Curing Technique Research Articles

An induction curing technique for CFRP laminate via magnetic particle‐induced in situ heating

AbstractCuring high‐performance carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) structures with economical and energy‐efficient off‐oven techniques is important for the widespread application of the composite. In this work, we reported a magnetic particle‐induced in situ heating method to controllably cure CFRP laminates with stacking sequences of [0]8, [0/90]4s and [0/45/90/−45]2s. Results showed that all the laminates can undergo a consistent, layup‐independent two‐staged heating protocol via regulating the magnetic field intensity. Under the same curing protocol, the three stacking‐sequenced CFRP laminates can be cured more completely under induction heating than oven heating, in addition to a moderately improved tensile and flexural properties. However, the porosity of the laminates slightly increased under induction heating. The proposed new curing method provides a new avenue to the fabrication of advanced CFRP composite structures without oven or autoclave.Highlights A particle‐induced in situ heating method to controllably cure carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates was proposed. This method was capable to cure CFRP laminates with different stacking sequences. Mechanical property of laminates was moderately improved under this method.

Preparation and characterization of neural stem cell-loaded conductive hydrogel cochlear implant electrode coatings

Sensorineural deafness is a hearing impairment resulting from damage to the auditory nerve or inner ear hair cells. Currently, cochlear implants (CIs) are widely used as hearing aids for sensorineural deafness patients. A fundamental limitation of cochlear implants (CIs) is that spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) cannot be replenished. This greatly restricts the rehabilitation of sensorineural deafness. Additionally, the insertion of CIs can cause secondary cochlear damage, worsening the condition of the patients' cochlear. Therefore, a new type of neural stem cells (NSCs) loaded graphene oxide-polyaniline/GelMA (GO-PAni/GelMA) conductive hydrogel electrode for cochlear implant was fabricated via in-situ radical polymerization and cyclic UV curing technique. On the one hand, the hydrogel electrode, as a direct contact layer, helps to avoid the physical hurt for cochlear. On the other hand, NSCs were supplemented via the hydrogel carrier and neuronal differentiation was induced by electrical stimulation, which was validated by the experimental results of immunofluorescence, Phalloidin Staining and RT-qPCR. Furthermore, based on RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis, we hypothesized that the neuronal differentiation of NSCs was adjusted by the calcium signaling pathway and GABAergic synapse. Overall, our cell loading conductive hydrogel electrode may be an effective solution to sensorineural deafness. The revelation of the mechanism of neuronal differentiation promoted by electrical stimulation provides a basis for further sensorineural deafness treatment using conductive hydrogel CI electrode.

Electrohydrodynamic effect within CFRP laminates by bipolar nsPDC electric field during the curing process

In this paper, a new method based on bipolar nanosecond pulsed superimposed direct current (nsPDC) electric field assisted curing technique was developed to fabricate modified fiber-reinforced composites to enhance their mechanical properties. It was found that the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of the electric field-modified CFRP laminates reached 1014.2 MPa, which increased by 80.4 %. The average tensile strength and tensile modulus were 2180 MPa and 100780 MPa, respectively, which were 20.7 % and 3.5 % higher than the blank control group. The enhancement mechanism was explored by COMSOL simulation, curing temperature inspection, and microscopic characterization by electron microscopy. The results show that the presence of electric field and electric field force inside the laminate, which affects the flow of resin and the weak migration of fibers, enables the elimination of larger air bubbles present in the material, the reduction of resin-rich zones in the interlayer as well as the improvement of the fiber-resin wettability without significantly altering the curing temperature. The proposed simple, convenient, and environmentally friendly strategy can effectively regulate some of the deficiencies in the conventional manufacturing methods and thus is suitable for the optimal design of fiber-reinforced composites.

