Chemical Resistance Research Articles

New eco-friendly succinimide linseed oil resin: synthesis, characterization, DFT and docking studies for surface coating

Purpose The purpose of this study is to develop a new protective coating formulation for industrial use, using new eco-friendly succinimide linseed oil resin. Design/methodology/approach Epoxidized linseed oil and N-(4-hydroxy phenyl) succinimide are reacted to create succinimide-modified epoxy (SIE) compounds. The synthesized compound was confirmed by different analyses, gas chromatography, Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance and scanning electron microscopy. The prepared compound has been blended with a primer paint formulation, then their physical and mechanical properties have been studied. Density function theory is used to calculate Frontier molecular orbital including highest occupied molecular orbital and least unoccupied molecular orbital to indicate the charge transfer from molecule to biological media and molecular electrostatic potential map was used to indicate the chemically reactive zone suitable for drug action. Findings The results of the paint formulation confirmed their best performance and provided good mechanical properties and high chemical and corrosion resistance. Research limitations/implications Resin compounds are the most used antimicrobial additives. Other functionalities of these compounds, such as corrosion inhibitors, might be studied to see if they are suited for these applications. Practical implications Because of the efficiency of the SIE when incorporated with primer, paint against microbial has also been examined in silico using the docking study which contributed to the analysis of their protein binding. This type of epoxy compound is environmentally friendly and can be used as a biocide with different paint formulations. As a result, paint compositions including this compound as additives can be used as dual-purpose paint and for a variety of industrial applications. Originality/value This research demonstrates how a low-cost paint composition based on synthesized SIE compounds may be used as a dual-function paint for industrial use.

Chemical Resistance of Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber and Nitrile Butadiene Rubber in Propylene

Abstract The chemical resistance of hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) and nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) in propylene is considered as no resistance (NR) by many chemical compatibility handbooks and industry chemical resistance tables and charts. This situation drives the change of the elastomer compounds from cheap HNBR/NBR to expensive fluoroelastomer (FKM) for applications involving propylene. However, in the literature, NBR and HNBR are rated as having good or excellent chemical resistance to all other hydrocarbons, such as ethylene, ethane, propane, butane, butylene. It seems that there are some special or unknown characters of propylene that make it is very harsh to both NBR and HNBR, and therefore it is important to investigate the chemical resistance of NBR and HNBR in propylene. In this study, the chemical resistance of HNBR and NBR in propylene is investigated according to ISO 23936-2 and ASTM D471. The test results are crucially important for the applications of HNBR/NBR in contact with propylene. Based on the tests, we investigated the changes of physical properties such as tensile properties, volume changes and glass transition temperatures and chemical structure of HNBR/NBR after aging in high-pressure propylene at an elevated temperature. The Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) of HNBR and NBR and many hydrocarbons such as ethylene, ethane, propylene, propane, butane, and butylene were estimated. Based on the HSP, the polymer solvent interaction parameters between HNBR/NBR and hydrocarbons were also estimated to explain the chemical resistance of HNBR/NBR in propylene. An aging mechanism was also proposed to explain the changes of HNBR and NBR in propylene aging. This study provided an even better guidance on chemical resistance of HNBR/NBR in propylene to the elastomer industry.

Toughened Vinyl Ester Resin Reinforced with Natural Flax Fabrics

Vinyl ester resins are widely used as thermoset matrix materials for laminated composites, particularly in naval and automotive applications, due to their strength, chemical resistance, and ease of processing. However, their brittleness limits their use, especially in cold conditions. This study investigates the toughness of core–shell rubber (CSR)-modified resins in composites with natural fibers. This research compares the properties of the neat resin matrix and the CSR-modified matrix. After optimizing the resin curing process with catalysts, various treatments were tested to analyze their mechanical and thermal properties. Using the vacuum bagging process, flax and glass fibers were used as reinforcements to assess the effects of matrix modifications. Flax fibers were chosen for their sustainability as a potential alternative to glass fibers. Mechanical testing was performed, comparing the performance of flax-based composites to those with glass fibers. Water absorption tests on flax composites followed the ISO 62 standard. Additionally, interlaminar shear strength and SEM micrography studies were conducted to examine the morphology and fiber–matrix adhesion, linking the microscopic structure to mechanical properties. Results indicate that while glass-reinforced composites have superior properties, flax composites offer a sustainable alternative, making them a promising choice for future applications.

