Materials

13 pages, 5179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Platinum-Based Thin Films Deposited by Thermionic Vacuum Arc (TVA) Method

by Sebastian Cozma, Rodica Vlǎdoiu, Aurelia Mandes, Virginia Dinca, Gabriel Prodan and Vilma Buršíková

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1796; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071796 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3439

Abstract

The current work aimed to characterize the morphology, chemical, and mechanical properties of Pt and PtTi thin films deposited via thermionic vacuum arc (TVA) method on glass and silicon substrates. The deposited thin films were characterized by means of a scanning electron microscope [...] Read more.

The current work aimed to characterize the morphology, chemical, and mechanical properties of Pt and PtTi thin films deposited via thermionic vacuum arc (TVA) method on glass and silicon substrates. The deposited thin films were characterized by means of a scanning electron microscope technique (SEM). The quantitative elemental microanalysis was done using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The tribological properties were studied by a ball-on-disc tribometer, and the mechanical properties were measured using nanoindentation tests. The roughness, as well as the micro and nanoscale features, were characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The wettability of the deposited Pt and PtTi thin films was investigated by the surface free energy evaluation (SFE) method. The purpose of our study was to prove the potential applications of Pt-based thin films in fields, such as nanoelectronics, fuel cells, medicine, and materials science. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon-Refractory Metals Nanostructures: Synthesis, Characterization and Applications)

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24 pages, 7833 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An RVE-Based Study of the Effect of Martensite Banding on Damage Evolution in Dual Phase Steels

by Emin Erkan Aşık, Emin Semih Perdahcıoğlu and Ton van den Boogaard

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1795; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071795 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3132

Abstract

The intent of this work is to numerically investigate the effect of second phase morphology on damage evolution characteristics of dual-phase (DP) steels. A strain gradient enhanced crystal plasticity framework is used in order to capture the deformation heterogeneity caused by lattice orientations [...] Read more.

The intent of this work is to numerically investigate the effect of second phase morphology on damage evolution characteristics of dual-phase (DP) steels. A strain gradient enhanced crystal plasticity framework is used in order to capture the deformation heterogeneity caused by lattice orientations and microstructural size effects. The investigation is focused on two different martensite distributions (banded and random) that are relevant for industrial applications. The effects of martensite morphology are compared by artificially generated 2D plane strain microstructures with initial void content. The Representative volume elements (RVEs) are subjected to tensile deformation imposed by periodic boundary conditions. Evolution of voids are analyzed individually as well as a whole and characterized with respect to average axial strain. It is found that during stretching voids exhibit varying evolution characteristics due to generation of inhomogeneous strain fields within the structure. The behavior of individual voids shows that the stress-state surrounding the void is different from the imposed far field macroscopic stress-state. The voids at the ferrite martensite interface and in ferrite grains of the randomly distributed martensite grow more than in the banded structure. On the other hand, voids formed by martensite cracking growth shows an opposite trend. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Materials Simulation and Design)

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Graphical abstract

24 pages, 20194 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Constitutive Models for Dynamic Strain Aging in Metals: Strain Rate and Temperature Dependences on the Flow Stress

by Yooseob Song, Daniel Garcia-Gonzalez and Alexis Rusinek

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1794; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071794 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4019

Abstract

A new constitutive model for Q235B structural steel is proposed, incorporating the effect of dynamic strain aging. Dynamic strain aging hugely affects the microstructural behavior of metallic compounds, in turn leading to significant alterations in their macroscopic mechanical response. Therefore, a constitutive model [...] Read more.

A new constitutive model for Q235B structural steel is proposed, incorporating the effect of dynamic strain aging. Dynamic strain aging hugely affects the microstructural behavior of metallic compounds, in turn leading to significant alterations in their macroscopic mechanical response. Therefore, a constitutive model must incorporate the effect of dynamic strain aging to accurately predict thermo-mechanical deformation processes. The proposed model assumes the overall response of the material as a combination of three contributions: athermal, thermally activated, and dynamic strain aging stress components. The dynamic strain aging is approached by two alternative mathematical expressions: (i) model I: rate-independent model; (ii) model II: rate-dependent model. The proposed model is finally used to study the mechanical response of Q235B steel for a wide range of loading conditions, from quasi-static loading (

\dot{ε} = 0.001 s^{- 1}

and

\dot{ε} = 0.02 s^{- 1}

) to dynamic loading (

\dot{ε} = 800 s^{- 1}

and

\dot{ε} = 7000 s^{- 1}

), and across a broad range of temperatures (

93 K - 1173 K

). The results from this work highlight the importance of considering strain-rate dependences (model II) to provide reliable predictions under dynamic loading scenarios. In this regard, rate-independent approaches (model I) are rather limited to quasi-static loading. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamic Behaviour of Metallic Materials)

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13 pages, 1847 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carvacrol Prodrugs with Antimicrobial Activity Loaded on Clay Nanocomposites

by Piera Eusepi, Lisa Marinelli, Fátima García-Villén, Ana Borrego-Sánchez, Ivana Cacciatore, Antonio Di Stefano and Cesar Viseras

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1793; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071793 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3074

Abstract

Background: Carvacrol, an essential oil with antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogens, and its water soluble carvacrol prodrugs (WSCP1-3) were intercalated into montmorillonite (VHS) interlayers to improve their stability in physiological media and promote their absorption in the intestine. Methods: Intercalation [...] Read more.

