High-performance Materials Research Articles

Annealing Effects on Microstructure and Texture in KOBO-Processed LPBF AlSi10Mg Alloy: Elucidating CSL Boundary Formation

This study introduces a strain-annealing approach to tailor the grain boundary characteristics of additively manufactured AlSi10Mg alloy produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). By combining KOBO extrusion and subsequent annealing treatments, we aim to increase the proportion of low-Σ coincident site lattice (CSL) grain boundaries, particularly Σ3 boundaries. Through grain boundary engineering (GBE), specifically focused on inducing a high fraction of symmetrical CSL boundaries, our approach allows for the optimization of microstructural features that inhibit defect propagation and improve material stability. Microstructural analysis using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) revealed a substantial increase in Σ3 boundaries (60° <111> twin relationship) in the early recrystallization stages of the KOBO-processed LPBF AlSi10Mg alloy, demonstrating the effectiveness of this method. The findings presented in this manuscript highlight a new strategy for advancing the microstructural characteristics of LPBF AlSi10Mg alloy, with promising implications for applications requiring high-performance materials, such as in the aerospace, nuclear, and automotive industries.

Analytical and Computational Investigation of VibroThermoAcoustic Behaviour of Cracks in Aerostructures

Abstract This research investigates the Vibro-thermoacoustic dynamics exhibited by Aerostructures, particularly those harbouring surface cracks. Employing a novel approach, a Thermo-Acoustic field coupled Transient Heat Transfer model is developed to model the interplay among vibrations, heat dissipation, and acoustic behaviour at crack tip interfaces. Local surface flaws proximal to stress concentration sites are investigated via the Newmark Beta Method and Finite Element Analysis, which are applied to displacement and thermal mapping at crack tips through temporal and spatial discretization. Recognizing the implications of flaws in structural integrity and potential lifespan reduction, the study incorporates Analytical, Numerical and Computational analysis of surface cracks into the broader context of Thermoacoustic phenomena. 
The paper explores the application of Elastoplastic Fracture Mechanics (EPFM) to model the impact of plastic deformation on crack growth, local acoustic field and the overarching structural integrity of these components. 
In this study, we also investigate the limitations of the original Ramberg-Osgood equation, particularly in its application to modelling nonlinearities in plastic strain at crack tip interfaces. To address these shortcomings, we propose a novel modified Ramberg-Osgood formulation that incorporates Padé Approximants. This modification enables effective modelling of nonlinear stress-strain variations of high-performance materials while improving computational performance and accuracy. 
Real-world aerostructures experience varying loads, and incorporating these principles in our coupled model allows for accurate modelling of Thermoacoustic Field variations and Instability under dynamic conditions. The research offers valuable perspectives for engineering applications, providing a computational roadmap for thermoacoustic modelling in Aerostructures with cracks.

Cross-Transition-Dipole Stacking of Conjugated Organic Molecules: Structure, Exciton Behavior and Optoelectronic Property.

Organic conjugated molecules have gained widespread application as organic semiconductors due to their unique optoelectronic properties. The rigidity of these large conjugated structures facilitates strong intermolecular interactions, which significantly influence their properties in the solid state through various molecular arrangements. The study of the relationship among molecular arrangement, exciton behavior, and optoelectronic properties is an eternal research topic. Cross-dipole stacking is a specific molecular arrangement that demonstrates unique characteristics and has received continuous attention over the past decades. This mini-review will first discuss the unique exciton behaviors in cross-dipole stacking based on exciton models, including weak exciton coupling and suppression of Förster resonance energy transfer. These exciton behaviors, determined by molecular stacking arrangements, are fundamental to the optoelectronic properties of cross-dipole stacking systems. Next, we will introduce well-defined cross-dipole systems and summarize their design principles from a molecular structure perspective. Finally, we will present the specific optoelectronic properties of cross-dipole stacking systems and their outstanding performance, such as high solid-state luminescence, good charge carrier mobility, and significant CD/CPL. Through this mini-review, we hope to enhance the understanding of cross-dipole stacking, contributing to the construction of such systems, the exploration of excited-state behaviors, and the discovery of high-performance materials.

Towards High-Performance Li-Rich Cathode Materials: from Morphology Design to Electronic Structure Modulation.

