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5.8

3.1 Journals Materials

Using RAFT Polymerization Methodologies to Create Branched and Nanogel-Type Copolymers

Functional Lead-Free Ceramic Materials for Applications in Non-Linear Optics

Biofilm Formation on Hybrid, Resin-Based CAD/CAM Materials for Indirect Restorations: A Comprehensive Review

Wide-Band Semoconductors for Radiation Detection

Innovative Lattice-Infilled Wing Design with AM: A Paradigm Shift for Aviation Journal Description 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 15.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first 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) subject Imprint Information get_app Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 1996-1944 Latest Articles 12 pages, 714 KiB Open AccessArticle Impact of PEG Content on Doxorubicin Release from PLGA-co-PEG Nanoparticles by Maria Margarida Cardoso, Inês N. Peça and Ana Bicho Materials 2024, 17(14), 3544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143544 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract Nanoparticles (NPs) have become attractive vehicles for drug delivery in cancer therapy due to their ability to accumulate in tumours and mitigate side effects. This study focuses on the production of doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded NPs comprising Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)-Polyethylene glycol with varying PEG proportions [...] Read more. Nanoparticles (NPs) have become attractive vehicles for drug delivery in cancer therapy due to their ability to accumulate in tumours and mitigate side effects. This study focuses on the production of doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded NPs comprising Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)-Polyethylene glycol with varying PEG proportions and the examination of their impact on drug release kinetics. DOX-loaded NPs, composed of PLGA-co-PEG with PEG contents of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%, were synthesized by the solvent evaporation technique, exhibited spherical morphology, and had sizes ranging from 420 nm to 690 nm. In vitro drug release studies revealed biphasic profiles, with higher PEG contents leading to faster and more extensive drug release. The Baker–Lonsdale model demonstrated the best fit to the drug release data, indicating that the release process is diffusion-controlled. The diffusion coefficients for DOX determined ranged from 6.3 × 10−18 to 7.55 × 10−17 cm2s−1 and exhibited an upward trend with increasing PEG content in the polymer. In vitro cytotoxicity tests with CHO cells showed that unloaded NPs are non-toxic, while DOX-loaded PLGA-PEG 15% NPs induced a greater decrease in cellular viability compared to their PLGA counterparts. A mathematical relationship between the diffusion coefficient and PEG percentage was derived, providing a practical tool for optimizing DOX release profiles. Full article (This article belongs to the Section Polymeric Materials) 14 pages, 1504 KiB Open AccessArticle Quinacridones as a Building Block for Sustainable Gliding Layers on Ice and Snow by Peter Bützer, Marcel Roland Bützer, Florence Piffaretti, Patrick Schneider, Simon Lustenberger, Fabian Walther and Dominik Brühwiler Materials 2024, 17(14), 3543; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143543 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract Quinacridone (QA) and 2,9-dimethylquinacridone (DQA) are synthetic substances suitable as a hard, abrasion-resistant, self-organizing gliding layer on ice and snow. For sustainable use, a large number of parameters must be considered to demonstrate that these non-biogenic substances and their by-products and degradation products [...] Read more. Quinacridone (QA) and 2,9-dimethylquinacridone (DQA) are synthetic substances suitable as a hard, abrasion-resistant, self-organizing gliding layer on ice and snow. For sustainable use, a large number of parameters must be considered to demonstrate that these non-biogenic substances and their by-products and degradation products are harmless to humans and the environment in the quantities released. For this task, available experimental data are used and supplemented for all tautomers by numerous relevant physical, chemical, toxicological and ecotoxicological estimated values based on various Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) methods. On the one hand, the low solubility of QA and DQA leads to stable gliding layers and thus, low abrasion and uptake by plants, animals and humans. On the other hand, the four hydrogen bond forming functional groups per molecule allow nanoparticle decomposition and enzymatic degradation in natural environments. All available data justify a sustainable use of QA and DQA as a gliding layer. The assessment of the toxicological properties is complemented by an investigation of the size and morphology of DQA particles, as well as field tests indicating excellent performance as a gliding layer on snow. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue The 15th Anniversary of Materials—Recent Advances in Materials Chemistry) 23 pages, 13337 KiB Open AccessArticle Evaluation of Corrosion and Its Impact on the Mechanical Performance of Al–Steel Joints by Weiling Wen, Blair Carlson and Mihaela Banu Materials 2024, 17(14), 3542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143542 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract Aluminum–steel joints are increasingly used in the automotive industry to meet the requirements for energy saving and emission reduction. Among various joining technologies, self-pierce riveting (SPR) and resistance spot welding (RSW) are two well-established technologies for fabricating dissimilar joints with stable and high [...] Read more. Aluminum–steel joints are increasingly used in the automotive industry to meet the requirements for energy saving and emission reduction. Among various joining technologies, self-pierce riveting (SPR) and resistance spot welding (RSW) are two well-established technologies for fabricating dissimilar joints with stable and high mechanical performance. However, corrosion will occur in these joints inevitably due to different electrochemical properties, which can degrade the surface quality and the mechanical performance, such as strength. This paper presents a method of understanding the corrosion mechanisms in joining aluminum and steel. For this understanding, a hybrid method combining experimental observations, mechanical properties identification, and analytical approaches was used to assess the evolution of the impact of corrosion on the joining performance, such as traction separation curves. The study was conducted on common combinations used in the vehicles, e.g., a 1.2 mm thickness aluminum alloy (AA 6022) and 2.0 mm thickness hot deep galvanized steel (HDG HSLA 340) joined by SPR and RSW. After the fabrication of these joints, accelerated cyclic corrosion tests of up to 104 cycles were performed, which reproduced the environmental conditions to which a vehicle was exposed. By investigating the microstructural evolution within the joints, the corrosion mechanisms of SPR and RSW joints were revealed, including the initiation and propagation. Moreover, the intrinsic impact of the corrosion on the mechanical performance, including the strength, axial stiffness, and crashworthiness, was analyzed by performing a lap-shear test. It showed that as corrosion proceeds, the fracture modes and mechanical performance are affected significantly. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Welding in Alloys and Composites) ►▼ Show Figures

