Finite Element Method Analysis Research Articles

The noteworthy tensile plasticity and strength of CoFeSiB metallic glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites

AbstractMetallic glass fibers have high strength, poor plasticity and low Young's modulus. In this study, it was used as a reinforcement to prepare metallic glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites with different fiber volume contents (20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%). The effect of fiber volume contents on the tensile properties of the metallic glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites was studied by experiment and the finite element analysis method. The experiment and simulation results are in good agreement. The tensile strength and plasticity of the metallic glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites increase with the increase of fiber volume contents. When the fiber volume content is 40% or 50%, a sharply necking feature appeared on the fibers and exhibited improved plasticity, due to the formation of interacting and arresting events of shear bands occurring at the interface between the metallic glass fibers and the epoxy. In addition, the strain hardening due to plastic deformation of the metallic glass fibers further enhanced the tensile strength of the metallic glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites. This is a first step toward toughening the inherently brittle metallic glass fibers under tensile conditions.Highlights A novel CoFeSiB metallic glass fiber reinforced epoxy resin composite The increase of fiber volume fraction improves the tensile strength and plasticity of fiber reinforced composites. The strain hardening due to plastic deformation of the metallic glass fibers further enhanced the tensile strength of the metallic glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites.

Dependence of frequency-temperature stability on support tethers in dual-beam piezoresistive sensing MEMS resonators

This paper investigates the dependence of frequency stability over temperature on support tethers in dual-beam piezoresistive length-extensional (LE) mode microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) resonators. The designed dual-beam resonator consists of two identical single-crystal silicon beams, which are mechanically coupled and excited into vibrating in opposite phase to eliminate the inherent capacitive feedthrough signals. Both straight and folded beams are adopted as the support tethers for the reported dual-beam piezoresistive resonators. Quality factor (Q) and temperature distribution across the resonators with various support tethers are investigated by finite element method (FEM) analysis. It is found that folded beam tethers can reduce the support loss and hence improve the Q for the designed dual-beam resonator, while it comes with a tradeoff of high temperature rise on resonator body. The reported dual-beam resonator with straight beam tethers has low temperature rise on the resonator body, which is less sensitive to environmental temperature fluctuations, compared to its counterpart with folded beam tethers. Experimental results show that the fabricated dual-beam piezoresistive resonator with four straight beam tethers achieves a 0.5 ppm frequency shifts in the temperature-control chamber, which is nearly four times better than those with folded beam tethers.

Low temperature coefficient of frequency AlN Lamb wave resonator using groove structure between interdigital transducers

The lithographically tunable and small size features of Lamb wave resonators (LWRs) take a bright future for their use in high frequency narrow band filters. Resonant frequency drift due to temperature variation has a large impact on the narrower passband and a temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) closer to 0 can broaden the stable temperature range of the resonator. This paper proposes a method of etching grooves in the area of the piezoelectric layer not covered by the Interdigital transducer (IDT) electrodes to improve the temperature stability of the Lamb resonator. Through the finite element method and theoretical analysis, the phase velocity, group velocity, and TCF dispersion curve of different modes of the resonator with groove structure were determined. The reason for the change of TCF under different normalized thicknesses of AlN was explained through the conversion of the LWR from a contour mode resonator (CMR) to a Cross-Sectional Lamé Mode Resonator. Simulation and test have shown that etching grooves have the effect of reducing TCF by adjusting the electromechanical coupling coefficient. The test shows that 205 nm-depth grooves can lower the TCF of the S0 mode IDT-Open LWR from −13.3 to −5.1 ppm/°C and S1 mode from −36.8 to −9.0 ppm/°C, respectively. The TCF of S0 and S1 mode LWRs decreased by 61.7% and 75.5%, respectively, after 205 nm groove etching. The groove etching method greatly raises the temperature stability of the LWR, enabling Lamb wave filters to operate stably over a wider temperature range.

