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Materials, Volume 15, Issue 6 (March-2 2022) – 357 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): This work reports on TiN-Ag antimicrobial coatings deposited by DC magnetron sputtering on leather for insoles on the footwear industry and studies involving the antimicrobial properties of these coatings. The XRD results suggested the presence of a crystalline fcc-TiN phase and a fcc-Ag phase in the samples containing silver. SEM analysis shows that coatings were homogeneous, and dispersed Ag clusters were found on samples with silver content above 8 at.%. ICP-OES spectrometry analysis showed that the ionization of silver over time depends on the morphology of coatings. The samples did not present cytotoxicity and only samples with silver presented antibacterial and antifungal activity, highlighting the potential of the TiN-Ag insole coatings for diseases such as diabetic foot. View this paper
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13 pages, 2279 KiB  
Article
Study of Compatibility and Flame Retardancy of TPU/PLA Composites
by Zusheng Hang, Zichun Lv, Liu Feng and Ben Liu
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2339; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062339 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3331
Abstract
In order to apply the rigid biodegradable PLA material for flexible toothbrush bristle products, in this paper, Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU) blends (TPU/PLA composites), with a mass ratio of 80:20, were prepared by the melt-blending method to achieve toughening [...] Read more.
In order to apply the rigid biodegradable PLA material for flexible toothbrush bristle products, in this paper, Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU) blends (TPU/PLA composites), with a mass ratio of 80:20, were prepared by the melt-blending method to achieve toughening modification. Infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance were used to investigate the effect of the compatibilizer, Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MAH), on the compatibility of the blends, and the effect of melamine on the flame retardant properties of the blends was further investigated. The results demonstrated that 3% PP-g-MAH had the best compatibility effect on PLA and TPU; the TPU/PLA composites have a better macromolecular motility and higher crystallization capacity in the amorphous regions through the physical and chemical action by using PP-g-MAH as a compatibilizer. By adding melamine as a flame retardant, the scorch wire ignition temperature of TPU/PLA composites can reach 830 °C, which was elevated by 80 °C compared with pure PLA; however, the flame retardant effect of melamine in a single system was not significant. Melamine acts as a flame retardant by absorbing heat through decomposition and diluting the combustible material by producing an inert gas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymeric Materials)
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13 pages, 58178 KiB  
Article
Design, Fabrication, and Mechanical Properties of T-700TM Multiaxial-Warp-Knitting–Needled–C/SiC Composite and Pin
by Xiao Luo, Jiangyi He, Xiaochong Liu, Youliang Xu, Jian Li, Xiaojun Guo, Qianru Wang and Longbiao Li
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2338; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062338 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2319
Abstract
In this paper, the 12k T-700TM Multiaxial-Warp-Knitting–Needle (MWK–N) C/SiC composite and pin were designed and fabricated using the isothermal chemical vapor infiltration (ICVI) method. The composite’s microstructure and mechanical properties were examined by subjection to tensile and interlaminar shear tests. Three types [...] Read more.
In this paper, the 12k T-700TM Multiaxial-Warp-Knitting–Needle (MWK–N) C/SiC composite and pin were designed and fabricated using the isothermal chemical vapor infiltration (ICVI) method. The composite’s microstructure and mechanical properties were examined by subjection to tensile and interlaminar shear tests. Three types of double-shear tests were conducted for C/SiC pins, including shear loading perpendicularly, along, and at 45° off-axial to the lamination. The fracture surface of the tensile and shear failure specimens was observed under scanning electronic microscope (SEM). The relationships between the composite’s microstructure, mechanical properties, and damage mechanisms were established. The composite’s average tensile strength was σuts = 68.3 MPa and the average interlaminar shear strength was τu = 38.7 MPa. For MWK–N–C/SiC pins, the double-shear strength was τu = 76.5 MPa, 99.7 MPa, and 79.6 MPa for test types I, II, and III, respectively. Compared with MWK–C/SiC pins, the double-shear strength of MWK–N–C/SiC pins all decreased, i.e., 26.7%, 50.8%, and 8% for test types I, II, and III, respectively. The MWK–N–C/SiC composite and pins possessed high interlaminar shear strength and double-shear strength, due to the needled fiber in the thickness direction, low porosity (10–15%), and high composite density (2.0 g/cm3). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Damage, Fracture and Fatigue of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs))
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10 pages, 1648 KiB  
Article
Effect of the P/Al Molar Ratio and Heating Rate on the Composi-Tion of Alumino-Phosphate Binders
by Grégory Tricot, Hanyu Hu, Amélie Beaussart, Ismérie Fernandes and Clément Perrot
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2337; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062337 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1969
Abstract
New insights into the chemistry of alumino-phosphate solutions are provided in this contribution. In a first part, a solution with a P/Al molar ratio of 3.2 was prepared for the first time. The binders obtained at 500 and 700 °C were compared to [...] Read more.
New insights into the chemistry of alumino-phosphate solutions are provided in this contribution. In a first part, a solution with a P/Al molar ratio of 3.2 was prepared for the first time. The binders obtained at 500 and 700 °C were compared to those obtained with the 3 and 3.5 P/Al molar ratio solutions in order to determine the impact of moderate P2O5 excess on the final phosphate ceramic nature. In a second part, the widely used P/Al = 3 solution was heat-treated at 500 °C using different heating rates (0.2, 1, and 10 °C/min) to determine how this parameter modifies the final phosphate ceramic composition. Our data show that moderate P2O5 excess is sufficient to obtain binders with a high amount of stable cubic aluminium metaphosphate compound at 700 °C but not at 500 °C, where significant P2O5 excess is mandatory. We also show that slow heating favors the formation of cubic aluminium metaphosphate compound at 500 °C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Phosphate Materials: Structural, Technological and Biomedical Applications)
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12 pages, 32547 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of MnCuNiFe–CuAlNiFeMn Gradient Alloy by Laser Engineering Net Shaping System
by Kuo Yan, Zaiwen Lin, Meng Chen, Yuren Wang, Jun Wang and Heng Jiang
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2336; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062336 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2453
Abstract
Marine noise pollution generated by propellers is of wide concern. Traditional propeller materials (nickel–aluminum bronze (NAB) alloys) can no longer meet the requirements for reducing shaft vibration. However, the Mn–Cu alloy developed to solve the problem of propeller vibration is affected by seawater [...] Read more.
