Mechanical Stability Research Articles

Poly(aryl piperidinium)‐Based AEMs Utilizing Spirobifluorene as a Branching Agent

AbstractThe high‐performance anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are developed by incorporating 9,9′‐spirobifluorene as a 3D branching agent, addressing the common trade‐off between ion conductivity and dimensional/mechanical stability. By fine‐tuning the ratio of terphenyl to biphenyl and the amount of the branching agent, the AEM is refined, achieving high conductivity (≈190 mS cm−1 at 80 °C in 1 m KOH) with decent dimensional/mechanical properties, comparable to the recently reported state‐of‐the‐art membranes. Investigations using gas pycnometer and atomic force microscopy demonstrated that spirobifluorene enhances the fractional free volume around the membrane's backbone and more precisely modulates the separation between hydrophobic and hydrophilic domains, thus boosting both ion conductivity and mechanical stability. This membrane also displayed excellent chemical stability, with negligible degradation at 80 °C in 1 m KOH over 1,000 h. With such a membrane, an excellent cell performance is achieved, with a current density of 11.2 A cm−2 at 80 °C and 2 V in 1 m KOH, and 1.8 A cm−2 at 80 °C and 2 V in pure water conditions. The in situ membrane stability test, conducted at a constant current density of 1 A cm−2 for 500 h, showed no significant degradation.

Generative Design of Inorganic Compounds Using Deep Diffusion Language Models.

Due to the vast chemical space, discovering materials with a specific function is challenging. Chemical formulas are obligated to conform to a set of exacting criteria, such as charge neutrality, balanced electronegativity, synthesizability, and mechanical stability. In response to this formidable task, we introduce a deep-learning-based generative model for material composition and structure design by learning and exploiting explicit and implicit chemical knowledge. Our pipeline first uses deep diffusion language models as the generator of compositions and then applies a template-based crystal structure prediction algorithm to predict their corresponding structures, which is then followed by structure relaxation using a universal graph neural network-based potential. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations of the formation energies and energy-above-the-hull analysis are used to validate new structures generated through our pipeline. Based on the DFT calculation results, six new materials, including Ti2HfO5, TaNbP, YMoN2, TaReO4, HfTiO2, and HfMnO2, with formation energy less than zero have been found. Remarkably, among these, four materials, namely, Ti2HfO5, TaNbP, YMoN2, and TaReO4, exhibit an e-above-hull energy of less than 0.3 eV. These findings have proved the effectiveness of our approach.

Controllable self-cleaning FET self-assembled RNA-cleaving DNAzyme based DNA nanotree for culture-free Staphylococcus aureus detection

Staphylococcus aureus (SA) poses a serious risk to human and animal health, necessitating a low-cost and high-performance analytical platform for point-of-care diagnostics. Cellulose paper-based field-effect transistors (FETs) with RNA-cleaving DNAzymes (RCDs) can fulfill the low-cost requirements, however, its high hydrophilicity and lipophilicity hinder biochemical modification and result in low sensitivity, poor mechanical stability and poor fouling performance. Herein, we proposed a controllable self-cleaning FET to simplify biochemical modification and improve mechanical stability and antifouling performance. Then, we constructed an RCD-based DNA nanotree to significantly enhance the sensitivity for SA detection. For controllable self-cleaning FET, 1 H,1 H,2 H,2 H-perfluorodecyltrimethoxysilane based-polymeric nanoparticles were synthesized to decorate cellulose paper and whole carbon nanofilm wires. O2 plasma was applied to regulate to reduce fluorocarbon chain density, and then control the hydrophobic-oleophobic property in sensitive areas. Because negatively charged DNA affected the sensitivity of semiconducting FETs, three Y-shaped branches with low-cost were designed and applied to synthesize an RCD-based DNA-Nanotree based on similar DNA-origami technology, which further improved the sensitivity. The trunk of DNA-Nanotree was composed of RCD, and the canopy was self-assembled using multiple Y-shaped branches. The controllable self-cleaning FET biosensor was applied for SA detection without cultivation, which had a wide linear range from 1 to 105 CFU/mL and could detect a low value of 1 CFU/mL.

