3D Composites Research Articles

3D Cementitious composites printing with pretreated recycled crumb rubber: mechanical and acoustic insulation properties

ABSTRACT Cementitious materials incorporating recycled crumb rubber have become a common sustainable resolution in diverse building environments to achieve various functions in terms of lightweight, ductility, as well as energy absorption. This study explored the 3D printed rubberised cementitious composites (3DPRC) in two aspects: examining the effects of crumb rubber pretreatment conditions on compressive properties; conducting experimental and numerical analysis on the acoustic dissipation characteristics of 3DPRC. Fine crumb rubber granules (3-5 mm) replaced 10%, 20%, and 30% of river sand in the composites. Uniaxial compression tests indicated that the compressive strength of 3DPRC decreased with the increase of crumb rubber content and introduced anisotropic behaviour. Impedance tube tests were conducted to evaluate the sound absorption and insulation capabilities of 3DPRC. An optimal Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) of 0.35 was achieved with 30% crumb rubber. The sound insulation properties depend strongly on the mass density and porosity of the 3DPRC. Additionally, it is proved that the volume of built-in air gap has positive effects on both sound absorption and insulation properties. The results from Finite Element Method (FEM) numerical simulations correlated well with experimental data, proving the efficiency of the simulation and validating the experimental results.

A behavior three-way decision approach under interval-valued triangular fuzzy numbers with application to the selection of additive manufacturing composites

Additive manufacturing composites, also recognized as three-dimensional (3D) printing composites, are highly anticipated for their potential to replace industrial materials due to the availability of multiple printing processes and optional materials. However, research gaps exist in cognitive deficiencies and psychological behaviors of decision-makers, as well as experimental error effects caused by material testing, resulting in material selection as a challenging issue. Therefore, this study proposes a novel behavior three-way decision model under the interval-valued triangular fuzzy number (IVTFN) to settle the selection issue of 3D printing composites. The research contributions are summarized as follows. First, the IVTFN is presented to account for the impacts of cognitive deficiency and experimental errors, based on which the concepts of information entropy and fuzzy measure are further developed to conduct the criterion weights. In addition, by integrating the prospect theory and regret theory, a framework for constructing the behavioral decision matrix is presented. Moreover, a novel behavior three-way decision model with the perspectives of objective and preference is proposed to classify the decision region. This study presents a comprehensive methodology integrating the three-way decision model and multi-criteria decision-making method to achieve both alternative ranking and alternative classifying. Finally, a research case of 3D printing composites reinforced by continuous hybrid fibers is adopted to illustrate the validity of the methodology. Comparative analysis and sensitivity analysis are also performed. This study offers valuable insights and tools for systematically tackling the 3D printing composite material selection issues.

Технология получения вакуумных ионно-плазменных износостойких покрытий

A review of the technologies of vacuum ion plasma (VIP) coating spraying based on the reasonability of science intensity, its criteria and evaluation methods is carried out. The technological features of producing VIP coatings are viewed with the emphasis on the process of coating formation on a substrate, which occurs under the impact of the most powerful forces in nature, i.e. these are forces of interatomic interaction. This leads to a very high level of cohesive strength of the coatings, which results in wear resistance and corrosion resistance. This leads to a very high level of cohesive strength of the coatings, succeeding in wear and corrosion resistance. Methods of research, diagnosis and testing of VIP coatings, due to the peculiarities of their structure and properties, include, as a rule, equipment and techniques of leading world manufacturers in the field of electron microscopy, microrentgen spectral analysis, diffraction analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry, continuous and dynamic indentation, bench testing of unique properties. With respect to scientific and practical activities of the authors, examples of coatings of various nature (nitride, carbon, metalloceramic), different architectures (monolayer – single-phase, multilayer – 2D composites, dispersed – 3D composites) and various applications (wear–resistant, tribotechnical, antierosion, thermal barrier) are given. In particular, some types of nitride coatings TiN, TiAlN, CrAlSiN, which are characterized by high hardness H  24 GPa and abrasive wear resistance, are in the focus. However, in conditions of relatively smooth sliding friction, only the multiphase nanostructured CrAlSiN coating retains wear resistance. In conditions of drop-impact erosion, nanocompositional multilayer VIP coatings of TiN/MoN composition demonstrate the highest resistance, which compete with the recognized champion in this field - welded plates of stellite VZK (WCoCr). Despite the fact that the thickness of the VIP coatings viewed in the paper is a film of 1...10 microns, whereas the stellite plates have a thickness of at least 4 mm. In conclusion, it is noted that VIP technology continues to develop new materials, for example, to create diamond-like coatings or coatings made of high-entropy alloys. VIP technology corresponds to a high level of science intensity, and VIP coatings are promising for putting to use in mechanical engineering.

