Development Of Materials Research Articles

Teachers’ Interaction with Prescribed Teaching Materials: Evaluation, Adaptation and Exploitation

In recent years, material development in English language teaching has received growing attention, yet the interaction between English language teachers and prescribed teaching materials remains an under-researched area. This study aims to address this issue and contribute to the understanding of teachers’ agency in their interactions with prescribed textbooks. The study addresses this gap by exploring how five high school English teachers in two major cities in southern and southwestern China interact with prescribed textbooks within the curriculum policy context. Through in-depth semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis, the study investigates teachers’ evaluation, adaptation, and exploitation of materials, revealing that while teachers exercise agency in material development, both textbook structure and external factors contribute to the deprofessionalisation of teachers. The findings underscore the complex relationship between a standardised curriculum and teachers’ context-sensitive practices, highlighting the need for flexible textbook designs and more supportive administrative practices to better facilitate teacher agency in classroom material use.

ANALISIS KEBUTUHAN BAHAN BACAAN ANTI BULLYING UNTUK OPTIMALISASI GERAKAN ANTIBULLYING DI SD NEGERI 1 SUMITA

Based on the discussion review, it can be concluded that the results of this study are that there are differences in perception between teachers and Principals regarding the frequency of bullying incidents. The majority of teachers stated that bullying rarely occurs, while Principals identified that bullying often occurs. This difference indicates the need for relevant reading materials to improve understanding of bullying, both for students and teachers. Teachers agree that anti-bullying reading materials are very important in helping students understand the negative impacts of bullying and instilling anti-violence values. This study suggests the development of anti-bullying reading materials that are interesting, easy to understand, and supported by images in order to increase students' awareness and interest in understanding the issue of bullying. In addition to the research findings, best practices in this study include the following: Development of Interesting and Relevant Reading Materials, Involvement of Teachers in the Anti-Bullying Literacy Process, Use of Reading Materials as Discussion Tools, Combination with Guidance and Counseling Programs, Collaboration Between Schools and Parents, and Developing special guidelines containing practical steps in handling bullying cases at school.

Fabrication and Enhanced Flexibility of Starch-Based Cross-Linked Films.

The development of sustainable materials has driven significant interest in starch as a renewable and biodegradable polymer. However, the inherent brittleness, hydrophilicity, and lack of thermoplasticity of native starch limit its application in material science. This study addresses the limitations of native starch by converting it to dialdehyde starch (DAS) and cross-linking with polyether diamines via imine bonds. The effects of Jeffamine molecular weights (D-2000, D-400, and D-230) and mole ratios on the mechanical, thermal, and structural properties of starch-based films were examined. The cross-linked DAS/Js films exhibited significant enhancements in flexibility and toughness. Specifically, DAS/J2000 at a 0.03 mol ratio achieved a tensile strength of 62.9 MPa. In comparison, DAS/J400 at a 0.5 mol ratio demonstrated 126.2% elongation at break, indicating the balance between cross-linking density and chain mobility. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed reduced crystallinity and tighter molecular packing with increased cross-linking. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) indicated a decrease in Tg with an increasing mole ratio, reflecting enhanced molecular mobility. The results underscore the potential of optimized cross-linking conditions to produce starch-based films with properties that contribute to developing sustainable biopolymer materials.

Development of New Spray Dust Suppression Materials in Metal Mines and Prediction of Algorithm Simulation Effect