Mechanical, Thermal Properties, and Extreme Phase Stability of High-Entropy Diborides (V0.2Nb0.2Ta0.2Cr0.2W0.2)B2.

High-entropy diborides (HEDBs) have gained significant attention in industrial applications due to their vast composition space and tunable properties. We propose a solid solution reaction at high temperatures and pressures that successfully synthesized and sintered a novel, dense, and phase-pure HEDB (V0.2Nb0.2Ta0.2Cr0.2W0.2)B2. A high asymptotic Vickers hardness of 26.3 ± 0.6 GPa and a bulk modulus of 320.5 ± 10.6 GPa were obtained. Additionally, we investigated the thermal oxidation process using TG-DSC from room temperature to 1500 °C and explored the phase stability of HEDBs under high-pressure conditions through in situ high-pressure synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction. We analyzed the formation of lattice distortion, chemical bonding, and band structure in (V0.2Nb0.2Ta0.2Cr0.2W0.2)B2 using first-principles calculations. Surprisingly, we found that the predominant distortion in diborides occurs in the boron layer, supported by ELF. This may be due to uneven electron transfer rather than a straightforward correlation with the atomic radius. These results provide a novel synthesis process and additional experimental data on the mechanical and thermal properties and high-pressure phase stability of HEDBs. Our study offers further insights into the microscopic structure of lattice distortion in HEDBs, which could prove crucial for the selection and design of engineering advanced HEDBs.

Initiator‐Free Synthesis of Semi‐Interpenetrating Polymer Networks via Bergman Cyclization

AbstractSemi‐interpenetrating polymer networks (semi‐IPNs), composed of two or more polymers, forming intertwined network‐architectures, represent a significant type of polymer combination in modern industry, especially in automotive and medical devices. Diverse synthesis techniques and plentiful raw materials highlight semi‐IPNs in providing facile modifications of properties to meet specific needs. An initiator‐free synthesis of semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks via Bergman cyclization (BC) is reported here, acting as a trigger to embed a second polymer via its reactive enediyne (EDY) moiety, then embedded into the first network. (Z)‐oct‐4‐ene‐2,6‐diyne‐1,8‐diol (diol‐EDY) is targeted as the precursor of the second polymer, swollen into the first polyurethane network (PU), followed by a radical polymerization induced by the radicals formed by the BC. The formation of the semi‐IPN is monitored via electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, infrared‐spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and thermal methods (DSC), proving the activation of the EDY‐moiety and its subsequent polymerization to form the second polymer. Stress−strain characterization and cyclic stress−strain investigations, together with TGA and DTG analysis, illustrate improved mechanical properties and thermal stability of the formed semi‐IPN compared to the initial PU‐network. The method presented here is a novel and broadly applicable approach to generate semi‐IPNs, triggered by the EDY‐activation via Bergman cyclization.

First principles insight into the study of the structural, stability, and optoelectronic properties of alkali-based single halide perovskite ZSnCl3 (Z = Na/K) materials for photovoltaic applications.

Metal halide perovskites are crystalline materials with a sharp increase in popularity and rapidly becoming a major contender for optoelectronic device applications. In this work, we provide the optoelectronic features of a possible novel candidate, ZSnCl3 (Z = Na/K) Sn-based on a detailed numerical simulation. The output of the current computations is compared to the results that are currently available, and a respectable agreement is noted. The studied compounds were cubic in nature and structurally stabe. The mechanical properties reflectthe mechanical stability and ductility of the proposed materials. The Sn-based single perovskite compounds proposed in this study are mechanically stable and ductile. The narrow direct band gap for NaSnCl3 and KSnCl3 are 1.36 eV and 1.47 eV, respectively, using the HSE06 hybrid function with the Boltztrp2 integrated in Quantum ESPRESSO (QE) software. The effective use of these compounds in perovskite solar cells and other optoelectronic applications was confirmed by optical absorption spectral measurements conducted in the photon energy range of 0-20 eV.

