Enhancement Of Properties Research Articles

Sustainable biodiesel production and properties enhancement from locally sourced Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) as an alternative biofuel feedstock in Thailand

Sustainable biodiesel production and properties enhancement from locally sourced Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) as an alternative biofuel feedstock in Thailand

Towards remarkable corrosion protection by synergizing PANI with plasma-electrolyzed inorganic layer

Notwithstanding the increasing interest in the enhancement of the corrosion properties of active metallic materials, the role of organic corrosion barrier remains insufficiently understood with respect to the formation of structural microdefects in the inorganic layer and the decrease in the corrosion rate. The present work proposed the mechanism by which an organic polymer would improve the barrier properties of the defective TiO2 coating as an inorganic layer and thereby, improve corrosion protection. This protection mechanism enhances the hydrophobicity of the TiO2 surface because of the notable homogeneity of the organic polymer polyaniline (PANI). The adsorption of PANI on the surface of the TiO2 coating was verified using SEM and EDAX. The electrochemical performance was enhanced remarkably because of the integral synergy between TiO2 and PANI in the composite, which could be controlled by adjusting the number of deposition cycles. In addition, the novel protection mechanism of this hybrid layer was based on the counter anions stored within PANI. These were released as active corrosion inhibitors upon the onset of a severe chemical attack on the TiO2 layer or metal substrate. Thus, these composites reduced the diffusion of metal ions and prevented the penetration of corrosive ions, thereby yielding a remarkable corrosion resistance.

Enhancement of humid environment resistance and tribological properties of MoS2-based films by LaF3 doping

Enhancement of humid environment resistance and tribological properties of MoS2-based films by LaF3 doping

Microstructure, microhardness and wear properties investigation in friction stir processing of stir cast Mg/B4C metal matrix composite

Abstract Friction Stir Processing (FSP) has emerged as an excellent processing approach to tailor the microstructural and other properties of cast alloys and composite materials. In the current investigation, a stir-cast magnesium metal matrix composite (MMMC) reinforced with 12 wt% B4C particles was processed using single-pass FSP. FSP was carried out with a simple cylindrical tool pin using different tool rotational speeds of 800, 1000, 1200 rpm and transverse speed of 60 mm min−1. Severe deformation occurred during FSP which helped to refine the distribution of the B4C particles and grain refinement of as-cast composites. Microstructural examination showed an appreciable grain refinement from 98 to 5 μm because of dynamic recrystallization during FSP. The maximum microhardness of the friction stir processed (FSPed) composites increased from 73 Hv to 105.4 Hv. Pin-on-disk wear tests were conducted under dry sliding conditions in the load range of 1 kg to 5 kg at a 1 m s−1 sliding velocity. The wear results indicated an enhancement of wear properties of FSPed composites in comparison to as-cast magnesium metal matrix composites. The improved hardness and wear resistance results were pertaining to the remarkable refinement in grain size coupled with refined B4C particulates and uniform distribution. The best results for hardness and wear resistance of the FSPed composite were obtained for a sample processed at a tool rotation speed of 1000 rpm. SEM/EDS of the worn samples was carried out. The wear mechanism was found as slight abrasion and oxidation. After single pass FSP, the surface of Mg/12 wt% B4C cast composite showed remarkable changes in worn surface morphology.

Green synthesis of Ag/V2O5 and Ag/V2O5-curdlan nanocomposites from Sargassum latifolium extract for enhanced antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

The emergence of clinic-isolated bacteria and their ability to develop resistance mechanisms against conventional antimicrobials highlights the urgent need for novel, sustainable antimicrobial agents. This study explores the synthesis of Ag/V2O5 nanocomposites (NCs) using Sargassum latifolium extract, which is incorporated into a curdlan biocompatible matrix. The developed nanocomposites are evaluated for their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, with a particular focus on their effectiveness against pathogenic bacteria. The applied method in this work combines green synthesis with the process of uniform distribution of nanoparticles to a biocompatible polymer, which is a way forward towards the design of efficient biocompatible antimicrobial systems. The Ag/V2O5 nanoparticles prepared with green synthesis were characterized by UV-Vis absorption, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, zeta potential, DLS, and TEM. It has also been established that the antimicrobial property of the curdlan matrix has been enhanced with the addition of Ag/V2O5 nanoparticles in the incorporated curdlan composites. Ag/V2O5-curdlan also showed significantly enhanced antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria and Gram-positive bacteria thus implying enhanced antimicrobial action of the prepared nanocomposite by increasing the size of the bacterial zone of inhibition from 14.0 to 18.0 mm. Besides, the curdlan NC in the presence of Ag/V2O5 demonstrated an even lower value of MIC against Rhizoctonia solani (140.156 μg/mL) in comparison with Ag/V2O5 NC (226.413 μg/mL) thus predicting Augmented antifungal activity. Through performing TEM analysis, we have observed significant morphological changes in R. solani strain when the Ag/V2O5-curdlan NC was used. However, the Ag/V2O5-curdlan NC had a notably high antioxidant activity with IC50 of 0.302 mg/mL to DPPH radical scavenging assay. These results reaffirm the enhancement in antimicrobial properties when Ag/V2O5 and curdlan work together and agree with the objective of this work to propose novel and worthwhile nanomaterials for potentially applicable areas like food packaging or agriculture with insignificant harm to the environment.

