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) and Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES) 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 - Q2 (Metallurgy & 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 2023).
- 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:
3.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Thermoplastic Polyurethane-Poly(N-Isopropylacrylamide) Copolymer for Selective Uptake of Alcohol from Aqueous Solution
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2795; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122795 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ethanol possesses high economic value, but as an industrial waste, it poses harm to human health and the environment. The paper describes the preparation of a thermoplastic polyurethane-poly (n-isopropylacrylamide) (TPU-PNIPAM) copolymer designed to selectively uptake alcohol in aqueous solution. The material was created
[...] Read more.
Ethanol possesses high economic value, but as an industrial waste, it poses harm to human health and the environment. The paper describes the preparation of a thermoplastic polyurethane-poly (n-isopropylacrylamide) (TPU-PNIPAM) copolymer designed to selectively uptake alcohol in aqueous solution. The material was created by bonding TPU and PNIPAM together through intermolecular hydrogen bonds, enhancing its hydrophobic properties and making it easier to interact with alcohol molecules. As the amount of PNIPAM in TPU increases, the number of hydrophobic isopropyl groups in TPU-PNIPAM also increases, leading to an enhanced selective uptake ability of TPU-PNIPAM for alcohols in aqueous solution. When the temperature reaches 55 °C, the hydrophobic groups in TPU-PNIPAM are more exposed, further enhancing the selective uptake ability of TPU-PNIPAM for alcohols in aqueous solution. TPU-PNIPAM demonstrates selective preferential uptake for various concentrations and types of alcohol in aqueous solutions. The material’s selective uptake performance for alcohols increases with their hydrophobicity, so TPU-PNIPAM exhibited the best adsorption performance for a 10 wt% n-propanol solution under the combined effect of steric hindrance. In addition, TPU-PNIPAM exhibited selective adsorption for other organic solvents, which demonstrated the universality of TPU-PNIPAM in removing contaminants from aqueous solutions.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Strengthening Reinforced Concrete Beams through Integration of CFRP Bars, Mechanical Anchorage System, and Concrete Jacketing
by
Mahmood Y. Alkhateeb and Farzad Hejazi
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2794; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122794 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The demand for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) structures has increased considerably. Implementing carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) bars and concrete jacketing are the most effective techniques for RC beam retrofitting. Using the mechanical anchorage system (MAS) to attach CFRP bars to old concrete is highly
[...] Read more.
The demand for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) structures has increased considerably. Implementing carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) bars and concrete jacketing are the most effective techniques for RC beam retrofitting. Using the mechanical anchorage system (MAS) to attach CFRP bars to old concrete is highly recommended to avoid any debonding when it is applied to cyclic loads. However, the design of strengthening details is the most challenging issue because it involves many effective parameters. In this study, a design process for strengthening beams using CFRP bars with new MASs and concrete jacketing is proposed, and various design schemes are studied. The number of applied MASs and the thickness and grade of the concrete jacket were investigated through experimental testing and finite element (FE) simulations to define strengthening design details, such as the number and size of employed CFRP bars. Accordingly, an analytical technique was formulated to predict the performance of the strengthened beam in terms of the nominal ultimate load. The results demonstrated the high performance of the proposed system in preventing premature debonding. The proposed system enhances the beam capacity from 44 kN to 83 kN, representing an increase of more than 90%. In contrast, the conventional near-surface mounted (NSM) system exhibits a lower percentage increase at less than 37%. Both FE simulations and analytical approaches can be effectively employed to predict the behavior and capacity of the strengthened beam while considering various design parameters.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Concretes and Cement-Based Composites: Additives/Admixtures, Hydration Process and Durability Research II)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Comparative Study for Propranolol Adsorption on the Biochars from Different Agricultural Solid Wastes
by
Wenjie Nie, Qianqian Che, Danni Chen, Hongyu Cao and Yuehua Deng
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2793; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122793 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Currently, large amounts of agricultural solid wastes have caused serious environmental problems. Agricultural solid waste is made into biochar by pyrolysis, which is an effective means of its disposal. As the prepared biochar has a good adsorption capacity, it is often used to
[...] Read more.