Stimuli-Responsive Release-Active Dressing: A Promising Solution for Eradicating Biofilm-Mediated Wound Infections.

Biofilm-mediated wound infections pose a significant challenge due to the limitations of conventional antibiotics, which often exhibit narrow-spectrum activity, fail to eliminate recurrent bacterial contamination, and are unable to penetrate the biofilm matrix. While the search for alternatives has explored the use of metal nanoparticles and synthetic biocides, these solutions often suffer from unintended toxicity to surrounding tissues and lack controlled administration and release. In this study, we engineered a pH-responsive release-active dressing film based on carboxymethyl cellulose, incorporating a synthetic antibacterial molecule (SAM-17). The dressing film exhibited optimal mechanical stability for easy application and demonstrated excellent fluid absorption properties, allowing for prolonged moisturization at the site of injury. The film exhibited pH-dependent release of cargo, with 78% release within 24 h at acidic pH, enabling targeted antibacterial drug delivery within the wound microenvironment. Furthermore, the release-active film effectively eliminated repeated challenges of bacterial contamination. Remarkably, the film demonstrated a minimal toxicity profile in both in vitro and in vivo models. The film eliminated preformed bacterial biofilms, achieving a reduction of 2.5 log against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and 4.1 log against vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA). In a biofilm-mediated MRSA wound infection model, this release-active film eradicated the biofilm-embedded bacteria by over 99%, resulting in accelerated wound healing. These findings highlight the potential of this film as an effective candidate for tackling biofilm-associated wound infections.

Considerations on the Design, Printability and Usability of Customized 3D-Printed Upper Limb Orthoses

This paper investigated the feasibility of using 3D printing processes, specifically material extrusion (MEX) and vat photopolymerization (DLP—Digital Light Processing), to produce customized wrist–hand orthoses. Design, printability, and usability aspects were addressed. It was found that minimizing printing time for orthoses with intricate shapes, ventilation pockets, and minimal thickness is difficult. The influence of build orientation and process parameters, such as infill density, pattern, layer thickness, and wall thickness, on printing time for ten parameter configurations of orthoses in both ready-to-use and flat thermoformed shapes was examined. The findings revealed that the optimized orientations suggested by Meshmixer and Cura (Auto-orient option) did not reliably yield reduced printing times for each analyzed orthoses. The shortest printing time was achieved with a horizontal orientation (for orthoses manufactured in their ready-to-use form, starting from 3D scanning upper limb data) at the expense of surface quality in contact with the hand. For tall and thin orthoses, 100% infill density is recommended to ensure mechanical stability and layer fill, with caution required when reducing the support volume. Flat and thermoformed orthoses had the shortest printing times and could be produced with lower infill densities without defects. For the same design, the shortest printing time for an orthosis 3D-printed in its ready-to-use form was 8 h and 24 min at 60% infill, while the same orthosis produced as flat took 4 h and 37 min for the MEX process and half of this time for DLP. Usability criteria, including perceived immobilization strength, aesthetics, comfort, and weight, were evaluated for seven orthoses. Two healthy users, with previous experience with traditional plaster splints, tested the orthoses and expressed satisfaction with the 3D-printed designs. While the Voronoi design of DLP orthoses was visually more appealing, it was perceived as less stiff compared to those produced by MEX.

Altering Mechanical and Dissolution Properties of Coffee Deposit by Adding Glucose.

Glucose modifies the mechanical stability of coffee films and facilitates their dissolution dynamics at the microscale, rendering glucose-coffee a valuable natural biomaterial system for studying pharmaceutical applications. We show the glucose-dependent inhibition of crack propagation during the evaporation of glucose-coffee droplets. The addition of glucose increases the hardness, stiffness, and shear modulus of films, as measured by surface nanomechanical testing. The glucose-coffee film dissolves faster and more evenly than the pure coffee film through interfaces. The water penetrates through well-dissolved glucose channels. The modified mechanical properties and adjustable dissolution time, coupled with edibility, position the glucose-modified coffee as an excellent candidate for developing pharmaceutical inks for personalized medicine droplet-based printing.

