Ceramic-polymer Composites Research Articles

In-vitro study of the sliding-wear of CAD/CAM dental composite materials

Polymer-ceramic composites are widely employed in dental prostheses. However, due to low hardness values, their lifetime is often limited by wear. Here, the wear of commercially available dental CAD/CAM composites is explored through in-vitro tests involving extended sliding contact with a zirconia antagonist. The predominant wear mode is abrasion, with specific mechanisms including plastic deformation at the asperity level and microcracking. The extent of damage exhibits significant variability as a function of materials’ microstructure, resulting in wear volume differences of up to two orders of magnitude. The findings are analyzed within the framework of tribology and contact fracture mechanics. Strategies for enhancing durability are discussed, emphasizing potential microstructural engineering approaches—increasing hardness, improving particle-matrix adhesive strength, and optimizing particle aspect ratio.

Analysis of Polymer-Ceramic Composites Performance on Electrical and Mechanical Properties through Finite Element and Empirical Models.

Polymer and ceramic-based composites offer a unique blend of desirable traits for improving dielectric permittivity. This study employs an empirical approach to estimate the dielectric permittivity of composite materials and uses a finite element model to understand the effects of permittivity and filler concentration on mechanical and electrical properties. The empirical model combines the Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars (MWS) and Bruggeman models to estimate the effective permittivity using Barium Titanate (BT) and Calcium Copper Titanate Oxide (CCTO) as ceramic fillers dispersed in a Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymer matrix. Results indicate that the permittivity of the composite improves with increased filler content, with CCTO/PDMS emerging as the superior combination for capacitive applications. Capacitance and energy storage in the CCTO/PDMS composite material reached 900 nF and 450 nJ, respectively, with increased filler content. Additionally, increased pressure on the capacitive model with varied filler content showed promising effects on mechanical properties. The interaction between BT filler and the polymer matrix significantly altered the electrical properties of the model, primarily depending on the composite's permittivity. This study provides comprehensive insights into the effects of varied filler concentrations on estimating mechanical and electrical properties, aiding in the development of real-world pressure-based capacitive models.

From macro to micro: Bioinspired designs for tougher ceramics

Ceramic materials, while strong, often lack flexibility and energy absorption. Inspired by tough natural structures like nacre, toughening strategies have shown significant potential in ceramic materials. This study investigates the static and cyclic flexural properties (i.e., energy absorption, stiffness, and strength) of the bioinspired ceramic-polymer composites, particularly concerning the influence of macro and micro patterns. Using a subtractive manufacturing platform enabled by ultra-short pulsed picosecond lasers, we engrave a range of macro and micro patterns onto alumina tiles, mimicking natural armor designs. The composites are then fabricated by stacking laser-engraved tiles with an interlayer of Surlyn®, a commercial monomer. The results demonstrate that the static/cyclic performance and toughening mechanisms are closely linked to the lasered bioinspired surface patterns and stacking sequence. Specific macro architectures and stacking sequences led to significantly increased energy absorption (up to 85%) through mechanisms like crack deflection and plastic deformation of the soft phase. Micro patterns, on the other hand, improved the ceramic's strength (up to 140%) by influencing how the materials interact at the interface. This research not only advances our understanding of bioinspired armor but also paves the way for a new generation of ceramic composites with superior properties, targeting applications in defense (aerospace and vehicle armor) and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Investigation of sintering properties and behavior of sericite ceramifying powder under low temperature

AbstractPolymer–ceramic composites are widely used in refractory cables. The ceramic fillers provide high temperature and fire resistance, while the polymer matrix provides flexibility and improved electrical insulation. The properties of the polymer–ceramic composites are determined by the ceramization‐forming properties of the corresponding ceramifying powders. Properties such as shrinkage, density, and porosity were characterized to compare the effects of different contents of glass powder. The sintering activation energy was calculated using the logarithmic relationship between shrinkage and holding time. The microstructure, cross‐section, and crystalline phases were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD) to explore the ceramization process of sericite ceramifying powder. The ceramization process of ceramifying powder is proposed. The results show that during low‐temperature sintering, the glass powder and muscovite phases melt and partially transform into α‐quartz and albite low during cooling down.

