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Materials

Materials is an international peer-reviewed, open access journal on materials science and engineering published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Portuguese Materials Society (SPM), Spanish Materials Society (SOCIEMAT), Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES) and Chinese Society of Micro-Nano Technology (CSMNT) are affiliated with Materials and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Ei Compendex, CaPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, Astrophysics Data System, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Metallurgy and Metallurgical Engineering) / CiteScore - Q2 (Condensed Matter Physics)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Materials.
Companion journals for Materials include: Electronic Materials and Construction Materials.

Impact Factor: 3.1 (2023); 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.4 (2023)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 1996-1944

Latest Articles

21 pages, 7078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Axial Compressive Behavior of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete Confined with High-Strength Rectangular Spiral Stirrup

by Huajing Zhao, Weitong Liu, Penghui Yang and Can Song

Materials 2025, 18(3), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030669 (registering DOI) - 3 Feb 2025

Monotonic axial compression tests were carried out on 16 steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) columns confined by rectangular spiral stirrups. The impacts of stirrup spacing, stirrup strength, concrete strength, and cross-sectional aspect ratio on the peak load, ductility, and failure mode of these columns [...] Read more.

Monotonic axial compression tests were carried out on 16 steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) columns confined by rectangular spiral stirrups. The impacts of stirrup spacing, stirrup strength, concrete strength, and cross-sectional aspect ratio on the peak load, ductility, and failure mode of these columns were analyzed. The test results demonstrate that steel fibers significantly mitigate the spalling of the concrete column’s protective layer through their bridging effect. Small spacing and high-strength spiral stirrups effectively confine the core concrete, enhancing the bearing capacity and ductility of concrete columns. Concrete strength exhibits a positive correlation with the confinement effect. However, as concrete strength increases, the rate of improvement in the confinement effect decreases. At peak compressive stress, the high-strength stirrup may not reach its yield state. Based on the test results, a method for calculating stirrup stress under the peak stress of confined concrete is proposed. A “coupling restraint coefficient” is proposed, and a constitutive model for HRSS confined steel fiber reinforced concrete is developed, considering the coupled effect of effective confinement forces in different directions. Comparative analysis shows that the constitutive model established in this paper agrees well with the experimental results and demonstrates good applicability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Advanced Construction Technology, Sustainable Construction Materials and High-Performance Building Structures)

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21 pages, 12178 KiB

Open AccessReview

On the Non-Thermal Mechanisms in Microwave Sintering of Materials

by Ming-Syun Lin and Kwo-Ray Chu

Materials 2025, 18(3), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030668 (registering DOI) - 3 Feb 2025

The microwave sintering of various materials is a promising technology, which has received much attention for its demonstrated potential. Both the conventional (furnace) and microwave sintering rely on thermal activation for particle bonding, for which a high temperature environment is essential. In comparison, [...] Read more.

The microwave sintering of various materials is a promising technology, which has received much attention for its demonstrated potential. Both the conventional (furnace) and microwave sintering rely on thermal activation for particle bonding, for which a high temperature environment is essential. In comparison, microwave treatment achieves the same degree of densification as furnace sintering in a time shorter by a factor of two or higher and at a temperature lower by 5% to 15%. However, this is a phenomenon not yet fully understood and is commonly referred to as a non-thermal effect. Its understanding is a subject of both physics and practical interest. The non-thermal effect has been studied under years of research in order to broaden the applicability of microwave sintering. Here, we first present an overview of experimentally demonstrated advantages of microwave sintering. To facilitate further studies, we then review the literature and put together four commonly recognized interpretations of the non-thermal effects: the ponderomotive force-driven mass transport, magnetism-created cohesive forces, polarization charge-enhanced wave electric field, and polarization charge-induced attractive force among the sintered particles, with an emphasis on recent development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Material Processing Through Microwave Energy)

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14 pages, 4945 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermoanalytical Investigation of the Curing Kinetics of Sodium Silicate as an Inorganic Binder for 3D Sand Printing

by Jakob Glück, Timon Dommaschk, Daniel Jüngst, Jonas Arimont, Andreas Schilling and Martin Fehlbier

Materials 2025, 18(3), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030667 (registering DOI) - 3 Feb 2025

This study investigates the development and application of climate friendly processes in the foundry industry, particularly with regard to the use of inorganic binders to reduce emissions and pollution. An inorganic binder system based on water glass, which is used in 3D printing [...] Read more.

