Materials

22 pages, 10749 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Properties of Alkali-Activated Slag Paste Using New Colloidal Nano-Silica Mixing Method

by Taewan Kim, Jae Hong Kim and Yubin Jun

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1571; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091571 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3557

Previous studies of alkali-activated slag cement (AASC) using nano-silica have mentioned mostly powdered nano-silica and binder weight replacement methods, which have a rapid decrease in fluidity, a short setting time and a low nano-silica replacement rate (< 5%). In this study, colloidal nano-silica [...] Read more.

Previous studies of alkali-activated slag cement (AASC) using nano-silica have mentioned mostly powdered nano-silica and binder weight replacement methods, which have a rapid decrease in fluidity, a short setting time and a low nano-silica replacement rate (< 5%). In this study, colloidal nano-silica (CNS) was used and the mixing-water weight substitution method was applied. The substitution method was newly applied to improve the dispersibility of nano-silica and to increase the substitution rate. In the experiment, the CNS was replaced by 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50% of the mixing-water weight. As a result, as the substitution rate of CNS increased, the fluidity decreased, and the setting time decreased. High compressive strength values and increased rates were also observed, and the diameter and volume of pores decreased rapidly. In particular, the increase of CNS replacement rate had the greatest effect on decrease of medium capillary pores (50–10 nm) and increase of gel pores (< 10 nm). The new displacement method was able to replace up to 50% of the mixing water. As shown in the experimental results, despite the high substitution rate of 50%, the minimum fluidity of the mixture was secured, and a high-strength and compact matrix could be formed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Testing of Cement-Based Materials)

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12 pages, 5268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparing Sodium Alginate/Polyethyleneimine Spheres for Potential Application of Killing Tumor Cells by Reducing the Concentration of Copper Ions in the Lesions of Colon Cancer

by Ru Xu, Chen Su, Longlong Cui, Kun Zhang and Jingan Li

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1570; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091570 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4527

Abstract

Inhibition of residual malignant tumors in patients with colon cancer after operation is one of the difficulties in rehabilitation treatment. At present, using biocompatible materials to remove the copper ion which is the growth dependence of malignant tumors in the lesion site is [...] Read more.

Inhibition of residual malignant tumors in patients with colon cancer after operation is one of the difficulties in rehabilitation treatment. At present, using biocompatible materials to remove the copper ion which is the growth dependence of malignant tumors in the lesion site is considered to be the frontier means to solve this problem. In this work, we developed a sodium alginate (SA)/polyethyleneimine (PEI) hydrogel sphere via cross-linking method (SA/SP/SA; SP = SA/PEI) as an oral biomaterial for adsorbing and removing copper ions from colon cancer lesions. The evaluated results showed that the SA/PEI/SA (SPS) hydrogel sphere obtained the largest swelling rate at pH 8.3 which was the acid-base value of colon microenvironment and absorbed more copper ions compared with the SA control. The cell experiment presented that the SPS hydrogel sphere owned better compatibility on normal fibroblasts and promoted higher death of colon cancer cells compared with SA/PEI (SP) and SA control. Our data suggested that the SA/PEI hydrogel sphere had the potentiality as an oral biomaterial for inhibiting colon cancer cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Implant Biocompatibility)

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15 pages, 3326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Hydrogels of Oxidized Polysaccharides and Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) for Wound Dressing Applications

by Raluca Ioana Baron, Madalina Elena Culica, Gabriela Biliuta, Maria Bercea, Simona Gherman, Daniela Zavastin, Lacramioara Ochiuz, Mihaela Avadanei and Sergiu Coseri

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1569; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091569 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 4723

Abstract

Two natural polymers, i.e., cellulose and water soluble pullulan, have been selectively oxidized employing the TEMPO-mediated protocol, to allow the introduction of C₆-OOH groups. Thereafter, the composite hydrogels of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and different content of the oxidized polysaccharides were prepared [...] Read more.

Two natural polymers, i.e., cellulose and water soluble pullulan, have been selectively oxidized employing the TEMPO-mediated protocol, to allow the introduction of C₆-OOH groups. Thereafter, the composite hydrogels of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and different content of the oxidized polysaccharides were prepared by the freezing/thawing method. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) has been used to discuss the degree of interaction between the hydrogels constituents into the physical network. The homogeneity of the prepared hydrogels as revealed by the SEM show an excellent distribution of the oxidized polysaccharides inside the PVA matrix. The samples exhibit self-healing features, since they quickly recover the initial structure after being subjected to a large deformation. The cell viability was performed for the selected hydrogels, all of them showing promising results. The samples are able to load L-arginine both by physical phenomena, such as diffusion, and also by chemical phenomena, when imine-type bonds are likely to be formed. The synergism between the two constituents, PVA and oxidized polysaccharides, into the physical network, propose these hydrogels for many other biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Advances in Natural Polymer-Based Hydrogels)

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10 pages, 5676 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In-Situ Observation of Fracture Behavior of Ti-Aluminide Multi-Layered Composites Produced by a Hybrid Sintering Process

by Xiong Wan, Kai Zhu, Yanjin Xu, Baoshuai Han and Tao Jing

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091568 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2716

Abstract

The fabrication of Ti-aluminide multi-layered composites have attracted great attention for their excellent mechanical properties, such as high specific strength, high specific stiffness, tolerable toughness, and low density. The preparation of the composite produced by a hybrid procedure composed of Vacuum Hot Pressing [...] Read more.

The fabrication of Ti-aluminide multi-layered composites have attracted great attention for their excellent mechanical properties, such as high specific strength, high specific stiffness, tolerable toughness, and low density. The preparation of the composite produced by a hybrid procedure composed of Vacuum Hot Pressing (VHP) and Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) using Ti foils and Al foils has been performed. Further, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipped with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDXS) were carried out to identify the microstructure and phase formation of the composite. In addition, an in-situ three-point bending test was conducted on the notched specimen to observe the crack propagation behavior carefully. The results indicate that the densified composite was obtained without any apparent voids and pores which could undesirably develop into the source of cracks. Furthermore, all the pure Al foils were totally consumed to form a series of the Ti-Al compounds through the diffusive reaction between the adjacent Ti and Al foils. Moreover, the in-situ observation demonstrates the initiation and propagation of cracks in the intermetallic layers and the role of residual Ti layers to blunt and bridge the cracks by their plastic deformation. This study provides a new strategy for fabricating the Ti-aluminide multi-layered composites. Full article

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20 pages, 2444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Method for Measuring the Permeability of Nanoporous Material and Its Application to Shale Matrix with Ultra-Low Permeability

by Taojie Lu, Ruina Xu, Bo Zhou, Yichuan Wang, Fuzhen Zhang and Peixue Jiang

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091567 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3812

Abstract

Nanoporous materials have a wide range of applications in clean energy and environmental research. The permeability of nanoporous materials is low, which affects the fluid transport behavior inside the nanopores and thus also affects the performance of technologies based on such materials. For [...] Read more.

