Low Density Research Articles

Corrosion behavior of TiZrNbC coatings on TA1 substrates in simulated PEM water electrolysis

A TiZrNbC coating was deposited on the TA1 substrate by magnetron sputtering technology, and the corrosion behaviors of the TiZrNbC coating in a simulated proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) environment under fluctuating potentials were investigated. The microstructures and elemental distributions of the coating were characterized by SEM and EDS. The PEMWE environment was simulated using a dilute H2SO4 solution with pH = 3 and a 5 ppm of fluoride (F-) ions addition, and polarization tests were conducted under the potentials with constant, square and triangular waveforms. The corrosion resistances of the TiZrNbC-coated and bare TA1 substrates were characterized by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and interfacial contact resistance tests. Compared to the bare TA1 substrates, the TiZrNbC-coated TA1 substrates exhibited lower corrosion current densities, higher polarization resistances and lower contact resistances, demonstrating a superior corrosion resistance.

Physical, functional and bioactive properties of microencapsulated powders from banana pseudostem and inflorescence extracts

Application of agricultural by-products in the functional food and beverage industry is currently gaining prominence. Banana (Musa spp) is a popular tropical fruit with global production of 124.97 million tonnes. The banana production industry contributes to large amount of solid waste/ banana by-products, such as, pseudostem and inflorescence. Palayankodan (Musa × paradisiaca Mysore AAB group), Nendran (Musa × paradisiaca AAB group) and Njalipoovan (Musa × paradisiaca AB group) are three popular and common cultivars in Kerala, a state in South India. The present study was aimed to extract the potential bioactive compounds from the pseudostem and inflorescence of the above-mentioned cultivars and to standardise the process of microencapsulation using spray drying. Ultrasonication assisted extraction using ethanol as solvent was carried out. The extract and wall material parameters were standardised for microencapsulation. The encapsulated powders were analysed for encapsulation yield, retention efficiency, physical properties, phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential and anti-diabetic activity. The encapsulation yields and retention efficiencies of the encapsulated powders were found to be approximately 75 and 70.51%, respectively. Results revealed that the powders exhibited lower bulk density, good solubility and reconstitutability. Scanning electron microscopy was also conducted to reveal the particle morphology. All the powders exhibited smooth, spherical shape, with no pores. The phenolic and flavonoid contents of the encapsulated pseudostem and inflorescence extract powders ranged from 2.75 to 3.13 mg GAE/ g of powder and 34.83 to 46.67 mg QE/g of powder, respectively. The present study also reported the in vitro bioactive properties, in terms of antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities of the encapsulated powders. The HPLC analysis of the microencapsulated powders revealed the presence of gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, trans cinnamic acid, trans ferulic acid, epicatechin and syringic acid. It is clear from the study that the encapsulated powders from banana by-products have a great potential to be utilised by the functional food industry.Graphical

8699 ​​Efficacy of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Analogs In Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

