Characterization Of Composite Materials Research Articles

Characterization and optimization of desulfurized construction gypsum modified with functionalized nanocellulose

This study focuses on the development and characterization of a novel composite material based on flue gas desulfurization (FGD) gypsum modified with functionalized nanocellulose. The incorporation of 0.1 wt% nanocellulose into the FGD gypsum matrix resulted in significant improvements in mechanical strength, water resistance, and thermal insulation properties. The flexural and compressive strength of the optimized composite increased by 32 % and 27 %, respectively, compared to the control sample. The water absorption decreased by 22 %, and the softening coefficient increased from 0.72 to 0.85, indicating enhanced water resistance. The thermal conductivity of the composite was reduced by 31 %, showcasing its potential as an energy-efficient building material. SEM analysis revealed a refined microstructure with improved interfacial bonding between the nanocellulose and gypsum matrix, while FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of chemical interactions between the components. The moisture buffering capacity of the composite was also superior, with a 38 % higher moisture buffering value than the control sample. These findings highlight the potential of functionalized nanocellulose as a reinforcing agent in FGD gypsum-based composites, offering a promising solution for the development of high-performance, eco-friendly building materials.

Preparation and Characterization of Epoxy-Based Composite Materials Reinforced with Graphene Oxide

In this study, modified graphene oxide (GO) with γ-APS silane coupling agent before being dispersed into an epoxy/4,4’-diamino diphenyl methane matrix to prepare a composite material using the bar-coating technique. The modified GO materials with the γ-APS silane (GOS) were characterized by infrared spectrum, Zeta potential, and TG/DSC thermal analysis. The amount of silane grafted on the GO is ~ 3.3 wt.%; the Zeta potential value shifted from the negative to the positive region was observed on the surface potential distribution diagram. Scanning electron microscopy, DSC thermal analysis, and dielectric constant were used to characterize the obtained composite epoxy/GO material properties. The results show that graphene oxide, after modification with γ-APS silane agent, has good dispersion ability in the epoxy resin matrix. Composite material epoxy/GOS presented a high dielectric constant value (εaverage = 6.19, at 1 kHz), increasing thermal stability, which is a suitable material promising for future applications.

Characterization of composite materials with recycled wind turbine blade additives using atomic force microscopy

ABSTRACT The European Union’s efforts to increase the share of renewable energy translate into a growing number of wind farms. Post-operation wind turbines become increasing waste. Recycling wind turbine blades is a challenge due to the materials used (composites) and high costs. The article examines the influence of recyclate from wind turbine blades (derived from mechanical recycling) on the image of topography and Lateral Force Microscopy (LFM) in atomic force microscopy (AFM). Upon adding the recycled material, an increase in surface roughness is observed despite its prior polishing. The Young’s modulus determined from force spectroscopy (AFM mode) indicated a small difference in values between the matrix and reinforcement areas. This proves the significant influence of the primary and secondary interphase on the properties of secondary composites, which is an area for further research.

Sustainable composite materials with date palm rachis fibers for enhanced insulation and structural integrity

This investigation focuses on the development and characterization of sustainable composite materials for insulation and structural components in the automotive and shipbuilding industries, by incorporating date palm Rachis fibers into an epoxy matrix. Thus, we evaluated the effect of the weight ratio (ranging from 0 to 15 wt%) of Rachis fibers (0.315 mm) on the mechanical, physical, surface morphology, thermal properties, and water absorption. It turns out according to the study that, the XRD pattern revealed the amorphous nature of the composite. This new material can be used as composite material itself or as a skin of a sandwich composite material. The Epoxy-Rachis (ER) composite materials exhibited a low thermal conductivity of 0.21 W/ (m.K) and a low thermal diffusivity of 0.17 mm2 s−1 presenting high thermal insulation and construction properties. The SEM images showed that increasing Rachis fiber concentration produces a heterogeneous bio-composite material. The resulting composition showcases ductile fracture behavior with a flexural modulus (Ef) of 3.21 GPa and a bending strength (σ) of 9.28 MPa. These attributes underline the suitability of this composite for applications requiring efficient thermal insulation and robust construction properties, while simultaneously contributing to environmental sustainability and environmental benefits.

