Alternative Materials Research Articles

Determination of Mechanical Properties of Hybrid Composite

Abstract: Manufacturing of composite laminates is the peculiar member of science that encounter its immense utilization in various industrial areas such as sporting, automotive, aerospace and marine industries. The superior properties of composites such as stiffness, better mechanical properties, low density, and lightweight make it a candidate in engineering applications. The continuous research in this area is due to the need for seeking alternative materials with increased performance. In this report, the basalt fiber E-glass reinforced composite mechanical properties has investigated. The basalt fiber E-glass composite was formulated with hand layup moulding technique. Mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural strength and impact strength of the basalt fiber E-glass composite have been analysed

A Preliminary Evaluation of Alternative Raw Materials for Pellet Production

The study focuses on alternative raw materials available in Latvia and their possible use in pellet production. Laboratory testing to determine the main quality parameters – the moisture content, the ash content, the calorific value and ash melting temperature – was carried out for 13 alternative biomass sources: pine mix pellets (PMP); pellets of wood shavings, synthetic and textile waste mix (SSK); hogweed (Heracleum sosnowsky, HW); the full plant of Solidago canadensis L. (SC); the full plant of Solidago canadensis L. outgrown (SCO); mowed grass from the municipality (MGM); mowed grass from the garden (MGG); chamomile full plant without stems (CF); hemp without roots (Cannabis sativa L., HWR); hemp stems (Cannabis sativa L., HS); hemp leaves with seeds (Cannabis sativa L., HLS); spent grain (SG); damaged spent grain (DSG). The testing and determination of results were carried out according to the methodology set out in ISO standards regarding solid biofuels. The obtained results were compared to the quality parameters defined in ENplus certification for B-class wood pellets in requirements for producers. Additional analysis of chemical composition was carried out using XRD (X-ray diffraction) and SEM-EDX (scanning electron microscopy - energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) for the ash of two selected materials - SC and HLS - to gain an insight into possible combustion issues that can occur during the use of these materials. The main issue highlighted by the results is the ash content of alternative materials, which ranges from 1.34% to 11.27%. The other significant issue is the necessity to improve the ash deformation temperature, which was below 1100°C for 5 of the studied materials. Considering this, an algorithm was developed to determine the optimal proportion of alternative material and wood in pellets to achieve a quality comparable to at least B-class wood pellets. The study offers a direction for further research to successfully develop new pellets that could be later used in existing boiler systems, reducing the dependence on wood in pellet production. A discussion on the use, quality and development of alternative material pellets is offered to promote the significance of the topic.

Neutronic Analysis of Accident-Tolerant Cladding Materials in 3D Full Core BEAVRS PWR Benchmark Using OpenMC Code

After the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident in 2011, the performance of nuclear fuel during accidents became a matter of great concern. To address this, a new type of fuel technology called accident-tolerant fuel (ATF) has been developed with the goal of enhancing the ability of light water reactors (LWRs) to withstand severe accident conditions. Iron-based alloys have been suggested as potential candidates for fuel cladding due to their favourable thermomechanical properties, lower reactivity with steam, and lower hydrogen generation. This study evaluates the neutronic performance of C26M (a 2nd generation nuclear grade FeCrAl alloy), APMT™, 310SS, and 304SS cladding materials by comparing them with Zircaloy-4 cladding in a 3D PWR core at the beginning of the cycle (BOC) using OpenMC code. The results revealed that the neutronic penalty varied for different alternative cladding materials where C26M exhibited the lowest neutronic penalty value of -12551 pcm, while 310SS demonstrated the highest with a value of -17855 pcm. Additionally, important parameters in the reactor core such as neutron spectrum, reactivity coefficients, boron worth, control rod bank worth, power distribution, and radial thermal neutron flux distribution are evaluated and discussed. The analysis results showed that C26M provided a significantly higher level of neutronic performance compared to APMT™, 304SS, and 310SS. Although this study primarily focused on the neutronic performance of PWRs at BOC, future research should encompass fuel depletion analysis to delve deeper into the potential of alternative cladding materials.

