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This study aims to optimize the Pr 2 NiO 4+δ electrode material for increased phase stability at IT-SOFC operating temperatures while maintaining high electrochemical activity. This is achieved by double doping at both Pr and Ni sites. The series of new Pr 1.6 Ca 0.4 Ni 1–y Cu y O 4+δ complex oxides are synthesized by the pyrolysis of the glycerol-nitrate compositions. The resulting materials are extensively studied by room and high-temperature XRD, XPS, TGA, SEM, dilatometry, DC-four probe method, and impedance spectroscopy. The study has registered the formation of the homogeneous complex oxide phases with an orthorhombic structure (Bmab sp. gr.) throughout the dopant concentration range of y = 0.0–0.4. For the Cu-rich samples, an increased Pr4+ content and the presence of Ni2+ and Cu+1 are observed, resulting in a gradual decrease of both the electroconductivity and the absolute oxygen content (δ ∼ 0 at y ≥ 0.2). Nevertheless, the Pr 1.6 Ca 0.4 Ni 1–y Cu y O 4+δ series materials exhibit excellent phase stability and chemical and thermomechanical compatibility with CeO 2 - and BaCe(Zr)O 3 -based electrolytes. Moreover, Cu-doping enhances the electrochemical activity of the electrodes. The polarization resistance of the Pr 1.6 Ca 0.4 Ni 0.8 Cu 0.2 O 4+δ electrode, is in the range of 0.19–0.27 Ω cm2 (at 700 °C) depending on the electrolyte substrate and shows a low dependence on the water content, demonstrating the applicability of the electrode in fuel cells and electrolysis cells based on both oxygen-ion and proton-conducting electrolytes. [Display omitted] • New Pr 1.6 Ca 0.4 Ni 1–y Cu y O 4+δ (y ≤ 0.4) oxides are obtained by glycerol-nitrate pyrolysis. • These oxides exhibit increased phase stability and compatibility with electrolytes. • Double doping maintains satisfactory conductivity level. • Moderate Cu doping enhances electrochemical activity of the electrodes. • Pr 1.6 Ca 0.4 Ni 0.8 Cu 0.2 O 4+δ is a promising candidate for use in IT SOCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pr 2 NiO 4+δ -based materials are considered as promising air electrodes for proton ceramic electrochemical cells due to their wide range of attractive properties. In the present work, the basic functional properties of Pr 2 NiO 4+δ are optimized by substituting Pr-cations with isovalent La- and Nd-ions. The synthesized samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, thermogravimetry in oxidizing and reducing environments, dilatometry, and four-probe conductivity measurements. As a result, the relationships between crystal and defect structures on the one hand and their electrotransport and thermomechanical properties on the other hand are revealed. The PrLaNiO 4+δ , Pr 1.5 La 0.5 NiO 4+δ , and PrLa 0.5 Nd 0.5 NiO 4+δ compositions are stabilized by the large lanthanum cation and do not show the phase transition (from Fmmm to I 4/ mmm space group) typical of the other studied compounds. The conductivity values of the studied materials remain practically unchanged for most of the compositions, but the La-doping reduces the activation energies of hole transfer. Based on the obtained data, two optimal compositions (Pr 1.5 La 0.5 NiO 4+δ and PrLa 0.5 Nd 0.5 NiO 4+δ) can be identified for their further application in electrochemical cells. [Display omitted] • (Pr x La y Nd z)PrNiO 4+δ (x + y + z = 1) are synthesized by citrate-nitrate method. • Doped materials obtained have orthorhombic structure of Pr 2 NiO 4+δ. • Doping with La or Nd results in a decrease of oxygen content of Pr 2 NiO 4+δ. • Nd- and La-doping have the opposite effect on thermal expansion of Pr 2 NiO 4+δ. • Doping with lanthanum reduces the activation energy of hole mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrical conductivity and volt–ampere characteristics (VAC) of the p-CuTlS2 single crystal with specific resistance ρ = 4 0 Ω ⋅ cm and irradiated by γ -quantum were studied in the range of 100–300 K temperature and 10–104 V/cm. It was determined that the cause of the conduction disorder observed in the CuTlS2 single crystal at low electric fields and high radiation doses is the formation of defect clusters dominated by cation vacancies. A sharp increase in current at high electric fields and temperatures occurs as a result of thermo-field ionization of the acceptor level with activation energy Δ E a = 0. 0 8 eV and the ionization voltage decreases with increasing radiation dose. Based on the determination of the parameters (λ , r m , n 0 , ε) that determine the mechanism of current flow, the dependence of the shape of the potential hole on the radiation dose was determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Higher Manganese Silicides (HMS) are the best p-type materials beneficial for intermediate-temperature range thermoelectric device applications due to their high thermal stability and inexpensive constituent elements. Although the cost-effective HMS materials possess high thermal stability, they are concerned with high thermal conductivity values. The nanocomposite approach was promised to lower the thermal transport properties without affecting the electrical transport properties, which is experimented in the present work. The higher manganese silicide with varying weight percentages of nano-structured Si 0.8 Ge 0.2 B 0.02 inclusions was experimented to decrease the thermal conductivity and to enhance the electrical properties. The lowest thermal conductivity value of ≃ 2.24 W/mK was reported with 2 wt% Si 0.8 Ge 0.2 B 0.02 addition in HMS material. Also, the HMS-2 wt. % Si 0.8 Ge 0.2 B 0.02 improved the transport properties, electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient values of ≃ 4 × 104 S/m and ≃ 220 μV/K respectively. Furthermore, various mathematical models were proposed here to simulate the composite approach results, which were then correlated with experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanthanum nickel oxide (LaNiO 3, LNO) films exhibit excellent electrical conductivity but poor mechanical properties, considerably limiting their further development in the field of flexible electronics. In this study, flexible LNO thin films of different thicknesses were fabricated on a unique two-dimensional (2D) mica platform using a simple metal organic deposition technique. The obtained LNO films exhibited a pseudocubic phase without impurities. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) characterisations proved that the films were well-crystallised, dense, and flat, with controllable thickness. In addition, the flexible LNO/mica element possesses low resistivity (5 × 10−4 Ω cm), translucency, and good bending resistance. The electrical resistivity can remain stable under various bending radii (r = 10∼2 mm), thousands of bending cycles, and a wide temperature range (28–200 °C), demonstrating good durability, mechanical stability and temperature resistance. Furthermore, a ferroelectric BiFeO 3 film was constructed based on the obtained conductive LNO electrode, which exhibited typical ferroelectric characteristics. This excellent performance suggests that the flexible LNO electrode is promising for flexible electronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of TiO 2 content on the viscosity, free running temperature, electrical conductivity, crystallization behavior, and structure of high-titanium CaO–SiO 2 -10 wt% MgO-13 wt%Al 2 O 3 –TiO 2 -4 wt.% FeO slag by experiments and molecular dynamics simulations. The results revealed that increasing TiO 2 weakened the overall bonding energy and simplified the slag structure, leading to a decrease in viscosity and an increase in electrical conductivity. Thermodynamic calculations revealed a continuous enrichment of the slag towards the pseudobrookite region with increasing TiO 2 content. The precipitation of pseudobrookite phase during cooling resulted in short-slag characteristics and a rising free running temperature. Additionally, the peak intensity of pseudobrookite phase gradually enhanced and its morphology changed from elongated strips to plates with higher TiO 2 concentration. Structural analysis demonstrated that the poorly stabilized [TiO 6 ] octahedron was the major form of Ti atoms in the slag, and its proportion progressively increased with increasing TiO 2 content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of transparent thermoelectric materials, particularly at low processing temperature possesses a good promise for future power generation by renovating waste heat into electrical energy. The fabrication of invisible thermoelectric module is hindered by limited choices of appropriate p-type transparent thermoelectric materials so far. The present study deals with the growth and characterization of optically transparent p-type copper iodide (γ-CuI) thin films. Thermal annealing (maximum up to 200 °C) was performed to tune the electrical and optoelectronic properties for nurturing the thermoelectric performance. Annealing induced microstructural modifications instigated the preferential crystal growth by regulating the surface morphology. Low thermal conductivity is credited to strong phonon scattering leading to improved thermoelectric performance. Consequently, we attain a record Seebeck coefficient of ∼270 μV/K and power factor of ∼20 μW/(m·K2) that is almost two-order of magnitude