Glass Content Research Articles

Study on the influence of weathering process on the chemical composition of ancient glass based on CLR

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of weathering processes on the chemical composition of high-potassium and lead-barium glass. First, correlation and difference analyses were performed on the surface weathering of glass artifacts in relation to their glass type, ornaments, and color, all of which showed that glass type had a significant effect on surface weathering, and that lead-barium glass was more susceptible to weathering than high-potassium glass. Then, the complex and difficult compositional data of glass artifacts were transformed into simple and easy to handle CLR data by central logarithmic ratio transformation (CLR), and independent sample t-tests or Satterthwaite approximate t-tests were performed for each chemical composition content of high-potassium glass and lead-barium glass before and after weathering, respectively, to identify the influence of weathering process on the chemical composition content of the two glasses. Finally, the chemical composition content of the weathered glass artifacts before weathering was predicted from their chemical composition content after weathering by distribution matching method and transformed back to the compositional data by CLR inversion.

Influence of CaF2 on the spectroscopic studies of Dy–Eu co-doped fluoroborate glass for lighting applications

To investigate novel glass materials applicable to W-LED, we designed and prepared a series of glasses with varying compositions. The compositions of the glasses were (64-x)B2O3–15Al2O3–10Na2O–10Bi2O3-xCaF2-0.5Dy2O3-0.5Eu2O3 (x = 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25). The glasses were synthesized using the melting quenching method. The effect of CaF2 on the structural feature of fluoroborate glass was studied by infrared spectroscopy analyses. Determination of fluorine content in glass by 19F NMR inversion spectroscopy. The absorbance of glass increased as the CaF2 content increased in the visible and ultraviolet light ranges. The optical band gap of the prepared glasses was obtained from the absorption spectrum, which confirmed the existence of nonbridging oxygen (NBO) in the glass network structure. The fluorescence lifetime of the glass increases with increasing CaF2 content, and the quantum yield of the glass first increases and then decreases. In addition, fluoroborate glass had a lower Urbach energy, indicating that its network structure was relatively uniform and stable. In contrast, the increase in Urbach energy is due to the substitution of CaF2, leading to more defects. By adjusting the excitation wavelength and CaF2 content, the color temperature (1598–3346 K) and color rendering index (36–63) of fluoroborate glass can be effectively adjusted. These results show that the prepared Dy/Eu co-doped fluoroborate glasses have a potential application in white lighting.

Luminescence features of Ho3+ , Er3+ and Tm3+ ions in red lead added non-conventional antimony oxide glass system.

In this study, a glass system based on heavy metal oxides, namely Pb3 O4 -Sb2 O3 -SiO2 , was prepared with Ho2 O3 , Er2 O3 , and Tm2 O3 as dopants. The prepared glass were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and infrared (IR) studies. The luminescence efficiencies of the three rare earth ions viz., Ho3+ , Er3+ , and Tm3+ in the glass system were investigated, specifically focusing on green (Ho3+ , Er3+ ), blue (Tm3+ ), and near-infrared (NIR) emissions. The optical absorption (OA) and photoluminescence (PL) spectra of RE mixed glass displayed strong bands in the visible and NIR regions, which were analyzed using the Judd-Ofelt (J-O) theory. The J-O coefficients (Ωλ ) were found to be in the order of Ω2 > Ω4 > Ω6 for all the three glass. Notably, the Tm3+ -doped glass exhibited the lowest Ω2 value, which was attributed to a larger degree of disorder in the glass network due to lower fractions of Sb5+ and Pb4+ ions that take part in the glass network forming. This conclusion was arrived based on the IR studies. Furthermore, the quantitative analysis of PL spectra and decay curves indicated that SbHo and SbEr glass were suitable for efficient green emission, while SbTm glass is a promising choice for blue laser emission.

