Differential Scanning Calorimetry Tests Research Articles

Synthesis and characterization of cyano-terminated bisphenol AF-type polyarylene ether nitrile

Four novel phthalonitrile-capped polyarylene ether nitrile oligomers containing trifluoromethyl groups (FPEN-Ph) with different molecular weight were designed and synthesized by adjusting the ratio of bisphenol AF (BPAF) and 2,6-dicholorobenzonitrile (DCBN). The molecular structure of FPEN-Ph oligomers were characterized and analyzed by FTIR, 1HNMR and Gel permeation chromatography. Their curing behaviors were studied by Differential scanning calorimetry and rheological tests, and curing kinetics were also discussed by gel method in detail. The glass fiber cloth reinforced FPEN-Ph composites (FPEN-Ph/GF) had flexural strengths of 415.9–497.5 MPa, shear strengths of 34.5–50.5 MPa, and glass transition temperatures ( Tgs) in the range of 211.3°C–416.6°C. The initial thermal decomposition temperatures ( T5%) of various FPEN-Ph cured products were higher than 500°C under nitrogen. Meanwhile, Fracture morphologies showed that the GF/FPEN-Ph composites had excellent interfacial adhesion between FPEN-Ph matrix and GF reinforcement. Herein, the FPEN-Ph resin could be a good candidate for high-performance polymeric composites and the advanced FPEN-Ph/GF composites can be used under high temperature environment.

Molecular dynamics study on the effect of rheological performance of asphalt with different plasticizers

The main aim of this study is to explore how various plasticizers affect the rheological properties of asphalt and the causes of their varying effects on asphalt. Four plasticizers, namely dioctyl phthalate (DOP), dioctyl adipate (DOA), acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), and trioctyl trimellitate (TOTM), were used to modify the base asphalt. The rheological properties of the modified asphalts were assessed by bending beam rheometer (BBR) and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests. The molecular weight distribution and glass transition temperature in the modified asphalts were determined using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) tests. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations were performed to calculate parameters such as glass transition temperature, mean square displacement, and relative concentration, which elucidate the mechanism of different plasticizers on asphalt. The results suggest that DOA-modified asphalt with 2% modifier admixture exhibits the best low-temperature performance, whereas ATBC has the least effect. The four plasticizers can decrease the size and proportion of large and medium molecular groups in asphalt, reducing the intermolecular forces that impede the asphalt flow at low temperatures. The plasticizer molecules can generate more free space for the thermal movement of asphalt molecules, decreasing the glass transition temperature of the asphalt. Additionally, plasticizer molecules with greater flexibility can insert more easily between asphalt molecules, enhancing their diffusion ability through lubrication. DOA and ATBC can improve the dispersion of both asphaltenes and resins, while DOP and TOTM primarily affect asphaltenes. The distribution of aromatics and saturates is not significantly influenced by any of the four plasticizers.

Performance assessment of capric acid-ethyl alcohol/expanded vermiculite phase change material incorporated cement mortar for thermal insulation in buildings

Due to global warming, the construction sector is looking for newer materials that can be incorporated into buildings to improve occupant thermal comfort while reducing energy consumption. The ability of construction materials to store thermal energy can be enhanced by incorporating phase change materials (PCM). A PCM is a substance that releases and absorbs energy at phase transition temperatures to offer useful heating or cooling. The addition of PCM in construction materials for thermal insulation has been proven beneficial by many researchers. The current study explores the feasibility of the incorporation of an organic PCM composite, which is developed by impregnating expanded vermiculite (EV) with capric acid (CA) using ethyl alcohol (EA) under vacuum conditions in cement mortar. Cement mortar mixes with EV, CA-EA/EV based PCMs, and PCMs with partially added nano silica and coir fiber combinations (PSC) were prepared by replacing fine aggregate in varied weights. Initially, the study on the primary characteristics of the developed PCM was introduced based on mechanical behavior, microstructure observations, and thermal effects. To estimate the field exposure capacity, PCM composite mortar boards were developed and tested for their physical and mechanical characteristics. Based on the findings of these tests, it was concluded that the presence of PCM improves the thermal characteristics of the mortar boards and the addition of nano silica and coir fiber enhances the physical and mechanical strength of the mortar boards. With regard to the characterization of the mortar, there was an increase in flexural strength by 8.06 % and a decrease in chloride diffusivity by 10.24 %, in water absorption by 17 %, the capillary water absorption coefficient by 8.56 % and the ultrasonic pulse velocity by 18.48 % relative to the control sample after addition of PSC into the mortar. Apart from the strength and durability studies, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests were also carried out to characterize the thermal, chemical and morphological effects of the developed cementitious composite boards. As per the SEM and EDS test results, the fine aggregate replaced with 5 % of PCM in addition to nano silica and coir fiber (PSC-5 %) possesses better compatibility with the mortar by effectively penetrating through the pores. The DSC test results showed the melting and freezing point of PSC-5 % integrated mortar as 32.47 °C and 20.91 °C, respectively. A thermal conductivity value of 0.129 W/m·K also demonstrated the efficiency of PSC-5 % mortar board for maintaining better thermal comfort in buildings. The TGA assessment reported that the proposed PCM composite cement mortar board has excellent thermal durability.

