Low Transition Research Articles

Exploration of the synergistic effect of chrysene-based core and benzothiophene acceptors on photovoltaic properties of organic solar cells

To improve the efficacy of organic solar cells (OSCs), novel small acceptor molecules (CTD1–CTD7) were designed by modification at the terminal acceptors of reference compound CTR. The optoelectronic properties of the investigated compounds (CTD1–CTD7) were accomplished by employing density functional theory (DFT) in combination with time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). The M06 functional along with a 6-311G(d,p) basis set was utilized for calculating various parameters such as: frontier molecular orbitals (FMO), absorption maxima (λmax), binding energy (Eb), transition density matrix (TDM), density of states (DOS), and open circuit voltage (Voc) of entitled chromophores. A red shift in the absorption spectra of all designed chromophores (CTD1–CTD7) was observed as compared to CTR, accompanied by low excitation energy. Particularly, CTD4 was characterized by the highest λmax value of 685.791 nm and the lowest transition energy value of 1.801 eV which might be ascribed to the robust electron-withdrawing end-capped acceptor group. The observed reduced binding energy (Eb) was linked to an elevated rate of exciton dissociation and substantial charge transfer from central core in HOMO towards terminal acceptors in LUMO. These results were further supported by the outcomes from TDM and DOS analyses. Among all entitled chromophores, CTD4 exhibited bathochromic shift (685.791 nm), minimum HOMO/LUMO band gap of 2.347 eV with greater CT. Thus, it can be concluded that by employing molecular engineering with efficient acceptor moieties, the efficiency of photovoltaic materials could be improved.

Fabrication of SiO2/TiO2 coated polyethylene films with photoinduced superhydrophilicity, antifogging property and mechanical robustness

Anatase type TiO2 has garnered significant attention due to its potent oxidation capacity, stability, photoinduced superhydrophilicity and self-cleaning performance. However, there are few reports on the preparation of robust TiO2 films on substrates with a low glass transition temperature. In this work, SiO2/TiO2 films were fabricated on PE substrates using a simple dip-coating technique. The coated PE films exhibited a maximum transmittance of 86 % and an average transmittance of 85 % in the visible region. The composite films demonstrated remarkable photoinduced superhydrophilicity, antifogging characteristics, and excellent photocatalytic performance. The film showed superhydrophilicity under UV light or xenon lamp illumination, and remained superhydrophilicity after it was placed outdoors for 310 days. In addition, the prepared films also had excellent mechanical properties, and their superhydrophilicity remained unaffected even after 200 cycles of bending, 80 cycles of rolling, and 50 mL water impact test. The preparation method may open a new avenue to the application of TiO2 films on many substrates that are vulnerable to high temperature processes.

Transitions for zero carbon futures: From just to generous

The ‘just transition’ concept has gained popularity in recent years and is being widely applied as a guiding concept within policy frameworks promoting low carbon transitions. Justice is at the heart of much of the policy rhetoric surrounding these transitions, favoured for the emphasis it places on fairness, equity and inclusivity. The use of justice as the guiding virtue for the transition has remained largely unquestioned. This paper examines the concept of just transition and experiments with positioning generosity as a guiding principle. It is argued that this may enable a more transformative, inclusive zero carbon future that prioritises wellbeing over mere survival. This does not seek to position a just transition and a generous transition in direct opposition to one another, instead intending to highlight how the concept of generosity might act as a catalyst for or complement to justice.

Assessing the efficacy of mesotherapy products: Ultra Exo Booster, and Ultra S Line Plus in hair growth: An ex vivo study.

In this study, scalp tissues from Korean adults between 20 and 80 without skin disease were used. Scalp tissues were processed, and hair follicles were isolated and cultured with different treatments (including Bioscalp, Ultra Exo Booster, and Ultra S Line Plus) from Ultra V company. Over 12 days, observations and measurements of hair follicle characteristics were recorded at intervals (Days 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12). The study assessed the impact of these substances on hair follicle growth and morphology. Bioscalp, combined with Ultra Exo Booster and Ultra S Line Plus, showed significant hair elongation in ex vivo. Preservation of hair bulb diameter was observed, indicating potential for sustained hair growth by exosome-based products. The hair growth cycle analysis suggested a lower transition to the catagen stage in test products from Ultra V compared to non-treated groups. The research findings indicated that the tested formulations, especially the combination of Bioscalp, Ultra Exo Booster, and Ultra S Line Plus, demonstrated significant effectiveness in promoting hair growth, maintaining the integrity of the hair bulb, and reducing the transition to the catagen stage. The study suggests promising alternative treatments for hair loss, illustrating results that were as good as those of the conventional testing product groups.