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15 pages, 1943 KiB Open AccessArticle Weathering Tests on Raw and Consolidated Vicenza Stone by Ilaria Capasso, Abner Colella and Fabio Iucolano Materials 2024, 17(14), 3541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143541 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract The preservation of cultural heritage, particularly historical stone structures, represents a very challenging matter due to several environmental and anthropogenic factors. Vicenza stone, a calcareous rock known for its historical significance and widespread use in architectural masterpieces, requires significant attention for conservation. In [...] Read more. The preservation of cultural heritage, particularly historical stone structures, represents a very challenging matter due to several environmental and anthropogenic factors. Vicenza stone, a calcareous rock known for its historical significance and widespread use in architectural masterpieces, requires significant attention for conservation. In fact, as the demand for sustainable and effective preservation methods intensifies, the exploration of innovative consolidation strategies becomes essential. To this end, inorganic consolidants, based on alkaline silicate formulations and nano-silica, were explored for their promising performance in enhancing the surface properties and chemical stability of Vicenza stone. In particular, the durability of treated and untreated Vicenza stone samples was evaluated by means of accelerated weathering tests such as freeze–thaw cycles, salt crystallization and simulation of acid rain. The experimental results revealed that Vicenza stone is very resistant to the effects of freeze–thaw cycles and acid rain; both the accelerated weathering tests did not show significant differences between treated and untreated VS samples. A different behavior was detected for the test for resistance to salt crystallization, whose findings led us to deduce that, for this kind of degradation, it is possible to observe a more beneficial effect of the consolidation treatments on the stone durability. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Stone Building Materials: Characterization, Decay, and Conservation (Second Volume)) 32 pages, 3409 KiB Open AccessArticle Performance Characterization and Composition Design Using Machine Learning and Optimal Technology for Slag–Desulfurization Gypsum-Based Alkali-Activated Materials by Xinyi Liu, Hao Liu, Zhiqing Wang, Xiaoyu Zang, Jiaolong Ren and Hongbo Zhao Materials 2024, 17(14), 3540; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143540 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract Fly ash–slag-based alkali-activated materials have excellent mechanical performance and a low carbon footprint, and they have emerged as a promising alternative to Portland cement. Therefore, replacing traditional Portland cement with slag–desulfurization gypsum-based alkali-activated materials will help to make better use of the waste, [...] Read more. Fly ash–slag-based alkali-activated materials have excellent mechanical performance and a low carbon footprint, and they have emerged as a promising alternative to Portland cement. Therefore, replacing traditional Portland cement with slag–desulfurization gypsum-based alkali-activated materials will help to make better use of the waste, protect the environment, and improve the materials’ performance. In order to better understand it and thus better use it in engineering, it needs to be characterized for performance and compositional design. This study developed a novel framework for performance characterization and composition design by combining Categorical Gradient Boosting (CatBoost), simplicial homology global optimization (SHGO), and laboratory tests. The CatBoost characterization model was evaluated and discussed based on SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAPs) and a partial dependence plot (PDP). Through the proposed framework, the optimal composition of the slag–desulfurization gypsum-based alkali-activated materials with the maximum flexural strength and compressive strength at 1, 3, and 7 days is Ca(OH)2: 3.1%, fly ash: 2.6%, DG: 0.53%, alkali: 4.3%, modulus: 1.18, and W/G: 0.49. Compared with the material composition obtained from the traditional experiment, the actual flexural strength and compressive strength at 1, 3, and 7 days increased by 26.67%, 6.45%, 9.64%, 41.89%, 9.77%, and 7.18%, respectively. In addition, the results of the optimal composition obtained by laboratory tests are very close to the predictions of the developed framework, which shows that CatBoost characterizes the performance well based on test data. The developed framework provides a reasonable, scientific, and helpful way to characterize the performance and determine the optimal composition for civil materials. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Machine Learning in Cement-Based Materials: Advances and Applications) 18 pages, 18765 KiB Open AccessArticle Compound Castings for the Coke Industry by Tomasz Wróbel Materials 2024, 17(14), 3539; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143539 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract In this paper, issues related to the technology of compound castings composed of two parts, i.e., the working layer and the supporting part, made of X46Cr13 high-chromium steel and EN-GJL-HB 255 grey cast iron, respectively, in a liquid–solid system by pre-installing a monolithic [...] Read more. In this paper, issues related to the technology of compound castings composed of two parts, i.e., the working layer and the supporting part, made of X46Cr13 high-chromium steel and EN-GJL-HB 255 grey cast iron, respectively, in a liquid–solid system by pre-installing a monolithic insert in the mould cavity are presented. As a part of the research, the mechanism of formation of transitional zones in the bonding area of the above-mentioned two alloys was identified and described. It was shown that the phenomenon that determines the formation of a permanent bond between the joined materials is the transport of C and heat from the “high-carbon and hot” material of the supporting part poured into the mould in the form of liquid cast iron to the “low-carbon and cold” material of the working layer placed in the form of a steel monolithic insert inside the mould cavity. In the paper, the suitability of the compound castings technology developed for use in the coke industry is also presented. Full-size high-chromium steel–grey cast iron compound casting plates designed for the coke quenching car lining were positively verified in real coke plant operating conditions. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Achievements in Foundry Materials and Technologies) ►▼ Show Figures

