Materials

10 pages, 3626 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon-Bonded Alumina Filters Coated by Graphene Oxide for Water Treatment

by Ondřej Jankovský, Michal Lojka, Adéla Jiříčková, Christos G. Aneziris, Enrico Storti and David Sedmidubský

Materials 2020, 13(8), 2006; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13082006 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3523

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to prepare nano-functionalized ceramic foam filters from carbon-bonded alumina. The carbon-bonded filters were produced via the Schwartzwalder process using a two-step approach. The prepared ceramic foam filters were further coated using graphene oxide. Graphene oxide was prepared [...] Read more.

The aim of this paper is to prepare nano-functionalized ceramic foam filters from carbon-bonded alumina. The carbon-bonded filters were produced via the Schwartzwalder process using a two-step approach. The prepared ceramic foam filters were further coated using graphene oxide. Graphene oxide was prepared by the modified Tour method. The C/O of the graphene oxide ratio was evaluated by XPS, EDS and elemental analysis (EA). The amount and type of individual oxygen functionalities were characterized by XPS and Raman spectroscopy. The microstructure was studied by TEM, and XRD was used to evaluate the interlayer distance. In the next step, filters were coated by graphene oxide using dip-coating. After drying, the prepared composite filters were used for the purification of the water containing lead, zinc and cadmium ions. The efficiency of the sorption was very high, suggesting the potential use of these materials for the treatment of wastewater from heavy metals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Properties of Nano-Based Composites)

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16 pages, 3068 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Three-Dimensional Printed PLA and PLA/PHA Dumbbell-Shaped Specimens: Material Defects and Their Impact on Degradation Behavior

by Joanna Rydz, Jakub Włodarczyk, Jennifer Gonzalez Ausejo, Marta Musioł, Wanda Sikorska, Michał Sobota, Anna Hercog, Khadar Duale and Henryk Janeczek

Materials 2020, 13(8), 2005; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13082005 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4990

Abstract

The use of (bio)degradable polymers, especially in medical applications, requires a proper understanding of their properties and behavior in various environments. Structural elements made of such polymers may be exposed to changing environmental conditions, which may cause defects. That is why it is [...] Read more.

The use of (bio)degradable polymers, especially in medical applications, requires a proper understanding of their properties and behavior in various environments. Structural elements made of such polymers may be exposed to changing environmental conditions, which may cause defects. That is why it is so important to determine the effect of processing conditions on polymer properties and also their subsequent behavior during degradation. This paper presents original research on a specimen’s damage during 70 days of hydrolytic degradation. During a standard hydrolytic degradation study of polylactide and polylactide/polyhydroxyalkanoate dumbbell-shaped specimens obtained by 3D printing with two different processing build directions, exhibited unexpected shrinkage phenomena in the last degradation series, representing approximately 50% of the length of the specimens irrespective of the printing direction. Therefore, the continuation of previous ex-ante research of advanced polymer materials is presented to identify any possible defects before they arise and to minimize the potential failures of novel polymer products during their use and also during degradation. Studies on the impact of a specific processing method, i.e., processing parameters and conditions, on the properties expressed in molar mass and thermal properties changes of specimens obtained by three-dimensional printing from polyester-based filaments, and in particular on the occurrence of unexpected shrinkage phenomena after post-processing heat treatment, are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Novel Biodegradable Polymeric Materials)

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11 pages, 3543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical and Damping Properties of Recycled Aggregate Concrete Modified with Air-Entraining Agent and Polypropylene Fiber

by Chonggang Zhou, Xingwang Pei, Wenlong Li and Yijun Liu

Materials 2020, 13(8), 2004; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13082004 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2982

Abstract

In this study, recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) modified with polypropylene fiber (PP) and air-entraining agent (AGA) was prepared, and the effects of PP and AGA on the static (compressive strength, Young’s modulus, and splitting tensile strength) and dynamic properties (dynamic modulus of elasticity [...] Read more.

In this study, recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) modified with polypropylene fiber (PP) and air-entraining agent (AGA) was prepared, and the effects of PP and AGA on the static (compressive strength, Young’s modulus, and splitting tensile strength) and dynamic properties (dynamic modulus of elasticity and damping ratio) of RAC were investigated. The experimental results showed that the addition of an AGA and PP had a favorable effect on the damping ratio of the concrete, however, the addition of the AGA had a slightly negative effect on the mechanical performance of the concrete. The AGA and PP contents required to achieve the optimum damping ratio of the concrete with the least reduction in the mechanical performance were 0.02% and 0.10%, respectively. Furthermore, the addition of AGA was more effective than that of PP in improving the damping property of the concrete. Full article

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

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19 pages, 10289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Tests, FEM Constitutive Modeling and Validation of PLGA Bioresorbable Polymer for Stent Applications

by Jakub Bukala, Piotr P. Buszman, Jerzy Małachowski, Lukasz Mazurkiewicz and Kamil Sybilski

Materials 2020, 13(8), 2003; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13082003 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4555

Abstract

The use of bioresorbable polymers such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) in coronary stents can hypothetically reduce the risk of complications (e.g., restenosis, thrombosis) after percutaneous coronary intervention. However, there is a need for a constitutive modeling strategy that combines the simplicity of implementation [...] Read more.

The use of bioresorbable polymers such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) in coronary stents can hypothetically reduce the risk of complications (e.g., restenosis, thrombosis) after percutaneous coronary intervention. However, there is a need for a constitutive modeling strategy that combines the simplicity of implementation with strain rate dependency. Here, a constitutive modeling methodology for PLGA comprising numerical simulation using a finite element method is presented. First, the methodology and results of PLGA experimental tests are presented, with a focus on tension tests of tubular-type specimens with different strain rates. Subsequently, the constitutive modeling methodology is proposed and described. Material model constants are determined based on the results of the experimental tests. Finally, the developed methodology is validated by experimental and numerical comparisons of stent free compression tests with various compression speeds. The validation results show acceptable correlation in terms of both quality and quantity. The proposed and validated constitutive modeling approach for the bioresorbable polymer provides a useful tool for the design and evaluation of bioresorbable stents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Structure, Dynamics and Mechanical Properties of Polymeric Materials)

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7 pages, 6298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vanadium-Oxide-Based Thin Films with Ultra-High Thermo-Optic Coefficients at 1550 nm and 2000 nm Wavelengths

by Mohamed Abdel-Rahman, Esam Bahidra and Ahmed Fauzi Abas

Materials 2020, 13(8), 2002; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13082002 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2555

Abstract

In this paper, the temperature-dependent dielectric properties of vanadium-sesquioxide-based thin films are studied to assess their suitability for thermally tunable filters at optical communication wavelengths. Spectroscopic ellipsometry is utilized to measure the optical constants of vanadium oxide thin films at temperatures ranging from [...] Read more.