Nanoporous materials have a wide range of applications in clean energy and environmental research. The permeability of nanoporous materials is low, which affects the fluid transport behavior inside the nanopores and thus also affects the performance of technologies based on such materials. For example, during the development of shale gas resources, the permeability of the shale matrix is normally lower than 10⁻³ mD and has an important influence on rock parameters. It is challenging to measure small pressure changes accurately under high pressure. Although the pressure decay method provides an effective means for the measurement of low permeability, most apparatuses and experiments have difficulty measuring permeability in high pressure conditions over 1.38 MPa. Here, we propose an improved experimental method for the measurement of low permeability. To overcome the challenge of measuring small changes in pressure at high pressure, a pressure difference sensor is used. By improving the constant temperature accuracy and reducing the helium leakage rate, we measure shale matrix permeabilities ranging from 0.05 to 2 nD at pore pressures of up to 8 MPa, with good repeatability and sample mass irrelevance. The results show that porosity, pore pressure, and moisture conditions influence the matrix permeability. The permeability of moist shale is lower than that of dry shale, since water blocks some of the nanopores. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Micro/Nano Materials for Clean Energy and Environment)

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12 pages, 2957 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Randomness in Rubber Materials Parameters on the Reliability of Rubber O-Ring Seal

by Banglong Liang, Xi Yang, Zili Wang, Xing Su, Baopeng Liao, Yi Ren and Bo Sun

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1566; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091566 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4369

Abstract

The properties of materials directly affect the performance of the sealing structures, among which the rubber O-ring seal is one of the most commonly used. In addition, the performance of the O-ring seal is often influenced by the randomness in structure and working [...] Read more.

The properties of materials directly affect the performance of the sealing structures, among which the rubber O-ring seal is one of the most commonly used. In addition, the performance of the O-ring seal is often influenced by the randomness in structure and working conditions, which greatly reduce the reliability of the sealing structure. This paper proposes a reliability-based method to analyze the influence of the randomness in rubber material parameters on the sealing performance of the O-ring. Based on the failure mechanism of the O-ring seal, the stochastic characteristics of the parameters in O-rings are determined through experiments, and the influences of these parameters on the reliability are subsequently analyzed. Moreover, the working conditions are also taken into account to analyze their influence on the performance and reliability of the O-ring seal. The proposed method provides easy access to estimate the reliability of the rubber O-ring seal considering the uncertainty in structure and operational conditions. It is revealed that the material and geometric parameters had greater influence on the reliability of the rubber O-ring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)

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13 pages, 4714 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Citric Acid on Structures and Properties of Thermoplastic Hydroxypropyl Amylomaize Starch Films

by Yang Qin, Wentao Wang, Hui Zhang, Yangyong Dai, Hanxue Hou and Haizhou Dong

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1565; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091565 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4355

Abstract

Hydroxypropyl amylomaize starch (HPAS) films were prepared by hot press. The effects of initial pH of HPAS on the mechanical properties, molecular interaction, structure, and cross-linking degree of the resultant films were investigated. A weak acidic condition was suitable for cross-linking of citric [...] Read more.

Hydroxypropyl amylomaize starch (HPAS) films were prepared by hot press. The effects of initial pH of HPAS on the mechanical properties, molecular interaction, structure, and cross-linking degree of the resultant films were investigated. A weak acidic condition was suitable for cross-linking of citric acid and HPAS by reactive extrusion. The film of HPAS with an initial pH of 5.66 had the maximum tensile strength of 7.20 MPa and elongation-at-break of 94.53%, and the weight average molecular weight of HPAS increased to 4.17 × 10⁵ g/mol. An appropriate initial pH facilitated the formation of diester bonds between HPAS and citric acid during extrusion, but too low initial pH levels resulted in hydrolysis of starch molecules and reduced the mechanical properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Biodegradable and Renewable Polymer-Based Nanohybrids and Applications)

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16 pages, 3168 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

In Situ Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy of Cellular Components: Theory and Experimental Results

by Mario D’Acunto

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1564; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091564 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3413

Abstract

In the last decade, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) met increasing interest in the detection of chemical and biological agents due to its rapid performance and ultra-sensitive features. Being SERS a combination of Raman spectroscopy and nanotechnology, it includes the advantages of Raman spectroscopy, [...] Read more.

In the last decade, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) met increasing interest in the detection of chemical and biological agents due to its rapid performance and ultra-sensitive features. Being SERS a combination of Raman spectroscopy and nanotechnology, it includes the advantages of Raman spectroscopy, providing rapid spectra collection, small sample sizes, characteristic spectral fingerprints for specific analytes. In addition, SERS overcomes low sensitivity or fluorescence interference that represents two major drawbacks of traditional Raman spectroscopy. Nanoscale roughened metal surfaces tremendously enhance the weak Raman signal due to electromagnetic field enhancement generated by localized surface plasmon resonances. In this paper, we detected label-free SERS signals for arbitrarily configurations of dimers, trimers, etc., composed of gold nanoshells (AuNSs) and applied to the mapping of osteosarcoma intracellular components. The experimental results combined to a theoretical model computation of SERS signal of specific AuNSs configurations, based on open cavity plasmonics, give the possibility to quantify SERS enhancement for overcoming spectral fluctuations. The results show that the Raman signal is locally enhanced inside the cell by AuNSs uptake and correspondent geometrical configuration generating dimers are able to enhance locally electromagnetic fields. The SERS signals inside such regions permit the unequivocal identification of cancer-specific biochemical components such as hydroxyapatite, phenylalanine, and protein denaturation due to disulfide bonds breaking between cysteine links or proline. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vibrational Spectroscopy for Biomedical Materials Analysis)

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11 pages, 3163 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultra-Thin ReS₂ Nanosheets Grown on Carbon Black for Advanced Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes

by Yaping Yan, Kyeong-Youn Song, Minwoo Cho, Tae Hoon Lee, Chiwon Kang and Hoo-Jeong Lee

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1563; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091563 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3838

Abstract

ReS₂ nanosheets are grown on the surface of carbon black (CB) via an efficient hydrothermal method. We confirmed the ultra-thin ReS₂ nanosheets with ≈1–4 layers on the surface of the CB (ReS₂@CB) by using analytical techniques of field emission [...] Read more.

