Application Of New Materials Research Articles

Reinforcement of nylon 6,6/nylon 6,6 grafted nanodiamond composites by in situ reactive extrusion.

Nanodiamond (ND), an emerging new carbon material, was exploited to reinforce nylon 6,6 (PA66) polymer composites. Surface modified nanodiamonds with acyl chloride end groups were employed to chemically graft into PA66, enhancing the interfacial adhesion and thus the mechanical properties. The ND grafted PA66 (PA66-g-ND) reinforced PA66 composite prepared by in situ reactive extrusion exhibited increased tensile strength and modulus. The tensile strength and modulus of PA66/3 wt.% PA66-g-ND composites were enhanced by 11.6 and 20.8%, respectively when compared to those of the bare PA66 matrix. Even the PA66/pristine ND composites exhibited enhanced mechanical properties. The PA66-g-ND and the homogeneously dispersed PA66-g-ND in PA66 matrix were examined using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The mechanical properties and thermal conductivities of the nanodiamond incorporated PA66 composites were also explored. The enhanced mechanical properties and thermal conductivities of the PA66-g-ND/PA66 composites make them potential materials for new applications as functional engineered thermoplastics.

Novel materials

Materials have central roles in all fields of engineering; they define, through structures and devices, our interfaces to the physical and the virtual world. The emergence of new materials catalyzes transformative advances in civilizations, to an extent that eras of human development are often defined by the prevailing materials used in engineered systems, from the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages to the present times, aptly referred to as the Silicon or the Polymer Age. From an academic standpoint, the fundamental phenomena that define complex relationships between chemical compositions, structures, and properties in advanced materials serve as the basis for some of the most intellectually stimulating and dynamic areas of research in the physical sciences. This work has additional appeal because it is intrinsically interdisciplinary and combines essential aspects of traditional fields of study in physics, chemistry, and even biology, to an increasing extent, together with engineering processes and control strategies. Progress in materials science and in the engineering application of new materials is essential to the pursuit of solutions to societal grand challenges. Examples span those related to the development of sustainable sources of energy, from high-power magnets for wind turbines to designer semiconductors for solar cells; to the invention of technologies that improve human health, from metal alloys for lightweight prosthetics to polymer matrices for controlled drug release; to progress in intra- and interplanetary travel within realms of objective and virtual reality alike, from high-efficiency batteries for emissions-free vehicles, to carbon composites for fuel-efficient spacecraft, to atomically thin films for high-speed integrated circuits. This Special Feature on Novel Materials presents a collection of perspectives articles, short reviews, and original research papers designed to capture some of the breadth and excitement in recent materials research. This representative set of topics intersects critical areas in electronics, biology, advanced manufacturing, and chemical … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence may be addressed. Email: jrogers{at}northwestern.edu or desimone{at}email.unc.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1

Improving sustainability performance in early phases of product design: A checklist for sustainable product development tested in the automotive industry

In the early phases of product development, it is important to both reduce costs and improve a product's sustainability performance. Insufficient data are available on the costs and sustainability aspects of innovative concepts such as automotive lightweight design, which require the application of new materials and processes. The lack of information and high degree of uncertainty hinder the use of traditional sustainability evaluation tools such as Life Cycle Assessment during these early phases. Tools used in eco-design and sustainable design have disadvantages since they either focus on only one sustainability dimension, require quantitative data about materials and processes, or cannot be applied by designers and engineers. To overcome these disadvantages, a new checklist for Sustainable Product Development (CSPD) was developed in close collaboration with practitioners. The CSPD allows the qualitative assessment of environmental, economic and social aspects during the early phases of product development while considering a full life cycle perspective. It provides the methodological foundation for an iterative process, in which improvement tasks related to sustainability are defined that must be completed by the engineers. The applicability of the CSPD with reference to a wide range of technologies was evaluated and tested in a case study that included nine automotive lightweight technologies. This case study revealed that the developed tool helped designers and engineers assess and improve the sustainability performance of a technology and that it stimulated processes of collaboration and information exchange within and between organizations.

Blending Education and Polymer Science: Semi Automated Creation of a Thermodynamic Property Database.

Structured databases of chemical and physical properties play a central role in the everyday research activities of scientists and engineers. In materials science, researchers and engineers turn to these databases to quickly query, compare, and aggregate various properties, thereby allowing for the development or application of new materials. The vast majority of these databases have been generated manually, through decades of labor-intensive harvesting of information from the literature; yet, while there are many examples of commonly used databases, a significant number of important properties remain locked within the tables, figures, and text of publications. The question addressed in our work is whether, and to what extent, the process of data collection can be automated. Students of the physical sciences and engineering are often confronted with the challenge of finding and applying property data from the literature, and a central aspect of their education is to develop the critical skills needed to identify such data and discern their meaning or validity. To address shortcomings associated with automated information extraction, while simultaneously preparing the next generation of scientists for their future endeavors, we developed a novel course-based approach in which students develop skills in polymer chemistry and physics and apply their knowledge by assisting with the semi-automated creation of a thermodynamic property database.

