Characterization Of Composites Research Articles

Realization of a composite ferroelectric characterization test system using a modified constant current method and a modified virtual ground method.

A composite ferroelectric characterization test system constructed using a modified constant current method (CCM) and a modified virtual ground method (VGM) has been successfully designed and implemented. By sending instructions to the microcontroller through software, the system's test mode can be easily changed by arranging the switching status of six switching elements. When validating the system, a dual-channel precision source/measure unit B2912B was used to verify this design. There is also parasitic capacitance that cannot be ignored in this commercial machine. This parasitic capacitance affects the appearance of the entire hysteresis curve. However, the parasitic capacitance values also differ in various test current ranges. In addition, to confirm the data credibility of this composite ferroelectric test system, Keysight B1530A and Radiant Premier II were used to conduct cross-verification between different systems. The results obtained between different systems show good consistency. Furthermore, reproducible and recoverable imprint phenomena were found in this composite system during interactive validation using VGM and CCM methods. After designing different voltage profiles for verification, it was found that the root cause of this imprint phenomenon was the difference between the final polarization state of the previous test and the pre-initialized polarization state. This imprint phenomenon exists in traditional Pb(Zr, Ti)O3(PZT) ferroelectric capacitors and Hf0.5Zr0.5O2-based ferroelectric capacitors. Fortunately, this imprint phenomenon is reversible. Moreover, this imprint phenomenon disappears through the design of the time-varying voltage profile on the ferroelectric capacitor of the CCM method.

Preparation and characterization of antimicrobial vanillin-modified polyurethane composite

Preparation and characterization of antimicrobial vanillin-modified polyurethane composite

Preparation, characterization, electrical conductivity, and life cycle assessment of carbon nanofibers-reinforced Ecuadorian natural zeolite-based geopolymer composites

Geopolymers are inorganic crosslinked polymers with much less carbon footprint than ordinary Portland cement. Geopolymers and geopolymer-based materials have superior mechanical and durability properties with extreme thermal and chemical resistance. Carbon nano- or microfibers-reinforced geopolymers show potential properties such as electric conductivity, enhanced mechanical and thermal stability, and multi-functionality. This study evaluated the effect of incorporating carbon nanofibers in natural zeolite-based geopolymers and their impact on the mechanical, thermal, and electric conductivity of yielded geopolymer composites. Additionally, a life cycle assessment for 1 m3 geopolymer and its carbon fiber reinforced geopolymers’ production has been conducted to evaluate the environmental impact of the processes.

Enhanced wear resistance of TiC/Ti6Al4V composites through changing TiC morphologies in laser direct energy deposition

The wear performance of particle-reinforced metal matrix composites is significantly influenced by the morphologies of ceramic particles. In this study, the friction and wear characterization of titanium matrix composites (TMCs) with different TiC morphologies was studied. This TMCs, consisting of 20 wt% of TiC, was prepared by laser direct energy deposition (LDED). Different LDED parameters are employed to changing the morphologies of TiC. Two distinct TiC morphologies, equiaxed and dendritic, are achieved by varying the laser scanning speed and laser power during the LDEDed TMCs. The friction and wear tests of TMCs with different TiC morphologies are carried out by using a ball-on flat reciprocating tribometer. The results reveal that TMCs with different TiC morphologies manifest divergent wear mechanisms. TMCs with equiaxed TiC dominates three-body wear due to the fracture debonding and pulling out of TiC, resulting in a higher wear rate. TMCs with dendritic TiC mainly dominates two-body wear, facilitated by the protection of hard dendrites and the tribolayer, which leads to a 59% improvement in wear resistance compared to TMCs with equiaxed TiC. This work provides a method of TiC morphologies changing to achieve an enhanced wear performance for TMCs.

CHARACTERIZATION OF PERIWINKLE SHELL ASH REINFORCED POLYMER COMPOSITE FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATION

The Periwinkle shell (Tympanotonus fuscatus) is one of the most abundant wastes in the Calabar coastal region of Nigeria and needs to be put into proper use. The great need to shift attention towards waste materials with good mechanical properties to replace some materials used in the Automobile industries for Automobile products is paramount. This research focused on the Mechanical characterization of several composites developed from Periwinkle Shell Powder (PSP) as filler and four selected polymeric materials as the matrix. Recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE), Recycled linear low-density polyethylene (rLLDPE), Recycled polystyrene (rPP) and recycled polystyrene (rPS) from waste dumps were selected as the Matrix for the composites. The crushed periwinkle shell (CPSP) was subjected to a calcination (ashing) process. Ashed Periwinkle Shell Powder (APSP) was used to reinforce the rHDPE, rLLDPE, rPP and rPS at 0 to 40% filler loading. Mechanical tests carried out resulted in the 30%PSP and 70%PP composite having better tensile and flexural strengths, good flexural modulus, hardness, impact and moisture absorption results. Results obtained from the mechanical tests were comparable with values obtained from a tested existing vehicle bumper. The APSP-filled recycled polymer composites can serve as a suitable green alternative to existing vehicle bumpers.