Lithium-rich cathode materials (LRMs) have garnered significant interest owing to their high reversible discharge capacity (exceeding 250 mAh g⁻¹), which is attributed to the redox reactions of transition metal (TM) ions as well as the distinctive redox processes of oxygen anions. However, there are still many problems, such as their relatively poor rate performance and voltage fading and hysteresis, hindering their practical applications. Herein, the recent insights into the mechanisms and the latest advancements in the research of LRMs are discussed. Strategies to promote the performance of LRMs are discussed following a top-down approach from the morphology design to electronic structure modulation. Finally, the ongoing efforts in this area are also discussed to inspire more new ideas for the future development of LRMs.

Lignin Polyurethane Aerogels: Influence of Solvent on Textural Properties.

This study explores the innovative potential of native lignin as a sustainable biopolyol for synthesizing polyurethane aerogels with variable microstructures, significant specific surface areas, and high mechanical stability. Three types of lignin-Organosolv, Aquasolv, and Soda lignin-were evaluated based on structural characteristics, Klason lignin content, and particle size, with Organosolv lignin being identified as the optimal candidate. The microstructure of lignin polyurethane samples was adjustable by solvent choice: Gelation in DMSO and pyridine, with high affinity to lignin, resulted in dense materials with low specific surface areas, while the use of the low-affinity solvent e.g acetone led to aggregated, macroporous materials due to microphase separation. Microstructural control was achieved by use of DMSO/acetone and pyridine/acetone solvent mixtures, which balanced gelation and phase separation to produce fine, homogeneous, mesoporous materials. Specifically, a 75% DMSO/acetone mixture yielded mechanically stable lignin polyurethane aerogels with a low envelope density of 0.49 g cm-3 and a specific surface area of ~300 m2 g-1. This study demonstrates a versatile approach to tailoring lignin polyurethane aerogels with adjustable textural and mechanical properties by simple adjustment of the solvent composition, highlighting the critical role of solvent-lignin interactions during gelation and offering a pathway to sustainable, high-performance materials.

An Upcycling Strategy for Polyethylene Terephthalate Fibers: All-Polymer Composites with Enhanced Mechanical Properties

In this work, an effective route for achieving high-performance all-polymer materials through the proper manipulation of the material microstructure and starting from a waste material is proposed. In particular, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) fibers from discarded safety belts were used as reinforcing phase in melt-compounded high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-based systems. The formulated composites were subjected to hot- and cold-stretching for obtaining filaments at different draw ratios. The performed characterizations pointed out that the material morphology can be profitably modified through the application of the elongational flow, which was proven able to promote significant microstructural evolutions of the rPET dispersed domains, eventually leading to the obtainment of micro-fibrillated all-polymer composites. Furthermore, tensile tests demonstrated that hot-stretched and, especially, cold-stretched materials show significantly enhanced tensile modulus and strength as compared to the unfilled HDPE filaments, likely due to the formation of a highly oriented and anisotropic microstructure.

Enhance the Surface Insulation Properties of EP Materials via Plasma and Fluorine-Containing Coupling Agent Co-Fluorinated Graphene.

Epoxy resin (EP) is an outstanding polymer material known for its low cost, ease of preparation, excellent electrical insulation properties, mechanical strength, and chemical stability. It is widely used in high- and ultra-high-voltage power transmission and transformation equipment. However, as voltage levels continue to increase, EP materials are gradually failing to meet the performance demands of operational environments. Thus, the development of high-performance epoxy resin materials has become crucial. In this study, a combined treatment using plasma and a fluorine-containing coupling agent was employed to fluorinate graphene nanosheets (GNSs), resulting in DFGNSs. Different concentrations of GNSs/DFGNS-modified EP composites were prepared, and their effects on enhancing the surface insulation properties were studied. Tests on surface flashover voltage, surface charge dissipation, trap distribution, and surface resistivity demonstrated that both GNSs and DFGNSs significantly improve the insulation properties of EP materials. Optimal improvement was achieved with a DFGNS content of 0.2 wt%, where the flashover voltage increased by 16.23%.

Hybrid Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Various Catalysis Applications.