higher as compared to conventional p-type transparent TE materials, indicating the potential of transparent γ-CuI thin films regarding its practical applicability in transparent thermoelectric devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing solid-state ionic conductors with desirable charge-transport efficiency and reasonable durability is a fundamental and long-lasting challenge for solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Ceria-based electrolytes, as one of the most common types of electrolytes for intermediate-temperature solid-oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs), offer a high surface-exchange coefficient and faster kinetics in the triple phase boundaries (TPBs); however, they suffer to some extent of electronic conductivity in the reducing atmosphere and gradual phase transitions. Here in this work, we have reported a novel co-doped IT-SOFC electrolyte composite combining the apatite structure of Lanthanum Silicate (LSO) with the fluorite structure of Gadolinium-doped Ceria (GDC), which showed a high ionic conductivity and a minimal electronic leak. The resulting GDC-LSO composite electrolyte also achieved an OCV (open-circuit voltage) of 1 V at 800 °C, implying a significant improvement in the OCV values reported for the typical ceria-based electrolytes (∼0.75 V). The sample was prepared using 40 wt% GDC and 60 wt% LSO (40GDC-60LSO) showed a maximum electrical conductivity of 25 mS cm−1 at 800 °C with good densification properties (>95 % relative density). The cell electrochemical performance measurement was conducted using a 3.0 vol% humified H 2 stream at the anode side while the cathode side was exposed to the air at 800 °C. The interdiffusion of cations between La3+ in the LSO phase and Ce4+ and Gd3+ in the GDC phase was detected by XRD and EDX results after sintering samples at 1500 °C for 4 h using 0.5 wt% PVA or 0.5 wt% Ethyl cellulose (EC) as the binder. The proposed GDC-LSO composite could help better understand the influence of compositional constituents and processing variables on the densification and electrical properties of the electrolyte materials for the IT-SOFCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La10−xNdxSi6O27 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) was synthesized via planetary grinding, and dense ceramic discs were prepared using SPS technology. The structure, microstructure, density, open porosity, total conductivity and electronic conductivity of the samples were measured and analyzed, respectively. La10−xNdxSi6O27 is characterized by a hexagonal apatite structure. The elements in the sample are distributed in a uniform manner and the content is consistent with the stoichiometry. The total conductivity of La10−xNdxSi6O27 exhibits an increase with the incorporation of Nd3+ content in the doped samples of x = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3. The total conductivity of La9.7Nd0.3Si6O27 is the highest, reaching 5.39 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 850 °C. The electron mobility of the sample is less than 1%, which is suitable for use as a solid electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we thoroughly explored the thermal transport and thermoelectric properties of BN-co-doped phagraphene structures in the context of first-principles computations combined with machine learning interatomic potential (MLIP) techniques. Our results demonstrate that doping positions can critically tune the thermal properties, offering potential advantages for both thermoelectric and heat transfer applications. Notably, enhanced thermal conductivity has been obtained for phagraphene with 10 % co-doping. Additionally, the rectangular structural symmetry of phagraphene plays an important role for targeted thermal transport. Further, we observe negative Grüneisen parameter in these structures, suggesting negative thermal expansion. This will serves as an unique mechanism for controlling the thermal conductivity at different frequencies. Interestingly, n-type behavior of the structures is indicative of its negative Seebeck coefficient within the temperature range of 300–900 K. Moreover, these structures display significantly larger electrical conductivity compared to other two-dimensional (2D) materials. Apart from that, the calculated figure of merit of the structures under a constant relaxation time at 300 K shows considerably better response for some specific doped structures. We believe this study will play an important role in understanding the importance of structural modifications in tailoring the thermal properties of carbon-based 2D systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using the density functional theory (DFT) in combination with Boltzmann transport theory, the influence of Mg concentrations (x) doping on the thermoelectric properties of Hg 1 − x MgxSe ternary alloys was systematically investigated. The generalized gradient approximations of Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof (GGA-PBE) have been used to illustrate the exchange correlation potential. The thermodynamic stability of the studied compounds was analyzed in terms of formation energy. Various thermoelectric transport parameters, such as the Seebeck coefficient (S), the thermal conductivity over relaxation time (k/ τ), the electrical conductivity over relaxation time (σ / τ), the power factor (PF) and the figure of merit (ZT) have been deduced and discussed. The obtained results of thermoelectric properties show that the studied materials can be useful for thermoelectric devices at room temperature. It can also be seen that Mg concentrations can increase the thermal efficiency of the HgSe alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing novel anodes with outstanding fast‐charging properties is crucial for next‐generation energy storage research. Sb2S3 materials are deemed promising electrodes due to their high theoretical specific capacity. However, they are restricted by sluggish bulk‐phase kinetics, bringing about inferior electronic conductivity at high current density. In this work, the cable‐like SS@C‐x anodes are successfully prepared via the thermal‐chemical treatment method. Through the tailoring of habit modifiers, their unique core–shell architectures are induced with (hk1) preferential planes and the construction of S‐defects, accompanied by lowered energy barriers. Meanwhile, assisted by C─S and C─O─Sb bonds, the charge accumulation on the surface can be rapidly released toward the bulk phase. As expected, for the as‐optimized samples, the capacity of 603.7 mAh g−1 can remain after 100 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. Even at 10.0 A g−1, their superior capacity of 436.1 mAh g−1 can be noted, and it still displayed the reversible capacity of 479 mAh g−1 at −5 °C. Assisted by kinetic analysis, the great electrochemical properties mainly come from the reduced migration energy barriers and accelerated Li+ diffusion rates. Given this, the work is expected to shed light on crystal orientation tuning and defect engineering for advanced metal‐based energy storage materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrification of automotive is growing rapidly, resulting in an increased need for aluminum alloys with high electrical conductivity. The core element of the electric vehicle, besides the batteries, is an electric motor, which replaces the internal combustion engines of a traditional gasoline vehicle. These applications require both high strength and high electrical conductivity. This paper presents the development of a new Al-Fe-Ni aluminum alloy that provides a good combination of mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. The alloy is well suited for high-pressure vacuum die casting (HPVDC). The as-cast microstructures, mechanical properties and electrical conductivity were studied for alloys with different Fe/Ni combination. The relationship between the microstructure and properties is analyzed, and the strengthening mechanisms of the studied alloy are discussed. Based on the experimental results, the new alloy demonstrates excellent potential for electric vehicle applications produced by high-pressure vacuum die casting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit large surface areas and low thermal conductivity, making them promising for thermoelectric generation. However, their limited electrical conductivity poses a significant hurdle to be practically useful. Traditionally, enhancing the electrical conductivity of MOFs typically comes at the cost of reducing surface area, thereby increasing thermal conductivity. This study introduces an approach to simultaneously boost the electrical conductivity and porosity of a MOF‐based material while maintaining remarkably low thermal conductivity. The electrically conductive poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is deployed to nucleate the growth of Cu3(BTC)2 (or simply CuBTC, where BTC = benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxylic acid), resulting in the synthesis of composites labeled CPP‐y (where y denotes wt% PEDOT:PSS). Predictably, the CPP‐y composites are more electrically conductive than pure CuBTC, achieving an electrical conductivity exceeding 1.40 S cm−1 at room temperature. Furthermore, the CPP‐y composites exhibit consistently high Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface areas of ≈1600 m2 g−1, comparable to pristine CuBTC, while maintaining thermal conductivities below 0.04 W m−1 K−1 at room temperature. With a high Seebeck coefficient in the range 180–373 µV K−1, CPP‐15 and CPP‐23 demonstrate a figure‐of‐merit (zT) of 0.25 and 0.11, respectively, at 285 K, marking a substantial achievement for MOF‐based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The present work deals with the Argon (Ar) Thermal plasma‐induced surface modification of Cu and its correlation with the electrical and field emission (FE) properties. Polycrystalline Cu targets were treated with Ar thermal plasma under atmospheric pressure at different treatment times ranging from 5 min to 30 min. XRD patterns revealed the absence of new phase in treated samples. However, significant variation in peak intensities and shifting is observed, which is explained on the basis of thermal plasma ions induced defect generation and annihilation processes. The electrical conductivity of processed Cu targets measured by four‐probe method ranges from 1.9 MS/m to 70 MS/m and is well correlated with the crystallite size variation. Surface modification induced work function alternations investigated by employing Scanning Kelvin Probe (SKP) technique are in the range of 4.69 eV 4.97 eV. The irradiated morphology explored by optical and scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed the formation of localized melt pools, grains, hillocks, spheroids, and sputtered patches, which are explainable on the basis of Coulomb's explosion, thermal spike model, plasma‐induced sputtering, and re‐deposition. FE properties of thermal plasma‐treated Cu are measured in diode configuration by measuring I‐V characteristics of target under ultra‐high vacuum condition. The improved FE parameters such as turn‐on field (Eo), field enhancement factor (β), and maximum current density (Jmax) come out to be in the range of 3–7.5 V/μm, 1715–3223, and 284–872 nA/cm2, respectively and their correlation with plasma‐induced surface structural, morphological and work function modifications is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer composites containing poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and barium titanate (BaTiO3) were synthesized using the solution mixing method. The electrical conductivity of PMMA is 6 × 10−9 S/cm, and adding 2% fillers reduces to 5 × 10−9 S/cm. The melting point of PMMA is 373 °C, and adding 2% and 4% fillers increased it to 376 °C and 379 °C, respectively. The polymer chains become less mobile and block macromolecules on the filler surface. The modulus of elasticity and mechanical tensile stress of the polymer composites with a 5-wt% of BaTiO3 are 759.3 MPa and 75.6 MPa, respectively. The breakdown strength of PMMA is 203 KV and reduces with the addition of 5% filler to 144 KV. The values of Ec/Em evaluated using the Tsai-Pagano, Christensen-Waals, ROM, Mori-Tanaka, and Halpin-Tsai models underpredict the modulus compared to experimental Ec/Em values. Fourier spectroscopy confirmed the presence of Ti-O and BaTiO3 bonds in the polymer composite. Scanning electron microscope images reveal spherical aggregates of BaTiO3 coated with PMMA and an interparticle network. The dielectric constant of PMMA is 3 and increased with the addition of 2% and 4% fillers to 4 and 4.3, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallo‐supramolecular cages have garnered tremendous attention for their diverse yet molecular‐level precision structures. However, the physical properties of these supramolecular ensembles, which are of potential significance in molecular electronics, remain largely unexplored. We herein constructed a series of octahedral metallo‐cages and cage‐fullerene complexes with notably enhanced structural stability. As such, we could systematically evaluate the electrical conductivity of these ensembles at both the single‐molecule level and aggregated bulk state (as well‐defined films). Our findings reveal that counteranions and fullerene guests play a pivotal role in determining the electrical conductivity of the aggregated state, while such effects are less significant for single‐molecule conductance. Both the counteranions and fullerenes effectively tune the electronic structures and packing density of metallo‐supramolecular assemblies, and facilitate efficient charge transfer between the cage hosts and fullerenes, resulting in a notable one order of magnitude increase in the electrical conductivity of the aggregated state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving high electrical conductivity (σ) and power factor (PF) simultaneously remains a significant challenge for n‐type organic themoelectrics (OTEs). Herein, we demonstrate the state‐of‐the‐art OTEs performance through blending a fused bithiophene imide dimer‐based polymer f‐BTI2g‐SVSCN and its selenophene‐substituted analogue f‐BSeI2g‐SVSCN with a julolidine‐functionalized benzimidazoline n‐dopant JLBI, vis‐à‐vis when blended with commercially available n‐dopants TAM and N‐DMBI. The advantages of introducing a more lipophilic julolidine group into the dopant structure of JLBI are evidenced by the enhanced OTEs performance that JLBI‐doped films show when compared to those doped with N‐DMBI or TAM. In fact, thanks to the enhanced intermolecular interactions and the lower‐lying LUMO level enabled by the increase of selenophene content in polymer backbone, JLBI‐doped films of f‐BSeI2g‐SVSCN exhibit a unprecedent σ of 206 S cm−1 and a PF of 114 μW m−1 K−2. Interestingly, σ can be further enhanced up to 326 S cm−1 by using TAM dopant as a consequence of its favorable diffusion behavior into densely packed crystalline domains. These values are the highest to date for solution‐processed molecularly n‐doped polymers, demonstrating the effectiveness of the polymer‐dopant matching approach carried out in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the influence of an electromagnetic field on the surface of an elastic semiconductor material in a scenario where deformation occurs in just one dimension. The problem is solved by employing the two-temperature theory to examine the interactions between plasma and thermoelastic waves in a generalized thermoelastic half-space. The study examines the impacts of changing thermal and electrical conductivity. We examine the influence of the initial hydrostatic stress and a small mechanical strain on a photothermal transfer mechanism. The Laplace transform (LT) technique is employed to compute the constitutive relationships, governing equations, and various parameters of the thermo-electro-magnetic medium. To determine the principal physical parameters in the Laplace domain, the interface close to the vacuum is subjected to mechanical forces, temperature constraints, and plasma boundary conditions. The numerical method is employed to inverse the LT and offer comprehensive solutions in the time domain for the primarily investigated physical phenomena. We have performed a visual examination of how the thermoelectric and thermoelastic properties, as well as two-temperature variables of the applied force, affect the distributions of carrier density, force stress, temperature, and displacement components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted to investigate suitable irrigation methods for cultivating four types of vegetable crops in sodic soil with alkaline irrigation water. The experiment employed a split-plot design, with drip, sprinkler, and furrow irrigation methods applied to main plots, while the cultivation of cluster beans, bhendi, vegetable cowpeas, and onions took place in subplots. Both drip and sprinkler irrigations proved more efficient than furrow irrigation, resulting in significant yield increases. Specifically, drip irrigation led to yields of 4120, 5160, 9264, and 4019 kg ha−1 for cluster beans, bhendi, vegetable cowpeas, and onions, respectively, in sodic soil with alkaline irrigation water. This represented a yield increase of 43%, 34%, 71%, and 49%, respectively, compared to furrow irrigation. Post-harvest soil samples were collected and analyzed to assess the impact of irrigation methods on soil sodicity, revealing substantial reductions in electrical conductivity and exchangeable sodium percentage with drip irrigation. Additionally, drip irrigation was found to be effective in mitigating soil sodicity compared to sprinkler and furrow irrigation methods. The study also identified sodicity build-up as a critical factor influencing soil microbial populations and enzyme activities in sodic soil and alkaline irrigation water environments. Consequently, based on these findings, drip irrigation is recommended as the preferred method for cultivating vegetable crops in such environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a method of microwave influence on ferrocene C10H10Fe and graphite to obtain multilayer carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)—designed to improve the electrical and thermophysical properties of Organosilicon elastomer (Silagerm 8020). Diagnostics and characterization of the synthesized MWCNTs were carried out by energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy. According to SEM data, it follows that the morphology of the synthesized MWCNTs has the form of filamentous formations intertwined in