Optimization of Hybrid Microwave Curing Approach Based On the Performance of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymer Mortars

Geopolymer binders have been highlighted due to their low carbon emission during production and processing. While metakaolin and F-type fly ash are commonly used as raw materials for aluminosilicate-based geopolymers, the long heat-curing requirements for hardening and strength development still pose challenges. This paper investigates the possible use of a hybrid microwave curing technique to design a set-on-demand approach to reduce the duration of heat curing in metakaolin-based geopolymer. The experimental design was established for samples with three different molar ratios (MR; 1.3,1.5, and 1.7) containing metakaolin, fly ash, and silica fume. Samples were subjected to 3 different curing regimes: oven curing, microwave (MW) curing, and hybrid curing (a combination of optimized microwave and oven curing). The performance evaluation was based on compressive strength, dimensional stability, and alkali leaching (efflorescence). Implementing only MW curing resulted in a significant decrease in compressive strength compared to their counterpart oven-cured samples. The reduction of compressive strength was more pronounced at lower molar ratios. The design of a hybrid curing approach where a portion of oven curing was replaced by MW resulted in a higher strength development than those only cured with MW. Similarly, the efficiency of hybrid curing was more pronounced in samples having MR of 1.5 and 1.7. Using MW curing in the geopolymer binders did not affect the alkali leaching; however, it increased the material’s drying shrinkage. Results showed that replacing a portion of oven curing with microwave curing in a hybrid approach can increase the operation speed and the hardening rate without significantly decreasing compressive strength.

Accuracy of repaired maxillary dentures from two different repairing techniques: In vitro study

BackgroundDenture fracture is a common problem with acrylic dentures. The fractured denture can be repaired using various techniques such as self-cure acrylic resin acrylic resin and fiber-reinforced acrylic resin. PurposeThe purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of dentures repaired with self-cure acrylic resin and fiber-reinforced acrylic resin processed using two different techniques (long-cure and microwave processing). Materials and methodsA total of 20 maxillary complete dentures were processed with two techniques; heat (long cycle) processing (10 dentures) and microwave processing (10 dentures). The maxillary cast and denture surface were scanned with Medit intraoral (Medit i700, Medit, South Korea) and STL files were created. Then, the dentures were sectioned at the midline and repaired using self-cure acrylic resin and fiber-reinforced acrylic resin and scanned with Medit intraoral. Finally, adaptation deviations were analyzed from computer software (Geomagic Control X, 3D Systems Inc., USA). The adaptation deviations in each group (long cure and microwave) were compared using an Independent T-test. Two-way ANOVA was done to see whether curing techniques and repairing methods affect the accuracy of repair. A P-value of 0.05 was considered significant. ResultsThe adaptation deviation was slightly higher in the fiber-reinforced acrylic resin group (0.565 ± 0.093) than in the self-cure acrylic resin group (0.536 ± 0.066). However, there was no statistical difference in the adaptation deviations of repaired dentures with self-cure acrylic resin and fiber-reinforced acrylic resin in the long-curing (P-value 0.245) and the microwave (P-value 0.638). Similarly, the adaptation deviation was slightly higher in the long-curing group (0.577 ± 0.075) than in the microwave group (0.524 ± 0.079). However, there was a statistically significant difference in the adaptation deviation of repaired dentures between long-curing and microwave techniques with self-cure acrylic resin (P-value 0.016) but no difference in fiber-reinforced acrylic resin (P-value 0.127). The result of Two-way ANOVA shows that there is no statistically significant interaction between curing techniques (long curing and microwave) and repairing methods (self-cure acrylic resin and fiber-reinforced acrylic resin) for adaptation deviations (P-value 0.646). However, the curing techniques show statistically significant differences (P-value 0.039). ConclusionAcrylic dentures can be repaired with self-cure resin or fiber-reinforced self-cure resin using various processing methods. The accuracy of the denture after repair is unaffected by the repairing method (self-cure acrylic resin and fiber-reinforced acrylic resin) but the accuracy of the denture after repair is affected by the curing techniques (long-curing and microwave). In self-cure resin, the microwave processing showed higher adaptation deviation and less accuracy, whereas the long-curing processing showed lower adaptation deviation and high accuracy.

Synthesis of Porous Red Mud/Slag-Based Spherical Geopolymers for Efficient Methylene Blue and Ni2+ Removal from Water.