Chemical effect of alkaline-earth metals (Be, Mg, Ca) substitution of BFe2XH hydride perovskites for applications as hydrogen storage materials: A DFT perspective

This study investigated the effect of alkaline-earth metals (X = Be, Mg, Ca) substitution of BFe2XH perovskite materials and the potential applications for hydrogen storage utilizing density functional theory (DFT) approach at the GGA-PBE and the HSE06 methods. The mechanical properties of the studied systems demonstrate the mechanical stability of BFe2MgH, making it the most mechanically robust compound. While the Pugh ratio suggests that BFe2BeH was brittle, while BFe2CaH showed greater ductility, anisotropic factors confirm that all compounds are anisotropic, indicating directional dependence in their properties. The electronic band structure analysis using the HSE06 and the GGA-PBE suggests that the studied perovskites are metallic due to a calculated bandgap of zero. In terms of optical/optoelectronic properties, BFe2MgH exhibits the highest optical conductivity, absorption coefficient, and energy loss function, indicating its superior ability to absorb light and transfer electrons. For practical applications, the hydrogen storage capacity is assessed, with BFe2BeH showing the highest gravimetric and volumetric capacities. These promising results suggest the potential use of BFe2BeH as an efficient material for hydrogen storage.

Machine learning driven performance enhancement of perovskite solar cells with CNT as both hole transport layer and back contact

We propose a machine learning-based approach to enhance the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) using carbon nanotubes as both hole transport layer (HTL) and back contact. Carbon-based PSCs offer low fabrication costs, long-term mechanical stability, high charge transport, and broad wavelength transparency. Our study estimates and enhances power conversion efficiency (PCE) of carbon-based PSCs through machine learning. PSC with single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT)-based HTL and back contact is investigated in simulations using SCAPS-1D and achieved 14.24% PCE, closely aligning with experimental data. Additionally, we explore the impact of various easily tunable fabrication parameters, such as the band gap and electron affinity of SWCNT in HTL, HTL thickness, active layer thickness, electron transport layer (ETL) thickness, HTL dopant concentration, absorber defect density, and ETL dopant concentration, on PCE. We generate a dataset of 20,480 samples to train classical and neural network-based machine learning models to predict performance parameters of PSCs, including short-circuit current density (JSC), open-circuit voltage (VOC), fill factor (FF), and PCE (η). The current density vs. voltage (J-V) characteristics curve is well-fitted by the predicted JSC, VOC, and FF, as evidenced by an average root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.03 and a goodness of fit (R2) value of 0.99. The fully connected artificial neural network performs best, with RMSE of 0.05% and R2 of 0.99998 for predicting PCE. Genetic algorithm is used to optimize PCE, yielding a maximum PCE of 20.92%. Furthermore, an analysis of feature dimension and dataset size on prediction performance guides future modeling approaches.

Plate fixation of inferior ramus in pubis-ischium ramus improves mechanical stability in Tile B pelvic injures: a cadaveric biomechanical analysis and early clinical experience