Non-volatile memory based on atomic crystals

The space and data-exchanging rate and other factors of storage, calculation and communication in the multi-functional low-power chips have become the bottlenecks of the development of integrated circuits. The ultralow power consumption of single-bit erasing/writing, the ultra-small device size, fast operation time and non-volatility are indispensable for high-density and high-speed storage in the future system architecture to satisfy the needs for big data exchanging in the core. The future storage technology consists of employing devices with new principles, such as controlling of electron transition and ionic migration superseding the electron transport, adopting new materials to lower the power consumption and introducing new 3D-stack technology to increase the density. This review focuses on the application of new materials in the non-volatile storage technology, especially the two-dimensional atomic crystals. Two-dimensional atomic crystals have some prominent properties, such as high electron mobility, ultimate ultrathin channel and ultralow surface states with an intrinsic thickness of 0.6‒1.2 nm and abundant band structure, which provide an excellent solution for future storage technology. And they have enormous potential to further scale down to increase the integration level and improve stability, expand the application scenarios and develop new memory devices and they are a new method to break through the bottlenecks of power consumption and integrated level of memories.

Microstructure and thermal characteristics of SiC–Al2O3–Ni composite for high-temperature application

The development of the aviation industry is related to the production of new materials that can operate at high temperatures and corrosive atmospheres. The paper presents new material for application in high temperature obtained by pressing and sintering a composite made from SiC–Al2O3–Ni. Analysis of the microstructure showed high porosity, which is caused by used manufacturing technique. Studies of thermal expansion do not show any phase transition and keeps linearity in thermal expansion in wide range (from 550 to 1450 K). X-ray diffraction showed the presence of all components of phase with those used, the phase associated with the components and silicon oxide, which was formed during the sintering of the samples.

Transforming MOFs for Energy Applications Using the Guest@MOF Concept.

As the world transitions from fossil fuels to clean energy sources in the coming decades, many technological challenges will require chemists and material scientists to develop new materials for applications related to energy conversion, storage, and efficiency. Because of their unprecedented adaptability, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) will factor strongly in this portfolio. By utilizing the broad synthetic toolkit provided by the fields of organic and inorganic chemistry, MOF pores can be customized to suit a particular application. Of particular importance is the ability to tune the strength of the interaction between the MOF pores and guest molecules. By cleverly controlling these MOF-guest interactions, the chemist may impart new function into the Guest@MOF materials otherwise lacking in vacant MOF. Herein, we highlight the concept of the Guest@MOF as it relates to our efforts to develop these materials for energy-related applicatons. Our work in the areas of H2 and noble gas storage, hydrogenolysis of biomass, light-harvesting, and conductive materials will be discussed. Of relevance to light-harvesting applications, we report for the first time a postsynthetic modification strategy for increasing the loading of a light-sensitive electron-donor molecule in the pores of a functionalized MIL-101 structure. Through the demonstrated versatility of these approaches, we show that, by treating guest molecules as integral design elements for new MOF constructs, MOF science can have a significant impact on the advancement of clean energy technologies.

The Chemistry and Applications of π-Gels

π-Gels are a promising class of functional soft materials formed out of short π-conjugated molecules. By utilizing the chemistry of noncovalent interactions, researchers have created a wide range of π-gels that are composed of supramolecular polymers. During the last two decades, supramolecular gel chemistry has been pursued with the hope of developing new materials for applications in, for example, organic electronics, energy harvesting, sensing, and imaging. The high expectations for π-gels were centered mainly around their electronic properties, such as tunable emission, energy transfer, electron transfer, charge transport, and electrical conductivity; such properties are amenable to modulation through size and shape control of molecular assemblies. Although a large number of exciting publications have appeared, a major technological breakthrough is yet to be realized. In this review, we analyze the recent advancements in the area of functional π-gels and their scope in future applications.

Structural and mechanical aspects of multilayer graphene addition in alumina matrix composites–validation of computer simulation model

Since relationships between the structure and properties of ceramic-graphene composites are still not sufficiently defined, some numerical methods may facilitate the design of optimal material for new applications. In order to investigate such relationships, the methods for modelling the structure of composites with different sizes, shapes and spatial distributions of MLG (multilayer graphene) in the ceramic matrix have been developed. Using advanced methods of sintering SPS (Spark Plasma Sintering), two kinds of Al2O3 matrix composites were prepared with the participation of multilayer graphene flakes up to 2wt.%. (3.56vol.%). Studies of the microstructure and the basic mechanical properties suggesting a very strong impact of graphene flakes within a range of small volume additions. Thus there is a clear deterioration of the properties of composites with volume shares exceeding 1%, which may be due to changes of the graphene nanoplatelets and agglomerates shape.