An Overview of the Recyclability of Alternative Materials for Building Surface Courses at Pavement Structures

This paper overviews the use of several waste materials for the construction and reconstruction of surface courses of asphalt pavements in the framework of sustainable perspectives that are adopted in pavement engineering. Based on a relevant literature search, the most commonly investigated alternative materials include waste plastic, crumb rubber, waste glass, steel slag, and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP). Although recycling in pavement engineering is not a novelty, the strict performance requirements of the surface layers required to support a distress-resistant behavior possess continuous research challenges about the mechanical behavioral parameters, such as fatigue, rutting, moisture damage, and serviceability requirements, such as skid resistance. While studies in a laboratory environment mainly dominate, the importance of performance observations of real structures in the field is also pinpointed in an effort to provide a comprehensive overview of the so far knowledge status. Thereafter, this paper discusses peculiar issues and criteria for waste material selection that should balance performance requirements, local availabilities, and potential legislation concerns, thereby maximizing the economic or environmental advantages.

A hybrid artificial intelligence approach for modeling the carbonation depth of sustainable concrete containing fly ash

One of the major challenges in the civil engineering sector is the durability of reinforced concrete structures against carbonation during the physico-chemical process of interaction of hydrated cementitious composites with carbon dioxide. This aggressive process causes carbon penetration into the reinforcement part, which affects the behavior of the structure during its lifetime due to corrosion risk. A countermeasure is using alternative cementitious materials to improve concrete texture and resist increased carbonation depth (CD). Considering that the CD test requires a long time and a skilled technician, this study strives to provide an alternative approach by moving from traditional laboratory-based methods towards artificial intelligence (AI) techniques for modeling the CD of sustainable concrete containing fly ash (CCFA). Despite the development of single AI models so far, it is undeniable that utilizing metaheuristic optimization techniques in the form of hybrid models can improve their performance. To this end, a new hybrid model from the integration of biogeography-based optimization (BBO) technique with artificial neural network (ANN) is developed for the first time to estimate the CD of CCFA. The error distribution results revealed that 59% of the ANN predictions had errors within the range of (− 1 mm, 1 mm], while the corresponding percentage for the ANN-BBO predictions was 70%, indicating an 11% reduction in the prediction errors by the proposed hybrid model. Furthermore, A10-index highlighted a performance improvement of 78% for the hybrid model, which met the closeness of the predicted values to the observed ones, so that the value of this index for models of ANN and ANN-BBO was 0.5019 and 0.8947, respectively. Analyzing the cross-validation confirmed the reliability and generalizability of the developed model. Also, the three most influential variables in estimating the CD were exposure time (27%), carbon dioxide concentration (22%), and water/binder (18%), respectively. Finally, the superiority of the ANN-BBO model was verified by comparing it with previous studies’ models.

Progressive Damage Simulation of Wood Veneer Laminates and Their Uncertainty Using Finite Element Analysis Informed by Genetic Algorithms

Within the search for alternative sustainable materials for future transport applications, wood veneer laminates are promising, cost-effective candidates. Finite element simulations of progressive damage are needed to ensure the safe and reliable use of wood veneers while exploring their full potential. In this study, highly efficient finite element models simulate the mechanical response of quasi-isotropic [90/45/0/−45]s beech veneer laminates subjected to compact tension and a range of open-hole tension tests. Genetic algorithms (GA) were coupled with these simulations to calibrate the optimal input parameters and to account for the inherent uncertainties in the mechanical properties of wooden materials. The results show that the continuum damage mechanistic simulations can efficiently estimate progressive damage both qualitatively and quantitatively with errors of less than 4%.Variability can be assessedthrough the relatively limited number of 400 finite element simulations as compared to more data-intensive algorithms utilised for uncertainty quantification.

Advancements in alveolar bone reconstruction: A systematic review of bone block utilization in dental practice.

Alveolar reconstructive surgery employs a variety of surgical techniques and biomaterials, with a particular focus on bone blocks as a crucial methodology for restoring and augmenting deficient bone structures. Bone blocks are often employed to support periodontal health or as a foundation for future prosthetic rehabilitation with dental implants. This systematic review investigated recent advances in bone blocks for alveolar bone reconstruction, comparing autologous, allogeneic and xenogeneic types. A search of PubMed identified 56 records, of which 21 were included in the qualitative analysis. The studies involved 685 patients in total. Bone blocks are pivotal for three-dimensional bone regeneration, providing a stable scaffold for achieving the desired bone volume during healing. Autologous bone, harvested from the patient, boasts high biocompatibility, excellent osteogenic properties and minimal immunologic risks. However, its drawbacks include the need for an additional surgical site and extended procedural times. Allogeneic bone blocks involve transferring bone between individuals, offering increased graft availability and customization options without requiring a second surgical site. However, they exhibit moderate resorption rates and carry a heightened risk of immunologic reactions and disease transmission. Innovative techniques, such as tunneling, laser osteotomy, graft customization, and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) application on wound during surgical treatment show promise in enhancing alveolar bone reconstruction efficacy. In conclusion, despite the traditional preference for autologous bone, the review suggests that alternative materials, particularly individualized allogeneic bone blocks, coupled with modern techniques, could emerge as a standard procedure for regenerating alveolar bone defects due to their satisfactory results and potential advantages.