BackgroundManagement of inferior ramus of the pubis-ischium ramus remains controversial, and related research is sparse. The main intention of this study is to describe the biomechanical and clinical outcomes of pubis-ischium ramus fractures in Tile B pelvic injuries and to identify the feasibility and necessity of fixation of the inferior ramus of the pubis-ischium ramus.MethodsThis study comprised two parts: a biomechanical test and a retrospective clinical study. For the biomechanical tests, Tile B-type pelvic injuries were modeled in six cadaver specimens by performing pubis-ischium osteotomies and disruption of the anterior and interosseous sacroiliac ligaments. The superior and/or inferior rami of the pubis-ischium ramus were repaired with reconstruction plates and separated into three groups (A, B, and C). Specimens were placed in the standing position and were loaded axially with two-leg support for three cycles at 500 N. The displacements of sacroiliac joints at osteotomy were measured with Vernier calipers and compared using statistical software. To investigate the clinical outcomes of this technique, 26 patients were retrospectively analyzed and divided into a superior ramus fixation group (Group D) and a combined superior and inferior ramus of the pubis-ischium ramus fixation group (Group E). The main outcome measures were time of operation, blood loss, postoperative radiographic reduction grading, and functional outcomes.ResultsIn the vertical loading test, Group E showed better pelvic ring stability than Group D (P < 0.05). However, the shift of the sacroiliac joints was almost identical among the three groups. In our clinical case series, all fractures in Group E achieved bony union. Group E demonstrated earlier weight-bearing functional exercise (2.54 ± 1.45 vs 4.77 ± 2.09; P = 0.004), earlier bony union (13.23 ± 2.89 vs 16.55 ± 3.11; P = 0.013), and better functional outcomes (89.77 ± 7.27 vs 82.38 ± 8.81; P = 0.028) than Group D. The incidence of sexual dysfunction was significantly lower in Group E than that in Group D (2/13 vs 7/13; P = 0.039). Bone nonunion occurred in two patients in Group D, and two patients in Group E had heterotopic ossification. None of the patients exhibited wound complications, infections, implant failures, or bone–implant interface failures.ConclusionsFixation of the inferior ramus of a pubis-ischium ramus fracture based on conventional fixation of the anterior pelvic ring is mechanically superior in cadaveric Tile B pelvic injury and shows rapid recovery, good functional outcomes, and low incidence of complications.

Pressure effect on the structural, electronic, mechanical, optical and thermal properties of Ga2TiX6 (X = Cl, Br): A DFT simulation

The pressure effect on the physical properties of Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br) has been carried out through density function theory (DFT) accomplished via CASTEP guidelines. At ambient condition the structural aspects of Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br) show well accord with the previous theoretical data. A dramatically decrease of lattice constants, cell volumes and bond length with pressure is perceived. The negative enthalpy energy ensured the chemical formation of Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br). The positive stiffness constants (Cij) ensure the mechanical stability of Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br) at ambient and hydrostatic pressure. Moreover, the fundamental polycrystalline factors of phases Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br) such as bulk, shear and Young’s moduli, Poisson’s and Pugh’s fraction, machinability index as well as hardness of these materials have been calculated and discussed at ambient and hydrostatic pressure. Having very low values of bulk modulus (<100 GPa) they can be considered as soft materials. The increase of machinable index with pressure ensure the high lubricating properties, low friction, and high plastic strain of Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br) and also ensure their possible industrial applications. Band structure analysis ensure the semiconducting nature of Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br) at ambient condition but the semiconducting nature shift to metallic manner at 55 GPa and 65 Gpa respectively. The decrease of total density of states is observed at high pressure. The creation of new bond at high pressure is also observed in materials Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br). The investigated optical features ensured that the studied phases can be used in UV photodiodes, and UV light emitters since they revel intense peaks at UV region. Very low Debye temperature, melting temperature and thermal conductivity are observed at ambient condition which ensures that the compounds Ga2TiX6(X = Cl, Br) can be used as thermal barrier coating materials (TBC).

Theoretical study of lead-free mixed-valence mixed-halide Au-based perovskites for optoelectronics

Inorganic mixed-valence Au-based perovskites have received considerable attention due to their nontoxic elements, good stability and superior properties. Hence it is of significant interest to explore more novel Au-based perovskite materials for solar cell applications. This study presents a detailed theoretical exploration on the structural features, thermodynamic and mechanical stability, optoelectronic characteristics, and photovoltaic performance of Cs2AuIAuIIICl6-xBrx, Cs2AuIAuIIICl6-xIx, and Cs2AuIAuIIIBr6-xIx (x = 2, 4) in comparison with that of Cs2AuIAuIIIX6 (X = Cl, Br, I). Through the comprehensive evaluation of thermodynamic and mechanical stability, Cs2AuIAuIIIX2Y4 (X2Y4Cl2Br4, Cl2I4, and Br2I4) is identified to be stable. The impact of anion substitution on the electronic characteristics of these mixed-halide Au-based perovskites is thoroughly disclosed. It is observed from band structure calculations that Cs2AuIAuIIIX4Y2 (X4Y2Cl4Br2, Cl4I2, and Br4I2) exhibits a lower direct-gap within 0.7–1.0 eV, while Cs2AuIAuIIIX2Y4 (X2Y4Cl2Br4, Cl2I4, and Br2I4) possesses an indirect-gap with ∼1.1 eV. The nonlinear band gap variation is disclosed and reasonably explained. Furthermore, Cs2AuIAuIIIX2Y4 displays strong dipole-allowed visible-light absorption. In addition, the simulated efficiency of Cs2AuIAuIIIX2Y4 is within ∼28–30 %, which is comparable to those of GaAs and CH3NH3PbI3. This theoretical exploration is helpful for developing more novel inorganic Au-based perovskites with desirable photovoltaic performance.