Impact of the hot inner crust on compact stars at finite temperature

We conducted a study on the thermal properties of stellar matter with the nuclear energy density functional BCPM. This functional is based on microscopic Brueckner–Hartree–Fock calculations and has demonstrated success in describing cold neutron stars. To enhance its applicability in astrophysics, we extended the BCPM equation of state to finite temperature for β-stable neutrino-free matter, taking into consideration the hot inner crust. Such an equation of state holds significant importance for hot compact objects, particularly those resulting from a binary neutron star merger event. Our exploration has shown that with increasing temperature, there is a fast decrease in the crust-core transition density, suggesting that for hot stars it is not realistic to assume a fixed value of this density. The microscopic calculations also reveal that the presence of nuclear clusters persists up to T = 7.21 MeV, identified as the limiting temperature of the crust. Above this threshold, the manifestation of clusters is not anticipated. Below this temperature, clusters within the inner crust are surrounded by uniform matter with varying densities, allowing for the distinction between the upper and lower transition density branches. Moreover, we computed mass–radius relations of neutron stars, assuming an isothermal profile for β-stable neutron star matter at various temperature values. Our findings highlight the significant influence of the hot inner crust on the mass–radius relationship, leading to the formation of larger and more inflated neutron stars. Consequently, under our prescription, the final outcome is a unified equation of state at finite temperature.

Incorporating equity into transit performance measures: A disaggregated bus route level approach

Marginalized communities usually experience inadequate public transport services in North America. Within these communities, buses play a vital role in everyday activity participation. Unfortunately, transport services that may advance equity by improving coverage and service for disadvantaged population groups and areas are often overlooked in transit planning since they usually underperform in ridership-based metrics.To address this problem, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) introduced an equity service policy in 2019 to enhance bus services in vulnerable neighbourhoods known as Neighbourhood Improvement Areas (NIAs). This policy involves augmenting observed ridership counts for buses serving NIAs to improve or protect services for these communities. Although this proposed measure can improve bus services in NIAs, its current form might exclude other equity-deserving riders (EDRs) living outside NIAs, increasing their accessibility barriers.Our study uses quantitative and spatial analytical methods to better understand the equity impacts of this service policy change. We propose moving from the aggregate neighbourhood-based approach using NIAs to a more comprehensive and disaggregated person-based approach. First, we create an alternate method that identifies EDRs at the bus stop level using a fusion of census and travel survey data. We then explore the differences in augmented ridership levels created by the two approaches and evaluate whether the augmented ridership levels are likely to result in meaningful service changes using existing TTC service standards.We found that 2 out of 3 transit riders in Toronto are equity-deserving, with 72% residing outside NIAs. Our approach reveals increased ridership on routes with many EDRs, which receive minimal augmentation under the NIA-based method. Conversely, if all riders in NIAs are considered EDRs, our approach shows a 19% ridership overestimation equivalent to 35,245 users. Based on these results, we recommend creating a dedicated equity tool with an individual-centric focus, identifying areas with low transit service and high EDR percentages. This tool could then be integrated as an equity perspective into annual bus service planning.

Design and Manufacturing of Air Conditioning Coil

This paper consists of the detail design process of a cooling coil which is used in Evaporator of VARC System for given cooling load. The process consists of designing a part using the calculation and various other parameters. The stability of long-term materials is becoming increasingly important as the demand for air conditioning systems in commercial and residential applications grows. Because of temperature variations and heat flow, materials in air conditioning systems can fail, reducing the cooling effect of the system. Low thermal transitions through the coil's material cause a significant amount of heat to be wasted in the evaporator coil, which lowers the system's overall efficiency. This paper outlines the methodology used to choose the right material for the evaporator coil in an air conditioning system using the CES Granta design software. Based on design and functional requirements, nickel-chromium alloys, pure titanium, copper, low alloy steel, cast iron, and pure titanium are the candidates that made the shortlist for evaporator coils. The best candidates are low alloy steel, titanium, and stainless steel.

