Hybrid Nanocomposite Materials Research Articles

A comparison of physical, morphological, and mechanical properties of bio‐polyester hybrid nanocomposites

AbstractIt is imperative to improve the physical, morphological, and mechanical properties of biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA), poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT), and polycaprolactone (PCL) in order to employ them on a larger scale. The development of hybrid nanocomposite materials using nano inclusions can improve desired qualities. Here we introduced an interactive nano reinforcement approach to improve the properties by combining graphene oxide (GO) and carboxyl functionalized MWCNT (f‐MWCNT), to provide for their chemical bonding for synergic reinforcement. A constant filler 2 wt.% was added to the biopolyesters by melt blending process and examined the different physical properties like water absorption, intrinsic viscosity, and hardness. To completely evaluate the functionalization of the nanofillers, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR) analyses were used. The paired nanoparticles and polymer matrix appear to mix well together, as shown by electron microscopy, which also reveals good dispersion and the creation of a reinforcing network microstructure across the matrix layer. A thorough analysis of the results showed that effective stress transmission, delaying the start of faults and generating microcracks, and dissipating additional mechanical energy all contributed to efficient hybrid network formation, which improved the mechanical properties of hybrid filler nanocomposites except some nanocomposites. These findings offer a viable technique for chemically altering biodegradable polymers, like PLA, PBAT, and PCL for use in biomedical, wastewater management, and agricultural applications.

Sustainable Wastewater Treatment with Bi2MoO6/Cellulose Acetate Photocatalytic Membranes

AbstractA major challenge for modern society is securing quality water for various uses. Membrane water treatment will be crucial for drinking water, desalination, and wastewater reuse. The development of bismuth molybdate (Bi2MoO6) nanoparticles has enabled the production of novel Bi2MoO6‐incorporated cellulose acetate (CA) membrane nanocomposite. The synthesized Bi2MoO6/CA nanocomposites are thoroughly examined for their structural, morphological, and photocatalytic characteristics using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. The photocatalytic properties are determined by evaluating the degradation of Malachite Green (MG) and Rose Bengal (RB) by the nanocomposite membranes under the illumination of a UV light simulator. Notably, the Bi2MoO6/CA nanocomposite membrane displays exceptional and sustained photocatalytic efficiency (78%) and (84%) in MG and RB dye degradation, respectively. Moreover, the effective loading of the Bi2MoO6 onto the CA membrane enhances electron and hole adsorption while facilitating carrier movement. Furthermore, the stability exhibited by the Bi2MoO6/CA nanocomposite photocatalysts remains impressive even after multiple cycles, demonstrating their durability. This research introduces a cutting‐edge semiconductor‐based hybrid nanocomposite material that proves highly efficient in the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes, showcasing promising advancements in environmental remediation strategies.

Frequency analysis of open/closed polygonal channel aerostructures made of hybrid nanocomposite materials and supported by piecewise elastic foundation using GDQE technique

This research delves into the theoretical exploration of the generalized differential quadrature element (GDQE) method for analyzing the dynamic response and natural frequency of aerospace structures, specifically polygonal channels found in aircraft, satellites, and space vehicle components. These structures are critical in aerospace engineering, serving in various capacities such as airframe components and fluid conveyance systems. Emphasizing the practical significance of these structures, the study incorporates the influence of ground or support conditions, employing a two-parameter piecewise elastic foundation model. The investigated open or closed channels are characterized as laminated functionally graded hybrid nanocomposites, specifically denoted as FG-HNC, reinforced with Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and Clay nanoparticles (CNP). Each composite layer is reinforced with randomly oriented and uniformly distributed tubes and particles. The homogenization of the hybrid composite domain is performed using the hierarchy Halpin-Tsai micromechanical rule. Utilizing the GDQE technique, the channels are discretized into plate elements, and motion equations for each plate element are calculated based on first-order shear deformation theory and Hamilton's principle. The resulting equations are then solved using the standard GDQ method, with subsequent application of appropriate continuity conditions at shared element boundaries. In this comprehensive study, the research scrutinizes the effects of structure dimensions, channel sides crank angles, composite characteristics, and boundary conditions on the free vibration behavior of the polygonal channels. By offering detailed insights into the vibrational characteristics of FG-HNC structures, this study contributes to the advancement of aerospace engineering design and analysis.

