Materials

10 pages, 4088 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Oil Viscosity on the Tribological Behavior of a Laser-Textured Ti6Al4V Alloy

by Marjetka Conradi, Aleksandra Kocijan and Bojan Podgornik

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6615; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196615 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 853

Laser texturing with a dimple pattern was applied to modify a Ti6Al4V alloy at the micro level, aiming to improve its friction and wear resistance in combination with oil lubrication to optimize the performance in demanding industrial environments. The tribological analysis was performed [...] Read more.

Laser texturing with a dimple pattern was applied to modify a Ti6Al4V alloy at the micro level, aiming to improve its friction and wear resistance in combination with oil lubrication to optimize the performance in demanding industrial environments. The tribological analysis was performed on four different dimple-textured surfaces with varying dimple size and dimple-to-dimple distance and under lubrication with three different oils, i.e., T9, VG46, and VG100, to reflect the oil viscosity’s influence on the friction/wear of the laser-textured Ti6Al4V alloy. The results show that the surfaces with the highest texture density showed the most significant COF reduction of around 10% in a low-viscosity oil (T9). However, in high-viscosity oils (VG46 and VG100), the influence of the laser texturing on the COF was less pronounced. A wear analysis revealed that the laser texturing intensified the abrasive wear, especially on surfaces with a higher texture density. For low-texturing-density surfaces, less wear was observed for low- and medium-viscosity oils (T9 and VG46). For medium-to-high-texturing densities, the high-viscosity oil (VG100) provided the best contact conditions and wear results. Overall, reduced wear, even below the non-texturing case, was observed for sample 50–200 in VG100 lubrication, indicating the combined effect of oil reservoirs and increased oil-film thickness within the dimples due to the high viscosity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Materials Physics)

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20 pages, 4310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Composite Resins Impregnated by Phosphorus Organic Extractants for Separation of Rare Earth Elements from Nitrate-Based Leachate of Permanent Magnets

by Olga V. Kovalenko, Vladimir E. Baulin, Yuri M. Shulga, Dmitriy V. Baulin, Gennady L. Gutsev and Aslan Yu. Tsivadze

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6614; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196614 - 09 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1029

Abstract

Composite resins impregnated by different organophosphorus extractants were developed and used for the extraction chromatography recovery of rare earth elements from nitrate-based leachate of NdFeB permanent magnets. The influence of different factors on recovery of Nd(III) and Fe(III), as the most difficult to [...] Read more.

Composite resins impregnated by different organophosphorus extractants were developed and used for the extraction chromatography recovery of rare earth elements from nitrate-based leachate of NdFeB permanent magnets. The influence of different factors on recovery of Nd(III) and Fe(III), as the most difficult to separate elements, by developed resins was studied. The influence of extractant structure, the composition of feed solutions, and concentrations of HNO₃ and NH₄NO₃ on the recovery of Fe(III) and Nd(III) by prepared resins were considered. The best recovery of Nd(III) was shown by resin impregnated with N,N-dioctyl (diphenylphosphoryl) acetamide. For this material, sorption characteristics (values of the distribution coefficient, capacity, and the Nd(III)/Fe(III) separation factor) were obtained, and the reproducibility of the loading–stripping process was evaluated. This resin and its precursors were characterized by IR spectroscopy. It was found that the developed resin is more efficient for Nd(III) recovery than resin impregnated with TODGA. An effective approach to the Nd(III)/Fe(III) separation with developed resin in nitrate solution was proposed. This approach was used for recovery of Pr(III), Nd(III), and Dy(III) from the nitrate-based leachate of NdFeB magnets by the developed resin. The final product contained 99.6% of rare earths. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Manufacturing Engineering and Mechanical Properties of Composite Materials)

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18 pages, 5785 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Novel High-Temperature Microemulsion for Enhanced Oil Recovery in Tight Oil Reservoirs

by Lixiao Xiao, Jirui Hou, Weiju Wang and Infant Raj

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6613; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196613 - 09 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 822

Abstract

This work focuses on the development of a novel high-temperature microemulsion for enhanced oil recovery in tight oil reservoirs. Microemulsions are a type of mixture that has properties of both liquids and solids; they have shown significant potential for improving oil recovery through [...] Read more.

This work focuses on the development of a novel high-temperature microemulsion for enhanced oil recovery in tight oil reservoirs. Microemulsions are a type of mixture that has properties of both liquids and solids; they have shown significant potential for improving oil recovery through spontaneous imbibition. Herein, a high-temperature-tolerant lower-phase microemulsion using a microemulsion dilution method was developed. The properties and morphological characteristics of the microemulsion were evaluated and proposed a mechanism for enhanced spontaneous imbibition oil recovery using imbibition tests and CT scanning technology. The results of the study showed that the optimum concentration of the microemulsion was 0.2 wt% and that it had good thermal stability, small droplet size, lower interfacial tension, good wettability alteration ability, and minimum adsorption loss. The imbibition and CT experiments demonstrated that the reduction in oil/solid adhesion was due to the synergistic effect of IFT reduction and wettability alteration and the ability to increase the imbibition distance through a larger self-driving force. The study concludes that the solubilization coefficient and self-driving force were defined and calculated to quantitatively analyze the imbibition mechanisms and the results showed that the reduction in oil/solid adhesion was due to the synergistic effect of IFT reduction and wettability alteration and the ability to increase the imbibition distance through a larger self-driving force. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano Technology Assistance in Operating and Enhancing Oil Recovery)

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13 pages, 8361 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Porosity of Thermal-Sprayed Commercially Pure Aluminum Coating

by Bo Li, Lei Fan, Jie Bai, Jinhang He, Jianfeng Su, Song Wang, Chao Deng, Shifeng Liu and Zhiqing Zhang

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6612; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196612 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 942

Abstract

Porosity is closely related to the corrosion and wear properties of a coating processed by thermal-spraying technology, and the quantitative characterization of porosity is a crucial part of the research on coating structures. The current image analysis method often uses the mechanical polishing [...] Read more.