First-principles studies of the structural, mechanical, electronic, magnetic and transport properties of inner transition based RaMO3 perovskites (M = Cm, Bk)

In the quest for new materials, we introduce self-consistent ab initio simulations to investigate the structural and mechanical stability, electronic profile, and transport properties of f-electron-based RaMO3 (M = Cm, Bk) perovskites by employing density functional theory. The energy optimization indicates that these alloys exhibit stability in the ferromagnetic phase. The examination of mechanical parameters demonstrates the ductile nature of these materials. To elucidate the electronic structure of these alloys, we employed a combination of two approximations: Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA) and GGA + mBJ. Both approximations confirm the alloys’ half-metallic character. The magnetic moments calculated using both approximations were approximately 6 µB for RaCmO3 and approximately 7 µB for RaBkO3. The thermoelectric performance of these materials is evaluated by investigating different transport parameters such as the Seebeck coefficient, electrical and thermal conductivity and power factor. The comprehensive investigation of these two alloys has the potential to expand their applications in spintronics, thermoelectric devices, and radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs).

Study on mechanical behavior of inclined cemented tailings composite backfill (CTCB) under uniaxial compression

The goaf volume in the vacancy method of hard rock mines is significantly larger than the filling capacity, forming layered and inclined planes during the large-scale filling process. This results in unclear mechanical impact mechanisms on the backfill. To investigate the effect of interface inclination angle on the mechanical behavior of backfill, a set of cemented tailings composite backfill (CTCB) samples with interface inclination angles of 15°, 30°, and 45° are prepared. Uniaxial compression tests and digital image correlation techniques are used to investigate the influence of various interface inclination angles on the strength, deformation behavior, and failure mode of the CTCB. The results show that: (1) The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of the CTCB weakens with increasing interface inclination angle but consistently shows exponential growth with curing age (CA) regardless of the interface inclination angle. (2) The interface inclination angle controls the behavior and classification characteristics of the stress-strain curve of CTCB samples, and the increase of interface inclination angle weakens the elastic modulus. (3) The interface inclination angle significantly influences the failure mode and classification characteristics of the samples compared to CA and tailing-to-cement ratio (TCR), with shear slip failure induced by the former and axial splitting failure induced by the latter. The research provides a theoretical basis for understanding the mechanical behavior and stability control of inclined CTCB in underground mining.

Application of Strain Engineering in Solar Cells

Solar cells represent a promising innovation in energy storage, offering not only exceptional cleanliness and low cost but also a high degree of flexibility, rendering them widely applicable. In recent years, scientists have dedicated substantial efforts to enhancing the performance of solar cells, aiming to drive sustainable development and promote clean energy applications. One approach that has garnered significant attention is strain engineering, which involves the adjustment of material microstructure and organization through mechanical tensile or compressive strain, ultimately serving to enhance the mechanical properties and performance stability of materials. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the latest advancements in the application of strain engineering in solar cells, focused on the current hot research area—perovskite solar cells. Specifically, it delves into the origins and characterization of strain in solar cells, the impact of strain on solar cell performance, and the methods for regulating stable strain. Furthermore, it outlines strategies for enhancing the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability of solar cells through strain engineering. Finally, the paper conducts an analysis of the challenges encountered in the development process and presents a forward-looking perspective on further enhancing the performance of solar cells through strain engineering.