Development of Novel Frontsheets With Protective Coatings to Increase the Durability and Reliability of Glass‐Free Lightweight PV Modules

ABSTRACTIn this work, novel PET‐based frontsheet materials with UV‐cured coatings were developed and investigated. UV‐curing urethane acrylates were selected as innovative, fluorine‐free coating systems. Polyurethane coatings exhibit excellent UV resistance, chemical and moisture resistance and, thus, high durability in outdoor applications. A homogeneous application without coating defects such as bubbles, voids or detachments was achieved. Material tests with cross‐cut tests showed no separation from the PET substrate. The water vapor transmission rates and the physical (optical and thermal) and chemical properties of the novel polymeric frontsheets were measured and compared with uncoated reference systems and products already on the market. The aging‐related changes after irradiation and humid heat storage were investigated and described in detail. Based on this comprehensive study, the newly developed frontsheets can be considered a suitable alternative to polymeric frontsheets with fluorine‐containing top layers.

Chemical and Solvent-Based Recycling of DGEBA-Based Epoxy Thermoset and Carbon-Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite Utilizing Imine-Containing Secondary Amine Hardener.

Epoxy systems are essential in numerous industrial applications due to their exceptional mechanical properties, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. Yet, recycling epoxy networks and reinforcing materials in epoxy composites remains challenging, raising environmental concerns. The critical challenge is the recovery of well-defined molecules upon depolymerization. To address these issues, an innovative strategy is developed utilizing imine-containing secondary amine hardener (M1). The reaction of M1 with DGEBA produced high-performance epoxy thermoset P1, which exhibits Young's modulus of 2.18 GPa and tensile strength of 63.4 MPa, and excellent stability in neutral aqueous conditions. Upon carbon-fiber reinforcement, Young's modulus and tensile strength are significantly elevated to 10.99GPa and 328.3MPa, respectively. The reactive secondary amine functionalities enabled the tailored network to display a well-defined growth pattern, yielding only well-defined molecules and intact carbon fibers upon acidic depolymerization. Consequently, the recycled polymers retained properties identical to those of P1. Notably, it is discovered that despite the cross-linked nature of the epoxy networks, complete dissolution in dichloromethane facilitated straightforward solvent-based recycling, allowing the recovery of undamaged carbon fibers and an epoxy thermoset with properties matching the virgin material. Presented novel monomer design and approach showcased two important and efficient recycling options for epoxy systems.

Cryogenic Impact on Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites for Hydrogen Storage Vessels

Carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy (CF/EP) composites are attractive materials for hydrogen storage tanks due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and outstanding chemical resistance. However, cryogenic temperatures (CTs) have a substantial impact on the tensile strength and interfacial bonding of CF/EP materials, producing problems for their long-term performance and safety in hydrogen storage tank applications. This review paper investigates how low temperatures affect the tensile strength, modulus, and fracture toughness of CF/EP materials, as well as the essential interfacial interactions between carbon fibers (CFs) and the epoxy matrix (EP) in cryogenic environments. Material toughening techniques have evolved significantly, including the incorporation of nano-fillers, hybrid fibers, and enhanced resin formulations, to improve the durability and performance of CF/EP materials in cryogenic conditions. This review also assesses the hydrogen barrier properties of various composites, emphasizing the importance of reducing hydrogen permeability in order to retain material integrity. This review concludes by highlighting the importance of optimizing CF/EP composite design and fabrication for long-term performance and safety in hydrogen storage systems. It examines the prospects for using CF/EP composites in hydrogen storage tanks, as well as future research directions.

