Journal Description
Journal of Composites Science
Journal of Composites Science
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on the science and technology of composites published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), Inspec, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Materials Science, Composites) / CiteScore - Q1 (Engineering (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.0 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.3 (2023)
Latest Articles
Predicting Mechanical Properties from Microstructure Images in Fiber-Reinforced Polymers Using Convolutional Neural Networks
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100387 (registering DOI) - 25 Sep 2024
Abstract
Evaluating the mechanical response of fiber-reinforced composites can be extremely time-consuming and expensive. Machine learning (ML) techniques offer a means for faster predictions via models trained on existing input–output pairs and have exhibited success in composite research. This paper explores a fully convolutional
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Evaluating the mechanical response of fiber-reinforced composites can be extremely time-consuming and expensive. Machine learning (ML) techniques offer a means for faster predictions via models trained on existing input–output pairs and have exhibited success in composite research. This paper explores a fully convolutional neural network modified from StressNet, which was originally used for linear elastic materials, and extended here for a non-linear finite element (FE) simulation to predict the stress field in 2D slices of segmented tomography images of a fiber-reinforced polymer specimen. The network was trained and evaluated on data generated from the FE simulations of the exact microstructure. The testing results show that the trained network accurately captures the characteristics of the stress distribution, especially on fibers, solely from the segmented microstructure images. The trained model can make predictions within seconds in a single forward pass on an ordinary laptop, given the input microstructure, compared to 92.5 h to run the full FE simulation on a high-performance computing cluster. These results show promise in using ML techniques to conduct fast structural analysis for fiber-reinforced composites and suggest a corollary that the trained model can be used to identify the location of potential damage sites in fiber-reinforced polymers.
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(This article belongs to the Section Fiber Composites)
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Transforming Nanomaterial Synthesis through Advanced Microfluidic Approaches: A Review on Accessing Unrestricted Possibilities
by
Sanjib Roy, Ramesh Kumar, Argha Acooli, Snehagni Roy, Abhrajit Chatterjee, Sujoy Chattaraj, Jayato Nayak, Byong-Hun Jeon, Aradhana Basu, Shirsendu Banerjee, Sankha Chakrabortty and Suraj K. Tripathy
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100386 - 25 Sep 2024
Abstract
The inception of microfluidic devices marks a confluence of diverse scientific domains, including physics, biology, chemistry, and fluid mechanics. These multidisciplinary roots have catalyzed the evolution of microfluidic devices, which serve as versatile platforms for various chemical and biological processes. Notably, microfluidic devices
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The inception of microfluidic devices marks a confluence of diverse scientific domains, including physics, biology, chemistry, and fluid mechanics. These multidisciplinary roots have catalyzed the evolution of microfluidic devices, which serve as versatile platforms for various chemical and biological processes. Notably, microfluidic devices have garnered attention as efficient reactors, offering distinct benefits such as minimized spatial requirements for reactions, reduced equipment costs, and accelerated residence times. These advantages, among others, have ignited a compelling interest in harnessing microfluidic technology for the conception, refinement, and production of various nanomaterials and nanocomposites, pivotal within both industrial and medicinal sectors. This comprehensive exposition delves into multifaceted aspects of nanomaterial synthesis, underscoring the transformative role of microfluidic methodologies as a departure from conventional techniques. The discourse navigates through intricate considerations surrounding the preparation of nanomaterials, elucidating how the microfluidic paradigm has emerged as a promising alternative. This paper serves as an illuminating exploration of the juncture between microfluidic innovation and nanomaterial synthesis. It traverses the transformative potential of microfluidics in revolutionizing traditional approaches, heralding a new era of precision engineering for advanced materials with applications spanning industrial to medicinal domains.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposites)
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Open AccessArticle
Thermoplastic-Based Ballistic Helmets: Processing, Ballistic Resistance and Damage Characterization
by
Rafael R. Dias, Natalin M. Meliande, Hector G. Kotik, César G. Camerini and Iaci M. Pereira
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100385 - 24 Sep 2024
Abstract
Ballistic helmets are individual pieces of armor equipment designed to protect a soldier’s head from projectiles and fragments. Although very common, these helmets are responsible for several casualties due to their significant back face deformation and low ballistic resistance to projectiles. Therefore, to
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Ballistic helmets are individual pieces of armor equipment designed to protect a soldier’s head from projectiles and fragments. Although very common, these helmets are responsible for several casualties due to their significant back face deformation and low ballistic resistance to projectiles. Therefore, to enhance helmet performance, studies have focused on the development of new materials and new ballistic protection solutions. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a new ballistic solution using thermoplastic-based matrices. The first matrix was based on high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The second matrix was based on HDPE modified with exfoliated montmorillonite (MMT). The main manufacturing processes of a thermoplastic-based ballistic helmet are presented, along with its ballistic performance, according to the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standard 0106.01 and an investigation of its failure mechanisms via a non-destructive technique. All the helmets resulted in level III-A ballistic protection. The postimpact helmets were scanned to evaluate the back face deformation dimensions, which revealed that the global cone deformation was deeper in the HDPE than in the HDPE/MMT helmet. The failure analysis revealed an overall larger deformation area in the HDPE and HDPE/MMT helmet delamination zones in the regions with a large radius of curvature than in the zones with the lowest radius, which is in accordance with previous simulations reported in the literature.
