Strong Interfacial Bond Research Articles

Novel 3D printed bioactive SiC orthopedic screw promotes bone growth associated activities by macrophages, neurons, and osteoblasts.

Ceramic additive manufacturing currently relies on binders or high-energy lasers, each with limitations affecting final product quality and suitability for medical applications. To address these challenges, our laboratory has devised a surface activation technique for ceramic particles that eliminates the necessity for polymer binders or high-energy lasers in ceramic additive manufacturing. We utilized this method to 3D print bioactive SiC orthopedic screws and evaluated their properties. The study's findings reveal that chemical oxidation of SiC activated its surface, enabling 3D printing of orthopedic screws in a binder jet printer. Post-processing impregnation with NaOH and/or NH4OH strengthened the scaffold by promoting silica crystallization or partial conversion of silicon oxide into silicon nitride. The silica surface of the SiC 3D printed orthopedic screws facilitated osteoblast and neuron adhesion and extensive axon synthesis. The silicate ions released from the 3D printed SiC screws favorably modulated macrophage immune responses toward an M1 phenotype as indicated by the inhibition of TNFα secretions and of reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression along with the promotion of IL6R shedding. In contrast, under the same experimental conditions, Ti ions released from Ti6Al4V discs promoted macrophage TNFα secretion and ROS expression. In vivo tests demonstrated direct bone deposition on the SiC scaffold and a strong interfacial bond between the implanted SiC and bone. Immunostaining showed innervation, mineralization, and vascularization of the newly formed bone at the interface with SiC. Taken altogether, the 3D printed SiC orthopedic screws foster a favorable environment for wound healing and bone regeneration. The novel 3D printing method, based on ceramic surface activation represents a significant advancement in ceramic additive manufacturing and is applicable to a wide variety of materials.

Influence of Ceramic Size and Morphology on Interface Bonding Properties of TWIP Steel Matrix Composites Produced by Lost-Foam Casting

This study investigated the fabrication and characterization of large ceramic-reinforced TWIP (twinning-induced plasticity) steel matrix composites using the lost-foam casting technique. Various ceramic shapes and sizes, including blocky, flaky, rod-like, and granular forms, were evaluated for their suitability as reinforcement materials. The study found that rod-like and granular ceramics exhibited superior structural integrity and formed strong interfacial bonds with the TWIP steel matrix compared to blocky and flaky ceramics, which suffered from cracking and fragmentation. Detailed microstructural analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and industrial computed tomography (CT) revealed the mechanisms influencing the composite formation. The results demonstrated that rod-like and granular ceramics are better for reinforcing TWIP steel composites, providing excellent mechanical stability and enhanced performance. This work contributes to the development of advanced composite structures with potential applications in industries requiring high-strength and durable materials.

The development of bend clamp of carbon-based fiber offshore gas lift pipelines: A primary experimental approach

The work reports the proposed development of the laminated carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composites (CFRP), at a uniaxial angle as a primary bend clamp material assembly of the offshore gas lift pipelines. Generally, the clamps are utilized to repair the defect of the metallic pipelines due to their practical and mechanical strength. The existing bend clamp model poses challenges especially when applied to the J-tube bending side due to mechanical buckling and corrosion. This study evaluates the effect of laminated CFRP subjected to uniform uniaxial and in-plane compression on API 5 L X52. Several tests, including tensile, bend, and impact tests, are chosen to assess the effect of multiple and thick carbon layers to improve the clamp's mechanical properties. Scanning electronic microscope (SEM) intends to reveal the surface characterization of carbon fiber clamp. The result shows that laminated carbon fiber increases the durability and mechanical properties of the bend clamp for two weeks. The tensile test result shows that the uniaxial orientation has the highest tensile strength of about 2000N and is affected by the strong interfacial bond between the fiber and metal layers. The high impact energy of 2242 ± 0.001 J of the same orientation shows the stability of the clamp under unprecedented dynamic load and enhances the safety. The SEM result at uniaxial shows the resistance towards fracture has increased and was initiated from the air pocket in the composite.