Different strategies towards strength: Unveiling the role of Zn vs Mn/Ca and chitin arrangement in scorpion stingers.

Arthropods and especially scorpions often use metal ions to harden their cuticle. In this study we analyse the chitin fibre arrangement, metal content and distribution and mechanical properties of the stingers of two scorpions: the buthid scorpion Centruroides platnicki (PS) and the diplocentrid scorpion Nebo whitei (NS). Results show that both scorpions incorporate the same elements, Zn, Mn and Ca, but in different locations in the stinger cuticle. While NS uses Zn ions as hardening agent in the epicuticle, PS uses Mn/Ca ions. Interestingly, Zn ions were also found in PS but had no impact on the enhancement of the mechanical properties of the stinger. The use of different metal ions in biological materials is likely to enable precise adjustments of material properties to suit not only mechanical but biological functions as well.

Mechanical and thermal property enhancement of silicon nitride-reinforced PLA composites for high-performance 3D printing applications

Mechanical and thermal property enhancement of silicon nitride-reinforced PLA composites for high-performance 3D printing applications

Synthesis, Stability, and Tribological Performance of TiO2 Nanomaterials for Advanced Applications

The enhancement of tribological properties represents a pivotal strategy for achieving energy efficiency and environmental protection. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanomaterials have been garnering significant attention due to their exemplary tribological properties and due to the abundance of titanium reserves. The present review is concerned with the study of TiO2 nanomaterials in lubricants. The properties and various synthesis methods of TiO2 nanomaterials are presented. The dispersion stability of these TiO2 nanomaterials in lubricating oils is discussed in depth, as well as strategies to improve their dispersion stability, such as enhancing compatibility with base oils, reducing the dynamic light scattering (DLS) particle size, modulating the zeta potential, and optimizing the drying step. Aggregation and dispersion instability remain key challenges for TiO2 nanomaterials, especially bare TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs). In contrast, in situ surface-modified TiO2 NPs show improved stability and tribological performance, offering promise for further research. The tribological performance of lubricants has been demonstrated to be enhanced by TiO2 nanomaterials, with the observed enhancement attributed to the synergistic effect of multiple mechanisms, including rolling, patching, polishing, and the formation of a protective film. Furthermore, future research suggestions are proposed to provide a reference for the design and synthesis of high-performance TiO2 nano-lubricants and promote their wide application.

Experimental investigations of mechanical and water absorption behavior of basalt/jute bio composite

Abstract With the growing interest in eco-friendly composites, this study investigates the impact of stacking sequence on the mechanical properties, water absorption behavior, and fabrication quality of hybrid Basalt and Jute composites. Using the hand layup method, six stacking configurations were evaluated for tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness performance, along with water absorption under distilled water, saline water, and moist sand conditions. Results revealed significant enhancements in mechanical properties, with Basalt-Jute-Jute-Basalt (BJJB) achieving a 231% improvement in tensile strength compared to the Jute-Jute-Jute-Jute (JJJJ) baseline. The Jute-Basalt-Basalt-Jute (JBBJ) configuration exhibited the highest flexural strength of 166.6 MPa, while Basalt- Jute-Basalt-Jute (BJBJ) demonstrated superior resistance to moisture and the lowest void fraction (1.459%), indicative of high fabrication quality. SEM analysis identified fiber pullout, matrix cracking, and interfacial debonding as critical failure mechanisms. These findings highlight the potential of hybrid Basalt-Jute composites as cost-effective, high-performance materials suitable for lightweight and sustainable structural applications in automotive, marine, and construction industries.

