Muffle Furnace Research Articles

Ultrafast nanomanufacturing via high-temperature shock of La0.6Sr0.4CoO3 catalysts for overall water splitting

Electrochemical water splitting, as an effective sustainable and eco-friendly energy conversion strategy, can produce high-purity hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) via hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), respectively, altering the nonrenewable fossil fuels. Here, La0.6Sr0.4CoO3 perovskite oxide nanoparticles with an orthorhombic phase were synthesized within 2 min in a one-step reaction, using a rapid and efficient high-temperature shock (HTS) method. Impressively, the as-prepared La0.6Sr0.4CoO3 with orthorhombic phase (HTS-2) exhibited better OER and HER performance than the hexagonal phase counterpart prepared using the traditional muffle furnace calcination method. The electrocatalytic performance enhancement of orthorhombic La0.6Sr0.4CoO3 can be attributed to the novel orthorhombic structure, such as confined strontium segregation, a higher percentage of highly oxidative oxygen species, and more active sites on the surface. This facile and rapid synthesis technique shows great potential for the rational design and crystal phase engineering of nanocatalysts.

Formation of glycidol fatty acid esters and 3-monochloro-1,2-propanediol fatty acid esters in heated foods

Glycidol fatty acid esters (GEs) and 3-monochloro-1,2-propanediol fatty acid esters (3-MCPDEs) are formed at high temperatures during edible oil production. In this study, ground meat (beef, pork, and chicken) patties, cookies, and cupcakes were heated under various conditions using a temperature-controlled device to determine the amount of GEs and 3-MCPDEs produced. GE and 3-MCPDE were not detected in any meat heated in the oven (250 °C). When heating all meats using a muffle furnace, GEs were not detected at 400 °C but they were detected at 500 °C and 600 °C. At 600 °C, 3-MCPDEs were detected in all meats. When cookie and cupcake doughs prepared with rapeseed oil were heated in the oven, GEs were formed in both samples, reaching a maximum at 210 °C. 3-MCPDEs were detected only in cookies, reaching its maximum at 250 °C. The percentage of each GE in heated cookies and cupcakes was related to the fatty acid composition of the rapeseed oil. These results suggest that the formation of GEs and 3-MCPDEs may be affected by food ingredients, cooking device, and heating time, as well as heating temperature.

Characterisation of Bottom Ashes from Non-Woody Biomass Combustion for Application as Sustainable Supplementary Cementitious Material

Cement production is an energy- and resource-intensive industry accounting for approximately 7% of global carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, a key decarbonisation option for the cement industry is to substitute the clinker with so-called supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). Due to its properties and availability, the bottom ash from the biomass combustion process could be suitable as an SCM. Several agricultural residues were collected and analysed. The materials were applied for ashing experiments in a lab-scale muffle furnace, which was operated at different temperatures. The chemical, physical, and mineralogical characterisation of the ashes produced was carried out. In addition, the reactivity of the cementitious paste made from the ashes was measured through lab-scale experiments. The influence of the different ashing temperatures and the additive mixing on the properties of the ashes and cementitious paste was analysed. The results show that the spelt husk ash is the most promising biomass ash, with its high silica content and high pozzolanic reactivity. The bound water of the cementitious paste made from spelt husk ash reaches 7.3 g/100 g paste at 700 °C but decreases to 2.5 g/100 g paste at 900 °C due to the formation of a crystalline structure. Nevertheless, the addition of kaolin to the spelt husk can maintain the reactivity of the spelt husk ash produced at high ashing temperatures by stabilising the amorphous structure in the ash.