Digital game-based learning in architecture education: Consolidating visual design principles in freshmen

Using games as educational tools has been a captivating subject in the academic domain. There is an increasing number of digital games designed to support architectural education. This paper introduces a serious game aimed at enhancing basic design knowledge for first-year architecture students. The game focuses on teaching and testing visual design principles such as emphasis, balance, and rhythm. Based on these principles, it allows students to create 2D compositions on a grid pattern by placing and manipulating simple shapes in terms of color, shape, and size. The final composition is evaluated by an artificial intelligence (AI) tool integrated into the game. This AI tool predicts the design principles present in the composition, providing three possible outcomes with associated percentages. The game, currently in the testing phase, has been played by 126 first-year students, and user experience has been assessed through questionnaires, surveys, and basic game metrics. The use of this game to teach visual design principles has proven to be an effective method for engaging students in active learning and enhancing their understanding and application of design concepts. The innovative use of AI to provide real-time feedback and the interactive nature of the game have fostered a deeper, experiential learning process. Additionally, students have proposed various innovative ideas to improve the gaming experience, suggesting potential enhancements that could lead to a more refined and enjoyable gameplay. These insights highlight the potential of digital game-based learning (DGBL) and AI-enhanced tools in creating an engaging and effective educational environment.

A Perspective of Tailoring Dielectric Genes for 2D Materials Toward Advanced Electromagnetic Functions

Abstract2D materials and their composites with electromagnetic properties are becoming increasingly popular. Obtaining insight into the nature of electromagnetic (EM) response manipulation is imperative to guide scientific research and technological exploitation at such a critical time. From this perspective, the dielectric genes of 2D material hybrids have been highlighted based on the recent literature. This endows an unlimited possibility of manipulating the EM response, even at elevated temperatures. The definitions and criteria of dielectric genes toward 2D material hybrids and composites are systematically clarified and summarized. The dielectric gene categories are successfully discriminated, including the conduction networks, intrinsic defects, impurity defects, and interfaces in the composite, and their temperature evolution is revealed in detail. More importantly, tuning strategies for microwave absorption, electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, and expanded electromagnetic functions are thoroughly discussed. Finally, significant predictions are provided for multispectral electromagnetic functions, and future applications of multifunctional exploration are anticipated. Dielectric genes will open an unexpected horizon for advanced functional materials in the coming 5G/6G age, providing a significant boost to promoting environmental electromagnetic protection, electromagnetic devices, and next‐generation smart devices.

Exploring the mechanical potential of 3D woven solid structures for car seat cover

Seats serve as the primary connection point between humans and cars. To meet consumer expectations, the seat cover must possess mechanical durability. This is crucial due to the significance and expense associated with the assembling car seat cover. The mechanical durability of a material can be assessed by testing its tensile strength, tearing strength, stretchability, abrasion resistance, and pilling resistance. Many researchers conducted analyses on the mechanical performance of traditional seat covers. This study aims to explore the mechanical potential of 3D woven solid structures for car seat covers. Air-texturized polyester yarn (ATY) was utilized to produce various 3D woven solid structures and compared to benchmark 2D fabric seat covers with equivalent areal density. Placing three sets of yarn in the x, y, and z axes enhanced the structural integrity and distributed the stress evenly, which helped to boost the mechanical performance of 3D structures. The study concluded that 3D woven structures have the potential for mechanical performance and are expected to be utilized as car seat covers in the near future.