PROBLEM: Dust contamination in metal mining poses substantial dangers to environmental quality and human health. Modern mining operations cannot use traditional spray dust suppression methods because they are poorly adapted to changing climate conditions, low efficient, and detrimental to the environment. INTRODUCTION: Dust pollution seriously impacts the environment and human health in metal mine operations. Traditional spray dust suppression technology has many problems, such as limited effect, environmental impact, and poor climate adaptability. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this article is to develop a new type of spray dust suppression material and predict its dust suppression effect through algorithm simulation. Firstly, efficient and environmentally friendly dust-reducing materials were screened, and after evaluating the dust-reducing effect under laboratory conditions, the optimal material combination was determined. METHODS: Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a numerical model of the spray process was constructed to simulate the dust suppression effect of different materials under different climatic conditions. RESULTS: The results show that the highest dust reduction efficiency of the new spray dust reduction material is more than 4.3% higher than that of the traditional material, and it shows good stability. CONCLUSION: The new spray dust control material and its effect prediction method studied in this article provide an effective solution for dust control in metal mines, which has important theoretical value and practical application prospects.

USO DE ENXERTOS EM CIRURGIAS RECONSTRUTIVAS APÓS TRAUMAS GRAVES: UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA

This article provides a comprehensive review of the use of grafts in reconstructive surgeries for patients with severe trauma, highlighting the differences among autologous, allogeneic, and synthetic grafts and their efficacy in specific contexts. Autologous grafts are known for their high integration rates and low immune rejection, while allogeneic and synthetic grafts expand therapeutic options, albeit with higher risks of complications. Technological advances, such as 3D bioprinting, allow for the customization of grafts, enhancing aesthetic and functional outcomes. However, these methods still face limitations, such as vascularization issues and immune rejection risks. This study emphasizes the importance of a careful and personalized selection of graft type to maximize patient quality of life and satisfaction. In conclusion, while autologous grafts remain the gold standard, the development of synthetic and bioprinted materials represents a promising frontier for reconstructive medicine.

The Restoring Force Triangle: A Mnemonic Device for Polymer Mechanochemistry.

In polymer mechanochemistry, mechanophores are specific molecular units within the macromolecular backbone that are particularly sensitive to tension. To facilitate understanding of this selective responsiveness, we introduce the restoring force triangle (RFT). The RFT is a mnemonic device intended to provide intuitive insight into how external tensile forces (i.e., stretching) can selectively activate scissile bonds, thereby initiating mechanically driven chemical reactions. The RFT utilizes two easily computable parameters: the effective bond stiffness constant, which measures a bond's resistance to elongation, and the bond dissociation energy, which is the energy required to break a bond. These parameters help categorize reactivity into thermal and mechanical domains, providing a useful framework for developing new mechanophores that are responsive to force but thermally stable. The RFT helps chemists intuitively understand how tensile force contributes to the activation of a putative mechanophore, facilitating the development of mechanochemical reactions and mechano-responsive materials.

Exploring advanced microwave strategy for the synthesis of two-dimensional energy materials

The rapid pace of technology and increasing energy demands underscore the urgent need for eco-friendly materials with exceptional energy conversion and storage capabilities. Two-dimensional (2D) energy materials, characterized by unique physicochemical properties, hold great promise in renewable energy conversion, catalysis, and electronics. Nevertheless, conventional synthesis methods often falter in balancing high quality, high yield, and cost-effectiveness, presenting substantial obstacles to their large-scale application. Microwave-assisted synthesis, characterized by its rapid and efficient process, emerges as a promising approach to surmount these limitations. This review meticulously examines the pivotal role of microwave-assisted synthesis in the preparation of 2D materials, highlighting its profound impact on enhancing material quality and production efficiency. By scrutinizing the unique physical properties of microwaves and their applications in material synthesis, the review elucidates the innovative contributions of microwave technology to materials science. Furthermore, it delves into the intricate influence of microwave parameter control on the synthesis process and resultant material properties, offering insight into the potential of microwave technology for the precise modulation of material structure and functionality. This comprehensive analysis underscores microwave-assisted synthesis as a viable solution for overcoming current challenges, thereby advancing the development of high-performance 2D energy materials.

