Mechanism For Enhanced Performance Research Articles

Effect of Acrylate Emulsion on the Mechanical and Microscopic Properties of Straw Fiber-Reinforced Cement-Magnesium Slag Stabilized Soil

In order to investigate the mechanism of mechanical performance enhancement and the curing mechanisms of acrylate emulsion (AE) in cement and magnesium slag (MS) composite-stabilized soil (AE-C-M), this study has conducted a comprehensive analysis of the compressive strength and microstructural characteristics of AE-C-M stabilized soil. The results show that the addition of AE significantly improves the compressive strength of the stabilized soil. When the AE content is 0.4%, the cement content is 3%, and the magnesium slag content is 3% (AE4-C3M3), the strength of the formula reaches 4.21 MPa, which meets the requirements of heavy traffic load conditions in the construction of high-speed or main road base layers. Some reactive groups on the polymer side chains (-COOH) engage in bridging with Ca2+ and RCOO− to form a chemically bonded interpenetrating network structure, thereby enabling the acrylate emulsion to enhance the water damage resistance of the specimens. The notable improvement in strength is attributed to the film-forming and solidifying actions of AE, the binding and filling effects of C-S-H gel, and the reinforcing effect of straw fibers. FT-IR and TG-DSC analysis reveals the presence of polar electrostatic interactions between AE and the soil matrix. AE enhances the bonding among soil particles and facilitates the attachment of C-S-H gel onto the surfaces of the straw fibers, thereby increasing the strength and toughness of the material. The application of MS in conjunction with straw fibers within polymer-modified stabilized soil serves to promote the recycling of waste materials, thereby providing an environmentally friendly solution for the engineering application of solid waste.

Analysis of the Performance Improvement Mechanism of Foamed Rubber Asphalt Based on Micro and Macro Perspectives

Foamed rubber asphalt has attracted wide attention in cold-recycled pavement projects due to its excellent performance, strong construction performance and resource conservation, but the mechanism of its performance improvement after foaming is still unclear. In order to explore the difference in the performance of rubber asphalt before and after foaming, this study systematically analyzed the performance improvement mechanism of asphalt from nano, micro and macro perspectives. Molecular dynamics simulation results show that the density and modulus of rubber asphalt decrease after foaming. After foaming, the glass transition temperature of rubber asphalt decreased by 4.4 K, and the free volume fraction decreased by 4.7%, which indicated that its low-temperature toughness was enhanced. The simulation results also illustrate the performance enhancement mechanism of rubber asphalt. Rubber and asphalt are physically mixed and do not undergo chemical reactions. However, foaming makes the rubber particles more evenly distributed, helping to improve the toughness and fatigue properties of asphalt. Macroscopic test results show that the high-temperature performance and fatigue performance of foamed asphalt are reduced, while the low-temperature performance is improved. The molecular simulation results are consistent with the experimental results, providing a comprehensive explanation for the improvement mechanism of rubber asphalt performance.

Optimizing the potentials of field hockey players through complex and contrast training on physiological and biochemical responses

In the current scenario of field hockey, players are continuously looking for new ways to improve their performance on the field, particularly in terms of power moves. Throughout this exploration, the current study examined the specific effects of complex and contrast training on field hockey player's physiological and biochemical responses. A total of 45 male field hockey players (mean (SD); weight: 63.62 (4.54) kg, height: 1.67(0.06) cm, and age: 19.42(1.18) yrs.) were randomly assigned to three equal groups namely complex training group (COM), contrast training group (CNST) and control group (CON). All the selected physiological and biochemical outcome measures have been tested baseline (T1) and after 12- weeks of training intervention (T2) assessments. Since the CON group was practicing field hockey every day, they were regarded as an active CON group. The intervention in the given period significantly improved VC and VO2max, positively impacting respiratory function. However, no notable changes were observed in RHR, HDL, and LDL levels. Forthcoming research may emphasize the refining of intervention protocols to address these areas and further understand the underlying mechanisms for optimal cardiovascular health and performance enhancement for field hockey players.

