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Complex oxides La 0. 9 7 Ba 0. 0 3 MnO3, La 0. 7 3 Ba 0. 2 7 MnO3 and La 0. 5 Ba 0. 5 MnO3 were synthesized and their structural properties were studied. The structural investigation of the samples is done by incorporating X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) technique at room temperature. The Rietveld method was successfully used for the analysis of the obtained diffraction spectra. It was determined that these compounds have a perovskite structure. Partial substitutions La→Ba do not disturb the ideal perovskite structure and the cubic crystal structure with the space group Pm-3m is preserved. Crystallographic parameters, lattice parameters and interatomic distances were determined for each compound. As a result of SEM studies, it was determined that the size of crystallites in LaxBa 1 − x MnO3 solid solutions ranged from 2 to 10 μ m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selected crystals of natural K-bearing tourmalines, extracted from a quartzofeldspathic rock from the Kumdy-Kol microdiamond deposit (an ultrahigh-pressure region of Kokchetav Massif, northern Kazakhstan), were characterized using a scanning electron microscope, an electron microprobe and single-crystal X-ray diffraction to investigate the impact of K uptake on the tourmaline structure. All the studied crystals belong to the maruyamaite–oxy-dravite/dravite compositional field, with K contents ranging from 0.03 to 0.47 apfu (atoms per formula unit), and contain a minor fluor-uvite component that increases towards oxy-dravite and dravite. The compositional variability of our samples can be expressed as a sequence of substitutions ranging from maruyamaite to oxy-dravite, dravite and fluor-uvite (or vice versa). Specifically, the substitutions that lead from maruyamaite to oxy-dravite to dravite are (1) X K + Al TOT + O1 O ↔ X Na + Mg TOT + O1 O and (2) X Na + Mg TOT + O1 O ↔ X Na + Mg TOT + O1 OH, respectively. Conversely, the substitutions that lead from oxy-dravite to dravite to fluor-uvite are (1) X Na + Mg TOT + O1 O ↔ X Na + Mg TOT + O1 OH and (2) X Na + Mg TOT + O1 OH ↔ X Ca + Mg TOT + O1 F, respectively. By analysing the difference between the bond valence sum and mean formal charge at the X site, we show that an increase in the K content (K > 0.21 apfu) results in the compression of X –O bonds (overbonded cation). Conversely, lower K contents lead to the stretching of the bonds (underbonded cation). Compared to the K-dominant analogues with Z FeO 6 povondraite-type framework, K-bearing tourmalines with a smaller Z AlO 6 framework such as maruyamaite should only be stable at higher-pressure conditions, as pressure is necessary to squeeze the relatively large K cation into the tighter X cavity. In both cases, the essential condition for the formation of K-dominant tourmalines is the extremely high K activity in the crystallization fluid. The K-tourmaline from the Kokchetav Massif may have crystallized under high-pressure (HP) conditions, with an upper limit between 3.5–7 GPa, during retrograde metamorphism following the ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) metamorphic peak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Kodo millet grains were roasted in the microwave at 360, 720, and 900 W for 3 and 5 min and pan‐roasted at 195°C for 5 min. The Kodo millet flours (KMFs) were characterized on the basis of physical, functional, pasting, rheological, antioxidant, morphological, and structural properties. After roasting, the bulk density (BD) of all treated samples decreased, while the tap density, Hausner's ratio, and compressibility index (CI) increased with roasting. Higher microwave power (720 and 900 W) and duration time (5 min) resulted in lower L∗ values and higher a∗ and b∗ values. The roasting in pan and microwave significantly improved the water absorption capacity (WAC) of flour. However, the destruction of hydrophobic functional groups resulted in a significant reduction in the oil absorption capacity (OAC). The pasting and rheological curves confirmed that low power can improve the pasting properties, producing thick pastes. However, the pan and microwave roasting (MWR) at 900 W for 5 min degraded starch and resulted in a flat pasting curve. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs also confirmed this, showing pore space formation, initiated at a power of 720 W and becoming more noticeable until 900 W, when the structure is destroyed. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of all samples suggested a type A crystalline structure, and the degree of crystallinity increased with microwave power, except for the 900 W for 5 min and the pan‐roasted KMF. The antioxidant activity (AOA) of all roasted samples was higher than that of the control sample, except for 900 W for 5 min. Total flavonoid content (TFC) decreased in all KMF compared to the control, except 360 W for 3 min. Furthermore, all microwave‐roasted KMF showed significantly higher total phenolic content (TPC) than control and pan‐roasted KMF. These findings provide valuable information on optimizing the roasting process to improve the nutritional and functional properties of KMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive glass is currently considered a material with a high biocompatibility and has been used both in the field of bone regeneration and in the preparation of cosmetic products with the controlled release of active compounds. The present work involved a study on the synthesis of bioglass using the sol–gel process. The study aims to evaluate the influence of the treatment of bioglass with Polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG 4000) on its main characteristics. The surface characteristics of this material were obtained by nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis, using the standard BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) equation, the crystallinity by XRD (X-ray diffraction) analysis, the surface structure by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope), thermal stability by TGA (ThermoGravimetric Analyses), and chemical bonds changes by FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy. After treatment with PEG 4000, the average diameter of the pores increased insignificantly, the crystallinity peak disappeared, and the SEM analysis highlighted several clusters of very small sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