Marine noise pollution generated by propellers is of wide concern. Traditional propeller materials (nickel–aluminum bronze (NAB) alloys) can no longer meet the requirements for reducing shaft vibration. However, the Mn–Cu alloy developed to solve the problem of propeller vibration is affected by seawater corrosion, which greatly limits the application of the alloy in the field of marine materials. In this study, the M2052–NAB gradient alloy was developed for the first time using LENS technology to improve the corrosion resistance while retaining the damping properties of the M2052 alloy. We hope this alloy can provide a material research basis for the development of low-noise propellers. This study shows that, after solution-aging of M2052 alloy as the matrix, the martensitic transformation temperature increased to approach the antiferromagnetic transformation temperature, which promoted twinning and martensitic transformation. The aging process also eliminated dendrite segregation, promoted the equiaxed γ-MnCu phase, and increased the crystal size to reduce the number of dislocations, resulting in obvious modulus softening of the alloy. NAB after deposition had higher hardness and good corrosion resistance than the as-cast alloy, which offers good corrosion protection for the M2052 alloy. This research provides new material options for the field of shipbuilding. Full article
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14 pages, 4575 KiB  
Article
Immobilization of Hexavalent Chromium Using Self-Compacting Soil Technology
by Zymantas Rudzionis, Arunas Aleksandras Navickas, Gediminas Stelmokaitis and Remigijus Ivanauskas
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2335; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062335 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2019
Abstract
A study of immobilization of hexavalent chromium in the form of Na2CrO4 salt by self-compacting soils (SCS) is presented. Carbofill E additive was used as SCS binder. The efficiency of immobilization of Cr (VI) was evaluated by washing out chromium [...] Read more.
A study of immobilization of hexavalent chromium in the form of Na2CrO4 salt by self-compacting soils (SCS) is presented. Carbofill E additive was used as SCS binder. The efficiency of immobilization of Cr (VI) was evaluated by washing out chromium compounds from SCS samples. The influence of the nature of the soil and the content of Carbofill E and Na2CrO4 in the SCS samples on the efficiency of Cr (VI) immobilization was studied. It was found that the nature of the soil and the content of Carbofill E in the SCS samples affect the immobilization of Cr (VI). Moreover, increasing the Carbofill E content in SCS samples further increases Cr (VI) immobilization. X-ray diffraction studies of the samples with immobilized hexavalent chromium showed that part of the sample transforms from a readily soluble form of salt into oxide forms of chromium and calcium-chromium, which are practically insoluble in water. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Novel Sustainable Binders, Concretes and Composites)
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18 pages, 50179 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Impact of Wear of the Working Surface of Rolls on the Reduction of Energy and Environmental Demand for the Production of Flat Products: Methodological Approach
by Mariusz Niekurzak and Ewa Kubińska-Jabcoń
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2334; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062334 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2595
Abstract
An important element in the correct operation of the rolling mill is appropriate planning of the condition of the rolls because this factor constitutes a limiting element in the production process. In this work, with the aim of indicating the method of proper [...] Read more.
An important element in the correct operation of the rolling mill is appropriate planning of the condition of the rolls because this factor constitutes a limiting element in the production process. In this work, with the aim of indicating the method of proper use of production tools–metallurgical rollers during their operation in a Polish rolling mill, the wear and tear of particular kinds of rollers built in the whole rolling set was determined. For this purpose, data were collected at the strip mill from grinding processes, production reports and roll files, while our statistical analysis, laboratory calculations and measurements were used. These data were used to perform computer calculations on the service life of metallurgical rollers installed in the rolling line. Wear mechanisms were identified in industrial practice. The characteristic features of roller wear were investigated using non-destructive tests, including eddy currents. The laboratory tests reproduced the wear mechanisms in very hot rolling rolls. The statistical method for determining the service life of working rolls indicated that their reconstruction is determined both by natural physical phenomena and inappropriate use in about 30% of cases, mainly in the F5 and F6 cages of the finishing unit. Calculations indicated the possibility of replacing the working rolls made of high chromium cast iron Hi-Cr with those made of HSS in the F5 and F6 cages, which will contribute to an increase in the durability of the rolls, a reduction in production costs and a decrease in the number of roll rebuildings. The service life of HSS rolls is 14,000–20,000 Mg of rolled material per 1 mm of wear on its surface in the radial direction, compared to 2000 Mg for rolls made of high chromium cast iron Hi-Cr. The constructed model may be a source of information for further analyses and decision-making processes supporting the management of metallurgical enterprises. On the basis of the constructed model, it was shown that the analyzed projects, depending on their type and technical specification, will bring measurable economic benefits in the form of reduced annual energy consumption and environmental benefits in the form of reduced carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. The constructed model of the roll consumption, verified in the real conditions of the rolling mills, will contribute to the fulfillment of energy and emission obligations with the EU. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Engineering in Materials)
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15 pages, 3719 KiB  
Article
Binarization Mechanism Evaluation for Water Ingress Detectability in Honeycomb Sandwich Structure Using Lock-In Thermography
by Yoonjae Chung, Ranjit Shrestha, Seungju Lee and Wontae Kim
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2333; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062333 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2579
Abstract
The growing use of composite honeycomb structures in several industries including aircraft has demonstrated the need to develop effective and efficient non-destructive evaluation methods. In recent years, active thermography has attracted great interest as a reliable technology for non-destructive testing and evaluation of [...] Read more.
The growing use of composite honeycomb structures in several industries including aircraft has demonstrated the need to develop effective and efficient non-destructive evaluation methods. In recent years, active thermography has attracted great interest as a reliable technology for non-destructive testing and evaluation of composite materials due to its advantages of non-contact, non-destructive, full-area coverage, high speed, qualitative, and quantitative testing. However, non-uniform heating, low spatial resolution, and ambient environmental noise make the detection and characterization of defects challenging. Therefore, in this study, lock-in thermography (LIT) was used to detect water ingress into an aircraft composite honeycomb sandwich structure, and the phase signals were binarized through the Otsu algorithm. A square composite honeycomb with dimensions of 210 mm × 210 mm along with 16 different defective areas of various sizes in groups filled with water by 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of the cell volume was considered. The sample was excited at multiple modulation frequencies (i.e., 1 Hz to 0.01 Hz). The results were compared in terms of phase contrast and CNR according to the modulation frequency. In addition, the detectability was analyzed by comparing the number of pixels of water ingress in the binarized image and the theoretical calculation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Destructive Evaluation of Composite Materials)
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13 pages, 1466 KiB  
Article
Mortar Bond Strength: A Brief Literature Review, Tests for Analysis, New Research Needs and Initial Experiments
by Janaina Salustio, Sandro M. Torres, Anne C. Melo, Ângelo J. Costa e Silva, António C. Azevedo, Jennef C. Tavares, Matheus S. Leal and João M. P. Q. Delgado
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2332; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062332 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3226
Abstract
Despite technological advances in the production processes of the materials for ceramic façade coatings, the problems of detachments are still frequent. Therefore, this work aims to investigate, through a literature review, the existing gaps related to the adhesion ability of adhesive mortars, identifying [...] Read more.