Cyclodextrin Metal-Organic Framework Functionalized Carbon Materials with Optimized Interface Electronics and Selective Supramolecular Channels for High-Performance Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

During the reaction process in lithium-sulfur batteries, Lewis acidic lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) affect ion distribution and overall electrolyte stability, degrading battery performance and product distribution (e.g., Li2S). Here, a microenvironment regulation strategy with optimized interface electronics and selective supramolecular channels, is proposed to enhance LiPS reaction kinetics through Lewis basic γ-cyclodextrin metal-organic framework (γ-CDMOF). To validate this concept, γ-CDMOF is rapidly synthesized on 3D graphene foam (GF) via a microwave-assisted method, resulting in a γ-CDMOF/GF cathode for high-performance Li-S batteries. A range of analytical techniques combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirm that introducing a Lewis basic supramolecular microenvironment mitigates the LiPSs shuttle effect, enhances polysulfide capture, and improves sulfur redox conversion. Additionally, COMSOL simulations reveal that the γ-CDMOF framework and oxygen sites significantly reduce volumetric expansion stress during the LiPS solid-liquid phase transition. Impressively, the γ-CDMOF/GF cathode exhibits exceptional performance, including a high specific capacity (1253.01 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1C), excellent rate performance (589.68 mAh g⁻¹ at 5C), and long cycle life (over 1200 cycles). This study introduces a new concept of supramolecular microenvironment regulation and interfacial interaction strategy, offering a unique approach for the development of multifunctional electrode materials.

One-Step Palladium-Catalyzed Heterocyclic Ring Closure of Benzofurans with Aryl Iodides through a Heck-Type Pathway.

An operationally simple and robust method for the direct arylation and ring closure of benzofurans is reported. Besides the mild conditions and good reaction yields, the methodology is applicable for a wide range of derivatives using commercially available aryl iodides with complete C2 regioselectivity. The reaction is proposed to follow a Heck-type oxyarylation mechanism. The facile synthesis method will enable the development of new materials for diverse applications in biology and catalysis and as precursors for organic semiconductors.

Hole-Transporting Materials Based on a Fluorene Unit for Efficient Optoelectronic Devices

Solution-processable hole-transporting materials (HTMs) that form highly soluble films and thermally stable amorphous states are essential for advancing optoelectronic devices. However, the currently commercialized HTM, N,N-bis(3-methylphenyl)-N,N0-bis(phenyl)benzidine (TPD), exhibits poor solubility and limited carrier transport when spin-coated into thin films. Herein, to address these issues, a fluorenyl group was ingeniously incorporated into a series of molecules structurally similar to TPD. The resulting compounds, namely, 2,7-di-(N,N-diphenylamino)-9,9-dimethyl-9H-fluorene (DDF), 2,7-di-p-tolyl-(N,N-diphenylamino)-9,9-dimethyl-9H-fluorene (2M-DDF), and 2,7-di-tetra-p-tolyl-(N,N-diphenylamino)-9,9-dimethyl-9H-fluorene (4M-DDF), offered tunable energy levels, carrier transport, crystallinity, and steric configuration via adjustment of the number of terminal methyl groups. Owing to its satisfactory performance, 2M-DDF can serve as an effective alternative to TPD in OLED devices as well as a guest molecule in host–guest systems for long-afterglow materials. Devices incorporating 2M-DDF as the HTM, with an Alq3 emitter, achieved a maximum CE of 4.78 cd/A and a maximum L (Lmax) of 21,412 cd m−2, with a turn-on voltage (Von) of 3.8 V. The luminous efficiency of 2M-DDF was approximately five times that of TPD (4106 cd m−2). Furthermore, when 2M-DDF and TPD were utilized as guest molecules in afterglow materials, the afterglow duration of 2M-DDF (10 s) was 2.5 times that of TPD (4 s). This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of high-performance HTMs and long-afterglow materials, establishing a framework for the application of fluorene-based compounds in emerging fields such as long-afterglow materials.