Phytochemical screening of coconut husk and potentials of its activated charcoal as a stomach acid adsorbent

The objective of the study was to determine the active principles present and investigate if coconut husk charcoal used in traditional ulcer management adsorbs stomach acid (0.16 M). Simple chemical tests were undertaken to test for the phytochemicals. The coconut fiber charcoal was activated with 1M and 2M KOH and H2SO4 at 500 ℃ respectively in muffle furnace. Adsorption mechanism of stomach acid was studied by the adsorption of the acid onto an activated coconut husk charcoals. Adsorption which depends on contact time, amount of adsorbent and temperature is the transfer of stomach acid to the surface was determined by titrimetric method using 0.16 M NaOH and methyl red indicator. Five phytochemicals (alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, saponin and glycoside) were recorded present incoconut husk extracts. The result of adsorption mechanism revealed that KOH activated coconut husk charcoal is a better adsorbent than H2SO4 activated coconut husk charcoal. The optimum contact time (minutes) and amount (g) were found to be 15 minutes and 1g respectively. Temperature was found not to have any effect on the adsorption of stomach acid. The result of this study shows that KOH activated coconut husk charcoal can be effectively used in ulcer management. Keywords: Phytochemicals, coconut husk, activated charcoal, stomach acid, adsorption.

Synthesis and luminescence characteristics of yttrium, aluminum and lanthanum borates doped with europium ions (Eu 3+)

Inorganic materials doped with rare earth (RE) ions are an object of intense research due to their optical and electrical properties. These materials have the potential for various applications, such as solid-state lasers, active planar waveguides, optical fiber amplifiers, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), displays, ink fillers, security features, etc. RE trivalent ions can emit light from the ultraviolet (UV) to the near-infrared (NIR) regions due to electronic transitions of the 4f-5d levels. Yttrium borate doped with europium ions was prepared by solid-state synthesis in a muffle furnace at 900oC for 4 hours, while lanthanum and aluminum borates doped with europium ions were prepared at 1000oC for 6 hours again in a muffle furnace. The resulting materials are fine white powders. Among the rare earth ions, europium is one of the most commonly used activators because the ions of Eu3+ and Eu2+ can be used as emission sites in the host lattices. Eu3+ ions can produce effective sharp emission peaks in different matrix compositions. Photoluminescence analysis of the samples was performed, based on which the luminescence intensity of the Eu3+ ion was determined through a comparative characteristic. YBO3:Eu3+ phosphor is optically active and chemically stable. It is characterized by a strong orange-red emission at ≈ 591 nm, ≈ 612 and ≈ 696 nm due to the 5D0→7F1 and 5D0→7F2 electronic transitions, respectively. Red emission is also observed for LaBO3:Eu3+ at ≈ 592 and ≈ 615 nm, characterizing the 5D0→7F1 and 5D0→7Fj (j=0, 1, 2, 3, 4) transitions. While aluminum borate doped with europium ion shows intense emission at ≈ 612 nm, making this material suitable for lighting devices. The technique of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to study the structure of the obtained materials.

Advancing Aluminum-Based Composite *Manufacturing: Leveraging TiO2 Reinforcement through Stir Casting Technique

This study explores the advancement of aluminum-based composite manufacturing through the integration of titanium dioxide (TiO2) reinforcement using the stir casting technique. Aluminum alloy served as the matrix material, combined with ceramic reinforcement particles, melted at approximately 700°C within a muffle furnace. Through continuous stirring at 400 rpm for 10 minutes, ceramic particles were uniformly dispersed into the molten alloy, crucial for enhancing composite properties. The incorporation of 6.5% TiO2 via stir casting resulted in significant enhancements across multiple mechanical properties. Tensile strength improved by 23.67%, while hardness saw a remarkable increase of 38.9%. Additionally, fatigue strength exhibited a notable improvement of 26.67%, and wear resistance showed a substantial enhancement of 24.34%. The uniform dispersion of TiO2 particles throughout the composite material underscores the efficacy of the stir casting technique in achieving consistent improvements across various performance metrics. These findings hold promise for the development of high-performance aluminum-based composites tailored for diverse engineering applications.