This study investigates the development and application of climate friendly processes in the foundry industry, particularly with regard to the use of inorganic binders to reduce emissions and pollution. An inorganic binder system based on water glass, which is used in 3D printing technology for the production of sand molds and core, is being tested and the possibility of determining a kinetic model for the curing kinetics of sodium silicate as an inorganic binder is investigated. The aim is to use a kinetic model to better describe the microwave process currently required in binder jetting for drying the binder and catalyzing the chemical reaction of the binder during curing. For sodium silicate in particular, there is still no scientific knowledge available in this respect, which is why basic investigations based on thermogravimetry or heat flow difference calorimetry must first be carried out. In this way, it should be possible to simulate the drying process in the microwave, which has so far been based on empirical values, in order to maximize the efficiency of this process and also the quality of the components. The results indicate that the weight loss and weight changes depend on the heating rates and that a heating rate of 30 K/min is not sufficient to fully cure the sample at 500 °C. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows that the fastest weight loss occurs at the beginning of the measurement, indicating a partial pre-curing of the sample before the measurement. From the measurements, an average activation energy of 144.18 kJ/mol could be determined using the Friedman method and 123.36 kJ/mol and 123.31 kJ/mol using the Ozawa–Flynn–Wall and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose methods, respectively. Measurements of the heat flow at a heating rate of 30 K/min indicate partially exothermic reactions during the curing process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)

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17 pages, 6326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Study of the Tensile Properties of a Zircaloy-4 Alloy Characterized by Mesoscale and Standard Specimens

by Ruohan Dong, Ning Zhao, Shenghui Tong, Zeen Zhang, Gang Li and Zesheng You

Materials 2025, 18(3), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030666 (registering DOI) - 3 Feb 2025

The accuracy and reliability of small-scale mechanical tests remain doubtful due to significant dependence of the obtained mechanical properties on specimen size. Mesoscale tensile tests with specimen sizes ranging from 10 μm to 1 mm are capable of obtaining bulk-like properties but are [...] Read more.

The accuracy and reliability of small-scale mechanical tests remain doubtful due to significant dependence of the obtained mechanical properties on specimen size. Mesoscale tensile tests with specimen sizes ranging from 10 μm to 1 mm are capable of obtaining bulk-like properties but are rarely applied to hexagonal close-packed metals. In this study, well-designed comparative tensile tests were carried out on a Zircaloy-4 alloy with a grain size of 4 μm using femtosecond laser-machined mesoscale specimens with a thickness of about 60 μm, sub-sized specimens with a thickness of about 1.3 mm, and standard specimens with a thickness of 4 mm. The quantitative results revealed that irrespective of the small specimen dimensions, the yield strength, tensile strength, and tensile ductility are only approximately 10.4%, 5.2%, and 13% lower than those of the standard specimens, respectively. This clearly demonstrates that the mechanical properties can be assessed with satisfactory accuracy by mesoscale tensile tests. The comparatively greater deviation of the yield strength at the mesoscale arises from the disappearance of yield point behavior, while the reduced tensile ductility is associated with the larger volume fraction of surface grains. The surface grains are characterized by more surface dislocation sources and deform with weaker constraints from neighboring grains, leading to smooth plastic yielding and slightly reduced strain hardening at the mesoscale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)

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17 pages, 1743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun DegraPol^® Tubes Releasing TIMP-1 Protein to Modulate Tendon Healing

by Julia Rieber, Roger Khalid Niederhauser, Pietro Giovanoli and Johanna Buschmann

Materials 2025, 18(3), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030665 (registering DOI) - 3 Feb 2025

Background: Tendon rupture repair can result from fibrotic scar formation through imbalanced ECM deposition during remodeling. The tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloprotease (TIMPs) not only decrease ECM degradation, regulated by matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), but also restrict TGF-β1 activation and thus diminish fibrosis. Methods: [...] Read more.

Background: Tendon rupture repair can result from fibrotic scar formation through imbalanced ECM deposition during remodeling. The tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloprotease (TIMPs) not only decrease ECM degradation, regulated by matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), but also restrict TGF-β1 activation and thus diminish fibrosis. Methods: Rabbit tenocytes (rbTenocytes) and rabbit adipose-derived stem cells (rbASCs) were cultivated under different TIMP-1 concentrations. Proliferation and gene expression were assessed. TIMP-1 was incorporated into emulsion electrospun DegraPol^® (DP) tubes that were characterized by SEM for fiber thickness, pore size, and wall thickness. Static and dynamic water contact angles, FTIR spectra, and TIMP-1 release kinetics were determined. Results: While the proliferation of rbTenocytes and rbACS was not affected by TIMP-1 supplementation in vitro, the gene expression of Col1A1 was increased in rbTenocytes, the gene expression of ki67 was increased in both cell types, the gene expression of tenomodulin was increased in both cell types at 100 ng/mL TIMP-1, and alkaline phosphatase expression ALP rose significantly in rbASCs. Electrospun TIMP-1/DP fibers had a ~5 μm diameter, a ~10 μm pore size, and a mesh thickness of ~200 μm. TIMP-1/DP meshes were more hydrophilic than pure DP meshes. TIMP-1 was released from the meshes with a sustained release of up to 7 days. Conclusions: TIMP-1/DP tubes may be used to modulate the fibrotic tissue reaction when applied around conventionally sutured tendon ruptures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physico-Chemical Modification of Materials for Biomedical Application)