bundles with a diameter of individual MWCNTs from 40 to 60 nm and a length up to several microns. At the same time, the surface of most of the MWCNTs is covered with a continuous layer of iron (Fe). The EDX method also confirmed the Fe and oxygen content on the surface of the MWCNTs. The XRD method identified the presence of Fe in combination with carbon in the form of Fe3C iron carbide and pure Fe iron at 44.7°. The compound Fe3C is also referred to the active phase of Fe allowing the synthesis of MWCNTs. By increasing the concentration of MWCNTs in the elastomer, an increase in thermal conductivity with percolation transition was achieved at a concentration of 8% MWCNTs. The maximum thermal conductivity of the nanomodified elastomer was 0.48 W/(m °C), which corresponded to the mass concentration of MWCNTs equal to 8 wt %. At the same time, the electrical conductivity of the composite, when the MWCNT concentration was changed from 1 to 8%, increased in the range from 4 × 10–5 to 2.4 S cm–1 and is also due to the percolation of MWCNTs in the elastomer matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract—An original technique for modifying graphene oxide with iodine has been developed. It is shown that, when graphene oxide is treated with iodine, oxygen-containing groups are removed from the surface of graphene planes, which improves the electrically conductive properties of the material. The change in the structure and electrical conductivity of the modified graphene oxide, depending on the concentration of iodine, has been studied. According to Raman spectroscopy data, it can be seen that the composition of the modified materials includes molecular complexes of iodine and . Changes in the structure of the crystal lattice of iodine-modified graphene oxide films were studied using X-ray diffraction analysis. According to IR spectroscopy, the effect of iodination on the change in the qualitative composition of functional groups in the material was analyzed. The specific electrical conductivity of graphene oxide as a result of modification increases from 9.6 × 10–10 S/cm for the original material to 3.3 × 10–7 S/cm for the material treated with an isopropanol solution containing 1 wt % I2 relative to dry graphene oxide. The additionally modified films were heat treated at 80°C for 2 h. The resulting changes in the structure of the material are analyzed and an increase in electrical conductivity by one or two orders of magnitude is shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calender process is important to improve the mechanical and electrochemical properties of cathode materials. To explore pressure effect on structure and resistance of electrode powder, the morphology and surface area of lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) powder under different pressure are investigated. Meanwhile, the real‐time stress, density, and conductivity of LCO powder upon compaction are tested by a self‐made detection system. Moreover, the battery performance of LCO powder after compaction is compared in coin cells. This work elucidates the relationship between compaction density, powder resistance, and electrochemical performance of cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demands of next-generation transportation such as electric and hybrid vehicles as well as computing and renewable energy applications require new alloys with high castability, high electrical and thermal conductivity, and moderate strength. Aluminum and Mg alloys offer respectable electrical and thermal conductivity with high specific properties unlike Cu and precious metals. However, traditional light alloy systems rely on significant alloying content for solid solution strengthening and to generate short freezing ranges for high castability that is associated with a large decrease to electrical and thermal conductivity. Aluminum alloys based on transition metal and rare earth additions (Fe, Ni, Co and Ce) as well as Mg alloys with additions of Zn, Ca and Ce are potential highly castable alloys with high electrical and thermal conductivity. These new conductive light alloys rely on alloy additions that have low solid solubility but provide short freezing ranges. Results indicate that these Al and Mg alloys can have electrical conductivities ~ 80% of their pure counterparts and castability similar to traditional cast Al–Si and Mg–Al alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is found that ester introduction into imidazolium or pyridinium cations can significantly improve the biodegradability property of ionic liquids and also influence the viscosity and the toxicity of ionic liquids. Ionic liquids based on dicyanamide anion reveal good electrochemical properties. Four chloride and dicyanamide ionic liquids with ester groups were prepared, and the effect of anion and cation structure of ionic liquids on electrical conductivity/electrochemical stability window was discussed from experimental studies and density functional theory (DFT) simulations. The introduction of the ester group in imidazolium cation decreased the refractive index and electrical conductivity, while increasing the electrochemical stability window of ionic liquids. The refractive index, electrical conductivity, and electrochemical stability window values decreased with the increase of the alkyl chain length of the ester group from ethyl to butyl. The refractive index values of chloride imidazolium ionic liquids were higher than those of dicyanamide ionic liquids, while the electrical conductivity and electrochemical stability window values of dicyanamide ionic liquids were much higher than those of chloride ionic liquids. DFT simulations revealed that ester introduction in imidazolium cation decreased the average hydrogen bond length and increased the cation–anion interaction. The average hydrogen bond length of chloride and dicyanamide ionic liquids increased with the increase of the alkyl chain length of the ester group from ethyl to butyl, while the absolute interaction energy (ΔE) of chlorine and dicyanamide ionic liquids decreased with the increase of the alkyl chain length of the ester group from ethyl to butyl. DFT simulations demonstrated that ionic liquid structure (ester chain length and anion) was closely related to the electrical conductivity and electrochemical stability window properties of ionic liquids. These results will shed light on the design and optimization of functional ionic liquids as electrolytes for renewable energy and energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the Gowanus Canal Superfund site in Brooklyn, New York, a multilayer reactive capping system is required as part of the approved remedy. The base reactive layer is an organoclay (OC)–sand layer containing a minimum of 25% by dry weight OC that is intended to block any upwelling mobile nonaqueous phase liquids (NAPLs). The construction quality assurance (CQA) method for verifying the OC content of the OC–sand stockpiles prior to placement in the canal consists of Loss on Ignition (LOI) testing performed at an offsite laboratory with a turnaround time of 3 days. To mitigate construction delays, rapid field testing methods to verify the OC content of the OC–sand blends were sought. Interestingly, electrical conductivity (EC) measurements on the as-is (not sieved or pulverized) OC, sand, and their blends provided several correlations with goodness of fit (R2) values >0.95 for a variety of sand-sized materials including: a commercial playground sand, beach sand, a limestone quarry sourced sand, and the sediment capping sand from the first Remedial Target Area (RTA-1) at the Gowanus Canal. The correlation curves and R2 values were relatively insensitive to change in the sand borrow source (silicate or karst geology or salinity). EC measurements were available in as little as 30 min and up to approximately 24 h using a tabletop pH/EC probe, distilled water, beaker, and magnetic stirrer. The EC approach and preliminary correlations presented here can greatly reduce CQA testing turnaround times to within hours (not days) in field settings. Lastly, similar findings were made when another commercially modified bentonite clay known as Fluorosorb-400™ was blended with playground sand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present an investigation of ultrasonic welding performance for 25 mm2 copper wire and T2 copper plate across various welding parameters using orthogonal experimentation. The objective of this work was to explore the influence of operational parameters on the resulting welds. A comprehensive study of the mechanical properties and microstructure of the copper wire-to-copper plate joint was carried out using a series of sophisticated instruments. It includes a universal tensile machine, resistance measuring equipment, SEM, EDS and temperature measuring tool. This multifaceted approach enabled a detailed analysis of the joint's integral features and properties. This provides further insight into its performance and durability. Findings indicate that welding pressure has the most significant effect on welded joints. The optimal combination of parameters is achieved with the welding energy set at 6000 J, the welding amplitude at 85% and the welding pressure at 260 kPa. In different sets of welding parameters, joint strength is positively related to welding