Advancing earthquake resistance: Hybrid retrofitting of RC frames with FRP and TDS

Traditional and technological retrofitting methods have been proposed over time to enhance earthquake resistance in structures. Friction-type dampers have attracted considerable interest from both researchers and the construction industry because of their versatility in retrofitting, quick installation, and non-destructive characteristics. Moreover, the integration of damping systems with various retrofitting elements and the resulting impact of these hybrid systems on building performance have consistently been subjects of interest. This study involved the construction of three identical half-scale reinforced concrete (R.C) frames. One frame served as the reference (REF), the second was wrapped with Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) material (REF-FRP), and the third was retrofitted using both FRP wrapping and the developed Technological Damper System (TDS-FRP). Quasi-static cyclic experiments were performed on the three structural frames, providing force-displacement and force-rotation relationships. The acquired data were then used to assess the damage states of the frames according to the Turkish Building Earthquake Code (TBEC 2018), and energy consumption rates were determined. Moreover, Finite Element Method (FEM) analyses were performed on REF, REF-FRP, and TDS FRP frames to derive force-displacement relationships, which were subsequently compared with experimental findings. The experiment results indicate that the horizontal load-carrying capacity of the TDS-FRP frame increased by 76 % to 122 % compared to the REF frame, while the REF-FRP frame showed a maximum increase of 14 %. Additionally, the cumulative energy consumption capacity of the REF-FRP frame increased by a maximum of 42 % compared to the REF frame, and the TDS-FRP increased between 51 % and 156 %. At a 1 % drift ratio, shear cracks at the beam ends and column-beam intersections of the REF frame were observed to be significantly reduced in the REF-FRP frame and eliminated in the TDS-FRP frame. Additionally, upon reaching a 3 % drift ratio, it was observed that the TDS-FRP frame remained within acceptable limits as per TBEC 2018, whereas the REF and REF-FRP frames exceeded the advanced damage limit. Additionally, it has been observed that the results obtained from FEM analyses coincide with the experimental results. In this context, the TDS-FRP hybrid application can be considered as an effective and alternative solution for the R.C buildings.

The Inclusion and Initial Damage Inspection of Intelligent Cementitious Materials Containing Graphene Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)

This paper examines the theoretical foundations of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) technology, followed by the finite element analysis method, for the positive problem and the linear back-projection (LBP) procedure for the inverse problem. The conductivity distribution image of the modeled concrete is then reconstructed, which includes one circular aggregate and the surrounding mortar. It is discovered that the conductivity obtained can be used to find the inclusive aggregate, mortar, and interfacial transition zone (ITZ). Natural aggregate and mortar have conductivities of 0.046 ms/cm and 0.115 ms/cm, respectively. Additionally, the conductivity of the ITZ, which is always regarded as the initial damage, is about 0.081 ms/cm. ERT is a cost-effective and readily available technique for determining the initial distribution of the aggregate and related ITZ. Therefore, ERT is a promising tool for determining inclusions and initial damage in concrete.

Bionanosensor utilizing single-layer graphene for the detection of iridovirus.