ReS₂ nanosheets are grown on the surface of carbon black (CB) via an efficient hydrothermal method. We confirmed the ultra-thin ReS₂ nanosheets with ≈1–4 layers on the surface of the CB (ReS₂@CB) by using analytical techniques of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The ReS₂@CB nanocomposite showed high specific capacities of 760, 667, 600, 525, and 473 mAh/g at the current densities of 0.1 (0.23 C), 0.2 (0.46 C), 0.3 (0.7 C), 0.5 (1.15 C) and 1.0 A/g (2.3 C), respectively, in conjunction with its excellent cycling performance (432 mAh/g at 2.3 C; 91.4% capacity retention) after 100 cycles. Such LIB performance is greatly higher than pure CB and ReS₂ powder samples. These results could be due to the following reasons: (1) the low-cost CB serves as a supporter enabling the formation of ≈1–4 layered nanosheets of ReS₂, thus avoiding its agglomeration; (2) the CB enhances the electrical conductivity of the ReS₂@CB nanocomposite; (3) the ultra-thin (1–4 layers) ReS₂ nanosheets with imperfect structure can function as increasing the number of active sites for reaction of Li⁺ ions with electrolytes. The outstanding performance and unique structural characteristics of the ReS₂@CB anodes make them promising candidates for the ever-increasing development of advanced LIBs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Materials)

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14 pages, 4171 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on Tannery Sludge as a Raw Material for Cement Mortar

by Jurgita Malaiškienė, Olga Kizinievič and Viktor Kizinievič

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1562; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091562 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3492

Abstract

The paper analyses the properties (chemical and mineral composition, microstructure, density, etc.) of recycled tannery sludge (TS) and the possibilities for using it in cement mortar mixture. Mortar specimens containing 3–12% of tannery sludge by weight of cement and 3–9% of tannery sludge [...] Read more.

The paper analyses the properties (chemical and mineral composition, microstructure, density, etc.) of recycled tannery sludge (TS) and the possibilities for using it in cement mortar mixture. Mortar specimens containing 3–12% of tannery sludge by weight of cement and 3–9% of tannery sludge by weight of sand were tested. Flowability, density, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), flexural and compressive strength, water absorption and sorptivity of the mortar were analysed. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of tannery sludge and mortar are presented. The tests revealed that replacement of 6% of cement with tannery sludge in the mix increased flexural and compressive strength and UPV values, whereas water absorption decreased. SEM and XRD analysis revealed that specimens with tannery sludge contained lower amounts of ettringite and higher amounts of portlandite; the obtained structure was denser and contained more calcium hydrosilicates (C-S-H). Chromium leaching values in cement mortars were found not to exceed the limit values set forth in Directive 2003/33/EC. Full article

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

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8 pages, 3258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revealing the Microstructure Evolution and Carbonation Hardening Mechanism of β-C₂S Pastes by Backscattered Electron Images

by Songhui Liu, Xuemao Guan, Haibo Zhang, Yuli Wang and Mifeng Gou

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091561 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3641

Abstract

β-dicalcium silicate (β-C₂S) minerals were prepared. The compositions, microstructures, and distributions of the carbonation products of hardened β-C₂S paste were revealed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and backscattered electron (BSE) image analysis. The results show that [...] Read more.

β-dicalcium silicate (β-C₂S) minerals were prepared. The compositions, microstructures, and distributions of the carbonation products of hardened β-C₂S paste were revealed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and backscattered electron (BSE) image analysis. The results show that a dense hardened paste of β-C₂S can be obtained after 24 h of carbonation curing. The hardened pastes are composed of pores, silica gel, calcium carbonate, and unreacted dicalcium silicate, with relative volume fractions of 1.3%, 42.1%, 44.9%, and 11.7%, respectively. The unreacted dicalcium silicate is encapsulated with a silica gel rim, and the pores between the original dicalcium silicate particles are filled with calcium carbonate. The sufficient carbonation products that rapidly formed during the carbonation curing process, forming a dense microstructure, are responsible for the carbonation hardening of the β-C₂S mineral. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microstructures and Durability of Cement-Based Materials)

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11 pages, 2073 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How to Boost the Activity of the Monolayer Pt Supported on TiC Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction: A Density Functional Theory Study

by Hui Zhu, Houyi Liu, Lei Yang and Beibei Xiao

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091560 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3148

Abstract

Developing the optimized electrocatalysts with high Pt utilization as well as the outstanding performance for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) has raised great attention. Herein, the effects of the interlayer ZrC, HfC, or TiN and the multilayer Pt shell on the adsorption ability [...] Read more.

Developing the optimized electrocatalysts with high Pt utilization as well as the outstanding performance for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) has raised great attention. Herein, the effects of the interlayer ZrC, HfC, or TiN and the multilayer Pt shell on the adsorption ability and the catalytic activity of the TiC@Pt core-shell structures are systemically investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. For the sandwich structures, the presence of TiN significantly enhances the adsorption ability of the Pt shell, leading to the deterioration of the activity whilst the negligible influence of the ZrC and HfC insertion results the comparable performance with respect to TiC@Pt_1ML. In addition, increasing the thickness of the Pt shell reduces the oxyphilic capacity and then mitigates the OH poisoning. From the free energy plots, the superior activity of TiC@Pt_2ML is identified in comparison with 1ML and 3ML Pt shell. Herein, the improved activity with its high Pt atomic utilization makes the potential TiC@Pt_2ML electrocatalyst for the future fuel cells. Full article

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14 pages, 2924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structure Inheritance in Nanoparticle Ink Direct-Writing Processes and Crack-Free Nano-Copper Interconnects Printed by a Single-Run Approach

by Shujie Liu, Yujie Li, Songling Xing, Lei Liu, Guisheng Zou and Peng Zhang

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1559; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091559 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3591

Abstract

When nanoparticle conductive ink is used for printing interconnects, cracks and pores are common defects that deteriorate the electrical conductivity of the printed circuits. Influences of the ink solvent, the solid fraction of the ink, the pre-printing treatment and the sintering parameters on [...] Read more.

