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Scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM) is a powerful technique for investigating the electrostatic properties of material surfaces, enabling the imaging of variations in work function, topology, surface charge density, or combinations thereof. Regardless of the underlying signal source, SKPM results in a voltage image, which is spatially distorted due to the finite size of the probe, long-range electrostatic interactions, mechanical and electrical noise, and the finite response time of the electronics. In order to recover the underlying signal, it is necessary to deconvolve the measurement with an appropriate point spread function (PSF) that accounts the aforementioned distortions, but determining this PSF is difficult. Here, we describe how such PSFs can be determined experimentally and show how they can be used to recover the underlying information of interest. We first consider the physical principles that enable SKPM and discuss how these affect the system PSF. We then show how one can experimentally measure PSFs by looking at well-defined features, and that these compare well to simulated PSFs, provided scans are performed extremely slowly and carefully. Next, we work at realistic scan speeds and show that the idealized PSFs fail to capture temporal distortions in the scan direction. While simulating PSFs for these situations would be quite challenging, we show that measuring PSFs with similar scan conditions works well. Our approach clarifies the basic principles and inherent challenges to SKPM measurements and gives practical methods to improve results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rates of many electrocatalytic reactions can be strongly affected by the structure and dynamics of the electrochemical double layer, which in turn can be tuned by the concentration and identity of the supporting electrolyte's cation. The effect of cations on an electrocatalytic process depends on a complex interplay between electrolyte components, electrode material and surface structure, applied electrode potential, and reaction intermediates. Although cation effects remain insufficiently understood, the principal mechanisms underlying cation-dependent reactivity and selectivity are beginning to emerge. In this Perspective, we summarize and critically examine recent advances in this area in the context of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and CO2-to-CO conversion, which are among the most intensively studied and promising electrocatalytic reactions for the sustainable production of commodity chemicals and fuels. Improving the kinetics of the HER in base and enabling energetically efficient and selective CO2 reduction at low pH are key challenges in electrocatalysis. The physical insights from the recent literature illustrate how cation effects can be utilized to help achieve these goals and to steer other electrocatalytic processes of technological relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many modern anti-icing and anti-fouling coatings rely on soft, low surface energy elastomeric materials such as polydimethylsiloxane for their functionality. While the low surface energy is desirable for reducing adhesion, very little work considers the larger contribution to adhesive failure caused by the viscoelastic nature of elastomers. Here we examine several different siloxane elastomers using a JKR adhesion test, which was operated over a range of different speeds and temperatures. Additionally, we characterize the dynamic mechanical modulus over a large range of frequencies for each material. We note that surface energies of the materials are all similar, but variation in adhesion strength is clear in the data. The variation at low speeds is related to elastomer architecture but the speed dependence itself is independent of architecture. Qualitative correlations are noted between the JKR adhesion measurements and the dynamic moduli. Finally, an attempt is made to directly compare moduli and adhesion through the recent Persson–Brener model. Approximations of the model are shown to be inaccurate. The full model is found to be accurate at low speeds, although it fails to precisely capture higher speed behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect mechanisms of the undercooling degree and the surface configuration on the ice growth characteristics were revealed under micro-droplets icing conditions. Preferential ice crystals appear firstly on the surfaces due to the randomness of icing, and obtain growth advantages to form protruding structures. Protruding structures block the incoming droplets from contacting the substrates, causing voids around the structures. The undercooling degree mainly affects the density and the growth rate of preferential ice crystals. With the increase of undercooling degree, the preferential ice crystals have higher density and growth rate, resulting in stronger growth advantage and higher porosity. The surface configuration affects the growth mode, and the ice layer grows with uniform mode, spreading mode and structure-induced mode on the aluminum, smooth Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and rough PTFE surface respectively, causing the needle-like, ridge-like and cluster-like ice crystals. The rough structures effectively improve the porosity of the ice layer, which is beneficial for optimizing the icephobic property of the materials. This paper provides important theoretical guidance for the design of subsequent icephobic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Static charge on insulating material surfaces may be a source of nuisance and an operational requirement in many devices. It induces a potential that evolves with time due to conduction and polarization processes in the dielectric. Here, we analyze, from a theoretical and experimental point of view, the response of an insulator subjected to a charging pulse, within the frame of linear system theory. The surface potential decay and the return voltage after a brief neutralization, which can be easily measured using an electrostatic probe, usually follow time power laws. We consider here a dielectric following the classical Cole–Cole response function in the frequency domain and derive an exact analytic formula for the potential decay, which involves a Mittag–Leffler function. The relationship between the potential decay and the absorption current when a constant voltage is applied on the dielectric is also analyzed. Experiments on several common insulating materials are analyzed according to this theory, using a numerical simulation with a two-cell model. Return voltage measurements are used to check which materials behave according to the linear model. We underline that an equivalent circuit using constant-phase elements, corresponding to several cells following the Cole–Cole response, can also represent dipolar motions in the dielectric as charge hopping between energy-distributed traps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) ultra-thin materials are more crucial than their bulk counterparts for the covalent functionalization of their surface owing to atomic thinness, large surface-to-volume ratio, and high reactivity of surface atoms having unoccupied orbitals. Since the surface of a 2D material is composed of atoms having unoccupied orbitals, covalent functionalization enables one to improve or precisely modify the properties of the ultra-thin materials. Chemical functionalization of 2D materials not only modifies their intrinsic properties but also makes them adapted for nanotechnology applications. Such engineered materials have been used in many different applications with their improved properties. In the present Perspective, we begin with a brief history of functionalization followed by the introduction of functionalized 2D materials. Our Perspective is composed of the following sections: the applications areas of 2D graphene and graphene oxide crystals, transition metal dichalcogenides, and in-plane anisotropic black phosphorus, all of which have been widely used in different nanotechnology applications. Finally, our Perspectives on the future directions of applications of functionalized 2D materials are given. The present Perspective sheds light on the current progress in nanotechnological applications of engineered 2D materials through surface functionalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerium oxide (CeO 2) is a primary abrasive frequently used in quartz glass polishing slurry for facilitating glass surface planarisation. However, due to its exorbitant synthesis costs and extremely corrosive as well as toxic reagents in the system, the chemical modification of CeO 2 abrasives have limited practical applications. In this work, a novel chemical mechanical polishing slurry for quartz glass