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In the engine of heavy trucks, the built-in fuel filter assumes the role of "lungs". The core of the filter, namely the fuel filter paper, acts as a filter for small impurities and separates oil and water. In order to be able to separate minute impurities from the fuel, in this study, we prepared a novel fuel oil filter paper with high efficiency and high dust holding capacity based on wet-laid forming by laminating PBT/PP two-component melt-blown nonwoven material and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC)-doped cellulose wood fiber pulp with the fiber mesh combination forming technology. The effects of the CNC mixing ratio, surface density of melt-blown nonwoven material layer, surface density of cellulose wood pulp paper layer and calendaring pressure on the pore size and filtration performance of the composite samples were investigated, and the filtration efficiency of the composite samples on the tiny impurities in the fuel were also studied. The results showed that the novel composite fuel filter paper material prepared by the combined forming technology of fibrous web had high filtration efficiency and dust holding capacity, and the filtration efficiency of the composite samples could respectively reach 99.90% and 99.52% for particles larger than 14 μm and 4 μm in diameter in the fuel. At the same time, the dust holding capacity of the composite sample can reach up to 27.63 mgcm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously used a grinder to prepare cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) that were then added to pulp to improve the wet strength of paper, with subsequent alkali treatment further improving its wet tensile strength. However, mass production of CNF using ultra-fine grinders is not feasible; moreover, fabricating paper sheets by first preparing CNFs and adding them to pulp is a complex process. Therefore, in this study, we directly fibrillated pulp using a refiner instead separately preparing CNFs, with the refined pulp used to make paper sheets, thereby simplifying the process. The resulting dried sheets were subsequently treated with 8 and 16 wt% NaOH, after which the co-reinforcing effect of the refiner and NaOH treatments on the wet tensile strength of paper was examined. Unexpectedly, wet tensile strength of 39 and 45 MPa was achieved. These values are higher than values obtained using the CNFs and NaOH treatment, and comparable to the dry strength of untreated and unrefined pulp sheet. Moreover, the dewatering time of the refiner-treated pulp was significantly shorter than that of the CNF-mixed pulp, which reduces the time required to prepare paper. This study demonstrated that refiner-treated pulp is more suitable than CNF-mixed pulp for improving paper wet strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using nanostructured materials issued from renewable resources could be the key to the development of good-quality low-cost products that help reduce pollution. Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) were obtained by alkaline and bleaching treatments of Amazonian Paricá hardwood sawdust, a waste material from the Brazilian forestry industry. This study evaluated a process consisting in alternating layers of Paricá CNFs and cassava starch to coat standard writing and printing (W&P) papers with a skim-coating method, in which one face of each paper sample is passed over the surface of a suspension containing either CNFs or cassava starch, alternatively. The coated samples were then compared to the uncoated paper in terms of mechanical and surface properties. The mechanical properties of the papers coated with alkaline CNFs showed a declining trend as the number of coating layers increased (from 47 to 31 MPa). The papers coated with starch layers showed improved mechanical performance compared to the samples only coated with alkaline and alkaline bleached CNFs. All the coated samples showed excellent resistance to water degradation. The worst degradation (4%) was observed for the samples coated with a single layer of alkaline CNFs. A significant improvement in surface wettability was observed when gelatinized cassava starch was applied to the paper samples, irrespective of the type of CNFs eventually present on the surface. All in all, these results suggest that using gelatinized cassava starch as an alternating layer between successive CNFs layers on the surface of W&P paper samples may be promising for improving their overall properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The July 2024 cover paper of the Journal of Materials Science features a study by Goyal et al. on the synthesis of a low-temperature irreversible thermochromic indicator for food storage applications. The indicator, based on functional polydiacetylene, undergoes an irreversible color change from violet to orange when frozen products are exposed to temperatures above 0 ℃. This innovation has significant implications for food safety and storage, potentially reducing food waste and health risks associated with improperly stored frozen goods. The research also has potential applications in pharmaceuticals and other industries where temperature control is crucial. The paper includes brief biographies of the researchers involved. [Extracted from the article]

The Journal of Materials Science awards the annual Robert W. Cahn Prize to recognize the best paper published in the journal each year. The winner of the 2023 Cahn Prize is a research paper titled "Molecular modelling of graphene nanoribbons on the effect of porosity and oxidation on the mechanical and thermal properties." The paper presents molecular simulation models of graphene nanoribbons and examines the impact of porosity and oxidation on their mechanical and thermal conductivity properties. The paper is well-written and provides valuable insights for researchers in this field. Two other papers were selected as runners-up for the prize. All the monthly finalists for the Cahn Prize can be downloaded for free on the journal's website. [Extracted from the article]

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The Journal of Materials Science has awarded the 2023 William Bonfield Prize for the best review paper to "Cement hydration mechanisms through time—a review" by Elisabeth John and Barbara Lothenbach. The review examines the work of Henri Louis Le Chatelier and William Michaëlis in the late nineteenth century and proposes pathways for future research in cement hydration mechanisms. The authors provide a comprehensive review with over 150 references, making it valuable for researchers in the field. The review was chosen by Professor Bonfield, who praised its analysis and contribution to the understanding of cement and concrete technology. Honorable mentions were also given to reviews on carbon dots, biopolymer-based treatments for cultural heritage materials, and superwetting membranes for oil/water separation. The William Bonfield Prize was created to honor Professor Bonfield's contributions to the Journal of Materials Science and materials research. [Extracted from the article]

The March 2024 issue of the Journal of Materials Science features a cover paper titled "Data-driven search for promising intercalating ions and layered materials for metal-ion batteries" by Shayani Parida and her colleagues at the University of Connecticut and EaglePicher. The paper, which falls under the "Computation & theory" Topical Collection, explores the use of density functional theory (DFT) calculations and machine-learning methods to identify alternative 2D materials and intercalating ions for high-power efficiency metal-ion batteries. The journal's Editor-in-Chief, Professor Jean-François Gohy, handled the paper, highlighting the journal's commitment to multidisciplinary research. The paper is freely accessible online, and additional details can be found in the Supplementary Information. [Extracted from the article]

