Development Of Innovative Materials Research Articles

Investigation on the wear characteristics of 3D printed graphene-reinforced PLA composites

In recent years, the growing need for multifunctional materials with customized features has fueled the development of innovative materials and production processes. Graphene, recognized for its superior mechanical, thermal, and electrical characteristics, has shown considerable promise in a variety of applications. This research focuses on the manufacture and characterisation of graphene-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composites using material extrusion. The composites were created by melting PLA pellets with graphene nanoplatelets and then 3D printing them together. Pin-on-disc tests were used to analyze wear behavior, and the graphene-reinforced PLA demonstrated a 55% increase in wear resistance when compared to clean PLA. This increase is linked to the creation of protective layers during frictional sliding, as well as graphene’s lubricating characteristics. The microstructure was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and statistical analysis revealed the influence of printing settings and load conditions on wear performance and surface morphology. Overall, the work illustrates the promise of graphene-reinforced PLA composites for applications requiring high wear resistance, as seen by considerable quantitative gains over unmodified PLA.

Stabilize the oxygen vacancies in 2D bipyramidal CoFe2O4 via altering local electronic structure by SnSe for boosted photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin: Interfacial engineering, mechanism insight and toxicological evaluation of byproducts

Investigating a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and improved photocatalysis system for ciprofloxacin (CIPRO) degradation presents a significant hurdle in environmental remediation. In this work, SnSe nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by hydrothermal approach leading to the successful formation of SnSe-CoFe2O4 nanocomposite (SCF NCs). It was achieved by decorating the surface of SnSe NPs with 2D bipyramidal oxygen-vacant (OV) CoFe2O4 NPs. This work aims to stabilize the OV in 2D bipyramidal CoFe2O4 by altering the local electronic structure through SnSe, enhancing the photocatalytic degradation of CIPRO. The NPs surface morphological features, high crystalline nature, and enhanced surface area properties are investigated using several characterization techniques. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) reveals the oxygen defect site in CoFe2O4 and the interfacial electric field between SnSe and CoFe2O4 NPs, significantly improving the catalytic activity of SCF NCs. The degradation of CIPRO at the optimized concentration (50 mg/L – SCF NCs, 10 mg/L CIPRO, pH - 3) under visible light reached around 91.3%. The SCF NCs demonstrate superior photodegradation performance of 2.59 and 1.86 times greater activity compared to their individual counter parts, SnSe and CoFe2O4, respectively. Furthermore, the system accommodates a broad range of degradation concentrations of CIPRO from 5 – 25 mg/L, indicating promising potential for practical applications. Additionally, the intermediate compounds formed during the photodegradation process were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and a possible degradation pathway was proposed. The toxicity levels of these intermediates were assessed in various aquatic organisms, including fish, daphnia, and green algae using the ecological structure activity relationship (ECOSAR) tools. This research presents a new perspective on the development of innovative materials for the removal of pollutants from water sources.

STRENGTHENING 21ST CENTURY SKILLS THROUGH AN INDEPENDENT CURRICULUM IN MATHEMATICS EDUCATION IN INDONESIA: CHALLENGES, POTENTIAL, AND STRATEGIES

Several research results show that 21st century skills such as critical, creative, collaborative and communicative thinking in Indonesian students are not as expected. Then the Ministry of Education and Culture launched the Independent Curriculum as an effort to improve the quality of education and adapt it to the needs of the times. The aim of this research is to identify the challenges, potential and strategies for implementing the Independent Curriculum in strengthening 21st century skills in mathematics education in Indonesia. This research is a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) which examines various literature sources. The research results show that the Merdeka Curriculum has great potential in supporting the development of 21st century skills. The Merdeka Curriculum provides flexibility in learning, encourages creativity and critical thinking through a student-centred approach, and strengthens collaboration and communication skills. However, implementation faces challenges such as lack of resources, teacher preparedness, resistance to change, and the need for more flexible evaluation. The Merdeka Curriculum requires an implementation strategy that includes teacher training, development of innovative materials, technology integration, and ongoing evaluation

Innovative Materials for High-Performance Tin-Based Perovskite Solar Cells: A Review.

