Matrix Composite Materials Research Articles

Grafting Carbon Dots on Persistent Luminescence Phosphors to Generate Remarkably Improved NIR Afterglow for Microenvironment Fluorescence Detection

AbstractRecently, combining long afterglow materials with organic fluorescent dyes, particularly carbon dots (CDs) to produce heterojunction and improve its luminescence and persistence properties became an important research direction. However, the precise role of these internal defects in the energy transfer process of CD@inorganic matrix composite fluorescent materials has not been thoroughly discussed. Establishing matching trap level to promote the energy transfer between the trap level and CDs level not only helps to enhance the afterglow performance, but also can explain the heterogeneous structure interaction between organic–inorganic fluorescent materials. Herein, ZLAGC@CDs luminescent composite is successfully synthesized via coating CDs on Zn1‐x(Li/Al)xGa2xO4:0.005Cr3+ (ZLAGC, x = 0–1), which exhibits a unique double emission at ≈430 nm (the defect luminescence of CDs) and 718 nm (the 2E→4A2 transition of Cr3+). After coating, the energy transfer from the defect level of CDs to the excited state of Cr3+ enhanced the NIR emission. The electron transfer between the defect level of CDs and the split deeper trap level of ZLAGC also improved the visible and near‐infrared (NIR) afterglow. The fluorescence and afterglow signals of ZLAGC@CDs are highly sensitive to solution pH under acidic conditions, indicating that the prepared fluorescent composite has potential application in acid microenvironment fluorescence detection.

Synergistic effect of different high-performance fibers on the microstructural evolution and mechanical performance of novel hybrid metal matrix composites produced via friction stir processing for automotive applications

The present study aims to produce novel hybrid metal matrix composite (HMMC’s) material using a mixture of reinforcement (basalt, E-glass, and carbon fibers) in long, chopped, and flakes form via Friction Stir Processing (FSP) techniques. Subsequently, the effect of hybrid reinforcement on microstructural evolutions, mechanical performance, and the fracture mechanism of HMMC’s was investigated. The results demonstrated that hybrid reinforcement synergistically enhanced the tensile, flexural, and impact performance of FSPed HMMC’s compared to monolithic composites (non-hybrid) and received base metal (BM). The long fiber-reinforced hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HL) show a ~156% increment in tensile strength and ~196% increment in impact strength, while flakes-reinforced hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (HF) show a ~101% increment in flexural strength compared to the BM. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis demonstrated a homogeneous dispersion of reinforcement and an excellent interfacial bonding of fibers with the aluminum matrix in the fabricated composites. The validation of element distribution and composition within the composites was confirmed using FESEM elemental mapping and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) spectrum.

Investigation of the film cooling performance of ceramic matrix composites plate with different braided structures

The ceramic matrix composite (CMC) materials have been gradually applied in the high temperature components, due to its excellent heat resistance and mechanical performance. The CMC component still need cooling to protect its safe operation in the high temperature environment of aero engine, such as film cooling structure. This study focuses on the influence of braided structure on the film cooling effect over a three-dimensional braided CMC plate. The full-size calculation model reflecting the internal mesoscale structure of CMC plate was established. The thermal properties of fibers and matrix are also introduced in mesoscale. The geometric parameter which is braided angle of braided structure is changed in different models, to analyze its impacts on the comprehensive film cooling effect. The results show that the fiber bundles inside the CMC plate are the main heat transfer channel, due to its relatively higher thermal conductivity. The different braided angles affect the anisotropic thermal conductivity of CMC on the three main directions. There exists an optimal braided angle near 40° that maximizes the heat dissipation effect in the region near the film cooling holes. While in the downstream region away from holes, the influence of braided angle is weak.