Polymer-ceramic composites for fused deposition modeling of biomimetic bone scaffolds

Current surgical treatments for segmental bone loss do not reliably result in healing, typically necessitate multiple surgeries, and may result in amputation. Although we have demonstrated that polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) scaffolds can regenerate large critical size bone defects, the material is non-resorbable and may lead to problems including acting as a nidus for infection. New strategies have emerged that use resorbable polymers, ceramics, and composite materials to produce patient specific scaffolds that stimulate rapid bone formation without retention of foreign material. This work describes the production of a composite polymer ceramic material composed of polylactic acid (PLA) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP) that can be used with additive manufacturing techniques to rapidly produce scaffolds with custom geometries. The technique we describe can be used to produce composite materials with a ratio of up to 50-50 PLA-TCP that is suitable for fused deposition modeling and does not necessitate the use of solvents. In this study the properties of PBT, PLA, 75-25 PLA-TCP, and 50-50 PLA-TCP materials are compared. PLA and PLA-TCP materials had a higher compressive elastic modulus compared to PBT, while composite PLA-TCP materials had a higher tensile elastic modulus compared to PLA and PBT. Cell culture experiments demonstrated that all materials were non-toxic to cells. Optimal printing parameters are provided for using pure polymer and composite materials for fused deposition modeling. The results of this study demonstrate that resorbable polymer ceramic materials with a high ceramic composition can be produced for additive manufacturing without necessitating solvents.

Powder Aerosol Deposition and Polymers: Is There Hope for a Common Future?

Polymer–ceramic composites (PCCs) are promising functional materials with applications in energy technology, microelectronics, sensor technology, protective coatings, wastewater treatment or for biomedical purposes. Unfortunately, ceramics require high‐temperature sintering, while polymers only have a limited thermal stability. Therefore, PCC fabrication is quite complex and requires strict process control. This severely limits the efficiency and economy of the process and the reproducibility of the desired materials properties. Powder aerosol deposition (PAD) is a spray‐coating process in which ceramic powders are accelerated by a pressure difference using a carrier gas. They are then deposited as nanocrystalline, dense coatings onto a substrate without the need for additional sintering. In the current PAD research, the focus is ceramic powders. Yet there are also examples of polymer and ceramic particles that have been codeposited. Much of this works is trial‐and‐error, and a general concept for deposition of PCCs by PAD is not yet available. This review revisits the fundamentals of PAD and the most important process parameters that were studied experimentally and in silico. It connects these with recent work on the combination of polymers and ceramics in the PAD process to highlight and evaluate the future of this field from a polymer science perspective.

Organic Electronics in Flexible Devices: Engineering Strategy, Synthesis, And Application

In recent years, flexible electronics have made significant strides, especially in organic light-emitting diodes, photovoltaics, thin-film transistors, integrated circuits, sensors, and memories. This study investigates the pivotal role of organic electronics in shaping flexible and wearable technology. It explores key aspects such as conductive polymers, small molecule organic semiconductors, and the use of organic dyes and pigments in displays, alongside synthesis techniques like polymerization and vapor deposition. These methods highlight advances in flexibility engineering and integration into wearable devices, enabling innovations like textile-integrated electronics and ultra-thin, skin-like interfaces. The discussion also covers synthesis and fabrication strategies, emphasizing cost-effective, solution-processing techniques for manufacturing electrodes, interconnects, and metal contacts on various flexible substrates. Advanced materials like graphene polymer composites, carbon-nanotube composites, and polymer-ceramic composites are investigated for enhancing stretchability and flexibility in device architectures. Furthermore, the paper examines the evolution of flexible devices, focusing on design strategies for flexibility and stretchability, innovative engineering polymers, composites, and device architectures, including 3D integration. Integration techniques in wearable devices, such as textile integration and skin-like electronics, are discussed, showcasing their transformative potential in applications like health monitoring devices, smart clothing, and wearable displays. Finally, the paper proposed solutions to address challenges such as durability, stability, scalability, and manufacturing efficiency, emphasizing the ongoing quest for improved materials and manufacturing processes. The conclusion underscores the transformative potential of organic electronics, envisioning a new era of wearable and flexible technology seamlessly integrated into daily life, revolutionizing our interactions with electronic devices.

