Search

In this work, we apply a molecular dynamics simulation of Ag-nanoparticle-doped epoxy resin to analyze in depth the micro-mechanisms in this nanodielectric. The simulation results show that when Ag nanoparticles with a radius of 10Å are used as dopants, the periodically arranged atoms in a ~4.5-Å-thick surface layer of the nanoparticles have become amorphous. This modification of the interface depends on temperature and nanoparticle size and leads to an interface polarization layer that changes the relative permittivity of the epoxy matrix. Moreover, a simulation indicates that doping with Ag nanoparticles can improve certain thermal and mechanical properties. However, the interface properties have little effect on the thermal and mechanical properties of nanodielectrics, which may depend only on the thermal and mechanical properties of the doped material itself, the doping concentration, or the microstructure of the nanodielectrics. The innovation of this article lies in the study of the microstructure characteristics of the nanodielectric and the changes of some key physical parameters at the nanoscale by means of molecular simulation. It provides a more efficient research idea for the traditional, experimental-based nanodielectric field. Our results may help in the analysis of nanodielectrics and insulating materials, and they suggest that doping with Ag nanoparticles may improve the thermal and mechanical performance of dielectrics.

Copyright of Plastics Science & Technology / Suliao Ke-Ji is the property of Plastics Science & Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Nanocarbon materials (carbon nanotubes, graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, etc.) are considered the ideal toughening phase of ceramic matrix composites because of their unique structures and excellent properties. The strengthening and toughening effect of nanocarbon is attributed to several factors, such as their dispersibility in the matrix, interfacial bonding state with the matrix, and structural alteration. In this paper, the development state of nanocarbon-toughened ceramic matrix composites is reviewed based on the preparation methods and basic properties of nanocarbon-reinforced ceramic matrix composites. The assessment is implemented in terms of the influence of the interface bonding condition on the basic properties of ceramic matrix composites and the methods used to improve the interface bonding. Furthermore, the strengthening and toughening mechanisms of nanocarbon-toughened ceramic matrix composites are considered. Moreover, the key problems and perspectives of research work relating to nanocarbon-toughened ceramic matrix composites are highlighted.

Graphene/copper matrix composites have a wide range of application prospects, but the mechanical properties of the interface have been one of the key problems restricting their wide application. In this paper, the mechanical behaviors at the interface of graphene/copper matrix composites, such as pulling up, pulling out, and cohesion, and the effects of temperature and graphene content on them were studied by the molecular dynamics method. The results show that the pull-up force and cohesiveness show two stages in the whole process. The pulling force increases rapidly and then decreases to 0 slowly. The pull-out force shows three stages: it rises rapidly at first, then fluctuates continuously, and finally drops to 0. The mechanical properties of the interface deteriorated with the increase in temperature. When the temperature increased from 0 K to 1100 K, the interface normal strength, shear strength, and cohesion strength of the interface decreased by 26.3%, 32.9%, and 24.8%, respectively. In addition, with the increase in graphene content, the normal strength of the interface increases, the shear strength decreases, and the cohesion strength almost stays the same. When the graphene content increases from 6.71 at% to 11.75 at%, the normal strength increases by 6.8%, while the shear strength decreases by 37.4%. The influence mechanism of temperature and content is explained from the aspects of the influence of atomic thermal motion and the hindering effect of graphene on the dislocation motion of the copper matrix. The relevant results have certain reference values for the engineering application and theoretical research of graphene/copper composites.

We report the improvement in photoelectrochemical water splitting (PEC-WS) by controlling migration kinetics of photo-generated carriers using InGaN/GaN hetero-structure nanowires (HSNWs) as a photocathode (PC) material. The InGaN/GaN HSNWs were formed by first growing GaN nanowires (NWs) on an Si substrate and then forming InGaN NWs thereon. The InGaN/GaN HSNWs can cause the accumulation of photo-generated carriers in InGaN due to the potential barrier formed at the hetero-interface between InGaN and GaN, to increase directional migration towards electrolyte rather than the Si substrate, and consequently to contribute more to the PEC-WS reaction with electrolyte. The PEC-WS using the InGaN/GaN-HSNW PC shows the current density of 12.6 mA/cm2 at −1 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and applied-bias photon-to-current conversion efficiency of 3.3% at −0.9 V versus RHE. The high-performance PEC-WS using the InGaN/GaN HSNWs can be explained by the increase in the reaction probability of carriers at the interface between InGaN NWs and electrolyte, which was analyzed by electrical resistance and capacitance values defined therein.

Na 3 V 2 (PO 4 ) 2 F 3 (NVPF) is emerging as a promising cathode material for high-voltage sodium-ion batteries. Whereas, the inferior intrinsic electrical conductivity leading to poor rate performance and cycling stability. To address this issue, a strategy of synthesizing unique yolk-shell structured NVPF with copper substitution via spray drying method is proposed. Besides, the synergistic modulation of both crystalline structure and interfacial properties results in significantly enhanced intrinsic and interfacial conductivity of NVPF. The optimized yolk-shell structured cathode materials can possess a high capacity of 117.4 mAh g -1 at 0.1 C, and remains a high-capacity retention of 91.3% after 5000 cycles. A detailed investigation of kinetic properties combined with in situ XRD technology and DFT calculations, has been implemented, particularly with regard to electron conduction and sodium ion diffusion. Consequently, the yolk-shell structured composition of Na 3 V 1.94 Cu 0.06 (PO 4 ) 2 F 3 with nitrogen-modified carbon coating layer shows the lowest polarization potential because of the effectively enhanced electronic conductivity and Na + diffusion process in the bulk phase. The robust electrochemical performance suggests that developing the unique yolk-shell structure with the collaboration of interface and bulk crystal properties is a favorable strategy to design cathode material with a high performance for sodium-ion batteries., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Chitosan (CS) and pea protein isolate (PPI) were used as raw materials to prepare nanoparticles. The structures and functional properties of the nanoparticles with three ratios (1:1, 1:2 1:3, CS:PPI) were evaluated. The particle sizes of chitosan–pea protein isolate (CS–PPI) nanoparticles with the ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 were 802.95 ± 71.94, 807.10 ± 86.22, and 767.75 ± 110.10 nm, respectively, and there were no significant differences. Through the analysis of turbidity, endogenous fluorescence spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the interaction between CS and PPI was mainly caused by electrostatic mutual attraction and hydrogen bonding. In terms of interface properties, the contact angles of nanoparticles with the ratio of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 were 119.2°, 112.3°, and 107.0°, respectively. The emulsifying activity (EAI) of the nanoparticles was related to the proportion of protein. The nanoparticle with the ratio of 1:1 had the highest potential and the best thermal stability. From the observation of their morphology by transmission electron microscopy, it could be seen that the nanoparticles with a ratio of 1:3 were the closest to spherical. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design of CS–PPI nanoparticles and their applications in promoting emulsion stabilization and the delivery of active substances using emulsions.