Enhancing the cell viability and antibacterial properties of alginate-based composite layer by adding active particulates

Because of their exceptional biological, mechanical, and structural capabilities, polymer matrix composite materials are immensely appealing in the biomedical industry, particularly for surface activation of metallic implants and tissue engineering. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of adding 5% active metallic particles (Mg particles and Ag nanoparticles) to an alginate matrix on cell survival (fibroblast MG-36 cells), antibacterial activity, surface texture, roughness, and wettability. The incorporation of 5% Mg particles and Ag nanoparticles in polymeric matrix employed composite material with outstanding properties. The adding of Mg and Ag particles boosted wettability by decreasing the contact angle from 56.83° to 0°. The activity of Candida albicans and Porphyromanoas gingivalis was significantly reduced, particularly with Ag nanoparticles, which fight bacteria by blocking cell development and improving the antimicrobial properties of composite materials. The use of Ag nanoparticles to strengthen alginate resulted in higher fibroblast proliferation for MG-63 cell at the outer layer, which resulted in superior cell viability (24, 48, and 72). Meanwhile, due to Mg's high activity, the reverse effect was found when Mg particles were used, making the composite surface more active (enriched with Mg ions).

Sustainability in the Manufacturing of Eco-Friendly Aluminum Matrix Composite Materials

The purpose of this work was to consolidate the eco-friendly Al–SiC composites prepared with various weight fractions of ceramic particles (0; 2.5; 5; 10; 15 wt.% SiC) in the energy-saving sintering process under vacuum and in a nitrogen atmosphere at 600 °C. The density of the manufactured composites was determined using Archimedes’ method. The mechanical properties and strength characteristics of the metal–ceramic interface were measured using three-point flexural and uniaxial compression tests, as well as the Brinell hardness measurement. The tribological properties were evaluated by determining the coefficients of friction and weight losses of the tested materials and identifying the tribological wear mechanisms. Advanced microstructural observation methods, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), were used to analyze the microstructure of the composites in detail, including the identification of the phase composition using X-ray analysis methods. Low-cost composites with a porosity not exceeding 7% were successfully produced via energy-saving production routes. Simultaneously, owing to the formation of aluminum nitrides during sintering in a nitrogen atmosphere, these composites exhibited mechanical and tribological properties superior to those of materials sintered under vacuum.

Enhancing mechanical properties of selective-laser-melting TiN/AISI 420 composites through Taguchi GRA and PCA multi-response optimization

The enhancement of mechanical properties in martensitic AISI 420 stainless steel is realized through the incorporation of TiN ceramic particles using the selective laser melting (SLM) method. This study introduces an innovative hybrid mixing method designed to uniformly disperse TiN within the AISI 420 matrix, ensuring the absence of agglomerations and contaminations in the feedstock for the SLM process. Employing a combined approach involving the Taguchi method, Grey Relational Analysis, and Principle Component Analysis, optimal processing parameters and TiN content are identified, encompassing a laser power of 350 W, laser speed of 370 mm/s, hatch distance of 0.07 mm, layer thickness of 0.05 mm, and one percent by weight of TiN particles. The optimized SLM sample showcases exceptional characteristics with a hardness of 743 ± 20 HV, tensile strength of 1822 ± 21 MPa, and a modulus of toughness of 99.7 ± 3.0 J/m3, surpassing existing results. Introducing TiN particles into the AISI 420 matrix with suitable SLM processing parameters induces significant microstructural alterations, reinforcing the matrix and elevating the mechanical properties. These results mark a substantial advancement in metal matrix composite materials by applying cutting-edge manufacturing techniques.

Computational and Experimental Analysis of Surface Residual Stresses in Polymers via Micro-Milling.

This research conducts an in-depth investigation into the residual stresses in resin micro-milling processes. Considering that resin is the most crucial matrix material in composites, the construction of a precise machining theory for it is not only key to achieving high-quality- and efficient processing of composite materials but also fundamental to enhancing the overall performance of the materials. This paper meticulously examines the surface integrity and accuracy of epoxy polymers following precision machining, primarily revealing the significance of residual stresses and size effects in extending the lifespan of precision components and promoting their miniaturization. We have adopted an innovative finite element (FE) simulation method, integrated with the Mulliken-Boyce constitutive model, to profoundly analyze the impacts of residual stresses on the surfaces and sub-surfaces of thermosetting polymers. This research further explores the influence of critical machining parameters such as chip thickness, cutting edge radius, feed per tooth, and axial depth on cutting forces, as well as the inherent size effects in polymers. Utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD) technology, we accurately measured the residual stresses generated during the micro-milling process. The close correlation between FE simulations and experimental results validates the accuracy and effectiveness of our method. This study represents a substantial breakthrough in finite element simulation techniques for high-precision machining of polymer materials, injecting valuable theoretical and practical knowledge into the field.

