Binder Technology Research Articles

Synthesis and Evaluation of Poly (Trifluoroethyl Methacrylate) Binders as a Polyvinylidene Fluoride Alternative for Lithium‐Ion Batteries

The binder, a critical electrode component, significantly influences lithium‐ion batteries (LIB) performance, yet remains an under‐researched area. The widespread use of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a commercial binder is challenged by its surging cost, attributed to limited production and increased demand, highlighting the necessity for alternatives. Here, we synthesize poly (trifluoroethyl methacrylate) (PTFEMA), a polymer with a molecular weight in the million range, through a straightforward radical solution polymerization method, aiming to use it as a cathode binder for LIBs. PTFEMA demonstrate good stability across the typical operating temperatures and voltages, along with robust adhesion to the current collector. Moreover, the PTFEMA outperforms PVDF in terms of electrolyte affinity and lithium‐ion conductivity, thereby achieving capacity and stability comparable to those of its PVDF counterparts. This investigation confirms the homopolymer form of PTFEMA as a compelling alternative to PVDF, representing a valuable exploration of binder technology for LIBs.

Modular binder technology by NGS-aided, high-resolution selection in yeast of designed armadillo modules

Establishing modular binders as diagnostic detection agents represents a cost- and time-efficient alternative to the commonly used binders that are generated one molecule at a time. In contrast to these conventional approaches, a modular binder can be designed in silico from individual modules to, in principle, recognize any desired linear epitope without going through a selection and hit-validation process, given a set of preexisting, amino acid-specific modules. Designed armadillo repeat proteins (dArmRP) have been developed as modular binder scaffolds, and we report here the generation of highly specific dArmRP modules by yeast surface display selection, performed on a rationally designed dArmRP library. A selection strategy was developed to distinguish the binding difference resulting from a single amino acid mutation in the target peptide. Our reverse-competitor strategy introduced here employs the designated target as a competitor to increase the sensitivity when separating specific from cross-reactive binders that show similar affinities for the target peptide. With this switch in selection focus from affinity to specificity, we found that the enrichment during this specificity sort is indicative of the desired phenotype, regardless of the binder abundance. Hence, deep sequencing of the selection pools allows retrieval of phenotypic hits with only 0.1% abundance in the selectivity sort pool from the next-generation sequencing data alone. In a proof-of-principle study, a binder was created by replacing all corresponding wild-type modules with a newly selected module, yielding a binder with very high affinity for the designated target that has been successfully validated as a detection agent in western blot analysis.

Distribution of CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms in Han and Uygur populations with breast cancer in Xinjiang, China.

The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency distribution of the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes, CYP2D6 and CYP2C19, and the form of tamoxifen metabolisation in premenopausal patients with breast cancer in the Han and Uygur ethnic groups of Xinjiang to guide rational clinical drug use. A total of 125 Han patients and 121 Uygur patients with premenopausal hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer treated at the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Cancer Hospital between 1 June 2011 and 1 December 2013 were selected. The common mutation sites in CYP450 were analysed using TaqMan® minor groove binder technology. Genetic testing was performed to determine other metabolic types of tamoxifen, and the genotypes and metabolic types were compared using a Chi-squared test. Between the Han and Uygur groups, there were significant differences in the frequencies of the CYP2D6 (*10/*10) and CYP2C19 (*1/*1) genotypes, with P-values of 0.002 and 0.015, respectively. Genotypes of CYP2D6 (*1/*1), CYP2D6 (*1/*5), CYP2D6 (*5/*5), CYP2D6 (*5/*10) and CYP2C19 (*3/*3) were expressed in the two patient groups, and the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). In the Han patients, the proportions of extensive, intermediate and poor metabolisers of tamoxifen were 72, 24 and 4%, respectively, whereas those in the Uygur patients were 76.9, 17.4 and 5.7%, respectively, with no significant difference (P > 0.05). In conclusion, There were partial differences in the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms of CYP450 between the Han and Uygur patients with premenopausal breast cancer, but there was no significant difference between the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 phenotypes. Further research is needed to determine the relationship between the enzyme genetic differences of CYP450 and the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of tamoxifen. Although there were some differences in genotypes, these did not result in differences in the predicted tamoxifen metabolisation phenotype between the Han and Uygur patients with breast cancer. Therefore, the doses should be adjusted according to the individual genotype data.