Constructing interfacial chemical interaction of dual-carbon protected cobalt diselenide anode for sodium storage

Transition metal selenides are attracting enormous attention due to their high theoretical capacity and appropriate working potential for sodium storage, while their intrinsic low electronic conductivity and large volume expansion during the cycling processes inevitably result in inadequate rate performance and inferior cycling stability. Herein, cobalt diselenide-based hollow sugarloaf-like self-supporting fiber membranes with strong interfacial chemical (Co-C) bonds have been reported for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) via the dual-carbon protection strategy. Based on X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) combined with density functional theory (DFT), A built-in electric field is generated at the interface between CoSe2/C and CNFs, which provides a strong driving force for electron transfer and ion migration, making the optimal CoSe2/C−0.3@CNFs anode over 67.8 % of capacity retention from 0.1 to 5 A/g and maintained about 269.5 mAh/g of discharge capacity at 5 A/g. The strong interfacial Co-C bonds in CoSe2/C@CNFs enhance the interfacial affinity between CoSe2/C and CNFs, making it easier for CoSe2/C to trap sodium ions and effectively resist the volume expansion during cycling, thus showing excellent cyclic stability with a reversible capacity of 247.6 mA h g−1 at 1.0 A/g after 2600 cycles. The sodium storage mechanism of CoSe2/C−0.3@CNFs electrode in SIBs is systematically analyzed via in-situ XRD and in-situ Raman spectra. This study provides an effective approach to constructing heterostructured composites with strong chemical bonds and built-in electric field characteristics for high-rate capability and long-cycle stability SIBs. Moreover, the sodium ion diffusion kinetics in the CoSe2/C−0.3@CNFs anode is also revealed.

Properties of Fiber-Reinforced Geopolymer Mortar Using Coal Gangue and Aeolian Sand.

Geopolymers, as a novel cementitious material, exhibit typical brittle failure characteristics under stress. To mitigate this brittleness, fibers can be incorporated to enhance toughness. This study investigates the effects of varying polypropylene fiber (PPF) content and fiber length on the flowability, mechanical properties, and flexural toughness of coal gangue-based geopolymers. Microstructural changes and porosity variations within the Fiber-Reinforced Geopolymer Mortar(GMPF) matrix were observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Low field NMR(LF-NMR) to elucidate the toughening mechanism of PPF-reinforced geopolymers. The introduction of fibers into the geopolymer matrix demonstrated an initial bridging effect in the viscous geopolymer slurry, with a 3.0 vol% fiber content reducing fluidity by 5.6%. Early mechanical properties of GMPF were enhanced with fiber addition; at 1.5 vol% fiber content and 15 mm length, the 3-day flexural and compressive strengths increased by 30.81% and 17.4%, respectively. Furthermore, polypropylene fibers significantly improved the matrix's flexural toughness, which showed an increasing trend with higher fiber content. At a 3.0 vol% fiber content, the flexural toughness index increased by 198.35%. The data indicated that a fiber length of 12 mm yielded the best toughening effect, with an 84.03% increase in the flexural toughness index. SEM observations revealed a strong interfacial bond between fibers and the matrix, with noticeable damage on the fiber surface due to frictional forces, and fiber pull-out being the predominant failure mode. Porosity testing results indicated that fiber incorporation substantially improved the internal pore structure of the matrix, reducing the median pore diameter of mesopores and converting mesopores to micropores. Additionally, the number of harmless and less harmful pores increased by 23.01%, while the number of more harmful pores decreased by 30.43%.