With the rapid development of lead-based perovskite solar cells, tin-based perovskite solar cells are emerging as a non-toxic alternative. Material engineering has been an effective approach for the fabrication of efficient perovskite solar cells. This paper summarizes the novel materials used in tin-based perovskite solar cells over the past few years and analyzes the roles of various materials in tin-based devices. It is found that self-assembling materials and fullerene derivatives have shown remarkable performance in tin-based perovskite solar cells. Finally, this article discusses design strategies for new materials, providing constructive suggestions for the development of innovative materials in the future.

Neural Network Architectures and Magnetic Hysteresis: Overview and Comparisons

The development of innovative materials, based on the modern technologies and processes, is the key factor to improve the energetic sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of electrical equipment. In particular, the modeling of magnetic hysteresis is crucial for the design and construction of electrical and electronic devices. In recent years, additive manufacturing techniques are playing a decisive role in the project and production of magnetic elements and circuits for applications in various engineering fields. To this aim, the use of the deep learning paradigm, integrated with the most common models of the magnetic hysteresis process, has become increasingly present in recent years. The intent of this paper is to provide the features of a wide range of deep learning tools to be applied to magnetic hysteresis context and beyond. The possibilities of building neural networks in hybrid form are innumerable, so it is not plausible to illustrate them in a single paper, but in the present context, several neural networks used in the scientific literature, integrated with various hysteretic mathematical models, including the well-known Preisach model, are compared. It is shown that this hybrid approach not only improves the modeling of hysteresis by significantly reducing computational time and efforts, but also offers new perspectives for the analysis and prediction of the behavior of magnetic materials, with significant implications for the production of advanced devices.

Engineering the Atomic Interface of Refractory‐Metal‐Reinforced Copper Matrix Using Direct Ink 3D Printing

Herein, 3D printing involving metallic materials with substantially distinct melting temperatures and their immiscibility presents a formidable challenge. Nevertheless, it may be possible to overcome this challenge using the direct ink writing (DIW) method within such immiscible systems. In this article, a successful fabrication of Cu‐based composites utilizing the additive manufacturing process that is DIW technique, followed by a post‐sintering process, is presented. The secondary addition to the Cu–matrix includes tantalum (Ta), tungsten (W), and niobium (Nb). The rheological properties of the composite inks are also analyzed for the DIW technique. The underlying reasons behind the increased mechanical, wear, and thermal properties are assessed through experimental and molecular dynamics simulations. Microstructural analysis is conducted using optical and scanning electron microscopes. Mechanical, electrical, thermal, and wear properties are evaluated at ambient temperature, and comparisons are established with DIW‐processed pure Cu. Elemental mapping through energy‐dispersive spectroscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy confirm the distribution of W, Ta, and Nb particles within the composite. The 3D printing of immiscible alloy components opens new avenues for exploring novel material properties, mixtures, and composite materials, thus fostering the development of innovative materials.

PEPR DIADEM: Priority equipment and research program on the development of innovative materials using artificial intelligence

IntroductionThe quest to develop efficient, sustainable materials from non-critical, non-toxic resources is one of today's most formidable challenges in the current context of energy, transport, digital or healthcare transitions. In response, France launched the pioneering Priority Equipment and Research Program (PEPR) DIADEM in 2022. This innovative initiative, focused on DIscovery Acceleration for the Deployment of Emerging Materials (DIADEM), leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate the innovation chain from conception to realization, revolutionizing Materials Science sustainably. With a strategic emphasis on scientific synergy, PEPR DIADEM aims to expedite the discovery and development of novel materials essential for contemporary and future societal challenges. To achieve this, the program seeks to catalyze breakthroughs in areas ranging from energy efficiency to transportation, digitalization, and healthcare, covering a broad spectrum of materials from metallic alloys to functional nanostructures. Aligned with the Green Deal framework's ambitious targets, PEPR DIADEM addresses the urgent need for accelerated sustainable materials research. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies like rapid synthesis and characterization tools, automation, digital simulations, data management, AI, additive manufacturing, and thin film engineering, the program is set to significantly reshape the materials science landscape. As PEPR DIADEM embarks on its journey of innovation, it not only advances scientific knowledge but also holds the promise of addressing current global challenges and paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Investigating the Tribological Behavior of Bioinspired Surfaces in Agro-waste and Alumina Reinforced AA6063 Matrix Composites

