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Using polarization curve scanning, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, macroscopic morphology observation, scanning electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), the corrosion regulars of connectors were investigated. A galvanic corrosion simulation model of aluminum‐titanium rivets was established by electrochemical experimental parameters as boundary conditions. The results showed that the galvanic couple connection accelerated the corrosion significantly. XRD and EDS results show that the main corrosion products are Al2O3, Al(OH)3. The corrosion potential of riveted parts decreased from the riveting point to both sides, ranging from −0.664 to −0.655 V. The corrosion current density decreases along both sides, and the corrosion current density at the most edge is 0.0113 A/m2. The results of numerical simulation indicate that the model effectively predicted the galvanic corrosion behavior of aluminum‐titanium rivets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CoFe2O4–La1−xSrxCoO3 (x = 0.2, 0.6, 0.8) composites have been synthesized using a two‐step, low‐temperature wet chemical approach that combines coprecipitation and sol–gel techniques. The composite materials have been physicochemically analyzed using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscope. The electrocatalytic properties of the composite materials have been assessed in terms of their performance in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) in alkaline medium. Cyclic voltammetry has been used for analyzing the redox behavior of the materials in 1 M KOH solution. The electrocatalytic activity of the materials has been assessed using anodic polarization curves on Ni substrate and the CoFe2O4–La0.2Sr0.8CoO3 film electrode demonstrates excellent activity, with current densities of 11.1 mA cm−2 for OER and 47.4 mA cm−2 for MOR at 650 mV. Also, the CoFe2O4–La0.2Sr0.8CoO3 film electrode has the maximum specific activity of 1.1 × 103 mA cm−2 g−1 at 650 mV toward OER. The electrodes' stability has been assessed through chronoamperometric experiments and additional insight into the enhancement of electrocatalytic activity gained through the electrochemical surface area estimations using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. From chronoamperometric experiment, it has been observed that the CoFe2O4–La0.2Sr0.8CoO3 film electrode attains stability within 114 s with a current density of 108.7 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the thermodynamic parameters, including the standard enthalpy of activation (ΔH°#), standard entropy of activation (ΔS°#), and standard electrochemical energy of activation (ΔHel°# $H_{\text{el}}^{\circ # \textrm{ }}$), have been estimated by anodic polarization curve recorded in KOH as well as KOH with CH3OH solutions at various temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium alloys (Ti−6Al−4V) are being used in many biomedical applications due to their unique properties of bioactivity, excellent mechanical properties, low toxicity, biocompatibility, and long‐term implant application for their satisfactory corrosion resistance. We have developed a new two‐step fabrication process of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and Chitosan/Mg−Zn−HAP (Chitosan/M−HAP) bilayer layer coating on Ti alloy for biomedical applications. Flower‐structured bilayers were coated by the electrochemical deposition method. Electrochemically deposited bilayer‐coated Ti alloy specimens were characterized by various analytical techniques like field‐emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and EDS mapping analysis. Furthermore, the developed bilayer (Chitosan/Mg−Zn−HAP/ZrO2) coated Ti alloy samples improved mechanical properties such as adhesion strength (20.1±0.4 MPa) and hardness (446±4 Hv), compared to other coatings. An investigation of polarization curves showed a positive shift in the polarization values (Ecorr, and Icorr) of the Chitosan/M−HAP/ZrO2 bilayer coatings on Ti alloy. Bilayer‐modified Ti alloy samples show good antimicrobial response toward Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. Meanwhile, the cell viability and proliferation of the bilayer‐coated samples were evaluated and the exhibited result improved cell proliferation, and bioactivity compared to other coated materials. From the results, it can be evident that the developed Chitosan/Mg−Zn−HAP/ZrO2 bilayer‐coated Ti alloy could be a good potential candidate for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Ultrasonication is a novel, green, and sustainable method to modify the native starch for improved functionality and pronounced industrial applications. In the present study, the impact of ultrasonication power (40%, 50%, and 60%) on black wheat starch was observed on functional and pasta‐making attributes. Ultrasonication induced surface and microstructural alterations with minimal impact on the overall integrity of starch granules. The sound waves disrupted starch granules through cavitation and starch degradation by radial attack. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images revealed that ultrasonication disrupted the starch granules and a porous structure was developed. The treatment induced fissures and pores formation leading to structural rearrangements without any impact at the molecular level. With the increment in the power of ultrasonication, the scratching and fissures on the starch granules are increased which further modifies the starch functionality. Due to structural disruption of long amylopectin helices into short‐chain amylopectin and dextrin resulted in a more crystalline structure of starch, the results were supported by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. This alteration in starch structure increased the amylose concentration, solubility, and swelling capacity of modified starch. Pasta prepared with modified starch shows improved cooking and textural properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stainless steel grade 304, is one of the most utilized grades of stainless steel and it is chosen for its corrosion resistance. The ideal option is 304, since its lower carbon content lowers intergranular corrosion, especially if corrosion resistance is a top goal for a project. This research work investigates the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of a novel double side fiber laser welded stainless steel 304 plates. Double side fiber laser welding technique is used to fabricate a butt joint with plates of thickness 5 mm. With a laser frequency of 25 Hz, speed of 6 mm ⋅ s−1, and a heat input of 1.4 kW in terms of power is applied to the joint, resulting in a maximum depth of penetration of 2.7 mm. The same parameter is applied on both sides of the plate. The dendritic structures are observed through micrographs of weld and pure metal captured using an optical microscope. Experiments such as tensile, bend, microhardness and impact test have been conducted to ensure the quality of weldment. The weldment consists of austenite and δ‐ferrite. X‐ray diffraction reveal presence of both austenite and ferrite in the weldment. Ductile mode of fracture occurred during failure of tensile samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present project deals with the production of lateritic soil based bricks under different curing temperatures (28°C–150°C). A fraction of 10–30 wt% amount alkaline solution was added to improve the reactive phase content. The raw materials and hardened products were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), fourrier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), mechanical properties and scanning electron microscope analysis. The results show that the addition of alkaline solution (30%) and the curing temperature (150°C) have a beneficial influence on physical properties (bulk density: 1.77 g/cm3, water absorption: 16.98%, and porosity: 30.13%) and mechanical performances (flexural: 6.61 MPa and compressive: 13.57 MPa). Compared with the code requirements for stabilized earth blocks, the compressive strength was higher than the minimum required. Microstructural investigations were also carried out to confirm the macrostructural properties. The above‐mentioned process appears to be a suitable candidate for engineering applications such as the stabilization of earth roads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the synthesis and characterization of hydroxyapatite (HA)‐based bio‐composites reinforced with varying amounts (by weight, 1–15 wt.