Mn-S chemical bond mediated Z-scheme photocatalyst boosting efficient H2 evolution with apparent quantum yield exceeding 32% under visible light

Developing a highly effective solar-to-H2 conversion system is a promising strategy for carbon neutrality. Here, we report a chemically bonded Z-scheme photocatalyst by specifically linking the conduction band site of ZnIn2S4 with the valence band site of Mn0.3Cd0.7S1-x. Deviates from the typical van der Waals interactions between two semiconductors, the in-built robust binding force (Mn-S bond) and charge transfer channel facilitates the electron mobility, minimizes detrimental deep charge trapping, and prolongs the active charge lifetime from 983 ps to 4250 ps. The sulfur vacancies in Mn0.3Cd0.7S1-x are partially refilled by atoms of the same element in ZnIn2S4 during the in-situ formation of heterojunctions, which promotes and solidates the establishment of interfacial chemical bonds. The optimal photocatalyst achieves a high quantum efficiency of 32.71 % at 420 nm. This study offers a new insight into the development of Z-Scheme heterojunctions via a synergistic approach involving doping, vacancy filling and strong interfacial chemical bonds.

Study on the characteristics of Napier grass fibre reinforced porcelain filler particulates poly lactic acid matrix biocomposite

This study investigates the complex properties of a novel biocomposite by a conventional process, which is composed of poly (lactic acid) (PLA) as the matrix, porcelain particles as fillers, and Napier grass fibre as reinforcement. The primary objective was to evaluate the mechanical, crystalline, water absorption, morphological, and antibacterial properties of the biocomposites in relation to the individual components and their synergistic impacts. When 25 g porcelain particles were added to PLA with Napier grass fibre, mechanical tests demonstrated a 25% increase in tensile strength (maximum tensile strength of 39.76 MPa) and a 30% increase in flexural strength (maximum flexural strength of 41.29 MPa). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a strong interfacial bond between the fibre and matrix, with porcelain particles serving as bridges to facilitate stress transmission. The biocomposite exhibited reduced water absorption due to the inherent hydrophobic nature of porcelain, which enhances its resistance to bacterial growth. The study demonstrates that combining Napier grass fibre with porcelain filler particles synergistically enhances the properties of PLA, creating a viable biocomposite material suitable for use in packaging, automotive, and sustainable building industries.

In vitro corrosion and cytocompatibility of Mg-Zn-Ca alloys coated with FHA

In the field of orthopedics, it’s crucial to effectively slow down the degradation rate of Mg alloys. This study aims to improve the degradation behavior of Mg-Zn-Ca alloys by electrodepositing fluorohydroxyapatite (FHA). We investigated the microstructure and bond strength of the deposition, as well as degradation and cellular reactions. After 15–30 days of degradation in Hanks solution, FHA deposited alloys showed enhanced stability and less pH change. The strong interfacial bond between FHA and the Mg-Zn-Ca substrate was verified through scratch tests (Critical loads: 10.73 ± 0.014 N in Mg-Zn-0.5Ca alloys). Cellular studies demonstrated that FHA-coated alloys exhibited good cytocompatibility and promoted the growth of MC3T3-E1 cells. Further tests showed FHA-coated alloys owed improved early bone mineralization and osteogenic properties, especially in Mg-Zn-0.5Ca. This research highlighted the potential of FHA-coated Mg-Zn-0.5Ca alloys in orthopedics applications.

Boosted photocatalytic accomplishment of 3D/2D hierarchical structured Bi4O5I2/g-C3N4 p-n type direct Z-scheme heterojunction towards synchronous elimination of Cr(VI) and tetracycline