Factors affecting durability properties of GPC: A review

The imperative to find sustainable alternatives to conventional cement, given its energy-intensive production and significant environmental impact, has driven research into alternative binder materials for civil infrastructure. This paper explores Geopolymer concrete (GPC), a polymer-based binder technology, as a promising solution to reduce the environmental footprint associated with traditional cement production. The study meticulously examines various aspects of GPC, focusing on its impact on crucial durability properties for infrastructure applications. This includes an in-depth analysis of GPC properties, elucidating characteristics influencing performance. In addition to fundamental properties, the paper critically evaluates the resistance of geopolymer pastes and concrete to a spectrum of extreme conditions. The discussion spans testing methodologies for both heat- and ambient-cured geopolymers, providing insights into their performance and durability across diverse environmental challenges. This comprehensive review aims to enhance the understanding of GPC technology, offering valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and industry professionals committed to sustainable and resilient infrastructure solutions.

Waterborne polymers and coatings from bio-based butenolides.

In the quest for sustainable paints and coatings, bio-based resources for the polymeric binder constituents are key. Recently, we introduced poly-butenolides as bio-based acrylate replacement for solventborne and 100% solids (UV-curing) coatings. Here, we report the first step towards aqueous poly-butenolide dispersions, enabling the use of this novel binder technology platform in waterborne coatings.

A Comprehensive Review of Current and Emerging Binder Technologies for Energy Storage Applications

A Comprehensive Review of Current and Emerging Binder Technologies for Energy Storage Applications

Comprehensive study on the degradation progress of crumb tire rubber during the preparation of terminal blended rubberized asphalt binder

Terminal blended rubberized asphalt binder (TB) technology, which blends crumb tire rubber (CR) with asphalt under high interaction conditions, offers a promising waste tire recycling solution for pavement construction. By precisely controlling the degradation progress of CR, it is possible to prepare TB with specific property requirements. However, the degradation progress of CR and its impact on TB property during the TB preparation process remain ambiguous. This hinders the potential for efficient preparation of TB with specific property requirements. This study aims to understand the degradation progress of TB by analyzing binders, soluble fractions, and insoluble fractions obtained at various interaction durations. Microscopic analysis characterizes the chemical composition, morphology, and molecular weight distribution of insoluble and soluble fractions, while macroscopic analysis evaluates the solubility, viscosity, compatibility, and mechanical properties of binders. The results reveal that the degradation of CR during the preparation of TB consists of a desulfurization reaction, depolymerization reaction, and release behavior (carbon black and fillers). Depending on the degradation progress of CR, the interaction process can be classified into three stages: initial (desulfurization reaction dominant stage), middle (depolymerization reaction dominant stage), and last (release behavior dominant stage). The desulfurization reaction of CR is almost completed in the initial stage. The depolymerization reactions and release behavior occur throughout the process. The most pronounced depolymerization reactions occur in the initial stage for natural rubber and in the middle stage for synthetic rubber, while the most significant release behavior occurs in the last stage. Accordingly, in the initial stage, TB shows a rapid evolution in macro properties due to the significant development of degradation reactions, specifically, the notable improvement in viscosity, compatibility, and low-temperature properties, as well as the substantial deterioration in high-temperature properties. In the middle stage, the degradation reaction develops further but slower, with TB exhibits a further but slower evolution in macro properties. In the last stage, the degradation reaction is almost completed, and TB shows a gradual stabilization of macro properties. The findings are expected to achieve precise control of CR degradation progression, which offers the possibility of efficient preparation of TB with specific properties, thus advancing the application of CR in pavement engineering.

