Development Of Materials Research Articles

Laser-Induced Carbonization of Ni-BDC Layer on PET: Functional Upcycling of Polymer Wastes Towards Bend Resistive Sensor

The growing accumulation of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) presents a significant environmental challenge requiring the development of sustainable recycling methods. In this study, a novel approach for upcycling preliminary recycled waste PET into bend resistive sensors through laser-assisted carbonization of surface-grown Ni-BDC (BDC = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) has been proposed. The fabrication process involves the solvothermal formation of a homogeneous Ni-BDC layer, followed by treatment with a 405nm laser system to create a graphene-like layer with enhanced conductivity (sheet resistance 6.2 ± 3.4 Ω per square). The developed sensor demonstrates remarkable robustness, a linear response in a wide bending angle range (6 to 44º), as well as excellent mechanical stability and stiffness. This contribution paves the way for the development of high-value materials from waste PET as a resource for applications in the Internet of Things, otherwise discarded materials.

Enhancing teacher competence through collaborative worksheet development: an empirical investigation

This study examined the efficacy of collaborative teaching using a projectbased learning (PjBL) worksheet on plastic waste and climate change. The research design followed a type-II development approach, with two distinct phases: exploration and development, and collaborative teaching. The study involved five science teachers, two lecturers, and 45 seventh-grade students in three limited field trials. The study found that collaborative teaching through worksheet development could increase science teachers’ professionalism, particularly in the collegial phase. Furthermore, the study developed a valid PjBL-based worksheet on plastic waste and climate change, aligning with the 2013 curriculum for science instruction in junior high school, involving three core competencies. The research design employed a lesson study framework, which allowed for a thorough exploration of the research topic, leading to the development of effective instructional material. The findings of this study have significant implications for science education in junior high school, particularly in promoting active learning and fostering a deeper understanding of complex environmental issues. Overall, the study highlights the importance of collaborative teaching and the potential of PjBL-based worksheets in enhancing teacher competence and developing relevant instructional materials that align with the curriculum.

Grade three learners’ reading difficulties: Inputs to the development of an intervention material

Grade three learners’ reading difficulties: Inputs to the development of an intervention material

Layer effects on MXenes electrode and it applied to silicon composite structures

Despite the very high capacity of Si (4200mAh g−1), the widespread application of Si anodes has been hampered by drastic volume changes (up to 300 %) during cycling, leading to electrical contact losses and thus a sharp drop in capacity as the cycle life is shortened. Here we present a class of layered MXene/Si electrodes, which consist of nano-Si embedded in the interlayers of MXene to form a coupling effect, which can inhibit the huge volume change of Si during cycling. Therefore, layered MXene/Si has a highly reversible capacity, much improved cycling performance and excellent mechanical properties. First-principles calculations reveal the excellent electronic conductivity and good diffusion ability of layered MXene/Si, confirming the rapid storage of Li ions. This study provides useful information for the development and production of anode materials with high energy density and good mechanical properties.

Advancing hydrogen storage predictions in metal-organic frameworks: A comparative study of LightGBM and random forest models with data enhancement

The escalating consumption of fossil fuels has given rise to a substantial upsurge in greenhouse gas concentrations and global temperatures, which, in turn, has triggered severe climate-related consequences. The critical imperative to reduce CO2 emissions and combat global warming has spurred extensive investigations into clean energy alternatives, with hydrogen emerging as a compelling zero-emission energy source. As a pivotal component of clean energy strategies, hydrogen requires designing compact, lightweight, and efficient storage systems. This study focuses on the development and evaluation of machine learning models for predicting the efficiency of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) in hydrogen storage, a key aspect of advancing clean energy technologies. MOFs, a class of nanoporous materials, show remarkable potential for hydrogen storage due to their high surface area and porosity. However, selecting the most suitable MOF for this application from a vast array of possible structures is a daunting task. In this context, machine learning algorithms offer an efficient alternative for predicting MOF suitability by considering their structural and chemical properties. We used ensemble learning methods, specifically Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) and Random Forest (RF), to predict hydrogen uptake of MOFs based on a dataset of 219 experimentally tested samples. Two modeling scenarios were considered: one using the entire dataset, and the other involving strategic data pre-processing, including outlier removal and feature engineering. The results demonstrate that the measures taken to refine the dataset significantly enhance the predictive performance of the developed models, reducing prediction errors and improving overall goodness of fit. Specifically, the Mean Absolute Error (MAE) values for both the LightGBM and random forest models were reduced from 0.48 and 0.94, respectively, to 0.16 for both models, and the coefficients of determination (R2) increased substantially from 0.84 and 0.72 to 0.95, in both cases. Moreover, feature importance analysis unveiled that pressure-related features make the most significant contributions to the formation of tree ensembles during the model training process. A parametric sensitivity analysis was conducted revealing that H2 uptake in MOFs is most sensitive to changes in adsorption enthalpy, followed by surface area and temperature, while showing lower sensitivity to variations in pressure, consistent with established literature. These results underscore the pivotal role of data enhancement methods in refining machine learning models and can be instrumental in accelerating the development and optimization of MOF materials for clean energy applications.