Green power solutions: Advancements in eco‐friendly cellulose‐derived composite battery separators—Material properties and processing techniques

AbstractBatteries play a crucial role in our daily lives, with separators being a key component influencing their functionality. The separators based on petrochemical for example polythene and polypropylene have been long favored for their chemical and thermal stability, their drawbacks in terms of sustainability, eco‐efficiency, and associated environmental risks are undeniable. In pursuit of sustainable development, there is a growing demand for biopolymer composite separators that offer a compelling combination of low cost, high mechanical and thermal stability, biodegradability, and renewability. Among these alternatives, cellulose‐derived separators have garnered significant attention from the scientific community. This review delivers a brief overview of cellulose's chemical structure, their types, delving into the intricate interplay of various electrodes and electrolytic solutions. The focus is then directed towards exploring diverse preparatory methods for cellulose‐derived separators, along with highlighting the promising factors associated with their adoption. Special attention is given to cellulose composite separators and the challenges they present.Highlights Cellulose‐based composite separators in LIB/SIB batteries are discussed. Preparatory methods for eco‐friendly cellulose‐derived composite battery separators. Prominent affecting factors of separator performance have been elaborated. Special attention to the challenges cellulose composite separators present.

Preparation and thermal insulation properties of lightweight high-strength polyimide aerogels containing benzoazole structures

Polyimide (PI) aerogels, serving as thermal insulation materials in extreme environments, stand out for their exceptional high temperature stability and superb thermal insulation properties, rendering them ideal for aerospace, transportation, and specialized equipment industries. However, conventionally synthesized PI aerogels suffer from significant drawbacks in mechanical properties and thermal stability, limiting their practical applications. To overcome this challenge, we successfully synthesized polyimide aerogels using biphenyl-3,3,4,4′-tetracarboxylic dianhydride (BPDA), 5-amino-2-(4-aminophenyl)benzimidazole (PABZ), and 5-amino-2-(4-aminophenyl)benzoxazole (APBO) followed by supercritical carbon dioxide drying. These synthesized PIs exhibit remarkable thermal stability, with high thermal weight loss temperatures (Td5 %=595–611℃) and high glass transition temperatures. Additionally, these novel PI aerogels demonstrate exceptional thermal insulation properties, high specific surface area, and extremely small pore size. Furthermore, boasting a low dielectric constant (ε=1.72), these newly developed PI aerogels offer along with excellent mechanical properties, holding substantial promise for applications in the forthcoming generation of advanced aerospace and specialized equipment materials.

Curcumin-shellac nanoparticle-loaded GelMA/SilMA hydrogel for colorectal cancer therapy

In this study, a novel approach was employed to develop a therapeutic system for colorectal cancer treatment. Specifically, a GelMA/SilMA hydrogel loaded with curcumin-shellac nanoparticles (Cur@Lac NPs) was created. A microfluidic swirl mixer was utilized to formulate stable Cur@Lac NPs, ensuring their consistent and effective encapsulation. The pH-specific release of curcumin from the NPs demonstrated their potential for colon cancer treatment. By carefully regulating the ratio of GelMA (gelatin methacrylate) and SilMA (silk fibroin methacrylate), a GelMA/SilMA dual network hydrogel was generated, offering controlled release and degradation capabilities. The incorporation of SilMA notably enhanced the mechanical properties of the dual network matrix, improving compression resistance and mitigating deformation. This mechanical improvement is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the hydrogel during in vivo applications. In comparison to the direct incubation of curcumin, the strategy of encapsulating curcumin into NPs and embedding them within the GelMA/SilMA hydrogel resulted in more controlled release mechanisms. This controlled release was achieved through the disintegration of the NPs and the swelling and degradation of the hydrogel matrix. The encapsulating strategy also demonstrated enhanced cellular uptake of curcumin, leveraging the advantages of both NPs and in-situ hydrogel injection. This combination ensures a more efficient and sustained delivery of the therapeutic agent directly to the tumor site. Overall, this approach holds significant promise as a smart drug delivery system, potentially improving the efficacy of colorectal cancer treatments by providing targeted, controlled, and sustained drug release with enhanced mechanical stability and biocompatibility.