MS-Based Proteomics of Body Fluids: The End of the Beginning

Accurate biomarkers are a crucial and necessary precondition for precision medicine, yet existing ones are often unspecific and new ones have been very slow to enter the clinic. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics excels by its untargeted nature, specificity of identification, and quantification, making it an ideal technology for biomarker discovery and routine measurement. It has unique attributes compared to affinity binder technologies, such as OLINK Proximity Extension Assay and SOMAscan. In in a previous review in 2017, we described technological and conceptual limitations that had held back success. We proposed a ‘rectangular strategy’ to better separate true biomarkers by minimizing cohort-specific effects. Today, this has converged with advances in MS-based proteomics technology, such as increased sample throughput, depth of identification, and quantification. As a result, biomarker discovery studies have become more successful, producing biomarker candidates that withstand independent verification and, in some cases, already outperform state-of-the-art clinical assays. We summarize developments over the last years, including the benefits of large and independent cohorts, which are necessary for clinical acceptance. Shorter gradients, new scan modes, and multiplexing are about to drastically increase throughput, cross-study integration, and quantification, including proxies for absolute levels. We have found that multiprotein panels are inherently more robust than current single analyte tests and better capture the complexity of human phenotypes. Routine MS measurement in the clinic is fast becoming a viable option. The full set of proteins in a body fluid (global proteome) is the most important reference and the best process control. Additionally, it increasingly has all the information that could be obtained from targeted analysis although the latter may be the most straightforward way to enter regular use. Many challenges remain, not least of a regulatory and ethical nature, but the outlook for MS-based clinical applications has never been brighter.

Effect of Binder Chemistry and Related Properties on the Low-Temperature Performance Parameters of Asphalt Binders

The current Superpave™ performance grading specifications were developed under the Strategic Highway Research Program during the 1990s. Since the implementation of these specifications, the petroleum industry, and in turn asphalt binder formulation and production processes, have changed to a great extent owing to various factors, including improving yields and margins. Therefore, there is a need to evaluate and characterize evolving asphalt binder technologies through chemical-, rheological-, and performance-based approaches and to understand the relationships between these various aspects. This paper provides a robust method to characterize the effects of the binder crude source, compositional chemistry, crude oil processing, and modification type, as well as the thermal properties, on the low-temperature performance parameters (e.g., glass transition, crystallization properties, Δ Tc, asphalt binder cracking device [ABCD] Tcr, etc.). As a part of the National Cooperative Highway Research Program 9-60 effort, this work was aimed at providing a robust binder guideline tool for asphalt and additive suppliers, and the asphalt community in general. The experimental matrix includes 50 binders carefully selected based on input from road authorities, researchers, past experience from the field, crude source variability, type of chemical processing involved, modifier type, and so forth. Characterization efforts included tests such those using a bending beam rheometer, an ABCD, the SAR-AD tool composition, and differential scanning calorimetry for asphalt binders at various aging conditions. The outcome of this research sheds new light on binder formulation and manufacturing, especially that related to low-temperature pavement performance.

Performance Evaluation of Hybrid One-Part Alkali Activated Materials (AAMs) for Concrete Structural Repair

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) have been widely used as an alternative to Portland cement. This production of AAMs emits lesser carbon dioxide by utilizing industrial waste products to make this cement binder technology greener and more sustainable. The conventional two-part system comprises solid aluminosilicate precursors with an alkali solution to activate the AAMs. However, higher alkalinity of the liquid activator is required to complete the geopolymerazation process, making the cementitious materials costly and sticky, and thus not convenient to handle on the construction site, affecting the worker’s safety. A one-part AAMs system was introduced to overcome the two-part system’s shortcomings. The alkali solution is now replaced with a solid alkali activator which is easier and more practical to apply at construction sites. This study was carried out to evaluate the mechanical performance of one-part alkali AAMs in the form of mortar by conducting compressive and flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, and tensile strength tests at 28 days of curing age under laboratory experiments in the tropical climate of Malaysia. A drying shrinkage test was also performed to detect its durability. Three types of solid admixtures were added to complete the composition of the novel mix design formulation. According to the results obtained, the mechanical strength of one-part alkali-activated mortar achieved the minimum requirement for Class R3 structural concrete repair materials as per EN1504-3 specifications. This eco-friendly cement binder has excellent potential for further engineering development, particularly to become a new concrete repair product in the future.