Historical Evolution and Current Developments in Building Thermal Insulation Materials—A Review

The European Climate Law mandates a 55% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, intending to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. To meet these targets, there is a strong focus on reducing energy consumption in buildings, particularly for heating and cooling, which are the primary drivers of energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, the demand for energy-efficient and sustainable buildings is increasing, and thermal insulation plays a crucial role in minimizing energy consumption for both winter heating and summer cooling. This review explores the historical development of thermal insulation materials, beginning with natural options such as straw, wool, and clay, progressing to materials like cork, asbestos, and mineral wool, and culminating in synthetic insulators such as fiberglass and polystyrene. The review also examines innovative materials like polyurethane foam, vacuum insulation panels, and cement foams enhanced with phase change materials. Additionally, it highlights the renewed interest in environmentally friendly materials like cellulose, hemp, and sheep wool. The current challenges in developing sustainable, high-performance building solutions are discussed, including the implementation of the 6R principles for insulating materials. Finally, the review not only traces the historical evolution of insulation materials but also provides various classifications and summarizes emerging aspects in the field.

Experimental investigation and optimization of process parameters on tensile strength of carbon coated PLA material

Abstract This study explores the effect of key process parameters on the tensile strength of carbon-coated PLA (Polylactic Acid) material using additive manufacturing. The problem addressed is the need to enhance the mechanical properties of PLA, a widely used biodegradable polymer, by optimizing process parameters to improve its tensile strength when coated with carbon. The parameters investigated include infill pattern, printing speed, layer thickness, and orientation. A response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to design the experiments, while Minitab 15 software was used to analyze the data through analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicate that the optimal process parameters, linear infill pattern, printing speed of 20 mm/s, layer thickness of 150 µm, and Y-90 orientation, yield an average tensile strength of 56.4 MPa. A regression model was developed to predict tensile strength, with a high degree of accuracy (R² = 0.97). Confirmation tests verified the model’s predictions, contributing to the development of high-performance PLA-based materials for demanding applications.

Recent Advances in NIR-Switchable Multi-Redox Systems Based on Organic Molecules.

In recent years, near-infrared (NIR) dyes, exhibiting absorption in the NIR region (750-2500 nm), have been applied to various optical applications such as security marking, photovoltaic cells and chemotherapy of deep tissues in vivo. Electrochromic systems capable of switching NIR absorption are attractive from the viewpoint of applications for material and life science, and thus several examples have been reported to date. The development of organic-based materials is needed to reduce the environmental impact and improve biocompatibility, however, the switching of NIR absorption based on redox interconversion is still a challenging issue regarding reversibility and durability during interconversion. To overcome this potential instability, several studies on organic electrochromic systems that allow ON/OFF switching of NIR absorption have been developed in recent years. In this review, we focus on redox-active well-defined small molecules that enable ON/OFF switching of NIR absorption, and present recent studies on their intrinsic electrochemical and spectroscopic properties and/or structural characterization of their charged states. We also address more sophisticated electrochromic systems that can modulate their properties in response to external stimuli such as light, heat, and electric potential.

Sodium-Rich, Co-Ni-Free P2-Layered Manganese Oxide Cathodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries.

The rapid capacity loss attributed to irreversible phase reactions and structural instability has consistently affected the development of P2-layered cathode materials. Moreover, the introduction of costly elements such as single or multiple dopants has failed to resolve the sustainability challenges in designing an optimal Mn-based layered oxide cathode. This study proposes a Co-Ni-free, poly-elemental doping strategy (Li, Mg, and Cu) combined with high sodium content for an Mn-based P2-layered cathode designed for Na+ ion storage. In situ X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the absence of P2 - O2 phase transitions during cycling for both NLMMC87 (Na0.87Li0.1Mg0.1Mn0.7Cu0.1O2) and NLMMC77 (Na0.77Li0.1Mg0.1Mn0.7Cu0.1O2). This can be attributed to the co-substitution of the electronegative Cu element and the stabilizing dopants Li and Mg, which suppress oxygen evolution. Simultaneously, the high sodium content within the host structure promotes high reversible capacity, enhances structural stability, and minimizes internal stress due to volume changes. Moreover, NLMMC87 demonstrates a reversible capacity of 167.9mA h g-1 at 0.1 C (97% Coulombic efficiency) and maintains excellent stability across various current rates. Further investigations into the practical application of NLMMC87 in a sodium full cell will be a critical step toward realizing an ideal cathode for sodium-ion batteries.