Currently, large amounts of agricultural solid wastes have caused serious environmental problems. Agricultural solid waste is made into biochar by pyrolysis, which is an effective means of its disposal. As the prepared biochar has a good adsorption capacity, it is often used to treat pollutants in water, such as heavy metals and pharmaceuticals. PRO is an emerging contaminant in the environment today. However, there are limited studies on the interaction between biochars with PRO. Thus, in this study, we investigate the adsorption of PRO onto the biochars derived from three different feedstocks. The order of adsorption capacity was corn stalk biochar (CS, 10.97 mg/g) > apple wood biochar (AW, 10.09 mg/g) > rice husk biochar (RH, 8.78 mg/g). When 2 < pH < 9, the adsorption capacity of all the biochars increased as the pH increased, while the adsorption decreased when pH > 9, 10 and 10.33 for AW, CS and RH, respectively. The adsorption of PRO on biochars was reduced with increasing Na+ and Ca2+ concentrations from 0 to 200 mg·L−1. The effects of pH and coexisting ions illustrated that there exist electrostatic interaction and cation exchange in the process. In addition, when HA concentration was less than 20 mg/L, it promoted the adsorption of PRO on the biochars; however, when the concentration was more than 20 mg/L, its promoting effect was weakened and gradually changed into an inhibitory effect. The adsorption isotherm data of PRO by biochars were best fitted with the Freundlich model, indicating that the adsorption process is heterogeneous adsorption. The adsorption kinetics were fitted well with the pseudo-second-order model. All the results can provide new information into the adsorption behavior of PRO and the biochars in the aquatic environment and a theoretical basis for the large-scale application of biochar from agricultural solid wastes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adsorption Materials and Their Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Monitoring Fatigue Damage of Orthotropic Steel Decks Using Nonlinear Ultrasonic Waves
by
Jiahe Liu, Fangtong Zheng, Wei Shen and Dongsheng Li
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2792; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122792 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Orthotropic steel decks (OSDs) are commonly used in the construction of bridges due to their load-bearing capabilities. However, they are prone to fatigue damage over time due to the cyclic loads from vehicles. Therefore, the early structural health monitoring of fatigue damage in
[...] Read more.
Orthotropic steel decks (OSDs) are commonly used in the construction of bridges due to their load-bearing capabilities. However, they are prone to fatigue damage over time due to the cyclic loads from vehicles. Therefore, the early structural health monitoring of fatigue damage in OSDs is crucial for ensuring bridge safety. Moreover, Lamb waves, as elastic waves propagating in OSD plate-like structures, are characterized by their long propagation distances and minimal attenuation. This paper introduces a method of emitting high-energy ultrasonic waves onto the OSD surface to capture the nonlinear Lamb waves formed, thereby calculating the nonlinear parameters. These parameters are then correlated with the fatigue damage endured, forming a damage index (DI) for monitoring the fatigue life of OSDs. Experimental results indicate that as fatigue damage increases, the nonlinear parameters exhibit a significant initial increase followed by a decrease. The behavior is distinct from the characteristic parameters of linear ultrasound (velocity and energy), which also exhibit changes but to a relatively smaller extent. The proposed DI and fatigue life based on nonlinear parameters can be fitted with a Gaussian curve, with the R-squared value of the fitting curve being close to 1. Additionally, this paper discusses the influence of rib welds within the OSDs on the DI, whereby as fatigue damage increases, it enlarges the value of the nonlinear parameters without altering their trend. The proposed method provides a more effective approach for monitoring early fatigue damage in OSDs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-destructive Testing of Materials and Parts: Techniques, Case Studies and Practical Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Micro- and Nanosilica on the Mechanical and Microstructural Characteristics of Some Special Mortars Made with Recycled Concrete Aggregates
by
Claudiu Mazilu, Radu Deju, Dan Paul Georgescu, Adelina Apostu and Alin Barbu
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2791; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122791 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this paper, we study the influence of densified microsilica and colloidal nanosilica admixtures on the mechanical strength and the microstructural characteristics of special mortars used for immobilizing radioactive concrete waste. The experimental program focused on the replacement of cement with micro- and/or
[...] Read more.