Comprehensive performance evaluation of high polymer-modified asphalt binders beyond linear viscoelastic rheological surrogates

• High polymer-modified (HP) binders exhibit superior performance compared to PMA. • LVE surrogates fail to predict failure properties of complex and modified binders. • HP binders displayed higher strain tolerance in DENT compared to conventional PMA. • HP binders tend to have lower cracking temperature in ABCD compared to typical PMA. • FTIR I PTDB and I PVDB indices can be used to detect potential polymer degradation. Polymer modification of asphalt binders has progressively become more common over recent decades. Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) is a well-recognized elastomer that has been commonly used in asphalt pavements. SBS polymer specifically exhibits a chemical morphology of hard polystyrene segment tethered by soft polybutadiene segment. Concerns related to binder pump clogging and reduced mixture workability have limited the SBS copolymer content in polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) to around 3 %. This motivated researchers to develop a new SBS polymer structure by modifying the midblock structure to have much higher vinyl content. High polymer-modified (HP) binder technology allowed the use of SBS at higher levels of 7–8 %. Although several studies have highlighted the positive impacts of HP on asphalt binders, they were mostly limited to the linear viscoelastic (LVE) domain. Therefore, there is still a need for a comprehensive evaluation of HP binders that considers failure properties, which constituted the main motivation of this research. In this study, Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR), Double Edge Notched Tension (DENT) and Asphalt Binder Cracking Device (ABCD) test results showed that HP binders exhibited superior performance compared to PMA in terms of higher strain recovery and lower non-recoverable creep compliance at high temperatures (52–70 °C), higher strain tolerance at intermediate temperature (25 °C), and lower (colder) cracking temperatures at sub-zero temperatures. Additionally, chemical analysis showed minimal HP degradation potential compared to PMA.

Using a simplified technology to make an alkaline binder from silica additives

Introduction. The global expertise in the industry-scale application of alkaline composites in construction and their unique properties have proven strong prospects for and the relevance of a clinker-free technology and its development. The elaboration of alkaline-activated formulas for binders, containing fine powders of the aluminosilicate origin, allows making new efficient high quality products. New composite construction materials contain alkaline solutions of sodium silicate, although the large-scale application of this technology will require an alternative sealant.
 Materials and methods. The paper presents a method for the accelerated preparation of an alkaline-silicate sodium binder composed of a 40 % solution of caustic soda, having density of 1,430 kg/m3 and ultrafine powders featuring high silica content extracted from quartz glass sands and volcanic tuff. The resulting liquid-glass binder was studied using a special method to determine the concentration of SiO2 that reacted with NaOH and the SiO2/Na2O silicate module. Scanning electron microscopy is employed to study the synthesized alkaline solutions, or the filtrate and the suspension.
 Results. The results have proven the effectiveness of the “wet” method for preparing the alkaline-silicate sodium binder using the simulated compositions. Ultrafine microparticles are quite active and capable of rearranging in the suspension. As a result, hydrated nepheline compounds and hydro-alumino-silicate metastable phases of variable compositions are generated. The binder system has a sufficient amount of structureless silica that converts into a solution in the process of leaching; it is also capable of synthesizing new compositions corresponding to sodium hydrosilicate Na2[Si4O10]∙4H2O.
 Conclusions. The prospects for and availability of fine off-grade glass quartz sands are beyond doubt; the proposed “wet” method of making less energy- and resource-intensive liquid glass binders will expand the clicker-free technology of alkali-activated binders, thereby reducing the environmental load and promoting an alternative to expensive and energy-intensive Portland cement.

Low Formaldehyde Binders for Mineral Wool Insulation: A Review.