When nanoparticle conductive ink is used for printing interconnects, cracks and pores are common defects that deteriorate the electrical conductivity of the printed circuits. Influences of the ink solvent, the solid fraction of the ink, the pre-printing treatment and the sintering parameters on the interconnect morphology and conductivity were investigated. It was found that the impacts of all these factors coupled with each other throughout the whole procedure, from the pre-printing to the post-printing processes, and led to a structure inheritance effect. An optimum process route was developed for producing crack-free interconnects by a single-run direct-writing approach using home-made nano-copper ink. A weak gel was promoted in the ink before printing in the presence of long-chain polymers and bridging molecules by mechanical agitation. The fully developed gel network prevented the phase separation during ink extrusion and crack formations during drying. With the reducing agents in the ink and slow evaporation of the ink solvent, compact packing and neck joining of copper nanoparticles were obtained after a two-step sintering process. The crack-free interconnects successfully produced have a surface roughness smaller than 1.5 μm and the square resistances as low as 0.01 Ω/□. Full article

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11 pages, 3291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mutual Inductance and Coupling Effects in Acoustic Resonant Unit Cells

by Changlin Ding, Yibao Dong, Kun Song, Shilong Zhai, Yuanbo Wang and Xiaopeng Zhao

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1558; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091558 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3298

Abstract

We present an acoustic metamaterial (AMM) consisting of a dumbbell-shaped split hollow sphere (DSSHS). Transmission results of experiments and simulations both presented a transmitted dip at the resonant frequency of AMM, which demonstrated its negative modulus property. As the two split holes in [...] Read more.

We present an acoustic metamaterial (AMM) consisting of a dumbbell-shaped split hollow sphere (DSSHS). Transmission results of experiments and simulations both presented a transmitted dip at the resonant frequency of AMM, which demonstrated its negative modulus property. As the two split holes in the DSSHS had strong coupling effects for the acoustic medium in the local region, the dip could be simply manipulated by tuning the distance between the split holes. When the distance was large enough, the mutual inductance tended to disappear, and a weak interaction existed in the structure. According to the property of weak interaction, a multiband AMM and a broadband AMM with a negative modulus could be achieved by arraying DSSHS clusters with different distances. Furthermore, mutual inductance and coupling in DSSHS reinforced the local resonance, and this kind of cell could be used to design the acoustic metasurface to abnormally control the refractive waves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Acoustic Metamaterials)

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12 pages, 2646 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomechanical Loading Comparison between Titanium and Unsintered Hydroxyapatite/Poly-L-Lactide Plate System for Fixation of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures

by Shintaro Sukegawa, Takahiro Kanno, Norio Yamamoto, Keisuke Nakano, Kiyofumi Takabatake, Hotaka Kawai, Hitoshi Nagatsuka and Yoshihiko Furuki

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1557; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091557 - 13 May 2019

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4558

Abstract

Osteosynthesis absorbable materials made of uncalcined and unsintered hydroxyapatite (u-HA) particles, poly-l-lactide (PLLA), and u-HA/PLLA are bioresorbable, and these plate systems have feasible bioactive osteoconductive capacities. However, their strength and stability for fixation in mandibular subcondylar fractures remain unclear. This in [...] Read more.

Osteosynthesis absorbable materials made of uncalcined and unsintered hydroxyapatite (u-HA) particles, poly-l-lactide (PLLA), and u-HA/PLLA are bioresorbable, and these plate systems have feasible bioactive osteoconductive capacities. However, their strength and stability for fixation in mandibular subcondylar fractures remain unclear. This in vitro study aimed to assess the biomechanical strength of u-HA/PLLA bioresorbable plate systems after internal fixation of mandibular subcondylar fractures. Tensile and shear strength were measured for each u-HA/PLLA and titanium plate system. To evaluate biomechanical behavior, 20 hemimandible replicas were divided into 10 groups, each comprising a titanium plate and a bioresorbable plate. A linear load was applied anteroposteriorly and lateromedially to each group to simulate the muscular forces in mandibular condylar fractures. All samples were analyzed for each displacement load and the displacement obtained by the maximum load. Tensile and shear strength of the u-HA/PLLA plate were each approximately 45% of those of the titanium plates. Mechanical resistance was worst in the u-HA/PLLA plate initially loaded anteroposteriorly. Titanium plates showed the best mechanical resistance during lateromedial loading. Notably, both plates showed similar resistance when a lateromedially load was applied. In the biomechanical evaluation of mandibular condylar fracture treatment, the u-HA/PLLA plates had sufficiently high resistance in the two-plate fixation method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Absorbable Metals for Biomedical Applications)

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9 pages, 3904 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Heat Treatment on Microstructure and Properties of Clad Plates 316L/Q370qE

by Zimeng Wang, Shumei Kang, Meiling Xu, Yanqiang Cheng and Ming Dong

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1556; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091556 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2818

Abstract

Mechanical properties of Q370qE carbon steel can be improved by cladding it with 316L stainless steel. After rolling these materials together, microstructure, hardness, shear strength, and corrosion properties of the cladded metals were evaluated. Hardness and shear tests were performed according to appropriate [...] Read more.

Mechanical properties of Q370qE carbon steel can be improved by cladding it with 316L stainless steel. After rolling these materials together, microstructure, hardness, shear strength, and corrosion properties of the cladded metals were evaluated. Hardness and shear tests were performed according to appropriate standards to evaluate the bonds. The results show that the remarkable diffusion of Ni and Cr formed a hard transition zone. The width of this diffusion zone increases with increasing temperature. The shear strength of the clad interface reached a minimum of 385 MPa. In addition, the surfaces of samples were examined by neutral salt spray (NSS) tests and potentiodynamic polarization tests to examine corrosion behavior. The 316L side primarily exhibited pitting corrosion, while the Q370qE side was dominated by uniform corrosion. Full article

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12 pages, 25446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of a 2 × 4 Hybrid MMI-MZI Configuration with MMI Phase-Shifters

by Boris B. Niraula and Conrad Rizal

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1555; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091555 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4308

Abstract

This paper reports design of a 2 × 4 hybrid multimode interferometer-Mach-zehnder interferometer (MMI-MZI) configuration consiting of compact thermo-optical switches on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform. The device consists of two identical MMI slab waveguides as power splitters and couplers that are connected with [...] Read more.