parameters and increases with increasing welding parameters. Joint resistance decreases with increasing joint tensile load and conductivity can be used to evaluate ultrasonic welding. It has been found that the development of the welded joint is achieved gradually in a direction moving inwards from the welding tool head, exhibiting a methodical forming process. Three distinct failure modes are observed in welded joints such as joint pullout, joint tearing and busbar breakage. The peak temperature during the welding process was recorded at 373 °C which indicates that the ultrasonic welding is a solid state connection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the problem of Cu-Zn electrode batteries with NaCl electrolyte. Previous studies have indicated problems with the electrolyte and electrodes after charging, such as turbidity and deposits in the electrolyte, as well as corrosion on the electrodes. Consequently, the battery can only be used once due to a decline in its electrical characteristics after the initial charging. Through this research, improvements were made to the electrical characteristics of the battery by adding Na-EDTA to enhance usage efficiency. The research method involved mixing NaCl solution with the highest electrical conductivity, using six pairs of Cu-Zn electrodes arranged in series. The physical conditions of the electrolyte and electrodes were observed, and electrical characteristics were measured. The research results indicate that the use of NaCl+Na-EDTA electrolyte produces a battery voltage of 4.20 volts with a current of 2 Ah and can be used twice. Charging with solar panels can be done in 1 hour, but the frequency is limited to two times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to develop wearable, electrically conductive hygienic electrodes and their use for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) application. The development of electrodes was done in two stages. Firstly, the dispersion of conductive activated carbon particles was done into flexible elastomer followed by its silver electroplating. The Orthogonal Array Testing (OATS) technique was used to optimize the silver-plating recipe. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed the impact of activated carbon by increase in intensity of stretching bands. To improve electrode properties in response to various human body movements, resistivity changes due to stretching and repeated extension were tested on conductive elastomers. Increasing the extension degree allowed a very minute change in electrical resistivity. Therefore, the resistivity can be considered almost constant within the 0-60 % stretch range. While, a notable increase in electrical resistivity was observed after 70 % of stretch. However, the resistivity of elastomers remained stable even after repetitive extension (for over 100 cycles). Conversely, no significant change in resistivity was observed over time when subjected to a constant current. Furthermore, to minimize the effect of skin electrode resistivity during electrotherapy, the range of different pressure was applied over the surface of electrodes. Minimum value of resistivity about 1 Ω.mm was obtained at 6 N/cm2 of applied pressure. Additionally, hygienic properties, such as antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal were examined using different pathogens to assess the impact of the deposited silver particles. In the end, the durability of electrodes against washing and rubbing was confirmed. The potential applications of prepared electrodes are in the field of electrostimulation and electrotherapy etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigate the EMI SE (Electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness) of novel multifunctional polymer hybrids in the X-band and Ku-band frequencies. Magnetite nanoparticles were synthesized via wet chemical reduction and nanographene was synthesized through chemical exfoliation combined with microwave treatment. Nine different composites were prepared with varying weight ratios of graphene and magnetite. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed their structural and morphological properties. SEM analysis revealed magnetite particle sizes ranging from 10.05 nm to 29.8 nm. Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) analysis indicated that the magnetite nanoparticles exhibit super paramagnetic behavior with a magnetic anisotropy constant (K) of approximately 63.9375 × 106 J/m3. Impedance analysis, permittivity and permeability measurements showed frequency-dependent behaviors, with interfacial polarization effects due to magnetite agglomeration. The highest conductivity, observed in the 50:5:37.5:7.5 hybrid, peaked at 8 S/cm at lower frequencies. The 50:5:37.5:7.5 hybrid demonstrated the highest EMI SE of 50.08 dB (99.999019% suppression) in the X-band, which is suitable for advanced EMI-shielding applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the impact of exposing the perovskite compound Pr0.5Sr0.5MnO3 to oxygen plasma is explored by comparing the structural and transport properties of the exposed samples to those of the unexposed ones. The Pr is oxidized to PrO2 in the investigated samples due to plasma exposure. The alterations in the transport properties can be linked to the changes in MnOMn bond angle and MnO bond length due to plasma exposure, as indicated by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Additionally, exposure to oxygen plasma increases the conductivity by incorporating oxygen into the exposed samples, making them oxygen‐rich. Detailed analysis of the resistivity and thermoelectric power data indicates that small polarons are responsible for conduction at high temperatures, while at low temperatures, variable range polarons take over. The negative value of the thermopower at all temperatures proclaims that the electrons behave as the dominant charge carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical conductivity is a pivotal biophysical factor for neural interfaces, though optimal values remain controversial due to challenges isolating this cue. To address this issue, conductive substrates made of carbon nanotubes and graphene oxide nanoribbons, exhibiting a spectrum of conductivities from 0.02 to 3.2 S m−1, while controlling other surface properties is designed. The focus is to ascertain whether varying conductivity in isolation has any discernable impact on neural lineage specification. Remarkably, neural‐tissue‐like low conductivity (0.02–0.1 S m−1) prompted neural stem/progenitor cells to exhibit a greater propensity toward neuronal lineage specification (neurons and oligodendrocytes, not astrocytes) compared to high supraphysiological conductivity (3.2 S m−1). High conductivity instigated the apoptotic process, characterized by increased apoptotic fraction and decreased neurogenic morphological features, primarily due to calcium overload. Conversely, cells exposed to physiological conductivity displayed epigenetic changes, specifically increased chromatin openness with H3acetylation (H3ac) and neurogenic‐transcription‐factor activation, along with a more balanced intracellular calcium response. The pharmacological inhibition of H3ac further supported the idea that such epigenetic changes might play a key role in driving neuronal specification in response to neural‐tissue‐like, not supraphysiological, conductive cues. These findings underscore the necessity of optimal conductivity when designing neural interfaces and scaffolds to stimulate neuronal differentiation and facilitate the repair process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic–inorganic hybrid thermoelectric (TE) materials have attracted tremendous interest for harvesting waste heat energy. Due to their mechanical flexibility, inorganic‐organic hybrid TE materials are considered to be promising candidates for flexible energy harvesting devices. In this work, enhanced TE properties of Tellurium (Te) nanowires (NWs)‐ poly (3‐hexylthiophene‐2, 5‐diyl) (P3HT) hybrid materials are reported by improving the charge transport at interfacial layer mediated via controlled oxidation. A power factor of ≈9.8 µW (mK2)−1 is obtained at room temperature for oxidized P3HT‐TeNWs hybrid materials, which increases to ≈64.8 µW (mK2)−1 upon control of TeNWs oxidation. This value is sevenfold higher compared to P3HT‐TeNWs‐based hybrid materials reported in the literature. MD simulation reveals that oxidation‐free TeNWs demonstrate better templating for P3HT polymer compared to oxidized TeNWs. The Kang–Snyder model is used to study the charge transport in these hybrid materials. A large σE0 value is obtained which is related to better templating of P3HT on oxygen‐free TeNWs. This work provides evidence that oxidation control of TeNWs is critical for better interface‐driven charge transport, which enhances the thermoelectric properties of TeNWs‐P3HT hybrid materials. This work provides a new avenue to improve the thermoelectric properties of a new class of hybrid thermoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most oxidation studies involving interconnects are conducted in air under isothermal conditions, but during real-life solid oxide cell (SOC) operation, cells are also exposed a mixture of hydrogen and water vapor. For this study, an Fe–16Cr low-chromium ferritic stainless steel