Insulating materials are ubiquitous in a built environment and play a critical role in reducing the energy consumed to maintain habitable indoor environments. Mineral wool insulation (MWI) products, including glass, stone, and slag variants, are the most widely used class of insulating materials in Europe and account for more than 50% of the total market by volume. MWI typically consists of two key components: a mesh of inorganic fibers that are several micrometers in diameter, and an organic thermosetting adhesive commonly referred to as the “binder.” Traditional phenol‐formaldehyde‐urea (PFU) binders used in the manufacture of MWI are increasingly being scrutinized for the formaldehyde released during their manufacture and service lifetime. The recent classification of formaldehyde as a carcinogen by various safety organizations has accelerated a paradigm shift within the industry toward alternative binder technologies that minimize or indeed eliminate formaldehyde emissions. This review examines more recent strategies for achieving low‐ or zero‐added formaldehyde binders for MWI, with a particular focus on the patent literature. The chemistry underpinning traditional PFU binders is presented and compared to new strategies involving scavenging molecules that decrease formaldehyde emissions, as well as zero‐added formaldehyde binder technologies such as polyester, Maillard, and epoxide thermosets.

Gelatin-Tannin-Based Greener Binder Technology for Stone Shot and Stone Wool Materials: A Detailed Study.

The detailed study presented herein of gelatins modified with tannins as greener binder systems for stone wool and related materials has unveiled a versatile technology that offers a wide range of possibilities for tailor-making properties toward various application areas. Thus, high unaged and aged mechanical strengths in combination with low water solubilities may generally be obtained from the use of gelatins with higher gel strength (and hence, generally, higher molecular weights), low-to-mid range tannin addition levels (3–20%), alkali metal hydroxides for pH adjustment, and final pH in the range 8–9. Comparatively low water uptake properties may be obtained using higher gel strength type A gelatins, lower tannin addition levels, alkali metal hydroxides for pH adjustment, and lower final pH. Even lower water uptake properties may then be obtained using Ca(OH)2 in place of alkali metal hydroxides. If desired, higher water uptakes may be obtained using type B gelatins (or lower gel strength gelatins in general), higher tannin addition levels, and higher final pH. Mechanistic studies indicated that the optimal modification of gelatin with the tannin component occurs via several pathways.

(Invited) Ionomer Adhesives, Coatings, and Membranes for Electrochemical Separations

A growing population striving for higher standards of living are stressing water resources around the globe. Because of the anticipated water scarcity and security challenges, water futures began trading as a commodity, like gold, oil and other precious commodities, on the stock market in late 2020. Ensuring water security necessitates water treatment and remediation technologies that are low cost, scalable, and energy efficient. Furthermore, advances in electrochemical separations technologies have been useful for targeted nutrient recovery, carbon valorization, and pollutant removal from liquids. In this talk, I will present our group’s work on addressing ohmic related resistances in membrane capacitive deionization and electrodeionization with new membrane and porous ion conducting materials. Borrowing from advances in fuel cell electrode binder technology, we show that solution processable ionomers are versatile for arriving at a new class of porous ionic conductors that address spacer channel resistances in the said deionization platforms under low TDS (total dissolved solids) concentrations. The new materials improve the separation efficiency and energy efficiency of deionization processes.

SiO x /C Composite Anode of Lithium-Ion Batteries with Enhanced Performances Using Multicomponent Binders.

A silicon suboxide–carbon (SiOx/C, 1 ≤ x ≤ 2) composite anode of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with enhanced performance is prepared using an aqueous multicomponent binder technology. Considering the adhesive force, electrolyte absorption, and stability, different binders including sodium alginate (SA), polyacrylamide gel (PAM), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and their composites are evaluated. It is indicated that compared to other anodes with single- or multicomponent binders, the SiOx/C composite anode with PAM/SA/PTFE663 (PSAP663) binders exhibits strong adhesion, moderate electrolyte absorption ability, and a specific capacity of 427 mA h g–1 charge–discharged at 0.5 A g–1 after 300 cycles. The improvement of electrochemical performance is attributed to the comprehensive effects of composite binders, including the adhesion of active substances, surface protection, solution adsorption, conductive path, and so on. These results show that the PSAP663 binder has promising potential for application, which not only gives alternative practical schemes of the green binders for the SiOx/C anodes but also provides ideas to develop a high-performance adhesive technology for LIBs.

