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This study utilizes modulation of ionic disorder and electronegativity differences for targeted component design of high-entropy ceramic compositions. A series of novel multicomponent ceramics with the general formula (LaGdYSm) x 2 Yb x 1 Zr 2 O 7 (x 1 +4x 2 = 2, x 1 = 0.6,0.4,0.2,0) were prepared by solid-state reaction. The evolution patterns of their microstructures were analyzed using XRD and TEM, and the anti-sintering ability and thermophysical properties were evaluated. The results confirm that the multicomponent ceramics gradually transform from the coexistence of pyrochlore/fluorite dual-phase structure to pyrochlore structure with the tuning of the size disorder degree. After 50h of exposure to air at 1500 °C, the ceramics retained excellent phase stability. Segregation of La and Yb elements with large differences in radius size occurs, forming a mixture of the La-rich pyrochlore and the Yb-rich fluorite phases. The specimen with the maximum size disorder exhibits the lowest grain growth rate and the greatest thermal insulation properties. Large lattice distortions and sluggish diffusion effects are responsible for the mutual inhibition of grain growth in the two-phase coexistence zone. The thermal insulation properties of the ceramics show well correlated with the degree of the size disorder, further validating the effectiveness of the component design. Meanwhile, the thermal expansion coefficients of prepared ceramic can reach 11.49 × ∼11.58 × 10−6 K−1 at 1000–1100 °C. The customization principles used in this work fill a gap in the compositional design methodology for multicomponent lanthanum zirconate-based high-entropy ceramics. It is essential for developing rare-earth zirconates with tunable thermophysical properties in the area of thermal barrier coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orthorhombic In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning followed by a heat treatment. The effects of post-annealing temperatures on the phase composition, microstructure and morphology were investigated by XRD, SEM, HRTEM and XPS. Negative thermal expansion (NTE) behaviors of the In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers were analyzed by high-temperature XRD. Results indicate that the as-prepared In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers show an amorphous structure with smooth and homogeneous shape. The average diameter of the as-prepared In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers is around 515 nm. Well crystallized orthorhombic In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers could be prepared after post-annealing at 550 °C for 2 h with an average diameter of about 192 nm. The crystallinity of In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers gradually improved with the increase of annealing temperature. However, too high post-annealing temperature leads to a damage of sample's fiber structure. The high-temperature XRD results reveal that In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers show an anisotropic NTE, and the coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) along a -axis and c -axis were −5.95 × 10−6 °C−1 and -3.54 × 10−6 °C−1, while the one along b -axis is 5.61 × 10−6 °C−1. The volumetric CTE of In 0.5 Sc 1.5 Mo 3 O 12 nanofibers is −3.90 × 10−6 °C−1 and the linear one is 1.3 × 10−6 °C−1 in 25–700 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orthorhombic Sc 2 Mo 3 O 12 samples have been synthesized using ethylene glycol (EG)-assisted hydrothermal reaction. The influences of hydrothermal temperature, hydrothermal time and additive content of EG on the preparation and negative thermal expansion (NTE) behavior of Sc 2 Mo 3 O 12 samples were characterized using XRD, SEM, HRTEM, EDX, TMA and HTXRD. Results indicate that flower-like Sc 2 Mo 3 O 12 with a uniform particle size of 1–2 μm can be synthesized at 120 °C for 2 h by adding 60 ml EG. Hydrothermal temperature, time and additive content of EG have strong influences on the growth and morphology of the Sc 2 Mo 3 O 12. The average coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) of the Sc 2 Mo 3 O 12 prepared at 120 °C for 2 h and 200 °C for 24 h are tested to be −6.94 × 10−6 °C−1 and -7.18 × 10−6 °C−1 in 25–700 °C using TMA. HTXRD results indicate that the flower-like Sc 2 Mo 3 O 12 exhibits anisotropic NTE, and the corresponding CTEs along the a , b and c axes are −6.73 × 10−6 °C−1, 4.98 × 10−6 °C−1 and -4.78 × 10−6 °C−1 in 25–700 °C, respectively, and the corresponding linear CTE is −2.21 × 10−6 °C−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A composite material with superconducting properties, consisting of YBa 2 C u3 O 7-x doped with Ag 2 O, was obtained after 233 h of sintering at 960 °C and followed by a special cooling program in oxygen atmosphere. Preferential orientation of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x (YBCO-123) crystallites was evidenced through X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Small increase of c parameter for orthorhombic YBCO-123 crystalline unit cell together with a slight decrease of oxygen content (7-x) versus Ag content, were encountered. The dimensions of YBCO-123 crystallites are dependent on Ag content. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) during heating in flowing air atmosphere from room temperature (RT) to 1100 °C, showed that total mass loss is depending on Ag content. The cooling (from 1100 °C to RT, in air atmosphere) endows optimal oxygen accumulation only for 0 and 5 wt% Ag, while final masses for 10 and 20 wt% of Ag content, are more than 10% less. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed peritectic melting points for YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x dependent on Ag percentage. DSC graphics also highlighted the endothermic effects: silver melting; melting and decomposition of Ag 2 O (in 225.81–345.12 °C temperature range) only for 10 and 20 wt%, but completely missing in the case of 5 wt% Ag content. We concluded that some of Cu sites from YBCO-123 superconductor were substituted by Ag ions. Quasi de Almeida-Thouless lines in the range of magnetic field amplitudes from 0.4 to 800 A/m, in the temperature range from 77 K to RT, were also investigated. Two cases are found concerning intergranular critical currents (J ci): depinning mechanism available for 5 wt% Ag content; the decoupling mechanism for 10, and 20 wt% Ag content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At room temperature, monoclinic In 2 W 3 O 12 ceramics exhibits positive thermal expansion. However, it transforms into an orthorhombic phase above 253 ℃, and then stably exhibits negative thermal expansion (NTE). In this work, to improve the NTE performance and extend the NTE temperature range of In 2 W 3 O 12 , the K x Mn x In 2-x W 3 O 12 (0≤x≤0.5) ceramics were synthesized via the solid-state reaction method. The effects of (KMn)3+ double cation co-doping on the composition, microstructure, and thermal expansion behaviors of In 2 W 3 O 12 ceramics were studied using XRD, Raman, XPS, SEM, and TMA. The results show that (KMn)3+ cations can replace In3+ in In 2 W 3 O 12 ceramics. As the (KMn)3+ doping amount increases, monoclinic In 2 W 3 O 12 gradually changed into monoclinic K x Mn x In 2-x W 3 O 12. Meanwhile, the grains grow up and the density of K x Mn x In 2-x W 3 O 12 ceramics was increased. Pure monoclinic K x Mn x In 2-x W 3 O 12 ceramics were prepared when x rises to 0.25 and 0.4. Among them, the thermal expansion coefficient of K 0.4 Mn 0.4 In 1.6 W 3 O 12 ceramics in 100–700 ℃ is as high as -17.83×10-6 ℃-1, which was significantly improved compared to In 2 W 3 O 12 ceramics. In addition, the structural phase transition of In 2 W 3 O 12 ceramics around 253 ℃ was gradually eliminated and the NTE temperature range was widened. Double cation (KMn)3+ co-doping effectively improves the NTE performance of In 2 W 3 O 12. • (KMn)3+ co-doped In 2 W 3 O 12 ceramics were prepared by solid-state method. • (KMn)3+ co-doping induces a phase transition in In 2 W 3 O 12 ceramics. • Monoclinic K x Mn x In 2-x W 3 O 12 ceramics show stronger NTE as x increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the effects of elevated temperatures on nanoconcrete is a complex issue due to multiple factors and conditions that affect it. A comprehensive study is necessary to determine the real behavior of nanomodified concrete at high temperatures using different nano-modifiers for various nanomaterials, including those derived from waste. This study investigated the effect of elevated temperatures (200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C and 800 °C) on concrete containing nano-silica, nano-aluminum, and nano-glass materials as a partial replacement for cement at percentages of 1, 2, and 3 % by weight. Compressive strength test and XRD, TGA and SEM were performed to determine residual Compressive strength, chemical composition, mass loss, and microstructure, respectively. The results showed that incorporating nanomaterials into concrete boosted its residual compressive strength at elevated temperatures. Optimal percentages of nano glass and nano-silica were 1 % at room temperature and 200 °C, and 3 % at 400 °C and 600 °C, respectively. For 800 °C, 2 % nano aluminum was most effective. The findings conform with dense microstructure, particularly in ITZ because of the filling effects and higher CSH with a reduction in calcium hydroxide that was observed