Background: Carvacrol, an essential oil with antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogens, and its water soluble carvacrol prodrugs (WSCP1-3) were intercalated into montmorillonite (VHS) interlayers to improve their stability in physiological media and promote their absorption in the intestine. Methods: Intercalation of prodrugs by cation exchange with montmorillonite interlayer counterions was verified by X-ray powder diffraction and confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermal analysis. Results: In vitro release studies demonstrated that montmorillonite successfully controlled the release of the adsorbed prodrugs and promoted their bioactivation only in the intestinal tract where carvacrol could develop its maximum antimicrobial activity. The amount of WSCP1, WSCP2, and WSCP3 released from VHS were 38%, 54%, and 45% at acid pH in 120 min, and 65%, 78%, and 44% at pH 6.8 in 240 min, respectively. Conclusions: The resultant hybrids successfully controlled conversion of the prodrugs to carvacrol, avoiding premature degradation of the drug. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

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13 pages, 4216 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Material Nonlinearities on Design of Composite Constructions—Elasto-Plastic Behaviour

by Aleksander Muc

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1792; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071792 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2116

Abstract

Usually, the design of composite structures is limited to the linear elastic analysis only. The experimental results discussed in the paper demonstrate the physical non-linear behaviour both for unidirectional and woven roving composites. It is mainly connected with the micromechanical damages in composite [...] Read more.

Usually, the design of composite structures is limited to the linear elastic analysis only. The experimental results discussed in the paper demonstrate the physical non-linear behaviour both for unidirectional and woven roving composites. It is mainly connected with the micromechanical damages in composite structures, particularly with the effects of matrix cracking modeled in the form of elastic-plastic physical relations. In the present paper, the effects of both physical and geometrical non-linearities are taken into account. Their influence on the limit states (understood in the sense of buckling or failure/damage) of composite structures is discussed. The numerical examples deal with the behaviour of composite pressure vessels components, such as a cylindrical shell and the reinforcement of the junction of shells. The optimisation method of the reinforcement thickness is also formulated and solved herein. Full article

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20 pages, 8218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation on the Micro Deformation Mechanism of Asphalt Mixtures under High Temperatures Based on a Self-Developed Laboratory Test

by Jilu Li, Wei Guo, Anxin Meng, Meizhao Han and Yiqiu Tan

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1791; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071791 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2702

Abstract

Rutting has always been considered the main disease in asphalt pavement. Dealing with rutting disease would be benefitted by understanding the formation of rutting and testing the rutting performance of mixtures more reasonably. The objective of this paper is to systematically investigate the [...] Read more.

Rutting has always been considered the main disease in asphalt pavement. Dealing with rutting disease would be benefitted by understanding the formation of rutting and testing the rutting performance of mixtures more reasonably. The objective of this paper is to systematically investigate the rutting mechanism by employing a self-designed rutting tester along with the corresponding numerical simulations. The deformation of different positions of the existing tracking tester was found to be inconsistent, and the loading was not in line with reality. Accordingly, a more practical tester was proposed: the reduced scale circular tracking (RSCT) tester integrates the functions of asphalt mixture fabrication and rutting monitoring. The results demonstrated that the loading of the new tester is closer to the actual situation. In addition, determining the stress and displacement characteristics of particles in the asphalt mixture was found to be difficult due to the limitations of the testing methods. Therefore, a two-dimensional virtual rutting test based on the RSCT was built using PFC2D (Particle Flow Code 2 Dimension) to investigate the mechanism of formation in rutting and to obtain the corresponding guidance. The numerical simulation showed that all particles of the specimen tended to move away from the load location. The main cause of rutting formation was the eddy current flow of asphalt mastic driven by coarse aggregates. The aggregates with diameters ranging from 9.5 to 4.75 mm were observed to have the greatest contribution to rutting deformation. Therefore, the aggregate amount of these spans should be focused on in the design of mixture grading. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Asphalt Road Paving Materials)

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17 pages, 8708 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Cast Defects on the Corrosion Behavior and Mechanism of UNS C95810 Alloy in Artificial Seawater

by Xu Zhao, Yuhong Qi, Jintao Wang, Zhanping Zhang, Jing Zhu, Linlin Quan and Dachuan He

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1790; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071790 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2755

Abstract

To study the effect of cast defects on the corrosion behavior and mechanism of the UNS C95810 alloy in seawater, an investigation was conducted by weight loss determination, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electrochemical testing [...] Read more.

To study the effect of cast defects on the corrosion behavior and mechanism of the UNS C95810 alloy in seawater, an investigation was conducted by weight loss determination, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electrochemical testing of the specimen with and without cast defects on the surface. The results show that the corrosion rate of the alloy with cast defects is higher than that of the alloy without cast defects, but the defects do not change the composition of the resulting corrosion products. The defects increase the complexity of the alloy microstructure and the tendency toward galvanic corrosion, which reduce the corrosion potential from −3.83 to −86.31 mV and increase the corrosion current density from 0.228 to 0.23 μA⋅cm⁻². Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion and Protection of Materials)

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13 pages, 4566 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Soda Residue Addition and Its Chemical Composition on Physical Properties and Hydration Products of Soda Residue-Activated Slag Cementitious Materials

by Yonghui Lin, Dongqiang Xu and Xianhui Zhao

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1789; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071789 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 3288

Abstract

Soda residue (SR), the solid waste of Na₂CO₃ produced by ammonia soda process, pollutes water and soil, increasing environmental pressure. SR has high alkalinity, and its main components are Ca(OH)₂, NaCl, CaCl₂, CaSO₄, and [...] Read more.

Soda residue (SR), the solid waste of Na₂CO₃ produced by ammonia soda process, pollutes water and soil, increasing environmental pressure. SR has high alkalinity, and its main components are Ca(OH)₂, NaCl, CaCl₂, CaSO₄, and CaCO₃, which accords with the requirements of being an alkali activator. The aim of this research is to investigate the best proportion of SR addition and the contribution of individual chemical components in SR to SR- activated ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) cementitious materials. In this paper, GGBS pastes activated by SR, Ca(OH)₂, Ca(OH)₂ + NaCl, Ca(OH)₂ + CaCl₂, Ca(OH)₂ + CaSO₄, and Ca(OH)₂ + CaCO₃ were studied regarding setting time, compressive strength (1 d, 3 d, 7 d, 14 d, 28 d), hydration products, and microstructure. The results demonstrate that SR (24%)-activated GGBS pastes possess acceptable setting time and compressive strength (29.6 MPa, 28 d), and its hydration products are calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) gel, calcium aluminum silicate hydrates (CASH) gel and Friedel’s salt. CaCl₂ in SR plays a main role in hydration products generation and high compressive strength of SR- activated GGBS pastes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Alkali‐Activated Materials for Sustainable Construction)