Strength evaluation of polymer ceramic composites: a comparative study between injection molding and fused filament fabrication techniques

Strength evaluation of polymer ceramic composites: a comparative study between injection molding and fused filament fabrication techniques

Enhanced Dielectric Constant of PVDF-HFP/BFO Composite Films for Ferroelectric Applications

We have developed multiferroic Bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3, BFO) incorporated Poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) polymer-ceramic composites through the solution casting method. The polymer-ceramic composites are fabricated by varying the composition of the BFO as a filler material ranging 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 40 wt% into the PVDF-HFP polymer matrix. We have investigated the effect of BFO loading on the structural, morphological, spectroscopic, and dielectric properties by different characterization techniques. X-ray diffraction analysis indicates the presence of non-polar α- and polar β- phases of PVDF-HFP in the composites. Scanning electron microscope studies revealed the spherulite morphology and homogenous dispersion of BFO particles. The addition of BFO filler in PVDF-HFP matrix at various percentages has been studied to improve the polar β- phase of PVDF-HFP which may enhance ferroelectric properties. The dielectric studies at room temperature showed an increase in dielectric constant value from 9.5 (pure PVDF-HFP) to 21.08 (30% loaded BFO) at 100 Hz. It is also evident from the Fourier Transform- Infrared (FT-IR) spectra, that a maximum of 75.24% of β-fraction is observed for 30% loaded BFO composition. The enhanced properties of the fabricated materials suggest that they may be useful for polymer-ceramic capacitor applications. The results are discussed in detail.

Direct inkjet writing of polylactic acid/β-tricalcium phosphate composites for bone tissue regeneration: A proof-of-concept study.

There is an ever-evolving need of customized, anatomic-specific grafting materials for bone regeneration. More specifically, biocompatible and osteoconductive materials, that may be configured dynamically to fit and fill defects, through the application of an external stimulus. The objective of this study was to establish a basis for the development of direct inkjet writing (DIW)-based shape memory polymer-ceramic composites for bone tissue regeneration applications and to establish material behavior under thermomechanical loading. Polymer-ceramic (polylactic acid [PLA]/β-tricalcium phosphate [β-TCP]) colloidal gels were prepared of different w/w ratios (90/10, 80/20, 70/30, 60/40, and 50/50) through polymer dissolution in acetone (15% w/v). Cytocompatibility was analyzed through Presto Blue assays. Rheological properties of the colloidal gels were measured to determine shear-thinning capabilities. Gels were then extruded through a custom-built DIW printer. Space filling constructs of the gels were printed and subjected to thermomechanical characterization to measure shape fixity (Rf) and shape recovery (Rr) ratios through five successive shape memory cycles. The polymer-ceramic composite gels exhibited shear-thinning capabilities for extrusion through a nozzle for DIW. A significant increase in cellular viability was observed with the addition of β-TCP particles within the polymer matrix relative to pure PLA. Shape memory effect in the printed constructs was repeatable up to 4 cycles followed by permanent deformation. While further research on scaffold macro-/micro-geometries, and engineered porosities are warranted, this proof-of-concept study suggested suitability of this polymer-ceramic material and the DIW 3D printing workflow for the production of customized, patient specific constructs for bone tissue engineering.