The world race in scientific research in the fields of petroleum and how petroleum is transported to another place has inspired our scientific curiosity to research the welding bead of petroleum pipelines. This paper is an experimental examination of the response to the effect of heat treatments on the mechanical and microstructure properties of welded API X70 steel. Our study investigates how heat treatments altered the microstructure and mechanical properties of the fusion zone (FZ) in welded pipe steel of grade API X70. It shows microstructures achieved after one heat treatment at 550℃ for 1h, 2h, 3h, 4h and 5h. A metallographic test by the optical microscope and the scanning electron microscope (SEM) as well as the analysis of the samples by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the measurement of the hardness test was applied to all the samples prepared. The results revealed that the isothermal heat treatment caused grain growth and coarsening reactions in the weld zone and the hardness of weld joints decreased were the main transformations after increasing the temperature of the heat treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental investigation reports the impact of boron carbide (B4Cp) particles on Al2214/3%Grp/xB4Cp hybrid metal matrix composites (HMMCs) at a constant weight percentage of Grp (3 wt.%) and x wt.% of B4Cp particles (x = 1.5, 3, 4.5, and 6) produced by a conventional stir casting metallurgical route with bottom pouring facilities. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) combined with the energy dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDX) shows reasonable uniform distributions of particles in the matrix phase, and a spectrum of elements present in hybrid composites with various intensities. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed for the phase characterisation of hybrid composites. Further, the mechanical properties of Al2214 alloy and Al2214/3%Grp/xB4Cp hybrid composites were studied. The experimental results of the hybrid composite revealed improved hardness and tensile properties with the addition of wt.% B4C particles. The tensile fractured surface (SEM) micrographs revealed the root causes and mechanisms of failures in hybrid composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diatomite deposits in Poland are located in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, and the only active deposit is in Jawornik Ruski. Therefore, it is a unique material. Improved rock processing methods are constantly in demand. In the research presented here, we have used research methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), particle shape analysis, and appropriate sets of crushing machines. Diatomite comminution tests were carried out on test stands in different crushers (jaw crusher, hammer crusher, high-pressure roller press, ball mill) using different elementary crushing force actions: crushing, abrasion, and impact, occurring separately or in combination. The machines were tested with selected variable parameters to obtain products with a wide range of grain sizes ranging from 0 to 10 mm. The ball mill (yield 87%, system C3) and the hammer crusher with HPGR (high-pressure grinding roller) (yield 79%, system D2 + D3) have the greatest impact on diatom shell release and accumulation in the finest 0–5 μm and 5–10 μm fractions. For commercial purposes, it is important to obtain very fine fractions while keeping the shells undisturbed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greener fabrication of nanostructures has received remarkable attention due to their sustainability, cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and eco-friendliness. Opuntia ficus-indica-derived mucilage has not been exposed well to fabricate nanostructures. Thus, in this present investigation, we successfully synthesized tungsten trioxide (WO3) nanostructures using Opuntia ficus-indica-derived mucilage as bio-templates because it is more economical and environmentally friendly. Also, the fabricated WO3 nanostructures cytotoxic features and their photothermal effects were studied. The WO3 nanostructures were investigated using diverse analytical instruments: X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope and, transmission electron microscope. Based on the structural and morphological characteristics of the WO3 nanostructures, they have sphere-like morphologies with diameters of 100 - 200 nm. As revealed by XRD, monoclinic crystalline WO3 nanostructures were formed. In vitro assays were used to assess the effect of WO3 nanostructures on cell viability and morphological features of cells. Based on in vitro assays, fabricated WO3 nanostructures showed slightly toxic behaviour in a human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7 cells). In contrast, after exposure to NIR lasers, the viability of WO3 nanostructures treated cells decreased significantly. Because the WO3 nanostructures have an excellent photothermal effect, which triggers cell death in cancer cells. Thus, the fabricated WO3 nanostructures can be used as a photothermal agent for cancer therapy [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of CZ-xS catalysts for deNO(x) were prepared by sol–gel method. The effects of preparation methods and the amount of sulfuric acid in the sol–gel preparation process on the performance of catalyst were investigated by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), N2 adsorption–desorption, NH3-temperature programmed desorption (NH3-TPD), H2-temperature-programmed (H2-TPR) and Scanning electron microscope/Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (SEM/EDS). The results showed that when the mass ratio of SO42−/ZrO2 (CZ-0.4S catalyst) was 0.4, the catalytic performance of the catalyst prepared by sol–gel method was greatly improved compared with the sample prepared by coprecipitation + impregnation method. When the space velocity was 220,000 h−1 and the reaction temperature was in range of 290–500 °C, the NO conversion was higher than 90% on CZ-0.4S catalyst. Its excellent denitrification performance was attributed to its larger acidity, higher Ce3+ content, more surface adsorbed oxygen and larger specific surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanostructured duplex stainless steel (DSS) was prepared using mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The ball milling was performed under nitrogen atmosphere. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to identify the phases and carry out morphological investigations, respectively. XRD spectra revealed that ferrite phase formation dominated during the initial stages and austenite phase emerged after several hours of ball milling. Lattice parameter calculations showed a decrease in lattice parameter up to 5 h and later increased at 10 h of milling. A decrease in crystallite size was observed up to 10 h of milling. SPS was performed in vacuum at an optimized temp. of 1000 °C for a fixed holding time of 10 min, heating rate of 100 °C/min, cooling rate of 200 °C/min and under an applied pressure of 50 MPa. The electrochemical performance of DSS alloys was examined using potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results showed that alloy Fe-18Cr-3Mn-1Mo-1Si-0, 22N-5Ni (wt.