was coated with different reactive element oxides – Gd 2 O 3 , CeO 2 , Ce 0.9 Y 0.1 O 2 – using an array of methods: dip coating, electrodeposition and spray pyrolysis. The samples underwent oxidation experiments carried out over 100 h in three different atmospheres at 800 °C: air, an air/H 2 O mixture, and an Ar/H 2 /H 2 O mixture. The influence of different atmospheres on the corrosion of the Fe–16Cr steel was determined via oxidation kinetics studies; the corrosion product was evaluated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and area-specific resistance (ASR) measurements. All coated samples exhibited lower parabolic oxidation rate constants than bare steel and most also had lower ASR. The applied modifications were found to be sufficiently effective to allow the investigated low-chromium steel to be considered for application as an interconnect material for SOCs. [Display omitted] • Gd 2 O 3 -based thin layers improved corrosion resistance for all oxidation atmospheres. • Under some conditions RE perovskite phases were formed. • The thinnest scale was observed after oxidation in H 2 –H 2 O atmosphere. • Gd 2 O 3 -based thin layers significantly reduced ASR for all oxidation atmospheres. • Addition of Y to CeO 2 improves its electrical conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for polymer composites with improved mechanical and electrical properties is crucial for advanced aerospace, electronics, and energy storage applications. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles are key fillers that enhance these properties, yet challenges like orientation, uniform dispersion, and agglomeration must be addressed to realize their full potential. This study focuses on developing SWCNTs/Fe3O4 epoxy composites by keeping the SWCNT concentration constant at 0.03 Vol.% and varying with Fe3O4 concentrations at 0.1, 0.5, and 1 Vol.% for two different configurations: randomly orientated (R-) and magnetic field-assisted horizontally aligned (A-) SWCNTs/Fe3O4 epoxy composites, and investigates the effects of filler concentration, dispersion, and magnetic alignment on the mechanical and electrical properties. The research reveals that both composite configurations achieve an optimal mechanical performance at 0.5 Vol.% Fe3O4, while A- SWCNTs/Fe3O4 epoxy composites outperformed at all concentrations. However, at 1 Vol.% Fe3O4, mechanical properties decline due to nanoparticle agglomeration, which disrupts stress distribution. In contrast, electrical conductivity peaks at 1 Vol.% Fe3O4, indicating that the higher density of Fe3O4 nanoparticles enhances the conductive network despite the mechanical losses. This study highlights the need for precise control over filler content and alignment to optimize mechanical strength and electrical conductivity in SWCNTs/Fe3O4 epoxy nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, forming limit diagrams (FLDs), fracture toughness (FT), mechanical, magnetic, and electro-physical properties of Al/Fe2O3 composites have been investigated experimentally. Accumulative-roll-bonding (ARB) process was used to manufacture composite samples. Then, Al/Fe2O3 composites have been produced at 300∘C up to eight ARB passes. Also, magnetic composites have been fabricated with 0, 5% and 10wt.% of particles. The interlayer bonding quality was improved at higher passes. By studying the SEM rapture morphology, it was shown that the rapture mode changed to shear ductile for samples with more passes. For composite samples fabricated at higher passes and in comparison with the annealed sample, elongated dimples were turned to shallow dimples. FLDs area as the main forming criterion dropped severely after pass one and then began to improve at higher passes. Fracture test results showed that after the 8th pass, the value of FT improved gradually to the maximum value of 34.3MPam1∕2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dislocations in oxide ceramics significantly influence their physical properties by creating substantial local strain fields, new electronic states, and space‐charge layers. In this study, we investigated the effects of mechanically introduced dislocations on the electrical conductivity of BaTiO3 single crystals. High‐temperature plastic deformation was employed to introduce a high dislocation density with a {100}〈100〉 slip system. Impedance measurements revealed a significant anisotropy in the conductivity due to the presence of oriented dislocation structures. The crystals with dislocation lines aligned parallel to the measurement axis ([001] crystallographic direction) exhibited 16‐fold higher conductivity compared to those measured across the dislocations. Compared to the pristine crystals, this means an increase in conductivity when the measurements were carried out parallel to dislocation lines and a decrease in perpendicular measurements. Our study demonstrates that not only ferroelectric properties but also charge transport can be modified by dislocation introduction in BaTiO3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study the authors' main goal is to avoid the corrosive attack of the chloride ions of 3.5% NaCl solution in saline medium on the mild steel (MS), by addition of small amount of a new derivative of the hydrazide called ligand (HL), as a corrosion inhibitor. This study had been achieved by employing different electrochemical measurements such as, open circuit potential (OCP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentio-dynamic polarization (PDP) methods. The results of the electrochemical test (OCP), showed that, the open circuit potential of the mild steel in saline solution, was guided to more positive direction in presence of the ligand (HL), at its ideal concentration (1 × 10−3 M), compared to the (OCP), of the mild steel in absence of (HL). The results of the electrochemical methods, EIS and PDP presented that, the ligand (HL), was acted as a good corrosion inhibitor for hindering the corrosion process of the mild steel in 3.5% sodium chloride, as it was recorded a good percentage of the inhibition efficiency (77.45%, 53.41%, by EIS and PDP techniques respectively), at its optimum concentration (1 × 10−3 M). Also, the corrosion rate of the mild steel in the saline medium without (HL), was listed about (0.0017 mm/year), while in existence of (HL), was decreased to a value about (0.00061 mm/year). As well, some of electrical properties of (HL), and its derivative [Pd(II), Cr(III), and Ru(III)], complexes were investigated such as; the activation energy (Ea(ac)), which recorded values in the range of 0.02–0.44 (eV) range and electrical conductivity which listed values at room temperature in the range of 10−5–10−8 S.cm−1. The results of the AC and DC electrical conductivity measurements for (HL), and its derivative [Pd(II), Cr(III) and Ru(III)] complexes indicate semiconducting nature which suggests that these compounds could be used in electronic devices. Also, the complexes exhibited higher conductivity values than (HL). Photophysical studies showed good florescence properties of HL that indicated that it can be used to determine most of the drugs with no fluorescence properties by quenching and calculating quantum yield. Moreover, the hydrazide ligand (HL), has shown selectivity as an active anticancer candidate drug for both breast and colon cancer in humans. Density function theory demonstrated that, the frontier molecular orbital HOMOs of the complexes have exhibited similar behavior and the charge density has localized in the metallic region of all the studied complexes. Also, the values of the energy gap of the ligand (HL), and its complexes Pd(II), Cr(III) and Ru(III), had been arranged in this order HL > Cr(III) > Ru(III) > Pd(II). All characterization using different spectroscopic techniques were reported to elucidate the proposed structures such as; thermal analysis, elemental analysis of C, H, and N atoms, spectral analysis using IR, UV, 1H NMR techniques, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary challenge in utilizing Ru/Ir-based materials as oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts is their high cost and insufficient durability. Finding cheap and robust materials to replace them has become a current research trend. Herein, a one-step hydrothermal method was applied to synthesize 3D structured nanospheres of Mn-(OH)2-modified nickel–hydrogen carbonate oxides (NxM10–xCH) by using a nickel foam (NF) conductive substrate. Microstructure and surface state measurements showed that the presence of polyvalent Mn increased the oxygen vacancy and lamella of NMCH, which played an important role in activity site and durability enhancement. The electrochemical results show that OER activity and durability of NMCH are heavily dependent on the Mn content, which not only optimizes the initial electronic structure, obtaining an OER overpotential of 282 mV to drive 10 mA cm–2, but also stabilizes the microstructure, obtaining a long-term OER operation of 40 000 s with just 6.63% activity loss. More importantly, the graded potential measurements show that the presence of Mn is beneficial to enhance the durability of NMCH on a high loading potential, which is 1.5 times higher than that of NiMn-LDH. According to the results of our research and testing, NMCH would be a potential option for the OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of dipoles on gold nanoparticle surfaces provides the formation of chain-like nanoparticle assemblies in solution under ambient conditions. Here, we present studies on influencing and controlling the strength of the induced dipole by thiols. Aromatic thiols lead to enhanced surface dipoles, where electron-donating functions can further increase the interaction. Thereby, particle–particle distances and chemical environment at the particle interface were manipulated, which resulted in different tunneling resistances Rg in these 1D structures. Here, Rg seemed to be mostly dominated by the interparticle distance rather than the type of ligand. Temperature-dependent current–voltage measurements of thiol-bearing nanoparticle chains revealed two different transport mechanisms. For temperatures <170 K, a thermally activated electron tunneling takes place, which depends on the charging energy Ec. Whereas for higher temperatures, a transition to an electron hopping process occurs determined by the involved thiol and nanoparticle shape. For structures with strong interparticle electronic coupling, the conduction mechanism is almost temperature-independent, which makes them promising candidates for highly sensitive chemiresistor sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bipolar plate (BPP) is a crucial component of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). However, the weight of BPPs can account for around 80% of a PEMFC stack, posing a hindrance to the commercialization of PEMFCs. Therefore, the lightweight design of BPPs should be considered as a priority. Honeycomb sandwich structures meet some requirements for bipolar plates, such as high mechanical strength and lightweight. Animals and plants in nature provide many excellent structures with characteristics such as low density and high energy absorption capacity. In this work, inspired by the microstructures of the Cybister elytra, a novel bio-inspired vertical honeycomb sandwich (BVHS) structure was designed and manufactured by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) for the application of lightweight BPPs. Compared with the conventional vertical honeycomb sandwich (CVHS) structure formed by LPBF under the same process parameters setting, the introduction of fractal thin walls enabled self-supporting and thus improved LPBF formability. In addition, the BVHS structure exhibited superior energy absorption (EA) capability and bending properties. It is worth noting that, compared with the CVHS structure, the specific energy absorption (SEA) and specific bending strength of the BVHS structure increased by 56.99% and 46.91%, respectively. Finite element analysis (FEA) was employed to study stress distributions in structures during bending and analyze the influence mechanism of the fractal feature on the mechanical properties of BVHS structures. The electrical conductivity of structures were also studied in this work, the BVHS structures were slightly lower than the CVHS structure. FEA was also conducted to analyze the current flow direction and current density distribution of BVHS structures under a constant voltage, illustrating the influence mechanism of fractal angles on electrical conductivity properties. Finally, in order to solve the problem of trapped powder inside the enclosed unit cells, a droplet-shaped powder outlet was designed for LPBF-processed components. The number of powder outlets was optimized based on bending properties. Results of this work could provide guidelines for the design of lightweight BPPs with high mechanical strength and high electrical conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrical conductivity of the earth's mantle can provide important information about geodynamic phenomena. East Asia is associated with complex tectonics and geodynamic processes. Hence, it is necessary to better understand the deep structure beneath East Asia. In this study, geomagnetic data obtained from East Asian observatories are employed to image the conductivity structure of the mantle at depths ranging from 410 to 900 km. First, the data are processed using the modified bounded influence remote reference processing (BIRRP) method and the ratio method is used to correct for the ocean effect. Thereafter, the stable C-response curves at the 27 observatories are estimated, and 1D electrical conductivity models for these observatories are established using the L-BFGS method. The conductivity-depth profiles reveal a heterogeneous distribution of the electrical conductivity beneath East Asia. The mantle transition zone (MTZ) beneath East China and Japan is found to be more conductive, whereas the MTZ beneath central and southern regions of China is more resistive. In East China, the dehydration of the stagnant Pacific slab may lead to an increase in the conductivity of the mantle minerals. There is also the possibility of upwelling of the thermal material from the lower mantle beneath the Japanese Island arc. In Northwest China, there exists a large high-conductive body beneath the Tarim area, which could indicate an upwelling of the Tarim mantle plume. Our results provide insights into the deep structure of the earth at the mantle scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research provides a comprehensive investigation of the double perovskite compound Ba2CrWO6, emphasizing its structural, electronic, magnetic, thermal, optical, and elastic properties. Analysis revealed that Ba2CrWO6 exhibits a direct half-metallic gap of 1.05 eV along the (X–X) direction, accompanied by a net magnetic moment of 2.00 μB, significantly influenced by the presence of chromium. In terms of optical characteristics, Ba2CrWO6 demonstrated high absorption rates, indicating its potential applications in optical devices, particularly in ultraviolet (UV) light detection, photodetectors, and UV lasers. Furthermore, the elasticity study indicated that this compound possesses weak brittleness, facilitating handling during manufacturing processes. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, using the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method, employed the generalized gradient approximation (GGA), modified Trans-Blaha (TB-mBJ) approach. Additionally, the GGA + U method, which includes the Hubbard correction term (U), was utilized to address strong electron correlation effects within the compound. The spin–orbit coupling (SOC) was included to see its effects on the total and partial densities of states, but the results are almost similar to calculations without spin orbit coupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin films of pure and zinc-doped nanostructures have been successfully grown using the spray pyrolysis technique. Different characterization techniques were used to study the impact of zinc incorporation into the material at different concentrations (0–6%) on their microstructural, morphological, optical and electrical behaviors. XRD results revealed that all films displayed a spinel-like polycrystalline cubic structure, with a preferential orientation of crystallites along the (311) plane. SEM images revealed a uniform surface with a porous structure and nanocrystalline grain size in all films. Optical absorption was enhanced by doping, suggesting the creation of voids and/or the replacement of Co ions by Zn ions in the film structure. In addition, electrical measurements show a noteworthy enhancement in electrical conductivity following the Zn doping process, particularly for dopant concentrations of 2% and 4%. Numerical simulation using SCAPS-1D also reveals that the solar cell, based on our experimental results, can achieve a notable efficiency of up to 12%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the enhancement of the microstructure and properties of Ag-10La0.7Sr0.3CoO3 composites, prepared by powder metallurgy, through the application of high-current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) irradiation. The X-ray diffraction results showed that the irradiated samples exhibited selective orientations on the surface of their (200) and (311) crystal planes. Microstructural observations revealed a dense remelted layer on the samples' surface after HCPEB irradiation. The surface hardness of the samples increased after 15 treatments, showing an improvement of 36.76%. This is primarily attributed to fine-grain strengthening, surface remelting, and recrystallization. Further, the electrical conductivity of the samples treated 15 times increased by 74.8% compared to that of the original samples. Electrochemical test results showed that the samples treated 15 times showed the lowest corrosion current density in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. This improved corrosion resistance is attributable to the refinement of the surface's microstructure and the introduction of residual compressive stress. This study demonstrates the significant impact of HCPEB irradiation on the regulation of the properties of Ag-10La0.7Sr0.3CoO3 composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soil solution is the compartment where plants uptake nutrients and this phase is in equilibrium with the soil solid phase. Changes in nutrient content and availability in the soil solution can vary among soil types in response to humic acid concentrations, thereby affecting Brachiaria growth. However, there are no studies demonstrating these effects of humic acid application on different soil types and how they affect Brachiaria growth. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of humic acid concentrations (0, 5, 10, 25, and 60 mg kg−1 carbon-humic acid) on Brachiaria brizantha growth and soil solution properties of contrasting tropical soils. Plants were grown for 35 days in greenhouse conditions in pots containing Sandy Entisol, Clayey (Red Oxisol), and Medium Texture (Red-Yellow Oxisol). Soil solution was assessed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), carbon, and nutrient content. Shoot and root dry matter, as well as macro and micronutrients accumulation in the shoot, were determined. In a soil type-dependent effect, pH, EC, and concentrations of nutrients in solutions changed in response to carbon-humic acid concentration. In the less-buffered soils, Sandy Entisol and Red-Yellow Oxisol, the addition of 30–40 mg kg−1 carbon-humic acid increased root proliferation by 76–89%, while Brachiaria biomass produced in all soils increased by approximately 30%. Levels of carbon in solution were high (>580 mg L−1) and varied depending on the investigated soil type. Though solution carbon contents did not appear to be a driving factor controlling the positive effects of humic acid concentrations on Brachiaria dry matter, there was a direct relationship between other properties and nutrient content in the soil solution, and Brachiaria dry matter production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is an abiotic stress restricting agricultural crop production globally, in which salts inhibit plants' ability to absorb water and nutrients. Pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are very important in human nutrition and are sensitive to salinity. The objective of this study was to assess the salinity tolerance of six pinto bean varieties by evaluating the effect of different salt types on germination and growth. In the germination experiment, varieties were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications and three saline solutions (NaCl, CaCl2, MgSO4·7H2O) at 0, 0.05 M, 0.1 M, and 0.15 M concentrations each. For the greenhouse experiment, saline solutions with the same EC (5 dS m−1), control (distilled water), and six pinto bean varieties were organized in a Complete Random Design with 10 replicates. The results demonstrated that germination percentage, speed of germination, and hypocotyl length decreased as salt concentrations increased. Othello's vegetative and reproductive parameters were significantly higher compared to the other varieties under saline conditions; its early maturity may have enabled it to perform better under salt stress. In addition to soil and water management, selecting salt-tolerant crops and varieties is essential to maintaining agricultural sustainability in regions undergoing salinization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous fluids are extensively present in the middle to lower crust, as revealed by seismic and magnetotelluric soundings. The α−β quartz phase transition significantly affects many physical properties and leads to substantial microcracks that can provide pathways for the migration of crustal fluids. A systematic investigation of macroscopic physical properties and microstructure of quartz is crucial to elucidate their correlation. In the present study, the effects of water content, trace elements, orientations, and phase transition on the electrical conductivity of quartz were thoroughly evaluated at 400−900°C and 1 GPa. Individual annealing experiments were simultaneously conducted on quartz single crystals at different peak temperatures and 1 GPa to investigate the evolution and spatial distribution of microcracks using X‐ray microtomography (CT) and backscattered electron imaging. We found that trace element content and orientations, rather than H2O, are the dominant factors controlling the conductivity of quartz. The distinct changes in conductivity of single crystals at around α−β phase transition temperature are attributed to the transformation of microcracks from isolated to interconnected networks, as confirmed by two‐dimensional (2‐D) and three‐dimensional (3‐D) microstructure images. Based on the variation in electrical conductivity and microstructure across the transition, it thus is proposed that the intragranular microcracks caused by quartz phase transition can serve as fluid or melt pathways within highly conductive zones present in the middle to lower crust, while α‐quartz acts as an impermeable cap. Plain Language Summary: Numerous geophysical observations have disclosed the widespread presence of aqueous fluids in the middle to lower crust. It has been demonstrated that the α−β quartz phase transition not only causes drastic changes in many physical properties, but also play an important role in fluid storage in crust due to the generation of microcracks. An integrated study on electrical conductivity, X‐ray tomography and backscattered electron images can unravel the correlation of macroscopic physical properties and microstructure of quartz. Our results indicated that orientations and trace element content have predominant influences on the electrical conductivity compared to water content. Additionally, a marked change in the conductivity of quartz single crystals occurred at temperature around the α−β phase transition, which is ascribed to the formation of interconnected microcracks confirmed by 2‐D and 3‐D high‐resolution microstructure images. These intragranular microcracks in quartz can promote porosity and permeability, facilitating the interconnection of fluid or melt required for the highly conductive anomaly in the middle to lower crust, while the α‐quartz above it may serve as a permeability barrier. Key Points: The effects of temperature, trace elements, and orientations on electrical conductivity of quartz were quantitatively evaluatedThe interconnected microcracks formed at α−β quartz phase transition were confirmed by electrical conductivity, 2‐D and 3‐D imagesThe transition‐induced microcracks provide fluid pathways for high conductivity zones in the middle to lower crust [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research exhibits a comprehensive analysis of the structural, optical, and dielectric characteristics of cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co3O4 NPs) synthesized through a eco-friendly hydrothermal approach, assisted by Beta vulgaris (beetroot) extract. The utilization of Beta vulgaris as a reducing and stabilizing agent offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly method for nanoparticle synthesis. The eco-friendly hydrothermal synthesis approach resulted in the formation of crystalline Co3O4 NPs. The structural analysis using X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed the nanoscale nature of the particles, with a mean crystallite size of 34.9 nm. The energy band gap, as determined from UV-visible spectroscopy, exhibited a value of 2.5 eV and 3.6 eV, suggesting the potential for tunable optical properties. FESEM images exhibits; the synthesised NPs have a poly pyramid shape and obtained crystallite size in the range of 22 to 35 nm. Furthermore, Dielectric characterizations were performed to evaluate the electrical properties of the Co3O4 NPs. The current work investigates the variations in frequency and temperature of the dielectric constant, the variation in dielectric losses, as well as ac and dc conductivity of the synthesized NPs. The frequency dependent dielectric constant was found to be ~ 20–90, reflecting the influence of surface functional groups and particle size on charge storage capacity and polarization. These findings highlight the intricate interplay between synthesis methods, structural properties, and optical and dielectric responses of Co3O4 NPs, showcasing the promise of green synthesis techniques for tailoring multifunctional nanomaterials with applications in diverse technological fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the experimental observations of the physical properties enhancement for the (Ni-Co)-doped ZnO films under a photodoping mechanism by UV irradiation. The elemental, structural, and morphological properties confirm that the photodoping mechanism in the (Ni-Co)-doped ZnO films is more successful than the traditional doping mechanism. The doping mechanism of the transparent conducting oxides under UV irradiation generates oxygen vacancies near the metal atoms, reducing the valency of metal ions while leaving dopant ions intact in the films. Therefore, the dopant ions occupy metal sites in the transparent conducting oxides, which enhances the physical properties of the doped transparent conducting oxides. Additionally, the effect of the photodoping mechanism on the bandgap energy, electrical conductivity, and photoconductivity is higher than the effect of the traditional doping mechanism. Finally, we can conclude that the physical properties of the Ni-, Co-, and (Ni-Co)-doped ZnO films are enhanced by using the photodoped method compared to those of the traditional doping method. Therefore, we suggest using the photodoping mechanism in the doped transparent conducting oxide film instead of the traditional doping mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]