Experimental Study on the Synergistic Solidification of Soft Soil with Ceramic Powder–Slag–Phosphorus Slag

The bearing capacity of silt soft soil is poor, making it difficult for it to be used as a subgrade material in foundation engineering, and the use of traditional Portland cement curing agents causes environmental pollution. In this study, a new soft soil curing agent, CSP (ceramic powder–slag–phosphorus slag), was prepared using ceramic powder, slag, and phosphorus slag. The unconfined compressive strength of 7-day was determined via an orthogonal test, and the optimal ratio of the curing agent was determined. The effects of the initial water content, curing agent content, admixture type, and admixture content on the mechanical properties of solidified soil were investigated via a uniaxial compression test. The microstructure characteristics of the solidified soil were analyzed via XRD and SEM-EDS, and the mechanism by which ceramic powder–slag–phosphorus slag acted as a curing agent to increase the strength of the soft soil was explored. The results show that the optimal ratio of the curing agent for the inorganic binder is ceramic powder/slag/phosphorus slag = 3:2:1, the best water glass modulus is 1 mold, the best water glass content is 26%, and the 7-day compressive strength can reach 2.382 MPa; the strength of the solidified soil decreases with an increase in the water content and increases with an increase in the curing agent content. When the water content is 35% and the curing agent content is 14%, the strength of the solidified soil can meet the requirements of relevant specifications. When the content of triisopropanolamine was 2.0% and 1.5%, the compressive strength of the 7-day and 28-day solidified soil specimens increased most significantly. The ceramic powder–slag–phosphorus slag can promote the formation of aggregates and amorphous hydration products (C-S-H, C-A-H), be distributed on the surface of the soil and fill the pores, and enhance the cementation between the particles, improving the compactness of the soil structure. In terms of the macroscopic performance, the mechanical properties of the solidified soil were significantly improved. Therefore, CSP curing agents can be promoted and applied as green, economical, environmentally friendly, and low-carbon curing materials in soft soil roadbed engineering.

Effect of 3d-transition metal ions on the structural, optical and magnetic properties of chromium-bearing barium borate glass

This article reports the effect of 3d-transition metal ions on the optical features of chromium ions bearing glass host. Interestingly, this study unveiled the charge transfer of Cr ions at high energy (at 347 nm), which is often hidden in earlier reports due to its vicinity to the glass edge, and its immersion in the lattice band of the glass host. In addition to the well-defined charge transfer at low energy (at 378 nm). In this vein, glass composition [(TM)1−(B2O3)80−(BaO)18.7−(Cr2O3)0.3], where TM is the transition metal ions in their oxide form, was prepared via the melt-quenching method at about 1100 °C. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the amorphous structure of the glass, and the chemical composition was examined using energy-dispersive X-ray spectra. The decrease in density (from 2.74 gcm−3 to 2.59 gcm−3) and the increase in molar volume (from 31.92 cm3mol−1 to 34.32 cm3mol−1) were demonstrated. Moreover, the refractive index is attained at an average value (1.50). The glass structure was studied using infrared spectroscopy, which elucidated an increase in N4 (33.2%–37.5 %) and an increase in NBO (15.3%-18.4 %). Bewitshingly, the charge transfer of Cr6+ ions, at high energy (347 nm), was explored. This, in turn, leads to a proper investigation of glass absorption edges that undergo a blue shift of about 1.25 eV. Adding 3d-transition metal ions affects crystal field splitting energy and interelectronic interaction within the d-orbitals of Cr ions. Finally, ESR data confirmed the Cr5+ state (with ESR signal at 1.92) and Cr3+ state (with ESR signal at 4.6, 4.07 and 2.04) of chromium ions. Such a cohesive investigation of the structure, optical and magnetic properties of 3d-transition metal ions-bearing chromium barium borate glass paved the route toward utilization of these samples in the optoelectronic realm.

UV-Cured Bio-Based Acrylated Soybean Oil Scaffold Reinforced with Bioactive Glasses.