Iridoviruses, a group of double-stranded DNA viruses, pose a significant threat to various aquatic animals, causing substantial economic losses in aquaculture and impacting ecosystem health. Early and accurate detection of these viruses is crucial for effective disease management and control. Conventional diagnostic methods, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and virus isolation, often require specialized laboratories, skilled personnel, and considerable time. This highlights the need for rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic tools for iridovirus detection. Single-layer graphene, a two-dimensional material with unique properties like high surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and chemical stability, has emerged as a versatile platform for biosensing applications. This paper explores the potential of employing single-layer graphene in the development of a bionanosensor for the sensitive and rapid detection of iridoviruses. The aim of the present investigation is to develop a sensor by analyzing the vibrational responses of single-layer graphene sheets (SLGS) with attached microorganisms. Graphene-based virus sensors typically rely on the interaction between the virus and the graphene surface, which lead to changes in the frequency response of graphene. This change is measured and used to detect the presence of the virus. Its high surface-to-volume ratio and sensitivity to changes in its frequency make it a highly sensitive platform for virus detection. We employ finite element method (FEM) analysis to model the sensor's performance and optimize its design parameters. The simulation results highlight the sensor's potential for achieving high sensitivity and rapid detection of iridovirus. Bridged and simply supported with roller support boundary conditions applied at the ends of SLG structure. Simulations have been performed to see how SLG behaves when used as sensors. A single-layer graphene armchair SLG (5,5) with 50-nm length exhibits its highest frequency vibration at 8.66 × 106 Hz, with a mass of 1.2786 Zg. In contrast, a zigzag-SLG with a (18,0) configuration has its lowest frequency vibration at 2.82 × 105 Hz. This aids in comprehending the thresholds of detection and the influence of factors such as size, and boundary conditions on sensor effectiveness. These biosensors can be especially helpful in biological sciences and the medical field since they can considerably improve the treatment of patients, cancer early diagnosis, and pathogen identification when used in clinical environments.

Microstructural analysis of titanium alloys based on high-temperature phase reconstruction

The microstructural evolution of titanium alloys under high-temperature conditions plays a key role in determining their mechanical properties and hot working behavior. This research presents an advanced method for calibrating β phase reconstruction software using in situ testing on Grade 2 titanium, which achieves accurate reconstruction of the parent β phase microstructure. In addition, unique microstructural observations in the forging of Ti-6246 titanium alloy are highlighted, demonstrating the influence of deformation parameters on the resulting β phase grain structures. Using advanced techniques such as electron backscatter diffraction and Burgers orientation relationship-based software, the research elucidates the behavior of these phases under varying thermal and deformation conditions. In Grade 2 titanium, significant grain growth and phase transformation dynamics were observed upon heating beyond the β-transus temperature during in situ calibration of β phase reconstruction software. The analysis demonstrates the effectiveness of the software in precise reconstructing the parent β phase microstructure based on the orientation of the inherited αs phase. Furthermore, the evaluation of hot forming parameters in Ti-6246 alloy shows the influence of deformation temperature and strain rate on the resulting microstructure. Finite element method analysis coupled with dynamic material modeling elucidates the distribution of temperature, strain rate, and effective strain during forging, which aids in the qualitative assessment of hot workability. Microstructural observations in Ti-6246 alloy forging highlight the presence of elongated colonies of αs phase precipitates, indicative of localized strain intensities and deformation temperatures. In addition, EBSD analysis coupled with β phase reconstruction reveals distinct microstructural features in different regions of the forging. In particular, regions subjected to higher strain rates exhibit elongated β phase grains with pronounced disorientation gradients, suggesting intense deformation. Conversely, optimal forging conditions lead to the appearance of unreinforced axisymmetric β phase grains, indicating dynamic recovery processes. Pole figure analysis further emphasizes the Burgers crystallographic relationship between the αs and β phases, confirming that deformation during forging occurs exclusively within the β phase. These results provide valuable insights into the microstructural evolution in titanium alloys under high-temperature conditions, which are essential for optimizing hot working processes and improving mechanical properties.Graphical abstract

Investigation on the biaxial tensile testing method for metal foil using cruciform specimen