In this paper, we study the influence of densified microsilica and colloidal nanosilica admixtures on the mechanical strength and the microstructural characteristics of special mortars used for immobilizing radioactive concrete waste. The experimental program focused on the replacement of cement with micro- and/or nanosilica, in different proportions, in the basic composition of a mortar made with recycled aggregates. The technical criteria imposed for such cementitious systems, used for the encapsulation of low-level radioactive waste, imply high fluidity, increased mechanical strength and lack of segregation and of bleeding. We aimed to increase the structural compactness of the mortars by adding micro- and nanosilica, all the while maintaining the technical criteria imposed, to obtain a cement matrix with high durability and increased capacity for immobilizing radionuclides. The samples from all the compositions obtained were analyzed from the point of view of mechanical strength. Also, micro- and nanosilica as well as samples of the optimal mortar compositions were analyzed physically and microstructurally. Experimental data showed that the mortar samples present maximum compressive strength for a content between 6 and 7.5% wt. of microsilica, respectively, for a content of 2.25% wt. nanosilica. The obtained results suggest a synergistic effect of micro- and nanosilica when they are used simultaneously in cementitious compositions. Thus, among the analyzed compositional variants, the mortar composition with 3% wt. microsilica and 2.25% wt. nanosilica showed the best performance, with an increase in compressive strength of 23.5% compared to the control sample (without micro- and nanosilica). Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images highlighted the decrease in pore diameter and the increase in structural compactness, especially for mortar samples with nanosilica content or a mixture of micro- and nanosilica. This study is useful in the field of recycling radioactive concrete resulting from the decommissioning of nuclear research or nuclear power reactors.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Materials Science for Engineering Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Rheology, Strength, and Durability of Concrete and Mortar Made of Recycled Calcium Silicate Masonry
by
Tanel Tuisk, Simo Ilomets, Tiina Hain, Joosep Kalbus and Targo Kalamees
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2790; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122790 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Selective demolition of building components and recycling construction demolition waste is a growing tendency as we move towards a circular construction. This study investigates the feasibility of using demolition waste from calcium silicate brick masonry as an aggregate in concrete and mortar. The
[...] Read more.
Selective demolition of building components and recycling construction demolition waste is a growing tendency as we move towards a circular construction. This study investigates the feasibility of using demolition waste from calcium silicate brick masonry as an aggregate in concrete and mortar. The purpose is to assess its impact on concrete and mortar properties, including compressive strength, durability, and workability. Silicate bricks from two demolished buildings were processed into aggregate, and laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate concrete and mortar made with varying proportions of recycled aggregate. Results indicate that replacing natural aggregate (limestone rubble and sand) with recycled silicate brick aggregate up to 50% does not significantly compromise concrete performance, with no significant decrease in compressive strength observed. Frost resistance of the concrete made with recycled aggregate even surpasses that of reference concrete, possibly due to the lower density and higher (closed) porosity of the recycled aggregate. However, challenges such as increased water demand and loss of workability over time are noted with higher proportions of recycled aggregate. Further research is recommended to explore strategies for mitigating these challenges and to assess the effects of chemical admixtures on concrete properties. Overall, the findings suggest that recycled calcium silicate brick holds promise as a sustainable alternative for aggregate in concrete production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends in the Development of Building Materials with Recycled Waste)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Prediction of Residual Life of In-Service P91 Steel Joints Based on Fracture Behavior
by
Kai Yan, Yongjiang Cai, Denghui Wang, Shichao Zhang, Shuang Yi, Fulai Yang and Zheng Zhang
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2789; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122789 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
P91 steel and P91 steel joints experience performance degradation after serving for 30,000 h in working conditions. To clarify the damage and failure behavior and remaining life of the joints during subsequent service, further creep testing was conducted on the welded joints of
[...] Read more.
P91 steel and P91 steel joints experience performance degradation after serving for 30,000 h in working conditions. To clarify the damage and failure behavior and remaining life of the joints during subsequent service, further creep testing was conducted on the welded joints of P91 steel that had been in service for 30,000 h at three temperatures: 550 °C, 575 °C, and 600 °C. The fracture surface and the cross-section damage behavior were characterized by SEM and EBSD methods. The results show that there are two types of fracture modes in the joints at different temperatures: ductile cracking occurring at the BM, and type IV cracking occurring in the FGHAZ. The threshold stress for fracture mode transition decreases with an increase in working temperature. Type IV cracking near the HAZ is the main reason for the premature failure of joints during service. And based on the fracture mode, the dual-constant L-M method was proposed to predict the strength of in-service joint materials. The testing data are discussed and classified based on the fracture mode in this method, which has high accuracy and can prevent the premature failure of joints.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evaluation of Fatigue and Creep-Fatigue Damage of Steel)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Removal of Iron and Copper Ions and Phenol from Liquid Phase by Membrane Based on Carbonaceous Materials
by
Joanna Przybyl, Aleksandra Bazan-Wozniak, Faustyna Poznan, Agnieszka Nosal-Wiercińska, Judyta Cielecka-Piontek and Robert Pietrzak
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2788; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122788 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The present work reports an effective method for the removal of inorganic and organic pollutants using membranes based on different carbonaceous materials. The membranes were prepared based on cellulose acetate (18 wt. %), polyvinylpyrrolidone as a pore-generating agent (2 wt. %) and activated
[...] Read more.