%), has the highest corrosion resistance among the designed alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The perovskite-structured materials P b 0.75 B a 0.25 1 − x C a x (Z r 0.7 T i 0.3) O 3 for x = 1 and 2 at.% were synthesized using the conventional mixed-oxide method and carbonates. Microstructural analysis, performed using a scanning electron microscope, revealed rounded grains with relatively inhomogeneous sizes and distinct grain boundaries. X-ray diffraction confirmed that the materials exhibit a rhombohedral structure with an R3c space group at room temperature. Piezoelectric resonance measurements were conducted to determine the piezoelectric and elastic properties of the samples. The results indicated that a small amount of calcium doping significantly enhanced the piezoelectric coefficient d31. The calcium-doped ceramics exhibited higher electrical permittivity across the entire temperature range compared to the pure material, as well as a significant value of remanent polarization. These findings indicate that the performance parameters of the base material have been significantly improved, making these ceramics promising candidates for various applications. [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]

CuO:ZnO nanocomposite photocatalyst with tunable ratios of CuO was synthesized using a low-temperature-assisted co-precipitation method, which is suitable for industrial-scale production. Analytical techniques, including XRD, FE-SEM, HR-TEM, FTIR, XPS and UV–Vis, were utilized to investigate the structure, morphological characteristics, chemical composition and optical properties of the CuO:ZnO nanocomposite. The XRD analysis reveals that the samples exhibit a single phase, characterized by a wurtzite hexagonal structure of ZnO and a monoclinic structure of CuO. The average crystal size changed from 37.3±8.8nm to 24.6±6.9nm when CuO varied from 0% to 5% in the CuO:ZnO nanocomposite. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images reveal that the nanocomposite particles exhibit a high degree of uniformity, with an average size of approximately 50nm. HR-TEM shows the width of lattice plane families consistent with X-ray diffraction for CuO and ZnO materials. The ZnO exhibits a unique hexagonal shape. Furthermore, there is a slight correlation between the CuO fraction and an increase in grain size. FTIR analysis revealed the specific vibrational modes of ZnO and CuO at wavenumbers of 564, 619, 651, 673 and 488, 607cm−1, respectively. XPS shows secondary valences of Cu and Zn indicating the formation of CuO and ZnO while the high Ov peak indicates the presence of Oxygen defects in the crystal lattice. The absorption results clearly demonstrate the presence of two absorption edges corresponding to ZnO and CuO, as well as the broadening of the absorption spectrum of the nanocomposite sample up to a wavelength of 840nm. The photocatalytic degradation of RhB yielded remarkable outcomes, as the concentration of RhB declined by 98.6% after 20min of illumination using a CuO:ZnO (3:97) nanocomposite. The photocatalytic efficiency is significantly influenced by changing the CuO ratio in CuO:ZnO nanocomposites. This can be attributed to the tradeoff between the effectiveness of the heterogeneous contact layer and the limited ability of CuO to catalyze photochemical reactions. Based on the scavenger test, hydroxyl and superoxide radicals are primarily responsible for the decolorization of RhB dye. Results of evaluating the reusability and stability of the material show that, after fifth recycling, the decomposition efficiency still reaches over 90% after 30min of illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the high demand for innovative solutions in medicine, a major increase in interest in biomaterials research has been noticed, with the most significant advancements in metals and their alloys. Titanium-based alloys are one of the most recognised in the scientific community but do not represent the only way to achieve optimal results. Zirconium alloys for medical applications are a novelty with significant research potential based on their outstanding properties, which may be of value for medicine. The aim of the present study was to obtain new biomedical Zr-Nb-Mo alloys with varying ratios of their respective elements—Zr and Mo—using combined powder metallurgy (PM) and arc melting (VAM) methods. The obtained samples underwent microstructure analysis using an optical microscope (OM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The study of element distribution was conducted with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), whereas the phase composition was determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Mechanical properties were examined with a Micro Combi Tester MCT3, whereas tribological properties were assessed with a TRN Tribometer, and Ringer's solution was used as a lubricant. Additionally, the wear tracks of the studied samples were observed using the SEM. The research results indicated that increased Mo content conduced to microstructure refinement and homogeneity. Furthermore, the higher content of this element contributed to the growth of the HVIT, HIT, and EIT parameters, together with the improvement in the tribological performance of the alloys. XRD analysis revealed that the obtained samples were multiphase, and raising the Mo addition promoted the formation of new phases, including a ternary phase—Zr0.9Nb0.66Mo1.44 (Fd 3 ¯ m). The chemical composition study showed uneven distribution of niobium and areas of uneven mutual distribution of zirconium and molybdenum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Residual melon by-products were explored for the first time as a bioresource of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) obtention. Two alkaline extraction methods were employed, the traditional (4.5% NaOH, 2 h, 80 °C) and a thermo-alkaline in the autoclave (2% NaOH, 1 h, 100 °C), obtaining a yield of MCC ranging from 4.76 to 9.15% and 2.32 to 3.29%, respectively. The final MCCs were characterized for their chemical groups by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), crystallinity with X-ray diffraction, and morphology analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). FTIR spectra showed that the traditional protocol allows for a more effective hemicellulose and lignin removal from the melon residues than the thermo-alkaline process. The degree of crystallinity of MCC ranged from 51.51 to 61.94% and 54.80 to 55.07% for the thermo-alkaline and traditional processes, respectively. The