In this study, a bio-based acrylate resin derived from soybean oil was used in combination with a reactive diluent, isobornyl acrylate, to synthetize a composite scaffold reinforced with bioactive glass particles. The formulation contained acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO), isobornyl acrylate (IBOA), a photo-initiator (Irgacure 819) and a bioactive glass particle. The resin showed high reactivity towards radical photopolymerisation, and the presence of the bioactive glass did not significantly affect the photocuring process. The 3D-printed samples showed different properties from the mould-polymerised samples. The glass transition temperature Tg showed an increase of 3D samples with increasing bioactive glass content, attributed to the layer-by-layer curing process that resulted in improved interaction between the bioactive glass and the polymer matrix. Scanning electron microscope analysis revealed an optimal distribution on bioactive glass within the samples. Compression tests indicated that the 3D-printed sample exhibited higher modulus compared to mould-synthetized samples, proving the enhanced mechanical behaviour of 3D-printed scaffolds. The cytocompatibility and biocompatibility of the samples were evaluated using human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (bMSCs). The metabolic activity and attachment of cells on the samples' surfaces were analysed, and the results demonstrated higher metabolic activity and increased cell attachment on the surfaces containing higher bioactive glass content. The viability of the cells was further confirmed through live/dead staining and reseeding experiments. Overall, this study presents a novel approach for fabricating bioactive glass reinforced scaffolds using 3D printing technology, offering potential applications in tissue engineering.

Analyzing the microstructure of cemented fills adding polypropylene-glass fibers with X-ray micro-computed tomography

Fiber reinforced cementitious tailings backfill (FRCTB) is progressively employed in mining industry due to its high strength/stiffness-to-weight ratio. However, the wide use of the FRCTB technique requires further study of the practice of many different types of fibers, either alone or in combination. In this regard, this paper explores the impact of composite (glass-polypropylene) fibers on microstructure of FRCTBs considering weak surface and pore characteristics. The fractures of backfills were quantitatively analyzed by a non-destructive X-ray micro-computed tomography system which permits imagining of the interior microstructures of backfills via the construction of 3D volumetric data in diverse spatial scales. Quantitative parameters cover percent weak surface, porosity, and pore sphericity. The spatial distribution of weak surfaces, pores, and fissures and the bridging effect of fibers were also analyzed based on the 3D reconstruction technique. Adding fibers increased the percentage of FRCTB's weak surface. The greater the glass fiber dose, the larger the percentage of the weak surface. Composite fibers can lessen FRCTB's porosity. The smallest FRCTB porosity was 0.07 % for glass and PP fiber contents of 0.4 wt% and 0.2 wt%, respectively. A rise in glass fiber dose causes a rise in volume of 10–100 mm3 pore content. Fibers have a greater impact on the volume of 0.1–100 mm3 pores, and the rise in glass fiber dose deteriorates shape of this type of pores, leading to a reduction in the sphericity of this type of pores. There is a clear correlation between the distribution patterns of weak surfaces, pores, and fissures along the height of the specimens. Weak surfaces and pores are prone to develop as fractures. Fibers can limit the crack expansion in FRCTB. Lastly, this study presents a time- and cost-saving method for analyzing FRCTB's microstructure.

Variations in water saturation states and their impact on eruption size and frequency at the Aso supervolcano, Japan

The exsolution of a magmatic volatile phase in the plumbing systems of volcanoes plays a key role in controlling growth dynamics of subvolcanic reservoirs and eruptive styles. By using common petrological proxies found in volcanic deposits, such as melt inclusions and apatite crystals, the presence of such an exsolved magmatic volatile phase can be traced, specifically the exsolution of water from silicate melt. To monitor variations in the water saturation state of magmas from the Aso volcanic complex (Kyushu, Japan) prior to and during the catastrophic Aso-4 caldera-forming event (at ∼86 ka BP), we investigate a set of pre-Aso-4 and Aso-4 deposits, combining volatile budgets (F, Cl, OH, S) of melt inclusions, matrix glasses, and apatite crystals, with sulfur isotope signatures in apatite. F-Cl-OH partitioning in apatite along with melt inclusion data from pre-Aso-4 units indicate water-undersaturated conditions during magma evolution until around 10 ka prior to the Aso-4 event. In contrast, eruptions occurring within the last ∼10 ka prior to the Aso-4 event indicate the presence of a water-rich exsolved magmatic volatile phase in the eruptible portions of the subvolcanic reservoir. Likewise, sulfur systematics in apatite and melt inclusions from the Aso-4 event suggest the exsolution of a water-rich magmatic volatile phase at some point prior to the caldera-forming event. Recharge of mafic magmas shortly before the Aso-4 eruption induced chemical hybridization in the resident upper crustal mush, bringing the reservoir back to less evolved compositions and water-undersaturated conditions. This hybridization event is recorded by volatile contents of both apatite and matrix glasses from late-erupted, crystal-rich products of the Aso-4 event, all yielding water-undersaturated signatures. During this hybridization event, chemical dilution and partial redissolution of the exsolved volatile phase reduced the magma compressibility significantly, so that additional magma influx from depth might have allowed a sharply increasing overpressurization in the subvolcanic reservoir and served as a potential trigger for the cataclysmic Aso-4 eruption. Drawing from our observations made on Aso, we propose that recharging of large silicic upper-crustal reservoirs with increased volumes of drier and more mafic melts can influence their water saturation states and associated physical properties. Such changes could contribute to the triggering of large-scale caldera-forming events.