Utilization of Nanocellulose as an Eco-friendly Sustainable Nanomaterial for Potential Pathway to Circular Economy and Sustainability

The development of sustainable packaging materials has been a major challenge in the packaging industry. The recyclability of nanocellulose plays an important role in promoting sustainability and the advancement of a circular economy through the provision of renewable and eco-friendly feedstocks as alternatives to traditional materials. This paper aims to highlight the challenges and opportunities presented by nanocellulose as a sustainable and multifunctional packaging material. In addition, this paper discusses the current state of the art of nano cellulose and nano inorganics as sustainable alternatives to synthetic plastics. The sustainability of packaging materials is an ineluctable challenge for the packaging industry, which should be developed within a circular economy, with minimum environmental impacts. In this context, nanocellulose remains one of the most promising derivatives from renewable resources because it shows excellent recyclability, biodegradability, and multi-functional properties. This review aims to point out different prospects of nanocellulose for being a bio-alternative to conventional packaging materials, hence examining challenges and opportunities regarding its application. The paper also discusses recent advances in the combination of nanocellulose with nano-inorganics as promising alternatives to synthetic plastics, providing an overview of its role in fostering sustainability in the packaging industry.

N, P co-Doped Hard Carbon Anodes for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries with Enhanced Capacity Retention and Cycle Stability.

Compared to the traditional graphite anode, heteroatom-doped polymer carbon materials have high capacity retention due to their high porosity and porous structure. Therefore, they have great potential for application in lithium-ion battery (LIB) anodes. In this work,an N, P co-doped precursor polymer material (MBPp), synthesized via a one-pot method using bisphenol-A (C-source), melamine (N-source), and 9,10-Dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (P-source). The resulting N, P-co-doped hard carbon materials (MBPs) were prepared at various pyrolysis temperatures, yielding microporous, mesoporous, and macroporous structures. MBP materials demonstrated excellent electrochemical performance as LIB anodes. Notably, MBP-900 achieved a reversible capacity of 262 mAh g-1 at 1000 mA g-1 (in 0.005-2.0 V voltage range) with a capacity retention rate of 97.2% after 1000 cycles. These findings highlight the significance of MBP materials, which possess numerous defects, large layer gaps, and excellent cycle stability, in advancing the development of polymer anode materials for LIBs.

Recent Progress on the Materials of Oxygen Ion-Conducting Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Experimental Analysis of Biogas-Assisted Electrolysis over a LSC Anode

In this work, the recent achievements in the application of solid oxides fuel cells (SOFCs) are discussed. This paper summarizes the progress in two major topics: the materials for the electrolytes, anode, and cathode, and the fuels used, such as hydrocarbon, alcohol, and solid carbon fuels. Various aspects related to the development of new materials for the main components of the materials for electrocatalysts and for solid electrolytes (e.g., pure metals, metal alloys, high entropy oxides, cermets, perovskite oxides, Ruddlesden–Popper phase materials, scandia-stabilized-zirconia, perovskite oxides, and ceria-based solid electrolytes) are reported in a coherent and explanatory way. The selection of appropriate material for electrocatalysts and for solid electrolyte is crucial to achieve successful commercialization of the SOFC technology, since enhanced efficiency and increased life span is desirable. Based on the recent advancements, tests were conducted in a biogas-fueled Ni-YSZ/YSZ/GDC/LSC commercial cell, to elucidate the suitability of the LSC as an anode. Results obtained encourage the application of LSC as an anode in actual SOFC and SOFEC systems. Thus, H2-SOFC demonstrated a satisfying ASR value, while, for biogas-assisted electrolysis, the current values slightly increased compared to the methane-SOFEC, and for a 50/50 biogas mixture of methane and carbon dioxide, the corresponding value presented the higher increase.