Synergistic Effect of Ag, Sb Dual‐Cation Substitution on Cu2ZnSn (S, Se)4 High‐Efficiency Solar Cells

ABSTRACTThe poor crystal quality inside an absorber layer and the presence of various harmful defects are the main obstacles restricting the properties of Cu2ZnSn (S, Se)4 (CZTSSe) thin‐film solar cells. Cation doping has attracted considerable research attention as a viable strategy to overcome this challenge. In this paper, based on Sb‐substituted CZTSSe system, we prove that Ag partially substituting Cu may be a feasible strategy. After a series of characterization of the films, it was discovered that the crystal quality and crystallinity of the films were further improved by introducing Ag into Cu2Zn(Sb, Sn) (S, Se)4 (CZTSSSe), and the concentrations of CuZn accepter defects and 2[CuZn + SnZn] defect clusters were effectively inhibited. At the same time, the carrier concentration is increased. The results show that when the Ag doping ratio is 15%, the photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE) reaches 8.34%, compared with the single‐doped Sb element, the efficiency is increased by 24%. For the first time, this study investigates the collaborative effect of Sb, Ag dual‐cation substitution in CZTSSe. The solar cell performance enhancement mechanism offers new potential for the advancement of CZTSSe thin‐film solar cell technology in the future.

Calcium carbonate pre-neutralization coupled with nano zero valent iron/hydrogen peroxide for precise and efficient arsenic removal from high-arsenic acid wastewater: Performance enhancement and reaction mechanisms

Calcium carbonate pre-neutralization coupled with nano zero valent iron/hydrogen peroxide for precise and efficient arsenic removal from high-arsenic acid wastewater: Performance enhancement and reaction mechanisms

Analysis of influencing factors on the performance of wavy-shape solar trombe walls based on orthogonal experimental design and simulation methods

The potential energy-saving benefits of a novel wavy-shaped Trombe wall have been demonstrated in previous research. However, due to the complexity of the physical processes involved and the presence of multiple influencing factors, definitive trends have not been identified or elucidated on the underlying mechanisms of performance enhancement. This study bridges this gap and investigates the effects of four primary influencing factors on the performance of the wavy-shaped Trombe wall. The orthogonal design of experiments is utilized to enhance research efficiency, and a methodology that integrates experimental techniques with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is employed to obtain precise data. Subsequently, analysis of variance and direct analysis are performed based on the collected data. The findings indicate that the maximum heat flux is observed at an intersection angle (β) of 95°, indicating optimal heat supply performance. Moreover, heat flux levels are comparable at intersection angles of 95°, 115°, and 135°. Furthermore, selecting a larger β is recommended when prioritizing enhanced ventilation in the design. Additionally, the solar altitude angle (αs), azimuth angle (γs), and solar radiation intensity (I) are all influential factors in the system's overall performance. Notably, γs emerges as the most impactful variable on system performance during operation.

Entropic Design of Anionic Site to Improve Anionic Redox Stability in Lithium-Rich Cathode.

Cobalt-free manganese-rich layered oxide is considered one of the most promising cathode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries due to its high capacity and low cost. However, irreversible anionic redox (OAR) leads to serious failure problems and hinders its wide application. To solve the above problems, the entropy design strategy of anionic sites is proposed, which is more direct and relevant to the regulation of the OAR process compared to the traditional entropy design of TM sites. The entropic design improves the structural diversity and long-range disorder of the material, which effectively inhibits oxygen release and drastic structural strain, and alleviates structural degradation. After 400 cycles at 1C, the capacity and voltage decay per cycle are only 0.092 mAhg-1 and 1.36mV, respectively. The long cycle test (10C and 1000 cycles) at high current shows that the voltage and capacity decay are only 0.04 mAhg-1 and 0.66mV per cycle, respectively. Meanwhile, the rate performance at 10C reaches 175 mAhg-1. The charge compensation regulation and performance enhancement mechanism are investigated by systematic in-situ/ex-situ characterization and theoretical calculation. This research provides new ideas for the design of lithium-rich cathodes with stable OAR and high structural adaptability.

