Materials For Advanced Applications Research Articles

Compressive behaviour of concrete columns confined with textile reinforced concrete composites

The enhancement of strength and deformation capacity in confined concrete members could be achieved through the application of advanced composite materials. Textile reinforced concrete (TRC), a novel cement-based composite material, is considered as a viable alternative to fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets, addressing the limitations associated with organic resins. This study delved into the impact of various parameters, such as cross-section shapes, concrete strengths, and the number of TRC layers, on the confinement effect. The results reveal a consistent augmentation in both axial compressive strength and deformation capacity of confined concrete with an escalation in the number of TRC layers, irrespective of the cross-sectional configurations. Notably, the maximum enhancements in axial peak stress for rectangular, square, and circular specimens are recorded at 45.96 %, 49.98 %, and 90.06 %, respectively, accompanied by corresponding increases in axial strains of 56.28 %, 53.74 %, and 86.00 %, respectively. The effectiveness of TRC confinement exhibits a substantial correlation with the geometry of the cross-sections. The circular ones have higher utilization rates followed by the square ones, and the rectangular ones with section aspect ratio greater than 1.0 have the lowest utilization rates. Furthermore, an evaluation of existing confinement identification models indicates that both the Mirminan Model and Wu Model could effectively delineate the hardening and softening characteristics of circular and rectangular specimens. However, there exists scope for improving the accuracy of these models. Therefore, a novel modified identification model, predicated on the Mirminan model, was proposed to refine the confinement assessment process. The revised modified confinement ratio (MCR) is recommended at a value of 0.045, aiming to elevate the precision and reliability of confinement evaluations in concrete structures.

Valorization of lignin-rich solid residues from different eucalyptus wood conversion processes as oil structurants via electrospinning

The growing demand for sustainable materials has been driving research towards the use of biopolymers from natural resources. This study explores the valorization of lignin-rich solid residues derived from different eucalyptus wood conversion processes, specifically autohydrolysis (AHL), steam-explosion (SEL), and kraft pulping (EKL), via electrospinning. The potential of these electrospun nanostructures as eco-friendly oil structurant is investigated for lubricant applications. Solutions of AHL, SEL, and EKL fractions in a 3:1 v/v trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)/N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) binary solvent were prepared at concentrations of 0.015, 0.03, and 0.05 g/mL. AHL and SEL samples exhibited superior spinnability due to higher carbohydrate content and molecular weight and lower ash content. Increasing the solution concentration to 0.05 g/mL resulted in the consecution of larger average fiber diameters (up to 0.44 and 0.39 μm, for AHL and SEL, respectively) and reduced bead formation. Stable oleo-dispersions were achieved solely with electrospun homogeneous nanofiber mats, while nanostructures predominantly composed of electrosprayed particles, like those obtained with EKL produced physically unstable dispersions from which the oil readily separates. The rheological response and microstructure of oleo-dispersions were significantly affected by both the conversion process of eucalyptus wood and the spinning solution concentration. The rheological properties of the oleo-dispersions can be tailored by modifying the spinning solution concentration, with G′ values ranging from 5·102 to 5·104 Pa and consistency and flow indices roughly ranging from 90 to 990 Pa sn and from 0.06 to 0.19, respectively, depending on the nature of the lignin-rich fraction and the type of electrospun nanostructure employed. These results highlight the potential of electrospun nanostructures obtained from lignin-rich solid residues in advanced materials applications, promoting the valorization of waste streams derived from different biorefinery processes, as well as the development of novel environmentally friendly lubricants.