Determination of optical constants via the single oscillator Drude-Voigt dispersion model in fluoroborate glass for optical lenses: Nonlinear optical properties

In this work, a new fluoroborate (B2O3+AlF3+NaF + CaF2) glass has been fabricated using the melt-quenching technique. Glass sample has been characterized via X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and optical spectrophotometric measurements for absorption, transmission, and reflection in the range of 350–750 nm. The optical absorption of this transparent glass is used to determine the absorption coefficients, which are then used to estimate the extinction coefficients. The refractive indices as a function of wavelengths are estimated using extinction coefficients and reflectance data of fluoroborate glass. Very important parameters such as density, molar volume, and molar polarizability have been extensively studied. Using these data, fundamental optical parameters such as average oscillator strength (6.42) and inherent absorption wavelength (119 nm) are evaluated using the Drude-Voigt single oscillator model. Compared with previously studied oxide-based glasses, the fluoroborate glass possesses a relatively high refractive index of 1.74 and an Abbe number of 49 in the visible region of 587.6 nm. The relationship between inherent absorption wavelength and Abbe number values is also discussed. Moreover, the values of refractive index and linear optical susceptibility are used to evaluate the third-order optical susceptibility (11.56 × 10−14 esu) and nonlinear refractive index (2.50 × 10−12 esu). These results suggest that fluoroborate glass is a potential material for optical lenses and nonlinear devices in the visible range.

Investigation of the structure and mechanical properties of a novel dental graded glass/zirconia ceramic

Constructing graded structure is a promising solution to reduce the occurrence of cracking and delamination of bilayered zirconia prosthesis. In this work, a novel graded glass/zirconia ceramic was developed by utilizing the interdiffusion between dense zirconia and a novel lithium disilicate glass in the SiO2-Li2O-Al2O3 system. Results demonstrated that a graded glass/zirconia structure with a depth of about 300 µm was constructed, which exhibited obviously gradient characteristics in microstructure, glass content and mechanical properties. The hardness (H) and elastic modulus (EM) values at the surface reduced significantly (64% for H and 79% for EM), and increased gradually with depth of graded layer. When the graded layer was subjected to loading force, the biaxial flexural strength increased. The mechanism of the evolution of graded structure and change of strength were also elucidated in detail. This study provides a promising strategy to improve the interface stability of bilayered zirconia restoration.

Comparative study of metakaolin-based geopolymer characteristics utilizing different dosages of water glass in the activator solution

Geopolymers gained attention from researchers due to their durability and potential to replace materials based on Portland cement. They offer a promising and eco-friendly alternative as binders in the construction industry. This study goal is to investigate the effects of varying dosages of sodium silicate (water glass) and sodium hydroxide in activator solutions, as well as the impact of different curing temperatures, on metakaolin-based geopolymer binder. Kaolin was heated to 750 °C for 3hr to produce metakaolin, and activator solutions were prepared with various amounts of water glass (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100) wt%. The fresh geopolymer binder was cured at two temperatures: 60 °C and 75 °C for one day. After a curing period of 28 days, various properties such as microstructural characteristics (examined through SEM), chemical bonding (analyzed using FTIR), chemical compositions (analyzed XRD), thermal conductivity and bulk density, volumetric shrinkage, and efflorescence were determined. Compressive measurements were conducted at early stages (7, 14, and 28 days) to assess mechanical properties, revealing a significant increase in mechanical strength. The geopolymer sample with 50 wt% of water glass cured at 60 °C exhibited optimal characteristics, including a higher compressive strength of 16.3 MPa and minimal efflorescence. This composition achieved an appropriate Si/Al ratio of 1.85, resulting from the formation of gel products through the reaction of compact structures. When the water glass content exceeded 50 wt%, the higher Si/Al ratio led to the deposition of the Al–Si phase, slowing down the interaction between the metakaolin powder and the alkaline activator. Regarding the influence of curing temperature, the average compressive strength of the geopolymer binder cured at 60 °C was greater as compared to the binder cured at 75 °C. Moisture loss and porosity increased with higher curing temperatures. The geopolymer binders exhibit a thermal conductivity value range (0.09–0.39)W/m.k.