The assessment of mechanical properties of metal foil under complicated stress states poses a considerable challenge, requiring the development of new testing methods and the optimization of new specimen geometry. In this research, the biaxial tensile method and specimen shape were designed and optimized by using simulation and experiment. It is determined that the strain measurement area can be suggested as the central area of 0.6 to 0.8 times the arm width. The influence of different parameters on the tensile results of cruciform specimens was comprehensively evaluated by finite element method and multi-factor analysis. The results indicate that the number of slits markedly impacts the stress–strain uniformity and shear stress in the central region, followed by the slit length. The effect of the arm width and the slit width is comparable, more influential than the corner radius. According to the analyzed results and application requirements, a four-axis independently driven biaxial tensile test machine for small scale samples was fabricated. During the biaxial tension, the center point offset of the specimen remains within ±0.01 mm. The displacement and load synchronization errors do not exceed 0.01 mm and 50 N, respectively, facilitating the precise control of four-axis synchronization. Conclusively, cruciform specimens featuring diverse geometric characteristics were designed for industrial pure titanium, 304 stainless steel, and Inconel 718 superalloy with thickness of less than 0.3 mm. The biaxial tensile tests were performed to delineate the yield loci, revealing notable anisotropy and size effect. The validation confirms the suitability of the testing method and optimized cruciform specimens for conducting biaxial tensile mechanical properties testing on metal foils characterized by diverse types and thicknesses.

Biomechanical finite element analysis of various tibial plateau posterior tilt angles in medial unicondylar knee arthroplasty.

The present study aimed to determine the optimal posterior tibial plateau inclination for fixed-platform unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) using finite element analysis (FEA). These findings provided a theoretical basis for selecting an appropriate posterior inclination of the tibial plateau during surgery. The present study utilized the FEA method to create models of fixed-platform UKA with tibial plateau posterior inclinations of 3, 6 and 9˚. The stress changes in the internal structures of each model after knee flexion motion were then compared. During knee flexion from 0 to 90˚, the contact and Von Mises equivalent stresses of the femoral condyle prosthesis and tibial platform pad revealed consistent trends of 3˚ posterior inclination, >6˚ posterior inclination and >9˚ posterior inclination. The present study established the first quasi-dynamic fixed-platform UKA model of the knee joint under load-bearing conditions. From a theoretical perspective, it was found that controlling the posterior inclination of UKA between 6 and 9˚ may be more beneficial for the survival of the tibial platform pad than between 3 and 6˚. It is also more effective in reducing pad wear.

Reliability assessment for pipelines corroded by longitudinally aligned defects

Internal corrosion poses a significant threat to offshore pipeline services. Toward offshore pipeline integrity management, this paper aims to use Finite Element Method (FEM) to assess the reliability of corroded pipelines. The FEM analysis was conducted using ABAQUS software, facilitated through Python scripts, to optimize the modeling process on a large scale. Additionally, the input database was generated through a random sampling method using the Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) method. The reliability of 32” oil and gas offshore internally corroded pipelines has been evaluated by fragility curve assessment along with Incremental Pressure Analysis (IPA) which is a new method inspired by Incremental Dynamic Analysis (IDA). Multiple corrosion defects pose a higher risk to offshore pipelines during service, with potentially more severe consequences than a single defect alone. Therefore, the interaction of corrosion defects has been considered in this study. Following the reliability assessment the most appropriate Probability Density Function (PDF) for the Maximum Von Mises Stress (MVMS) and failure probability at various Internal Pressure (IP) and longitudinal spacing (Sl) levels has been evaluated.

A Finite Element Analysis Study of Influence of Femoral Stem Material in Stress Shielding in a Model of Uncemented Total Hip Arthroplasty: Ti-6Al-4V versus Carbon Fibre-Reinforced PEEK Composite