Electromechanical property of calcium-doped lithium niobate (CaO-LiNbO3) ceramic nano powder

The crystal form of lithium niobate (LiNbO3) is a multipurpose material possessing properties like piezoelectric, nonlinear optical, and electro-optic capability. This work examined the temperature-dependent behaviors of calcium-doped lithium niobate (CaO-LiNbO3) and also revealed its dielectric, piezoelectric, and electromechanical capabilities. By using a solid-state reaction method, CaO-LiNbO3 ceramic powders were created. Precursors like niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5), calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) were used to prepare these solid solutions. These precursors served as the source for Nb, Ca, and Li. The sample was calcinated in a muffle furnace at 800℃ for four hours which provided the ceramic structures. X-ray diffraction (XRD), an impedance analyzer, and a d33 meter were used to characterize the ceramic structures and other properties of the composites. The XRD analysis shows that the crystal structure of the CaO-LiNbO3 system is rhombohedral for all compositions. The dielectric constant increases with the increase in temperature. The piezoelectric activities of lithium niobate ceramics were significantly enhanced by calcium (CaO) doping. From room temperature to 500°C, the electromechanical coupling factors of the CaO-LiNbO3 crystal exhibit good temperature stability. Piezoelectric constant (d33) of 74pCN−1 and maximum electromechanical coupling factors of 49% were attained through this research.

Разработка и исследования перспективного материала для высокомощных фторуглеродных катодов

An original method for the synthesis of silver vanadium oxide (Ag2V4O11) has been developed, including mechanical activation of a mixture of vanadium pentoxide and silver nitrate in a planetary mill followed by heat treatment in a muffle furnace at a temperature of 700 °C for 5 hours in an air atmosphere and providing a product yield of 99.5 % in a highly dispersed state. Based on the data obtained, it was found that the introduction of 8 wt. % Ag2V4O11 made it possible to double the polarization characteristics in comparison with a conventional (CFx)n sample. According to the results of testing the samples, it was shown that at a discharge current density above 1.0 mA/cm2, there is a significant decrease in the discharge specific capacity and medium-discharge potential in the traditional (CFx)n sample and in samples with a low content of silver vanadium oxide. An increase in the content of Ag2V4O11 over 8 wt. % leads to a decrease in the specific capacity of the samples due to the lower energy intensity of this material compared to the energy intensity (CFx)n. The sample with 8 wt. % of silver vanadium oxide has the highest energy consumption at a higher discharge potential (630 mAh/g versus 570 mAh/g for traditional). Electrodes based on the composition of fluorocarbon – silver vanadium oxide and primary elements based on them surpass known analogues in capacity, stability and preservation.

Revolutionizing Aluminum-Based Composites: Enhancing Strength with Eggshell and Bagasse Ash Reinforcement via Stir Casting

The study explores a novel approach to enhance the strength of aluminum-based composites by incorporating eggshell and bagasse ash reinforcement through stir casting. The alloy melting process occurred within a muffle furnace, reaching a temperature of 690°C to ensure complete liquefaction. Eggshell and bagasse ash particles were gradually introduced into the molten alloy, while stirring at 480 rpm, ensuring uniform dispersion over 14 minutes. The addition of 4% eggshell and 2.5% bagasse ash led to significant improvements across various mechanical properties. Tensile strength experienced a notable enhancement of approximately 17.89%, while hardness showcased a remarkable increase of approximately 24.66%. Furthermore, fatigue strength demonstrated a significant improvement of approximately 19.56%, and wear resistance exhibited a significant enhancement of approximately 23.8%.These findings underscore the efficacy of eggshell and bagasse ash reinforcement in bolstering the mechanical performance of aluminum-based composites. Such advancements hold promise for diverse applications, from structural components to wear-resistant coatings, offering sustainable and cost-effective solutions in materials engineering.