High temperature infiltration behavior and reaction characteristics of Colima volcanic ashes on gadolinium zirconate coatings deposited by atmospheric plasma spraying

AbstractVolcanic ashes are considered a serious threat to the aircraft industry. At high temperatures, they inflict severe thermochemical damage to the typical 7 wt.% yttria-stabilized zirconia thermal barrier coatings that protect the aircraft turbine. There is a need to evaluate alternative materials with excellent resistance to infiltration of molten siliceous particles, such as gadolinium zirconate. In this work, free-standing thermal barrier coatings of gadolinium zirconate were manufactured by atmospheric plasma spraying, varying deposit parameters to obtain different relative densities to evaluate the infiltration of molten Colima volcanic ashes for 1 h and 10 h at 1250 °C. The infiltration depth and the reaction products resulting from each interaction, were studied by different characterization techniques. In general, the coatings show high resistance to the infiltration of the volcanic ashes, reaching infiltration depths between 50 µm and 80 µm after 10 h of infiltration time. In this sense, gadolinium zirconate coatings are excellent candidates against the infiltration of Colima volcanic ashes compared to the typical yttria-stabilized zirconia-based thermal barrier coatings.

Investigation and selection of optimistic material for two wheeler brake disc: An experimental and finite element approach

The brake disc is a vital component in the braking system of the automobile which helps in reducing the speed or stopping the vehicle whenever required. Whereas, increasing the effectiveness of the braking system is highly challenging for the researchers to ensure safe driving by minimizing the stopping distance of the vehicle during braking. However, the performance of the braking system mainly relies on the brake disc material utilized in the braking system. In the current trend, the usage of alternate materials with a high strength-to-weight ratio is in practice to reduce the fuel consumption of the automobile. Hence, researchers concentrate on Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites and Metal Matrix Composites to manufacture automotive components. In this research work, the performance of the existing mild steel brake rotor is correlated with brake discs fabricated using different materials such as zirconium-coated steel, AA7075+nSiCp, AA6061+nano Rice Husk Ash particles, Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer composite, and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer composites. The effectiveness of a two-wheeler braking system is reported concerning the stopping distance, disc weight, friction coefficient, and wear resistance properties of the brake disc material. Moreover, a 3D Finite Element Model (3D FEM) is also developed and the braking mechanism is simulated. The experimental and FEA results reveal that SiC reinforced AA7075 composite shows compromising properties as required such as maximum stress of 558 MPa, excellent wear resistance, good friction coefficient of 0.40, good temperature dissipation property, and effective stopping distance of 81 m.

Techno-economic analysis of ammonia cracking for large scale power generation

The increasing interest in leveraging green ammonia to mitigate carbon emissions in fertilizer production is paralleled by an expanding acknowledgment of its potential as a fuel for decarbonizing the electricity sector, particularly in high-efficiency gas turbine power plants. Co-firing ammonia with hydrogen presents a promising method for integrating ammonia into existing infrastructures. Within this context, the development of efficient technology for ammonia cracking presents a potential avenue for deploying ammonia in gas turbines. The objective of this study is to conduct a preliminary techno-economic evaluation and uncertainty analysis of two cracking technologies namely a membrane reactor and a conventional FTR (Fired Tubular Reactor) for the co-firing of ammonia with hydrogen in a CCGT (Combined Cycle Gas Turbine) plant. The integration of a membrane reactor during the cracking stage demonstrates a remarkable improvement in the system's thermal efficiency, surpassing traditional approaches by over 25%. Additionally, it brings about an approximate 10% reduction in the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH), despite a higher initial capital expenditure (CAPEX). At the CCGT level, the discrepancy in levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) narrows, as it is strongly influenced by the cost of ammonia constituting 80% of the LCOE. Beyond LCOE, the widespread adoption of these systems also faces challenges due to material scarcity. Analysis reveals that revamping just 1 GWe of CCGT assets using membrane reactors would for example necessitate approximately 0.11% of the global palladium supply, and 10% of the global ruthenium production. Considering the limited availability of these resources, coupled with their high demand across multiple sectors and the possibility of external factors such as geopolitical tensions, this strategy seems unfeasible. To tap into this market, future research should prioritize the exploration of alternative membrane materials, such as carbon molecular sieves, and catalysts, like nickel.