incorporating potassium oleate (KOL), deionised water (DIW), cerium dioxide and molybdenum disulphide (MoS 2) was developed in this paper to enhance the chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) performance of CeO 2 -based polishing slurry. KOL creates an alkaline environment for the system, further develops silicate insoluble substances on the quartz glass surface and boosts the material removal rate (MRR) in CMP. MoS 2 exhibits a two-dimensional layered nanosheet structure between the abrasive and quartz glass, and then acts as a solid lubricant to prevent excessive mechanical damage, thus increasing the abrasive's wettability. This characteristic helps avoid scratches and other defects on the quartz glass surface. Notably, when the content of KOL and MoS 2 in the system is 0.2 wt% and 0.3 wt%, respectively, the surface roughness of the quartz glass surface is 0.48 nm under the scanning area of 15 × 15 μm2 and the MRR is 24.03 μm/h following CMP. The synergistic interaction between CeO 2 and MoS 2 significantly enhances the abrasive performance on the glass substrate, offering a novel approach for developing polishing fluids that leverage the collaborative effects between abrasives and two-dimensional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxyapatite (HA) or bioceramic-based coatings on stainless steel (SS) 316L significantly enhance the biofunctionality of the base material's surface. However, HA's low thermal conductivity and brittleness limit its effectiveness as a coating material. This study investigates HA coating on SS 316L using electric discharge machining (EDM) with varying discharge energies and powder concentrations. Surface morphology, elemental composition, and phase analysis of untreated and coated samples were characterised using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results demonstrate that the HA-assisted EDM process creates a coating comprising biocompatible oxides, phosphates, carbides, and intermetallic compounds. The coating exhibits a thin resolidified layer of 10.74 μm, characterised by redeposited spherical debris, shallow cavities, and a surface texture of 2.688 μm. The layer's hydrophilic nature is confirmed by a minimum contact angle of 47.68°. Taguchi analysis indicates that the machining rate is optimised at an HA powder concentration of 16 g/l, with peak current and HA powder concentration being the most influential parameters affecting resolidified layer thickness, surface texture, and wetting angle. The research intends to motivate SS 316L medical device manufacturers to implement the HA-assisted EDM process for bioimplant's dual machining and coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photocatalytic hydrolysis reaction primarily unfolds on the material's surface, making the material's morphology and microstructure critical for the catalytic efficiency of photocatalysts. In this paper, a formic acid-assisted melamine hydrothermal self-assembly method is explored to prepare g-C 3 N 4 photocatalysts with a unique morphology. The impact of sintering temperature on the morphology of the g-C 3 N 4 photocatalysts are explored and the effect of formic acid concentration on the XRD and FTIR was analyzed. Findings reveal that the g-C 3 N 4 nanostructures photocatalyst possesses fibrous tubular and nanosheet structures, boasting a heightened specific surface area (32.9 m2/g) and a more refined graphite-like crystalline framework. When synthesized with a 0.15 M concentration of formic acid, the g- C 3 N 4 nanostructured photocatalyst achieved a hydrogen production rate (1289.4 μmol h−1 g−1), which is approximately 4.8 times greater than that of bulk g-C 3 N 4 (264.7 μmol h−1 g−1). This work provides a simple method for preparing high-performance g-C 3 N 4 based photocatalysts for visible light hydrolysis hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coatings are utilized to enhance the surface properties of materials. This study aimed to modify the TiN coating with a novel sandwich-zigzag intermediate layer and delve into the intricate damage mechanisms under harsh corrosion-erosion coupling environments. Due to the infiltration of NaCl into the coating and the subsequent formation of TiO 2 , the sandwich-zigzag TiN coatings exhibited a reduction in mechanical behavior and erosion resistance when exposed to salt spray at 550 °C for 50 h. Moreover, the erosion rates of the as-corroded TiN coatings displayed an opposite trend compared to that of the as-deposited coatings, showing that the erosion rate was highest at the erosion angle of 30°. Nevertheless, the presence of the zigzag-TiN intermediate layer benefited the coating by preventing stress accumulation and heterogeneous interface. This ultimately improved the erosion resistance of the coatings by more than 2 times at universal erosion angle compared to that of the substrates under the synergistic effects of corrosion and erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this work was to determine the essence of the influence of the impact velocity (5, 7, and 9 m/s) on Hertzian stresses and the erosion mechanism of ferritic-pearlitic S355J2 steel. The investigations were carried out using a slurry pot tester. S355J2 steel showed a strong sensitivity to changes in impact velocity. A significant increase in erosion rate was observed at a velocity of 9 m/s. This increase was 5-fold and over 15-fold compared to velocities of 7 m/s and 5 m/s, respectively. The study of Hertzian stress is crucial in erosion research because it helps understand how impact energy is absorbed by the eroded material and the mechanisms that cause surface wear. A linear increase in mean contact pressure and maximum shear stress was observed with increasing impact velocity. The mean contact pressure increased from 4.3 GPa to 5.5 GPa and the maximum shear stress increased from 2.0 GPa to 2.5 GPa. The kinetic energy of the solid particles that hits the eroded steel is distributed in the contact area, which leads to various deformations and wear mechanisms. The primary type of deformation was fatigue degradation of the surface layers of the eroded steel. The high kinetic energy of solid particles contributed to the formation of plastic deformations and strongly deformed steel flakes. Higher impact velocities generally result in greater forces and contact stresses on the material surface. This led to the intensification of plastic deformation in the contact areas and increased the Hertzian stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grafting organophosphonic acids (PAs) on metal oxides has shown to be a flexible technology to tune the surface properties of metal oxides for various applications. The solvents applied in the commonly used synthesis method have associated impeding effect on tailoring the resulting modification degree. In this work, an alternative solid-phase manual grinding method is proposed that (i) is straightforward, (ii) can achieve controllable and higher modification degree, and (iii) excludes the use of solvent during the synthesis. Specifically, propylphosphonic acid (3PA) was grafted onto titania by manual grinding, and different modification degrees were obtained by varying the duration of the post-synthetic thermal treatment. Importantly, the solid-phase method can achieve a modification degree that is 25.0% higher than the maximal modification degree reached by the liquid-phase method, while its atom utilization efficiency is 4.8 times (toluene-based) or 7.5 times (water-based) that of the liquid-phase method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploration of clean, environmentally friendly, efficient and economical metal electrocatalysts is becoming more and more in-depth, but catalyst activity and stability are still the main goals. Herein, a thin regular pentagonal rough nanosheet array (La-CoNiOOH@FeSe@NiSe/NF) grown on a three-dimensional porous conductive surface was designed and synthesized. The prepared electrode material exhibited good catalytic activity in 1 M KOH solution, required only 270 mV of overpotential to provide 10 mA cm−2 current density for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and showed excellent stability for at least 90 hours during the OER process. The characterization test results proved that the incorporation of La changed the surface electronic structure, optimized the interface, modulated the active site on the surface of the material, and exposed a large number of active sites, thus improving the activity and stability of the catalyst material. At the same time, such a rough surface also gives the material excellent wettability and anti-bubble adhesion, which is also a key factor in maintaining the catalytic activity and OER stability of the material. This method provides a new idea for developing an efficient and economical electrolytic hydroelectricity catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric vacuum insulated devices generate surface flashover and breakdown under instantaneous high voltage. Flashover voltage can be increased through coating without changing the structure of the ceramic device. Herein, multiphase coatings with different manganese dioxide contents are prepared on α -Al 2 O 3 insulating ceramic surface by screen printing and solid-state sintering methods to yield an average film thickness of about 12.38 μm with good bonding strength. X-ray diffraction shows that the crystal phases of the coating are (Al 0.9 Cr 0.1) 2 O 3 and MnAl 2 O 4. Scanning electron micrographs and atomic force microscopy reveal that greater surface height difference and deeper surface depth are more conducive to increasing the surface roughness and the formation of "pores", and decreasing the surface potential decay rate. When MnO 2 content is 0.0069 mol, the deep trap center energy level on the material surface reaches its maximum, increasing from 1.506 eV to 1.550 eV, and the surface resistivity of ceramics decreases from 1016 Ω to 1013 Ω. The formation of deep trap centers on the surface makes it difficult for surface charges to detach, which reduces the charge mobility and surface potential decay rate, and leads to decrease in surface resistivity and increase in surface flashover voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to study the changes in surface friction of flexible cavities produced by 3D printing under different internal pressures. An inflatable flexible air cavity fabricated using 3D printing technology and made of Tough-PLA and TPU95A materials was used as the experimental object. This study conducts low-speed friction tests on flexible surfaces under two conditions: different load pressure and different internal pressure. The experimental results show that under the same load conditions, the average sliding friction force between the contact surfaces with a contact area of only 16 cm2 increases by approximately 1 N as the air pressure increases, while the maximum static friction force increases by approximately 2–6 N. The inflatable cavity changes the friction of the contact surfaces under the influence of different internal air pressures. Through roughness measurements and microphotographs of the contact surfaces under different internal air pressures, it was found that the main reason is that the internal air pressure changes the surface roughness of the contact surface, thereby changing the friction between the contact surfaces. This study demonstrates a novel way to control the friction between flexible material contact surfaces. It has broad prospects and great significance for the future application of 3D printing flexible materials in the contact friction control of robot grippers and flexible joints and the lightweight of brakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chinese Academy of Engineering Physics Terahertz Free Electron Laser Facility (CAEP THz FEL, CTFEL) is the only high-average power free electron laser terahertz source based on superconducting accelerators in China. The update of the CTFEL is now undergoing and will expand the frequency range from 0.1–4.2 THz to 0.1–125 THz. Two experimental stations for material spectroscopy and biomedicine will be built. A high harmonic generation (HHG) lightsource based beamline at the material spectroscopy experimental station for time-resolved angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) research will be constructed and the optical design is presented. The HHG lightsource covers the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) photon energy range of 20–50 eV. A Czerny–Turner monochromator with two plane gratings worked in conical diffraction configuration is employed to maintain the transmission efficiency and preserve the pulse time duration. The calculated beamline transmission efficiency is better than 5% in the whole photon energy range. To our knowledge, this is the first time in China to combine THz-infrared FEL with HHG light source, and this experimental station will be a powerful and effective instrument that will give new research opportunities in the future for users doing research on the dynamic evolution of the excited electron band structure of a material's surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zirconium (Zr) alloy fuel cladding is exposed to harsh environments such as high temperature and high pressure for a long time. Surface modification technology can effectively improve its high-temperature oxidation resistance. In this work, pulse laser nitriding technology was used to perform laser nitriding treatment on Zr alloys at different laser energies. The effect of different energy levels of laser nitriding treatments on the superheated steam corrosion resistance of Zr alloys was studied. First-principles was used to reveal the mechanism of how the diffusion layer improves the performance of Zr alloys in resisting superheated steam corrosion after nitriding treatment. Results indicate that the surface of Zr alloys treated with laser nitriding exhibits a molten feature. When the laser energy is 100 mJ, N mainly exists in the form of a diffusion layer in the Zr alloy substrate. As the laser energy rises to 200 mJ and above, the ZrN phase is generated. After 1000 h of superheated steam corrosion, the corrosion weight gain of the 100 mJ sample was reduced by approximately 50 % compared to the Zr alloy. The corrosion weight gain of the 400 mJ sample increased by approximately 12 %. The presence of the ZrN phase accelerates the oxidation degradation rate of Zr alloy. When N atoms exist as a diffusion layer, the transition from tetragonal zirconia to monoclinic zirconia can be suppressed. First-principles calculations showed that when O and N atoms coexist in the Zr alloy substrate, their binding performance with surface O is significantly decreases, thus further improving the 100 mJ sample's resistance to superheated steam corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since precision engraving is essential for almost any product or application, it is important that the printing system produces smooth and clear prints. In this regard, the rollers are made of steel and polymeric materials. However, light cylinder production is economical, transportation costs are very low, and it provides ease of transportation and distribution for printing houses. However, regional chain orientations and cracks occur in the polymeric material on the conical surfaces of the cylinders with shafts longer than 1 m. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the surface properties of polymeric cylinder. In this study, electrolytic hard chromium (Cr) and soft copper (Cu) metal layers, conductive (Ni and Ag) paint and polyester coating were successfully fabricated on polymeric lightweight cylinders via electroplating, spraying and hand brushing techniques for photogravure press application. At the fabrication stage on the steel base cylinders, polyurethane has been molded by using an injection molding machine. In order to eliminate the porosities, where polyurethane takes place, polyester has been coated on the polymeric cylinder and consequently polyester has been painted with conductive dye to obtain the conductivity. Then Cu and Cr have been coated by using the electroplating method and gravured. At the end of final stage, the process has been completed with coating of Cr on the Cu layer/conductive paint/polyester coating/polyurethane substrate. Phase analysis, microstructures and mechanical properties of the obtained samples have been examined through XRD, SEM–EDS, surface roughness, microhardness, tensile, three-point bending, scratch and wear machines. As a remarkable result of these studies, correlations were established between the quality of the layers and the mechanical properties as innovative scientific approaches, and between the layers produced on an experimental basis and the samples produced on a fabrication basis, they were produced and used in high-quality multilayered architecture to engraving technology and then to the society because of its effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In composite materials consisting of silver particles and a polypropylene matrix, the silver must migrate to the surface of the materials in order to exert on antibacterial effect. Substrates with various crystal structures may have different interactions with the silver particles, which can significantly impact the antibacterial performance. The research described in this paper investigates the influence of silver particles on the crystallization behavior of materials with varying crystallinity capabilities by selecting various polypropylene-based plastics and elastomers (Homopolymer polypropylene (PPH-T03), random poly(propylene/ethylene) copolymers (PPR-YPR503 and PPR-P340R), polyolefin elastomers (VERSIFY3000 (POE-1) and VERSIFY3401 (POE-2)), and ethylene propylene diene monomer for polymers (EPDM4725 and EPDM4770)). The research results indicated that the silver only entered the amorphous regions of the PP rather than entering the crystal regions, where they can more easily migrate to the material surface, resulting in a higher antibacterial effect. Therefore, the antibacterial degree of PP-Ag was as high as 99.9%. Silver can enter the micro-crystals of both the random copolymer polypropylene, (PPR-YPR503, PPR-1) and the random copolymer polypropylene, (PPR-P340R, PPR-2,) with a stronger effect on PPR-2. More silver entered the micro-crystals of PPR-2, and it was difficult for the silver ions to migrate out of the crystalline regions to exhibit antibacterial properties. The antibacterial degree of PPR-1-Ag was higher than that of PPR-2-Ag (77.8% vs. 66.7%). Similarly, silver had a greater impact on the lamellar structure of the polyolefin elastomer (VERSIFY3401, POE-2) compared to the polyolefin elastomer (VERSIFY3000, POE-1). In comparison with POE-2-Ag, POE-1-Ag exhibited a higher antibacterial degree (79.6% vs. 57.4%). Research on the two types of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) composite materials indicated that EPDM-1 exhibited a lower Mooney viscosity and poorer flowability. The EPDM-1 tended to encapsulate the silver within its molecular chains, thereby impeding the migration of silver to the surface. The optical performance analysis indicated that silver antibacterial agents had little impact on the optical properties of PP-Ag, PPR-1, PPR-2, POE-1, POE-2 and the EPDMs. We suggest that this research provides theoretical guidance for selecting highly antibacterial polypropylene materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NiTi smart alloys are known for their characteristic shape memory behavior. The current work focuses on the physical and mechanical characterization of Ni(50−X)Ti50FeX shape memory alloys prepared by the spark plasma sintering (SPS) process and their dependence on the concentration of Fe. The physical characterization of the samples confirmed the presence of the FeNiTi phase along with the Ti- and Ni-rich phases. Enhanced mechanical properties were observed in 8 at. pct Fe samples, which contained secondary intermetallic phases such as Ti2Ni, Ni3Ti, Fe2Ti, and Ni4Ti3. Higher fraction of NiTi phase in the 8 at. pct Fe sample resulted in better shape memory properties while showing a higher friction coefficient. Ball on disk wear tests were done to identify the mechanisms contributing to the wear in the sintered sample. It is observed that the abrasive wear as well as the adhesive wear are the most prominent contributors for the surface material removal, and the dependence of characterization is observed with the variation of Fe content in NiTiFe alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The publication presents the results of research on the influence of hydrostatic burnishing process on the value of selected parameters of surface roughness, material ratio and surface hardness. The process was carried out on shafts made of the X5CrNi18-10 stainless steel. The prepared samples were subjected to a finishing turning process with constant cutting parameters, and then hydrostatic burnishing was performed on the surface. The tests determined the influence of the variable pressure exerted by the ball on the shaft surface. The evaluation of the research results showed a significant increase in hardness in the surface layer and an improvement in surface roughness parameters and material ratio. The machining process was carried out on a conventional lathe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Deposition of excessive phosphate in natural water column caused several issues, like the eutrophication and destruction of aquatic ecosystems. Adsorption has been an effective and convenient method for phosphate elimination. Herein, a novel bimetallic metal–organic framework adsorbent, namely, La‐Zr‐MOF, was prepared, and the morphology, crystallite, characteristic functional groups, specific surface area, and composite material surfaces were analyzed using XRD, FT‐IR, SEM‐EDS, and BET. The adsorption performance of the adsorbent was systematically evaluated by batch adsorption experiments, and the adsorption thermodynamic and kinetic properties were analyzed. The results reveal that La‐Zr‐MOF exhibits a high selectivity and sorption performance for phosphate, and the adsorption of La‐Zr‐MOF follows the Langmuir and pseudo–second‐order models; the phosphate removal procedure is a chemisorption accompanied by an endothermic reaction, and the maximum capacity was 127.7 mg g−1. Combined with batch adsorption experiments, kinetic and thermodynamic studies and various characterization analyses together revealed the phosphate removal mechanism, mainly ligand exchange and electrostatic interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the industry has demanded high hardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and other properties for critical components made of steel and its alloys. Enhancing the surface properties of a part by applying modification techniques to its surface is considered to be an economical and efficient method. Laser hardening, as a new surface modification technology, has received more and more attention due to its high hardening efficiency, fast cooling rate, and excellent surface properties. Laser hardening technology has good application prospects in surface modification, and significant progress has been made in the exploration of laser hardening strengthening mechanisms, optimization of process parameters, high-quality preparation of hardened layers, and theoretical simulation. However, some problems need to be addressed in the practical application of the technology. This paper reviews the research progress of the laser surface hardening process for steel and its alloys, including numerical investigation, process optimization, hardening performance analysis, and external field-assisted laser hardening technology. It also discusses the problems and challenges faced by the technology and gives an outlook on its development trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contact angle (CA), which results from the wetting behavior of the surfaces, will be substantial parameter in both the initial stages and in the industrial applications. Froth flotation is one of the most used separation methods in the mineral processing sector attributable to the necessity and usage of CA in surface wetting behavior, particularly in the case of minerals, and its capability to describe the conduct of flotation (collision, attachment, and detachment to the air bubble) is the main aim of this study. The CA measurement technique, the wetting properties of mineral surfaces, the variables influencing CA measurements, and their implications for the flotation process are all gathered in two-part review article. The current review for the initial-time examines multiple methods and approaches which employed in both historical and existing flotation research to investigate the literature on the foundation of CA of various minerals as function of the approach used for CA assessment. It provides an in-depth analysis of questions relating to the determination of CA on real surfaces or powder materials including the evaluation of the impact of the surface heterogeneity, particle fraction size and shape, roughness, and the drop/bubble size with ultimately intended to determine whether any of these variables essentially influence the hydrophobicity of minerals surface as well as its relationship to flotation recovery. This information may at that point be consolidated into a flotation demonstrate or utilized to assess the practicality of progressing flotation productivity and offer assistance to more understanding around this process. There are many articles in the field of CA in different sciences, but in the perspective of the CA of minerals or flotation, this number is also less, but in the case of review articles, this number is also very limited. There are few review articles that are about Effective methods and parameters have been discussed separately, but not many articles have been written about methods, parameters, summary of relationships, and at the end, to collect measurements with the mentioned methods. This article was written with this purpose beside of flotation aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion processes are often discussed as stochastic events. Here, it is shown that some of these seemingly random processes are not driven by nanoscopic fluctuations but rather by the spatial distribution of micrometer‐scale heterogeneities that trigger fast reactions associated with corrosion. Using a