Splitting of double-core solid-in-water-in-oil droplet in a microfluidic Y-junction

Solid particle-encapsulated droplets have significant applications in biochemistry, advanced materials, and inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments. However, there is a problem of encapsulating two solid cores in a single droplet during the preparation of single-core droplets, which reduces the utilization efficiency. In this study, an effective microfluidic approach for continuous splitting of solid-in-water-in-oil droplets encapsulating double solid cores is developed. Visualization experiments are conducted to analyze the movements of solid cores and evolution of liquid–liquid interface during the splitting. The results show that the squeezing stage during the splitting process is shortened due to the presence of solid cores. The splitting mechanisms were also revealed by analyzing the interaction forces between the solid cores and aqueous phase. The force analysis of the aqueous phase showed that sum of squeezing and shear force could overcome the interfacial tension, ensuring the successful splitting of the double-core droplets. The force analysis of the solid cores revealed that the motion of the core could be divided into three typical stages: deceleration, hitting and separation. The combined effect of the aqueous phase, channel wall, and interfacial forces ensured the stable separation of the two solid cores. The length distribution of the daughter droplets exhibited excellent monodispersity. The microfluidic method proposed in this work would effectively improve the controlled preparation efficiency of solid-in-water-in-oil droplets.

First-principle and experimental investigation into the interfacial characters of Ti-doped ZTA and high chromium cast iron

Ti doping can improve the interfacial wettability and bonding condition between ZTA ceramic and high chromium cast iron (HCCI), but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Therefore, the effects of Ti doping on the interfacial characters between ZTA and HCCI were investigated by experiment and first-principles calculations. Results of XRD, SEM, and high-temperature drop test indicate the presence of Ti at the interface and its effect on the formation of interfacial diffusion layer to improve the interface wettability and bonding obviously. The heat of segregation and work of adhesion obtained by first-principle calculations shows that the improvement in interface wettability and bonding is due to the promotion of dopped Ti atoms on the diffusion of Fe, Al, and Zr elements, but not the diffusion of Ti itself. Further investigation from the electronic level reveals that the doped Ti changes the charge distribution and orbital hybridization, and thus makes the formation or enhancement of strong ionic bonds and covalent bonds at the interface, improving the bonding strength and wettability of interfaces in ZTA/HCCI. The findings of this research can offer new insights into the modification of ceramics and enlarge the application of advanced ceramic materials.

Light Switchable Bioorthogonal Reaction Manifold for Modulation of Hydrogel Properties.

Chemical reaction systems that can occur via multiple pathways in a controllable fashion are highly attractive for advanced materials applications and biological research. In this report, we introduce a bioorthogonal reaction manifold based on a chalcone pyrene (CPyr) moiety that can undergo either red-shifted photoreversible [2 + 2] cycloaddition or thiol-Michael addition click reaction. By coupling the CPyr to a water-soluble poly(ethylene glycol) end group, we demonstrate the efficient polymer dimerization and cleavage by blue light (λ = 450 nm) and UV light (λ = 340 nm), respectively. In the absence of light, CPyr rapidly reacts with thiols in aqueous environments, enabling fast and efficient polymer end-group functionalization. The chemical reaction manifold was further employed in polymer cross-linking for the preparation of hydrogels whose stiffness and morphology can be modulated by different photonic fields or the addition of a thiol cross-linker. The photoreversible cycloaddition and thiol-Michael addition click reaction can be used in conjunction for spatial and temporal conjugation of a streptavidin protein. Both cross-linking conditions are nontoxic to various cell lines, highlighting their potential in biomaterials applications.

Hydrogen evolution from NaBH4 using novel Ni/Pt nanoparticles decorated on a niobium-based composite