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38 pages, 51686 KiB Open AccessArticle Analyzing the Effects of Cr and Mo on the Pearlite Formation in Hypereutectoid Steel Using Experiments and Phase Field Numerical Simulations by Faisal Qayyum, Ali Cheloee Darabi, Sergey Guk, Vinzenz Guski, Siegfried Schmauder and Ulrich Prahl Materials 2024, 17(14), 3538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143538 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract In this study, we quantitatively investigate the impact of 1.4 wt.% chromium and 1.4 wt.% molybdenum additions on pearlitic microstructure characteristics in 1 wt.% carbon steels. The study was carried out using a combination of experimental methods and phase field simulations. We utilized [...] Read more. In this study, we quantitatively investigate the impact of 1.4 wt.% chromium and 1.4 wt.% molybdenum additions on pearlitic microstructure characteristics in 1 wt.% carbon steels. The study was carried out using a combination of experimental methods and phase field simulations. We utilized MatCalc v5.51 and JMatPro v12 to predict transformation behaviors, and electron microscopy for microstructural examination, focusing on pearlite morphology under varying thermal conditions. Phase field simulations were carried out using MICRESS v7.2 software and, informed by thermodynamic data from MatCalc v5.51 and the literature, were conducted to replicate pearlite formation, demonstrating a good agreement with the experimental observations. In this work, we introduced a semi-automatic reliable microstructural analysis method, quantifying features like lamella dimensions and spacing through image processing by Fiji ImageJ v1.54f. The introduction of Cr resulted in longer, thinner, and more homogeneously distributed cementite lamellae, while Mo led to shorter, thicker lamellae. Phase field simulations accurately predicted these trends and showed that alloying with Cr or Mo increases the density and circularity of the lamellae. Our results demonstrate that Cr stabilizes pearlite formation, promoting a uniform microstructure, whereas Mo affects the morphology without enhancing homogeneity. The phase field model, validated by experimental data, provides insights into the morphological changes induced by these alloying elements, supporting the optimization of steel processing conditions. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical Simulation Methods for Analyzing Fatigue and Fracture Behavior in Metallic Materials) ►▼ Show Figures