The Impact of Synthesis Techniques on Polyetheretherketone/Hydroxyapatite Hybrid Carbonaceous Nanocomposites for Orthopaedic Applications

Nanocomposites containing polymers, hydroxyapatite, and carbon nanotubes have shown great potential for orthopedic applications. However, the synthesis process selected significantly impacts the properties and performance of these nanocomposites. Our study described here investigated the effects of various synthesis methods on the mechanical and structural characteristics of functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes/Polyetheretherketone/Hydroxyapatite (f-MWCNT/PEEK/HAp) hybrid nanocomposites. Our primary objective was to comprehensively understand the many synthesis strategies that could be employed to customize these materials for orthopedic purposes. Several synthesis methods were explored by the authors to produce homogeneous nanocomposites with uniform dispersion and good interfacial bonding. Chemical solution blending, selective chemical solution blending, and three-dimensional mechanical mixing are all examples of such techniques. The produced nanocomposites were tested for crystallinity, tribological properties and molecular compositions using X-ray diffraction (XRD), tribological testing and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy methods. This study demonstrated different synthesis methods for an orthopedic-targeted hybrid nanocomposite material. The hybrid nanocomposite’s formulation was changed to enhance the material’s properties. The composite was composed of polyetheretherketone (PEEK), hydroxyapatite (HAp) and functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNT). The outstanding tribological performance of the generated nanocomposite was ensured by including the f-MWCNT and HAp in the PEEK.

Carboxymethylcellulose encapsulated fingolimod, siRNA@ZnO hybrid nanocomposite as a new anti-Alzheimer's material.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a fatal neurological disorder that causes cognitive and memory function to deteriorate. A critical pathogenic event that speeds up the development of AD is the interaction between dysfunctional microglia and amyloid-β (Aβ). We have developed a hybrid nanocomposite material to treat AD by normalizing the dysfunctional microglia. The material is based on carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) encapsulated fingolimod, siRNA, and zinc oxide (ZnO) with variable loading (CMC-Fi-siRNA@ZnO a-d ). The material was characterized using different techniques including FTIR, XRD, thermal analysis, SEM with EDX, and TEM micrographs. The chemical structure was confirmed by FTIR and XRD analyses, which indicated the successful integration of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) into the polymer matrix, signifying a well-formed composite structure. The thermal stability order at 10% weight loss was CMC-Fi-siRNA@ZnO c > CMC-Fi-siRNA@ZnO b > CMC-Fi-siRNA@ZnO d > CMC-Fi-siRNA@ZnO a . The CMC-Fi-siRNA@ZnO d dramatically alleviates the priming of microglia by lowering the level of proinflammatory mediators and increasing the secretion of BDNF. This considerably improves the phagocytosis of Aβ. In the cell viability test in immortalized microglia cells (IMG), the hybrid nanocomposite (NP) exhibited no significant effect on cell survival after 48 hours of incubation. The NP also decreased the cytotoxicity caused by Aβ. Therefore, the CMC-hybrid NP has high potential as a drug delivery system in the development of therapeutic strategies for AD.

Structural-Mechanical Modification of Amorphous Polyethylene Terephthalate and Hybrid Nanocomposite Materials Based on It

Hybrid nanocomposite materials based on polyethylene terephthalate and inorganic flame-retardant diammonium phosphate were prepared according to the fundamental strategy of environmental crazing of polymers. Structural-mechanical modification of the initial amorphous polyethylene terephthalate and the resultant nanocomposite polyethylene terephthalate-based was carried out by rolling at room temperature. The effect of preliminary rolling on the deformation behavior of polyethylene terephthalate during subsequent stretching in air and in physically active liquid media was established.

