Innovative Fabrication Research Articles

In vivo optogenetics using a Utah Optrode Array with enhanced light output and spatial selectivity

Objective.Optogenetics allows the manipulation of neural circuitsin vivowith high spatial and temporal precision. However, combining this precision with control over a significant portion of the brain is technologically challenging (especially in larger animal models).Approach.Here, we have developed, optimised, and testedin vivo, the Utah Optrode Array (UOA), an electrically addressable array of optical needles and interstitial sites illuminated by 181μLEDs and used to optogenetically stimulate the brain. The device is specifically designed for non-human primate studies.Main results.Thinning the combinedμLED and needle backplane of the device from 300μm to 230μm improved the efficiency of light delivery to tissue by 80%, allowing lowerμLED drive currents, which improved power management and thermal performance. The spatial selectivity of each site was also improved by integrating an optical interposer to reduce stray light emission. These improvements were achieved using an innovative fabrication method to create an anodically bonded glass/silicon substrate with through-silicon vias etched, forming an optical interposer. Optical modelling was used to demonstrate that the tip structure of the device had a major influence on the illumination pattern. The thermal performance was evaluated through a combination of modelling and experiment, in order to ensure that cortical tissue temperatures did not rise by more than 1 °C. The device was testedin vivoin the visual cortex of macaque expressing ChR2-tdTomato in cortical neurons.Significance.It was shown that the UOA produced the strongest optogenetic response in the region surrounding the needle tips, and that the extent of the optogenetic response matched the predicted illumination profile based on optical modelling-demonstrating the improved spatial selectivity resulting from the optical interposer approach. Furthermore, different needle illumination sites generated different patterns of low-frequency potential activity.

Innovative textile and film materials in architecture: analysis and prospects

Innovative textile and film materials in architecture: analysis and prospects

MAX phase-derived tin nano-/micro-wires with controlled diameter through seeded growth

Nano-scaled one-dimensional (1D) metallic materials show tremendous potential in various important technological applications, such as flexible transparent electrodes and catalysis. However, achieving scalable preparation of nanoscale 1D metallic materials remains a significant challenge for most metallic compositions. The phenomenon of A-site whisker growth from MAX phases provides an opportunity for innovative 1D metal fabrication techniques. However, the whisker diameters derived from MAX phases are often too large to satisfy the requirements of advanced technologies. Herein, we introduce Sn nanocrystals with different particle sizes as the initial seeds to tune the diameter of Sn whiskers, fed by the atomized tin resulted from the mechanochemical decomposition of Ti2SnC. It was found that incorporating nano-scaled (50–300 nm) and micro-scaled (0.5–1 μm) Sn crystal seeds resulted in the growth of whiskers with diameters matching the respective seed sizes, and the reduced melting point phenomenon of the nano-sized Sn wires conformed to the size-dependent behavior of metal nanowires. The diverse A-site elements within MAX phases implied that this method could be a generic strategy for synthesizing various nanoscale 1D metallic materials with controllable diameters.

Evolution of sustainable wearables: integrating cutting-edge techniques for future textile innovation

Purpose Sustainable textiles have become imperative in mitigating the adverse environmental and social impacts of the textile industry. This paper aims to synthesize recent advancements and key considerations in sustainable textile development, emphasizing their role in promoting environmental stewardship, social responsibility and economic viability. Design/methodology/approach The literature search has been conducted by identifying and articulating the previous studies related to integrating the latest cutting-edge techniques with functional textiles. Findings Future-generation textiles (FGTs), which incorporate state-of-the-art developments in materials, technologies and functionalities, herald a paradigm-shifting period in the textile industry. FGTs mark a new era in this dynamic world by igniting conversations about their mechanisms, problems, progress to date and potential future applications. This investigation covers a wide range of topics, including wearable electronics, nanotechnology, 3D printing, recycling, machine learning and energy harvesting. Key components include sustainability, functionality, intelligent integration, advanced manufacturing processes and multifunctionality. The paper highlights the potential benefits of smart textiles, wearable technology, improved performance and sustainability through advances in customization and security. Originality/value It is an original review work. This paper will be helpful for manufacturers and researchers in the smart wearable textile sector in developing innovative techniques for multifunctional garments by integrating cutting-edge technology.