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22 pages, 20381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Red Mud on Microstructures and Heat Resistance of ZL109 Aluminum Alloy

by Zhuofang Huang, Anmin Li, Wendi Zhou, Jinjin Li and Jinkai Zhang

Materials 2025, 18(3), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030664 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

The effects of red mud on the microstructures and high-temperature tensile properties of the ZL109 aluminum alloy have been investigated. Red mud/ZL109-based composite materials with added red mud (a major byproduct of the aluminum industry), which has been coated with nickel by chemical [...] Read more.

The effects of red mud on the microstructures and high-temperature tensile properties of the ZL109 aluminum alloy have been investigated. Red mud/ZL109-based composite materials with added red mud (a major byproduct of the aluminum industry), which has been coated with nickel by chemical deposition, have been prepared through gravity casting. The results show that the addition of red mud promotes the alloy’s microstructure and helps to uniformly distribute the eutectic silicon. It also increases the content of heat-resistant phases, such as the Q-Al₅Cu₂Mg₈Si₆ and γ-Al₇Cu₄Ni phases. These changes significantly enhance the alloy’s high-temperature tensile properties. The alloy with 1% (wt.%) red mud exhibits the best tensile strength at both room temperature and 350 °C, reaching 295.4 MPa and 143.3 MPa, respectively. The alloy with 1.5% (wt.%) red mud demonstrates excellent performance at 400 °C, achieving a tensile strength of 86.2 MPa through the cut-through method and Orowan mechanism. As a reinforcing material, red mud not only improves the high-temperature resistance of the aluminum alloy but also provides a way to recycle industrial waste. This study offers a new way to address the red mud waste problem and helps develop high-performance, heat-resistant aluminum alloys. It shows the potential of these alloys in high-temperature applications. Full article

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22 pages, 9071 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Production and Durability of Superhydrophobic Foamed Concrete

by Juntao Mao, Yi Xu, Xuan Kang, Songru Tong, Hongqiang Chu and Linhua Jiang

Materials 2025, 18(3), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030663 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

The durability problem caused by the high-water absorption of foamed concrete restricts its further development and application. This study aimed to improve the durability of foamed concrete by transforming its performance from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic. Firstly, polydimethylsiloxane-modified superhydrophobic bulk foamed concrete was produced [...] Read more.

The durability problem caused by the high-water absorption of foamed concrete restricts its further development and application. This study aimed to improve the durability of foamed concrete by transforming its performance from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic. Firstly, polydimethylsiloxane-modified superhydrophobic bulk foamed concrete was produced through physical foaming. Then, multiple durability tests, like mechanical wear, acid–alkali–saline resistance, ultraviolet aging, and extreme temperatures resistance tests, were carried out to assess its performance. Finally, the mechanism of superhydrophobicity also was studied. The results indicated that the volumetric and capillary water absorption of the superhydrophobic foamed concrete decreased by 72.4% and 92.6%, respectively, compared to ordinary foamed concrete. The dry densities of ordinary foamed concrete and superhydrophobic foamed concrete were 720 kg/m³ and 850 kg/m³, respectively. Superhydrophobic foamed concrete exhibited excellent wear resistance and resistance to ultraviolet aging. The contact angles after 10 m polishing and 168 h of ultraviolet irradiation were 152.1° and 152.2°, respectively. High temperature increased its hydrophobicity, and the contact angle increased to 157.1° at 200 °C. Additionally, electrochemical tests proved its better chloride ion corrosion resistance, and the corrosion potential and corrosion current of the superhydrophobic foamed concrete after 7 days were −0.190 V and 3.177 × 10⁻⁶ A, respectively. Therefore, the superhydrophobic bulk modification technique shows considerable potential for enhancing the durability of foamed concrete applied in various scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Solutions in Cement-Based Materials and Concrete Structures)