Abstract Disclosure: F.A. Kelly: None. A.D. Lôbo: None. I.P. da Silva: None. J.C. Cardoso: None. M.S. Barros: None. F.D. Pessôa: None. M.G. Leite: None. R.Y. Ura Sudo: None. A.M. De Almeida: None. F.A. Moraes: None. V. Morbach: None. M.C. Souza: None. P.G. Lima: None. M.P. Lima: None. I.B. Andrade: None. M.B. Jardine: None. L.M. Lopes: None. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects one in ten women of reproductive age, painting a complex picture of metabolic dysfunction. Its hallmark triad includes irregular menstrual cycles, androgen excess, and polycystic ovaries. Beyond infertility concerns, PCOS carries a heavy burden of metabolic imbalances, often characterized by insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and chronic low-grade inflammation. These intertwined factors place women with PCOS at increased risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, posing a significant long-term health challenge. Current first-line treatments like metformin focus mainly on managing insulin resistance and regulating menstrual cycles. However, unmet needs remain in addressing the broader metabolic derangements and preventing associated health complications. In light of this, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs have emerged as potential game-changers in the PCOS treatment landscape. Their multifaceted effects on metabolism beyond blood sugar regulation offer a promising avenue for optimizing care and improving long-term health outcomes in women with PCOS. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the use of GLP-1 analogs on patients with PCOS to reduce body mass index (BMI), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), fasting blood glucose (FBG), high density lipid (HDL), low density lipid (LDL) and triglyceride. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing the use of GLP-1 analogs to placebo or other therapies in patients with PCOS. Treatment effects for continuous endpoints were pooled through mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity was evaluated with the Cochran Q test, the prediction interval and I² statistics. Statistical analysis was performed in Revman 5.4. The results were reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review (PRISMA) guidelines.A total of 4 RCTs with 228 patients were included, of whom 137 were randomized to GLP-1 therapy, 58 to placebo, and 33 to other treatments. Over a mean follow-up time of 24 weeks, patients submitted to GLP-1 analogs presented significant decreases in HbA1C (MD -1.40%; 95% CI -1.64 to -1.16; p<000001; I²=0% ), FBG (MD -4.40 mg/dL; 95% CI -7.63 to -1.17; p=0.008; I²=0%) and HDL-c (MD -0.82 mg/dL; 95% CI -1.33 to -0.31; p=0.002; I²=3%); and a nonsignificant increase in LDL-c (MD 0.37 mg/dL; 95% CI -1.30 to 2.03; p=0.67; I²=0%); and nonsignificant decrease in BMI (MD -1.28 Kg/m²; 95% CI -3.18 to 0.63; p=0.19; I²=98%), and triglyceride (MD -10.50 mg/dL; 95% CI -22.81 to 1.81; p=0.09; I²=0%).In this meta-analysis of RCTs of patients with PCOS, the use of GLP-1 analogs showed a significant reduction in HbA1C, FBG, and HDL-c. A larger sample size of people are needed for further statistical analyses. Presentation: 6/3/2024

8261 Achievement of Diabetes Treatment Goals in Mexico from 2016 to 2022

Abstract Disclosure: D. Ramirez Garcia: None. C.A. Fermin Martinez: None. P.N. Mendez Labra: None. N.E. Antonio Villa: None. J.A. Seiglie: None. O.Y. Bello-Chavolla: None. Background: Optimal diabetes care involves achieving goals with treatment in key metabolic parameters including HbA1c, blood pressure (BP), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, and smoking cessation. Evaluation of diabetes care in Mexico has been incomplete, with previous studies focusing primarily on glycemic control, but not on a comprehensive analysis of combined treatment targets. Objective: To estimate achievement of diabetes treatment goals (HbA1c [A], BP [B], LDL-C [C], smoking cessation [N], and combined targets [AB, BC, AC, ABC, ABCN]) using data from nationally representative surveys from 2016-2022 among individuals with diagnosed diabetes in Mexico. Methods: We analyzed serial cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Surveys from 2016-2022. A total of 2,689 adults with diagnosed diabetes ≥20 years were identified amongst 21,248 adults ≥20 years. Weighted prevalence estimates were obtained for glycemic control (HbA1c <7% in those <65 years, and <7.5% in those ≥65 years), BP control (<130/80 mmHg), LDL-C control (<70 mg/dL), smoking cessation, and combined targets. We also fitted logistic regression models to estimate the odds of achieving treatment targets according to age, sex, educational level, indigenous identity, and survey cycle. Results: In 2022, the prevalence of HbA1c, BP, and LDL-C control among individuals with diagnosed diabetes in Mexico was 41.2% (95% CI 30.5-52.0%), 46.0% (95% CI 36.5-55.5%), and 17% (95% CI 10.2-25.2%), respectively. Non-smoking prevalence was 92.4% (95% CI 88.6-96.2%). Combined target achievement was low, with a prevalence of 10.8% (95%CI 6.2-15.5%) for BC and 4% (95% CI 1.7-6.3%) for ABCN. The proportion of goal achievement was relatively stable across 2016-2022 for every parameter analyzed, except for LDL-C. LDL-C had the lowest proportion of control across all cycles, although a gradual increase was observed: 8.1% (95% CI 4-12.3%) in 2016 to 17% (95% CI 10.2-25.2%) in 2022. The increase in LDL-C control coincides with greater prevalence of statin use across survey cycles. Men had lower odds of achieving ABCN combined control (OR 0.49, 95%CI 0.45-0.54) than women. Similarly, compared with individuals <45 years, participants 45-64 years (OR 0.36, 95%CI 0.32-0.40) and ≥65 years (OR 0.41 95%CI 0.35-0.47) had lower odds of achieving composite control. Conclusions: Achievement of diabetes treatment goals in Mexico is suboptimal. Less than half of individuals with diagnosed diabetes achieve HbA1c or BP goals, less than a fifth achieve LDL-C control, and only 1 in 20 individuals achieve ABCN control. Greater efforts are needed to the improve the comprehensive care of individuals with diabetes in Mexico. Presentation: 6/3/2024