Erimiş Filament Üretim Yöntemi ile Üretilen Kompozit Yapılarda Yöne Bağlı Yüzey Özelliklerinin İncelenmesi ve İyileştirilmesi

Additive manufacturing methods, which have begun to be used in final product production beyond producing prototypes, are popular research topics today. The Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) method, which has a wider usage area and user base, is the most well-known among these methods. The method in which the polymer is extruded in layers has advantages such as design freedom and topology optimization, as well as disadvantages such as surface roughness and low production speed. The number of materials that can be used in the FFF method is diversifying day by day, and polymeric composites can also be produced beyond pure polymers. The use of engineering polymers such as polyamide in this production method creates many new opportunities. In addition, the start of production of short fiber reinforced polymeric composites has paved the way to produce high-performance final products. In this study, the effects of parameters such as layer thickness and printing orientation on the surface roughness of samples produced using polyamide and short carbon fiber reinforced polymer matrix composite materials were examined. Chemical surface treatment was applied to the surfaces of 3D-printed samples to improve surface roughness. It was concluded that the increase in layer thickness increases the surface roughness, the -/+45 filling orientation creates higher roughness than the 0 and 90 orientations, and the surface quality can be increased by chemical surface modification.

Multiscale numerical modeling of large-format additive manufacturing processes using carbon fiber reinforced polymer for digital twin applications

Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) has gained prominence in the aerospace and automotive industries, where topology optimization has become crucial. LFAM facilitates the layer-by-layer production of sizeable industrial components in carbon fiber (CF) reinforced polymers, however 3D printing at large scales results in warpage generation. Printed components are deformed as residual stresses generated due to thermal gradients between adjacent layers. This paper tackles the problem at two different scales: the micro and macroscale. Initially, the microstructure characterization of the thermoplastic ABS matrix composite material enriched with 20% short CF is used in the development of numerical models to understand the mechanical behavior of the studied material. Numerical modeling is performed simultaneously by means of Mean-Field (MF) homogenization methods and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Outcomes validated with corrected experimental mechanical testing results show a discrepancy in the elastic modulus of 7.8% with respect to FE multi-layer analysis. Micro-level results are coupled with the a macroscopic approach to reproduce the LFAM process, demonstrating the feasibility of the tool in the development of a Digital Twin (DT).

Progress in preparation, processing, and application of high dielectric polypropylene matrix composite materials

AbstractCurrently, in the era of highly advanced information technology, dielectric materials exhibit extensive potential applications in the realms of energy storage and information transmission. Polypropylene stands as one of the most prevalent plastics, lauded for its exceptional mechanical, thermal, electrical, and processing attributes. This article expounds upon the intricate essence and energy storage principles underpinning dielectric materials while pinpointing the areas in which the current dielectric materials necessitate enhancements. It further delves into the study's selection of polypropylene as the base material, with a focus on the impact of individual fillers (ferroelectric ceramics, carbon materials, etc.) and mixed filler nanoparticles on augmenting the dielectric properties of polypropylene. We also delve into pertinent fabrication techniques and methodologies, such as the solution blending method, melt blending method, and in situ polymerization method. In the context of existing polypropylene‐based composite dielectric materials, this article introduces two quintessential applications: insulation materials for direct current cables and metal capacitor films. Finally, it concludes by summarizing the obstacles and challenges that high‐performance polypropylene‐based dielectric composites confront and offers insights into potential avenues for future research.

Fabrication of lidocaine-loaded polymer dissolving microneedles for rapid and prolonged local anesthesia.

There is an urgent need for research into effective interventions for pain management to improve patients' life quality. Traditional needle and syringe injection were used to administer the local anesthesia. However, it causes various discomforts, ranging from brief stings to trypanophobia and denial of medical operations. In this study, a dissolving microneedles (MNs) system made of composite matrix materials of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and sodium hyaluronate (HA) was successfully developed for the loading of lidocaine hydrochloride (LidH). The morphology, size and mechanical properties of the MNs were also investigated. After the insertion of MNs into the skin, the matrix at the tip of the MNs was swelled and dissolved by absorption of interstitial fluid, leading to a rapid release of loaded LidH from MNs' tips. And the LidH in the back patching was diffused into deeper skin tissue through microchannels created by MNs insertion, forming a prolonged anesthesia effect. In addition, the back patching of MNs could be acted as a drug reservoir to form a prolonged local anesthesia effect. The results showed that LidH MNs provided a superior analgesia up to 8h, exhibiting a rapid and long-lasting analgesic effects. Additionally, tissue sectioning and in vitro cytotoxicity tests indicated that the MNs patch we developed had a favorable biosafety profile.