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17 pages, 4189 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Peri-Implant Bone Repair in Estrogen-Deficient Rats on a Cafeteria Diet: The Combined Effects of Systemic Risedronate and Genistein-Functionalized Implants

by Tatiany Aparecida de Castro, Jaqueline Suemi Hassumi, Gabriela Morais Julião, Marina Corrêa Dutra, Ana Cláudia Ervolino da Silva, Naara Gabriela Monteiro, Fábio Roberto de Souza Batista, Gabriel Mulinari-Santos, Paulo Noronha Lisboa-Filho and Roberta Okamoto

Materials 2025, 18(3), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030662 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

Estrogen deficiency, coupled with a cafeteria diet (CD), can impair peri-implant bone repair, posing a significant challenge to implant success in affected individuals. Thus, it is crucial to explore strategies for implant functionalization and systemic treatments that could alleviate these bone alterations. This [...] Read more.

Estrogen deficiency, coupled with a cafeteria diet (CD), can impair peri-implant bone repair, posing a significant challenge to implant success in affected individuals. Thus, it is crucial to explore strategies for implant functionalization and systemic treatments that could alleviate these bone alterations. This study aimed to assess peri-implant bone repair in ovariectomized (OVX) rats subjected to a CD, with a focus on implants functionalized with genistein (GEN), compared to conventional implants (CONV), and the effects of systemic treatment with risedronate sodium (RIS). In total, thirty-six female rats were assigned to three groups: rats with estrogen (SHAM), rats with estrogen deficiency and CD (OVX-CD), rats with estrogen deficiency, CD, and systemic RIS treatment (OVX-CD-RIS). All rats underwent bilateral extraction of the first upper molars followed by implant installation. Each group was further subdivided based on implant type: conventional implants (CONV) or GEN-functionalized implants, resulting in six subgroups (n = 6). The study employed several analyses, including reverse torque testing, microcomputed tomography (Micro-CT), epifluorescence microscopy, and molecular assays. The main result demonstrated that the OVX-CD-RIS/GEN subgroup exhibited significantly higher reverse torque values, indicating stronger implant stability. Micro-CT scans revealed a greater bone volume in the OVX-CD-RIS/GEN subgroup compared to other subgroups. Epifluorescence microscopy also demonstrated an increased mineral apposition rate in both the OVX-CD/GEN and OVX-CD-RIS/GEN subgroups. Molecular analysis indicated elevated expression levels of osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase, and vascular endothelial growth factor in the OVX-CD-RIS/GEN subgroup. In conclusion, the combined treatment of systemic RIS and GEN-functionalized implants significantly enhanced peri-implant bone repair, offering a promising strategy to improve implant outcomes in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Dental Materials: Recent Developments, Advances, and Applications)

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Graphical abstract

12 pages, 13339 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Improvement of the Impact Resistance of Epoxy Prepregs Through the Incorporation of Polyamide Nonwoven Fabric

by Anastasia Kondrateva, Oleg Morozov, Erdni Erdni-Goryaev, Ekaterina Afanaseva and Viktor Avdeev

Materials 2025, 18(3), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030661 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

The impact of introducing a nonwoven polyamide PA 12-E material on the mechanical properties of polymer composite materials based on epoxy autoclave prepreg T107 has been investigated. This study demonstrates that the incorporation of nonwoven fabric does not lead to a decrease in [...] Read more.

The impact of introducing a nonwoven polyamide PA 12-E material on the mechanical properties of polymer composite materials based on epoxy autoclave prepreg T107 has been investigated. This study demonstrates that the incorporation of nonwoven fabric does not lead to a decrease in the mechanical properties of the composites. A significant advantage of composites reinforced with nonwoven fabric is their enhanced impact resistance. During a free impact with an energy of 6.67 J per 1 mm of the sample, complete breakdown with fiber destruction occurs in samples without nonwoven material. In contrast, samples containing nonwoven material exhibit damage characterized by stratification without compromising the fibers. The compressive strength after impact increased from 260 to 320 MPa with the addition of nonwoven material. Consequently, the proposed modification of the commercial prepreg will expand the material’s range of applications and enhance safety, particularly in aircraft structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behavior of Composite Materials (3rd Edition))

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14 pages, 3917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication of Network Spherical α-Al₂O₃ and Its Application on the Separator of Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Haiyang Chen, Huifang Zhang, Hongliang Huang, Mingjie Guo, Jiale Wang, Peng Wang, Bin Li and Junhong Chen

Materials 2025, 18(3), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030660 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

Ceramic-coated polyolefin separator technology is considered a simple and effective method for the improvement of lithium-ion battery (LIB) safety. However, the characteristics of ceramic powder can adversely affect the surface structure and ion conductivity of the separators. Therefore, it is crucial to develop [...] Read more.

