Nanocomposite Coatings Research Articles

Assessment of the performance of Ni carbon nanotube nano composite coatings and activated carbon for diesel exhaust treatment

Abstract Diesel engines are essential in sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and power generation, offering benefits like fuel efficiency, high power output, and durability. However, their emissions (NOX, CO2, CO, HC, SO2, and PM) significantly contribute to air pollution, posing serious environmental and health risks. This study aimed to design and fabricate a unit that simulates diesel engine emissions and tests various purification materials. The unit consists of a combustion chamber, filtration media, and exhaust pipes, with materials such as activated carbon, activated carbon with magnesium oxide, and Ni-Carbon Nanotube (CNTs) nanocomposites tested under controlled combustion conditions to measure their pollutant removal efficiencies. Results showed that 100% activated carbon achieved pollutant removal efficiencies of 85.21% for CO2, 80.77% for CO, and 68.84% for HC. Combining activated carbon with magnesium oxide (AC: MgO) enhanced these efficiencies to 76.92% for CO2, 86.84% for CO, and 73.28% for HC. Ni-CNTs nanocomposites (at 0.2 concentration) demonstrated the highest performance, with removal efficiencies of 93.13% for CO2, 94.87% for CO, and 76.02% for HC. These results emphasize the potential of Ni-CNTs nanocomposites as highly efficient materials for reducing diesel exhaust emissions, contributing significantly to cleaner air, better public health, and more sustainable diesel technologies.

Epoxy-based vitrimeric semi-interpenetrating network/MXene nanocomposites for hydrogen gas barrier applications.

Herein, we report MXene-filled epoxy-based vitrimeric nanocomposites featuring a semi-interpenetrating network (S-IPN) to develop a hydrogen gas (H2) barrier coating with self-healing characteristics for compressed H2 storage applications. The reversible epoxy network was formed by synthesizing linear epoxy chains with pendent bis-hydroxyl groups using amino diol, which were then crosslinked with 1,4-benzenediboronic acid to generate dynamic boronic ester linkages. To achieve the S-IPN-type molecular arrangement, the epoxy chains were in situ crosslinked in the presence of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) (EVOH), giving rise to a self-healing network (EEP) with a healing efficiency of 87%. Into the S-IPN vitrimer (EEP), a 2D platelet-type nanofiller MXene was incorporated to introduce a tortuous path for H2 gas diffusion along with improved mechanical properties. The nanocomposite coating was applied to nylon 6 liner material, which is conventionally used in all-composite H2 storage vessels. The application of a 2 wt% MXene/EEP nanocomposite coating showed a permeability coefficient of 0.062 cm3 mm m-2 d-1 atm-1 exhibiting ∼96% reduction in gas permeability compared to uncoated nylon 6. The same nanocomposite exhibited a healing efficiency of 79%. Increasing the MXene loading to 10 wt% further reduced the permeability coefficient to 0.002 cm3 mm m-2 d-1 atm-1; however, the healing efficiency decreased due to restricted chain mobility. In essence, the current work highlights the potential of vitrimeric S-IPN nanocomposite coatings for H2 gas-barrier applications, enhancing safety and performance.

MXene–Soy Protein–Hydroxyapatite Fire-Retardant Hybrid Nanocomposite Coating for Wood Protection and Forest Fire Prevention

MXene–Soy Protein–Hydroxyapatite Fire-Retardant Hybrid Nanocomposite Coating for Wood Protection and Forest Fire Prevention

Engineering antibacterial plasma-polymerized polyethylene glycol-ZnO nanocomposite coatings for extending pork sausage shelf life.