7962 Transformation of Poorly Differentiated Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma to Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma, an Atypical Course!

Abstract Disclosure: T. Altaweel: None. S. Makadsi: None. M. Hussein: None. J. Samantray: None. Introduction: Anaplastic thyroid cancers are undifferentiated, rare and aggressive. The transformation of papillary thyroid cancer to anaplastic thyroid cancer is documented in literature, however, rare. In this report, we present a case of Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma likely arising from a co-existing poorly differentiated Papillary carcinoma. Case Presentation: A 74-year-old male with past medical history of tobacco smoking who presented with the onset of voice hoarseness for 6 months. He has also noticed a left neck mass that is in the mid supraclavicular region. A Neck CT neck was performed at the time of presentation and was significant for a 4.6x3.4x5.9 cm left thyroid mass with displacement of the trachea. FNA biopsy showed papillary carcinoma with focal features of Tall Cell Variant. Poorly differentiated components with fragments of stroma and muscle were seen and suggested invasion. These findings raised the possibility of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma in the setting of papillary carcinoma and poorly differentiated carcinoma. BRAF V600E pathogenic variant mutation along with TERT mutation were found. Patient underwent direct laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy with biopsies, and tracheostomy with surgical pathology confirming papillary thyroid cancer with muscles invasion. Combination dabrafenib and trametinib were started. No surgical resection of thyroid tissue was planned. A follow up CT showed a significant decrease in the low-density soft tissue involving the medial thyroid gland bilaterally, consistent with interim positive response to therapy. Three months later, CT neck showed near complete resolution of low-density soft tissue involving the medial thyroid and parathyroid glands and subglottic trachea consistent with further interim positive response to therapy. Six months post initiation of therapy, CT Neck showed focal low density in the mid and inferior right thyroid gland which may represent residual and/or recurrent thyroid carcinoma. That density was further demonstrated on a repeat CT neck as a 1.8 cm hypodense nodule in the inferior right thyroid gland and concerning for recurrent thyroid tumor with possible infiltration of the trachea. Conclusion: ATC prognosis is affected by many factors such as metastasis, age, treatment strategies, socioeconomic status and the presence of BRAF V600E and TERT mutations. Diagnosis can be challenging. Our patient presented months after his symptoms started and this is an atypical course of Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma as it usually progresses aggressively and rapidly. Given the pathology reports and the more slow presentation of this patient’s carcinoma, it can be suggested that this is a case of papillary carcinoma with a later transformation to ATC. In these cases, surgical resection Presentation: 6/2/2024

11C-UCB-J PET imaging is consistent with lower synaptic density in autistic adults.

The neural bases of autism are poorly understood at the molecular level, but evidence from animal models, genetics, post-mortem studies, and single-gene disorders implicate synaptopathology. Here, we use positron emission tomography (PET) to assess the density of synapses with synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) in autistic adults using 11C-UCB-J. Twelve autistic (mean (SD)age 25 (4)years; six males), and twenty demographically matched non-autistic individuals (26 (3)years; eleven males) participated in a 11C-UCB-J PET scan. Binding potential, BPND, was the primary outcome measure and computed with the centrum semiovale as the reference region. Partial volume correction with Iterative Yang was applied to control for possible volumetric differences. Mixed-model statistics were calculated for between-group differences. Relationships to clinical characteristics were evaluated based on clinician ratings of autistic features. Whole cortex synaptic density was 17% lower in the autism group (p = 0.01). All brain regions in autism had lower 11C-UCB-J BPND compared to non-autistic participants. This effect was evident in all brain regions implicated in autism. Significant differences were observed across multiple individual regions, including the prefrontal cortex (-15%, p = 0.02), with differences most pronounced in gray matter (p < 0.0001). Synaptic density was significantly associated with clinical measures across the whole cortex (r = 0.67, p = 0.02) and multiple regions (rs = -0.58 to -0.82, ps = 0.05 to <0.01). The first in vivo investigation of synaptic density in autism with PET reveals pervasive and large-scale lower density in the cortex and across multiple brain areas. Synaptic density also correlated with clinical features, such that a greater number of autistic features were associated with lower synaptic density. These results indicate that brain-wide synaptic density may represent an as-yet-undiscovered molecular basis for the clinical phenotype of autism and associated pervasive alterations across a diversity of neural processes.