peaks detected in X-ray diffraction patterns indicated the presence of Type I cellulose. SEM analysis revealed microcrystals with rough surfaces and great porosity, which could remark their high-water absorption capacity and drug-carrier capacities. Thus, these findings could respond to the need to valorize industrial melon by-products as raw materials for MCC obtention with potential applications as biodegradable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to uncover the chronology and production technologies of ancient bricks unearthed from various locations in Upper Assam, Northeast India. To achieve this goal, complementary spectroscopic techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS), as well as Thermoluminescence (TL) and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL/IRSL) dating, were applied. FTIR and XRD analyses revealed the presence of quartz, feldspar (microcline, orthoclase, albite), kaolinite, chlorite, cerussite, palygorskite, magnetite, hematite, and organic carbon. The mineralogical composition indicates two distinct groups with firing temperatures below 650 °C and above ~800 °C. These two groups could be the first indication of the presence of two civilizations or at least two different production technologies involving different firing temperatures and kiln atmospheric conditions. Further, the SEM-EDS study suggests that both calcareous and non-calcareous clays were used in brick making, which have low and high refractory properties, respectively. The internal morphology of the samples shows the existence of micropores and microfractures, indicating the influence of higher-temperature firing. Absolute dating techniques associate the two brick groups with different age ranges: a firing temperature above ~800 °C indicates a superior technology corresponding to a production period between the 7th and 10th centuries CE. In contrast, a temperature below 650 °C indicates a technologically less advanced group of people, with the age group dated between the 11th and 14th centuries CE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the self-assembling nature of nano-doped liquid crystals is characterized using different techniques. Liquid crystals, namely 4, n-alkoxybenzoic acid (nOBA, where n = 7,8), doped with magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4 of size 20nm) are considered for the present study. The structural and morphological properties of nano-doped liquid crystals are determined by the techniques of X-ray diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Morphological properties like grains, grain boundaries, and crystal defects are elucidated using the scanning electron microscope technique. Structural properties such as crystal structure, grain size, inter-atomic spacing, lattice constant, and dislocation density are determined using X-ray diffraction studies. The characteristics measured from the X-ray diffraction studies are correlated using the statistical analysis of Scanning electron microscope images. This is an objective analysis of X-ray diffraction studies. In addition to these techniques, colorimetric studies of optical anisotropic liquid crystals are carried out by measuring the chromaticity coordinates and color purity. This study utilizes the polarizing optical microscope technique. Furthermore, the influence of nano dopants on the characteristics of liquid crystals with carbon chain length is also discussed. [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]

Background: Over the past two decades, Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) have demonstrated a wide range of antioxidant and anticancer properties. Vinca alkaloid exhibits the anticancer efficacy by direct metaphase arrest of cell division. Aim: The present study is to develop a green synthesis method for producing silver nanoparticles using vinca, the antioxidant and anticancer potential was assessed using A549 cells. Materials and Methods: The synthesized AgNPs were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis, UV-visible spectrophotometer (UV), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Spectra Max i3X energy-dispersive X-ray (XRD) Spectroscopy to determine their physico-chemical and morphological characteristics. Results and Discussion: The FTIR spectrum of vinca AgNPs exhibited absorption bands at 692 cm-1, 684 cm-1, 611 cm-1, 592 cm-1, 578 cm-1, 554 cm-1, 548 cm-1, 539 cm-1 and 526 cm-1, indicating the presence of silver ion bounded nanoparticles derived from Vinca leaf. These findings suggest that vinca-coated AgNPs possess multiple functions that contribute to their stability. XRD data analysis revealed Bragg's reflections in the XRD pattern (2θ) at 24.75, 31.59, 37.56, 53.01, 64.93 and 76.27, confirming the crystalline nature of the green synthesized AgNPs. Elemental analysis was conducted to determine the elemental composition of the sample, which indicated that approximately 60% of the prepared nanoparticles were bound with silver ions, supporting the formulation. Antioxidant studies were performed using the DPPH assay at different concentrations of AgNPs, while cell-based cytotoxic assays were conducted using different concentrations of AgNO3. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the nanoparticles inhibited the proliferation of A549 cells and reduced cellular motility, indicating their promising anticancer efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous titania films with worm-like patterns were fabricated on indium-tin oxide (ITO) glass by dip-coating skill, and were characterized systematically. Impacts of the process and technical parameters on the formation of the films were investigated. The mesoporous films were characterized by low-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD) and wide-angle XRD, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), linear sweep voltammograms and nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms. Subsequently, the films were used in a photoelectrocatalytic system for the degradation of methyl orange. The influence of operation variables, including pH values, bias potential, light intensity, organics concentration and the mass of the films, on the degradation of the dye was investigated in details. More than 96 % degradation of the organics was achieved in 2 h. The kinetic results for the photoelectrocatalytic oxidation of the organic were also presented in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest progress in the antioxidant properties of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as a promising tool in several domains of science and industry, including their application as antioxidant agents. The main knowledge gaps seem to be in correctly identifying the make-up of the naturally occurring