The August 2024 issue of the Journal of Materials Science features a cover paper titled "Stabilized CsPbBr3 quantum dots in flower-like LYH matrix for high-performance white light-emitting diodes" by Yanrui Yang and colleagues at Fuyang Normal University in China. The paper explores the production and properties of these materials, with a focus on their luminescence data. The paper is part of the "Chemical routes to materials" Topical Collection, but could also be relevant to the "Electronic materials" Topical Collection. The article is freely accessible online through the SharedIt link provided. The publisher, Springer Nature, maintains a neutral stance on jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

The June 2024 cover image of the Journal of Materials Science features a paper by Liss et al. titled "Recrystallization of bulk nanostructured magnesium alloy AZ31 after severe plastic deformation: an in situ diffraction study." The image is an artistic representation of nanostructured magnesium alloy AZ31 undergoing heating, showcasing the process of recrystallization in reciprocal space. The paper is part of a Special Issue on "Processing Bulk Nanostructured Materials," which includes a total of 28 articles covering various aspects of severe plastic deformation (SPD) in the processing of bulk nanostructured materials. The Special Issue aims to highlight the enduring significance and resilience of research in this field. Both the paper and the preface of the Special Issue have SharedIt links for easy sharing with readers. [Extracted from the article]

The February 2024 issue of the Journal of Materials Science features a cover paper titled "Enhancing the impact property of high-entropy alloys with graphene layers: a molecular dynamics study" by Qing-Xiang Pei et al. The paper explores the use of molecular dynamics simulations to study the impact of a projectile on a high-entropy alloy (HEA) containing layers of graphene. The authors highlight the broad interest in their research, as it appeals not only to the modeling community but also to other communities interested in the materials being modeled. The paper provides valuable insights into the behavior of composite materials and includes figures illustrating the preparation of the model material and the interaction between a projectile and the HEA. The article is freely accessible through the SharedIt link provided, and the corresponding authors can be contacted for access to the data. The publisher, Springer Nature, maintains a neutral stance on jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

The text is an editorial from the Journal of Materials Science discussing a cover paper titled "High-performance, water-resistant and ion-conducting gel used as underwater ECG electrodes" by Shi et al. The paper addresses the challenges of sensing underwater and describes the synthesis and characterization of a single-layer hydrogel electrode that is resistant to swelling in water. The paper is accessible to non-experts and includes photographs, curves, and electrocardiograms to support the findings. Although the article is not open access, it can be accessed through a SharedIt link provided by the publisher. [Extracted from the article]

High-entropy borides are deemed robust candidates because of their complex combination of entropy-driven, multi-component disordered solid solutions. They are particularly remarkable for their unique single-crystal structures and significant bandgap. This structural adaptability positions them uniquely among materials, setting them apart from conventional transition metal diborides. Researchers have been fascinated by the appeal of high-entropy borides for a long time, driven by the groundbreaking idea of 'High entropy ceramics'. Nevertheless, the lack of thorough review papers in this field has hindered the progress of creating strong and durable high-entropy borides. This paper proposes adopting a collaborative strategy to properly negotiate this unexplored region. This perspective covers the up-to-date research on successfully synthesized high-entropy boride complexes. It examines compositional strategies, historical backgrounds, structural complexity, fabrication methods, mechanical, thermal, and oxidation properties, as well as emergent properties with potential uses, pathways, and future possibilities. This attempt challenges materials science traditions by introducing novel materials with superior performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific literature on Al-Si alloy materials is a rich source of factual information about various classes of entities (e.g., alloys, properties, and compositions) as well as various relationships between these entities. Automatically extracting this information using natural language processing (NLP) techniques to generate a knowledge graph for Al-Si alloy materials is a challenging task. In this paper, we propose ASaRE-Net (Al-Si alloy Relationship Extraction Network) to extract entities and relationships from Chinese scientific literature on Al-Si alloy materials, thus forming a triple (Entity 1, Relation, Entity 2) as the basic unit for constructing a knowledge graph. Due to the complexity of overlapping triples and many triples in a text sentence, this paper designs a triple-aware module based on knowledge representation learning, which is used to mine the correlation between entities and relations, and uses a simple and efficient labeling strategy to decode, so as to alleviate the problem of cascading errors. This paper defines 11 types of entity and 13 types of relationship for Al-Si alloy materials, and constructs ASaIED (Al-Si alloy Information Extraction Dataset). Experimental results show that compared to the strongest baseline, the proposed model improves the F1 score by 2.34% on the ASaIED dataset, and demonstrates better performance in scenarios involving SEO overlapping types and many triples. The proposed model can continuously provide credible data for constructing knowledge graphs in the field of Al-Si alloy materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of several tools and web engines trained for finding journal articles out of billions of research papers on millions of topics in different databases with a high degree of generalizability, it often leads to a loss of specificity. Scientific pursuits need a tool to extract data from selected resources for performing domain-specific tasks. Current algorithms and generalized tools lack specificity and are challenged by errors in analysing data from a bundle of specific documents selected eclectically. Current work addresses the need for such a tool, which focuses on specificity based on users' input keywords and phrases to find relevant information from bundles of articles from the web. Reseractor is based on a customized algorithm, Whitespace, in synergy with output from open-access tools for document image analysis and focused domain data extraction using NLP. The current tool is designed for the material science domain with the features of adopting various generalized and scientific corpora as layers. It is tested on two sets of different bundles of papers and gives an accuracy of 81.12% along with a recall of 78.38% and a precision of 84.06%. Owing to the simple and direct applicability of algorithms, users from other domains can directly use their corpora in algorithms and remodel the tool for their purpose. Current work fulfills the need for domain-specific experimental data extraction stored in organized and structured databases for upcoming computational researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review paper investigates