High-Energy-Density All-V2O5 Battery.

Symmetrical batteries hold great promise as cost-effective and safe candidates for future battery technology. However, they realistically suffer low energy density due to the challenge in integrating high specific capacity with high voltage plateau from the limited choice of bipolar electrodes. Herein, a high-voltage all-V2O5 symmetrical battery with clear voltage plateau is conceptualized by decoupling the cathodic/anodic redox reactions based upon the episteme of V2O5intercalation chemistry. As the proof-of-concept, a hierarchical V2O5-carboncomposite (VO-C) bipolar electrode with boosted electron/ion transport kinetics is fabricated, which shows high performance as both cathode and anode in their precisely clamped working potential windows. Accordingly, the symmetrical full-battery exhibits a high capacity of 174 mAh g-1 along with peak voltage output of above 2.9V at 0.5C, remarkable capacity retention of 81% from 0.5C to 10C, and good cycling stability of 70% capacity retention after 300 cycles at 5C. Notably, its energy density reaches 429Wh kg-1 at 0.5C estimated by the cathode mass, which outperforms most of the existing Li/Na/K-based symmetrical batteries. This study leaps forward the performance of symmetrical battery and provides guidance to extend the scope of future battery designs.

Van der Waals integrated single-junction light-emitting diodes exceeding 10% quantum efficiency at room temperature.

The construction of miniaturized light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with high external quantum efficiency (EQE) at room temperature remains a challenge for on-chip optoelectronics. Here, we demonstrate microsized LEDs fabricated by a dry-transfer van der Waals (vdW) integration method using typical layered Ruddlesden-Popper perovskites (RPPs). A single-crystalline layered RPP nanoflake is used as the active layer and sandwiched between two few-layer graphene contacts, forming van der Waals LEDs (vdWLEDs). Strong electroluminescence (EL) emission with a low turn-on current density of ~20 pA μm-2 and high EQE exceeding 10% is observed at room temperature, which sets the benchmark for the EQE of vdWLEDs ever recorded. Such efficient EL emission is attributed to the inherent multiple quantum well structure and high photoluminescence quantum yield (~35%) of RPPs and a low charge injection barrier of ~0.10 eV facilitated by the Fowler-Nordheim tunneling mechanism. These findings promise a scalable pathway for accessing high-performance miniaturized light sources for on-chip optical optoelectronics.

Exploring spatial heterogeneity of e-scooter’s relationship with ridesourcing using explainable machine learning

The expansion of e-scooter sharing system has introduced several novel interactions within the existing transportation system. However, few studies have explored how spatial contexts influence these interactions. To fill this gap, this study explored the spatial heterogeneity in e-scooter’s relationship with ridesourcing using data from Chicago, IL. We developed a Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) to estimate e-scooter sharing usage using ridesourcing trips along with associated built environment and socio-demographic variables. The model was interpreted using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). Results indicated that the threshold effects, where the positive relationship between e-scooter sharing and ridesourcing significantly weakened beyond a certain value, were more pronounced in areas with lower population density, fewer jobs, and fewer young, highly educated population. This is primarily attributed to the limited competitiveness of e-scooter sharing in these areas. These findings can assist cities in harmonizing e-scooter sharing and ridesourcing thus promoting sustainable transportation systems.

