Structural Design Research Articles

Photoacoustic spectroscopy based on vertical cruciform multi-stepped photoacoustic cell achieving ppb-level acetylene detection

A photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) based on vertical cruciform multi-stepped photoacoustic cell (CMS-PAC) was developed to achieve highly sensitive detection of trace acetylene (C2H2) gas. Compared with the T-type PAC, the CMS-PAC has improved sensitivity through optimization of both the structural design and the direction of laser incidence. Through finite element simulation analysis, when the incidence direction of modulated laser was placed horizontally, the acoustic intensity of the CMS-PAC was ∼2.45 times higher than that of the T-type PAC. When the modulated laser was applied vertically, the acoustic intensity achieved by the CMS-PAC was ∼11 times higher than that along the horizontal incidence direction. The sensitivities of the CMS-PAC-based PAS system have reached 15.06 and 1.83 pm/ppm, along the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively. Combined with assessment using Allan deviation, the CMS-PAC-based PAS system achieved a minimum detection limit of 3.04 ppb@100 s in the vertical direction, and 23.06 ppb@100 s in the horizontal direction. The proposed CMS-PAC not only enhances acoustic intensity through optimized resonant cavity structures but also improves detection sensitivity with the optimized direction of laser incidence, providing a novel perspective for designing highly sensitive and compact PACs.

Dynamic response mechanism of the hole subjected to the 3D point source disturbance in an isotropic formation

Accurate estimation of the effects of dynamic disturbances on stress concentration is crucial for the stability of rock engineering and the corresponding analytical approaches are needed. This study presents an analytical approach to calculate the relative stress distribution with a point source inside and outside a hole using the linear theory of elasticity. The Helmholtz potentials and Sommerfeld integral are employed to describe the displacement and stress components, and then formulate the equilibrium equations to solve the equivalent stress distribution around the hole. Numerical examples demonstrate the impact of model parameters on the equivalent stress, such as frequency, hole radius, source location, etc. It is found that sometimes high frequencies can make the equivalent stress greater far from the source than that close to the source. Additionally, when the ratio of the distance between the source and the hole axis to the hole radius exceeds ten, the equivalent stress distribution around the hole remains nearly constant. This approach can be used for the design and assessment of underground engineering structures' stability under dynamic disturbances.

Investigation of the Deformation Behavior of Baffle Structures Impacted by Debris Flow Based on Physical Modelling

The utilization of baffle structures as a highly effective strategy for mitigating debris flow has attracted significant scholarly attention in recent years. Although the predominant focus of existing research has been on augmenting the energy dissipation capabilities of baffle structures, their deformation behavior under impact load has not been extensively investigated. Addressing this research gap, the current study systematically designs a series of physical model experiments, incorporating variables such as baffle height, shape, and various combinations of baffle types to comprehensively analyze the deformation characteristics of baffles subjected to debris flow impact. The experimental results reveal that the deformation of baffle group structures demonstrates a marked non-uniform spatial distribution and exhibits a latency effect. Additionally, distinct baffle configurations show considerable variations in peak strain, suggesting that combining different baffle shapes can not only optimize energy dissipation but also enhance resistance to deformation. Moreover, the relationship between baffle height and the development of deformation in relation to energy dissipation capacity is inconsistent, indicating that deformation must be a key consideration in the design of baffle structures. Consequently, this paper advocates for the formulation of a deformation-based design strategy for baffle structures, with the findings presented herein providing a foundational reference for future studies.

Achieving efficiency in truss structural design using opposition-based geometric mean optimizer

Achieving efficiency in truss structural design using opposition-based geometric mean optimizer

Carbon Micro/Nano Machining toward Miniaturized Device: Structural Engineering, Large-Scale Fabrication, and Performance Optimization.