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18 pages, 16102 KiB Open AccessArticle Study on the Deashing of Lignite with Hydrochloric Acid/Sodium Fluoride Leaching, Assisted by Microwave and Ultrasonic Waves by Xinming Ran and Jie Yuan Materials 2024, 17(14), 3537; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143537 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract This study was aimed at investigating the effects of adding sodium fluoride (NaF) and using the assistance of ultrasonic and microwave energy on the removal efficiency of ash content during the hydrochloric acid (HCl) chemical leaching process of lignite samples from Zhaotong, Yunnan, [...] Read more. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of adding sodium fluoride (NaF) and using the assistance of ultrasonic and microwave energy on the removal efficiency of ash content during the hydrochloric acid (HCl) chemical leaching process of lignite samples from Zhaotong, Yunnan, China. Chemical leaching was conducted on lignite samples from Zhaotong, Yunnan, China, under the experimental conditions of time (30–120 min), temperature (55–95 °C), microwave power (240–800 W), ultrasonic power (25–100%), and NaF addition concentration (0.2–1.2 M). The addition of NaF greatly improved the removal efficiency of ash content from lignite. Under optimized conditions, the addition of NaF increased the removal rate of ash content from lignite from 25% to 65.27%. The microwave-assisted deashing of lignite can significantly improve the deashing efficiency, with positive implications for the microstructure regulations of lignite. Ultrasonic-assisted deashing can lower the temperature for coal powder burnout and enhance the combustion performance of coal. Full article ►▼ Show Figures

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attachment Supplementary material: Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 9837 KiB) 15 pages, 10388 KiB Open AccessArticle Shear Thickening Fluid and Sponge-Hybrid Triboelectric Nanogenerator for a Motion Sensor Array-Based Lying State Detection System by Youngsu Kim, Inkyum Kim, Maesoon Im and Daewon Kim Materials 2024, 17(14), 3536; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143536 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract Issues of size and power consumption in IoT devices can be addressed through triboelectricity-driven energy harvesting technology, which generates electrical signals without external power sources or batteries. This technology significantly reduces the complexity of devices, enhances installation flexibility, and minimizes power consumption. By [...] Read more. Issues of size and power consumption in IoT devices can be addressed through triboelectricity-driven energy harvesting technology, which generates electrical signals without external power sources or batteries. This technology significantly reduces the complexity of devices, enhances installation flexibility, and minimizes power consumption. By utilizing shear thickening fluid (STF), which exhibits variable viscosity upon external impact, the sensitivity of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG)-based sensors can be adjusted. For this study, the highest electrical outputs of STF and sponge-hybrid TENG (SSH-TENG) devices under various input forces and frequencies were generated with an open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 98 V and a short-circuit current (ISC) of 4.5 µA. The maximum power density was confirmed to be 0.853 mW/m2 at a load resistance of 30 MΩ. Additionally, a lying state detection system for use in medical settings was implemented using SSH-TENG as a hybrid triboelectric motion sensor (HTMS). Each unit of a 3 × 2 HTMS array, connected to a half-wave rectifier and 1 MΩ parallel resistor, was interfaced with an MCU. Real-time detection of the patient’s condition through the HTMS array could enable the early identification of hazardous situations and alerts. The proposed HTMS continuously monitors the patient’s movements, promptly identifying areas prone to pressure ulcers, thus effectively contributing to pressure ulcer prevention. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoarchitectonics in Materials Science) ►▼ Show Figures

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20 pages, 8871 KiB Open AccessArticle Study on Key Properties and Model Establishment of Innovative Recycled Aggregate Pervious Concrete by Panfeng Zhao, Jingfei Zhou, Zhengnan Zhang and Shoukai Chen Materials 2024, 17(14), 3535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143535 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract In order to meet the needs of low-impact development and sustainable development, there is an urgent desire to develop an innovative recycled aggregate pervious concrete (I-RAPC) that is of high strength and permeability. In this study, I-RAPC was prepared based on response surface [...] Read more. In order to meet the needs of low-impact development and sustainable development, there is an urgent desire to develop an innovative recycled aggregate pervious concrete (I-RAPC) that is of high strength and permeability. In this study, I-RAPC was prepared based on response surface methodology (RSM) using recycled aggregate, river sand, and different types of pipes as the materials, and the effects of different pipe parameters (number, diameter, material, and distribution form) on the performance of I-RAPC were investigated. In addition, the calculation model of the compressive strength and the permeability coefficient of I-RAPC were proposed. The results showed that the frontal- and lateral-compressive strengths of I-RAPC were 39.8 MPa and 42.5 MPa, respectively, when the pipe material was acrylic, the position was 1EM, and the diameter was 10 mm—at which time the permeability coefficient was 3.02 mm/s, which was the highest in this study. The maximum relative errors of the compressive strength calculation model and the permeability coefficient calculation model were only 7.52% and 4.42%, respectively, as shown by the post hoc test. Therefore, I-RAPC has the advantages of high strength and permeability and is expected to be applied in low-impact development in cities with heavy surface sediment content and rainfall. Full article (This article belongs to the Topic Multifunctional Porous Materials: Preparation, Structure, Modeling and Applications) ►▼ Show Figures