novel approaches to the fabrication of fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) via additive manufacturing (AM), with a focus on improving mechanical properties in polymers, metals, and ceramics while reducing weight of the structures. FRCs have been regarded as the optimal material choice across the automobile, aerospace, and construction industries due to their exceptional characteristics, including high strength-to-weight ratio, elevated stiffness, commendable thermal stability, remarkable fatigue and impact resistance, as well as noteworthy chemical and corrosion resistance. AM plays a significant role in FRCs production by offering design flexibility, product customization, waste reduction, near net shape fabrication, cost-effectiveness, and fast prototyping. This paper initially categorizes AM of FRCs into three categories: AM of polymer-matrix, metal-matrix, and ceramic-matrix composites. These categories are further subdivided based on the types of matrix as well as fibers used. Subsequently, it emphasizes the roles of 4D printing and numerical simulation in AMFRCs. The review concludes by addressing potential applications, existing challenges, and scope of AMFRCs in future research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the importance and limitations of peer-reviewed journal articles in the scientific community. The author emphasizes that a single paper should not be seen as an indisputable scientific fact, but rather as part of an ongoing process of scientific discovery and refinement. The author suggests several ways to assess the trustworthiness of a paper, including evaluating the authors' track record, the number of citations the paper has received, and the reputation of the journal in which it is published. However, the author also highlights the importance of personal relationships and trust in assessing the quality of a paper. Overall, the article provides valuable insights into the peer-review system and the challenges it faces in the modern scientific landscape. [Extracted from the article]

Twinning is an important deformation mechanism for magnesium alloys, which has a significant impact on the texture evolution and mechanical properties. Pre-twinning deformation has been considered as an effective method for texture regulation. For each twinning mode, there are six crystallographically equivalent variants. Properly identifying the activated twin and understanding its variant selection criteria are essential for the development of high-performance magnesium alloys. As summarized in this paper, the observed twin variant by the commonly employed electron backscatter diffraction technique can be identified by several approaches, including misorientation analysis, trace analysis and matrix method. Schmid factor analysis was commonly performed to explain the selection of twin variants. To broaden the application scope under complex stress state, a generalized Schmid factor was derived by introducing a stress tensor. The efficiency of Schmid criteria to assess twin variant selection was confirmed to be influenced by the type of the applied stress. To consider the local effect on twin activation, in particular twin-twin transfer and slip-induced twinning, displacement gradient tensor calculation and geometrical compatibility factor analysis have been employed. It was demonstrated that local strain accommodation played a critical role in selecting the variants of cross-boundary twins in magnesium alloys. Assisted with crystal plasticity finite element modeling, the resolved shear stress on twinning and a composite Schmid factor combining the global Schmid factor and geometrical compatibility factor were obtained to better explain the activated twin variants in magnesium alloys. All the above-mentioned Schmid law based criteria and some energy based criteria as well are summarized in this paper. Their applications in evaluating twin variant selection in magnesium alloys are critically reviewed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalloying has been an important method in aluminum alloy development for decades. Large number of papers have shown that the addition of trace element Erbium (Er) can effectively improve the comprehensive properties of aluminum alloys. Similar with the trace element Scandium (Sc), addition of trace element Er in aluminum alloys could form nano-sized L12-ordered Al3Er precipitates, which was coherent with the Al matrix. However, the dispersion precipitation strengthening effect of Al3Er was more significant than that of Al3Sc, at the same atomic content. In the case of the addition of both Er and Zr, core–shell-structured Al3(Er, Zr) precipitates formed instead of Al3Er precipitates. Those thermally-stable nanosized precipitates could significantly refine the grain size, retard the recrystallization, improve the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. This paper reviewed several typical Er-containing microalloyed commercial aluminum alloys, like 2xxx (Al–Cu) alloys, 4xxx (Al–Si) alloys, 5xxx (Al–Mg) alloys, 7xxx (Al–Zn–Mg–Cu) alloys, as well as selective laser melting aluminum alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional materials with unique properties have received much attention in recent years. Current research is exploring their potential applications in various fields. Acoustic topological insulators have been an emerging branch in the field of acoustic metamaterials in recent years. Its strong unidirectional transmission capability has potential applications in acoustic sensors, filters, and beamwaves. However, to realize a wide range of applications of acoustic topological materials, it is necessary to solve the problems of multi-band and wide bandgap. To this end, this paper proposes a jointly resonant acoustic topological insulator structure. The structure achieves multi-band filtering, and three filterable bandgaps can be obtained below 6200 Hz. Meanwhile, the total width of the three filterable bandgaps accounts for 65.5% at 6200 Hz and below. In this paper, the band structure is obtained by using the method of finite element simulation. The generation of topological phase transition induced by the rotation angle of the scatterer is analyzed. The pseudo-spin case of the valley hall effect is also analyzed from the point of view of acoustic energy flow, and the existence of edge states is verified. Finally, the unidirectional transport properties possessing backward scattering immunity are verified. The multi-band structure with a great bandwidth means that this work will have great potential for applications in filters. Also, since acoustic topologies based on the Valley hall effect do not possess strong defect immunity, this work proposes to utilize defect states as acoustic switches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of society and technology, machinery and equipment have enhanced our work efficiency but have also introduced various hazards, such as electromagnetic radiation, medical, industrial, and agricultural rays. The harms these radiations inflict on human health are significant, with severe cases leading to cancer, disability, or even life-threatening situations. Therefore, effective protective measures in some fields are crucial. This paper firstly summarized the basic principles of radiation protection for different rays, then systematically introduced the widely used manufacturing methods for flexible radiation shielding materials, including weaving with metal fibers, fiber blending, silver-plated fibers, and so on. Subsequently, the paper reviewed the testing methods of radiation-protective clothing materials. Finally, it comprehensively concluded the discussions on flexible radiation shielding materials and offered a perspective on their future development trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to increased environmental awareness, the depletion of fossil fuels, and expanding ecological concerns, today's society has a larger need for environmentally friendly materials. The idea of sustainable development of environmental material resources with enhanced economic activities was born from the rise in ecological consciousness. The textile industry generates enormous amounts of cotton waste. The environmental impact of disposing of this cotton waste makes it difficult for the textile sector to dispose of the vast amounts of produced cotton waste. As a result, all-cellulose composites (ACCs) have piqued the interest of researchers in recent years. All-cellulose composites are cellulose-based mono-component cellulose composites in which the reinforcing phase is typically composed of high-strength cellulose fibres, and the matrix is composed of regenerated cellulose. This composite type is distinguished by its exceptional interfacial compatibility and biodegradability due to the matrix and reinforcing phase having common cellulosic compositions. ACCs will become a more alluring option as enterprises prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility because they can be recycled and reused rapidly and simply. This will contribute to less waste and enhance the overall sustainability of our society. This review paper discusses various methods to develop ACCs, textile waste-based thermoset and thermoplastic composites and textile waste-based cellulose composites (TWCCs). This review paper emphasizes approaches to develop TWCCs and the challenges and opportunities in TWCCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are widely used to reinforce and repair buildings due to their high strength, corrosion resistance, lightweight, and convenient of construction. The interfacial properties between FRP and the reinforced buildings play a very important role in the effective transfer of stress and largely determine the service hours of the reinforced structures. Therefore, this paper reviews the research progress on the interfacial properties of FRP reinforced concrete. First, the composition of FRP reinforcement system is introduced. EB-FRP and NSM-FRP reinforcement methods are suitable for reinforcing different buildings. Then, the influence factors of the interfacial properties are highlighted. The choice of interfacial agent, roughness of the reinforced concrete surface, temperature and environment have very important impact on the reinforcement effect. Finally, the main damage modes and failure mechanisms of the interface between FRP and the reinforced concrete are summarized. The choice of the interfacial agent determines the main failure mode. This paper provides a theoretical basis for the further research on the interface damage mechanism of FRP reinforced concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. High-fidelity mannequins are increasingly used to train the medical staff on many medical procedures. Lately, a new challenge regarding echogenic materials to build ultrasound-responding phantoms has emerged. The challenge is to find materials with a suitable combination of ultrasound velocity and consistency to the touch. Methods. Bibliographic research was performed to identify materials with promising stiffness, shape retention, and ultrasound velocity combinations. As-standardized-as-possible specimens were realized and tested using an A-mode ultrasound machine to evaluate the US velocity through them. Four differently doped silicones, five gelatin-based materials, five synthetic gelatins, and a 3D printable resin were included in the study. After being tested, the materials were monitored for 12 days to assess their durability and shape retention and tested again to evaluate the ultrasound velocity's stability. In the paper, the results of the characterization and follow-up of the materials are presented. Results. Outcomes show that gelatins are exceptional soft tissue-mimicking materials in terms of ultrasound velocity and consistency to the touch, but are poor in terms of overtime stability and therefore suitable for disposable short-term phantoms only. Doped silicones present lower ultrasound velocity compared to the reference value of 1540 m/s found in the literature, but excellent overtime stability, and shape retention properties. Values close to biological ones were also given by the Elastic 50A and by polyvinyl chloride plastisol. Conclusion. The paper gives a quantitative overview of the fidelity of both already-in-use and non-conventional materials, focusing on the ultrasound velocity value through them and their longevity in terms of macroscopically observed dehydration, shape retention, and bacterial onset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural waste is an economically and environmentally beneficial precursor material for the development of activated carbon (AC) due to its low price, wide sources, and large production scale. This makes it a crucial field for agricultural waste treatment and AC development. This paper reviews the research progress of agricultural waste-based activated carbon (AWAC), including the sources and characteristics of agricultural waste, and the effects of raw material characteristics and activation conditions on the performance of AWAC. It analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of various preparation methods of AWAC. Additionally, it explains the research status of AWAC in wastewater treatment, gas adsorption, catalyst carrier, and energy carrier. Finally, this paper summarizes the advantages and limitations of using agricultural wastes as raw materials for AC, and provides a prospect for raw material development, process optimization, and application expansion, taking into account the shortcomings of current research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnZrOx has been used in large quantities for the preparation of light olefins from CO2, but the relationship between structure and performance remains unclear at present. In this paper, ZnZrOx were prepared by co-precipitation method, and a series of oxides with different sizes were prepared by varying the calcination temperatures. Subsequently, these oxides were combined with SAPO-34 to create a composite bifunctional catalyst for the synthesis of light olefins by CO2 hydrogenation, in which the impact of nanocrystal size effect was examined. The catalytic performance significantly increased as the nanocrystal size reduced from 18 to 12 nm. However, when the nanocrystal size was further decreased to 8 nm, the catalytic performance decline. Characterizations revealed a gradual increase in the number of oxygen vacancies with decreasing nanocrystal size. However, the oxide with the smallest nanocrystal size, prepared by varied calcination temperatures, did not yield the optimal catalytic performance due to sintering occurring during the reaction process. The results show that the assumption that smaller nanocrystal sizes inherently equate to improved catalytic performance is not universally valid, and stability must be considered when the nanocrystal size is decreased. The bifunctional catalysts used in this paper for the prepared light olefins from CO2 in yield as high as 13.8%, which is higher than most previous reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Journal of Materials Science has a tradition of publishing papers on Ceramic Materials. The editors of the journal have interdisciplinary interests, but they will focus on the traditional areas of ceramics and electronic materials in the first three editorials. The editors make the initial decision on whether a paper on ceramic/electronic materials will interest readers and meet the quality standards of the journal. The editorial provides brief biographies of the editors, including their areas of expertise and accomplishments in the field of materials science. [Extracted from the article]