The threats posed by heavy metal ions and antibiotics present in natural aqueous environments have been a serious cause of concern across the globe. The synchronous elimination of these contaminants through visible light responsive semiconductor mediated photocatalysis is a suitable strategy to solve this problem. However, designing proficient photocatalysts for the said purpose is a crucial task. Herein, hierarchical 3D/2D architectures of Bi4O5I2/g-C3N4 p-n type direct Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts (BOCNs) were fabricated by a two-step solvothermal-calcination approach. The characterisation of BOCNs by XRD, FTIR, XPS, SEM, TEM, HRTEM, LSV and MS techniques corroborated the robust heterojunction formation between Bi4O5I2 and g-C3N4. The presence of g-C3N4 and application of high treatment temperature (400 °C) assisted the formation of BiOC bond which is responsible for the development of an intimate interfacial interaction in BOCN. The heterostructured photocatalyst (BOCN3) demonstrated higher rate constant (kCr(VI)/synchronous) of 0.068 min−1 for Cr(VI) detoxification and that (kTCH/synchronous) of 0.075 min−1 for TCH degradation synchronously with respect to the reported values. The determined rate constants are about 1.8 folds greater than those were observed in isolated systems. The expedited photocatalytic activity can be ascribed to its wide visible light response, minimum charge recombination rate and increased redox ability. These are resulted from the synergistic effect of hierarchical 3D/2D architecture construction, existence of strong BiOC interfacial bond, p-n heterojunction formation and prevalence of direct Z-scheme charge transfer principle. The synchronous elimination of Cr(VI) and TCH over BOCN3 up to the fifth consecutive cycle without any appreciable change in photoactivity signified its enhanced stability and reusability. The plausible mechanism for the spectacular photocatalytic performance of BOCN3 was proposed.

Spontaneous redox reaction-mediated interfacial charge transfer in titanium dioxide/graphene oxide nanoanodes for rapid and durable lithium storage.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) anodes show significant advantages in ion storage owing to their low cost, abundant sources, and small volume change during cycling. However, their intrinsic low electronic conductivity and sluggish ion diffusion coefficient restrict the application of TiO2 anodes, especially at high current densities. The construction of a covalently-bonded interface in TiO2-based composite anodes is an effective approach to solve these issues. Covalent bonds are usually formed in situ during materials synthesis processes, such as high-energy ball milling, solvothermal reactions, plasma-assisted thermal treatment, and addition of a linking agent for covalent coupling. In this study, we demonstrate that a spontaneous redox reaction between defective TiO2 powder and an oxidative graphene oxide (GO) substate can be used to form interfacial covalent bonds in composites. Different structural characterization techniques confirmed the formation of interfacial covalent bonds. Electrochemical measurements on an optimized sample showed that a specific capacity of 281.3 mA h g-1 after 200 cycles can be achieved at a current density of 1 C (1 C = 168 mA g-1). Even at a high rate of 50 C, the electrode maintained a reversible capacity of 97.0 mA h g-1. The good lithium storage performance of the electrode is a result of the uniquely designed composite electrodes with strong interfacial chemical bonds.

Unraveling the origin of the high photocatalytic properties of earth-abundant TiO2/FeS2 heterojunctions: insights from first-principles density functional theory.

Herein, first-principles density functional theory calculations have been employed to unravel the interfacial geometries (composition and stability), electronic properties (density of states and differential charge densities), and charge carrier transfers (work function and energy band alignment) of a TiO2(001)/FeS2(100) heterojunction. Analyses of the structure and electronic properties reveal the formation of strong interfacial Fe-O and Ti-S ionic bonds, which stabilize the interface with an adhesion energy of -0.26 eV Å-2. The work function of the TiO2(001)/FeS2(100) heterojunction is predicted to be much smaller than those of the isolated FeS2(100) and TiO2(001) layers, indicating that less energy will be needed for electrons to transfer from the ground state to the surface to promote photochemical reactions. The difference in the work function between the FeS2(100) and TiO2(001) heterojunction components caused an electron density rearrangement at the heterojunction interface, which induces an electric field that separates the photo-generated electrons and holes. Consistently, a staggered band alignment is predicted at the interface with the conduction band edge and the valence-band edge of FeS2 lying 0.37 and 2.62 eV above those of anatase. These results point to efficient charge carrier separation in the TiO2(001)/FeS2(100) heterojunction, wherein photoinduced electrons would transfer from the FeS2 to the TiO2 layer. The atomistic insights into the mechanism of enhanced charge separation and transfer across the interface rationalize the observed high photocatalytic activity of the mixed TiO2(001)/FeS2(100) heterojunction over the individual components.