The tribological behavior of three bioinspired (BI) agro-waste ashes—bean pod ash (BPA), cassava peel ash (CPA), and coconut husk ash (CHA)—integrated as reinforcements in an alumina-reinforced AA6063 matrix hybrid and monolithic composite was investigated. Studies utilizing agro-wastes for bioinspired surfaces are limited despite these wastes posing significant environmental challenges. Consequently, there has been a growing effort to valorize these residues for sustainable engineering applications. This study uses a two-step stir-casting methodology to engineer bioinspired materials with lightweight properties, exceptional hardness, and wear-resistant characteristics. Microstructural investigations revealed a homogeneous distribution of natural and synthetic reinforcements within the AA6063 matrix. Lightweight AMCs were successfully fabricated, exhibiting densities ranging from 2.57 to 2.74 g/cm³ and hardness values between 81.28 and 107.47 BHN. The average surface roughness of these composites varied from 2.4 to 3.4 μm, with ANOVA tests confirming a statistically significant difference (p < 0.005). Wear rates and the coefficient of friction were observed to range from 2.52 x 10-3 to 5.50 x 10-3 mm³/m and 0.2476 to 0.5403, respectively. Reinforcing the AA6063 alloy with bioinspired agro-wastes significantly enhanced the hardness and tribological performance of the as-cast BI-AMCs. Notably, the wear rates and friction coefficients were significantly reduced, with the monolithic BI-AMCs demonstrating superior results. Furthermore, adding bioinspired agro-wastes, such as BPA, CPA, and CHA, improved the surface texture of AA6063 more effectively than Al2O3, leading to slightly smoother surfaces. These nuanced bioinspired tribological behaviors present opportunities for tailored load-bearing and aesthetic applications derived from agro-waste-based composites. This study advances our understanding of bioinspired tribological phenomena and paves the way for the development of innovative materials with diverse applications and enhanced performance.

Innovative applications for civil structures of the Municipality of Finiq using topology optimization and additive manufacturing

The Municipality of Finiq is located in the South of Albania, inside the Vlora’s County and it is just 9 kilometers from the City of Saranda. The village of Finiq is particularly important because of the presence of The Archaeological Park at the top of the hill, which has received this status in 2005. Inside the Municipality there are a lot of attractive sites, such as The Blue Eye, the main lake of the Municipality, the Monastery of St. Nikolla, located in Mesopotam, etc., making the Municipality dominated by nature (e.g. long lots of fields, hills, rivers, and lakes) and monuments that represent the cultural heritage of the municipality. Within this context some villages arise, which are characterized mostly by infrastructures and civil structures in reinforced concrete, this is strictly due to the fact that these buildings were built in the last decades, instead of what can be observed outside the Municipality, e.g. Gjirokaster. The structures of the Municipality’s villages are mostly under construction, some are unfinished, abandoned, or damaged. Despite the trend of reinforced concrete building construction does not tend to decrease, the world of civil engineering is trying to find new solutions, that are also environmentally compatible and sustainable. This necessity is motivated by the fact that the industry of concrete is the most energy-intensive industry in the world. In particular, two main aspects that the research is investigating to address these issues are the use of new manufacturing technologies, e.g. 3D printing, combined also with new computational methodologies, such as topology optimization, and the development of innovative materials, e.g. architected meta-materials. The aim of this paper is to suggest innovative approaches and methodologies in the fields of structural mechanics for civil structures. The proposed approach wants to be applied not only to buildings under construction but also to the existing ones, which could be restored or completed in some specific structural and non-structural parts. In particular, we propose new topology optimization strategies that allow us to obtain an efficient material layout with maximized performance under predefined constraints. This design method is not only used to optimize the structural behavior of the structures but also for the optimization of specific features of the structures, e.g. thermal and acoustic optimization. The interest in this computa- tional method has grown due to the development of innovative techniques of manufacturing, i.e. additive manufacturing. In particular, there are different types of manufacturing that could be used for construction, which differ with respect to the material adopted, e.g. steel, concrete, or stone-like materials. The proposed method will be supported by several examples to under- stand the potentiality of the approach considering the role of additive manufacturing. Indeed, the development of new manufacturing methods has reduced the distance between the Theoretical and practical representation of the optimized layout. In conclusion, the proposed approach allows to obtain novel 3D printable structures characterized by a more efficient use of material, contributing to the realization of the concept of circular economy within the construction industry.