Porosity is closely related to the corrosion and wear properties of a coating processed by thermal-spraying technology, and the quantitative characterization of porosity is a crucial part of the research on coating structures. The current image analysis method often uses the mechanical polishing method recommended by ISO to measure a coating porosity. This method has been proved to be an effective method for the characterization of oxide coatings. However, due to the significant differences in the physical and chemical properties between aluminum and oxides, this method may not be suitable for aluminum coatings, and a more appropriate approach needs to be explored. In this paper, the effects of three polishing technologies (mechanical polishing, argon-ion-beam polishing, and electrolytic polishing) on the porosity measurement of pure aluminum coatings were compared and studied. The research results showed that the commonly used mechanical polishing method and more advanced argon-ion-beam polishing method could not completely reveal the pore structure because SiC particles would be embedded in the pure aluminum coatings during mechanical polishing, filling large pores. Although electrolytic polishing technology had advantages in revealing the macroporous structure, it would introduce a microporous structure and oxides, which would affect the measurement of the coating porosity. The composite polishing technology (electrolytic polishing + argon-ion-beam polishing) could perfectly reveal the pore structure in the pure-aluminum coating, and the porosity of arc-sprayed aluminum coating was 9.9%, which was close to the macroscopic true value measured using the weighing method of 10.2%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Heat Treatment of Advanced Metallic Materials (2nd Volume))

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14 pages, 2830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Interlaminar Properties of Glass Fiber/Epoxy Laminates by the Synergic Modification of Soft and Rigid Particles

by Jingwei Liu, Shenghui Tian, Jiaqi Ren, Jin Huang, Lin Luo, Bing Du and Tianyong Zhang

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6611; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196611 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 901

Abstract

Poor interlaminar fracture toughness has been a major issue in glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin (GF/EP) laminate composites. In this paper, soft carboxy-terminated nitrile (CTBN) rubber particles and rigid nano-SiO₂ are used to toughen the epoxy resin (EP) matrix to improve the interlayer [...] Read more.

Poor interlaminar fracture toughness has been a major issue in glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin (GF/EP) laminate composites. In this paper, soft carboxy-terminated nitrile (CTBN) rubber particles and rigid nano-SiO₂ are used to toughen the epoxy resin (EP) matrix to improve the interlayer properties of GF/EP laminate composites. The effects of adding two toughening agents on the mechanical and interlayer properties of GF/EP laminates were studied. The results showed that adding the two kinds of particles improved the mechanical properties of the epoxy matrix. When the additional amount of flexible CTBN rubber particles was 8 wt%, and the rigid nano-SiO₂ was 0.5 wt%, the fracture toughness of the matrix resin was increased by 215.8%, and the tensile strength was only decreased by 2.3% compared with the pure epoxy resin. On this basis, the effects of two kinds of particles on the interlayer properties of GF/EP composites were studied. Compared with the unmodified GF/EP laminates, the interlayer shear strength and mode I interlayer fracture toughness is significantly improved by a toughening agent, and the energy release rate G_IC of interlayer shear strength and interlayer fracture toughness is increased by 109.2%, and 86.8%, respectively. The flexible CTBN rubber particles and rigid nano-SiO₂ improve the interfacial adhesion between GF and EP. The cavitation of the two particles and the plastic deformation of the matrix is the toughening mechanism of the interlayer properties of the composite. Such excellent interlaminar mechanical properties make it possible for GF/EP laminates to be widely used as engineering materials in various industries (e.g., aerospace, hydrogen energy, marine). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lightweight and High-Strength Sandwich Panel)

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Graphical abstract

16 pages, 9228 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Residual Stress Control Using Process Optimization in Directed Energy Deposition

by Manping Cheng, Xi Zou, Yang Pan, Yan Zhou, Wenyang Liu and Lijun Song

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6610; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196610 - 09 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 950

Abstract

This paper mainly analyzes the typical thermodynamic response (thermal history, thermal strain and residual stress) in a conventional continuous-wave (CW) laser during Directed Energy Deposition (DED). The influence of process parameters (laser power and scanning speed) on the temperature gradient in the heat-affected [...] Read more.

This paper mainly analyzes the typical thermodynamic response (thermal history, thermal strain and residual stress) in a conventional continuous-wave (CW) laser during Directed Energy Deposition (DED). The influence of process parameters (laser power and scanning speed) on the temperature gradient in the heat-affected zone, thermal strain and residual stress are studied, and the corresponding relationship are established. The results show that a reduction in residual stress can be obtained by decreasing the temperature gradient. However, the method of reducing the temperature gradient by changing process parameters leads to low forming quality and low density. A pulse-wave laser (PW) is proposed to actively control the residual stress of the deposited sample. This laser mode can reduce not only the temperature gradient in the process of DED but also the in situ release of thermal stress, correspondingly greatly reducing the residual stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)

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16 pages, 11294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insight into the Micro Evolution of Backfill Paste Prepared with Modified Gangue as Supplementary Cementitious Material: Dissolution and Hydration Mechanisms

by Binbin Huo, Jixiong Zhang, Meng Li and Qiang Guo

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6609; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196609 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 644

Abstract

Gangue-based backfill cementitious materials (BCM) are widely applied due to their low CO₂ footprint, while the application is restricted by gangue’s low reactivity. In this study, dry chemical modification was developed to modify the gangue, and multiple characterized approaches were used to [...] Read more.

Gangue-based backfill cementitious materials (BCM) are widely applied due to their low CO₂ footprint, while the application is restricted by gangue’s low reactivity. In this study, dry chemical modification was developed to modify the gangue, and multiple characterized approaches were used to characterize the dissolution property, mineral composition, and particle size distribution of modified gangue (MCG), as well as the compressive strength and microstructure of BCM. The findings show that the residue weight of MCG stabilized at 2 wt.% of formic acid, and the modification reduces the kaolinite and calcite, resulting in smaller particles. Additionally, the three days compressive strength of the BCM made with MCG was improved from 0.3 MPa to 0.6 MPa. Attributed to the increased reactivity of MCG, it was found that the dissolution weight increased by 2.13%. This study offers a novel method for activating gangue and a new kind of MCG-prepared BCM, which makes a significant contribution towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)

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13 pages, 2949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication and Characterization of a Multifunctional Coating to Promote the Osteogenic Properties of Orthopedic Implants

by Serap (Gungor) Koc, Tuba Baygar, Selma Özarslan, Nurdan Sarac and Aysel Ugur

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6608; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196608 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1086

Abstract

Titanium-based alloys are used in orthopedic applications as fixation elements, hard tissue replacements in artificial bones, and dental implants. Despite their wide range of applications, metallic implant defects and failures arise due to inadequate mechanical bonding, postoperative clotting problems, aseptic loosening, and infections. [...] Read more.