Integrated computational modeling of large format additive manufacturing: Developing a digital twin for material extrusion with carbon fiber-reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

Material extrusion (MEX) continues to be a pivotal additive manufacturing (AM) process, involving the selective heating and layer-by-layer deposition of material. However, conventional finite-element models (finite-element analysis) face limitations in accurately simulating the MEX process, highlighting the need for experimental validation. This paper highlights an advanced material modeling technology that streamlines the development of composite parts using large format AM (LFAM). It specifically focuses on a thermoplastic acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) matrix composite material enriched with 20% short carbon fibers. The study employs integrated computational materials engineering, integrating (i) the manufacturing process, (ii) the material’s microstructure, (iii) homogenization techniques, and (iv) the performance of the final part. The development of a digital twin for pellet extrusion is proposed, emphasizing the importance of micro-structure characterization to account for warpage and residual stresses that lead to part distortion. The demonstrator manufactured for this study is a wind turbine mold of a blade section. Experimental tests revealed an elastic modulus of 5.5 GPa and a hardening modulus of 2.4 GPa for the composite. The numerical microscopic model showed a 16% error in the elastic modulus compared to experimental results. The study concludes that the homogenization techniques are effective in predicting the elastic properties but lack accuracy in the plastic region. The application of the model to the LFAM process of pellet extrusion is demonstrated, with simulation results showing a maximum deformation close to the center of the wind turbine blade mold.

EVOLUTION OF THE MICROSTRUCTURE AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF AL-B COMPOSITE WITH THE ULTRAFINE-GRAINED ALUMINUM MATRIX

The paper examines the microstructural evolution of alloy 1565ch of the Al-Mg-Mn-Zn-Zr system during thermomechanical treatment, including severe plastic deformation by high-pressure torsion or equal channel angular pressing according to the conform scheme and subsequent isothermal rolling at 200°C. Formation of the nanostructured and ultrafine-grained states in alloy 1565ch with the controlled distribution of Al3Mg2, Al6Mn and Al3Zr phases both inside grains and at their boundaries allows for the superplastic effect at the temperatures 250 and 300°C and strain rates 5 × 10-2, 10-2, and 5 × 10-3 s-1. Microstructural analysis by transmission electron microscopy shows that superplastic deformation at the temperatures 250 and 300°C allows a homogeneous ultrafine-grained state to be preserved. The studied ultrafine-grained aluminum alloy 1565ch has a high strength and the ability to relieve stresses, and therefore it can be favorably used as the matrix material in composites reinforced with continuous boron fibers. In the paper, we use this alloy to study special features of production of a multilayer metal matrix composite according to the foil-fiber-foil scheme by isothermal pressing in the low-temperature superplastic mode. This method has a positive effect on the mechanical properties of the composite, such as ultimate strength at 200°C, impact strength at room temperature, and fracture toughness at room temperature.

Estimation of the temperature of the ductile-brittle transition of aluminum matrix composite materials at negative temperatures using classification of acoustic emission signal pulses

The results of experiments on assessing the mechanical properties, in particular the temperature of the ductilebrittle transition of aluminum matrix composite materials at negative temperatures using the classification of acoustic emission signal pulses, are presented. It is established that this transition is absent at temperatures down to –100 °C and, therefore, it is possible to use aluminum matrix composite materials for the manufacture of suspension elements for equipment operating in Arctic and Antarctic conditions. Keywords aluminum matrix composite materials, mechanical properties, temperature, ductile-brittle transition

Covalent-assisted seeding of Si nanoparticles into a dual-matrix design toward advanced Si-based Li-ion batteries

This study presents an innovative method for covalently embedding Si nanoparticles within a Sn/SiOC dual-matrix, demonstrating robust adhesion and low electrode resistance. This approach provides valuable insights for design of Si-based composites.