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12 pages, 12343 KiB Open AccessArticle Agile Inverse Design of Polarization-Independent Multi-Functional Reconfiguration Metamaterials Based on Doped VO2 by Bingyao Shan, Yang Shen, Xuran Yi, Xianqing Chi and Kejian Chen Materials 2024, 17(14), 3534; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143534 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract Increasing attention is being paid to the application potential of multi-functional reconfigurable metamaterials in intelligent communication, sensor networks, homeland security, and other fields. A polarization-independent multi-functional reconfigurable metasurface based on doped vanadium dioxide (VO2) is proposed in this paper. It can [...] Read more. Increasing attention is being paid to the application potential of multi-functional reconfigurable metamaterials in intelligent communication, sensor networks, homeland security, and other fields. A polarization-independent multi-functional reconfigurable metasurface based on doped vanadium dioxide (VO2) is proposed in this paper. It can be controlled to switch its function among three working modes: electromagnetically induced absorption (EIA), electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT), and asymmetrical absorption. In addition, deep learning tools have greatly accelerated the design of relevant devices. Such devices and the method proposed in this paper have important value in the field of intelligent reconfigurable metamaterials, communication, and sensing. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Metamaterials: Structure, Properties and Applications) ►▼ Show Figures

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9 pages, 3880 KiB Open AccessArticle Effect of Interlayer on Flatness and Adhesion of Aerosol-Deposited Yttrium Oxide Coating by Ki-Seong Lim, Tae-Soo Jang, Jae-hyeon Jeong, Sung-Hwan Hong and Joo Jin Materials 2024, 17(14), 3533; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143533 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract In this study, Y2O3 coating is used as an interlayer between Al2O3 substrate and a ceramic coating; this is in order to minimize the morphological distortion produced by a single deposition of the ceramic coating on the [...] Read more. In this study, Y2O3 coating is used as an interlayer between Al2O3 substrate and a ceramic coating; this is in order to minimize the morphological distortion produced by a single deposition of the ceramic coating on the Al2O3 substrate, which is performed using the aerosol method. The interlayer coating, which comprises the Y2O3 phase, is deposited on the Al2O3 substrate using an e-beam evaporator. The crystal structure of the powder that was used to process the coating is identified as cubic Y2O3. In contrast, the crystal structure of the top-coating layer and interlayer indicates the presence of two kinds of Y2O3 phases, which possess cubic and monoclinic structures. The single Y2O3 coating without an interlayer exhibits microcracks around the interface between the coating and the substrate, which can be attributed to the stress that occurs during aerosol deposition. In contrast, no cracks are found in the aerosol-deposited Y2O3 coating and interlayer, which show a desirable microstructure. The single Y2O3 coating and the Y2O3 coating with an interlayer exhibit similar hardness and elastic modulus values. Nevertheless, the Y2O3 coating with an interlayer exhibits a higher level of adhesion than the single Y2O3 coating, with a value of 14.8 N compared to 10.2 N. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization, Properties, and Applications of New Metallic Alloys) ►▼ Show Figures

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13 pages, 3368 KiB Open AccessArticle The Hydroxylated Carbon Nanotubes as the Hole Oxidation System in Electrocatalysis by Paweł Szroeder, Przemysław Ziółkowski, Ihor Sahalianov, Piotr Madajski and Marek Trzcinski Materials 2024, 17(14), 3532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143532 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract The hydroxylated carbon nanotubes (CNTs-OH), due to their propensity to trap electrons, are considered in many applications. Despite many case studies, the effect of the electronic structure of the CNT-OH electrode on its oxidation properties has not received in-depth analysis. In the present [...] Read more. The hydroxylated carbon nanotubes (CNTs-OH), due to their propensity to trap electrons, are considered in many applications. Despite many case studies, the effect of the electronic structure of the CNT-OH electrode on its oxidation properties has not received in-depth analysis. In the present study, we used Fe(CN)63−/4− and Ru(NH3)63+/2+ as redox probes, which differ in charge. The CNT-OH and CNT electrodes used in the cyclic voltammetry were in the form of freestanding films. The concentration of holes in the CNTs-OH, estimated from the upshift of the Raman G-feature, was 2.9×1013 cm−2. The standard rate constant of the heterogeneous electron transfer (HET) between Fe(CN)63−/4− and the CNTs-OH electrode was 25.9×10−4 cm·s−1. The value was more than four times higher than the HET rate on the CNT electrode (ks=6.3×10−4 cm·s−1), which proves excellent boosting of the redox reaction by the holes. The opposite effect was observed for the Ru(NH3)63+/2+ redox couple. While the redox reaction rate constant at the CNT electrode was 1.4×10−4 cm·s−1, there was a significant suppression of the redox reaction at the CNT-OH electrode (ks