Ablation behavior of gradient ceramic-polymer composites in wind tunnel environment

Ceramic matrix composites are desirable for applications in extreme environments due to the excellent ablation resistance, but few ceramic materials can exhibit a matched load bearing capacity currently. The technological potential of functionally graded materials, such as improved ablation resistance and enhanced load-bearing capacity, has opened up the feasibility for designing highly efficient thermal protection materials. In this study, composite insulation tiles, with three-dimensional braided carbon fibers in a ceramic-polymer continuous gradient matrix, are designed and fabricated by using a temperature-controlled polymer-derived ceramic method. The ablation behavior of the specimens exposed to high-temperature high-speed wind tunnel environments has been investigated at a total enthalpy of 15.8 MJ/kg. Temperature response, morphology and composition characteristics are obtained, which allows detecting oxidation resistance and thermal stability of the gradient composites. The results showed that the formation the silicon oxide layer covering the ablated surface and the inner gradient layer composed of amorphous SiCN ceramics display a key role in resisting ablation and reducing heat conduction. Meanwhile, the underlying resin layer can display superior load-bearing capacity at environment temperatures lower than pyrolysis. The present study highlights high ablation behavior of continuous gradient ceramic-polymer composites, offering a possibility in developing thermal protection composites with good trade-off between thermal and mechanical properties.

Polymer Composites in 3D/4D Printing: Materials, Advances, and Prospects.

Additive manufacturing (AM), commonly referred to as 3D printing, has revolutionized the manufacturing landscape by enabling the intricate layer-by-layer construction of three-dimensional objects. In contrast to traditional methods relying on molds and tools, AM provides the flexibility to fabricate diverse components directly from digital models without the need for physical alterations to machinery. Four-dimensional printing is a revolutionary extension of 3D printing that introduces the dimension of time, enabling dynamic transformations in printed structures over predetermined periods. This comprehensive review focuses on polymeric materials in 3D printing, exploring their versatile processing capabilities, environmental adaptability, and applications across thermoplastics, thermosetting materials, elastomers, polymer composites, shape memory polymers (SMPs), including liquid crystal elastomer (LCE), and self-healing polymers for 4D printing. This review also examines recent advancements in microvascular and encapsulation self-healing mechanisms, explores the potential of supramolecular polymers, and highlights the latest progress in hybrid printing using polymer-metal and polymer-ceramic composites. Finally, this paper offers insights into potential challenges faced in the additive manufacturing of polymer composites and suggests avenues for future research in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field.

Nanoscale Ion Transport Enhances Conductivity in Solid Polymer-Ceramic Lithium Electrolytes.

The predictive design of flexible and solvent-free polymer electrolytes for solid-state batteries requires an understanding of the fundamental principles governing the ion transport. In this work, we establish a correlation among the composite structures, polymer segmental dynamics, and lithium ion (Li+) transport in a ceramic-polymer composite. Elucidating this structure-property relationship will allow tailoring of the Li+ conductivity by optimizing the macroscopic electrochemical stability of the electrolyte. The ion dissociation from the slow polymer segmental dynamics was found to be enhanced by controlling the morphology and functionality of the polymer/ceramic interface. The chemical structure of the Li+ salt in the composite electrolyte was correlated with the size of the ionic cluster domains, the conductivity mechanism, and the electrochemical stability of the electrolyte. Polyethylene oxide (PEO) filled with lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) or lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide (LiFSI) salts was used as a matrix. A garnet electrolyte, aluminum substituted lithium lanthanum zirconium oxide (Al-LLZO) with a planar geometry, was used for the ceramic nanoparticle moieties. The dynamics of the strongly bound and highly mobile Li+ were investigated using dielectric relaxation spectroscopy. The incorporation of the Al-LLZO platelets increased the number density of more mobile Li+. The structure of the nanoscale ion-agglomeration was investigated by small-angle X-ray scattering, while molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies were conducted to obtain the fundamental mechanism of the decorrelation of the Li+ in the LiTFSI and LiFSI salts from the long PEO chain.