Synthesis, characterization, and dielectric spectroscopy of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticle-reinforced epoxy composites

Synthesis, characterization, and dielectric spectroscopy of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticle-reinforced epoxy composites

Characterisation of experimental flowable composites containing fluoride-doped calcium phosphates as promising remineralising materials

ObjectiveRemineralising composites with antibacterial properties may seal the cavity and prevent secondary caries. This study aimed at developing experimental flowable composites containing different concentrations of fluoride-doped calcium phosphate fillers and evaluating their remineralising and antibacterial properties. MethodsExperimental resin-based composites containing different concentrations (0–20 %) of fluoride-doped calcium phosphate fillers (VS10/VS20) were formulated. The release of calcium (Ca), phosphate (PO) and fluoride (F) ions was assessed for 30 days. Remineralisation properties were evaluated through ATR-FTIR and SEM/EDX after storage in simulated body fluid (SBF). The metabolic activity and viability of Streptococcus gordonii was also evaluated through ATP, CFU and live/dead confocal microscopy. The evaluation of specific monomer elution from the experimental composites was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). ResultsThe composites containing VS10 showed the highest release of Ca, those containing VS20 released more F over time (p < 0.05), while there was no significant difference in terms of PO ions release between the groups (p > 0.05). A quick 7-day mineral precipitation was observed in the tested composites containing VS10 or VS20 at 10 %; these materials also showed the greatest antibacterial activity (p < 0.05). Moreover, the tested composites containing VS10 presented the lowest elution of monomers (p < 0.05). ConclusionsInnovative composites were developed with low monomers elution, evident antibacterial activity against S. gordonii and important remineralisation properties due to specific ions release. Clinical significanceNovel composites containing fluoride-doped calcium phosphates may be promising to modulate bacteria growth, promote remineralisation and reduce the risk of cytotoxicity related to monomers’ elution.

Preparation and Characterization of Quartz-Reinforced Hybrid Composites Based on Unsaturated Polyester Resin from Post-Consumer PET Recyclate.

The paper presents the results of research on hybrid composites made of unsaturated polyester resin based on post-consumer recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate). The polymeric materials were reinforced with quartz flour, which is a common inorganic mineral filler. An environmentally friendly cobalt polymer solution was used to cure the polyester matrix. The results showed the quantitative influence of the quartz filler on the thermal, mechanical and morphological properties of the quartz-polyester composites. A change in the surface wettability and the polarity of the polymeric materials was also noticed, with some deterioration of their gloss.

Mechanical and Optical Characterization of Single-shade Resin Composites Used in Posterior Teeth.

This study aimed to evaluate the optical and mechanical performance of two single-shade resin-based composites (RBCs) compared to those of a conventional RBC for restoring posterior teeth. Two single-shade RBCs, Omnichroma (Tukoyama) and Vittra Unique APS (FGM), and a conventional RBC, Filtek Z350XT shade A2 (3M Oral Care), were evaluated in this study. The optical shade-matching performance was measured using a spectrophotometer. The light emitted by VALO Grand (Ultradent) and transmitted through the 2.0-mm RBC specimens was evaluated using beam profiling. Knoop hardness (KH, N/mm2), degree of conversion (DC, %) at the top and bottom, flexural strength (FS, MPa), elastic modulus (E, GPa), postgel shrinkage (Shr, %), and shrinkage stress (MPa) were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize the filler. Data for FS, E, and Shr were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and KH and DC by repeated one-way ANOVA measurement followed by Tukey test (α=0.05). The modified von Mises stress values, light transmission, and SEM images were analyzed qualitatively. All single-shade RBCs exhibited higher chromatic adaptation than the Filtek Z350XT (p<0.001). Omnichroma exhibited less color difference than Vittra Unique APS, irrespective of the shade. The light transmitted through Omnichroma and Vittra Unique APS increased during polymerization. KH and DC values were significantly reduced from the top to the bottom of the specimens for all RBCs (p<0.001); however, the ratio values were always higher than 80%. In general, all RBCs demonstrated similar mechanical properties. All RBCs exhibited a similar FS (p=0.083) and Shr value (p=0.144). Filtek Z350XT exhibited significantly higher E (p<0.001) than both single-shade RBCs. All RBCs exhibited similar shrinkage stress during restoration and similar residual stress during occlusal loading. Single-shade Omnichroma and Vittra Unique APS increased light transmission during light-activation, demonstrating better chromatic adaptation than conventional Filtek Z350XT. In general, Omnichroma and Vittra Unique APS exhibited similar mechanical properties and shrinkage stress distributions as Filtek Z350XT during light-activation and occlusal loading.