Ceramic-coated polyolefin separator technology is considered a simple and effective method for the improvement of lithium-ion battery (LIB) safety. However, the characteristics of ceramic powder can adversely affect the surface structure and ion conductivity of the separators. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a ceramic powder that not only improves the thermal stability of the separators but also enhances ion conductivity. Herein, network spherical α-Al₂O₃ (N-Al₂O₃) with a multi-dimensional network pore structure was constructed. Furthermore, N-Al₂O₃ was applied as a coating to one side of polyethylene (PE) separators, resulting in N-Al₂O₃-PE separators that exhibit superior thermal stability and enhanced wettability with liquid electrolytes. Notably, the N-Al₂O₃-PE separators demonstrated exceptional ionic conductivity (0.632 mS cm⁻¹), attributed to the internal multi-dimensional network pore structures of N-Al₂O₃, which facilitated an interconnected and efficient “highway” for the transport of Li⁺ ions. As a consequence, LiCoO₂/Li half batteries equipped with these N-Al₂O₃-PE separators showcased remarkable rate and cycling performance. Particularly at high current densities, their discharge capacity and capacity retention rate significantly outperformed those of conventional PE separators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Materials for Energy Harvesting and Storage Applications)

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17 pages, 3718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling the Carbothermal Chlorination Mechanism of Titanium Dioxide in Molten Salt Using a Deep Neural Network Potential

by Enhao Zhang, Xiumin Chen, Jie Zhou, Huapeng Wu, Yunmin Chen, Haiguang Huang, Jianjun Li and Qian Yang

Materials 2025, 18(3), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030659 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

The molten salt chlorination method is one of the two main methods for producing titanium tetrachloride, an important intermediate product in the titanium industry. To effectively improve chlorination efficiency and reduce unnecessary waste salt generation, it is necessary to understand the mechanism of [...] Read more.

The molten salt chlorination method is one of the two main methods for producing titanium tetrachloride, an important intermediate product in the titanium industry. To effectively improve chlorination efficiency and reduce unnecessary waste salt generation, it is necessary to understand the mechanism of the molten salt chlorination reaction, and consequently this paper conducted studies on the carbon chlorination reaction mechanism in molten salts by combining ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) and deep potential molecular dynamics (DeePMD) methods. The use of DeePMD allowed for simulations on a larger spatial and longer time scale, overcoming the limitations of AIMD in fully observing complex reaction processes. The results comprehensively revealed the mechanism of titanium dioxide transforming into titanium tetrachloride. In addition, the presence form and conversion pathways of chlorine in the system were elucidated, and it was observed that chloride ions derived from NaCl can chlorinate titanium dioxide to yield titanium tetrachloride, which was validated through experimental studies. Self-diffusion coefficients of chloride ions in pure NaCl which were acquired by DeePMD showed good agreement with the experimental data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic AI and Computational Methods for Modelling, Simulations and Optimizing of Advanced Systems: Innovations in Complexity)

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20 pages, 7285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Bending Performance of High-Ductility Composite Slab Floor with Composite Ribs

by Yuchen Jiang, Libo Liu, Xiaolei Wang, Run Liu and Haibo Yang

Materials 2025, 18(3), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030658 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

In order to solve the problems of high production cost and complex control of the inverted arch of an unsupported prestressed concrete composite slab, a flange truss high-ductility concrete composite slab floor is proposed to change the structure and pouring material to meet [...] Read more.

In order to solve the problems of high production cost and complex control of the inverted arch of an unsupported prestressed concrete composite slab, a flange truss high-ductility concrete composite slab floor is proposed to change the structure and pouring material to meet the requirements of no support during construction. The crack distribution and bending performance of the flange truss high-ductile concrete composite slab floor (CRHDCS) under different structures are clarified through the test and numerical analysis of four different rib plate structure floors. According to the analysis results, the calculation formulas of the cracking moment and short-term stiffness before cracking are modified, and the equivalent short-term stiffness formula of a single web member of the “V” truss to this kind of bottom plate is established. The results show that, unlike the short-term stiffness-change law of typical concrete composite slabs after cracking, the short-term stiffness of the designed bottom plate in this paper includes a short-term increase stage. The numerical simulation results are the same as the experimental ones; the maximum error is 10%. The maximum errors between the modified cracking moment and the short-term stiffness calculation formula are 6% and 8%, respectively. The influence rates of removing flange plate, truss-inverted binding, and adding rib plate on the cracking bending moment of foundation structure are −81.5%, 11.0%, and 22.2% respectively, and the influence rates on short-term stiffness are −87.6%, −1.5%, and 37.5% respectively. Full article

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12 pages, 2936 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First-Principles Understanding of Mono- and Dual-Emissions in AZnOS:Bi³⁺ (A = Ba, Ca) Phosphors

by Quanzhi Kougong, Bibo Lou and Mikhail G. Brik

Materials 2025, 18(3), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030657 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

The AZnOS:Bi³⁺ (A = Ba, Ca) phosphors exhibit mono- and dual-emission phenomena based on the different choices of cation, making them an ideal prototype for dual-emission mechanism studies of Bi³⁺ ions. Here, first-principles calculations were performed to investigate the site occupancy, [...] Read more.