Anti-Icing Properties of a Polyurethane Superhydrophobic Coating on Asphalt Pavement

Snow and ice accumulation on asphalt pavement can increase the risk of traffic issues. The traditional method of removing snow and ice manually or mechanically from the road surface is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Another common method of spraying salt pollutes the surrounding environment. To overcome these issues, the objective of this study is to study a polyurethane superhydrophobic coating on asphalt pavement and characterize its anti-icing and road properties. A polyurethane superhydrophobic coating (PSC) using polyurethane and carbon nanotube particles (CNTPs) was developed in the lab. The contact angle and roll angle tests, surface roughness test, water droplet icing test, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test, ice adhesion test, pavement skid resistance test, water permeability test, and load wheel rolling test were conducted. The results show that the static contact angle and the rolling angle of the water droplet on the PSC surface are 161.176° and 6.6°, which satisfy the requirements to be superhydrophobic. The icing time of the water droplet on the asphalt mixture coated with PSC (AMC) is twice that of the surface of the ordinary asphalt mixture (OAM). In the differential scanning calorimetry test, the PSC released heat slower than polyurethane and asphalt binder during the cooling process. The ice adhesion strength of AMC is 82.78% smaller than that of the OAM. This means the PSC has great anti-icing and deicing properties. In addition, the pendulum value on the AMC surface is 45.7, satisfying the pavement skid resistance requirement. The results of the water seepage test show that the AMC is impermeable to water, thus reducing the risk of water damage to the pavement. Finally, the contact angle of the AMC after the indoor load wheel rolling is still greater than 150°, which proves that the PSC has good wear resistance. In summary, the PSC has good anti-icing properties and road performance.

Perception into the binding of soy protein isolate with essential oils using multispectroscopic and QuickVina-W

This study aimed to explore how soy protein isolate (SPI) binds with two types of essential oils (cumin (Cuminum cyminum) (CUM) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum) seed (CO)) and how it affects protein conformation. The results showed that SPI formed stable ternary complexes with CUM and CO that were less than 100 nm in size and had a zeta potential of −15 mV. The successful encapsulation of both CUM and CO within the SPI was confirmed through fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry tests. These tests showed that both CUM and CO were effectively contained within SPI. The addition of CUM and CO to SPI significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the ability of small molecules to scavenge ABTS, and this improvement was maintained at a relatively constant level during irradiation for 160 min. These results could be useful in utilizing SPI as an effective co-delivery system for bioactive polyphenol compounds that vary in hydrophobicity and molecular weight.

Characterization and formulation of an environment-friendly lubricant from Pongamia (Millettia Pinnata) oil using biodegradable additives

Global efforts are being undertaken to increase the automobile industry's energy efficiency, reliability, and environmental friendliness. There are techniques to lessen the environmental issues caused by machines, such as using lightweight materials, exhaust gas after-treatment, less toxic fuel, and controlled combustion. To decrease friction and wear, especially in engines and drive trains, proper lubrication is necessary at the required operating conditions for an automobile's safe and dependable operation. Mineral, synthetic, and semi-synthetic oils have been employed as lubricants; however, their disposal damages the ecosystems. Concerns about environmental deterioration are also raised by the emissions of metal traces such as calcium, magnesium, iron particles, and zinc due to burning these lubricants. Due to the limited supply of petroleum crude oil, these lubricants' present and future prospects are dismal. There is a worldwide quest for an alternative lubricant due to the environment being harmed by use of petroleum-based lubricants.The different characterization of the lubricant properties for the neat Pongamia base oil (PO) includes assessments of chemical, oxidative, rheological, thermal, and tribological properties. The fatty acid profile of PO has to be estimated using Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The Oxidative stability of PO should be estimated using the Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test. The rheological characterization should be done by evaluating kinematic viscosity, viscosity index, and dynamic viscosity. Tribological properties are studied using a four-ball tester tribometer. The lacking properties of neat PO is identified and improved using suitable additives such as antioxidants, viscosity improver, pour point depressants, anti-wear additives, etc. The biodegradability test of the formulated oil is done using bacterial turbidity assay and toxicity is checked of the final formulated oil. An IC engine test is done to check the performance of the engine and wear using formulated lubricant from PO.