Carboxymethyl-Cellulose-Based Hydrogels Incorporated with Cellulose Nanocrystals Loaded with Vitamin D for Controlled Drug Delivery

Currently, the development of innovative materials for the treatment of various diseases is highly interesting and effective. Additionally, in recent years, environmental changes, including the search for a sustainable world, have become the main goal behind developing sustainable and suitable materials. In this context, this research produced innovative hydrogels that incorporate cellulose nanocrystals and nanofibres from underutilised fibres from a semiarid region of Brazil; the hydrogels were loaded with vitamin D to evaluate controlled drug release for the treatment of diverse diseases. Spectroscopic (FTIR, Raman, UV–VIS), X-ray diffraction, zeta potential and morphology (SEM, TEM) analyses were used to characterise these hydrogels. In addition, biocompatibility was assessed using a resazurin assay, and the in vitro kinetic accumulative release of vitamin D was measured. The results showed that nanocrystals and nanofibres changed the structure and crystallinity of the hydrogels. In addition, the chemical groups of the hydrogels were red- and blueshifted in the FTIR spectra when the nanocrystals, nanofibres and vitamin D were incorporated. Moreover, the nanocrystals and nanofibres were homogeneously spread into the hydrogel when vitamin D was loaded into the hydrogel matrix. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity was greater than 90%. Additionally, the in vitro accumulative kinetic data of vitamin D release were robust (close to 40 ng·mL−1), with equilibrium being reached in the first 30 min. These results confirm the potential of using these hydrogels as therapeutic biomaterials for diverse diseases and problems in humans, mainly in women, who are the most harmed by vitamin D deficiency.

Nanocellulose-based cobalt(II) coordinated malonic acid hybrid aerogels exhibiting reversible thermochromism and moisture sensor properties

The emergence of sustainable polymers and technologies has led to the development of innovative materials with minimal carbon emissions which find extensive applications in wearable electronics, biomedical sensors, and Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring systems. Nanocellulose which can be generated from abundant biomass materials has been widely recognized as a sustainable alternative for a diverse range of applications due to its remarkable properties and eco-friendly nature. By making use of the unique and easily accessible coordination transformation property of Co(II) ions and associated visible light absorption changes, we report a novel Co(II) cation-incorporated nanocellulose/malonic acid hybrid aerogel material that exhibits reversible thermochromism induced by thermal stimulus in the presence of atmospheric moisture. This effect is accentuated by the highly porous nature of the nanocellulose aerogel material we have developed. Besides the reversible thermochromic property which Co(II) ions exhibit, the metal ions act as very efficient reinforcing units contributing significantly to the structural stability and rigidity of the hierarchical aerogels by coordinative cross-linking through carboxylate moieties present in the TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TCNF) and additionally adding malonic acid to provide sufficient COO− for cross-linking. Thorough characterization and detailed investigation of as-prepared hybrid aerogels was conducted to evaluate their overall properties including reversible thermochromism and moisture sensor behaviour. Further, an Android mobile-based application was developed to demonstrate the real-world application of the aerogels for atmospheric humidity sensing.