Despite technological advances in the production processes of the materials for ceramic façade coatings, the problems of detachments are still frequent. Therefore, this work aims to investigate, through a literature review, the existing gaps related to the adhesion ability of adhesive mortars, identifying new research needs that can better explain the behavior of the material. In addition, an experimental procedure was developed to evaluate the mechanical capacity of adhesive mortars when subjected to cyclic stresses. Dynamic stress measurements are presented for several blocks of mortar and on similar blocks but with a slot drilled prior to measurements (intended to represent failure). From these data we calculated values of stress energy, elastic energy, and dissipated energy. The experimental results showed that the energy involved in the test process accompanied the load values and current stress values. The mortar samples with the previous failure absorbed and dissipated less energy than mortars without failure, showing that materials that have less energy to dissipate, are materials that have developed less capacity to adhere, that is, to keep their parts together. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developments in Fiber-Reinforced Cement)
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23 pages, 101382 KiB  
Article
Functioning of Heat Accumulating Composites of Carbon Recyclate and Phase Change Material
by Michał Musiał and Agnieszka Pękala
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2331; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062331 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2187
Abstract
The article presents the results of experimental research together with the development of a response function presenting the thermal functioning of a new composite of a phase change material with carbon recyclate. The empirical research proved the improvement of the thermal functioning of [...] Read more.
The article presents the results of experimental research together with the development of a response function presenting the thermal functioning of a new composite of a phase change material with carbon recyclate. The empirical research proved the improvement of the thermal functioning of the phase change material as a result of modifying its structure with carbon-based recycling material. The conducted experimental tests and statistical analysis proved that the obtained innovative composite is characterized by a more effective distribution of stored heat than the pure phase change material, which resulted in reduction of the heating and cooling time of the package by 10 min. The obtained innovative composite can improve the thermal efficiency of short-term heat storage systems, both in building components and in elements of heating and cooling systems, and translates into their increase in thermal efficiency. Full article
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14 pages, 13113 KiB  
Article
Nonlinear Optical Limiting and Radiation Shielding Characteristics of Sm2O3 Doped Cadmium Sodium Lithium Borate Glasses
by Aljawhara H. Almuqrin, Jagannath Gangareddy, Mahesh M. Hivrekar, A. G. Pramod, M. I. Sayyed, K. Keshavamurthy, Naseem Fatima and K. M. Jadhav
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2330; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062330 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2054
Abstract
Strong nonlinear absorption (NLA), reduced optical limiting (OL) thresholds, and high radiation shielding parameters are required for the effective use of glasses in the laser radiation and nuclear radiation protecting materials. In view of this, the efficacy of Sm2O3 on [...] Read more.
Strong nonlinear absorption (NLA), reduced optical limiting (OL) thresholds, and high radiation shielding parameters are required for the effective use of glasses in the laser radiation and nuclear radiation protecting materials. In view of this, the efficacy of Sm2O3 on the nonlinear optical (NLO) and OL properties were ascertained (at 532 nm) along with radiation shielding characteristics. The open and closed aperture Z-scan profiles revealed the presence of positive NLA and nonlinear refraction (NLR) phenomena respectively. OL measurements showed the existence of limiting behavior in the studied glasses. The NLA and NLR coefficients were improved while the OL thresholds were decreased as the doping of Sm2O3 elevated to a higher doping level. These improvements in NLA, NLR coefficients and OL efficiencies were attributed to the non-bridging oxygens and high polarizable Sm3+ ions. The NLA and OL results clearly suggest the high (5 mol %) Sm2O3 doped glass (Sm5CNLB) glass is beneficial to protect the delicate devices and human eye by suppressing the high energy laser light. The theoretical linear attenuation coefficients (LAC) values of the presented SmxCNLB glasses were obtained with the help of Phy-X software between 0.284 and 1.333 MeV. At 0.284 MeV, the maximum values occur and take values between 0.302 (for Sm0CNLB) and 0.409 cm−1 (for Sm5CNLB). We found that the LAC for the presented SmxCNLB glasses is a function of Sm2O3 content, where the LAC tends to increase, corresponding to the high probabilities of interaction, as the content of Sm2O3 changes from 0 to 5 mol %. The effective atomic number (Zeff) for the presented SmxCNLB glasses was examined between 0.284 and 1.333 MeV. As the amount of Sm2O3 is added, the Zeff increases, and this was observed at any energy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fabrications and Characterization of Different Glasses Systems)
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19 pages, 8672 KiB  
Article
Numerical Simulation of Damage Evolution and Electrode Deformation of X100 Pipeline Steel during Crevice Corrosion
by Wenxian Su and Zhikuo Liu
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2329; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062329 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2332
Abstract
In this paper, the spatial and temporal damage evolution was described during crevice corrosion through developing a two-dimensional (2-D) model. COMSOL code was used to simulate the crevice corrosion regulated by the I∙R voltage of nickel (Ni) metal in sulfuric acidic. The electrode [...] Read more.
In this paper, the spatial and temporal damage evolution was described during crevice corrosion through developing a two-dimensional (2-D) model. COMSOL code was used to simulate the crevice corrosion regulated by the I∙R voltage of nickel (Ni) metal in sulfuric acidic. The electrode deformation, potential and current curves, and other typical characteristics were predicted during crevice corrosion, where results were consistent with published experimental results. Then, based on the Ni model, the damage evolution of X100 crevice corrosion in CO2 solution was simulated, assuming uniform distribution of solution inside and outside the crevice. The results showed that over time, the surface damage of Ni electrode increased under a constant applied potential. As the gap increased, the critical point of corrosion (CPC) inside the crevice moved into a deeper location, and the corrosion damage area (CDA) gradually expanded, but the threshold value of corrosion damage remained almost unchanged. The CDA inside the crevice extended toward the opening and the tip of crevice. Since the potential drop in this region increases with increasing current, the passivation potential point moved towards the opening. As the gap increased and the electrolyte resistance decreased, the critical potential for reaching the maximum corrosion rate moved into a deeper location. It is significant for predicting the initial damage location and the occurrence time of surface damage of crevice corrosion through the 2-D model that is not available through the one-dimensional simplified model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Strength, Corrosion and Failure Analysis of Pressure Vessel and Pipeline System)
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32 pages, 4350 KiB  
Article
Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams Subjected to Concentrated Loads Using Externally Bonded Fiber Composite Materials
by Paolo Foraboschi
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2328; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062328 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3629
Abstract
Renovation, restoration, remodeling, refurbishment, and the retrofitting of buildings often imply applying forces (i.e., concentrated loads) to beams that before were subjected to distributed loads only. In the case of reinforced concrete structures, the new condition causes a beam to bear a concentrated [...] Read more.