Total hip arthroplasty is one of the most common and successful orthopaedic operations. Occasionally, periprosthetic osteolysis associated with stress shielding occurs, resulting in a reduction of bone density where the femur is not properly loaded and the formation of denser bone where stresses are confined. To enhance proximal load transfer and reduce stress shielding, approaches, including decreasing the stiffness of femoral stems, such as carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composites (CFRPCs), have been explored through novel modular prostheses. The purpose of the present study was to analyse, by the finite element analysis (FEA) method, the effect that the variation of material for the distal part of the femoral stem has on stress transmission between a modulable prosthesis and the adjacent bone. Methods: Through three-dimensional modelling and the use of commercially available FEA software Ansys R2023, the mechanical behaviour of the distal part of the femoral stem made of CFRPC or Ti-6Al-4V was obtained. A load was applied to the head of the femoral stem that simulates a complete walking cycle. Results: The results showed that the use of a material with mechanical characteristics close to the bone, like CFRPC, allowed for optimisation of the transmitted loads, promoting a better distribution of stress from the proximal to the distal part of the femur. This observation was also found in some clinical studies in literature, which reported not only an improved load transfer with the use of CFRPC but also a higher cell attachment than Ti-6Al-4V. Conclusions: The use of a material that has mechanical properties that are close to bone promotes load transfer from the proximal to the distal area. In particular, the use of CFRPC allows the material to be designed based on the patient’s actual bone characteristics. This provides a customised design with a lower risk of prosthesis loss due to stress shielding.

Innovative design addressing complex airway stenosis: Multidimensional performance assessment of a novel Y-shaped airway stent

“Y-shaped” airway stents have been widely used in the treatment of airway diseases, especially airway stenosis, due to their excellent flexibility. However, the current research on the flexibility of “Y-shaped” airway stents is still blank, limiting the possibility of improving the performance of stents in complex clinical disease. This study aimed to establish multi-dimensional evaluation of the flexibility of a novel segmented “Y-shaped” airway stent and two kinds of conventional stents. We evaluated the flexibility of the segmented stent, wholly knitted stent, and silicone stent by in vitro mechanical testing and finite element analysis methods. That is, the bending force and spring-back force of three kinds of stent were measured in left–right, anterior-posterior and longitudinal directions. The torque of the stents in torsion-recovery test of branches of stent was also executed. Finite element analysis was performed to evaluate the change of diameter. According to the detection, the bending force and spring-back force of the branch of the segmented stent during left–right and anterior-posterior compression, and the torque during torsion and recovery were lower than those of the other two stents. In finite element analysis, the diameter change of the segmented stent was minimal among the three stents. The flexibility of the segmented “Y-shaped” airway stent was better than that of the conventional “Y-shaped” airway stents, indicating that it has better adaptability and resistance to compression when implanted in the body.

Study on seismic performance of SRC frame-bent structures in CAP1400 nuclear power plants

With the conventional island turbine plant project of a CAP1400 nuclear power plant (NPP) as the research background, this paper proposed to apply steel reinforced concrete (SRC) frame-bent structure system to the main building of the NPP. Substructures comprising three frames and two spans from the prototype structure were identified for testing, and a test model was constructed at a scale ratio of 1/7 to test the dynamic and pseudo-dynamic characteristics of the substructures. On the basis of the test results, the structure was further verified using the finite element analysis method. The results showed that the first three modes of substructure were respectively lateral translation with torsion, longitudinal translation with torsion and torsion; The ratio between the third-order and first-order mode cycles was 0.72, indicating that the torsional stiffness of the structure was relatively small and the torsional effect was obvious. When the maximum acceleration peak was 2200 gal, the maximum inter-story drift ratio of the model structure reached 1/31. Ultimately, when the structure was finally destroyed, the concrete at the bottom of each SRC column was crushed and peeled off.

Design and Reliability Simulation of a G-Band Traveling-Wave Tube Multistage Depressed Collector With Curving Radiators Using FEA Method

Design and Reliability Simulation of a G-Band Traveling-Wave Tube Multistage Depressed Collector With Curving Radiators Using FEA Method

A novel interdisciplinary model for optimizing coalbed methane recovery and carbon dioxide sequestration: Fracture dynamics, gas mechanics, and its application

