Cost-effective Materials Research Articles

Atomically dispersed Zn sites on N-doped carbon boosted transesterification of symmetrical organic carbonates with biomass-derived alcohols

Transesterification of symmetrical organic carbonates with alcohols to access the unsymmetrical ones is a highly attractive strategy for upgrading biomass-derived alcohols. Robust, facile-prepared, and cost-effective catalytic materials remain highly desirable for this route. Herein, we designed several Zn-based catalysts (denoted as Zn@C-T, where T represented the pyrolysis temperature) by the pyrolysis of Zn-based coordination polymer at different temperatures. Very interestingly, the prepared Zn@C-900 could efficiently catalyze the transesterification of diethyl carbonate (DEC) with various biomass-derived alcohols to synthesize the corresponding unsymmetrical organic carbonates with high yields (>95 %), resulting from the atomically dispersed ZnNx sites on the N-doped carbon. Notably, good catalytic activity could be obtained at a low temperature of 80 °C, representing the major breakthrough. Detailed investigations indicated that the excellent performance of Zn@C-900 originated mainly from the synergistic effect of Zn (to activate DEC) and N (to activate the alcohols) in the ZnNx sites. This work provided a promising efficient catalyst for low-temperature production of unsymmetrical organic carbonates via transesterification of DEC.

Preparation and properties of sustainable superhydrophobic cotton fabrics modified with lignin nanoparticles, tannic acid and methyltrimethoxysilane

Functional superhydrophobic cotton fabrics find extensive applications in both textile and non-textile domains. Nonetheless, fabric treatment typically relies on fluorine-containing compounds, inorganic nanoparticles and potentially hazardous organic solvents, posing environmental risks during fabrication and disposal. To address this issue, endeavours are underway to develop environmentally sustainable and cost-effective methods and materials for imparting superhydrophobic properties to cotton fabric surfaces. Here, we prepared lignin nanoparticles (LNP) utilising deep eutectic solvents and facilitated their surface adhesion to cotton fabrics through the self-polymerisation of tannic acid (TA) under alkaline conditions for the construction of micro-/nanostructures on the fabric surface. Subsequently, methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) was employed to confer superhydrophobic properties to the fabrics using a combination of thermal chemical vapour deposition techniques, resulting in a contact angle of approximately 164.3° and a sliding angle of 8.52°. Owing to the combined effect of TA and LNP, the modified fabrics exhibited excellent ultraviolet (UV) shielding ability (UV transmittance < 1 %, UV protection factor = 50 + ) and photothermal conversion (54.2 °C in 150 s). In short, micro-/nanostructures with surface hydrophilicity were constructed on the surface of cotton fabrics using two hydrophilic biomaterials, i.e. TA, which is similar to polydopamine but lighter in colour and less expensive, and LNP as sustainable colloidal particles. Subsequently, their surface roughness was further enhanced, and superhydrophobic properties were imparted through modification with the low surface energy substance MTMS. This method not only promotes the high-value utilisation of lignin but also serves as a reference for constructing superhydrophobic structures using biomass hydrophilic materials on cellulose substrates. The prepared superhydrophobic fabric suggests potential applications in water and stain repellence, self-cleaning, outdoor UV protection and the management of marine oil spill pollution.

Development of fully soft composite tactile sensors using conductive fabric and polydimethylsiloxane

This study presents composite resistive soft tactile sensors combining conductive fabric and polydimethylsiloxane. The sensors utilize the changes in resistance of the conductive fabric when stretched to sense the pressure, while reducing the volatility of resistance of the conductive fabric by embedding the fabric within the elastomer matrix. The sensors have a compact design, a simple fabrication process using cost-effective materials, and a compliant structure. The performance evaluation of 12 samples was conducted to assess their linearity, sensitivity, time responses, and reliability. A particular sample was chosen for its universal applicability, characterized by a rise time of ∼ 0.38 s, a decay time of ∼ 2.71 s, a settling time of ∼ 851.8 s, hysteresis of 21.04 %, and a sensitivity of 0.0362 %/kPa. Finally, potential applications were proposed using the selected sensor, showcasing its capability to support closed-loop systems in the fields of soft robotics and wearable technology.