Biobased polyesteramides derived from bisfuranic diamine and aliphatic diesters of varied chain lengths: synthesis and chemical stability

This study presents the development of a series of biobased polyesteramides, labeled as PEAF1–3, via a greener approach, from bisfuranic diamine and commercially available aliphatic diesters of varied chain lengths. The resulting polymers showed reasonable molar masses, in accordance with inherent viscosities ranging between 0.19 and 0.35 dL/g. Evaluation of their thermal properties by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry showcased excellent thermal stability (Td ,max ≥ 335 °C), amorphous character and low glass transition temperature (Tg ) decreased with the increasing chain length. Moreover, notable finding was the exceptional stability of these polyesteramides against both hydrolytic and oxidative degradation processes. This resistance underscores their potential as highly stable materials, making them promising for various applications where durability and resistance to degradation are crucial.

Synergistic Effect of Ferroelectric and HfO2/SiO2 Hetero dielectrics in Junctionless FET for Analog and RF Applications

AbstractThe synergistic effect of ferroelectric and HfO2/SiO2 (Hafnium dioxide/ Silicon dioxide) hetero dielectrics in double gate Junctionless Field Effect Transistor is investigated using TCAD Tool. The study encompasses a wide range of parameters, allowing for a detailed examination of the impact of hysteresis on the overall functionality of the double gate Junctionless FET. One crucial aspect of the investigation involves examining the analog and RF performance of the device. The high transconductance (gm) of 5.42 mS, a gain of 95 dB (decibel), a cut‐off frequency of 553.9 GHz (gigahertz), a gain transconductance frequency product (GTFP) of 50.9 THz (terahertz), and a gain bandwidth product (GBW) of 188 GHz shows its great potential for analog and RF signal processing applications as well as for other high data rate wireless applications such as Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet‐of‐Thing (IoT). The low transit time of 17 ns (nano second), with high ION/IOFF ratio range of 107 shows that the device has good switching behavior also. This aspect of the research aims to unveil the device's viability for analog and high‐frequency applications, contributing valuable insights to the emerging electronic technologies field.

Ethyl acetate fractionation improved the homogeneity and purity of CAOSA-extracted lignin

Lignin separated from the pulping and bio-refining industry is a cross-linked organic phenolic polymer and the most abundant renewable aromatic resource. However, its wide molecular weight distribution, inhomogeneity and complex functional groups are the factors restricting the application of lignin. The preparation of lignin with simple structures and low dispersity by fractionation is one of the main methods to transform lignin into higher-value materials. In this study, lignin fragments with lower dispersibility (Đ) were separated from CAOSA-extracted bamboo lignin by continuous organic solvent fractionation involving ethyl acetate, ethanol, acetone and dioxane/water (95:5). The lignin fragments extracted by ethyl acetate possessed a lower molecular weight (821 g/mol), lower glass transition temperature (Tg), higher purity and phenolic hydroxyl content (0.370 mmol/g). This method unlocked the versatility of the lignin components and provided a reference for the application of lignin in resin, rubber, antioxidant, asphalt and adhesive.

A light/thermal cascaded-driven equipment for machine recognition inspired by water lilies using as multifunctional soft actuator

Inspired by the natural stimulus–response of plants and animals, a range of soft equipment has been extensively developed and used in intelligent human–computer interaction, editable remote drives, and machine learning. Poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM) hydrogels have gained popularity thanks to their low phase transition temperature and excellent flexibility. However, the PNIPAM hydrogels suffer from poor mechanical properties, low electrical conductivity, and lack of self-responsiveness. Herein, a bilayer light/thermal cascaded-driven anisotropic poly acrylamide/poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylamide)-polyvinyl alcohol-MXene (P/PP-M) actuator was prepared by a simple two-step polymerization method. The unique bionic light/thermal response mechanism enables rapid conversion of energy forms and the construction of remote editable actuators. Concretely, the mechanical properties of hydrogels (strain: 1014 %, stress: 94 KPa) have been greatly improved by copolymerizing MXene nanosheets and multiplex hydrogels through two-by-two interpenetrating molecular chains. MXene nanosheets formed dynamic networks conferring the hydrogel system with high conductivity and light/thermal conversion efficiency. The P/PP-M soft actuator features high sensitivity (Gauge factor = 3.62), fast response time (400 ms), and cycling durability (>500 cycles). Finally, the energy transfer mechanism from light to thermal energy to kinetic energy was corroborated by preparing a series of bionic equipment. Manual clips were prepared on this basis, which enables the transportation of objects and realizes the real-time reflection of the operating status of remotely driven soft manual clips through changes in electrical signals. Thus, the proposed efficient editable remote-driven machine recognition soft equipment provides new insights for developing intelligent flexible robots and wearable smart devices.