Effect of milling atmosphere on stability and surface properties of ZnO/vermiculite hybrid nanocomposite powders

The zinc acetate dihydrate and anhydrous zinc chloride were used as precursors for the sonochemical preparation of the zinc oxide/vermiculite and organically modified zinc oxide/vermiculite_chlorhexidine nanocomposite materials. The nanocomposites were mechanically processed via a high-energy ball milling for 30 min at 300 rpm using two types of atmospheres an air or a nitrogen. Changes in temperature and pressure inside the grinding vessels were measured during mechanical processing in an air atmosphere. The ZnO(Cl)/V_30/300 sample reached the highest pressure (1161 mbar) and temperature (30.3 °C) in the milling vessels and for the ZnO(ac)/V_CH_30/300 sample the highest temperature difference was measured at the beginning and at the end of the milling (7 °C). The phase transformation, chemical composition and particle size of the hybrid nanocomposite materials were investigated using X-ray diffraction method, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, carbon phase analysis and particle size distribution analysis. Changes in morphology and particle arrangement were characterised using scanning electron microscopy. The effect of mechanical processing in a protective atmosphere on surface properties such as specific surface area, surface conductivity and ζ-potential were demonstrated in relation to the type of precursor used for the preparation of ZnO nanoparticles in the structure of hybrid nanocomposite materials.

Nonlinear forced vibration of functionally graded hybrid three-phase nanocomposite toroidal shell segments reinforced by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GPLs)

This study proposes a unique three-phase functionally graded (FG) hybrid nanocomposite material reinforcing the toroidal shell segments to investigate the nonlinear forced vibration using Reddy's higher-order shear deformation theory, von Karman geometrical nonlinearity and Stein-McElman's assumption along with the Hamilton principle. The examined toroidal shell's material consists of polymeric resin, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene platelets (GPLs) as nanocomposites. The material properties have been derived based on a modified Halpin-Tsai micromechanical model. Four distribution patterns have been studied: uniform (UD), FG-X, FG-O, and FG-V. The continuous distribution of GPLs and CNTs leads to inhomogeneous position-dependent properties throughout the shell thickness. The obtained differential equations of motion have been reduced to ordinary equations using Galerkin's technique. A multi-scales method (MSM) is used to estimate a closed-form solution representing the frequency-amplitude relation, and the state space representation is used along with numerical fourth-order Runge Kutta method (RK4) to obtain the nonlinear dynamic response of the toroidal shell. The accuracy of the current results obtained has been verified by comparing them with the relevant literature and numerical results using (RK4). In addition, the influence of both GPLs and CNTs weight fractions, nanofillers’ distribution types, longitudinal and circumferential wave numbers, elastic foundation parameters, static axial compression load, transverse excitation load, damping ratio, geometrical characteristics of the toroidal shell on the dimensionless natural frequency, nonlinear primary resonance (frequency-amplitude curve), and nonlinear dynamic response are carefully studied. The results found that combining (GPLs & CNTs) into the shell's matrix improves performance, especially in concave shells compared to convex ones. The FG-X pattern reduces peak resonance amplitude and improves natural frequency. A reduction of 12.3 % is observed for convex shells, and 21.5 % for concave shells compared to FG-O.

Continuous precision separation of gold using a metal–organic framework/polymer composite

Critical metals of environmental and economic relevance can be found within complex mixtures, such as mine tailings, electronic waste and wastewater, at trace amounts. Specifically, gold is a critical metal that carries desired redox active properties in various applications, including modern electronics, medicine and chemical catalysis. Here we report the structuring of sub-micron Fe-BTC/PpPDA crystallites into larger 250 μm or 500 μm granules for continuous packed bed experiments for the precision separation of gold. The Structured Fe-BTC/PpPDA is highly crystalline and porous with a BET surface area of 750 m2 g−1. Further, the hybrid nanocomposite material maintains its selectivity for gold ions over common inorganic interferents. The structuring approach reported prevents excessive pressure drop and ensures stability over time and operation in a packed bed column. Further, we demonstrate that the Structured Fe-BTC/PpPDA can concentrate at least 42 wt% of gold under a dynamic continuous flow operation. These findings highlight the potential of Structured Fe-BTC/PpPDA for practical applications in industry, particularly in the selective capture of gold from complex mixtures.

A Combined Computational and Experimental Analysis of PLA and PCL Hybrid Nanocomposites 3D Printed Scaffolds for Bone Regeneration.

