SEM Examination Research Articles

Laser-assisted Icon and clinpro for restoring white spot lesions: an in vitro comparative study.

Managing white spot lesions (WSLs) remains a challenging issue that has yet to be fully resolved. WSLs are areas of demineralized enamel that most commonly occur following orthodontic treatments. They can potentially lead to enamel caries and are also esthetically undesirable. The current study investigated and analyzed the effects of Icon resin infiltration (Icon) and Clinpro XT varnish (Clinpro), both alone and in combination with a diode laser, on the restoration of WSLs. Color change, microhardness, and scanning electron microscopy were used to evaluate the WSLs after the different treatment applications. Results showed that the combination of Icon and Clinpro, along with a diode laser, enhanced color stability and restoration of enamel hardness in white spot lesions. Utilizing a diode laser significantly improved the efficacy of both Icon and Clinpro therapies. SEM examination verified that laser-assisted treatments resulted in almost total blockage of enamel rods, indicating enhanced effectiveness. Conclusions: Integrating diode laser treatment with Icon and Clinpro XT Varnish has significantly improved the esthetic outcomes and mechanical properties of treated enamel.

Light and electron microscopy of the micromorphology and development of pycniospores and aeciospores of the sunflower rust, Puccinia helianthi

The pathogenic fungus Puccinia helianthi, which causes rust disease and significant economic loss, poses a serious threat to the Helianthus annuus crop. This study is the first to examine the ultrastructure of the spore stages of this rust, aiming to fill the gap in the understanding of Egyptian rusts. The present study aimed to explore the micromorphology and development of pycniospores and aeciospores of Puccinia helianthi on its host, using LM, SEM, and TEM. The immature pycnium grows subepidermally and is bordered by a peripheral layer of pseudoparenchymatous cells. Within the pycnium, uninuclear, compactly packed, and elongated pycniosporophores are formed. Pointed periphyses emerge at the highest point of the pycnium, where numerous pycniospores are produced. The primary pycniospores are then released from the pycniosporophores having an elliptical shape with a wrinkled surface. Aeciospores are produced at the edges of a distinct layer, the peridium with rhomboid-shaped peridial cells. A prosenchymatous stroma develops beneath the hymenium layer (aeciosporophores). Two main types of hyphae can distinguish in this stroma: vacuolated hyphae, at the base of the aecium, and non-vacuolated hyphae with dense, ribosome-rich cytoplasm, oil droplets, and glycogen. Each aeciospore divides to form a young aeciospore and an intercalary cell with elongated or hexagonal shapes and warts on the mature aeciospores. SEM examination reveals cog-like ornaments and refracting bodies on the surfaces of peridial cells and aeciospores. The ultrastructure of these two spore stages is more or less similar to that of other Puccinia species with some differences. The procedures used in this study will assist mycologists in rust identification, taxonomy, and microscopic characterization. In conclusion, this study will provide additional information to help understand the interaction between rusts and their hosts. Future research on ultracytochemical studies may provide insight into controlling these serious pathogens.

Engineered Porous Beta-Cyclodextrin-Loaded Raloxifene Framework with Potential Anticancer Activity: Physicochemical Characterization, Drug Release, and Cytotoxicity Studies.

Cancer ranks as the second most common cause of mortality as depicted by the World Health Organization, with one in six deaths being cancer-related mortality. Taking the lead in females, breast cancer is the most common neoplasm. Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, has been utilized as a chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. However, its poor aqueous solubility hinders its clinical applications. Beta-cyclodextrin-based framework is a novel class of nano-vectors that used to potentiate the solubility and dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs. The present study investigates the solubility and dissolution rate enhancement as well as the potential cytotoxic activity of raloxifene-loaded nanosponges formulation. The fabrication and optimization of cyclodextrin nanosponges crosslinked with diphenyl carbonate was portrayed through stoichiometric selection of cyclodextrin-to-crosslinker ratio. The complexation phenomenon and nanosponges formation were validated using FTIR, PXRD, TEM, and SEM examination. Raloxifene-loaded nanosponges exhibited a 440±8.5 nm particle size, a negative zeta potential of 25.18±2.3 mV and a partial drug incorporation. Moreover, the drug loaded nanosponges demonstrated an in-vitro significantly enhanced dissolution behavior. Furthermore, the in-vitro cytotoxicity of the raloxifene-loaded nanosponges on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines was statistically significant compared to the complex-free raloxifene. The cytotoxic behavior provided evidence that the incorporation of raloxifene within the nanosponges structure enhanced its anticancer activity and represents a potential nanocarrier for anticancer agent delivery.