Designed honeycomb lattice for improving vibration control

Honeycombs represent common cellular structures characterised by two-dimensional arrays of unit cells arranged in-plane and stacked parallelly in the out-of-plane direction, exhibiting a periodic structure. Due to the interconnected network of these unit cells, honeycombs possess higher porosity and lower mass density than their matrix materials, resulting in superior specific stiffness/strength and specific energy absorption. The arrangement of repeating unit cells profoundly impacts the mechanical properties of these lightweight materials. This study explores a 2D metamaterial cellular system inspired by the lightweight characteristics of honeycombs. In this system, squared honeycomb cells with additional lumped masses can influence vibrating modes. Unlike conventional methods employing discrete mass-spring resonators, this approach intentionally adds masses to create complete or incomplete stop bands wherein wave propagation is either wholly or partially suppressed along specific directions. The dispersion curves of wave bands and the sensitivity of bandgaps concerning design parameters are estimated using the finite element method and Block's theorem. Numerical simulations demonstrate the stop band behaviour, providing insights for optimisation strategies and a deeper comprehension of these remarkable cellular material systems and improvements in the design with enhanced vibro-acoustics performance and control.

Research on the corrosion protection of in-situ prepared Li[sbnd]Al layered double hydroxides on AZ31 Mg alloy under standard atmospheric pressure and low temperature

This work successfully prepared LiAl LDHs coatings on AZ31 Mg alloy under standard atmospheric pressure and low temperature. The whole process did not require a hydrothermal autoclave reactor and high pressure. Electrochemical test results showed that the coating was able to provide good corrosion protection performance. The LiAl LDHs coatings provided a large low-frequency impedance on AZ31. When the treatment time was 24 h, the maximum |Z|0.01Hz at pH = 12 was 5.14 × 104 Ω∙cm2, which is more than an order of magnitude higher than the |Z|0.01Hz of 1.81 × 103 Ω∙cm2 for the bare sample. Under the same treatment conditions, the potentiodynamic polarization test results showed that the LiAl LDHs coated samples had a lower corrosion current density and a higher breakdown potential. The icorr was 1.78 × 10−7 A/cm2 and Ebr was −0.82 VSCE compared to the Mg substrate (icorr of 1.13 × 10−5 A/cm2 and Ebr of −1.53 VSCE). Additionally, LiAl LDHs coatings also had a significant inhibitory effect on cathodic hydrogen evolution, providing targeted protection to the cathodic areas.

Minor tungsten addition enhances corrosive resistance in CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy at elevated seawater temperature

Most research on the corrosive CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy (HEA) has mainly modulated element species and atomic concentration recently. However, the corrosive resistance of the passive film in the elevated temperatures environment inevitably need to be extensively explored for application. In this work, the microstructure and corrosion behavior in the elevated temperatures of face-centered cubic (FCC) CoCrFeNiWx (x = 0 and 0.2) HEAs are investigated. The mechanism of passivation layers on the corrosion behavior of HEAs is further discussed for comparison to the alloy of addition tungsten. Through potentiodynamic polarization curves in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution from 25 °C to 70 °C, the addition of tungsten can raise the critical pitting temperature, while maintaining a lower passivation current density and a larger passivation range at the same time. The high resolution X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (HRXPS), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) are all conducted to analyze the passivation composition and chemical reaction of the present alloys detailly. The CoCrFeNiW0.2 HEA exhibits the uniform Cr2O3 layer on the FCC matrix; the proportion of dispersive WO3 layer on the μ phase precipitates form a double-layer passive film under elevated temperature in 3.5 wt% NaCl. It shows that the synergistic effect of the double-layer passive film significantly enhances the pitting and corrosive resistance in this HEA.

Spectral behavior and expansion dynamics of Gd plasma generated by dual-pulse laser irradiation

Laser-produced gadolinium plasma (Gd-LPP) emerges as a promising candidate for next-generation nanolithography light sources. In this study, a dual laser pulse scheme was implemented to achieve a narrow spectral peak. By varying the pre-main pulse delay and pre-pulse laser energy, optimal conditions of 40 ns delay and 50 mJ energy were identified to improve spectral purity. Radiation hydrodynamics simulations revealed that the improved spectral purity stems from a flatter density gradient at the ablation front and a lower average electron density in the EUV emission region. Additionally, reheating the pre-formed plasma with a short main pulse mitigated plasma squeezing, resulting in an even lower electron density and thus improved spectral purity. Our findings suggest that spectral narrowing in the dual-pulse scheme, essential for better matching with multilayer reflection bandwidths, can be optimized through precise control of pre-pulse energy, pre-main delay, and main-pulse duration.