Multidisciplinary approach to the environmental impact of steel slag reused in road construction

Given the large quantities of natural materials used daily in road building, it is necessary to find a way to reduce its adverse environmental impact. The modern approach is the application of new materials, usually waste ones, resulting in the preservation of natural materials but also the reduction of waste materials in dumping sites. In this study, steel slag as waste material in steel production is validated for its usage in road construction based on its potential adverse environmental impact through a multidisciplinary approach. Results of their leaching potential and impact on earthworms (Eisenia fetida) are presented. Chemical composition, dissolved oxygen, and pH value of leachate, radioactivity and mortality, and molecular biomarkers in earthworm E. fetida on two steel slag samples are analysed to fulfil present knowledge of steel slag environmental impact by a multidisciplinary approach. Results indicate that the analysed slags present no hazard for the environment if used in road construction (unbound pavement layers or embankment).

REVIEW ON NONLINEAR VIBRATION AND MODELING OF LARGE SPAN CABLE-STAYED BRIDGE

As a hot research topic, the nonlinear dynamics of cable-stayed bridge has been highlighted in the field of mechanics, structure and bridge. With the development of new materials, such as CFRP cable, and new construction technology, the main span of cable-stayed bridge has been enlarged, which make this kind of bridge more competitive in bridge engineering. However, the increase of its span and the application of new materials make the bridge structure become lighter and more flexible, so that the nonlinear vibration of the structure becomes more prominent than ever, which may endanger the safety of the bridge. Based on our research of the nonlinear dynamics of cable-stayed bridge in recent years, the research progress in recent 10 years on the nonlinear dynamics and modeling of large span cable-stayed bridge is reviewed in detail. The nonlinear dynamic models, theories and modeling and solving methods for cable, beam, cable-beam and cable-stayed bridges are discussed. The results show that the cable stayed bridge has rich nonlinear dynamic behavior due to the coupling problem of the multi flexible cable, the large span beam, and the complexity of the environmental load. At the same time, due to the bottleneck problem of high dimensional nonlinear system, the study on the nonlinear dynamic behavior of the whole cable-stayed bridge becomes very complicated. Finally, based on the future development trend of cable-stayed bridge, some new ideas on nonlinear dynamics of cable-stayed bridge is proposed and future research directions are discussed.

Analysis of Vibrational Energy on the Pendulum Based on Finite Element

Charpy impact test is very sensitive to mechanical processing technologies and product defects. Charpy impact test can give quantitative test data and improve the product quality of advanced manufacturing industry and the safety of the application of new materials. The Charpy impact test machine has elastic deformation. The center of percussion is different from the designed center of strike and this difference can affect the vibration energy on the pendulum. In this article, by using the finite element analysis method, we simulate experimental processes having different distance to the center of percussion and obtain the numerical quantity related effects. In the end, we verify the accuracy of the finite element analysis by using different energy level impact test.

Application of New Materials in Industrial Design

Based on the full cognition of the role of which new materials plays in industrial design, and combining the development of science and technology with increasing environmental awareness of human, this paper discusses the importance of new materials applications in contemporary industrial design. From the aspect of morphological characteristics, visual characteristics, features and bionic intelligence and so on, it analyzes the application effects of new materials in industrial design, showing that materials and industry design have the relationships that they permeate with each other, and they both play a significant role in the development of industrial design.

Theoretical methods for understanding advanced magnetic materials: The case of frustrated thin films

Materials science has been intensively developed during the last 30 years. This is due, on the one hand, to an increasing demand of new materials for new applications and, on the other hand, to technological progress which allows for the synthesis of materials of desired characteristics and to investigate their properties with sophisticated experimental apparatus. Among these advanced materials, magnetic materials at nanometric scale such as ultra thin films or ultra fine aggregates are no doubt among the most important for electronic devices.In this review, we show advanced theoretical methods and solved examples that help understand microscopic mechanisms leading to experimental observations in magnetic thin films. Attention is paid to the case of magnetically frustrated systems in which two or more magnetic interactions are present and competing. The interplay between spin frustration and surface effects is the origin of spectacular phenomena which often occur at boundaries of phases with different symmetries: reentrance, disorder lines, coexistence of order and disorder at equilibrium. These phenomena are shown and explained using of some exact methods, the Green's function and Monte Carlo simulation. We show in particular how to calculate surface spin-wave modes, surface magnetization, surface reorientation transition and spin transport.