Statistical evaluation of electric field distributions in 3D composites with a random spatial distribution of dielectric inclusions

Electromagnetic applications of composites often impose constraints on the internal electric fields, such as an upper limit on the field strength to prevent local heating or dielectric breakthrough. However, owing to heterogeneity, the local fields in a composite differ from those in a homogeneous material. Moreover, they are accessible neither by experiment nor by effective medium theories, at least for arbitrary microstructures. In this work, we use numerical simulations to evaluate the electric field distribution and the effective permittivity for 3D systems of monodisperse impenetrable spheres dispersed in a continuous matrix phase. We restrict ourselves to loss-free dielectric materials and to a random spatial distribution of particles. Samples are placed in a parallel plate waveguide and exposed to a transverse electromagnetic wave. The local field amplitudes are calculated via the finite element method and are normalized to those of a homogeneous sample exhibiting the same effective permittivity and geometry. We analyze the distribution of the local electric field strength in both constituents, namely, particles and matrix. Thus, we evaluate mean values and standard deviations as well as the field strengths characterizing the highest and lowest percentiles. Increasing particle concentration or permittivity enhances heterogeneity, and so the local electric field strength in some domains can become much higher than its average value. The methods we apply here can also be used in further investigations of more complex systems, including lossy materials and agglomerating particles.

Bending fatigue performance of three‐dimensional woven composites—A review

AbstractThree‐dimensional woven composites (3DWCs) are gradually used in marine, transportation, military, and other applications owing to their high interlayer properties, load‐bearing capacity, and good near‐net‐shape forming abilities. 3DWCs are often subjected to bending fatigue loads, which negatively affect the lives of structural parts. In this review, typical types of preform structures and their evolution characteristics are described, and the micro‐modeling methods for 3DWCs are discussed. The effect of the warp yarn paths on the bending properties and the preform structure on the bending fatigue properties of 3DWCs are summarized, and the application and current status of microstructural models in the study of bending fatigue properties are summarized. In addition, the bending fatigue mechanical properties, damage evolution process, and modes of failure in 3DWCs are discussed. The study status and development of the fatigue life models of the laminated composites and 3DWCs are summarized, and future research work is prospected. This review may be beneficial to preform structural design and contribute to the study bending fatigue properties of 3DWCs.Highlights The microstructural modeling methods for 3DWCs. Types and variation patterns of 3D woven preform structures are described. Effects of the structure on the bending performance are discussed. Bending fatigue properties of 3DWCs are summarized. The development trends of predicting the lifespans of composites.

A damage-related adaptive self-consistent clustering analysis method with localized refinement capability for the damage problem of 3D woven composites

In this work, a Damage-related Adaptive Self-Consistent Clustering Analysis (DASCA) method is developed to achieve higher solving accuracy for 3D damage problems than Self-Consistent Clustering Analysis (SCA) method, which is applied to investigate the mesoscale damage behavior of 3D woven composites (3DWC). The developed clustering adaptivity framework is based on the characteristics of the damage problem, which consists of five fundamental stages: evaluation of the adaptivity conditions, selection criterion of potential damage clusters, online adaptive clustering analysis, update of the cluster database and adaptive rewind of the analysis process. In the second stage, the clusters with the highest potential to enter the damage state are identified and marked as adaptivity target clusters. In the solving process, the distribution of clusters can achieve problem-dependent dynamic adjustments, ensuring that clusters are concentrated on the regions of interest. Though the numerical examples of 3DWC, the DASCA solutions, using fewer clusters and less computational cost, exhibit higher prediction accuracy for macroscopic mechanical performance, first damage initiation moments and damage evolution process than the SCA solutions.