Advancing Aluminum-Based Composites with Fly Ash and SiC Reinforcement through Stir Casting

This study explores the advancement of aluminum-based composites through the integration of fly ash and silicon carbide (SiC) reinforcement via stir casting. The process involves melting the alloy in a crucible within a muffle furnace at 700°C, gradually introducing fly ash and SiC particles while stirring at 450 rpm for 12 minutes to ensure uniform dispersion. The addition of 5% SiC and 2.5% fly ash led to significant improvements in multiple mechanical properties.Tensile strength experienced a remarkable enhancement of approximately 19.56%, while hardness showcased a substantial increase of about 34.67%. Furthermore, fatigue strength demonstrated a notable improvement of approximately 26.87%, and wear resistance exhibited a significant enhancement of approximately 31.45%. These enhancements underscore the efficacy of integrating fly ash and SiC reinforcement, highlighting the potential for advanced aluminum composites with superior mechanical properties. This approach presents a promising avenue for enhancing material performance, with implications for diverse industrial applications requiring durability, strength, and wear resistance.

The Adsorption Studies for the Removal of Lead (Pb2+) from Paint Industrial Wastewater using Avocado Seed Activated Carbon (ASAC)

The rapid increase in industrial activities in Nigeria has led to the high contamination of water bodies with heavy metals such as Lead, Cadmium, Zinc etc from wastewater disposal. Previous techniques adopted for this wastewater treatment such as ion exchange, biosorption, solvent extraction and precipitation etc are highly expensive and capital intensive; hence, the need for cheaper technologies that utilizes locally available biomass as a precursor for the preparation of activated carbon. This study aims to utilize avocado seed for the production of activated carbon to treat paint industrial wastewater containing heavy metals such as Lead (Pb2+) and to evaluate the adsorption isotherm and kinetic models that best fit the equilibrium data obtained from the batch adsorption experiment. The avocado seed activated carbon (ASAC) was prepared by carbonizing the sample at a temperature of 700 °C and activating it with a 30 % v/v Concentration of H3PO4 acid at a temperature of 500 °C for 6 hours in a muffle furnace. The batch adsorption studies were done by investigating the varying effect of metal ion concentration (0.5-3.0 mg/L), contact time (15-180 mins) and adsorbent dosage (0.5-3.0 g). The data obtained were analysed using six adsorption isotherms such as Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Toth, Sips and Redlich-Peterson methods. Freundlich isotherm model with an R2 value of 0.94 and adsorption capacity of 0.1965 mg/g showed the highest percentage removal of Lead (Pb2+) to be > 97 %. The kinetic studies revealed that the experimental data fitted well to the pseudo-first-order model with a high correlation coefficient of 0.980 when compared to other models like pseudo-second-order, intra-particle diffusion and Boyd model, thus; signifying that the adsorption’s mechanism was physiosorption. Thus, optimum activation conditions would produce higher activated carbon from avocado seeds that could be used for the removal of heavy metal ions from industrial wastewater, which will aid in eliminating the challenge of agricultural waste accumulation in the environment.

Revolutionizing Aluminum-Based Composite Manufacturing: Harnessing Fly Ash and Rice Husk Ash Reinforcement through Stir Casting for Sustainability

The revolution in aluminum-based composite manufacturing is underway, propelled by the innovative integration of fly ash and rice husk ash (RHA) reinforcement through stir casting, heralding a sustainable approach to materials engineering. At the heart of this transformation lies a meticulous process: aluminum alloy melting at 700°C within a muffle furnace, augmented by the gradual introduction of RHA and fly ash particles into the molten alloy, stirred at 500 rpm for 15 minutes. This rigorous stirring method ensures a uniform dispersion of reinforcement particles, optimizing their distribution throughout the alloy matrix.The resultant composite exhibits remarkable enhancements across key mechanical properties. With the addition of 5% fly ash and 2.5% RHA, a notable 13.44% increase in tensile strength is achieved, accompanied by a remarkable 25.68% improvement in hardness. Furthermore, fatigue strength experiences a substantial boost of 20.12%, while wear resistance demonstrates a notable enhancement of 19.90% compared to the base composite.These findings underscore the efficacy of fly ash and RHA reinforcement in aluminum composites, offering a sustainable pathway towards enhanced material performance and resource efficiency in manufacturing practices. This study represents a paradigm shift towards greener and more resilient composite materials, driving sustainability in the realm of aluminum-based manufacturing.