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12 pages, 4117 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Magnetic Properties of La_0.9A_0.1MnO₃ (A: Li, Na, K) Nanopowders and Nanoceramics

by Paweł Głuchowski, Ruslan Nikonkov, Robert Tomala, Wiesław Stręk, Tatsiana Shulha, Maria Serdechnova, Mikhail Zheludkevich, Andrius Pakalaniškis, Ramūnas Skaudžius, Aivaras Kareiva, Alexander Abramov, Andrei Kholkin, Maxim V. Bushinsky and Dmitry Karpinsky

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1788; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071788 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3523

Abstract

Nanocrystalline La_0.9A_0.1MnO₃ (where A is Li, Na, K) powders were synthesized by a combustion method. The powders used to prepare nanoceramics were fabricated via a high-temperature sintering method. The structure and morphology of all compounds were characterized by [...] Read more.

Nanocrystalline La_0.9A_0.1MnO₃ (where A is Li, Na, K) powders were synthesized by a combustion method. The powders used to prepare nanoceramics were fabricated via a high-temperature sintering method. The structure and morphology of all compounds were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that the size of the crystallites depended on the type of alkali ions used. The high-pressure sintering method kept the nanosized character of the grains in the ceramics, which had a significant impact on their physical properties. Magnetization studies were performed for both powder and ceramic samples in order to check the impact of the alkali ion dopants as well as the sintering pressure on the magnetization of the compounds. It was found that, by using different dopants, it was possible to strongly change the magnetic characteristics of the manganites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Nanostructured Materials)

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37 pages, 6478 KiB

Open AccessReview

Towards Macroporous α-Al₂O₃—Routes, Possibilities and Limitations

by Simon Carstens, Ralf Meyer and Dirk Enke

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1787; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071787 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5655

Abstract

This article combines a systematic literature review on the fabrication of macroporous α-Al₂O₃ with increased specific surface area with recent results from our group. Publications claiming the fabrication of α-Al₂O₃ with high specific surface areas (HSSA) are [...] Read more.

This article combines a systematic literature review on the fabrication of macroporous α-Al₂O₃ with increased specific surface area with recent results from our group. Publications claiming the fabrication of α-Al₂O₃ with high specific surface areas (HSSA) are comprehensively assessed and critically reviewed. An account of all major routes towards HSSA α-Al₂O₃ is given, including hydrothermal methods, pore protection approaches, dopants, anodically oxidized alumina membranes, and sol-gel syntheses. Furthermore, limitations of these routes are disclosed, as thermodynamic calculations suggest that γ-Al₂O₃ may be the more stable alumina modification for A_BET > 175 m²/g. In fact, the highest specific surface area unobjectionably reported to date for α-Al₂O₃ amounts to 16–24 m²/g and was attained via a sol-gel process. In a second part, we report on some of our own results, including a novel sol-gel synthesis, designated as mutual cross-hydrolysis. Besides, the Mn-assisted α-transition appears to be a promising approach for some alumina materials, whereas pore protection by carbon filling kinetically inhibits the formation of α-Al₂O₃ seeds. These experimental results are substantiated by attempts to theoretically calculate and predict the specific surface areas of both porous materials and nanopowders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Porous Materials)

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15 pages, 6194 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Elbow Damage Identification Technique Based on Sparse Inversion Image Reconstruction

by Yu Wang and Xueyi Li

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1786; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071786 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2782

Abstract

Continuous monitoring for defects in oil and gas pipelines is important for leakage prevention. This paper proposes a new kind of pipe elbow damage identification technique, which consists of three processes. First, piezoelectric sensors evenly arranged along the circumference of the pipeline in [...] Read more.

Continuous monitoring for defects in oil and gas pipelines is important for leakage prevention. This paper proposes a new kind of pipe elbow damage identification technique, which consists of three processes. First, piezoelectric sensors evenly arranged along the circumference of the pipeline in the turn generated ultrasonic guided wave signals in the elbow. Then, the wavefront flight time at each grid node in the known sound field were computed using the fast-marching algorithm. Finally, an elbow wall thickness map reconstruction technique based on the sparse inversion method was proposed to identify elbow defects. Compared with the traditional elbow defect identification technology, this technology can not only detect the existence of the defect but also accurately locate the defect position. Full article

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14 pages, 3049 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Adsorption of Sulfamethoxazole from Aqueous Solution by Lignite Activated Coke

by Haiyan Li, Juan He, Kaiyu Chen, Zhou Shi, Mengnan Li, Pengpeng Guo and Liyuan Wu

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1785; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071785 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2978

Abstract

In this paper, lignite activated coke was used as adsorbent for dynamic column adsorption experiments to remove sulfamethoxazole from aqueous solution. The effects of column height, flow rate, initial concentration, pH and humic acids concentration on the dynamic adsorption penetration curve and mass [...] Read more.

In this paper, lignite activated coke was used as adsorbent for dynamic column adsorption experiments to remove sulfamethoxazole from aqueous solution. The effects of column height, flow rate, initial concentration, pH and humic acids concentration on the dynamic adsorption penetration curve and mass transfer zone length were investigated. Results showed penetration time would be prolonged significantly by increasing column height, while inhibited by the increasement of initial concentration and flow rate. Thomas and Yoon-Nelson model and the Adams-Bohart model were used to elucidate the adsorption mechanism, high coefficients of R² > 0.95 were obtained in Thomas model for most of the adsorption entries, which revealed that the adsorption rate could probably be dominated by mass transfer at the interface. The average change rates of mass transfer zone length to the changes of each parameters, such as initial concentration, the column height, the flow rate and pH, were 0.0003, 0.6474, 0.0076, 0.0073 and 0.0191 respectively, revealed that column height may play a vital role in dynamic column adsorption efficiency. These findings suggested that lignite activated coke can effectively remove sulfamethoxazole contaminants from wastewater in practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Carbon Materials in Water Treatment or Separations Technology)

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17 pages, 3300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acetic Acid and Ammonium Persulfate Pre-Treated Copper Foil for the Improvement of Graphene Quality, Sensitivity and Specificity of Hall Effect Label-Free DNA Hybridization Detection

by Naiyuan Cui, Fei Wang and Hanyuan Ding

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1784; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071784 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3839

Abstract

The capability of graphene-based biosensors used to detect biomolecules, such as DNA and cancer marker, is enormously affected by the quality of graphene. In this work, high quality and cleanness graphene were obtained by CVD based on acetic acid (AA) and ammonium persulfate [...] Read more.