Grouting anchor cable active advanced support technology for mining roadways

Because of the deficiencies in safety and economy of the single hydraulic prop passive advanced support, the grouting anchor cable active advanced support technology is proposed with the Changping Coal Mine 53,081 roadway as the engineering background. By using a combination of theoretical analysis, laboratory tests, numerical simulation, and field tests, the influence of different grouting parameters on the diffusion law of grout is studied. Considering the effect of the stress field on grout migration, a grout seepage-stress coupling model is established. Grouting material ratio tests are carried out and grout parameters are tested. The grouting part of the advanced grouting anchor cable is modeled and solved using the COMSOL Multiphysics numerical software. The results show that the grouting material selected is Portland cement 42.5 and water glass double liquid grout, with a slurry ratio of 15% ACZ-1 type additive and 4% water glass content, and a water–cement ratio of 0.6. The grouting pressure for the 53,081 roadway grouting anchor cable advanced support is 5 MPa, the grouting time is 6 min, and the grouting anchor cable spacing is 2000 mm × 1000 mm. The engineering application shows that the maximum roof subsidence is 180 mm, the maximum separation value at a depth of 9 m is 24 mm, and the maximum separation value at a depth of 3 m is 90 mm. The research results have achieved effective advanced support for the 53,081 roadway, replacing the single hydraulic prop, and provided a theoretical basis for the subsequent design of advanced support parameters for mining roadways.

Thermal performance of a novel double-glazed window combining PCM and solar control glass in summer

The integration of PCM into glazed envelope to enhance its thermal inertia has shown great energy-saving potential. However, this could bring indoor overheating in summer due to the insufficient heat insulation for solar radiation in pure PCM glazed units. This work proposed a composite double-glazed window incorporating PCM and solar control glass, and numerically investigated its thermal behaviors under sunny and cloudy conditions in summer of northern China. The effects of glass optical properties, involving absorption coefficient and refractive index, on the phase change cycling, indoor thermal comfort and building energy efficiency were analyzed. The results show that the increase of glass absorption coefficient facilitates the melting of PCM, but degrades the thermal comfort, even resulting in overheating risk on the sunny day. Moreover, as the absorption coefficient and refractive index of glass increase, the energy efficiency of PCM window equipped with solar control glass instead of general glass can be improved remarkably, and the influence of refractive index is more drastic than that of absorption coefficient. On the sunny day, the energy saving rate is 14.25% for the glass absorption coefficient of 160 m−1, which is 41.53% for the glass refractive index of 3.

Effect of ZnO content on structure and properties in high refractive index BaO-ZnO-TiO2-SiO2 glass system

In this study, BaO-ZnO-TiO2 SiO2 was used as the research system, and IR, XRD and DTA analysis were used to study the structure, thermal behavior, crystallization phenomenon and chemical stability of the glass when different proportions of ZnO gradually replaced BaO in this system. The results indicate that replacing BaO with ZnO does not change the amorphous structure of the glass, and the density of the glass increases with the increase of ZnO content. With the increase of ZnO content in glass, the tendency of devitrification increases during cooling, indicating an increased tendency for surface crystallization of glass. The glass with high ZnO content has the highest density and refractive index, and has the best water resistance. However, at this time, the glass is easier to crystallize after heat treatment.