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18 pages, 4840 KiB Open AccessArticle Strength Recovery of Thermally Damaged High-Performance Concrete during Recuring by Ye Li, Haodong Wang and Hangqi Lou Materials 2024, 17(14), 3531; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143531 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract High-performance concrete (HPC) experiences significant degradation in its mechanical properties after fire exposure. While various post-fire curing methods have been proposed to rehabilitate thermally damaged concrete (TDC), the physical and chemical changes occurring during these processes are not well-understood. This study examines the [...] Read more. High-performance concrete (HPC) experiences significant degradation in its mechanical properties after fire exposure. While various post-fire curing methods have been proposed to rehabilitate thermally damaged concrete (TDC), the physical and chemical changes occurring during these processes are not well-understood. This study examines the strength and microstructure restoration of HPC through water and water–CO2 cyclic recuring. HPC samples were initially heated to 600 °C and 900 °C, then subjected to water and cyclic recuring. Results indicate that the mechanical performance recovery of thermally damaged HPC is significantly better with cyclic recuring than with water recuring. The compressive strength of HPC samples exposed to 600 °C and 900 °C reached 131.6% and 70.3% of their original strength, respectively, after cyclic recuring. The optimal recuring duration for substantial recovery in thermally damaged HPC was determined to be 18 days. The strength recovery is primarily due to the healing of microcracks and the densification of decomposed cement paste. These findings clarify the physical and chemical processes involved in post-fire curing of HPC, highlighting the potential of water and water–CO2 cyclic recuring in the rehabilitation of TDC. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue CO2 Mineralization of Calcium Silicates Cements) ►▼ Show Figures

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13 pages, 1980 KiB Open AccessArticle Plasmid DNA Complexes in Powder Form Studied by Spectroscopic and Diffraction Methods by Aleksandra Radko, Sebastian Lalik, Natalia Górska, Aleksandra Deptuch, Jolanta Świergiel and Monika Marzec Materials 2024, 17(14), 3530; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143530 - 17 Jul 2024 Abstract Currently, new functional materials are being created with a strong emphasis on their ecological aspect. Materials and devices based on DNA biopolymers, being environmentally friendly, are therefore very interesting from the point of view of applications. In this paper, we present the results [...] Read more. Currently, new functional materials are being created with a strong emphasis on their ecological aspect. Materials and devices based on DNA biopolymers, being environmentally friendly, are therefore very interesting from the point of view of applications. In this paper, we present the results of research on complexes in the powder form based on plasmid DNA (pDNA) and three surfactants with aliphatic chains containing 16 carbon atoms (cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyldimethylhexadecylammonium chloride and hexadecylpyridinium chloride). The X-ray diffraction results indicate a local hexagonal packing of DNA helices in plasmid DNA complexes, resembling the packing for corresponding complexes based on linear DNA. Based on the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy results, the DNA conformation in all three complexes was determined as predominantly of A-type. The two relaxation processes revealed by dielectric spectroscopy for all the studied complexes are connected with two different contributions to total conductivity (crystallite part and grain boundaries). The crystallite part (grain interior) was interpreted as an oscillation of the polar surfactant head groups and is dependent on the conformation of the surfactant chain. The influence of the DNA type on the properties of the complexes is discussed, taking into account our previous results for complexes based on linear DNA. We showed that the type of DNA has an impact on the properties of the complexes, which has not been demonstrated so far. It was also found that the layer of pDNA–surfactant complexes can be used as a layer with variable specific electric conductivity by selecting the frequency, which is interesting from an application point of view. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Liquid Crystals and Other Partially Disordered Molecular Systems) ►▼ Show Figures