Solid Dispersion System Candesartan-cilexetil Mannitol Co-Grinding Method

Research on solid dispersion systems had been done to improve physicochemical characteristics and the dissolution rate of candesartan-cilexetil a had been conducted. Candesartan cilexetil is included in BCS (Biopharmaceutical Classification System) class II, which has low solubility and high permeability which causes poor absorption of drugs in the digestive tract. Solid dispersions were prepared through the grinding method using mannitol. The formula with 3 comparisons between candesartan-cilexetil and mannitol 1:1, 1:3, and 1:5. A mixture of physics of candesartan cilexetil-mannitol was made without a solid dispersions system which was 1:1 as a comparison. Solid dispersion formed was characterized by particle size distribution analysis, Fourier transforms infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), determination rate, and dissolution test. The result particle size distribution analysis showed grinding method there were solid dispersions mixed perfectly. The FT-IR of this analysis showed no interaction between candesartan-cilexetil mannitol in solid dispersion powder. The result of X-ray diffraction showed a decrease in crystallization degree. The DSC result showed a shift in endothermic peak candesartan-cilexetil. The manufacture of a solid dispersion system of candesartan-cilexetil mannitol can improve the physicochemical characteristics and the dissolution rate of candesartan-cilexetil compared with physical mixtures. The result in the dissolution was solid dispersion 1 = 53.1990 %, solid dispersion 2 = 54.3621 %, and solid dispersion 3 = 62.3621 %. The statistical result of dissolution efficiency using the Kruskal-Willis test with significant = 0.009(&lt; 0.05) showed the difference among the dissolution efficiency of candesartan-cilexetil, physical mixture, and each solid dispersion.

Tuning photophysical properties of bicarbazole-based blue TADF emitters with AIE feature: Trade-off between small singlet-triplet energy splitting and high photoluminescence quantum yield

Three aggregation-induced emission (AIE) and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) blue light-emitting materials were successfully synthesized using bicarbazole and phenylsulfonyl/benzophenone moieties as electron donors and acceptors, respectively, via Buchwald-Hartwig reaction. Density functional theory calculations showed that the three emitters have a moderate dihedral angle between the two carbazole planes and between the donor and acceptor, resulting in a good conjugated structure and a trade-off between the small ΔEST and high photoluminescence quantum yield of the BCzDPM molecule. The cyclic voltammetry, thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry tests demonstrated that the three materials had high electrochemical and thermal stability. The three emitters exhibited obvious intramolecular charge transfer characteristics in solution and film. According to the fluorescence and low-temperature phosphorescence spectra, the lowest singlet and triplet excited state energy levels of BCzDPM were 2.96 eV and 2.78 eV, respectively, with a ΔEST of 0.18 eV. Using these emitters as non-doped emissive layers, efficient blue electroluminescent devices were fabricated. The maximum current efficiency and external quantum efficiency reached 15.4 cd/A and 7.05% for the BCzDPM device, respectively, and the efficiency roll-off of BCzDPM was smaller than that of PSOBCz and PBCzPM, under high current density.

Modification of Polycaprolactone with Plant Extracts to Improve the Aging Resistance.

Natural extracts of plant origin are used as anti-aging compounds of biodegradable polymers. Coffee, cocoa, or cinnamon extracts in amounts from 0.5 to 10 wt.% were added to the polycaprolactone matrix. The manufactured materials were aged at elevated temperatures with increased relative humidity and continuous exposure to UV radiation for 720, 1440, or 2160 h. The performance of the proposed extracts was compared with the retail anti-aging compound, butylated hydroxytoluene. Visual assessment, FTIR analysis, melt flow rate, tensile strength, impact tensile strength, thermogravimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry tests were conducted. Results showed that the use of lower contents of the tested extracts is particularly advantageous. When the content of the extract did not exceed 1 wt.%, no unfavorable influence on the properties of the materials was observed. The stabilizing performance during accelerated aging was mostly similar to or greater than that of the reference compound used.