Effect of fiber type and content on mechanical properties of microbial solidified sand

Fibers are applied to construction works to improve the strength and brittle failure of the soil. In this paper, fibers with a length of 6 mm are added to the microbial cemented sand, and fiber types and content are research variable. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS), permeability coefficient, water absorption rate, dry density, and calcium carbonate precipitation of the solidified sand were tested. The physical and mechanical properties of fiber types and content on the immobilization of microorganisms were also analyzed from the micro–macro perspective. Results are presented as follows. The UCS of the Microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) treated sand increases first and then decreases with the increasing fiber content. This phenomenon is due to the promotion of calcium carbonate precipitation by short fiber reinforcement, the limited movement of the sand particles caused by the formed network between the fibers, and the enhanced strength of the microbial solidified sand. However, the agglomeration caused by additional fibers leads to the uneven distribution of calcium carbonate and the reduction in strength. The optimum fiber contents of polypropylene, glass, polyvinyl alcohol, and basalt fibers are 0.4%, 0.2%, 0.2%, and 0.1%, respectively.

Magma plumbing architectures and timescales of magmatic processes during historical magmatism on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland

In the past 4000 years, three rifting episodes have occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula (RP, SW Iceland) at time intervals of about 800-1000 years, with the activation of four of the five volcanic systems on the peninsula: Reykjanes, Svartsengi, Krýsuvík and Brennisteinsfjöll. In 2021 AD, 2022 AD and 2023 AD, three eruptions occurred in the Fagradalsfjall volcanic system, the only volcanic system that remained inactive during these past rifting episodes. Considering the eruptive history of the peninsula, this could mark the onset of a new eruptive episode. Although extensive petrochemical datasets have emerged from past rifting episodes, little is known about magma plumbing configuration and timescales of pre-eruptive magmatic processes. In this work, we focus on 16 basaltic lava units erupted across RP during a well-established rifting episode: the 800-1240 AD Fires. We analysed major and minor element contents of glasses, mineral phases and melt inclusions, and we reconstruct plumbing system architecture and constrain mixing-to-eruption timescales, with the goal of assessing likely eruption scenarios of a possible future eruptive episode. Mineral-melt equilibria suggests that most of crystal cores are antecrysts that did not crystallize from the magmas that carried them to the surface, but instead were scavenged from disaggregating mush layers genetically related to the erupted magmas. Magmas erupted in the easternmost part of the RP reveal larger contributions from geochemically enriched mantle-derived melts. However, MIs that record various extents of mixing of geochemically enriched and depleted components throughout the entire peninsula appear devoid of any spatial control of the underlying mantle. Independent clinopyroxene-melt and melt-based barometry, after correction for microlite crystallization, show consistent results and suggest that magmas from the western part of the peninsula were extracted from reservoirs located at about 7-10 km depth. In contrast, and similar to observations from recent eruptions at Fagradalsfjall, the easternmost system, Brennisteinsfjöll, was fed from deeper crustal reservoirs, at about 14-21 km depth. Fe-Mg diffusion chronometry applied to olivine rims suggests short mixing-to-eruption timescales on the order of days to weeks and likely faster ascent rates of magmas underneath Brennisteinsfjöll. Compared to 2021 AD Fagradalsfjall, mixing-to-eruption timescales were considerably shorter during the 800-1240 AD Fires. With inferred eruption durations on the order of months, the short olivine rim diffusion records are consistent with several discrete eruptive phases, which eventually assembled the individual magmatic units. In the light of possible future eruptive episodes on the RP, our work suggests that magmas are likely to accumulate at persistent depths across the RP, with key implication for interpreting pre-eruptive signals and eruption mitigation.

Performance of a steel slag-based supplementary cementitious material via the synergistic modification of binary fly ash and gypsum system

A deep study of the effect of modified materials on the formation of pozzolanic materials at 1400 °C and the activity of modified steel slag at the different alkalinities was investigated. Fly ash and gypsum were used as modified materials to improve the content of glass and the activity of modified steel slag. Results showed that adding modified materials not only reduced the content of crystal phases but also increased the amount of glass in the modified steel slag. The addition of fly ash improved the content of glass but decreased the activity of modified steel slag. With the addition of fly ash and gypsum, the activity of modified steel slag was improved. This paper provides a method for changing the steel slag into a supplementary cementitious material and improving the activity of glass at 1400 °C.