phytochemicals that give these nano-antioxidants their extraordinary pharmacology and drug-like properties. In many instances, that characterization is done using spectroscopy instrumentation such as fourier-transform Infrared (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). From literature appraisals, it was discovered that a lot of authors didn't properly characterize the phytochemicalsdflavonoids, phenolics, or other phytochemicals in the plant extracts in the case of green synthesis, which bond with the metallic components. Due to the lack of proper isolation of phytochemicals in the plants, it is also uncertain if the increased activities registered for the nanoantioxidants are the result of one or numerous phytochemicals creating unique nano-moieties. Most often, plant extracts of the same species vary significantly in their chemical composition, and therefore making it challenging to replicate the research findings. In conclusion, there is an inadequate understanding of the long-term consequences of nanoparticles on human health, and some studies have raised concerns about their safety versus potential toxicity. Therefore, further studies on the toxicity of nanoantioxidants are necessary. [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]

Cu2CdSnS4-CdS nanocomposites are successfully prepared via a two-step solvothermal approach. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy are used to characterized the Cu2CdSnS4-CdS nanocomposites. The results show that Cu2CdSnS4-CdS nanocomposites present nanoflower structure self-assembling by nanosheets with a thickness of 50nm and spheroid structure with the average size of 100nm. The band gap is calculated to be 1.5eV. The photodegradation efficiency under visible-light irradiation is reached to 94%, the work provide a new strategy to prepare Cu2CdSnS4-CdS nanocomposites for high effective visible-light photocatalytic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC) is an environment-friendly cement often used for stabilizing soft soils because of its exceptional mechanical properties. In this study, the influence of curing temperature on the strength development of MOC-solidified clay is explored, considering different MgO/MgCl2 molar ratios. Different tests were carried out to study the corresponding effects. The results show that the effect of curing temperature on the strength of MOC-solidified clay differs greatly from that of cement-solidified soil. Increasing the curing temperature leads to strength reduction, whereas decreasing the curing temperature increases the corresponding strength. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses indicate that the variation in type and amount of hydration products of the solidified soil account for the strength development difference between MOC-solidified and cement-solidified soils. A model based on the experimental results is proposed to characterize the relationship between strength development and curing time. The strength influence factor (ηT) and the strength expedite factor (K) were introduced to demonstrate the relationship between strength development at a specific curing temperature as well as at room temperature. [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]

This study addresses effect of shotpeening on surface characteristics of AA6061-SiCP composite. Aluminium composites with reinforcements of solitary and multiple particles are widely employed in the transportation, aerospace, and automotive sectors due to their exceptional properties, such as strength, stiffness, and wear resistance. However, the surface characteristics such as hardness, wear, and frictional properties are not improved much. To attain better surface properties, surface modification has become necessary. Therefore, shotpeening is employed with selected parameters to analyse surface topography before and after shotpeening using optical and scanning electron microscopes. Then, the average crystalline size (ACS), dislocation densities, and micro-strain are calculated with the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and then correlated with the hardness of shot peened AA6061-SiCP composites in comparison with the untreated surface. The results demonstrate that increasing the shotpeening exposure durations improves surface characteristics compared to untreated AA6061-SiCP composites. At 140 s of exposure time, the micro-hardness is increased to approximately 143HV, crystallite size is refined to approximately 33.7 nm, micro-strain is enhanced by about 3.1 × 10−3, and dislocation density is increased by about 19.2 × 10−14 m−2. Severity of the shotpeening develops severe plastic deformation results in surface fracture and an increase in roughness of AA6061-SiCP composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current effort, the nanoparticles of copper oxide (CuO/NP) were obtained by the co-precipitation procedure and characterized by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) strategys. The CuO/MCPE was polymerized by utilising the N-Cetyl-N,N,N-trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant, has been studied by cyclic voltammetric (CV) and linear sweep voltammetric (LSV) techniques. The analytical factors, such as pH, sweep rate, and concentration were evaluated. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) was determined under optimized conditions and the values were arise to be 0.1179 µM, 0.391 µM, and 0.1942 µM, 0.6475 µM for Catechol (CC) and Hydroquinone (HQ), respectively. Moreover, the CuO/pretreated CTAB/MCPE was employed for the sensitive and selective determination of CC and HQ in true samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existence of lead-zinc tailings threatens the social and ecological environment. The recycling of lead–zinc tailings is important for the all-round green transformation of economic society. In this study, the possibility of fabricating sintered ordinary bricks with lead–zinc tailings was studied based on orthogonal experimentation, and the phase composition and micromorphology of sintered products were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). With lead–zinc tailings as the main material, and clay and fly ash as additives, the effect of clay content, forming pressure, sintering temperature, and holding time on physical properties of sintered bricks was analyzed. The results show that clay content and sintering temperature have a major effect on compressive strength, while sintering temperature and holding time play an important role in water absorption. During sintering, mica, chlorite, and other components in lead–zinc tailings are decomposed to form albite, hematite, maghemite, and anhydrite, which play a role in the strength of bricks. The optimal process parameters were found to be a ratio of lead–zinc tailings:clay:fly ash = 6:3:1, forming pressure of 20 MPa, firing temperature of 1080 °C, and holding time of 60 min. The corresponding compressive strength and water absorption were 34.94 MPa and 16.02%, which meets the Chinese sintered ordinary bricks standard (GB/T 5101-2017). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nanostructure of lithium-zinc copper ferrite (LiZnCu-Ferrite) prepared experimentally by the auto-combustion method depends on different parameters. The auto-combustion method operates at a temperature (160 °C) suitable for preparing the required nanostructure ferrite phase. The dependent composition was [Li 0.5-x Zn x Cu x Fe 2.5-x O 4 at (x = 0, 0.05, 0.15, 0.25, 0.35, and 0.45)]. A pre-firing at temperature (650 °C) was applied during the calcination process that was suitable to remove unwanted products. The sintering at temperature (800 °C) was suitable for a pelletized shape of ferrite samples. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed a spinel structure of ferrite phase produced for all samples under study with the lattice constant in the range (8.345–8.368 Å) as a function of (x). The crystallite size was in the range (18.41–30.27 nm) calculated by the Scherrer method. The transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed a production of nanorods in the size range (10–45 nm) and nanoparticles in the size range (10–40 nm). There was a coincidence between the results of the XRD and TEM analyses. On the other hand, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed the surface morphology and the nature of grain size, which was a sign of the presence of nanostructure; it agreed with the XRD analysis. FTIR spectra showed evidence that the system Li0.5-xZnxCuxFe2.5-xO4 had spinal ferrite nanoparticles successfully prepared by sol-gel auto-combustion. A vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) showed a change in magnetic parameters as compensation factor (x) increased for all composites of LiZnCu-ferrite such as saturation magnetization (Ms), initial magnetic permeability (μi), remanence (Mr), and coercive force (Hc) that measured from M − H loops. A saturation magnetization increased as a function of (x) and recorded a maximum value at (x = 0.15). While the coercivity, initial magnetic permeability (μi), and remanence magnetization enhanced as a function of (x) and recorded a maximum value at (x = 0.45). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis, physicochemical characterizations, and biological investigations on the chelation of the antibiotic medication enoxacin (EXN) with certain vital metal ions, such as platinum(IV), ruthenium(III), and iridium(III) are discussed in this study. These compounds structures were interpreted based on elemental analysis and spectral measurements (FTIR, 1H-NMR, UV-Vis electronic, and XRD). The findings show that there is same coordination pathway for the chelation behavior of enoxacin complexes: a monodentate manner. The Pt(IV), Ru(III), and Ir(III) complexes are coordinated through the N atom of the piperazine ring, which is an unusual mode of coordination for this class of compounds. The dissolved complexes in DMSO were found to have non-electrolyte nature based on their molar conductance measurements. The formula for these complexes is [Pt(EXN)3(H2O)2Cl] (1), [Ru(EXN)3(H2O)3] (2), and [Ir(EXN)3(H2O)3] (3). Using scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis and Xray powder diffraction (XRD), the nano-scale range of the Pt(IV), Ru(III), and Ir(III) complexes has been determined. Results of in vitro cytotoxicity were examined using MCF-7 cells (human breast cancer cell line) and HepG-2 cells (human hepatocellular carcinoma) that had been grown. The cytotoxic activity of the metal complexes demonstrated a cytotoxic effect against the growth of human breast and liver cancer cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unburned carbon from fly ash and its graphitization products (at temperatures of 2400 and 3000°C) were tested using scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (×RD) and micro-Raman spectroscopy. The same tests were also carried out for synthetic and natural graphite. Various morphological forms of products with a high degree of graphitization, such as spheroidal graphite, hexagonal plates, column plates, and jagged-edge films were identified in the sample of unburned carbon annealed at 3000°C. The product of thermal treatment at the temperature of 3000°C has the interlayer spacing d002 value characteristic for semigraphite. With increasing temperature the number of crystallites in stack N, their height Lc002 and aromaticity fa increases. The degree of G graphitization of annealed samples increases more than twice with increasing temperature. With the increase of the temperature the aliphatic chains are decomposed and the aromatic systems are reconstructed, so the degree of internal structure order increases. The Raman examinations showed that the structural parameters determined for the graphite and carbonizate samples after thermal treatment at the temperature of 3000°C are equal in the standard deviation range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Na-GMMT/TPS pellets (TPS for short) were prepared with sodium montmorillonite as filler. TPS was blended with PBAT in different proportions, and TPS-PBAT composites were prepared by twin-screw extruder. The structure and properties of TPS-PBAT composites were characterized by universal material testing machine, X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analyzer (TG) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that when TPS is used as matrix, the tensile strength of the composites can be greatly improved while maintaining good elongation at break. The elongation at break of TPS-PBAT-4 composites is 233.3% and the tensile strength is 18.9 MPa. With the increase of TPS content, the diffraction peaks of the composites gradually flatten, indicating that the addition of TPS reduces the crystallinity of the composites. The addition of TPS improves the thermal stability of corn starch and PBAT. When PBAT is used as matrix, the compatibility between TPS and PBAT is poor. When TPS is used as matrix, there is no obvious boundary between TPS and PBAT, and it shows better compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrocatalytic n-valeraldehyde oxidation reaction was an inexpensive and eco-friendly method to control n-valeraldehyde contamination and produce high value-added octane. However, low-cost and readily available electrocatalysts with high current efficiency were urgently needed. Herein, two-dimensional porous carbon derived from pollen with enlarged interlayer distance was built by alkali activation method, applying