Correlated 4D-STEM and EDS for the classification of fine Beta-precipitates in aluminum alloy AA 6063-T6

Tuning the properties of aluminum alloys AA 6063-T6 involves artificial aging to induce precipitate formation, particularly β’’ and β’ phases. Previous characterization challenges due to their similar appearance are addressed here by correlating 4D scanning transmission electron microscopy (4DSTEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) mapping. This approach allows us to analyze the structure and composition of precipitates individually, overcoming limitations of conventional imaging and structural analysis techniques when the precipitates appear simultaneously, as is often the case. We present detailed characterizations of needle-shaped Beta precipitates, revealing distinct diffraction patterns (DPs) and compositional differences. The method's applicability extends beyond aluminum alloys, offering a promising strategy for complex composite material characterization with multimodal scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) techniques.

Development and characterization of hybrid polymer composite materials with reinforcement of glass/carbon fibers for enhanced mechanical properties: an experimental and numerical approach

Composite materials, particularly fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP), are used in aerospace and automotive industries due to their desirable properties and surpassing traditional metals in various applications. Researchers are countering the drawbacks of using a single fiber type in FRP by creating hybrid composites that combine different fibers in a single matrix. These hybrids harness the cost-effectiveness and corrosion resistance of glass fibers alongside the strength and stiffness of carbon fibers, resulting in a balanced combination of properties for various applications. Tensile tests were performed according to the ASTM D3039 standard, with a 2 mm/min strain rate. The results showed that increasing the carbon fiber percentage (6.56%, 13.79%, and 21.07%) led to significant improvements in the tensile strength of the hybrid composites (34.18%, 55.44%, and 85.40% higher than glass fiber composites). However, changing the stacking sequence did not significantly affect tensile strength, indicating its insignificance in this regard. Numerical simulations were conducted to validate the experimental results, and the errors between experimental and numerical data were below 10% for various stacking sequences. These discrepancies were attributed to factors such as fiber waviness, which resulted in heterogeneous property distribution within the composites, and the manufacturing process used for creating the hybrid composites. Scanning electron microscope analysis was also performed to study the failure modes on the fracture surface of the tensile-tested specimens.

Study on the mechanical and thermal properties of aramid fibre reinforced with sawdust particulates in an epoxy matrix composite: a novel material for structural applications

AbstractThis study investigates the development and characterization of a novel composite material for structural applications, aiming to address the growing demand for lightweight, durable and versatile materials. The composite integrates aramid fibre reinforced with sawdust particulates within an epoxy matrix. Methodologically, the composite was fabricated using a hand layup process, ensuring even distribution and strong adhesion between components. Mechanical testing revealed significant enhancements in tensile strength (up to 135.29 MPa) and flexural strength (up to 136.92 MPa) with the inclusion of sawdust particulates, optimizing stress distribution and impact resistance. Hardness was also improved, peaking at a Rockwell hardness number of 94. Thermal analysis demonstrated moderate thermal conductivity (1.92 W mK−1) and a high heat deflection temperature (109 °C), indicating excellent thermal stability. SEM provided insights into the composite's microstructure, confirming uniform sawdust distribution and robust fibre–matrix adhesion. These findings underscore the potential of this composite for lightweight, durable and thermally stable structural applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Preparation and mechanical characterization of natural polymer composite material obtained from fox tail palm seeds

This experimental investigation reveals the preparation of natural composite material from foxtail palm tree seeds. The fruits from the foxtail palm tree are used for the extraction of oil, and the by-product of the extraction process is freely dumped. This study attempts to utilize the waste by-product of foxtail palm tree fruit as a valuable natural composite material. The fabrication was done using the hand lay-up method for the proposed reinforcement (4% and 8%) of filler materials. The obtained composite materials are subjected to significant mechanical characterization of tensile behaviour, flexural property, and hardness. In addition, the morphological study was also carried out by the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that, as the reinforcement percentages of filler material increase, the mechanical properties are improved. This may be due to the uniform dispersion of natural fibres in the polymer. The tensile strength was improved by 22.43% and 29.08% for 4% and 8% filler reinforcement. Similarly, the stiffness property was improved by 9.32% for 4% reinforcement and 18.68% for 8% reinforcement when compared with neat composite. The SEM images reveal the failure analysis, bonding strength and fibre pull-out in the composites. Finally, the foxtail fruit fibre shows promise as a reinforcing agent in composite materials, improving their mechanical properties and making them suitable for various applications requiring strength, stiffness, and resistance to deformation.