Controlled Degradation of Polycaprolactone Polymers through Ultrasound Stimulation.

This study describes the development of an ultrasound-responsive polymer system that provides on-demand degradation when exposed to high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Diels-Alder cycloadducts were used to crosslink polycaprolactone (PCL) polymers and underwent a retro Diels-Alder reaction when stimulated with HIFU. Two Diels-Alder polymer compositions were explored to evaluate the link between reverse reaction energy barriers and polymer degradation rates. PCL crosslinked with isosorbide was also used as a non-Diels-Alder-based control polymer. An increase of HIFU exposure time and amplitude correlated with an increase of PCL degradation for Diels-Alder-based polymers. Ultrasound imaging during HIFU allowed for real-time visualization of the on-demand degradation through cavitation-based mechanisms. The temperature surrounding the sample was monitored with a thermocouple during HIFU stimulation; a minimal increase in temperature was observed. PCL polymers were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), optical profilometry, and mechanical testing. PCL degradation byproducts were identified by mass spectrometry, and their cytocompatibility was evaluated in vitro. Overall, this study demonstrated that HIFU is an effective image-guided, external stimulus to control the degradation of Diels-Alder-based PCL polymers on-demand.

Effects of Different Polypropylene (PP)-Backbones in Aluminium Feedstock for Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF).

The current study presents the effect of the backbone as an important binder component on the mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties of Aluminium (Al) alloy feedstocks. A thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) main binder component was blended with either polypropylene (PP), grafted-maleic anhydride-PP (PPMA), or grafted-maleic anhydride-PPwax (PPMAwax) plus PP, as the backbone. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) tests were performed to investigate the thermal properties of binder systems and feedstocks. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to study the chemical interaction between the binder and the Al alloy. After making feedstock filaments, tensile tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and fused filament fabrication (FFF) printing were done. The results showed that although the PP printability was acceptable, the best mechanical properties and printed quality can be achieved by PPMA. TGA test showed that all binder systems in the feedstocks could be removed completely around 500 °C. From FTIR, the possibility of chemical reactions between Al alloy particles and maleic anhydride groups on the grafted PP backbone could explain the better dispersion of the mixture and higher mechanical properties. Tensile strength in PP samples was 3.4 MPa which was improved 1.8 times using PPMA as the backbone.

A New Antioxidant with Higher Activity at Elevated Temperature Based on Multiple Intramolecular Synergisms

AbstractA new type of multifunctional antioxidant RSSPD was designed through combining four different antioxidant fragments. Pressure differential scanning calorimetry (PDSC) tests show that RSSPD has outstanding antioxidative activity especially at high temperature compared with both the traditional antioxidants and our reported antioxidant SSPD. From the comparison with different related formulations and the density functional theory (DFT) calculations, a complicated intramolecular synergism mechanism is proposed. The intramolecular synergism between different primary antioxidants and the intramolecular synergism between primary antioxidants and secondary antioxidants can be considered as the main reasons for the high antioxidative activity of RSSPD.

Characterization of mechanical and bonding properties of anchoring resins under elevated temperature

Resin anchored rock bolts are widely used in the construction and mining industries to support and reinforce underground roadways and openings. However, increasing the depth of underground openings, particularly in coal mines, has presented a challenge for ground control designers due to the rise in geothermal heat and coal seam combustion. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the mechanical properties, microstructure, thermal and curing characteristics of the anchoring resins using Thermogravimetric Analysis, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis, and Differential Scanning Calorimetry tests. Pullout tests were conducted on resin encapsulated rock bolts to quantify their bonding performance at elevated temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 250 °C. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the resins are closely related to the type of curing agent, filler type and size, and curing time. The compressive strength and elastic modulus of the anchoring materials ranged from 51 to 103 MPa. DSC testing indicated that 65–83% of curing can be achieved in 30 min. At ambient conditions, good agreement was found between the compressive and shear properties of the anchoring resins and their corresponding bond resistance force. A heating and pull-out setup was fabricated to analyze the effects of temperature on the bonding performance of rock bolts chemically anchored in underground spaces. The results revealed a reduction in bonding capacity of the bolts by 6.6%–31.3% when the temperature of the environment reached 75 °C and 150 °C, respectively. The anchored bolts maintained up to 62.6% of their bonding resistance when the temperature increased to 250 °C. Temperature profiles measured by the thermocouples along the encapsulation length showed that the heat transition is independent of the resin type and more dependent on the rock bolt specification.