The Carbon Dioxide Enhanced Coalbed Methane (CO2-ECBM) technique significantly enhances clean energy extraction and mitigates climate change. Central to this process is the dynamic evolution of rough fracture networks within coal seams, influencing the migration of CO2 and natural gas. However, existing research lacks a comprehensive, quantitative approach to examining the micro-evolution of these fractures, including fracture roughness, fracture density, fracture touristy, and fracture size, particularly under thermo-hydro-mechanical effects. Addressing this gap, our study introduces an innovative, fractal model for quantitative analysis. This model intricately characterizes fracture networks in terms of number, tortuosity, length, and roughness, integrating them with fluid dynamics affected by external disturbances in CO2-ECBM projects. Upon rigorous validation, the finite element method analysis reveals significant impacts of micro-parameters on permeability and natural gas extraction. For instance, increasing CO2 injection pressure from 4 to 6 MPa changes fracture network density by up to 6.4%. A decrease in fracture density (Df) from 1.6 to 1.5 raises residual gas pressure by 2.7% and coal seam stress by 9.5%, indicating crucial considerations for project stability. Applying the proposed interdisciplinary model to assess CO2 emissions in Australia, it is can be obtained that when Df decreases from 1.6 to 1.5, the total amount of CO2 storage reduces by 17.71%–18.04%. Our results demonstrate the substantial influence of micro-fracture behaviors on CO2-ECBM projects, offering a ground-breaking solution for efficient greenhouse gas reduction and clean energy extraction, with practical implications for the energy sector's sustainability.

Development and Performance Analysis of Commercial Vehicle Axle Shaft

Axle shafts, which are an important part of the vehicle's powertrain system, transfer the torque to the wheels and enable the vehicle to move. In this respect, the design of the axle shaft to be used in a new vehicle is of great importance for vehicle manufacturers. When a cylindrical shaft is torsionally loaded, the shear stress is highest at the surface of component and zero at the center. Therefore, these axle shafts are exposed to an induction hardening process that enables only this superficial case to have its properties changed, remaining the core zone with its material original characteristics. Current study presents the results of a project aimed at developing and evaluating the fatigue life of axle shaft that belongs to a commercial vehicle. Developments were made on the existing axle and the results were examined using experimental tests and finite element analysis method. In line with the improvements made, the developed axle shaft has 331.7% more fatigue life than the existing axle, while the cost is 24% lower. According to these results, more attention must be paid to material selection, induction hardening process, stress concentration and surface condition of axle shaft in the design. This study involves many disciplines such as design, manufacturing, analysis, testing, etc. It is very important to ensure communication between all these disciplines in the production of the product. The output obtained from one discipline becomes the input of another discipline. In the cumulative sum of all these inputs, the optimum level of parts is obtained. For this reason, this study, which processes all these disciplines together, is very valuable.

Error Analysis of the Classical Artificial Diffusion Weak Galerkin Finite Element Method for the steady state- convection diffusion-reaction Equation in 2-D

In this study, we modified the error in the weak Galerkin method when solving problems in which diffusion is the dominant convection( h) in two dimensions. This is done by adding the artificial diffusion term (-δΔw, where δ=h-ϵ). The finite element method for discrete functions using a weakly defined gradient operator is presented in this study. The concept of the weak discrete gradient is introduced, which plays an important role when using numerical methods to solve partial differential equations. The goal of this study is to enhance the accuracy and stability of the solutions by studying the ellipticity and stability properties of the method, which works to ensure that the numerical method retains the properties of the original equation while reducing the fluctuations occurring with the weak galerkin finite element method. Specific theories have been used to estimate the error in parameters -norm, and . Practical examples demonstrate how this method improves the handling of partial equations characterized by convection-dominated diffusion, enhancing its potential for advancing numerical simulations in engineering and physics.