Novel bio-based polyurethane elastomers for adjustable room-temperature damping property

The distinctive viscoelastic behavior of elastomeres can be exploited for reducing vibrations and noise. However, the utility of conventional rubber-based elastomers is limited by low glass transition temperature (Tg) and narrow adjustable damping range, which constrain the room-temperature damping property. Moreover, the majority of rubber-based elastomers are sourced from unsustainable petroleum-based resources. Therefore, designing bio-based materials with room-temperature high-damping property to replace conventional rubber-based elastomers is crucial. Herein, a novel bio-based polyurethane (bio-PU) elastomer with an adjustable damping-temperature range and room-temperature high-damping property is successfully synthesized from bio-based poly (trimethylene ether) glycol. The effects of molecular chain structure on the thermal properties, mechanical properties, and adjustable damping-temperature range of the bio-PU elastomers, along with the mechanisms underlying these effects, are elucidated in detail. As the content of hard segment increasing, the Tg of bio-PU elastomers significantly increases from −13.0 to 29.9 °C, effectively encompassing the damping temperature range within the room-temperature working range. This promising strategy for formulating bio-based elastomers with adjustable damping-temperature range can advance the sustainable growth of PU industry and broaden the scope of PU damping applications.

Quercetin allylation and thiol–ene click photopolymerization to produce biobased polymer thermosets with robust thermomechanical properties

AbstractThe development of biobased and functionalized monomers along with eco‐friendly photopolymerization processes represent promising methods for the development of renewable and more environmentally friendly thermosets. Thiol–ene ‘click’ photopolymerization is particularly advantageous in this regard; however, the materials derived from this method often exhibit low glass transition temperatures (Tg) and unsuitable thermomechanical properties for applications at room temperature. Herein, we report the synthesis of biobased allyl derivatives from quercetin, a renewable flavonoid compound widely available in fruits, vegetables and plants. We demonstrated the isolation of tetra‐ and penta‐allylated quercetin (Q1 and Q2, respectively) and their subsequent photoactivated thiol–ene polymerization. By introducing a biobased thiol curing agent (PTTMP) derived from glycerol and mercaptopropionic acid, we produced fully biobased crosslinked thermosets with high content of aromatic moieties provided by the framework of the monomers. Real‐time infrared spectroscopy showed the effective thiol–ene photopolymerization of Q1 and Q2 and PTTMP with conversions of 60% and 75%, respectively, after 15 min of UV irradiation. Due to the modulated crosslinking degree from the allyl group functionalization in the monomers, the biobased crosslinked networks showed storage moduli from 420 to 739 MPa, thermal stability from 220 to 257 °C and Tg values ranging from 75 to 90 °C. This work outlines straightforward strategies for creating biobased thermosets that overcome the limited thermomechanical properties of thiol–ene networks and offer potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Dynamics of Polyalkylfluorene Conjugated Polymers: Insights from Neutron Spectroscopy and Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

The dynamics of the conjugated polymers poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene) (PF8) and poly(9,9-didodecylfluorene) (PF12), differing by the length of their side chains, is investigated in the amorphous phase using the temperature-dependent quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) technique. The neutron spectroscopy measurements are synergistically underpinned by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The probe is focused on the picosecond time scale, where the structural dynamics of both PF8 and PF12 would mainly be dominated by the motions of their side chains. The measurements highlighted temperature-induced dynamics, reflected in the broadening of the QENS spectra upon heating. The MD simulations reproduced well the observations; hence, the neutron measurements validate the MD force fields, the adopted amorphous model structures, and the numerical procedure. As the QENS spectra are dominated by the signal from the hydrogens on the backbones and side chains of PF8 and PF12, extensive analysis of the MD simulations allowed the following: (i) tagging these hydrogens, (ii) estimating their contributions to the self-part of the van Hove functions and hence to the QENS spectra, and (iii) determining the activation energies of the different motions involving the tagged hydrogens. PF12 is found to exhibit QENS spectra broader than those of PF8, indicating a more pronounced motion of the didodecyl chains of PF12 as compared to dioctyl chains of PF8. This is in agreement with the outcome of our MD analysis: (i) confirming a lower glass transition temperature of PF12 compared to PF8, (ii) showing PF12 having a lower density than PF8, and (iii) highlighting lower activation energies of the motions of PF12 in comparison with PF8. This study helped to gain insights into the temperature-induced side-chain dynamics of the PF8 and PF12 conjugated polymers, influencing their stability, which could potentially impact, on the practical side, the performance of the associated optoelectronic active layer.