The capability of graphene-based biosensors used to detect biomolecules, such as DNA and cancer marker, is enormously affected by the quality of graphene. In this work, high quality and cleanness graphene were obtained by CVD based on acetic acid (AA) and ammonium persulfate (AP) pretreated copper foil substrate. Hall effect devices were made by three kinds of graphene which were fabricated by CVD using no-treated copper foil, AA pre-treated copper foil and AP pre-treated copper foil. Hall effect devices made of AA pre-treated copper foil CVD graphene and AP pre-treated copper foil CVD graphene can both enhance the sensitivity of graphene-based biosensors for DNA recognition, but the AA pre-treated copper foil CVD graphene improves more (≈4 times). This may be related to the secondary oxidation of AP pre-treated copper foil in the air due to the strong corrosion of ammonium persulfate, which leads to the quality decrease of graphene comparing to acetic acid. Our research provides an efficient method to improve the sensitivity of graphene-based biosensors for DNA recognition and investigates an effect of copper foil oxidation on the growth graphene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Nanomaterials for Imaging and Sensing)

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10 pages, 1429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of the Primary Stability of Porous Tantalum and Titanium Acetabular Revision Constructs

by Nicholas A. Beckmann, Rudi G. Bitsch, Mareike Schonhoff, Klaus-Arno Siebenrock, Martin Schwarze and Sebastian Jaeger

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1783; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071783 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5088

Abstract

Adequate primary stability of the acetabular revision construct is necessary for long-term implant survival. The difference in primary stability between tantalum and titanium components is unclear. Six composite hemipelvises with an acetabular defect were implanted with a tantalum augment and cup, using cement [...] Read more.

Adequate primary stability of the acetabular revision construct is necessary for long-term implant survival. The difference in primary stability between tantalum and titanium components is unclear. Six composite hemipelvises with an acetabular defect were implanted with a tantalum augment and cup, using cement fixation between cup and augment. Relative motion was measured at cup/bone, cup/augment and bone/augment interfaces at three load levels; the results were compared to the relative motion measured at the same interfaces of a titanium cup/augment construct of identical dimensions, also implanted into composite bone. The implants showed little relative motion at all load levels between the augment and cup. At the bone/augment and bone/cup interfaces the titanium implants showed less relative motion than tantalum at 30% load (p < 0.001), but more relative motion at 50% (p = n.s.) and 100% (p < 0001) load. The load did not have a significant effect at the augment/cup interface (p = 0.086); it did have a significant effect on relative motion of both implant materials at bone/cup and bone/augment interfaces (p < 0.001). All interfaces of both constructs displayed relative motion that should permit osseointegration. Tantalum, however, may provide a greater degree of primary stability at higher loads than titanium. The clinical implication is yet to be seen Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Research about Biomechanics and Biomaterials Used in Hip, Knee and Related Joints)

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8 pages, 1426 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

An Investigation on the Electrochemical Behavior and Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activity of Nickel Trithiocyanurate Complexes

by Amir M. Ashrafi, Pavel Kopel and Lukas Richtera

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1782; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071782 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2656

Abstract

The electrochemical redox behavior of three trinuclear Ni(II) complexes [Ni₃(abb)₃(H₂O)₃(µ-ttc)](ClO₄)₃ (1), [Ni₃(tebb)₃(H₂O)₃(µ-ttc)](ClO₄)₃·H₂O (2), and [...] Read more.

The electrochemical redox behavior of three trinuclear Ni(II) complexes [Ni₃(abb)₃(H₂O)₃(µ-ttc)](ClO₄)₃ (1), [Ni₃(tebb)₃(H₂O)₃(µ-ttc)](ClO₄)₃·H₂O (2), and [Ni₃(pmdien)₃(µ-ttc)](ClO₄)₃ (3), where abb = 1-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)-N-(1H-benzimidazol-2-ylmethyl)methan-amine, ttcH₃ = trithiocyanuric acid, tebb = 2-[2-[2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)ethylsulfanyl]ethyl]-1H-benzimidazole, and pmdien = N,N,N′,N″,N″-pentamethyldiethylenetriamine is reported. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was applied for the study of the electrochemical behavior of these compounds. The results confirmed the presence of ttc and nickel in oxidation state +2 in the synthesized complexes. Moreover, the antibacterial properties and cytotoxic activity of complex 3 was investigated. All the complexes show antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli to different extents. The cytotoxic activity of complex 3 and ttcNa₃ were studied on G-361, HOS, K-562, and MCF7 cancer cell lines. It was found out that complex 3 possesses the cytotoxic activity against the tested cell lines, whereas ttcNa₃ did not show any cytotoxic activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis, Characterization and Applications of Metal Complexes)

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22 pages, 20425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Chemically Treated Eucalyptus Fibers on Mechanical, Thermal and Insulating Properties of Polyurethane Composite Foams

by Sylwia Członka, Anna Strąkowska, Piotr Pospiech and Krzysztof Strzelec

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1781; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071781 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 4032

Abstract

In this work, rigid polyurethane (PUR) foams were prepared by incorporating 2 wt% of eucalyptus fibers. The eucalyptus fibers were surface-modified by maleic anhydride, alkali, and silane (triphenylsilanol) treatment. The impact of the modified eucalyptus fibers on the mechanical, thermal, and fire performances [...] Read more.