Recently, papers with superhydrophobic surfaces and unique antibacterial and self-cleaning capabilities have attracted great attention due to its potential applications in cold chain logistics packaging. Therefore, a facile and versatile route to fabricate superhydrophobic and anti-bacterial adhesion dual-functional paper was reported. The approach was based on pufferfish-like structured ZIF-8 incorporated cellulose fibers. Specifically, cellulose fibers without any chemical pretreatment were used as templates for the in situ aqueous construction of pufferfish-like structured ZIF-8 with zinc nitrate as zinc source and dimethylimidazole as organic ligand. After paper-making and hydrophobicity treatment, the obtained paper possessed excellent superhydrophobic and anti-bacterial adhesion properties. These surfaces retained their water resistance after 30 finger-wipe cycles and 10 sandpaper abrasions. Moreover, the hydrophobic surface prepared also showed excellent anti-adhesion performance toward bacteria. This strategy route proposed here can significantly reduce or eliminate potential risks associated with various contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this paper is to explore structural design of conductive core-spun yarn woven composites to improve their electromagnetic shielding effectiveness. Conductive core-spun yarns were woven into single-layer and double-layer fabrics with different structural parameters, and their electromagnetic shielding effectiveness was compared. Between different structures, in general, woven composites with high compact ratio have high shielding effectiveness. However, for honeycomb structures, due to their honeycomb appearance, they exhibit a higher electromagnetic shielding effectiveness when its compact ratio is slightly lower than other structures. The electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of double-layer woven composites is higher than that of single-layer woven composites. In double-layer woven composites, especially double-layer honeycomb woven composites with opposite sides, their electromagnetic shielding effectiveness is the best. The electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of woven composites can be improved through structural design. For example, the compact rate of the composite is increased, the surface of the composite is formed into a concave and convex shape, the number of conductive core-spun yarns per unit area is increased, and a double-layer or multi-layer structure with intermediate air layer and multiple reflections is formed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-bonded magnetic composites (MBMCs) present a promising alternative to dense sintered magnets, particularly for intricate components. Compared to polymer-based bonded magnets, MBMCs have wider applicability in harsh environments. In this paper, we demonstrate a solid-state shear-based manufacturing technique to introduce localized magnetization into a paramagnetic aluminum matrix by embedding SmCo5 permanent magnet particles. Our magnetic composites display hard magnetic behavior with a coercivity of 13 kOe and a remanent magnetization of 4.32 emu/g. In addition to magnetization, we also report a 9% improvement in Young's modulus. Despite the local temperature rise during processing, the magnetic phases didn't decompose into unwanted phases, preserving the composite's hard magnetic properties. Creation of an interfacial metallurgical bond with the matrix ensured the suitability of the composites for structural applications. Our study investigates the mechanical, and functional properties of composites, paving the way for lightweight structural magnetic composites with a transformative potential in the aerospace, nuclear, and automotive applications. This work underscores the potential for further optimization and development to drive innovations in magnet and equipment design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ductility dip cracking (DDC) is a solid-state failure occurring during multi-pass solidification processes (e.g., welding, additive manufacturing) for FCC alloys that exhibit a distinct dip in their ductility at intermediate temperatures. While the phenomenon has been studied for over a century, the majority of current research focuses on a subset of DDC-susceptible FCC alloys (Ni–Cr–Fe). The review paper herein presents an analysis of published data to evaluate the current state of understanding regarding the materials mechanisms at work. Recent advances in test methods have permitted highly controlled approaches for testing and quantifying DDC, but the wide range of unique tests often provide conflicting results regarding the fundamental materials behaviors and underlying mechanisms. At present, three mechanisms have been proposed for DDC: grain boundary sliding, precipitate-induced strain, and impurity element segregation. While the majority of published studies support grain boundary sliding as the primary mechanism of DDC, an examination of the aggregate data available across multiple studies suggests combinatorial impact of simultaneous (and competing) mechanisms for DDC. Further, the long-held assumptions regarding the negative impact of key alloying elements become less convincing when comparing results across studies. There are considerable future opportunities for research on DDC behaviors in other alloy systems, and there are a lacunae of data when considering the effect of welding process parameters on DDC and the use of modeling and simulation approaches to understand the DDC behavior in the highly susceptible FCC alloy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

U-type hexaferrites represent a specific category of ferrimagnetic materials with general composition formula Ba4Me2Fe36O60 and have the largest as well as complex structural unit cell among all hexagonal ferrites. These materials have fascinated the researchers ever since they were discovered (1964) because of their extraordinary structural, dielectric, and magnetic properties. Modifying the composition of these materials by incorporating different elements (transition, or rare earth, or their suitable combination) can impact their crystalline structure and hence change their characteristics. Consequently, these changes can influence the functional properties of these materials to absorb electromagnetic (EM) waves. Microwave absorption by U-type hexaferrites primarily originates from the FMR (ferromagnetic resonance) phenomenon. Ferromagnetic resonance frequency (fr) is linked closely to the magnetocrystalline anisotropy (MCA) fields. This review paper provides a detailed description regarding the major studies in the field of U-type hexaferrites on single platform. Key research outcomes are briefly presented in the form of tables and graphs. Among various synthesis techniques, SSR (solid-state reaction) method is mostly used for synthesizing U-type hexaferrites. The specific features of U-type hexaferrites have led to their widespread use in cutting-edge applications. These materials demonstrate excellent microwave-absorbing properties and antenna application due to their attractive dielectric and magnetic behavior. The combination of U-type fillers and polymer matrix to form composites can be potentially applied for EMI shielding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the paper, near-net shape fabrication (ball milling, cold pressing, and microwave sintering) of Fe-6.5 wt%Si steel strip was carried out on the basis of the rapid solidification single-roll spinning, and the micromorphology transformation, texture evolution, mechanical and magnetic properties of the obtained samples were studied. This process could