With the rapid development of micro/nano machining, there is an elevated demand for high-performance microdevices withhigh reliability and low cost. Due to their outstanding electrochemical, optical, electrical, and mechanical performance, carbon materials are extensively utilized in constructing microdevices for energy storage, sensing, and optoelectronics. Carbon micro/nano machining is fundamental in carbon-based intelligent microelectronics, multifunctional integrated microsystems, high-reliability portable/wearable consumer electronics, and portable medical diagnostic systems. Despite numerous reviews on carbon materials, a comprehensive overview is lacking that systematically encapsulates the development of high-performance microdevices based on carbon micro/nano structures, from structural design to manufacturing strategies and specific applications. This review focuses on the latest progress in carbon micro/nano machining toward miniaturized device, including structural engineering, large-scale fabrication, and performance optimization. Especially, the review targets an in-depth evaluation of carbon-based micro energy storage devices, microsensors, microactuators, miniaturized photoresponsive and electromagnetic interference shielding devices. Moreover, it highlights the challenges and opportunities in the large-scale manufacturing of carbon-based microdevices, aiming to spark further exciting research directions and application prospectives.

Synthesis of complex polyolester as base stock for high-performance lubricant: Optimization, characterization, and evaluation

Synthetic esters are expected to have broad application prospects in the high-end lubrication sectors owing to their fascinating custom-tailored properties. Herein, we synthesized a novel complex polyolester (CPE) via a stepwise esterification procedure using stannous oxide as a heterogeneous catalyst. Response surface methodology coupled with the Box–Behnken design (BBD-RSM) was employed to optimize the experimental parameters and elucidate the interactions among the operating variables on the low-temperature fluidity of CPE. The optimization results indicated that the lowest pour point (−42 °C) could be obtained under the catalyst dosage of 1.2 wt%, the first step reaction temperature of 164 °C, the first step reaction time of 100 min, and the second step reaction temperature of 178 °C. Particularly, there is a significant interactive effect between the catalyst dosage and the second step reaction temperature. Followed by the molecular distillation of the crude ester prepared under the optimal conditions, the refining results revealed that the non-ideal components had been effectively removed and the total acid number of the final product was substantially reduced to below 0.1 mg KOH/g. The molecular structures of the as-synthesized esters were confirmed by FT-IR, NMR, GPC, ESI–MS, and TGA characterization and their physicochemical and tribological properties were also evaluated according to standard methods. In view of the unique molecular structural design, the developed CPE displayed plentiful prominent technological specificities, which makes it plausible to be served as a potential high-performance base stock. Therefore, the findings of this study may provide some valuable insights for expanding the application scope of synthetic esters into various special industrial scenarios.

Advancements in atomic-scale interface engineering for flexible electronics: Enhancing flexibility and durability.

Flexible electronics, such as wearable displays, implantable electronics, soft robots, and smart skin, have garnered increasing attention. Despite notable advancements in research, a bottleneck remains at the product level due to the prevalent use of polymer-based materials, requiring encapsulation films for lifespan extension and reliable performance. Multilayer composites, incorporating thin inorganic layers to maintain low permeability towards moisture, oxygen, ions, etc., exhibit potential in achieving highly flexible barriers but encounter challenges stemming from interface instability between layers. This perspective offers a succinct review of strategies and provides atomic-scale interface modulation strategy utilizing atomic layer integration technology focused on enhancing the flexibility of high-barrier films. It delves into bendable multilayers with atomic-scale interface modulation strategies, encompassing internal stress and applied stress modulation, as well as stretchable composite structural designs such as gradient/hybrid, wavy, and island. These strategies showcase significant improvements in flexibility from bendable to stretchable while maintaining high barrier properties. Besides, optimized manufacturing methods, materials, and complex structure design based on atomic-scale interface engineering are provided, better aligning with the future development of flexible electronics. By laying the groundwork for these atomic-scale strategies, this perspective contributes to the evolution of flexible electronics, enhancing their flexibility, durability, and functionality.