SiO2 coating on CNTs to fabricate the Al4O4C-Al composite with superior Young's modulus

To produce nanoparticles with a larger volume fraction and stronger interfacial bonds, silica nanoparticles (SiO2) were deposited on the surface of CNTs through the sol-gel process to provide sufficient oxygen for the in-situ transition of CNTs into Al4O4C nanoparticles. Oxygen measurements and microstructural evaluations revealed that the CNT@SiO2 hybrid reinforcement, with a weight ratio of 1:4, presents the most uniform coating and contains adequate oxygen for the transformation into Al4O4C nanoparticles. The Al4O4C-Al composite exhibited superior mechanical properties over CNT-Al and CNT@SiO2-Al composites. The Al4O4C-Al composite presented a high Young's modulus of 86.82 GPa, which was about 13% higher than the CNT-Al composite with the same CNT content (0.5 wt%). The remarkable increase in reinforcement volume fraction and the formation of strong covalent bonds induced by the in-situ transition of CNTs@SiO2 reinforcements into Al4O4C nanoparticles were responsible for significant the improvement in Young's modulus.

Enhancing cement composite interface with waterglass modification on bamboo fiber: A viable and effective approach

Cement and cement-based composites are known for their high compressive strength but are often lacking in toughness, making them susceptible to cracking when subjected to external loads. The incorporation of bamboo fiber (BF) into cement-based composites holds promise for enhancing tensile strength and overall durability. However, a significant challenge lies in achieving a strong interfacial bond between BFs and the cement matrix. In this study, a viable and effective surface modification approach for BF has been developed. Waterglass, as an economical inorganic modifier, can be grafted with hydroxyl groups on fiber surface after hydrolysis and condensation. Simultaneously, the alkaline properties and silicate-containing characteristics of waterglass facilitate its participation in cement hydration, acting as a coupling agent to establish a robust fiber-matrix interface. To confirm the successful modification of BF with waterglass, FTIR, NMR, and XPS spectra were used to examine the chemical structure of BFs. Due to the denser bonding achieved between the fiber and cement matrix, the composites exhibit improved toughness with superior flexural strength (10.1 MPa) and splitting tensile strength (3.7 MPa). The addition of bamboo fibers also mitigates shrinkage in cement mortar, enhancing the volume stability of cement-based materials. Notably, waterglass modification led to a reduction in the hydrophilicity of BF and enhanced the compatibility between the fiber and the matrix, which further improved the overall durability of the composites, including their resistance to capillary water absorption, freezing, and carbonization.

Anomalous scaling law of strength and toughness in polymers with strong interfacial secondary bonds

In materials design, the increase of toughness usually leads to the decrease of strength, which is a long-standing challenge. Polymeric materials with strong interfacial secondary bonds have recently emerged as promising solutions due to their remarkable capabilities to increase toughness and strength simultaneously. Nevertheless, a quantitative understanding on how toughness increases with strength is unavailable, posing challenges for deeper understanding and on-demand design for stronger and tougher advanced materials. In this work, we reveal a quadratic scaling law of simultaneously increased strength and toughness that unifies multiscale evidences from theories, computations and experiments across multiple material systems, where the deformation mechanisms are dominated by breaking and reforming of interfacial secondary bonds. Our results highlight the significance of interfacial secondary bonding combined with topology design to enable a wide range of strong and tough advanced materials.