The present work reports an effective method for the removal of inorganic and organic pollutants using membranes based on different carbonaceous materials. The membranes were prepared based on cellulose acetate (18 wt. %), polyvinylpyrrolidone as a pore-generating agent (2 wt. %) and activated carbon (1 wt. %). Activated carbons were developed from residues after extraction of the mushroom Inonotus obliguus using microwave radiation. It has been demonstrated that the addition of activated carbon to the membranes resulted in alterations to their physical properties, including porosity, equilibrium water content and permeability. Furthermore, the chemical properties of the membranes were also affected, with changes observed in the content of the surface oxygen group. The addition of carbon material had a positive effect on the removal of copper ions from their aqueous solutions by the cellulose–carbon composites obtained. Moreover, the membranes proved to be more effective in the removal of copper ions than iron ones and phenol. The membranes were found to show higher effectiveness in copper removal from a solution of the initial concentration of 800 mg/L. The most efficient in copper ions removal was the membrane containing urea-enriched activated carbon.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phase Change, Interphase Coupling, and Multiphase Transport in Porous Structures)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Bulk MgB2 Superconducting Materials: Technology, Properties, and Applications
by
Tetiana Prikhna, Vladimir Sokolovsky and Viktor Moshchil
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2787; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112787 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The intensive development of hydrogen technologies has made very promising applications of one of the cheapest and easily produced bulk MgB2-based superconductors. These materials are capable of operating effectively at liquid hydrogen temperatures (around 20 K) and are used as elements
[...] Read more.
The intensive development of hydrogen technologies has made very promising applications of one of the cheapest and easily produced bulk MgB2-based superconductors. These materials are capable of operating effectively at liquid hydrogen temperatures (around 20 K) and are used as elements in various devices, such as magnets, magnetic bearings, fault current limiters, electrical motors, and generators. These applications require mechanically and chemically stable materials with high superconducting characteristics. This review considers the results of superconducting and structural property studies of MgB2-based bulk materials prepared under different pressure–temperature conditions using different promising methods: hot pressing (30 MPa), spark plasma sintering (16–96 MPa), and high quasi-hydrostatic pressures (2 GPa). Much attention has been paid to the study of the correlation between the manufacturing pressure–temperature conditions and superconducting characteristics. The influence of the amount and distribution of oxygen impurity and an excess of boron on superconducting characteristics is analyzed. The dependence of superconducting characteristics on the various additions and changes in material structure caused by these additions are discussed. It is shown that different production conditions and additions improve the superconducting MgB2 bulk properties for various ranges of temperature and magnetic fields, and the optimal technology may be selected according to the application requirements. We briefly discuss the possible applications of MgB2 superconductors in devices, such as fault current limiters and electric machines.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced and Functional Ceramics and Glasses)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of the Steelmaking Process via Data Mining and Pearson Correlation
by
Susana Carrasco-López, Martín Herrera-Trejo, Manuel Castro-Román, Fabián Castro-Uresti and Edgar Iván Castro-Cedeño
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2786; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112786 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The continuous improvement of the steelmaking process is a critical issue for steelmakers. In the production of Ca-treated Al-killed steel, the Ca and S contents are controlled for successful inclusion modification treatment. In this study, a machine learning technique was used to build
[...] Read more.