In this work, rigid polyurethane (PUR) foams were prepared by incorporating 2 wt% of eucalyptus fibers. The eucalyptus fibers were surface-modified by maleic anhydride, alkali, and silane (triphenylsilanol) treatment. The impact of the modified eucalyptus fibers on the mechanical, thermal, and fire performances of polyurethane foams was analyzed. It was observed that the addition of eucalyptus fibers showed improved mechanical and thermal properties and the best properties were shown by silane-treated fibers with a compressive strength of 312 kPa and a flexural strength of 432 kPa. Moreover, the thermal stability values showed the lowest decline for polyurethane foams modified with the silane-treated fibers, due to the better thermal stability of such modified fibers. Furthermore, the flame resistance of polyurethane foams modified with the silane-treated fibers was also the best among the studied composites. A cone calorimetry test showed a decrease in the peak of heat release from 245 to 110 kW∙m⁻² by the incorporation of silane-treated fibers. Furthermore, total heat release and total smoke release were also found to decrease remarkably upon the incorporation of silane-treated fibers. The value of limiting oxygen index was increased from 20.2% to 22.1%. Char residue was also found to be increased from 24.4% to 28.3%. It can be concluded that the application of chemically modified eucalyptus fibers has great potential as an additive to incorporate good mechanical, thermal, and fire properties in rigid polyurethane foams. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Bio-Based Composite Foams)

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16 pages, 4861 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Study on Flow-Accelerated Corrosion and Erosion–Corrosion at a 90° Carbon Steel Bend

by Li Zeng, Geng Chen and Hanxin Chen

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071780 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 6095

Abstract

Electrochemical measurements and surface analysis are performed to comparatively study flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC) and erosion–corrosion (E-C) behavior at a 90° carbon steel bend. The corrosion rates are higher under FAC conditions than those under E-C conditions. For FAC, the corrosion is more serious [...] Read more.

Electrochemical measurements and surface analysis are performed to comparatively study flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC) and erosion–corrosion (E-C) behavior at a 90° carbon steel bend. The corrosion rates are higher under FAC conditions than those under E-C conditions. For FAC, the corrosion is more serious at the inside wall. However, corrosion is exacerbated at the outside wall under E-C conditions. No erosion scratches are observed under FAC conditions and at the inside wall under E-C conditions, while remarkable erosion scratches appear at the outside wall under E-C conditions. The dominant hydrodynamics affecting FAC and E-C are remarkably different. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Corrosion)

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10 pages, 2656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

C-S-H Pore Size Characterization Via a Combined Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)–Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Surface Relaxivity Calibration

by Christoph Naber, Florian Kleiner, Franz Becker, Long Nguyen-Tuan, Christiane Rößler, Merlin A. Etzold and Jürgen Neubauer

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1779; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071779 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3334

Abstract

A new method for the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) surface relaxivity calibration in hydrated cement samples is proposed. This method relies on a combined analysis of 28-d hydrated tricalcium silicate samples by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image analysis and ¹H-time-domain (TD)-NMR relaxometry. [...] Read more.

A new method for the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) surface relaxivity calibration in hydrated cement samples is proposed. This method relies on a combined analysis of 28-d hydrated tricalcium silicate samples by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image analysis and ¹H-time-domain (TD)-NMR relaxometry. Pore surface and volume data for interhydrate pores are obtained from high resolution SEM images on surfaces obtained by argon broad ion beam sectioning. These data are combined with T₂ relaxation times from ¹H-TD-NMR to calculate the systems surface relaxivity according to the fast exchange model of relaxation. This new method is compared to an alternative method that employs sequential drying to calibrate the systems surface relaxivity. Full article

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

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27 pages, 3525 KiB

Open AccessArticle

On the Microstructure and Properties of Nb-12Ti-18Si-6Ta-2.5W-1Hf (at.%) Silicide-Based Alloys with Ge and Sn Additions

by Jiang Zhao, Claire Utton and Panos Tsakiropoulos

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1778; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071778 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2948

Abstract

In this paper two Nb-silicide-based alloys with nominal compositions (at.%) Nb-12Ti-18Si-6Ta-2.5W-1Hf-2Sn-2Ge (JZ1) and Nb-12Ti-18Si-6Ta-2.5W-1Hf-5Sn-5Ge (JZ2) were studied. The alloys were designed using the alloy design methodology NICE to meet specific research objectives. The cast microstructures of both alloys were sensitive to solidification conditions. [...] Read more.

In this paper two Nb-silicide-based alloys with nominal compositions (at.%) Nb-12Ti-18Si-6Ta-2.5W-1Hf-2Sn-2Ge (JZ1) and Nb-12Ti-18Si-6Ta-2.5W-1Hf-5Sn-5Ge (JZ2) were studied. The alloys were designed using the alloy design methodology NICE to meet specific research objectives. The cast microstructures of both alloys were sensitive to solidification conditions. There was macro-segregation of Si in JZ1 and JZ2. In both alloys the βNb₅Si₃ was the primary phase and the Nb_ss was stable. The A15-Nb₃X (X = Ge,Si,Sn) was stable only in JZ2. The Nb_ss+βNb₅Si₃ eutectic in both alloys was not stable as was the Nb₃Si silicide that formed only in JZ1. At 800 °C both alloys followed linear oxidation kinetics and were vulnerable to pesting. At 1200 °C both alloys exhibited parabolic oxidation kinetics in the early stages and linear kinetics at longer times. The adhesion of the scale that formed on JZ2 at 1200 °C and consisted of Nb and Ti-rich oxides, silica and HfO₂ was better than that of JZ1. The microstructure of JZ2 was contaminated by oxygen to a depth of about 200 μm. There was no Ge or Sn present in the scale. The substrate below the scale was richer in Ge and Sn where the NbGe₂, Nb₅(Si_1-xGe_x)₃, W-rich Nb₅(Si_1-xGe_x)₃, and A15-Nb₃X compounds (X = Ge,Si,Sn) were formed in JZ2. The better oxidation behavior of JZ2 compared with JZ1 correlated well with the decrease in VEC and increase in δ parameter values, in agreement with NICE. For both alloys the experimental data for Si macrosegregation, vol.% Nb_ss, chemical composition of Nb_ss and Nb₅Si₃, and weight gains at 800 and 1200 °C was compared with the calculations (predictions) of NICE. The agreement was very good. The calculated creep rates of both alloys at 1200 °C and 170 MPa were lower than that of the Ni-based superalloy CMSX-4 for the same conditions but higher than 10⁻⁷ s⁻¹. Full article