Microwave-assisted sol-gel synthesis of MFe2O4@SiO2 (M = Cu, Ni, Co) ceramic nanostructures using rice husk as a sustainable precursor for electrochemical energy storage

In this study, we report the synthesis of MFe2O4@SiO2 (M = Cu, Ni, Co) nanostructures by microwave-assisted sol-gel synthesis utilizing rice husk as a cost-effective silica precursor and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a soft template. Structural and electrochemical properties were characterized using XRD, FTIR, FESEM, EDS, HRTEM, BET, and electrochemical techniques. The result revealed the formation of well-defined MFe2O4 spherical nanoparticles decorated mesoporous silica spheres. Electrochemical studies indicate that the CoFe2O4@SiO2 electrode performs better than the CuFe2O4@SiO2 and NiFe2O4@SiO2 electrodes in faradaic redox processes and supercapacitor performance, having a specific capacitance of 1263 F/g at 1 A. Asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) with CoFe2O4@SiO2 as positive electrode exhibits high specific capacitance of 135.66 F/g at 1 A/g with good cycle stability retention (70.83 % at 10 A/g), high energy density (50.4 Wh/kg) and power density (891.522 W/kg). CoFe2O4@SiO2 performs better than CuFe2O4@SiO2 and NiFe2O4@SiO2 because cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) has higher electrical conductivity, superior redox activity, and better electrochemical stability. This study offers cost-effective potential electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage, combining environmental sustainability with superior electrochemical performance.

Efficient adsorptive separation of Cu(II) from Ph by ZIF-8 constructed with sodium alginate polymer backbone

With the rapid development of industrialization, the removal of heavy metal ions and small organic molecules from wastewater has triggered a hot debate. ZIF-8 was grown on a sodium alginate backbone using an in situ growth technique, the core-shell P-SMG@ZIF-8 was synthesized. It was also characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, UV–Vis and XPS, and the optimal conditions and mechanism of adsorption were explored. At pH 2.0, a contact time of 200 min, and 298 K, removal of Cu(II) and Ph up to 80.2 %, 65.6 % by P-SMG@ZIF-8, adsorption behavior consistent with Langmuir model for pseudo-secondary rates, the saturated adsorption of Cu(II) and Ph could reach up to 83.5812 mg/g and 78.1779 mg/g, respectively. And the adsorbed P-SMG@ZIF-8 is easy to separate and reusable, which is a cost-effective and efficient natural product-based adsorption material.

Selective electrosorption of heavy metal ions from wastewater with S-doped hierarchical porous carbon derived from waste Camellia oleifera shell

Capacitive deionization (CDI) has garnered significant attention in desalination and the removal of heavy metal ions. The quest for cost-effective and high-performance electrode materials is crucial to advance CDI applications. Herein, we report a sulfur-doped hierarchical porous carbon (SPC) derived from waste camellia oleifera shells via a sustainable hydrothermal carbonization process followed by KOH/ammonium salt activation. The optimized SPC-0.2 exhibits exceptional characteristics, featuring a high specific surface area of 1875 m2 g−1 and substantial sulfur doping at 8.65 %, leading to enhanced specific capacitance (161.3 F g−1) in a 1 M NaCl solution. Under optimal operating conditions (1.2 V, 10 mL min−1, 500 mg L−1 NaCl), the SPC-0.2 electrode achieves a notable desalination capacity of 26.64 mg g−1. In particular, the electrode can selectively remove >99 % of Cr3+ and Cu2+ ions (each 10 mg L−1) in a 100 mg L−1 NaCl solution. This high selectivity is attributed to the formation of sulfides via low adsorption energies between the doped sulfur atoms and the targeted heavy metal ions. Furthermore, the SPC-0.2 electrode demonstrates robust reusability and high efficiency in the actual water body. Collectively, our findings underscore the significant potential of the synthesized SPC as an electrode material for CDI, particularly in the selective capacitive removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater. This work not only contributes to the circular economy by using waste biomass, but also offers a viable solution for environmental remediation.