Microstructure, mechanical properties and interaction mechanism of seawater sea-sand engineered cementitious composite (SS-ECC) with Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) bar

With increasing demand for sustainable and long-lasting materials, seawater sea-sand engineered cementitious composite (SS-ECC) has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional concrete in near-ocean construction projects. Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bar with excellent corrosion resistance is an ideal choice for these applications. This study evaluated the bond performance of GFRP bars embedded in normal-strength ECC with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers and high-strength ECC with polyethylene (PE) fibers through pull-out tests. Additionally, tests were conducted on GFRP bars in pristine ECC made with freshwater and river sand for comparison. Further investigation explored the structural properties and uncovered load transfer mechanisms. Results indicated that saline content facilitated early cement hydration of normal-strength ECC, resulting in finer pore structure (10.5% lower porosity and 12.5% lower sorptivity), slightly enhanced compressive performance (1.2% higher compressive strength and 8.3% higher elastic modulus), denser microstructure at GFRP-ECC interface (13.7% lower porous transition zone thickness, 19.2% narrower transition zone and 19.7% higher Ca/Si ratio), and superior bond performance (28.3% higher bond strength and 22.6% higher fracture energy). Conversely, saline content imposed a limited impact on the mechanical properties of high-strength ECC, primarily attributed to the ultra-fine microstructure and early strength characteristics exhibited by the silica fume (SF)-based cementitious binder.

Quantum chemical framework for designing high-performance ladder-shape NLO molecules and study of implicit vs explicit solvent effects on their NLO properties

Researchers in materials science are greatly fascinated by helicene chemistry due to its excellent optical and structural properties. In this work, we introduced symmetrical substitution of donor and acceptor groups on the [7]helicene ([7]HC-1 to [7]HC-5). DFT analysis is used to explore nonlinear optical (NLO) response for designed compounds. For [7]HC-5, the linear isotropic (αiso) and anisotropic polarizability (αaniso) are 31.59 × 10−24 esu and 59.86 × 10−24 esu, respectively. [7]HC-5 has the highest average third-order NLO polarizability (<γ>) of 47.24 × 10−36 esu which is approximately six times greater than that of para-nitroaniline, a well-known prototype NLO molecule. The effect of implicit and explicit solvents on <γ> and αiso of three selected compounds ([7]HC-1, [7]HC-3, and [7]HC-5) is also evaluated. As compared to explicit and gas phase methods, PCM model predicts an overestimation by an increment of ∼ 4-5 times for selected compounds. TD-DFT calculations show a higher transition dipole moment (4.24) and a lower transition energy (3.414 eV) for [7]HC-5. The higher NLO response is explained based on frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs), electron density difference (EDD), and molecular electrostatic potentials (MEPs). There is a red shift for studied compounds based on UV-visible results. The C-N stretching at 1372 cm-1 for [7]HC-5 indicates the presence of -N(CH3)2. Additionally, we studied photovoltaic parameters and found that [7]HC-5 has the maximum open circuit voltage and the lowest dye regeneration of 2.71 eV and 0.06 eV, respectively.

Magnetic properties of Dy[formula omitted](Co,Ni) compounds at ambient and high pressures

Dy3Co, in addition to two antiferromagnetic (AFM) transitions (35 K and TN∼ 44 K), exhibits a Griffiths-like phase around 65 K and it persists up to ∼1 GPa pressure. External pressure alters the magnetic state significantly and results in increase (decrease) of TN (TAF) by 6.5% (∼13%) with dTN/dP ∼ 3 K/GPa (dTAF/dP ∼ −4.5 K/GPa). Increase in metamagnetic critical field and other changes with pressure indicate the strengthening of AFM interactions in Dy3Co. On the other hand, Dy3Ni shows three magnetic transitions at To∼ 55 K, T1∼ 39 K (AFM) and T2∼ 24 K (AFM). Experimental evidence points to the magnetic ordering temperature to be at To∼55 K instead of 39 K as claimed by certain reports. External pressure reduces (increases) the transition temperature To (T1) by ∼7.9% (7.6%) at a rate of −3.5 K/GPa (2.5 K/GPa). Pressure has only marginal effect on the other low temperature transition at T2. Additionally, ac-susceptibility data exhibit spin-glass like features, which seem to arise from domain wall movements and probably random freezing of small components of spins, coexisting with dominant long-ranged non-collinear AFM structure in these compounds.