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10 pages, 4993 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sensing Ability of Ferroelectric Oxide Nanowires Grown in Templates of Nanopores

by Mariya Aleksandrova, Tsvetozar Tsanev, Ashish Gupta, Ajaya Kumar Singh, Georgi Dobrikov and Valentin Videkov

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1777; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071777 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2412

Abstract

Nanowires of ferroelectric potassium niobate were grown by filling nanoporous templates of both side opened anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) through radiofrequency vacuum sputtering for multisensor fabrication. The precise geometrical ordering of the AAO matrix led to well defined single axis oriented wire-shaped material [...] Read more.

Nanowires of ferroelectric potassium niobate were grown by filling nanoporous templates of both side opened anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) through radiofrequency vacuum sputtering for multisensor fabrication. The precise geometrical ordering of the AAO matrix led to well defined single axis oriented wire-shaped material inside the pores. The sensing abilities of the samples were studied and analyzed in terms of piezoelectric and pyroelectric response and the results were compared for different length of the nanopores (nanotubes)—1.3 µm, 6.3 µm and 10 µm. Based on scanning electronic microscopy, elemental and microstructural analyses, as well as electrical measurements at bending and heating, the overall sensing performance of the devices was estimated. It was found that the produced membrane type elements, consisting potassium niobate grown in AAO template exhibited excellent piezoelectric response due to the increased specific area as compared to non-structured films, and could be further enhanced with the nanowires length. The piezoelectric voltage increased linearly with 16 mV per micrometer of nanowire’s length. At the same time the pyroelectric voltage was found to be less sensitive to the nanowires length, changing its value at 400 nV/µm. This paper provides a simple and low-cost approach for nanostructuring ferroelectric oxides with multisensing application, and serves as a base for further optimization of template based nanostructured devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Electronic Materials)

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10 pages, 1291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enzyme Immobilization on Maghemite Nanoparticles with Improved Catalytic Activity: An Electrochemical Study for Xanthine

by Massimiliano Magro, Davide Baratella, Andrea Venerando, Giulia Nalotto, Caroline R. Basso, Simone Molinari, Gabriella Salviulo, Juri Ugolotti, Valber A. Pedrosa and Fabio Vianello

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1776; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071776 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2888

Abstract

Generally, enzyme immobilization on nanoparticles leads to nano-conjugates presenting partially preserved, or even absent, biological properties. Notwithstanding, recent research demonstrated that the coupling to nanomaterials can improve the activity of immobilized enzymes. Herein, xanthine oxidase (XO) was immobilized by self-assembly on peculiar naked [...] Read more.

Generally, enzyme immobilization on nanoparticles leads to nano-conjugates presenting partially preserved, or even absent, biological properties. Notwithstanding, recent research demonstrated that the coupling to nanomaterials can improve the activity of immobilized enzymes. Herein, xanthine oxidase (XO) was immobilized by self-assembly on peculiar naked iron oxide nanoparticles (surface active maghemite nanoparticles, SAMNs). The catalytic activity of the nanostructured conjugate (SAMN@XO) was assessed by optical spectroscopy and compared to the parent enzyme. SAMN@XO revealed improved catalytic features with respect to the parent enzyme and was applied for the electrochemical studies of xanthine. The present example supports the nascent knowledge concerning protein conjugation to nanoparticle as a means for the modulation of biological activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanostructured Biosensors)

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24 pages, 6715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization the Process of Chemically Modified Carbon Nanofiber Coated Monolith via Response Surface Methodology for CO₂ Capture

by Mohamad Rasool Malekbala, Soroush Soltani, Suraya Abdul Rashid, Luqman Chuah Abdullah, Umer Rashid, Imededdine Arbi Nehdi, Thomas Shean Yaw Choong and Siow Hwa Teo

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1775; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071775 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2736

Abstract

In the present study, a sequence of experiments was performed to assess the influence of the key process parameters on the formation of a carbon nanofiber-coated monolith (CNFCM), using a four-level factorial design in response surface methodology (RSM). The effect of reaction temperature, [...] Read more.

In the present study, a sequence of experiments was performed to assess the influence of the key process parameters on the formation of a carbon nanofiber-coated monolith (CNFCM), using a four-level factorial design in response surface methodology (RSM). The effect of reaction temperature, hydrocarbon flow rate, catalyst and catalyst promoter were examined using RSM to enhance the formation yield of CNFs on a monolith substrate. To calculate carbon yield, a quadratic polynomial model was modified through multiple regression analysis and the best possible reaction conditions were found as follows: a reaction temperature of 800 °C, furfuryl alcohol flow of 0.08525 mL/min, ferrocene catalyst concentration of 2.21 g. According to the characterization study, the synthesized CNFs showed a high graphitization which were uniformly distributed on a monolith substrate. Besides this, the feasibility of carbon dioxide (CO₂) adsorption from the gaseous mixture (N₂/CO₂) under a range of experimental conditions was investigated at monolithic column. To get the most out of the CO₂ capture, an as-prepared sample was post-modified using ammonia. Furthermore, a deactivation model (DM) was introduced for the purpose of studying the breakthrough curves. The CO₂ adsorption onto CNFCM was experimentally examined under following operating conditions: a temperature of 30–50 °C, pressure of 1–2 bar, flow rate of 50–90 mL/min, and CO₂ feed amount of 10–40 vol.%. A lower adsorption capacity and shorter breakthrough time were detected by escalating the temperature. On the other hand, the capacity for CO₂ adsorption increased by raising the CO₂ feed amount, feed flow rate, and operating pressure. The comparative evaluation of CO₂ uptake over unmodified and modified CNFCM adsorbents confirmed that the introduced modification procedure caused a substantial improvement in CO₂ adsorption. Full article