Study on the effect of sulfonic acid root position on the stability of SDBS emulsified asphalt

Emulsified asphalt systems require emulsifiers to reduce oil–water interfacial energy generation to improve their stability. In this paper, the effect of the molecular structure of the SDBS emulsifier on the stability of emulsified asphalt was investigated using microscopic simulation (MD) and macroscopic tests. The effect of the molecular structure of asphalt emulsifiers on the stability of emulsified asphalt was quantified by varying the position of sulfonic acid roots in SDBS (2-1ΦC12S, 3-1ΦC12S, 4-1ΦC12S). The macroscopic tests included conventional, laser particle size tests and differential scanning calorimetry tests. The simulation results showed that 4-1ΦC12S reduced the oil–water interface energy the most and was the most hydrophilic, forming a more stable emulsified asphalt system; 2-1ΦC12S and 3-1ΦC12S were less stable due to the spatial site resistance effect of the sulfonic acid root position too close to the alkyl chain end. The test results showed that 4-1ΦC12S emulsified asphalt, with the smallest volume mean particle size, had the best thermal stability. Therefore, the isomer type of SDBS has a greater influence on the stability of emulsified asphalt, and 4-1ΦC12S has a better emulsification effect. The results indicate that future molecular structure synthesis of emulsifiers needs to fully consider the effect of isomers of emulsifiers on the emulsification effect, and the results of this paper can provide a theoretical basis for the future synthesis of high-performance emulsifiers.

Effect of the waste ornamental rocks on the hydration and life cycle of Portland cement composites

The production (extraction, cutting and polishing) of ornamental rocks generates a high volume of waste (abrasive slurry) which, when dry, generates a fine powder. The main impacts generated by the inadequate disposal of these residues are the contamination of the soil and the water table, alteration of the biological chain of living beings and siltation of rivers. Few studies analyze the influence of mud heterogeneity on the hydration of cementitious composites. In this context, this work aimed to evaluate the effect of the characteristics (chemical, physical and mineral) of waste from wet processing in ornamental rock plants (marble, granite, slate, among others) of different origins on the hydration process, performance and life cycle of composite with 20% replacement of Portland cement. Heterogeneity was evaluated by chemical composition, mineralogical and physical characteristics of the waste. The reactivity of the residue was determined in the Chapelle Modified test, Thermogravimetric analysis, and expansion test by Le Chatelier needles. The evolution of hydration was studied in pastes by evaluating the setting time and using the differential scanning calorimetry test. The mortars were characterized for consistency, porosity, and compressive strength. The results indicated that the residues show considerable heterogeneity. However, this does not influence the analyzed properties of the cementitious compounds. The high reduction in axial compressive strength indicates the use of these residues in lower contents or indication of this cement with this residue for non-structural purposes. It was concluded that the filer feat accelerated the hydration reactions in a similar way to the cement removed from the mixture.

Laboratory Study on Influence of Blending Conditions on Chemo-Thermal Characteristics of Lignin-Modified Bitumen

Environmental approaches in the asphalt industry have focused on utilizing waste materials as modifiers. Lignin is a high-potential bitumen modifier due to its characteristics; however, the blending process with bitumen is critical. This study investigates the chemo-thermal characteristics of lignin-modified bitumen under two different blending protocols, including a mechanical and high-shear mixer to evaluate its performance as a modifier. According to the protocols, 5, 10, and 20% of Kraft lignin was added to a PG 58S−28 bitumen. The samples were subjected to analysis using Brookfield Rotational Viscosity (BRV), Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) tests. The BRV and DSR test results indicate a remarkable alteration in the rheological properties of lignin-modified bitumen under blending conditions. The FTIR analysis indicated that Kraft lignin did not produce new functional groups. The fibril structures of the bitumens are affected by Kraft lignin content and blending conditions due to ESEM. The Kraft lignin and blending conditions influence the thermal behavior of bitumen. The findings highlight Kraft lignin’s potential as a bitumen modifier, and the fact that its characteristics are influenced by the blending protocol and Kraft lignin content.

Determination of the Optimal Gas-forming System Used to Obtain Low-density Foamed Material

The most effective gas-forming system used to obtain low-density foaming material is considered. During the discussion, the advantages and disadvantages of the raw materials used were identified, and their impact on the production of foam and material properties were considered. A complex of general scientific research methods was used, based on the theoretical analysis of technological solutions for the production of foamed material, described in the scientific and technical literature, patents, as well as scientific articles. The purpose of the article is to identify an effective gas – forming system used in the production of environmentally safe low-density foaming material suitable for use as a heat-insulating material in construction. When conducting scientific research, standard measuring instruments and differential scanning calorimetry, laser diffraction and modern testing equipment for methods of analyzing the physico-mechanical properties of foamed inorganic materials were used.