The Investigation of Comparative Spore Morphologies of Acrocarpous and Pleurocarpous Two Mosses (Bryophyta)

Bryophyta members in the subkingdom Bryobiotina are distributed in a wide variety of habitats. Mosses are morphologically divided into two large groups: acrocarpous and pleurocarpous. Acrocarpic species have arid character and pleurocarpic species are distributed in more moist regions. The spores of the pleurocarpous Brachythecium salebrosum (Hoffm. ex F. Weber & D. Mohr) Schimp. and the acrocarpous Crossidium squamiferum var. pottioideum (De Not.) Mönk. were examined in comparison in this study. Spore slides were prepared using both Erdtman (acetolysis) and Wodehouse methods and examined under a light microscope (LM). As a result of the analyses, it was found that the spores of C. squamiferum var. pottioideum were oblate in both methods, while the spores of B. salebrosum were suboblate in the acetolysis method and oblate in the Wodehouse method. Spores of both taxa are classified as small spores. Furthermore, the equatorial axis is longer than the polar axis in the spores of both taxa and the thicknesses of the intine layer of the spores are almost identical at 0.50 µm (B. salebrosum) and 0.53 µm (C. squamiferum var. pottioideum). In addition, the thickness of the sclerine of B. salebrosum spores was about 0.70 µm in both methods, while it was 0.56 µm in acetolysed spores of C. squamiferum var. pottioideum and 0.78 µm in Wodehouse treated spores. Both taxa have monolete and trilete spores. On the other hand, SEM examinations revealed that B. salebrosum has gemmate ornamentation, while C. squamiferum var. pottioideum has verrucate ornamentation. The findings obtained as a result of the studies helped to reveal the differences between the spores of taxa in different morphological groups and brought a different perspective in their ecological evaluation.

Crystallization-Controlled Structure and Thermal Properties of Biobased Poly(Ethylene2,5-Furandicarboxylate).

Crystallization-controlled structure and thermal properties of biobased poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PEF) were studied. The cold-crystallization temperature controlled the structure and thermal properties of the biobased PEF. The melting was complex and evidenced the presence of a significant fraction of less-stable crystals with a low melting temperature that linearly increased with Tc, which formed already during the early stages of crystallization, together with those melting at a higher temperature. Low Tc resulted in the α'-phase formation, less crystallinity, and greater content of the rigid amorphous phase. At high Tc, the α-phase formed, higher crystallinity developed, the rigid amorphous phase content was lower, and the melting temperature of the less-stable crystals was higher; however, slight polymer degradation could have occurred. The applied thermal treatment altered the thermal behavior of PEF by shifting the melting of the less stable crystals to a significantly higher temperature. SEM examination revealed a spherulitic morphology. A lamellar order was evidenced with an average long period and small average lamella thickness, the latter about 3-3.5 nm, only slightly increasing with Tc.

Plastic strain effect on cleavage microcracks propagation in probabalistic statement. Part 2. Research results

The second part of the paper presents the results of uniaxial tension testing of smooth round bars of 2Cr–Ni–Mo–V steel in the thermally-embrittled state and St3 steel in the initial state. SEM examination of the fracture surfaces is carried out. The brittle fracture probability is calculated using the Prometey model presented in the first part of this article. It has been found that the plastic strain effect on the microcrack propagation probability is caused by two reasons: (1) the critical brittle fracture stress increase due to formation of new barriers for microcrack under plastic deformation, and (2) the working volume decrease due to the neck formation in tensile round bar. A unified set of parameters has been proposed to take into account the plastic strain effect on cleavage microcracks propagation probability for WWER-1000 RPV steel and low-alloyed low-strength steel.