Shaping foundations: Trans feminine self-fashioning, DIY and community building in the postwar United States

More than 5 million pairs of falsies, also known as bust pads, were sold in the United States in 1946, exceeding prior sales records. In the postwar United States, falsies were an increasingly popular way of shaping the body into a fashionable curvaceous silhouette and utilized the latest in wartime synthetic material developments. Falsies were an important part of trans and queer life. However, these wearers and makers have been largely omitted from histories of fashion, foundationwear and material culture. This article traces the trans feminine history of falsies and other padded foundationwear in the postwar United States. The author analyses a range of archival materials largely sourced from the Digital Transgender Archive including publications and print ephemera from the 1950s–70s to show how trans feminine, queer and gender-nonconforming people innovated falsie design through DIY practices. While the majority of individuals in the postwar United States were unable to access trans healthcare and anti-trans legislation continued to publicly police bodies, trans feminine networks circulated information on how to purchase, wear and make padded foundations. These collective efforts empowered wearers and built community in a variety of ways.

Advancing Residential Construction with Papercrete Concrete: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract: The construction industry is witnessing a shift towards sustainable materials, with innovative solutions like Papercrete offering eco-friendly alternatives to traditional concrete. This study explores the utilization of Papercrete in construction, highlighting its environmental benefits, cost-effectiveness, and applications. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, including studies on similar materials like Wood-Crete and Aggregates of Wastepaper and Lime (AWPL), this research identifies gaps and opportunities in sustainable building material development. Additionally, experimental studies on Ultra-High-Performance Concretes (UHPCs) with Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) and Papercrete bricks provide insights into their compressive strength and suitability for construction. The technical specifications and cost analysis section delineates guidelines for excavation and backfilling activities, crucial for efficient project execution. Utilizing AutoCAD and Microsoft Excel for drafting and estimation, respectively, ensures accuracy and efficiency in project planning. The detailed estimate for a proposed 2BHK residential building demonstrates the practical application of these tools and methods, with results indicating the viability of Papercrete in construction. Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of sustainable building materials in mitigating environmental impact, enhancing occupant health, and promoting economic sustainability in the construction industry.

Advancements in halogen-free polymers: exploring flame retardancy, mechanical properties, sustainability, and applications

ABSTRACT This study examines the evolution and potential of halogen-free polymers, highlighting recent advancements in alternatives and their environmental advantages. The integration of these flame retardants within polymer composites is addressed, focusing on how novel materials and methods can improve mechanical properties without compromising fire safety. Sustainability is a key consideration, with life cycle assessments demonstrating the environmental benefits of halogen-free polymers. The crucial role of these polymers in the electronics, transportation, and aerospace sectors is also explored, emphasizing their exceptional flame-retardant capabilities and specific performance requirements. This review identifies key challenges and promising research avenues for further development in the field of halogen-free polymers. It underscores the need for continuous development and collaboration to ensure the future of polymer science embraces sustainability and fire safety without compromise. This comprehensive review aims to equip researchers and scientists with a thorough understanding of halogen-free polymers, paving the way for advancements toward a future characterized by both responsible material development and effective fire protection.

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

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

Recent advances in tunable solid-state emission based on α-cyanodiarylethenes: from molecular packing regulation to functional development.