The niobium-based nanocomposite (Nb-CP), inspired by MOF-based synthesis, was developed utilizing the ligands 4-benzenedicarboxylic acid (BDC) and 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid (BTC). This material was decorated with bimetallic nanoparticles (Ni2/Pt8 NPs-Nb-CP) and applied for the first time for hydrogen evolution from sodium borohydride (NaBH4). Characterization results indicated successful synthesis. The FT-IR analysis revealed the presence of functional groups such as -C-H, –CO, and -O-H from ligands in the composite. Thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the thermal stability of the niobium composite (Nb-CP). Through X-ray diffraction (XRD), peaks associated with sodium niobate were detected. Additionally, the material was functionalized with bimetallic Ni/Pt nanoparticles, whose presence was also identified by XRD. The cubic morphology of the material was observed, with the decoration of bimetallic nanoparticles (Ni2/Pt8 NPs-Nb-CP) with an average size of 7.80 ± 0.10 nm, uniformly distributed in Nb-CP. The catalytic performance of the material was evaluated in hydrogen evolution from NaBH4. Various reaction parameters were investigated, such as nanoparticle composition, variation in NaBH4 concentration, catalyst dose, NaOH concentration, and temperature. Remarkably, the material exhibited a hydrogen generation rate (HGR) of 1782 mL min−1 g−1cat and an activation energy of 23.1 kJ mol−1. Furthermore, it demonstrated efficiency close to 100% over 16 consecutive reaction cycles, indicating its promising stability and reusability. This study highlights the potential of Ni2/Pt8 NPs-Nb-CP as an efficient and durable catalyst for hydrogen production through borohydride hydrolysis, providing insights into the design and application of advanced heterogeneous catalytic materials.

Chiral Acetal-Based Stereo-Controlled Degradable Polymer Synthesis.

The precise synthesis of chiral polymers remains a significant challenge in polymer chemistry, particularly for applications in advanced biomedical and electronic materials. The development of degradable polymers is important for eco-friendly and advanced materials. Here, we introduce a stereo-controlled degradable polymer via cascade enyne metathesis polymerization and enantioselective acetal synthesis through Pd-catalyzed asymmetric hydroamination. This approach allows for the creation of chiral acetal-based polymers with controlled stereochemistry and degradability, highlighting their potential for use in drug delivery and electronic applications. This concept article reviews the background, development, and potential applications of these stereo-controlled degradable polymers.

Preface

The 2024 4th International Conference on Advanced Materials and Mechatronics (ICAMM 2024) was held via virtual form in Xi’an, China from May 10th to 12th, 2024. Previous conferences in the past three years of this series have been successfully held and it was agreed to hold the conference once a year, with the aim to establish and develop a constant international collaboration. In recent years, interest in advanced materials and mechatronics has been flourishing all over the globe due to both theoretical and practical requirements. Considering the trend, the fourth conference of ICAMM series was organized in order to provide an international academic forum for developing research cooperation and to promote research and other academic activities in related fields. We entertained about 80 participants at ICAMM 2024 and arranged various speeches and presentations which cover a wide range of topics related to the Conference theme. Many scholars and researchers all over the world have contributed to the emerging technology and application of advanced materials and mechatronics. The wonderful keynote speeches included Semiconductor Lighting and Display: Design and Manufacturing Technology for High Efficiency GaN-based LED Chips (by Prof. Shengjun Zhou, Wuhan University, China), Materials, Processing and Reliability of Low Temperature Bonding in 3D Chip Stacking (by Prof. Liang Zhang, Xiamen University of Technology, China), Monitoring Applications of Electronic Devices in the Shipbuilding Industry (by Assoc. Prof. Fengming Du, Dalian Maritime University, China), and Addictive Manufacturing and Intelligent Processing Control of Advanced Metal Materials (by Prof. Kun Li, Chongqing University, China). ICAMM 2024 has been endorsed and supported by many national and international engineering-related universities and organizations and was a complete success. The topics of papers collected and undergone rigorous peer review in the Proceedings of ICAMM 2024 can be classified as follows: Semiconductor Materials, Mechanics of Materials, Material Forming Process and Equipment, Advanced Electromagnetism, Laser Physics and Technology, Irradiation electronics, etc. Last but not the least is our gratitude. We would like to express our sincere thanks to all the keynote speakers, authors, committee members for the success of the Conference, which has given rise to this present volume of selected papers. We would also like to acknowledge the staff of Journal of Physics: Conference Series for their effective work to make this Proceedings published. The Committee of ICAMM 2024 List of Committee Member is available in this Pdf.