Porous materials have been gaining popularity in catalysis applications, solving the current ecological challenges. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are especially noteworthy for their high surface areas and customizable chemistry, giving them a wide range of potential applications in catalysis remediation. The review study delves into the various applications of MOFs in catalysis and provides a comprehensive summary. This review thoroughly explores MOF materials, specifically focusing on their diverse catalytic applications, including Lewis catalysis, oxidation, reduction, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis. Also, this study emphasizes the significance of high-performance MOF materials, which possess adjustable properties and exceptional features, as a novel approach to tackling technological challenges across multiple sectors. MOFs make it an ideal candidate for catalytic reactions, as it enables efficient conversion rates and selectivity. Furthermore, the tunable properties of MOF make it possible to tailor its structure to suit specific catalytic requirements. This feature improves performance and reduces costs associated with traditional catalysts. In conclusion, MOF materials have revolutionized the field of catalysis and offer immense potential in solving various technological challenges across different industries.

Rational Design and Controlled Synthesis of High-Performance Inorganic Short-Wave UV Nonlinear Optical Materials.

ConspectusThe invention of the laser marked a milestone in modern science and technology. Inorganic second-order nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals, with their unique frequency conversion capabilities, play a critical role in extending laser wavelength ranges. These materials are indispensable in laser science, information transmission, and other fields such as the industrial Internet. As Moore's Law drives the demand for shorter wavelengths and higher-precision laser sources, the development of high-performance short-wave ultraviolet (UV) (<300 nm) NLO materials for UV solid-state lasers has become increasingly important. While researchers have synthesized a variety of NLO crystals, their discovery has largely relied on trial-and-error approaches, which are not only time-consuming but also serendipitous rather than based on rational design principles. Moreover, the complexity of designing these materials is compounded by the need to meet several strict functional criteria, including a short UV cutoff edge, a strong second-harmonic generation (SHG) effect, and moderate birefringence, all of which hinder efficient synthesis. The rational design and controlled synthesis of high-performance short-wave UV NLO crystals, therefore, remains a significant scientific challenge.In this Account, we propose a three-step strategy to address this challenge: (1) Rational screening of highly polar functional groups, particularly new NLO-active groups with novel bonding characteristics (π-localized distorted [O2]2- anions, highly polarizable d10 cations such as Zn2+, Cd2+, and Hg2+, and cations containing stereochemically active lone pairs (SCALP) including Ge2+, Sn2+, Sb3+, and Pb2+) that exhibit significantly enhanced polarization anisotropy and hyperpolarizability, to replace traditional anionic groups (planar π-conjugated groups such as [BO3]3-, [CO3]2-, and [NO3]-, and non-π-conjugated tetrahedral anions, such as [SO4]2- and [PO4]3-). (2) Precise regulation of crystal structures to sequentially construct functional groups using two methods: (a) a template-oriented synthesis strategy, which is a method that guides the formation of desired materials through crystal engineering, based on ideal structural models, and (b) a multifunctional primitive module assembly strategy, by identifying and designing multifunctional modules with specific structural configurations to achieve ordered arrangement, which facilitates the creation of high-performance materials. (3) Controlled synthesis of target compounds through synthesis method innovation. These strategies have successfully guided the discovery of several high-performance short-wave UV NLO crystals, including GeHPO3, ASbX2SO4 (A = K, Rb, Cs, NH4; X = F, Cl), A2Sb(P2O7)F (A = K, Rb), Hg3O2SO4, A3VO(O2)2CO3 (A = Rb, Cs), Y8O(OH)15(CO3)3Cl, and A2NO3(OH)3 (A = Ba, Sr), among others. Finally, we summarize these strategies and offer perspectives on the future development of high-performance short-wave UV NLO materials, providing insights into their potential to advance this critical field.

Enhanced Thermoelectric Properties in Na-Doped PbTe via Pb Vacancies and Trace Eu Doping.

Enhancing the thermoelectric performance of Na-doped PbTe is challenging due to the low solubility of Na, a problem that remains insufficiently explored from a theoretical perspective, particularly regarding the role of Pb vacancies. In this study, we utilize crystal orbital Hamilton population and electron localization function analyses to investigate the impact of Pb vacancies on Na solubility in PbTe. Our findings indicate that Pb vacancies strengthen Na-Te bonding and improve electron localization around Te atoms, which reduces the formation of Te vacancies and facilitates a higher dissolution of Na. Furthermore, we examine the effects of trace Eu doping in Pb0.95Na0.04Te, which optimizes band convergence, leading to a power factor of ∼27 μW cm-1 K-2 at 823 K and a significant reduction in lattice thermal conductivity to ∼0.42 W m-1 K-1. The synergistic effects of these modifications result in a peak zT of ∼2.3 at 823 K and an average zT of ∼1.2 across the temperature range of 323 to 823 K. These insights highlight Pb vacancies and trace Eu doping as promising strategies for advancing high-performance thermoelectric materials, thus contributing to the broader field of thermoelectric research and material development.