WFT-based assessment of the rheological characteristics, particle packing, and buildability of Pcc-FA-GGBFS composite materials for 3D printing

The extrudability and constructability of fresh cement paste were investigated after Portland cement clinker (Pcc) was changed with industrial solid waste fly ash (FA) and granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) to adjust the water film thickness (WFT) and rheological characteristics of cement slurry. The effects of FA/GGBFS on the bulk density and WFT of clinker-based composites were basically the same. Compared with GGBFS, FA had a stronger and more obvious effect on bulk density and WFT. The addition of appropriate amounts of FA /GGBFS enhanced the particle packing density and WFT of the slurry, enhancing its fluidity and rheology. The larger the WFT was, the lower the apparent viscosity of the slurry, and the shear stress increased with increasing shear rate. When the FA concentration was 20 %, the slurry's bulk density and WFT achieved their maximum values of 0.757 and 0.742 μm, respectively. Compared with the blank sample, the bulk density and WFT increased by 0.93 % and 0.6 %, respectively. The sample of the slurry was used to print 10 layers, the height of each layer is 9.9 mm, and the extrusion length reached a maximum of 140 mm. SEM examination revealed that the hydration products were predominantly C-S-H, CH, and ettringite. The amount of hydration products increased when the oxidation time was increased. The free water and WFT in the slurry were the key factors affecting the hydration rate and heat release. It enables the use of industrial solid waste FA and GGBFS in the field of 3D printing construction.

Development and Characterization of Ethylene‐Vinyl Acetate‐Graphene Nanocomposites

AbstractThe prospective applications of carbon graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) reinforced ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) nanocomposites in flexible electronics, energy storage devices, and thermal management systems have attracted a lot of attention. These nanocomposites offer an effective solution for enhancing the electrical conductivity of interfacing materials in electronic systems and addressing issues related to thermal management. GNPs that possess excellent thermal conductivity of 2000–4000 W m−1 K−1 and an electrical conductivity of 107 S m−1 are utilized in this investigation. The homogeneous dispersion of nanofiller and the effective load transfer between components through strong filler/polymer interfacial interactions are essential for the creation of multifunctional polymer nanocomposites. Particularly, their electrical conductivity and dielectric properties are highlighted in this study, with an emphasis on the synthesis and characterization of nanocomposite materials. This work investigates the utilization of graphene nanocomposites in EVA using a melt‐mixing technique assisted by sonication to fabricate multifunctional composites. Incorporating different weight percentages of GNPs (ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 wt.%) within the polymer matrix is carried out. In the present study, the nanocomposites are characterized by scanning electron microscopy investigation and impedance spectrum analysis. The distinctive characteristics of the AC electrical transport in nanocomposites are investigated between 10 Hz and 1 MHz. Excellent interfacial compatibility has been demonstrated by the homogenous distribution of GNPs within the matrix, confirmed by SEM examination. These EVA nanocomposites demonstrate improved electrical conductivity, thereby rendering them very useful for energy storage applications, such as electronic capacitors, wherein supports with a significant dielectric constant and minimal dielectric loss are required.

UNMASKING THE POWER OF METAL OXIDE NANOPARTICLES FOR SELF-CLEANING HEAVY DENIM: INVESTIGATING AND OPTIMIZING PROCESS PARAMETERS

The textile industry is consistently integrating cutting-edge technologies, introducing materials with multifaceted features, such as odour resistance, hydrophobicity, durability, and self-cleaning capabilities. This transformation is facilitated by the application of nanotechnology. The focal point of this experimental endeavour lies in closing the gap in employing ZnO nanoparticles on high GSM denim fabric, enhancing self-cleaning, UV protection, and antimicrobial capabilities. Initially, a solution containing nanoparticles, binder, softener, ethanol, and their auxiliaries was formulated. Zinc oxide nanoparticles, along with their auxiliaries, were applied to the denim using the pad-dry-cure and pad-dry-steam methods. Various trials were conducted to optimize the concentration of ZnO NPs, with the formulation containing 5% ZnO NPs, 5% binder, and 25% ethanol. Experimentation ensued to establish optimal time–temperature profiles for drying, curing, and steaming. Comprehensive evaluations, including drop tests, stain tests, colour strength assessments, crocking tests, SEM analysis, antimicrobial testing and UV protection factor determination were conducted on the samples. The study revealed that fixation of the self-cleaning finish by curing gives better results than by steaming. SEM examination highlighted the distribution of ZnO nanoparticles on the denim fabric. Lastly, antimicrobial properties were assessed, concluding that treated fabrics exhibited antibacterial activity compared to untreated fabrics.