In this paper, the temperature-dependent dielectric properties of vanadium-sesquioxide-based thin films are studied to assess their suitability for thermally tunable filters at optical communication wavelengths. Spectroscopic ellipsometry is utilized to measure the optical constants of vanadium oxide thin films at temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 65 °C. High thermo-optic coefficients (dn/dTs) were observed. The highest dn/dTs, measured at approximately 40 °C, were −8.4 × 10⁻³/°C and −1.05 × 10⁻²/°C at 1550 nm and 2000 nm, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials for Photonics and Photovoltaics Applications)

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14 pages, 1664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chloride Diffusion in Concrete Protected with a Silane-Based Corrosion Inhibitor

by Luigi Coppola, Denny Coffetti, Elena Crotti, Gabriele Gazzaniga and Tommaso Pastore

Materials 2020, 13(8), 2001; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13082001 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3419

Abstract

One of the most important parameters concerning durability is undoubtedly represented by cement matrix resistance to chloride diffusion in environments where reinforced concrete structures are exposed to the corrosion risk induced by marine environment or de-icing salts. This paper deals with protection from [...] Read more.

One of the most important parameters concerning durability is undoubtedly represented by cement matrix resistance to chloride diffusion in environments where reinforced concrete structures are exposed to the corrosion risk induced by marine environment or de-icing salts. This paper deals with protection from chloride ingress by a silane-based surface-applied corrosion inhibitor. Results indicated that the corrosion inhibitor (CI) allows to reduce the penetration of chloride significantly compared to untreated specimens, independently of w/c, cement type, and dosage. Reduction of chloride diffusion coefficient (D_nssn) measured by an accelerated test in treated concrete was in the range 30–60%. Natural chloride diffusion test values indicate a sharp decrease in apparent diffusion coefficient (D_app) equal to about 75% when concrete is protected by CI. Mechanism of action of CI in slowing down the chloride penetration inside the cement matrix is basically due to the water repellent effect as confirmed by data of concrete bulk electrical resistivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion in Concrete: Inhibitors and Coatings)

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12 pages, 3381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Laser Structuring on Medical-Grade Titanium: Surface Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation of Osteoblast Attachment

by Kai Borcherding, Dennis Marx, Linda Gätjen, Uwe Specht, Dirk Salz, Karsten Thiel, Britt Wildemann and Ingo Grunwald

Materials 2020, 13(8), 2000; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13082000 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3130

Abstract

Improved implant osteointegration offers meaningful potential for orthopedic, spinal, and dental implants. In this study, a laser treatment was used for the structuring of a titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) surface combined with a titanium dioxide coating, whereby a porous surface was created. The objective [...] Read more.

Improved implant osteointegration offers meaningful potential for orthopedic, spinal, and dental implants. In this study, a laser treatment was used for the structuring of a titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) surface combined with a titanium dioxide coating, whereby a porous surface was created. The objective was to characterize the pore structure shape, treatment-related metallographic changes, cytocompatibility, and attachment of osteoblast-like cells (MG-63). The treatment generated specific bottleneck pore shapes, offering the potential for the interlocking of osteoblasts within undercuts in the implant surface. The pore dimensions were a bottleneck diameter of 27 µm (SD: 4 µm), an inner pore width of 78 µm (SD: 6 µm), and a pore depth of 129 µm (SD: 8 µm). The introduced energy of the laser changed the metallic structure of the alloy within the heat-affected region (approximately 66 µm) without any indication of a micro cracking formation. The phase of the alloy (microcrystalline alpha + beta) was changed to a martensite alpha phase in the surface region and an alpha + beta phase in the transition region between the pores. The MG-63 cells adhered to the structured titanium surface within 30 min and grew with numerous filopodia over and into the pores over the following days. Cell viability was improved on the structured surface compared to pure titanium, indicating good cytocompatibility. In particular, the demonstrated affinity of MG-63 cells to grow into the pores offers the potential to provide significantly improved implant fixation in further in vivo studies. Full article

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10 pages, 2927 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Graphene/In₂O₃ Nanocubes Preparation and Selective Electrochemical Detection for L-Lysine of Camellia nitidissima Chi

by Jinsheng Cheng, Sheng Zhong, Weihong Wan, Xiaoyuan Chen, Ali Chen and Ying Cheng

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1999; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081999 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2519

Abstract

In this work, novel graphene/In₂O₃ (GR/In₂O₃) nanocubes were prepared via one-pot solvothermal treatment, reduction reaction, and successive annealing technology at 600 °C step by step. Interestingly, In₂O₃ with featured cubic morphology was observed [...] Read more.

In this work, novel graphene/In₂O₃ (GR/In₂O₃) nanocubes were prepared via one-pot solvothermal treatment, reduction reaction, and successive annealing technology at 600 °C step by step. Interestingly, In₂O₃ with featured cubic morphology was observed to grow on multi-layered graphene nanosheets, forming novel GR/In₂O₃ nanocubes. The resulting nanocomposites were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), etc. Further investigations demonstrated that a selective electrochemical sensor based on the prepared GR/In₂O₃ nanocubes can be achieved. By using the prepared GR/In₂O₃-based electrochemical sensor, the enantioselective and chem-selective performance, as well as the optimal conditions for L-Lysine detection in Camellia nitidissima Chi, were evaluated. The experimental results revealed that the GR/In₂O₃ nanocube-based electrochemical sensor showed good chiral recognition features for L-lysine in Camellia nitidissima Chi with a linear range of 0.23–30 μmol·L⁻¹, together with selectivity and anti-interference properties for other different amino acids in Camellia nitidissima Chi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Carbon Materials)

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9 pages, 1603 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Biphenyl Wrinkled Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for pH-Responsive Doxorubicin Drug Delivery

by Jason Lin, Chuanqi Peng, Sanjana Ravi, A. K. M. Nur Alam Siddiki, Jie Zheng and Kenneth J. Balkus, Jr.