Permeability Characteristics of Improved Loess and Prediction Method for Permeability Coefficient

Due to its unique geotechnical properties, loess presents itself as a cost-effective and energy-efficient material for engineering construction, aiding in cost reduction and environmental sustainability. However, to meet engineering specifications, loess often requires enhancement. Evaluating its permeability properties holds significant importance for employing improved loess for construction materials in landfills and artificial water bodies. This study investigates the influence of dry densities, grain size characteristics, grain size distribution, and admixture contents and types on the permeability of improved loess, focusing on the Malan and Lishi loess. The falling head permeability test was conducted to analyze how each factor affects the permeability of the improved loess. The findings indicate that the permeability coefficient decreases with increased dry density and admixture content. Conversely, it demonstrates a linear increase with the average grain size (d50), restricted grain size (d60), and the product of the coefficient of uniformity and coefficient of curvature (Cu × Cc). The primary influencing factor is the type of admixture, followed by Cc and d60. Furthermore, this study developed a predictive model for permeability using a support vector machine (SVM), surpassing the predictive accuracy of linear regression and neural network models. The model provides a robust prediction for the permeability of superior loess material.

Technology for Green Hydrogen Production: Desk Analysis

The use of green hydrogen as a high-energy fuel of the future may be an opportunity to balance the unstable energy system, which still relies on renewable energy sources. This work is a comprehensive review of recent advancements in green hydrogen production. This review outlines the current energy consumption trends. It presents the tasks and challenges of the hydrogen economy towards green hydrogen, including production, purification, transportation, storage, and conversion into electricity. This work presents the main types of water electrolyzers: alkaline electrolyzers, proton exchange membrane electrolyzers, solid oxide electrolyzers, and anion exchange membrane electrolyzers. Despite the higher production costs of green hydrogen compared to grey hydrogen, this review suggests that as renewable energy technologies become cheaper and more efficient, the cost of green hydrogen is expected to decrease. The review highlights the need for cost-effective and efficient electrode materials for large-scale applications. It concludes by comparing the operating parameters and cost considerations of the different electrolyzer technologies. It sets targets for 2050 to improve the efficiency, durability, and scalability of electrolyzers. The review underscores the importance of ongoing research and development to address the limitations of current electrolyzer technology and to make green hydrogen production more competitive with fossil fuels.

A Review on Metallurgical Issues in the Production and Welding Processes of Clad Steels.

Carbon and low-alloy steel plates clad with stainless steel or other metals are a good choice to meet the demand for cost-effective materials to be used in many corrosive environments. Numerous technical solutions are developed for the production of clad steel plates, as well as for their joining by fusion welding. For thick plates, a careful strategy is required in carrying out the multiple passes and in choosing the most suitable filler metals, having to take into account the composition of the base metal and the cladding layer. The specificity of the different processes and materials involved requires an adequate approach in the study of the metallurgical characteristics of clad steel, thus arousing the interest of researchers. Focusing mainly on ferritic steel plates clad with austenitic steel, this article aims to review the scientific literature of recent years which deals with both the production and the fusion welding processes. The metallurgical issues concerning the interfaces and the effects of microstructural characteristics on mechanical behaviour and corrosion resistance will be addressed; in particular, the effects on the fusion and thermally affected zones that form during the fusion welding and weld overlay processes will be analysed and discussed.

One-step in situ doping of Sb achieves enhanced performance of [001]-oriented nano-LiFe0.6Mn0.4PO4/C cathode high-rate materials