Dual–Acceptor Engineering in Pyrene‐Based Covalent Organic Frameworks for Boosting Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution

AbstractThe integration of electron donor (D) and acceptor (A) units into covalent organic frameworks (COFs) has received increasing interest due to its potential for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen (H2) evolution from water. Nevertheless, the advancement of D–A COFs is still constrained by the limited investigations on acceptor engineering, which enables the highly effective charge transfer pathways in COFs to deliver photoexcited electrons in a preferential orientation to enhance photocatalytic performance. Herein, two systems with D–A and D–A–A configurations based on the acceptor molecular engineering strategy are proposed to construct three distinct COFs. Specifically, TAPPy‐DBTDP‐COF merging one pyrene‐based donor and two benzothiadiazole acceptors realized an average H2 evolution rate of 12.7 mmol h−1 g−1 under visible light, among the highest ever reported for typical D–A‐type COF systems. The combination of experimental and theoretical analysis signifies the crucial role of the dual‐acceptor arrangement in promoting exciton dissociation and carrier migration. These findings underscore the significant potential of D–A–A structural design, which is conducive to the efficient separation of photoexcited electrons and holes resulting in superior photocatalytic activities.

Investigation of torsion in asymmetric mid-rise structures on the pile-raft system considering soil-structure interaction

The adverse conditions of the soil such as soft soil can have seismic consequences that may either amplify seismic response or render the structure vulnerable. On one hand, the design and construction of asymmetric structures have become prevalent due to aesthetic considerations and structural space limitations. Studies indicate that structures with geometric irregularities are susceptible to seismic forces, leading to non-uniform distribution of floor drifts, excessive torsional behavior, and more, depending on the degree of irregularity. In this research, the main goal was to investigate the effect of soil and structure interaction on the torsion of asymmetric Mid-Rise Structures. To achieve this goal two asymmetric Steel moment frame system 15-story structures aim to address the effect of interaction between soil and structure on the seismic performance, one with a rigid base and the other with a flexible base, one with a rigid base and the other with a flexible base. To mitigate the settlement of soil-associated structures, a pile-raft system is employed, considering the softness of the soil. Additionally, to study the torsional behavior of these structures, their planes are asymmetrically designed in L-shape and C-shape configurations, subjected to four ground motion excitations in both far and near-field scenarios. Three-dimensional finite element numerical simulations are performed using Abaqus software. Various configurations of the pile-raft system for the asymmetric C-shape structure are examined to assess the effects of pile diameter and length on the torsional irregularity coefficient. The results show that the soil-structure interaction increases the maximum floor rotation angle, placing these structures in critical conditions concerning torsional irregularity under near-field and far-field seismic excitations.

Exploring Damage Patterns in CFRP Reinforcements: Insights from Simulation and Experimentation.

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) have become increasingly significant in real-world applications due to their superior strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and high stiffness. These properties make CFRP an ideal material for reinforcing concrete structures, particularly in scenarios where weight reduction is crucial, such as in bridges and high-rise buildings. The transformative potential of CFRP lies in its ability to enhance the durability and load-bearing capacity of concrete structures while minimizing maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of the infrastructure. This research explores the impact of reinforcing structural elements with advanced composite materials on the strength and durability of concrete and reinforced concrete structures. By integrating Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) reinforcements, we subjected both rectangular and T-section concrete beams to comprehensive three-point bending tests, revealing a substantial increase in flexural strength by 45% and crack resistance due to CFRP reinforcement. The study revealed that CFRP reinforcement increased the flexural strength of concrete beams by 45% and improved crack resistance significantly. Additionally, the load-bearing capacity of the beams was enhanced by 40% compared to unreinforced specimens. These improvements were validated through finite element simulations, which showed a close alignment with the experimental data. Furthermore, an innovative simulation study was conducted using a finely tuned finite element numerical model within the Abaqus calculation code. This model accurately replicated the laboratory specimens in terms of shape, dimensions, and loading conditions. The simulation results not only validated the experimental observations but also provided deeper insights into the stress distribution and failure mechanisms of the reinforced beams. Novel aspects of this study include the identification of specific failure patterns unique to CFRP-reinforced beams and the introduction of an enhanced interaction model that more accurately reflects the composite behavior under load. In CFRP-reinforced beams, specific failure patterns were identified, including flexural cracks in the tension zone and debonding of the CFRP sheets. These patterns indicate the points of maximum stress concentration and potential weaknesses in the reinforcement strategy. The study revealed that while CFRP significantly improves the overall strength and stiffness, careful attention must be given to the bonding process and the quality of the adhesive used to ensure optimal performance. These findings contribute significantly to the understanding of material interactions and structural performance, offering new pathways for the design and optimization of composite-reinforced concrete structures. This research underscores the transformative potential of composite materials in elevating the structural integrity and longevity of concrete infrastructures.