This paper reports design of a 2 × 4 hybrid multimode interferometer-Mach-zehnder interferometer (MMI-MZI) configuration consiting of compact thermo-optical switches on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform. The device consists of two identical MMI slab waveguides as power splitters and couplers that are connected with two identical MMI-based phase shifters, and linear tapers at both ends of the MMIs to minimize the power coupling loss. A thin Al pad is used as a heating element and a trench is created around this pad to prevent heat from spreading, and to minimize loss. The calculated average thermo-optical switching power consumption, excess loss, and power imbalance are 1.4 mW, 0.9 dB, and 0.1 dB, respectively. The overall footprint of the device is 6 × 304

μ m^{2}

. The new heating method has advantages of compact size, ease of fabrication on SOI platform with the current CMOS technology, and offers low excess loss and power consumption as demanded by devices based on SOI technology. The device can act as two independent optical switches in one device. Full article

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

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11 pages, 6048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of ECAP Temperature on the Microstructure and Properties of a Rolled Rare Earth Magnesium Alloy

by Yun Tan, Wei Li, Weiwei Hu, Xiaofang Shi and Liang Tian

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1554; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091554 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3053

Abstract

Deformation of an as-rolled rare earth Mg-2Y-0.6Nd-0.6Zr alloy, at different temperatures, was carried out along the BC (90° anticlockwise rotation of the samples after each ECAP pass) route by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP). The effects of the deformation temperature and the predeformation [...] Read more.

Deformation of an as-rolled rare earth Mg-2Y-0.6Nd-0.6Zr alloy, at different temperatures, was carried out along the BC (90° anticlockwise rotation of the samples after each ECAP pass) route by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP). The effects of the deformation temperature and the predeformation on the microstructure of the magnesium alloy were determined by the microstructure examination. The slip systems and texture change of the Mg-2Y-0.6Nd-0.6Zr alloy were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), after equal channel angular deformation. The results showed that after seven passes of rolling, the grain size in the Mg-2Y-0.6Nd-0.6Zr alloy was refined to approximately 22 µm and the slip occurred mainly by a cylindrical slip and a pyramidal slip. After one pass of ECAP at 340 °C, the internal average grain size was significantly reduced to 11 µm, the cylindrical diffraction intensity clearly weakened, and the pyramidal diffraction intensity increased. EBSD pole figure analysis revealed that the base texture of the rolled Mg-2Y-0.6Nd-0.6Zr alloy weakened from 24.31 to 11.34 after ECAP. The mechanical properties indicated that the tensile strength and elongation of the rolled Mg-2Y-0.6Nd-0.6Zr alloy reached maximum values, when the deformation temperature was 340 °C. Full article

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12 pages, 4670 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Correlation of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of In-Situ Al-Mg₂Si Cast Composite Processed by Equal Channel Angular Pressing

by Mahdi Chegini, Mohammad Hossein Shaeri, Reza Taghiabadi, Sajjad Chegini and Faramarz Djavanroodi

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091553 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3352

Abstract

In this paper, the effect of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) on microstructure and mechanical properties of hypereutectic Al-20%Mg₂Si and Al-15%Mg₂Si, as well as hypoeutectic Al-10%Mg₂Si composites has been investigated. After fabricating the composites by in-situ casting, [...] Read more.

In this paper, the effect of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) on microstructure and mechanical properties of hypereutectic Al-20%Mg₂Si and Al-15%Mg₂Si, as well as hypoeutectic Al-10%Mg₂Si composites has been investigated. After fabricating the composites by in-situ casting, the composites were processed using the ECAP process up to two passes at room temperature. Microstructural studies have been carried out using a field emission scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer. Mechanical properties were also documented using Vickers microhardness and shear punch tests. In the hypereutectic composites, a decrease in the average size of pro-eutectic Mg₂Si (Mg₂Si_p) particles, breakages in eutectic networks, and lengthening of the Al (α) phase in direction of shear bands were observed after the ECAP process. For instance, the average size of Mg₂Si_p Particles in Al-20%Mg₂Si composite reduced from 40 to 17 μm after 2 passes of ECAP. Furthermore, a uniform distribution of Mg₂Si_p particles was developed in the matrix. In hypoeutectic composite, the ECAP process caused a uniform distribution of eutectic Mg₂Si (Mg₂Si_E) in the matrix that considered a favorable microstructure. Microhardness measurements and shear punch results showed an ascending trend after each pass of ECAP for all specimens. For example, microhardness and shear strength of Al-20%Mg₂Si increased from 88 HV and 109 MPa to 119 HV and 249 MPa after two passes indicating 35% and 34% increments, respectively. Density and porosity calculations by Archimedes principle revealed that the density of the composites increased after two passes of ECAP due to the reduction of porosity. Full article

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11 pages, 11213 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cavitation Wear of Basalt-Based Glass Ceramic

by Marko Pavlovic, Marina Dojcinovic, Radica Prokic-Cvetkovic, Ljubisa Andric, Zoran Ceganjac and Ljiljana Trumbulovic

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1552; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091552 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3678

Abstract

This paper examines the possibility of using basalt-based glass ceramics for construction of structural parts of equipment in metallurgy and mining. An ultrasonic vibration method with a stationary sample pursuant to the ASTM G32 standard was used to evaluate the possibility of the [...] Read more.