The continuous improvement of the steelmaking process is a critical issue for steelmakers. In the production of Ca-treated Al-killed steel, the Ca and S contents are controlled for successful inclusion modification treatment. In this study, a machine learning technique was used to build a decision tree classifier and thus identify the process variables that most influence the desired Ca and S contents at the end of ladle furnace refining. The attribute of the root node of the decision tree was correlated with process variables via the Pearson formalism. Thus, the attribute of the root node corresponded to the sulfur distribution coefficient at the end of the refining process, and its value allowed for the discrimination of satisfactory heats from unsatisfactory heats. The variables with higher correlation with the sulfur distribution coefficient were the content of sulfur in both steel and slag at the end of the refining process, as well as the Si content at that stage of the process. As secondary variables, the Si content and the basicity of the slag at the end of the refining process were correlated with the S content in the steel and slag, respectively, at that stage. The analysis showed that the conditions of steel and slag at the beginning of the refining process and the efficient S removal during the refining process are crucial for reaching desired Ca and S contents.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metallurgical Process Simulation and Optimization—2nd Volume)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Influence of Heat Treatment Condition on the Microstructure, Microhardness and Corrosion Resistance of Ag-Sn-In-Ni-Te Alloy Wire
by
Ling Shao, Shunle Zhang, Liepeng Hu, Yincheng Wu, Yingqi Huang, Ping Le, Sheng Dai, Weiwei Li, Na Xue, Feilong Xu and Liu Zhu
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2785; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112785 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ag-Sn-In-Ni-Te alloy ingots were produced through a heating–cooling combined mold continuous casting technique; they were then drawn into wires. However, during the drawing process, the alloy wires tended to harden, making further diameter reduction challenging. To overcome this, heat treatment was necessary to
[...] Read more.
Ag-Sn-In-Ni-Te alloy ingots were produced through a heating–cooling combined mold continuous casting technique; they were then drawn into wires. However, during the drawing process, the alloy wires tended to harden, making further diameter reduction challenging. To overcome this, heat treatment was necessary to soften the previously drawn wires. The study investigated how variations in heat treatment temperature and holding time affected the microstructure, microhardness and corrosion resistance of the alloy wires. The results indicate that the alloy wires subjected to heat treatment at 700 °C for 2 h not only exhibited a uniform microstructure distribution, but also demonstrated low microhardness and excellent corrosion resistance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microstructure Engineering of Metals and Alloys, Volume II)
Open AccessArticle
Impact of Temperature Optimization of ITO Thin Film on Tandem Solar Cell Efficiency
by
Elif Damgaci, Emre Kartal, Furkan Gucluer, Ayse Seyhan and Yuksel Kaplan
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2784; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112784 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study examined the impact of temperature optimization on indium tin oxide (ITO) films in monolithic HJT/perovskite tandem solar cells. ITO films were deposited using magnetron sputtering at temperatures ranging from room temperature (25 °C) to 250 °C. The sputtering target was ITO,
[...] Read more.
This study examined the impact of temperature optimization on indium tin oxide (ITO) films in monolithic HJT/perovskite tandem solar cells. ITO films were deposited using magnetron sputtering at temperatures ranging from room temperature (25 °C) to 250 °C. The sputtering target was ITO, with a mass ratio of In2O3 to SnO2 of 90% to 10%. The effects of temperature on the ITO film were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), spectroscopic ellipsometry, and sheet resistance measurements. Results showed that all ITO films exhibited a polycrystalline morphology, with diffraction peaks corresponding to planes (211), (222), (400), (440), and (622), indicating a cubic bixbyite crystal structure. The light transmittance exceeded 80%, and the sheet resistance was 75.1 Ω/sq for ITO deposited at 200 °C. The optical bandgap of deposited ITO films ranged between 3.90 eV and 3.93 eV. Structural and morphological characterization of the perovskite solar cell was performed using XRD and FE-SEM. Tandem solar cell performance was evaluated by analyzing current density-voltage characteristics under simulated sunlight. By optimizing the ITO deposition temperature, the tandem cell achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16.74%, resulting in enhanced tandem cell efficiency.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Optical and Optoelectronic Properties of Materials and Their Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Ecologically Modified Leather of Bacterial Origin
by
Dawid Lisowski, Stanisław Bielecki, Stefan Cichosz and Anna Masek
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2783; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112783 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The research presented here is an attempt to develop an innovative and environmentally friendly material based on bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), which will be able to replace both animal skins and synthetic polymer products. Bacterial nanocellulose becomes stiff and brittle when dried, so attempts
[...] Read more.