Carbon Capture Performance Enhancement of Solid State Synthesized Li4SiO4 Powders by Using Different Kind Steel Slags as SiO2 Source

The potential of lithium orthosilicate (Li4SiO4) as a material to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) is being explored due to its excellent capture capability and thermal stability. Currently, a significant portion of the world's energy needs are met through the burning of fossil fuels, which leads to an increase in atmospheric CO2 and contributes to global warming. While fossil fuels will remain the primary source of energy for several more years, it is crucial to develop cost-effective and environmentally friendly technology for large-scale CO2 capture and storage before its release into the atmosphere in order to mitigate the associated greenhouse effect. This study focuses on optimizing the synthesis of lithium orthosilicate using a solid-state method to enhance CO2 capture. The research involves assessing the key characteristics of the synthesized material that improve CO2 capture efficiency. The starting materials used for comparison include lithium carbonate (Li2CO3), BF (blast furnace), BOF (blast oxygen furnace) and EAF (electric arc furnace) slags, and pure reagents of silicon dioxide (SiO2). The effect of process conditions, such as synthesis temperatures ranging from 850 to 950°C and varying holding times of 4, 6, 8, and 10 hours in a muffle furnace, were studied and compared. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed to characterize the samples and slags. CO2 capture performance of the samples were evaluated in thermobalance test under 92 vol% CO2 (N2 balance) gas concentration at 600°C. As to conclude, carbon dioxide capturing sorbent material was produced by utilizing the slags generated as a by-product in steel production. Thus, considering the principles of circular economy, a material defined as waste was used as raw material for the production of another product used for lowering atmospheric CO2 levels.

Структура и свойства покрытий SiO2 – Cr2O3, полученных методом импульсного магнетронного распыления на керамической основе ZrO2

The technology for SiO2 – Cr2O3 coatings on a ceramic Y-TZP (ZrO2 stabilized by Y2O3) zirconia base has been proposed. The coating was produced in three stages: 1) formation of SiO2 adhesion layer by application of 5-amino-propyltriethoxysilane alcohol solution to the ceramic base surface followed by heat treatment at 450 ± 5 °C for 30 min. The next step was application of Cr at purity of 99.9 % by pulse magnetron sputtering; 3) diffusion oxidation of Cr, applied on the ceramic base, to Cr2O3 in the muffle furnace at 450 ± 5 °C for 30 min. Dependence of physical-mechanical characteristics of coating depending on preparatory and finishing operations (abrasive blasting, polishing) has been investigated. Samples with submicron coating with thickness of 150 ± 20 nm, having nanostructured lamellar structure, possessing open porosity value of 1.3 %, microhardness 2000 HV, roughness Ra 0.32 – 0.63, friction coefficient 0.175 and increased by 184 % wear resistance to abrasion loadings in comparison with pure zirconia ceramics were obtained.

Removal of eutrophication agents from wastewater using glauconite-based sorbents

Excessive phosphorus and nitrogen in water and sediment may cause eutrophication, which poses a potential risk to drinking water safety and the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. The research focuses on the removal of phosphates and ammonium ions from aqueous solutions using a new thermally and microwave-treated glauconite. The surface morphology of the samples was studied by SEM. BET surface area, pore volume, and pore size distribution were measured. Adsorption studies were carried out in static and dynamic conditions. The best fit for adsorption of both pollutants is given by the Langmuir-Freundlich and BET models. The calcined sample showed the lowest adsorption capacity for phosphate (1.78 mg/g) but the highest capacity for ammonium (20.67 mg/g). For the microwave-irradiated sample, the adsorption capacity for ammonium increases from 0.723 to 4.37 mg/g, while that for phosphate remains almost at the same level (101.21 mg/g). In dynamic conditions, phosphorus was most efficiently retained by natural glauconite (more than 60% retention rate), and ammonium nitrogen by glauconite that was thermally treated in a muffle furnace (more than 80% retention rate after 3 h).