The Ge metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitors were fabricated with HfO2 as gate dielectric. AlON, NdON, and NdAlON were deposited between the gate dielectric and the Ge substrate as the interfacial passivation layer (IPL). The electrical properties (such as capacitance-voltage (C-V) and gate leakage current density versus gate voltage (Jg-Vg)) were measured by HP4284A precision LCR meter and HP4156A semiconductor parameter analyzer. The chemical states and interfacial quality of the high-k/Ge interface were investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The experimental results show that the sample with the NdAlON as IPL exhibits the excellent interfacial and electrical properties. These should be attributed to an effective suppression of the Ge suboxide and HfGeOx interlayer, and an enhanced blocking role against interdiffusion of the elements during annealing by the NdAlON IPL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, mortar beams reinforced with polymeric reinforcing elements are manufactured using Polylactic acid (PLA), inspired by crack propagation deflecting architectures found in nature such as Sinusoidal and Bouligand architectures. Mechanical flexural properties of mortar beams are studied and compared with that of reinforcing elements with an architecture parallel to the direction of tensile stress as well as non-reinforced mortar beams. Furthermore, the reinforcement configuration and ratio are designed using principles from mechanics of materials. A Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique is used to obtain the load-deflection curves during flexural evaluation. Results show that changing the microarchitecture of the reinforcement can enhance the flexural performance of the beam. Additionally, interface properties between the mortar and the reinforcing element are studied using pull-out tests. Interface properties were enhanced by introducing architectural patterns on the surface of the reinforcement. Finally, using material properties of the mortar, reinforcement and the interface obtained from experiments, a numerical model is developed and calibrated. The outcome of this study helps explore the opportunities of using novel nature-inspired reinforcement to enhance the mechanical properties of cementitious composites. • Changing the micro-architecture of the reinforcement from parallel to a nature-inspired twisting pattern improved ductility. • Various reinforcement ratios were studied to find sufficient reinforcement based on material properties of each component. • The bond between 3D-printed elements and mortar was enhanced by introducing surface features to the polymeric element. • A critical embedment length was established for polymeric reinforcement based on its cross-sectional area and surface texture. • Numerical studies were able to simulate the overall experimental flexural behavior of the reinforced cementitious beams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudoboehmite was obtained through neutralization of ammonium aluminum sulfate solution [NH 4 Al(SO 4) 2 ·12H 2 O] with ammonia water [NH 3 (aq)]. The neutralization process resulted in flake-like overlapping flower-like structures at 80 °C and 85 °C. When the temperature of the NH 4 Al(SO 4) 2 ·12H 2 O solution was raised to 90 °C, nanoparticles, microspheres with a diameter of less than 50 nm, were obtained. The (131) plane was studied by HRTEM imaging (high resolution transmission electron microscopy). Density functional theory was used to study the interface properties of the pseudoboehmite, and the surface energy and attachment energy were calculated for the optimized crystal planes of interest. The results show that the relaxed (131) plane has the lowest surface energy (0.0474 J/m2), and thus is the most stable surface. Additionally, the (200) plane of the pseudoboehmite has the lowest absolute value of attachment energy (0.2106 eV/unit), consistent with having the strongest X-ray diffraction peak and indicating that it is the preferred orientation. The formation mechanism of flower-like and microspherical particles is discussed, with consideration for solution temperature effects on morphology and the predicted equilibrium morphology and growth morphology of pseudoboehmite. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the Chinese Society of Rare Earths is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of the Chinese Society of Rare Earths and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In order to study the influencing factors of the tensile properties of axial braided C/C composites, the interfacial shear strength of the fiber rod and matrix was studied and ejecting tests of the fiber rod were carried out. The ejecting test specimens were formed with different thicknesses to obtain the changing rule of the interface shear strength with the thickness of the sample, and the testing method for the interface shear strength of the axial braided C/C composite material. The results show that the recommended thickness of the ejecting test specimens for the interface shear strength of is four times the diameter of the fiber rod. The interface shear strength distribution law of two different batches of materials was obtained through the interface ejecting test. The mesoscopic structure characteristics and pore statistical distribution law of the hole surface after ejecting were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the mechanism of the difference of the interface shear strength was obtained. The tensile properties of two different batches of materials were obtained by tensile tests. The results show that the tensile properties of the two batches of materials differ greatly. The analysis suggests that the reason for this difference is the differences in interfacial bonding strength between the fiber rod and matrix. The higher the interface shear strength, the better the tensile property of the material will be. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis, characterization, and first-principles calculations of Ti 3 SiC 2 /Al 2 O 3 ceramics were reported. X-ray diffraction measurements showed that the composite ceramics were highly pure. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the interface information for Ti 3 SiC 2 and Al 2 O 3 crystals. Surface energies and interface properties were calculated using the first-principles method. The results suggested that Ti 3 SiC 2 with Ti terminations and Al 2 O 3 with O terminations are more stable than other terminations crystals. Thus powerful attraction between the coordinatively unsaturated Ti and O atoms on the Ti 3 SiC 2 ∥Al 2 O 3 interface would result in higher work of adhesion (Wad) and shorter boundary distance, demonstrating the intercrystalline strengthening of Ti 3 SiC 2 /Al 2 O 3 composite ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Co-Cr ceramic alloys made by selective laser melting technology are widely used in the field of dental restoration, but the influence of selective laser melting technology on the bonding properties of Co-Cr ceramic alloys is still controversial. OBJECTIVE: To explore the metal-ceramic interface characteristics of dental Co-Cr alloy fabricated by selective laser melting. METHODS: Metal-ceramic specimens were prepared by selective laser melting and precision casting, respectively. Metal-ceramic bond strengths, interface characteristics, fracture analysis, microstructures and composition distribution of specimens were obtained with the aid of universal testing machine, metallographic microscope, scanning electron microscope coupled with energy disperse spectrometer. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The metal-ceramic bond strengths of precision casting Co-Cr alloy was higher than that of selective laser melting Co-Cr alloy (P < 0.05). (2) Metallographic microscope showed that selective laser melting Co-Cr alloy had fine grains and a more uniform matrix. Precision casting Co-Cr alloy showed typical casting dendritic structure with coarse grains and a large number of island second phase structures. (3) Scanning electron microscopy showed that precision casting Co-Cr alloy had a thicker diffusion layer than the selective laser melting Co-Cr alloy at the metal-ceramic interface. (4) Scanning electron microscopy showed that the metal-ceramic specimens of precision casting Co-Cr alloy tended to cohesive fracture, and the metal-ceramic specimens of selective laser melting Co-Cr alloy tended to adhesive fracture. (5) The results showed that although the bonding strength of selective laser melting Co-Cr alloy was lower than that of precision casting Co-Cr alloy, the bonding strength of selective laser melting Co-Cr alloy could still meet the requirements of standard YY0621.1-2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface treatment of carbon fibers (CFs) was carried out using a self-synthesized sizing agent. The effects of sizing agent on the surface of CFs and the interface properties of CF/polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) composites were mainly studied. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and static contact angle were used to compare and study the CFs before and after the surface treatment, including surface morphology, surface chemical element composition, and wettability of the surface. The influence of sizing agent on the mechanical properties of CF/PMMA resin composite interface was investigated. The results show that after sizing treatment, the CF surface O/C value increased by 35.1% and the contact angles of CF and resin decreased by 16.2%. The interfacial shear strength and interlayer shear strength increased by 12.6%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐strength‐high‐modulus polyimide (PI) cords reinforced natural rubber (NR) composites are prepared, and the PI cords are treated with resorcinol‐formaldehyde‐latex (RFL) adhesive to enhance the interfacial adhesion with NR matrix. The influence of RFL adhesive variables, such as the ratio of R/F and RF/L, on the adhesion between PI cords and NR is investigated. Furthermore, sorbitol glycidyl ether (SGE) and caprolactam blocked methylene diisocyanate (CBI) are adhered to the surface of the PI cords through a dip‐coating procedure to introduce epoxy and NCO groups and graft with more RFL adhesive. The H pull‐out force of SGE/CBI‐RFL treated PI cords/NR composites reaches as high as 193.9 N, which is 580% higher than that of untreated PI ones. Additionally, the SGE/CBI‐RFL treated PI cords/NR composites exhibit superior adhesion, aging, and fatigue resistance together with better mechanical properties as compared with SGE/CBI‐RFL treated poly(para‐phenylene terephtalamide) (PPTA) cords/NR composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterojunctions of amorphous (a‐Si) and crystalline (c‐Si) silicon combine the favorable absorption characteristics of a‐Si for the solar spectrum, high energy conversion efficiencies, low processing temperatures, potential for low production costs, and a reduced amount of silicon used due to thin a‐Si films. To investigate a‐Si/c‐Si heterojunctions, amorphous p‐type silicon (a‐Si) with a thickness of 5 nm is deposited via radio frequency‐pulsed magnetron sputtering on p‐doped, (100)‐oriented, crystalline silicon (c‐Si) wafers. During deposition, the crystalline silicon wafers are kept at 430 °C and the hydrogen flow rate is varied from 0 to 50 sccm (standard cubic centimeters per minute). Temperature‐dependent current–voltage measurements are carried out to investigate the dominant transport mechanisms of electrical conduction. Moreover, the influence of hydrogen on physical properties such as barrier height, activation energy, and electrical conductivity is analyzed. A current–voltage dependence as predicted by the thermionic emission model for the low forward‐bias region below 0.25 V is observed. Temperature regimes for nearest neighbor hopping and band conduction are revealed by the Arrhenius plot and are found to depend on the hydrogen flow rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compressive performance of organic fiber has always been a key problem, limiting its development. In this paper, silicon oxide, alumina, and titanium oxide particles were separately deposited on the surface of high-strength and high-modulus polyimide (PI) fibers to form a structural supporting shell by using a magnetron sputtering method. The theoretical thickness was calculated by thermogravimetric analysis in good agreement with the actual thickness determined from scanning electron microscopy. The mechanics, surface, and interface properties of the measured fibers were analyzed mainly from the aspects of surface energy, interfacial shear strength (IFSS), and compression strength. The results showed that after magnetron sputtering, the inorganic shells were uniformly deposited on the surface of PI fiber, resulting in an increase in the content of inorganic elements as well as the roughness. As a result, the surface energy and IFSS of silica-coated fiber was increased by 174 and 85.6%, respectively, and compression strength was increased by 45.7%. This study provides a new approach for improving the interface property and compression strength of high-strength and high-modulus PI-fiber-reinforced composites.