Recently, interest in eco-friendly techniques for producing antibacterial food packaging films has surged. Within this context, plasma polymerization is emerging as a promising approach for applying degradable antibacterial coatings on various plastic films. This research therefore employs an atmospheric pressure aerosol-assisted plasma deposition technique to create polyethylene glycol (PEG)-like coatings embedding zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) of varying sizes on polyethylene (PE) substrates. The antimicrobial efficacy of these plasma-polymerized PEG-ZnO coatings against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is assessed, demonstrating a robust antibacterial effect, particularly when using smaller ZnO NPs (35-45nm). The deposition of uniform, conformal PEG-ZnO nanocomposites with a chemical composition akin to standard PEG polymers has been achieved. In addition, ZnO NPs are homogeneously dispersed within the PEG matrix, up to a concentration of 1wt%. To assess the antibacterial performance in contact with real food, pasteurized pork sausages inoculated with a mixture of L. monocytogenes or LAB strains are wrapped in plasma-coated PE and vacuum-packed. Bacterial growth is monitored during storage at 7°C over time, demonstrating that the developed plasma-polymerized PEG-ZnO nanocomposite effectively inhibits bacterial growth during refrigerated storage, with a more pronounced effect on LAB. The release of Zn from the developed PEG-ZnO nanocomposite into various food simulants also remains below the specific migration limit (5mg kg-1 or L-1 food), confirming coating safety. Overall, plasma-polymerized PEG-ZnO nanocomposite coatings thus show great promise as effective degradable antimicrobial films for food packaging applications.

Development of corrosion-resistant hydrophobic Zn/ZnO composite coatings on steel substrates

Abstract The surface engineering technique evolved, making it easier to protect steel from harsh and corrosive environments. Corrosion is an enduring problem for steel that cannot be completely eliminated but can be reduced to the bare minimum. Traditional methods like galvanization and painting still exist, but hydrophobic coatings are efficient and mostly used to protect the steel from deterioration. In this work we have used nano composite hydrophobic coatings among Zn (galvanized), ZnO, and Zn/ZnO on steel samples to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in reducing corrosion rate. Electrodeposition techniques are used to incorporate the coating deposits. Spark emission spectroscopy and x-ray Fluorescence elemental analysis shows the composition of bare and galvanized steel. The x-ray Diffraction analysis (XRD) analysis proved that Zn/ZnO phases are present in coatings. The results of scratch test revealed that the bond strength increased in the hydro-Zn/ZnO-coated samples as compared to the Zn or Zn/ZnO-coated samples. Furthermore, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed the formation of a new layer on the substrate’s surface, causing it to become rough and exhibiting growing nanostructure properties. The contact angle test proves the hydrophobic nature of composite coatings on the steel samples. The STA Zn/ZnO, coating shows the super hydrophobicity with the lowest corrosion rate, at 0.04 mm/area.

Preparation and tribological performance of the plasma-sprayed TiWN nano-composite coatings

Preparation and tribological performance of the plasma-sprayed TiWN nano-composite coatings

Evaluation of clay loaded polyurethane nanocomposite coatings for thermal, mechanical and water barrier performance

Evaluation of clay loaded polyurethane nanocomposite coatings for thermal, mechanical and water barrier performance

Magnetron sputtering of titanium carbonitride nanocomposite coatings — Does the choice of carbon source affect film properties?

Magnetron sputtering of titanium carbonitride nanocomposite coatings — Does the choice of carbon source affect film properties?

3D Surface Characterization of Polymer-Oxide Nanocomposite Coating Using Nanoscale Stereometric Approach for Enhanced Functionality

3D Surface Characterization of Polymer-Oxide Nanocomposite Coating Using Nanoscale Stereometric Approach for Enhanced Functionality

Development and Characterization of Reduced Graphene Oxide-Based Nanocomposite Coatings

Nanoparticles synthesised by various chemical methods are extensively used in textiles, medicine, agriculture and industrial applications. Due to its physicochemical properties, reduced graphene-oxide (r-GO) is a nanoparticle used in multiple fields. Reduced nano-graphene oxide powder was synthesised by using graphite powder. Ni-P coatings with nano r-GO were developed on the pretreated aluminium alloy Al-6061 using sodium acetate as a complexing agent by electroless plating technique. UV-visible spectrophotometric studies carried out the screening of complexing agents. The surface characteristics and microstructure of the plated samples were investigated by EDAX, SEM and XRD. EDX confirmed the presence of GO in the coatings. The coatings were found to have Spherical globules with black spots. XRD studies indicate the graphitic structure of the coatings. The coatings were also examined by adhesion and microhardness tests.