Mechanical property strengthening by post-heat treatments in NiTiCu shape memory alloys fabricated by twin-wire arc additive manufacturing

ABSTRACT To address the challenges of wide transformation hysteresis as well as the poor properties of NiTi-based alloys fabricated by twin-wire arc additive manufacturing, post-heat treatments were employed in as-deposited NiTiCu alloys. After aging at 450°C, 550°C, and 650°C, the alloys exhibited significant reduction in the precipitate sizes, narrow transformation hysteresis, uniform distribution of microhardness, and substantial improvement in mechanical properties. With the increase of the aging temperature, the matrix grain size and the precipitate size coarsened, which was detrimental to the resultant mechanical properties. The alloys aged at 450°C exhibited the narrowest transformation hysteresis of 11.7°C and optimal mechanical properties (tensile strength of 539 MPa and fracture strain of 6.9%). The enhancement of mechanical properties can be attributed to the smaller matrix grain size and precipitate size and the higher proportion of high-angle grain boundaries in this material condition. This work provides practical significance for the twin-wire arc additive manufacturing and performance optimisation of NiTi-based ternary alloys.

Micro-Size Layers Evaluation of CIGSe Solar Cells on Flexible Substrates by Two-Segment Process Improved for Overall Efficiencies

This paper details the enhancement of the optoelectronic properties of Cu-(In, Ga)-Se2 (CIGSe) solar cells through a two-segment process in the ultraviolet (UV)–visible spectral range. These include fine-tuning the DC sputtering power of the absorber layer (ranging from 20 to 40 W at segment I) and thoroughly checking the trace micro-chemistry composition of the absorber layer (CdS, ZnO/CdS, ZnMgO/CdS, and ZnMgO at segment II). After segment I of treatment, the optimal 30 W CIGSe absorber layer (i.e., with a 0.95 CGI ratio) can be obtained, it can be seen that the Cu-rich film exhibits the ability to significantly promote grain growth and can effectively reduce its trap state density. After the segment II process aimed at replacing toxic CdS, the optimal metal alloy (Zn0.9Mg0.1O) composition (buffer layer) achieved the highest conversion efficiency (η) of 8.70%, also emphasizing its role in environmental protection. Especially within the tunable bandgap range (2.48–3.62 eV), the developed overall internal and external quantum efficiency (IQE/EQE) is significantly improved by 13.15% at shorter wavelengths. A photovoltaic (PV) module designed with nine optimal CIGSe cells demonstrated commendable stability. Variation remained within ±5% throughout the 60-day experiment. The PV modules in this study represent a breakthrough benchmark toward a significant advance in the scientific understanding of renewable energy. Furthermore, this research clearly promotes the practical application of PV modules, harmonizes with sustainable goals, and actively contributes to the creation of eco-friendly communities.

Enhancement of Ferroelectric Properties of Ni-Substituted Pb2Fe2O5 Thin Films Synthesized by Reactive Magnetron Sputtering Deposition

Lead ferrite Pb2Fe2O5 (PFO) is a potential multiferroic material due its exhibition of ferroelectric and ferromagnetic properties. The effects of the substitution with nickel and synthesis temperature on the structural, morphological, and ferroelectric properties of lead ferrite thin films were investigated through the use of reactive magnetron sputtering deposition. Nickel loading concentrations were systematically varied (3%, 5%, and 10% by wt.%). X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of Ni-substituted distorted PFO lattices, while scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy indicated a uniform elemental distribution and surface morphology. Polarization vs. electrical field (P−E) measurements showed improved remnant polarization (Pr) with increasing Ni content and synthesis temperatures, achieving a maximum Pr of 66.7 µC/cm2 at 5 wt.% The Ni loading and substrate (Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si, Nanoshel Company, Cheshire, UK) temperature were 600 °C. These findings suggest that optimizing the synthesis parameters such as temperature and substitution content is crucial for controlling the ferroelectric properties of PFO thin films.

High-Detail 3D Reconstruction and Digital Strategies for the Enhancements of Archaeological Properties in Museums

In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward the application of digitization through geomatic-based technologies for museum assets. These powerful tools have proven valuable in assisting museums in the dissemination of cultural heritage. Additionally, museums around the world are implementing strategies to improve the accessibility of their assets by involving the use of 3D digital reconstruction. The 3D high-precision survey is employed in several fields to scan objects with a geometrical accuracy up to the micrometer level. These technologies come into play when dealing with detailed surfaces and complex geometry, as often occurs with cultural heritage assets. This paper presents a set of experiences in high-precision 3D scanning and post-processing operations in the framework of a project at the Territory Museum of Riccione (Italy). The 3D data acquisition methodology conducted and digital operations are reported on for some of the scanned artifacts.