novel excitable reaction‐diffusion model, corrosion waves traveling over the metal surface and the associated material loss are described. This resulting nonuniform corrosion penetration, seen as a height loss in modeling, exposes buried intermetallic particles, which depending on the local electrochemical state of the surface trigger or block new waves. Informed by quantitative experimental data for the Mg–Al–Zn alloy AZ31B, wave speeds, wave widths, and average material loss are accurately captured. Morphogenic mitigation based on wave‐breaking microparticles is also simulated. While AZ31B corrosion is identified as a process driven by rare‐wave events, this study predicts several other corrosion regimes that proceed via spots or patchy patterns, opening the door for new protection, design, and prediction strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symmetry breaking has emerged as a novel strategy to enhance energy conversion and storage performance, which refers to changes in the atomic configurations within a material reducing its internal symmetry. According to the location of the symmetry breaking, it can be classified into spontaneous symmetry breaking within the material, local symmetry breaking on the surface of the material, and symmetry breaking caused by external fields outside the material. However, there are currently few summaries in this field, so it is necessary to summarize how symmetry breaking improves energy conversion and storage performance. In this review, the fundamentals of symmetry breaking are first introduced, which allows for a deeper understanding of its meaning. Then the applications of symmetry breaking in energy conversion and storage are systematically summarized, providing various mechanisms in energy conversion and storage, as well as how to improve energy conversion performance and storage efficiency. Last but not least, the current applications of symmetry breaking are summarized and provide an outlook on its future development. It is hoped that this review can provide new insights into the applications of symmetry breaking and promote its further development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-oxide charge trapping memory (CTM) integration into amorphous and organic flexible devices encounters challenges due to high-temperature treatment. Our approach enhances memory performance via room-temperature oxygen plasma treatment, subtly adjusting surface band alignment without changing the original material structure and surface roughness. Infiltration of oxygen plasma induces band alignment bending, creating a barrier for charge trapping. The device with oxygen plasma treatment exhibits an impressive 19.06 V memory window and a charge trapping density of 3.58 × 1013/cm2. In comparison, the memory window of untreated device only has 5.56 V, demonstrating that oxygen plasma treatment significantly improves memory characteristics. The charge retention rate exhibits outstanding stability, potentially reaching 94% after a decade. It should be noted that careful control during plasma treatment is crucial to maintaining optimal memory effects. This facile, efficient technique, applicable to various oxide layers, offers a way for future advancements in metal-oxide CTM technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with ternary oxide cathode materials are the prevalent energy storage devices for electric vehicles, and the huge amounts of spent LIBs pose severe challenges in terms of environmental impact and resource management. Particularly, the proper handling of degraded cathode materials is of central importance for the sustainable and closed‐loop development of LIBs industry. In this context, direct regeneration of degraded ternary oxides toward reusable high‐performance cathode materials is environmentally and economically favorable in contrast to present metallurgical recycling methods. In this work, a simple and effective two‐step method is demonstrated to regenerate the degraded NCM 622 (LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2) materials by elemental compensation and structural restoration. Moreover, a multi‐functional LTO (Li4Ti5O12) surface coating is simultaneously designed to guarantee rapid Li+ diffusion and stable surface of the regenerated product. Therefore, the regenerated LTO‐coated NCM materials show excellent electrochemical performance; specifically, the initial discharge capacity (183.0 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C), rate capability (90.0 mAh g−1 at 10 C), and cycling stability (79.3% capacity retention after 200 cycles) are even comparable with those of fresh materials. The as‐established upcycling strategy may shed light on the value‐added recycling of degraded cathode materials and thereby a virtuous cycle of LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) proves to be one of the most effective methods of label-free detection and has been integral for the study of biomolecular interactions and the development of biosensors. This trend delves into the latest SPR research and progress built upon the Kretschmann configuration, a pivotal platform, and highlights three key developments that have enhanced the capabilities of the technique. We will first cover a range of explorations of novel plasmonic materials that have shaped SPR performance. Innovative signal transduction and collection, which leverages traditional materials and emerging alternatives, will then be discussed. Finally, the evolving landscape of data analysis, including the integration of machine learning algorithms to navigate complex SPR datasets, will be reviewed. We will also discuss the implementation of these improvements that have enabled new biosensing functions. These advancements not only pave the way for enhanced biosensing in general but also open new avenues for the technique to play a more significant role in research concerning human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a series of novel passive‐cooling polyurethane materials (SiTPUs) by incorporating hydroxybutane‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane (OH‐PDMS)/polytetrahydrofuran (PTMG)‐mixed soft segments. Wide‐angle x‐ray scattering (WAXS) and small‐angle x‐ray scattering (SAXS) analyses revealed that with an increase in the OH‐PDMS content, the material exhibited enlarged grain sizes, reduced crystallinity, and the formation of larger‐sized microphase "structures with different compatibilities. The sample with a PDMS proportion of 40% (SiTPU‐40) demonstrates outstanding passive cooling performance, achieving a reflectance of 70.2% in the solar spectrum and a high atmospheric window emissivity of 91.6% without needing metal additives, resulting in a cooling effect of 10.8°C compared with that of pure thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Static contact angle tests indicated that introducing OH‐PDMS considerably enhanced the self‐cleaning performance of the material, with a PDMS proportion of 50% (SiTPU‐50) achieving the highest contact angle of 112°. Overall, this multi‐soft segment design optimizes passive cooling performance and enhances self‐cleaning capabilities, thus offering new possibilities for extensive material applications, especially in wearable technology and architectural surface coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activated carbon (AC) and biochar (BC) are porous materials with large surface areas and widely used in environmental and industrial applications. In this study, different types of AC and BC samples were produced from Sargassum sp. by a chemical activation and pyrolysis process and compared to commercial activated carbon samples. All samples were characterized using various techniques to understand their structure and functionalities. The metal content of the samples was characterized by using an inductively coupled optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). A toxicity test was applied to investigate the effect of AC/BC on organisms, where Sinapis alba seed and Escherichia coli bacteria-based toxicity tests were used. The results revealed that the samples did not negatively affect these two organisms. Thus, it is safe to use them in various applications. Therefore, the samples were tested as fillers in polyurethane composites and, thus, polyurethane-AC/BC samples were prepared. The amounts of AC/BC mixed into the polyurethane formulation were 1%, 2%, and 3%. Mechanical and acoustic properties of these composites were analyzed, showing that by adding the AC/BC to the system an increase in the compression strength for all the samples was achieved. A similar effect of the AC/BC was noticed in the acoustic measurements, where adding AC/BC enhanced the sound adsorption coefficient (α) for all composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During petroleum drilling, the