Achieving high geometric fidelity in vat photopolymerization additive manufacturing through liquid surface support

The top-down vat photopolymerization (VPP) printing process, known for its extensive material adaptability and elimination of the release step between the printed object and the separation film, is widely used in 3D printing of advanced functional materials. However, for slurries that cannot achieve rapid self-leveling, edge morphology distortion in printed objects reduces geometric precision. This study investigated the issue of edge morphology distortion in the top-down VPP printing process, and proposes a liquid surface support (LSS) printing method that can be applied to general VPP printers. The results show that the protective slurry fence printed simultaneously with the object can provide excellent liquid surface support for the uncured layer above the printed object, which shifts the edge morphology distortion issue from the target object to the fence. The gap distance between the fence and the target sample is identified as the primary factor affecting edge morphology fidelity, which is influenced by surface tension. Finally, we successfully validated the application of the LSS printing method in the printing of ceramic dental prostheses and slender rod structures. This novel method significantly enhances the geometric precision of printed samples and is expected to promote the advancement of VPP printing applications for advanced functional materials.

Stacking self-gluing cellulose II films: A facile strategy for the formation of novel all-cellulose laminates

Cellulose laminates represent a remarkable convergence of natural materials and modern engineering, offering a wide range of versatile applications in sustainable packaging, construction, and advanced materials. In this study, novel all-cellulose laminates are developed using an environmentally friendly approach, where freshly regenerated cellulose II films are stacked without the need for solvents (for impregnation and/or partial dissolution), chemical modifications, or resins. The structural and mechanical properties of these all-cellulose laminates were thoroughly investigated. This simple and scalable procedure results in transparent laminates with exceptional mechanical properties comparable to or even superior to common plastics, with E-modulus higher than 9 GPa for a single layer and 7 GPa for the laminates. These laminates are malleable and can be easily patterned. Depending on the number of layers, they can be thin and flexible (with just one layer) or thick and rigid (with three layers). Laminates were also doped with 10 wt% undissolved fibers without compromising their characteristics. These innovative all-cellulose laminates present a robust, eco-friendly alternative to traditional synthetic materials, thus bridging the gap between environmental responsibility and high-performance functionality.

A Facile Approach to Construct Novel Polyesters as Soft Midblock for Thermoplastic Elastomers.

The development of innovative synthetic strategies to create functional polycaprolactones is highly demanded for advanced material applications. In this contribution, we reported a facile synthetic strategy to prepare a class of CL-based monomers (R-TO) derived from epoxides. They readily polymerize via well-controlled ring-opening polymerization (ROP) to afford a series of polyesters P(R-TO) with high molecular weight (Mn up to 350 kDa). Sequential addition copolymerization of MTO and L-lactide (L-LA) allowed to access of a series of ABA triblock copolymers with composition-dependent mechanical properties. Notably, P(L-LA)100-b-P(MTO)500-b-P(L-LA)100 containing the amorphous P(MTO) segment as a soft midblock and crystalline P(L-LA) domain as hard end block behaved as an excellent thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) with high elongation at break (1438±204 %), tensile strength (23.5±1.7 MPa), and outstanding elastic recovery (>88 %).

Hygroscopic Mg–Al LDHs composite microspheres for highly efficient hyperspectral camouflage in the VIS and NIR wavebands