F−surface modified ZnO for enhanced photocatalytic H2O2production and its fs-TAS investigation

Pure ZnO exhibits low photocatalytic H2O2 production activity due to the rapid charge recombination. To realize the spatial separation of photogenerated electrons and holes, constructing an electron transfer channel on the ZnO surface is an effective approach. This study successfully modified the surface of ZnO using F– (ZnO/F) by introducing NH4F in an aqueous phase photocatalytic system. The F– is adsorbed on the ZnO surface by Coulombic force and significantly improves the photocatalytic H2O2 production performance of ZnO, with the highest efficiency of 4137.2 μmol·g–1·L–1·h–-1. The photocatalytic performance enhancement mechanism of ZnO/F is explained in terms of electron transfer dynamics by femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy (fs-TAS) measurements. F– surface modification constructs a new ultrafast electron transport pathway from the ZnO CB to F–, and the optimal ZnO/F exhibits the fastest interfacial electron transfer lifetime of 5.8 ps. The F– surface modification effectively facilitates the charge separation, thereby increasing the number of electrons available for photocatalytic H2O2 reaction. This study has revealed the roles of F– surface modification in the photocatalytic H2O2 production by ZnO and provides guidance for ionic modification to improve photocatalytic performance.

Designing Robust Single Atom Catalysts by Three-in-One Strategy: Sub-1-nm Space Confining, Bimetallic Bonding and Reaction-Induced Forming Active Sites.

It is imperative to design robust single atom catalysts (SACs) that maintain the stability of the active component under diverse reaction conditions and prevent aggregation or deactivation. Confining the single atom active site within sub-nanometer (sub-1-nm) spaces has proven effective in enhancing the stability and activity of the catalyst, owing to the strong constraints and regulations imposed on atomic behavior at this scale. Bimetallic bond atomic sites, comprising two distinct metal compositions, often exhibit unique electronic structures and catalytic properties. Designing SACs under reaction-induced conditions, such as varying temperatures, pressures, and atmospheres, can facilitate a deeper understanding of the formation and migration behavior of active sites in real reactions, as well as the optimization mechanisms for performance enhancement. The objective of this review is to promote a robust SAC design strategy that encapsulates bimetallic bonding active sites within sub-1-nm spaces and investigates catalyst preparation and performance under reaction-induced conditions. This design strategy is anticipated to bolster the catalytic activity and stability of the catalyst while also offering fresh perspectives and optimization avenues for the catalytic processes involved in practical chemical reactions.

Mechanism of interface performance enhancement of nano-SiO2 modified polyvinyl alcohol fiber reinforced geopolymer concrete: Experiments, microscopic characterization, and molecular simulation

This study proposes a method utilizing nano-SiO2 modified polyvinyl alcohol fibers to enhance the interface properties of geopolymer concrete. The surface properties of modified polyvinyl alcohol fibers were analyzed through microscopic characterization. The influence of different dosages of modified polyvinyl alcohol fibers on the mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete was investigated. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed the interfacial toughening mechanism between modified polyvinyl alcohol fibers and geopolymer concrete. Results showed that nano-SiO2 modified polyvinyl alcohol fibers increased surface roughness, thereby enhancing interfacial adhesion and mechanical interlocking between fibers and geopolymer concrete, significantly improving compressive, splitting tensile, and flexural strengths of geopolymer concrete with an optimal fiber dosage of 0.2 %. Relative to unmodified PVA fibers, the modified fibers enhance the compressive, splitting tensile, flexural strength, and elastic modulus by 20.19 %, 15.72 %, 22.34 %, and 30.58 % respectively. KH560 serves as an intermediate medium for nano-SiO2 modified polyvinyl alcohol fibers, generating numerous hydrogen bonds at the interface and tightly adhering nano-SiO2 to the surface of polyvinyl alcohol fibers. Additionally, nano-SiO2 can form ionic bonds and stable Si-O-Si bonds with the hydrated sodium aluminosilicate gel.

Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance of Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 through Precise Pb Doping: Analysis Using the Single Parabolic Band Model

This study investigates the thermoelectric properties of Pb-doped p-type Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 alloys using the Single Parabolic Band (SPB) model, focusing on optimizing room-temperature performance. We systematically analyze the effects of Pb doping (0, 0.49, 0.65, 0.81, 0.97, and 1.3 at%) on key parameters including density-of-states effective mass (md *), non-degenerate mobility (μ0), weighted mobility (μw), and the thermoelectric quality factor (B-factor) at 323 K. The results reveal that md * reaches a maximum of 1.37 me at 0.97 at% Pb doping, representing a 22.25 % increase over the pristine sample. The highest μ0 of 234.5 cm2 V-1 s-1 is achieved at 0.65 at% Pb, highlighting the complex relationship between doping and carrier mobility. Notably, 0.97 at% Pb doping optimizes thermoelectric performance, yielding the highest μw, power factor, and B-factor. This composition also minimizes lattice thermal conductivity (k1) by 44.93 % compared to the undoped sample, significantly reducing phonon heat conduction. The Callaway-von Baeyer model corroborates these findings, indicating maximized point defect scattering at 0.97 at% Pb. A theoretical peak figure-of-merit (zT) of 1.74 is thus predicted at this doping level, demonstrating a possible substantial enhancement in thermoelectric efficiency upon appropriate carrier concentration tuning. The observed trends in Seebeck coefficient, Hall carrier concentration, and Hall mobility with increasing Pb content provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of performance enhancement. This comprehensive study highlights the critical role of precise Pb doping in optimizing the thermoelectric properties of Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 alloys for room-temperature applications and establishes a framework for future investigations into similar material systems.

The mechanism of aerodynamic performance enhancement of flapping wings with spanwise active deformation

The single stiffness makes the micro-air vehicles (MAVs) only to show excellent flight performance in a specific flow field environment. The MAVs should have the ability to actively deform to adapt to different application scenarios. This study investigates the effects of spanwise active deformation amplitude (ψmax), phase difference (φP), and Strouhal number (St) on the aerodynamic loads and vortex of a wing through numerical simulations. Under the condition of Re= 1000, numerical simulations were conducted on a rectangular wing with an aspect ratio of 4 during the flapping process. The study reveals that moderate spanwise deformation can increase the thrust of the wing and improve propulsion efficiency (ηP). Within the study's scope, the thrust coefficient increases monotonically and linearly with the deformation, but the propulsion efficiency improves only within a limited parameter range. By observing the vortex under different spanwise deformations and monitoring the forces at different positions of the wing, it was found that active deformation can enhance the strength of the leading-edge vortex (LEV) and the wingtip vortex (TV), thereby enhancing the generation of thrust. The results also indicate that the enhancement of LEV is achieved through the coupling between LEV and secondary vortex. At different Strouhal numbers, improvements in ηP can only be achieved through the combined effects of increased vortex strength and optimal vortex residence time. Additionally, it was observed that at lower St, TV can switch from contributing thrust to causing drag.

Deep learning based optimal restricted access window mechanism for performance enhancement of IEEE 802.11ah dense IoT networks

Deep learning based optimal restricted access window mechanism for performance enhancement of IEEE 802.11ah dense IoT networks

Isotropically Polarized Bipiezoelectric Polyacrylonitrile-Poly(vinylidene Fluoride) Advanced Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Operation in High-Humidity Environments.

Conventional hybrid piezo-triboelectric nanogenerators (PTNGs) have potential applications as energy supply devices for microelectronic devices, but their low power density and unstable performance under high-humidity conditions are challenges that need to be solved. Here, we report a novel flexible hybrid bifiezo-triboelectric nanogenerator (Bi-PTNG) based on isotropic polarization design of piezoelectric PVDF and PAN nanofiber membranes, which greatly improves power density of devices and performances in high-humidity conditions. The performance enhancement mechanism of the Bi-PTNG was investigated by model analysis, experimental measurements, and simulations. The results showed that the power density output of Bi-PTNG increased by approximately 88% compared to that of a depolarized PAN/PVDF-based triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). The application studies demonstrated that a 2 × 2 cm2 Bi-PTNG can be directly used to run more than 120 commercial LEDs, and this highly flexible and breathable all-fiber device can be integrated into clothing or insoles to monitor human movement in high-humidity conditions. This work not only provides an effective strategy for enhancing the power output of TENGs and advancing their practical applications but also offers robust guidance for the material selection and optimization of the polarization direction in such nanogenerators.