The LiFe0.6Mn0.4PO4/C composite has become a cost-effective and reliable material for lithium battery storage in commercial applications, due to its significant safety benefits. However, its industrial application is limited by its suboptimal high-rate capacity and unsatisfactory cycling performance. To address this issue, Li(Fe0.6Mn0.4)1-xSbxPO4 (x = 0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05) materials were synthesized using a one-step solvothermal method in this study, aiming to modulate the microstructure and achieve Sb doping, thereby enhancing the electrochemical performance. The electrochemical test results indicate that LFMP/C doped with Sb (designated as LFMP/C-Sb0.04) displays exceptional electrochemical performance, with remarkable capacities of 166.6 mAh·g−1 and 146.8 mAh·g−1 at 0.2C and 1C, respectively. Notably, it achieves a capacity of 126.1 mAh·g−1 at a high rate (5C) and maintains an impressive capacity retention rate of 93.6 % after 300 cycles, outperforming the original LMFP/C (109.5 mAh·g−1), which retains only 61.5 % of its initial capacity. Further characterization of the samples reveals that in situ Sb doping promotes the growth of the [001] crystal orientation, enhancing the lithium-ion diffusion rate and effectively reducing electrode polarization and charge transfer resistance, thereby contributing to its exceptional rate performance. Moreover, Sb doping increases the M − O binding energy, strengthens the metal-oxygen framework, mitigates the Jahn-Teller effect caused by Mn3+ dissolution, and enhances its cycling stability.

Practical electrochemical hydrogenation of nitriles at the nickel foam cathode.

We report a scalable hydrogenation method for nitriles based on cost-effective materials in a very simple two-electrode setup under galvanostatic conditions. All components are commercially and readily available. The method is very easy to conduct and applicable to a variety of nitrile substrates, leading exclusively to primary amine products in yields of up to 89% using an easy work-up protocol. Importantly, this method is readily transferable from the milligram scale in batch-type screening cells to the multi-gram scale in a flow-type electrolyser. The transfer to flow electrolysis enabled us to achieve a notable 20 g day-1 productivity of phenylethylamine at a geometric current density of 50 mA cm-2 in a flow-type electrolyser with 48 cm2 electrodes. It is noteworthy that this method is sustainable in terms of process safety and reusability of components.

Green Nanotech: A Review of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials for Tackling Environmental Pollution Challenges

In recent times, nanotechnology has experienced widespread acclaim across diverse sectors, including but not limited to tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, biosensors, and the mitigation and monitoring of environmental pollutants. The unique arrangement of carbon atoms in sp3 configurations within carbon nanomaterials endows them with exceptional physical, mechanical, and chemical characteristics, driving them to the forefront of materials research. Their appeal lies in their efficacy as superior adsorbents and their exceptional thermal resistance, making them versatile in various applications. The present review extensively explores a range of carbon-based nanomaterials, delving into their synthesis methods and examining their multifaceted applications in addressing environmental pollutants. It is crucial to emphasize that the popularity of carbon-based nanomaterials arises from their potential to serve as superior adsorbents, coupled with their outstanding thermal resistance properties. These attributes contribute to their applicability in diverse environmental contexts. Looking ahead, carbon-based nanomaterials are poised to emerge as environmentally friendly and cost-effective materials, representing promising and potential avenues for the advancement of sustainable technology.

Dispersion of ZnO or TiO2 nanoparticles onto P. australis stem-derived biochar for highly efficient photocatalytic removal of doxycycline antibiotic under visible light irradiation

Abstract Biochar (BC) derived from reed stems was prepared by high-temperature pyrolysis, and two types of ZnO/biochar (ZBC) and TiO2/biochar (TBC) composite materials were synthesized via a simple hydrolysis method. These composites, compared to pure ZnO and TiO2, exhibit not only improved but significantly enhanced crystalline structures and larger specific surface areas. This enhancement in the physical and chemical properties of ZBC and TBC composites is a crucial aspect of our research, as it leads to a distinct red-shifted absorption edge and excellent visible-light absorption characteristics. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency of ZBC and TBC composite materials, a key finding of our study, was evaluated using doxycycline antibiotic as a simulated pollutant under visible-light irradiation. The results demonstrate a 6.0-fold and 7.3-fold increase in photocatalytic degradation efficiency of ZBC and TBC composites compared to pure ZnO and TiO2, respectively, further underscoring the significance of these enhanced properties. Furthermore, active species trapping experiments reveal that ·OH radicals are the dominant reactive species in the photocatalytic degradation process of doxycycline. A Langmuir–Hinshelwood kinetic model accurately represents this degradation process. Kinetic data indicate that the degradation rate constants (k) of ZBC and TBC catalysts are 4.314 × 10−2 min−1 and 3.416 × 10−2 min−1, respectively. The photocatalysts exhibit no significant decrease in degradation efficiency for ZBC and TBC even after the fourth cycle, indicating their relatively high reusability. These results suggest that ZBC and TBC materials can be used as stable, efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable photocatalytic composite materials for antibiotic-contaminated wastewater treatment.