Characterisation of 3D woven textile composites in presence of minor weft tow undulations and cross-section variations

Characterisation of 3D woven textile composites in presence of minor weft tow undulations and cross-section variations

(Invited) Epitaxial III-V Nanomaterials on the Si Platform for Quantum and Data Communications

As Si-based integrated photonic components begin to replace older technologies for optical data communications, the need for better integration of semiconductor lasers on the Si platform is greater than ever. In addition, emerging interest in integrated-photonic-based quantum computing and quantum sensing presents a further need for quantum light emitters—entangled and single-photon—on Si. III-V quantum dots represent a promising solution, both for the active region of telecommunications-wavelength lasers and for quantum emitters. However, epitaxial quantum dots grown on conventional (100) substrates typically lack the high symmetry required for entangled-photon emission.This presentation will discuss our recent work to develop a novel approach for III-V direct growth on Si via an ultrathin (<10 nm) single crystal strain relieving buffer layer, realized by the selective oxidation and condensation of an amorphous SiGe surface layer. The fabrication and properties of this novel Ge-rich buffer layer, as well as its use for subsequent III-V organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy will be presented.The second part of the talk will present our recent work on the epitaxial growth and characterization of (In,Ga)As quantum dots for the above-mentioned applications. Specifically, I will show that surface-energy-modifying surfactants (Sb, Bi) present the possibility to externally direct quantum dot formation “on-demand” in strained InAs layers on GaAs(111) substrates, where quantum dot formation by the Stranski–Krastanov process does not naturally occur. These nanostructures are prospective for high-symmetry entangled-photon emitters. The three-dimensional (3D) composition profile of InAs quantum dot layers is characterized by atom-probe microscopy (APT), elucidating the real-world quantum dot matrix. This 3D composition data is input into a finite element solver to determine the quantum dot energies and wavefunctions for electrons and holes. The modeling reveals that in high-density quantum dot layers, the electron and hole states are hybridized between multiple quantum dots in the matrix. This has important consequences for design of quantum dot light emitters. The predicted transition energies are in agreement with low-temperature photoluminescence. This work constitutes a promising approach for integrating telecommunications-wavelength quantum dot lasers and entangled photon emitters on the Si integrated photonics platform.

The low velocity impact properties of three- dimensional (3D) warp interlock woven composites according to the fabric architecture

Three-dimensional (3D) warp interlock woven composites (3DWIWC) are in demand in various industries due to their excellent delamination resistance, damage tolerance and fracture toughness properties. The 3D warp interlock woven fabric architecture can be defined by numerous fabric parameters such as: the binding and stuffer warp yarns, the woven pattern, the presence of yarn groups, etc. …. The effect of the fabric architecture on the impact behaviour of 3DWIWC made with carbon yarns has not been fully investigated. The binding warp yarns with the weave pattern play the main role in the arrangement of yarns within the final composite. In order to highlight their main influence, the 3D woven composites had been differentiated according to the main fabric architectural parameters, which are the angle and depth of binding warp yarn, presence of stuffer warp yarn and weave pattern of binding warp yarn. Afterward, their low velocity impact properties and damage mechanisms were examined. Thanks to the precise combination of these internal parameters of the fabric architecture, the contact force and absorbed energy values of 3DWIWC could be increased almost %50 and %15, respectively. Moreover, their damage mechanisms could be significantly improved.

Exploring the effects of angle of incidence on stabbing resistance in advanced protective textiles: Novel experimental framework and analysis

Despite numerous research investigations to understand the influences of various structural parameters, to the authors' knowledge, no research has been the effect of different angles of incidence on stab response and performance of different types of protective textiles. Three distinct structures of 3D woven textiles and 2D plain weave fabric made with similar high-performance fiber and areal density were designed and manufactured to be tested. Two samples, one composed of a single and the other of 4-panel layers, from each fabric type structure, were prepared, and tested against stabbing at [0°], [22.5°], and [45°] angle of incidence. A new stabbing experimental setup that entertained testing of the specimens at various angles of incidence was engineered and utilized. The stabbing bench is also equipped with magnetic sensors and a UK Home Office Scientific Development Branch (HOSDB)/P1/B sharpness engineered knives to measure the impact velocity and exerted impact energy respectively. A silicon compound was utilized to imprint the Back Face Signature (BFS) on the backing material after every specimen test. Each silicon print was then scanned, digitized, and precisely measured to evaluate the stab response and performance of the specimen based on different performance variables, including Depth of Trauma (DOT), Depth of Penetration (DOP), and Length of Penetration (LOP). Besides, the post-impact surface failure modes of the fabrics were also measured using Image software and analyzed at the microscale level. The results show stab angle of incidence greatly influences the stab response and performance of protective textiles. The outcome of the study could provide not only valuable insights into understanding the stab response and capabilities of protective textiles under different angle of incidence, but also provide valuable information for protective textile manufacturer, armor developer and stab testing and standardizing organizations to consider the angle of incidence while developing, testing, optimizing, and using protective textiles in various applications.