The AZnOS:Bi³⁺ (A = Ba, Ca) phosphors exhibit mono- and dual-emission phenomena based on the different choices of cation, making them an ideal prototype for dual-emission mechanism studies of Bi³⁺ ions. Here, first-principles calculations were performed to investigate the site occupancy, defect levels, and luminescence properties of the AZnOS:Bi³⁺ systems. The formation energy calculations show that the bismuth dopants are mainly in the trivalent charge state, with the Bi³⁺ ions preferring the Ca sites in CaZnOS but the Zn sites in BaZnOS. Such cation-selective occupancy mainly results in the difference between the mono- and dual-emission phenomena in the two hosts. The excitation and emission energies predicted by calculations are in good agreement with the measurements. Our calculations show that the lowest excited state ³P_0,1 provides the dominant emission in both CaZnOS:Bi³⁺ and BaZnOS:Bi³⁺ phosphors. In light of the experimental and theoretical results, the metastable excited state of Bi²⁺ + h_VBM (hole at the valence band maximum) is the origin of the additional emission bands in BaZnOS:Bi³⁺. These results provide the basis of emission band tuning and novel material design for Bi³⁺-doped phosphors. Full article

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

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12 pages, 2804 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Output Characteristics of Carbon Nanotube Thermoelectric Generator with Slitted Kirigami Structure

by Shingo Terashima, Yuki Iwasa, Naoki Tanaka, Tsuyohiko Fujigaya and Eiji Iwase

Materials 2025, 18(3), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030656 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

The objective of our research is to improve the power generation of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) using a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) sheet by applying the out-of-plane deformation of a slitted kirigami structure. In order to obtain a large amount of power from [...] Read more.

The objective of our research is to improve the power generation of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) using a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) sheet by applying the out-of-plane deformation of a slitted kirigami structure. In order to obtain a large amount of power from a TEG using a thin-film thermoelectric (TE) element such as a SWCNT sheet, it is necessary to generate a large temperature difference in the in-plane direction of the thin-film TE element. However, it is difficult to realize a large temperature difference when the thin-film TE element is in contact with a heat source due to the need for a layer with high heat insulation. In this research, we proposed and fabricated a TEG with the out-of-plane deformation of a kirigami structure with slits using a p-n patterned SWCNT sheet as the thin-film TE material and evaluated the open circuit voltage with respect to the out-of-plane deformation and the number of TE elements. As a result, the output performance of SWCNT TEG was clarified when the out-of-plane deformation and the number of TE element pairs were varied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Thermoelectric Materials, Devices and Systems)

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15 pages, 2879 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Cu Powder on the Interface Microstructure Evolution of Hot-Rolled Al 6061/Mg M21/Al 6061 Composite Plates During Annealing

by Na Yang, Xianquan Jiang, Ruihao Zhang, Jian Li, Kaihong Zheng and Fusheng Pan

Materials 2025, 18(3), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030655 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

This study achieved the successful creation of a 6061/M21/6061 composite sheet, with Cu powder incorporated in the middle, through a two-pass hot roll bonding process. The effect of Cu powder addition on interface microstructure evolution of Mg-Al composite plate during annealing was studied. [...] Read more.

This study achieved the successful creation of a 6061/M21/6061 composite sheet, with Cu powder incorporated in the middle, through a two-pass hot roll bonding process. The effect of Cu powder addition on interface microstructure evolution of Mg-Al composite plate during annealing was studied. The results show that the incorporation of copper powder significantly suppresses the formation of Mg-Al intermetallic compounds (IMCs) at the boundary of Al-Mg bonded plates. The IMCs’ thickness of composite plate Mg-Al interface absent Cu powder increased from 7.0 µm at 250 °C to 61.2 µm at 400 °C, showing a rapid growth trend. On the contrary, in the area with Cu powder of composite plate containing Cu powder, when the temperature ranges from 250 °C to 350 °C, the Mg-Al diffusion layer is thin and only varies between 1 µm and 3.2 µm and, even when the temperature rises to 400 °C, the diffusion layer is only 18.8 µm. At a constant temperature, the diffusion rate of IMCs in the Cu powder-containing region of the composite plate is significantly lower than that in the region without Cu powder. Upon the addition of Cu powder, Al₂Cu and Al_0.92Cu_1.08Mg phases are formed, which decrease the proportion of the brittle phases Al₃Mg₂ and Mg₁₇Al₁₂ at the composite plate interface, thereby effectively mitigating the diffusion of IMCs within the Mg-Al interface. This presents a novel concept for the investigation of enhanced interface bonding and the fabrication of Mg-Al composite plates. Full article