In order to enhance the hyperspectral camouflage efficacy of stealth coatings against a natural vegetative backdrop, LiCl, known for its significant hygroscopic properties, was incorporated into green Mg–Al layered double hydroxide (Mg–Al LDHs) material. Micron-sized composite microspheres were subsequently synthesized via the spray-drying granulation technique. The structure, morphology, and chemical composition of these microspheres were thoroughly characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, laser particle size analysis, nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The effect of LiCl content on the moisture absorption capacity and near-infrared reflectance spectra of the microspheres was systematically evaluated. We found that incorporating an optimal amount of LiCl into the internal pores of the Mg–Al LDHs microspheres did not compromise their smooth surface morphology and uniform particulate distribution. Notably, when the LiCl content was 10%, the maximum saturation moisture uptake ratio of the coating increased to 0.75 g/g. This hygroscopicity significantly enhanced the absorption and scattering of near-infrared radiation by the coating while concurrently improving its ability to modulate the shape and reflectance of both the visible and near-infrared spectral curves. Spectral congruence between the synthetic coating and natural green foliage was quantified at 97.41%. Moreover, this performance was maintained over 10 cycles of programmed drying and re-humidification, and the coating consistently demonstrated stable hygroscopic properties and sustained over 95% spectral congruence. These optimized artificial coatings were found to effectively confuse hyperspectral classification algorithms, thus blending seamlessly into a natural foliage backdrop. This study provides a new method for regulating VIS and NIR spectral (visible–near infrared spectrum) features, which will be critical for applications in advanced hyperspectral camouflage materials.

Application and performance analysis of advanced materials in engine lightweight

This paper discusses the application and performance analysis of advanced materials in engine lightening. Firstly, we analyze the properties of high performance aluminum alloy, titanium alloy and composite materials, including their composition, mechanical properties and high temperature resistance. Then, the practical application effects of these materials in key components such as automobile and aero-engine are analyzed through concrete cases. For example, the introduction of micronutrient and improvements in heat treatment processes have significantly increased the strength and corrosion resistance of high-performance aluminium alloys. Titanium alloy is widely used in the key parts of aero-engine because of its high strength and light weight, which greatly improves the performance of engine. The low density and high strength of the composite make it an ideal choice for reducing engine weight. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future directions, and explore solutions to reduce costs, improve processing efficiency and develop new alloys, in order to provide guidance and reference for the further development of engine lightweight technology.

Surface properties of laser-woven magnesium alloys based on dot-matrix processing

Abstract This paper investigates the enhancement of surface properties of magnesium alloys through infrared nanosecond laser processing with a focus on creating hydrophobic and wear-resistant surfaces. By manipulating dot-matrix microgroove sizes on the magnesium alloy surfaces, the research evaluates the influence on hydrophobicity and mechanical durability. The experimental results reveal that larger microgrooves contribute to increased hydrophobicity due to decreased liquid-solid contact, confirmed by static contact angle measurements which align with predictions from the Cassie-Baxter model. Mechanical durability tests, involving sandpaper abrasion, demonstrate that the surface integrity is maintained despite wear, attributed to the effective laser-texturing approach. The hydrophobic surfaces were achieved through a low-surface-energy modification using fluorosilanes, followed by a thermal treatment to ensure durability. The findings highlight the potential of this processing method in applications requiring robust, hydrophobic materials such as biomedical and engineering materials, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for industry-scale problems. This work not only extends the understanding of surface engineering via laser texturing but also provides a novel approach for optimizing surface properties crucial for advanced material applications.

Bridging papermaking and hydrogel production: Nanoparticle-loaded cellulosic hollow fibers with pitted walls as skeleton materials for multifunctional electromagnetic hydrogels