Green Light‐Responsive D‐π‐A‐π‐D Quinoxaline Emitters for Luminescent Solar Concentrators: Potential Integration in Agrivoltaic Systems

AbstractThe integration of photovoltaic technologies within agricultural settings, also known as agrivoltaics, is attracting increasing attention as a sustainable approach to ensure both clean energy and food supply. The success of this strategy relies on the development of innovative materials that can selectively convert specific wavelengths into energy while being transparent to photosynthetically relevant light. To this aim, here we report our endeavors in the synthesis of a new class of D‐π‐A‐π‐D quinoxaline fluorophores and their use in the preparation of wavelength‐selective luminescent solar concentrators. The dyes were expeditiously prepared following a direct arylation protocol and extensively characterized by spectroscopic analyses and computational studies. They present high light harvesting ability in the green region of the visible spectrum and good emission properties, which were fully retained in the solid state when embedded into a poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) matrix. These materials were employed to construct LSC devices of promising efficiency, fostering further developments for the use of wavelength‐selective LSC in agrivoltaic systems.

Synthesis of All-Peptide-Based Rotaxane from a Proline-Containing Cyclic Peptide.

Rotaxane cross-linkers enhance the toughness of the resulting rotaxane cross-linked polymers through a stress dispersion effect, which is attributed to the mobility of the interlocked structure. To date, the compositional diversity of rotaxane cross-linkers has been limited, and the poor compatibility of these cross-linkers with peptides and proteins has made their use in such materials challenging. The synthesis of a rotaxane composed of peptides may result in a biodegradable cross-linker that is compatible with peptides and proteins, allowing the fortification of polypeptides and proteins and ultimately leading to the development of innovative materials that possess excellent mechanical properties and biodegradability. However, the chemical synthesis of all-peptide-based rotaxanes has remained elusive because of the absence of strong binding motifs in peptides, which prevents an axial peptide from penetrating a cyclic peptide. Here, we synthesized all-peptide-based rotaxanes using an active template method for proline-containing cyclic peptides. The results of molecular dynamics simulations suggested that cyclic peptides with an expansive inner cavity and carbonyl oxygens oriented toward the center are favorable for rotaxane synthesis. This rotaxane synthesis method is expected to accelerate the synthesis of peptides and proteins with mechanically interlocked structures, potentially leading to the development of peptide- and protein-based materials with unprecedented functionalities.

Facile synthesis of iminated lignin for enhanced free radical and lead ion scavenging capabilities

Kraft lignin (KL) holds significant potential as a renewable resource for the development of innovative materials that are currently not fully utilized. In this study, a novel iminated lignin (IL) was synthesized by grafting primary amine lignin (N−KL) onto salicylaldehyde. The effects of the dosage and reaction temperature on the nitrogen content of N-KL were evaluated. The maximum nitrogen content in N-KL reached to 3.32 %. Characterization by spectroscopy techniques (FT-IR, XPS, and NMR), elemental analysis, and gel permeation chromatography confirmed the imination of lignin. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of the lignin samples was investigated using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability. Moreover, the DPPH radical scavenging capacity of IL-6 (IC50 = 38.6 ± 3.9 μg/mL) was close to that of commercial antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (IC50 = 37.7 ± 4.5 μg/mL). Furthermore, the adsorption equilibrium results indicated that IL-6 had a maximum uptake of 115.6 mg/g Pb2+, which was 3.2-fold higher than that of KL. Kinetic adsorption experiments suggested that IL-6 adsorption follows a pseudo-second-order model. Therefore, the synthesized iminated lignin is a promising candidate for the development of environmentally friendly materials with applications as an antioxidant and lead-ion adsorbent.