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1998; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081998 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4572

Abstract

Biphenyl wrinkled mesoporous silica nanoparticles with controlled particle size and high surface area were evaluated for the storage and delivery of doxorubicin. The average particle size and surface area were ~70 nm and ~1100 m²/g. The doxorubicin loading efficiency was 38.2 [...] Read more.

Biphenyl wrinkled mesoporous silica nanoparticles with controlled particle size and high surface area were evaluated for the storage and delivery of doxorubicin. The average particle size and surface area were ~70 nm and ~1100 m²/g. The doxorubicin loading efficiency was 38.2 ± 1.5 (w/w)% and the release was pH dependent. The breast cancer cell line, MCF-7 (Michigan Cancer Foundation-7) was used for the in vitro drug release study. The cytotoxicity of doxorubicin-loaded nanoparticles was significantly higher than free doxorubicin. Fluorescence images showed biphenyl wrinkled mesoporous silica (BPWS) uptake by the MCF-7 cells. The biphenyl bridged wrinkled silica nanoparticles appear promising for hydrophobic drug loading and delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Potential Use in Healthcare )

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9 pages, 799 KiB

Open AccessArticle

3-D Printed Protective Equipment during COVID-19 Pandemic

by Christian Wesemann, Stefano Pieralli, Tobias Fretwurst, Julian Nold, Katja Nelson, Rainer Schmelzeisen, Elmar Hellwig and Benedikt Christopher Spies

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1997; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081997 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 9389

Abstract

While the number of coronavirus cases from 2019 continues to grow, hospitals are reporting shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline healthcare workers. Furthermore, PPE for the eyes and mouth, such as face shields, allow for additional protection when working with aerosols. [...] Read more.

While the number of coronavirus cases from 2019 continues to grow, hospitals are reporting shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline healthcare workers. Furthermore, PPE for the eyes and mouth, such as face shields, allow for additional protection when working with aerosols. 3-D printing enables the easy and rapid production of lightweight plastic frameworks based on open-source data. The practicality and clinical suitability of four face shields printed using a fused deposition modeling printer were examined. The weight, printing time, and required tools for assembly were evaluated. To assess the clinical suitability, each face shield was worn for one hour by 10 clinicians and rated using a visual analogue scale. The filament weight (21–42 g) and printing time (1:40–3:17 h) differed significantly between the four frames. Likewise, the fit, wearing comfort, space for additional PPE, and protection varied between the designs. For clinical suitability, a chosen design should allow sufficient space for goggles and N95 respirators as well as maximum coverage of the facial area. Consequently, two datasets are recommended. For the final selection of the ideal dataset to be used for printing, scalability and economic efficiency need to be carefully balanced with an acceptable degree of protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Trends in Dental Materials)

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19 pages, 6675 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Mixed Doping on the Microstructure and Electrophysical Parameters of the Multicomponent PZT-Type Ceramics

by Dariusz Bochenek, Przemysław Niemiec and Grzegorz Dercz

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1996; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081996 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3162

Abstract

This work shows the influence of admixture on the basic properties of the multicomponent PbZr_1−xTi_xO₃ (PZT)-type ceramics. It presents the results of four compositions of PZT-type material with the general chemical formula, Pb_0.99M_0.01((Zr_0.49 [...] Read more.

This work shows the influence of admixture on the basic properties of the multicomponent PbZr_1−xTi_xO₃ (PZT)-type ceramics. It presents the results of four compositions of PZT-type material with the general chemical formula, Pb_0.99M_0.01((Zr_0.49Ti_0.51)_0.95Mn_0.021Sb_0.016W_0.013)_0.9975O₃, where, in the M position, a donor admixture was introduced, i.e., samarium (Sm³⁺), gadolinium (Gd³⁺), dysprosium (Dy³⁺) or lanthanum (La³⁺). The compositions of the PZT-type ceramics were obtained through the classic ceramic method, as a result of the synthesis of simple oxides. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern studies showed that the obtained multicomponent PZT materials have a tetragonal structure with a P4mm point group. The microstructure of the obtained compositions is characterized by a well crystallized grain, with clearly visible grain boundaries. The composition with the admixture of lanthanum has the highest uniformity of fine grain microstructure, which positively affects its final dielectric and piezoelectric properties. In the multicomponent PZT-type ceramic, materials utilize the mixed (acceptor and donor) doping of the main compound. This dopiong method has a positive effect on the set of the electrophysical parameters of ceramic materials. Donor dopants W⁶⁺ (at positions B) and M³⁺ = Sm³⁺, Gd³⁺, Dy³⁺, and La³⁺ (at positions A) increase the dielectric and piezoelectric properties, while the acceptor dopant Sb³⁺ (at positions B) increases the time and temperature stability of the electrophysical parameters. In addition, the suitable selection of the set of admixtures improved the sinterability of the ceramic samples, as well as resulted in obtaining the required material with good piezoelectric parameters for the poling process. This research confirms that all ceramic compositions have a set of parameters suitable for applications in micromechatronics, for example, as actuators, piezoelectric transducers, and precision microswitches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Electrophysical Properties of Ceramic Materials)

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13 pages, 5011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Situ Ternary Boride: Effects on Densification Process and Mechanical Properties of WC-Co Composite Coating

by Junfeng Bao, Yueguang Yu, Bowen Liu, Chengchang Jia and Chao Wu

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1995; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081995 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2347

Abstract

New coatings resistant to corrosion in high-temperature molten zinc aluminum were prepared by supersonic flame spraying of various composite powders. These composite powders were prepared by mixing, granulation, and heat treatment of various proportions of Mo–B₄C powder and WC and Co [...] Read more.