in electrocatalytic n-valeraldehyde oxidation reaction. The enlarged interlayer distance was verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscope (HAADF-STEM). Electrocatalytic experiments consequences showed activated biomass derived carbon possessed a higher electrocatalytic activity and octane selectivity than unactivated catalyst. Systematic tests and in situ infrared experiments demonstrated that enlarged interlayer distance was positively correlated with specific surface area of catalysts, large specific surface area provided abundant absorption sites, facilitated the adsorption for n-valeraldehyde, and further promoted the transformation of n-valeraldehyde to octane. This work also provides a new avenue for creating high-performance electrocatalysts in terms of lattice engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore and deal with the difficulty in curing cement-stabilized bases in desert environments, curing agents were prepared to enhance the curing effect on the base in this research. The composite curing agent was prepared through orthogonal experiments and the durability of the curing agent coating were studied by simulating a desert environment. Subsequently, the curing effect on the performance of bases was analyzed. Finally, the hydration degree of cement was studied via scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and the curing mechanism of the curing agent was explored. The results show that the composite (paraffin emulsion is the main component of the film, vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer dosage is 20%, ethanol ester-12 dosage is 10%, and sodium silicate dosage is 18%) could effectively improve the water-retention performance (water-loss ratio: 2.36%) and mechanical properties of the specimen (7 d compressive strength: 7.48 MPa; 7 d indirect tensile strength: 0.70 MPa). The dry shrinkage coefficient of the specimen with composite curing agent was reduced by 116.26% at 28 days. The compressive strength of dry and wet freeze could reach 7.48 MPa and 6.88 MPa, respectively. The durability of the curing agent-coated base met the requirements of pavement performance in desert areas. The results of XRD, TG, and SEM indicated that the curing agent promoted hydration. In addition, the number of C-S-H gel and AFt crystals significantly increased. The curing difficulty of road bases in desert areas could be reduced effectively through the application presented in this study, which contributes to the conservation of natural and human resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shale is composed of a rock matrix and bedding planes with a layered structure, resulting in significant anisotropy in its mechanical properties. In order to study the anisotropic mechanical properties of shale, the shale samples were prepared in different orientations with respect to the bedding planes, and the composition and microstructure of shale were first analyzed by X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), and then the uniaxial and triaxial compression experiment on shale samples with five different bedding angles (the angle between the loading direction and the normal direction of the bedding planes, 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°) were conducted under five confining pressures (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 MPa), respectively; meanwhile, the acoustic emission (AE) test was carried out in the uniaxial test. The results indicate that the mechanical properties and parameters of shale have obvious anisotropy, and the AE characteristics of shale samples with different bedding angles are significantly different during uniaxial loading. Furthermore, the compressive strength and elastic modulus of the shale samples first decrease and then increase with the increase in the bedding angle under different confining pressures. Moreover, according to the anisotropic grade of compressive strength, the shale has moderate anisotropy. In addition, the failure mode of the shale samples is also anisotropic, and varies with the bedding angle and confining pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese slag (MS) containing a certain amount of active hydration substances may be used as a kind of cementitious material. In the present study, we measured the mass, the relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (RDME), and the flexural and compressive strengths of MS high-performance concrete (MS-HPC) with added basalt fibers exposed to NaCl freeze–thaw cycles (N-FCs), NaCl dry–wet alternations (N-DAs), and Na2SO4 dry–wet alternations (NS-DAs). Scanning electron microscope energy-dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS) spectra, thermogravimetric analysis (TG) curves, and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) curves were obtained. The mass ratio of MS ranged from 0% to 40%. The volume ratio of basalt fibers varied from 0% to 2%. We found that, as a result of salt action, the mass loss rate (MLR) exhibited linear functions which were inversely correlated with the mass ratio of MS and the volume ratio of basalt fibers. After salt action, MLR increased by rates of 0~56.3%, but this increase was attenuated by the addition of MS and basalt fibers. Corresponding increases in RDME exhibited a linear function which was positively correlated with MS mass ratios in a range of 0~55.1%. The addition of MS and basalt fibers also led to decreased attenuation of mechanical strength, while the addition of MS led to increased levels of flocculent hydration products and the elements Mn, Mg, and Fe. CaClOH and CaSO4 crystals were observed in XRD curves after N-DA and NS-DA actions, respectively. Finally, the addition of MS resulted in increased variation in TG values. However, the opposite result was obtained when dry–wet actions were exerted. [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]