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attachment Supplementary material: Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 296 KiB) 12 pages, 5384 KiB Open AccessCommunication Plasma Engineering of Co4N/CoN Heterostructure for Boosting Supercapacitor Performance by Hong Li, Yunzhe Ma, Xulei Zhang, Xiuling Zhang and Lanbo Di Materials 2024, 17(14), 3529; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143529 - 16 Jul 2024 Abstract Supercapacitor electrode materials play a decisive role in charge storage and significantly affect the cost and capacitive performance of the final device. Engineering of the heterostructure of metal–organic framework (MOF)-derived transition metal nitrides (TMNs) can be conducive to excellent electrochemical performance owing to [...] Read more. Supercapacitor electrode materials play a decisive role in charge storage and significantly affect the cost and capacitive performance of the final device. Engineering of the heterostructure of metal–organic framework (MOF)-derived transition metal nitrides (TMNs) can be conducive to excellent electrochemical performance owing to the synergistic effect, optimized charge transport/mass transfer properties, and high electrical conductivity. In this study, a Co4N/CoN heterostructure was incorporated into a nitrogen-doped support by radio-frequency (RF) plasma after simple pyrolysis of Co-based formate frameworks (Co-MFFs), with the framework structure well retained. Plasma engineering can effectively increase the ratio of Co4N in the Co4N/CoN heterostructure, accelerating the electron transfer rate and resulting in a rough surface due to the reduction effect of high-energy electrons and the etching effect of ions. Benefiting from the plasma modification, the obtained electrode material Co4N/CoN@C-P exhibits a high specific capacitance of 346.2 F·g−1 at a current density of 1 A·g−1, approximately 1.7 times that of CoN/Co4N@C prepared by pyrolysis. The specific capacitance of Co4N/CoN@C-P reaches 335.6 F·g−1 at 10 A·g−1, approximately 96.9% of that at 1 A·g−1, indicating remarkable rate capability. Additionally, the capacitance retention remains at 100% even after 1000 cycles, suggesting excellent cycling stability. The rational design and plasma engineering of the TMN heterostructures at the nanoscale are responsible for the excellent electrochemical performance of this novel composite material. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Functional Materials and Nanomaterials in Asia 2023–2024) ►▼ Show Figures

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attachment Supplementary material: Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 136 KiB) 15 pages, 2636 KiB Open AccessArticle Mineral and Organic Materials as Factors Reducing the Effect of Petrol on Heavy Metal Content in Soil by Mirosław Wyszkowski and Natalia Kordala Materials 2024, 17(14), 3528; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143528 - 16 Jul 2024 Abstract As industrial production increases worldwide, so does the demand for fuels. The transport of fuels from the point of production to the end user poses a risk of environmental pollution, both during transport and during combustion in internal combustion engines. The soil is [...] Read more. As industrial production increases worldwide, so does the demand for fuels. The transport of fuels from the point of production to the end user poses a risk of environmental pollution, both during transport and during combustion in internal combustion engines. The soil is a part of the environment which is particularly sensitive to contamination by petroleum substances. For this reason, research has been carried out into the possibility of reducing the impact of petrol on the content of heavy metals in the soil using various materials, both mineral (bentonite, calcium oxide) and organic (compost). These played an important role in the in situ remediation of contaminated soils. Petrol contamination increased the content of some heavy metals (Pb, Cd, or Ni), while it decreased the content of other metals (Cr, Zn, Co, and Cu) in the soil. The materials used in this study significantly altered the levels of heavy metals in the soil. The strength of the effect varied and the direction of the effect depended on the element. Bentonite was the most effective, while calcium oxide and especially compost were less effective. The most beneficial (limiting) effect of calcium oxide was shown on the soil content of cadmium, cobalt, and chromium, while the bentonite effects were on the content of chromium. The application of the abovementioned materials seems to be effective in reducing low level soil contamination by petrol. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel and Multifunctional Materials for Water and Wastewater Treatment and Environmental Protection) ►▼ Show Figures