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(This article belongs to the Section Composites Modelling and Characterization)
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Open AccessArticle
Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Polypropylene, Polyoxymethylene and Poly (Methyl Methacrylate) Modified with Adhesive Resins
by
Jakub Czakaj, Daria Pakuła, Julia Głowacka, Bogna Sztorch and Robert E. Przekop
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100384 - 24 Sep 2024
Abstract
Polyoxymethylene (POM), polypropylene (PP), and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) have been blended with adhesive-grade ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), propylene elastomer (VMX), isobutylene–isoprene rubber (IIR) and an acrylic block copolymer (MMA-nBA-MMA). The blends were prepared using a two-roll mill and injection molding. The mechanical properties
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Polyoxymethylene (POM), polypropylene (PP), and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) have been blended with adhesive-grade ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), propylene elastomer (VMX), isobutylene–isoprene rubber (IIR) and an acrylic block copolymer (MMA-nBA-MMA). The blends were prepared using a two-roll mill and injection molding. The mechanical properties of the blends, such as tensile strength, tensile modulus, elongation at maximum load, and impact resistance, were investigated. The water contact angle, melt flow rate (MFR), and differential scanning calorimetry were ascertained to evaluate the blends. The blend samples exhibited the following properties: all POM/EVA blends showed reduced crystallinity compared to neat POM; the 80% PMMA/20% MMA-nBA-MMA blend showed improved impact resistance by 243% compared to the neat PMMA. An antiplasticization effect was observed for POM/EVA 1% blends and PMMA/EVA 1% blends, with MFR reduced by 1% and 3%, respectively. The MFR of the PP/IIR 1% blend increased by 5%, then decreased below the MFR near the polymer for the remaining IIR concentrations.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites, Volume III)
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Open AccessArticle
Endothermic–Exothermic Hybrid Foaming of Recycled PET Blends
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Veronika Anna Szabó, Gusztáv Fekete and Gábor Dogossy
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100383 - 24 Sep 2024
Abstract
Over the past decades, the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has seen significant growth, particularly in the packaging industry. However, its long decomposition time poses serious environmental challenges. The aim of this research was to develop a process for the foaming of large
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Over the past decades, the use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has seen significant growth, particularly in the packaging industry. However, its long decomposition time poses serious environmental challenges. The aim of this research was to develop a process for the foaming of large quantities of recycled PET (rPET) using endothermic and exothermic foaming agents. Various formulations with different ratios of endothermic and exothermic foaming agents were prepared, as well as their mixtures. The study found that the endothermic–exothermic hybrid foaming process resulted in a finer cell-size distribution and enhanced mechanical properties, making the foams highly suitable for widespread applications. The results support the potential use of exothermic foaming agents as nucleating agents in a hybrid foaming system. In particular, the ratio of 3% endothermic and 1% exothermic foaming agents proved optimal in terms of achieving a balance between porosity and mechanical strength, thereby enabling broad industrial applicability.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trends and Challenges in Developing and Processing Composite Materials)
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Elaboration and Experimental Characterizations of Copper-Filled Polyamide Micro-Composites for Tribological Applications
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Mabrouka Akrout, Basma Ben Difallah, Mohamed Kharrat, Maher Dammak, António B. Pereira, Filipe J. Oliveira and Isabel Duarte
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100382 - 24 Sep 2024
Abstract
Polyamide 66 (PA66) has been used for dynamic bearing applications due to its good wear and abrasion resistance, hardness, and rigidity. PA66/copper micro-composites were studied with respect to micro-mechanical, tribological, and structural properties. A mixing step followed by injection molding was used to
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Polyamide 66 (PA66) has been used for dynamic bearing applications due to its good wear and abrasion resistance, hardness, and rigidity. PA66/copper micro-composites were studied with respect to micro-mechanical, tribological, and structural properties. A mixing step followed by injection molding was used to develop the different composites: PA66+5 wt.% Cu, PA66+10 wt.% Cu, and PA66+15 wt.% Cu. The morphological aspects of the composites were studied using scanning electron microscopy and microtomography. Good dispersion and adhesion of Cu particles across the matrix were also seen. DSC analysis showed a slight improvement in the % of crystallinity and thermal characteristics of the composites, particularly with 5 wt.% filler. Additional crystallization enhanced the tensile performance of the composites, including the modulus, elongation at break, and tensile strength. Nanoindentation tests also indicated an increase in indentation hardness and elastic modulus as a function of the filler fraction. A pin-on-disk tribometer was used to study the friction and wear properties of neat PA66 and copper-filled PA66 composites. It was found that the composite with 5 weight percent copper had the best wear resistance. A progressive decrease in the friction coefficient was also seen. Copper filler increases hardness and may effectively reduce the temperature at contact interfaces during rotating cycles.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites, Volume III)