Innovative fabrication of ultrasensitive and durable graphene fiber aerogel for flexible pressure sensors

Elastic graphene aerogels have promising applications in flexible pressure sensors. However, it is still difficult to prepare graphene aerogels with high sensitivity and reliable mechanical stability due to the challenge in structural regulation. This study proposes an innovative method for preparing graphene aerogel by combining wet-electrospinning and freeze-drying. The resultant is a cotton-like 3D graphene fiber aerogel (GFA) with soft exterior but firm essence. The aerogel assembled of randomly stacked 1D graphene fiber, exhibiting softness and low compressive strength, thus ensuring the highly sensitive. Furthermore, this graphene fiber possessing strong mechanical properties after high-temperature thermal annealing, guarantees the fatigue resistance and elasticity of the aerogel. Therefore, the assembled GFA-based pressure sensor is ultrasensitive with a high sensitivity of 18.55 kPa−1 and a low detection limit of 2 Pa. Additionally, it has a rapid response time of 2 ms and maintains good stability even after 3000 cycles. The exceptional properties of GFA suggest its immense potential for application in human health monitoring and motion detection. In addition, the wet-electrospinning preparation of GFA provides a new strategy for the fabrication of graphene aerogels.

Innovative Design and Fabrication of a Solar-Powered Boat Prototype Using 3D Printing Technology: Improving Sustainable Marine Transportation

Innovative Design and Fabrication of a Solar-Powered Boat Prototype Using 3D Printing Technology: Improving Sustainable Marine Transportation

A novel methodology to fabricate freestanding (CNFs-PVA)-MSP sensors in wireless humidity sensing applications

A novel methodology to fabricate freestanding (CNFs-PVA)-MSP sensors in wireless humidity sensing applications has been developed. This innovative fabrication methodology integrates a spin-coating technique with a unique magnetic sandwich fixture technology. Based on the developed sensor’s platform, the humidity sensing performance of the wireless sensors was studied at room temperature. The sensor’s signal, represented by the resonant frequency (RF), exhibits a linear correlation with relative humidity (RH). Models have been uncovered to describe the sensing behavior of the humidity response. Additionally, the RF alteration demonstrates a linear dependence on the thickness of the CNFs-PVA composite layer. This study systematically explores and discusses the sensitivity, response time, and cyclic humidity sensing stability of the MSP-based sensors. Remarkably, the MSP-based sensors exhibit good stability in humidity sensing throughout a seven-day cyclic test. In summary, this novel fabrication methodology not only enables the fabrication of diverse wireless organic material-MSP-based sensors with appealing overall wireless humidity sensing performance but also provides a novel methodology for crafting miniaturized organic material-ferromagnetic material double-layer devices, offering advantages such as simple handling, cost-effectiveness, and high fabrication efficiency.

Bond behaviour of prestressed basalt textile reinforced concrete

Innovative Textile Reinforced Concrete (TRC) composites, although holding a significant potential, usually have poor performance under serviceability conditions. Addressing this limitation requires applying innovative techniques, such as prestressing, to utilise its potential fully. However, successful design and application of prestressing require a comprehensive understanding of the prestressing effect across scales, including the textile-to-matrix bond behaviour. To address this need, this study investigated the influence of key parameters such as prestressing level, prestressing release time and matrix age on the bond behaviour of basalt textile reinforcement. Test results show a significant influence of prestressing level and release time on textile-matrix bond behaviour. A 1-day prestressing release time resulted in a 25 % increased stiffness with only a 5 % peak load reduction followed by a further 13.7 % increase in the pull-out energy when the prestressing level was 13 %. At 35 % prestress level, 1-day released samples showed a significant reduction of 48.4 % in the peak load and 76 % reduction in the debonding energy. The positive effect of prestressing on the bond behaviour became more evident at prolonged release durations. The 7-day release samples showed a 17.4 % increase in the peak load at both prestress levels. Meanwhile, at 35 % prestress level, 34 % further increase in the debonding energy was observed. The obtained data are then utilised for providing indications on the effect of prestressing on saturated crack spacing of TRC components.