New coatings resistant to corrosion in high-temperature molten zinc aluminum were prepared by supersonic flame spraying of various composite powders. These composite powders were prepared by mixing, granulation, and heat treatment of various proportions of Mo–B₄C powder and WC and Co powder. X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF–STEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and mechanical analysis were used to study the effects of Mo–B₄C on the microstructure, phase, porosity, bonding strength, and elastic modulus of the composite powder and coating. Results show that the addition of an appropriate quantity of Mo–B₄C reacts with Co to form ternary borides CoMo₂B₂ and CoMoB. Ternary boride forms a perfect continuous interface, improving the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance property of the coating. When the amount of Mo–B₄C added was 35.2%, the mechanical properties of the prepared coating reached optimal values: minimum porosity of 0.31 ± 0.15%, coating bonding strength of 77.81 ± 1.77 MPa, nanoindentation hardness of 20.12 ± 1.85 GPa, Young’s modulus of 281.52 ± 30.22 GPa, and fracture toughness of 6.38 ± 0.45 MPa·m^1/2. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

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18 pages, 5664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance of Ceramic-Metal Composites as Potential Tool Materials for Friction Stir Welding of Aluminium, Copper and Stainless Steel

by Mart Kolnes, Jakob Kübarsepp, Fjodor Sergejev, Märt Kolnes, Marek Tarraste and Mart Viljus

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1994; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081994 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3600

Abstract

The aim of the research was to disclose the performance of ceramic-metal composites, in particular TiC-based cermets and WC-Co hardmetals, as tool materials for friction stir welding (FSW) of aluminium alloys, stainless steels and copper. The model tests were used to study the [...] Read more.

The aim of the research was to disclose the performance of ceramic-metal composites, in particular TiC-based cermets and WC-Co hardmetals, as tool materials for friction stir welding (FSW) of aluminium alloys, stainless steels and copper. The model tests were used to study the wear of tools during cutting of metallic workpiece materials. The primary focus was on the performance and degradation mechanism of tool materials during testing under conditions simulating the FSW process, in particular the welding process temperature. Carbide composites were produced using a common press-and-sinter powder metallurgy technique. The model tests were performed on a universal lathe at the cutting speeds enabling cutting temperatures comparable the temperatures of the FSW of aluminium alloys, stainless steels and pure copper. The wear rate of tools was evaluated as the shortening of the length of the cutting tool nose tip and reaction diffusion tests were performed for better understanding of the diffusion-controlled processes during tool degradation (wear). It was concluded that cermets, in particular TiC-NiMo with 75–80 wt.% TiC, show the highest performance in tests with counterparts from aluminium alloy and austenitic stainless steel. On the other hand, in the model tests with copper workpiece, WC-Co hardmetals, in particular composites with 90–94 wt.% WC, outperform most of TiC-based cermet, including TiC-NiMo. Tools from ceramic-metal composites wear most commonly by mechanisms based on adhesion and diffusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Progresses in the Development, Microstructure and Properties of Ceramic-Metal Composites (Cermets))

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14 pages, 40301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Method for Instant Estimation of the Temperature Experienced by Fire-Damaged Reinforced Concrete Structures Using Titanium

by Sang-Rak Sim and Dong-Woo Ryu

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1993; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081993 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2425

Abstract

When a concrete structure is exposed to fire, its structural safety is significantly compromised due to the spalling of members and scaling of concrete. In addition, its durability is substantially reduced due to certain chemical changes such as the dehydration of Ca(OH)₂ [...] Read more.

When a concrete structure is exposed to fire, its structural safety is significantly compromised due to the spalling of members and scaling of concrete. In addition, its durability is substantially reduced due to certain chemical changes such as the dehydration of Ca(OH)₂, the main hydration product of concrete, and the rehydration of CaO. Therefore, when fire damage occurs to a reinforced concrete (RC) building, rapid diagnosis and evaluation techniques are required for immediate repair and reinforcement, requiring a crucial step of quantitatively determining the heating temperature. This study aims to demonstrate a method of estimating the heating temperature experienced by fire damaged RC buildings. The experiments utilized two short RC column specimens with embedded titanium strips. The discoloration characteristics of titanium at high temperatures provided a quick, accurate, and simple mechanism for the estimation of the heating temperature by depth. Empirical equations were derived to estimate the heating temperature as a function of the discoloration characteristics of titanium. Thereafter, a comparison of this estimated temperature with the actual heating temperature measured using thermocouples revealed an average error of less than 20 °C, thereby demonstrating a significantly good correlation and an extremely high reliability of the proposed method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Health Monitoring for Civil Engineering Materials)

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11 pages, 5837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bone Regeneration in Critical-Sized Bone Defects Treated with Additively Manufactured Porous Metallic Biomaterials: The Effects of Inelastic Mechanical Properties

by Marianne Koolen, Saber Amin Yavari, Karel Lietaert, Ruben Wauthle, Amir A. Zadpoor and Harrie Weinans

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1992; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081992 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4028

Abstract

Additively manufactured (AM) porous metallic biomaterials, in general, and AM porous titanium, in particular, have recently emerged as promising candidates for bone substitution. The porous design of such materials allows for mimicking the elastic mechanical properties of native bone tissue and showed to [...] Read more.

Additively manufactured (AM) porous metallic biomaterials, in general, and AM porous titanium, in particular, have recently emerged as promising candidates for bone substitution. The porous design of such materials allows for mimicking the elastic mechanical properties of native bone tissue and showed to be effective in improving bone regeneration. It is, however, not clear what role the other mechanical properties of the bulk material such as ductility play in the performance of such biomaterials. In this study, we compared the bone tissue regeneration performance of AM porous biomaterials made from the commonly used titanium alloy Ti6Al4V-ELI with that of commercially pure titanium (CP-Ti). CP-Ti was selected because of its high ductility as compared to Ti6Al4V-ELI. Critical-sized (6 mm diameter) femoral defects in rats were treated with implants made from both Ti6Al4V-ELI and CP-Ti. Bone regeneration was assessed up to 11 weeks using micro-CT scanning. The regenerated bone volume was assessed ex vivo followed by histology and biomechanical testing to assess osseointegration of the implants. The bony defects treated with AM CP-Ti implants generally showed higher volumes of regenerated bone as compared to those treated with AM Ti6Al4V-ELI. The torsional strength of the two titanium groups were similar however, and both considerably lower than those measured for intact bony tissue. These findings show the importance of material type and ductility of the bulk material in the ability for bone tissue regeneration of AM porous biomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctional Coatings for Bone Regenerative Medicine)

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12 pages, 1848 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CuSCN as the Back Contact for Efficient ZMO/CdTe Solar Cells

by Deng-Bing Li, Zhaoning Song, Sandip S. Bista, Fadhil K. Alfadhili, Rasha A. Awni, Niraj Shrestha, DeMilt Rhiannon, Adam B. Phillips, Michael J. Heben, Randy J. Ellingson, Feng Yan and Yanfa Yan

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1991; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081991 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4591

Abstract

The replacement of traditional CdS with zinc magnesium oxide (ZMO) has been demonstrated as being helpful to boost power conversion efficiency of cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells to over 18%, due to the reduced interface recombination and parasitic light absorption by the buffer [...] Read more.