Experimental evaluation of mechanical characteristics of concrete composites reinforced with jute fibers using bricks waste as alternate material for aggregates

In order to achieve high strength in concrete composites, various fiber reinforcements in plain concrete composites (PCC) are used. Steel is widely used for this purpose but the main issue in using steel as a reinforcement member is rusting, which results into structure deterioration. So, the alternative is to use a durable, environment friendly, and cost-effective natural fiber. Jute Fiber is used in this study for the reinforcement of plain concrete composites while, the plain concrete composites were made with cement, sand, and bricks waste. The comparative study of using bricks waste as an alternative material to crush bricks is also presented in this research study. Bricks waste and its disposal is becoming an environmental challenge. This study proposes jute fibers as a reinforcement element and uses bricks waste as an alternative material to crushed stone. M20 grade concrete with various volumetric percentages (0.05%, 0.10%, 0.25%, 0.50%, and 1.00%) of 10 mm long jute fibers are produced. An increase of 39% and 37% in compressive strength and split tensile strength, respectively, was observed after the addition of jute fibers. Therefore, the use of jute fibers and bricks waste to replace crushed stone is an effective way to mitigate environmental pollution and sustainability issues.

Finite element analysis of the thermal and thermo-mechanical coupling problems in the dry friction clutches using functionally graded material

Abstract The friction clutch is an important machine part in the torque transmission system, where it is responsible for gently transmitting the power from the engine to the gearbox and damping the tensional vibration. At the beginning of the engagement between the clutch’s elements, a large amount of heat is released due to frictional sliding between the elements of the clutch system, generating very high temperatures. In this work, the two- and three-dimensional finite element models were developed from scratch to explore the clutch disk’s temperature and contact pressure behaviors using an alternative frictional material such as functionally graded material (FGM). The two assumptions for the thermal loads were considered: uniform wear and uniform pressure assumptions. The thermal–structural problem for the new frictional material was solved numerically and then presented as the temperature distributions and the contact pressure at any instant of sliding time. Also, a comparison was made between the clutch system behaviors when using FGM with different frictional materials. The results showed that the FGM has superior results to the other available frictional materials.

Exploring the Limits of Fe-Rich Chemistries in Na-Based CaFe2O4-Type Postspinel Oxides.

Structural trends, physical properties, and electrochemical performances of the NaFexRu2-xO4 system have been investigated. Synthesis attempts using both conventional solid-state routes and high-pressure methods were explored for the compositional range 1.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.67. Based on Rietveld refinements against powder X-ray diffraction data, analyses of 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy data, and elemental analysis by electron microprobe, the existence of a confined compositional solid solution (1 ≤ x ≤ 1.3) adopting the CaFe2O4-type postspinel structure is demonstrated. This is contrasted with the NaFexTi2-xO4 system, for which no evidence of a solid solution is observed. However, for all explored synthetic routes of NaFexRu2-xO4 compositions, a trivalent iron oxidation state is maintained. Structural analysis and qualitative bond valence energy landscape models reveal that the progressive integration of iron into the postspinel framework results in narrowed sodium ion diffusion channels, restricting electrochemical deintercalation of sodium. Consequently, the CaFe2O4-type iron-rich compounds explored in this study demonstrate limited potential as positive electrode materials for sodium batteries. It is expected that this fundamental insight will help guide the exploration of alternative NaM2O4-based positive electrode materials with similar structure types.