Enhancing Performance of Microbial Fuel Cell by Binder-Free Modification of Anode with Reduced Graphene Oxide through One-Step Electrochemical Exfoliation and In Situ Electrodeposition.

As the core component of microbial fuel cells, the conductivity and biocompatibility of anode are hard to achieve simultaneously but significantly influence the power generation performance and the overall cost of microbial fuel cells. Stainless steel felt has a low price and high conductivity, making it a potential anode for the large-scale application of microbial fuel cells. However, its poor biocompatibility limits its application. This study provides a one-step binder-free modification method of a stainless steel felt anode with reduced graphene oxide to retain the high conductivity while greatly improving biocompatibility. The maximum power density achieved by reduced graphene oxide modified stainless steel felt was 951.89 mW/m2, 5.49 and 1.91 times higher than the unmodified stainless steel felt anode and reduced graphene oxide coated stainless steel felt by Nafion, respectively. The robust reduced graphene oxide modification markedly improved the biocompatibility by forming a uniform biofilm and utilizing the high conductivity of reduced graphene oxide to enhance the charge transfer rate. It led to 92.7 and 37.9% decreases in charge transfer resistance of reduced graphene oxide modified stainless steel felt compared to the unmodified one and the anode modified with reduced graphene oxide by Nafion, respectively. The excellent performance and green synthesis method of the anode validated its potential as a high-performance anode material for scaled-up microbial fuel cell applications.

Fractal configurations of zigzag hexagonal type coronoid molecules: Graph-theoretical modeling and its impact on physicochemical behavior

Abstract Coronene, a benzenoid compound, holds significant potential for applications in diverse fields, including organic chemistry, materials science, and pharmaceuticals. This study focuses on the structural analysis of Zigzag Hexagonal Coronene Fractal (ZHCF), a unique molecular configuration with significant implications for materials science and nanotechnology. Utilizing topological indices across two-dimensional chemical structure networks, we evaluate critical physicochemical properties of these molecules. Analytical expressions for a wide range of connection number-based topological descriptors are derived, enabling the prediction of properties such as entropy, enthalpy of vaporization, boiling point, and the acentric factor. The use of these mathematical tools provides a deeper understanding of the molecular connectivity and distribution patterns within the ZHCF framework, revealing insights into its stability and potential functionality. The results demonstrate how these indices can effectively capture the structural nuances of complex molecular graphs, aiding in the rational design of advanced nanomaterials with improved optical and electronic properties. This research not only showcases the predictive power of topological descriptors but also highlights the potential applications of coronoid-based structures in creating high-performance materials for various technological and scientific advancements. The findings pave the way for future exploration of coronoid structures in developing innovative solutions across diverse fields.

Synthesis of Cyclic Oligomers of Polyether Ketone Ketone (PEKK) for Ring-Opening Polymerisation (ROP) Applications

Entropy-Driven Ring-Opening Polymerisation represents an attractive mechanism to produce high-performance polymeric materials as it can be performed using neat, low-viscosity precursors and without the production of by-products or release of volatiles. Macrocyclic oligomers (MCOs) of polyether ketone ketone (PEKK) were synthesised and investigated as an in situ method of forming this high-performance thermoplastic. Cyclic oligomers were successfully synthesised by pseudo-high dilution methods, and the reaction conditions were optimised through careful addition of starting materials and carbonate base selection. These novel compounds were characterised, X-ray crystal structures were obtained, and the synthesis method was extended from the homopolymers to MCOs with the structural isomers predominantly used in industry. PEKK formed from MCOs were characterised by DSC, TGA and GPC and found to have similar glass transitions and molecular weight averages to those of a commercial PEKK polymer.