Renovation, restoration, remodeling, refurbishment, and the retrofitting of buildings often imply applying forces (i.e., concentrated loads) to beams that before were subjected to distributed loads only. In the case of reinforced concrete structures, the new condition causes a beam to bear a concentrated load with the crack pattern that resulted from the distributed loads which had acted before. If the concentrated load is applied at or near the beam’s midspan, the new shear demand reaches the maximum where cracks are vertical or quasi-vertical, and where inclined bars are not common according to any standards. So, the actual shear capacity can be substantially lower than new shear demand due to the concentrated load. This paper focuses on reinforced concrete beams whose load distribution has to be changed from distributed to concentrated and presents a design method to bring the beam’s shear capacity up to the new demand. The method consists of applying fiber composites (fiber-reinforced polymers or fiber-reinforced cementitious material) with fibers at an angle of 45° bonded to the beam’s web. This kind of external reinforcement arrangement has to comply with some practical measures, which are presented as well. The paper also provides the analytical model that predicts the concentrated load-carrying capacity of a beam in the strengthened state. The model accounts for the crack’s verticality, which nullifies the contributions of steel stirrups, aggregate interlock, and dowel action, and for the effective bond length of each fiber, which depends on the distance between the ends of the fiber and the crack it crosses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)
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10 pages, 2768 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Properties of Pea Starch/ε-Polylysine Composite Films
by Zuolong Yu, Deping Gong, Chao Han, Yunxiao Wei, Changchun Fu, Xuejiao Xu and Youri Lu
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2327; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062327 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2609
Abstract
The composite films comprising pea starch (St) and ε-polylysine (PL) as the matrix and glycerol and sodium alginate as the plasticizers were investigated. The rheological properties, mechanical properties, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, water vapor permeability (WVP), oil permeability, microstructure, thermogravimetry (TGA), and antimicrobial [...] Read more.
The composite films comprising pea starch (St) and ε-polylysine (PL) as the matrix and glycerol and sodium alginate as the plasticizers were investigated. The rheological properties, mechanical properties, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, water vapor permeability (WVP), oil permeability, microstructure, thermogravimetry (TGA), and antimicrobial properties of the composite films were analyzed. The properties of the composite films with different mass ratios of St/PL varied significantly. First, the five film solutions were different pseudoplastic fluids. Additionally, as the mass ratio of PL increased, the tensile strength of the blends decreased from 9.49 to 0.14 MPa, the fracture elongation increased from 38.41 to 174.03%, the WVP increased, and the oil resistance decreased substantially. The films with a broad range of St/PL ratios were highly soluble; however, the solubility of the film with a St/PL ratio of 2:8 was reduced. Lastly, the inhibition of E. coli, B.subtilis, and yeast by the films increased with increasing mass ratios of PL, and the inhibition of B.subtilis was the strongest. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)
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20 pages, 4259 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of Some Novel Ionic Liquids on Mild Steel Corrosion Protection in Acidic Environment: Experimental and Theoretical Inspections
by Osama Al-Rashed and Ahmed Abdel Nazeer
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2326; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062326 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 2566
Abstract
Three ionic liquids (ILs)—1-butyl-1-methyl-pyrrolidinium Imidazolate (BMPyrIM), 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium Imidazolate (BMImIM), and bis(1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium Imidazolate) (BBMImIM)—were synthesized and examined experimentally and theoretically as potential inhibitors for mild steel corrosion in HCl (1.0 M) solution. To our knowledge, two of the [...] Read more.
Three ionic liquids (ILs)—1-butyl-1-methyl-pyrrolidinium Imidazolate (BMPyrIM), 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium Imidazolate (BMImIM), and bis(1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium Imidazolate) (BBMImIM)—were synthesized and examined experimentally and theoretically as potential inhibitors for mild steel corrosion in HCl (1.0 M) solution. To our knowledge, two of the ILs successfully synthesized in our laboratory named BMPyrIM and BBMImIM are novel. Different electrochemical (potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)), surface and structural (scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)) and theoretical (Density functional theory (DFT)) techniques were utilized to confirm their use as efficient environmentally safe inhibitors. These ionic liquids were designed to study the cation effect (imidazolium and pyrrolidinium) and the dimeric effect of the imidazolium-based IL. A pronounced inhibiting effect was recorded using the optimum concentration (5 × 10−3 M) of BBMImIM with protection efficiency of 98.6% compared to 94.3% and 92.4% for BMImIM and BMPyrIM, respectively. The investigated ILs act as a mixed-type corrosion inhibitors and their protection obeys Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The results obtained by SEM, EDS and AFM confirmed the mild steel protection by the formation of protective film of the ILs on the steel surface resulted in less damaged surfaces compared with the blank solution. Furthermore, quantum chemical calculations illustrated the electronic structure of the investigated ILs and their optimized adsorptiοn configurations on mild steel surface. The findings from the different techniques helped to provide a supported interpretation of the inhibition mechanism. Full article
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13 pages, 6954 KiB  
Article
A Numerical Analysis of Ductile Deformation during Nanocutting of Silicon Carbide via Molecular Dynamics Simulation
by Bing Liu, Xiaolin Li, Ruijie Kong, Haijie Yang and Lili Jiang
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2325; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062325 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2738
Abstract
As a typical third-generation semiconductor material, silicon carbide (SiC) has been increasingly used in recent years. However, the outstanding performance of SiC component can only be obtained when it has a high-quality surface and low-damage subsurface. Due to the hard–brittle property of SiC, [...] Read more.
As a typical third-generation semiconductor material, silicon carbide (SiC) has been increasingly used in recent years. However, the outstanding performance of SiC component can only be obtained when it has a high-quality surface and low-damage subsurface. Due to the hard–brittle property of SiC, it remains a challenge to investigate the ductile machining mechanism, especially at the nano scale. In this study, a three-dimensional molecular dynamics (MD) simulation model of nanometric cutting on monocrystalline 3C-SiC was established based on the ABOP Tersoff potential. Multi-group MD simulations were performed to study the removal mechanism of SiC at the nano scale. The effects of both cutting speed and undeformed cutting thickness on the material removal mechanism were considered. The ductile machining mechanism, cutting force, hydrostatic pressure, and tool wear was analyzed in depth. It was determined that the chip formation was dominated by the extrusion action rather than the shear theory during the nanocutting process. The performance and service life of the diamond tool can be effectively improved by properly increasing the cutting speed and reducing the undeformed cutting thickness. Additionally, the nanometric cutting at a higher cutting speed was able to improve the material removal rate but reduced the quality of machined surface and enlarged the subsurface damage of SiC. It is believed that the results can promote the level of ultraprecision machining technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Processing, Analysis, Modelling and Mechanics of Materials and Structures)
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10 pages, 2843 KiB  
Article
Fabrication and Characterization of Submicron-Scale Bovine Hydroxyapatite: A Top-Down Approach for a Natural Biomaterial
by Maria Apriliani Gani, Aniek Setiya Budiatin, Maria Lucia Ardhani Dwi Lestari, Fedik Abdul Rantam, Chrismawan Ardianto and Junaidi Khotib
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2324; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062324 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2637
Abstract
Submicron hydroxyapatite has been reported to have beneficial effects in bone tissue engineering. This study aimed to fabricate submicron-scale bovine hydroxyapatite (BHA) using the high-energy dry ball milling method. Bovine cortical bone was pretreated and calcined to produce BHA powder scaled in microns. [...] Read more.
