires the availability of suitable simulation tools guiding the optimization process. In this paper, we report on a 3D numerical model based on a vector potential (A)-formulation, exploited to investigate the properties of superconducting (SC) shielding structures with cylindrical symmetry and an aspect ratio of height to diameter approaching one. To this aim, we first explored the viability of this model by solving a benchmark problem and comparing the computation outputs with those obtained with the most used approach based on the H-formulation. This comparison evidenced the full agreement of the computation outcomes as well as the much better performance of the model based on the A-formulation in terms of computation time. Relying on this result, the latter model was exploited to predict the shielding properties of open and single capped MgB2 tubes with and without the superimposition of a ferromagnetic (FM) shield. This investigation highlighted that the addition of the FM shell is very efficient in increasing the shielding factors of the SC screen when the applied magnetic field is tilted with respect to the shield axis. This effect is already significant at low tilt angles and allows compensating the strong decrease in the shielding ability that affects the short tubular SC screens when the external field is applied out of their axis. Full article
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10 pages, 1094 KiB  
Review
Torque Generation of the Endodontic Instruments: A Narrative Review
by Sang Won Kwak, Ya Shen, He Liu, Hyeon-Cheol Kim and Markus Haapasalo
Materials 2022, 15(2), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020664 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3342
Abstract
As the use of nickel-titanium (NiTi) file systems for root canal therapy has become popular; hence, knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of NiTi files is essential for dentists. Unintended sudden fracture can occur during root canal shaping, and it is important to [...] Read more.
As the use of nickel-titanium (NiTi) file systems for root canal therapy has become popular; hence, knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of NiTi files is essential for dentists. Unintended sudden fracture can occur during root canal shaping, and it is important to understand the conditions that may cause instrument fractures. Torque is defined as the force required to rotate the NiTi file and can be considered of as a parameter for the stress generated. The endodontic engine maintains a constant rotational speed by adjusting torque regardless of the root canal conditions. The process of root canal shaping by rotary instruments is a series of actions that requires torque and generates stress to both the teeth and the NiTi instruments. The generated stress may induce the strain accumulation on NiTi instrument and the canal wall and lead to the development of microcrack in the instrument and dentinal wall. Therefore, understanding of torque and stress generated is important to prevent the fractures to the instrument and the teeth. This stress has been measured using various experimental approaches, including microcrack observation by using a microscope or computed tomography, attaching strain gauges to the teeth, and finite element analysis. This review focuses on the stress generated to the teeth and the instrument during instrumentation under various experimental conditions. The factors related to torque generation are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endodontics)
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15 pages, 1032 KiB  
Article
Orthodontic Retention—Protocols and Materials—A Questionnaire Pilot Study among Polish Practitioners
by Maciej Jedliński, Marta Mazur, Krzysztof Schmeidl, Katarzyna Grocholewicz, Roman Ardan and Joanna Janiszewska-Olszowska
Materials 2022, 15(2), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15020666 - 16 Jan 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2312
Abstract
The aim of the study was to analyze retention protocols and materials for fixed retainers used by clinicians providing orthodontic treatment in Poland. The survey was carried out from February to April 2021. The questionnaire was designed using the Google Forms tool. After [...] Read more.
The aim of the study was to analyze retention protocols and materials for fixed retainers used by clinicians providing orthodontic treatment in Poland. The survey was carried out from February to April 2021. The questionnaire was designed using the Google Forms tool. After validation, the questionnaire was delivered to verified active orthodontists gathered in a closed social media group of 615 members. Finally, 104 answers were received. Answers to individual questions were provided in percentages and tabularized. A chi-squared test of proportion was used to compare: the proportion of clinicians using retainers of different characteristics and the proportions of clinicians indicating the superiority of a given clinical solution. Rectangular steel braided wire was rated as most reliable. However, doctors who declared to use gold chain were mostly solely using this type of wire. Multistranded round wire was rated the worst. Fiber-reinforced composite was mainly used in periodontal patients. The protocols used by Polish orthodontic practitioners relied on double long-term retention with regular follow-up. The most popular material was stainless steel braided rectangular wire bonded with a flowable composite. Most clinicians believed they could maintain the treatment results, but they declared that patients’ cooperation was a challenge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Trends in Orthodontic Materials)
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