Titanium-based alloys are used in orthopedic applications as fixation elements, hard tissue replacements in artificial bones, and dental implants. Despite their wide range of applications, metallic implant defects and failures arise due to inadequate mechanical bonding, postoperative clotting problems, aseptic loosening, and infections. To improve the surface bioactivity and reduce the corrosion rate of the Ti6Al4V alloy, multi-layered coatings (HAp, BG, Cs, and Hep) were applied via electrophoretic deposition (EPD). XRD images showed the presence of HAp within the coating. In vitro investigation: cell line NIH-3T3 fibroblasts were seeded on the non-coated and coated Ti6Al4V substrates, and their cellular behavior was evaluated. The results indicated that the HApBGCsHep coating could enhance the adhesion and proliferation of NIH 3T3 cells. In addition, the potentiodynamic polarization results are compatible with the in vitro outcome. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bioactive Materials and Coatings for Biomedical Applications)

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13 pages, 3891 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Improvement and Microstructure Characterization of Cement-Stabilized Roadbase Materials Containing Phosphogypsum/Recycled Concrete Aggregate

by Yang Wu, Xiaoya Bian, Jie Liu, Ruan Chi and Xuyong Chen

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6607; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196607 - 09 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 763

Abstract

The proper reutilization of the phosphogypsum (PG) by-product derived from the production of phosphoric acid and recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) from waste concrete in roadbase materials is of great necessity and importance. This investigation tried seeking a new approach to reuse them to [...] Read more.

The proper reutilization of the phosphogypsum (PG) by-product derived from the production of phosphoric acid and recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) from waste concrete in roadbase materials is of great necessity and importance. This investigation tried seeking a new approach to reuse them to high quality, including turning PG into calcinated PG (CPG) via washing and calcination, as well as adopting sodium metasilicate nonahydrate (SMN) to strengthen the roadbase materials of cement-stabilized CPG and RCA. Upon the mix design, with a series of experiments including unconfined compressive strength, the wet–dry cycle, freeze–thaw cycle, and scanning electron microscopy, the comprehensive effects of PG treatment, the CPG to RCA mix ratio, SMN dosage, wet–dry cycle and freeze–thaw cycle on the road performance of roadbase materials were well evaluated, and the traffic bearing capacity and microstructure characteristics were also analyzed. The results demonstrate that the 7 d unconfined compressive strength of CPG/RCA roadbase materials can reach 5.34 MPa as the CPG and SMN dosage are 20% and 11%, respectively, which meets the requirements of an extremely and very heavy traffic grade. After five wet–dry cycles and freeze–thaw cycles, the resistance of the CPG/RCA roadbase materials to moisture and frost was significantly improved as 11% SMN was added. Meanwhile, SMN contributes to the reduction in crack width and densifies the microstructure of CPG/RCA roadbase materials. The research results can be used to provide new guidance for building more durable roadbase materials. Full article

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23 pages, 5632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparative Investigation of Machine Learning Algorithms for Pore-Influenced Fatigue Life Prediction of Additively Manufactured Inconel 718 Based on a Small Dataset

by Bing-Li Hu, Yan-Wen Luo, Bin Zhang and Guang-Ping Zhang

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6606; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196606 - 09 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 843

Abstract

Fatigue life prediction of Inconel 718 fabricated by laser powder bed fusion was investigated using a miniature specimen tests method and machine learning algorithms. A small dataset-based machine learning framework integrating thirteen kinds of algorithms was constructed to predict the pore-influenced fatigue life. [...] Read more.

Fatigue life prediction of Inconel 718 fabricated by laser powder bed fusion was investigated using a miniature specimen tests method and machine learning algorithms. A small dataset-based machine learning framework integrating thirteen kinds of algorithms was constructed to predict the pore-influenced fatigue life. The method of selecting random seeds was employed to evaluate the performance of the algorithms, and then the ranking of various machine learning algorithms for predicting pore-influenced fatigue life on small datasets was obtained by verifying the prediction model twenty or thirty times. The results showed that among the thirteen popular machine learning algorithms investigated, the adaptive boosting algorithm from the boosting category exhibited the best fitting accuracy for fatigue life prediction of the additively manufactured Inconel 718 using the small dataset, followed by the decision tree algorithm in the nonlinear category. The investigation also found that DT, RF, GBDT, and XGBOOST algorithms could effectively predict the fatigue life of the additively manufactured Inconel 718 within the range of 1 × 10⁵ cycles on a small dataset compared to others. These results not only demonstrate the capability of using small dataset-based machine learning techniques to predict fatigue life but also may guide the selection of algorithms that minimize performance evaluation costs when predicting fatigue life. Full article

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26 pages, 12118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Crashworthiness of Foam-Filled Cylindrical Sandwich Shells with Corrugated Cores

by Pengbo Su, Bin Han, Yiming Wang, Hui Wang, Bo Gao and Tian Jian Lu

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6605; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196605 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 724

Abstract

Inspired by material hybrid design, novel hybrid sandwich shells were developed by filling a corrugated cylindrical structure with aluminum foam to achieve higher energy absorption performance. The crushing behavior of the foam-filled corrugated sandwich cylindrical shells (FFCSCSs) was investigated using theoretical and numerical [...] Read more.

Inspired by material hybrid design, novel hybrid sandwich shells were developed by filling a corrugated cylindrical structure with aluminum foam to achieve higher energy absorption performance. The crushing behavior of the foam-filled corrugated sandwich cylindrical shells (FFCSCSs) was investigated using theoretical and numerical methods. Numerical results revealed a significant enhancement in the energy absorption of FFCSCSs under axial compression, showcasing a maximum specific energy absorption of 60 kJ/kg. The coupling strengthening effect is highly pronounced, with a maximum value of

{\bar{F}}_{c} / \bar{F}

reaching up to 40%. The mechanism underlying this phenomenon can be approached from two perspectives. Firstly, the intrusion of folds into the foam insertions allows for more effective foam compression, maximizing its energy absorption capacity. Secondly, foam causes the folds to bend upwards, intensifying the mutual compression between the folds. This coupling mechanism was further investigated with a focus on analyzing the influence of parameters such as the relative density of the foam, the wall thickness of the sandwich shell, and the material properties. Moreover, a theoretical model was developed to accurately predict the mean crushing force of the FFCSCSs. Based on this model, the influence of various variables on the crushing behavior of the structure was thoroughly investigated through parametric studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterizations, Mechanical Properties and Constitutive Modeling of Advanced Materials)

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23 pages, 8913 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eco-Friendly Sustainable Concrete and Mortar Using Coal Dust Waste

by Evgenii M. Shcherban’, Sergey A. Stel’makh, Alexey N. Beskopylny, Levon R. Mailyan, Besarion Meskhi, Diana Elshaeva, Andrei Chernil’nik, Alexander L. Mailyan and Oxana Ananova

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6604; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196604 - 09 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1568

Abstract

Finding the solution to the problem of the accumulating waste from the mining and processing industries, as well as reducing their carbon footprint, is among the most important tasks today. Within the construction industry, in the field of the production of building materials [...] Read more.