not only prepare samples with good mechanical and magnetic properties, but also achieve near-clean shape treatment. The results show that the refinement and homogenization of grain and the evolution of texture (the disappearance of γ-texture and the formation of Goss texture) play a good role in improving the mechanical and magnetic properties. The sample prepared by 1200 °C microwave sintering has excellent magnetic properties of Ms = 232.54 emu/g, Hc = 32.27 Oe, and Mr = 3.13 emu/g, and it also has the highest Vickers hardness of 212.32HV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on a straightforward and general solution-based synthesis method for high-entropy oxides (HEOs) of different types and compositions. The flexibility and simplicity of this method are hoped to drive development of new HEOs and study of their properties and applications. Thirteen HEOs with rock salt, fluorite, spinel, and perovskite structures were synthesized using a Pechini-type synthesis at temperatures significantly lower than those necessary in solid-state synthesis (400–900 °C). Metal nitrates, nitrites, chlorides, and even water-sensitive alkoxides were used as the metal precursors with the present method. The HEOs were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Relaxation of cation size and charge rules and formability of HEOs are also discussed. The present results indicate that the classical criteria for material stability do not readily translate to high-entropy systems. For example, the well-known criteria for Goldschmidt and octahedral tolerance factors established for ordinary perovskites do not seem to describe formability of perovskite HEOs well. The discussed relaxation of cation size and charge rules will contribute to the understanding of HEO systems and development of new HEO phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a promising innovative energy storage material, phase change fibers (PCFs) have been widely studied. PCFs are equipped with the ability of temperature regulation by introducing phase change materials (PCMs) and have been successfully prepared by melt spinning, wet spinning and electrospinning. With the rapid development of PCM and fibrous preparation technology, the combination of different processes of PCF preparation has been explored and developed. In this paper, the research progress of the preparation methods of PCFs is reviewed. Firstly, the preparation methods are classified according to the different loading forms of PCMs, and the fibrous maceration method, composite method and microcapsule method are introduced. Then, the special preparation methods and characteristics of PCF are elaborated. Finally, the research hot spots and development of PCFs are summarized for providing guidance for fabricating PCFs with desired comprehensive properties; among them, with the continuous innovation of smart fibers, the single function of PCFs will cause limited use, so the multi-functionality of PCFs is also discussed in detail for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of magnesium as an implant in a physiological environment is seriously challenged by its fast degradation rate, an effect that results in loss of mechanical support before the completion of the tissue healing. Among different methods, this paper focuses on the hydrothermal coating method, where the main focus is on the role of substrate microstructure on the overall quality of the formed coating under the same coating condition. In this study, an as-cast Mg–1Zn–0.2Ag alloy was processed using a variety of techniques, including solution heat treatment, extrusion and equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP). Hydrothermal coating was formed by placing samples in distilled water for 5 h at 160 °C and inside an autoclave. In addition to microstructural analysis and mechanical properties assessment, electrochemical corrosion and long-term immersion tests were performed on both the non-coated and coated samples. The obtained results indicate that while the extrusion and ECAP processes can significantly improve the mechanical properties, they can negatively affect the corrosion resistance in the non-coated state. However, applying hydrothermal coating on samples processed by extrusion and ECAP was significantly helpful in decreasing the corrosion rate. In the case of the ECAP-processed sample, the evolved hydrogen rate in the phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) decreased by about 91% after being hydrothermally coated, which shows excellent effectiveness of the synthesized coating. Among different samples, it can be claimed that the coated ECAP-processed sample demonstrated the best mechanical and corrosion behavior, due to the excellent coating quality and thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review paper highlights the current toxicological aspects of magnetic nanomaterials in the field of medicine and the environment, conducted through a comprehensive literature review. The main goal was to investigate and analyze the key challenges identified in the literature that enhance the effective utilization of these systems, particularly focusing on magnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles. We aimed to investigate the factors that influence their intended applications. We sought to understand how the characteristics of the produced NPs could be enhanced to improve their biocompatibility compared to existing samples in the literature. Moreover, we investigated morphological aspects intricately connected to physicochemical characteristics and their prospective applications in biomedicine. Additionally, we assessed the regulatory implications of nanostructured materials. Therefore, the initial aspect of this review delved into the historical evolution of nanoparticles, investigating significant milestones that have influenced the exploration of this technology. We examined the main discoveries, factors influencing the choice of synthesis methods, and the most prevalent approaches for surface functionalization employed by scientists for materials possessing superparamagnetic characteristics, such as iron oxide. The second aspect of the review focused on a survey-based exploration of the global regulation progress concerning superparamagnetic nanoparticles throughout the years. Additionally, we identified the main challenges encountered in establishing safety criteria for the diverse applications under investigation. This encompassed an assessment of the potential impacts of these materials on both human health and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a deadly disease with a high mortality rate, primarily due to its often asymptomatic nature in early stages and the absence of effective screening methods. Conventional imaging methods have several drawbacks, such as difficulty in detecting small tumors, challenges in differentiating between benign and malignant tumors, dangerous radiation exposure, high cost, low sensitivity, and low specificity in detecting early-stage malignancies. On the other hand, 2D nanomaterials-based electrochemical biosensors present novel opportunities for early detection of ovarian cancer biomarkers, leveraging their unique properties such as high surface-to-volume ratio and excellent electrical conductivity. These materials enhance sensor sensitivity and selectivity, enabling the detection of biomarkers at ultra-low concentrations, thus improving diagnostic accuracy. Their compatibility with miniaturization further facilitates the development of portable, point-of-care devices, revolutionizing early screening efforts in ovarian cancer detection. This review paper overviews recent advancements in OC biomarker detection using 2D nanomaterials-based electrochemical biosensors. A detailed discussion is presented on the