by XRD, as well as the correlation with lower mass loss of nano concrete. • Nano modified concrete showed optimal performance before and after exposure to elevated temperatures. • Using 3 % nano-silica, 2 % nano-aluminum, and 1 % nano-glass at elevated temperatures greatly improves the behavior of concrete. • Improvement in microstructure and weight loss were observed through TGA and SEM and analyzed by XRD when using nanomaterials. • using of nano-sized recycled glass in concrete showed good results at different temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single crystals of bis(2-aminopyrimidinium)selenate monohydrate were obtained by slow evaporation at ambient temperature from a dilute solution of selenic acid mixed with a hot aqueous solution of 2-aminopyrimidine in a molar ratio of 1:2. Analysis via single-crystal X-ray diffraction confirmed the compound's crystallization within the monoclinic system, specifically in the centrosymmetric space group P2 1 /c. The lattice parameters were determined as a = 14.160(3) Å, b = 6.6870(13) Å, c = 14.274(3) Å, β = 91.25(3)° and V = 1351.3(5) ų. The vibrational spectra were examined by employing quantum chemical density functional theory (DFT) calculations utilizing the B3LYP-6-311++G (d, p) basis set, and the results were compared between experimental and calculated values. DFT computations were utilized to assess vibrational frequencies and electronic characteristics. Confirmation of charge transfers and strong inter- and intramolecular interactions was achieved via frontier molecular orbital analysis and Natural Bond Orbital analysis. The chemical structure of the title compound was established by analyzing its 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra. Computational methods were exploited for ground state structure determination and HOMO-LUMO calculations were determined. Experimental and theoretical Ultraviolet–Visible region spectra, including optical emission in the photoluminescence spectrum, were comparable. Insights into intermolecular interactions were gained through three-dimensional Hirshfeld surface analysis and 2D fingerprint maps. Additionally, DSC analysis quantified heat flow concerning temperature. [Display omitted] • Crystals of exhibit centrosymmetric nature with a P2 1 /c space group, as revealed by single crystal XRD. • Structural properties and spectral analyses (FT-IR and FT-Raman) of the compound are performed. • Electronic charge properties of HOMO-LUMO & NBO analysis were assessed in various solvents. • Optical properties of the compound were analyzed through a UV and photoluminescence study. • DSC analysis quantified the heat flow relative to temperature changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Tb 1-x Ho x VO 4 (THV) crystal with high quality was firstly grown by the Czochralski method. • The optical and thermal properties of THV were systematically investigated. • The Verdet constants of THV at 532, 633 and 1064 nm are 40 %–95 % higher than these of commercial TGG crystal. • THV exhibits lower absorption coefficient, higher magneto-optical figure of merit and extinction ratio compared with TGG. Tb 1-x Ho x VO 4 (THV) magneto-optical crystal with diameter of 27 mm and length of 40 mm was grown by the Czochralski (Cz) technique for the first time. The structural perfection of THV crystal was studied by the high-resolution X-ray diffraction rocking curve measurement, proving the high crystallinity quality of THV. THV shows high transmittance of greater than 75 % within the wavelength range of 665–1600 nm. The Verdet constants of THV at 532, 633 and 1064 nm are 370, 226 and 56 rad·m−1T−1, 40 %–95 % higher than these of commercial TGG crystal. Additionally, THV exhibits lower absorption coefficient (0.05 cm−1), higher magneto-optical figure of merit (175 deg/dB) and extinction ratio (43 dB) at 1064 nm compared with TGG. Evaluation of thermal performance and laser-induced damage threshold of THV were also made to promote the potential application in high-power optical isolators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to understand the impact of ultrasonication (24 kHz) at a fixed power (100 W) and duration (5–60 min) on the physicochemical, structural, and thermal properties of faba bean protein isolates. Ultrasound-relevant parameters such as acoustic density, intensity, and yield conversion were estimated. The average protein purity (∼85% protein) and yield (up to 22 %) of the ultrasound-assisted protein isolate were higher than those of the control protein isolate. Compared to the original flour, the isolate had significantly lower levels of vicine and convicine. Electrophoresis revealed no substantial alterations in the primary structure of the native and sonicated faba bean isolates. SDS-PAGE and SE-HPLC showed that sonicated samples had profiles similar to those of the native protein isolate. FTIR spectra and X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns were used to measure structural changes in all faba bean protein isolates (FBPI). XRD study revealed two distinct diffraction peaks at 2 θ = 10° and 2 θ = 20° for protein isolates, indicating that alteration in native conformational crystallite size was altered after the ultrasound application. • Ultrasound-assisted faba bean protein isolate was prepared and characterized. • Isolated faba beans showed lower levels of vicine and content. • Protein yield and content was higher in sonicated faba bean isolates. • Ultrasonication improved absolute solubility of faba bean protein isolates. • Structural differences were observed after ultrasonication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigate the structural and magnetic properties of nanocrystalline (Fe 55 Cu 20 Al 25) 90 B 10 powders produced by mechanical alloying. We employ various characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electron dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) to analyze these properties. The XRD analysis reveals that after 80 h of milling, the powders undergo a transformation, resulting in the formation of a bcc-iron-based solid solution structure. After 16 h of milling, the average grain size is about 8.1 nm. Additionally, the maximum saturation magnetization reaches around 100.85 emu/g. The annealed sample exhibits structural ordering, as evidenced by the presence of Fe and Cu crystal phases, along with an increase in coercivity. The prepared alloy exhibits soft magnetic properties compared to previously investigated mechanically alloyed FeAl-based powders. • Nanocrystalline powders of (Fe 55 Cu 20 Al 25) 90 B 10 were studied using the mechanical alloying method. • The characterization techniques used were XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS, and VSM. • After 80 h of milling, a solid solution was formed with 39 % crystallinity and 61 % amorphous fraction. • The grain size reached 8.1 nm after 16 h of milling, with the maximum saturation magnetization measuring 100.85 emu/g. • The annealed sample exhibited structural order, high coercivity, and relatively soft magnetic behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

V-type crystalline starch is known for its property to enhance aroma retention. Intra- and interhelical cavities are the first-order characteristics of V-type crystalline starch, which can affect its properties from microscopic level. This work aims to provide a detailed analysis of structural attributes of intra- and interhelical cavities and their influence on the properties of V-type crystalline starches. Helix deformation was caused due to the formation of interhelical cavities, which was reflected by the downfield shift of the signals for C1 and C4 as well as the appearance of an independent signal for C3 in 13C CP/MAS NMR spectra. Unit cell and lamellar structure formed by the aggregation of intrahelical cavities exhibited relatively low cell volume and high fractal dimension at crystal cell and lamellar levels. Toward a larger crystal, d-spacing increased with the formation of interhelical cavities, causing low-angle shifts of V-type crystalline starches in X-ray diffraction profiles. Intrahelical cavities enabled V6I-type crystalline starch to show high crystallinity per unit volume and a favorable short-range order, contributing greatly to the stable thermal properties. The flavor quality improvement in starch-based food is attributed to the structural characteristics of helical cavities and their relationship with the properties of V-type crystalline starches. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Slow evaporation synthesis method at room temperature of (C 6 H 7 N 2 S)NO 3. • Hybrid nitrate salt of 4-pyridinethioamide with a supramolecular crystal structure. • A good thermal stability for a wide range of temperatures. Organic-inorganic hybrid nitrate salt associating the aromatic organic molecule 4-pyridinethioamide with the (C 6 H 7 N 2 S)NO 3 formula was synthesized by slow evaporation method at room temperature. The obtained material is crystallized in the monoclinic system with the centro-symmetric space group P 2 1 / c. The supramolecular crystal structure was built from nitrate anions N O 3 - entities linked to the organic cations (C 6 H 7 N 2 S)+ by hydrogen bonds and weak interactions. Besides, the aromatic pyridinium rings of 4-pyridinethioamide molecules were proven to form chains through π...