Polymer-Supported Graphene Sheet as a Vertically Conductive Anode of Lithium-Ion Battery.

The increasing demand for electric vehicles necessitates the development of cost-effective, mass-producible, long-lasting, and highly conductive batteries. Making this kind of battery is exceedingly tricky. This study introduces an innovative fabrication technique utilizing a laser-induced graphene (LIG) approach on commercial Kapton film to create hexagonal pores. These pores form vertical conduction paths for electron and ion transportation during lithiation and delithiation, significantly enhancing conductivity. The nongraphitized portion of the Kapton film makes it a binder-less, free-standing electrode, providing mechanical stability. Various analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) are utilized to confirm the transformation of a 3D porous graphene sheet from a commercial Kapton film. Cross-sectional SEM images verify the vertical connections. The specific capacity of 581 mAh g-1 is maintained until the end, with 99% coulombic efficiency at 0.1C. This simple manufacturing method paves the pathway for future LIG-based, cost-effective, lightweight, mass-producible, long-lasting, vertically conductive electrodes for lithium-ion batteries.

Investigation of structural, optical, surface, electrochemical and corrosion properties of ZnO and AZO nanorod arrays for dye absorption applications

In dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC), photoanodes have special importance in the processes of dye support, photon absorption and electron transport. ZnO nanorod arrays are promising photoanode materials, but their properties need to be improved by innovative fabrication approaches to improve the performance of ZnO-based DSSCs. In this study, pure and Al-doped ZnO (AZO) nanorod arrays were grown by hydrothermal method onto ZnO seed layers produced by sol-gel spin coating. As far as we know, for the first time in the literature, HMTA-HMDA ligand mixture was used instead of HMTA in the preparation of hydrothermal precursor solutions. To investigate the potential use of ZnO and AZO nanostructured films as photoanodes in DSSCs; their surface, structural and optical properties were examined. Additionally, charge transfer kinetics, corrosion resistance and dye loading capacities were determined by advanced analyzes such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization and adsorption-desorption methods. The supporting HMDA ligand and Al impurity used in the preparation of hydrothermal precursor solutions led potential usages as photoanode of ZnO nanorod arrays to increase by improving their structural, optical, surface, and electrochemical properties, corrosion resistance and dye loading capacities.

An Insight into Cubosomal Drug Delivery Approaches: An Explicative Review.

Cubosomes, a novel drug delivery system, have gained significant attention in recent years due to their unique self-assembled structures and enhanced drug encapsulation capabilities. They are administered by oral, ophthalmic, transdermal, and chemotherapeutic routes, to name a few. Due to their many potential benefits-which include high drug dispersal due to the cubic structure, a large surface area, a relatively simple manufacturing process, biodegradability, the capacity to encapsulate hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and amphiphilic compounds, targeted and controlled release of bioactive agents, and the biodegradability of lipids-cubosomes show enormous promise in drug nanoformulations for cancer therapeutics. The most common preparation method involves emulsifying a monoglyceride with a polymer, homogenizing, and then sonicating the mixture. Two distinct approaches to preparing are top-down and bottom-up. This evaluation will examine the materials, methods of preparation, cubosome-related drug encapsulating techniques, drug loading, release mechanism, and their uses. The following databases were used for literature searches: PubMed, Frontiers, Science Direct, Springer, Wiley, and MDPI. For the purpose of finding pertinent articles and contents (2015-2024), the keywords "cubosome; drug delivery systems, nano-carrier, theranostic, drug release mechanism" and others of a similar nature were utilized. This review will conduct a comprehensive analysis of the cubosome-related composition, production methods, drug encapsulating strategies, drug release mechanisms, and applications. Moreover, the difficulties encountered in fine-tuning different parameters to improve loading capabilities and prospects are also discussed. Innovation in pharmaceutical research and development can be stimulated by the knowledge gathered about cubosomal drug delivery methods. Through the clarification of the mechanisms involved in drug release from cubosomes and the investigation of innovative fabrication procedures, scientists can enhance the cubosomal formulation design for targeted therapeutic uses. </p>.