This paper examines the possibility of using basalt-based glass ceramics for construction of structural parts of equipment in metallurgy and mining. An ultrasonic vibration method with a stationary sample pursuant to the ASTM G32 standard was used to evaluate the possibility of the glass ceramic samples application in such operating conditions. As the starting material for synthesis of samples, olivine–pyroxene basalt from the locality Vrelo–Kopaonik Mountain (Serbia) was used. In order to obtain pre-determined structure and properties of basalt-based glass ceramics, raw material preparation methods through the sample crushing, grinding, and mechanical activation processes have been examined together with sample synthesis by means of melting, casting, and thermal treatment applied for the samples concerned. The mass loss of samples in function of the cavitation time was monitored. Sample surface degradation level was quantified using the image analysis. During the test, changes in sample morphology were monitored by means of the scanning electronic microscopy method. The results showed that basalt-based glass ceramics are highly resistant to cavitation wear and can be used in similar exploitation conditions as a substitute for other metal materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Properties and Applications of Advanced Ceramics)

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25 pages, 7156 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ti–Zr–Si–Nb Nanocrystalline Alloys and Metallic Glasses: Assessment on the Structure, Thermal Stability, Corrosion and Mechanical Properties

by Camelia Gabor, Daniel Cristea, Ioana-Laura Velicu, Tibor Bedo, Andrea Gatto, Elena Bassoli, Bela Varga, Mihai Alin Pop, Victor Geanta, Radu Stefanoiu, Mirela Maria Codescu, Eugen Manta, Delia Patroi, Monica Florescu, Sorin Ion Munteanu, Ioana Ghiuta, Nicoleta Lupu and Daniel Munteanu

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1551; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091551 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4610

Abstract

The development of novel Ti-based amorphous or β-phase nanostructured metallic materials could have significant benefits for implant applications, due to improved corrosion and mechanical characteristics (lower Young’s modulus, better wear performance, improved fracture toughness) in comparison to the standardized α+β titanium [...] Read more.

The development of novel Ti-based amorphous or β-phase nanostructured metallic materials could have significant benefits for implant applications, due to improved corrosion and mechanical characteristics (lower Young’s modulus, better wear performance, improved fracture toughness) in comparison to the standardized α+β titanium alloys. Moreover, the devitrification phenomenon, occurring during heating, could contribute to lower input power during additive manufacturing technologies. Ti-based alloy ribbons were obtained by melt-spinning, considering the ultra-fast cooling rates this method can provide. The titanium alloys contain in various proportions Zr, Nb, and Si (Ti₆₀Zr₁₀Si₁₅Nb₁₅, Ti₆₄Zr₁₀Si₁₅Nb₁₁, Ti₅₆Zr₁₀Si₁₅Nb₁₉) in various proportions. These elements were chosen due to their reported biological safety, as in the case of Zr and Nb, and the metallic glass-forming ability and biocompatibility of Si. The morphology and chemical composition were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, while the structural features (crystallinity, phase attribution after devitrification (after heat treatment)) were assessed by X-ray diffraction. Some of the mechanical properties (hardness, Young’s modulus) were assessed by instrumented indentation. The thermal stability and crystallization temperatures were measured by differential thermal analysis. High-intensity exothermal peaks were observed during heating of melt-spun ribbons. The corrosion behavior was assessed by electrocorrosion tests. The results show the potential of these alloys to be used as materials for biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)

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12 pages, 3541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Key Role of Transfer Layer in Load Dependence of Friction on Hydrogenated Diamond-Like Carbon Films in Humid Air and Vacuum

by Yunhai Liu, Lei Chen, Bin Zhang, Zhongyue Cao, Pengfei Shi, Yong Peng, Ningning Zhou, Junyan Zhang and Linmao Qian

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1550; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091550 - 12 May 2019

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 4041

Abstract

The friction of hydrogenated diamond-like carbon (H-DLC) films was evaluated under the controlled environments of humid air and vacuum by varying the applied load. In humid air, there is a threshold applied load below which no obvious friction drop occurs and above which [...] Read more.

The friction of hydrogenated diamond-like carbon (H-DLC) films was evaluated under the controlled environments of humid air and vacuum by varying the applied load. In humid air, there is a threshold applied load below which no obvious friction drop occurs and above which the friction decreases to a relatively low level following the running-in process. By contrast, superlubricity can be realized at low applied loads but easily fails at high applied loads under vacuum conditions. Further analysis indicates that the graphitization of the sliding H-DLC surface has a negligible contribution to the sharp drop of friction during the running-in process under both humid air and vacuum conditions. The low friction in humid air and the superlow friction in vacuum are mainly attributed to the formation and stability of the transfer layer on the counterface, which depend on the load and surrounding environment. These results can help us understand the low-friction mechanism of H-DLC film and define optimized working conditions in practical applications, in which the transfer layer can be maintained for a long time under low applied load conditions in vacuum, whereas a high load can benefit the formation of the transfer layer in humid air. Full article

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10 pages, 3025 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Verification of Isotropic and Anisotropic Anhysteretic Magnetization Models

by Michał Nowicki, Roman Szewczyk and Paweł Nowak

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1549; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091549 - 11 May 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4055

Abstract

The anhysteretic magnetization curve is the key element of modeling magnetic hysteresis loops. Despite the fact that it is intensively exploited, known models of anhysteretic curve have not been verified experimentally. This paper presents the validation of four anhysteretic curve models considering four [...] Read more.

The anhysteretic magnetization curve is the key element of modeling magnetic hysteresis loops. Despite the fact that it is intensively exploited, known models of anhysteretic curve have not been verified experimentally. This paper presents the validation of four anhysteretic curve models considering four different materials, including isotropic, such as Mn-Zn soft ferrite, as well as anisotropic amorphous and nanocrystalline alloys. The presented results indicate that only the model that considers anisotropic energy is valid for a wide set of modern magnetic materials. The most suitable of the verified models is the anisotropic extension function-based model, which considers uniaxial anisotropy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soft Magnetic Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications)

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7 pages, 1186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Generalized Stacking Fault Energy of {10-11}<11-23> Slip System in Mg-Based Binary Alloys: A First Principles Study

by Yuchen Dou, Hong Luo, Jing Zhang and Xiaohua Tang

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1548; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091548 - 11 May 2019

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3230

Abstract

In this work, the generalized stacking fault energies (GSFEs) of {10-11}<11-23> slip system in a wide range of Mg-X (X = Ag, Al, Bi, Ca, Dy, Er, Gd, Ho, Li, Lu, Mn, Nd, Pb, Sc, Sm, Sn, Y, Yb, Zn and Zr) binary [...] Read more.