In the Al-Fe binary system, the Al13Fe3 phase as well as the Al13Fe4 phase has similar icosahedral building blocks like those appearing in quasicrystals. Therefore, it is of vital importance to clarify the formation process of these two phases. Coexistence of the Al13Fe3 and Al13Fe4 phases was discovered from the educts obtained with a nominal atomic ratio of Al/Fe of 9:2 by high-pressure sintering for the first time. Firstly, single crystal X-ray diffraction (SXRD) combined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) measurement capabilities were adopted to determine the detailed crystal structures of both phases, which were sharply refined with regard to Al13Fe3 and Al13Fe4. Secondly, the orientation relationship between Al13Fe3 and Al13Fe4 was directly deduced from the SXRD datasets and the coexistence structure model was consequently constructed. Finally, seven pairs of parallel atomic planes and their unique orientation relations were determined from the reconstructed reciprocal space precession images. In addition, the real space structure model of the intergrowth crystal along with one kind of interfacial atomic structure were constructed from the determined orientation relations between two phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study demonstrates the effect of Ni-substitution on the structural, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of Ba0.90Sr0.10Ti1-xNixO3 (where x = 0.000, 0.005, 0.015 and 0.025) ceramics, synthesized by solid-state reaction approach. A pure perovskite phase with tetragonal structure has been confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images revealed change in microstructure. The dielectric behavior of the prepared ceramics was investigated as a function of temperature (30–150°C) at different frequencies. The results indicate that there is an increase in dielectric constant (ϵRT) and low dielectric loss (tanδRT) were obtained at room temperature by substitution of Ni2+ ions in BST ceramics, offering a promising material for capacitor applications at room temperature. Room temperature P-E loops were recorded at different applied electric fields and typical hysteresis loops were obtained. Improvement in the values of Pr and Pmax was observed by substitution of Ni2+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic spray pyrolysis process were used to prepare Zinc oxide thin films. Ahigh - quality thin film is obtained by optimizing factors that include concentration, flow rate, nozzle to substrate distance. The temperature is differed between 350°C to 450°C. The structural and optical qualities were studied through physical investigation. According to XRD, the films have a hexagonal crystal structure. A scanning electron microscope reveals the material's uniform deposition &adhesion across a glass substrate. A direct band gap of about 2.4 to 2.6 eV was obtained for different temperatures. [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]

Thermoluminescence (TL) response of newly synthetic silicon-activated Ca9AlP7O28 nanophosphor doped with different concentrations (0.3–10 mol%) (abbreviated as CAP: Six) were prepared by the sol–gel method. The optimum concentration of Si ions for the best TL response was found to be 0.3 mol% (CAP: Si0.3), which was selected for subsequent dosimetric measurements. Phase purity and the crystal structure of the CAP: Si0.3 sample were identified and verified using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis, where results obtained confirmed the successful synthetic method used in the preparation of the nanophosphor samples. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) mapping revealed the localization of constituent elements and indicated the homogeneous distribution of Si-ions as well as the feasibility of dopants in the herein sample. The dosimetric properties of the CAP: Si0.3 sample, including glow curve structure, reproducibility, repeatability, dose–response and fading effect, were extensively investigated. The gamma irradiated CAP: Si0.3 sample exhibited a simple glow curve of a single prominent peak centred at 222 ± 1.33°C with considerably high TL intensity (1.22 relative to MTS-700 TLD detector). The relative standard deviation (RSD) of peak areas of CAP: Si0.3 were 5.25 and 2.7% for reproducibility and repeatability studies, respectively. These values of RSD were <10%, so they were acceptable internationally. A good linear dose–response relationship was achieved over a dose range of up to 20 Gy with an excellent correlation coefficient of R2 = 0.9969 and a calibration factor of F = 51.75 × 107 a.u./Gy. Almost no fading was registered from the studied CAP: Si0.3 sample after irradiation. Zeff values were found to be in the range 11.62 to 11.61, which are closely related to that of natural bone (11.3 to 11.8). Minimum detectable dose of CAP: Si0.3 had a value of 11 μGy. The outstanding features of this herein-prepared sample make it a good TLD nanophosphor, very suitable for personnel and environmental dosimetry of γ-radiation within the studied dose range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the Al2Fe phase has similar decagonal-like atomic arrangements as that of the orthorhombic Al5Fe2 phase, no evidence for intergrowth samples of Al2Fe and Al5Fe2 has been reported. In the present work, the co-existence of Al2Fe and Al5Fe2 phases has been discovered from the educts obtained with a nominal atomic ratio of Al:Fe of 2:1 by arc melting. First, single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SXRD) as well as scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) measurements have been utilized to determine the exact crystal structures of both phases, which are refined to be Al12.48Fe6.52 and Al5.72Fe2, respectively. Second, the orientation relationship between Al2Fe and Al5Fe2 has been directly deduced from the SXRD data sets, and the co-existence structure model has been constructed. Finally, four pairs of parallel atomic planes and their unique orientation relations have been determined from the reconstructed reciprocal-space precession images of (0kl), (h0l), and (hk0) layers. In addition, one kind of interface atomic structure model is constructed by the orientation relations between two phases, correspondingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we studied the impact of excess Na addition on the structure of the standard NASICON ion conductor along with Na ion transport mechanisms. In this sense, NASICON ceramic membranes (NZSP) were prepared by a simple chemical synthesis method, the solid state reaction (SSR), using an excess of 5% Na (Na3.15Zr2Si2PO12) and an excess of 10% Na (Na3.3Zr2Si2PO12), in order to improve the conduction properties of the ceramic membrane. The characterization of the NZSP nanoparticles was performed by measuring the particle size by dynamic light scattering (DLS), the morphology of the NASICON samples pre-sintered at 1100 °C was analyzed by the SEM method (scanning electron microscope), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was used to investigate the crystal structure of samples, while the surface area was measured using the BET technique. The electrical properties (i.e., ionic conductivity) were evaluated by impedance spectroscopic methods at room temperature (RT). Following the experiments for NASICON membranes without Na excess, with 5% Na excess, and with 10% Na excess synthesized at different pressing forces and sintering temperatures, it was found that membranes with a 10% Na excess, sintered at 1175 °C for 10 h, presented a good ionic conductivity (4.72 × 10−4 S/cm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]