Conceptual framework to improve financial performance via institutional pressures and voluntary environmental information disclosure

This study delves into the intricate relationship between institutional pressures and financial performance, with a focus on the mediating role of voluntary environmental information disclosure (VEID). Grounded in institutional theory and the resource-based view (RBV), the study investigates how coercive, normative, and mimetic institutional pressures drive firms to adopt VEID, which in turn impacts their financial performance. VEID plays a pivotal role in allowing firms to convey their environmental performance, promoting transparency, and bolstering stakeholder trust. This heightened trust significantly contributes to improved financial performance by enhancing the firms' reputation and credibility. In addition to external communication, VEID also acts as a mechanism for internal performance enhancement, aligning firms' environmental strategies with institutional pressures. Through the integration of VEID practices, firms are better positioned to meet regulatory requirements, align with stakeholder expectations, and enhance operational efficiency. The findings underscore the critical importance of integrating voluntary environmental information disclosure within both institutional and resource-based strategies to attain sustainable financial performance and ensure long-term success in a competitive and environmentally conscious market.

Pulsed dynamic electrolysis enhanced PEMWE hydrogen production: Revealing the effects of pulsed electric fields on protons mass transport and hydrogen bubble escape

The transition of hydrogen sourcing from carbon-intensive to water-based methodologies is underway, with renewable energy-powered proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) emerging as the preeminent pathway for hydrogen production. Despite remarkable advancements in this field, confronting the sluggish electrochemical kinetics and inherent high-energy consumption arising from deteriorated mass transport within PEMWE systems remains a formidable obstacle. This impediment stems primarily from the hindered protons mass transfer and the untimely hydrogen bubbles detachment. To address these challenges, we harness the inherent variability of electrical energy and introduce an innovative pulsed dynamic water electrolysis system. Compared to constant voltage electrolysis (hydrogen production rate: 51.6 mL h−1, energy consumption: 5.37 kWh Nm−3 H2), this strategy (hydrogen production rate: 66 mL h−1, energy consumption: 3.83 kWh Nm−3 H2) increases the hydrogen production rate by approximately 27% and reduces the energy consumption by about 28%. Furthermore, we demonstrate the practicality of this system by integrating it with an off-grid photovoltaic (PV) system designed for outdoor operation, successfully driving a hydrogen production current of up to 500 mA under an average voltage of approximately 2 V. The combined results of in-situ characterization and finite element analysis reveal the performance enhancement mechanism: pulsed dynamic electrolysis (PDE) dramatically accelerates the enrichment of protons at the electrode/solution interface and facilitates the release of bubbles on the electrode surface. As such, PDE-enhanced PEMWE represents a synergistic advancement, concurrently enhancing both the hydrogen generation reaction and associated transport processes. This promising technology not only redefines the landscape of electrolysis-based hydrogen production but also holds immense potential for broadening its application across a diverse spectrum of electrocatalytic endeavors.

Effects of post heat treatment on key T-phase evolution and the matching mechanism of enhanced strength-toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance in Al-Mg-Zn-(Cu-Er-Zr) alloy by laser powder bed fusion

Al-Mg-Zn-(Cu-Er-Zr) system alloy is a novel alloy designed by materials genetic method for laser additive manufacturing of lightweight brake discs and the T-phase (T-AlMgZnCuZrEr) in this alloy is the most important microstructure for enhancing performance matching of the alloy. Scientifically regulating the T-phase evolution through innovative preparation processes to improve the matching of strength-toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance in this novel alloy is the fundamental work for preparing high-performance lightweight high-speed train brake disc parts using laser additive manufacturing. In this work, laser powder bed fusion and post heat treatments were employed to prepare Al-Mg-Zn-(Cu-Er-Zr) alloy samples with the superior matching of strength-toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance, and the key T-phase evolution and performance enhancement mechanisms of the samples were studied. The results indicate that post heat treatments significantly influenced the quantity, size, and structure of the T-phase in the cladded sample, which significantly enhanced the strength-toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance matching of the alloy. It is found that under the optimized aging treatment at 200 °C/6 h, due to the evolution of T-phase area fraction and cell-like structure inside the T-phase, the strength-toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance were improved by 30 %, 28 %, 1.4 %, respectively. The precipitation and concave dissolution mechanisms of the T-phase during post heat treatment have been finely revealed, and a three-performance matching relationship model has been successfully constructed based on the strength-toughness matching equation. A new laser powder bed fusion followed by the aging process to manufacture an Al-Mg-Zn-(Cu-Er-Zr) alloy sample with the superior matching of strength-toughness, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance has been obtained, which provides a valuable reference for laser additive manufacturing high-performance lightweight aluminum alloy brake disc parts.