Enhanced optical properties of chitosan polymer doped with orange peel dye investigated via UV–Vis and FTIR analysis

The current research aims to determine the impact of orange peel dye (OPD), an eco-friendly addition, on the optical properties of biodegradable polymers. This study investigates the enhancement of optical properties in solid electrolytes based on chitosan (CS) and glycerol, with varying OPD concentrations. UV–Vis-NIR spectroscopy revealed significantly enhanced UV–visible light absorption in the 200–500 nm region and effective UV light blocking. FTIR analysis showed strong interactions between OPDs and the CS matrix, with functional groups such as O–H, C=O, and C=C. UV–Visible spectroscopy indicated a reduction in the optical band gap from 5.11 eV in pure CS to 2.93 eV and 2.84 eV with increasing OPD concentrations, reflecting alterations in the electronic structure and enhanced sub-bandgap states. The refractive index improved from 1.31 in pure CS to 1.54 and 1.62 in the doped electrolytes, attributed to increased optical density and light-harvesting capability. Optical basicity also increased from 1.01 to 1.32, enhancing donor properties. These results suggest that OPD-doped CS solid electrolytes offer enhanced optical properties, making them suitable for optoelectronic and UV-blocking applications due to their tunable band gap, improved polarizability, and enhanced light interaction.

Pyrolysis Characteristics of Aramid Fiber/Phenolic Resin Composites

ABSTRACT In this study, pyrolysis characteristic laws of aramid fiber/phenolic resin composites were investigated by thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis. The pyrolysis process under air atmosphere was divided into three stages with initial pyrolysis temperatures of 248°C, 495°C and 832°C. The pyrolysis process under nitrogen atmosphere was divided into two stages with initial pyrolysis temperatures of 271°C and 538°C. Focusing on the pyrolysis behavior and the kinetic analysis associated with different heating rates under nitrogen atmosphere, the initial pyrolysis temperatures of the two stages range from 248°C to 426°C and 516 to 683°C. The apparent activation energies calculated using the Kissinger, Flynn–Wall–Ozawa and Starink methods are 171.74 kJ/mol, 161.44 kJ/mol and 157.90 kJ/mol. The results of this study are important for the enhancement of composite properties, optimization of processes, and applications in aerospace and other fields.

Enhanced Antibiotic Release and Mechanical Strength in UHMWPE Antibiotic Blends: The Role of Submicron Gentamicin Sulfate Particles.

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are a major complication of total joint replacement surgeries. This study investigated the enhancement of mechanical properties and antibiotic release in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) through the encapsulation of submicron gentamicin sulfate (GS) particles, addressing the critical need for improved implant materials in orthopaedic surgery, particularly in managing PJIs. The present study involved embedding submicron GS particles into UHMWPE flakes at concentrations of 2% to 10% by weight. These particles were prepared and blended with UHMWPE flakes using a dual asymmetric centrifugal mixer, and the blends were consolidated. The present study compared the mechanical properties and antibiotic release rate of UHMWPE containing submicron, medium (as-received), and large (resolidified) GS particles. UHMWPE samples with submicron GS particles exhibited superior mechanical properties, including higher ultimate tensile and Izod impact strengths, compared with samples with larger particles. Additionally, the submicron GS UHMWPE blends demonstrated a markedly higher and more sustained antibiotic release rate. This study highlights the potential of incorporating submicron GS particles into UHMWPE to drastically improve the feasibility of using these therapeutic and functional spacer implants in expanded indications. By offering improved mechanical strength and effective, prolonged antibiotic release, this innovative material could be used as a spacer implant to reduce the considerably high morbidity and mortality associated with PJIs. This material has the potential to prevent PJIs not only in high-risk revision cases but also in primary total joint arthroplasty procedures.