Characterization of Composite Materials Using Carbon Nano Tube Carboxy Group Introduction and Aluminum Oxide Synthesis

The high integration and high density of semiconductor packages are generating increased heat in electronic devices, leading to issues such as reduced lifespan and malfunctions in electronic devices. In response, research on thermal interface materials is being conducted to address heat generated from heat sources, and various studies, particularly those applying carbon nano tube, are notable in this regard. However, in the case of carbon nano tube, there are challenges in industrial application due to the occurrence of cohesive forces through van der Waals interactions. Therefore, in this study, the characteristics were analyzed through the formation of carbon nano tube carboxyl groups (–COOH) and the synthesis of aluminum oxide via chloride (–COCl) formation. After the chloride process, a functional group –COCl was confirmed at 430 cm−1. It was confirmed that the electrical properties were improved as a result of the CNT, CNT carboxyl, and chloride process. It is believed that the electrical properties improved as impurities were removed during the acid treatment process. In addition, it is believed that the electrical properties were improved due to the increase in intermolecular forces between CNTs. Through this, it is determined that the application of carbon nano tube and aluminum oxide composite materials can be highly beneficial for thermal conductivity heat dissipation filler applications.

Functional and structural modification of polyvinyl alcohol/carbon nanotubes composite fibers

This research was based on the synthesis of new materials with capacitive properties and low cost, seeking efficient energy storage, through the manufacture and characterization of composite materials of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/multiwalled carbon nanotubes with carboxyl group (MWCNTs-COOH) (1 %) for electrodes. Forcespinning and electrospinning techniques were used to develop composite fiber films and compare the physical structure of the fibers and its influence on their capacitive properties. These samples were characterized by SEM, FESEM, FT-IR, XRD, TGA, Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques. The characterization of the composites makes evident the structural modification that the material underwent after the treatments. The electrochemical parameters were measured by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), with the samples immersed in H2SO4 1 M as electrolyte. The PVA/MWCNTs-COOH composites with thermal treatment (340 °C) showed a considerable decrease in total impedance of up to 6 orders of magnitude (124 Ω) with respect to the blank sample (2.3 × 108 Ω), as a function of the immersion time in the acid solution. As well as, an increase in the specific capacitance of up to 8 orders of magnitude (1.01×10−2 F cm−2) with respect to the blank sample (5.07 × 10−10 F cm−2) for the composite manufactured by the electrospinning technique. The obtaining of fibers with directionality as a result of the forcespinning technique, the highly crossed network observed by electrospinning and the electrochemical properties shown by the structural modification of PVA/MWCNTs-COOH composite, make it, a material with potential technological applications such as electrode in electrochemical capacitors.

Production, Testing, Modeling, Characterization, and Application of Composite Material from Melting Unsorted Plastic Waste

Production, Testing, Modeling, Characterization, and Application of Composite Material from Melting Unsorted Plastic Waste

Depth-resolved elemental and molecular analysis of polymeric multilayers with EI-MS and ICP-OES using chemometric evaluation

Polymeric composite materials with layered structures have increasingly gained importance as, for specific applications, the required properties cannot be achieved with one single material; thus, for example, multi-layer polymers or special surface coatings are employed.None of the conventionally available techniques enables a comprehensive characterization of composite materials, including depth-resolved information about their organic and elemental constituents.In this work, a previously introduced approach enabling the direct characterization of the organic and inorganic constituents of solid polymer samples was further developed and optimized for depth profiling analysis of stacked layer polymers. For this purpose, the ablation chamber’s washout behavior and transfer line’s transport efficiency were improved. Chemometric methods were applied for the data analysis to gain greater insight and enable more precise differentiation, comparison and classification.The work investigates the feasibility of the developed approach by analyzing a multi-layer stacked polymer sample created from nail polishes and using cluster analysis on the data collected with the bimodal detection. The layers of the sample could be differentiated by their organic and elemental constituents’ fingerprints, achieving a depth resolution of 7 µm.

A green perspective for the first electrochemical detection and application of balsalazide via recycled waste core-shell carbon/CdO nanoparticles-based hybrid nanosensor