Finding the solution to the problem of the accumulating waste from the mining and processing industries, as well as reducing their carbon footprint, is among the most important tasks today. Within the construction industry, in the field of the production of building materials such as concrete, these problems may be solved through the use of waste and by saving the binder component. The purpose of this study is to substantiate the feasibility of using waste coal dust (CD) in concrete and cement–sand mortars as a partial replacement for cement. Test samples were made by partially replacing cement with CD in an amount from 0% to 10% in increments of 2% by weight. The following main characteristics were studied: mobility and density of mixtures, as well as density, compressive strength, bending strength and water absorption of concrete and mortars. X-ray diffraction and microscopic analysis methods were used in this work. The introduction of CD to replace part of the cement, up to 10%, did not have a significant effect on the density of concrete and mortar mixtures but reduced their workability. The best values of physical and mechanical characteristics were recorded for concrete and mortar with 4% CD. The increases in the compressive strength of concrete and mortars were 6.6% and 5.7%, and in flexural strength 6.1% and 5.6%, respectively. Water absorption decreased by 9.7% for concrete and by 9.3% for mortar. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Testing of Materials and Elements in Civil Engineering (3rd Edition))

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14 pages, 7949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Numerical and Experimental Analysis of the Mechanical Behavior of the Aluminum Beverage Can with Internal Varnish Layers during Axial Load Force Testing

by Przemysław Wędrychowicz, Piotr Kustra and Andrij Milenin

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6603; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196603 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 868

Abstract

This article presents a numerical and experimental investigation into the impact of can wall thickness and the internal varnish layer thickness on the results of an axial load force test. This study also shows the levels of thermal stresses that emerge after the [...] Read more.

This article presents a numerical and experimental investigation into the impact of can wall thickness and the internal varnish layer thickness on the results of an axial load force test. This study also shows the levels of thermal stresses that emerge after the drying of varnish coating, and how they affect the results of the axial load force test. This research involves the development of suitable numerical models and the experimental acquisition of stress–deformation relationships for the both can material, aluminum, and the varnish. The numerical simulation of the axial load force test has been verified through experimental tests, with a resulting difference of 8.9% between the two sets of results. The findings highlight that changes in the can wall thickness have a more pronounced effect on test outcomes compared to variations in the varnish thickness. Specifically, an increase in the can wall thickness from 90 µm to 100 µm results in a substantial 116 N increase in the force required for a can to collapse. Nevertheless, the presence of a 5 µm varnish layer also contributes measurably, increasing the can’s collapse force by 21 N. These results offer valuable practical insights for manufacturers, enabling them to effectively optimize can strength characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Properties and Characterization of Metallic Materials for Lightweight Structures)

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9 pages, 2113 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Lone-Pair-Enabled Polymorphism and Photostructural Changes in Chalcogenide Glasses

by Alexander V. Kolobov, Vladimir G. Kuznetsov, Milos Krbal and Stanislav V. Zabotnov

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6602; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196602 - 09 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 875

Abstract

S- and Se-based chalcogenide glasses are intrinsically metastable and exhibit a number of photo-induced effects unique to this class of materials, reversible photostructural changes and photo-induced anisotropy being major examples. These effects are usually interpreted in terms of the formation of valence alternation [...] Read more.

S- and Se-based chalcogenide glasses are intrinsically metastable and exhibit a number of photo-induced effects unique to this class of materials, reversible photostructural changes and photo-induced anisotropy being major examples. These effects are usually interpreted in terms of the formation of valence alternation pairs and ‘wrong’ bonds. In this work, using density functional theory simulations, we demonstrate for the case example of

{As}_{2} S_{3}

that a strong decrease in the optical band gap can be achieved if a polymorphic transformation of the local structure from orpiment to that of tetradymite takes place. For the formation of the latter, the presence of lone-pair electrons in near-linear atomic configurations is crucial. Our results represent a novel approach to understanding the photo-induced structural changes in chalcogenide glasses as being due to the presence of polymorphism, and will lead to their wider use in various photonic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Optoelectronic Functional Thin Films)

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17 pages, 10857 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ultra-Narrow Gap Metal Active Gas Arc Welded and Narrow Gap Submerged Arc Welded Q235A Low Carbon Steel

by Shang Wu, Wenkai Xiao, Lingfei Gong and Fuju Zhang

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6601; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196601 - 09 Oct 2023

Viewed by 916

Abstract

The 18 mm thick Q235A low carbon steel plates were welded via the ultra-narrow gap metal active gas arc welding (ultra-NGMAGW) and narrow gap submerged arc welding (NGSAW), and the microstructure and mechanical properties of the welded joints’ area were characterized. The results [...] Read more.

The 18 mm thick Q235A low carbon steel plates were welded via the ultra-narrow gap metal active gas arc welding (ultra-NGMAGW) and narrow gap submerged arc welding (NGSAW), and the microstructure and mechanical properties of the welded joints’ area were characterized. The results showed that there is acicular ferrite (AF) in the weld zone of the joint obtained via the ultra-NGMAGW. The AF grains are fine and have a great difference in growth direction, resulting in high local dislocation density. However, there is no AF in the welded joint obtained via the NGSAW. Using numerical simulation analysis of the temperature field distribution and the thermal cycle curve in the welding process of the ultra-NGMAGW, it was found that the mechanism of microstructure evolution is that during the welding process of the ultra-NGMAGW, the heat input is low, the cooling rate is quick, and the residence time in the high temperature region is short. Therefore, pearlite with coarse grains is basically not formed. AF nucleates in different directions with inclusions as the core. The tensile strength of the weld joint obtained via the ultra-NGMAGW is 643 MPa, which corresponds to 139% of that of the base metal, and 132% of that obtained via the NGSAW. The ultra-NGMAGW joints exhibited better tensile strength and higher microhardness than the NGSAW joints, which is mainly due to the existence of AF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Welding and Joining Processes of Metallic Materials)

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20 pages, 10567 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mesoscopic Analysis of Rounded and Hybrid Aggregates in Recycled Rubber Concrete

by Mahmoud M. A. Kamel, Yu Fu, Xiaowei Feng and Yijiang Peng

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6600; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196600 - 08 Oct 2023

Viewed by 847

Abstract

Recycled rubber concrete (RRC), a sustainable building material, provides a solution to the environmental issues posed by rubber waste. This research introduces a sophisticated hybrid random aggregate model for RRC. The model is established by combining convex polygon aggregates and rounded rubber co-casting [...] Read more.