The design and development of organic solid-state luminescent materials stand as crucial pillars within the realm of contemporary photofunctional materials. Overcoming challenges such as concentration quenching and achieving tailored luminescent properties necessitates a judicious approach to molecular structure design and the strategic utilization of diverse stimuli to modulate molecular packing patterns. Among the myriad candidates, α-cyanodiarylethenes (CAEs) emerge with distinctive solid-state luminescent attributes, capable of forming self-assembled packing structures with varying degrees of π-π stacking. This characteristic endows them with potential in the field of intelligent molecular responsive materials and optoelectronic devices. This tutorial review embarks on an exploration of design strategies geared towards attaining tunable solid-state emission through customized packing of CAEs. It explores the utilization of stimuli responses, including such as mechanical forces, light irradiation, solvent interactions, thermal influences, as well as the utilization of co-assembly methodologies. The overarching aim of this review is to provide a widely applicable platform fostering the flourishing development of modern organic photofunctional materials through integrating principles of molecular engineering, organic optoelectronics, and materials science.

Bifunctional Protein TC1 Mediated One-Pot Strategy for Robust Immobilization of DNA with High Accessibility.

Immobilizing DNA with high accessibility at the interface is attractive but challenging. Current methods often involve multiple chemical reactions and derivatives. In this study, an endonuclease, TC1, is introduced to develop a robust strategy for immobilizing DNA with enhanced accessibility. TC1 enables direct immobilization of DNA onto a solid support through self-catalytic DNA covalent coupling and robust solid adsorption capabilities. This method demonstrates high accessibility to target molecules, supported by the improved sensitivity of DNA hybridization and aptamer-target recognition assays. TC1-mediated DNA immobilization is a one-pot reaction that does not require chemical derivatives, making it promising for the development of high-performance DNA materials and technologies.

Development, Validation, and Effectiveness of Android-Based Learning Material in Statistics

In this 21st century, students are more compelled towards the use of a mobile phone for every purpose. This study aimed to develop, validate, and test the effectiveness of an android-based learning material in Statistics. The technological profile, technology acceptance in terms of perceived use and perceived ease of use, relationship between the technological profile and technological acceptance, performance of respondents with or without the use, effectiveness, and validity of the android-based learning material were investigated in this study. The study utilized descriptive, developmental, and quasi-experimental research design. Two sections of Grade 10 were considered in the study; one section used the learning material, while the other section did not. Pre-test and post-test were conducted on the two groups. Data gathered were analyzed, tabulated, and presented using frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation, paired sample t-test, and simple correlational analysis. It was found out that all respondents have available gadgets; they “often” use technology and “advanced” in terms of technological skills; they strongly agree that the learning material is useful and easy to use; there is a positive relationship between the technology profile and the technology acceptance of the respondents; and the learning material was found to be effective and has very high validity. Hence, it is highly recommended to use the learning material in Statistics. Developing android-based learning material is recommended for other topics in mathematics, and students may be provided with other supplementary materials for greater retention.

Aqueous Supramolecular Transformations of Motor Bola-Amphiphiles at Multiple Length-Scale.

Molecular motor amphiphiles have already been widely attempted for dynamic nano systems across multiple length-scale for developments of small functional materials, including controlling macroscopic foam properties, amplifying motion as artificial molecular muscles and serving as extracellular matrix mimicking cell scaffolds. However, limiting examples of bola-type molecular motor amphiphiles were considered for constructing macroscopic biomaterials. Herein, we present our designed two second generation molecular motor amphiphiles, motor bola-amphiphiles (MBAs). Aside from the photoinduced motor rotation of MBAs achieved in both organic and aqueous media, the rate of recovering thermal helix inversion step can be controlled by the rotor part with different steric hindrances. Dynamic assembled structures of MBAs are observed under (cryo)-transmission electron microscopy. This dynamicity assists MBAs in further assembling as macroscopic soft scaffolds by applying a shear-flow method. Upon photoirradiation, the phototropic bending function of MBA scaffolds is observed, demonstrating the amplification of molecular motion into macroscopic phototropic bending functions at the macroscopic length-scale. Since MBAs are confirmed with low cytotoxicity, human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells can grow on the surface of MBA scaffolds. These results clearly demonstrate the concept of designing MBAs for developing photoresponsive dynamic functional materials to create new-generation soft robotic systems and cell-material interfaces. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Hierarchical Carbon Chain Network ‘Armor’ Escorts Long-term Cycling Stability for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries

Nowadays, the bottleneck constraining the development of electrode materials for all-vanadium flow batteries lies in their poor performances at high current densities. Pertinently, we propose a high-stability hierarchical N and S co-doped carbon chain network ‘armor’ strategy to achieve long-term stability enhancement for electrodes. It is found that hierarchical carbon chain network can effectively enhance the voltage efficiency, energy efficiency, and long-term cycling stability for all-vanadium flow batteries. The modified electrode presents superior long-term stability over 1900 cycles, and the energy efficiency is maintained at about 80% at 180 mA cm-2. In addition, the energy efficiency can also reach over 70% at 320 mA cm-2, while at 280 mA cm-2 the modified electrode can circulate stably for over 800 turns. It is proved that the bridging effect of polydopamine facilitates the stable carbon chain network, and effectively regulates the N and S co-doping, further constructing the N and S co-doping sites to assemble electrochemical catalytic network. More importantly, the carbon chain network ‘armor’ design can effectively prevent electrode breakage. This work provides a reference way for the design of long-term stable electrodes, which is of great significance for advancing commercial applications of all-vanadium flow batteries.

Rice Husk-Based Insulators: Manufacturing Process and Thermal Potential Assessment

The development of bio-insultation materials has attracted increasing attention in building energy-saving fields. In tropical and hot–humid climates, building envelope insulation is important for an energy efficient and comfortable indoor environment. In this study, several experiments were carried out on a bio-insulation material, which was prepared by using rice husk as a raw material. Square rice husk-based insultation panels were developed, considering the ASTM C-177 dimensions, to perform thermal conductivity coefficient tests. The thermal conductivity coefficient obtained was 0.073 W/(m K), which is in the range of conventional thermal insulators. In a second phase of this study, two experimental enclosures (chambers) were constructed, one with rice husk-based insulation panels and the second one without this insulation. The measures of the temperatures and thermal flows through the chambers were obtained with an electronic module based on the ARDUINO platform. This module consisted of three DS18B20 temperature sensors and four Peltier plates. Daily temperature and heat flux data were collected for the two chambers during the dry season in Panama, specifically between April and May. In the experimental chamber that did not have rice husk panel insulation on the roof, a flow of up to 28.18 W/m2 was observed, while in the chamber that did have rice husk panels, the presence of a flow toward the interior was rarely observed. The rice husk-based insulation panels showed comparable performance with conventional insulators, as a sustainable solution that takes advantage of a local resource to improve thermal comfort and the reduction of the environmental impact.

Objective Noninvasive Measurement of the Volumizing Effect of a Dermal Filler: An In Vivo Study.

Information about the volumizing effects of dermal fillers is critical for physicians' understanding of product features and prudent decision-making in clinical practice. It is important for material engineers to develop and optimize new dermal fillers, especially when comparing the physiochemical properties of a new product with those of existing fillers that are used worldwide. This study aimed to establish a reliable, noninvasive method for in vivo quantitative evaluation of the filling effect in order to predict possible effectiveness after filler injection and to evaluate the degradation trend over time. A rabbit model of ear injection with dermal fillers was established. Hyaluronic acid (HA) filler was injected into the subcutaneous layer of rabbit ears, resulting in a stable skin bulge. Ultrasonography was used to noninvasively measure the skin bulge for volume calculation; the volume change was analyzed periodically until 38weeks. Pathological examination, the gold standard, was performed to confirm degradation. The immediate volumizing effect of HA filler injection was macroscopically observed as a local skin bulge. Ultrasound was able to precisely detect the shape of the filler and calculate the length, width, and height of the skin bulge at each time point. The degree of uplift and amount of residual samples in the pathological evaluation were consistent with the results of morphological observation using ultrasound. Evaluation of the volume impact of dermal filler through the rabbit ear injection model evaluation enables material science evaluation in the early stage of material development, and has certain clinical reference value. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Novel design of Sn4P3@NxC electrodes and their electrochemical properties

Tin phosphide (SnxPy) is recognized as one of the most promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to its exceptionally high theoretical capacity. However, its application is hampered by significant volume expansion during charge-discharge cycles and inferior electrical conductivity. Proper structural design placs a pivotal role in addressing these challenges, paving the way for high-performance anode materials. This study introduces a nitrogen-doped carbon-coated Sn4P3 nanosphere with a core-shell structure, employing dopamine as the nitrogen source. This innovative approach, utilizing template removal and solid-phase phosphorization, results in both the core and shell acting as active materials, thereby enhancing the volumetric energy density of the electrode. The internal voids within the shell layer mitigate volume expansion during charge-discharge cycles, while the presence of the nitrogen-doped carbon layer maintains the material's stability throughout cycling and improves its electrical conductivity. Electrochemical performance tests confirm the outstanding energy storage capability of this material, with an initial Coulombic efficiency reaching up to 73.6 %. Furthermore, it maintains a stable capacity of 585 mAh g^-1 after 1200 cycles at a current density of 2 A g^-1. This research offers a design paradigm for the development of novel energy storage materials.

