Materials For Advanced Applications Research Articles

Advancements in calixarene-protected titanium-oxo clusters: from structural assembly to catalytic functionality.

This review explores calixarenes, a prominent family of third-generation supramolecules celebrated for their distinct hollow, cavity-shaped structures. These macrocycles are intricately assembled by linking multiple phenolic units orthogonally through methylene (-CH2-), sulfur (-S-), or sulfonyl (-SO2-) bridges. This structural framework plays a pivotal role in the intricate assembly of nanoclusters, significantly advancing the field of cluster chemistry. A key focus of current research is the remarkable ability of calixarenes to stabilize titanium-oxo clusters. Our review details the application of calixarenes in constructing titanium-oxo cluster structures, emphasizing how these clusters, when encapsulated within calixarenes, exploit flexible coordination sites for structural modifications and serve as foundational units for more complex assemblies. Additionally, we investigate how these calixarene-stabilized metal-oxo clusters function as versatile scaffolds for catalytically active metal ions, facilitating the creation of bimetallic nanoclusters. These clusters not only exhibit unique structural diversity but also demonstrate exceptional catalytic efficiency. This review aims to inspire ongoing exploration and innovation in the use of calixarenes for the synthesis and application of advanced cluster materials.

Advancing Electric Flight through Innovative Materials in Aerospace Propulsion Systems

The advent of electric aircraft heralds a transformative era in aviation, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional aircraft that significantly contribute to carbon emissions. This paper discusses the application of advanced materials in overcoming the technical hurdles associated with electric propulsion systems, focusing on their application in airframe construction, electrical conductors, thermal management, and battery technology to enhance the performance and sustainability of electric aircraft. Advanced composites like carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) are explored for their potential to reduce aircraft weight and improve mechanical properties. The paper also addresses the challenges of thermal management in electric propulsion systems, highlighting the use of phase change materials (PCMs) and advanced ceramics for efficient heat dissipation. Furthermore, the exploration of high-energy-density cathode materials, innovative anode materials, and solid-state electrolytes is discussed in the context of developing lightweight, high-capacity batteries for electric aircraft. Despite the promising advancements in material science and the potential benefits of electric aviation, the paper acknowledges the existing challenges, including the high cost of advanced materials, the need for improved energy storage solutions, and the environmental impact of material production.

Exfoliation of titanium nitride using a non-thermal plasma process.

In this study, we present a novel approach for the exfoliation of titanium nitride (TiN) powders utilizing a rapid, facile, and environmentally friendly non-thermal plasma method. This method involves the use of an electric arc and nitrogen as the ambient gas at room temperature to generate ionized particles. These ionized species interact with the ceramic crystal of TiN, resulting in a pronounced structural expansion. The exfoliated TiN products were comprehensively characterized using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. Remarkably, the cubic crystal structure of TiN was effectively retained, while the (200) crystal plane d-spacing increased from 2.08 to 3.09 Å, accompanied by a reduction in crystallite size and alterations in Raman vibrational modes. Collectively, these findings provide compelling evidence for the successful exfoliation of TiN structures using our innovative non-thermal plasma method, opening up exciting possibilities for advanced material applications.

Analysis of Stress Distribution in a Curved Functionally Graded Porous Beam Using the Unified Shear Deformation Theory

Using unified shear deformation theory (USDT) and a modified power law, the current study examines bending properties of two-dimensional functionally graded curved porous beam. In order to improve accuracy, this method incorporates equilibrium equations, potential energy, and the idea of a neutral surface. The analysis uses a boundary conditions, namely simply supported . A functionally graded beam composed of metal and ceramic with both even and unequal porosity is modeled. The formulation takes into account the symmetrical material gradation, which guarantees alignment between the geometrical and physical neutral surfaces. A displacement-based formulation and energy concepts are used, which leads to a more thorough and accurate beam analysis. This approach effectively regulates the constant changing of material characteristics in FGMs, takes into consideration higher-order shear deformation effects, and does away with the requirement for shear correction factors. As a result, it improves structural behavior predictions, which makes USDT very useful for advanced material applications. The equilibrium equations for the beams are derived using the Hamilton technique and solved with the Kuhn-Tucker conditions.

Valorization of lignin for advanced material applications: a review

A comprehensive overview of various physicochemical modification and functionalization routes of lignin to produce alternative low carbon footprint feedstock for sustainable polymers for advanced material applications is presented.