Surface metamorphosis techniques for sustainable polymers: Optimizing material performance and environmental impact

The transition to sustainable polymers is crucial for reducing the environmental footprint of additive manufacturing, particularly in fused deposition modeling (FDM). This study investigates surface metamorphosis techniques—methods to modify polymer surfaces at micro and nanoscale levels to enhance performance and minimize environmental impact. We explore plasma treatment, chemical etching, and laser texturing on biodegradable and recycled polymers, assessing their effects on surface properties, such as adhesion, roughness, and chemical resistance. Our results demonstrate significant enhancements in mechanical properties. For example, PLA’s tensile strength increased from 55.3 MPa (untreated) to 63.8 MPa (plasma treated), and its elongation improved from 4.2% to 5.1%. PHA showed a similar trend, with tensile strength rising from 45.1 MPa to 52.6 MPa, and elongation increasing from 5.6% to 6.4%. rPET and rPP also exhibited improvements, indicating the effectiveness of these surface treatments. Employing a multi-criteria decision-making approach, we assess and prioritize these techniques based on their mechanical enhancements and sustainability profiles. While this study presents hypothetical results, it establishes a comprehensive framework for optimizing surface metamorphosis processes, guiding future experimental research. Our findings suggest that tailored surface modifications can significantly improve the performance and environmental sustainability of polymers in FDM, offering pathways for integrating eco-friendly materials into advanced manufacturing. This work contributes to the development of green manufacturing technologies by highlighting surface metamorphosis as a key strategy for achieving high-performance and sustainable materials.

Compact Plasma Ionization for Ion Mobility Spectrometry Using a 4.3 MHz Miniature Tesla Coil.

In this study, a low-cost 4.3 MHz plasma ionization source for ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), utilizing a miniaturized Tesla coil, is presented. This compact design, combined with a 3D printed cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) housing, delivers a stable and directed plasma suitable for ionization in IMS applications. The 3D printed housing ensures chemical resistance and low off-gassing, which are crucial for maintaining sample integrity. The Tesla coil produces a consistent sine wave at 4.3 MHz, and when connected to stainless steel screw electrodes it generates a stable plasma capable of ionizing analytes such as limonene, MTBE, nicotine, 2-octanone, and propofol. Measurements were conducted in both positive and negative ion modes. The results demonstrate the Tesla coil's effectiveness as a low-cost and reliable ionization source for IMS, offering comparable performance to traditional Ni63 β-emitters. This advancement in plasma ionization technology could facilitate more accessible and flexible IMS systems for diverse analytical applications. The integration of 3D printing in the development of this ionization source underscores the potential for customized, low-cost analytical instrumentation, promoting innovation in laboratory environments and commercial applications.

Physicochemical Mechanism of Flame‐Retardant Enhancement for Elastomeric Polyurea: A Mini‐Review

ABSTRACTPolyurea coatings are widely used in various industries due to their excellent mechanical properties, such as high tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance. However, their lack of inherent flame retardancy limits their use in applications where fire safety is critical. Therefore, reinforcing the fire‐retardant properties of traditional polyurea through various means can effectively protect the product while reducing the risk of fire. This paper provides a summary of several advanced methods for improving flame retardancy. It systematically analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of these methods and proposes improvement measures to enhance efficiency. Additionally, the paper proposes new methods to increase the fire resistance of polyurea. These include the addition of new flame‐retardant additives and the substitution of the backbone of polyurea, making it suitable for more industrial applications. This mini‐review can also serve as a valuable reference for future research on improving the flame retardancy of elastomeric polyurea materials.

Comprehensive Study of Stereolithography and Digital Light Processing Printing of Zirconia Photosensitive Suspensions

Zirconia ceramics are used in a wide range of applications, including dental restorations, bioimplants, and fuel cells, due to their accessibility, biocompatibility, chemical resistance, and favorable mechanical properties. Following the development of 3D printing technologies, it is possible to rapidly print zirconia-based objects with high precision using stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) techniques. The advantages of these techniques include the ability to print multiple objects simultaneously on the printing platform. To align with the quality standards, it is necessary to focus on optimizing processing factors such as the viscosity of the suspension and particle size, as well as the prevention of particle agglomeration and sedimentation during printing, comprising the choice of a suitable debinding and sintering mode. The presented review provides a detailed overview of the recent trends in preparing routes for zirconium oxide bodies; from preparing the suspension through printing and sintering to characterizing mechanical properties. Additionally, the review offers insight into applications of zirconium-based ceramics.