Submicron hydroxyapatite has been reported to have beneficial effects in bone tissue engineering. This study aimed to fabricate submicron-scale bovine hydroxyapatite (BHA) using the high-energy dry ball milling method. Bovine cortical bone was pretreated and calcined to produce BHA powder scaled in microns. BHA was used to fabricate submicron BHA with milling treatment for 3, 6, and 9 h and was characterized by using dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscope connected with energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffractometry to obtain its particle size, calcium-to-phosphorus (Ca/P) ratio, functional chemical group, and XRD peaks and crystallinity. Results showed that the particle size of BHA had a wide distribution range, with peaks from ~5 to ~10 µm. Milling treatment for 3, 6, and 9 h successfully gradually reduced the particle size of BHA to a submicron scale. The milled BHA’s hydrodynamic size was significantly smaller compared to unmilled BHA. Milling treatment reduced the crystallinity of BHA. However, the treatment did not affect other characteristics; unmilled and milled BHA was shaped hexagonally, had carbonate and phosphate substitution groups, and the Ca/P ratio ranged from 1.48 to 1.68. In conclusion, the fabrication of submicron-scale BHA was successfully conducted using a high-energy dry ball milling method. The milling treatment did not affect the natural characteristics of BHA. Thus, the submicron-scale BHA may be potentially useful as a biomaterial for bone grafts. Full article
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15 pages, 2741 KiB  
Article
Suitability of Constitutive Models of the Structural Concrete Codes When Applied to Polyolefin Fibre Reinforced Concrete
by Alejandro Enfedaque, Fernando Suárez, Marcos G. Alberti and Jaime C. Gálvez
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2323; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062323 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1673
Abstract
The use of fibres as structural reinforcement in concrete is included in standards, providing guidelines to reproduce their behaviour, which have been proven adequate when steel fibres are used. Nevertheless, in recent years new materials, such as polyolefin fibres, have undergone significant development [...] Read more.
The use of fibres as structural reinforcement in concrete is included in standards, providing guidelines to reproduce their behaviour, which have been proven adequate when steel fibres are used. Nevertheless, in recent years new materials, such as polyolefin fibres, have undergone significant development as concrete reinforcement. This work gives insight on how suitable the constitutive models proposed by the Model Code 2010 (MC2010) are in the case of such polymer fibres. A set of numerical models has been carried out to reproduce the material behaviour proposed by the MC2010 and the approach based on the softening function proposed by the authors. The results show remarkable differences between the experimental results and the numerical simulations when the constitutive models described in the MC2010 are employed for different polyolefin fibre reinforced concrete mixes, while the material behaviour can be reproduced with greater accuracy if the softening function proposed by the authors is employed when this type of macro-polymer fibres is used. Moreover, the relatively complex behaviour of polyolefin fibre reinforced concrete may be reproduced by using such constitutive model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fracture Mechanics of Fiber Reinforced Concrete)
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14 pages, 3761 KiB  
Article
Radiation-Induced Sharpening in Cr-Coated Zirconium Alloy
by Joël Ribis, Alexia Wu, Raphaëlle Guillou, Jean-Christophe Brachet, Cédric Baumier, Aurélie Gentils and Marie Loyer-Prost
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2322; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062322 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2458
Abstract
To improve the safety of nuclear power plants, a Cr protective layer is deposited on zirconium alloys to enhance oxidation resistance of the nuclear fuel cladding during both in-service and hypothetical accidental transients at High Temperature (HT) in Light Water Reactors. The formation [...] Read more.
To improve the safety of nuclear power plants, a Cr protective layer is deposited on zirconium alloys to enhance oxidation resistance of the nuclear fuel cladding during both in-service and hypothetical accidental transients at High Temperature (HT) in Light Water Reactors. The formation of the Cr2O3 film on the coating surface considerably helps in reducing the oxidation kinetics of the zirconium alloy, especially during hypothetic Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA). However, if the Cr coating is successful to increase the oxidation resistance at HT of the zirconium substrate, for in-service conditions, under neutron irradiation, Cr desquamation has to be avoided to guarantee a safe use of the Cr-coated zirconium alloys. Therefore, the adhesion properties have to be maintained despite the structural defects created by sustained neutron irradiation in the reactor environment. This paper proposes to study the behavior of the Zircaloy-Cr interface of a first generation Cr-coated material during a specific in situ ion irradiation. As deposited, the Cr-coated sample presents a f.c.c. C15 Laves-type intermetallic phase at the interface with off-stoichiometric composition. After irradiation and for the specific conditions applied, this interfacial phase has significantly dissolved. Energy Dispersion Spectroscopy revealed that the dissolution was accompanied by a counterintuitive “sharpening” effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Radiation-Induced Nanostructuration of Materials)
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20 pages, 10139 KiB  
Article
Production and Characterization of the Third-Generation Oxide Nanotubes on Ti-13Zr-13Nb Alloy
by Bożena Łosiewicz, Sandra Skwarek, Agnieszka Stróż, Patrycja Osak, Karolina Dudek, Julian Kubisztal and Joanna Maszybrocka
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2321; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062321 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2207
Abstract
In the group of vanadium-free titanium alloys used for applications for long-term implants, the Ti-13Zr-13Nb alloy has recently been proposed. The production of a porous layer of oxide nanotubes (ONTs) with a wide range of geometries and lengths on the Ti-13Zr-13Nb alloy surface [...] Read more.