Damage-tolerant oxides by imprint of an ultra-high dislocation density

Dislocations in ductile ceramics offer the potential for robust mechanical performance while unlocking versatile functional properties. Previous studies have been limited by small volumes with dislocations and/or low dislocation densities in ceramics. Here, we use Brinell ball scratching to create crack-free, large plastic zones, offering a simple and effective method for dislocation engineering at room temperature. Using MgO, we tailor high dislocation densities up to ∼1015 m−2. We characterise the plastic zones by chemical etching, electron channelling contrast imaging, and scanning transmission electron microscopy, and further demonstrate that crack initiation and propagation in the plastic zones with high-density dislocations can be completely suppressed. The residual stresses in the plastic zones were analysed using high-resolution electron backscatter diffraction. With the residual stress being subsequently relieved via thermal annealing while retaining the high-density dislocations, we observe the cracks are no longer completely suppressed, but the pure toughening effect of the dislocations remains evident.

Multi-objective optimization of airfoils with integral tubular high-pressure tanks for hydrogen storage

Reducing the environmental impact of air transport is one of today's most important challenges in aviation industry and research. A promising key enabler is the use of hydrogen as an alternative to fossil fuels. The development of hydrogen-powered aircraft poses new engineering challenges due to its low volumetric energy density requiring high-pressure or cryogenic storage. If the volume in the wing shall be further used for storing hydrogen under high pressure, new demands arise to airfoil design. The present work focuses on this issue by presenting a multi-objective optimization approach aiming for airfoils with both low drag and high volume for internal tubular high-pressure tanks. This allows to directly address the new design objective and to find novel airfoil shapes providing the best compromise between aerodynamic efficiency and high storage volume for pressurized hydrogen. The resulting optimization problem is solved using Evolutionary Algorithms. For an efficient aerodynamic evaluation, the open source viscous-inviscid panel method XFOIL is used. An application example, based on the flight conditions of a general aviation aircraft, demonstrates the applicability of the method. Comparisons of the resulting aerodynamic characteristics obtained by XFOIL with RANS simulations confirm the feasibility of the results.

The Usability of Metallurgical Production Waste as a Siliceous Component in Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Technology

The reconstruction of buildings is a complex process that often requires the consideration of the construction load when selecting correct building materials. Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC)—which has a lower bulk density (compared to traditional masonry materials)—is very beneficial in such applications. A current trend in AAC development is the utilization of secondary raw materials in high-performance AAC, characterized by higher bulk density and compressive strength than regular AAC. The increase in bulk density is achieved by increasing the content of quartz sand in the mixing water. In this study, part of the siliceous component was replaced by ladle slag, foundry sand, furnace lining, and chamotte block powder. These materials are generated as by-products in metallurgy. The substitution rates were 10% and 30%. The samples were autoclaved in a laboratory autoclave for 8 h of isothermal duration at 190 °C with a saturated water vapor pressure of 1.4 MPa. The physical–mechanical parameters were determined, and the microstructure was described by XRD and SEM analyses. The results were compared with traditional AAC, with silica sand being used as the siliceous component. The measurement results show that sand substitution by the secondary raw material is possible, and it does not have a significant impact on the properties of AAC, and in a proper dosage, it can be beneficial for AAC production.