RAFT agent effect on graft poly(acrylic acid) to polypropylene glycol fumarate phthalate

Understanding the physical and chemical properties of new-generation polymeric materials during the synthesis is very important in obtaining the desired product in design and production. Chemical, thermal, and physical parameters as well as degradation kinetics of the resins developed especially in recent years are the main stages that determine the polymer composition process that affects material selection. In this study, the potential to use RAFT agent (2-cyano-2-propyldodecyltrithiocarbonate, CPDT) in the synthesis of new polymers based on polypropylene fumarate phthalate has revealed important properties. To exemplify, the concentration of the RAFT agent affects the polymer-based mesh density associated with the yield of the product. Changes in swelling behavior and thermodynamic parameters of polymers synthesized in the presence of RAFT agent were observed. Chemical composition and stability characterizations of the synthesized grafted polymers were performed by FT-IR, 13C, 1H-NMR spectroscopy and TGA. The grafted polymers analyzed by SEM morphology were found to have hydrogel sorption potential showed signs of a loose surface and the formation of a layered and porous structure in comparison with the grafted polymers. The resulting compounds have a high swelling capacity and increased yield. At the same time, this study will shed light on the thermodynamic calculations of the graft polymers in order to determine or predicting the polymer composition.Graphical abstract

Synthesis and characterization of Al-doped ZnO/CdO heterostructured nanocomposites for enhancing NO2 gas sensing performance

In this study, both petal-shaped Al-doped (1 at%) ZnO (Al-ZnO) and Al-ZnO/CdO heterostructured nanomaterials were successfully designed and synthesized via a facile two-step hydrothermal method. Characterizations of crystallinity, morphology and composition were performed by XRD, HR-TEM, FE-SEM, EDS, XPS, and Raman. The results of XRD, HR-TEM, and XPS reveal that Al-ZnO/CdO materials grew well together and coexisted. The petal shaped Al-ZnO/CdO heterostructured nanocomposite with 2 mol% of CdO was exposed to NO2, NH3, CH3COCH3, C2H5OH, and H2 at an optimal operating temperature of 200 °C. Compared with pure ZnO and Al-ZnO, the petal-shaped Al-ZnO/CdO heterostructured nanocomposite exhibited specifically high enhanced performances in response and selectivity for the NO2 gas sensing. Moreover, the sensitivity to NO2 displayed excellent linear dependence in the range of 0.5 ∼ 5 ppm, which shows promise in the detection of NO2 using a petal-shaped Al-ZnO/CdO heterostructured nanocomposite-based sensor.

Abrasive wear behavior of AZ31 −B4C composites

Abrasive wear behavior of AZ31 −B4C composites having varying amount of B4C particles (0 −2 wt%) is investigated. AZ31 −B4C composites are synthesized through ultrasonic assisted stir casting method. Characterizations of as-cast composites are performed through optical microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Compositional analyses are performed using energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS). Microstructural analyses disclose uniform distribution of B4C ceramic particles in AZ31 matrix. Compositional analyses confirm incorporation of B4C particles in AZ31 matrix. Both microhardness testing and density measurements are performed. Microhardness value is enhanced by 54.9% compared to base alloy by incorporating 2 wt% of B4C particles. Pin-on-disk tribotester is employed to scrutinize abrasive wear and friction characteristics of developed materials at varying sliding distance (40, 50 and 60 mm track dia.) and different abrasive grits (400, 500 and 600 grit). Wear rate of AZ31 alloy is about 1.3 − 1.5 times more than AZ31 − 2.0B4C composite for all experimental conditions. Wear rate reduces with increase in abrasive grit size while the same increases with increase in sliding distance. Finally, worn surface morphology of developed materials is also analyzed through FESEM and EDAX spectra. Examination of worn surface morphology discloses that abrasion and oxidation are dominant for composite samples.