Electromagnetic hydrogels have attracted significant attention due to their vast potential in soft robotics, biomedical engineering, and energy harvesting. To facilitate future commercialization via large-scale industrial processes, we present a facile concept that utilizes the specialized knowledge of papermaking to fabricate hydrogels with multifunctional electromagnetic properties. The principles of papermaking wet end chemistry, which involves the handling of interactions among cellulosic fibers, fines, polymeric additives, and other components in aqueous systems, serves as a key foundation for this concept. Notably, based on these principles, the versatile use of chemical additives in combination with cellulosic materials enables the tailored design of various products. Our methodology exploits the unique hierarchically pitted and hollow tube-like structures of papermaking grade cellulosic fibers with discernible pits, enabling the incorporation of magnetite nanoparticles through lumen loading. By combining microscale softwood-derived cellulosic fibers with additives, we achieve dynamic covalent interactions that transform the cellulosic fiber slurry into an impressive hydrogel. The cellulosic fibers act as a skeleton, providing structural support within the hydrogel framework and facilitating the dispersion of nanoparticles. In accordance with our concept, the typical hydrogel exhibits combined attributes, including electrical conductivity, self-healing properties, pH responsiveness, and dynamic rheologic behavior. Our approach not only yields hydrogels with interesting properties but also aligns with the forefront of advanced cellulosic material applications. These materials hold the promise in remote strain sensing devices, electromagnetic navigation systems, contactless toys, and flexible electronic devices. The concept and findings of the current work may shed light on materials innovation based on traditional pulp and paper processes. Furthermore, the facile processes involved in hydrogel formation can serve as valuable tools for chemistry and materials education, providing easy demonstrations of principles for university students at different levels.

Multiple Phase Structures and Enhanced Dielectric Properties of Side-Chain Liquid Crystalline Polymer Containing Unique Biaxial Mesogen with Large Dipole Moment

To achieve all-organic polymer with high dielectric performances, we have designed a novel side-chain liquid crystalline polymer (P7) with strong polar mesogen of (Z)-4-(2-cyano-2-phenylvinyl)benzonitrile (CSCN) attached to polycyclooctene backbone. The bis-cyano-substituted CSCN is board-shaped and exhibits a large dipole moment (8.54 D) which tilts ∼34.2° away from its molecular long axis. Consequently, CSCN shows unique dual molecular anisotropy: one from biaxial shape anisotropy and the other from polarization anisotropy. The complex phase behaviors of P7 were investigated employing mainly the techniques of differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. Four liquid crystal (LC) phases are identified as K0, K1, K2 and K3, which are SmA, highly-ordered biaxial SmA, B5-like and B7-like, respectively, with the thermal stability increased in sequence. The experimental results indicate that the different LC phases are arisen from the competition and balance between π-π stacking and dipole-dipole interaction. While the face-to-face π-π stacking is dominant in K0 and K1, optimizing the dipole-dipole interaction causes the CSCN mesogens within the smectic layer to tilt and rotate, resulting in K2 and K3. We further investigated the dielectric properties of P7 films using polarization-electric field loops test. The dielectric constant (εr) of P7 is found to be LC structure dependent, which is increased when the LC phase is varied from K0 to K3. With an average εr of 9.7 achieved in K3 and the low dielectric loss (tan δ = 0.001), P7 film offers a promising material in advanced applications like energy storage and electronic devices.

Machine learning insight into inhibition efficiency modelling based on modified graphene oxide of diaminohexane (DAH-GO) and diaminooctane (DAO-GO)

The effective prediction of corrosion inhibition efficiency (%IE) of modified graphene oxides (GOs); diaminohexane-modified graphene oxide (DAH-GO) and diaminooctane-modified graphene oxide (DAO-GO) is vital for advanced material applications. This study employs a dual-modelling scheme to predict the %IE, for this purpose, four stand-alone machine learning (ML) models (Multivariate Regression (MVR), Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), and Neural Network (NN)), and five simple averaging (SA) ensemble paradigms (MVR-SA, GPR-SA, ANFIS-SA, NN-SA, and Decision Tree-SA (DT-SA)). Feature selection processes were carried out to develop three distinct models, leading to a comprehensive comparative analysis. The results demonstrated that the non-linear stand-alone models (GPR, ANFIS, NN) significantly outperform the linear MVR model, with the M2 model configuration yielding the highest performance across all models. Remarkably, GPR-M2 achieved perfect model tuning with zero error rates, indicating its superior predictive capabilities. Ensemble techniques further improved performance, reflecting the experimental data's complexities in %IE modelling. The hierarchical order of performance in the training phase in the testing phase is DT-SA < MVR-SA < ANFIS-SA < NN-SA < GPR-SA. The GPR-SA ensemble emerged as the most accurate technique, substantially enhancing the predictive accuracy of the ensemble models by up to 67.73% in the training phase and 50.71% in the testing phase. These findings suggest the potential of GPR-SA in boosting the performance of ensemble approaches in material science applications. The study recommended a promising future for ML in the development and application of corrosion-inhibitors.