The replacement of traditional CdS with zinc magnesium oxide (ZMO) has been demonstrated as being helpful to boost power conversion efficiency of cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells to over 18%, due to the reduced interface recombination and parasitic light absorption by the buffer layer. However, due to the atmosphere sensitivity of ZMO film, the post treatments of ZMO/CdTe stacks, including CdCl₂ treatment, back contact deposition, etc., which are critical for high-performance CdTe solar cells became crucial challenges. To realize the full potential of the ZMO buffer layer, plenty of investigations need to be accomplished. Here, copper thiocyanate (CuSCN) is demonstrated to be a suitable back-contact material with multi-advantages for ZMO/CdTe solar cells. Particularly, ammonium hydroxide as the solvent for CuSCN deposition shows no detrimental impact on the ZMO layer during the post heat treatment. The post annealing temperature as well as the thickness of CuSCN films are investigated. Finally, a champion power conversion efficiency of 16.7% is achieved with an open-circuit voltage of 0.857 V, a short-circuit current density of 26.2 mA/cm², and a fill factor of 74.0%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) Thin Film Photovoltaic Solar Cells)

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10 pages, 1637 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digitization of One-Piece Oral Implants: A Feasibility Study

by Stefano Pieralli, Benedikt Christopher Spies, Luisa Valentina Kohnen, Florian Beuer and Christian Wesemann

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1990; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081990 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3132

Abstract

For digital impression-making of two-piece oral implants, scan bodies are used to transfer the exact intraoral implant position to the dental laboratory. In this in vitro investigation, the accuracy of digitizing a one-piece ceramic oral implant without a scan body (OC) was compared [...] Read more.

For digital impression-making of two-piece oral implants, scan bodies are used to transfer the exact intraoral implant position to the dental laboratory. In this in vitro investigation, the accuracy of digitizing a one-piece ceramic oral implant without a scan body (OC) was compared to that of a standard two-piece titanium implant with a scan body (TT) and a preparation of a natural single tooth (ST). Furthermore, incomplete scans of OC simulating clinical compromising situations (OC_1–4) were redesigned using a virtual reconstruction tool (RT) and superimposed to OC. OC and TT oral implants and one ST were inserted into a mandible typodont model and digitized (N = 13) using two different intraoral scanners. The resulting virtual datasets were superimposed onto a three-dimensional (3D) laser scanner-based reference. Test and reference groups were aligned using an inspection software according to a best-fit algorithm, and circumferential as well as marginal discrepancies were measured. For the statistical evaluation, multivariate analyses of variance with post-hoc Tukey tests and students t-tests to compare both scanners were performed. A total of 182 datasets were analyzed. For circumferential deviations, no significant differences were found between ST, TT, and OC (p > 0.964), but increased deviations for OC_1–4 (p < 0.001) were observed. The measurements of the marginal deviations revealed that ST had the smallest deviations, and that there were no significant differences between TT, OC, and OC_1–4 (p > 0.979). Except for marginal deviation of OC (p < 0.001), the outcome was not affected by the scanner. Within the limitations of this study, digitization of OC is as accurate as that of TT, but less than that of ST. In the case of known geometries, post-processing of compromised scans with a virtual reconstruction results in accurate data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Future Trends in Dental Materials)

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16 pages, 4418 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modulation of Entrapment Efficiency and In Vitro Release Properties of BSA-Loaded Chitosan Microparticles Cross-Linked with Citric Acid as a Potential Protein–Drug Delivery System

by Natalia Sedyakina, Andrey Kuskov, Kelly Velonia, Nataliya Feldman, Sergey Lutsenko and Grigory Avramenko

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1989; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081989 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4610

Abstract

Microparticles, aimed for oral protein and peptide drug delivery, were prepared via emulsion cross-linking using citric acid as cross-linker and polyglycerol polyricinoleate as surfactant. A comparative study of the interaction between chitosan and citric acid and its effect on the resulting microparticle properties [...] Read more.

Microparticles, aimed for oral protein and peptide drug delivery, were prepared via emulsion cross-linking using citric acid as cross-linker and polyglycerol polyricinoleate as surfactant. A comparative study of the interaction between chitosan and citric acid and its effect on the resulting microparticle properties was performed using different chitosan-to-cross-linker mass ratios and pH-values during fabrication of the microparticles. Non-cross-linked and cross-linked microparticles were studied in terms of size (4–12 μm), zeta potential (−15.7 to 12.8 mV), erosion (39.7–75.6%), a model protein encapsulation efficiency (bovine serum albumin) (6.8–27.6%), and loading capacity (10.4–40%). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction confirmed the ionic interaction between the protonated amine groups of chitosan and the carboxylate ions of the cross-linking agent. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the non-cross-linked microparticles had an uneven shape with wrinkled surfaces, while the cross-linked formulations were spherical in shape with smooth surfaces. On the basis of these data, the role of the surfactant and microparticle structure on the release mechanism was proposed. Control of the microparticle shape and release mechanisms is expected to be crucial in developing carriers for the controlled delivery of proteins and peptides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Drug Delivery Application)

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15 pages, 3527 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Analytical Thermal Modeling of Powder Bed Metal Additive Manufacturing Considering Powder Size Variation and Packing

by Jinqiang Ning, Wenjia Wang, Xuan Ning, Daniel E. Sievers, Hamid Garmestani and Steven Y. Liang

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1988; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081988 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4772

Abstract

This work presents a computationally efficient predictive model based on solid heat transfer for temperature profiles in powder bed metal additive manufacturing (PBMAM) considering the heat transfer boundary condition and powder material properties. A point moving heat source model is used for the [...] Read more.