2D heterostructural Mn2O3 quantum dots embedded N-doped carbon nanosheets with strongly stable interface enabling high-performance sodium-ion hybrid capacitors

The ingenious architectural structural engineering is extensively identified as a cogent means for facilitating the electrochemical properties of conversion-type anode materials for sodium-ion storage. Herein, a delicate, scalable and controllable solvent-free strategy is proposed to synthesize ultrafine Mn2O3 quantum dots embedded into N-doped carbon to generate two-dimensional (2D) composites (MNC) with robust interfacial heterostructural interactions for high sodium ion storage and fast reaction kinetics, which averts the use of solvents and environmental pollution, greatly reduces time and production costs. The introduction of metallic Mn species simultaneously achieves the construction of ultrafine Mn2O3 quantum dots and strong interfacial heterostructural COMn bonds between metal species and 2D N-doped carbon matrix. The synergistic effect of the formation of oxide quantum dots, the combination of 2D N-doped carbon and the construction of robust interfacial interactions provides the stable electrode structure, fast reaction kinetics and high electrochemical storage capability of anode materials. Hence, MNC composites in SIBs convey remarkable reversible rate capability. Its superior capacity reaches 215 mAh g−1 for 50 cycles at 0.2 A g−1 and 155 mAh g−1 for 1000 cycles at a high current density of 5 A g−1, which shows good long-term stability. The assembled sodium-ion hybrid capacitors (SIHCs) device delivers outstanding energy density of 138 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 126 W kg−1 and 98% capacity retention after 2000 cycles at 2 A g−1, and tremendous capability for practical applications (69 LEDs can be easily lighted). This work not merely offers guidance for the rational interfacial engineering design of high-capacity Mn-based electrode materials in a feasible and scalable solvent-free tactics for Na+ storage, but also broadens the routes for projecting a better electrode material for other battery systems.

Mechanism of Fast Storage of Li/Na in Complex Sb‐Based Hybrid System

AbstractAntimony（Sb） has high theoretical specific capacity and moderate reaction potential, but poor cycling stability and rate performance caused by large volume expansion and sluggish reaction kinetics limit its development in alkali‐ion batteries. The construction of carbon/Sb composites can solve this problem, but the traditional single carbon composite and poor Sb/carbon interface have limited promotion. Here, under the guidance of theoretical calculations, a strategy of hierarchical double carbon composite is proposed to enhance the performance of Sb anode, and systematically reveal the lithium/sodium ions (Li+/Na+) storage mechanism of Sb in complex composite system. Sb nanoparticles (Sb NPs) are encapsulated in carbon sphere matrix with strong interfacial chemical bond to form the first level composite material, and then the highly conductive and mechanically strong graphene is used as a three‐dimensional skeleton network to connect the first level composite to form the second level composite material. The hierarchical double carbon/Sb composite exhibits excellent rate (228 mAh g−1 @ 20 A g−1) and long cycling performance (373.7 mAh g−1 @ 2 A g−1 after 2200 cycles, capacity retention of 93.1%). This work may expand structural design and interface regulation of Sb/C composites and providing theoretical guidance for metal anodes development.

Preparation and characterization of snake plant fiber reinforced composite: A sustainable utilization of biowaste

AbstractNatural fibers are one of the most attractive materials in biocomposites due to their potential for sustainability. This study aims to prepare sustainable composite materials using fibers from Sansevieria trifasciata (snake plant) and to investigate their mechanical, morphological, and water absorption properties. The composite was prepared with epoxy resin through a manual hand lay‐up process, maintaining standard parameters with changeable reinforcement (10%, 20%, and 30%). The mechanical properties (tensile, impact, and flexural strength), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and water absorbency of the composites were evaluated. The result showed that the tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact resistance of the composites are 6.99 MPa, 10.77 MPa, and 14 J, respectively, for 30% fiber components, which are significantly higher than other composite materials. The SEM analysis showed a strong interfacial bond between the snake plant fiber and the epoxy resin. The FTIR analysis revealed a reduction in hemicellulose and lignin and an improvement in the interfacial adhesion between snake plant fiber and epoxy resin. The composites also demonstrated time‐dependent increases in water absorption, with the sample containing 30% fiber components showing the best absorbency performance at 0.88%.Highlights A study is being conducted on the effective and sustainable use of biowaste. The composite materials loaded with 30% fibers had significantly high tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact resistance. The SEM analysis of snake plant fiber‐reinforced polymer composite showed a strong interfacial bond between fiber and epoxy resin. The FTIR analysis of the composite revealed the reduction of hemicellulose and lignin. The use of non‐renewable materials is reduced, and eco‐friendliness is promoted.