3D‐printed PLA/PMMA polymer composites: A consolidated feasible characteristic investigation for dental applications

AbstractThis research article focused on the blending of poly(lactic acid)/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PLA/PMMA) polymer materials to overcome PLA's inherent weaknesses, such as low glass transition temperature, brittleness, and lack of melt strength. Consolidated feasible characteristic investigations, such as mechanical, thermal, and aging behavior, were carried out for PLA/PMMA blended polymer materials. Initially, the miscibility of PLA/PMMA blend filaments was prepared at various blend ratios (91/9, 82/18, and 73/27) and samples were printed by fused deposition modeling (FDM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis have been utilized to evaluate the glass transition temperature (Tg) and intermolecular interaction, respectively, on blended polymer materials. Experimental tensile, compression, and flexural strength testing were performed on neat polymers and blended polymer composites. Compared to neat PLA materials, blended composites had 13.24% and 19.07% higher flexural and compression strengths. Besides, the interfacial interaction of neat and blended polymers has been done using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Furthermore, Tg, storage modulus, and aging behavior of blended polymer materials have significantly improved over neat PLA materials. Altogether, the development of PMMA/PLA blends as sustainable biomaterials for dental applications aligns with environmental concerns and the need for biocompatible materials in dentistry.Highlights Blending of PLA and PMMA helps mitigate the inherent constraints of PLA. Blended composites exhibited greater compressive and flexural strengths. Better glass transition temperature and intermolecular interaction. Excellent thermal stability and water aging imply viable dental biomaterials.

Effects of gamma radiation on cyclic olefin copolymers with varied norbornene content: Impacts on structure and properties at sterilization doses

Cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) is a transparent amorphous plastic known for its chemically inertness, biocompatibility, low density, and easy processability. These qualities have led to its widespread adoption in various cutting-edge applications, including the medical, packaging, optical and microelectronics. Radiation sterilization, utilizing high-energy irradiation, is a method for achieving highly effective sterilization of medical products. However, this process can induce changes in the color and properties of the COC materials. In order to comprehend the effects of ionizing radiation on COC, it is crucial to investigate the underlying reaction mechanisms. In this work, the effects of γ-ray irradiation on COC with different norbornene contents were examined. The finding revealed that tertiary alkyl radical content and the degree of oxidative degradation increased with an increase in norbornene content. Furthermore, the macroscopic properties experienced notable shifts, including decreased thermal stability, lower glass transition temperature and the change in color from colorless and transparent to yellow-green. Analysis of the melt index indicated a dominance of cross-linking phenomena with increased absorbed dose for COC with a norbornene content of 35%, while the melt flow rate steadily accelerated with the increase of absorbed dose for COC with norbornene content of 46%, 52% and 57%, leading to a predominant cracking behavior. The variation in tensile properties of the four COCs before and after irradiation were minimal, not exceeding 3%. Overall, this investigation sheds light on the intricate effects of ionizing radiation on COC and highlights the importance of understanding these mechanisms for practical applications.

Realizing the Tailored Catalytic Performances on Atomic Pt-Promoted Transition Metal Moieties Implanted Layered Double Hydroxides for Water Electrolysis.

High-performance production of green hydrogen gas is necessary to develop renewable energy generation technology and to safeguard the living environment. This study reports a controllable engineering approach to tailor the structure of nickel-layered double hydroxides via doped and absorbed platinum single atoms (PtSA) promoted by low electronegative transition metal (Mn, Fe) moieties (PtSA-Mn,Fe-Ni LDHs). We explore that the electron donation from neighboring transition metal moieties results in the well-adjusted d-band center with the low valence states of PtSA(doped) and PtSA(ads.), thus optimizing adsorption energy to effectively accelerate the H2 release. Meanwhile, a tailored local chemical environment on transition metal centers with unique charge redistribution and high valence states functions as the main center for H2O catalytic dissociation into oxygen. Therefore, the PtSA-Mn,Fe-Ni LDH material possesses a small overpotential of 42 and 288 mV to reach 10 mA·cm-2 for hydrogen and oxygen evolution, respectively, superior to most reported LDH-based catalysts. Additionally, the mass activity of PtSA-Mn,Fe-Ni LDHs proves to be 15.45 times higher than that of commercial Pt-C. The anion exchange membrane electrolyzer stack of PtSA-Mn,Fe-Ni LDHs(+,-) delivers a cell voltage of 1.79 V at 0.5 A·cm-2 and excellent durability over 600 h. This study presents a promising electrocatalyst for a practical water splitting process.