Effects of synergistic application of Viscozyme L–wet ball milling on structural, physicochemical and functional properties of insoluble dietary fiber from ginseng residue

Synergistic effect of Viscozyme L with wet ball milling treatment on structural, physicochemical and functional aspects of insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) from ginseng residue were examined. SEM examination showed that IDF extracted by Viscozyme L in conjunction with wet ball milling (WBE-IDF) exhibited loose microstructural arrangement, and particle size of WBE-IDF was much smaller than that of IDF extracted by Viscozyme L (E-IDF) and along IDF (untreated). The FTIR spectra demonstrated the variations in the peak intensities in three modified ginseng IDFs. Besides, the highest thermal stability and viscosity was displayed by WBE-IDF among examined samples. In addition, WBE-IDF has higher water and oil holding, water swelling, nitrite ion absorption, bile acid absorption, and glucose absorption capacities as compared to that of E-IDF and IDF. Overall results revealed that the Viscozyme L combined with wet ball milling extraction may change ginseng IDF structure, and improve its physicochemical and functional qualities, thereby providing a theoretical basis for food industry to produce good ginseng IDF.

Surface engineering of CuO-Cu2O heterojunction thin films for improved photoelectrochemical water splitting

The efficient production of green hydrogen poses a significant challenge that requires the development of active, low-cost, and stable catalysts. Copper oxide has emerged as a highly effective photocatalyst for water splitting, offering the advantages of being nontoxic, abundant, and inexpensive. Nonetheless, the photoelectrochemical water splitting (PEC) process can be enhanced through surface modification. In this study, we utilized single-source precursors for aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition (AACVD) in order to deposit thin films of copper oxide (CuO-Cu2O) heterojunctions onto a substrate composed of fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO). The chosen precursor for this purpose was copper (II) nitrate hemi(pentahydrate). To further optimize the CuO-Cu2O films, a novel acid treatment involving the addition of varying quantities of acetic acid (AA) to the precursor solution was employed. Remarkably, this acid treatment resulted in a significant improvement in the photocurrent density of the CuO-Cu2O heterojunction. Notably, a 3 mL acid-treated CuO-Cu2O thin film exhibited an impressive photocurrent measure of −6.8 mA/cm2 at 0.0 V vs RHE in 0.5 M Na2SO4 electrolyte, compared to the performance of the untreated CuO-Cu2O thin film (−2.8 mA/cm2 at 0.0 V vs RHE). This catalyst demonstrated stability and a threefold increase in hydrogen production performance. The increase in photocurrent densities is closely linked to the influence of AA on two key factors: particle growth and structural defects, such as oxygen vacancies. This relationship has been confirmed through the examination of SEM, AFM, and PL spectra results. The findings of this study not only offer a novel approach to catalyst design but also propose a practical method for photoelectrochemical water splitting. This method holds great promise for achieving sustainable and renewable energy sources, as well as efficient green hydrogen production.

The effect of semi-curing on neat resin mode I fracture properties

The sensitivity of fracture toughness to the cure path of a high-performance hot infusion epoxy resin (EP2410) is assessed in this study through single-edge notch bend testing of neat resin specimens. The specimens were prepared using a two-stage semi-curing process. In the initial stage, the partial degree of cure and the semi-cure temperature were varied. In the second stage, samples were heated to 180 °C for a secondary post-cure. These samples were compared to two baseline samples produced using the manufacturer's recommended cure cycle of 180 °C, and a modified isothermal cure at a lower cure temperature of 140 °C. The results show that the semi-curing path has no statistically significant influence on the mode I fracture toughness of the material studied here. Sample similarity was confirmed through SEM examination of the fracture surface, which showed minimal variation in surface topography. These findings open new possibilities to use this type of material for novel manufacturing processes involving semi-curing steps.

Effect of multi-pass overlapping friction stir processing on fatigue behavior of Al-Cu alloy

More than half of mechanical breakdowns stem from fatigue failure, often occurring suddenly and without warning. Friction stir processing (FSP) enhances the material's toughness and resilience to fatigue by refining its grain structure. This study investigates how multi-pass overlapping technique impacts the fatigue crack growth rate of FSPed Al-Cu alloy. Microstructural analysis revealed that the stir region exhibited uniformly dispersed and fragmented precipitates and finely recrystallized ultrafine grains. The hardness and strength were reduced, and ductility was enhanced after FSP due to high thermal cycling. Fatigue testing demonstrated a significant increase in fatigue life and reduced fatigue crack growth rate attributable to the combined effects of precipitation and grain refinement during cooling-assisted FSP. SEM examination of fatigue fracture surfaces revealed dimples indicative of ductile failure in the rapid crack propagation zone, while the steady-state propagation region displayed striation markings and secondary fractures.