π interactions. The Hirshfeld analysis results have shown that in all potential molecular contacts, the H...O/O...H constitutes the most important interaction in the crystal with a contribution percentage of 39 %. The thermal behavior studied by thermogravimetric analyses revealed good stability up to 175 °C. Preliminary analyses recorded with infrared and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the existence of vibrational modes corresponding to the formation of the hybrid compound before performing the characterization by X-ray single-crystal diffraction. The optical absorption spectrum exhibits two bands located at 4.82 eV (257 nm) and 3.95 eV (314 nm), which can be even observed with the naked eye at room temperature and is due to exaction emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu 1.8 S has received a lot of interest as a prospective thermoelectric material with the best performance and abundant resources. While high charge carrier concentration contributes to the high electrical conductivity and power factor values, grain-boundary engineering is required to improve the phonon scattering and thermal stability of Cu 1.8 S. We used a simple process that combined nanoparticles via mechanical alloying and post-annealing to introduce the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) heterointerface into the Cu 1.8 S matrix. A significant enhancement of power factor has been realized that the highest power factor is 721 μWm−1 K−2 at 550 K in the composite Cu 1.8 S/rGO with 10 % rGO, which is higher than the pure Cu 1.8 S. Furthermore, following four cycles of testing from ambient temperature to 550 K, the composite demonstrated excellent repeatability of power factor, confirming its practical application potential. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrates scalable mechanochemical synthesis of rhodostannite Cu 2 FeSn 3 S 8 nanocrystals. On the contrary to the previous reports focused on the synthesis of stannite Cu 2 FeSnS 4 reporting the rhodostannite impurity, we succeeded in preparing stannite-free product after milling. Pure elements were used for a solvent-free production in a batch of 100 g using an eccentric vibratory mill. The progress of the synthesis was monitored by X-ray diffraction and magnetometry, which both confirmed a successful reaction progress until 6 h of milling. However, further treatment (until 10 h) did not result in an improvement, as quite a high saturation magnetization (7.8 emu/g) and clearly evident diffraction at around 44° in the XRD pattern of the product due to the presence of ferromagnetic un-reacted iron with content slightly above 5% was evidenced. The product is sulfur- and tin-deficient, with crystallite size of around 12 nm. In-depth SEM/EDS analysis has shown the inhomogeneity of Fe distribution due to unfinished reaction. The bandgap of the produced material was 1.29 eV. The spark plasma sintering treatment resulted in complete consumption of non-reacted iron, but partial decomposition to stannite Cu 2 FeSnS 4 was observed. The product is an intrinsic semiconductor with high electrical resistivity, and is therefore unsuitable for thermoelectric application. However, its thermal conductivity is low, thus it could be used as an electrically and thermally insulating material. [Display omitted] • Rhodostannite Cu 2 FeSn 3 S 8 nanocrystals have been successfully produced. • Environmentally friendly solid-state mechanochemical approach has been used. • Scalability of the synthesis up to 100 g per batch was demonstrated. • The product showed interesting electrical and thermal insulating properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparative structural and thermal investigations of a process of formation of nanocrystalline lead zirconate titanate Pb(Zr 0.50 Ti 0.50)O 3 (PZT 50/50) powders, with a tetragonal structure, prepared via a gel combustion route under different thermal treatment conditions, were conducted. The thermal behaviour of a gel and an as-formed combustion product (powdered precursor) was studied using TGA/DTA techniques. The XRD study of the powdered precursor calcined at various temperatures, in combination with the TGA/DTA data, resulted in the establishment of the optimal temperature mode for obtaining a single-phase PZT 50/50 nanopowder. A possible mechanism for the formation of the PZT 50/50 phase during gel combustion has been proposed. Formation of a single-phase PZT powder with a given molar ratio of Pb/Zr/Ti = 1/0.5/0.5 was verified by XRD, μ-XRF and EDS methods. The results of XRD and FTIR spectroscopy indicated the tetragonal crystal structure of the PZT powder. The nanocrystalline nature of PZT 50/50 was confirmed by both XRD and SEM data. SEM studies revealed that the prepared nanopowders had a homogeneous, porous, coral-like microstructure with an average grain size in the range of 90–100 nm. According to the simultaneous thermal analysis (TGA/DSC) results, thermal stability of the PZT 50/50 nanopowder was observed up to 1000 °C. Local capacitance and the distribution of its values were measured on the surface of the PZT 50/50 coating, formed on Pt/Al2O3/Pt substrate using the screen printing technique, using scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Single-phase MgFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles (crystallite size ∼ 27 nm) were synthesized via citrate precursor route. • Saturation magnetization increased from ∼ 26.46 emu/g (300 K) to ∼ 34.79 emu/g (100 K). • Low coercivity (92–187 Oe) from 300 K to 100 K indicated soft magnetic behavior. • Observed remanent magnetization of ∼ 5.58 emu/g and remanence ratio of 0.21 at 300 K. • Blocking temperature estimated at ∼ 573 K, coercivity at 0 K at ∼ 249 Oe, and Curie temperature at ∼ 660 K. Low temperature magnetization measurements of citrate precursor-synthesized magnesium ferrite nanoparticles (MFNPs) of ∼ 27 nm were conducted by progressively lowering the temperature from 300 K to 100 K. Hysteresis curves revealed unsaturated magnetization even at ± 15 kOe, attributed to surface spins. Specific saturation magnetization (σ s) and coercivity (H c) experienced an increase from 26.46 emu/g (300 K) to 34.79 emu/g (100 K), and from 92 Oe (300 K) to 187 Oe (100 K), respectively. Specific remanence magnetization (σ r) rose from 5.58 emu/g (300 K) to 10.14 emu/g (100 K), indicating a notable shift in magnetic behavior. Effective anisotropy constant (K eff) showed significant growth from 2474.14 erg/g (300 K) to 6635.04 erg/g (100 K), highlighting low magnetocrystalline anisotropy at room temperature. The rise in magnetic moment (n B) from 0.95 Am2 at 300 K to 1.25 Am2 at 100 K indicates improved magnetic alignment and stability, particularly at lower temperatures. Correlation analysis revealed strong negative curvilinear correlations between magnetic properties and temperature. Extrapolation estimated the blocking temperature (∼573 K), coercivity at 0 K (∼249 Oe), and Curie temperature (∼660 K). These results suggest promising applications in space technology, underscoring the enhanced sensitivity of MFNPs to external magnetic fields in cold environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Explore the pyrolysis of inertinite with quantum chemical calculation and TG-DTG. • Liquefaction activity correlates with chemical bond strength in structural model. • Coals with different inertinite content also have a better liquefaction effect. Coal is heterogeneous, but the inertinite in coal is not conducive to liquefaction, resulting in a lower yield of coal-liquefied oil. Herein, to investigate the liquefaction performance of inertinite, two coal samples with different inertinite contents were obtained by the floating and sinking of coal: low-density inertinite (LDI) and high-density inertinite (HDI). Respectively, the pyrolysis characteristics and liquefaction properties of inertinite in raw coal, LDI and HDI were investigated using molecular structural models combined with quantum chemical calculations, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and liquefaction tests. Quantum chemical calculations revealed that raw coal and LDI comprised more bonds with longer bond lengths and smaller bond orders than HDI. Form Bond-breaking analysis, various cyclic fragments of free radicals were obtained from the pyrolysis of raw coal were primarily monocyclic and bicyclic free radicals, the LDI were primarily binary and ternary annular fragments, and the HDI were mainly composed of quaternary ring fragments. The TGA results revealed that the thermal decomposition reactivity of LDI was comparable to raw coal and superior to HDI. XRD results revealed that the size and content of the aromatics in raw coal residue (RCR) and LDI and LDI residue (LDIR) increased in comparison with raw coal and LDI after liquefaction. The comparison of the liquefaction results of raw coal LDI and HDI revealed that coals with LDI instead of HDI exhibit better liquefaction performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of various process control agents (PCAs), including Methanol, Ethanol, Stearic acid, and Zinc stearate, on the properties of AA2024-B 4 C composite powders during the milling was investigated. Through comprehensive analyses encompassing morphological imaging, EDS assessments, particle size measurements, hardness evaluations, apparent density calculations, XRD, TGA examinations, and subsequent hardness and tensile strength tests on bulk samples derived from these composite powders, intriguing findings emerged. The employment of methanol as a PCA manifested an 85% reduction in the average particle size, decreasing from 220 μm (initial powder size) to 