Experimental study on bond performance of interface between concrete and UHPFRC incorporating recycled tyre fibers

This paper conducted single-side shear tests on 27 groups specimens with dimensions of 100 mm × 100 mm × 40 mm to investigate the shear bond performance of the interface between concrete and ultra-high performance fiber reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) incorporating recycled tyre fibers, as an eco-friendly and cost-effective material. The effects of concrete strength, interface roughness, interface adhesives, and the substitution rates of recycled tyre fibers in UHPFRC were analyzed by Response Surface Methodology model. The findings revealed the existence of two failure modes, specifically interface failure and concrete failure, and it was observed that the shear load-slip curves exhibited a similar trend across various specimens, characterized by a gradual increase accompanied by an escalating growth rate. The higher concrete strength and interface roughness as well as the lower substitution rates of recycled tyre fibers would enhance the shear bond strength, while interface adhesives had minor effects. Based on the micro-bonding mechanism and experimental data, two theoretical models for shear bond strength and shear load-slip curves were established, demonstrating good agreement between prediction and experimental results. Considering the shear bond strength, the environmental and economic analysis was carried out, and UHPFRC with 25 % substitution rates of recycled tyre fibers exhibited the best benefits.

Novel one-pot synthesis of nitrogen-containing derivatives via C-N bond formation and C-O bond cleavage

Ortho-aminophenols are significant organic compounds known for their versatility and wide-ranging applications in materials science, synthesis, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and industry. In this work, we present novel synthetic methods that utilize readily available and cost-effective materials, namely catechol, Cd(NO3)2 as a catalyst, and H2O/EtOH solvent. These proposed synthesis methods involve mild, one-pot reactions that facilitate the formation of both C-N and cleavage of C-O bond. This approach leads to the production of various nitrogen-containing derivatives with remarkably high yields and efficiency.

Enhancing the Fire Resistance of Ablative Materials: Role of the Polymeric Matrix and Silicon Carbide Reinforcement.

The primary characteristic of ablative materials is their fire resistance. This study explored the development of cost-effective ablative materials formed into application-specific shapes by using a polymer matrix reinforced with ceramic powder. A thermoplastic (polypropylene; PP) and a thermoset (polyester; UPE) matrix were used to manufacture ablative materials with 50 wt% silicon carbide (SiC) particles. The reference composites (50 wt% SiC) were compared to those with 1 and 3 wt% short glass fibers (0.5 mm length) and to composites using a 1 and 3 wt% glass fiber mesh. Fire resistance was tested using a butane flame (900 °C) and by measuring the transmitted heat with a thermocouple. Results showed that the type of polymer matrix (PP or UPE) did not influence fire resistance. Composites with short glass fibers had a fire-resistance time of 100 s, while those with glass fiber mesh tripled this resistance time. The novelty of this work lies in the exploration of a specific type of material with unique percentages of SiC not previously studied. The aim is to develop a low-cost coating for industrial warehouses that has improved fire-protective properties, maintains lower temperatures, and enhances the wear and impact resistance.

Engineered Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides for Energy Conversion and Storage.

Designing efficient and cost-effective materials is pivotal to solving the key scientific and technological challenges at the interface of energy, environment, and sustainability for achieving NetZero. Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs) represent a unique class of materials that have catered to a myriad of energy conversion and storage (ECS) applications. Their uniqueness arises from their ultra-thin nature, high fractions of atoms residing on surfaces, rich chemical compositions featuring diverse metals and chalcogens, and remarkable tunability across multiple length scales. Specifically, the rich electronic/electrical, optical, and thermal properties of 2D TMDs have been widely exploited for electrochemical energy conversion (e.g., electrocatalytic water splitting), and storage (e.g., anodes in alkali ion batteries and supercapacitors), photocatalysis, photovoltaic devices, and thermoelectric applications. Furthermore, their properties and performances can be greatly boosted by judicious structural and chemical tuning through phase, size, composition, defect, dopant, topological, and heterostructure engineering. The challenge, however, is to design and control such engineering levers, optimally and specifically, to maximize performance outcomes for targeted applications. In this review we discuss, highlight, and provide insights on the significant advancements and ongoing research directions in the design and engineering approaches of 2D TMDs for improving their performance and potential in ECS applications.