A combined computational and experimental study of 3D-printed scaffolds made from hybrid nanocomposite materials for potential applications in bone tissue engineering is presented. Polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactic acid (PLA), enhanced with chitosan (CS) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), were investigated in respect of their mechanical characteristics and responses in fluidic environments. A novel scaffold geometry was designed, considering the requirements of cellular proliferation and mechanical properties. Specimens with the same dimensions and porosity of 45% were studied to fully describe and understand the yielding behavior. Mechanical testing indicated higher apparent moduli in the PLA-based scaffolds, while compressive strength decreased with CS/MWCNTs reinforcement due to nanoscale challenges in 3D printing. Mechanical modeling revealed lower stresses in the PLA scaffolds, attributed to the molecular mass of the filler. Despite modeling challenges, adjustments improved simulation accuracy, aligning well with experimental values. Material and reinforcement choices significantly influenced responses to mechanical loads, emphasizing optimal structural robustness. Computational fluid dynamics emphasized the significance of scaffold permeability and wall shear stress in influencing bone tissue growth. For an inlet velocity of 0.1 mm/s, the permeability value was estimated at 4.41 × 10-9 m2, which is in the acceptable range close to human natural bone permeability. The average wall shear stress (WSS) value that indicates the mechanical stimuli produced by cells was calculated to be 2.48 mPa, which is within the range of the reported literature values for promoting a higher proliferation rate and improving osteogenic differentiation. Overall, a holistic approach was utilized to achieve a delicate balance between structural robustness and optimal fluidic conditions, in order to enhance the overall performance of scaffolds in tissue engineering applications.

Solid waste recycling and organic particulate hybrid nanocomposite technologies for sustainable infrastructure—A comprehensive review

Solid waste has become a major environmental concern globally in recent years due to the tremendous increase in waste generation. However, these wastes (e.g., plastics and agro-residues) can serve as potential raw materials for the production of value-added products such as composites at low cost. The utilization of these waste materials in the composite industry is a good strategy for maintaining the sustainability of resources with economic and environmental benefits. In this report, the environmental impacts and management strategies of solid waste materials are discussed in detail. The study described the benefits of recycling and reusing solid wastes (i.e., plastic and agro-waste). The report also reviewed the emerging fabrication approaches for natural particulate hybrid nanocomposite materials. The results of this survey reveal that the fabrication techniques employed in manufacturing composite materials could significantly influence the performance of the resulting composite products. Furthermore, some key areas have been identified for further investigation. Therefore, this report is a state-of-the-art review and stands out as a guide for academics and industrialists.

Nonlinear flutter response and reliability of supersonic smart hybrid nanocomposite rupture trapezoidal plates subjected to yawed flow using DQHFEM

In the realm of aerospace engineering, the analysis of flutter under supersonic flight conditions is of paramount importance. Hybrid nanocomposite materials, known for their lightweight and high-strength properties, are increasingly being employed in aerospace engineering. This article examines the supersonic flutter behavior and reliability of smart hybrid nanocomposite trapezoidal plates, considering various practical factors. The structure is subjected to yawed flow conditions, a scenario often encountered during supersonic flight. The importance of the hybrid nanocomposite in various applications such as aerospace, public security tools, and so on, therefore the hybrid nanocomposite core layer reinforced by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon fibers incorporates real-world material complexities such as agglomeration, waviness, and random orientation of fibers into the analysis. The complexities and the accurate characterization of the hybrid nanocomposite properties are determined by using the Halpin-Tsai model. Going beyond the current field of application, the core layer is integrated with actuators and sensors, respectively at the top and bottom layers. The structure is controlled by a Proportional-Derivative (PD) controller, simulating real-world control mechanisms used in aerospace systems for flight safety. The structure is modeled by the nonlinear Refined Zigzag Plate (RZP) theory. The advanced numerical technique of the Differential Quadrature Hierarchical Finite Element Method (DQHFEM) for the solution of the motion equations provides a robust framework for studying the intricate flutter and aerodynamic behavior of the smart hybrid nanocomposite trapezoidal plates. The examination of the reliability of the structure employs the three-term conjugate finite-step length (TCFS) method. This technique is constructed through the utilization of the conjugate gradient method, incorporating a controlled scalar parameter to ensure numerical stability. The results of this article have been validated against existing experimental and numerical studies, demonstrating the validity of the presented model and the numerical technique used. The effects of various parameters, such as the smart controller, applied output voltage to the actuator layer, volume percentage of CNTs, agglomeration, and waviness of carbon fibers, geometric parameters, the skew angle of the plate, rupture, and yawed angle flow are examined on the flutter behavior, critical aerodynamic pressure, nonlinear frequency, and reliability index. The results indicate that the controlled system exhibits an approximately 18% increase in the flutter critical aerodynamic pressure compared to the uncontrolled system, along with a significant 50% rise in flutter frequency. Additionally, the structure with rupture displays approximately 20% lower flutter aerodynamic pressure and a 25% lower flutter frequency compared to a healthy plate. In the absence of carbon nanotubes and under positive external voltage, a damage parameter exceeding 0.35 leads to a reliability index below 0.931, indicating a risk of structural failure. Two solutions involve switching to negative voltage or increasing the volumetric percentage of carbon nanotubes, resulting in a 43% or 118% increase in reliability, respectively.