Characteristics of cassava starch fermentation wastewater based on structural degradation of starch granules

ABSTRACT: Sour cassava starch is a naturally modified starch produced by fermentation and sun drying, achieving the property of expansion upon baking. Sour cassava starch' bakery products can be prepared without the addition of yeast and it is gluten free. The fermentation process associated with this product has been well studied, but the wastewater, with high acidity and richness in other organic compounds derived from starch degradation, requires further investigation. In this study, the structure of solids present in this residue was studied, seeking to future applications for new materials. The solids of the wastewater were spray dried with maltodextrin (MD) with dextrose equivalent (DE) of 5 and 15 and the structure of the powder was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. A regular structure with a network arrangement was observed for the dried material with MD of 5 DE, in contrast to the original and fermented starches structure, which suggests a regular organization of this new material, to be studied in future applications.

Six sigma and six sigma system in the function of quality and profits increase

Quality is the degree to which a set of permanent characteristics fulfills default, set, contracted or planned requirements for the result of the process (semi-finished product, product, documentation, services). There is a widespread belief in America that the quality is always determined by the user, not the supplier, because the quality is important not only because of the cost but because there is a completely different approach to maintaining the quality of the process. In Serbia, the applicable ISO 9000 family of standards which demonstrates the ability of suppliers, allows only stabilization of the current level of quality but not its increase that can be achieved only through better design and application of new materials and technologies. Application of Six Sigma is a different approach, which actually increases the level of quality and organization's profit; using modern computer technology it also allows the reduction of defects in the process, until the defects of 3.4 per million are realized as the results of the process. Since in Serbia, it is difficult to achieve, the authors have developed a special system of Six Sigma System, which allows realisation of a number of projects for reduction of possible costs, shortening time rational, radical elimination of losses, significante increase of the quality of the process and increase of organizations' profit.

Microstructural and Mechanical Characterization of Mo-containing Stellite Alloys Produced by three Dimensional Printing

Stellite materials are widely used in demanding conditions such as corrosion and high- load wear components. The ability to develop cobalt-chrome based components by means of three-dimensional printing may increase their performance as well as enable the use of these wear-resistant materials in new applications. In this study, we use the binder jetting method to manufacture cobalt-chrome based articles using powders with various characteristics. The final components showed theoretical densities above critical limits, which correlated well with the microstructural characterization and mechanical properties. In addition, abrasion experiments showed higher wear resistance for the 3D printed parts compared to as-cast components, which was attributed to differences in the microstructure.

Stents for colorectal obstruction: Past, present, and future.

Since the development of uncovered self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) in the 1990s, endoscopic stents have evolved dramatically. Application of new materials and new designs has expanded the indications for enteral SEMS. At present, enteral stents are considered the first-line modality for palliative care, and numerous types of enteral stents are under development for extended clinical usage, beyond a merely palliative purpose. Herein, we will discuss the current status and the future development of lower enteral stents.

<b>Recent Trends in Research and Development into Materials Technology for Railways</b>

Innovation in railway technology can be achieved through progress in material technology, in terms of the development of the materials themselves, manufacturing processes, higher reliability, etc. Developing material technology is therefore essential for railways. To this end, analytical and mensuration methods are regarded as other basic technology. Today it is also necessary to meet environmental demands, by replacing harmful materials with environmentally acceptable substances, and ensuring that they are energy efficient. This paper describes some of the latest results from research and development into material technology, including the development and application of new materials, and analytical and mensuration methods.

Plasmon resonances in semiconductor materials for detecting photocatalysis at the single-particle level.

Hot carriers, generated via the non-radiative decay of localized surface plasmon, can be utilized in photovoltaic and photocatalytic devices. In recent years, most studies have focused on conventional plasmon materials like Au and Ag. However, they suffer from several drawbacks like low energy of the generated hot carriers and a high charge-carrier recombination rate. To resolve these problems, here, we propose the plasmon resonances in heavily self-doped titanium oxide (TiO1.67) to realize effective hot carrier generation. Since the plasmon resonant energy of TiO1.67 nanoparticles (2.56 eV) is larger than the bandgap (2.15 eV), plasmon resonances through interband transition can realize both the generation and separation of hot carriers and bring a new strategy for visible-light photodegradation. The photodegradation rate for methyl orange was about 0.034 min(-1). More importantly, the combination of plasmonic and catalytic properties makes it feasible to investigate the degradation process of different materials and different structures at the single particle level in situ. By detecting the scattering shift, we demonstrated that the TiO1.67 dimer (Δλ/ΔλRIU = 0.16) possesses a higher photodegradation rate than an individual nanoparticle (Δλ/ΔλRIU = 0.09). We hope this finding may be a beginning, paving the way toward the development of semiconductor plasmonic materials for new applications beyond noble metals.