Current Advancements in the Behavior Analysis of EPDM Elastomers in Peripheral Applications of the Cathodic Side of PEMFC Systems

This review examines the latest developments in the study of how Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) elastomers behave in peripheral applications of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs), specifically on the cathodic side. The review highlights the crucial role of EPDM in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of PEMFCs in challenging conditions characterized by varying temperatures, humidity, and acidic environments. The study examines the impact of various additives and vulcanization procedures on EPDM's mechanical and chemical properties, demonstrating enhancements in tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. The study also investigates the compounding methods and selection of fillers, such as silica and carbon black, to optimize the performance of EPDM. Additionally, the effects of prolonged operational circumstances on EPDM's mechanical integrity and aging resistance in PEMFCs are being examined. This research emphasizes EPDM's suitability for long-term use in fuel cell systems. This review aims to guide the design of more durable and efficient PEMFC systems by optimizing the use of EPDM elastomers.

Controllably constructing organic-inorganic multilevel network structures by regulating the ratio of APES/OCNTs on the basalt fiber surface to enhance the interfacial properties of fiber/polyethersulfone composites

Basalt fiber-reinforced polyethersulfone (BF/PES) composites exhibit high strength, heat resistance, chemical resistance, excellent mechanical properties, and environmental sustainability. However, the smooth and chemically inert surface of BF results in weak interfacial bonding with PES, limiting its broader applications. In this study, an organic-inorganic multilevel network structure was constructed on the fiber surface by optimizing the ratio of APES and OCNTs, significantly improving the interfacial properties of BF/PES composites and enhancing their overall performance. After treatment with APES2/OCNTs3, the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), flexural strength, flexural modulus, and interfacial shear strength (IFSS) reached 71.9 MPa, 379.1 MPa, 12.8 GPa, and 55.1 MPa, representing increases of 94.8 %, 64.1 %, 140.5 %, and 161.1 %, respectively. Furthermore, the enhancement mechanism and influence pattern of the APES/OCNTs hybrid sizing agent on the composite interface were thoroughly investigated. This simple, effective, and controllable method offers considerable potential for improving the interfacial bonding of BF/PES composites.

Effect of Titanium Oxide (TiO2) Nanoparticles on the Opto-Mechanical Properties of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Fibers

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is widely used in various applications due to its excellent mechanical properties and chemical resistance. However, PET fibers still lack specific features and functionalities that can be improved via nano-additives, particularly metal oxides. In this study, we investigate the effect of adding TiO2 nanoparticles to PET to form PET/TiO2 fibers and examine their opto-mechanical properties. This study utilizes optical interferometric techniques to assess how mechanical stretching influences the optical and mechanical properties of PET fibers treated with TiO2 nanoparticles. A Mach–Zehnder interferometric setup, integrated with a versatile device capable of mechanically stretching samples, is used to achieve this task. Variations in refractive index and birefringence along the longitudinal axis of undrawn and drawn PET/TiO2 fibers are examined. The research meticulously explores the fluctuations and spatial variations in the refractive index and birefringence properties, exhibiting anisotropy in optical behavior, along the longitudinal axis of unstretched and stretched PET/TiO2 fibers. The findings and outcomes derived from this comprehensive study provide substantive information that can facilitate the enhancement and optimization of the coupled optical and mechanical properties of materials explicitly engineered for advanced applications.

EXPLORING CERAMIC REFRACTORY MATERIALS: CLASSIFICATION AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS

The article explores the primary types of ceramic refractory materials, focusing on their properties and applications in high-temperature industrial processes. Key technological advancements in refractory manufacturing are discussed, with an emphasis on enhancing material strength, chemical resistance, and durability. The analysis highlights the specific characteristics of each refractory type, including fireclay, magnesite, corundum, and silicon carbide, and their utilization across various industries such as metallurgy, energy, and glass production. Modern production and modification methods for refractories are presented, aimed at improving thermal resistance and reducing the operational costs of equipment.