Exploring fluoropolymers for fabrication of femtoliter chamber arrays used in digital bioanalysis

The global supply of fluoropolymers and fluorinated solvents is decreasing due to environmental concerns regarding polyfluoroalkyl substances. CYTOP has been used for decades primarily as a component of a femtoliter chamber array for digital bioanalysis; however, its supply has recently become scarce, increasing the urgency of fabricating a femtoliter chamber array using alternative materials. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of fabricating a femtoliter chamber array using four types of fluoropolymers in stable supply as candidate substitutes and verified their applicability for digital bioanalysis. Among these candidates, Fluorine Sealant emerged as a viable option for fabricating femtoliter chamber arrays using a conventional photolithography process. To validate its efficacy, we performed various digital bioanalysis using FP-A-based chamber arrays with model enzymes such as CRISPR–Cas, horseradish peroxidase, and β-galactosidase. The results demonstrated the similar performance to that of CYTOP, highlighting the broader utility of FP-A in digital bioanalysis. Our findings underscore the potential of FP-A to enhance the versatility of digital bioanalysis and foster the ongoing advancement of innovative diagnostic technologies.

Analyzing the Implementation of Green Industries Practice at PT. Semen Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. Tuban Plant towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

This research examines the implementation of green industry practices at PT Semen Indonesia (Persero) Tbk Tuban Plant and its contribution to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a state-owned multinational corporation in the cement industry, PT Semen Indonesia (Persero) Tbk Tuban Plant plays a significant role in integrating environmental sustainability into its business operations. Through a qualitative exploratory approach, data was collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation study. The analysis revealed that the company has implemented various green industry practices across its operations, including the adoption of Alternative Fuel and Raw Material (AFR), Waste Heat Recovery Power Generation (WHRPG) technology, and community development programs. These practices align with several SDGs, particularly SDGs 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15, focusing on clean energy, innovation, sustainable cities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, and life on land. The research highlights PT Semen Indonesia (Persero) Tbk Tuban Plant as a pioneering entity in environmental management and community empowerment within the cement industry, contributing significantly to sustainable development efforts.

Effect of metakaolin content and shape design on strength performance of lightweight rubberized geopolymer mortars incorporated slag-waste glass powders

Lightweight rubberized geopolymer (LRGP) has gained attention due to its economic, engineering, and environmental benefits. With the rising human demands, the need for alternative materials to meet the requirements of infrastructural expansion, and global industrialization required. Based on those facts, this study aimed to develop of lightweight geopolymer mortars using wastes rubber as fine aggregate (WRA) to replace the natural aggregates, which metakaolin (MK), wastes bottle glass (WBG) and granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) used as precursor materials with alkaline activator contained low molarity of sodium hydroxide solution and sodium silicate and cured at ambient temperatures. The effect of WRA on physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of metakaolin-based rubberized geopolymer has been evaluated by using several tests such as compressive, flexural and tensile strength. As well as morphology and chemical reaction on LRGP by using AFM, FESEM, EDX, FTIR and XRD tests. In addition, a sustainable shape design has been cast and subjected to compressive strength to obtain the strength performance of the proposed LRGP mortar. At optimal mixture, the SEM images exhibited improvement in the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) among WRA and binder, leading rubberized geopolymer with 15% WRA to achieve a strength of 27.47 MPa after 28 days and with a reduction in density by 7.2%. The findings of this study can provide valuable insights on utilizing WRA in the shape design and formulation of geopolymer mortar, a key ingredient in the development of functional environmentally friendly building materials.

Comparison of ePTFE membranes with fluorine-free alternatives considering durability of laminated fabrics using hydrostatic pressure testing

Pleasant wearing comfort is achieved using laminated fabrics containing a waterproof and breathable membrane. The most used membrane type is expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. Due to the negative impact of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances on the environment, fluorine-free alternative materials are necessary. In this work, alternative membrane materials, polyurethane and polyethylene terephthalate, were compared with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. First, the mass per unit area, thickness, tensile properties, water vapor resistance, and hydrostatic pressure of corresponding laminates were determined. Furthermore, their durability, which is an essential aspect of sustainability, was investigated. Therefore, they were hydrolyzed, weathered, washed, and incorrectly treated (e.g. washed with fabric softener) and then investigated for hydrostatic pressure resistance, by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and digital microscopy. It was shown that polyethylene terephthalate and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene are comparable with respect to breathability, waterproofness (>20 bar), and durability. However, the hydrostatic pressure resistance (approximately 11 bar) and the water vapor resistance values (>23 m2 · Pa · W−1) of microporous polyurethane membranes are poorer, but they still provide suitable alternatives. In addition, a beginning degradation of polyurethane could be proved after hydrolysis and weathering. Furthermore, the deposition of calcium salts on all membranes was observed after washing with tap water, fabric softener, and washing agents.