reciprocating motion in the seal device leads to piston and sleeve wear, which may cause leakage of the sealing medium. Selecting appropriate materials for the piston and sleeve, along with surface modifications, can effectively prolong the seal service life of the seal. The friction and wear properties of piston and sleeve pairs of different materials in a metal sealing device were simulated by the laboratory "pin-on-block" reciprocating friction test. Pins made of 45# steel, 35CrMo, and 20Cr13 were used to simulate piston bulges, while 35CrMo samples were used to simulate sleeves. Additionally, the influence of DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating and QPQ (Quench–Polish–Quench) nitriding on the wear resistance of the materials was studied. Based on this, the friction and wear properties, along with the wear mechanism of different material pairs, were analyzed. The results show that the friction coefficient curves of the three piston base materials and the 35CrMo sleeve are similar, and the friction coefficient of 45# steel is lower than that of 35CrMo and 20Cr13 at the initial stage. The DLC surface coating exhibited the best anti-wear performance, with the lowest friction coefficient, minimal wear, and the most stable friction coefficient. Surface QPQ nitriding treatment can also improve the wear resistance of the base material. However, due to the oxide formed during nitriding being prone to flaking, the friction coefficient fluctuates significantly at the initial stage of testing, and its anti-wear performance was inferior to that of the DLC coating. This study on material pairing and surface modification provides theoretical support for material selection and surface modification design of pistons and sleeves in oil drilling sealing devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D materials have attracted considerable attention in the past decades for their unique properties, making the understanding of their nucleation process key to effective synthesis. Traditional explanations of thin‐film growth, focusing on the competition between atom interactions at the interface and within layers, often fall short of explaining real experimental results. Herein, a penetrated nucleation mechanism is proposed for 2D materials growth on metal substrates, taking into account the role of metal substrate atoms. This approach leads to a better understanding of how the surface shape evolves in two specific ways during growth in real experimental findings. Supported by detailed first‐principles simulations of boron on metal substrates and thermodynamic analyses of other studies involving metals and nonmetals, the above‐proposed mechanism is validated. Moreover, a broad strategy for growing large‐scale 2D materials on metal surfaces without creating undesired alloy layers is also presented, by adjusting the interfacial interactions by surface passivation, validated by existing experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure‐properties relationships of sustainable materials derived from biomass‐based monomers are investigated, focusing on hybrid styrene/terpene‐based copolymers with blocky microstructures, such as β‐myrcene– and β‐ocimene–styrene copolymers. The samples show complex glass transition dynamics, as evidenced by the physical aging experienced by the amorphous phase in styrene‐rich copolymers. The tendency of styrene‐ and terpene‐rich sequences to give heterogeneous morphologies with correlation strength extending over 10–40 nm is outlined, through small‐angle X‐ray scattering analysis. A new class of terpene‐based hybrid systems, holding promise for applications in surface coating technologies, is identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-assisted milling (LAM) is a hybrid machining process applied to difficult-to-cut materials. The configuration of process parameters such as laser-tool distance and laser power has a vital influence on the process performance of LAM. An optimization strategy for laser-tool distance and laser power is presented in this paper to provide a selection graph of the two parameters in LAM. The optional laser-tool distance and laser power range are calculated with material softening and white layer formation as constraints. LAM experiments are carried out to validate the presented optimization strategy. Experimental analysis results of cutting force and microstructure are consistent with those reflected in the predicted selection graph, which confirms the optimization strategy is effective. Further, the effect of radial cutting depth and feed rate on the minimum and critical laser power is discussed. This work has practical guiding significance for improving the machining efficiency and surface quality in LAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a theoretical model for the grinding force of SiCp/Al composites was established. The model introduces a novel approach by integrating the SiC particle fracture force, the arc length of contact between the grinding wheel and workpiece, and the maximum undeformed chip thickness, all grounded in the principles of chip formation and friction forces. The accuracy of the grinding force theoretical model was validated through grinding experiments. Additionally, the effects of machining parameters and grinding wheel types on grinding force, surface roughness, and surface morphology were further investigated. The results indicate that as the grinding depth and feed speed increase, both the grinding force and surface roughness increase, resulting in poorer material surface quality. Conversely, when the grinding wheel speed increases, both the grinding force and surface roughness decrease, leading to better material surface quality. Compared to using electroplated diamond wheels, the use of resin bond wheel results in lower grinding force, lower surface roughness, and improved surface morphology, which proves that resin bond wheel has better grinding performance when grinding SiCp/Al composites with SiC volume fraction of 20%. This study indicates that the research facilitates the calculation of grinding forces in actual machining processes, as well as the selection of grinding parameters and types of grinding wheels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nighttime driving safety is a key focus in transportation research due to accidents caused by drivers' inability to clearly see road obstacles, leading to delayed or incorrect decisions. To address this, the use of mechanoluminescent materials on surfaces like roads and buildings offers a potential solution for better object contour detection in poor visibility. This study investigates the use of SrAl 2 O 4 as a phosphor matrix, exploring its luminescence characteristics and the effects of doping with Eu2+ and Dy3+. The optimal doping ratios were determined to be 2 % Eu and 1 % Dy by trap modulation, producing phosphors with significant mechanical luminescence and a prolonged afterglow. Spectroscopic analysis and image assessment demonstrated a visible afterglow lasting up to 60 min, along with impressive mechanical luminescence performance. By combining the developed SrAl 2 O 4 :Eu2+, Dy3+ phosphor-based coating with polydimethylsiloxane, a real-time surface stress sensing system was devised utilizing digital camera and other optical sensors. This advancement facilitates the visualization of stresses in complex or confined environments, potentially improving nighttime driving safety through enhanced object contour detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to present the characteristics and a comparison of four different commercial materials dedicated to the CAD/CAM technique in dentistry, all of which can be classified as ceramic materials. Its purpose is also to evaluate the impact of surface treatment on the cytotoxicity and microbiological properties of the materials. The CAD/CAM technique has a perpetually growing role in modern reconstructive dentistry. It requires a material's possession of peculiar characteristics, such as mechanical resistance, durability, functionality (similar to natural tissues), good aesthetics and biocompatibility. To critically evaluate a biomaterial, both manufacturer claims and in vitro tests should be considered. Further steps of evaluation may include animal tests and clinical trials. There are certain attributes of biomaterials that may be modified by surface treatment that can be crucial to the clinical success of the material. The evaluated materials were Vita Suprinity (VITA-Zahnfabrik, Germany), Vita Mark II (VITA-Zahnfabrik, Germany), Celtra Duo (Dentsply Sirona, USA) and Empress Cad (Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein). They are available in the form of prefabricated blocks of various diameters and are popular among operators performing clinical procedures using CAD/CAM. Standardized blocks