Sodium storage performance and mechanism of amorphous FePO4/rGO nanocomposite as a novel anode material for sodium ion batteries

Exploring novel and cost-effective anode materials is highly desired for the development of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Herein, an amorphous FePO4/reduced graphene oxide (FP-G) composite is prepared by a simple chemical precipitation method with leaching liquor of jarosite residue as Fe source. When used as a novel anode material for SIBs, this FP-G composite exhibits a high sodium storage activity (341.6 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.2 A g−1), superior long-term cycling stability (215.8 mAh g−1 after 1500 cycles at 0.5 A g−1), and outstanding high-rate capability (190.8 mAh g−1 at 5.0 A g−1). The FP-G composite shows a significant pseudocapacitance behavior and good electrochemical reversibility during discharge and charge processes. This work proposes a simple, feasible, and cost-effective strategy for the high-valued utilization of jarosite residue, and deeply investigates the sodium storage mechanism and potential value of FP-G composite as a novel anode material for SIBs.

Predicting the solid solution structure preference of multi-component alloys

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) provide limitless opportunities to enhance material performance while predicting the thermodynamic properties and the structures rapidly within HEAs remain challenging. Herein, a new method (M2FEn) for rapidly predicting the formation enthalpies is provided. In contrast to Miedema's semi-empirical methodology, which solely calculates the mixing enthalpy, the M2FEn is capable of calculating the formation enthalpies of various solid solution structures, and by ordering these enthalpies, one can determine the preferred solid-solution structure for the single-phase alloy. The predicted structures using M2FEn are in line with first-principles calculations. The effectiveness of different extrapolation models for formation enthalpy has been assessed. The M2FEn with the Ouyang extrapolation model and the regular solution model have achieved a prediction accuracy of 95.8% and 95.4%, respectively for single-phase HEAs that were experimentally prepared. 28 common HEA elements were selected as the chemical space, and the formation enthalpies of all binary, ternary, quaternary, quinary and senary alloys, a total of 499149 various alloys were calculated by M2FEn. It is found that the BCC structure ratio increases with the increase of the principal element of the alloy. The M2FEn should potentially accelerate the development of novel, high-performance HEAs, enabling more efficient and cost-effective materials design processes.

Additive manufacturing of quartz glass using coaxial wire feeding technology

This study explores the process of coaxial wire feeding and melting for quartz additive manufacturing using Direct Energy Deposition (DED). Quartz glass, valued for its excellent mechanical, optical, and thermal properties, is widely used in semiconductor, aerospace, and optical communication industries. Additive manufacturing offers advantages such as cost-effective materials, rapid formation, and customization of structures. However, current methods for additive manufacturing of quartz glass often result in low quality or require complex post-processing, particularly for optical components. In optics, there is a demand for high-quality, straightforward processes, and custom-shaped quartz glass. This article presents a coaxial wire feeding mechanism wherein quartz wire is fed vertically downward along the optical axis into the melting zone created by a CO2 laser, facilitating smooth material deposition onto the molten zone’s surface. Laser power, wire feeding speed, substrate movement speed, and defocusing distance are key factors influencing the quality of single-layer quartz glass formation. Positive defocusing was found to have a beneficial impact on single-layer quartz glass additive manufacturing. Subsequently, optimized process parameters enabled the production of uniformly cross-sectional single-layer quartz glass. Microscopic morphology analysis and temperature field simulation were conducted on the experimental results before and after optimization. Finally, complex quartz glass structures were additively manufactured using the optimized experimental parameters. Results demonstrate that coaxial wire feeding technology has significant potential for achieving uniform dimensions and complex structures in quartz glass additive manufacturing.