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21 pages, 6217 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of Application and Innovation of Geotextiles in Geotechnical Engineering

by Hao Wu, Chongkai Yao, Chenghan Li, Miao Miao, Yujian Zhong, Yuquan Lu and Tong Liu

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1774; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071774 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 90 | Viewed by 15026

Abstract

Most geotextiles consist of polymers of polyolefin, polyester or polyamide family, which involve environmental problems related to soil pollution. Geotextiles can be used for at least one of the following functions: Separation, reinforcement, filtration, drainage, stabilization, barrier, and erosion protection. Due to the [...] Read more.

Most geotextiles consist of polymers of polyolefin, polyester or polyamide family, which involve environmental problems related to soil pollution. Geotextiles can be used for at least one of the following functions: Separation, reinforcement, filtration, drainage, stabilization, barrier, and erosion protection. Due to the characteristics of high strength, low cost, and easy to use, geotextiles are widely used in geotechnical engineering such as soft foundation reinforcement, slope protection, and drainage system. This paper reviews composition and function of geotextiles in geotechnical engineering. In addition, based on literatures including the most recent data, the discussion turns to recent development of geotextiles, with emphasis on green geotextiles, intelligent geotextiles, and high-performance geotextiles. The present situation of these new geotextiles and their application in geotechnical engineering are reviewed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Sustainable Technologies for Recycling Waste Materials)

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10 pages, 2621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reduced Graphene Oxide-Based Impedimetric Immunosensor for Detection of Enterotoxin A in Milk Samples

by Giovanna S. Rocha, Martin K. L. Silva and Ivana Cesarino

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1751; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071751 - 10 Apr 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2832

Abstract

A simple, cheap, and less aggressive immobilization procedure for biomolecules using reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was employed to prepare an impedimetric immunosensor for detection of staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) from Staphylococcus aureus in milk samples. The scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical [...] Read more.

A simple, cheap, and less aggressive immobilization procedure for biomolecules using reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was employed to prepare an impedimetric immunosensor for detection of staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) from Staphylococcus aureus in milk samples. The scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to monitor the single steps of the electrode assembly process. The glassy carbon (GC)/rGO platform detected the antigen-antibody binding procedures of SEA with concentrations of 0.5 to 3.5 mg L⁻¹ via impedance changes in a low frequency range. The impedimetric immunosensor was successfully applied for the determination of SEA in milk samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanostructured Biosensors)

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15 pages, 5309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

3D Printing of Piezoelectric Barium Titanate-Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds with Interconnected Porosity for Bone Tissue Engineering

by Christian Polley, Thomas Distler, Rainer Detsch, Henrik Lund, Armin Springer, Aldo R. Boccaccini and Hermann Seitz

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1773; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071773 - 9 Apr 2020

Cited by 97 | Viewed by 9382

Abstract

The prevalence of large bone defects is still a major problem in surgical clinics. It is, thus, not a surprise that bone-related research, especially in the field of bone tissue engineering, is a major issue in medical research. Researchers worldwide are searching for [...] Read more.

The prevalence of large bone defects is still a major problem in surgical clinics. It is, thus, not a surprise that bone-related research, especially in the field of bone tissue engineering, is a major issue in medical research. Researchers worldwide are searching for the missing link in engineering bone graft materials that mimic bones, and foster osteogenesis and bone remodeling. One approach is the combination of additive manufacturing technology with smart and additionally electrically active biomaterials. In this study, we performed a three-dimensional (3D) printing process to fabricate piezoelectric, porous barium titanate (BaTiO₃) and hydroxyapatite (HA) composite scaffolds. The printed scaffolds indicate good cytocompatibility and cell attachment as well as bone mimicking piezoelectric properties with a piezoelectric constant of 3 pC/N. This work represents a promising first approach to creating an implant material with improved bone regenerating potential, in combination with an interconnected porous network and a microporosity, known to enhance bone growth and vascularization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioceramic Composites for Biomedical Applications)

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14 pages, 6513 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polydopamine-Modified Al₂O₃/Polyurethane Composites with Largely Improved Thermal and Mechanical Properties

by Ruikui Du, Li He, Peng Li and Guizhe Zhao

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1772; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071772 - 9 Apr 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3965

Abstract

Alumina/polyurethane composites were prepared via in situ polymerization and used as thermal interface materials (TIMs). The surface of alumina particles was modified using polydopamine (PDA) and then evaluated via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), and Raman spectroscopy (Raman). Scanning electron [...] Read more.

Alumina/polyurethane composites were prepared via in situ polymerization and used as thermal interface materials (TIMs). The surface of alumina particles was modified using polydopamine (PDA) and then evaluated via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), and Raman spectroscopy (Raman). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed that PDA-Al₂O₃ has better dispersion in a polyurethane (PU) matrix than Al₂O₃. Compared with pure PU, the 30 wt% PDA-Al₂O₃/PU had 95% more Young’s modulus, 128% more tensile strength, and 76% more elongation at break than the pure PU. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) results showed that the storage modulus of the 30 wt% PDA-Al₂O₃/PU composite improved, and the glass transition temperature (Tg) shifted to higher temperatures. The thermal conductivity of the 30 wt% PDA-Al₂O₃/PU composite increased by 138%. Therefore, the results showed that the prepared PDA-coated alumina can simultaneously improve both the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of PU. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

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16 pages, 5325 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prototype Gastro-Resistant Soft Gelatin Films and Capsules—Imaging and Performance In Vitro

by Bartosz Maciejewski, Vishnu Arumughan, Anette Larsson and Małgorzata Sznitowska

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1771; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071771 - 9 Apr 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3330

Abstract

The following study is a continuation of the previous work on preparation of gastro-resistant films by incorporation of cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) into the soft gelatin film. An extended investigation on the previously described binary Gelatin-CAP and ternary Gelatin-CAP-carrageenan polymer films was performed. [...] Read more.