Welding speed effects in underwater and conventional friction stir welding of dissimilar aluminum alloy 6061-T6 and 5083-H12 joints

This study investigates the influence of welding speed on the mechanical and microstructural properties of dissimilar aluminum alloy joints (AA6061-T6 and AA5083-H12) joined using Underwater Friction Stir Welding (UFSW) and Conventional Friction Stir Welding (CFSW). The experiments were conducted at a constant tool rotation speed of 1120 rpm and varying welding speeds (20 to 80 mm/min). Results showed that UFSW achieved peak temperatures 13% lower than CFSW. Moreover, the generated peak welding temperature was inversely proportional to welding speed in UFSW and CFSW. Optimal performance was observed at 63 mm/min, where UFSW produced an 89% reduction in intermetallic compound (IMC) thickness and a 21% finer grain size compared to CFSW. Additionally, UFSW joints exhibited a 10.20% increase in tensile strength and a 7% increase in hardness over CFSW. The enhanced cooling effect in UFSW contributed to these improvements, yielding more uniform material flow, refined microstructure, and reduced IMC formation. These findings suggest UFSW as a superior technique for achieving high-quality dissimilar aluminum alloy joints, with significant enhancements in mechanical properties and microstructural refinement.

Enhancement of mechanical properties in reactive polyurethane film via in-situ assembly of embedded cellulose nanocrystals.

Comparing to the solvent-based and waterborne polyurethanes (PU), the solvent-free reactive PU (RPU) is prepared via in-situ polymerization and film-formation of isocyanate-capped prepolymers and macromolecular polyols in solvent-free system. Thus, the carbon emissions and environmental pollutions are significantly reduced. However, the rapid polymerization also challenges the well control of structure and properties, especially the ordered microstructures. In this work, an efficient approach is applied to enhance the mechanical property of RPU via chemically bonding cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with isocyanates in a solvent-free system. The well distributed spot-like structure in the RPU film is realized and significantly improve the mechanical property due to the synergistic effect of hydrogen bonds and urethane bonding. Only adding 1 wt% of CNCs, the tensile strength and elongation at break are profoundly increased to 25.4 ± 1.5 MPa and 748 ± 50.0 %, respectively. Both values are 490 % and 16 % better than that without CNCs. Additionally, the thermal stability is also improved. The initial decomposition temperature is 29 °C higher than that without CNCs. This approach provides a simple method for developing bio-based RPU with well-ordered structures, showing great potential in applications such as environmentally friendly materials and high-performance polymers.

Synchronous enhancement of antimicrobial and mechanical properties of natural rubber by MXene functionalized with SiO2.

The development of natural rubber (NR) gloves with superior antibacterial and enhanced mechanical properties is critical for safeguarding healthcare personnel. In this study, Ti-based MXene (Ti3C2Tx) nanosheets were employed for the first time as an antibacterial agent to improve the antimicrobial performance of NR. Through SiO₂ intercalation via electronic assembly, the antibacterial efficacy of MXene was significantly boosted, achieving 100 % lethality against E. coli and 90.95 % against S. aureus. Mechanistic studies revealed that silica nanoparticles primarily enhanced MXene's ability to induce physical damage and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). The positively charged MXene-SiO₂ nanosheets were then incorporated into negatively charged natural latex to form NR nanocomposites with a hierarchical MXene structure. Compared to pristine NR, the nanocomposites exhibited 100 % lethality against E. coli and 74.72 % against S. aureus with the addition of just 0.5 phr MXene-SiO₂. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of NR were enhanced, with the modulus at 50 % and 100 % strain increasing by 22 % and 15 %, respectively, while elongation at break improved to 790 %. This work not only presents a novel approach for enhancing the antibacterial and mechanical properties of NR, but also deepens the understanding of MXene's antibacterial mechanism and its potential applications in healthcare materials.

Magnetic and Electric Properties of a Grain Boundary in Single‐Layer CrI3

Single‐layer CrI3 has attracted considerable interest because of its 2D magnetism. However, the properties of defects in single‐layer CrI3 have not been thoroughly studied yet. In this study, a line defect in the CrI3 single layer, which is a grain boundary caused by the position flipping of iodine atoms, is theoretically investigated. Using first‐principles calculations, the structural and electronic properties of this grain boundary in both zigzag and armchair directions are explored. The grain boundary exhibits ferromagnetic exchange interaction between the two grains. The conduction band minimum and valence band maximum of the grain boundary states are in the energy gap of perfect CrI3 single layer and form a direct gap, indicating an enhancement in photoelectronic properties. Moreover, the partial charge density in real space reveals that the doped electrons or holes predominantly distribute at the grain boundary. This can support a purely spin‐polarized current along the grain boundary. Findings suggest that the grain boundary exhibits unique electronic and magnetic properties, potentially offering valuable insights for spintronics applications.