To reuse red mud and slag wastes as raw materials, a green type of porous spherical red mud/slag-based geopolymer (RSG) was synthesized by utilizing suspension curing and foaming techniques. Because methylene blue (MB) and nickel ion (Ni2+) were common and difficult to treat in wastewater, the adsorption characteristics of MB and Ni2+, as well as the phase and microstructure of the porous RSG spheres prior to and after adsorption, were thoroughly investigated. The porous RSG spheres showed a stable and mesoporous structure with a BET surface area of 31.36 m2/g. The spheres achieved the maximum removal efficiencies of 99.81% (MB) and 99.01% (Ni2+) at dosages of 16 and 10 g/L, respectively. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir model could match the adsorption data of these spheres, with predicted maximum adsorption capacity (Qmax) values of 19.88 mg/g for MB and 12.39 mg/g for Ni2+, respectively. After three adsorption-desorption cycles, porous RSG spheres demonstrated good recycling capability with removal efficiencies of 98.10% (MB) and 54.60% (Ni2+). The spheres were also effective in adsorbing additional dyes (methyl orange (MO), crystal violet (CV), and malachite green (MG)) and heavy metal ions (Cd2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+). The spheres have potential use in water treatment.

Ultrasonic Non-Destructive Testing of Accelerated Carbonation Cured-Eco-Bricks

This study aimed to investigate the behavior of accelerated carbonation-cured laboratory specimens using the ultrasonic non-destructive testing (UNDT) method and compare the results with the destructive testing (DT) method. The materials used in the study included a blend of lime kiln dust and ground granulated blast furnace slag (LKD-GBFS) wastes, natural fine aggregate (sand), and alternative fine aggregates from waste tires. The chemical analysis of the LKD and GBFS samples highlighted them as suitable alternatives to OPC, hence their utilization in the study. A 60:40 (LKD-GBFS) blending ratio and a 1:2 mix design (one part LKD-GBFS blend and two part sand) was considered. The natural fine aggregate was partially replaced with fine waste tire rubber crumbs (TRCs) in stepped increments of 0, 5, and 10% by the volume of the sand. The samples produced were cured using three curing regimens: humid curing (HC), accelerated carbonation curing (ACC) with no water curing (NWC) afterwards, and water curing after carbonation (WC). From the results, an exponential model was developed, which showed a direct correlation between the UNDT and DT results. The developed model is a useful tool that can predict the CS of carbonated samples when cast samples are unavailable. Lastly, a total CO2 uptake of 15,912 g (15.9 kg) was recorded, which underscores ACC as a promising curing technique that can be utilized in the construction industry. This technique will bring about savings in terms of the time required to produce masonry units while promoting a change in the basic assumptions of a safer and cleaner environment.

Engineering cellulose nanofibril aerogel for reinforcing polymethyl methacrylate with superior mechanical strength, high transparency, and improved thermal stability

In this study, a new strategy for preparing cellulose nanofibers/polymethyl methacrylate (CNF/PMMA) composite with high strength and high transmittance was developed. The UV curing technique was adopted to induce the polymerization of MMA and the grafting modification of methacryloylated CNF aerogel (CNFMA). The compatibility between CNF aerogel and PMMA was significantly improved through the grafting modification of CNF aerogel. The cold ultraviolet photopolymerization strategy makes the polymerization reaction much milder. The transmittance of the CNFMA/PMMA composite was 86.45 %, showing only a slight reduction compared to PMMA. Its tensile strength increased to 69.21 MPa, about twice that of PMMA, and 1.5 times that of CNFpure/PMMA, proving the interaction between CNF and PMMA was greatly enhanced due to the successful grafting of PMMA onto the surface of CNF. The glass transition temperature is 108.1 °C, which increased by nearly 20 %. The thermal stability has also been improved, as reflected by a 10 % increase in the initial pyrolysis temperature. Overall, this work provides a mild and green preparation method for CNF/PMMA composites, making them suitable for applications in the field of high-strength organic glass.

Comparison of Microleakage and Bond Strength in Metal and Ceramic Brackets Cured by Conventional and Transillumination Methods: An In-vitro Evaluation.