Recycled rubber concrete (RRC), a sustainable building material, provides a solution to the environmental issues posed by rubber waste. This research introduces a sophisticated hybrid random aggregate model for RRC. The model is established by combining convex polygon aggregates and rounded rubber co-casting schemes with supplemental tools developed in MATLAB and Fortran for processing. Numerical analyses, based on the base force element method (BFEM) of the complementary energy principle, are performed on RRC’s uniaxial tensile and compressive behaviors using the proposed aggregate models. This study identified the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) around the rubber as RRC’s weakest area. Here, cracks originate and progress to the aggregate, leading to widespread cracking. Primary cracks form perpendicular to the load under tension, whereas bifurcated cracks result from compression, echoing conventional concrete’s failure mechanisms. Additionally, the hybrid aggregate model outperformed the rounded aggregate model, exhibiting closer peak strengths and more accurate aggregate shapes. The method’s validity is supported by experimental findings, resulting In detailed stress–strain curves and damage contour diagrams. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behavior of Concrete Materials and Structures: Experimental Evidence and Analytical Models (Volume II))

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15 pages, 2639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Orthogonal Test Study on the Preparation of Self-Compacting Underwater Non-Dispersible Concrete

by Haibin Geng, Huijuan Wang, Xiaoke Li, Lin Wang, Hao Zhong and Changyong Li

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6599; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196599 - 08 Oct 2023

Viewed by 776

Abstract

To ensure a limited washout loss rate and the self-compaction of underwater concrete, the mix proportion design of underwater non-dispersible concrete is a key technology that has not been completely mastered. In view of this aspect, an orthogonal test study was carried out [...] Read more.

To ensure a limited washout loss rate and the self-compaction of underwater concrete, the mix proportion design of underwater non-dispersible concrete is a key technology that has not been completely mastered. In view of this aspect, an orthogonal test study was carried out in this paper on the workability, washout resistance, and compressive strength of underwater non-dispersible concrete. Six factors with five levels were considered, which included the water/binder ratio, the sand ratio, the maximum particle size of the coarse aggregate, the content of the dispersion resistance agent, the content of superplasticizer, and the dosage of fly ash. Using a range and variance analysis, the sensitivity and significance of these factors were analyzed on the slump and slump-flow, the flow time, the washout loss rate, the pH value, and the compressive strength at the curing ages of 7 days and 28 days. The results indicated that the water/binder ratio and the content of the dispersion resistance agent were strong in terms of their sensitivity and significance on the workability and washout resistance, and the water/binder ratio and the dosage of fly ash were strong in terms of their sensitivity and significance on the compressive strength. With the joint fitness of the test results, formulas for predicting the slump-flow, washout loss rate, and compressive strength of underwater non-dispersible concrete were proposed considering the main impact factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Sustainable Construction and Building Materials (2nd Edition))

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14 pages, 4102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Facile Synthesis of Mesoporous Nanohybrid Two-Dimensional Layered Ni-Cr-S and Reduced Graphene Oxide for High-Performance Hybrid Supercapacitors

by Ravindra N. Bulakhe, Anh Phan Nguyen, Changyoung Ryu, Ji Man Kim and Jung Bin In

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6598; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196598 - 08 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 934

Abstract

This study describes the single-step synthesis of a mesoporous layered nickel-chromium-sulfide (NCS) and its hybridization with single-layered graphene oxide (GO) using a facile, inexpensive chemical method. The conductive GO plays a critical role in improving the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of hybridized NCS/reduced [...] Read more.

This study describes the single-step synthesis of a mesoporous layered nickel-chromium-sulfide (NCS) and its hybridization with single-layered graphene oxide (GO) using a facile, inexpensive chemical method. The conductive GO plays a critical role in improving the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of hybridized NCS/reduced GO (NCSG) materials. The optimized mesoporous nanohybrid NCSG is obtained when hybridized with 20% GO, and this material exhibits a very high specific surface area of 685.84 m²/g compared to 149.37 m²/g for bare NCS, and the pore diameters are 15.81 and 13.85 nm, respectively. The three-fold superior specific capacity of this optimal NCSG (1932 C/g) is demonstrated over NCS (676 C/g) at a current density of 2 A/g. A fabricated hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) reveals a maximum specific capacity of 224 C/g at a 5 A/g current density. The HSC reached an outstanding energy density of 105 Wh/kg with a maximum power density of 11,250 W/kg. A 4% decrement was observed during the cyclic stability study of the HSC over 5000 successive charge–discharge cycles at a 10 A/g current density. These results suggest that the prepared nanohybrid NCSG is an excellent cathode material for gaining a high energy density in an HSC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Nanomaterials for Energy Storage and Catalysis)

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15 pages, 2473 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of the Influence of Acrylate Lotion on the Properties of Cement-Based Materials

by Fuyun Su, Haiyan Wang, Xiaodong Ma, Tingshu He and Yike Lin

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6597; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196597 - 08 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 944

Abstract

Polymer-modified cement-based materials have been widely used in the construction field. Acrylate lotion significantly improves durability, toughness, and bending resistance, especially durability, because the porosity of cement-based materials is reduced, preventing the entry of harmful ions and water. When acrylate lotion was at [...] Read more.