%) of bio‐medium entropy alloy (BioMEA) for load‐bearing implant applications. BioMEA powders consisting of Ti, Nb, Zr, and Mo were mechanically alloyed for 100 h and subsequently added to HA using powder metallurgy techniques. To show the effect of BioMEA, the microstructure, density, and mechanical tests have been conducted and the synthesized BioMEA was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), x‐ray diffractometer (XRD), and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. In addition, in vitro degradation behavior and bioactivity analyses of bio‐composites have been conducted. XRD analysis revealed the formation of BioMEA after 20 h of mechanical alloying. The highest density value of 2.47 g/cm3 was found in 15 wt.% BioMEA‐reinforced bio‐composite. The addition of BioMEA reinforcement led to a significant increase in hardness and tensile strength values, with the highest values observed at 15 wt.% reinforcement. Compression tests demonstrated a significant increase in compressive strength and deformation capability of the bio‐composites with the highest values observed at 15 wt.% BioMEA addition. The highest toughness of 7.68 kJ/m2 was measured in 10 wt.% MEA‐reinforced bio‐composites. The produced bio‐composite materials have an elastic modulus between 3.5–5.5 GPa, which may provide a solution to the stress shielding problems caused by the high elastic modulus of metallic implant materials. The most severe degradation occurred in 15 wt.% MEA‐reinforced bio‐composites, and the effect of degradation caused a decrease in Ca and an increase in Ti‐Ni‐Zr‐Mo in all bio‐composites. These findings suggest that HA/BioMEA bio‐composites have the potential to be developed as advanced biomaterials with moderate mechanical and biological properties for load‐bearing implant applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi(2/3)‐xSmxCu3Ti4O12 (BSCTO x = 0.05, 0.10, and 0.20) ceramics are synthesized using semi‐wet technique and an extensive investigation into their structural, morphological, and elemental properties, alongside dielectric and impedance behaviors, is meticulously carried out. X‐ray powder diffraction analysis unequivocally confirmed the formation of a monophasic BCTO cubic phase without any discernible secondary phases. and the crystallite size of the BSCTO ceramic, obtained by X‐ray diffraction using Debye Scherrer formula, range from 62 to 81 nm. Rietveld analysis reveals that ceramics have a body centered cubic structure with space group Im‐3. The Scanning electron microscope image displays the dense microstructure of the ceramics, while EDX analysis unveils the elemental composition of resulting products. Doping with Sm3+ induced a notable reduction in grain size, as observed through Scanning electron microscope and Atomic Force Microscope analyses, indicating Sm3+ hindered grain growth during sintering, potentially resulting in reduced dielectric constant (ε′). Dielectric constant and dielectric loss of the composition (x = 0.2) are found to be ≈$ \approx $152 and 0.04, respectively at room temperature (1 kHz). Impedance characteristics revealed a substantial increase in grain boundary resistance, leading to improved dielectric loss. The AC conductivity of BSCTO ceramics exhibited a frequency‐dependent increase satisfying to Johncher's power law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preparation of calcium carbonate whiskers by gas‐liquid contact method using low‐grade dolomite refining solution and CO2 as raw materials has attracted widespread attention. The effects of reaction temperature, Mg2+ concentration and pH value on the morphology, particle size, aspect ratio and crystal form of CaCO3（Calcium carbonate） whiskers are investigated in detail. SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) and XRD (X‐ray powder diffraction) are combined to analyze the calcium carbonate whiskers. The results demonstrated that under the conditions such as 100 °C, Mg2+ concentration of 0.05 mol L−1 and pH value of 9.5, calcium carbonate whiskers with uniform distribution, aspect ratio of 15–20, and purity of 99.38% can be prepared. Through Material Studios simulation software and critical nucleation energy analysis, it is confirmed that the morphology of calcium carbonate whiskers emerged to be a long hexagonal prism. Mg2+ in the refined solution would adhere to the surface of calcium carbonate during carbonization, inhibit the formation of calcite phase, and promote the growth of face clusters connected by vertex angles between CaCO3 crystals. The initial pH condition determines the solubility of CO32− and the supersaturation of the solution, which in turn affected the formed calcium carbonate crystal form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post‐synthetic modification using acid (HNO3) and base (NaOH) are utilised to synthesize hierarchical micro‐mesoporous zeolites with different pore structure. To investigate structural change in materials, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Inductive coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES), 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR, and N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms techniques were employed. Acid base titration, and ammonia‐temperature programmed desorption (NH3‐TPD) was performed to evaluate acidic characteristics of materials. As revealed by characterisation, the structure was well preserved after the modification. Hierarchical materials along with parent materials have been evaluated in the toluene alkylation with benzyl alcohol producing mono‐benzylated toluene. All zeolite samples were proved to be catalytically active by their result in the alkylation reaction. Acid treated samples were compared with base treated and parent samples. The results indicate that, base modification significantly increases the mesoporous pore volume in all zeolite as compared to acid modification. Moreover, the highest benzyl alcohol conversion was found to be 98 % in the base modified Beta, with the highest mono‐benzylated toluene selectivity (69 %). Reaction optimization was also studied by altering reaction duration, temperature, and catalyst amount. The reaction products were analysed using Gas Chromatography (GC) and confirmed using Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tin-containing silicon oxycarbide (SiOC/Sn) nanobeads are synthesized with different carbon/tin content and tested as electrodes for magnesium-ion batteries. The synthesized ceramics are characterized by thermogravimetric-mass spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, N2 sorption analysis, scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive X-ray, and elemental analysis. Galvanostatic cycling tests, rate performance tests, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV) tests, and ex situ XRD measurements are conducted. Results of battery performance tests present a high capacity of 198.2 mAh g-1 after the first discharging and a reversible capacity of 144.5 mAh g-1 after 100 cycles at 500 mA g-1. Excellent rate performance efficiency of 85.2% is achieved. Battery performances in this research are influenced by surface area, and tin contentof the SiOC/Sn nanobeads. EIS, CV tests, and ex situ XRD measurements reveal that higher surface area contributes to higher capacity by providing more accessible Mg2+ ion