Evaluation of Microbial Degradation of Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Polymers by Environmental Isolates

In this study, a microbial–enzymatic strategy was pursued to address the challenge of degrading thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Environmental microorganisms were isolated, and their enzymatic activities were assessed using colorimetric assays to evaluate their potential for producing enzymes capable of degrading these polymers. Microorganisms demonstrating higher positivity in the enzymatic assays were selected for a 30-day biodegradation experiment, in which epoxy resins, polyethylene terephthalate, or polystyrene served as the sole carbon source. The effectiveness of biodegradation was assessed through the ATR-FTIR analysis of the chemical composition and the SEM examination of surface characteristics before and after degradation. The results indicated that thermoplastic compounds were more susceptible to microbial degradation, exhibiting greater changes in absorbance. In particular, PET treated with Stenotrophomonas sp. showed the most significant efficacy, achieving a 60.18% reduction in the area under the curve with a standard error of ± 3.42 when analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy. Significant alterations in surface morphology were noticed in thermoplastic compounds. In contrast, thermosetting compounds demonstrated lower reactivity, as evidenced by the absence of band shifts in FTIR spectra and minor changes in bond absorbance and surface morphology.

Microstructure, mechanical, and cutting performance properties of B4C and SiC reinforced sandwich composite segments

This study aims to extend the work-life of diamond-cutting segments and to economize the operating cost of diamond-cutting tools. In order to achieve this object, bronze matrix sandwich segments reinforced with SiC and B4C were produced utilizing the hot pressing technique. In the term of the cutting segments, it is favorable that the outer layers are wear-resistant and the middle layer is tough. SEM and XRD analysis were used to determine the microstructural properties. Mechanical properties were evaluated by conducting hardness, wear, cutting performance, and three-point bending tests. The cutting performance of the segments was determined by turning andesite marble. SEM examinations showed that SiC and B4C grains were homogeneously distributed in the bronze matrix. The highest hardness value was 113.9 HB in the B4C reinforced sandwich segment. The reciprocating wear test findings indicated that the matrix exhibited the lowest wear rate in the B4C reinforced sandwich composite segment, followed by the hybrid sandwich composite segment. The lowest amount of cutting loss after turning andesite stone was achieved in the SiC, and B4C reinforced hybrid sandwich composite segment. The cutting performance of the hybrid sandwich composite segment increased by 46.15 % compared to the conventional segment without additives. The highest value of the transverse rupture strength of the specimens was 380 MPa for the B4C reinforced sandwich composite segment and 352 MPa for the hybrid sandwich composite segment. Considering all the tests and analyses, the hybrid sandwich composite segment sample may be the most suitable for diamond-cutting tools.

Fabrication of chrysanthemums like TiO2@In2S3 S-scheme heterojunction nanostructures for the degradation of methylene blue dye present in aqueous solution

Removal of contaminants from water and wastewater has drawn interest from all over the world because of its enormous impact on the environment as well as the potential threat to human and other biological existence. As a result, the primary objective for humans is to have consistent access to upgraded and clean water sources. In this study, thioacetamide, titanium dioxide, and Indium (III) nitrate n-hydrate were used in the hydrothermal process to produce TiO2@In2S3 hybrid material. The high purity of the TiO2@In2S3 hybrid materials was shown by XRD analysis, UV-DRS has been utilized to study the optical properties of TiO2@In2S3 hybrid materials and the In2S3 sample which reveals that they have a band gap between 1.71 and 1.88 eV. The stoichiometry of the hybrid materials TiO2@In2S3 was confirmed by EDX analysis. Additionally, SEM examination displayed the TiO2@In2S3 hybrid materials’ chrysanthemums morphology. The produced TiO2@In2S3 hybrid materials exhibit complete degradation of MB dye pollutants within 60 min under an LED lamp. The photocatalytic decomposition of MB dye with TiO2, β-In2S3 and TiO2@In2S3 follows a pseudo-first-order process with rate constants of 2.88 × 10−3, 4.67 × 10−3, and 7.73 × 10−2 min−1, respectively. TiO2 and β-In2S3 composites had a synergistic impact, and an appropriate S-scheme charge carrier mechanism was suggested, validating the composite as an economical and effective catalyst for environmental remediation.