Advancing heat management in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells through hybrid nano-composite phase change materials

Heat management challenges in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) leads to performance degradation, particularly during operational fluctuations and vehicle downtime. This study examines the use of Nano-additive phase change materials (PCMs) as an innovative approach to thermal management in PEMFCs. It addresses a research gap, as PCMs' advantages in batteries and electronics are well-known, but their application in PEMFCs remained relatively unexplored. Hence, using the ChtMultiRegionFoam solver from OpenFOAM, two heat transfer aspects in PEMFCs are studied. The first examines PEMFC cooling under normal conditions, combining liquid cooling with a hybrid Nano-composite phase change material (HNCPCM). The results indicate the HNCPCM cools the PEMFC for 11 min before reaching saturation, after which liquid cooling starts. Moreover, with HNCPCM, the PEMFC's thermal efficiency and temperature uniformity enhance by 7.04 % and 39.76 %, respectively. Therefore, the HNCPCM contributes to cooling as the temperature and voltage fluctuate under real conditions. The second aspect evaluates PCM and insulation to maintain the PEMFC stack's operating temperature range (OTR) during downtime. Using 4 mm PCM and 11 mm insulation, the stack stays within the OTR for nearly 4 h, extending the OTR duration by 49.2 %. Consequently, the waste energy stored by PCM ensures the stack remains within the OTR, averting performance degradation upon restart.

Synergistic effect of hybrid reinforcement on magnesium-based composites for enriching mechanical and tribological characteristics

The exceptional mechanical, microstructural, and tribological characteristics of friction stir processed (FSP) hybrid and mono nanocomposite materials resulted in growing research interest. In the presented work, the base matrix of magnesium-based AZ31B alloy was reinforced with fly ash (FA) and nano-titanium carbide (n-TiC) particulates using FSP and resulting in both hybrid and mono composite surfaces. The microstructures and homogeneous distribution of reinforcing particulates of the synthesized composites were investigated with optical microscopy (OM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). In addition, for the synthesized nanocomposites, mechanical and tribological characteristics were investigated including using tensile and compression strength, micro/nano-hardness, and wear characteristics. The OM and FESEM data indicate that owing to the significant impact of the FSP process, grain refinement and the homogenous dispersion of the FA and n-TiC nanoparticles for both mono and hybrid composites were achieved. Overall, the new nano-hybrid composites have better mechanical properties due to improved interfacial bonding and homogeneous dispersion of hybridized n-TiC/FA reinforcements. The results indicate that the AZ31B/FA/TiC hybrid nanocomposite has better mechanical and tribological characteristics than the base alloy and the mono composite materials. More specifically, the grain size was reduced nearly 20 times, microhardness was 1.72 times higher, ultimate tensile strength was 2.42 times higher, compressive strength was 2.57 times higher, and wear rate was, about 80% higher when contrasted to the base alloy. Lastly, it is expected that this composite can offer a remarkable solution for crafting high-performance automotive parts.

Zn-MOF@rGO nanocomposite: a versatile tool for highly selective and sensitive detection of Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions in water.