The research presented here is an attempt to develop an innovative and environmentally friendly material based on bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), which will be able to replace both animal skins and synthetic polymer products. Bacterial nanocellulose becomes stiff and brittle when dried, so attempts have been made to plasticise this material so that BNC can be used in industry. The research presented here focuses on the ecological modification of bacterial nanocellulose with vegetable oils such as rapeseed oil, linseed oil, and grape seed oil. The effect of compatibilisers of a natural origin on the plasticisation process of BNC, such as chlorophyll, curcumin, and L-glutamine, was also evaluated. BNC samples were modified with rapeseed, linseed, and grapeseed oils, as well as mixtures of each of these oils with the previously mentioned additives. The modification was carried out by passing the oil, or oil mixture, through the BNC using vacuum filtration, where the BNC acted as a filter. The following tests were performed to determine the effect of the modification on the BNC: FTIR spectroscopic analysis, contact angle measurements, and static mechanical analysis. As a result of the modification, the BNC was plasticised. Rapeseed oil proved to be the best for this purpose, with the help of which a material with good strength and elasticity was obtained.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Elastomer Materials and Its Composites)
Open AccessArticle
Axial Compressive Behaviours of Coal Gangue Concrete-Filled Circular Steel Tubular Stub Columns after Chloride Salt Corrosion
by
Tong Zhang, Hongshan Wang, Xuanhe Zheng and Shan Gao
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2782; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112782 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The axial compressive behaviours of coal gangue concrete-filled steel tube (GCFST) columns after chloride salt corrosion were investigated numerically. Numerical modelling was conducted through the static analysis method by finite element (FE) analysis. The failure mechanism, residual strength, and axial load–displacement curves were
[...] Read more.
The axial compressive behaviours of coal gangue concrete-filled steel tube (GCFST) columns after chloride salt corrosion were investigated numerically. Numerical modelling was conducted through the static analysis method by finite element (FE) analysis. The failure mechanism, residual strength, and axial load–displacement curves were validated against tests of the coal gangue aggregate concrete-filled steel tube (GCFST) columns at room and natural aggregate concrete-filled steel tube (NCFST) columns after salt corrosion circumstance. According to the analysis on the stress distribution of the steel tube, the stress value of the steel tube decreased as the corrosion rate increased at the same characteristic point. A parametric analysis was carried out to determine the effect of crucial variation on residual strength. It indicated that material strength, the steel ratio, and the corrosion rate made a profound impact on the residual strength from the FE. The residual strength of the columns exposed to chloride salt was in negative correlation with the corrosion rate. The impact on the residual strength of the column was little, obvious by the replacement rate of the coal gangue. A simplified design formula for predicting the ultimate strength of GCFST columns after chloride salt corrosion exposure was proposed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Ideas for Future Cities: Intelligent, Low-Carbon and Healthy)
Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Chaparro et al. Whey as an Alternative Nutrient Medium for Growth of Sporosarcina pasteurii and Its Effect on CaCO3 Polymorphism and Fly Ash Bioconsolidation. Materials 2021, 14, 2470
by
Sandra Chaparro, Hugo A. Rojas, Gerardo Caicedo, Gustavo Romanelli, Antonio Pineda, Rafael Luque and José J. Martínez
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2781; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112781 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The Editorial Office was made aware of an error in Figure S1 within the original publication [...]
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
TaF4: A Novel Two-Dimensional Antiferromagnetic Material with a High Néel Temperature Investigated Using First-Principles Calculations
by
Jia Luo, Qingkai Zhang, Jindong Lin, Yuxiang Ni, Hongyan Wang, Yongliang Tang and Mu Lan
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2780; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112780 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of a novel two-dimensional monolayer material, TaF4, are investigated using first-principles calculations. The dynamical and thermal stabilities of two-dimensional monolayer TaF4 were confirmed using its phonon dispersion spectrum and molecular dynamics calculations. The band
[...] Read more.
The structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of a novel two-dimensional monolayer material, TaF4, are investigated using first-principles calculations. The dynamical and thermal stabilities of two-dimensional monolayer TaF4 were confirmed using its phonon dispersion spectrum and molecular dynamics calculations. The band structure obtained via the high-accuracy HSE06 (Heyd–Scuseria–Ernzerhof 2006) functional theory revealed that monolayer two-dimensional TaF4 is an indirect bandgap semiconductor with a bandgap width of 2.58 eV. By extracting the exchange interaction intensities and magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy in a J1-J2-J3-K Heisenberg model, it was found that two-dimensional monolayer TaF4 possesses a Néel-type antiferromagnetic ground state and has a relatively high Néel temperature (208 K) and strong magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy (2.06 meV). These results are verified via the magnon spectrum.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Properties of Low-Dimensional Materials)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of Ceramics: A Review on Filament-Based Process
by
Roberto Spina and Luigi Morfini
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2779; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112779 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Additive manufacturing is very important due to its potential to build components and products using high-performance materials. The filament-based 3D printing of ceramics is investigated, revealing significant developments and advancements in ceramic material extrusion technology in recent years. Researchers employ several typologies of
[...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing is very important due to its potential to build components and products using high-performance materials. The filament-based 3D printing of ceramics is investigated, revealing significant developments and advancements in ceramic material extrusion technology in recent years. Researchers employ several typologies of ceramics and binders to achieve fully dense products. The design of the filament and the necessary technological adaptations for 3D printing are fully investigated. From a material perspective, this paper reviews and analyzes the recent developments in additive manufacturing of material-extruded ceramics products, pointing out the performance and properties achieved with different material-binder combinations. The main gaps to be filled and recommendations for future developments in this field are reported.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in 3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing Technology of Materials)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Exploring In Vivo Pulmonary and Splenic Toxicity Profiles of Silicon Quantum Dots in Mice
by
Roxana-Elena Cristian, Cornel Balta, Hildegard Herman, Alina Ciceu, Bogdan Trica, Beatrice G. Sbarcea, Eftimie Miutescu, Anca Hermenean, Anca Dinischiotu and Miruna S. Stan
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2778; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112778 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Silicon-based quantum dots (SiQDs) represent a special class of nanoparticles due to their low toxicity and easily modifiable surface properties. For this reason, they are used in applications such as bioimaging, fluorescent labeling, drug delivery, protein detection techniques, and tissue engineering despite a
[...] Read more.
Silicon-based quantum dots (SiQDs) represent a special class of nanoparticles due to their low toxicity and easily modifiable surface properties. For this reason, they are used in applications such as bioimaging, fluorescent labeling, drug delivery, protein detection techniques, and tissue engineering despite a serious lack of information on possible in vivo effects. The present study aimed to characterize and evaluate the in vivo toxicity of SiQDs obtained by laser ablation in the lung and spleen of mice. The particles were administered in three different doses (1, 10, and 100 mg QDs/kg of body weight) by intravenous injection into the caudal vein of Swiss mice. After 1, 6, 24, and 72 h, the animals were euthanized, and the lung and spleen tissues were harvested for the evaluation of antioxidant enzyme activity, lipid peroxidation, protein expression, and epigenetic and morphological changes. The obtained results highlighted a low toxicity in pulmonary and splenic tissues for concentrations up to 10 mg SiQDs/kg body, demonstrated by biochemical and histopathological analysis. Therefore, our study brings new experimental evidence on the biocompatibility of this type of QD, suggesting the possibility of expanding research on the biomedical applications of SiQDs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Biomedical Applications of Optoelectronic Nanomaterials)
Open AccessArticle
Mechanical Properties of Alkasite Material with Different Curing Modes and Simulated Aging Conditions
by
Visnja Negovetic Mandic, Laura Plancak, Danijela Marovic, Zrinka Tarle, Milena Trutina Gavran and Matej Par
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2777; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112777 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
This study aimed to evaluate the micro-mechanical and macro-mechanical properties of self-cured and light-cured alkasite and to investigate how accelerated degradation in acidic, alkaline, and ethanol solutions affects the macro-mechanical properties of self-cured and light-cured alkasite. The specimens of the alkasite material (Cention
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the micro-mechanical and macro-mechanical properties of self-cured and light-cured alkasite and to investigate how accelerated degradation in acidic, alkaline, and ethanol solutions affects the macro-mechanical properties of self-cured and light-cured alkasite. The specimens of the alkasite material (Cention Forte, Ivoclar Vivadent) were prepared according to the following three curing modes: (1) light-cured immediately, (2) light-cured after a 5-min delay, and (3) self-cured. Microhardness was tested before and after immersion in absolute ethanol to indirectly determine crosslink density, while flexural strength and flexural modulus were measured using a three-point bending test after accelerated aging in the following solutions: (1) lactic acid solution (pH = 4.0), (2) NaOH solution (pH = 13.0), (3) phosphate-buffered saline solution (pH = 7.4), and (4) 75% ethanol solution. The data were statistically analyzed using a two-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. The results showed that the microhardness, flexural strength, and flexural modulus were significantly lower in self-cured specimens compared to light-cured specimens. A 5-min delay between the extrusion of the material from the capsule and light curing had no significant effect on any of the measured properties. A significant effect of the accelerated aging solutions on macro-mechanical properties was observed, with ethanol and alkaline solutions having a particularly detrimental effect. In conclusion, light curing was preferable to self-curing, as it resulted in significantly better micro- and macro-mechanical properties, while a 5-min delay between mixing the capsule and light curing had no negative effects.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Thermophysical Properties of FUNaK (NaF-KF-UF4) Eutectics
by
Maxime Fache, Laura Voigt, Jean-Yves Colle, John Hald and Ondřej Beneš
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2776; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112776 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
General interest in the deployment of molten salt reactors (MSRs) is growing, while the available data on uranium-containing fuel salt candidates remains scarce. Thermophysical data are one of the key parameters for reactor design and understanding reactor operability. Hence, filling in the gap
[...] Read more.