Investigation of the static and low‐velocity impact performance of 3D braided spacer composites

AbstractTo meet the lightweight requirements of advanced composite materials, the ultralightweight three‐dimensional (3D) braided spacer composites were designed and manufactured by ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The key structural effects of core column distances and core column heights on the static bending, compression, and low‐velocity impact properties of the composites were further investigated. Results indicated that the mechanical properties of 3D braided spacer composites was closely depended on their structural parameters. The flexure and compression of 3D braided spacer composites decreased with increasing core column distance and core column height. W1/H1 specimen showed the optimal bending and compressive performance. The maximum flexural strength and flexural modulus were approximately 54.77 MPa and 4.95 GPa, respectively. The low‐velocity impact properties were further investigated where the stiffness, energy absorption, and impact resistance of the composite decreased with increasing core column distance. The peak load and energy absorption of the W1 specimen were 2.39 kN and 7.99 J, respectively. While the low‐velocity impact properties increased with increasing core column distance. The H3 specimen exhibited the greatest stiffness, impact resistance and energy absorption with peak loads and energy absorption of 2.81 kN and 8.49 J, respectively. In addition, the macro morphology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)micrographs were examined to investigate the damage morphology and failure mechanism of the composites. The main failure modes were matrix cracking, interface debonding, fiber buckling, and dislocation, as well as tilting, and failure of the core columns. This work provides guidance for structural design and engineering application of 3D lightweight braided spacer composite.

Multifunctional 3D carbon fiber/epoxy braided composites with excellent compression performance and electromagnetic interference shielding

The multifunctional composites with electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance and mechanical property are in urgent demand. In this work, the carbon fibers reinforced 3D braided preforms (3DBPs) were fabricated by a four-step braiding method. Then, the 3D braided composites (3DBCs) were prepared via vacuum assisted resin transfer molding technique. The establishment of a comprehensive 3D conductive network conferred upon the 3DBCs an exemplary EMI shielding efficiency of 54.01 dB in the X-band. Furthermore, the 3DBPs served the reinforcing function, attaining an exceptional compressive strength of 211.48 MPa at a density of 1.37 g/cm3. It is of great significance to apply the 3D braiding technology to develop EMI shielding composites to realize the structure-function integration.

The technology and current applications of continuous fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composites

AbstractBecause of its inherent properties, the use of thermoplastic composites is expanding in a number of industries, including aerospace, rail transportation, and wind power generation. However, the development of 2D and 3D reinforced thermoplastic composite structures is hampered by the high viscosity and poor wetting of thermoplastic matrices, resulting in their application being mainly limited to nonload‐bearing components. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the technology and current applications of thermoplastic composites, covering materials, preform structures, manufacturing methods, process parameters, performance, and applications. It also provides an outlook on their future development.Highlights Thermoplastic composite has economic and environmental benefits. Summarized the current technology and application of thermoplastic composites. The manufacturing difficulty is the thermoplastic polymers wet fibers. One promising approach to the issue is prepreg technology. Prepreg technology make 3D thermoplastic composites become possible.

Engineering of gelatin scaffold by extracellular matrix of Sertoli cells for embryonic stem cell proliferation

Mimicking the microenvironment of seminiferous tubules plays an indispensable role in directing differentiation of stem cells toward germ cells in vitro. In this work, we fabricated electrospun gelatin (EG) mats (i.e., with diameter <500 nm) conditioned with Sertoli cells' extracellular matrix (ECM) to simulate both 3D structures and composition of normal testis tissue. Sertoli cells were isolated from mice testis and represented through immunocytochemistry (ICC) staining for expression of vimentin, a specific marker of Sertoli cells. The morphological characteristics of ECM-coated scaffold were investigated under scanning electron microscope (SEM). The efficient elimination of cells was confirmed by MTT assay. Furthermore, the cyto/biocompatibility of ECM-conditioned EG scaffold was determined for Sertoli cells and embryonic stem cells (ESCs), alone and as in co-culture. According to the results, the designed scaffold provided a mat for cell proliferation with negligible toxicity (almost 100% cell viability). SEM micrographs displayed cells with elongated shape and complete stretching morphology when compared with those cultured on scaffold without ECM. Moreover, an enhanced differentiation of ESCs toward sperm-generating cells was obtained through co-culturing of Sertoli cells and ESCs, where cell viability was found almost 100%. Our findings introduce the ECM-conditioned EG scaffold as a potentially influential engineered substrate for in vitro guidance of stem cells differentiation by mimicking the native microenvironment.