Sustainable Nanotechnology in Stir-Cast Al Composites: Mechanical Performance in Energy Applications

The integration of sustainable nanotechnology into aluminum composites offers significant potential for enhancing mechanical and tribological properties, particularly in energy-related applications. Aluminium alloys are extensively utilised in the aerospace and automotive industries. Due to its low density, superior mechanical characteristics, improved resistance to corrosion and wear, and lower thermal coefficient of expansion as compared to other metals and alloys, From a scientific and technological point of view, these materials are highly interesting applicants for a range of applications due to their good mechanical qualities and relatively low cost of manufacturing. Combining the advantageous qualities of metals and ceramics is the goal of producing metal matrix composite materials. The current research focuses on examining the behaviour of an aluminum cast alloy with a composite made of molybdenum disulphate using the stir casting method. Specimen obtained by the stir casting method were subjected to wear tests and hardness tests. The resultant composites demonstrated improved hardness and wear behavior, making them highly suitable for applications in energy sectors. This research emphasizes the role of sustainable nanotechnology in advancing aluminum-based materials for energy applications, contributing to both performance efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Thermochemical recycling of epoxy matrix composite materials with Diels-Alder bonds

Thermochemical recycling of epoxy matrix composite materials with Diels-Alder bonds

Сравнительный анализ термоупругих характеристик керамоматричных композиционных материалов, определенных по различным модельным представлениям структурно фазового состава матричного материала

A comparative analysis of thermoelastic characteristics of ceramic matrix composite materials (CMC) obtained by liquid and gas phase technologies, reinforced with two types of carbon fibers (CF), is carried out based on different model structural phase composition of the obtained matrix material. It is noted that when implementing the liquid phase siliconizing and using high modulus carbon fibers with high negative values of the absolute value of the coefficients of linear thermal expansion (CLTE), a simplified model of the matrix material consisting of only one SiC phase can be correctly used. When implementing PIP and CVI technologies, CMC with low modulus CF and CF with low negative CLTE values show the greatest sensitivity to an increase in matrix porosity. For CMC based on CF T800, the change in the longitudinal CLTE was about 66% with a porosity of 20%. An increase in porosity leads to a decrease in all elastic characteristics of the CMC, to the greatest extent for the transverse modulus of elasticity and the shear modulus.

Effects of Diamond Content on the Thermal Conductivity of Copper Matrix Composite Materials Prepared by Cold Spraying

With the increasing demand for rapid heat transfer in electronic packaging materials, quickly transferring the large amount of heat generated is an urgent problem that needs to be solved in current electronic information manufacturing. Diamond is added to copper based composite materials to further improve the thermal conductivity of electronic packaging materials. In this paper, copper matrix composite materials were selected as the research object, and the effects of diamond content on the microstructure and thermal conductivity were systematically investigated. As the content of copper plated diamond in the mixed powder increases, the proportion of copper plated diamond in copper based composite materials gradually increases, but the deposited copper plated diamond exhibits fragmentation phenomenon. Increasing the content of copper plated diamond leads to a rapid decrease in thermal conductivity, and subsequent process optimization and heat treatment are needed to unleash the thermal conductivity of diamond.

Property Changes of Chopped Glass Fiber‐Reinforced Sheet Molding Compound Composite in Acid‐Base Environment

To investigate the influence of acid‐base environments on the properties of chopped fiber‐reinforced resin matrix composites, corresponding unsealed specimens were prepared. These specimens were immersed in sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid solution, and deionized water for varying durations, after which their mechanical properties and surface hardness were tested. Changes in chemical composition, as well as alterations in fiber and resin matrix, were observed from a microscopic perspective. The results indicate that fracture at the fiber/matrix interface and hydrolysis aging of the matrix are the primary reasons for degradation in the mechanical properties of the composite. After 28 days of immersion, the hardness retention rates were found to be 54.34%, 75.96%, and 74.15% for deionized water, NaOH solution, and HCl solution, respectively. Similarly, the retention rates of tensile strength were 56.99%, 51.97%, and 58.32%, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights for the application of chopped fiber‐reinforced vinyl ester resin matrix composite materials in equipment designed in acid‐base environments.