The granules were surface modified with silane coupling agent to cause hydrolysis and solidification reaction with the aggregate. Based on surface energy theory, infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the aggregates before and after modification were characterized by direct stretching, boiling, water immersion Marshall test and freeze-thaw splitting test. The method was used to verify the aggregate performance before and after modification. The results show that the contact angle of the aggregate after the surface modification of the silane coupling agent was reduced, which changed from the original hydrophilicity to the lipophilicity. Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) shows that Si-O-C, Si-O-Si covalent bond and hydrogen bond were produced between the silane coupling agent and the aggregate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observed that a polysiloxane coupling layer film was formed on the aggregate surface, indicating that the surface of the aggregate had been introduced into the silane coupling agent. The surface modified aggregate before and after water immersion reduced the tensile strength loss rate by 42.2% compared with the original aggregate. The adhesion grade between the aggregate and the asphalt could reach 5. The asphalt mixture residual stability increased by 11.54% and the freeze-thaw splitting strength ratio increased by 39.26%. These illustrate the successful surface modification of the aggregate by the silane coupling agent, by which the surface properties of the aggregate improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the digital image correlation（ DIC） technology,the mechanical properties on the interface between garvelly sand and concrete pipe were studied systematically under a constant normal stress condition by using a self-developed visual direct shear container. The experimental results showed that the initial shear modulus of the interface between gravelly sand and concrete pipe increases with the increase of normal stress. When Dr = 0. 8,the friction coefficient of the interface increases about 17. 5% compared with that when Dr = 0. 4,and when the relative density increases by 0. 2,the friction angle increases by 2° on average. The softening degree of the shear stress vs. shear displacement curve of the interface is gradually reduced with the increase of normal stress,and the hardening degree is gradually obvious. In addition,the shear displacement of the soil increases with the increase of the distance away from the interface. The shear deformation mainly occurs in the shear zone,and the thickness of shear band is 3 D50. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermodynamic property of asphalt binder is changed by the addition of crumb rubber, which in turn influences the self-healing property as well as the cohesion and adhesion within the asphalt-aggregate system. This study investigated the self-healing and interface properties of crumb rubber modified asphalt (CRMA) using thermodynamic parameters based on the molecular simulation approach. The molecular models of CRMA were built with representative structures of the virgin asphalt and the crumb rubber. The aggregate was represented by SiO2 and Al2O3 crystals. The self-healing capability was evaluated with the thermodynamic parameter wetting time, work of cohesion and diffusivity. The interface properties were evaluated by characterizing the adhesion capability, the debonding potential and the moisture susceptibility of the asphalt-aggregate interface. The self-healing capability of CRMA is found to decrease as the rubber content increases. The asphalt-Al2O3 interface with higher rubber content has stronger adhesion and moisture stability. But the influence of crumb rubber on the interfacial properties of asphalt-SiO2 interface has no statistical significance. Comparing with the interfacial properties of the asphalt-SiO2 interface, the asphalt-Al2O3 interface is found to have a stronger adhesion but a worse moisture susceptibility for its enormous thermodynamic potential for water to displace the asphalt binder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of various metal substrates on the interface properties of Cu 2 ZnSnS 4 (CZTS)/metal structures were investigated. The crystal phases, morphologies, and element distributions at the interfaces between CZTS thin films and various metal substrates (Mo, W, Ti, and Al foils) were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and secondary ion mass spectroscopy. MoS 2 and WS 2 phases were formed at the CZTS/Mo and CZTS/W interfaces, respectively. No Ti-S and Al-S compounds were formed at the CZTS/Ti and CZTS/Al interfaces. The formation of these phases was dependent on the lowest reaction temperature between the metal foil and S vapor. The size of particles at the back surface of the CZTS thin film on the Ti substrate was larger than that on the other substrates, because the Ti element improved the crystallinity of CZTS. The presence of a thick WS 2 layer at the CZTS/W interface was attributed to the fact that the (211) plane of the W foil caused exposure of a greater number of W atoms in the sulfurization process because of the body-centered cubic crystal structure of W. The diffusion of Ti atoms into the CZTS thin film was due to the large average hop distance of defects in the CZTS thin film and the relatively low activation energy of Ti atoms. Current–voltage curves and energy band diagrams revealed that the ohmic contacts formed at the CZTS/Mo and CZTS/Ti interfaces were better than those formed at the CZTS/W interface and that a Schottky contact was formed at the CZTS/Al interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the AgCuOIn 2 O 3 SnO 2 electrical contact composites, the interfacial bonding state and microstructure of each oxide with the silver matrix are still unknown, and in order to elucidate the interfacial state between Ag and CuO, first-principles calculations based on density-functional theory are used to establish the low-exponential surfaces of Ag and CuO, respectively, and to perform convergence tests. The computational results show that the Ag (111) surface and the CuO(100)-CuO surface are the most stable surfaces among the respective low-exponential surfaces, and thus the Ag (111) surface and the CuO(100)-CuO surface are selected to constitute the interfacial model, and the atomic structure, the adhesion work, and the interfacial energies of the interfaces are systematically analyzed. The calculation results show that the Ag (111)/CuO(100)-CuO interface has metallic properties and still has strong electrical conductivity, when the interface spacing d 0 = 3.0 Å, the interfacial adsorption work is the largest, and the value of the interfacial energy is the lowest and positive, which indicates that the Ag (111)/CuO(100)-CuO interface exists stably thermodynamically, and the interfacial stability is relatively good. Moreover, the Ag/CuO interface is bonded by ionic bonding and partial covalent bonding, the interface is well bonded, and the O atoms play a more critical role in the interfacial bonding, and the accuracy of the calculated results is verified by experiments. [Display omitted] • The Ag (111) surface and the CuO(100)-CuO surface are the most stable of the respective low-index surfaces. • The interfacial energy, electronic properties, microstructure of the Ag (111)/CuO(100)-CuO interface were investigated. • The Ag/CuO interface is bonded by ionic and partially covalent bonds, with O atoms playing a more critical role. • The veracity of the model predictions was confirmed by the orientation analysis of Ag and CuO. • Declaration of competing interest [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser cladding of a Fe-based high-entropy alloy (HEA), specifically Fe50Mn30Co10Cr10, onto aluminum alloy substrates presents a technologically innovative approach to boost surface properties for lightweight applications. This