of each material were prepared. Half of them had their surface polished. Further, half of all the samples were covered by a nano-copper layer. The samples were evaluated for cytotoxicity, presented on a 0–4 scale, adhesion susceptibility and potential of forming a biofilm on their surface. Physicochemical properties such as the water contact angle (WCA) were evaluated for the tested materials. The influence of copper coating on cytotoxicity cannot be unequivocally stated or denied. Surface polishing did not affect the materials' cytotoxicity, but it increased the WCA of all materials and, therefore, their hydrophobicity. Different degrees of adhesion ability and biofilm formation were dependent on the species of microorganisms and properties of the dental materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaporation‐induced self‐assembly (EISA) is a versatile method for generating organized superstructures from colloidal particles, offering diverse design possibilities through the manipulation of colloid size, shape, substrate nature, and environmental conditions. While some work highlighted the potential of EISA to investigate phase transitions of inorganic liquid crystals, the influence of sample environment to determine their phase diagrams is often overlooked. In this work, the self‐assembly of lyotropic liquid crystals is compared by EISA on substrates, and by acoustic levitation (absence of substrate). The focus is on imogolite nanotubes, a model colloidal system of 1D charged objects, due to their tunable morphology and rich liquid‐crystalline phase behavior. It demonstrates the feasibility to obtain phase transitions in levitating droplets and on soft hydrophobic substrates, whereas self‐assembly is limited on rigid hydrophilic supports. Moreover, the aspect ratio of the nanotubes proves to be a pivotal factor, influencing both transitions and the resulting materials shape and surface. Besides material shaping, acoustic levitation emerges as a promising method for studying phase transitions by EISA, toward the rapid establishment of phase diagrams from diluted to highly concentrated states using a limited volume of sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces the approach for precisely controlling the trajectory of fluid jets by employing electric field manipulation to confine fiber deposition to specific areas on flexible substrates, particularly within various electronic device applications. Applying similar polar high voltage to both the nozzle tip and printed circuit board generates complementary electric fields, directing the fluid jet to the desired locations on the flexible substrate. This innovative technique eliminates the necessity for traditional masking methods, resulting in reduced ink consumption, streamlined production processes, and minimized chemical waste. To illustrate practical applications, we fabricate flexible conductive electrodes for media façade applications and real-time sensor monitoring, showcasing the effectiveness of integrating Ag nanoparticles into functional electronic components. With an approximate sheet resistance of 10 Ω/sq2, our system adeptly controls Ag nanoparticle deposition within defined areas. This approach not only aligns fibers precisely but also ensures uniform deposition, making it ideal for various flexible applications. Overall, this study underscores the potential of electric field manipulation to revolutionize surface and coating technology, offering a promising avenue for sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes, particularly in flexible applications. The resulting patterned electrodes can be employed in a wide range of flexible electronic devices, contributing to more sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creating sub-micrometer structures on material surfaces to achieve physical antibacterial effects is of significant importance and value across various fields, including prosthetics for bone repair and implants. High-performance polymers such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), which lack inherent chemical antibacterial properties, can greatly benefit from exploring physical antibacterial mechanisms to extend their applications in medical, healthcare, and food-related domains. This study employs femtosecond laser direct writing technology to fabricate antibacterial microstructures on PEEK surfaces. By varying the laser parameters, we can predictably control and modify the resulting surface microstructures and their physical properties. Additionally, we have trained a machine learning model to predict the antibacterial efficacy of these surfaces based on two-dimensional scanning electron microscope images, enabling us to identify the most promising antibacterial surfaces. Our combined approach has produced PEEK surfaces with antibacterial efficacy of up to 77.8% against Staphylococcus aureus and 92.3% against Escherichia coli. This work advances our understanding of how surface microstructure influences antibacterial performance, paving the way for the systematic design and production of antibacterial materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infections represent a significant global threat to human health, leading to considerable economic losses through increased healthcare costs and reduced productivity. One major challenge in treating these infections is the presence of biofilms ‐ structured bacterial communities that form protective barriers, making traditional treatments less effective. Additionally, the rise of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria has exacerbated treatment difficulties. To address these challenges, researchers are developing and exploring innovative approaches to combat biofilm‐related infections. This mini‐review highlights recent advancements in the following key areas: surface anti‐adhesion technologies, electricity, photo/acoustic‐active materials, endogenous mimicking agents, and innovative drug delivery systems. These strategies aim to prevent biofilm formation, disrupt existing biofilms, and enhance the efficacy of antimicrobial treatments. Currently, these approaches show great potential for applications in medical fields such as medical device and wound – associated biofilm infections. By summarizing these developments, this mini‐review provides a comprehensive resource for researchers seeking to advance the management and treatment of biofilm‐associated infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous carbon materials have gained increasing attention in catalysis applications due to their tailorable surface properties, large specific surface area, excellent thermal stability, and low cost. Even though porous carbon materials have been employed for thermal-catalytic dry reforming of methane (DRM), the structure–function relationship, especially the critical factor affecting catalytic performance, is still under debate. Herein, various porous carbon-based samples with disparate pore structures and surface properties are prepared by alkali (K2CO3) etching and the following CO2 activation of low-cost petroleum pitch. Detailed characterization clarifies that the quinone/ketone carbonyl functional groups on the carbon surface are the key active sites for DRM. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations also show that the C=O group have the lowest transition state energy barrier for CH4* cleavage to CH3* (2.15 eV). Furthermore, the cooperative interplay between the specific surface area and quinone/ketone carbonyl is essential to boost the cleavage of C-H and C-O bonds, guaranteeing enhanced DRM catalytic performance. The MC-600-800 catalyst exhibited an initial CH4 conversion of 51% and a reaction rate of 12.6 mmolCH4 gcat.−1 h−1 at 800 °C, CH4:CO2:N2= 1:1:8, and GHSV = 6000 mL gcat.