This work presents a computationally efficient predictive model based on solid heat transfer for temperature profiles in powder bed metal additive manufacturing (PBMAM) considering the heat transfer boundary condition and powder material properties. A point moving heat source model is used for the three-dimensional temperature prediction in an absolute coordinate. The heat loss from convection and radiation is calculated using a heat sink solution with a mathematically discretized boundary considering non-uniform temperatures and heat loss at the boundary. Powder material properties are calculated considering powder size statistical distribution and powder packing. The spatially uniform and temperature-independent material properties are employed in the temperature prediction. The presented model was tested in PBMAM of AlSi10Mg under different process conditions. The calculations of material properties are needed for AlSi10Mg because of the significant difference in thermal conductivity between powder form and solid bulk form. Close agreement is observed upon experimental validation on the molten pool dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Metal Additive Manufacturing)

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12 pages, 3067 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Porous Silicon-Zinc Oxide Nanocomposites Prepared by Atomic Layer Deposition for Biophotonic Applications

by Mykola Pavlenko, Valerii Myndrul, Gloria Gottardi, Emerson Coy, Mariusz Jancelewicz and Igor Iatsunskyi

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1987; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081987 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4109

Abstract

In the current research, a porous silicon/zinc oxide (PSi/ZnO) nanocomposite produced by a combination of metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) and atomic layer deposition (ALD) methods is presented. The applicability of the composite for biophotonics (optical biosensing) was investigated. To characterize the structural and [...] Read more.

In the current research, a porous silicon/zinc oxide (PSi/ZnO) nanocomposite produced by a combination of metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) and atomic layer deposition (ALD) methods is presented. The applicability of the composite for biophotonics (optical biosensing) was investigated. To characterize the structural and optical properties of the produced PSi/ZnO nanocomposites, several studies were performed: scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), diffuse reflectance, and photoluminescence (PL). It was found that the ALD ZnO layer fully covers the PSi, and it possesses a polycrystalline wurtzite structure. The effect of the number of ALD cycles and the type of Si doping on the optical properties of nanocomposites was determined. PL measurements showed a “shoulder-shape” emission in the visible range. The mechanisms of the observed PL were discussed. It was demonstrated that the improved PL performance of the PSi/ZnO nanocomposites could be used for implementation in optical biosensor applications. Furthermore, the produced PSi/ZnO nanocomposite was tested for optical/PL biosensing towards mycotoxins (Aflatoxin B1) detection, confirming the applicability of the nanocomposites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctional Nanostructured Silicon Composites)

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20 pages, 3725 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modern Biodegradable Plastics—Processing and Properties: Part I

by Janusz Sikora, Łukasz Majewski and Andrzej Puszka

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1986; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081986 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6458

Abstract

This paper presents a characterization of a plastic extrusion process and the selected properties of three biodegradable plastic types, in comparison with LDPE (low-density polyethylene). The four plastics include: LDPE, commercial name Malen E FABS 23-D022; potato starch based plastic (TPS-P), BIOPLAST GF [...] Read more.

This paper presents a characterization of a plastic extrusion process and the selected properties of three biodegradable plastic types, in comparison with LDPE (low-density polyethylene). The four plastics include: LDPE, commercial name Malen E FABS 23-D022; potato starch based plastic (TPS-P), BIOPLAST GF 106/02; corn starch based plastic (TPS-C), BioComp^®BF 01HP; and a polylactic acid (polylactide) plastic (PLA), BioComp^®BF 7210. Plastic films with determined geometric parameters (thickness of the foil layer and width of the flattened foil sleeve) were produced from these materials (at individually defined processing temperatures), using blown film extrusion, by applying different extrusion screw speeds. The produced plastic films were tested to determine the geometrical features, MFR (melt flow rate), blow-up ratio, draw down ratio, mass flow rate, and exit velocity. The tests were complemented by thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, and chemical structure analysis. It was found that the biodegradable films were extruded at higher rate and mass flow rate than LDPE; the lowest thermal stability was ascertained for the film samples extruded from TPS-C and TPS-P, and that all tested biodegradable plastics contained polyethylene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processing, Structure, Dynamics and Mechanical Properties of Polymeric Materials)

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21 pages, 3730 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Functionality Bio-Polyols from Tall Oil and Rigid Polyurethane Foams Formulated Solely Using Bio-Polyols

by Mikelis Kirpluks, Edgars Vanags, Arnis Abolins, Slawomir Michalowski, Anda Fridrihsone and Ugis Cabulis

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1985; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081985 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 6020

Abstract

High-quality rigid polyurethane (PU) foam thermal insulation material has been developed solely using bio-polyols synthesized from second-generation bio-based feedstock. High functionality bio-polyols were synthesized from cellulose production side stream—tall oil fatty acids by oxirane ring-opening as well as esterification reactions with different polyfunctional [...] Read more.

High-quality rigid polyurethane (PU) foam thermal insulation material has been developed solely using bio-polyols synthesized from second-generation bio-based feedstock. High functionality bio-polyols were synthesized from cellulose production side stream—tall oil fatty acids by oxirane ring-opening as well as esterification reactions with different polyfunctional alcohols, such as diethylene glycol, trimethylolpropane, triethanolamine, and diethanolamine. Four different high functionality bio-polyols were combined with bio-polyol obtained from tall oil esterification with triethanolamine to develop rigid PU foam formulations applicable as thermal insulation material. The developed formulations were optimized using response surface modeling to find optimal bio-polyol and physical blowing agent: c-pentane content. The optimized bio-based rigid PU foam formulations delivered comparable thermal insulation properties to the petro-chemical alternative. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Performance Research of Polyurethane Foams and Composites)

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16 pages, 2356 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nonlinear Buckling Behavior of Spiral Corrugated Sandwich FGM Cylindrical Shells Surrounded by an Elastic Medium

by Vu Tho Hung, Dang Thuy Dong, Nguyen Thi Phuong, Le Ngoc Ly, Tran Quang Minh, Nguyen-Thoi Trung and Vu Hoai Nam

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1984; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081984 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3038

Abstract

This paper presents a semi-analytical approach for investigating the nonlinear buckling and postbuckling of spiral corrugated sandwich functionally graded (FGM) cylindrical shells under external pressure and surrounded by a two-parameter elastic foundation based on Donnell shell theory. The improved homogenization theory for the [...] Read more.