storage sites and higher rate capability by improving the diffusion process. Higher Sn content increases battery capacity through reversible Mg-Mg2Sn-Mg alloying/dealloying process and improves the rate performances by increasing electrical conductivity. Besides, SiOC advances cycling stability by preventing electrode collapse and enhances the capacity due to higher surface capacitive effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of metal via the iron disproportionation reaction in the deep Earth has been a long debated topic with important implications for the geochemistry of the lower mantle. To explore the occurrence of the iron disproportionation reaction from 25 to 65 GPa, a natural almandine‐pyrope‐grossular garnet was studied with in situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD) in the laser‐heated diamond anvil cell and ex situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. Upon heating the natural almandine‐pyrope‐grossular garnet up to 3000 K up to 65 GPa, the formation of phase assemblage consisting of bridgmanite, stishovite, and davemaoite was confirmed by XRD, but because of the low abundance of Fe metal and small grain size, XRD was determined not to be effective in detecting the disproportionation reaction. Examination of the samples recovered between 39 and 64 GPa by SEM analysis revealed the presence of nm‐scale disproportionated iron metal grains as an additional product of this reaction that was not detectable in the XRD patterns. Volume compression data of bridgmanite synthesized in the experiments were fit to the Birch‐Murnaghan equation of state and compared to similar compositions. Bridgmanite was found to decompress to the LiNbO3‐type structure, indicating a high FeAlO3 content, in accordance with the occurrence of a disproportionation reaction. The experimental confirmation of disproportionated metallic Fe has significant implications for the distribution of siderophile and volatile elements in the lower mantle. Plain Language Summary: An Fe‐ and Al‐rich garnet was studied with X‐ray diffraction (XRD) in a laser‐heated diamond anvil cell and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques to explore the behavior of Fe in mineral assemblages at conditions relevant to Earth's lower mantle. We experimentally investigate the iron disproportionation reaction, during which Fe2+ is both oxidized into Fe3+ and reduced into Fe0. This study confirms the formation of a mineral phase assemblage consisting of bridgmanite, stishovite, and davemaoite through XRD, but because of the low abundance of Fe metal and small grain size, XRD was not sufficient to detect the disproportionation reaction. Examination of the recovered product by SEM revealed disproportionated iron metal in several samples. Volume compression data were also collected, and, notably, bridgmanite was found to decompress to a different structure at ambient pressure, indicating a high FeAlO3 content, in accordance with the occurrence of a disproportionation reaction. The experimental confirmation of disproportionated metallic Fe has significant implications for the siderophile element geochemistry of the lower mantle. Key Points: The high P,T phase assemblage of an Alm‐Pyr‐Grs garnet consists of bridgmanite, stishovite, davemaoite, an Al‐rich phase, and Fe metalDisproportionated metallic Fe was observed in scanning electron microscope images in samples recovered from 39 to 64 GPaBridgmanite decomposed into the LiNbO3‐type structure upon decompression to 0 GPa [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Cu−Cr−Zr alloy specimens were first subjected to aging heat treatment at 500 °C for two different durations (2 hours and 4 hours). Three different coating processes (silver, silver/copper duplex, and copper/silver duplex) were applied to the aged specimens using the physical vapor deposition method. Tensile test, microhardness measurement, wear test, electrical conductivity measurement and structural analysis (x‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope) were applied to the specimens. After the aging processes, the highest hardness and strength values of the Cu−Cr−Zr alloy were obtained in the specimens that were aged at 500 °C for 4 hours. When the wear resistance and electrical conductivity of the coated specimens were examined, it was determined that the specimens with duplex surface treatment performed better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles (NPs) are the fundamental backbone of nanotechnology due to their wide biomedical applications. Biogenic synthesis of gold NPs (AuNPs) using plant extracts are beneficial due to their nontoxicity, eco‐friendliness, and simplicity. In this study, the HE‐AuNPs were synthesized using Heliotropium eichwaldi L (HE) extract and then characterized by UV–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform–infrared (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), and electron diffraction X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. UV–vis spectroscopy revealed a sharp peak λmax 567 nm, FT‐IR analysis confirmed the existence of different coating and reducing organic molecules, SEM analysis showed the elongated rod‐shaped morphologies with 20 nm size, XRD analysis authorized the crystalline structure of AuNPs with an average size of 11.11 nm for four key peaks (38.31°, 44.39°, 64.76°, and 77.65°), and EDX analysis revealed that Au (44.33%) was the main element of AuNPs compared to other surface coated elements C (35.05%) and O (20.62%). The influence of various intrinsic factors like pH, temperature, metal salt, HE extract, contact time, and stability period was also studied by UV–vis spectroscopy. Moreover, the AuNps were evaluated for their anti‐cholinesterase (anti‐AChE) potential to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). HE‐AuNPs exhibited superb anti‐AChE activity (67 ± 0.03%) with 88 ± 0.31 μg IC50, compared to pure Au salt, which showed 7 ± 0.22% inhibition. According to the Lineweaver–Burk plot, HE‐AuNPs inhibit AChE noncompetitively, that is, Km remains unchanged, whereas Vmax decreased from 20 to 6.24 (42.4% to 82%). HE‐AuNPs do not affect KIapp, whereas increased Vmaxiapp from 17.5 to 29 (13% to 86.4%). The Km (Michaelis–Menten kinetic constants), KI (dissociation constant), and Ki (inhibitory constant) were found to be 0.041 mM, 66 μg, and 25 μg, respectively. Overall, our results highlighted the HE‐AuNPs promising latent as anti‐AChE, and the green methodology allows us to suggest these NPs as suitable agents for the development of drugs helpful in the treatment of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium–sulfur batteries are elusive candidates for the post‐lithium‐ion battery. Their critical challenge for commercialization is rapid capacity fading due to polysulfide shuttle dissolution and slow kinetics during cycling. Insight into the free volumes, morphology, and structural evolution of the sulfur cathode in an Mg/S battery results in a deep understanding of the electrochemical reaction mechanism to further engineer an efficient electrode. In this work, a sulfur cathode with silicon carbide and graphene‐based material S_SiC_GNP is designed and characterized. The full cell based on the Mg anode and S_SiC cathode achieves a high initial discharge capacity of ≈600 mAh g−1 with short cycle life. Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAL), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) combined with a scanning electron microscope are used to investigate defect states, free volume interconnectivity/morphology, and structure evolution of sulfur electrode at different electrochemical states. The results show growth in the free volumes and Mg2+ content upon discharge and shrinking upon recharge, while sulfur content is deficient upon demagnesiation. This work provides deep insight and an effective strategy helping to engineer an efficient cathodic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific community is endowed with the essential biogenic, eco‐benign, and cost‐effective synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) of least explored Trillium govanianum methanolic extract. The study involved T. govanianum selection based on its tremendous therapeutic properties. These AuNPs were characterised by UV–visible spectroscope, atomic force electron microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), FTIR spectroscope, and X‐ray diffraction. The atomic force electron microscope pattern revealed that particle size ranges from 2 to 24.3 nm which corresponds to X‐ray diffraction analysis data (8.87–15 nm) with spherical morphology. The spherical nature, particle size distribution, non‐agglomeration, and homogeneity of AuNPs were also studied from SEM image. The diameter range of AuNPs was measured between 20 and 30 nm with an average size of 25 nm. FTIR profile showed that AuNPs were stabilised and capped by bio‐molecules containing aromatic amine functional groups. Amongst C. albicans, Curvularia, R. oryzae, A. niger, A. alternaria, and Paecilomyces fungal strains, AuNPs were found most efficient against C. albicans (53.33%) at 18 μL per disc. While in P. aeroginosa, B. subtilis, E. coli, K. pnemoniae, S. aureus, and X. compestris bacterial strains, AuNPs at 18 μL per disc revealed promising antibacterial potential against P. aeroginosa by displaying maximum inhibition of 66.66 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CaZrO3 samples were prepared by in situ decomposition pore forming technology in this paper. The influence of calcia/zirconia molar ratio and heating treatment on the microstructure and thermal conductivity of the sintered samples were investigated. The phase analysis of CaZrO3 samples was detected by X‐ray diffraction, and the microscopic morphology of CaZrO3 was observed by scanning electron microscope combined with energy dispersive spectrometer for microzone composition analysis. The results showed that a satisfied CaZrO3 sample could be obtained by in situ decomposition pore forming technology with calcium/zirconium molar ratio of 1:1.02. The CaZrO3 grains were developed better when the samples were preheated at 200°C first and then heated at 1600°C for 3 h. The apparent porosity of CaZrO3 samples were increased to 28.5%, and the thermal conductivity reduced to 1.219 W/(m·K) compared with the heavy CaZrO3 samples, which could be used as CaZrO3 refractory aggregates with the lower thermal conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is one of the modern techniques of material science which have received much importance in the last many years. Nanotechnology is concerned with the production of nanoparticles (NPs) with restricted sizes and shapes through a facile, straightforward, and medicinally active phytochemical route. This study aims to develop an easy and justifiable method for the green synthesis of HH AgNPs using Hippeastrum hybridum (HH) extract and then to investigate the effects of HH AgNPs as a free radical scavenger, and an inhibitor of the two enzymes i‐e Alpha‐amylase (α‐amylase) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). UV‐Vis spectrum at 432 nm with maximum absorbance at 1.98 confirmed the AgNPs formation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) conformed to the peaks for the functional groups of HH extract and on the surface of HH AgNPs that are involved in the synthesis and stability of the HH AgNPs. The average size of 13.3 nm for AgNPs was calculated using four major peaks at 37.92°, 43.79°, 64.27°, and 77.18° of X‐Rays Diffraction (XRD) analysis. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis confirmed the presence of spherical shaped, monodispersed, and huge density AgNPs with an average 40 nm size of AgNPs. Energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) confirmed the intense sharp peak at 3.1 keV showing that silver was the main element (22.75%). The HH AgNPs showed an excellent %scavenging of Ferric chloride (75.5 ± 0.014%), Ammonium molybdenum (72.1 ± 0.0021%), DPPH (69.6 ± 0.059%), H2O2 (65 ± 0.001%), and ABTS (68.3 ± 0.07%). Statistical analysis indicated HH AgNPs caused a non‐competitive type of inhibition (Km constant and Vmax decrease) against α‐amylase and AChE. Our results suggest that AgNPs exhibited significant antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antialzheimer activities in a concentration‐dependent manner as compared to AgNO3 and plant extract. However, further investigations are recommended to be able to minimize potential risks of application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The volume of natural rubber vulcanizates varied slightly during stretching. Hydrostatic weighing method was adopted in this study to study the volume change. By measuring the volume change of natural rubber compounds filled with different grades and different loadings of carbon black during extension, the corresponding volume variation–elongation (ΔV/V–ε) curves were created, and the differences of ΔV/V–ε curves among different carbon black compounds were discussed. The stress differences between different samples were normalized and the ΔV/(Vσ)–ε curves were plotted. Scanning electron microscope was utilized to observe the emergence and variation process of cavities in various stretched states. X‐ray diffraction was used to explore the change of crystallinity of the rubber after stretching to a certain elongation. Based on the experimental results, the damage at the filler‐rubber matrix interface and within the fillers agglomerates would be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of Al–TiO2–C–XEr2O3 aluminum alloy refiner is prepared by exothermic dispersion method, and the effect of different Er2O3 content on the structure and refinement effect of Al–TiO2–C refiner is studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and other methods. The results show that the refiners are composed of Al3Ti, TiC, Al2O3, Al20Ti2Er, and Al5O12Er3 phases. As the content of Er2O3 increases, the Al3Ti phase changes from flaky to massive. The amount of Al2O3 decreases, and the content of Al5Er3O12 increases and is dispersed in the matrix. When the content of Er2O3 in the refiner is 6%, the Al–5Cu alloy has the best refining effect. The grain size of the Al–5Cu alloy is refined from 500 to 180 μm, and the grain size can be reduced by 64%. At the same time, the tensile strength of Al–5Cu alloy is tested, and the results show that when the content of Er2O3 in the refiner is 6%, the tensile strength is the highest, which is 189.7 MPa. This is consistent with the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, molybdenum disulfide with graphene‐like structure is prepared by a feasible and simple hydrothermal method. It is also characterized by X‐ray diffraction and a scanning electron microscope to verify the yield and quality of the prepared molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). In addition, a type of photodetector is prepared from the prepared MoS2 as a photosensitive material, and its light response characteristics are explored. The experimental results show that the prepared MoS2 has good photoresponse performance, and it can achieve a photocurrent of 2.40 µA under 660 nm light of 9.85 mW mm−2. At the same time, it shows stable and repeatable light response characteristics at different bending angles. This work is considered as a way to construct a new type of photodetector with a simple manufacturing process and low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new 1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thiones were synthesized by calm, benign, no risk, eco‐friendly, and energy efficient sequential reaction methodology like grinding and ultrasonic (US). In addition, 1,2,4‐triazoles were prepared under conventional method and comparative study was done. The synthesized 1,2,4‐triazoles were complexed with Ni(II) to produce nanoparticles complexes (NPC's) with average particle size vary from 55 to 100 