Flame-Resistant Poly(vinyl alcohol) Composites with Improved Ionic Conductivity.

Flame-resistant polymer composites were prepared based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a polymer matrix and a polyphosphonate as flame retardant. Oxalic acid was used as crosslinking agent. LiClO4, BaTiO3, and graphene oxide were also incorporated into PVA matrix to increase the ionic conductivity. The obtained film composites were investigated by infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and microscale combustion tests. Incorporating fire retardant (PFRV), BaTiO3, and graphene oxide (GO) into a material results in increased resistance to fire when compared to the control sample. A thermogravimetric analysis revealed that, as a general trend, the presence of PFRV and BaTiO3 nanoparticles enhances the residue quantity at a temperature of 700 °C from 7.9 wt% to 23.6 wt%. Their dielectric properties were evaluated with Broad Band Dielectric Spectroscopy. The electrical conductivity of the samples was determined and discussed in relation to the LiClO4 content. The electrical properties, including permittivity and conductivity, are being enhanced by the use of LiClO4. Additionally, a relaxation peak has been observed in the dielectric losses at frequencies exceeding 103 Hz. The electrical properties, including permittivity and conductivity, are being enhanced by the use of LiClO4. Additionally, a relaxation peak has been observed in the dielectric losses at frequencies exceeding 103 Hz. Out of the various composites tested, the composite containing 35 wt% of LiClO4 exhibits the highest alternating current (AC) conductivity, with a measured value of 2.46 × 10-3 S/m. Taking into consideration all the aspects discussed, these improved composites are intended for utilization in the manufacturing of Li-Ion batteries.

Effects of W on the thermal induced-energy release behavior and mechanical properties of 2Al–Ni and Al–Ni composites fabricated by mechanical alloying

Reactive Structural Materials (RSMs) find extensive utilization across diverse applications owing to their remarkable characteristics encompassing exceptional mechanical properties and notable energy-release capabilities. This study aimed to investigate the influence of tungsten (W) particles at varying weight percentages (10, 30, 50 wt %) on the thermally induced energy release and mechanical properties of 2Al–Ni and Al–Ni RSM composites, which were prepared through mechanical alloying followed by hot pressing. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test results revealed that the addition of W particles led to a decelerated occurrence of the reaction and a reduction in the reaction energy for both 2Al–Ni and Al–Ni composites. In contrast, the air burning test demonstrated a significant increase in the reaction temperature of both composites upon the incorporation of W particles. For instance, the addition of 30 wt% W particles raised the reaction temperature of the 2Al–Ni composite from 1087 °C to 1174 °C, and that of the Al–Ni composite from 1180 °C to 1454 °C.The findings of the mechanical tests aligned closely with those of the combustion tests, indicating a substantial enhancement in the compressive strength and hardness values of the 2Al–Ni and Al–Ni composites with increasing W content.

Study on the Performance and Solidification Mechanism of Multi-Source Solid-Waste-Based Soft Soil Solidification Materials

In this paper, ground granulated blast furnace slag, steel slag, red mud, waste ceramic powder, and desulfurization gypsum were used as raw materials to develop a kind of multi-source solid-waste-based soft soil solidification material. Three ratios and the strength activity index were used to determine the fractions of different solid wastes. The mineralogical and microstructural characterization was analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis–differential scanning calorimetry (TG&amp;DSC) tests. The results showed that the unconfined compressive strength of the three types of soft soil increases with an increase in the content of the solidifying agent. The failure strain of the stabilized soil decreases from 1.0–1.3% to 0.75–1.0%, and the failure mode gradually changes from plastic failure to brittle failure. The optimum content of the solidifying agent was determined to be 17% (the lime saturation factor (KH), silica modulus (SM), and alumina modulus (IM) of the solidifying agent were set to 0.68, 1.74, and 1.70, respectively), and the unconfined compressive strength (28 d) of the solidified soil (sandy soil, silty clay, and organic clay) was 3.16 MPa, 2.05 MPa, 1.04 MPa, respectively. Both measurements can satisfy the technical requirements for a cement–soil mixing pile, suggesting the possibility of using various types of solid waste as a substitute for cement.