Exploring the mechanism of asymmetric growth of organic polar crystals: Inherent properties, specific intermolecular interactions

Organic polar crystals (OPCs) are the foundation for photonic and non-linear optical applications in advanced materials. High-quality crystals are a key in achieving efficient performance for OPCs. This work explores the properties and mechanisms of OPC growth along the polar axis. Melt microdrop growth experiments confirm that asymmetric growth is an inherent property of OPCs and relates to the intrinsic crystal structure. Notably, the solvent also plays a non-negligible role in OPCs growth. Solvent-crystal face interactions are strongly influenced by the crystal face structure. A rough surface has a slower growth rate, and a specific recognition of the solvent molecules. Asymmetric growth correlates with the modified attachment energy model and reveals the role of the solvent in inhibiting of crystal growth. Finally, the growth pattern in different solvents is explained by the interfacial adsorption model. This work will further enrich the asymmetric growth mechanism of OPCs and provide guidance for obtaining high-quality OPCs in solution.

Assessing the compressive and tensile properties of TPMS-Gyroid and stochastic Ti64 lattice structures: A study on laser powder bed fusion manufacturing for biomedical implants

In the field of additive manufacturing, the design and fabrication of lattice structures have garnered substantial attention, particularly for their potential in advanced material applications. This study focuses on the mechanical properties of titanium alloy Ti64 lattice structures fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion. It examines the mechanical features of two structure types, TPMS Gyroid and Stochastic Voronoi, analyzing their design and fabrication interplay. To evaluate mechanical properties, two methodologies to compute stress were employed: Method A, nominal diameter calculations of the cross-sectional area as a bulk material, and Method B, averaged cross-sectional area measurements along the open-cell porous structures. Method A generally showed lower Elastic Modulus and Yield Stress than Method B, highlighting the importance of geometric accuracy in lattice design mechanics. Both TPMS gyroid and stochastic lattices, within a 0.1–0.5 relative density range, displayed mechanical properties similar to human bone, suggesting their potential in orthopedic use. This could help reduce stress shielding and improve implant lifespan. The findings were further complemented by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Digital Image Correlation evaluations, highlighting the intricate relationship between fabrication parameters, lattice morphology, and the emergent microstructural characteristics.

Geopolymer Materials for Extrusion-Based 3D-Printing: A Review.

This paper examines how extrusion-based 3D-printing technology is evolving, utilising geopolymers (GPs) as sustainable inorganic aluminosilicate materials. Particularly, the current state of 3D-printing geopolymers is critically examined in this study from the perspectives of the production process, printability need, mix design, early-age material features, and sustainability, with an emphasis on the effects of various elements including the examination of the fresh and hardened properties of 3D-printed geopolymers, depending on the matrix composition, reinforcement type, curing process, and printing configuration. The differences and potential of two-part and one-part geopolymers are also analysed. The applications of advanced printable geopolymer materials and products are highlighted, along with some specific examples. The primary issues, outlooks, and paths for future efforts necessary to advance this technology are identified.

Self-Healing UV-Curable Urethane (Meth)acrylates with Various Soft Segment Chemistry

This study explores the synthesis and evaluation of UV-curable urethane (meth)acrylates (UA) incorporating a Diels–Alder adduct (HODA), diisocyanate, poly(ethylene glycol), and hydroxy (meth)acrylate. Six UAs, distinguished by the soft segment of polymer chains, underwent comprehensive characterization using FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. Real-time monitoring of the UV-curing process and analysis of self-healing properties were performed. The research investigates the influence of various molecular weights of PEGs on the self-healing process, revealing dependencies on photopolymerization kinetics, microstructure, thermal properties, and thermoreversibility of urethane (meth)acrylates. This work provides valuable insights into the development of UV-curable coatings with tailored properties for potential applications in advanced materials.

Boosting Solid-State Reconversion Reactivity to Mitigate Lithium Trapping for High Initial Coulombic Efficiency.

An initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) higher than 90% is crucial for industrial lithium-ion batteries, but numerous electrode materials are not standards compliant. Lithium trapping, due to i) incomplete solid-state reaction of Li+ generation and ii) sluggish Li+ diffusion, undermines ICE in high-capacity electrodes (e.g., conversion-type electrodes). Current approaches mitigating lithium trapping emphasize ii) nanoscaling (<50nm) to minimize Li+ diffusion distance, followed by severe solid electrolyte interphase formation and inferior volumetric energy density. Herein,this work accentuates i) instead, to demonstrate that the lithium trapping can be mitigated by boosting the solid-state reaction reactivity. As a proof-of-concept, ternary LiFeO2 anodes, whose discharged products contain highly reactive vacancy-rich Fe nanoparticles, can alleviate lithium trapping and enable a remarkable average ICE of ≈92.77%, much higher than binary Fe2 O3 anodes (≈75.19%). Synchrotron-based techniques and theoretical simulations reveal that the solid-state reconversion reaction for Li+ generation between Fe and Li2 O can be effectively promoted by the Fe-vacancy-rich local chemical environment. The superior ICE is further demonstrated by assembled pouch cells. This work proposes a novel paradigm of regulating intrinsic solid-state chemistry to ameliorate electrochemical performance and facilitate industrial applications of various advanced electrode materials.

Free-Boundary Microfluidic Platform for Advanced Materials Manufacturing and Applications.

Microfluidics, with its remarkable capacity to manipulate fluids and droplets at the microscale, has emerged as a powerful platform in numerous fields. In contrast to conventional closed microchannel microfluidic systems, free-boundary microfluidic manufacturing (FBMM) processes continuous precursor fluids into jets or droplets in a relatively spacious environment. FBMM is highly regarded for its superior flexibility, stability, economy, usability, and versatility in the manufacturing of advanced materials and architectures. In this review, a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in FBMM is provided, encompassing technical principles, advanced material manufacturing, and their applications. FBMM is categorized based on the foundational mechanisms, primarily comprising hydrodynamics, interface effects, acoustics, and electrohydrodynamic. The processes and mechanisms of fluid manipulation are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, the manufacturing of advanced materials in various dimensions ranging from zero-dimensional to three-dimensional, as well as their diverse applications in material science, biomedical engineering, and engineering are presented. Finally, current progress is summarized and future challenges are prospected. Overall, this review highlights the significant potential of FBMM as a powerful tool for advanced materials manufacturing and its wide-ranging applications.

Anion Effect on Charged AIEgens‐Based Aggregates

AbstractCharged aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) are highly valued materials with attractive applications. However, the discussion of charged AIEgens with the characteristics of charged compounds is always centered around the cationic luminescence part, and the possible influence brought by anion effects is usually ignored especially in the field of aggregate science. Coupled with the complicated synthesis and purification processes of the brand‐new cationic nucleus, it is paramount to develop simpler and more feasible methods to enhance cognition and extend their performance. Herein, three new ionic compounds based on TPE‐IQ‐2TPA (TI2T) cationic core utilizing an anion substitution strategy are investigated. Interestingly, this strategy can modify molecular aggregation behavior regarding the photophysical process and arrangement of the molecules. Consequently, fluorescence emission, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation ability, and mechanochromism response properties varied accordingly. Moreover, this strategic regulation of the physical parameters of self‐assembled nanoparticles facilitates the visual identification of living or dead cells, while also selectively illuminating S. aureus and C. albicans. This study demonstrates that anion engineering is a powerful tool for investigating aggregated states and provides a new platform for practical applications of advanced materials, especially in the fields of stimulus‐response, biological imaging, medical diagnosis, and treatment.

Novel hybrid-controlled graded metamaterial beam for bandgap tuning and wave attenuation

In this paper, a tunable functionally graded metamaterial beam is designed for flexural wave attenuation by integrating piezomagnetic shunt damping system and inertial amplification mechanism. The proposed piezomagnetic shunt damping system is a complex mechanic–magnetic–electrical coupling system, which aims to transform and consume the vibration energy through local resonance to form a bandgap with tunable and strong wave attenuation ability. Based on Timoshenko beam theory, the wave equation and transmission spectrum of the metamaterial beam are derived by using transfer matrix method. The theoretical results are compared with the numerical simulation results. The results show that the resonance characteristics of piezomagnetic shunt circuit lead to negative group velocity and strong wave attenuation(−30 dB) at frequency defined by inductance and capacitance in shunt circuit. In varying frequency regimes, the coupled bandgap width can be maximized to 1925 Hz by tuning the external capacitance and coil turns. The superposition of double attenuation peaks caused by inertial amplification mechanism and local resonance coupling can be generated in the bandgap, allowing wave attenuation up to −94 dB. Subsequently, the attenuation capability of locally resonant bandgap can be significantly enhanced without changing the frequency by introducing the negative resistance into shunt circuit. Furthermore, the initiation and termination frequencies of bandgap can be flexibly designed by important material and structural parameters. This work is expected to provide valuable research ideas for the application of advanced intelligent materials in the field of vibration and noise reduction.