In this work, the generalized stacking fault energies (GSFEs) of {10-11}<11-23> slip system in a wide range of Mg-X (X = Ag, Al, Bi, Ca, Dy, Er, Gd, Ho, Li, Lu, Mn, Nd, Pb, Sc, Sm, Sn, Y, Yb, Zn and Zr) binary alloys has been studied. The doping concentration in the doping plane and the Mg-X system is 12.5 at.% and 1.79 at.%, respectively. Two slip modes (slip mode I and II) were considered. For pure magnesium, these two slip modes are equivalent to each other. However, substituting a solute atom into the magnesium matrix will cause different effects on these two slip modes. Based on the calculated GSFEs, two design maps were constructed to predict solute effects on the behavior of the {10-11}<11-23> dislocations. The design maps suggest that the addition of Ag, Al, Ca, Dy, Er, Gd, Ho, Lu, Nd, Sm, Y, Yb and Zn could facilitate the {10-11}<11-23> dislocations. Full article

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20 pages, 4856 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ethylene Glycol Dicyclopentenyl (Meth)Acrylate Homo and Block Copolymers via Nitroxide Mediated Polymerization

by Alexandre Maupu, Yara Kanawati, Adrien Métafiot and Milan Maric

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1547; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091547 - 11 May 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4396

Abstract

Nitroxide-mediated polymerization (NMP), (homo and block copolymerization with styrene (S) and butyl methacrylate/S) of ethylene glycol dicyclopentenyl ether (meth)acrylates (EGDEA and EGDEMA) was studied using BlocBuilder alkoxyamines. EGDEA homopolymerization was not well-controlled, independent of temperature (90–120 °C), or additional free nitroxide (0–10 mol%) [...] Read more.

Nitroxide-mediated polymerization (NMP), (homo and block copolymerization with styrene (S) and butyl methacrylate/S) of ethylene glycol dicyclopentenyl ether (meth)acrylates (EGDEA and EGDEMA) was studied using BlocBuilder alkoxyamines. EGDEA homopolymerization was not well-controlled, independent of temperature (90–120 °C), or additional free nitroxide (0–10 mol%) used. Number average molecular weights (M_n) achieved for poly(EGDEA) were 4.0–9.5 kg mol⁻¹ and were accompanied by high dispersity (Ð = M_w/M_n = 1.62–2.09). Re-initiation and chain extension of the poly(EGDEA) chains with styrene (S) indicated some block copolymer formation, but a high fraction of chains were terminated irreversibly. EGDEA-stat-S statistical copolymerizations with a low mol fraction S in initial feed, f_S_,0 = 0.05, were slightly better controlled compared to poly(EGDEA) homopolymerizations (Ð was reduced to 1.44 compared to 1.62 at similar conditions). EGDEMA, in contrast, was successfully polymerized using a small fraction of S (f_S_,0 ~ 10 mol%) to high conversion (72%) to form well-defined EGDEMA-rich random copolymer (molar composition = F_EGDEMA = 0.87) of M_n = 14.3 kg mol⁻¹ and Ð = 1.38. EGDEMA-rich compositions were also polymerized with the unimolecular succinimidyl ester form of BlocBuilder initiator, NHS-BlocBuilder with similar results, although Ðs were higher ~1.6. Chain extensions resulted in monomodal shifts to higher molecular weights, indicating good chain end fidelity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Materials and Applicaitons by Controlled Radical Polymerization)

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13 pages, 5218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Intermetallic Compounds on the Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Al–Cu Composite Materials Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering

by Kyungju Kim, Dasom Kim, Kwangjae Park, Myunghoon Cho, Seungchan Cho and Hansang Kwon

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1546; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091546 - 10 May 2019

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 4134

Abstract

Aluminium–copper composite materials were successfully fabricated using spark plasma sintering with Al and Cu powders as the raw materials. Al–Cu composite powders were fabricated through a ball milling process, and the effect of the Cu content was investigated. Composite materials composed of Al–20Cu, [...] Read more.

Aluminium–copper composite materials were successfully fabricated using spark plasma sintering with Al and Cu powders as the raw materials. Al–Cu composite powders were fabricated through a ball milling process, and the effect of the Cu content was investigated. Composite materials composed of Al–20Cu, Al–50Cu, and Al–80Cu (vol.%) were sintered by a spark plasma sintering process, which was carried out at 520 °C and 50 MPa for 5 min. The phase analysis of the composite materials by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) indicated that intermetallic compounds (IC) such as CuAl₂ and Cu₉Al₄ were formed through reactions between Cu and Al during the spark plasma sintering process. The mechanical properties of the composites were analysed using a Vickers hardness tester. The Al–50Cu composite had a hardness of approximately 151 HV, which is higher than that of the other composites. The thermal conductivity of the composite materials was measured by laser flash analysis, and the highest value was obtained for the Al–80Cu composite material. This suggests that the Cu content affects physical properties of the Al–Cu composite material as well as the amount of intermetallic compounds formed in the composite material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermal Analysis of Materials)

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15 pages, 2453 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reliability-Based Low Fatigue Life Analysis of Turbine Blisk with Generalized Regression Extreme Neural Network Method

by Chunyi Zhang, Jingshan Wei, Huizhe Jing, Chengwei Fei and Wenzhong Tang

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1545; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091545 - 10 May 2019

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 4048

Abstract

Turbine blisk low cycle fatigue (LCF) is affected by various factors such as heat load, structural load, operation parameters and material parameters; it seriously influences the reliability and performance of the blisk and aeroengine. To study the influence of thermal-structural coupling on the [...] Read more.

Turbine blisk low cycle fatigue (LCF) is affected by various factors such as heat load, structural load, operation parameters and material parameters; it seriously influences the reliability and performance of the blisk and aeroengine. To study the influence of thermal-structural coupling on the reliability of blisk LCF life, the generalized regression extreme neural network (GRENN) method was proposed by integrating the basic thoughts of generalized regression neural network (GRNN) and the extreme response surface method (ERSM). The mathematical model of the developed GRENN method was first established in respect of the LCF life model and the ERSM model. The method and procedure for reliability and sensitivity analysis based on the GRENN model were discussed. Next, the reliability and sensitivity analyses of blisk LCF life were performed utilizing the GRENN method under a thermal-structural interaction by regarding the randomness of gas temperature, rotation speed, material parameters, LCF performance parameters and the minimum fatigue life point of the objective of study. The analytical results reveal that the reliability degree was 0.99848 and the fatigue life is 9419 cycles for blisk LCF life when the allowable value is 6000 cycles so that the blisk has some life margin relative to 4500 cycles in the deterministic analysis. In comparison with ERSM, the computing time and precision of the proposed GRENN under 10,000 simulations is 1.311 s and 99.95%. This is improved by 15.18% in computational efficiency and 1.39% in accuracy, respectively. Moreover, high efficiency and high precision of the developed GRENN become more obvious with the increasing number of simulations. In light of the sensitivity analysis, the fatigue ductility index and temperature are the key factors of determining blisk LCF life because their effect probabilities reach 41% and 26%, respectively. Material density, rotor speed, the fatigue ductility coefficient, the fatigue strength coefficient and the fatigue ductility index are also significant parameters for LCF life. Poisson’s ratio and elastic modulus of materials have little effect. The efforts of this paper validate the feasibility and validity of GRENN in the reliability analysis of blisk LCF life and give the influence degrees of various random parameters on blisk LCF life, which are promising to provide useful insights for the probabilistic optimization of turbine blisk LCF life. Full article