46 pages, 8105 KiB

Open AccessReview

Layer-by-Layer Nanoarchitectonics: A Method for Everything in Layered Structures

by Katsuhiko Ariga

Materials 2025, 18(3), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030654 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2025

The development of functional materials and the use of nanotechnology are ongoing projects. These fields are closely linked, but there is a need to combine them more actively. Nanoarchitectonics, a concept that comes after nanotechnology, is ready to do this. Among the related [...] Read more.

The development of functional materials and the use of nanotechnology are ongoing projects. These fields are closely linked, but there is a need to combine them more actively. Nanoarchitectonics, a concept that comes after nanotechnology, is ready to do this. Among the related research efforts, research into creating functional materials through the formation of thin layers on surfaces, molecular membranes, and multilayer structures of these materials have a lot of implications. Layered structures are especially important as a key part of nanoarchitectonics. The diversity of the components and materials used in layer-by-layer (LbL) assemblies is a notable feature. Examples of LbL assemblies introduced in this review article include quantum dots, nanoparticles, nanocrystals, nanowires, nanotubes, g-C₃N₄, graphene oxide, MXene, nanosheets, zeolites, nanoporous materials, sol–gel materials, layered double hydroxides, metal–organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, conducting polymers, dyes, DNAs, polysaccharides, nanocelluloses, peptides, proteins, lipid bilayers, photosystems, viruses, living cells, and tissues. These examples of LbL assembly show how useful and versatile it is. Finally, this review will consider future challenges in layer-by-layer nanoarchitectonics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Nanoarchitectonics with Molecular and Materials Science: Materials for Energy, Environment, Bio, and Others (2nd Edition))

38 pages, 30937 KiB

Open AccessReview

Surface-Modification Strategy to Produce Highly Anticorrosive Ti₃C₂T_x MXene-Based Polymer Composite Coatings: A Mini-Review

by Shufang Zhang, Guoqin Zhang, Liang Fang, Zhiheng Wang, Fang Wu, Gaobin Liu, Qirui Wang and Hongen Nian

Materials 2025, 18(3), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030653 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2025

MXenes are a group of novel two-dimensional (2D) materials with merits such as large specific surface area, abundant surface-functional groups, high chemical activity, excellent mechanical properties, high hydrophilicity, and good compatibility with various polymers. In recent years, many novel high-performance organic anticorrosion coatings [...] Read more.

MXenes are a group of novel two-dimensional (2D) materials with merits such as large specific surface area, abundant surface-functional groups, high chemical activity, excellent mechanical properties, high hydrophilicity, and good compatibility with various polymers. In recent years, many novel high-performance organic anticorrosion coatings using MXenes as nanofillers have been reported and have attracted widespread attention. As the first successfully prepared MXene material, Ti₃C₂T_x is the most extensively studied and typical member of the MXene family. Therefore, it is taken as the representative of its family, and the status of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene/epoxy resin (EP) and MXene/waterborne polyurethane (WPU) polymer anticorrosive composite coatings is reviewed. Firstly, the structure, characteristics, and main synthesis methods of MXenes are briefly introduced. Then, the latest progress of four surface-modification strategies to improve the dispersion, compatibility, stability, and anti-aggregation properties of MXenes, namely functionalization grafting, orientation regulation, heterostructure nanocomposite design, and stabilization and greening treatment, are analyzed and summarized. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities regarding MXene-based corrosion-resistant organic composite coatings are discussed prospectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion Behavior and Mechanical Properties of Metallic Materials)

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17 pages, 6546 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Catalytic Combustion of Biodiesel Wastewater on Red Mud Catalyst

by Shangzhi Yu, Wenyu Yuan, Qinglong Xie, Xiaojiang Liang and Yong Nie

Materials 2025, 18(3), 652; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030652 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2025

The resource utilization of red mud (RM) has attracted widespread attention for achieving the waste-to-waste treatment goal. In this work, the RM catalysts were synthesized at different calcination temperatures by a simple method. The calcination temperature had a great effect on catalyst activity [...] Read more.