In the group of vanadium-free titanium alloys used for applications for long-term implants, the Ti-13Zr-13Nb alloy has recently been proposed. The production of a porous layer of oxide nanotubes (ONTs) with a wide range of geometries and lengths on the Ti-13Zr-13Nb alloy surface can increase its osteoinductive properties and enable intelligent drug delivery. This work concerns developing a method of electrochemical modification of the Ti-13Zr-13Nb alloy surface to obtain third-generation ONTs. The effect of the anodizing voltage on the microstructure and thickness of the obtained oxide layers was conducted in 1 M C2H6O2 + 4 wt% NH4F electrolyte in the voltage range 5–35 V for 120 min at room temperature. The obtained third-generation ONTs were characterized using SEM, EDS, SKP, and 2D roughness profiles methods. The preliminary assessment of corrosion resistance carried out in accelerated corrosion tests in the artificial atmosphere showed the high quality of the newly developed ONTs and the slight influence of neutral salt spray on their micromechanical properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion and Corrosion Inhibition of Metals and Their Alloys)
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15 pages, 5134 KiB  
Article
Investigating Optimum Conditions for Developing Pozzolanic Ashes from Organic Wastes as Cement Replacing Materials
by Suhail Zaffar, Aneel Kumar, Naeem Aziz Memon, Rabinder Kumar and Abdullah Saand
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2320; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062320 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2553
Abstract
This research was performed to investigate the optimum conditions for developing pozzolanic ashes from organic wastes to be used as cement replacement materials. The organic wastes explored in the research are rice husk ash (RHA), wheat straw ash (WSA), and cow dung (CDA). [...] Read more.
This research was performed to investigate the optimum conditions for developing pozzolanic ashes from organic wastes to be used as cement replacement materials. The organic wastes explored in the research are rice husk ash (RHA), wheat straw ash (WSA), and cow dung (CDA). When the organic waste is turned into ash, it develops a pozzolanic character due to the presence of silica. However, the presence of reactive silica and its pozzolanic reactivity depends on the calcination temperature, duration, and grinding. In this research, the organic wastes were calcined at three different calcination temperatures (300 °C, 400 °C, and 800 °C) for 2, 4, 6, and 8 h duration. The obtained ashes were ground for 30 min and replaced by 20% with cement. The samples containing ashes were tested for compressive strength, X-ray diffractometry (XRD), weight loss, and strength activity index (SAI). It was observed that the RHA calcinated at 600 °C for 2 h showed better strength. However, in the case of WSA and CDA, the most favorable calcination condition in terms of strength development was obtained at 600 °C for 6 h duration. The highest SAI was achieved for the mortar samples containing CDA calcinated at 600 °C for 6 h duration (CDA600-6H). The other two ashes (RHA and WSA) did not qualify as pozzolan according to the ASTM C618 classification. This was due to the presence of silica in crystalline form and lower surface area of the ash material. In this research, the ash was ground only for 30 min after calcination which did not contribute to an increase in the specific surface area and thus the pozzolanic activity. The materials ground for the higher duration are recommended for higher SAI. Full article
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20 pages, 6100 KiB  
Article
Combinatorial Study of Phase Composition, Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of Co-Cr-Fe-Ni Nanocrystalline Film Processed by Multiple-Beam-Sputtering Physical Vapor Deposition
by Péter Nagy, Nadia Rohbeck, Remo N. Widmer, Zoltán Hegedűs, Johann Michler, László Pethö, János L. Lábár and Jenő Gubicza
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2319; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062319 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2479
Abstract
A combinatorial Co-Cr-Fe-Ni compositional complex alloy (CCA) thin film disk with a thickness of 1 µm and a diameter of 10 cm was processed by multiple-beam-sputtering physical vapor deposition (PVD) using four pure metal sources. The chemical composition of the four constituent elements [...] Read more.
A combinatorial Co-Cr-Fe-Ni compositional complex alloy (CCA) thin film disk with a thickness of 1 µm and a diameter of 10 cm was processed by multiple-beam-sputtering physical vapor deposition (PVD) using four pure metal sources. The chemical composition of the four constituent elements varied between 4 and 64 at.% in the film, depending on the distance from the four PVD sources. The crystal structure, the crystallite size, the density of lattice defects (e.g., dislocations and twin faults) and the crystallographic texture were studied as a function of the chemical composition. It was found that in a wide range of elemental concentrations a face-centered cubic (fcc) structure with {111} crystallographic texture formed during PVD. Considering the equilibrium phase diagrams, it can be concluded that mostly the phase composition of the PVD layer is far from the equilibrium. Body-centered cubic (bcc) and hexagonal-close packed (hcp) structures formed only in the parts of the film close to Co-Fe and Co-Cr sources, respectively. A nanocrystalline microstructure with the grain size of 10–20 nm was developed in the whole layer, irrespective of the chemical composition. Transmission electron microscopy indicated a columnar growth of the film during PVD. The density of as-grown dislocations and twin faults was very high, as obtained by synchrotron X-ray diffraction peak profile analysis. The nanohardness and the elastic modulus were determined by indentation for the different chemical compositions on the combinatorial PVD film. This study is the continuation of a former research published recently in Nagy et al., Materials 14 (2021) 3357. In the previous work, only the fcc part of the sample was investigated. In the present paper, the study was extended to the bcc, hcp and multiphase regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Structure Analysis of Amorphous and Nanocrystalline Materials)
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13 pages, 4656 KiB  
Article
Athermal ω Phase and Lattice Modulation in Binary Zr-Nb Alloys
by Mitsuharu Todai, Keisuke Fukunaga and Takayoshi Nakano
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2318; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062318 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2315
Abstract
To further explore the potential of Zr-based alloys as a biomaterial that will not interfere with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the microstructural characteristics of Zr-xat.% Nb alloys (10 ≤ x ≤ 18), particularly the athermal ω phase and lattice modulation, were investigated by [...] Read more.
To further explore the potential of Zr-based alloys as a biomaterial that will not interfere with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the microstructural characteristics of Zr-xat.% Nb alloys (10 ≤ x ≤ 18), particularly the athermal ω phase and lattice modulation, were investigated by conducting electrical resistivity and magnetic susceptibility measurements and transmission electron microscopy observations. The 10 Nb alloy and 12 Nb alloys had a positive temperature coefficient of electrical resistivity. The athermal ω phase existed in 10 Nb and 12 Nb alloys at room temperature. Alternatively, the 14 Nb and 18 Nb alloys had an anomalous negative temperature coefficient of the resistivity. The selected area diffraction pattern of the 14 Nb alloy revealed the co-occurrence of ω phase diffraction and diffuse satellites. These diffuse satellites were represented by gβ + q when the zone axis was [001] or [113], but not [110]. These results imply that these diffuse satellites appeared because the transverse waves consistent with the propagation and displacement vectors were q = <ζ ζ¯ 0>* for the ζ~1/2 and <110> directions. It is possible that the resistivity anomaly was caused by the formation of the athermal ω phase and transverse wave. Moreover, control of the athermal ω-phase transformation and occurrence of lattice modulation led to reduced magnetic susceptibility, superior deformation properties, and a low Young’s modulus in the Zr-Nb alloys. Thus, Zr-Nb alloys are promising MRI-compatible metallic biomaterials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials for Societal Implementation)
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13 pages, 5148 KiB  
Article
Peri-Implant Repair Using a Modified Implant Macrogeometry in Diabetic Rats: Biomechanical and Molecular Analyses of Bone-Related Markers
by Hugo Robertson Sant’Anna, Marcio Zaffalon Casati, Mounir Colares Mussi, Fabiano Ribeiro Cirano, Suzana Peres Pimentel, Fernanda Vieira Ribeiro and Mônica Grazieli Corrêa
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2317; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062317 - 21 Mar 2022
Viewed by 2033
Abstract
DM has a high prevalence worldwide and exerts a negative influence on bone repair around dental implants. Modifications of the microgeometry of implants have been related to positive results in bone repair. This study assessed, for the first time, the influence of an [...] Read more.