Unveiling the geometrical and mechanical properties of Σ3 (111) grain boundaries in Ni-based alloys: From interfacial insights

Understanding the properties of interfaces and grain boundaries is pivotal for advancing the design and performance of modern materials and devices. The mechanical strength and durability of materials are significantly influenced by the integrity of these interfaces and grain boundaries. In this study, we employ density functional theory calculations to investigate the geometries, electronic properties, and mechanical behaviors of Σ3 (111) grain boundaries in Ni, AlNi3, and FeNi3 systems. Result reveals that these grain boundaries exhibit trigonal, hexagonal, and hexagonal close-packed structures with minimal bond length distortions, attributed to specific misorientation angles of 60°. They also demonstrate bonding characteristics akin to their corresponding polycrystalline bulk materials, indicating stability and twist character with anti-phase boundaries. Evaluation of grain boundary energetics indicates low energy values and stability across the studied systems. Furthermore, we conduct a detailed examination of the interfacial grain boundary structures of Σ3 (111) Ni/AlNi3 and Σ3 (111) Ni/FeNi3, revealing trigonal closed space configurations with twist character and anti-phase boundaries. Electron localization in interfacial regions suggests a metallic nature of interfacial bonds, supported by density of state calculations and positive Cauchy pressure. Assessment of mechanical properties indicate ductile behavior due to structural heterogeneity, moderate anisotropy. Overall, present study underscores the enhanced mechanical properties resulting from heterogeneity, offering promise for future applications in advanced materials and devices. Additionally, a comparative analysis with highlights the advancements and contributions of this study to the existing body of knowledge.

Chiral dinitrogen ligand enabled asymmetric Pd/norbornene cooperative catalysis toward the assembly of C–N axially chiral scaffolds

C − N axially chiral compounds have recently attracted significant interest among synthetic chemistry community due to their widespread application in pharmaceuticals, advanced materials and organic synthesis. Although the emerging asymmetric Catellani reaction offers great opportunity for their modular and efficient preparation, the only operative chiral NBE strategy to date requires using half stoichiometric amount of chiral NBE and 2,6-disubstituted bromoarenes as electrophiles. We herein report an efficient assembly of C–N axially chiral scaffolds through a distinct chiral ligand strategy. The crucial chiral source, a biimidazoline (BiIM) chiral dinitrogen ligand, is used in relatively low loading and permits the use of less bulky bromoarenes. The method also features the use of feedstock plain NBE, high reactivity, good enantioselectivity, ease of operation and scale-up. Applications in the preparation of chiral optoelectronic material candidates featuring two C–N chiral axes and a chiral ligand for asymmetric C–H activation have also been demonstrated.

Streamlined Formation and Manipulation of Charged Polymersomes.

Charged polymersomes are attractive for advanced material applications due to their versatile encapsulation capabilities and charge-induced functionality. Although desirable, the pH-sensitivity of charged block copolymers adds complexity to its self-assembly process, making it challenging to produce charged polymersomes in a reliable manner. In this work, a flow approach to control and strike a delicate balance between solvent composition and pH for self-assembly is used. This allowsfor the identification of a phase window to reliably produce of charged polymersomes. The utility of this approach to streamline downstream processes, such as morphological transformation or in-line purification is further demonstrated. As proof-of-concept, it is shown that the processed polymersomes can be used for surface modifications facilitated by charge complexation.