Identifying substrate triggers for appressorium development in Setosphaeria turcica and functional characterization of Zn(II)2Cys6 transcription factors StTF1 and StTF2

Northern corn leaf blight is a devastating disease caused by Setosphaeria turcica (S. turcica), leading to significant yield losses in maize. S. turcica initiates infection through a specialized structure known as the appressorium, which only forms on conducive substrates. In this study, we introduce a semi‑silicone water polyurethane resin (Si-PUD) that induces only germ tube formation from S. turcica conidia. A mixed coating of Si-PUD and polytetrafluoroethylene successfully triggers appressorium formation. Both coatings maintain optical transparency, chemical resistance, and thermal stability, which facilitate microscopic observations and the development of high-throughput systems. These coatings also demonstrate similar effects on Bipolaris maydis (B. maydis), suggesting their potential universal applicability. Utilizing coating-induced synchronous appressorium formation and proteomic analyses, we identified five genes essential for S. turcica appressorium development. Functional analyses of two zinc binuclear cluster domain-containing transcription factors, StTF1 and StTF2, revealed their critical roles in appressorium development and pathogenicity. This study not only develops a novel method for inducing appressorium formation but also lays the groundwork for rapid screening of environmentally-friendly fungicides that inhibit appressorium development.

Contact Antibacterial and Biocompatible Polymeric, Composite with Copper Zeolite Filler and Copper Oxide, Nanoparticles: A Step Towards New Raw Materials for the Biomedical Industry

This paper introduces a simple procedure for developing composite materials with antibacterial and biocompatible properties using polylactic acid (PLA) and polypropylene (PP). These composites incorporate three variants of zeolites in different percentages as filler agents: pure zeolite (PZ), copper ion-saturated zeolite (LZ), and copper-ion-saturated zeolite with copper oxide nanoparticles (LZ-nCu). The composites were prepared by the extrusion method and manufactured by injection molding. The impact of these zeolites on various material properties was evaluated, including morphology, thermal stability, mechanical properties, antibacterial capacity, biocompatibility, water absorption, and chemical resistance. The results demonstrated that (i) the incorporation of zeolite into the PP matrix improved thermal stability and increased the tensile modulus of the composites. For PLA-based composites, although there was a slight decrease in these values compared to pure PLA, they remained within acceptable ranges; (ii) zeolite LZ and LZnCu composites at 5 and 10% by weight effectively inhibited the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria within a maximum of 2 hours of contact; and (iii) composites containing 10% by weight of PZ, LZ, or LZ-nCu showed reduced mechanical properties due to a tendency to form agglomerates. Additionally, LZ and LZ-nCu composites with the same percentage proved highly toxic to human gingival fibroblast cells (HGFs). PLA/LZ-nCu at 5% and PP/LZ at 5% composites exhibited antibacterial properties with bactericidal effects upon contact, high biocompatibility, and lower water absorption compared to the pure polymeric matrix. These results highlight the operational effectiveness of the procedure and suggest the potential of these composites in biomedical applications, such as in vitro dentistry, without contamination risks.

Diamond etching with near-zero micromasking

The outstanding material properties of single-crystal diamond have been the origin of the long-standing interest in its exploitation for engineering of high-performance micro- and nanosystems. Etching and patterning diamond have proven challenging due to the hardness and chemical resistance of the material. In this work, the patterned etching process of single-crystal diamond has been investigated using the inductively coupled plasma etching technique. In order to avoid the micromasking phenomenon caused by the metal mask, this paper adopts the Ar/O2-Ar/Cl2/BCl3 two-step cycle etching process and investigates the effect of the Cl2/BCl3 gas ratio on the bottom morphology of single-crystal diamond grid grooves. A theoretical explanation is provided for the use of chlorine-based gases to eliminate micromasking and achieve a smooth etching surface. Finally, an Ar/O₂-Ar/Cl₂/BCl3 cyclic etching process for patterning single-crystal diamond with near-zero micromasking has been developed.