DM has a high prevalence worldwide and exerts a negative influence on bone repair around dental implants. Modifications of the microgeometry of implants have been related to positive results in bone repair. This study assessed, for the first time, the influence of an implant with modified macrodesign based on the presence of a healing chamber in the pattern of peri-implant repair under diabetic conditions. Thirty Wistar rats were assigned to receive one titanium implant in each tibia (Control Implant (conventional macrogeometry) or Test Implant (modified macrogeometry)) according to the following groups: Non-DM + Control Implant; Non-DM + Test Implant; DM + Control Implant; DM + Test Implant. One month from the surgeries, the implants were removed for counter-torque, and the bone tissue surrounding the implants was stored for the mRNA quantification of bone-related markers. Implants located on DM animals presented lower counter-torque values in comparison with Non-DM ones, independently of macrodesign (p < 0.05). Besides, higher biomechanical retention levels were observed in implants with modified macrogeometry than in the controls in both Non-DM and DM groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, the modified macrogeometry upregulated OPN mRNA in comparison with the control group in Non-DM and DM rats (p < 0.05). Peri-implant bone repair may profit from the use of implants with modified macrogeometry in the presence of diabetes mellitus, as they offer higher biomechanical retention and positive modulation of important bone markers in peri-implant bone tissue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Implant Biomaterials: In Vitro and In Vivo Simulations and Applications)
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8 pages, 1482 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Digital Light Processing Three-Dimensional Printing of the Removable Partial Denture Frameworks; The Role of Build Angle and Support Structure Diameter
by Mostafa Omran Hussein and Lamis Ahmed Hussein
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2316; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062316 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3309
Abstract
The optimal three-dimensional (3D) printing parameters of removable partial denture (RPD) frameworks should be studied to achieve the best accuracy, printing time, and least materials consumed. This study aimed to find the best build angle and support structures’ diameter of the 3D printed [...] Read more.
The optimal three-dimensional (3D) printing parameters of removable partial denture (RPD) frameworks should be studied to achieve the best accuracy, printing time, and least materials consumed. This study aimed to find the best build angle and support structures’ diameter of the 3D printed (RPD) framework. Sixty (RPD) frameworks (10 in each group) were manufactured by digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing technology at three build angles (110-D, 135-D, and 150-D) and two support structures diameters (thick, L, and thin, S). Six groups were named according to their printing setting as (110-DS, 135-DS, 150-DS, 110-DL, 135-DL, and 150-DL). Frameworks were 3D scanned and compared to the original cast surface using 3D metrology software (Geomagic Control X; 3D Systems, Rock Hill, SC). Both printing time and material consumption were also recorded. Data were tested for the significant difference by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test at (α = 0.05). The correlations between outcome parameters were also calculated. The 110-DL group showed the least accuracy. Significantly, the printing time of the 150-D groups had the lowest time. Material consumption of group 110-DS presented the lowest significantly statistical value. Printing time had a linear correlation with both accuracy and material consumption. Within the study limitations, the 150-degree build angle and thin diameter support structures showed optimal accuracy and time-saving regardless of material consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)
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1 pages, 454 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Chen et al. The Effect of High-Quality RDX on the Safety and Mechanical Properties of Pressed PBX. Materials 2022, 15, 1185
by Shixiong Chen, Hua Qian, Bingxin Liu, Feiyang Xu, Jiuhou Rui and Dabin Liu
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2315; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062315 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1082
Abstract
Error in Figure [...] Full article
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16 pages, 1736 KiB  
Article
Fragment-Resistant Property Optimization within Ballistic Inserts Obtained on the Basis of Para-Aramid Materials
by Katarzyna Kośla, Paweł Kubiak, Marcin Łandwijt, Wioleta Urbaniak and Agnieszka Kucharska-Jastrząbek
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2314; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062314 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2400
Abstract
A high protection level without an excessive weight is a basic assumption in the design of modern armors and protection systems. Optimizing armors is a task of development of the utmost importance, and is the subject of the work contained within this article. [...] Read more.
A high protection level without an excessive weight is a basic assumption in the design of modern armors and protection systems. Optimizing armors is a task of development of the utmost importance, and is the subject of the work contained within this article. Optimization of ballistic inserts was carried out using multicriterial analysis (MCA), which enables the selection of the optimal composition, taking into account properties such as ballistic resistance, physicomechanical, and/or functional properties. For this purpose, various types of composite systems were produced and tested in terms of their fragment-resistant properties according to STANAG 2920 and the composite areal density of different ballistic inserts: Soft inserts made of Twaron® para-aramid sheets, hard ballistic inserts made of multilayer hot-pressed preimpregnated sheets, and hybrid hard ballistic inserts prepared on the basis of multilayer hot-pressed preimpregnated sheets and ceramics. The application of MCA and performance of experimental fragment resistance tests for a wide spectrum of para-aramid inserts are part of the novelty of this work. The obtained test results showed that depending on the composition of the composite system, we could obtain a wide range of fragmentation resistance in the range of 300 to >1800 m/s, which depended on the areal density and type of composite system used. The results also confirmed that MCA is a good computational tool to select the optimal design of para-aramid ballistic inserts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials Dedicated for Armours and Protection Systems)
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18 pages, 3766 KiB  
Article
Hydrophobic Recovery of PDMS Surfaces in Contact with Hydrophilic Entities: Relevance to Biomedical Devices
by Tomoo Tsuzuki, Karine Baassiri, Zahra Mahmoudi, Ayyappasamy Sudalaiyadum Perumal, Kavya Rajendran, Gala Montiel Rubies and Dan V. Nicolau
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2313; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062313 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4769
Abstract
Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone elastomer, is increasingly being used in health and biomedical fields due to its excellent optical and mechanical properties. Its biocompatibility and resistance to biodegradation led to various applications (e.g., lung on a chip replicating blood flow, medical interventions, and [...] Read more.
Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone elastomer, is increasingly being used in health and biomedical fields due to its excellent optical and mechanical properties. Its biocompatibility and resistance to biodegradation led to various applications (e.g., lung on a chip replicating blood flow, medical interventions, and diagnostics). The many advantages of PDMS are, however, partially offset by its inherent hydrophobicity, which makes it unsuitable for applications needing wetting, thus requiring the hydrophilization of its surface by exposure to UV or O2 plasma. Yet, the elastomeric state of PDMS translates in a slow, hours to days, process of reducing its surface hydrophilicity—a process denominated as hydrophobic recovery. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), the present study details the dynamics of hydrophobic recovery of PDMS, on flat bare surfaces and on surfaces embedded with hydrophilic beads. It was found that a thin, stiff, hydrophilic, silica film formed on top of the PDMS material, following its hydrophilization by UV radiation. The hydrophobic recovery of bare PDMS material is the result of an overlap of various nano-mechanical, and diffusional processes, each with its own dynamics rate, which were analyzed in parallel. The hydrophobic recovery presents a hysteresis, with surface hydrophobicity recovering only partially due to a thin, but resilient top silica layer. The monitoring of hydrophobic recovery of PDMS embedded with hydrophilic beads revealed that this is delayed, and then totally stalled in the few-micrometer vicinity of the embedded hydrophilic beads. This region where the hydrophobic recovery stalls can be used as a good approximation of the depth of the resilient, moderately hydrophilic top layer on the PDMS material. The complex processes of hydrophilization and subsequent hydrophobic recovery impact the design, fabrication, and operation of PDMS materials and devices used for diagnostics and medical procedures. Consequently, especially considering the emergence of new surgical procedures using elastomers, the impact of hydrophobic recovery on the surface of PDMS warrants more comprehensive studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Materials in Dentistry and Medical Applications)
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11 pages, 2056 KiB  
Article
Experimental and Theoretical Investigations of Three-Ring Ester/Azomethine Materials
by Fowzia S. Alamro, Nada S. Al-Kadhi, Sobhi M. Gomha, Saheed A. Popoola, Muna S. Khushaim, Omaima A. Alhaddad and Hoda A. Ahmed
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2312; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062312 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1708
Abstract
New three-ring ester/azomethine homologues series, (E)-4-((4-hydroxybenzylidene)amino)phenyl 4-(alkoxy)benzoate In, were prepared and their properties were investigated experimentally and theoretically. FT-IR, NMR, and elemental analyses were used to confirm the chemical structures of the synthesized compounds. The mesomorphic activities of the planned homologues [...] Read more.
New three-ring ester/azomethine homologues series, (E)-4-((4-hydroxybenzylidene)amino)phenyl 4-(alkoxy)benzoate In, were prepared and their properties were investigated experimentally and theoretically. FT-IR, NMR, and elemental analyses were used to confirm the chemical structures of the synthesized compounds. The mesomorphic activities of the planned homologues were evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarized optical microscopy. All of the homologous examined were found to have non-mesomorphic properties. Theoretical calculations using the density functional theory (DFT) were used to validate the experimental data and determine the most stable conformation of the synthesized compounds. All calculated conformers’ thermal properties, dipole moments, and polarizability were discussed. The results show that the terminal alkoxy chain length affects the thermal parameters of the conformers. The correlations between these parameters’ values and the conformer type were demonstrated. The base component was expected to be in two conformers according to the orientation of the N atom of imine-linkage. DFT calculations revealed the more probable of the two possible conformers, and the incorporation of the alkoxy terminal chain in one position affect its geometrical and mesomerphic characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design of New Material through Advanced Theoretical Approach and Experimental Technique)
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13 pages, 3119 KiB  
Article
Low-Velocity Impact Response on Glass Fiber Reinforced 3D Integrated Woven Spacer Sandwich Composites
by Mahfuz Bin Rahman and Lvtao Zhu
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2311; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062311 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2417
Abstract
This study presents an experimental investigation on the low-velocity impact response of three-dimensional integrated woven spacer sandwich composites made of high-performance glass fiber reinforced fabric and epoxy resin. 3D integrated woven spacer sandwich composites with five different specifications were produced using a hand [...] Read more.
This study presents an experimental investigation on the low-velocity impact response of three-dimensional integrated woven spacer sandwich composites made of high-performance glass fiber reinforced fabric and epoxy resin. 3D integrated woven spacer sandwich composites with five different specifications were produced using a hand lay-up process and tested under low-velocity impact with energies of 5 J, 10 J, and 15 J. The results revealed that the core pile’s heights and diverse impact energies significantly affect the stiffness and energy absorption capacity. There is no significant influence of face sheet thickness on impact response. Moreover, the damage morphologies of 3D integrated woven spacer sandwich composites under different impact energies were analyzed by simple visualization of the specimen. Different damage and failure mechanisms were observed, including barely visible damage, visible damage, and clearly visible damage. Moreover, it was noticed that the damage of 3D integrated woven spacer sandwich composites samples only constraints to the impacted area and does not affect the integrity of the samples. Full article
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14 pages, 27793 KiB  
Article
Design, Synthesis and Adsorption Evaluation of Bio-Based Lignin/Chitosan Beads for Congo Red Removal
by Xiaobing Han, Rong Li, Pengpai Miao, Jie Gao, Guowen Hu, Yuan Zhao and Tao Chen
Materials 2022, 15(6), 2310; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15062310 - 21 Mar 2022
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 2694
Abstract
The morphology and intermolecular interaction are two of the most important factors in the design of highly efficient dye adsorbent in the industry. Millimeter-sized, bead-type, bio-based lignin/chitosan (Lig/CS) adsorbent was designed for the removal of Congo red (CR), based on the electrostatic attraction, [...] Read more.
The morphology and intermolecular interaction are two of the most important factors in the design of highly efficient dye adsorbent in the industry. Millimeter-sized, bead-type, bio-based lignin/chitosan (Lig/CS) adsorbent was designed for the removal of Congo red (CR), based on the electrostatic attraction, π-π stacking, and hydrogen bonding, which were synthesized through the emulsification of the chitosan/lignin mixture followed by chemical cross-linking. The effects of the lignin/chitosan mass ratio, initial pH, temperature, concentration, and contact time on the adsorption were thoroughly investigated. The highest adsorption capacity (173 mg/g) was obtained for the 20 wt% Lig/CS beads, with a removal rate of 86.5%. To investigate the adsorption mechanism and recyclability, an evaluation of the kinetic model and an adsorption/desorption experiment were conducted. The adsorption of CR on Lig/CS beads followed the type 1 pseudo-second-order model, and the removal rate for CR was still above 90% at five cycles. Full article
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