Feasibility study on thin‐film PV laminates for road integration

AbstractIntegration of photovoltaics (PV) into the built environment (BIPV) and infrastructure (IIPV) is required to increase the installed capacity of PV worldwide, while still leaving sufficient area for other land uses. Although BIPV applications have proven to play a significant role in the energy transition, road integrated IIPV concepts are less developed and bring challenges in mechanical and electrical stability and safety that still need to be addressed. In this work, the feasibility of integrating thin‐film CIGS (Copper Indium Gallium Selenide) modules into road tiles is investigated. PV road stacks were produced by gluing CIGS laminates onto concrete tiles and covering them with epoxy and glass granulates to form impact‐ and anti‐skid layers. IV (current–voltage) characteristics show that, respectively, a thin and thick epoxy layer results in 2% and 6.6% relative loss in power conversion efficiency. Although a thin protective layer would be beneficial to the power conversion efficiency of road modules, raveling tests show increased risk for electrical failure when a thin top layer is used. Pull‐off tests showed that the weakest adhesive strength (0.8 N/mm2) is between the thin‐film laminate and concrete, offering sufficient adhesive strength to at least withstand light traffic loading. Raveling and wheel tracking tests show no mass loss and only minor deformation of the stack, respectively, indicating no real risk of raveling or rutting. Thermal cycling and damp heat exposure of the PV road tiles show that yellowing of the top layers can significantly reduce performance over longer periods of outdoor operation. Damp heat exposure after mechanical loading shows no indication of moisture ingress on any of the tested configurations, suggesting the proposed CIGS laminate stack is able to withstand light traffic loading. From the measurement results, it can be concluded that thin‐film CIGS modules are mechanically and electrically suitable for road integration. Power conversion efficiencies over 12% can be attained with this technology, indicating its potential for renewable energy generation in road infrastructure. Performance stability can especially benefit from alternative top layer materials that maintain high transparency over long lifetimes. Additionally, pilot tests are required to demonstrate the potential of the technology in a controlled outdoor environment.

Non-precious Electrocatalysts for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

The development of non-precious metal-based catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a promising research area with the potential to advance water electrolysis and enable the widespread use of hydrogen as a clean energy source. While noble metals like Pt and Pd exhibit excellent HER activity, their limited availability and high cost present significant challenges. Non-precious transition metals such as Fe, Co, and Ni have emerged as alternative catalyst materials due to their natural abundance. However, these metals often encounter obstacles related to their hydrogen adsorption behavior. This commentary highlights the various strategies employed to optimize the electronic structures of non-precious metal-based catalysts to enhance the HER performance. The outlook of non-precious metal-based catalysts is bright, with ongoing and future research activities mainly focusing on improving their properties, integrating these catalysts into commercial water electrolysis systems, and improving the scalability for large-scale hydrogen production. The development of high-performance non-precious metal-based catalysts for HER is crucial to future sustainable and efficient hydrogen production in the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.

Engineering a high-performance W-doped Sr0.9Fe0.67Ti0.3Co0.03O3-δ hydrogen electrode for Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOECs)

Traditionally, Ni-based cermet fuel electrodes have been extensively utilized in Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOECs) for their excellent conductivity and catalytic properties. However, the development of alternative materials has gained attraction due to concerns over Ni's susceptibility to carbon deposition and long-term stability issues. To overcome this issue, we designed Sr0.9Fe0.67Ti0.30Co0.07O3-δ (SFTC) and W-doped SFTC (SFTCW) via the sol-gel method and thoroughly characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TG-DSC), and electrochemical tests. The results reveal that the incorporation of W enhances the stability of the electrode material under both oxidizing and reducing conditions, with no impurity phases detected. Furthermore, W doping promotes the precipitation of Co–Fe alloy, preserves the original structure, and facilitates the creation of oxygen vacancies within the material. In a reducing atmosphere containing 40 % H2O, SFTCW demonstrates superior electrolysis performance at an electrolysis voltage of 1.8 V, exhibiting a remarkable improvement of approx. 35 % compared to the SFTC sample. During a 100 h long-term stability test, the current density of SFTCW increased from -240 mA cm–2 to -270 mA cm–2, attributed to the enhanced hydrogen oxidation activity and increased reactive sites resulting from W doping, thereby enhancing its long-term stability. This work provides a feasible scheme for the selection and construction of hydrogen electrodes for electrolytic water.