electrochemical detection of carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125), mucin 1 (MUC1), and human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) biomarkers regarding sensing materials, sensing approach, analytical technique, and performance characteristics like limit of detection and linear range. Other OC biomarkers such as SKOV3, breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1), stress-induced phosphoprotein 1 (STIP1), and flavin adenine dinucleotide are also briefly discussed. Finally, the review discusses the difficulties and future outlooks of diagnosing OC via an electrochemical sensing approach. The present review article emphasizes the application of 2D nanomaterials in the early diagnosis of ovarian cancer through an electrochemical sensing approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interface engineering is widely used to enhance the efficiency and stability of photodetectors (PDs). Although fluorine-containing materials are ideal for interface modification, they are seldom used at the NiOx/perovskite interface. This paper reports on the use of Tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (BCF) and 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8- tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4-TCNQ)-modified NiOx HTL to achieve high-efficiency and high-stability PDs. This study shows that BCF and F4-TCNQ interact to provide better doping ability, form Lewis adducts with Pb2+, and enhance the crystallinity of their perovskites. Interaction with nickel oxide optimizes the Ni3+/Ni2+ ratio, thus improving conductivity and charge transport capability. The F4-TCNQ:BCF modification effectively reduces interface defects, improves carrier mobility, and enhances both the performance and stability of PDs in ambient air. The detector achieves a maximum EQE value of 89.4%, a dark current density of 1.51 × 10−10A cm−2, a detectivity of 6.33 × 1013 Jones, and a LDR of 133.4 dB. Additionally, the interfacially modified device maintains over 90% of its initial performance after one month of storage in ambient air. Our results highlight the importance of F4-TCNQ:BCF interface modification and provide a reference for the further research and development of perovskite devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through Silicon Via (TSV), a kind of 3D packaging technique, can improve chip integration based on "More than Moore" scheme. The larger copper area ratio at the TSV barrier layer interface requires strong adjustability of the removal rate selection ratio of copper, tantalum and TEOS–SiO2, and stronger surface defect control and surface profile correction capabilities. In this paper, the effects of guanidine hydrochloride (GH) and 2,2′-[[(Methyl-1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)methyl]imino]bisethanol (TT-LYK) system on the tunability of Ta and Cu removal rate in chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) of TSV wafer barrier material were studied. GH can complex TaO 4 3 - , while TT-LYK can form a protective film on the surface of Cu, thereby achieving rate regulation. The results showed that when the concentration of GH increased from 0 to 2 wt%, the removal rate selectivity ratio of Ta and Cu raised from 1.02:1 to 1.26:1. When the concentration of TT-LYK increased from 2.5 to 10 mmol/L, the removal rate selectivity ratio of Ta and Cu increased from 1.33:1 to 1.79:1, which verified that the GH and TT-LYK systems can efficiently regulate the rate and rate selection ratio of Ta and Cu. Surface roughness for both metals decreased from pre-polishing values of 5.03 nm to post-polishing values of 0.37 nm for Ta, from pre-polishing values of 5.33 nm to post-polishing values of 1.26 nm for Cu indicating that GH and TT-LYK systems significantly improved the surface quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a novel hybrid material, MoS2@Ag@PA, with a core–shell structure aimed at improving the fire safety and critical properties of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). The incorporation of 2% of this hybrid material results in a remarkable enhancement in both thermal conductivity and tensile strength of EVA composites, increasing by 52.4% and 22.6%, respectively. Furthermore, the inclusion of 2% of this material leads to a significant reduction in the peak of heat release rate, total heat release, and total smoke production of the EVA composites by 36.2%, 28.1%, and 29.7%, respectively, compared to pure EVA. This indicates a substantial improvement in fire safety, mechanical properties, and thermal conductivity of the EVA composites. The enhanced flame retardancy of the EVA composites is primarily attributed to the synergistic effect of various substances within the hybrid material. Therefore, the design of these hybrids presents a promising approach to enhance the overall performance of EVA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports a new nondestructive noncontact method of sensing surface roughness, particularly the surface undulation produced in the plowing stage of wear. This method involves inductance measurement. It is fast, provides global information and is suitable for real-time monitoring, but it is limited to electrical conductors. This amounts to structural self-sensing. Ultramild abrasive wear primarily in the plowing regime, with areal weight loss ≤ 0.075 g/cm2 and ≤ 0.040 g/cm2 for steel and aluminum, respectively (i.e., thickness loss ≤ 0.30 mm and ≤ 0.48 mm for steel and aluminum, respectively), is effectively sensed by this method. The inductance measurement involves two electrical contacts (clips) and an LCR meter (2 kHz). The inductance increases monotonically with increasing degree of wear primarily in the plowing regime, beyond which it does not increase further. This is due to the sensitivity of the inductance to the surface undulation, as expected from Faraday's law. Longitudinal wear (wear performed in the inductance measurement direction, i.e., direction along the metal bar length) and transverse wear (wear performed along the direction perpendicular to the inductance measurement direction) give similar weight loss. However, the fractional increase in inductance due to wear is greater for transverse wear than longitudinal wear, as expected from Faraday's law. Hence, the inductance method can discern the surface undulation direction, i.e., the wear direction, but the weight loss method cannot. The fractional increase in inductance due to wear is greater for steel (magnetic) than aluminum (not magnetic). However, magnetic character is not required for the sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the medical community has been drawn to the attention of hydrogels due to their favorable mechanical properties, lower cytotoxicity, and excellent biocompatibility. Hydrogels possess a three-dimensional network structure comprising hydrophilic polymer chains, endowing them with excellent drug encapsulation capabilities. Consequently, hydrogels serve as effective drug carriers, facilitating precise drug release, prolonged drug action duration, reduced side effects, and ultimately leading to improved therapeutic outcomes. This paper summarizes the main types of drugs currently encapsulated in drug-releasing hydrogels and their different interactions with hydrogels. It discusses the control mechanisms and relevant factors of drug release, with special attention given to the applications of hydrogels in drug release at various body sites such as the skin, eyes, bones, and brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atom doping is widely present in graphene and silicene materials, which can effectively regulate the electrical properties of nanostructures. In this paper, the effects of doping carbon atoms at different positions on the geometric