Conductive nanocomposite coatings deposited by low-temperature aerosol-assisted atmospheric pressure plasma for selective sensing of ammonia at room temperature

Conductive nanocomposite coatings deposited by low-temperature aerosol-assisted atmospheric pressure plasma for selective sensing of ammonia at room temperature

Fabrication and characterization of chitosan-based bionanocomposite coating reinforced with TiO2 nanoparticles and carbon quantum dots for enhanced antimicrobial efficacy.

Polymer-based nanocomposite coatings that are enhanced with nanoparticles have gained recognition as effective materials for antibacterial purposes, providing improved durability and biocidal effectiveness. This research introduces an innovative chitosan-based polymer nanocomposite, enhanced with titanium oxide nanopowders and carbon quantum dots. The material was synthesized via the sol-gel process and applied to 316L stainless steel through dip-coating. Structural and morphological properties, including crystal structure, microstructure, elemental dispersion, particle size distribution, chemical composition, and surface morphology, were thoroughly characterized. The results demonstrated that carbon quantum dots and titanium oxide nanopowders were uniformly dispersed within the chitosan matrix, forming a homogeneous, non-agglomerated coating. The antibacterial efficacy of the synthesized samples against 7 different Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was assessed through disk diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) tests. The results confirmed the antibacterial activity of synthesized samples against most of the bacterial pathogens tested but exhibited stronger antibacterial effects on Gram-negative bacteria compared to Gram-positive bacteria. The largest inhibition zones, measuring 21 mm and 16 mm, were observed for Pseudomonas and E. coli for titanium dioxide nanoparticles and the final nanocomposite, respectively. Additionally, the MIC and MBC values for all 7 bacteria were determined.

Development of a Highly Hydrophobic Micro/Nanostructured Nanocomposite Coating of PLA-PEG-Cloisite 20A Nanoclay with Excellent Hemocompatibility and Rapid Endothelialization Properties for Cardiovascular Applications.

Despite the unique properties of clay nanocomposites for cardiovascular applications, there are few data on the hemocompatibility of these nanomaterials. This study represents the first comprehensive investigation of the hemo/biocompatibility of clay nanocomposites in vitro. Nanocomposite coatings of polylactic acid (PLA)-polyethylene glycol (3 wt %)-Cloisite20A nanoclay (3 wt %) were produced using electrospraying technique as potential drug-eluting stent (DES) coatings. Pristine PLA coating served as a control. The coatings ' different structural and biological properties were assessed, including surface morphology, topography, hydrophobicity, mechanics, and the interaction of nanocomposites with blood components, endothelial cells (EC), and bacteria. Findings indicated that all of the coatings were highly hydrophobic with microbead/nanofiber morphology and had antifouling properties. The absorption profiles of plasma proteins were similar for all groups, and nanocomposites did not trigger the coagulation cascade and complement activation. The nanocomposites did not increase hemolysis or platelet and leukocyte adhesion and activation. Interestingly, the nanocomposites exhibited the lowest levels of interleukin-6 production. Cellular experiments showed that the nanocomposites did not reduce ECs survival compared to the control group, and a continuous layer of ECs covered the nanocomposite surfaces after 4 days. These results demonstrate the exceptional hemo/biocompatibility of as-prepared clay nanocomposites as promising biomaterials for implants such as DESs.

Yellow fluorescent UV-curable epoxy acrylate/VTMS-modified GQDs coatings: study of UV-blocking and viscoelastic properties

Polymer coatings decompose in the presence of UV radiation from sunlight and beget economic and environmental losses. Hence, it is necessary to reinforce the polymer coatings with UV-blocking nanoparticles and to convert the UV light into visible light. In this research work, the surface of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) was modified by vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS). VTMS-modified GQDs (VmGQDs) including 0, 0.3 and 0.6 wt% were taken into account to synthesize UV-curable epoxy acrylate/VmGQDs (Ep/VmGQDs) nanocomposite coatings. Surface modification, UV-blockage, fluorescence features and viscoelastic properties of Ep/VmGQDs coatings were analyzed by various spectrometry tests. The existence of VmGQDs (0.3 wt% and 0.6 wt%) in the polymer matrix led to absorption of UV rays in UV regions and fluorescence emission in the visible area with 578 nm wavelength (yellow fluorescence). Appearance of strong absorption bands at 250, 285 and 365 nm by the coatings with VmGQDs confirmed that a large portion of UV rays was absorbed and blocked. The intensity of UV-blockage by Ep/VmGQDs 0.6 wt% was recorded >99%. Furthermore, reinforcement of the coatings with VmGQDs resulted in increase in storage modulus, cross-linking density and Tg value.