Methods of Distributing the IF-WS2 Modifier for Its Introduction into the Structure of the Al2O3 Aluminum Oxide Coating

The microstructures and structures of modified Al2O3/IF-WS2 coatings prepared on aluminum substrates are studied. Amorphous Al2O3 oxide coatings are obtained on EN AW 5251 aluminum alloy using the electrooxidation process. The quality of the IF-WS2 nanopowder is of great importance in the process of its introduction into the nanopores of the Al2O3 oxide coating. Commercial nanopowder tends to agglomerate, and without appropriate pretreatment, it is difficult to introduce it into the nanopores of the coating. To improve the degree of fragmentation of the IF-WS2 nanopowder, an experiment was carried out to distribute the nanopowder in the presence of strong ultrasounds, and new conditions for introducing the powder into the nanopores were used. A two-level design of experiment (DOE) was used. The SEM examination made it possible to conclude that Method A contributed to a more even distribution of nanoparticles in the microstructure of Al2O3 coatings. GIXD analyses showed the presence of WO3 derived from the IF-WS2 modifier next to crystal structures derived from aluminum and WS2. Modification of coatings using Method A resulted in surfaces with lower contact angles measured with polar liquids and higher surface free energy compared to Method B.

Debonding of Porous Coating: A Late Failure Mode of Uncemented, Partially Threaded Acetabular Components—Retrieval Analysis

Titanium plasma-sprayed (TPS) porous coatings have been used in total hip arthroplasty for decades. They are considered reliable, and very few failure cases have been described so far. This retrieval study described a series of 20 acetabular components—where total or partial debonding occurred during in vivo use and aimed to explain the underlying failure mechanisms. Implants were examined using optical and electron microscopy (SEM), metallographic sections of retrievals were prepared while pathologic samples of periprosthetic tissues were examined for presence of wear debris. Data from metallographic slides indicated that debonding was initiated at free borders of the coating and tended to progress at the interface between the TPS layer and the shell. In some cases, total debonding occurred leading material wear of both the TPS layer and acetabular shell leading to massive release of metallic debris and accelerated polyethylene wear in third body mechanism. SEM examination demonstrated that splats forming the TPS layer exhibited features suggesting a high temperature gradient between the plasma sprayed layer and the substrate material existed, leading to porosity of splats and suboptimal bonding strength. This study demonstrated that coating application parameters and certain design features (screw holes, fins) may promote long-term failure due to debonding. Surgeons should be aware of this complication as it is most likely underreported, while manufacturers should consider more rigorous pre-clinical testing as suboptimal coating bonding may result in failures during long-term clinical use.

Optical and electrochemical studies on single-phase ZnSnO3 nanostructures—A photosensitive approach

A sol-gel-combustion reaction approach is used to synthesize nanocrystalline, single-phase ZnSnO3 phosphor. XRD with the Rietveld refinement investigation reveals a previously unreported orthorhombic structure of ZnSnO3. FTIR analysis confirms the formation of the ZnSnO3 phase. Microstructural SEM and TEM examinations affirm the petal-like morphology of the ZnSnO3 nanostructure. UV-DRS analysis signifies ZnSnO3 as a semiconducting material with a lowest energy band gap of 2.94 eV, which has never been recorded before. Photoluminescence (PL) studies reveal defect-related emission in ZnSnO3. Cyclic voltammetry measurements confirm the redox process and photo-generated carrier recombination via defect levels. ZnSnO3 is identified as a p-type semiconductor by Mott-Schottky analysis. When irradiated with 397 nm UV light, the semiconducting nanostructures emit near-white light. Finally, the investigation of ZnSnO3 nanopowder for latent fingerprint impressions reveals an unusual diffuse reflection and high-resolution images under a sodium vapour lamp and LASER-LED illumination.

A Comprehensive Microstructural Analysis for Enhancing Concrete’s Longevity and Environmental Sustainability

The environmental factors lessen the durability of concrete by changing the way the elements are linked together. To maximize the building's longevity, the concrete needs to be impermeable. Samples of Portland slag cement concrete of grade M20 that had been produced with and without admixtures as well as with and without reinforcement were taken into account for the current investigation. Samples were initially cured in potable water for 28 days, following which they were subjected to additional exposure in environments containing hydrochloric acid and sulphuric acid for challenging conditions for a subsequent 28-, 56- and 90-day period. All specimens exposed to various environmental circumstances showed a similar pattern of enriching in physical characteristics and diminishing in water absorption, therefore enriching the durability qualities, when the data gathered at intervals of 28, 56, and 90 days of curing were examined. SEM examination revealed a notable refinement in pore structure with aging, confirming age-related pore refinement. XRD analysis performed for phase identification revealed the presence of silica and calcium carbonate in the concrete specimens. This research intends to offer important insights about the appropriateness of Portland Slag Cement in strengthening the resilience and durability of concrete.