Eco-friendly sugarcane biochar filler for enhanced mechanical properties in S-glass/polyester hybrid composites

In the pursuit of sustainable materials for composite fabrication, this study investigates the utilization of eco-friendly sugarcane biochar as a filler to enhance the mechanical properties of S-Glass/polyester hybrid composites. The incorporation of sugarcane biochar aims to mitigate environmental concerns associated with conventional fillers while simultaneously improving composite performance. Two techniques were utilized in the fabrication composites such as hand layup and vacuum bagging methods. Composite was fabricated with varying weight percentage of sugarcane biochar concentrations such as 5, 10, and 15 wt%. The mechanical behaviour of the composites was assessed through tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness tests. It is noted that the composites that comprised sugarcane biochar at concentrations as high as 10 wt% demonstrated the highest mechanical strength and performance. The maximum tensile strength of 119 MPa, flexural strength of 154 MPa and impact strength of 45 MPa was noted on the 10 wt% biochar composite. The findings underscore the effectiveness of sugarcane biochar as a filler in improving the mechanical behaviour of S-Glass/polyester hybrid composites. The successful integration of sugarcane biochar not only contributes to the development of sustainable composite materials but also highlights its potential to achieve superior mechanical performance.

Towards sustainable solar cells: unveiling the latest developments in bio-nano materials for enhanced DSSC efficiency

Abstract Fossil fuels—instrumental in powering the nineteenth-century Industrial Revolution—are now under heightened scrutiny due to environmental concerns and carbon emissions. Consequently, there is a global impetus towards achieving carbon-neutral energy production, with solar energy emerging as a cornerstone in this transition. Over the past three decades, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have gained increasing prominence due to their unique advantages. This review elucidates several crucial elements essential to DSSC construction, notably bio-nano materials, prized for their structural flexibility, cost-effectiveness and high molar absorption coefficient. It delves into the intricate relationship between molecular structure and DSSC performance, showcasing significant advancements with light-to-power conversion efficiencies reaching 11%. A comprehensive analysis of the photovoltaic performance of DSSCs utilizing bio-nano-based dyes offers invaluable insights into the state of this rapidly evolving industry. Key components under scrutiny include transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layers, physical techniques for metal oxide deposition onto TCO thin films, diverse dye variants and foundational knowledge of components ripe for growth and enhancement. Moreover, the review outlines the latest breakthroughs in the field, providing glimpses into the current status of prototype DSSCs.

Effect of Cold‐Rolling Deformation on Texture Evolution and Tensile Properties of Titanium Foil for Hydrogen Fuel Cell

Preparation of a titanium foil with weak anisotropy is of great significance for the development of bipolar plate materials for hydrogen fuel cell. However, the titanium foil obtained by rolling deformation often suffer from a severe deformation anisotropy due to the formation of a specific texture feature. In this study, the texture feature of pure titanium foil with different cold‐rolling reduction is characterized by electron back‐scattered diffraction (EBSD), and the effect of cold‐rolling deformation on texture evolution and tensile properties of titanium hfoil are systematically investigated. The results show that the cold‐rolling reduction could significantly affect the tensile anisotropy of titanium foil by regulating the texture characteristics. At the low level of cold‐rolling reductions (0%–30%), the texture of titanium foil is mainly pyramid texture, causing the obvious tensile anisotropy. At the medium level of cold‐rolling reductions (50%), strong basal‐plane texture components are appeared, causing that the activated slip system along transverse direction (TD) or normal direction (ND) is almost the same, and thus the tensile anisotropy gradually diminishes. At the high level of cold‐rolling reductions (70%), the intensity of basal‐plane texture becomes weak, and the tensile anisotropy appears in titanium foil again. The findings could provide theoretical guidance and technical support for the preparation of weak anisotropic titanium foil for hydrogen fuel cell.