This paper presents a semi-analytical approach for investigating the nonlinear buckling and postbuckling of spiral corrugated sandwich functionally graded (FGM) cylindrical shells under external pressure and surrounded by a two-parameter elastic foundation based on Donnell shell theory. The improved homogenization theory for the spiral corrugated FGM structure is applied and the geometrical nonlinearity in a von Karman sense is taken into account. The nonlinear equilibrium equation system can be solved by using the Galerkin method with the three-term solution form of deflection. An explicit solution form for the nonlinear buckling behavior of shells is obtained. The critical buckling pressure and the postbuckling strength of shells are numerically investigated. Additionally, the effects of spiral corrugation in enhancing the nonlinear buckling behavior of spiral corrugated sandwich FGM cylindrical shells are validated and discussed. Full article

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13 pages, 10298 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effects of Mn, Zn Additions and Cooling Rate on Mechanical and Corrosion Properties of Al-4.6Mg Casting Alloys

by Chih-Ting Wu, Sheng-Long Lee, Ye-Feng Chen, Hui-Yun Bor and Kung-Hui Liu

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1983; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081983 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2737

Abstract

The mechanical properties of the Al-Mg alloy can be enhanced by adding metallic elements, but a continuous distribution of precipitates at grain boundaries leads to intergranular corrosion during sensitization treatment. In the present work, Mn, Zn additions, water cooling and furnace cooling were [...] Read more.

The mechanical properties of the Al-Mg alloy can be enhanced by adding metallic elements, but a continuous distribution of precipitates at grain boundaries leads to intergranular corrosion during sensitization treatment. In the present work, Mn, Zn additions, water cooling and furnace cooling were executed to investigate their effects on the mechanical and corrosion properties of the Al-4.6Mg alloy. Our results show that adding Mn to Al-4.6Mg alloys may produce grain refinement and dispersion strengthening, increasing tensile strength and hardness. The presence of Mn did not affect the corrosion resistance of Al-Mg alloys. Adding Zn to the Al-4.6Mg alloy increased tensile strength and hardness, but decreased corrosion resistance. Combined, the addition of Mn and Zn to the Al-4.6Mg alloy exhibited the highest tensile strength and hardness, but seriously reduced corrosion resistance. Furnace cooling substituted for water quenching could avoid intergranular corrosion, but slightly decreased the tensile strength and hardness by 7.0% and 6.8%, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Surface Treatment Technologies for Metallic Alloys)

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27 pages, 1356 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dislocation Density Based Flow Stress Model Applied to the PFEM Simulation of Orthogonal Cutting Processes of Ti-6Al-4V

by Juan Manuel Rodríguez, Simon Larsson, Josep Maria Carbonell and Pär Jonsén

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1979; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081979 - 24 Apr 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4224

Abstract

Machining of metals is an essential operation in the manufacturing industry. Chip formation in metal cutting is associated with large plastic strains, large deformations, high strain rates and high temperatures, mainly located in the primary and in the secondary shear zones. During the [...] Read more.

Machining of metals is an essential operation in the manufacturing industry. Chip formation in metal cutting is associated with large plastic strains, large deformations, high strain rates and high temperatures, mainly located in the primary and in the secondary shear zones. During the last decades, there has been significant progress in numerical methods and constitutive modeling for machining operations. In this work, the Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM) together with a dislocation density (DD) constitutive model are introduced to simulate the machining of Ti-6Al-4V. The work includes a study of two constitutive models for the titanium material, the physically based plasticity DD model and the phenomenology based Johnson–Cook model. Both constitutive models were implemented into an in-house PFEM software and setup to simulate deformation behaviour of titanium Ti6Al4V during an orthogonal cutting process. Validation show that numerical and experimental results are in agreement for different cutting speeds and feeds. The dislocation density model, although it needs more thorough calibration, shows an excellent match with the results. This paper shows that the combination of PFEM together with a dislocation density constitutive model is an excellent candidate for future numerical simulations of mechanical cutting. Full article

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

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18 pages, 2598 KiB

Open AccessReview

3D Digital Impression Systems Compared with Traditional Techniques in Dentistry: A Recent Data Systematic Review

by Marco Cicciù, Luca Fiorillo, Cesare D’Amico, Dario Gambino, Emanuele Mario Amantia, Luigi Laino, Salvatore Crimi, Paola Campagna, Alberto Bianchi, Alan Scott Herford and Gabriele Cervino

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1982; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081982 - 23 Apr 2020

Cited by 82 | Viewed by 11030

Abstract

The advent of new technologies in the field of medicine and dentistry is giving improvements that lead the clinicians to have materials and procedures able to improve patients’ quality of life. In dentistry, the last digital techniques offer a fully digital computerized workflow [...] Read more.

The advent of new technologies in the field of medicine and dentistry is giving improvements that lead the clinicians to have materials and procedures able to improve patients’ quality of life. In dentistry, the last digital techniques offer a fully digital computerized workflow that does not include the standard multiple traditional phases. The purpose of this study is to evaluate all clinical trials and clinical randomized trials related to the digital or dental impression technique in prosthetic dentistry trying to give the readers global information about advantages and disadvantages of each procedure. Data collection was conducted in the main scientific search engines, including articles from the last 10 years, in order to obtain results that do not concern obsolete impression techniques. Elsevier, Pubmed and Embase have been screened as sources for performing the research. The results data demonstrated how the working time appears to be improved with digital workflow, but without a significant result (P = 0.72596). The papers have been selected following the Population Intervention Comparison Outcome (PICO) question, which is related to the progress on dental impression materials and technique. The comparison between dentists or practitioners with respect to classic impression procedures, and students open to new device and digital techniques seem to be the key factor on the final impression technique choice. Surely, digital techniques will end up supplanting the analogical ones altogether, improving the quality of oral rehabilitations, the economics of dental practice and also the perception by our patients. Full article

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

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16 pages, 4657 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Residual Compressive Strength of Recycled Aggregate Concretes after High Temperature Exposure

by Francisco B. Varona, Francisco Baeza-Brotons, Antonio J. Tenza-Abril, F. Javier Baeza and Luis Bañón

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1981; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081981 - 23 Apr 2020

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 3535

Abstract

Sustainability requirements are gaining importance in the construction industry, which needs to take specific measures in the design and construction of concrete structures. The use of recycled aggregates in concrete may be of special interest. Recycling a construction waste will close the life [...] Read more.