Polymer-modified cement-based materials have been widely used in the construction field. Acrylate lotion significantly improves durability, toughness, and bending resistance, especially durability, because the porosity of cement-based materials is reduced, preventing the entry of harmful ions and water. When acrylate lotion was at 20%, the resistance of cement-based materials to chloride ion penetration increased by 40%. At the same time, the fracture toughness of cement-based materials modified with acrylate lotion and carbon nanotubes increased by 10–15%. The flexural strength of cement-based materials modified by acrylate lotion and fiber increased by 29%. Additives such as TiO₂ have a unique impact on the modification of cement-based materials, which has attracted the interest of researchers. This paper reviewed the performance of acrylate lotion-modified cement-based materials and the application of acrylate lotion in the field, which systematically increased the durability, mechanical properties, and waterproof properties of cement-based materials when acrylate lotion was modified, acrylate lotion was modified with nanomaterials, acrylate lotion was modified with other polymers, acrylate lotion was modified with fiber, and when acrylate lotion was modified with other additives. The shortcomings of acrylate lotion modification with different materials were reviewed and evaluated, and the comprehensive performance of cement-based materials modified by acrylate lotion was expected to achieve maximum strength improvement under the synergistic effect of various modifications. Full article

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14 pages, 3689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contribution of Various Loads to the Convex Shape of Rock Wool Insulation Slabs during Production

by Jurij Hladnik and Boris Jerman

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6596; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196596 - 08 Oct 2023

Viewed by 643

Abstract

Rock wool insulation slabs are produced in special curing ovens, where molten rock wool fibres coated with binder are compressed between two slat conveyors and blown with hot air for vitrification. Often, the cross-section of the final slabs is slightly convex, which is [...] Read more.

Rock wool insulation slabs are produced in special curing ovens, where molten rock wool fibres coated with binder are compressed between two slat conveyors and blown with hot air for vitrification. Often, the cross-section of the final slabs is slightly convex, which is undesirable. The degree of convexity depends on the deformation of the steel crossbars of the slat conveyors, which are subjected to combined pressure and nonlinear temperature loadings. Due to this complex loading state, it is difficult to determine the contribution of individual load to the total deformation. The main aim of the study was to determine these contributions. Temperature and stress measurements of the crossbars were performed during rock wool production. Upon collecting these measurements, a finite element (FE) model of a crossbar was established for the identification of the pressure loading acting on the crossbars, and finally for determination of their deformations. As a main result of the study, an inverse problem-based methodology for the identification of the deflection of a structure due to unknown temperature and pressure loadings was established and applied on the specific case. The deviations between the deformations of the FE crossbars and the final shape of the rock wool slabs were below 10%, which validates the novel methodology. Full article

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

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22 pages, 8858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Delamination Behavior of CFRP Laminated Plates under the Combination of Tensile Preloading and Impact Loading

by Kaiwei Lan, Haodong Wang and Cunxian Wang

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6595; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196595 - 08 Oct 2023

Viewed by 808

Abstract

When subjected to impact loading, aircraft composite structures are usually in a specific preloading condition (such as tension and compression). In this study, ballistic tests were conducted using a high-speed gas gun system to investigate the effect of biaxial in-plane tensile preload on [...] Read more.

When subjected to impact loading, aircraft composite structures are usually in a specific preloading condition (such as tension and compression). In this study, ballistic tests were conducted using a high-speed gas gun system to investigate the effect of biaxial in-plane tensile preload on the delamination of CFRP laminates during high-speed impact. These tests covered central and near-edge locations for both unloaded and preloaded targets, with the test speeds including 50 m/s, 70 m/s, and 90 m/s. The delamination areas, when impacting the center location under 1000 με, show a 14.2~36.7% decrease. However, the cases when impacting the near-edge location show no more than a 19.3% decrease, and even more delamination areas were observed. In addition, in order to enhance the understanding of experimental phenomena, numerical simulations were conducted using the ABAQUS/Explicit solver, combined with the user subroutine VUMAT with modified Hou criteria. The experimental and simulation results were in good agreement, and the maximum error was approximately 12.9%. The results showed that not only the preloading value but also the impact velocity have significant influences on the delamination behavior of preloaded CFRP laminated plates. Combining detailed discussions, the biaxial tensile preload enhanced the resistance to out-of-plane displacement and caused laminate interface stiffness degradation. By analyzing the influence of the preloading value and impact velocity on competing mechanisms between the stress-stiffening effect and interface stiffness degradation effect, the complex delamination behaviors of laminates under various preloading degrees and impact velocities at different impact locations were reasonably explained. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamic Behavior of Advanced Materials and Structures)

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33 pages, 7212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of the Freezing Behavior of Saturated Cementitious Materials with Different Amounts of Chloride

by Sekandar Zadran, Joško Ožbolt and Serena Gambarelli

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6594; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196594 - 08 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 924

Abstract

The freezing behavior of cement paste saturated with different chloride concentrations is investigated numerically with a coupled 3D hygro-thermo-mechanical FE analysis. The mathematical formulation of the freezing processes in the context of poromechanics takes into account the water (hydraulic) and ice pore pressures, [...] Read more.

The freezing behavior of cement paste saturated with different chloride concentrations is investigated numerically with a coupled 3D hygro-thermo-mechanical FE analysis. The mathematical formulation of the freezing processes in the context of poromechanics takes into account the water (hydraulic) and ice pore pressures, as well as the distribution of heat (temperature) and strains. These quantities are calculated numerically based on three coupled differential equations, namely the static equilibrium equation and the equations for the transport of water and heat. The coupling between the mechanical (loading) and the non-mechanical processes (freezing) is performed using a staggered solution scheme. The proposed numerical approach is first validated using numerical and experimental studies from the literature dealing with two different cement pastes saturated with different amounts of chloride. The validated model is then used to investigate the effects of liquid water permeability, total porosity and pore size distribution on the freezing behavior of hardened cement paste. The results show that liquid water permeability has a strong effect on the pore pressure and deformation of the hardened cement paste. It is also shown that by decreasing the total porosity, the material becomes denser and contracts more as the temperature decreases, leading to a decrease in freezing strain. The results of this paper will provide important findings for the development of a simplified engineering model to investigate the mechanism that leads to freeze–thaw salt-induced damage to concrete structures in the framework of the DFG-funded research project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Durability Studies on the Concrete and Related Composites)

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15 pages, 4412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Equal Channel Angular Pressing on the Microstructure and Phase Composition of a 7xxx Series Al-Zn-Mg-Zr Alloy

by Anwar Qasim Ahmed, Dániel Olasz, Elena V. Bobruk, Ruslan Z. Valiev and Nguyen Q. Chinh

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6593; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196593 - 07 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 891

Abstract

A supersaturated Al-4.8%Zn-1.2%Mg-0.14%Zr (wt%) alloy was processed by the equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) technique at room temperature in order to obtain an ultrafine-grained (UFG) microstructure having an average grain size of about 260 nm. The hardness and microstructural characteristics, such as the phase [...] Read more.