Solvent-free thiol-Ene/-Yne click reactions for the synthesis of alkoxysilyl telechelic poly(propylene oxide)s

Thiol-ene/−yne click reactions can be a versatile toolbox for the design and modification of polymers, enhancing functionality and providing opportunities for the development of innovative materials and applications. Here, we report a simple strategy to synthesize alkoxysilyl telechelic poly(propylene oxide)s (PPO)s: a) through a post-polymerization functionalization via Williamson reactions, commercial PPO is modified at the chain-end secondary alcohols with allyl or propargyl units, achieving >99% conversion; b) subsequent click reactions of (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane (MPTMS), triggered by thermal and photochemical radical initiators, result in the incorporation of alkoxysilane groups on the polyether chain. Both thermal and photochemical thiol-ene/−yne click pathways are robust methodologies for preparing alkoxysilyl-modified PPOs in excellent yields (> 99%). Optimal conditions were identified as solvent-free, at 65 °C with 2,2′-azobis(2-methylpropionitrile) (AIBN) as the radical source. Detailed NMR analyses confirm the quantitative transformation of vinyl/propargyl functionalities in the resulting alkoxysilyl telechelic PPOs. Preliminary studies on the stability of alkoxysilyl end-groups are reported using 29Si NMR spectroscopy.

TiO2/AgBr nanocomposite as a novel hydrophilic and photocatalytic modifier in the fabrication of polyethersulfone membrane for wastewater treatment

Enhancing the performance of filtration membranes to improve their antifouling, permeability, and stability is a crucial objective. This can be acquired through the development of innovative materials and methods. With this in mind, the exertion of novel materials is considered a promising approach for modifying polymeric membranes. This study focuses on the potential of incorporating TiO2/AgBr photocatalytic nanocomposites to improve the hydrophilicity, antifouling, and permeability of polyethersulfone (PES) membranes. Following the synthesis of TiO2/AgBr, the study examines its impact on the performance of PES membranes by introducing various concentrations of TiO2/AgBr nanocomposite. Notably, the water contact angle significantly decreases from 68.5° to 44.2°, indicating an improvement in hydrophilicity. This enhanced overall porosity leads to almost a twofold increase in pure water permeability, with the bare membrane registering 78.3 L/m2h.bar and the membrane containing 0.2 wt% TiO2/AgBr achieving 152.4 L/m2h.bar. Due to the photocatalytic activity of TiO2/AgBr, the modified membranes demonstrate promoted antifouling performance, when UV irradiation is used in the washing step of the fouled membranes, as evidenced by the increased flux recovery ratio values, rising from 48 to 60.6 %. The rejection of two different dyes was assessed and the results of 83.9 % and 95.2 % rejection were obtained for Reactive Black 5 (RB5) and Lanasol Red 6G, respectively. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of TiO2/AgBr was also indicated by confocal microscopy analysis. Thus, embedding TiO2/AgBr not only enhances antifouling properties but also improves the membranes’ ability to reject dyes effectively.

Comprehensive investigation of the electronic properties of zinc and cobalt doped hydroxyapatite

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the electronic properties of Hydroxyapatite (HAp) doped with Zinc (Zn) and Cobalt (Co). Five distinct compositions, denoted as 0.15Zn-HAp, 0.15Co-0.15Zn-HAp, 0.30Co-0.15Zn-HAp, 0.45Co-0.15Zn-HAp, and 0.6Co-0.15Zn-HAp (at%,) have been systematically studied employing Density of States (DOS) and band structure calculations. The computed band gap values for these compositions were determined to be 4.6663, 4.6888, 4.7049, 4.7159, and 4.7082 eV, respectively. These results illuminate the profound influence of Zn and Co doping on the electronic structure of Hydroxyapatite. These findings hold significant implications for the potential applications of these materials in diverse technological and biomedical domains. The systematic approach and precise electronic property characterizations presented in this study provide a robust foundation for further advancements in the realm of advanced materials, with particular relevance to the development of innovative materials for use in cutting-edge technologies and medical applications.