35 μm after 5 h of milling. In contrast, the use of zinc stearate resulted in a more conservative 21% reduction, with an average particle size of 174 μm. Notably, methanol usage resulted in superior hardness (144.5 HB) and tensile strength (262 MPa) compared to zinc stearate, which yielded lower values (107.8 HB and 204.5 MPa). [Display omitted] • AA2024-B 4 C composite powders were milled using different PCA types for the first time. • Liquid (Methanol and Ethanol) and solid (Stearic acid and Zinc stearate) PCA types were used. • The effect of PCAs on the morphological, physical, thermal and mechanical properties of composite powders was investigated. • The most effective PCA in the examination of all morphological, physical and mechanical properties is methanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrical conductivity of thermoplastic composites made of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) particles and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) matrices is here investigated, in particular using a manufacturing process based on twin-screw extrusion. PEDOT particles without PSS were first synthesized by oxidative polymerization in an aqueous medium and characterized using various techniques (conductivity measurements, SEM, TGA, laser granulometry, XRD and XPS). The polymerization temperature of PEDOT particles was found to be a crucial factor. A maximal conductivity of 50 S.cm−1 was obtained when synthesized at ambient temperature. Relationships between the polymerization temperature and the structure of PEDOT particles were revealed and discussed. PEDOT particles were then incorporated up to 60 wt% into PEO matrix by twin-screw extrusion to manufacture electrically-conductive PEO/PEDOT thermoplastic composites. Their electrical conductivity increased with the PEDOT content and outstanding electrical conductivities up to 12 S.cm−1 were reached. The electrical percolation of this system was determined and discussed based on morphological studies by SEM and X-Ray tomography. The effect of PEDOT concentration on thermal properties of PEO matrices was also revealed by DSC. This work provides a novel approach for the manufacture of thermoplastic composites with high electrical conductivities using industrial technologies with multiple applicative perspectives, in particular into polymer-based electronics. [Display omitted] • Electrically-conductive PEDOT particles up to 50 S cm−1 were successfully obtained by an oxidative polymerization process. • Polymerization temperature has been identified as the key parameter to obtain highly conductive PEDOT particles and relationships with structural features were explored. • Incorporation of PEDOT particles into a PEO thermoplastic matrix was successfully performed up to 60 wt% by twin screw extrusion. • PEO/PEDOT thermoplastic composites with high electrical conductivities up to 12 S. cm−1 were successfully obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New oxyfluoroniobate glasses were synthesized in the ZnNbOF 5 -BaF 2 -InF 3 system. • The thermal properties of the obtained glasses are determined. • The structures of the glass networks in the system studied are revealed. • Glasses in the ZnNbOF 5 -BaF 2 -InF 3 system show luminescence was properties. • In glasses with luminescent properties, nano-objects 9–13 nm in size were found. Glasses in the ZnNbOF 5 –BaF 2 –InF 3 and ZnNbOF 5 -BaF 2 systems were produced using the ZnNbOF 5 •6H 2 O compound. The structure, thermal and luminescent properties of the obtained glasses were studied with IR-, Raman, SAXS, luminescent spectroscopy methods, calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. The highest range of thermal stability and resistance of glass to crystallization has been established for the glass of 20ZnNbOF 5 –40BaF 2 –40InF 3 composition. This value is an order of magnitude higher than in glasses of the same system, but not containing InF 3. Glasses networks are formed from polyhedra of InF 6 , NbO 2 F 4 and NbO 3 F 3. For all glasses containing InF 3 , photoluminescence contribution which depends on the concentration of indium trifluoride in the glass was recorded. This contribution corresponds to the emission levels of 542, 573, 673, 751 nm. Luminescent properties are shown by glasses in which nanoobjects (nanoinhomogeneities) in size of 9-13 nm were detected by SAXS method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ultrasonic treatment modified the interfacial properties and thermal behaviour of MFGs/MFGM. • 40 kHz/ 5 min treatment induced the highest ζ- potential of all samples. • Most significant decrease of interfacial tension (π) was observed in 20 kHz/ 15 min treated samples. • 20 kHz and 40 kHz independently or synchronously treatments for 15 min induced the disappearance of α-crystal peaks. • Compared with control, ultrasonic treatment resulted in the appearance of one or two more exothermic events, while undetectable low-melting fractions peaks during the heating stage. Milk fat globules or milk fat globule membranes (MFGs/MFGM) have been added to the infant formula to fortify the phospholipids and narrow the nutritional gap from breast milk. The main aim of this study was to profile the interfacial and thermal properties of MFGs/MFGM prepared from ultrasonicated bovine milk. Bovine milk was sonicated at ultrasonic intensities of 20 kHz and 40 kHz independently or synchronously with the duration time of 0 min (control), 5 min, 10 min, and 15 min (work/rest cycles = 5 s: 3 s). Ultrasonic treatments at 20 kHz/ 5 min and 20 + 40 kHz/ 5 min improved the volume density (%) of smaller particles (1–10 µm) while significantly decreasing the surface hydrophobicity (H 0) (p < 0.05). 40 kHz/5 min samples showed significantly higher ζ- potential than the other samples (p < 0.05), which might be because more negative charges were detected. In comparison with control samples, ultrasonic treatments decreased the interfacial tension (π) between the air and MFGs/MFGM liquid phase. 20 kHz ultra-sonicated treatments decreased the diffusion rate (k diff) of MFGs/MFGM interfacial compositions significantly as the duration prolonged from 5 min to 15 min (p < 0.05) but did not affect the adsorption or penetration rate (k a) (p > 0.05). X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that α-crystal peaks only existed in control and ultrasonicated 5 min samples but disappeared in all 15 min samples. According to the different scanning calorimetry (DSC), one or two new exothermic events (in the range of 17.29 – 18.81 ℃ and 22.14 – 25.21 ℃) appeared after ultrasonic treatments, which, however, were not found in control samples. Ultrasonic treatments resulted in the low-melting fractions (LMF) (T M1) peaks undetectable in MFGs/MFGM samples in which only peaks of medium-melting fractions (MMF) (T M2) and high-melting fractions (HMF) (T M3) were detected. Compared with the control, both enthalpies of crystallisation (ΔH C) and melting (ΔH M) decreased in ultrasonicated samples. In conclusion, ultrasonic treatment affects the interfacial and thermal properties of MFGs/MFGM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructures of carbon fibers can be significantly modified by understanding the carbonization conditions which improves the properties of fibers. The carbonization is a complex process of converting pitch fibers into carbon fibers through the evolution of gases and arrangement of molecules by polymerization reactions. Hence, the present study focuses on the synthesis of isotropic pitch-based carbon fibers and the investigation of microstructural properties with varying carbonization conditions at 1000 °C. The isotropic pitch is derived from coal-tar pitch through the utilization of a vacuum distillation technique. Various properties of isotropic pitch are studied to determine the flowability and optimum temperature range for melt-spinning into fibers. Subsequently, the stabilization process is conducted in an open atmosphere to retain fibers shape by introducing oxygen-containing functional groups. Time-dependent carbonization parameters such as heating rate and holding/soaking periods are used to optimize the conditions that yield superior microstructural properties. This research reveals that slower heating rates enhance the crystallite sizes while reducing defects. Conversely, longer holding times at carbonization temperature showed adverse effects on the microstructural properties. To assess microstructural, thermal and physical properties of the pitch and fibers, various characterizations are performed, including DSC, TGA, rheology, FTIR, XPS, Raman, XRD, and SEM. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of general-purpose carbon fibers using isotropic coal tar pitch via melt spinning process. • Impact of carbonization conditions on microstructural properties of carbon fiber. • Establishment of a relationship between microstructural and mechanical properties. • Improved properties observed with a slower heating rate and less holding/soaking time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundance, cheapness, biodegradability and non-toxic behaviour of starches attract many food and non-food industries. Starch provides viscosity, adhesion, texture and homogeneity to various food products. This review article deals with the chemical composition, structure, granular morphology, pasting, thermal and in vitro digestibility properties of barley starches. Significant variations were found in characteristics of starches from normal, waxy and high amylose barley cultivars suggesting their broader potential applications. Amylose content appears to be the major factor controlling almost all physicochemical properties of barley starch due to its influence on physico-chemical, functional, pasting and thermal properties. Morphological studies have reflected significant differences among barley starch granule shapes. Waxy barley starch granules composed of a mixture of large spherical, disc and lenticular shaped whereas normal and waxy starches showed small irregularly shaped starch granules. A characteristic of cereal starches, A-type crystallinity of barley starches were observed by X-ray diffractions. For barley starch, storage modulus (G′) value for starch pastes was reported to be more than loss modulus (G′′) and <1 value of tan δ (G′′/G′) of barley starch indicating their elastic behaviour than viscous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work peanut oil cake extracted Cellulose Micro Filler (CMF) is used for the advancement of mechanical and thermal properties in natural fiber composites. This fiber powder was used in enhancing the applications of Pineapple (P)/Flax (F) natural fiber epoxy composites. The X Ray Diffraction (XRD) results of CMF showed improved Crystalline Index (Crl) of 70.25° and crystalline size of 5.5 nm. FTIR results confirmed the rich cellulose content in functional groups of filler with peaks at 1058 cm−1, 1162 cm−1, 1370 cm−1 and 1428 cm−1. Mechanical results showed a positive impact with incorporation of CMF in PF hybrid fiber composites. Thermal stability results showed enhancement in the degradation temperature, residual %, endothermic peak and enthalpy by the incorporation of CMF. In the 30% PF combinations degradation temperature T 50 , T 70 , T 70 enhanced from 387.73–391.08°, 434.81–454.81° and 468.91–553.36° by the filler substitution. Similarly residual % increased from 17.69–24.35%. The combination with 35% PF showed enhancement in degradation temperature, residual percentage, endothermic peak and enthalpy with filler addition up to 3%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite Er 1- x Ca x MnO 3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) was synthesized using a solid-state method. Thermal expansion behavior was tested using a thermal dilatometer and high-temperature X-ray diffraction (XRD). The experimental results indicated the doping contents of Ca (x) in the Er 1- x Ca x MnO 3 have a dramatic effect on their thermal expansion behavior. The samples of Er 1- x Ca x MnO 3 (x = 0.1,0.2 and 0.25) exhibit positive thermal expansion (PTE) characteristics while Er 0.7 Ca 0.3 MnO 3 (x = 0.3) exhibits a negative thermal expansion (NTE) property with a thermal expansion coefficient of −3.1 × 10−6 K−1 in room temperature (RT) −750 K. In addition, Er 0.6 Ca 0.4 MnO 3 (x = 0.4) exhibits NTE properties only at RT–500 K, and Er 0.5 Ca 0.5 MnO 3 (x = 0.5) exhibits PTE properties at RT–750 K. The thermal shrinkage mechanism is the Jahn–Teller effect of the Mn3+ ions and the double exchange of Mn3+–O–Mn4+ in Er 0.7 Ca 0.3 MnO 3. This phenomenon causes Mn–O octahedral distortion and oxygen vacancy, causing Er 0.7 Ca 0.3 MnO 3 to become anisotropic. This feature results in the elastic deformation of Er 0.7 Ca 0.3 MnO 3 during heating, which consumes the void and displays NTE at macro level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of parboiling processing (121 °C for 10, 15, and 20 min, 0.1 MPa) on thermal properties, color value, morphological properties, and crystallinity of highland barley were studied. During 20 min parboiling processing, the color values Chroma B* , b* values increased, and L* values decreased; the crystallinity of parboiled barley illustrated A, B, and V-style polymorphs; the heat enthalpy (ΔH) and onset, peak, conclusion temperature of gelatinization, and range of gelatinization (To , Tp , Tc, and Tc-To) was decreased; the internal structure of highland barley was destroyed. Meanwhile, the crystallinity was observed to be significantly correlated to color values and thermal properties during different degrees of processing. Unlabelled Image • The peaks of X-ray diffraction illustrated A, B, and V-style polymorphs. • Parboiled highland barley flours showed decrease in To , Tp , Tc and ΔH. • The crystallinity of flour was correlated to color values and thermal parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalysts are critical materials for biodiesel production using sewage sludge feedstock. In this research, different SO 4 2−/Al 2 O 3 –SnO 2 catalysts were prepared and characterized. The catalysts prepared at different conditions were characterized through Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), X-ray diffraction (XRD), NH 3 -temperature-programmed desorption (NH 3 -TPD), NH 3 adsorption FT-IR, and TGA. Then, esterification/transesterification reaction was performed with the lipid extracted from sewage sludge to verify the activity of these catalysts. Results showed that the catalysts with n(Al):n(Sn) = 1:10 prepared by 79 wt% H 2 SO 4 possessed the best physical properties with a large number of active catalytic sites, which led to the biodiesel yield of 73.3% (based on dried extracted crude fat) under the optimized reaction conditions at 130 °C as reaction temperature, 0.8 g as catalyst loading for lipids extracted from 10 g freeze-dried sludge, 4 h as reaction time. Catalysts characterization results showed that acidity, acid sites and Al/Sn molar ratio play an important role in the activity of catalysts. The thermal properties showed that 450 °C was the suitable calcination temperature for catalyst preparation. The optimized SO 4 2−/Al 2 O 3 –SnO 2 catalyst in this research will have a bright future in the field of sludge production of biodiesel. Image 1 • SO 4 2−/Al 2 O 3 –SnO 2 can get 73.3% productivity of biodiesel from lipids in sewage sludge. • The best preparation conditions:n(Al):n(Sn) = 1:10, 79 wt% H 2 SO 4 and calcined at 450 °C. • Acidity, acid sites and Al/Sn molar ratio are important for SO 4 2−/Al 2 O 3 –SnO 2 activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-entropy alloy CoCrFeNiMn was produced by short high energy ball milling (90 min) and spark plasma sintering (10 min at 1073 K). Co-existence of two fcc-phases with lattice parameters 0.360 nm and 0.356 nm was demonstrated via HRTEM, XRD and other methods. The matrix fcc-phase with larger parameter transforms into the more compact phase during annealing up to 1273 K. Similar transformation partially occurs after SPS. Some elements, mostly Cr and Mn, released from the matrix phase and formed precipitates. Up to three types of precipitates, with characteristic size from 10-30 nm to 200–300 nm, have been detected and studied. Electric and thermal properties of the material, measured at room and elevated temperature, shown that lattice thermal conductivity plays an important role, along with free electron thermal conductivity. Image 1 • CoCrFeNiMn produced by 90 min of high energy ball milling and consolidated by SPS. • Two fcc-phases present in the alloy with lattice parameters 0.360 and 0.356 nm. • The loose fcc-phase transforms into more compact phase when annealing up to 1273 K. • Cr and Mn release from the fcc-matrix phase forming precipitates 10-30 and 200–300 nm. • Electric and thermal conductivities are measured at room and elevated temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sb doped Mg 2 (Si 0.5 Sn 0.5) 1−x Sb x solid solutions have been prepared by fast and low-cost thermal explosion (TE) combined with plasma activated sintering (PAS) for the first time, exhibiting superior thermoelectric figure of merit ZT including peak ZT peak and average ZT ave. • Mg 2 (Si 0.5 Sn 0.5) 1−x Sb x solid solutions were synthesized by fast and facile thermal explosion method. • Phase segregation easily occurs during the synthesis process of the composition of 0.5Mg 2 Si-0.5Mg 2 Sn. • Sb doping enhances power factor, inhibits the bipolar diffusion effect and improves the thermoelectric figure of merit. Sb-doped Mg 2 Si 0.5 Sn 0.5 materials were successfully prepared by a fast thermal explosion reaction for the first time. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns indicate that this new method easily converts the immiscible composition of 0.5Mg 2 Si-0.5Mg 2 Sn into a single-phase Mg 2 Si 0.5 Sn 0.5 solid solution. With Sb content increasing, the dimensionless thermoelectric figure of merit ZT peak (peak value) and ZT ave (average value) are greatly improved, which are quite comparable to or even better than the values obtained by other methods. More importantly, this facile fabrication technique possesses attractive merits, such as high time- and energy-efficiency, low cost and the potential of mass production. Hence, a significant foundation has been laid for the future synthesis of other Mg-based and functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystallographic properties of Zr and ZIRLO™ in the temperature range of 30–1430 °C were investigated using in situ high-temperature X-ray diffraction (HT-XRD). Hexagonal Zr diffraction peaks observed at 30 °C started to vanish above 1110 °C for Zr and 1230 °C for ZIRLO™ owing to oxidation, resulting in a composition with monoclinic ZrO 2 , tetragonal ZrO 2 , and rhombohedral Zr 3 O. Furthermore, based on Pawley refinement of in situ HT-XRD spectra, we demonstrated that the lattice thermal expansion in ZIRLO™ occurred in a stable manner compared to that in Zr, which contribute to the enhancement of its mechanical properties via thermal treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Ce-doped Li 0.5+x La 0.5-x Ce 2x Ti 1-x O 3 (x = 0.0, 0.025, and 0.05) ionic conductive crystalline oxides were produced by a solid-state reaction process. The effect of Ce-doping on the thermal, structural, electrical, and dielectric characteristics of Li 0.5 La 0.5 TiO 3 was investigated using TGA/DTA, XRD, SEM/EDS, FT-IR spectroscopy, and impedance spectroscopy techniques. The TGA/DTA spectra confirmed the phase transformation and weight loss of the mixed precursors. The XRD and FT-IR analysis revealed that the materials exhibited a cubic system with a perovskite phase, which corresponds to the Pm3m space group. The EDS analysis clearly detected the presence of all elements except Li in the Li 0.5+x La 0.5-x Ce 2x Ti 1-x O 3 materials. The electrical conductivities were found to be 3.9 × 10−5 S/cm for Li 0.525 La 0.475 Ce 0.05 Ti 0.975 O 3 , and 3.1 × 10−5 S/cm for Li 0.55 La 0.45 Ce 0.1 Ti 0.95 O 3 , which are higher than that of Li 0.5 La 0.5 TiO 3 (1.7 × 10−5 S/cm). This confirmed that the incorporation of a small quantity of Ce4+ ions can enhance the electrical conductivity of Li 0.5 La 0.5 TiO 3 sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nanoparticles were prepared by composite of cationic starch and xanthan gum. • Composite nanoparticles confirmed by FT-IR, XRD, and13C CP/MAS NMR. • XG improves the storage and rheological properties of emulsions. • pH and NaCl affect the properties emulsion stabilized by nanoparticles. In this work, nanoparticles were prepared by the composite of cationic starch (CS) and xanthan gum (XG) through gelatinization and alcohol precipitation for the first time. Physicochemical properties, micromorphology, and emulsification properties of CS/XG nanoparticles were measured. SEM showed that after compositing with XG, the diameter size of the CS/XG nanoparticles was increased from about 50 nm to 150–300 nm. FT-IR, XRD and 13C CP/MAS NMR confirmed that XG was successfully complexed with CS. Besides, the visual observation indicated emulsions stabilized by CS/XG nanoparticles had excellent storage and thermal properties. Additionally, the rheological and stability results of emulsions show that pH and NaCl had effects on the rheological and stability properties of emulsions, which means that the prepared emulsions had environmental responsiveness. Thus, this work provides an efficient method to prepare CS and GX composite nanoparticles with efficient emulsifying properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The (MgCoNiCuZn)O was studied using low temperature XRD. • The thermal expansion behavior of (MgCoNiCuZn)O was measured. • The homogeneity of (MgCoNiCuZn)O affects its thermal expansion behavior. • Additionally, the Jahn-Teller effect may occur in CoO 6 octahedron in (MgCoNiCuZn)O. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of entropy-stabilized oxide (MgCoNiCuZn)O has been firstly experimentally measured and studied at low temperatures below room temperature. The temperature-dependent lattice parameters of (MgCoNiCuZn)O were determined by synchrotron X-ray diffractometry. A CTE value of α = 2.2780x10-5 K−1 at 113 K for (MgCoNiCuZn)O was calculated using a second-degree polynomial fitting. The quenched homogeneous NaCl-type (MgCoNiCuZn)O structure has the highest CTE value below 133 K among all its constituent oxides. An unquenched (MgCoNiCuZn)O was also investigated, and the homogeneity was found to affect CTE values. Finally, the anisotropic behavior of the constituent oxides and (MgCoNiCuZn)O were also compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monoclinic Cu 4 O(SeO3) 3 has been prepared hydrothermally with subsequent heating in evacuated silica tubes. It has been characterized in measurements of dc and ac magnetic susceptibility χ and specific heat C p. The title compound orders magnetically at T 1 = 13.2 K and evidences a pre-transitional anomaly at T 2 = 17.2 K. In the range T 1 < T < T 2 , the application of external magnetic field rapidly suppresses excessive magnetization of this intermediate phase, but the hump in specific heat appears. The magnetic system of the title compound is constituted by the layered network of isolated Cu atoms and O 2 Cu 6 units composed by edge-sharing anion-centered OCu 4 tetrahedra. First principles calculations provided values of both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic exchange interactions within O 2 Cu 6 units J 1 – J 11 and J 12 – J 22 , and antiferromagnetic intralayer J 23 – J 30 and interlayer J 31 – J 32 exchange interactions. Basing on signs and values of these interactions a magnetic model of monoclinic Cu 4 O(SeO3) 3 is suggested. • O 2 Cu 6 units of edge-sharing OCu 4 tetrahedra are the building blocks of Cu 4 O(SeO3) 3. • It orders magnetically at T 1 = 13.2 K and shows a pre-transitional anomaly at T 2 = 16.5 K. • Basing on signs and values of exchange interactions a magnetic model is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(a) The figure shows the Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 : x Sm3+ (0.01 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) CIE chromaticity coordinates, and the inset on the upper right corner shows the pictures of the Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 :0.05Sm3+phosphor samples under daylight and 265 nm lamp irradiation, respectively. (b) The graph shows the color purity of the Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 : x Sm3+ (0.01 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) phosphor sample. [Display omitted] • Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 :Sm3+ phosphors were firstly synthesized via a high-temperature solid-state reaction. • The phosphor emits bright orange-red light excited by 407 nm. • The phosphor exhibits good color stability and high color purity (98.51 %). • Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 :Sm3+ has good thermal stability and suitable color temperature, and is expected to be used in near-UV excited WLEDs. In this study, a Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 : x Sm3+ orange-red phosphor was synthesized by a high-temperature solid-phase reaction method, and its fluorescence properties were analyzed. The Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 : x Sm3+ phosphor exhibited three emission peaks at 561 nm (4G 5/2 → 6H 5/2), 595 nm (4G 5/2 → 6H 7/2), and 642 nm (4G 5/2 → 6H 9/2) under the excitation of 407 nm. The Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 :0.05Sm3+ phosphor had good thermal stability and excellent color stability at different temperatures. Ba 3 MgTa 2 O 9 :0.05Sm3+ phosphor is the best doping concentration phosphor, with a high color purity of 98.52 %. The XRD of the Sm3+ ion-doped phosphor showed that its crystal structure and morphology were stable, and the doping of Sm3+ ions did not affect its crystal structure significantly. Therefore, the Sm3+ ion-doped phosphors in this study have potential applications and are expected to be used in the field of WLED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was to compare the characteristics of 21 starches isolated from chestnuts produced in different regions in China, also to investigate their potential food applications. Starches were isolated from chestnuts under the Castanea mollisima Blume variety with sub-varieties of Banli, Youli, and Maoli. Several properties of the starch samples were examined, including the moisture content, amylose content, morphological characteristics, color values, light transmittance, syneresis, swelling power, water solubility index, pasting properties, FTIR characteristics, X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, and thermal properties. The results showed that starches isolated from Youli presented higher resistance to shear and swelling during heating, indicating more suitability for high-heat cooking. The FTIR spectra confirmed the polysaccharide nature of all the chestnut starches. The XRD patterns showed most chestnut starches were in C b -type, while only five were in C a -type. Overall, this comparative study would be relevant for the further exploration of the potential utilization of chestnut starch in both food and non-food industries. • Physiochemical properties of 21 chestnuts starches were examined. • Starches presented significant differences in morphology, pasting, and thermal properties. • Starches from Maoli had generally smaller granule sizes. • Starches from Youli presented higher resistance to shear and thermal swelling. • All chestnuts had C-type starch, among which most starches were in C b -type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nickel doped Bismuth Borate glasses with composition (70B 2 O 3 -(30-x)Bi 2 O 3 -xNiO) where x = 0,0.5,1.0,1.5,2.0 (wt%) have been synthesized by conventional melt quenching technique. X-Ray Diffractograms have confirmed the amorphous nature of the prepared glasses. The calculated physical parameters such as density, molar volume, average boron‑boron separation, ion concentration and inter ionic distance provided the information about the structural stability of glass samples. DTA and OPD confirmed the decrease in glass transition temperature (T g) with increase in Ni content. The FTIR and Raman studies clearly revealed that the glass network mainly comprises of [BiO 3 ], [BiO 6 ], [BO 3 ] and [BO 4 ] units. It is also observed that the introduction of dopant (Ni) and modifier (Bi) leads to the conversion of [BO 3 ] trigonal units into the [BO 4 ] tetragonal units due to the increase in non-bridging oxygen atoms which results in the increase of degree of disorder in the glass network. The optical absorption measurements (UV) carried out for well polished glass samples show a decrease in optical band gap with the increase in Ni doping. This observation was further supported by the urbach energy calculations and metallization criterion of the prepared glass samples. The electronegativity and electronic polarizability values revealed the ionic character of glass samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The research was done to analyze the seven different Traditional rice cultivars for their several functional structural and sensory properties. These cultivars were found to score highest as compared to hybrids rice varieties grown in the same regions in terms of sensory and other functional attributes. The moisture, protein, ash, fibre and carbohydrate content varied from 10.84% to 13.18%, 7.25–8.85%, 0.57–1.57%, 0.74–1.67% and 74.76–78.24%. Maximum Paste stability was depicted by these cultivars. The hardness of the rice gels were found to correlate positively with the fat content of their respective cultivars. The gelatinization enthalpy that indicates loss of double helical structure was found highest in Mushki budgi (9.73Jg−1). The granules with pentagonal structure were displayed by Mushki kandi with 3.70–6.74 µm length range. The X-ray diffraction patterns of the rice cultivars depicted A-type XRD pattern. The pigmented cultivars retained pigments upon cooking justified their health benefits in terms of antioxidants. The significance of this research is to analyse the cumulative effects of composition, granule morphology and crystalline pattern of rice cultivars on their several functional characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Sr 2 FeMoO 6 and Sr 3 FeMoO 7 as thin films have been successfully synthesized. • Sr 2 FeMoO 6 and Sr 3 FeMoO 7 exhibit respectively (2 4 2) and (1 1 1 2) preferential orientations. • Transmittance, reflectance and band gap energy value have been achieved. • Simultaneous determination of thermal conductivity and diffusivity of Sr 3 FeMoO 7 is obtained, for the first time. Abstract Quaternary oxides based on strontium, iron, and molybdenum elements such as Sr 2 FeMoO 6 (SFMO) and its analog n = 2 Ruddlesden-Popper (R-P) phase Sr 3 FeMoO 7 were synthesized using chemical spray pyrolysis deposition technique. Optical band gap values, thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of both spray-deposited films were investigated. The results confirm that the above properties are considerable factors in forecasting the appropriate perovskite compound for future thermal barrier coating applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Investigate the physico-chemical and thermal stability of alkali-treated APFs. • Acacia planifrons is valuable for wasteland recovery and afforestation. • 5% alkali concentration for APFs is suitable. Abstract In this work, the effects of alkali treatment on the chemical composition and thermal decomposition of Acacia planifrons fibers were investigated. The fibers originating from the bark of an Acacia planifrons tree were alkali treated with various concentrations (2% and 5% w/v) for 30 min. The treatment was found to diminish the amorphous contents, improve the crystallinity index and thermal stability of the fiber. The crystallinity index of the untreated, 2% alkali-treated and 5% alkali-treated fibers was estimated to be 65.38%, 69.94% and 74.76%, respectively. The thermal stability of the alkali-treated fiber was quite higher than that of the untreated fiber. The results revealed that 5% alkali-treated Acacia planifrons fibers are suitable to be used as reinforcement in polymer composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • One pot synthesis of manganese promoted ferrous catalyst was performed by incipient wetness impregnation technique. • The surface characterization studies confirm the catalyst to be either non porous or macroporous in nature. • The decomposition of synthesized catalyst was around 650–700 °C. Abstract Al 2 O 3 supported ferrous catalyst promoted by manganese was successfully designed and developed by incipient wetness impregnation method. The synthesized compound was effectively characterized by various analytical techniques such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM-EDX) studies, Porosimetry analysis and Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). SEM images showed that the obtained particles are irregular in shape with extensive particle agglomeration. Furthermore, BET analysis revealed that the nanoparticles have a surface area of 53.66 m2 g−1 with an average adsorption pore diameter of 91.1464 Å. The average crystallite size of the nanoparticle ranges from 19 to 20 nm was examined by XRD analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract W-Cu/Ag composites with dense microstructure and enhanced electrical and thermal properties were prepared from Cu-coated W and Ag-coated Cu powders by vacuum hot pressure sintering. Both Cu-coated W and Ag-coated Cu powders were successfully prepared by electroless plating. The microstructure and phase of sintered composites were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. Several properties of sintered composites with or without employing of Ag-coated Cu powders were investigated. W-Cu/Ag composite exhibits extremely homogeneous and dense microstructure due to the transformation of sintering mode. Compared with the W-Cu composite, W-Cu/Ag composite exhibits excellent electrical conductivity (52.4%IACS) and thermal conductivity (227.4 W/m·K), coefficient of thermal expansion can decreased to 7.47 × 10−6/K, Vickers hardness improved from 155.2 HV to 216.7 HV. Highlights • W-Cu composites were prepared from Ag-coated Cu and Cu-coated W composite powders by electroless plating. • Compactness, homogeneity and interface bonding of W-Cu composites were enhanced due to the using of Ag-coated Cu powders. • Both of the thermal properties and electrical conductivity have improved due to the using of Ag-coated Cu powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the effect of physical and chemical modifications on the physicochemical and in vitro digestibility of kithul starch. Starch isolated from kithul flour (Caryota urens) was subjected to physical and chemical modifications. The starch modification was verified by the presence of functional groups using Fourier transform Infrared spectral analysis (FT-IR). X-ray Diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed that the kithul starch is A- type and the modifications did not change the crystalline pattern. However, the relative crystallinity showed significant changes. Chemical modifications increased the swelling and solubility. Pasting and thermal parameters of all modified starches showed significant changes as compared to native starch (NS). Acetylated oxidised starch (AOS) showed highest paste viscosities. Higher enthalpy of gelatinization (∆H gel) and paste viscosity attributed to perfection and ordering of amorphous regions in annealed starch (ANS). All modifications significantly increased the resistant starch (RS) content than native starch (NS), which indicates its lower digestibility. The current study showed the single, dual chemical modifications and annealing, effectively modified the physicochemical and in vitro digestibility of kithul starch. Highlights • AOS exhibited higher pasting viscosity, swelling index and solubility. • All chemical modifications decreased crystalline properties. • Annealing improved crystalline and pasting properties of kithul starch. • Modifications significantly reduced RDS and in vitro digestibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • High temperature X-Ray Diffraction analysis of Ag-Li alloys. • Dilatometric measurements of Ag-rich alloys from Ag-Li system. • Electric conductivity and reversibility of Ag-rich alloys from Ag-Li system. • The structural and physical properties of Ag-rich alloys from Ag-Li system. Abstract The structural and physical properties of the Ag-rich alloys from Ag-Li system (Ag 90 Li 10 , Ag 80 Li 20 , Ag 70 Li 30 , Ag 60 Li 40 , Ag 57 Li 43 , Ag 55 Li 45 , Ag 52 Li 48 , and Ag 50 Li 50) were performed with the use of the three different methods. All tested alloys were prepared from high purity metals (Ag and Li) by melting in a glove-box filled with high purity argon, with a very low concentration of impurities. The high-temperature X-ray diffraction investigations were conducted to confirm the structure of the prepared alloys. The thermal expansion measurements of the Ag-rich alloys were carried out by an optical, horizontal dilatometer at the temperature range from 298 to 665 K. Moreover, the electrical conductivity of investigated Ag-rich alloys was measured at room temperature. The results of X-ray diffraction phase analysis, thermal expansion and electrical conductivity measurements, obtained in these studies, may undermine the reliability of the present phase diagram of Ag-Li, which makes it necessary to verify the existing phase equilibria. Further thermodynamic and physicochemical studies of Ag-Li system are crucial to get complete data for the optimization of the thermodynamic properties and calculation of the reliable phase diagram of the Ag-Li system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract B 4 C/TiB 2 ceramic composites were fabricated by reinforcing carbon and silicon (10 wt.