Visual detection and tracking of toxic mercury in biological cells using biocompatible mesoporous silica nanospheres

A novel, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and straightforward approach is urgently required to assess the distribution, localization, and concentration of toxins in biological cells, as their accumulation poses significant health risks. Herein, we report innovative fabrication of biocompatible silica nanospheres for real-time tracking, visualization, quantification, and clinical diagnosis of Hg(II) poisoning in cells, employing ultra-sensitive and ultra-selective assays. The creation of a biocompatible yolk-like nanosphere with a highly accessible hollow interior cavity resulted in a distinctive porous structure, providing ultra-precise recognition of Hg(II) at trace levels. The low limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) for fluorometric monitoring of Hg(II) ions were determined as 0.11 ppb and 0.33 ppb respectively. Simple, portable, and batch analyses were employed for the rapid and continuous visualization, quantification, and inhibition of ultra-trace Hg(II) concentrations (up to ppb) in HeLa cells, aiming to assess the suitability of the innovative nano- tracker hybrid. The results showed exceptional biocompatibility of the nano-tracker hybrid. The straightforward penetration and binding pathways of the nanospheres through the cell membrane were examined. Moreover, outstanding emission enhancement was observed in the intracellular area under biological conditions. The adorned nanotrackers could serve as valuable tools for visualizing and monitoring Hg(II) poisoning during in vitro assays for clinical diagnosis in HeLa cells.

An innovative coil fabrication and assembly process for the VNS tokamak based on in-situ winding

The paper introduces a new approach to assemble tokamak machines applied to the plasma-based Volumetric Neutron Source (VNS) device, addressing challenges related to machine topology. The VNS, designed as a compact tokamak, serves as a qualification testbed for in-vessel fusion components, especially the breeding blanket. The project aims to bridge the technology gap between ITER and DEMO. The machine size has been minimized to maximize the Neutron Wall Load (NWL). This results in a small, dense plasma and, due to the massive neutron shielding structure, a comparably large distance between the plasma and the equilibrium magnets, challenging the primary stabilization and shaping of the plasma. To overcome this, a magnet system architecture is proposed for VNS in which the poloidal field (PF) coil system is placed inside the TF coils. An assembly procedure is proposed, where the superconducting PF coils are first completed and positioned around the vacuum vessel, followed by the in-situ winding and assembly of the toroidal field coil system. The main magnetic cage components of the machine are based on High-Temperature Superconductors (HTS) to avoid the need for heat treatment. The paper presents the advantages of the magnet system architecture, and the preliminary feasibility study of the machine assembly process.

Role of covalent crosslinking and 2D nanomaterials in the fabrication of advanced organic solvent nanofiltration membranes: A review of fabrication strategies, recent advances, and challenges

Organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) membranes have gained significant attention owing to their pivotal role in various industrial applications, including pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and manufacturing. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in OSN membrane technology, focusing on membrane materials, fabrication techniques, and strategies for tuning the chemistry, structure, and performance of OSN membranes. Initially, the fundamental principles underlying OSN are described, highlighting the critical parameters influencing membrane selectivity, permeability, and stability in organic solvents. It also focuses on the importance of covalent crosslinking in the design and fabrication of dense polyamide membranes. Subsequently, the design and synthesis of novel membrane materials are discussed, including polymeric, inorganic, and hybrid membranes. The use of 2D nanomaterials is summarized, with an emphasis on their structural characteristics and tailored properties for solvent separation applications. We further explored the innovative fabrication strategies, such as interfacial polymerization, modification of ultrafiltration supports, and tuning of the active layer chemistry by incorporating the membrane structure with porous nanofillers. This review also discusses the inhomogeneity issues between inorganic nanofillers and organic matrices of membranes as well as the strategies to overcome these limitations through proper functionalization. Finally, we identified emerging trends and prospects in OSN membrane research, encompassing sustainability, scalability, and integration with other membrane processes, to address existing challenges and discover new opportunities for efficient solvent separation in diverse industrial sectors.