Preparation of ceramifiable and ablatively resistant epoxy resins by microphase structure modulation of silicones

The development of ceramic-polymer composites is a focal point in the research of thermal protection systems, and the control of microstructure is crucial for fabricating high-performance resins. In order to investigate the effect of the silicon phase structure on the properties of epoxy resins and preparate the ablation-resistant ceramifiable resins, the homogeneous and “sea-island” phases of epoxy resins with different amounts of silicones were prepared by ring-opening and grafting reactions. The reaction mechanism and the microphase structure of silicone were verified by SEM and TEM. It was found that the homogeneous silicone-epoxy resins exhibited exceptional ablation resistance, with mass and linear ablation rates of 0.0646 g/s and 0.0073 mm/s, which were 78.61 % and 98.36 % lower than those of epoxy resins, and exceeded most of the resin-based ablation-resistant materials reported in the literatures. The homogeneous silicone further slows down the pyrolysis rate of the epoxy resin and inhibits the release of pyrolysis products. During the carbonization and ceramization, the carbothermal reduction reaction between silicon and carbon occurs sufficiently in the homogeneous system, which enhanced the content of SiC ceramics in the carbon layer. Eventually, a dense char layer with low porosity and a highly graphitized structure constructed in situ on the ablative surface, which greatly improves the ablative resistance. Furthermore, its exceptional mechanical properties render it capable of substituting conventional resin-based thermal protection materials, thereby meeting the stringent demands of challenging environments.

Hybrid Polymer-Inorganic Materials with Hyaluronic Acid as Controlled Antibiotic Release Systems.

In recent years, significant developments have taken place in scientific fields such as tissue and materials engineering, which allow for the development of new, intelligent biomaterials. An example of such biomaterials is drug delivery systems that release the active substance directly at the site where the therapeutic effect is required. In this research, polymeric materials and ceramic-polymer composites were developed as carriers for the antibiotic clindamycin. The preparation and characterization of biomaterials based on hyaluronic acid, collagen, and nano brushite obtained using the photocrosslinking technique under UV (ultraviolet) light are described. Physical and chemical analyses of the materials obtained were carried out using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and optical microscopy. The sorption capacities were determined and subjected to in vitro incubation in simulated biological environments such as Ringer's solution, simulated body fluid (SBF), phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and distilled water. The antibiotic release rate was also measured. The study confirmed higher swelling capacity for materials with no addition of a ceramic phase, thus it can be concluded that brushite inhibits the penetration of the liquid medium into the interior of the samples, leading to faster absorption of the liquid medium. In addition, incubation tests confirmed preliminary biocompatibility. No drastic changes in pH values were observed, which suggests that the materials are stable under these conditions. The release rate of the antibiotic from the biomaterial into the incubation medium was determined using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The concentration of the antibiotic in the incubation fluid increased steadily following a 14-day incubation in PBS, indicating continuous antibiotic release. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the developed polymeric material demonstrates potential for use as a carrier for the active substance.

Photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin drug utilizing novel PVDF/polyaniline/ lanthanum strontium manganate@Ag composites

Poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is the first-choice ferroelectric support or membrane material. The lanthanum strontium manganite (LSMO) is a well-known electrode material in the class of the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) materials. A set of four polymer composites PVDF-LSMO-PANI(5.0 wt%) with different amount of silver doping were fabricated with the silver nitrate and reducing agent. The characterization of these four novel PVDF based composites were characterized by the XRD, FTIR, SEM, UV-Visible DRS. The present communication highlights: (I) the effect of PANI in the PVDF-LSMO-PANI (PLP) composites towards the photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin drug. (II) the effect of Ag doping in the Ag-PVDF-LSMO-PANI (Ag-PLP) composites towards the photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin drug. It is observed that the incorporation of PANI in PVDF-LSMO and Ag in PVDF-LSMO-PANI polymer ceramic composites showed enhanced photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin in the irradiation of visible radiation. The plausible separation of photo-generated e- hole pairs (e- and h+) carried on by charge migration kind of mechanism is being studied here to understand the improved photocatalytic activity of Ag-PVDF-LSMO-PANI composites.