The study explores the impact of microleakage on bracket (metal/ceramic) debonding and the occurrence of white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment. Various curing techniques are employed to assess shear bond strength (SBS) and microleakage in both metal and ceramic brackets. A total of 120 samples were divided into six groups, each consisting of 20 samples. The groups were categorized based on the bracket material (metal or ceramic) and further subdivided according to the light-emitting diode (LED) curing method (traditional, transillumination, or combination). Fifty percent (60 samples) of each group were allocated for SBS evaluation, while the remaining 50% (60 samples) were used for microleakage assessment. The buccal enamel surfaces of all teeth in the six groups were etched and coated with a uniform layer of sealant. Stainless steel and ceramic maxillary premolar brackets were affixed using Transbond XT adhesive and light-cured with an LED unit. SBS was measured using the Instron ElectroPuls E3000 universal testing machine, and microleakage was examined using a stereomicroscope. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni post-hoc test revealed significant differences in SBS among the six groups. Group IV exhibited the minimum SBS mean (7.02 MPa), while group VI displayed the maximum SBS mean (21.73 MPa). Microleakage assessment demonstrated that group IV had a maximum depth of 0.26 mm using the transillumination method, whereas group VI showed a minimum depth of 0.14 mm with the combination technique. Brackets cured with a combination of conventional (5 seconds) and transillumination (5 seconds per bracket) methods exhibited significantly higher SBS. Conversely, group IV, cured solely with the transillumination technique (10 seconds per bracket), demonstrated the lowest strength. In terms of microleakage, group VI, treated with the combination technique, displayed the shallowest depth, while group IV, cured exclusively with transillumination, showed the greatest depth of microleakage. These findings underscore the importance of the curing method in influencing both SBS and microleakage, offering valuable insights for optimizing orthodontic bracket placement techniques. Lenin A, Anbarasu P, S SK, et al. Comparison of Microleakage and Bond Strength in Metal and Ceramic Brackets Cured by Conventional and Transillumination Methods: An In-vitro Evaluation. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(9):999-1003.

Effect of Granite Fly Ash on Mechanical Properties of Basalt and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite

The granite processing industry generates a substantial volume of residual granite waste daily. This residue is collected through a filtration process during the drying and heating stages of concrete mixture production. Utilizing this residue, known as granite fly ash (GD), offers a promising avenue for mitigating adverse effects due to this waste material. The present study undertakes an experimental investigation into the potential utilization of granite fly ash as a filler to enhance the mechanical properties of basalt/glass composites (BFRC/GFRC). The research focuses on assessing the density and tensile characteristics of the developed fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. Composite samples were fabricated by incorporating GD at varying loadings, i.e., 1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, and 5 wt.%. The FRP laminates were produced using hand lay-up and vacuum silicon mold curing techniques. The outcomes show a slight increase in density, in which a maximum of 7% increment at 5 wt% of GD in BFRC. Meanwhile, tensile properties displayedsignificant enhancements, especially FRP with 3 wt.% GD content, for both BFRC and GFRC. Notably, the addition of 1 wt.% GD resulted in a 9% increase in tensile strength and a substantial 27% increase in modulus for the BFRC composite. In summary, the study underscores the advantageous influence of GD incorporation, particularly within the 1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, and 5 wt.%, on the mechanical properties of both BFRC and GFRC composites.

A Review on the Curing of Concrete using Different Methods

The hardened properties and durability of concrete are dependent on the moisture and temperature condition of the concrete during its hydration process. This review explores various methods of curing concrete focusing on their effectiveness in improving the performance and sustainability of concrete structures. Traditional methods of curing (such as ponding, sprinkling) and the modern curing techniques (such as curing compounds, self-curing agents and steam curing) are compared. The advantages and disadvantages of these methods are highlighted and water curing is found to be the most effective method of concrete curing, for it allows for the maintenance of adequate moisture and temperature, and it does not change the macro and microscopic structure of the concrete. The research methodology includes extensive literature, experimental studies and performance evaluations. The review aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of the best curing practices for different projects and working conditions.