structure and electrical properties of bilayer zigzag silicene nanoribbons (ZSiNRs) with different widths were studied by self-consistent charge density functional tight-binding (SCC-DFTB) method. Carbon doping in silicene nanoribbons induces a local reconstruction, amplifies surface warpage, and boosts interlayer interactions. The width of the nanoribbons and the position and concentration of the doped carbon atoms significantly affect the stability of the bilayer silicene nanoribbons, which can effectively regulate its band gap. Especially when carbon atoms are doped at the edge, the width of the band gap can be effectively increased. Different doping positions and concentrations can cause nanoribbons to exhibit three properties: metallic, semi-metallic, and semiconducting. The doping position and concentration of carbon atoms significantly affect the charge transfer of silicene nanoribbons. In general, the charge is always transferred from silicon atoms to carbon atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploration of sustainable luminescent compounds has increased economically and globally in recent decades. In this regard, organosamarium complexes have emerged as outstanding luminescent sources in various branches like lighting systems, bio-assays, magnets, organic light-emitting diodes, bioimaging, and material design because of their enhanced optical and thermal features. In this article, we will explore the synthesis, properties, and applications of mononuclear, dinuclear, and polynuclear organosamarium complexes and their luminescence enrichment. The combination of Sm(III) ion with a diversity of organic ligands consisting of hetero-donor atoms and an extensive π-conjugation backbone may prove an effective strategy for designing highly stable complexes. This type of grouping will lead to efficient energy transfer from the coordinated organic ligand via indirectly populating the Sm(III) emitting state. The Sm(III) complexes show emission bands in the visible region at ~ 564, 600, and 646 nm, arising from 4G5/2 → 6H5/2, 6H7/2, and 6H9/2 transitions, respectively. This review paper attempts to furnish an in-depth analysis and highlight the significant outcomes of the recently published organosamarium complexes. Lastly, the key challenges and future perspectives for the design and development of organosamarium complexes in various applications are provided in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermochromic materials have garnered significant attention for their ability to change color in response to temperature fluctuations, offering innovative solutions for smart textiles, fashion, and functional clothing. This review provides a comprehensive overview of organic thermochromic materials and their potential in textile applications. It begins by explaining the fundamental principles and mechanisms of thermochromism, exploring various organic types such as leuco dyes, liquid crystals, and polymers, along with their advantages and limitations in textile applications. The paper delves into aspects such as synthesis methods, compatibility with textile substrates, durability, and washfastness. Recent advancements, including innovative manufacturing techniques and emerging materials, are highlighted, showcasing enhanced performance characteristics. The diverse applications of organic thermochromic textiles, from thermally responsive clothing for comfort and energy efficiency to visual indicators for temperature monitoring in industrial settings, are discussed. Finally, the review offers insights into future trends and prospects for organic thermochromic materials in textiles. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, textile engineers, and designers aiming to leverage organic thermochromic materials to create dynamic and functional textiles for the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonia becomes one of the indispensable raw materials in production and life, with the continuous development of industry. Ammonia pollution of the environment is becoming more and more serious, so the adsorption of ammonia is essential. In this paper, a new biochar material based on tannic acid was developed. The tannic acid was self-polymerized using different activators (K2CO3, KHCO3, KOH). Tannic acid biochar (TAB-X) was obtained by pyrolytic carbonization reaction at 800 ℃. The biochar was treated with phosphoric acid 10% by mass (TAB-X-10%PO4), and unlike other biochar materials, the specific surface area and hydroxyl content were increased after acidification, but there were no acidic functional groups. It is noteworthy that the specific surface area of TAB-KOH increased from 22 m2/g to 667 m2/g after acidification. The adsorption capacity of ammonia vapor reached 342.6 mg/g. It is proposed that the adsorption mechanism is an adsorption process in which hydroxyl groups on the surface of TAB-X firstly adsorb water, and after that ammonia gas is then dissolved in the water molecules on the surface of the biochar. These results highlight the great potential of TAB as an adsorbent for the adsorption of ammonia, in addition to the low price of raw materials and the simple preparation conditions of this preparation process, which corresponds with the conditions for mass production as well as practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel composite phase change material (CPCM) is prepared with inorganic PCM through impregnation and dispersion method which can be used for thermal management applications. Inorganic PCMs have high latent heat and good thermal conductivity and are non-flammable, but there exist leakage (shape stability) and corrosion problems. To overcome these issues, a porous structured material is impregnated with the inorganic PCM (disodium hydrogen orthophosphate dodecahydrate). The CPCM is prepared by loading various wt% of expanded graphite and boron nitride nanoparticles with the PCM, and characterization is performed to find the thermal properties and stability. The findings from FTIR and XRD analyses validate both the chemical compatibility and crystalline nature of the samples. DSC thermographs reveal the CPCM5 sample has a latent heat value of 168.05 J/g during the heating process, an encapsulation efficiency of 78.8% and a thermal conductivity of 4.69 W/mK. The thermal stability and resistance to corrosion of the composite samples are also enhanced. The best composite PCM sample is then selected, and subsequently, the thermal performance of the heat sink is experimentally investigated. The thermal performance of rectangular cavity heat sink filled with CPCM5 is the highest for various power sources and temperatures with a maximum enhancement ratio of 6.57. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of metal–organic frameworks for carbon dioxide (CO2) capture has drawn considerable interest among researchers with MIL-101(Cr) gaining significance owing to its high stability. This paper investigates the one-step synthesis of MIL-101-NH2(Cr) by using guanidine hydrochloride as a mediator under relatively mild conditions (aqueous phase, reaction temperature of 120 °C, and without the use of mineralization agents such as hydrofluoric acid). MIL-101-NH2(Cr) not only exhibited a high specific surface area with a Lewis-base site-rich ligand but also possessed a good CO2 adsorption capacity of 3.96 mmol/g at 1 bar. Furthermore, diethylenetriamine (DETA) was loaded into MIL-101-NH2(Cr) to design a new CO2 adsorbent DETA@MIL-101-NH2(Cr). The loaded material maintained the original structure and also displayed an improved adsorption capacity of 0.29 mmol/g under low (< 0.11 bar) CO2 partial pressure. The absorbents possessed good selectivity, stability, and recyclability which make them ideal candidates for CO2 capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]