investigation delves into the cladding processes, examining the interfacial compositions and the mechanical traits of the HEA after deposition. Tailoring the cladding layer's chemical makeup is achievable by precision control of the processing parameters, resulting in the capability to minimize the occurrence of brittle intermetallic compounds (IMCs) at the interface and hence fortify the interface's overall integrity. The study further illuminates the pivotal role of Al content adjustment in transitioning the cladding layer's phase structure from face-centered cubic (FCC) to body-centered cubic (BCC), critically influencing its mechanical characteristics. Through a methodical examination of Al content, phase distribution, and interface composition, the research exposes the effects these factors exert on the cladding layer's hardness, Young's modulus, and shear resistance at the interface. Notably, an (Fe50Mn30Co10Cr10) 90 Al 10 cladding composition substantially escalates shear resistance. The insights gleaned from this work enrich the understanding of interfacial behaviors between aluminum and disparate metals, thereby contributing valuable perspectives to the progression of heterogeneous metal bonding technology. • High-entropy alloy layers with controllable Al content can be prepared. • Intermetallic compounds layer at interface can be controlled. • The relationship between Al content and phase structure of layers is clarified. • Mechanical properties are also related to the phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumice has a large potential to be used in structural and geotechnical engineering projects as a lightweight aggregate, and it is a material of unique characteristics. Gravel-sized pumice from Yunnan, China, was examined in the present study with a custom-built micromechanical apparatus investigating the properties of pairs of grains at their interfaces subjected to monotonic and cyclic tests under different saturation states. Based on interferometer measurements, the vesicular surface of the pumice was characterized to be very rough. From the interface micromechanical experiments, it was shown that the virgin surfaces appeared to be very soft under normal loading tests, during which micro-asperity breakage was caused. After preloading and preshearing, the normal load–displacement curves became much smoother and the Young's moduli, which remained relatively low in magnitude compared with other geo-materials previously studied, could be quantified applying the Hertzian model. Large hysteretic loops were observed from cyclic normal load tests. Plastic displacements dominated the first normal loading cycle, while elastic displacements prevailed in the subsequent cycles. High values of the apparent coefficient of friction were observed from the monotonic shearing tests. A modification of the power value of the Mindlin and Deresiewicz model was necessary to be applied during the fitting of the experimental data so that theoretical and laboratory curves could match. It was shown that this power had a direct correlation with the coefficient of friction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ge-based MOS capacitor with HfTiON/(LaON/Si) gate stacks and fluorine-plasma treatment (FPT) has been well investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electrical measurements and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) in this work. Electrical measurements have shown that fluorine-plasma treated Ge MOS capacitor exhibits negligible hysteresis (15 mV), small gate leakage current (3.66 × 10−6 A/cm2 at V fb + 1 V), and low interface-state density at midgap (3.2 × 1011 cm−2 eV−1). TEM results indicate that high quality LaSiON/Ge interfaces. XPS results further reveal the presence of fluorine incorporation and the less content of the Ge oxides at the LaSiON/Ge interface. These improvements should be attributed to the LaSiON passivation layer and FPT can suppress the formation of volatile and unstable Ge oxides. In addition, LaSiON passivation layer can further block inter-diffusion of elements between HfTiON and Ge substrate, and FPT can occupy the oxygen vacancies and reduce interface traps in the HfTiON dielectric and LaSiON/Ge interface. These greatly improve the performance of the Ge MOS device. • The LaON/Si dual interfacial passivation layer (IPL) of Ge MOS capacitor is proposed. • The fluorine-plasma treatment (FPT) of Ge MOS capacitor is investigated. • The LaSiON can block inter-diffusion of elements between HfTiON and Ge substrate. • FPT can reduce the interface traps at the LaSiON/Ge interface. • The LaON/Si dual IPL and FPT greatly improve the performance of the Ge MOS device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular architecture of a surfactant had been proved to have a great effect on the interfacial behaviors. In this work, fully atomistic molecular dynamics simulations have been performed on four isomers of a newly synthesized nonylphenol-substituted dodecyl sulfonate, briefly denoted as x-C 12 -NPDS, with x = 1,2,3,4. The aggregation behavior and the interfacial properties of the surfactant monolayer formed at the air/water interface are investigated by analyzing the density distribution, interfacial thickness, interface formation energy (IFE), Surface tension, radial distribution function (RDF), mean square displacement (MSD) and spatial distribution function (SDF). The results show that the interface properties of 3-C 12 -NPDS and 4-C 12 -NPDS are significantly better than those of 1-C 12 -NPDS and 2-C 12 -NPDS. 3-C 12 -NPDS leads to the lowest interface formation energy by having the strongest interaction with water. Simulation results suggest that the steric effect of surfactant headgroups plays a dominant role in the interfacial behaviors. The results of this work are useful for designing high performance surfactants. • This work provide investigation of nonylphenol-substituted dodecyl sulfonate by performing molecular dynamics simulations. • The interfacial properties of the surfactant monolayer formed at the air/water interface are investigated. • Simulation results suggest that the steric effect of headgroups plays a dominant role in the interfacial behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the impact of H2 high pressure annealing (H2-HPA) on a Y-doped ZrO2 (Y-ZrO2)/GeOx/Ge gate stack. In this paper, compared to conventional forming gas annealing (FGA), the H2-HPA increased the k-value of the Y-doped ZrO2 gate dielectric to as high as 47.8 by enhancing the crystallization of the Y-ZrO2. This process can achieve an aggressively scaled equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) of 0.57 nm with an extremely low gate leakage current (Jg) of $ {4.5} \times {10}^{- {6}}$ A/cm2. In addition, the H2-HPA effectively passivated the dangling bonds and reduced the interface trap density (Dit) to as low as ${3.4} \times {10}^{ {11}}$ eV−1cm−2. The Ge pMOSFETs of the Y-ZrO2 with H2-HPA led to a ~ 70% improvement in the effective hole mobility compared to the counterpart device with the conventional FGA. The device with H2-HPA also showed an improved subthreshold swing (SS) value of 93 mV/dec compared to that with the FGA (135 mV/dec). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research is to investigate the effect of soluble soybean polysaccharide (SSPS) on properties of pea protein isolate (PPI) with the processing of freeze-drying. First, PPI-SSPS complex was fabricated under the condition of pH 2.5 via electrostatic interaction. Then, PPI-SSPS complex with different mass ratio of PPI and SSPS was processed with freeze-drying. By freeze-drying treatment, the structural part of the PPI particles was unfolded, resulting in improvement of surface hydrophobicity and foamability. Since SSPS adhered to PPI through hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding, the surface hydrophobicity of the reconstituted PPI particles was reduced, meanwhile the emulsion stability was enhanced. The addition of SSPS leaded to rearrange and interconnect of the modified particles, resulting in improvement of interfacial properties and rheological properties. These results indicated that modified PPI-SSPS complex, as compared to the native PPI, exhibited a greater potential to act as a kind of excellent surface-active substance. Unlabelled Image • The interaction between PPI and SSPS was studied by multispectroscopic and AFM methods. • The PPI/SSPS was mainly bonded by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. • After treated with lyophilization, the structure of PPI changes significantly. • The addition of polysaccharides causes a significant change in the interfacial properties of PPI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A critically important consideration of stiffened structural panels is the interfacial properties between skin and stiffener. In the present study a novel implementation of laser-assisted tape placement (LATP) was used to produce a representative skin-stiffener of a wingbox from carbon fibre reinforced PEEK. First, a stiffener is manufactured using this method and subsequently the skin is attached using the same method without need for a secondary bonding process. The interfacial properties between the skin and stiffener have been characterised in terms of interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and fracture toughness (Mode-I and Mode-II) properties. LATP laydown direction and laser power was found to influence the skin-stiffener interface Mode-I fracture toughness, but not affect the Mode-II fracture toughness. The values of ILSS and fracture toughness compare favourably with those results reported in the literature, in particular for those reported for equivalent aerospace certified CF/PEEK material (APC-2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Dopamine modified aramid fiber (AF) surface was grafted with amino functionalized graphene oxide to improve the interfacial adhesive performance. The self-polymerized polydopamine (PDA) coating and subsequent amino GO grafting on the AF surface attributed to the increase in its surface roughness and surface-active groups. The functional groups, chemical composition and surface topography of unmodified and modified AF was investigated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The interfacial properties were analyzed by measuring interfacial shear strength (IFSS) of unmodified and modified AF embedded epoxy matrix. Further, the properties were tuned by optimizing the reaction temperature and concentration of ethylenediamine. The IFSS of AF/epoxy composites was increased by 34% after grafting amino graphene oxide. Highlights • The self-polymerized polydopamine) (PDA) layer was deposited on aramid fibers. • An efficient route to functionalize aramid fibers based on dopamine chemistry was developed. • With PDA coating and further amino GO grafting, the rougher fiber surface significantly improved the IFSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An advanced gate stack of Y-doped ZrO2 high-k dielectric is demonstrated for Ge MOSFETs. ZrO2 is implemented due to its high-permittivity (high-k) value, and additional Y is doped into the ZrO2 to enhance interfacial properties. The gate stack of ZrO2 with 2~4% Y doping shows improved electrical properties, achieving an EOT of 0.67 nm, a low interface trap density ($\text{D}_{\textsf {it}}$) of $\textsf {1.2}\,\,\times \,\,\textsf {10}^{\textsf {12}}$ eV−1cm−2, a record-low gate leakage current of $\textsf {1.14}\,\,\times \,\,\textsf {10}^{-\textsf {7}}$ A/cm2 at −1V, and peak mobility of $\textsf {68 cm}^{\textsf {2}}/\textsf {V}\cdot \textsf {s}$. The proposed gate stack would enhance transistor speed and save power consumption of Ge MOSFETs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interactions among various proteins largely govern cellular processes, and this leads to numerous efforts toward extraction of information related to the proteins, their interactions and the function which is determined by these interactions. The main concern of the study is to present interface analysis of age-related-disorder (ARD)-related proteins to shed light on details of the interactions. It also emphasizes on the importance of using structures in network studies. A major goal in the post-genomic era is to identify and characterize disease susceptibility of genes and to apply this knowledge to disease prevention and treatment. Attempts have been made to integrate biological knowledge of Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways into the genomics field. Many gene set analysis methods have been used to detect disease-related risk pathways. The present study combines the network-centered approach with three-dimensional structures to comprehend the biology behind ARDs. Interface properties of the interacting complexes have been used as descriptors to classify age-related associated proteins and non-age-related associated proteins. Machine learning has been used to generate a classifier which is used to predict potential age-related proteins. The ARD-PRED tool achieved an overall accuracy in terms of precision score 81.5, recall score 81.2, accuracy value 79 and ROC Area score 89.6, F-measure 81.1. The tool has been made online at http://genomeinformatics.dtu.ac.in/ARD-PRED/. The present work would comprehend ongoing research in the field of ARDs and would also significantly improvise the understanding of the molecular mechanism of age-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, an ideal planar perovskite solar cell (PSC) has been proposed and simulated by using Tungsten Disulfide (WS 2) as an electron transport layer (ETL). Effects of various amphoteric defect states of PSC based on CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3−x X x absorber layer and the interface properties of both ETL and hole transport layer (HTL) are quantitatively analysed by SCAPS-1D numerical simulator. Results show that the device performance is highly influenced by amphoteric defects in the absorber layer rather than the interface defects layer (IDL). It is also revealed that the quantitative tolerable range in CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3−x X x and IDLs are less than 1015 cm−3 and 1016 cm−3, respectively. The PSC exhibits better performance in the range of 10 °C–40 °C and degrades gradually at higher temperature. With the proposed structure, the simulation finds the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PSC to be 25.70% (Voc = 1.056 V, Jsc = 25.483 mA/cm2, and FF = 88.54%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to obtain large-area titanium-steel cladding plate by vacuum rolling, the manufacturing process was discussed with the Hypermesh/LS-DYNA simulation software. The result showed that the reduction rates of each rolling pass were 20, 25 and 33%, respectively. And the total rate was 60%. Moreover, the vacuum rolling process mainly included the following steps: welding preparation, drilling vacuum holes, composite and assembly, vacuum extraction, accumulative seal welding, preheating and rolling. The final size of the cladding plate was 1650 × 12000 × (4 + 40) mm. It could be found that the vacuum rolling interface of the titanium-steel cladding plate was mainly divided into four parts: steel layer (I), decarburized layer (II), bonding layer (III) and titanium layer (IV). Acicular widmanstatten structure of β-titanium was formed in zone IV, which might reduce the impact toughness of joint. The microhardness test results showed that the hardness near the interface was relatively high. Macroscopically, the average shear strength (297 MPa) and the average tensile strength (590 MPa) were both much higher than the standard. However, the brittle fracture mode of shear specimens might decrease the joint property of vacuum rolling cladding plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The aim of this study is the development of new multifunctional composites with controlled interface properties, for products dedicated to the sustainable built environment. The composites were obtained from recycled materials: rubber from waste tyres as matrix, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as reinforcement material and high density polyethylene (HDPE) as additive. Composites composition was varied by using ceramic powders (TiO 2 , CaO, ZnO, fly ash) as low content fillers to increase mechanical performance, as result of improving interfaces properties between tyre rubber and PET. The interface properties of PET - rubber composites with different oxide fillers were investigated after the samples were kept in two temperatures domains, selected according to the outdoor applications of these materials; the testing domains were: + 10 °C/+ 50 °C (series I) and - 40 °C/- 10 °C (series II). The composites properties are strongly influenced by the components type and by the interface between the oxide particles and the polymer matrix. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was used to evaluate the surface morphology. The surface energy variations and the interface properties were evaluated using contact angle measurements, while the crystalline structure was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the chemical/physical interactions by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The structural results are consistent with the mechanical tests results and show that the interface properties are improved by adding different metallic oxides and fly ash as fillers in the composite. The best results are obtained by using fly ash for low temperature applications and CaO for high temperature use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Lower nucleation rates cause unstable fat network formed in bulk of emulsion. • Higher nucleation rates at interface promote crystals adsorbed at O/W interface. • Higher fraction of crystals adsorbed at O/W interface promotes partial coalescence. The effect of different types of monoglycerides, including monopalmitin, capryl monoglyceride (GMB), and succinylated monoglyceride (GMSA) in combination with palm kernel stearin (PKS) and beeswax (BW), on the formation, crystal network structure, and partial coalescence properties of aerated emulsions (20 % w/w fat) was investigated. The stability of BW and PKS crystals with a 1 % concentration of GMSA and GMB, respectively, in the oil phase was lower than the other crystals. BW-GMSA and PKS-GMB crystals exhibited a lower crystallization rate, higher contact angles and no significant peak shift in the small-angle X-ray scattering results. The BW-GMSA and PKS-GMB emulsions had a lower nucleation rate in the bulk and a higher nucleation rate at the interface, resulting in a higher fraction of crystals adsorbed at the oil/water interface. This reduced the number of interfacial proteins and led to a high degree of partial coalescence and the formation of stable aerated networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The L1 2 -Al 3 Y(Sc) phase promotes the precipitation kinetics of Al 3 Zr. However, although Al 3 Y and Al 3 Sc are both with L1 2 structures, the mechanisms are not entirely the same due to different structures of the compound composites: Al 3 (Zr, Sc) has a core-shell structure, while Al 3 (Zr, Y) does not. Formation mechanisms of core-shell and non-core-shell structures were revealed in this work through analyzing surface energy, interface binding energy, and interface energy. The results showed that the interface energy and the lattice mismatch of Al/Al 3 Sc and Al/Al 3 Y are 0.011 J/m2,1.9% and 0.512 J/m2 and 5% respectively. During the growth of Al 3 (Zr, Sc) with Al 3 Sc as the heterogeneous core, the interface energy decreased linearly with increasing Zr contents at the interface and eventually a Zr rich shell formed. However, during the formation of Al 3 (Zr, Y), the interface energy fluctuated with changes in the composition and Zr(Y) content at the interface, eventually forming a composite phase shell of Al 3 Y(Zr). The diffusion migration energy for Zr atoms in pure Al was 1.102 eV, and it increased by at least 2% near the Al/Al 3 Sc interface, while it decreased by up to 46.3% near the Al/Al 3 Y interface. The impact of the L1 2 -Al 3 Y(Sc) heterogeneous core on the diffusion ability of Zr atoms is crucial for its influence on the kinetics of Al 3 Zr precipitation. • The nucleation mechanisms of different L12-Al3RE (RE = Sc, Y) precipitates was revealed. • The impact of the L12-Al3Y(Sc) heterogeneous core on the diffusion ability of Zr atoms was revealed. • The formation mechanisms of core-shell and non-core-shell structures were clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the interaction of emulsifiers with fats and proteins during ageing and their impact on interfacial properties and aerated emulsions. The effect of emulsifiers on the thermodynamic properties and crystallization behavior of fats were explored, focusing on crystalline-emulsifier-protein re-equilibrium and changes in the interfacial layer properties during ageing. The associated aerated emulsion qualities were discussed further. First, different emulsifiers changed the composition and properties of the protein layer via competitive adsorption. The stronger adsorption capacity of Tween reduced the interfacial protein concentration by 94.24% to 0.61 mg/m2, displaying a minimum interfacial tension of 4.84 mN/m and a particle size (d4,3) of 1.41 μm. During aging, Tween induced more significant interfacial crystallization, substantially increasing the partial coalescence rate and reducing the aeration time to 61 s. Although glycerol monostearate emulsions retained a higher level of interfacial proteins at 10.51 mg/m2, induced β-polymorphs and intra-droplet crystal networks. This reduced the interfacial layer tension and altered the viscoelastic behavior, which accelerated partial coalescence and aeration (95 s). The protein concentration of the re-equilibrated PL interface layer was significantly reduced, possibly due to 3L crystal growth and skin-like folding disruption. Sucrose esters caused transient nucleation and accelerated the crystallization rates, while the formation of smaller crystallites did not significantly increase the partial coalescence rate. These results suggest that the re-equilibrated interfacial properties after aging better reflect the connection between the emulsifier and the aerated emulsion. This provides an important new perspective for exploring the role of emulsifiers in aerated emulsion systems. [Display omitted] • Fat-emulsifier-protein re-equilibration in the interfacial layer during ageing. • Crystal distribution and morphology affect the structure and properties of the interfacial layer. • Aging decreases β-casein and increases κ-casein in the interfacial layer. • Re-equilibration interfacial layer properties are closely linked to aeration quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the structure, foaming properties, and air-water interfacial behavior of wheat aqueous phase protein (WAP) with different NaCl concentrations were investigated. With the addition of NaCl, the particle size and the β-sheet content increased, indicating the formation of larger aggregates. In the FT-IR spectrum NaCl also increased the peak intensity for WAP, this peak often associated with C-O and C-N stretching vibrations, indicating that NaCl may induce conformational changes, such as protein unfolding. As NaCl concentration increased, the foam capacity of WAP increased from 106.25 ± 1.41% to 142.38 ± 15.73%, while native WAP exhibited higher foam stability. Interfacial adsorption kinetics revealed that NaCl favored WAP adsorption at the air-water interface. The interfacial viscoelasticity modulus of all samples increased over time, forming an interfacial layer primarily characterized by elastic behavior. Native WAP exhibited a