General interest in the deployment of molten salt reactors (MSRs) is growing, while the available data on uranium-containing fuel salt candidates remains scarce. Thermophysical data are one of the key parameters for reactor design and understanding reactor operability. Hence, filling in the gap of the missing data is crucial to allow for the advancement of MSRs. This study provides novel data for two eutectic compositions within the NaF-KF-UF4 ternary system which serve as potential fuel candidates for MSRs. Experimental measurements include their melting point, density, fusion enthalpy, and vapor pressure. Additionally, their boiling point was extrapolated from the vapor pressure data, which were, at the same time, used to determine the enthalpy of vaporization. The obtained thermodynamic values were compared with available data from the literature but also with results from thermochemical equilibrium calculations using the JRCMSD database, finding a good correlation, which thus contributed to database validation. Preliminary thoughts on fluoride salt reactor operability based on the obtained results are discussed in this study.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Materials for Molten Salt Nuclear Reactor Technology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Materials Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Bioengineering, JMMP, Materials, Micromachines, Polymers
Advances in Filament Engineering for Biomaterials
Topic Editors: Ming-Wei Chang, Zeeshan Ahmad, Hui-Min David WangDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Catalysts, Coatings, Crystals, Energies, Materials, Nanomaterials
Interfacial Bonding Design and Applications in Structural and Functional Materials
Topic Editors: Junlei Qi, Pengcheng Wang, Yaotian YanDeadline: 20 July 2024
Topic in
Coatings, CMD, Materials, Metals, Molecules
Corrosion and Protection of Metallic Materials, 2nd Edition
Topic Editors: Sebastian Feliú, Jr., Federico R. García-Galván, Lucien VelevaDeadline: 31 July 2024
Topic in
Atmosphere, Buildings, Materials, Remote Sensing, Sensors
Condition Perception and Performance Evaluation of Engineering Structures
Topic Editors: Jingzhou Xin, Hong Zhang, Yan Jiang, Simon X. YangDeadline: 31 August 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Materials
Structural Health Monitoring of Polymer Composites
Guest Editors: Patricia Krawczak, Salim ChakiDeadline: 10 June 2024
Special Issue in
Materials
Thermal Behavior of Polymeric and Other Advanced Materials
Guest Editors: Małgorzata Maciejewska, Magdalena RogulskaDeadline: 30 June 2024
Special Issue in
Materials
Advances in Nanomaterials and Molecules and Their Applications on Environment Recovery and Release Systems
Guest Editors: Fernando Gomes de Souza Junior, Diganta Bhusan DasDeadline: 20 July 2024
Special Issue in
Materials
Nuclear Materials Fundamentals and Applications
Guest Editors: Zhoutong He, Min Liu, Wei QiDeadline: 30 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Materials
3D Printing in Medicine and Biomedical Engineering
Collection Editor: Filip Górski
Topical Collection in
Materials
Catalysts: Preparation, Catalytic Performance and Catalytic Reaction
Collection Editors: Gina Pecchi, Cristian H. Campos
Topical Collection in
Materials
Microstructure and Corrosion Behavior of Advanced Alloys
Collection Editor: Marián Palcut
Topical Collection in
Materials
Manufacturing Engineering and Mechanical Properties of Composite Materials
Collection Editor: Aminul Islam