ANALYSIS OF THE PROPERTIES OF COATINGS USED TO PROTECT THE PUMP AND COMPRESSOR PIPE

In this article considers basic properties of protective coatings applied to the inner wall of tubing in order to extend pump and compressor pipe (PCP) service life PCP and minimize operational risks. The main complicating factors, such as scale deposits, corrosion aggressiveness, mechanical impurities, etc., arising during PCP operation are specified, groups of test media and test parameters for grading different types of coatings according to their resistance to complicating factors are singled out. Influence of various aggressive media on PCP, such as distilled water, petroleum product simulator, etc., coatings is described, and test media and test parameters for protective coatings are reviewed. The basic methods for determining the physical and mechanical characteristics, such as determining adhesion, thickness and dielectric continuity, of coatings are given, and brief informative and descriptive references for each of them are given. Recommendations are given for testing protective coatings on the inner surface of PCP for compliance with technical requirements, which ultimately allows selecting materials most resistant to aggressive field environments. The relevance of studying the influence of aggressive media on the protective coatings of the inner wall of tubing is due to the need to increase the level of reliability and durability of technical systems in operating conditions. The work is of interest to specialists in the field of materials science, technical expertise and tubing design, as well as researchers involved in the development of new materials and methods for surface protection in operating conditions. The results obtained will optimize the choice of protective coatings for specific operating conditions, which helps to increase the service life of tubing and reduce maintenance costs. This is of direct importance for reducing the risks of accidents and the environmental consequences of oil and gas production processes. In addition, the development of innovative materials and methods for protecting the surfaces of the inner wall of the tubing contributes to improving the efficiency of the operation of oil and gas wells, as well as helps to reduce equipment downtime.

Flax/ramie hybrid fibers enhanced with SiC nanoparticles

To create a hybrid material of ramie and flax fibers with silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticles, it should have better thermal and mechanical properties. Across industries, sustainable materials are growing in demand for high performance, which is the impetus behind this study. A sustainable future is more about contributing to sustainable alternatives like ramie and flax fibers made from traditional synthetic materials. A key area focused on increasing strength, temperature resistance, and stiffness will be the addition of SiC nanoparticles to hybrid fibers. The research process carefully mixes the ramie and flax fibers with SiC nanoparticles to achieve optimal flexibility, thermal stability, and balance of strength. Hybrid material is examined using characterization techniques such as mechanical testing and scanning electron microscopy to determine the functioning of the microstructure. The possibility of composite material recycling, the impact of hybrid fibers, and accounting for natural fibers for sustainability are considered possible in this research. It should be innovative material development that has significant implications from the findings that meet environmental sustainability goals and satisfy performance requirements.

ESTABLISHING THE TYPE OF TEXTURE FORMING PARTICLES ON HYDROPHOBIC PROPERTIES OF COATINGS

In this study, the primary objective is to investigate the impact of various particles on the hydrophobic characteristics of a coating. The experimental approach involves employing a conventional chemical precipitation method to fabricate ZnO particles. Subsequently, composite materials of SiO2-ZnO are synthesized based on these ZnO particles. The coating is formulated using styrene-butyl methacrylate as the principal raw material. Different particles, namely TiO2, SiO2, ZnO, and ZnO-SiO2, are individually added to the coating, allowing for the exploration of the influence of distinct mass ratios on the resulting hydrophobic angle. The findings of this investigation reveal a notable trend in the contact angles of the four materials as the mass ratio varies. Initially, the contact angles experience an increase, followed by a subsequent decrease. Remarkably, when the mass ratio of ZnO-SiO2 is set at 60%, the contact angle achieves an impressive 152.5°, meeting the criteria for superhydrophobicity. In comparison to a pure acrylate polymer coating, the incorporation of particles induces agglomeration on the coating's surface. This agglomeration can be conceptualized as clustered particles, contributing to heightened surface roughness in the coating and consequently enhancing its hydrophobic properties. The observed variations in contact angles underscore the nuanced interplay between mass ratios and hydrophobicity, shedding light on the optimization possibilities for achieving superhydrophobic coatings. The study suggests that manipulating the composition of particles within the coating formulation can be a viable strategy for tailoring hydrophobic properties. Furthermore, the surface modifications induced by particle incorporation provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms governing the hydrophobic behavior. This research contributes to the broader understanding of materials science and surface engineering, offering potential applications in areas where superhydrophobic coatings are desirable, such as anti-fouling surfaces, self-cleaning materials, and advanced protective coatings. The exploration of such multifaceted relationships between particle composition and hydrophobicity holds promise for the development of innovative materials with tailored surface properties.