Electrodeposition of hydrophobic Ni-Co-TiO2 nanocomposite coatings on XC70 mild steels for improving corrosion resistance

Electrodeposition of hydrophobic Ni-Co-TiO2 nanocomposite coatings on XC70 mild steels for improving corrosion resistance

Recent developments in alginate-based nanocomposite coatings and films for biodegradable food packaging applications.

Packaging made of plastic harms the environment. Thus, polysaccharide edible films are becoming a popular food packaging solution. Alginate is a biopolymer derived from seaweed that has the potential to create food packaging materials that are environmentally friendly and biodegradable. This article explores the potential use of nanocomposite coatings and films made from alginate as an alternative to petroleum-based polymers in the food industry. Alginate is desirable for food packaging due to its low cost, high nutritional value, renewability, low oxygen permeability, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. This article delves into alginate's history and extraction processes and covers techniques for modifying its physical and chemical properties using blended polymers and additives. Alginate-based coatings and films have been found to improve the mechanical properties and sensory characteristics of various food items and prolong the shelf life of perishable items by regulating oxygen and moisture levels and as a barrier against microbial growth. Further investigation is necessary to maximize the performance of alginate-based polymers in various food industry applications. Future prospects call on advancements in their physicochemical and functional characteristics to increase the acceptability of alginate-based nanocomposite coatings and films for biodegradable food packaging applications.

One-step fabrication of wear resistant and friction-reducing Al2O3/MoS2 nanocomposite coatings on 2A50 aluminum alloy by plasma electrolytic oxidation with MoS2 nanoparticle additive

One-step fabrication of wear resistant and friction-reducing Al2O3/MoS2 nanocomposite coatings on 2A50 aluminum alloy by plasma electrolytic oxidation with MoS2 nanoparticle additive

Impact of ultrasonic power density on the structure and performance of Ni-W-SiC composite nanocoatings

Impact of ultrasonic power density on the structure and performance of Ni-W-SiC composite nanocoatings

Friction and Wear of Nitrogen Doped DLC Coating and Platinum/Ruthenium/Nitrogen Co-Doped DLC Nano-Composite Coating

Friction and Wear of Nitrogen Doped DLC Coating and Platinum/Ruthenium/Nitrogen Co-Doped DLC Nano-Composite Coating

Electrochemical Synthesis of Polyaniline@Nano Zinc Oxide/Modified Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Nanocomposite Coating for Solid Phase Microextraction of Some Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Coffee and Grilled Meat.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are carcinogenic compounds resulting from incomplete burning of organic materials. This work describes the successful layer-by-layer fabrication of a novel zinc oxide nanocomposite made of zinc oxide nanoparticles, aniline, sodium dodecyl sulfate, and modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes on a stainless steel wire by electrodeposition. The coating and extraction conditions were screened, optimized, and validated using factorial design and central composite design, respectively. The prepared nanocomposites were characterized by the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller techniques. It featured a porous structure, excellent heat stability, and a high extraction capacity. It also adhered well to the steel surface. Extracting PAHs was optimized through experimental design. The optimal conditions obtained for extraction were 60min, 30%, and 30°C for extraction time, amount of salt, and extraction temperature, respectively. The validated method generally showed a linear range between 0.01 to 1.50 µg/mL with a linearity of (R2) of 0.9902-0.9992, limits of detection less than 0.003 µg/mL, limit of quantification lower than 0.010 µg/mL, and relative standard deviation percent less than 45. Recovery values of the analytes in food samples varied between 53.4% and 110.1%. The proposed method was employed in the extraction and determination of some PAHs in some food samples while naphthalene, anthracene, phenanthrene, benzo[a]pyrene, and benz[a]anthracene were detected in certain food samples. Overall, our research suggests a novel nanocomposite as a potential fiber coating that enables high-capacity PAH extraction.