Crosslinked chitosan–montmorillonite composite and its magnetized counterpart for the removal of basic fuchsin from wastewater: Parametric optimization using Box-Behnken design

Treating wastewater polluted with organic dyestuffs is still a challenge. In that vein, facile synthesis of a structurally simple composite of chitosan with montmorillonite (CS-MMT) using glutaraldehyde as a crosslinker and the magnetized analogue (MAG@CS-MMT) was proposed as versatile adsorbents for the cationic dye, basic Fuchsin (FUS). Statistical modeling of the adsorption process was mediated using Box-Behnken (BB) design and by varying the composite dose, pH, [FUS], and contact time. Characterization of both composites showed an enhancement of surface features upon magnetization, substantiating a better FUS removal of the MAG@CS-MMT (%R = 98.43 %) compared to CS-MMT (%R = 68.02 %). The surface area analysis demonstrates that MAG@CS-MMT possesses a higher surface area, measuring 41.54 m2/g, and the surface analysis of the magnetized nanocomposite, conducted using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopies, proved the presence of FeO peaks. In the same context, adsorption of FUS onto MAG@CS-MMT fitted-well to the Langmuir isotherm model and the maximum adsorption capacities (qm) were 53.11 mg/g for CS-MMT and 88.34 mg/g for MAG@CS-MMT. Kinetics investigation shows that experimental data fitted well to the pseudo-second order (PSO) model. Regeneration study reveals that MAG@CS-MMT can be recovered effectively for repeated use with a high adsorption efficiency for FUS.

Sustainable Innovation: Fabrication and Characterization of Mycelium-Based Green Composites for Modern Interior Materials Using Agro-Industrial Wastes and Different Species of Fungi.

Mycelium-based bio-composites (MBCs) represent a sustainable and innovative material with high potential for contemporary applications, particularly in the field of modern interior design. This research investigates the fabrication of MBCs for modern interior materials using agro-industrial wastes (bamboo sawdust and corn pericarp) and different fungal species. The study focuses on determining physical properties, including moisture content, shrinkage, density, water absorption, volumetric swelling, thermal degradation, and mechanical properties (bending, compression, impact, and tensile strength). The results indicate variations in moisture content and shrinkage based on fungal species and substrate types, with bamboo sawdust exhibiting lower shrinkage. The obtained density values range from 212.31 to 282.09 kg/m3, comparable to traditional materials, suggesting MBCs potential in diverse fields, especially as modern interior elements. Water absorption and volumetric swelling demonstrate the influence of substrate and fungal species, although they do not significantly impact the characteristics of interior decoration materials. Thermal degradation analysis aligns with established patterns, showcasing the suitability of MBCs for various applications. Scanning electron microscope observations reveal the morphological features of MBCs, emphasizing the role of fungal mycelia in binding substrate particles. Mechanical properties exhibit variations in bending, compression, impact, and tensile strength, with MBCs demonstrating compatibility with traditional materials used in interior elements. Those produced from L. sajor-caju and G. fornicatum show especially promising characteristics in this context. Particularly noteworthy are their superior compression and impact strength, surpassing values observed in certain synthetic foams multiple times. Moreover, this study reveals the biodegradability of MBCs, reaching standards for environmentally friendly materials. A comprehensive comparison with traditional materials further supports the potential of MBCs in sustainable material. Challenges in standardization, production scalability, and market adoption are identified, emphasizing the need for ongoing research, material engineering advancements, and biotechnological innovations. These efforts aim to enhance MBC properties, promoting sustainability in modern interior applications, while also facilitating their expansion into mass production within the innovative construction materials market.

Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Vanadate and Graphitic Carbon Nitride Composites

Various silver vanadate and graphitic carbon nitride (AgVA/g-C3N4) composites with different weightage of 10 wt%, 30 wt% and 50 wt% of AgVA were synthesized using wet chemical method and the prepared samples were named as A10, A30 and A50. Based on SEM analysis, the synthesized pure g-C3N4 exhibited a two-dimensional structure with typical irregular porosity whereas pure AgVA had a rod-like shape. The diffraction peaks of both g-C3N4 and AgVA could be observed in the composites, indicating that AgVA had been successfully coupled with g-C3N4. The stretching vibration of V-O was found in in pure AgVA and all composites. EDX analysis confirmed the presence of C, N, Ag, V and O element in the prepared composites. A10 was found to possess a larger BET specific surface area, smaller particle size and larger pore volume compared to that of pure g-C3N4.

Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Aluminum Composites: A Compo-Casting Approach with ZrO2 , Al2O3 , and SiC

The present study evaluates the microstructural features, mechanical properties, and wear characteristics of the newly developed hybrid composite of A356/ZrO2/Al2O3/SiC produced by compo-casting at 605±5 °C, 600 rpm for 15 minutes with less than 30% solid fraction in which Bi and Sn were added separately to the matrix before introducing reinforcements. FESEM micrographs and corresponding EDS illustrated the successful incorporation of particles in the matrix. Fine particles of ZrO2 were observed close to the coarse Al2O3, and SiC particles, along with Bi and Sn elements, were detected at the eutectic evolution region. The A356+Bi/Al2O3+ZrO2+SiC hybrid composite exhibited the lowest specific wear rate (1.642 ×10-7cm3/Nm) and friction coefficient (0.31) under applied loads of 5, 10, and 20 N, in line with the highest hardness (73.4 HBN). Analysis of the worn surfaces revealed that the wear mechanism is mostly adhesive in all synthesized composites, which changed to the combination of adhesive and abrasive mode in the case containing Bi and SiC. Inserting Bi not only leads to the refinement of eutectic Si but also enhances the adhesion between the matrix/particles and improves lubricity. This, in turn, reduces the wear rate and coefficient of friction, ultimately improving the performance of the hybrid composite.

Characterization of peanut husk-derived Si3N4 basalt fiber-reinforced unsaturated polyester resin composites

Characterization of peanut husk-derived Si3N4 basalt fiber-reinforced unsaturated polyester resin composites

Synergistic photocatalysis of a hydrochar/CeO2 composite for dye degradation under visible light.

The synthesis and characterization of a hydrochar/CeO2 composite along with its evaluation in methylene blue degradation under visible light are presented. The methodology consisted of a single-pass hydrothermal method, having as synthesis conditions 9h of reaction time, 210°C, autogenous pressure, and a biomass/CeO2 ratio of 100:1. The composite characterization revealed good dispersion of CeO2 in the carbonaceous matrix and significant synergy in the composite activation using visible irradiation. The photodegradation experiments showed an efficiency of 98% for white LED light, 91% for UV light, 96% for solar irradiation, and 85% for blue LED light using as conditions pH 7.0, 50mg of composite, 50mL of solution, 10mg/L of dye initial concentration, and 120min of contact time. Meanwhile, the reusability experiments evidenced a reuse capacity of up to five times with a constant photodegradation efficiency (99%); moreover, it was determined that the presence of electrolytes at pH below 7.0 during degradation negatively affected methylene blue degradation. Finally, the results of this work demonstrate that the hydrochar/CeO2 composite can be synthesized by a green method and used for the efficient treatment of water contaminated with methylene blue.

Synthesis, characterization and degradation studies of eco-friendly composites from thermoset resins with pistachio shell waste

Synthesis, characterization and degradation studies of eco-friendly composites from thermoset resins with pistachio shell waste

Development and Characterisation of Composites Prepared from PHBV Compounded with Organic Waste Reinforcements, and Their Soil Biodegradation.

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) is a biobased and biodegradable polymer. This polymer is considered promising, but it is also rather expensive. The objective of this study was to compound PHBV with three different organic fillers considered waste: human hair waste (HHW), sawdust (SD) and chitin from shrimp shells. Thus, the cost of the biopolymer is reduced, and, at the same time, waste materials are valorised into something useful. The composites prepared were characterised by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), tensile strength and scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Tests showed that chitin and HHW did not have a reinforcing effect on tensile strength while the SD increased the tensile strength at break to a certain degree. The biodegradation of the different composites was evaluated by a soil burial test for five months. The gravimetric test showed that neat PHBV was moderately degraded (about 5% weight loss) while reinforcing the polymer with organic waste clearly improved the biodegradation. The strongest biodegradation was achieved when the biopolymer was compounded with HHW (35% weight loss). The strong biodegradation of HHW was further demonstrated by characterisation by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Characterisation by SEM showed that the surfaces of the biodegraded samples were eroded.