A supersaturated Al-4.8%Zn-1.2%Mg-0.14%Zr (wt%) alloy was processed by the equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) technique at room temperature in order to obtain an ultrafine-grained (UFG) microstructure having an average grain size of about 260 nm. The hardness and microstructural characteristics, such as the phase composition and precipitations of this UFG microstructure were studied using depth-sensing indentation (DSI), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), as well as non-isothermal scanning of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and compared to the properties of the un-deformed sample. Emphasis was placed on the effect of the UFG microstructure on the subsequent thermal processes in DSC measurements. It has been shown that the ECAP process resulted in not only an ultrafine-grained but also a strongly precipitated microstructure, leading to a hardness (2115 MPa) two and a half times higher than the initial hardness of the freshly quenched sample. Because of the significant changes in microstructure, ECAP has also a strong effect on the dissolution (endothermic) and precipitation (exothermic) processes during DSC measurements, where the dissolution and precipitation processes were quantitatively characterized by using experimentally determined specific enthalpies, ΔH and activation energies, Q. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Deformation Characteristics of Metals and Alloys)

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17 pages, 11311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Performance of Superhydrophobic Cement-Based Materials Based on Composite Hydrophobic Agents

by Jie Luo, Yi Xu, Hongqiang Chu, Lu Yang, Zijian Song, Weizhun Jin, Xiaowen Wang and Yuan Xue

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6592; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196592 - 07 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 849

Abstract

The utilization of a novel monolithic superhydrophobic cement material effectively prevents water infiltration and enhances the longevity of the material. A method for improving superhydrophobic concrete was investigated with the aim of increasing its strength and reducing its cost by compounding superhydrophobic substances [...] Read more.

The utilization of a novel monolithic superhydrophobic cement material effectively prevents water infiltration and enhances the longevity of the material. A method for improving superhydrophobic concrete was investigated with the aim of increasing its strength and reducing its cost by compounding superhydrophobic substances with water repellents. The experimental tests encompassed the assessment of the compressive strength, contact angle, and water absorption of the superhydrophobic cementitious materials. The findings demonstrate that an increase in the dosage of isobutyltriethoxysilane (IBTES) progressively enhances the contact angle of the specimen, but significantly diminishes its compressive strength. The contact angle of SIKS mirrors that of SIS3, with a superior compressive strength that is 68% higher. Moreover, superhydrophobicity directly influences the water absorption of cementitious materials, with a more pronounced superhydrophobic effect leading to a lower water absorption rate. The water absorption of cementitious materials is influenced by the combined effect of porosity and superhydrophobicity. Furthermore, FT−IR tests unveil functional mappings, such as -CH₃ which can reduce the surface energy of materials, signifying successful modification with hydrophobic substances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Self-Cleaning Surfaces)

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18 pages, 7139 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Ultrahigh-Performance Concrete under Triaxial Constraints

by Wei Zhang, Jize Mao, Xiao Yu, Bukui Zhou and Limei Wang

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6591; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196591 - 07 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 774

Abstract

To confirm the effect of confining pressure on the dynamic mechanical behavior of ultrahigh-performance concrete (UHPC), this study used a true triaxial split Hopkinson pressure bar test system to perform dynamic compression tests on UHPC under triaxial constraints. The confining pressure range considered [...] Read more.

To confirm the effect of confining pressure on the dynamic mechanical behavior of ultrahigh-performance concrete (UHPC), this study used a true triaxial split Hopkinson pressure bar test system to perform dynamic compression tests on UHPC under triaxial constraints. The confining pressure range considered was 5~10 MPa, the strain rate range was 35~80 s⁻¹, and the steel fiber contents were 0.5%, 1% and 2%. The three-dimensional dynamic engineering stress-strain relationship and equivalent stress-strain relationship of UHPC under different confining pressures and different strain rates were obtained and analyzed in detail. The results show that under the confinement condition, the dynamic peak axial stress–strain and dynamic peak lateral stress–strain of UHPC have strong sensitivity to the strain rate. In addition, the dynamic peak lateral stress–strain is more sensitive to the confining pressure than the dynamic axial stress. An empirical strength enhancement factor (DIFc) that considers the strain rate effect and confining pressure was derived, and the impact of the coupling between the enhancement caused by the confining pressure and the strain rate effect on the dynamic strength of the UHPC under triaxial confinement was discussed. A dynamic strength failure criterion for UHPC under triaxial constraint conditions was established. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Research of Reinforced Concrete Materials)

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14 pages, 10430 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Melt-Spinning Parameters on the Structure and Properties of Ni_55.5Mn_18.8Ga₂₄Si_1.7 Heusler Alloy Ribbons

by Pranav Bhale, Pnina Ari-Gur, Ronald D. Noebe, Yang Ren, Amila Madiligama, Ranjith Devaraj and Matthew S. Cook

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6590; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196590 - 07 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 896

Abstract

Ni–Mn-based Heusler alloys are known to demonstrate magnetic shape memory and giant magnetocaloric effect (MCE). These effects depend on the phases, crystallographic and magnetic phase transitions, and the crystallographic texture characteristics. These structural characteristics, in turn, are a function of the processing parameters. [...] Read more.

Ni–Mn-based Heusler alloys are known to demonstrate magnetic shape memory and giant magnetocaloric effect (MCE). These effects depend on the phases, crystallographic and magnetic phase transitions, and the crystallographic texture characteristics. These structural characteristics, in turn, are a function of the processing parameters. In the current work, Ni_55.5Mn_18.8Ga₂₄Si_1.7 Heusler alloy was processed by melt-spinning under a helium atmosphere. This process results in a fine microstructure. The ribbon that was produced with a narrower nozzle width, faster wheel speed, and higher cast temperature, indicating a faster cooling rate, had double the magnetic entropy change close to room temperature. However, the other ribbon demonstrated a large entropy change over a broader temperature range, extending its usability. The effect of the melt-spinning process parameters on the developing microstructure, crystallographic structure and texture, transformation temperatures, and the magnetic entropy change were studied to explain the difference in magnetocaloric behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microstructure Engineering of Metals and Alloys, Volume II)

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15 pages, 5830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Large-Area Mapping of Voids and Dislocations in Basal-Faceted Sapphire Ribbons by Synchrotron Radiation Imaging

by Tatiana S. Argunova, Victor G. Kohn, Jae-Hong Lim, Vladimir M. Krymov and Mikhail Yu. Gutkin

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6589; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196589 - 07 Oct 2023

Viewed by 693

Abstract

The understanding of structural defects in basal-faceted sapphire ribbons was improved through X-ray imaging at a synchrotron source. The combination of phase contrast and X-ray diffraction makes it possible to visualize and characterize both gas voids and dislocations in the bulk of the [...] Read more.