The resource utilization of red mud (RM) has attracted widespread attention for achieving the waste-to-waste treatment goal. In this work, the RM catalysts were synthesized at different calcination temperatures by a simple method. The calcination temperature had a great effect on catalyst activity in the catalytic combustion of biodiesel wastewater. The RM catalyst calcined at 350 °C (RM350) exhibited the best catalytic activity. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) and COD removal rate of the treated wastewater reached almost 0 mg/L and 100%, respectively. The COD removal rate was significantly higher than 90.703% of the catalyst prepared by α-Fe₂O₃ at the same calcination temperature. Characterization results showed that the RM catalyst exhibited a high specific surface area of 60.03–64.15 m²/g and a well-developed mesoporous structure, as the calcination temperature did not exceed 400 °C, which was beneficial for adsorption and diffusion. Meanwhile, most of the Fe₂O₃ in the catalyst existed in an amorphous form and was abundantly presented on the catalyst surface, significantly lowering the reduction temperature of the catalyst and enhancing its reducibility. Furthermore, the α-Fe₂O₃ in the catalyst had higher dispersion, leading to an increase in utilization efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application and Modification of Clay Minerals)

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18 pages, 3310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Mechanical Properties, Tensile Performance, Hydration Heat, and Microstructure of VAE-Modified Rubber Mortar

by Jiaming Zhang, Ce Bian, Bowen Chen, Chunhe Li, Hua Wei and Hao Lu

Materials 2025, 18(3), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030651 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2025

This study builds on the practice of using waste rubber to improve the ductility of cement mortar and further explores the potential of vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) in enhancing the ductility of rubber cement mortar (RM). It systematically analyzes the effects of VAE on [...] Read more.

This study builds on the practice of using waste rubber to improve the ductility of cement mortar and further explores the potential of vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) in enhancing the ductility of rubber cement mortar (RM). It systematically analyzes the effects of VAE on the workability, mechanical properties, crack resistance, and microstructure of RM. Additionally, isothermal calorimetry was employed to investigate the mechanism of VAE's influence on cement hydration heat. The results show that VAE significantly improves the flexural strength, tensile strength, and ultimate tensile strain of RM, while reducing its compressive strength and tensile elastic modulus, thereby markedly enhancing its flexibility and ductility. At a VAE content of 4%, the fluidity, 28-day flexural strength, tensile strength, and ultimate tensile strain of RM reached 240 mm, 4.83 MPa, 1.92 MPa, and 233×10⁻⁶, respectively, representing increases of 16%, 18.97%, 11.63%, and 62.94% compared to ordinary RM. However, when the VAE content exceeded 4%, both flexural strength and tensile strength began to decrease. Furthermore, the incorporation of VAE induced the formation of flexible polymer films within the RM matrix but also increased the porosity of the cement matrix, extended the induction period of cement hydration, and reduced the rate and degree of hydration. These findings provide valuable data to support the development of high-ductility and high-crack-resistance concrete repair materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Advanced Development in Concrete Materials: Properties and Construction Techniques)

23 pages, 4011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rietveld Refinement of Electron Diffraction Patterns of Nanocrystalline Materials Using MAUD: Two-Beam Dynamical Correction Implementation and Applications

by Ankur Sinha, Valentino Abram, Luca Lutterotti and Stefano Gialanella

Materials 2025, 18(3), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030650 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2025

Nanocrystalline (NC) materials have widespread industrial usage. X-ray and neutron diffraction techniques are primary tools for studying the structural and microstructural features of NC materials. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns collected using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) on polycrystalline nanostructured materials, featuring [...] Read more.

Nanocrystalline (NC) materials have widespread industrial usage. X-ray and neutron diffraction techniques are primary tools for studying the structural and microstructural features of NC materials. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns collected using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) on polycrystalline nanostructured materials, featuring nested rings, that are analogous to Debye–Scherrer patterns, possess similar potentials to aid materials characterisation. The utility of SAED patterns is further enhanced by the possibility of applying crystallographic approaches, like full pattern fitting procedures, based on Rietveld refinement algorithms, enabling the evaluation of material features, such as crystallite size, lattice distortions, defect structures, and the presence of secondary phases even from very small volume scale. In this paper, we have discussed the possibilities afforded by a Rietveld code applied to SAED patterns of NC materials, including the mathematical implementation of the two-beam dynamical correction model in MAUD software (version 2.9996), and a critical discussion of the results obtained on different NC materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Characterization Techniques for Nanomaterials)

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