Be2B monolayer as a well-balanced performance anode for lithium-ion batteries with ultrahigh theoretical capacity and low diffusion barrier

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are the most crucial part of energy storage systems. The lower molar weight of anodes can achieve a higher theoretical capacity. We explore the performance of a Be2B monolayer as an anode for LIBs. By first-principles calculations, we reveal that the Be2B monolayer shows excellent tensile strength, which suggests that it can deal with the volume expansion during the adsorption process. Furthermore, the Be2B monolayer can stably adsorb Li atoms with an adsorption energy of −0.98 eV. Moreover, the Be2B monolayer exhibits a low diffusion barrier (0.066 eV), an ultra-high theoretical capacity (3717 mA h g−1), and a moderate open circuit voltage (0.59 V). We also confirm the wettability of the Be2B monolayer in common electrolytes and investigate the adsorption and diffusion properties of Li on Be2B/graphene heterostructure. The introduction of graphene enhances the migration behavior of Li, suggesting the fast charging/discharging capability. Based on the above-mentioned properties, we propose that the Be2B monolayer can act as a high-performance anode material.

Mechano-chemical extraction and characterization of tannic acid-functionalized bamboo fibers from vacuum-pressure impregnation (VPI) treated and untreated sources to enhance mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) laminated composites

ABSTRACT This study highlights significant advancements in the mechanical properties of bamboo fibers through mechano-chemical extraction and characterization methods, focusing on untreated, vacuum-pressure impregnation (VPI), and tannic acid-treated fibers for fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. Notably, VPI treatment increased fiber extraction efficiency in chimono bamboo from 78% to 82.96%, while asamica bamboo exhibited a decline from 58% to 35.04%. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed enhanced crystallinity, with TVPI-CBFs displaying sharper peaks at 2θ = 22.6° (002) and 16° (101), indicative of improved structural alignment. Thermal stability, assessed via thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), revealed delayed degradation in VPI-CBFs, with TVPI-CBFs demonstrating superior thermal resistance. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra identified a new peak at 1742 cm−1 in TVPI-CBFs, confirming effective interaction with tannic acid. Mechanical testing showed a peak tensile strength of 270 ± 5.1 MPa at 1 wt% fiber content in TVPI-CBFC, underscoring the significant improvements achieved. Fracture surface analysis indicated enhanced interfacial bonding between fibers and the matrix, essential for durability and load transfer. The study addresses the critical need for sustainable, high-performance materials in industrial applications, offering a viable alternative to conventional composites through tailored bamboo-fiber treatments, thus advancing sustainable construction and manufacturing solutions.

Effects of Cr3+ Doping on Spinel LiMn2O4 Morphology and Electrochemical Performance

LiMn2O4, a significant cathode material for lithium-ion batteries, has garnered considerable attention due to its low cost and environmental friendliness. However, its widespread application is constrained by its rapid capacity degradation and short cycle life at elevated temperatures. To enhance the electrochemical performance of LiMn2O4, we employed a liquid-phase co-precipitation and calcination method to incorporate Cr3+ into the LiMn2O4 cathode material, successfully synthesizing a series of LiCrxMn2−xO4 (x = 0~0.06). The prepared Cr-doped samples exhibited an excellent spinel structure and a unique truncated octahedral morphology. Additionally, the substitution of Mn3+ in LiMn2O4 by Cr3+, coupled with the significantly higher Cr-O bond energy compared to Mn-O bond energy, enhanced the stability of the crystal structure and inhibited the Jahn–Teller effect. Experimental results demonstrated that the optimized LiCr0.04Mn1.96O4 displayed superior electrochemical performance, with a capacity retention rate of 93.24% after 500 cycles under a 0.5C current density; even at 50 °C, the capacity retention rate remained at 86.46% after 350 cycles under a 0.5C current density. The polyhedral morphology formed by Cr doping in LiMn2O4 offers an effective approach to achieving high-performance LiMn2O4 cathode materials.

Enhancing Mid-Term Strength and Microstructure of Fly Ash-Cement Paste Backfill with Silica Fume for Continuous Mining and Backfilling Operations.

Fly ash-cement composite backfill slurry, prepared by partially replacing cement with fly ash, has been demonstrated to effectively reduce the mine backfill costs and carbon emissions associated with cement production. However, the use of fly ash often results in insufficient early and medium-term strength of the backfill material. To address the demand for high medium-term strength in backfill materials under continuous mining and backfilling conditions, this study developed a silica fume-fly ash-cement composite backfill slurry. The effects of varying silica fume contents on the slurry's flowability, uniaxial compressive strength, microstructure, and pore characteristics were systematically investigated. The results showed that increasing the silica fume content significantly reduced the slurry's flowability. However, at a silica fume content of 5%, the slurry achieved optimal medium-term strength, with a 14-day uniaxial compressive strength of 3.98 MPa, representing a 25% improvement compared to the control group. A microstructural analysis revealed that a moderate silica fume content promoted the formation of calcium silicate hydrate gel, filled micropores, and optimized the pore structure, thereby enhancing the overall strength and durability of the material. Conversely, an excessive silica fume content above 5% led to a marked decrease in both flowability and strength. Based on a comprehensive evaluation of silica fume's effects on the flowability, strength, and microstructure, the optimal silica fume content was determined to be 5%. This study provides a theoretical basis and practical guidance for improving the efficiency of continuous mining and backfilling operations, and for designing high-performance backfill materials suitable for continuous mining and filling conditions.