Optimizing LSM-LSF composite cathodes for enhanced solid oxide fuel cell performance: Material engineering and electrochemical insights

In response to pressing environmental concerns and the ever-increasing global energy demand, the pursuit of sustainable energy sources has garnered substantial momentum. A predominant focus of research within this domain revolves around the enhancement of solid oxide fuel cell performance, with particular attention directed toward the intricate oxygen reduction reaction transpiring at the cathode electrode. The present investigation embarks upon the exploration of a composite material comprising La1-xSrxMnO3-δ (LSM) and La1-xSrxFeO3-δ (LSF) as prospective cathode materials. However, the achievement of optimal composite cathodes necessitates the application of advanced materials engineering strategies. The principal aim of this comprehensive study is the development of high-performance composite cathodes, achieved through the deposition of thin film counterparts onto scandium-stabilized zirconia (ScSZ) electrolyte substrate employing the precision sputtering technique. The ensuing findings unequivocally unveil the remarkable performance exhibited by this innovative composite cathode configuration, notably manifesting its excellence at an operating temperature as modest as 780 °C. These promising outcomes imbue optimism regarding the prospective utilization of this composite material in advanced energy conversion applications, marking a significant advancement toward the realization of sustainable and efficient energy systems.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Magnetic Properties of Lanthanide-Containing Paramagnetic Ionic Liquids: An Evan's NMR Study.

The present study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of lanthanide-containing paramagnetic ionic liquids (ILs), [CnC1Im]3[MCl3X3] (n = 4, 6, and 8; M = Gd, Dy, and Ho; X = Br and Cl), derived from 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium anions. These paramagnetic ILs exhibit low vapor pressure, high thermal stability, physiochemical stability, and tunability, along with significant magnetic susceptibility, making them of interest in advanced material applications that may take advantage of neat liquids with magnetic susceptibility. Structural and physical properties were determined using FTIR, 1H NMR, DSC, and TGA. The room temperature density and viscosity of the iron paramagnetic ILs were also reported. Accompanying this report of paramagnetic IL products, we reintroduce and highlight Evan's NMR technique, an accessible magnetic susceptibility measurement technique that can utilize any available proton NMR to characterize the magnetic susceptibility of ILs. This work demonstrates the robustness of Evan's technique by demonstrating the ability to account for the IL water content, a common issue for hygroscopic materials, during the measurement of magnetic susceptibility. A detailed comparison of the ILs is presented, with dysprosium- and holmium-containing paramagnetic ILs exhibiting the highest magnetic susceptibility reported for mononuclear ILs reported to date. These materials have been studied with an eye on applications for mass transfer, eventually seeking to optimize magnetic susceptibility and viscosity using magnetic field gradients to move paramagnetic ILs carrying solute or heat. The study of paramagnetic ILs is important not only for understanding the magnetic properties of these materials but also for potential applications in areas such as magnetic resonance imaging, biomedicine, environmental remediation, and mass transfer. These unique materials have the potential to bring about new advances and technologies in the fields of materials science and analytical chemistry.

Accelerating the discovery of N-annulated perylene organic sensitizers via an interpretable machine learning model

A data-driven strategy was proposed by combining machine learning (ML) model and first-principles verification to rapidly quarry efficient and synthesizable candidate organic sensitizers from the vast chemical space of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) sensitizers. We built interpretable machine learning models using easy-to-obtain descriptors and obtained 50 candidates which could be synthesized and have the overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) greater than 13 %. Especially, the density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) showed that top 2 candidates had better open-circuit Voltage (Voc) and PCEs than C281. And the PCE predicted by the ML model was roughly consistent with the ones calculated by quantum chemistry. Model analysis revealed that Cobalt-based electrolyte was the better option. Paid attention to the electronegativity and molecular weight of doner of N-annulated perylene organic sensitizers (N-P sensitizers), appropriately increased the electronegativity group of accepter fragment. Hopefully, this data-driven approach is expected to provide further creativity for the practical application of other advanced energy materials.