In this report, a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with carbon-based core–shell structures (CSC) with CdO nanoparticles has been prepared and performed for the electrochemical detection of Balsalazide (BLZ). The electrochemical investigation of BLZ was carefully examined using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) on the bare GCE, and CSC-CdO/GCE. Compared to bare GCE, the proposed CSC-CdO/GCE sensor can remarkably enhance the electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of BLZ with an increase in the anodic peak currents. For the optimum of experimental conditions, the influence of supporting electrolyte, the pH, concentration of the nanosensor, and scan rate on the peak potentials and current were investigated on the current response of BLZ before the electrochemical determination of BLZ in commercial human serum and urine samples for GCE, and CSC-CdO/GCE. The limit of detection (LOD) for BLZ in the linear range of 8.00 × 10−9 – 8.00 × 10−5 mol/L was determined as 2.20 × 10−9 mol/L. Recovery measurements assessed the accuracy of the proposed sensor in serum and urine samples. The developed sensor indicated high sensitivity and great stability toward BLZ. Core-shell structures are frequently preferred in sensor applications due to their perfect shapes, active catalytic sites, rapid interfacial transport of pores at different length scales, and their ability to reduce or shorten diffusion action paths. CSC was used as a modification material in this study due to its superior properties and advantages. Since CSC has a high surface area during the electron transfer process, it enables more efficient charge transfer between the electrode and the electrolyte. In the study, CdO nanoparticle modification on the CSC was ensured for a synergistic effect to enhance the surface area, electroactivity, and selectivity. After morphological, physical, and chemical characterization of composite material, electrochemical experiments showed that it is extremely promising because of its wide linear concentration range, low LOD, and nearly no interference with some interfering compounds and ions.

Characterization and experimental investigation of silicon nitride-based composite phase change materials for battery thermal management

In this study, different mass fractions of silicon nitride (Si3N4) were added to paraffin (PA)/expanded graphite (EG) to prepare a novel composite phase change material(CPCM). Thermal and chemical characterization of the CPCMs were conducted to assess their properties. The results indicated that adding 1 wt% Si3N4 was an optimal strategy, whose leakage rate at 40 °C and phase change starting temperature was lower and higher than that of PA/EG, respectively. Then, the cooling performance of the Si3N4/PA/EG CPCM with 1 wt% Si3N4 (denoted as CPCM1) was compared to PA/EG CPCM (denoted as CPCM0) and air cooling with a acrylic box. CPCM1 had heat dissipation and temperature uniformity property very close to CPCM0, but could obtain lower maximum temperature (Tmax) and better temperature uniformity than the air cooling with a acrylic box. For air cooling with a acrylic box, the Tmax and the maximum temperature difference (ΔTmax) inside the battery at a discharge rate of 2C under 35 °C was 49 °C and 3.78 °C, respectively. However, the Tmax and ΔTmax for CPCM1 cooling was only 40.7 °C and 1.37 °C, respectively, which was reduced by 16.9 % and 63.7 %, respectively. Thus, we could draw a conclusion that the Si3N4/PA/EG CPCM exhibited excellent ability to control maximum temperature and maximum temperature difference for the battery.

Advancing thermochemical storage: synthesis and characterization of cement-based composite materials

Thermal Energy Storage (TES) is crucial for sustainability of the energy sector, yet the development of cost-effective, robust materials remains a significant challenge. This study aims at exploring the synthesis and thermal characterization of cement-based composites for seasonal thermochemical energy storage, with the goal to harness the high energy density of hygroscopic salts while mitigating their limitations. We investigate composites with several cement matrices to improve salt-cement compatibility. Furthermore, we investigate the possible incorporation of porous low-cost compounds to enhance porosity and improve economic aspects. As far as the characterization aspects are concerned, we show experimental adsorption isotherms at different temperatures to estimate key material properties like isosteric heat and water uptake, along with the relevant figures of merit such as energy density. Our research leverages on adjustable porosity and affordability of cement as a host matrix for the ‘active phase’. We studied two synthesis approaches: traditional dry impregnation and an in-situ technique suitable for cements. The in-situ method, being straightforward and reproducible, permits greater control over salt content. Preliminary cost analysis positions these composites competitively in the market. Although we are still at sub-optimal stage, potential cost reduction of some less popular cement matrices suggests an opportunity for improvement.

Utilization of carbon-bonded magnesia refractory waste in MOC-based composites: Towards CO2-neutral building materials

In the steel industry, a large amount of diverse waste is generated, including carbon-bonded magnesia-rich waste originating from refractories. This study focused on the development and characterization of composite material based on magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC), with an emphasis on incorporating MgO–C-based refractory waste (CBMW) as a sustainable filler. To reach the best possible material properties, two different size fractions were applied in various ratios, completely replacing quartz sand. A comprehensive analysis of all composite material samples was conducted utilizing various analytical techniques, XRD, SEM, EDS or STA-MS. Mechanical properties such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and Young's modulus of elasticity were evaluated. Even though even the best sample did not surpass the mechanical properties for the reference, compressive strength 78.1 MPa was achieved, which is a more than sufficient value for most indoor applications.