Development of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Lightweight Aggregates

This research delves into the utilization of microwave hybrid heating as a curing technique for producing fine aggregates from fly ash. Various concentrations of alkali activator solutions were employed as binders to pelletize the fly ash (ranging from 0% to 10%). The resultant green fly ash-based geopolymer (FAG) aggregates were subjected to a 15-minute microwave kiln treatment. The microwave-sintered FAG fine aggregates, varying in sizes from 0.60 to 2.36 mm, were then utilized to fabricate 50 mm cubic cement mortar samples. Findings indicated that the density of FAG aggregates was approximately 36% lower than that of natural sand, while the water absorption capacity of FAG aggregates exhibited a fivefold increase compared to natural sand. Notably, cement mortar samples made with FAG aggregate of 4% alkali activator exhibited maximum compressive strengths of 31, 37, and 42 MPa at 7, 14, and 28 days of curing, respectively. These compressive strengths were only 12% lower than those of cement mortars made with natural sand across all curing periods. The use of microwave hybrid heating to transform fly ash into aggregates with sufficient strength appears viable, suggesting that these manufactured FAG aggregates could serve as substitutes for natural aggregates in concrete production

Mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete incorporating supplementary cementitious materials as binding agents

This research investigates the environmental impact of cement production by exploring eco-friendly geopolymer binders as alternatives. Geopolymer concrete, developed using silica and alumina-rich precursors such as pozzolanic materials, achieves high compressive strength, up to 43.6 N/mm2 with a 16 M concentration and integrated steel fibers. Utilizing manual mixing and industrial by-products, the study pioneers cast-in-situ geopolymers with innovative curing techniques. The paper presents experimental results on the engineering properties of geopolymer concretes of 40 MPa, cured at 100 °C and 60 °C. The study systematically varies binder content, examining proportions of fly ash, GGBS, metakaolin, and silica fume, along with different mix ratios and molar concentrations. Key findings include increased compressive strength with higher NaOH concentration, peaking at 35.2 N/mm2 and 34.22 N/mm2 for 14 M mixes at 7 and 28 days, and 40.29 N/mm2 for 16 M mixes at 7 days. Optimal results were observed at higher curing temperatures, especially with 14 M and 16 M compositions at 100 °C. The study recommends mechanized mixing for efficiency and calls for further investigation into the microstructure and chemistry of geopolymers to advance sustainable construction practices. This research represents a significant step towards eco-conscious building materials, reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry.

1 µm‐Thick Robust Gel Polymer Electrolyte with Excellent Interfacial Stability for High‐Performance Li Metal Batteries

AbstractGel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) hold great promise for lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs). Nevertheless, a critical challenge lies in reducing the thickness of GPEs while maintaining their mechanical integrity to achieve high‐energy‐density LMBs. Additionally, protecting the Li metal anode via electrolyte engineering in GPEs remains demanding. Herein, an innovative ultrathin (1 µm‐thick) yet robust GPE developed using an in situ curing technique, featuring a nanofibrous, exceptionally strong polyethylene separator is presented. The unique microstructure, interfacial conformability, and ultrahigh mechanical robustness of the ultrathin polyethylene separator are thoroughly verified. Enhanced ionic association within the GPE is achieved due to the strong affinity of electrolyte solvent with the fluorinated polymer network, as confirmed by large‐scale molecular dynamics simulations. The optimized solvation structure with high contact ion pairs and aggregate fractions contributes to forming an anion‐derived inorganic‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), thereby protecting the lithium anode. Benefiting from the ultrahigh robustness of GPE and the excellent interfacial stability, the Li metal full cell with a high mass loading LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode (≈17.3 mg cm−2) and thin Li foil anode (50 µm) demonstrates 91% capacity retention after 200 cycles. This design demonstrates a feasible approach toward the practical quasi‐solid‐state LMBs.