New Materials from the Integral Milk Kefir Grain Biomass and the Purified Kefiran: The Role of Glycerol Content on the Film’s Properties

Microbial exopolymers are gaining attention as sources for the development of biodegradable materials. Milk kefir, a fermented dairy product produced by a symbiotic community of microorganisms, generates milk kefir grains as a by-product, consisting of the polysaccharide kefiran and proteins. This study develops two materials, one from whole milk kefir grains and another from purified kefiran. Film-forming dispersions were subjected to ultrasonic homogenisation and thermal treatment, yielding homogeneous dispersions. Kefiran dispersion exhibited lower pseudoplastic behaviour and higher viscous consistency, with minimal effects from glycerol. Both films exhibited continuous and homogeneous microstructures, with kefiran films being transparent and milk kefir films displaying a yellowish tint. Analysis revealed that milk kefir films comprised approximately 30% proteins and 70% kefiran. Kefiran films demonstrated stronger interpolymeric interactions, as evidenced using thermogravimetric and mechanical tests. Glycerol increased hydration while decreasing thermal stability, glass transition temperature, elastic modulus, and tensile strength in both films. However, in kefiran films, elongation at the break and water vapour permeability decreased at low glycerol content, followed by an increase at higher plasticiser contents. This suggests an unusual interaction between glycerol and kefiran in the absence of proteins. These findings underscore differences between materials derived from the whole by-product and purified kefiran, offering insights into their potential applications.

Enhanced Energy Storage Performance of Lead-Free Sr0.7Bi0.2TiO3 Ceramics via Tape Casting.

Abstract The development of pulsed power technology demands high energy storage density dielectric materials. In this study, Sr0.7Bi0.2TiO3 relaxor ferroelectric ceramic thick films were prepared using a tape-casting process. The ceramics exhibit a dense structure and typical relaxor ferroelectric hysteresis curves, achieving an energy storage density of 4.77 J/cm³ and efficiency of 94.4%, attributed to the high polarization intensity, low remnant polarization, and low hysteresis loss of relaxor ferroelectrics. Additionally, the material demonstrates good temperature stability. Moreover, the Sr0.7Bi0.2TiO3 ceramic thick films show advantages in charge-discharge performance, capable of discharging within hundreds of nanoseconds and achieving a power density of 137 MW/cm³. Overall, the Sr0.7Bi0.2TiO3 ceramic thick film exhibits a comprehensive performance advantage in terms of energy storage density, efficiency, and power density. Additionally, the material was fabricated using the tape-casting process, which is compatible with subsequent multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) production, indicating potential for further performance enhancement.

Measurement of dynamic deformation during shock loading using a fiber-optic loop-sensor

Abstract Characterizing materials under shock loading has been of interest in fields such as protective material development, biomechanics to study the injury mechanics and high-speed aerodynamic structures. However, shock loading of material is a very short duration phenomenon and it is extremely challenging to develop sensors for dynamic measurements under such loading conditions. Optical fiber sensors that present the possibilities to allow high resolution measurement of force or displacement in such high strain rate loading conditions. This work studies the possibility of developing a single mode optical fiber sensor based on the principle of power losses from the curved section for dynamic measurements under shock loading conditions. The strain measurement results obtained from the optical sensors are validated with the controlled digital image correlation measurements are found to be in close correlation. The sensor was able to provide time sensitivity of better than 1 ms. The results show that the fiber sensor has the characteristics of high sensitivity and high precision, which can be used to measure fine vibration in real-time.