In this work, a hybrid nanocomposite material (PUC2@rGO) was prepared by integrating our previously developed Zn-MOF (PUC2) with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) through the wet impregnation method. The characterization of PUC2@rGO was performed using various analytical techniques, including FTIR, PXRD, FE-SEM, HR-TEM, XPS, zeta potential, and time-resolved FL spectroscopy. Our investigation primarily focused on assessing the composite's capability to detect water pollutants. Notably, PUC2@rGO demonstrated remarkable selectivity and sensitivity towards Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions via fluorescence quenching, exhibiting low detection limits and high quenching constant values. Spectroscopic analysis revealed that electron transfer from PUC2@rGO (donor) to the metal ions (acceptor) resulted in the observed quenching effect induced by Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions. Time-resolved fluorescence studies of PUC2@rGO before and after adding Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions confirmed dynamic quenching, further affirming strong interactions between PUC2@rGO and the targeted metal ions. These findings highlight PUC2@rGO's potential for efficiently detecting heavy metal pollutants in water.

Investigating the Synergistic Effects of Hybrid Nanofillers in Polymer Matrix Nanocomposites for Superior Mechanical and Electrical Performance

This research examines the synergistic impacts of hybrid nanofillers, particularly silica nanoparticles (SiO2) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), in polyethene (PE) network nanocomposites. The nanocomposites are methodically arranged and characterized for predominant mechanical and electrical execution. Tensile tests uncover a significant upgrade in mechanical properties, with test C showing a tensile quality of 83.2 MPa, flexible modulus of 3.6 GPa, and stretching at a break of 11.8%. Electrical conductivity estimations demonstrate an outstanding change, with test C coming to 1.1×10 −4 S/m Comparative investigation with related works exhibits the competitive points of interest of the crossover nanocomposites, adjusting with later improvements within the field. Morphological examination through checking and transmission electron microscopy affirms the successful scattering and interconnectivity of cross-breed nanofillers inside the polymer network. Affectability examinations emphasize the significance of preparing parameters in fitting nanocomposite properties, whereas recreation studies give hypothetical bits of knowledge into microstructural angles impacting by and large execution. This study contributes to the advancing scene of hybrid nanocomposite materials, advertising a promising road for the improvement of progressed materials with improved multifunctionality.

Ultrasensitive NIR-II Ratiometric Nanothermometers for 3D In Vivo Thermal Imaging.

Luminescent nanothermometry, particularly the one based on ratiometric, has sparked intense research for non-invasive in vivo or intracellular temperature mapping, empowering their uses as diagnosis tools in biomedicine. However, ratiometric detection still suffers from biased sensing induced by wavelength-dependent tissue absorption and scattering, low thermal sensitivity (Sr ), and lack of imaging depth information. Herein, this work constructs an ultrasensitive NIR-II ratiometric nanothermometer with self-calibrating ability for 3D in vivo thermographic imaging, in which temperature-insensitive lanthanide nanocrystals and strongly temperature-quenched Ag2 S quantum dots are co-assembled to form a hybrid nanocomposite material. Precise control over the amount ratio between two sub-materials enables the manipulation of heat-activated back energy transfer from Ag2 S to Yb3+ in lanthanide nanoparticles, thereby rendering Sr up to 7.8% °C-1 at 43.5 °C, and higher than 6.5% °C-1 over the entire physiological temperature range. Moreover, the luminescence intensity ratio between two separated spectral regions within the narrow Yb3+ emission peak is used to determine the depth information of nanothermometers in living mice and correct the effect of tissue depth on 2D thermographic imaging, and therefore allows a proof-of-concept demonstration of accurate 3D in vivo thermographic imaging, constituting a solid step toward the development of advanced ratiometric nanothermometry for biological applications.

Effect of adding (ZrO2-ZnO) nanopowder on the polymer blend (lamination and methyl vinyl silicone) in a hybrid nanocomposite material