Fine Tuning the Glass Transition Temperature and Crystallinity by Varying the Thiophene-Quinoxaline Copolymer Composition.

In recent years, the design and synthesis of high-performing conjugated materials for the application in organic photovoltaics (OPVs) have achieved lab-scale devices with high power conversion efficiency. However, most of the high-performing materials are still synthesised using complex multistep procedures, resulting in high cost. For the upscaling of OPVs, it is also important to focus on conjugated polymers that can be made via fewer simple synthetic steps. Therefore, an easily synthesised amorphous thiophene-quinoxaline donor polymer, TQ1, has attracted our attention. An analogue, TQ-EH that has the same polymer backbone as TQ1 but with short branched side-chains, was previously reported as a donor polymer with increased crystallinity. We have synthesised copolymers with varied ratios between octyloxy and branched (2-ethylhexyl)oxy-substituted quinoxaline units having the same polymer backbone, with the aim to control the aggregation/crystallisation behaviour of the resulting copolymers. The optical properties, glass transition temperatures and degree of crystallinity of the new copolymers were systematically examined in relation to their copolymer composition, revealing that the composition can be used to fine-tune these properties of conjugated polymers. In addition, multiple sub-Tg transitions were found from some of the polymers, which are not commonly or clearly seen in other conjugated polymers. The new copolymers were tested in photovoltaic devices with a fullerene derivative as the acceptor, achieving slightly higher performances compared to the homopolymers. This work demonstrates that side-chain modification by copolymerisation can fine-tune the properties of conjugated polymers without requiring complex organic synthesis, thereby expanding the number of easily synthesised polymers for future upscaling of OPVs.

Influence of Magnetic Stirring and Eutectic Front Velocity on the Solidified Microstructure of Al-18 wt.% Si Alloy.

The microstructure of hypereutectic Al-Si alloys is crucial in determining their mechanical properties and overall performance in engineering applications. This paper investigates the effect of a rotating magnetic field (RMF) and eutectic front velocity on the microstructure of hypereutectic Al-18 wt.% Si alloy. The hypereutectic samples were solidified using five different front velocities (0.02, 0.05, 0.09, 0.2, and 0.4 mm/s) with an average temperature gradient (G) of 8 K/mm in a crystallizer equipped with an RMF inductor. The samples were solidified into two sections. The first section solidified without stirring, while the second section solidified with stirring using RMF at an induction (B) of 7.2 mT. The length, angular orientation of eutectic Si lamellas, and interlamellar distances were measured in both the non-stirred and the stirred sections to evaluate the impact of RMF and front velocity on the eutectic structure. The results revealed that the application of RMF and the increase in front velocity during solidification led to the significant refinement of the eutectic structure. These findings highlight the potential of RMF and front velocity manipulation to enhance the microstructure of hypereutectic Al-Si alloys, with practical implications for the development of high-performance materials.

Characterization and Analysis of Mechanical and Morphological Properties of Hybrid Composite Material from Prosopis Juliflora and Phoenix Sylvestris for Engineering Applications

The demand for sustainable, high-performance materials has driven interest in natural fiber-based composites. This research investigates the development of a hybrid composite using fibers from Prosopis Juliflora and Phoenix Sylvestris combined with glass fibers and epoxy resin. The natural fibers underwent a 10% NaOH treatment to enhance their mechanical properties. Hand layup techniques were employed to fabricate the samples, followed by comprehensive mechanical testing, including tensile, flexural, impact, hardness, and delamination tests. The composite, composed of 60% natural fibers, and 30% resin, and treated with NaOH, exhibited superior mechanical performance, surpassing similar composites in literature. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed improved fiber-matrix adhesion, while wear testing indicated potential applications in brake linings. The results suggest this hybrid composite offers a viable, sustainable alternative for high-performance engineering applications, particularly in the automotive industry.