The understanding of structural defects in basal-faceted sapphire ribbons was improved through X-ray imaging at a synchrotron source. The combination of phase contrast and X-ray diffraction makes it possible to visualize and characterize both gas voids and dislocations in the bulk of the ribbons grown by the Stepanov–LaBelle technology. Dislocations were directly related to gas voids. X-ray diffraction topography was employed to investigate the distribution, configurations, and character of the dislocations. The formation of voids of irregular shapes was detected by large-area mapping with spatial resolution in the μm range. Computer simulations of the experimental phase contrast images of microvoids were performed. The sizes of the spherical microvoids were determined. The results are discussed with reference to the available data on the emission of dislocations from the voids. The evolution of the shape, size, and arrangement of the voids during growth provides clues on the formation of block structure in basal-faceted sapphire ribbons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Electronic Materials Section (Volume 2)—15th Anniversary of Materials)

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6 pages, 1263 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Superconducting In Situ/Post In Situ MgB₂ Joints

by Bartlomiej Andrzej Glowacki

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6588; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196588 - 07 Oct 2023

Viewed by 701

Abstract

The superconducting joints of superconducting in situ MgB₂ wires have been of great interest since the first MgB₂ wires were manufactured. The necessity of joining fully reacted wires in applications such as NMR brings complexity to the methodology of connecting already [...] Read more.

The superconducting joints of superconducting in situ MgB₂ wires have been of great interest since the first MgB₂ wires were manufactured. The necessity of joining fully reacted wires in applications such as NMR brings complexity to the methodology of connecting already reacted wires sintered under optimised conditions via a mixture of Mg + 2B and subsequential second heat treatment to establish fully superconducting MgB₂ joints. Some of the data in the literature resolved such a procedure by applying high cold pressure and sintering at a low temperature. A topical review publication did not address in depth the question of whether cold sintering is a potential solution, suggesting that hot pressing is the way forward. In this paper, we discuss the potential joint interfacial requirements, suggesting a thermo-mechanical procedure to successfully form a superconductive connection of two in situ reacted wires in the presence of Mg + 2B flux. The critical current at 25 K of the researched junction achieved 50% I_c for an individual in situ wire. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Superconductors: Materials and Technology)

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14 pages, 3598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Route to Understanding the Ethane Adsorption Selectivity of the Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 in Ethane–Ethylene Mixtures

by Jaquebet Vargas-Bustamante, Roberto Salcedo and Jorge Balmaseda

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6587; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196587 - 07 Oct 2023

Viewed by 900

Abstract

Ethylene production has a negative environmental impact, with its separation step being one of the major contributors of pollution. This has encouraged the search for energy-efficient alternatives, among which the adsorptive separation of ethane and ethylene stands out. ZIF-8 is a molecular sieve [...] Read more.

Ethylene production has a negative environmental impact, with its separation step being one of the major contributors of pollution. This has encouraged the search for energy-efficient alternatives, among which the adsorptive separation of ethane and ethylene stands out. ZIF-8 is a molecular sieve that is potentially useful for this purpose. It is selective to ethane, an exceptional property that remains unexplained. Furthermore, the adsorption of ethane and ethylene above room temperature, such as at steam cracking process outlet temperatures, has not been addressed either. This work aims to fill this knowledge gap by combining experiments at very low volumetric fillings with density–functional theory modelling methods. Adsorption isotherms of ethane and ethylene on ZIF-8 at pressures below 0.3 bar and 311 K, 333 K, and 363 K were measured using zero-length column chromatography. The low-pressure domain of the isotherms contains information on the interactions between the adsorbate molecules and the adsorbent. This favors the understanding of their macroscopic behavior from simulations at the atomic level. The isosteric enthalpy of adsorption of ethane remained constant at approximately −10 kJ/mol. In contrast, the isosteric enthalpy of adsorption of ethylene decreased from −4 kJ/mol to values akin to those of ethane as temperature increased. ZIF-8 selectivity to ethane, estimated from ideal adsorbed solution theory, decreased from 2.8 to 2.0 with increasing pressure up to 0.19 bar. Quantum mechanical modelling suggested that ethylene had minimal interactions with ZIF-8, while ethane formed hydrogen bonds with nitrogen atoms within its structure. The findings of this research are a platform for designing new systems for the adsorptive separation of ethane and ethylene and thus, reducing the environmental impact of ethylene production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Porous Materials)

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16 pages, 5661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the 3D Deformation Behavior of Porous PDMS Flexible Electronic Composite Films Stretched under Different Temperatures

by Cheng Chen, Ziyun Li, Yanlai Wang, Ze Zhang and Chunhua Ren

Materials 2023, 16(19), 6586; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16196586 - 06 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 956

Abstract

Flexible electronic films need to be applied in different ambient temperatures. The porous substrate of the composite film enhances air permeability. The lifespan of these composite films is significantly affected by variations in temperature and substrate porosity. To explore the impact of temperature [...] Read more.

Flexible electronic films need to be applied in different ambient temperatures. The porous substrate of the composite film enhances air permeability. The lifespan of these composite films is significantly affected by variations in temperature and substrate porosity. To explore the impact of temperature and porosity on the performance of composite films, we developed a 3D deformation detection system utilizing the advanced three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) method. This system enabled us to observe and analyze the 3D deformation behaviors of porous polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) flexible composite films when they are subjected to uniaxial stretching at different temperatures. We proposed employing two parameters, namely the strain fluctuation coefficient (M) and off-plane displacement (w), to characterize the 3D deformation of the films. This holistic characterization of deformation through the combined utilization of parameters M and w held greater significance for composite films compared to the conventional practice of solely measuring mechanical properties like the elastic modulus. Through experimental analysis, we discovered that as the temperature increased, the M value of the film decreased while the w value increased for the same stretching distance. Furthermore, the porosity of the composite film depended on the doping mass ratio of PDMS to deionized water during the fabrication process. Specifically, when the ratio was set at 6:1, the composite film exhibited the smallest M value and w value, and the highest air permeability. Additionally, the 3D deformation behavior remained stable across different temperatures for this specific ratio. Moreover, our findings unveiled a remarkable association between the parameter w and the resistance value of the device. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the fabrication process of porous PDMS flexible electronic composite films. Full article

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