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

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17 pages, 3702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction and Sensitivity Analysis of Bubble Dissolution Time in 3D Selective Laser Sintering Using Ensemble Decision Trees

by Hai-Bang Ly, Eric Monteiro, Tien-Thinh Le, Vuong Minh Le, Morgan Dal, Gilles Regnier and Binh Thai Pham

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091544 - 10 May 2019

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 4953

Abstract

The presence of defects like gas bubble in fabricated parts is inherent in the selective laser sintering process and the prediction of bubble shrinkage dynamics is crucial. In this paper, two artificial intelligence (AI) models based on Decision Trees algorithm were constructed in [...] Read more.

The presence of defects like gas bubble in fabricated parts is inherent in the selective laser sintering process and the prediction of bubble shrinkage dynamics is crucial. In this paper, two artificial intelligence (AI) models based on Decision Trees algorithm were constructed in order to predict bubble dissolution time, namely the Ensemble Bagged Trees (EDT Bagged) and Ensemble Boosted Trees (EDT Boosted). A metadata including 68644 data were generated with the help of our previously developed numerical tool. The AI models used the initial bubble size, external domain size, diffusion coefficient, surface tension, viscosity, initial concentration, and chamber pressure as input parameters, whereas bubble dissolution time was considered as output variable. Evaluation of the models’ performance was achieved by criteria such as Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and coefficient of determination (R²). The results showed that EDT Bagged outperformed EDT Boosted. Sensitivity analysis was then conducted thanks to the Monte Carlo approach and it was found that three most important inputs for the problem were the diffusion coefficient, initial concentration, and bubble initial size. This study might help in quick prediction of bubble dissolution time to improve the production quality from industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) of Materials)

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24 pages, 13363 KiB

Open AccessReview

Synthetic Polymer Aerogels in Particulate Form

by Patrina Paraskevopoulou, Despoina Chriti, Grigorios Raptopoulos and George C. Anyfantis

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1543; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091543 - 10 May 2019

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6608

Abstract

Aerogels have been defined as solid colloidal or polymeric networks of nanoparticles that are expanded throughout their entire volume by a gas. They have high surface areas, low thermal conductivities, low dielectric constants, and high acoustic attenuation, all of which are very attractive [...] Read more.

Aerogels have been defined as solid colloidal or polymeric networks of nanoparticles that are expanded throughout their entire volume by a gas. They have high surface areas, low thermal conductivities, low dielectric constants, and high acoustic attenuation, all of which are very attractive properties for applications that range from thermal and acoustic insulation to dielectrics to drug delivery. However, one of the most important impediments to that potential has been that most efforts have been concentrated on monolithic aerogels, which are prone to defects and their production requires long and costly processing. An alternative approach is to consider manufacturing aerogels in particulate form. Recognizing that need, the European Commission funded “NanoHybrids”, a 3.5 years project under the Horizon 2020 framework with 12 industrial and academic partners aiming at aerogel particles from bio- and synthetic polymers. Biopolymer aerogels in particulate form have been reviewed recently. This mini-review focuses on the emerging field of particulate aerogels from synthetic polymers. That category includes mostly polyurea aerogels, but also some isolated cases of polyimide and phenolic resin aerogels. Particulate aerogels covered include powders, micro granules and spherical millimeter-size beads. For the benefit of the reader, in addition to the literature, some new results from our laboratory concerning polyurea particle aerogels are also included. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aerogels and Their Functionalization for Practical Applications)

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12 pages, 3703 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Fluoride Fiber-Based Plasmonic Biosensor with Two-Dimensional Material Heterostructures: Enhancement of Overall Figure-of-Merit via Optimization of Radiation Damping in Near Infrared Region

by Anuj K. Sharma, Ankit Kumar Pandey and Baljinder Kaur

Materials 2019, 12(9), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12091542 - 10 May 2019

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3716

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) heterostructure materials show captivating properties for application in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors. A fluoride fiber-based SPR sensor is proposed and simulated with the inclusion of a 2D heterostructure as the analyte interacting layer. The monolayers of two 2D heterostructures (BlueP/MoS [...] Read more.

Two-dimensional (2D) heterostructure materials show captivating properties for application in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors. A fluoride fiber-based SPR sensor is proposed and simulated with the inclusion of a 2D heterostructure as the analyte interacting layer. The monolayers of two 2D heterostructures (BlueP/MoS₂ and BlueP/WS₂, respectively) are considered in near infrared (NIR). In NIR, an HBL (62HfF₄-33BaF₂-5LaF₃) fluoride glass core and NaF clad are considered. The emphasis is placed on figure of merit (FOM) enhancement via optimization of radiation damping through simultaneous tuning of Ag thickness (d_m) and NIR wavelength (λ) at the Ag-2D heterostructure–analyte interfaces. Field distribution analysis is performed in order to understand the interaction of NIR signal with analyte at optimum radiation damping (ORD) condition. While the ORD leads to significantly larger FOM for both, the BlueP/MoS₂ (FOM = 19179.69 RIU⁻¹ (RIU: refractive index unit) at d_m = 38.2 nm and λ = 813.4 nm)-based sensor shows massively larger FOM compared with the BlueP/WS₂ (FOM = 7371.30 RIU⁻¹ at d_m = 38.2 nm and λ = 811.2 nm)-based sensor. The overall sensing performance was more methodically evaluated in terms of the low degree of photodamage of the analyte, low signal scattering, high power loss, and large field variation. The BlueP/MoS₂-based fiber SPR sensor under ORD conditions opens up new paths for biosensing with highly enhanced overall performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flexible Sensors and Actuators for Novel Wearable Solutions)

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