Interfacial reinforcement of carbon fiber composites through a chlorinated aramid nanofiber interphase

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) rely on a strong interfacial bond between the reinforcing fibers and polymeric matrix to yield the high strength and toughness expected by a composite material. Poor interfacial strength leads to sub-optimal load transfer and introduces stress concentrations, which can reduce overall performance and result in catastrophic failure. Aramid nanofibers (ANFs) have shown significant promise for interfacial reinforcement in polymeric composite systems due to their high tensile strength, large specific surface area, and abundant polar functional groups. However, due to the chemically inert nature of carbon fibers, ANFs do not readily bond to their surface – thus limiting their application to CFRPs. In this work, we demonstrate that chlorination of ANFs and oxygen plasma treatment of carbon fibers enables the formation of a chlorinated ANF (Cl-ANF) interphase through chemical and physical adsorption using a simple dip-coating process, while fully preserving the tensile strength of the carbon fibers. The Cl-ANF interphase yielded a 79.8 % increase in interfacial shear strength and a 33.7 % increase in short beam strength. By enhancing the interfacial bond between fiber and matrix without degradation of the fiber's tensile strength, this method provides a rapid and reliable process to improve the mechanical properties of CFRP composites.

Synthesis of high entropy alloy AlCoCrFeNiCuSn reinforced AlSi7Mg0.3 based composite developed by solid state technique

The synthesis of high entropy alloy (HEA) AlCoCrFeNiCuSn reinforced AlSi7Mg0.3 a composite was carried out by the Friction Stir Process Technique. The equal weight percent of AlCoCrFeNiCuSn HEA entropy alloys were ball-milled to obtain uniform powder morphology of entropy elements in powder form. The investigation successfully achieved uniform distribution of the HEA AlCoCrFeNiCuSn within the AlSi7Mg0.3 matrix, ensuring a consistent microstructure throughout the composite material. This uniformity significantly contributed to the material's mechanical characteristics, resulting in remarkable improvements in tensile strength (37.02 %) and hardness (52.45 %) concerning base matrix material. Moreover, the strong interfacial bond established between the HEA and AlSi7Mg0.3 phases enhanced the structural integrity of the composite, making it well-suited for demanding applications such as structural parts, wings, fuselage components, engine components, pistons, marine industry for building structures. The research also revealed that this composite exhibited superior corrosion and wear resistance properties, making it a promising material for applications in aggressive environments such as aerospace components, chemical processing equipment, drilling equipment, valves, marine structures, shipbuilding, and offshore equipment..

Effect of natural Sirisha bark filler on mechanical and wettability analysis of polymer composites

Today's focus is on biodegradable materials. Natural materials are cost-effective, environmentally benign, and machinable; thus, researchers are investing in them. Synthetic materials are non-renewable and expensive to process. Sirisha trees are prevalent in tropical and subtropical climates. Sirisha bark is treated as bio-waste. In this study, it was examined as a polymer composite filler. After bark filler reinforcement, the material's tensile modulus and impact strength increased to the strong interfacial bond of the bark filler with the PP matrix. The decreased tensile strength with the Sirisha bark filler may be due to agglomeration at a high population of filler in the matrix. As seen in the scanning electron microscope (SEM), Sirisha bark strongly bonded with the polymer matrix, improving interfacial adhesion. Natural filler reinforcement lowered the polymer composites' hydrophobicity depicted in the wettability test.