The following study is a continuation of the previous work on preparation of gastro-resistant films by incorporation of cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) into the soft gelatin film. An extended investigation on the previously described binary Gelatin-CAP and ternary Gelatin-CAP-carrageenan polymer films was performed. The results suggest that the critical feature behind formation of the acid-resistant films is a spinodal decomposition in the film-forming mixture. In the obtained films, upon submersion in an acidic medium, gelatin swells and dissolves, exposing a CAP-based acid-insoluble skeleton, partially coated by a residue of other ingredients. The dissolution-hindering effect appears to be stronger when iota-carrageenan is added to the film-forming mixture. The drug release study performed in enhancer cells confirmed that diclofenac sodium is not released in the acidic medium, however, at pH 6.8 the drug release occurs. The capsules prepared with a simple lab-scale process appear to be resistant to disintegration of the shell structure in acid, although imperfections of the sealing have been noticed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials in Drug Release and Drug Delivery Systems)

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21 pages, 8211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Simulation of the Bond Response of NSM FRP Reinforcement in Concrete

by Javier Gómez, Lluís Torres and Cristina Barris

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1770; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071770 - 9 Apr 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3370

Abstract

The near-surface mounted (NSM) technique with fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement as strengthening system for concrete structures has been broadly studied during the last years. The efficiency of the NSM FRP-to-concrete joint highly depends on the bond between both materials, which is characterized [...] Read more.

The near-surface mounted (NSM) technique with fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement as strengthening system for concrete structures has been broadly studied during the last years. The efficiency of the NSM FRP-to-concrete joint highly depends on the bond between both materials, which is characterized by a local bond–slip law. This paper studies the effect of the shape of the local bond–slip law and its parameters on the global response of the NSM FRP joint in terms of load capacity, effective bond length, slip, shear stress, and strain distribution along the bonded length, which are essential parameters on the strengthening design. A numerical procedure based on the finite difference method to solve the governing equations of the FRP-to-concrete joint is developed. Pull-out single shear specimens are tested in order to experimentally validate the numerical results. Finally, a parametric study is performed. The effect of the bond–shear strength slip at the bond strength, maximum slip, and friction branch on the parameters previously described is presented and discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composites: From Materials Characterization to Structural Application)

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19 pages, 5097 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Use of ZnAl-Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH) to Extend the Service Life of Reinforced Concrete

by Celestino Gomes, Zahid Mir, Rui Sampaio, Alexandre Bastos, João Tedim, Frederico Maia, Cláudia Rocha and Mário Ferreira

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1769; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071769 - 9 Apr 2020

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5260

Abstract

This work investigated the use of ZnAl-layered double hydroxide (LDH) intercalated with nitrate or nitrite ions for controlling the corrosion of steel in reinforced concrete. The work started by analyzing the stability of the powder in the 1–14 pH range and the capacity [...] Read more.

This work investigated the use of ZnAl-layered double hydroxide (LDH) intercalated with nitrate or nitrite ions for controlling the corrosion of steel in reinforced concrete. The work started by analyzing the stability of the powder in the 1–14 pH range and the capacity for capturing chloride ions in aqueous solutions of different pH. The effect of the ZnAl-LDH on the corrosion of steel was studied in aqueous 0.05 M NaCl solution and in mortars immersed in 3.5% NaCl. It was found that the LDH powders dissolved partially at pH > 12. The LDH was able to capture chloride ions from the external solution, but the process was pH-dependent and stopped at high pH due to the partial dissolution of LDH and the preferential exchange of OH^– ions. These results seemed to imply that ZnAl-LDH would not work in the alkaline environment inside the concrete. Nonetheless, preliminary results with mortars containing ZnAl-LDH showed lower penetration of chloride ions and higher corrosion resistance of the steel rebars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Self-Healing and Smart Cementitious Construction Materials)

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21 pages, 5411 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extremely-Low-Cycle Fatigue Damage for Beam-to-Column Welded Joints Using Structural Details

by Lizhen Huang, Weilian Qu and Ernian Zhao

Materials 2020, 13(7), 1768; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13071768 - 9 Apr 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2743

Abstract

The multiaxial fatigue critical plane method can be used to evaluate the extremely-low-cycle fatigue (ELCF) damage of beam-to-column welded joints in steel frameworks subjected to strong seismic activity. In this paper, fatigue damage models using structural detail parameters are studied. Firstly, the fatigue [...] Read more.

The multiaxial fatigue critical plane method can be used to evaluate the extremely-low-cycle fatigue (ELCF) damage of beam-to-column welded joints in steel frameworks subjected to strong seismic activity. In this paper, fatigue damage models using structural detail parameters are studied. Firstly, the fatigue properties obtained from experiments are adopted to assess ELCF life for steel frameworks. In these experiments, two types of welded specimens, namely, plate butt weld (PB) and cruciform load-carrying groove weld (CLG), are designed according to the structural details of steel beam and box column joints, in which both structural details and welded factors are taken into account. Secondly, experiments are performed on three full-scale steel welded beam-to-column joints to determine the contribution of stress and/or strain to damage parameters. Finally, we introduce a modification of the most popular fatigue damage model of Fatemi and Socie (FS), modified by us in a previous study, for damage evaluation, and compare this with Shang and Wang (SW) in order to examine the applicability of the fatigue properties of PB and CLG. This study shows that the modified FS model using the fatigue properties of CLG can predict the crack initiation life and evaluate the damage of beam-to-column welded joints, and can be subsequently used for further investigation of the damage evolution law. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)

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