Productivity of Alternative Barley Genotypes under Variable Intraspecific Competition Resulting from Increasing Sowing Density

Sowing density and row spacing of barley affect the crop efficiency, resource use and final yield, with different genotypes likely to respond differently to this agrotechnical factor. The effect of sowing density on the barley yield, as shaped by structural yield elements such as the number of ears, number of grains per ears and thousand grain weight, depends on the interaction of this factor with the genotype and the growing conditions. Two spring barley genotypes with a black grain color (H. vulgare L. var. nigricans and H. vulgare L. var. rimpaui), differing in ear structure and affiliation to the original wild forms, were studied. Two independent, two-year field experiments were conducted in 2019–2020 and 2021–2022 at two locations with contrasting soil conditions. The effects of genotype and sowing density interactions on the yield, harvest index and structural elements of the yield were assessed. The arley yield was dependent on the interaction of genotype and sowing density but also varied by location. H. v. var. nigricans yielded better at higher densities, while H. v. var. rimpaui showed greater tillering potential at low densities. Environmental factors such as rainfall, temperature and soil composition affected the number of fertile ears, number of grains per ear and thousand grain weight.

A semi-conductive rigid polyurethane foam derived from kraft lignin polyol and a PEDOT: PSS coating

Rigid polyurethane foams (RPUF) are mainly used as thermal insulators materials. These materials are drawing the attention of the emerging sector of the Internet of Things (IoT) due to their features such as good chemical resistance, lightweight, and tunable mechanical properties. Yet, for IoT applications, the electrical conductivity of this type of materials should be increased substantially. To address this challenge, as well as the urgency to use renewable and sustainable resources, semi-conductive RPUF were synthesized using crude lignin-based polyol (LBP) doped with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and coated with PEDOT: PSS, using the dip coating technique. The ensuing semi-conductive RPUF has low density (33–34 kg/m3), high electrical conductivity (in the order of magnitude of 10−5 S/m), and a stretchability enhancement of almost 50 % upon coating with PEDOT: PSS. Furthermore, the mechanical performance of RPUFs can be adjusted using MWCNT and fine tuning of the formulation. Lignin being an abundant natural aromatic polyol allows the partial replacement of fossil derived polyols in the production of RPUFs and its aromatic structure contributes to the thermal and mechanical stability of the ensuing foams.

PVD Coatings for Lightweight Bipolar Plates

Bipolar plates are one of the main components of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Their functions include distributing reactants, supporting the cell, and conducting heat and electricity. They account for a significant proportion of the fuel cell stack’s weight and volume. The main materials currently used for bipolar plates are graphite and stainless steel. Aluminium has a much lower density than steel and is easier to form than both steel and graphite. Its use, therefore, would allow fuel cells with higher power densities but is hindered due to it being prone to corrosion. This work focused on the development of corrosion-resistant and conductive coatings to address this issue. Carbon coatings with Ti and Cr adhesion layers were deposited on aluminium substrates using closed-field unbalanced magnetron sputtering. These coatings were tested for corrosion properties and performance on the cathode side of a single-cell fuel cell. Coated aluminium samples were also tested for their ability to maintain their corrosion protection after being formed. Coating with a Cr adhesion layer outperformed that with a Ti adhesion layer in both forming and fuel cell tests, demonstrating much lower performance degradation after accelerated stress testing.

Study on the Commercial Metalized Plastic Current Collector PET-Cu and PP-Cu Toward High-Energy Lithium-Ion Battery.

Commercial metalized plastic current collector (MPCC) is receiving widespread attention from the business and academic communities, due to its properties of excellent electrical conductivity and low mass density. However, the application of MPCC on the side of copper is rarely studied. Herein, sandwich-like polyethylene terephthalate-based (PET) and polypropylene-based (PP) copper (Cu) current collectors via magnetron sputtering and electroplating are fabricated. Most importantly, the electrical performance, mechanical safety quality, and revealed the corresponding failure mechanism for the MPCC cells are first systematically evaluated. First, during the 45°C electrical cycling tests, PET-Cu CC (82.67%) and PP-Cu CC (82.32%) cells both have comparable capacity retention with the traditional Cu CC (Tra-Cu CC) cell (84.55%) after 500 cycles. The slight reduction in the cycling performance is induced by the crack of the Cu layer around the embedded SiO2 particle for PET-Cu CC cell and the detachment of Cu layer for PP-Cu CC cell. Second, during the nail-penetration test, MPCC cells maintain no fire and explosion for more than 5min, since the heat-shrinkable function of polymeric film can interrupt the continuous Joule heat released by internal short-circuit. This work provides important guidance for the large-scale application of MPCC in the field of lithium-ion batteries.