New insights into the effect of glass addition on the piezoelectric and thermal stability properties of (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Ti0.9Zr0.1)O3 Pb-free ceramic by defect engineering of MPB

Lead-free piezoceramics with superior piezoelectric properties don't meet the requirements of practical applications due to their lower phase transition temperature and poor thermal stability. In the present work, we report a new insight into the effect of glass phase on the piezoelectric, Curie temperature and thermal stability of (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Ti0.9Zr0.1)O3 (BCZT) ceramic. Unlike traditional glass materials with more than 80% of B2O3 and SiO2 as glass formers, our approach is to fabricate a glass phase (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Ti0.9Zr0.1)O3-0.05B2O3 (abbreviate BBCZT) with the same elements and concentrations as the ceramic phase. The ceramics-doped glass samples with the composition [(1-x)BCZT-xBBCZT], where x=(0.0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075 and 0.1 wt%), were sintered according to the glass phase content. The effect of BBCZT glass composition on the crystal structure, dielectric, ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties of BCZT was investigated in detail. X-ray diffraction revealed that the addition of glass phase causes a defect engineering of the tricritical triple point of BCZT ceramic, where the tetragonal (T) and rhombohedral (R) phases were suppressed by the addition of glass phase and the T-phase has completely vanished at x = 0.05. The maximum value of permittivity (ε = 4102) and converse piezoelectric coefficient (d*33 = 1150 Pm/V) were achieved for the 0.975BCZT-0.025BBCZT sample at ambient temperature. Furthermore, the diffusion coefficient (γ) and Curie temperature (Tc) were observed to increase beyond x = 0.025, indicating enhanced thermal stability of BCZT at high glass content. These results qualify that the addition of (BBCZT) can enhance piezoelectric properties, phase transition temperature and thermal stability of BCZT ceramic which can meet wide requirements of practical applications.

Temperature-stable Ba0.8Sr0.2CuSi2O6 microwave dielectric ceramics for LTCC application achieved with the addition of LBSCA and LBBS glass

Ba0.8Sr0.2CuSi2O6 ceramics have a low dielectric constant, which is useful for low-latency 5G communication. To enable the preparation of Ba0.8Sr0.2CuSi2O6 low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) materials, LBSCA and LBBS were used in this paper to reduce the sintering temperature of Ba0.8Sr0.2CuSi2O6. The effects of LBSCA and LBBS on the phase composition, densification, microscopic morphology, and vibrational characteristics of the ceramics were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, density measurements, and Raman spectroscopy, and the causal factors influencing the microwave dielectric properties with the addition of glass were analyzed. It was found that 0.4 wt% LBSCA glass and 1 wt% LBBS glass reduced the sintering temperature to 925 °C, and these prepared ceramics had excellent microwave dielectric properties. The ceramic prepared with 0.4 wt% LBSCA glass had an εr value of 7.672, Q × f value of 37193 GHz, and τf value of −14.93 ppm/°C, while the ceramic prepared with 1 wt% LBBS glass had an εr value of 7.512, Q × f value of 32136 GHz, and τf value of −13.92 ppm/°C. The phase composition of the ceramics did not significantly change, indicating that neither glass reacted with the ceramics. The εr value was affected by both density and Raman shift, the trend in the Q × f values was consistent with the density, and the τf value decreased with increasing glass content, which was attributed to the liquid phase generated by the glass in the ceramic. In addition, co-firing these glass-doped ceramics with Ag at a low temperature resulted in good chemical compatibility. Combined with the near-zero τf, these results demonstrate the excellent promise of these two ceramics as alternative materials for LTCC microwave devices and their application in 5G communication.

Utilizing Crushed Waste Glass as a Sustainable Replacement for Fine Aggregate in Concrete

Concrete, a vital material in modern construction, combines strength, durability, and fire resistance. However, the conventional use of river sand in concrete is ecologically concerning due to its scarcity and environmental impact. To address this, waste glass is explored as a sustainable replacement for fine aggregate. This study investigates the effects of crushed waste glass on concrete workability, water absorption, compressive strength, and flexural strength. Different glass replacement levels (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and curing periods were considered. The research aims to optimize glass content, evaluate its impact on concrete properties, and compare its environmental effects with traditional methods. The results indicate that waste glass improves workability and reduces water absorption. Compressive and flexural strengths initially increase with glass content but decrease at higher levels, due to potential alkali-silica reaction. The study concludes that waste glass can be effectively utilized in concrete to enhance sustainability and resource conservation. Further research is recommended to explore specific applications and long-term effects.