Synthesis of a novel bio-based curing agent and the curing behavior of the corresponding epoxy asphalt system

Traditional epoxy asphalt is made from petroleum resources. However, petroleum-based materials may cause environmental pollution and are not renewable. In this study, a bio-based curing agent MYM was synthesized from Maleic anhydride and Myrcene. The cured epoxy EP/MYM with the weight ratio of 1:1 were prepared. When preparing the modified asphalt, carboxyl-terminated liquid nitrile butadiene rubber (CTBN) was incorporated into the EP/MYM system to obtain the EP/MYM/CTBN modified asphalt system (referred to EMC epoxy asphalt). Firstly, the chemical structure of MYM was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Secondly, the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the cured EP/MYM were investigated by tensile test and thermogravimetric analysis (TG). Thirdly, the novel EMC epoxy asphalt was prepared and its composition was optimized. The curing behavior of the EMC epoxy asphalt was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). And the time-temperature-transition diagrams (TTT diagrams) were plotted to determine the optimal curing process. Then the surface micro-morphology of EMC epoxy asphalt was investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Finally, the high-temperature viscoelastic properties of EMC epoxy asphalt were investigated using dynamic shear rheology (DSR) tests. The results showed that EP/MYM has better mechanical strength and more excellent flexibility than those of EP/MTHPA and EP/MHHPA. The weight ratio of EP:MYM:CTBN was 10:8:1.5, and the optimal amount of diluent was 8 % of the total weight of the modifier. The semi-empirical kinetic modes of curing reaction were used to plot the TTT diagram of EMC epoxy asphalt, thus determining its curing technique as 120℃/2 h+160℃/3 h. The cured EMC epoxy asphalt showed uniform alternation of light and dark areas in the AFM images, indicating good compatibility and stability. The high-temperature deformation resistance of EMC epoxy asphalt was significantly improved compared to the base asphalt. The novel epoxy asphalt system prepared in this research provides a new route for the development of echo-friendly epoxy asphalt.

Mechanical properties and stability of zinc-contaminated red clay cured by MICP synergistically activated MgO

Microbially Induced Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) technology offers an innovative approach for the solidification and stabilization of heavy metal-contaminated soils; However, the mechanical strength and long-term stability of this remediation method have not been thoroughly investigated. This study introduces an innovative curing and stabilization technique using MICP-activated MgO to address the geotechnical challenges posed by zinc ion-contaminated soils. To investigate the effect of zinc ions on soil and the optimal efficacy of MICP-activated MgO in curing zinc contamination, experiments were conducted on zinc-contaminated soils with varying zinc ion concentrations (0.05%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 1.0%), dry densities (1.35, 1.4, 1.45, 1.5g/cm³), and activated MgO admixtures (1%, 2%, 5%, 10%). The effectiveness of MICP-activated MgO was evaluated through macroscopic analysis and stability tests, including unconfined compressive strength tests, direct shear tests, and the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). The results indicated that zinc ions disrupted soil particle cementation, enlarged inter-particle pores, and significantly reduced both unconfined compressive strength and shear strength. The optimal dosage of MICP-activated MgO for curing zinc-contaminated soil was determined to be 10%, resulting in an unconfined compressive strength of 1.196MPa and a Zn2+ leaching concentration of 0.1414mg/L. The combined actions of MICP-activated MgO facilitated the formation of alkaline magnesium carbonate, calcium carbonate, and magnesium hydroxide. These compounds filled the inter-particle pores of zinc-contaminated soil, encapsulating and co-precipitating zinc ions, thereby enhancing the soil's strength and stability. These findings establish a theoretical foundation for the engineering application of MICP-activated MgO in the remediation of zinc-contaminated soils.