nm (using scanning electron microscope technique) with good yields via both US and conventional techniques. X‐ray diffraction technique and spectra analysis techniques were used to confirm the square planer geometry of the synthesized NPC's. Antimicrobial activity of the prepared 1,2,4‐triazoles and their nickel complexes were studied which evaluated a high activity with complexes instead their triazoles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper has reported physicochemical features of mild steel's corrosion products and provided atmospheric corrosivity maps of Karachi harbor city, drafted on the basis of spatial distribution of corrosion data from July 2018 to June 2019 at 10 different urban, industrial, and marine test sites. Exposure tests have been performed to study atmospheric corrosivity, corrosion products, and corrodants including chloride, sulfur dioxide, time of wetness (TOW), and corrosion rate as per ISO and ASTM standards. Scanning electron microscope, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction have corroborated the presence of lepidocrocite, goethite, magnetite, and quartz phases at almost all the test sites, with slight variations in their morphologies and quantities. The data analysis has revealed that TOW is a major detrimental factor to accelerate corrosion of mild steel at Karachi city. The corrosivity category of all urban and marine test sites is found in C4–C5 range, whereas for industrial test sites, it is found in C3–C5 range. Resultant corrosivity maps have shown that the prevailing atmosphere is significantly corrosive at Karachi harbor city. This study has furnished a novel product of atmospheric corrosivity map, which is the first‐ever corrosivity map for Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sol–gel method based on the rapid pyrolysis process was adopted to prepare Ni1−xCuxO (x = 0–0.1) films on glass substrates. The effects of Cu doping on the structural, morphological, electrical and optical properties of the films were characterised by X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, Hall effect instrument and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, respectively. The NiO-based films have a cubic rock salt structure and it was found that the film with x = 0.06 should have minimal residual stress. The transmittance and bandgap of the films decreased with increasing Cu-doping concentration. In addition, the compactness of the films increased along with the increase of Cu-doping concentration as a whole. The carrier concentration of the films was almost invariable, but the carrier mobility was determined by the competition between the effects of the morphology and the ionised impurity scattering. The resistivity of the films first decreases and then increases, and the minimum resistivity was 182.1 Ω cm at x = 0.06. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO thin film with different morphologies from seed, array to grass was grown by simple aqueous solution method under room temperature. The morphologies, structure, optical properties and photocatalytic properties of the samples were characterised by transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, fluorescence spectrometer, UV–Vis spectrophotometer and photocurrent response. The results showed that the ZnO arrays and grassy ZnO were both hexagonal wurtzite with uniform distribution and regular growth on the glass substrate. ZnO thin film with different morphologies affected the utilisation efficiency of the ultraviolet light. Multiple light reflections inside the grassy ZnO greatly increase the light efficiency. The methyl blue degradation rate of grassy ZnO photocatalyst was superior under the UV light compared to the other ZnO morphologies. Grassy ZnO showed favourable stability after five cycles. The comparison of the ZnO semiconductor in different dimensions is helpful for further research on other photocatalysts as well as their potential application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparation of silver nanoflowers (Ag NFs) was carried out through the self-assembly process of diphenylalanine (FF) peptide on the graphite surface. Pencil graphite rods were used as a substrate for the self-assembly process. A reduction reaction by hydrazine was employed in the synthesis procedure of the Ag NFs. scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to characterise the obtained Ag NFs. The morphological analysis of the Ag NFs revealed assemblies constructed by multiple sheet nanostructures designed as flower petals and positioned in the form of 3D semi-spherical arrangements. The successful synthesis of Ag NFs was confirmed by FT-IR characteristic bands of FF and Ag components. The cubic lattice structure of the Ag NFs was revealed by XRD. Standard Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion tests using Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains exhibited the promising antibacterial performance of the Ag NFs against all of the tested bacterial species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel two-dimensional photocatalyst (BiOCl/GO/MOF-5) was successfully developed by ultrasonic-assisted solvothermal method. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectrum, photoluminescence and NH3-TPD were employed to characterise its unique structure and property. The results show that the specific surface area of the two-dimensional composite (205.1 mg2·g-1) is significantly higher than single BiOCl (3.14 mg2·g-1), which provide much more active site for the photocatalystic process. Also the photocatalytic efficiency could reach to 90.6% that is much higher than pure BiOCl. This could be attributed to the effective electrons-holes separations and proper bandgap to enhance photocatalytic performance. At the same time, the formation mechanism and the possible photocatalytic mechanism of photocatalyst were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the successful use of a focused ion beam/scanning electron microscope to prepare microsamples of radioactive single crystals for X‐ray diffraction analysis is reported. This technique was used to extract and analyze crystalline Pu‐containing particles as small as 28 µm3 from Hanford soil taken from the 216‐Z‐9 waste crib, which were then crystallographically characterized using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction to confirm the cubic structure of PuO2. As a systematic proof of concept, the technique was first tested using UO2 crystals milled into cubic shapes with approximate volumes of 4620, 1331, 125, 8 and 1 µm3, in order to empirically determine the crystal size limits for characterization by a laboratory‐based diffractometer with a sealed tube Mo or Ag anode X‐ray source and a charge‐coupled device detector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High stiffness, strength, super toughness along with fungistatic and bacteriostatic properties of cyclic olefinic copolymer (COC)/few layer graphene (FLG) nanocomposites have been demonstrated. At lower concentrations (≤0.5 wt%), FLG is dispersed well in the COC matrix while agglomeration occurs at higher concentration (≥0.5 wt%) as revealed by x‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. Both, strengthening and super toughening behaviors are exhibited by the COC/FLG nanocomposites. For instance, the tensile strength, modulus, and toughness of COC/FLG nanocomposites are enhanced ∼160%, 83%, and one order of magnitude, respectively. Such reinforcement and super toughening mechanisms are pertaining to the effective dissipation of loads across polymer/filler interfaces owing to their good interfacial interactions. Thereby, delays the process of crack growth by avoiding the generation of stress concentration sites. Moreover, antimicrobial properties of COC/FLG nanocomposites are also improved. As compared with neat COC, the nanocomposite system inhibits both bacterial and fungal growth under the area of the film, displaying bacteriostatic as well as fungistatic characteristics. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:536–543, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The archaeometallurgical analysis of ancient silver coins provides useful information regarding fabrication methodology, provenance, and trade route and explains large diversification in elementary composition, weight, and physical features. The present investigation deals with the chemical analysis and examination of the processing history of Indian punch‐marked silver coins dating to 400–200  bc. The chemical analysis was carried out by wavelength dispersive X‐ray fluorescence and X‐ray Diffraction (XRD). The microstructural examination was performed using field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM) and different phases were identified by Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X‐ray (SEM‐EDX) Spectroscopy. It was observed that all eight coins were manufactured with silver‐copper alloy. The ore used for obtaining silver was argentiferous galena, and cupellation was carried with perfection. The absence of slag inclusions as revealed by SEM examination indicated that coins (numbers 2, 4, 5, and 7) were cast from a molten state. The presence of Cu2O, CuO, and Ag2O on the surfaces of the coins was confirmed by XRD. The formed oxide layers provided protection and saved the coins from bulky corrosion products. The data reveal great divergence of coin surface from the composition of the core with the far better metallurgical process for refining of silver for this hoard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BiPO4‐coated LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) cathode material is prepared by a precipitation method. Scanning electron microscope and X‐ray diffraction results demonstrate that the morphology and structure of NCA are not affected by BiPO4 layer. Transmission electron microscopy analysis indicates that the thickness of the layer is about 10 nm. Electrochemical properties of NCA and BiPO4‐coated NCA are investigated in different voltage ranges. The results show that the wider the charge and discharge cut‐off voltage is, the larger the specific capacity is, with the initial discharge capacity of 325.0 mAh g−1 within the voltage of 1.5‐4.8 V. The most significant discovery is the charge platform at 2.3‐2.5 V and the discharge platform at around 1.7 V, which accounts for the high capacity properties of NCA. Furthermore, the existence of BiPO4 coating helps to enhance the cycle performance of NCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BiPO4‐coated LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) cathode material is prepared by a precipitation method. Scanning electron microscope and X‐ray diffraction results demonstrate that the morphology and structure of NCA are not affected by BiPO4 layer. Transmission electron microscopy analysis indicates that the thickness of the layer is about 10 nm. Electrochemical properties of NCA and BiPO4‐coated NCA are investigated in different voltage ranges. The results show that the wider the charge and discharge cut‐off voltage is, the larger the specific capacity is, with the initial discharge capacity of 325.0 mAh g−1 within the voltage of 1.5‐4.8 V. The most significant discovery is the charge platform at 2.3‐2.5 V and the discharge platform at around 1.7 V, which accounts for the high capacity properties of NCA. Furthermore, the existence of BiPO4 coating helps to enhance the cycle performance of NCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the numerous biological applications, cost effectiveness and low cytotoxicity of the biomimetic nanoparticles (NPs), the authors optimised the production of silver NPs (AgNPs) using aqueous extract of Teucrium stocksianum Boiss. The NPs were characterised by ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐vis) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The UV‐vis spectroscopy revealed a surface plasmon resonance (410‐440 nm) at an incubation temperature of 90°C when 1 mM Ag nitrate combined to 5 mg/ml extract concentration in the ratio of 1:10. DLS results show an average zeta size of ∼44.61 nm and zeta potential of −15.3 mV. SEM and XRD confirmed the high crystallinity and cubical symmetry with an average size below 100 nm. FTIR measurement shows the presence of various functional groups, responsible for the capping and reduction of Ag metal. The 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide cell viability assay shows that AgNPs are less cytotoxic to J774 and L929 cells as compared with enhanced anticancer activity with low IC50 concentrations (68.24 µg/ml) against Michigan Cancer Foundation‐7 (MCF‐7) cells. The ethidium bromide/acridine orange assay shows that the AgNPs kill the cell by apoptosis. Overall, the results show that AgNPs possesses potent anticancer activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: CuInS2 powders were prepared by solvothermal method. The effects of experimental conditions on crystal structure, composition phase and morphology were investigated systematically. The phases of product samples were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) on the Bruker D8 Advance XRD system with Nifiltered Cu‐Kα (λ = 1.5059 Å). The morphology of the product powders were observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) with a model of JSM‐6380LA made by Japan Electronics Co., Ltd. The elemental compositions of the product powders were analyzed by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results show that, different solvents have important effects on the crystal structures of CuInS2 powders. With CuC12·2H2O, InCl3 and SC(NH2)2 as raw materials, the wurtzite CuInS2 obtained with the mixed solvent of ethanol and hydrazine hydrate has better crystallinity than that obtained by the mixed solvent of ethylene glycol and hydrazine hydrate. The product powder obtained with ethanol without hydrazine hydrate has major phase chalcopyrite CuInS2. The wurtzite CuInS2 powder consists of aggregated particles with diameters of 0.1 ∼ 0.5 μm. The sample with chalcopyrite has relatively more large particles with diameters of 3 ∼ 5 μm which consist of smaller flakes. The optimum conditions for preparing wurtzite CuInS2 powder are at 160 °C for 20 h using CuC12·2H2O, InCl3 and SC(NH2)2 as raw materials and the mixed solution of ethanol and hydrazine hydrate as solvent. With the increase of reaction temperature, the XRD peaks of chalcopyrite CuInS2 are more obvious, but the new impurity phase Cu2S appears at 220 °C. With holding time prolonging, it is helpful to eliminate the XRD peaks of impurity and promote chalcopyrite CuInS2 formation. The optimum conditions for chalcopyrite CuInS2 are reacting at 220 °C for 30 h with ethanol without hydrazine hydrate as solvent and CuC12·2H2O, InCl3 and SC(NH2)2 as raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Translation abstract: Two high temperature alloys, namely Mo‐13Zr‐25.9B and Mo‐17.4Zr‐34.8B (in at. %), which were specified as eutectic compositions according to the literature were produced with a zone melting (ZM) method [1, 2]. Investigations with a scanning electron microscope demonstrated that the microstructures of both alloys are not completely eutectic. The alloy Mo‐13Zr‐25.9B shows well‐aligned arrangements of their microstructural constituents along the crystallization direction. X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed the phases molybdenum solid solution and zirconium monoboride (ZrB) in each alloy and, additionally, in alloy Mo‐13Zr‐25.9B the phases Mo2Zr and dimolybdenum boride (Mo2B) and in alloy Mo‐17.4Zr‐34.8B the phase zirconium diboride (ZrB2). Moreover, the microhardness of the individual phases was measured. The fracture toughness of both materials was determined using the SEVNB method according to DIN EN ISO 23146. Finally, the creep resistance of the alloys was tested at 1100 °C under compressive loading and compared with