Utilizing Waste Cotton/Pigeon Pea Stalk Fibers Composites for Enhanced Sound Absorption and Insulation in Automotive Interiors

ABSTRACT This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of composite materials, pigeon pea stem, and cotton fibers blended in different ratios such as 100/0, 70/30, 60/40, 50/50, 30/70, and 0/100. These composite materials were produced using a compression molding technique. According to ASTM standards, the acoustics, thermal conductivity, and physical characteristics of the composite samples were tested to assess their qualities. The impedance tube method detailed in ASTM E1050 was used to determine the sound absorption coefficients (SAC) for acoustics. The SAC values were measured at six frequencies such as 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz. The results showed that composite samples made from waste cotton and pigeon pea demonstrated sound absorption values of greater than 80%. Superior sound insulation and absorption, moisture absorption, fiber properties have also been demonstrated by waste composites. Especially, the waste cotton/pea stalk waste fiber composites achieved over 75% sound absorption, while the waste 28% composites performed well in terms of sound absorption, moisture absorption, and fiber properties. Even in humid conditions, the composite samples constructed from used cotton and pigeon pea stalks demonstrated good moisture resistance without reducing their insulating qualities. Soundproofing barriers are composite layers of foam or pigeon pea/cotton.

Effect of the Printing Angle on the Microstructure and Tensile Performance of Iron-Reinforced Polylactic Acid Composite Manufactured Using Fused Filament Fabrication

This work emphasizes an innovative approach utilizing 3D imaging technology based on synchrotron radiation to assess the microstructure of second-phase iron particles and the porous structure within 3D-printed PLA/magnetic iron composites at different printing angles. The study examines how these observations relate to the material’s ductility when processed using fused filament fabrication. In particular, this study examines the impact of one processing parameter, specifically the printing angle, on the microstructure and mechanical behaviour of a polylactic acid (PLA)–iron (PLI) composite designed for magnetic actuation. Fused filament fabrication is employed to produce PLI tensile specimens, with varied printing angles to create different layups. X-ray microtomography is utilized to analyse the microstructure, while tensile mechanical properties are evaluated for all composites, with findings discussed in relation to printing angle conditions. Scanning Electron Microscopy is used to examine the fractography of broken specimens. Results indicate that the printing angle significantly influences the tensile properties and mechanical anisotropy of 3D-printed PLI composites, with an optimal 45°/45° layup enhancing tensile performance. These findings suggest that 3D-printed PLI composites offer a cost-efficient means of producing bio-sourced, light-adaptive materials with intricate magnetic actuation capabilities. By quantifying the modulation of mechanical properties based on printing parameters that influence microstructural arrangement, the research sheds light on a novel aspect of composite material characterization.

Characterization of glass composite material by pressureless sintering of soil and its application to uranium contaminated soil as a waste form

Abstract When operating and dismantling a nuclear facility that handles uranium, the surrounding soil may be contaminated, emphasizing the need for appropriate treatment and disposal methods for soil waste. This study assessed high-temperature sintering technology for uranium contaminated soil waste to overcome limitations in existing decontamination methods and the volume increase associated with current solidification technology. The sintering process was found to effectively vitrify and re-mineralize complex chemical components in the soil. Sintered bodies were produced under varying conditions, adjusting molding pressure, heating temperature, and time. Optimized conditions resulted in sintered bodies with a volume reduction rate exceeding 30 % and a compressive strength surpassing 10 MPa, indicating a significant impact on the phase conversion and re-mineralization of silt and clay minerals. The soil sintering mechanism was identified through comprehensive microscopic observations and mineral phase change analysis. Leaching evaluations of sintered bodies, made from simulated uranium-contaminated soil, demonstrated their applicability to contaminated soil wastes. Additionally, it was confirmed that the sintering temperature of the soil could be lowered by incorporating a small amount of B2O3, suggesting a means to enhance the economic feasibility of the treatment process. The findings of this study highlight the applicability of pressureless sintering technology, based on glass composite materials, capable of simultaneously reducing and stabilizing uranium-contaminated soil waste.

A novel approach for one-step defect detection and depth estimation using sequenced thermal signal encoding

ABSTRACT Pulsed thermography is a technique of significant interest in non-destructive testing, particularly in defect detection and depth characterisation of composite materials. This study presents an innovative methodology for simultaneously detecting defects and estimating depth using a combination of sequenced thermal signal encoding and a two-dimensional convolution neural network (CNN) model. We compare the results of the proposed method with those obtained from the feed-forward neural network (FFNN), a one-dimensional CNN, and a long short-term memory recurrent neural network (LSTM-RNN). The findings demonstrate that the proposed approach exhibits superior accuracy and robustness compared to the benchmarks.