Investigation of using amine and acetylamine functional units on naphthalimide dyes for photovoltaic devices

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to introduce four new organic dyes based on naphthalimide for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Design/methodology/approach Four new dyes based on naphthalimide with substitutions of amine and acetylamine in position C4 were designed in conjugation with substituted carbazole as donor–acceptor (D-A) architecture. The absorption and emission characteristics of the prepared dyes were evaluated in H2O, DMF and their mixture (DMF:H2O = 1:1). The feasibility of electron transfer in the DSSCs structure and energy levels were evaluated using electrochemical and density functional theory, which confirm the use of dyes in the DSSCs structure. The DSSCs were prepared using an individual strategy and their optical properties were investigated under the light of AM 1.5. Findings The prepared dyes exhibit orange color with strong emission at λem = 530–570 nm due to charge transfer with a positive solvatochromic effect. The efficiency of DSSCs based on Dye1-4 1 is: 3.69%, 3.71%, 4.69% and 4.76%. Therefore, the power efficiency increases by about 29 % in the presence of acetylamine group. Practical implications The design of new structures of organic dyes should be accompanied by the development of optical and electrical properties. In other words, in addition to the continuous production of electrons, efficient dyes must also be resistant to light to increase the life of the device. Social implications Organic dyes play a key role in the production of electrons in the DSSCs structure. The engineering of these structures and the introduction of widely used but low cost types can play an important role in the development of clean energy production. Originality/value The application of organic dyes based on naphthalimide was evaluated in the DSSCs structure and its photovoltaic properties were investigated.

Construction Cost Optimization of Prefabricated Buildings Based on BIM Technology

Prefabricated assemblies are popular in the construction industry due to their minimal carbon footprint, enhanced safety, and reliability. A combination of software, including Revit, Navisworks, and Practical Structural Design and Construction (PKPM) software, is used to reduce costs by refining the specifications and dimensions of components, streamlining the variety of molds, enhancing design performance through rigorous component collision inspections and structural optimization, and ensuring cost-effectiveness. The integration of building integration modeling (BIM) visualization significantly diminishes errors attributable to information asymmetry and minimized material wastage stemming from production inaccuracies. The implementation of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) information exchange platform enables real-time component tracking, provides insights into the transportation dynamics of these components, and facilitates cost optimization during the transportation phase. Moreover, simulations conducted using Fuzor software preemptively identify potential construction site issues. There is a substantial cost savings of 710,000 yuan.

Effects of local strain on the plastic deformation and fracture mechanism of heterogeneous multilayered aluminum

Elucidating the effect of local strain on the mechanical properties is of great significance for the design of high-performance layered metals. For this purpose, we conceived the present study, featured by tailoring the local strain by layer thickness design, and simultaneous monitoring of local strain and geometrically necessary dislocations (GNDs) via coupling in-situ electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and high-resolution digital image correlation (DIC). In addition, synchrotron X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT) was employed to analyze the microcracks that serve as another form of strain localization. Such detailed experimental studies revealed that the interfacial strain gradient was rapidly elevated, and the strain localization band was effectively dispersed as the layer thickness decreased. This leads to two typical transitions, from grain-boundary-related to layer-interface-related plastic deformation mode, and from macroscopic shear to zig-zag fracture mode. Their influences on the mechanical properties, as well as underlying mechanisms, were discussed based on the relationship among the layer thickness, strain gradient, strain localization, GND density, and microcracks. Our work not only contributes to the fundamental understanding of the mechanical behavior of multilayered metals but also offers guidance for the structural design of high-performance metals aimed at achieving superior strength-ductility combinations.