Application of edible nanocomposites from chitosan/fenugreek seed mucilage/selenium nanoparticles for protecting lemon from green mold

Green (Penicillium digitatum) mold can severely endanger the citrus fruits production and quality. Targeting the protection of lemon fruits from green mold infestations with nanobiotechnology approach, the fenugreek seed mucilage (FM) was extracted and exploited for biosynthesis of selenium (SeNPs) nanoparticles; their nanocomposites (NCs) with chitosan (CT) was constructed and employed as antifungal materials and edible coating (ECs) to protect lemon fruits against green mold. The nanoparticles formation and conjugations were verified by infrared (FTIR) analysis and electron microscopy. The FM-synthesized SeNPs had particles average of 8.35 nm, were the NCs of them with CT had size mean of 49.33 nm and charged with +22.8 mV. The CT/FM/SeNPs composite exhibited superior antifungal actions toward P. digitatum isolates, up to 32.2 mm inhibition diameter and 12.5 mg/mL inhibitory concentration, which exceeded the actions of imazilil. The microscopic screening of exposed P. digitatum to NCs clarified their mycelial destructive action within 30 h. The coating of infected lemons with fabricated NCs led to complete elimination of green mold development after 10 days of coating, without any infestation remarks. The innovative fabrication of NCs from CT/FM/SeNPs is strongly suggested to protect citrus crops from green mold and preserve fruits quality.

Multifunctional biopolymer poly (lactic acid)-based triboelectric nanogenerator via controlled construction of secondary electron path

Seeking sustainable energy solutions for bioelectronic devices, high-performance, multifunctional biopolymer-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are proving to be essential for biomedical applications. This study presents an innovative fabrication method for establishing secondary electron transport paths, resulting in biopolymer-based nanocomposites (poly (lactic acid) (PLA)/carbon nanotube (CNT)@expanded graphite (EG)) with inherent electron pathways. By integrating conductive biopolymer nanocomposites with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films, we developed a contact-separation mode TENG (CS-TENG) that demonstrates outstanding energy-harvesting efficiency. The CS-TENG displays an impressive charge density of 280 μC/m2, accompanied by an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 100.5 V and short circuit current density (Isc) values of 47.25 mA/m2. Moreover, the essential conductive network guarantees the CS-TENG’s stability across different humidity levels and serves as a moisture barrier. In addition to energy harvesting, the fabricated biopolymer nanocomposite films exhibit effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and Joule heating capabilities, rendering the CS-TENG suitable for use in diverse application scenarios. Our results emphasize the crucial role of conductive network architecture in creating high-performance biopolymer PLA-based TENGs. The innovative fabrication method and our CS-TENG's capabilities reveal the significant potential of biopolymer-based composites to transform energy harvesting, thermal management, and EMI shielding in bioelectronics.

Synergising hybrid short fibres and composite cements for sustainable and efficient textile-reinforced concrete composites

Under the raising concerns over the environmental impacts of construction materials, including reinforced concrete, there has been a recent growing focus on the application of innovative Textile Reinforced Concrete (TRC) composites to the repair of existing deteriorated structures or to developing slender structural components. Aiming to further increase the attractiveness of TRCs, we focus on the development of low-carbon, cost-effective and ductile TRCs from Alkali Resistant (AR)-Glass textiles and composite cements with a focus on the reduction of the clinker content and incorporation of short fibres into the TRC matrix. Quaternary blends of cement and Supplementary Cementitious Materials combined with single and hybrid short fibres of alkali-resistant glass, Polyvinyl alcohol, and polypropylene, are considered for this purpose. The role of these in controlling the post-cracking response, load carrying capacity and mechanical behaviour of TRCs is investigated. These followed by an environmental and cost analysis show that the developed TRCs exhibit significant improvement in ductility and nonlinear response, and reduction in cost and embodied carbon compared to those available in the literature. It is also shown that the hybridisation of short fibres allows manipulating the performance, carbon footprint, and cost of hybrid TRCs.