PRODUCTION AND CHARACTERISTICS OF PEARL MILLET HUSK ASH AS A POZZOLAN O. M. Daramola1, Y. A. Jimoh2 and *S. F. Oritola1

This paper reports the characteristics of the pozzolan generated at different temperatures and times of exposure for the calcining process of millet husk for the determination of optimum metrics of production. Some millet husk samples were procured from a market in Nigeria and cleaned to remove sand and other impurities. The cleaned husks were burned in a muffle furnace at temperatures of 600 ⁰C, 750 ⁰C, and 900 ⁰C, with a dwelling time of 2 hours and 4 hours each. The six resulting brands of the ashes were analysed for chemical composition using X-ray fluorescence Spectrometry and further evaluated for pozzolan classification. The microstructure of the millet husk ash (MHA) calcined at 900 ⁰C and a 2-hour dwelling time, the optimum condition, was investigated through the scan electron microscope. The summation of SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 content of 92-96%, which is more than 70% benchmark for Class C ASTM C618-12 quality pozzolan, was computed for the MHA produced at 750 and 900 ⁰C calcination temperatures and the two dwelling times; while the corresponding values were 62-63% for the specimen produced at 600 ⁰C in the furnace closed environment, implying a different brand of pozzolan. Further, the per cent silica content of the MHA brand calcined at 600, 750, and 900⁰C for a dwelling time of 4 hours is less than those of the 2 hours (32.8%, 55.2% and 52.1% respectively as against 34.2%, 55%, and 58.3%), making the 900 ⁰C temperature and 2 hours calcination period the most optimum production metric for high silica content pozzolan from millet husk bio-wastes.

Enhancing Aluminum-Based Composite Manufacturing: Harnessing Si3N4 Reinforcement via Stir Casting Technique

This study investigates the enhancement of aluminum-based composite manufacturing by incorporating Si3N4 reinforcement via the stir casting technique. Aluminum alloy serves as the matrix material, augmented with ceramic reinforcement particles. The alloy is melted at approximately 700°C in a muffle furnace, with ceramic particles gradually introduced and dispersed homogeneously through continuous stirring at 400 rpm for 10 minutes. The uniform distribution of Si3N4 particles underscores the efficacy of the stirring technique. Addition of 7.5% Si3N4 reinforcement results in substantial improvements across mechanical properties: tensile strength increases by 24.76%, hardness by 24.76%, fatigue strength by 26.78%, and wear resistance by 29.50%. These enhancements highlight the effectiveness of Si3N4 reinforcement in augmenting the performance of aluminum composites. The findings hold significant implications for industries requiring lightweight, high-strength materials, such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, suggesting promising avenues for further research and practical applications in advanced engineering materials.