A polymeric blend combines two or more polymers to form a new material with different physical properties. In this work, a base material consisting of a polymeric mixture was manufactured to improve its properties and then strengthened with nanoparticles (ZrO2-ZnO) to develop a hybrid nanocomposite material, which has better properties than its constituent materials. Reinforcement material, i.e., (ZrO2-ZnO) nanoparticles, were prepared using relaxation method. A polymeric resin mixture (lamination and methyl vinyl silicone) was prepared by adding methyl vinyl silicone to the lamination resin in different ratios (4 %, 8 %, 12 %, and 16 %). The mixture properties were studied through tensile, bending, shock, and hardness tests, and the optimal results were achieved for the 12 % ratio. The resulting composite nanoparticles and their properties were studied using EDX, X-Ray, SEM, and PSA techniques. Finally, the nano-hybrid composite material was manufactured by choosing the optimal blend (i.e., 12 %). It had the highest polymeric base material properties, and nanoparticles were added at different dosages (3 %, 6 %, 9 %, and 12 %). The resulting hybrid composite material properties were studied through different tests (tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness). The results showed that the binary composite nanoparticles improved the properties of the mixture for both sizes (30 nm and 89 nm) at all mixing ratios, compared to the control specimens (i.e., without any addition). The optimal results were obtained when 30 nm particles were added and for all tests compared to samples reinforced with 89 nm particles. The optimal ratio of (ZrO2-ZnO) was 9 % wt 30 nm size, representing the best sample in terms of the resulting properties. It is recommended to use the sample with the 9 % addition of (ZrO2 - ZnO) wt with a granular size of (30 nm) in essential applications, including prosthetics (foot).

Dynamic stability examination of perovskite solar cells: Application of numerical analysis, GAN and African vulture optimization algorithms

The most plentiful energy source, solar energy, can be used even while it's cloudy outside. Around 10,000 times more solar energy is being absorbed by the Earth than is being used by people. For several functions, solar systems may provide fuel, power, heat, cooling, and natural lighting. Solar technology may use photovoltaic panels or solar radiation-concentrating mirrors to turn sunlight into electrical energy. Multiple contexts may benefit from the utilization of solar energy. Hence, enhancing the natural frequency of such a system and comprehending its dynamics are crucial in the engineering sector. The objective of the present study is to reinforce the metal layer of solar cells with multi-phase hybrid nanocomposite materials in order to improve its natural frequency. Carbon fiber (CF) and carbon nanotube (CNT), which are reinforcements with macro- and nanoscale dimensions, respectively, are used to strengthen an aluminum matrix that makes up the final layer of the structure. The introduction of infinite and finite displacement fields simulates the compression applied to a solar panel that is either fully clamped or merely supported. The Kronecker tensor product utilizes the generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM) to resolve the dynamic response of the system. As well as numerical analysis, we highlight advanced methods such as Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) and African Vulture Optimization (AVO) algorithms, used to address dynamic stability challenges in perovskite solar cells. After that, by coupling the mentioned algorithms, an innovative algorithm for solving the engineering problems is presented. By generating synthetic data and optimizing system performance, scientists aim to analyze dynamic stability, promoting broader adoption of perovskite solar cells in the renewable energy industry. Finally, the dynamics of the perovskite solar cells are then suggested to be enhanced by a variety of physical and geometrical factors utilizing the numerical analysis and methods previously discussed.

Resistive switching behaviour of nickel nanoparticle-embedded naphthalene sulphonic acid-doped polyaniline nanocomposites

Hybrid nanocomposite (NC) materials comprising organic polymers and inorganic metal nanoparticles (NPs) with unique properties are popular for their advanced technological applications including resistive switching memory devices. Herein, NCs of 2-naphthalene sulphonic acid-doped polyaniline nanotubes (PANI-NSA NTs) and nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs) were synthesized via a facile chemical synthesis procedure where metallic Ni NPs were embedded in/deposited onto the surface of PANI-NSA NTs by a simple reduction method. Different characterization methods revealed successful deposition of weak ferromagnetic Ni NPs onto the PANI-NSA matrix. The bipolar resistive switching behaviour of the as-synthesized PANI-NSA + Ni NCs was investigated under the application of voltage stress in a two-terminal sandwiched device configuration. The fabricated indium tin oxide/PANI-NSA + Ni/silver (ITO/PANI-NSA + Ni/Ag) device displays bipolar resistive switching properties having a memory window of ∼1.5 × 103, and switches effectively over 200 cycles. Ohmic conduction in the lower-voltage regime and the space-charge-limited Mott–Gurney current conduction model in the higher-voltage region were identified as major charge conduction mechanisms in the high resistive state of the device. On the other hand, in the entire low resistive state region the experimental data followed the Mott–Gurney conduction model.