Metastable core-shell precipitation strengthened high-entropy alloys fabricated by direct energy deposition with multi-stage terrace-like slip wave toughening

This study investigates the development of novel high-entropy alloys (HEAs) with enhanced mechanical properties through an innovative fabrication method of direct energy deposition (DED). The focus is on the creation of metastable core-shell precipitation-strengthened HEAs that exhibit a unique multi-stage terrace-like slip wave toughening mechanism, a novel approach to improving both strength and ductility simultaneously. Mechanical testing reveals that the developed HEAs exhibit superior mechanical properties, including high yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and exceptional ductility. The improvement in these properties is attributed to the multi-stage terrace-like slip wave toughening mechanism activated by the unique microstructural features. This toughening mechanism involves the sequential activation of slip systems, facilitated by the stress concentration around the core-shell precipitates and the subsequent propagation of slip waves across the material. The terrace-like pattern of these slip waves enhances the material's ability to deform plastically, providing a significant toughening effect while maintaining high strength levels. Furthermore, the study delves into the fundamental interactions between the microstructural elements and the deformation mechanisms. It elucidates how the core-shell precipitates and the matrix cooperate to distribute stress uniformly, delay the onset of necking, and prevent premature failure. This synergistic interaction between the microstructural features and the slip wave toughening mechanism is central to the remarkable balance of strength and ductility achieved in the HEAs. The introduction of a multi-stage terrace-like slip wave toughening mechanism offers a new pathway to designing HEAs with an exceptional amalgamation of strength and ductility.

Sustainability of Blended Textile. Life Cycle Analysis

Textile fibers are derived from natural and artificial fibers and, in some cases, are blended together to ensure optimum properties. Textiles made from cotton and polyester blends currently hold a significant market share as they are relatively inexpensive, offer excellent performance, and have complementary properties. This textile blend is commonly used in everyday apparel. However, the production and consumption of textiles contribute significantly to environmental degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, but the scale of the impact is uncertain and under debate. This is also the case in studies of cotton and polyester blends, as a detailed life cycle inventory of the production of this material is absent in the scientific literature, thus affecting its environmental impact assessment. Therefore, the aim of this study is to fill the knowledge gap by assessing the environmental impacts of cotton and polyester blend production and to establish a comprehensive life cycle inventory for the material. The findings of the study can contribute to a more comprehensive evaluation of the life cycle of cotton and polyester blend textile products and work as a baseline scenario for the environmental impact assessment of various innovative textile recycling technologies. This is especially important as recycling of cotton and polyester blends is currently a major challenge. Additionally, these results can be of practical significance to assist businesses and policy makers in making environmentally informed choices.

Recent Advances in Positive Photoresists: Mechanisms and Fabrication.

Photoresists are fundamental materials in photolithography and are crucial for precise patterning in microelectronic devices, MEMS, and nanostructures. This paper provides an in-depth review of recent advancements in positive photoresist research and development, focusing on discussion regarding the underlying mechanisms governing their behavior, exploring innovative fabrication techniques, and highlighting the advantages of the photoresist classes discussed. The paper begins by discussing the need for the development of new photoresist technologies, highlighting issues associated with adopting extreme ultraviolet photolithography and addressing these challenges through the development of advanced positive-tone resist materials with improved patterning features, resolution, and sensitivity. Subsequently, it discusses the working mechanisms and synthesis methods of different types and subtypes of photoresists, starting from non-chemically amplified, organic, and inorganic-organic hybrid photoresists and progressing to dry film resists, with an emphasis on the upsides of each. The paper concludes by discussing how future research in the field of lithography-prioritizing concerns related to environmental impacts, improved photoresist material and properties, and utilization of advanced quantum technology-can assist with revolutionizing lithography techniques.