Charge-Sharing Based Stabilization of Nano-Porous Organic Electrode for Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery

Organic-based lithium-ion batteries have garnered increasing attention due to their potential for cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and high energy density. Despite the promising theoretical prediction, the actual battery performance of organic-based electrodes has frequently fallen below the expected values. This discrepancy is primarily attributed to a low density of active sites, limited ion diffusivity, and high solubility to the electrolyte. This study introduces 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine (DMPZ) as an organic active material, demonstrating superior electrochemical performance characterized by high capacity and prolonged cycle performance. To achieve a high capacity, a cryogenic milling is employed to create a porous nanostructure, enhancing the surface-to-volume ratio without altering the molecular structure. Consequently, the initial specific capacity of the porous DMPZ electrode reaches 184 mAh g-1 at 0.6 C, representing a remarkable 180% increase compared to non-milled DMPZ. To improve cycle stability, a charge-sharing reaction among organic active materials is facilitated by forming an organic nanocomposite comprising DMPZ and various n-type organic materials. The organic nanocomposite effectively mitigates the elution of organic active materials, ensuring unprecedented cycling stability with a capacity retention exceeding 90% over 500 cycles with initial specific capacity of 248 mAh g-1. C-rate tests at 1.2, 2, 4, and 8 C demonstrate outstanding rate capability, with an average capacity of 105 mAh g-1 at 8 C. The performance enhancement mechanism of the organic nanocomposite cathode is elucidated through experimental analyses, including ex-situ XPS, PiFM, and FTIR. These analyses collectively contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying the observed improvements in battery performance.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of hammer-forging assisted wire-arc directed energy deposition AZ91 alloy

ABSTRACT With the development of lightweight aerospace equipment, magnesium alloys are receiving increasing attention. Wire-arc directed energy deposition (Wire-arc DED) is a highly promising manufacturing method for magnesium alloy parts, but its development has been severely restricted by the problems of coarse grain size and low mechanical properties. To address these issues, a hammer-forging assisted Wire-arc DED technology for magnesium alloy AZ91 is proposed. The effects of interlayer hammer-forging and synchronous hammer-forging on macrostructure, microstructure and mechanical properties of the Wire-arc DED samples are compared, and the microstructure evolution and performance enhancement mechanism are discussed. The results show that the maximum plastic deformation caused by hammer forging reaches 11.7%. Hammer forging can significantly refine grains, and the average grain size decreases from 27.7 μm to 13.5 μm. Synchronous hammer-forging is better than interlayer hammer-forging in terms of performance enhancement, the UTS reaches 301.8 MPa, an increase of 10.9%, which is comparable to that of traditional forged parts, mainly attributed to the grain refinement and increased dislocation density.

Laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing of Ti6Al4V-matrix composite with outstanding hardness/strength: Microstructural evolution and performance enhancement mechanisms

Incorporation of transition-metal boride with excellent mechanical performance as a reinforcing phase, represents a promising approach to address the challenge of insufficient hardness/strength in Ti6Al4V alloys. Despite the common challenge of achieving homogeneous distribution and refinement of TMB, this study leveraged a novel strategy involving laser-induced in-situ synthesis and a greatly strengthened laser-molten-pool effect, to additively manufacture highly-dense Ti6Al4V-matrix composites reinforced with mono-dispersed TiB nanowires. This was achieved through selective laser melting route of laser powder bed fusion. Remarkably, the unique microstructural morphology of these composites characterized by the uniform dispersion of high-aspect-ratio reinforcing phases, boron dissolution into α-Ti grain boundaries of the Ti6Al4V matrices, and unified crystallographic coordination of gradient transitional layers, contributed to their superior microhardness and compressive strength compared to the counterparts even with the higher contents of reinforcing phases. This achievement was attributed to the synergistic effects of various morphological mechanisms including second-phase, grain refinement, and stress-transfer reinforcing/strengthening. This research provided new insights into the precise control of microstructural evolution in metal-matrix composites and the enhancement of their overall mechanical performance.