Ablation simulation of integral woven gradient three‐dimensional thermal protection structures for planetary exploration

AbstractFor the harsh entry environment and higher thermal protection requirements, two structures of three‐dimensional woven gradient thermal protection materials were designed and prepared with the deep space exploration thermal protection system as the object. They are 3D orthogonal woven, 2.5D layer‐to‐layer angle interlock woven, 2.5D layer‐layer angle interlock woven structure(OLL) composite and 3D orthogonal woven, angle 2.5D layer‐to‐layer angle interlock woven, honeycomb structure(OLH) composite. Two materials were prepared and examined by ablation in an oxygen‐acetylene flame. A three‐dimensional macroscopic ablation model was established on the basis of the experiment, and the model was verified to be accurate and effective, which can well respond to the pyrolytic ablation process of the materials. The two designed materials are applied to the outsole of MSL by simulation, and the three‐dimensional response during the entry into Mars is simulated and analyzed in comparison with the thermal protection performance of PICA material. Both materials show better thermal protection than PICA and can be used as a reference in the selection of thermal protection materials.Highlights Two kinds of 3D gradient woven thermal protection materials are designed. A 3D thermal protection system response model is established. The three‐dimensional response during entry was analyzed. Thermal protection of the material is superior to that of PICA.

3D printable carbon nanotubes-based composites with reconfigurable shapes and properties

In this work, we developed an efficient approach to fabricating composites of carbon nanotubes (CNT) with shape reconfiguration ability and Joule heating behavior by incorporating the direct ink writing (DIW) technique. Our 3D printable ink consisted of a high concentration of CNT stabilized by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in an aqueous polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution. The rheology of the ink was tuned by the amounts of CNT and PVP. The printed objects underwent the freeze-thaw process to form weak hydrogels induced by the crystallization of PVA. Subsequently, the hydrogels were immersed in a deep eutectic solvent (DES) bath consisting of choline chloride and glycerol. This process replaced the water in the hydrogels with DES and led to mechanically tough DES/CNT gels. We utilized the high stretchability of DES/CNT gel to achieve complex geometries that would be challenging to accomplish solely with DIW. After reshaping the DES/CNT gels, the target shape was fixed by further solvent exchange with ethanol and drying. The final CNT composites showed a high electric conductivity of up to 33.94 S/m and exhibited remarkable Joule heating performance using a low applied voltage (5 V). Additionally, we successfully achieved a spatial variation of mechanical stiffness, electrical conductivity, and Joule heating across the printed objects by a selective solvent removal process. In short, this work expands the scope of possible shapes and properties of CNT-based composites.

Processing and properties of 3D woven SiC/SiC composites with hybrid matrix

3D woven SiC/SiC composites with Sylramic™-iBN SiC fibers have been fabricated by first partially infiltrating 3D woven fiber preforms with SiC by chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) and then by polymer infiltration and pyrolysis (PIP) of SiC-yielding polymer. The influence of fiber architecture on damage evolution and failure mechanisms during tensile loading, in-plane tensile properties, transverse thermal conductivity, and interlaminar tensile strength of the composites has been investigated. Wherever possible, the data are compared with those of 2D woven melt infiltrated (MI), CVI, and (CVI+PIP) hybrid SiC/SiC composites. The composites exhibit 300-hr creep durability at 1482 °C in air at stresses up to 138 MPa and show potential for elevated-temperature applications. Further improvements in composite properties are possible by optimizing composite constituents and fiber architecture.