−1 h−1. Our work could pave the way for the rational design of metal-free carbon-based DRM catalysts and shed new light on the high value-added utilization of heavy oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LSPwC is an important development of Laser shock peening (LSP) technology, and surface texturing is an effective method to improve tribological properties. The combination of these is expected to innovate a new surface texturing technology with a strengthing effect, but no one has attempted it. In this paper, a new LSPTwC technology combining them is innovatively proposed and validated on AISI 9310 steel, which is commonly used in helicopter transmission components for surface texturing. The LSPTwC surface was studied using an optical microscope, electron microscope, energy dispersive spectrometer, and so on. The results proved that LSPTwC is an effective texturing method of AISI 9310 steel, which modulates the texture and improves the properties, such as the microhardness increased by more than 10%. A model for calculating the texture and process parameters is also constructed on a statistical basis, and a modeling method for textured surfaces is proposed. It is verified that the calculation results and the constructed model are highly consistent with the test, with a diameter deviation <3% and depth deviation <4%. The above results can provide the experimental basis, process design method, and calculation model for single-point LSPwC texturing of AISI 9310 steel parts for helicopters, which have application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the adsorptive, adhesive, and wetting energetic properties of five commercially available cleansers in contact with model dental polymer (PMMA). It was assumed that the selected parameters allow for determining the optimal concentration and place of key component accumulation for antibacterial activity in the bulk liquid phase and prevention of oral plaque formation at the prosthetic material surface. The adsorptive (Gibbs' excesses ΓLV, critical micellar concentration) and thermal (entropy and enthalpy) surface characteristics originated from surface tension γLV(T) and γLV(C) dependences. The surface wetting properties were quantified upon the contact angle hysteresis formalism on the advancing ΘA, receding ΘR contact angles, and γLV as the input data, which yield a set of wettability parameters: 2D adsorptive film pressure, surface free energy with its dispersive and polar components, work of adhesion, and adhesional tension, considered as interfacial interaction indicators. In particular, molecular partitioning Kp and ΓLV are indicators of the efficiency of particular active substance accumulation in the volume phase, while γSV, a = ΓSL/ΓLV, and WA point to the degree of its accumulation at the immersed polymer surface. Finally, the liquid penetration coefficient PC and the Marangoni temperature gradient-driven liquid flow speed were estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantification of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data is often limited by the heterogeneous nature of the material surface. However, it is often the case that heterogeneous material contains areas within the analyzed area that are effectively homogeneous. In this Insight note, concepts, and methods used to analyze both XPS data are presented to extract both spatial and spectral information from heterogeneous surfaces. These concepts and methods are applied to a specific material surface that contains three chemical compounds separated spatially. The analysis entails converting XPS image data to spectral data and is designed to highlight the potential of XPS imaging in revealing compositional information correlation with spatial information. Properties of algorithms used to evaluate XPS images and spectra are described to outline their application to image data. A case study of an imaging XPS data set is presented that demonstrates how poor signal‐to‐noise images, where the signal is recorded for 4 s per image, are still open to analysis yielding useful information. Ultimately, the methods presented here will aid in interpreting complex XPS data obtained from spatially complex materials often obtained during extensive cycling, such as conventional or electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective of this study is to investigate the outcomes of clinically relevant laboratory studies regarding the cementation of implant‐supported restorations over ti‐bases. Materials and Methods: The present study has been conducted according to PRISMA statement. An electronic search was performed, including publications up to March 2024, to identify studies investigating the parameters affecting the cementation between ti‐bases and CAD/CAM prostheses. An assessment of the internal validity was performed, using a custom‐made risk of bias tool (QUIN). Results: From the included studies, 40.1% were reported on luting systems, 25% on ti‐base surface treatment, 25% on restoration surface, 21.8% on restoration material, and 18.7% on ti‐base height. The majority of the included studies were associated with a medium risk of bias. In the absence of micro‐retentive features, air‐abrasion of ti‐bases with a minimum height of 3.5 mm can be beneficial for restoration's retention. The bonding performance can vary not only between different bonding systems but also for different applications within the same system, based on a restoration's material and surface treatment as well as on ti‐base height and surface treatment. Conclusions: The height of the ti‐base seems to be the prevailing factor as it constitutes the prerequisite for other modifications of the bonding surfaces to have an advantageous effect. Since the parameters that can affect bonding performance between ti‐base and restoration can interact with each other, it is important for the clinician to focus on verified bonding protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocean currents are a crucial means of dispersing natural and human-made materials on the ocean surface. Macroalgae are among the most conspicuous natural dispersers, often called the 'tumbleweeds of the ocean.' Despite numerous studies on the subject, the relative influence of wind and surface currents on the trajectory of macroalgal dispersal remains uncertain. Previous studies have focused on kelp rafts of varying sizes, making it challenging to determine the impact of wind versus currents. These studies have also disregarded the macroalgae's drag characteristics and surface area, which have been shown to impact the trajectory and accumulation of floating flotsam. This numerical study aims to shed light on the relative influence of wind and currents and the role of drag in determining the course and accumulation of macroalgae. By comparing simulations of virtual kelp 'particles' that incorporate drag and those without, this study focused on solitary kelp plants and considered the impact of morphological characteristics, flow-field combinations, and the presence of Stokes drift. Our results show that virtual kelp particles generally followed ocean currents, but the inclusion of drag caused deviations from purely Lagrangian particles' trajectories and sheds light on the complex interplay of factors affecting macroalgal dispersal in the ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skeletal material from Sarmatian cemeteries in the Pannonian Plain (Hungary, Romania, Serbia), dating from the first to the fifth century ce, has exhibited poor preservation. This has been attributed to historical grave robbery, although no analysis of the skeletal remains or taphonomic processes has been conducted. A recent study focused on statistically assessing skeletal preservation and taphonomic examinations of skeletal remains from 152 graves in the Vojvodina territory (Serbia), utilizing interdisciplinary methodologies. The study found that grave reopening in the past contributed to bone fragmentation in two ways: first, by directly damaging and scattering the bones and, second, by leaving the skeletal material exposed to surface and weathering conditions for an extended period. Additionally, the Sarmatian burial practice of placing the dead in solid tree trunk coffins has also resulted in poor skeletal preservation, as indicated by coffin wear modifications on the bones. This research has provided new insights into the various anthropogenic and natural processes that affect skeletal remains from reopened graves, thereby supporting the reconstruction of Sarmatian funerary archeology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CoCrMo alloys are often used in the manufacture of artificial joints in the medical field, and their special working environment will lead to corrosion and abrasion of the surface materials, thus reducing the service life of the joints. Surface texturing technology can improve the friction performance of joints by reducing the friction area, storing abrasive particles and lubricants, etc. Its application in the field of CoCrMo alloy joint surface strengthening is of great significance. This paper analyses the characteristics of surface fabrication processing technology and the friction reduction mechanism of surface fabrication under fluid lubrication and dry friction conditions, summarizes the influence of various fabrication parameters (fabrication depth, size, density, shape, etc.) on the friction performance of the alloy, introduces other surface technologies of CoCrMo alloy as well as common medical materials, summarizes the existing problems in the research of CoCrMo alloy surface reinforcement technology at this stage and makes a study on the development direction of the surface reinforcement technology of CoCrMo alloy in the field of artificial joints. The development direction of CoCrMo alloy in the field of artificial joints is also prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]