Improving the natural frequency of the CubeSat structure using voxel-based topology optimization method with the four-connected seed filling

The dynamical analysis and optimization pose significant challenges in spacecraft structural design, as they are crucial for mitigating vibrations. However, artificial localized modes can arise due to imprecise finite elemental models, impeding dynamical optimization. This paper proposes a voxel-based topology optimization method with a four-connected seed filling strategy to address this issue. By selecting a seed element and connecting it with the entire structure using four-connected relations, artificial localized modes can be suppressed effectively. Unlike traditional mesh-based methods, this approach saves time and eliminates the need for manual handling of the initial model. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a 6-U CubeSat was chosen as an optimization example. To reduce design errors stemming from calculation inaccuracies, spatial symmetry constraints were employed. Through simulations and vibration tests, it was observed that the first five-order natural frequencies of the optimized structure exceeded those of the original structure. This outcome decreases the likelihood of resonance occurrence and enhances the safety of the electromechanical system. Overall, this research presents a practical and efficient solution for addressing dynamical optimization challenges in spacecraft structural design, thereby improving vibration reduction efforts and safeguarding the integrity of the system.

Thermal vibration analysis of bi-directionally stepped porous functionally graded plates with segment-specific material property variation supported by Kerr foundation

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the nonlinear dynamic response of stepped rectangular plates made of functionally graded porous material (FGPM), supported by the Kerr foundation, in a thermal environment. A novel analytical framework is developed to explore geometric and material variations. The study investigates structural variations in plate thickness with abrupt changes in uni- or bi-directional orientations, examining both single and double stepped thickness profiles. Material properties vary with thickness, featuring distinct horizontal discontinuities across plate segments. Porosity distributions, both even and uneven, are addressed using modified mixture rules. Nonlinear kinematic relationships are established using Reddy’s third-order shear deformation plate theory and von Kármán’s nonlinear geometric assumptions, with equations of motion solved via Galerkin’s technique. This improved model effectively addresses non-continuous thickness variation through integral calculus, enhancing computational efficiency. Validation is achieved by comparing outcomes with published literature and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The study investigates the influence of material properties, elastic foundation, boundary conditions, and geometric parameters on the free vibration and nonlinear behaviors of the plates. Some of the key findings include: increasing the thickness of the stepped segment significantly heightens the fundamental frequency while reducing vibrational amplitudes; optimizing the location of the stepped segment directly impacts the plate’s fundamental frequency and vibrational amplitudes; and as the load factor increases, the difference between linear and nonlinear deflection becomes evident. Therefore, accurate FGPM stepped plate design requires incorporating nonlinear terms in the strain–displacement relationships. Suggestions for future model modifications are also discussed, contributing to advancements in structural design and analysis.

Understanding the effect of microstructure on the failure behavior of additively manufactured Al2O3 ceramics: 3D micromechanical modeling

Additively manufactured (AM) ceramics are gaining popularity due to improved flexibility in the design of customized structures. Microstructure-based finite element (FE) models were developed to study the strain-rate-dependent failure behavior of AM Al2O3 ceramics under uniaxial compression. Upon validation with experimental data, the model was leveraged to quantify the history of intergranular and transgranular failure mechanisms across microstructures. It was revealed that the intergranular mechanism plays a key role in the material strength across strain rates. Crystallographic orientations were found to remarkably decrease the material strength due to the earlier initiation and faster growth of the intergranular mechanism. The increase in porosity was found to amplify the transgranular mechanism resulting from a higher number of pores acting as crack nucleation sites, decreasing the material strength regardless of strain rate. The model reflected the existence of a threshold for grain boundary strength, beyond which further enhancements yield marginal improvements in material strength. Additionally, the effect of grain size on the initiation and evolution of failure mechanisms was studied and the corresponding limitations of the model were discussed. The current work correlates the microstructure of the material to its macroscale response through micromechanical models, informing the design of better-performing AM Al2O3 ceramics.