% total mass) with the help of pressureless sintering at 2150 °C. The influence of C and Si additives on the phase composition, microstructures and mechanical properties of B 4 C/TiB 2 ceramic composites were investigated through the characterizations of XRD, SEM, BSEM and EDS. Compared to B 4 C/TiB 2 ceramic composites without C-Si additives, coarsely plate-like SiC grains were formed in composites at a C: Si mass ratio ∼0:10. By increasing the C:Si mass ratio, the size of the plate-like SiC grains decreases, while the amount of plate-like SiC grains increases. When the C:Si mass ratio was 7:3, multilamellar graphite appeared on the B 4 C grain boundary. Moreover a large number of lamellar graphite grains appeared at a mass ratio of C:Si ∼10:0. Graphite reacted with B 2 O 3 on the B 4 C grain boundary, and the sintered body shrank quickly. Due to the presence of lamellar graphite, the relative density of the sintered body significantly increased from 89.2% to 98.9%. The mechanical properties such as flexural strength ∼336 MPa (∼26.79% increment) and fracture toughness ∼ 5.11 MPam1/2 (∼21.19% increment) were significantly improved compared with the B 4 C/TiB 2 ceramic composite. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • High-performance B 4 C/TiB 2 composites were prepared by pressureless sintering. • The size of plate-like SiC grains decreases with mass ratio of C:Si increasing. • Fracture toughness of sample C10S0 improve owing to crack deflection and bridging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Zeolites Na,Cs-RHO, Cd,Cs-RHO, and Li,NH 4 -RHO were synthesized in an aqueous ion-exchange media and studied by powder X-ray diffraction. Their thermochemistry was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry and high temperature oxide melt solution calorimetry. The formation enthalpy from binary oxide components of hydrated zeolite RHO varies linearly with the average ionic potential (Z/r) of the extra-framework cations and ranges from −34.46 ± 0.52 kJ/mol for Na,Cs-RHO to −16.75 ± 0.57 kJ/mol for Cd,Cs-RHO. The formation enthalpies for dehydrated zeolite RHO range from −25.49 ± 0.64 kJ/mol for Na,Cs-RHO to +4.12 ± 0.99 kJ/mol for Li,NH 4 -RHO. These values do not vary linearly with average ionic potential but do show a linear relationship with distortion parameter. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Measured formation enthalpies from oxides of hydrated zeolite RHOs are exothermic. • They vary linearly with average ionic potential of cations. • Dehydrated zeolite RHOs are energetically metastable with respect to binary oxides. • Energetic destabilization increases with framework distortion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The coordination polymer with mixed ligand [Cu 2 (H 2 O) 2 (pm) (ina) 2 ] n.3nH 2 O (pm = tetraanion of pyromellitic acid, ina = isonicotinamide) was studied mostly on its supramolecular architecture. Single crystals were synthesized and structural properties of the 1D polymer were characterized by Single Crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD), different spectroscopic methods (Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, UV–Vis spectroscopy and EPR spectroscopy), Thermal and Elemental analysis. It has been observed that complex has crystallized in the monoclinic space group P 2 1 / c. The geometric environment of Cu(II) ion is five-coordinated in slightly distorted square pyramidal geometry and τ value have found 0.13. The pyromellitate ligands connecting the metal centers act as bridge and form 1D polymer chains of 2,4 ribbon type [ 1 ]. The ladder-like polymer is connected by O H⋯O and N H⋯O hydrogen bonds to form supramolecular building. This complex consists of a 3D polymeric structure with containing planar hexacyclic and dimeric water rings. It was mainly focused on the characteristic (COO) as and (COO) s stretching vibrations of pyromellitate anion in the FT-IR investigation of the complex. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Synthesis of a new 1D coordination polymer of Cu(II) with mixed ligands. • Examining the molecular and spectroscopy structure of complex and ligands. • Investigation of single crystal X-ray diffraction, Elemental analysis, TGA, FT IR, EPR and UV–Vis spectra. • Pyromellitate acts as bridging ligand binding Cu(II) metal center via four carboxylate O atom. • The hydrogen bonding results in 3D supramolecular structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A new organic compound 4-nitrophenol 4-aminobenzoic acid monohydrate (4NPABA) was synthesized and crystals were grown by slow evaporation solution technique (SEST). The crystal structure of 4NPABA was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction (SXRD) and it was found to be monoclinic system with the centrosymmetric space group P 2 1 /c. The powder XRD (PXRD) was carried out for analysis of diffracting planes of grown crystal and also indexed by the Rietveld refinement using FullProf code. The 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectral analysis was used to confirm the chemical environment of various protons and carbons present in a 4NPABA structure. The various functional groups of the grown crystal were identified using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and FT-Raman spectroscopy. The transmittance of the grown crystal was analyzed by using UV–Visible–NIR spectral analysis and the cut-off wavelength was found to be 400 nm. The thermal stability of the grown crystal has been investigated by TGA-DTA studies. Laser damage threshold (LDT) value of the grown crystals has been determined using a nanosecond (ns) Nd:YAG laser operating at 532 nm. The third-order nonlinear optical property of 4NPABA crystal was studied by Z-scan technique to determine its nonlinear absorption (β) and nonlinear refraction (n 2). The charge transfer characteristic of the grown crystal was studied by frontier molecular orbital (FMOs) analysis. The hydrogen bonding of the present molecule was confirmed by NBO analysis. The polarizability and hyperpolarizability of the 4NPABA were calculated at the B3LYP/6–311++G (d,p) level using Gaussian 09W package. The calculated values of linear polarizability (α*) and first order hyperpolarizability (β*) are 2.683 × 10−23 (esu) and 11.865 × 10−30 (esu) respectively. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The new 4NPABA single crystals are grown by slow evaporation solution technique. • The high optical transmittance with lower cut-off wavelength is 405 nm. • Laser damage tolerance of 4NPABA crystal is 9.37 GW/cm2 for 15 mJ. • Third-order nonlinear susceptibilities (χ (3) ) is in order of 10−9 (esu). • The hyperpolarizability (β) value of 4NPABA crystal is 23.9 times greater than that of urea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Mn ions implantation on AlInN/GaN/sapphire films. • Sample at dose of 5 × 1014 cm−2 and annealed at 750 °C exhibited good crystalline recovery. • High temperature ferromagnetism in the sample. • Sample at dose of 5 × 1016 cm−2 exhibited maximum magnetization. • p–d exchange interaction. Abstract In the search of functional diluted magnetic semiconductors, a study of effects of Mn ions implantation on structural and magnetic properties of AlInN/GaN/sapphire films is reported. Mn ions at 200 keV were implanted into the layers at three doses 5 × 1014 cm−2, 5 × 1015 cm−2 and 5 × 1016 cm−2. The as-implanted samples were thermally annealed and investigated by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). The structural analysis of the samples indicated that the sample implanted at dose of 5 × 1014 cm−2 and thermally annealed at 750 °C exhibited good crystalline recovery. The ferromagnetism of the samples was investigated by recording magnetization as a function of applied magnetic field. The magnetic characterizations exhibited well shaped hysteresis at room temperature which indicates presence of high temperature ferromagnetism in the samples. The findings of this work pointed out that AlInN/GaN samples implanted with Mn ions at dose of 5 × 1016 cm−2 and annealing at 750 °C exhibited maximum magnetization. On the basis of first principles calculations, it is predicted that p–d interaction is the mechanism of ferromagnetic ordering in the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract MgO containing vanadate glasses of composition V 2- x Mg x O 5-δ (x = 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25 and 0.30) have been prepared successfully by melt-quench technique. The structural properties of the as-quenched samples are explored with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Thermal properties and conductivity of the samples are investigated using differential thermal analysis (DTA) and impedance spectroscopy, respectively. Density, inter-ionic distance, and fragility index are found to decrease with the addition of MgO content. Higher content of MgO improves the glass formation tendency and reduces the thermal stability of the samples. The conductivity of the V 2- x Mg x O 5-δ samples decreases as the MgO concentration increases due to hindrance in the polaronic conduction of vanadium ions. The conductivity of the samples decreases to ̴ 10−4 S m−1 for x = 0.30 at 300 °C, while activation energy increases to 0.38 eV. These samples may find application in solid state batteries and fuel cells due to their higher conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]