Development and Characterization of Advanced Nano-Coating with CeO₂, Al₂O₃, ZnO, and TiO₂ Nanoparticles for Enhanced Durability and Corrosion Resistance

This study introduces an innovative sol-gel nano-coating designed to address silica scaling and corrosion in hydrothermal and high-stimulation environments. By incorporating CeO₂, Al₂O₃, ZnO, and TiO₂ nanoparticles into a polymer matrix through precise sonication techniques, the coating achieves uniform dispersion and enhanced functional performance. The meticulous characterization of nanoparticle integration optimizes mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. Applied via a directional supplying device, the nano-coating is mechanically deposited onto the cemented walls of wells, providing robust protection against scaling and corrosion across diverse conditions, including varying temperatures and pH levels. Laboratory testing demonstrates significant reductions in silica scaling and corrosion rates, confirming the coating's efficacy in maintaining production efficiency in both hydrothermal projects and fracking operations. This paper details the synthesis process and molecular chemistry involved in nanoparticle integration, alongside the resultant structural properties of the coating. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) assesses thermal stability, while kinetic models such as Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO) and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS) evaluate activation energy without assuming specific reaction models. The findings highlight the potential of this advanced nano-coating as a robust solution for enhancing operational longevity and efficiency in challenging industrial applications.

An Imine-Functionalized Silicone-Based Epoxy Coating with Stable Adhesion and Controllable Degradation for Enhanced Marine Antifouling and Anticorrosion Properties.

Biofouling and corrosion of submerged equipment caused by marine organisms severely restrict the rapid development of the marine industry. Traditional antifouling or anticorrosion coatings typically serve a sole purpose and exhibit limited degradability upon failure, rendering them inadequate for current demands. Herein, a novel imine-functionalized command-degradable bio-based epoxy coating (SAHPEP-DDM) with enhanced integrated antifouling and anticorrosion performances was synthesized utilizing 1,3-bis (3-aminopropyl)-1,1,3,3-tetramethyldisiloxane and syringaldehyde. Compared with commercial epoxy resins (E51-DDM) and polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS), the SAHPEP-DDM coating exhibits superior antifouling and anticorrosion properties due to the existence of -C=N- and Si-O-Si chain segments in the cross-linking network. The coating achieves resistance rates of 99.59 % and 99.20 % against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively, and shows promising resistance against algae and proteins, as well as excellent corrosion resistance in artificial seawater (with |Z|0.01 Hz and arc radius of about 1011 Ω and exceeding 1010 Ω respectively). The coating also exhibits excellent chemical resistance in organic solvents as well as neutral and alkaline environments. Moreover, its controlled degradation after coating failure can be achieved in acid aqueous solutions through temperature and acidity adjustments, facilitated by the presence of -C=N-. This work presents a novel degradable coating successfully coupled the dual functions of antifouling and anticorrosion coatings, avoiding the employment of intermediate coat, indicating vast potential for application in various marine engineering fields.

Deposition of Imidazole into Mesoporous Zirconium Metal-Organic Framework for Iodine Capture.

Efficient capture of radioiodine is essential for the protection of the ecological environment and the sustainable development of nuclear energy generation. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives provide alternative potential for overcoming the limitations of traditional iodine adsorbents. Herein this work, imidazole (Im) is dispersed into a robust mesoporous zirconium MOF PCN-222 by the heat deposition method, forming a high-uniformity composite Im@PCN-222. The large pore size and marked chemical resistance skeleton of PCN-222 allow the incorporation of Im to reach 43 wt % while surviving the chemical corrosion of activated Im. The nearly saturated loading of Im significantly benefits the sorption capability toward iodine and gives rise to an exceptional adsorption capacity of 10.04 g g-1 and excellent recyclability. This value is higher than that of most of the MOFs and their derivatives. Further, Im was also successfully deposited onto the PCN-222 functionalized porous Al2O3 ceramic filtration membrane, which endowed the hybrid membrane with efficient iodine sorption and separation properties. This work highlights a new strategy for the fabrication of the MOF-based radioiodine adsorption composite as well as MOF composite-based filters.