Digital Tools for the Preventive Conservation of Built Heritage: The Church of Santa Ana in Seville

Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) plays a pivotal role in heritage conservation endeavours, offering a robust framework for digitally documenting existing structures and supporting conservation practices. However, HBIM’s efficacy hinges upon the implementation of case-specific approaches to address the requirements and resources of each individual asset and context. This paper defines a flexible and generalisable workflow that encompasses various aspects (i.e., documentation, surveying, vulnerability assessment) to support risk-informed decision making in heritage management tailored to the peculiar conservation needs of the structure. This methodology includes an initial investigation covering historical data collection, metric and condition surveys and non-destructive testing. The second stage includes Finite Element Method (FEM) modelling and structural analysis. All data generated and processed are managed in a multi-purpose HBIM model. The methodology is tested on a relevant case study, namely, the church of Santa Ana in Seville, chosen for its historical significance, intricacy and susceptibility to seismic action. The defined level of detail of the HBIM model is sufficient to inform the structural analysis, being balanced by a more accurate representation of the alterations, through linked orthophotos and a comprehensive list of alphanumerical parameters. This ensures an adequate level of information, optimising the trade-off between model complexity, investigation time requirements, computational burden and reliability in the decision-making process. Field testing and FEM analysis provide valuable insight into the main sources of vulnerability in the building, including the connection between the tower and nave and the slenderness of the columns.

Fiber bundle deposition model and variable speed printing strategy for in-situ impregnation 3D printing of continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites

In the in-situ impregnation 3D printing of continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites (CFRTPCs) at constant printing speed, in order to pursue higher printing efficiency, a higher speed for printing is adopted generally, which has no effect on the printing of the straight section, but at the same speed of printing at the corner, the printing speed will cause the fiber bundle to deviate from the printing path at the corner, which affects the accurate laying of fiber bundle along the printing path. Obviously, reducing the printing speed is an effective method to improve the print quality at the turn, but printing the entire part at the reduced speed will greatly limit the overall printing speed. However, the problem of different corner angles and shifting points from the straight section of high-speed printing to the corner section of low-speed printing has been puzzling researchers. In this paper, a fiber bundle deposition model has been proposed to reveal the deposition of fiber bundles, and the maximum offsets of fiber bundles were predicted under different turning angles. Compared with the measured results, the prediction error at different turning angles ranged from −1.07 % to 10.30 %. Then, combining with the finite element analysis method, the fiber bundle deposition model was adopted to study the effects of printing speeds, and the maximum printing speeds for different printing angles and the variable printing speed strategy have been put forward. The results have revealed that, by using the optimized variable printing speed strategy, the surface quality of the fabricated parts and the deposition of the fiber bundles along the designed printing path were significantly improved. The fiber bundle deposition model and the variable speed printing strategy could be helpful for the high-precision 3D printing of CFRTPCs.

Research on 3D printed titanium alloy scaffold structure induced osteogenesis: Mechanics and in vitro testing

Several methods exist for repairing mandibular segmental bone defects, typically employing the implant method to accomplish the repair. Following a comparative analysis, the Ti6Al4V structural scaffold implant was chosen for bone defect repair. Triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) is characterized by a high surface area to volume ratio, an average curvature of zero, and other notable advantages, providing a new line of thinking for bone tissue scaffolds. In this work, the in vitro osteogenesis of a cell unit measuring 4 mm was investigated. First, the finite element analysis (FEA) method and the mechanical experiment method were employed to screen the elasticity modulus of the cancellous bone of the mandible. Subsequently, the selective laser melting (SLM) technique was adopted to prepare three different structures precisely - Gyroid, octahedron, and cube - each with wall thicknesses of 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, and 0.5 mm. In the in vitro osteogenic experiments, it was observed through confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) that each scaffold displayed favorable cell spreading at 1 day and 3 days. Moreover, osteoblast cell adhesion and proliferation assays revealed improved cell adhesion and proliferation with prolonged co-cultivation time, signifying the excellent biocompatibility of the structural titanium alloy scaffolds. Furthermore, findings from cell differentiation and bioactivity assays indicated that the Gyroid structure exhibited superior osteogenesis compared to the cube and octahedron structures. However, no statistically significant difference was noted between varying wall thicknesses within the same structure.