RESEARCH OF CONCRETE SAMPLING OBTAINED FROM CERAMIC WASTE

The presented research work refers to the study of the properties of heat-resistant concrete made with ceramic tile waste produced by the "Gilan Seramic" plant. The possibilities of using ceramic scraps and some physico-chemical properties, application and advantages of heat-resistant concrete are specifically shown in this work. In the obtaining of concrete, waste ceramics were used instead of natural raw materials. Waste ceramic replaced gravel 25%, 50%, 75%. Concrete samples were prepared according to the M400 brand concrete production technology. Waste concrete samples were prepared in molds in the forms of a cube with dimensions of 40×40×40 mm, a rectangular 40×40×160 mm parallelepiped, and a 40×100 mm cylinder. Concrete samples were analyzed after 28 days of hardening. The concrete samples obtained on the basis of waste ceramics were subjected to the settling test according to the standards, the average density of the concrete mixture was determined, the bending strength, the compressive strength, and the temperature resistance were studied. As a result of the research, it was found that all the concrete samples obtained belong to the light concrete class. The limit of temperature resistance of prepared concrete samples is one of the main goals of the research. In this study, a BioBas MX8-13T model muffle electric furnace with a maximum operating temperature of 1300 ºC was used. At each target temperature, the samples were kept for 1-1.5 h, and at the next stage, they were gradually cooled under control. After cooling, the structure of the samples was analyzed, and the samples with positive results were subjected to the next temperature test. Concrete samples reacted differently to various temperature ranges.

Green Microwave-Assisted Cladding: Enhancing SS-304 with Ni-ZrB2 Composite Coatings

This study focuses on achieving effective deposition of a Ni and 15% ZrB2 particle mixture onto SS-304 substrate surfaces through meticulous preparation steps. Thorough cleaning of the SS-304 substrate using alcohol in an ultrasonic bath eliminated contaminants, ensuring optimal adhesion. Simultaneously, the Ni-ZrB2 mixture underwent preheating at 1200°C for 20 hours in a muffle furnace to eliminate moisture content, crucial for preventing coating defects. Uniform distribution of the preheated powder onto the substrate was crucial for consistent coating thickness. Microwave hybrid heating (MHH) using charcoal as a susceptor material overcame microwave reflection by rapidly heating the powder mixture. SEM analysis revealed a uniform dispersion of both Ni and ZrB2 particles across the substrate surface, indicating successful deposition and optimal adhesion. The cladding resulted in a significant improvement in surface hardness, with an increase of approximately 42.43%. The wear rate, measured at 0.00178 mm³/m, and the coefficient of friction, determined to be 0.246, provided crucial insights into the surface’s wear resistance and frictional behavior, confirming its suitability for applications requiring enhanced durability and performance. These findings highlight the efficacy of the microwave-assisted cladding process in enhancing SS-304 with Ni-ZrB2 composite coatings, paving the way for its utilization in various industrial applications.

Microwave-Assisted Cladding of Ni-BaTiO3 Mixture onto SS-304 for Enhancing the Wear Resistance and Surface Hardness

The present study focuses on achieving precise deposition of a Ni and 15% BaTiO3 particle mixture onto SS-304 substrates through meticulous preparation steps. Thorough cleaning of the SS-304 substrate eliminated contaminants, ensuring optimal adhesion. Simultaneously, the Ni-BaTiO3 mixture underwent preheating at 1200°C for 20 hours in a muffle furnace to eliminate moisture content, crucial for preventing coating defects. A uniform and crack-free cladding layer enhances the substrate’s resistance to wear, corrosion, and mechanical stresses, thereby extending its service life and improving overall functionality. The surface hardness of SS-304 experienced a substantial improvement of 39.90% following the cladding process with Ni and 15% BaTiO3. A sliding speed of 2 m/s was meticulously selected to replicate typical velocities encountered in practical applications, ensuring a realistic assessment of frictional behavior and wear resistance. Similarly, the sliding distance of 1000 m and an axial load of 5 N were precisely calibrated to simulate the mechanical stresses experienced during sliding contact, facilitating a thorough examination under relevant conditions. These carefully chosen parameters enabled the determination of key tribological properties essential for evaluating the performance of the cladded surface of SS 304 with Ni + 15% BaTiO3. The wear rate, measured at 0.0016 mm3/m, serves as a critical indicator, revealing the volume of material lost per unit distance of sliding. This parameter provides invaluable insights into the surface’s wear resistance and durability, crucial for assessing the longevity and performance of the cladded surface under abrasive conditions. Additionally, the coefficient of friction, determined to be 0.255, offers a quantitative measure of the surface’s frictional behavior during sliding contact.