Scalable production of double-layer superhydrophobic coating with superior adhesion and high corrosion resistance via screen printing and UV curing

This study addresses the challenges of mass production and extensive application of superhydrophobic coatings, focusing on adhesion and durability. We propose an innovative solution utilizing screen printing and UV curing techniques, offering a simple, replicable, and scalable process. Our two-step strategy involves applying a polyurethane diacrylate (PUA-2) adhesion layer to the glass surface through screen printing and UV curing to ensure superior adhesion. Next, a polyurethane hexaacrylate (PUA-6) based formulation is applied over the adhesion layer and subjected to light curing, resulting in excellent hydrophobicity, scratch resistance, and corrosion resistance. This method withstands a pullout force exceeding 5 MPa, achieving a water contact angle of 164.3° and a sliding angle of 1.6°. The coating maintains favorable superhydrophobicity after 80 rounds of sandpaper friction and demonstrates promising corrosion resistance in a 3.5 % NaCl solution. Notably, this approach streamlines large-scale production and delivers exceptional, well-defined performance, providing a promising avenue for widespread and sustainable applications of superhydrophobic coatings.

Utilization of direct coal liquefaction residue (DCLR) in recycled emulsified asphalt mixtures: A solution as geopolymer binder and filler materials

The study evaluates the feasibility of using coal liquefaction residue (DCLR) as a substitute for mineral powder and DCLR-based polymers as a substitute for cement in emulsified asphalt mixtures containing 100 % recycled asphalt pavement (RAP). This research examines the impact of various curing regimes on the functional attributes of the modified emulsified asphalt mixtures by evaluating road performance, compressive strength, and elastic modulus. The findings indicate that DCLR can effectively substitute mineral powder, maintaining the mixture’s stability and durability. The "three-stage double compaction" curing technique significantly enhances mechanical properties. Furthermore, the incorporation of DCLR-based geopolymers augments the dynamic stability of the mixture, albeit slightly affecting bending strain and residual stability. The integration of DCLR-based geopolymers substantially boosts the shear resistance of cold-recycled mixtures. During the enhancement of mixture performance, DCLR primarily serves a physical filling role, whereas DCLR-based geopolymers contribute to performance improvement through physicochemical interactions. This study validates the practicality of employing DCLR in emulsified asphalt mixtures for high-temperature applications, suggesting a sustainable pathway for asphalt mixture design.

Synergistic Effect of Aluminum Nitride and Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Silicon Rubber Nanocomposites.

Constructing a synergistic effect with different structural fillers is an important strategy for improving the comprehensive properties of polymeric composites. To improve the comprehensive properties of two-component additive liquid silicon rubber (SR) materials used in electronics packaging, the synergistic effect of granular aluminum nitride (AlN) and tubular carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced SR nanocomposites was investigated. AlN/CNT/SR composites with different AlN/CNT ratios were fabricated with two-component additive liquid SR via the thermal curing technique, and the influence of AlN/CNT hybrid fillers on the hardness, strength, elongation at break, surface resistivity, thermal conductivity, and thermal decomposition was investigated in detail. With the incorporation of AlN/CNT hybrid fillers, the comprehensive properties of the obtained AlN/CNT/SR composites are better than those of the AlN/SR and CNT/SR composites. The synergistic thermal conductive mechanism of AlN/CNT hybrid fillers was proposed and demonstrated with the fractural surface morphology of the obtained composites. The obtained AlN/CNT/SR composites show promising applications in electronic packaging, where necessary mechanical strength, electrical insulating, thermal conductivity, and thermal stable materials are needed.

Accelerated pork salting using needle electrode-derived pulsed electric fields

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of pulsed electric field (PEF) pretreatment on the NaCl content, protein composition, and microstructure of pork during the marination process. The results showed that needle PEF could promote salt penetration into the center of pork pieces. Under optimal PEF conditions (3.0 kV/cm, 200 Hz, and 2400 pulses), the marination time could be reduced by almost 12 h. Protein characterization also revealed that PEF pretreatment changes myofibrillar protein properties by promoting salt penetration toward the center of pork. Furthermore, microstructural analysis demonstrated that the enhanced marination effect could be attributed to the PEF treatment-induced expansion of gaps between muscle bundles. Industrial relevanceIn this study, a PEF-assisted curing technique significantly (P < 0.05) improved salt penetration into the center of pork. Reducing the differences between internal and external salt concentrations can produce a more homogeneous marinade and reduce the marination time. Our findings suggest that PEF pretreatment is a promising and effective pretreatment technique for curing meat products.