other molybdenum alloys and a single‐crystalline nickel based superalloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of ZrO2 on the melting, viscosity, and crystallization behaviors of fluorine (F)-free mold flux designed for the casting of medium carbon steels is studied by using Single/Double Hot Thermocouple Technology (SHTT/DHTT) and high temperature rotary viscometer in this paper. The results showed that the melting temperature, viscosity at 1300 °C, and break temperature increases with the addition of ZrO2 content in the F-free mold flux system. Besides, both the Continuous Cooling Transformation (CCT) and Time Temperature Transformation (TTT) diagrams showed that the ZrO2 can promote the crystallization ability of F-free mold flux; and the analysis from the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) verified that the enhancement of ZrO2 on the mold flux crystallization is due to the fact that it could act as heterogeneous nucleation agent to trigger the heterogeneous crystallization of F-free mold flux system, due to its limited solubility in the molten slags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO nanowire was synthesised chemically at low temperature on a flexible three-dimensional and porous cellulose paper. The morphology and crystallography of the composite was characterised by field emission scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. Performance of the developed ZnO nanowire-cellulose paper composite as strain sensor demonstrated good stability, high gauge factor and good repeatability. The results indicate the possible use of this sensitive and robust strain sensor in the fields of biomedical sciences, MEMS devices and structural health monitoring and other fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi2-xPbxO2(BO2OH) nanospheres are synthesised by means of one-step hydrothermal route by embedding Pb2+ to Bi2O2 layers. The obtained materials are characterised by X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet (UV)-vis diffuse reflectance, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Photocatalytic activity is measured by decomposition of rhodamine B under UV-light irradiation. Photocatalytic performance is boosted after inducing Pb impurity into pure Bi2+ layers. The obtained materials are characterised by X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet (UV)-vis diffuse reflectance, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Photocatalytic activity is measured by decomposition of rhodamine B under UV-light irradiation. Photocatalytic performance is boosted after inducing Pb impurity into pure Bi2O2(BO2OH) lattice, because the impurity energy level could capture the holes and restrain the recombination of electron-hole pairs. Electronic properties of the fabricated nanospheres are investigated via first-principle calculations. The highest photocatalytic performance is found in the modified Bi2O2(BO2OH) with a doping concentration of Bi/Pb = 1.5/0.5, which outperformed the pure even the commercial P25. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reduction kinetics of Hongge vanadium titanomagnetite (HVTM)-oxidized pellet with simulated gas compositions of dry pulverized coal gasification (DPCG), water-coal slurry gasification (WCSG), Midrex, and HYL-III is investigated in the current study. The experiments are carried out at temperatures ranging from 900 to 1050 °C, simulating the reduction zone in gas-based shaft furnace direct reduction processes. The reduction degree is the highest when reduced with the gas composition of HYL-III while the lowest when reduced with DPCG. The reduction degree, as well as the reaction rate constant and effective diffusion coefficient, is found to decrease in the order of HYL-III > Midrex > WCSG > DPCG. The reduction process is controlled by interfacial chemical reaction at initial stage and by both interfacial chemical reaction and internal diffusion at later stage. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) are used to estimate the reduction mechanism of HVTM-oxidized pellet with different gas compositions. This study aims to obtain scientific direction for reactor design and operational parameter determination of gas-based shaft furnace, as well as provide both theoretical and technical basis for the comprehensive utilization of HVTM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the preparation of nanorods-like Cd(OH)2-rGO nanocomposites via using a simple co-precipitation method. The as-prepared Cd(OH)2-rGO materials were characterized by a variety of analytical and spectroscopy techniques such as scanning electron microscope (SEM), elemental analysis (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy. Interestingly, Cd(OH)2-rGO modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) employed for the electrochemical detection of acetaminophen (AP) sensor for first time by using cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The AP sensor exhibited an ultra-high sensitivity of 24.452 µA µM−1 cm−2 and a low detection limit 0.08 µM with wider linear ranges from 0.1 to 102 µM. Notably, the obtained analytical parameters of the AP sensor using nanorods-like Cd(OH)2-rGO modified GCE is superior than several rGO based nanocomposites suggesting more suitable for several practical pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Fly ash, inexpensive and not eco-friendly material, is the residue from the coal burning in thermal power stations. If ways can be found to use it, it will facilitate applications for the ash materials and simultaneously reduce the pollution. In this study, silane-grafted ultrafine fly ash (S-UFA) was used as a reinforcing filler in poly(lactic acid) (PLA) to prepare a series of PLA/S-UFA composites. The tensile strength of PLA/S-UFA composites increases with the increase of S-UFA content when less than 20 wt %; after a loading fraction greater than 30 wt %, the tensile strength of the composites decreases with the increasing S-UFA weight fraction. The morphology of PLA/S-UFA composites was observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was applied to investigate the crystal structure of S-UFA and the composites. The thermal properties of these composites were studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The TGA results showed that the thermal stability of PLA/S-UFA composites slightly decreased with the increasing S-UFA loading fraction. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43716. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Studies were conducted on transport properties and separation performance of date pit/polysulfone composite membranes for CO2, CH4, N2, He, and H2 gases. Date seeds were obtained and processed into powder. Asymmetric flat sheet membrane was prepared by solvent casting method with 2-10 wt % date pit powder. Membrane characterization was done using high pressure gas permeation, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric, and scanning electron microscope analyses. The separation performance and the plasticization resistance property were evaluated in terms of gas permeability, selectivity, and plasticization pressure, respectively. Time dependent performance properties were evaluated up to a pressure of 40 bar for 75 days. Results obtained showed the highest selectivity values of 1.54 (He/H2), 3.637 (He/N2), 2.538 (He/CO2), 2.779 (He/CH4), 3.179 (H2/N2), 3.907 (H2/CO2), 1.519 (CH4/N2), 1.650 (CO2/N2), and 1.261 (CO2/CH4) at 10 bar and 35 °C feed pressure and temperature, respectively. The resulting composite membrane showed about 39.50 and 66.94% increase in the selectivity of He/N2 and CO2/CH4, respectively, as compared to the pure polysulfone membrane. Thus, the membrane composites possess some potentials in membrane gas separation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43606. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste foundry sand collected from lost foam casting industry is a solid waste that contains Zr Si O4. For the purpose of re-utilization, it is adopted to synthesize cordierite with the addition of Mg O powders and fused silica by direct sintering, meanwhile the effect of various Mg O mole ratios on the sintering behaviors is investigated using XRD, SEM, and mercury porosimetry. The lowest temperature corresponding to the formation of cordierite is 1150°C, and the increase of Mg O mole ratio does not reduce the temperature for cordierite crystallization but increase the microhardness and thermal expansion coefficients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires were synthesized by a simple and cost-effective process, namely chemical bath deposition. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern clearly shows that the nanowires are well crystallized in the wurtzite hexagonal structure. Field-emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) images show the formation of perfectly aligned and organized nanowires, with no defects visible on their surface. The diameter and length of nanowires is 65 and 850 nm, respectively. The room temperature UV-excited photoluminescence spectra show the excitonic band in the UV and a wide emission band centered in the visible. This excitonic and visible emission is studied in the presence of toluene vapors and the results demonstrate the change of the visible photoluminescence of ZnO nanowire array and that the material is able to adsorb toluene. Finally, the mechanism of toluene sensing is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper will focus on the effect of deep cryogenic treatment (DCT) on the microstructure, mechanical properties and stress corrosion cracking susceptibility of a heat-treated aluminium alloy. The different microstructures have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, optical microscope, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The stress corrosion cracking susceptibility of the alloy, before and after the DCT, in chloride solution was examined using slow strain rate test (SSRT) method at various strain rates. The results show that the sub-zero treatment increases the secondary non-coherent nanoparticles at the grain boundary, and this slight precipitation did not produce any modification of the mechanical properties. Furthermore the compressive residual stresses of the material were higher after than before the treatment. Both these effects are the responsible for an improvement of the stress corrosion cracking behaviour of this alloy after DCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An evolving suite of X-ray characterization methods are presently available to the materials community, providing a great opportunity to gain new insight into material behavior and provide critical validation data for materials models. Two critical and related issues are sample repositioning during an in situ experiment and registration of multiple data sets after the experiment. To address these issues, a method is described which utilizes a focused ion-beam scanning electron microscope equipped with a micromanipulator to apply gold fiducial markers to samples for X-ray measurements. The method is demonstrated with a synchrotron X-ray experiment involving in situ loading of a titanium alloy tensile specimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on the effect of liquid-state mechano-chemical activation on performance of nano-engineered cements ( NEC). Microstructural characterization of NEC and contribution of activated cement ( AC) phase were investigated using dynamic light scattering, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and isothermal conduction calorimetry techniques. The effect of different parameters of liquid-state activation, such as duration of activation and the composition of the AC is reported. Due to intensive milling and hydration, the AC is composed of up to 25% of nano- and submicrometer- sized cement grains and products of hydration, mainly, C-S-H and ettringite. Different quantities of AC (at 10%-30% cement replacing levels) were tested in NEC mortars. The compressive strength of NEC based materials with different types and dosages of AC was investigated. Research results demonstrated that proposed 'top-down' approach for production of nano-sized and submicrometer phases of AC acting as seeds increases the rate of cement hydration and improves the compressive strength of cement-based composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the safety of octahdro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX), a submicron energetic material, 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6- trinitrobenzene (TATB), was introduced to coat HMX by a novel method. This novel method contained the reaction crystallisation and the solvent-non-solvent method. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and optical microscopy analyses showed that a homogeneous layer of TATB particles with submicron scale had been successfully coated on the surface of HMX particle. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry indicated that the coated HMX only had an exothermic peak at 279.4 °C, and the phase transition temperature reached 213.5 °C and increased by 20.2 °C compared with the pure HMX. The content of the coating TATB was determined to be 6.2 wt.% through high-performance liquid chromatograph. Relative to the mechanically mixed HMX/TATB, the drop height (H50) was increased from 23.0 to 74.1 cm, and the friction probability was reduced from 4 to 0% for the coated HMX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A layer of Al coatings was prepared on the S355 steel by arc spraying, which was conducted by anodic oxidation treatment; the morphologies, chemical element compositions and phases of Al coating, and anodic oxide layer were analyzed with field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The corrosion protections of Al coating before and after anodic oxidation were discussed with a seawater immersion test; the corrosion resistance mechanisms of Al coating and anodic oxide layer in the seawater were also investigated. The results show that the thickness of Al coating is about 300 µm by arc spraying, the sample surfaces become loose after seawater immersion corrosion and Cl− and O2− penetrate into the substrate from the cracks, destroying the binding properties of coating-substrate, and the coating fails. After anodic oxidation, the oxide layer is formed in the surface of Al coating with the thickness of about 30 µm; the corrosion products are mainly composed of Al(OH)3, which barraged the holes caused by seawater corrosion. The corrosion cracks are formed during the corrosion, while the number and depth of cracks decrease obviously after anodic oxidation treatment. The corrosion of Al coating becomes the local corrosion after anodic oxidation treatment, and the grains are smaller, which are easily nucleated to form a new corrosion resistance layer. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, numerous scientists have used graphene for reinforcing polymer-based composites because of its outstanding electrical, thermal and mechanical properties. Based on this present reported work, a simple manufacturing process is reported for the fabrication of low-loading graphene nanosheets (GNSs) coated on the surface of a polypropylene matrix. According to a scanning electron microscope micrograph, the GNSs were dispersed uniformly on the surface of polypropylene pellets. The mechanical properties and thermal stability of the GNSs /polypropylene composite plates were improved substantially by the addition of GNSs. X-ray diffraction was used to determine that the two-theta values of the GNSs /polypropylene composite plates correspond to the weight fraction of the added GNSs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the vibration peak of the polypropylene methyl group decreased gradually when the amount of GNSs increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]