Nanocrystalline Composite Layer Realized by Simple Sintering Without Surface Treatment, Reducing Hydrophilicity and Increasing Thermal Conductivity.

The surface treatment for a polymer-ceramic composite is additionally performed in advanced material industries. To prepare the composite without a surface treatment, the simplest way to manufacture an advanced ceramic-particle is devised. The method is the formation of a nanocrystalline composite layer through the simple liquid-phase sintering. Using magnesia (MgO) which shows hydrophilicity, a nanocrystalline surface layer is realized by liquid-phase sintering. The amorphous matrix of nanocrystalline composite layer makes MgO hydrophobic and ensures miscibility with polymers, and the nanocrystalline MgO ensures high thermal conductivity. In addition, the liquid phase removes the open pores and makes the surface morphology smooth MgO with smooth surface (MgO-SM). Thermal interface materials (TIM) prepared with MgO-SM and epoxy show a high thermal conductivity of ≈7.5Wm-1K-1, which is significantly higher than 4.5W m-1K-1 of pure MgO TIM. Consequently, the formation process of a nanocrystalline surface layer utilizing simple liquid-phase sintering is proposed as a fabrication method for a next-generation ceramic-filler. In addition, it is fundamentally identified that the thermal conductivity of MgO depends on the Mg deficiency, and therefore a poly-crystal MgO-SM (produced at a low temperature) has a higher thermal conductivity than a single-crystal MgO (produced at a high temperature).

Effect of the structure and hydrothermal conditions on the strength of polymerceramic composites

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Recent Advances in Machining of Composite Materials by Electrical Discharge Machine

Composites are being used since decades and imparting excellent properties comparatively. It may be used in numerous industries because of its light weight and specific strength. Machinability of these materials is a concerned aspect. Conventional and The composites have been machined using unconventional machining techniques. Conventional methods are less suitable than non-conventional quoting the best surface finish and ability to machine complex parts. This article investigates the suitability of thermo-electric process for the machining of composites for higher surface quality and material removal. It includes the study of machining by die sinking, wire cut, powder mixed electric discharge machine in different matrix based composites along with the variation of reinforcement. Electric Discharge Machining (EDM) finds its suitability in machining of different metal matrix composites (MMC) more than the Polymer Matrix Composite (PMC) and Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC). Variation in input parameters listed as Pulse duration, Voltage, Peak Current and Polarity is studied to obtain the optimum resulting parameters as Material Removal Rate (MRR), Surface Roughness (SR), Electrode Wear Rate (EWR) and Kerf Width. Material removal in PMC is 16% more in parallel fibre direction than with perpendicular. Low electrical conductance and high hardness of CMCs limits the use of EDM while natural ceramics are found more suitable for machining. Gap voltage, pulse on time and current are found most crucial in machining MMCs while quantifying material removal and surface roughness.

Compression fatigue properties of bioinspired nacre-like composites compared with natural nacre: Effects of architectures and orientations

Bioinspired architectures mimicking natural nacre demonstrate a remarkable efficiency in toughening materials, yet their fatigue properties remain to be explored, specifically regarding the effects of architectural types and orientations. Here the compression-compression fatigue properties of bioinspired ceramic-polymer composites with nacre-like lamellar and brick-and-mortar architectures along with natural nacre were investigated by cyclically loading along different orientations. The fatigue performance and damage mechanisms of these materials were revealed to be closely related to their architectural types and orientations. The nacre-like architectures played a role in hindering the propagation of fatigue cracks by inducing crack deflection, promoting the contact and mutual friction between cracking faces, and via the plastic deformation of polymer phase. This work may provide experimental basis for the application of nacre-like composites and give insights for designing new bioinspired fatigue-resistant materials.