stronger viscoelasticity modulus, forming a stable adsorption layer at the air-water interface, which contributed to enhanced foam stability. This study provides valuable insights into the regulation of WAP structure and foaming properties by salt ions, which may offer a new strategy for improving the interfacial properties of wheat-based food products. [Display omitted] • Native wheat aqueous phase proteins (WAP) exhibited a good foam stability. • The addition of NaCl improved the foam capacity of WAP. • NaCl raised diffusion rate and promoted rapid adsorption of WAP at air-water interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Semi-coherent cube-on-cube miscible U–Zr interfaces were studied using molecular dynamics simulations. The misfit accommodation of such semi-coherent phase boundaries was characterized by a two-dimensional dislocation network model utilizing a combination of theoretical predictions and analysis of the atomic system. The dislocation networks were discussed for various stacking orientation of the adjoining phases in terms of the composition of the dislocation sets, the partitioning between edge and screw components and the associated residual elastic fields. These analyses showed that the patterning of the network of dislocations forming these phase boundaries results from the competition between a structurally-driven process (i.e., function of the lattice misfit) and a chemically-driven process (i.e., due to the miscibility between U and Zr). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the natural safety high antimicrobial compounds on egg yolk protein structure and function. Three different concentrations have been evaluated from: trans-cinnamaldehyde, thymol, menthol or vanillin on egg yolk by measuring the antimicrobial activity, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), secondary protein structure, surface hydrophobicity, zeta-potential, foaming and color properties. Results showed that by mixing yolk with 0.1% of thymol and trans-cinnamaldehyde, the antimicrobial activity increased significantly ( P < 0.05) to 92.18 ± 3.26; 98.95 ± 3.16 Inh% against Salmonella typhimurium and 103.30 ± 4.58; 101.34 ± 1.82 Inh% against, E. coli . Also, from the results of FT-IR and Circular dichroism, trans-cinnamaldehyde, thymol and menthol (0.1%) changed yolk α-helix protein significantly (34.00 ± 0.85; 34.05 ± 0.21 and 34.15 ± 0.35) % compared to the control (32.70 ± 0.14) %. Meanwhile, the surface hydrophobicity and foaming capacity increased and zeta-potential decreased significantly as a result of terpene-protein cross-link formation by using these bio-active compounds. However, the foaming stability of trans-cinnamaldehyde (0.1%) decreased significantly after 30 and 60 min. Menthol (0.05, 0.1%) showed the most effects on color properties in which the lightness increased to 83.24 ± 0.27 and 83.67 ± 0.14 compared to the control (80.15 ± 0.44). Therefore, this study is opening new thinking idea about using the bio-active molecules in food hydrocolloidal field for enhancing their health ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of drilling area temperature on the material properties and quality of machined carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. For this purpose, an epoxy resin matrix CFRP composite was chosen and tested under carefully designed temperature-controlled drilling experiments using a climatic chamber. The results show that the optimal range of drilling area temperatures is lower than the lower limit of the glass transition zone temperature (T0) of the CFRP composite and higher than the upper limit for brittle deformation (Tb) of the resin. The reason for this is that when the drilling area temperature is higher than T0, the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) and anti-deformation capacity of the CFRP composite are poor, which leads to surface roughness and a large amount of exit delamination damage. For drilling area temperatures lower than Tb, the CFRP becomes more brittle leading to a substantial increase in drilling thrust force, thereby increasing the probability of exit delamination damage. By solely maintaining the drilling area temperature between T0 and Tb, the interlaminar fracture toughness, anti-deformation capacity, and IFSS of the composite can be increased, thereby decreasing the probability of drilling damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the composition and structure of food emulsions was evaluated from the effect of a mixture of emulsifiers Whey protein (WPI) - Tween 80 (T80) and the oil phase features, such as chain length and unsaturation degree (sunflower oil, a long chain triacylglycerol - LCT or NEOBEE ® 1053, a medium chain triacylglycerol - MCT). Emulsions with LCT showed higher droplet size than MCT as a consequence of its higher viscosity. All emulsions exhibited shear thinning behavior, but the viscosity was influenced by their interface composition. An occurrence of the destabilization mechanism by creaming was observed in turbidimetric measurements, but no visual phase separation could be observed, indicating a good kinetic stability after a 7-day storage. The initial interfacial tension of the water-LCT or water-MCT oil was about 25 mN/m, but the WPI addition (1% w/w) reduced the initial interfacial tension to approximately 20 mN/m. The increase of T80 concentration led to a decrease of the interfacial tension, reaching a value around 10 mN/m in systems with pure T80. The curves of interfacial tension of systems with LCT or MCT showed differences in the decay rate of tension over time. These differences were attributed to characteristics of the oil phase (hydrophobicity, unsaturation degree, presence of impurities) and the different proportions of each emulsifier within the mixture of emulsifiers. Finally, a higher viscoelastic interface was observed in LCT emulsions, which were mainly stabilized by WPI molecules. Such molecules presented a higher resistance to the displacement due to the competitive adsorption phenomenon, since the LCT is a more hydrophobic oil. On the other hand, the interface with MCT and a higher T80 concentration was less viscoelastic due to an easier displacement of WPI from the interface and the replacement by T80. The results indicate that T80 can be used in combination with WPI to produce emulsions with good stability and lower concentration of synthetic compounds. Lastly, the interfacial layer composition is not only dependent on the WPI-T80 ratio in the bulk phase, but also on the oily phase features. These results provide a potential strategy for designing emulsified foods based on the choice of ingredients and knowledge of the interaction between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural capacity of construction joints in concrete bridges, deck and pavements mainly depends on the bond strength between the old substrate and new overlaid concrete. Sometimes, a mismatch in the properties of old and new concrete may lead to early age failure and shortened service life. Since in 3D concrete printing (3DCP), the whole object is made by layer by layer, bond strength is considered as one of the key parameters to ensure stability in the structure. For understanding bond mechanism, it is essential to measure bond strength at the interface between new and old layer and investigate significant parameters affecting this property. In this direction, our current work targets to analyse tensile bond strength of 3D printed geopolymer mortar with respect to printing time gap between layers, nozzle speed and nozzle standoff di stance. A novel formulation of fly ash based geopolymer was made and printed using four-axis automated gantry system. Experimental findings reveal that the bond strength is a function of state of interface material between two nearby layers which can be influenced by material strength development rate and 3D printing parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]