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attachment Supplementary material: Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 310 KiB) 44 pages, 1449 KiB Open AccessReview Integration of Digestate-Derived Biochar into the Anaerobic Digestion Process through Circular Economic and Environmental Approaches—A Review by Mohamed Zbair, Lionel Limousy, Méghane Drané, Charlotte Richard, Marine Juge, Quentin Aemig, Eric Trably, Renaud Escudié, Christine Peyrelasse and Simona Bennici Materials 2024, 17(14), 3527; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143527 - 16 Jul 2024 Abstract The growing energy consumption and the need for a circular economy have driven considerable interest in the anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic waste, offering potential solutions through biogas and digestate production. AD processes not only have the capability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions [...] Read more. The growing energy consumption and the need for a circular economy have driven considerable interest in the anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic waste, offering potential solutions through biogas and digestate production. AD processes not only have the capability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also contribute to the production of renewable methane. This comprehensive review aims to consolidate prior research on AD involving different feedstocks. The principles of AD are explored and discussed, including both chemical and biological pathways and the microorganisms involved at each stage. Additionally, key variables influencing system performance, such as temperature, pH, and C/N ratio are also discussed. Various pretreatment strategies applied to enhance biogas generation from organic waste in AD are also reviewed. Furthermore, this review examines the conversion of generated digestate into biochar through pyrolysis and its utilization to improve AD performance. The addition of biochar has demonstrated its efficacy in enhancing metabolic processes, microorganisms (activity and community), and buffering capacity, facilitating Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer (DIET), and boosting CH4 production. Biochar also exhibits the ability to capture undesirable components, including CO2, H2S, NH3, and siloxanes. The integration of digestate-derived biochar into the circular economy framework emerges as a vital role in closing the material flow loop. Additionally, the review discusses the environmental benefits derived from coupling AD with pyrolysis processes, drawing on life cycle assessment investigations. Techno-economic assessment (TEA) studies of the integrated processes are also discussed, with an acknowledgment of the need for further TEA to validate the viability of integrating the biochar industry. Furthermore, this survey examines the techno-economic and environmental impacts of biochar production itself and its potential application in AD for biogas generation, aiming to establish a more cost-effective and sustainable integrated system. Full article (This article belongs to the Topic Biomass for Energy, Chemicals and Materials) 20 pages, 1059 KiB Open AccessArticle Influence of Bio-Additives on Recycled Asphalt Pavements by Giuseppe D’Addio, Cristina Oreto, Nunzio Viscione and Rosa Veropalumbo Materials 2024, 17(14), 3526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143526 - 16 Jul 2024 Abstract The construction and maintenance of asphalt pavements is a resource-consuming sector, where the continuous rehabilitation of the superficial layers demands large volumes of non-renewable resources. The present work focuses on the design and characterization of asphalt mixtures for the binder layer of an [...] Read more. The construction and maintenance of asphalt pavements is a resource-consuming sector, where the continuous rehabilitation of the superficial layers demands large volumes of non-renewable resources. The present work focuses on the design and characterization of asphalt mixtures for the binder layer of an asphalt pavement containing 50% reclaimed asphalt (RAP), in which seven different bio-based additives, identified as R1A, R1C, R2A, R2B, R2C, R3A, and R3B, were added to improve the workability, strength, and stiffness properties. The experimental program envisioned the hot mixing of aggregates and RAP with either a 50/70 or a 70/100 bitumen and, in turn, each of the seven bio-additives. The asphalt mixtures underwent the characterization of their densification properties; air voids; indirect tensile strength (ITS); indirect tensile stiffness modulus at 10, 20, 40, and 60 °C; and rutting resistance at 60 °C. The results highlighted that the performance in terms of workability and ITS of the resulting mixtures depends on the type of bio-additive and largely on the fresh bitumen type, while the stiffness at high temperature is not significantly affected by the presence of the bio-additives. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue The Future of Road Pavement Materials: Towards the Improvement of Performances and Sustainability) 20 pages, 8930 KiB Open AccessArticle Influence of Post-Heat Treatment on Corrosion Behaviour of Additively Manufactured CuSn10 by Laser Powder Bed Fusion by Robert Kremer, Johannes Etzkorn, Somayeh Khani, Tamara Appel, Johannes Buhl and Heinz Palkowski Materials 2024, 17(14), 3525; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143525 - 16 Jul 2024 Abstract This study investigates the influence of heat treatments on the corrosion behaviour of CuSn10 tin bronze, additively manufactured using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). LPBF enables the creation of finely structured, anisotropic microstructures, whose corrosion behaviour is not yet well understood. After production, [...] Read more. This study investigates the influence of heat treatments on the corrosion behaviour of CuSn10 tin bronze, additively manufactured using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). LPBF enables the creation of finely structured, anisotropic microstructures, whose corrosion behaviour is not yet well understood. After production, specimens were heat-treated at 320 °C, 650 °C, and in a two-stage treatment at 800 °C and 400 °C, followed by hardness and microstructure analysis. Corrosion tests were conducted using linear polarisation, salt spray, and immersion tests. The results show that heat treatments at 320 °C and 650 °C have no significant effect on the corrosion rate, while the two-stage treatment shows a slight improvement in corrosion resistance. Differences in microstructure and hardness were observed, with higher treatment temperatures leading to grain growth and tin precipitates. The formation of a passive protective layer was detected after 30 h of OCP measurement. Results from other studies on corrosion behaviour were partially reproducible. Differences could be attributed to varying chemical compositions and manufacturing parameters. These findings contribute to the understanding of the effects of heat treatments on the corrosion resistance of additively manufactured tin bronze and provide important insights for future applications in corrosive environments. Full article (This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Materials Joining and Additive Manufacturing (Volume II)) ►▼ Show Figures