Feasibility study of underwater drilling robot based on razor clam

Razor acis lives in the low tidal area of the inner bay and thrives in the area with mild infiltration of fresh water. It uses its rhythmic contraction and foot burp and its unique anatomy to make holes. The extraordinary ability of razor clams to effectively penetrate the sediment has inspired innovation in the design of underwater drilling robots. Underwater drilling robots are currently widely used in the industrial world, such as underwater geological exploration, underwater shipwreck exploration, etc. However, the existing models of these robots mainly have a rigid structural design, which limits the flexibility of their drilling components, while their rough appearance also hinders their drilling efficiency. In response to these limitations, this paper proposes a robot with a soft, flexible body, and other enhanced functions designed to simulate a soft razor clam, replicate its peristaltic motion, minimize surface friction, and thus achieve superior drilling capability. This paper focuses on the development of software, segmented structure design, and studies designed to reduce surface friction and explore the mechanism of biomimetic motion.

Rational design of a laminate-structured flexible sensor for human dynamic plantar pressure monitoring

Flexible sensors are essential components in emerging fields such as epidermal electronics, biomedicine, and human-computer interactions, and creating high-performance sensors through simple structural design for practical applications is increasingly needed. Presently, challenges still exist in establishing efficient models of flexible piezoresistive pressure sensors to predict the design required for achieving target performance. This work establishes a theoretical model of a flexible pressure sensor with a simple laminated and enclosed structure. In the modeling, the electrical constriction effect is innovatively introduced to explain the sensitization mechanism of the laminated structure to a broad range of pressures and to predict the sensor performance. The experimental results confirmed the effectiveness of the theoretical model. The sensor exhibited excellent stability for up to three million cycles and superior durability when exposed to salt solution owing to its simple laminated and enclosed structural design. Finally, a wearable sensing system for real-time collection and analysis of plantar pressure is constructed for exercise and rehabilitation monitoring applications. This work aims to provide theoretical guidance for the rapid design and construction of flexible pressure sensors with target performance for practical applications.

A Systematic Review on the Generation of Organic Structures through Additive Manufacturing Techniques.

Additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a transformative technology in the fabrication of intricate structures, offering unparalleled adaptability in crafting complex geometries. Particularly noteworthy is its burgeoning significance within the realm of medical prosthetics, owing to its capacity to seamlessly replicate anatomical forms utilizing biocompatible materials. Notably, the fabrication of porous architectures stands as a cornerstone in orthopaedic prosthetic development and bone tissue engineering. Porous constructs crafted via AM exhibit meticulously adjustable pore dimensions, shapes, and porosity levels, thus rendering AM indispensable in their production. This systematic review ventures to furnish a comprehensive examination of extant research endeavours centred on the generation of porous scaffolds through additive manufacturing modalities. Its primary aim is to delineate variances among distinct techniques, materials, and structural typologies employed, with the overarching objective of scrutinizing the cutting-edge methodologies in engineering self-supported stochastic printable porous frameworks via AM, specifically for bone scaffold fabrication. Findings show that most of the structures analysed correspond to lattice structures. However, there is a strong tendency to use organic structures generated by mathematical models and printed using powder bed fusion techniques. However, no work has been found that proposes a self-supporting design for organic structures.

A Time-Dependent Damage Constitutive Model for Brittle Rock Materials Based on Subcritical Damage Theory.

In the domain of geotechnical engineering, a profound understanding of the long-term mechanical deformation characteristics of rocks is indispensable for the design and construction of structures, dams, tunnels, and various engineering projects. The deformation behavior of rocks under long-term loads directly impacts the stability and safety of engineering structures. This study employs micromechanical methods to investigate the subcritical extension of microcracks under stress corrosion. By examining the accumulated damage resulting from this phenomenon, the research explores the patterns of aging damage development and establishes a constitutive model for aging that incorporates cumulative damage over the stress history. The accuracy of the proposed model is evaluated through a comprehensive comparison of numerical results with experimental data. The experimental data set encompasses traditional triaxial compression tests, single-stage creep, multistage creep, and single-stage relaxation tests conducted under varying confining pressures. The predicted results exhibit strong consistency with the entire data set. Furthermore, this paper employs crack damage stress as an indicator characterizing the long-term strength of rock. Through frictional damage coupling analysis and derivation, an analytical expression for the long-term strength of rock materials containing microcracks is provided, serving as a theoretical basis for investigating the long-term mechanical performance of brittle rock materials and ensuring the long-term stability of large-scale rock engineering projects.