Thermal properties of cellulose nanofibrils and nickel-titanium alloy-reinforced sustainable smart composites

ABSTRACT The study focused on the synergistic effect of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) as a lignocellulosic bionanomaterial and nickel-titanium (NiTi) alloy as a shape memory smart metallic material reinforcer on the thermal properties of sustainable smart composites. The casting process was used to produce composites with CNF loadings of 1%, 3%, and 5% and NiTi loadings of 3% into epoxy resin. Thermal properties were evaluated using thermogravimetric (TGA), derivative thermogravimetric (DTG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical thermal (DMTA) analysis. The TGA results revealed that the CNF/NiTi-reinforced groups have considerable higher degradation temperatures and thermal stability than the control group. Also, at 800°C, CNF/NiTi-reinforced groups had a higher residual content than the control group. DTG results showed that the addition of CNFs decreased the degradation speed. Although the NiTi loading was constant, it was determined that the addition of CNFs increases the storage modulus (E′), loss modulus (E″), tan delta (Tan δ), and glass transition temperature (Tg). Overall, it can be concluded that CNF/NiTi-reinforced composites indicated significantly improved thermal stability, decomposition temperature, residual content, elastic, and viscous properties. These smart composites can be used for advanced material applications requiring thermal stability.

Engineering lignocellulose-based composites for advanced structural materials

With the advances in technology and the growing focus on environmental protection and sustainable development, the field of engineering materials is constantly pursuing the development of new materials. Lignocellulose-based composites have gradually become a hot research topic because they not only possess the natural advantages of wood, such as renewability and good mechanical properties, but also have other advantages that cannot be matched by other materials, such as strong structural designability and easy functional modification. The application of advanced structural materials has brought new breakthroughs and development opportunities to traditional wood, with engineering lignocellulose-based composites being an important representative of innovative materials. In this regard, this paper provides an overview of the characteristics and applications of engineered lignocellulose-based composites based on advanced structural materials. Firstly, the structure and advantages of wood are introduced, followed by a focused discussion on the structure, preparation methods, and application areas of densified wood, transparent wood, and bioinspired wood. Finally, the future research directions are outlined to propel further advancements in this field.

Doping HTPB binder with cellulose nitrate: A promising strategy for advanced energetic material applications

This study explored the characteristics of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) supplemented with cellulose nitrate (NC), as a high-energy density binder. The effect of NC doping and its content on the chemical structure, morphology, energetic, and thermokinetic behavior of HTPB–NC binder highlighted attractive features such as good compatibility, improved density, homogeneity, and fiber dispersion. Additionally, HTPB–NC exhibited excellent thermal stability with significant energy release and notable chemical reactivity. These interesting properties of the HTPB–NC binder, provide evidence for the excellent synergistic effect between HTPB and NC, which could promote its application in the next generation of energetic propellant formulations.

H‐BN‐Encapsulated Uncooled Infrared Photodetectors Based on Tantalum Nickel Selenide

AbstractUncooled broadband spectrum detection, spanning from visible to mid‐wave‐infrared regions, offers immense potential for applications in environmental monitoring, optical telecommunications, and radar systems. While leveraging proven technologies, conventional mid‐wave‐infrared photodetectors are encumbered by high dark currents and the necessity for cryogenic cooling. Correspondingly, innovative low‐dimensional materials like black phosphorus manifest weak photoresponse and instability. Here, tantalum nickel selenide (Ta2NiSe5) infrared photodetectors with an operational wavelength range from 520 nm to 4.6 µm, utilizing a hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) encapsulation technique are introduced. The h‐BN encapsulated metal‐Ta2NiSe5‐metal photodetector demonstrates a responsivity of 0.86 A W−1, a noise equivalent power of 1.8 × 10−11 W Hz−1/2, and a peak detectivity of 8.75 × 108 cm Hz1/2 W−1 at 4.6 µm under ambient conditions. Multifaceted mechanisms of photocurrent generation in the novel device prototype subject are scrutinized to varying wavelengths of radiation, by characterizing the temporal‐, bias‐, power‐, and temperature‐dependent photoresponse. Moreover, the photopolarization dependence is delved and concealed‐target imaging is demonstrated, which exhibits polarization angle sensitivity and high‐fidelity imaging across the visible, short‐wave, and mid‐wave‐infrared bands. The observations, which reveal versatile detection modalities, propose Ta2NiSe5 as a promising low‐dimensional material for advanced applications in nano‐optoelectronic device.