Expert System Elements in the Technology of Binders of Anthropogenic Raw Materials

Expert System Elements in the Technology of Binders of Anthropogenic Raw Materials

Investigation of hard-burn and soft-burn lime kiln dust as alternative materials for alkali-activated binder cured at ambient temperature

As climate change becomes a severe concern, the development of green technology becomes a goal for many sectors, including the construction material sector. Ordinary Portland cement (OPC), the main constituent of concrete production, is a primary contributor to releasing carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Some alternative cementitious materials have been studied to reduce the massive amount of OPC consumption. Lime kiln dust (LKD), a by-product of quicklime production, is produced in abundance worldwide and mostly disposed of in landfills. The two types of LKD, soft-burn and hard-burn, are high-potential wastes that can be developed as alternative cementitious binders using the alkali-activated binder (AAB) technology. This study investigates the mixture designation and properties of LKD-based AAB when cured at ambient temperature. The results show that an ambient-cured soft-burn LKD-AAB achieved practical workability with an 8 M NaOH solution, 1.50 of sodium silicate-to-sodium hydroxide ratio (SS/SH), and 0.60 of liquid alkaline-to-binder ratio (L/B). A rapid setting behavior and an excellent compressive strength of 10.89 MPa at 28 days were revealed at room temperature curing. The ambient-cured hard-burn LKD-AAB could not provide the appropriate properties. However, the mixture of 20% hard-burn LKD and 80% soft-burn LKD resulted in an LKD-AAB mixture that meets the minimum requirement for low-strength cement applications. The positive outcome of this study may be the solution for of LKD wastes utilization in Thailand that addresses the challenge of developing ambient-cured AAB for in-field applications.

Effect of pozzolanic materials in geopolymer mortar using industrial waste material

Geopolymer is one of the new binder technology in the construction where cement is replaced fully by pozzolanic materials such as fly ash, GGBS and alkaline solution. This control the emission of CO2 produced from the cement manufacturing industries. The industrial waste requires disposal is the major problem by utilization of such materials in geopolymer for the benefits of the environmental and eco-friendly process. In this paper, the effect of pozzolanic material in geopolymer mortar using industrial waste material based on oven heating. The optimum percentages of low calcium class F fly ash and GGBS is taken. From the optimum percentage, fine aggregate is partially replaced by iron slag (0%,25%,35%,45%). For enhancing the workability of geopolymer mortar by using poly-carboxylic ether as superplasticizer. The optimum geopolymer mortar mix using industrial waste was concluded based on the compressive test to be studied with conventional.

Compressive strength of class F fly ash blended geopolymer- hybrid mortar

Day by day construction industry require large amounts of cement to satisfy development of buildings, facilities and infrastructures, that demand presented undesirable increase in CO2 emitted the environment as 1 ton of cement produce approximately 1 ton of CO2. Aiming to reduce usage of Portland cement new technology of binders was researched such as Geopolymer binders. General composition of geopolymer contain aluminosilicate source materials such as fly ash or fly ash combined with GGBFS, and alkaline activator such as a mixture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate solution. However, geopolymers suffer from some limitations such as the variation in chemical content, the calcium content, dosage of alkaline activator and Na2SiO3/NaOH ratio, additionally geopolymers has brittleness and low toughness which require additional materials to mitigate normally some sort of reinforcement fibres which can drive the cost very high. The objective of this research is to investigate the enhancement in compressive strength of geopolymer mortar by incorporating Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) with class F fly ash in blended geopolymer, also the addition of commercial grout to form blended geopolymer–hybrid mortar. GGBFS replaced fly ash by 10%,20% and 30% of total mass, and commercial grout then was added by 10%,20% and 30% to each blended mixture. All samples where cured in ambient temperature. It was found that incorporating GGBFS and commercial grout increase the compressive strength in early age of curing and slightly at 28 days. Furthermore, 10M concentration of NaOH yielded the highest strength with the blended geopolymer-hybrid mortar.