Sustainability requirements are gaining importance in the construction industry, which needs to take specific measures in the design and construction of concrete structures. The use of recycled aggregates in concrete may be of special interest. Recycling a construction waste will close the life cycle of the original materials (e.g., concrete). Thus, environmental benefits would come from the lower waste generation, and from a lower necessity of raw materials for new structures. The current Spanish code for structural concrete considers the use of recycled aggregates in replacement rates up to 20% by aggregate mass, assimilating their properties with those of concretes without aggregate replacement. Higher substitution percentages would require further testing. In this work, substitution of coarse aggregate for recycled aggregates (with replacement percentages of 25%, 50% and 100%) has been studied, and the concrete’s residual properties after exposure to high temperatures (between 350 °C and 850 °C) have been assessed. Compressive strength and capillary water absorption tests were made after heating, and the experiments showed higher residual strength in concretes with the greatest content of recycled aggregates. However, a statistical analysis made with additional data available in the literature seemed to predict otherwise, and the recycled aggregate replacement would have a negative effect on the residual strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of High Temperature on the Mechanical Properties of Concrete)

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14 pages, 3443 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Graphene Oxide Carboxymethylcellulose Nanocomposite for Dressing Materials

by Maria Luisa Saladino, Marta Markowska, Clara Carmone, Patrizia Cancemi, Rosa Alduina, Alessandro Presentato, Roberto Scaffaro, Dariusz Biały, Mariusz Hasiak, Dariusz Hreniak and Magdalena Wawrzyńska

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1980; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081980 - 23 Apr 2020

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4539

Abstract

Sore, infected wounds are a major clinical issue, and there is thus an urgent need for novel biomaterials as multifunctional constituents for dressings. A set of biocomposites was prepared by solvent casting using different concentrations of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and exfoliated graphene oxide ( [...] Read more.

Sore, infected wounds are a major clinical issue, and there is thus an urgent need for novel biomaterials as multifunctional constituents for dressings. A set of biocomposites was prepared by solvent casting using different concentrations of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and exfoliated graphene oxide (Exf-GO) as a filler. Exf-GO was first obtained by the strong oxidation and exfoliation of graphite. The structural, morphological and mechanical properties of the composites (CMCx/Exf-GO) were evaluated, and the obtained composites were homogenous, transparent and brownish in color. The results confirmed that Exf-GO may be homogeneously dispersed in CMC. It was found that the composite has an inhibitory activity against the Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, but not against Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa. At the same time, it does not exhibit any cytotoxic effect on normal fibroblasts. Full article

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

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11 pages, 1627 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electronic and Crystallographic Examinations of the Homoepitaxially Grown Rubrene Single Crystals

by Yasuo Nakayama, Masaki Iwashita, Mitsuru Kikuchi, Ryohei Tsuruta, Koki Yoshida, Yuki Gunjo, Yusuke Yabara, Takuya Hosokai, Tomoyuki Koganezawa, Seiichiro Izawa and Masahiro Hiramoto

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1978; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081978 - 23 Apr 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3639

Abstract

Homoepitaxial growth of organic semiconductor single crystals is a promising methodology toward the establishment of doping technology for organic opto-electronic applications. In this study, both electronic and crystallographic properties of homoepitaxially grown single crystals of rubrene were accurately examined. Undistorted lattice structures of [...] Read more.

Homoepitaxial growth of organic semiconductor single crystals is a promising methodology toward the establishment of doping technology for organic opto-electronic applications. In this study, both electronic and crystallographic properties of homoepitaxially grown single crystals of rubrene were accurately examined. Undistorted lattice structures of homoepitaxial rubrene were confirmed by high-resolution analyses of grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXD) using synchrotron radiation. Upon bulk doping of acceptor molecules into the homoepitaxial single crystals of rubrene, highly sensitive photoelectron yield spectroscopy (PYS) measurements unveiled a transition of the electronic states, from induction of hole states at the valence band maximum at an adequate doping ratio (10 ppm), to disturbance of the valence band itself for excessive ratios (≥ 1000 ppm), probably due to the lattice distortion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic Solar Cell and Optoelectronic Functional Materials)

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17 pages, 3208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biocompatible Gels of Chitosan–Buriti Oil for Potential Wound Healing Applications

by Maria Onaira Gonçalves Ferreira, Idglan Sá Lima, Alessandra Braga Ribeiro, Anderson O. Lobo, Marcia S. Rizzo, Josy Anteveli Osajima, Leticia Miranda Estevinho and Edson C. Silva-Filho

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1977; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081977 - 23 Apr 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3662

Abstract

The buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) can be associated with polymeric matrices for biomedical applications. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of chitosan gel (CG) associated with buriti oil (CGB) as a healing agent. The fatty acids and volatile compounds composition [...] Read more.

The buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) can be associated with polymeric matrices for biomedical applications. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of chitosan gel (CG) associated with buriti oil (CGB) as a healing agent. The fatty acids and volatile compounds composition of buriti oil were performed and the composite gels were characterized using FTIR and thermal analysis. Biological tests including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and healing effects were also investigated. Buriti oil is composed of oleic and palmitic acids, and the main volatile compounds were identified. The buriti oil did not show antimicrobial activity, on the other hand, the composite gel (chitosan and oil) proved to be efficient against Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia at the 10 mg/mL. Similar behavior was observed for antioxidant activity, determined by the β-carotene bleaching assay, composite gels presenting higher activity and buriti oil showed anti-inflammatory activity, which may be related to the inhibition of the release of free radicals. Regarding wound healing performed using in vivo testing, the composite gel (CGB) was found to promote faster and complete wound retraction. The results indicated that the gel chitosan–buriti oil has a set of properties that improve its antibacterial, antioxidant and healing action, suggesting that this material can be used to treat skin lesions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biopolymers for Technology Applications)

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