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Optimization of Al6061 Nanocomposites Production Reinforced with Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
by
Beatriz Monteiro and Sónia Simões
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090381 - 23 Sep 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al6061 nanocomposites. The MWCNTs were uniformly dispersed in the aluminum alloy matrix using ultrasonication following cold pressing and sintering in a vacuum. The effect of the
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This study investigates the impact of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al6061 nanocomposites. The MWCNTs were uniformly dispersed in the aluminum alloy matrix using ultrasonication following cold pressing and sintering in a vacuum. The effect of the sintered temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites was evaluated. The addition of MWCNTs resulted in grain refinement, with the nanocomposites exhibiting smaller and more uniformly distributed grains than the pure Al6061 matrix, particularly at lower sintering temperatures of 580 and 600 °C. The nanocomposites also demonstrated an increase in hardness, with peak values observed at 580 °C, primarily due to the effective dispersion of MWCNTs, which restrict dislocation movement and reinforce grain boundaries. While higher sintering temperatures led to significant grain growth and less uniform hardness distribution, lower temperatures favored finer grain structures and more homogeneous hardness profiles. The results suggest that the optimal sintering temperature for achieving the best balance between microstructure and mechanical properties is 580 °C. However, the study also highlights the need for optimized dispersion techniques to achieve a more uniform distribution of MWCNTs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Processing Techniques on the Characterization of Alloys Composites and Hybrids)
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Design of an Overhead Crane in Steel, Aluminium and Composite Material Using the Prestress Method
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Luigi Solazzi and Ivan Tomasi
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090380 - 23 Sep 2024
Abstract
The present research describes a design of an overhead crane using different materials with a prestress method, which corresponds to an external compression force with the aim of reducing the displacement of the beam due to the external load. This study concerns a
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The present research describes a design of an overhead crane using different materials with a prestress method, which corresponds to an external compression force with the aim of reducing the displacement of the beam due to the external load. This study concerns a bridge crane with a span length of 10 m, with a payload equal to 20,000 N and an estimated fatigue life of 50,000 cycles. Three different materials are studied: steel S355JR, aluminium alloy 6061-T6 and carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP). These materials are analysed with and without the contribution of the prestress method. In reference to the prestressed steel solution (which has a weight equal to 79% of the non-prestressed configuration), this study designed an aluminium solution that is 50.7% of the weight of the steel one and a composite solution that is always 20.3% of the steel configuration. In combining the methods, i.e., the materials and prestress, compared to the non-prestressed steel solution with a weight evaluated to be 758 kg, the weight of the aluminium configuration is equal to 40% of the traditional one, and the composite value is reduced to 16%, with a weight of 121 kg.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical and Computational Investigation on Composite Materials)
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Evaluation of Different ZX Tensile Coupon Designs in Additive Manufacturing of Amorphous and Semi-Crystalline Polymer Composites
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Raviteja Rayaprolu, Ajay Kumar Kadiyala and Joseph G. Lawrence
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090379 - 22 Sep 2024
Abstract
The layer-by-layer deposition of molten polymer filament in fused deposition modeling (FDM) has evolved as a disruptive technology for building complex parts. This technology has drawbacks such as the anisotropic property of the printed parts resulting in lower strength for parts printed in
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The layer-by-layer deposition of molten polymer filament in fused deposition modeling (FDM) has evolved as a disruptive technology for building complex parts. This technology has drawbacks such as the anisotropic property of the printed parts resulting in lower strength for parts printed in the vertical Z direction compared with the other two planes. In this manuscript, we attempt to address these challenges as well as the lack of standardization in sample preparation and mechanical testing of the printed parts. The paper focuses on process parameters and design optimization of the ZX build orientation. Type I tensile bars in ZX orientation were printed as per the ASTM D638 standard using two (2B) and four (4B) tensile bar designs. The proposed design reduces material loss and post-processing to extract the test coupons. Printing a type I tensile bar in the ZX orientation is more challenging than type IV and type V due to the increased length of the specimen and changes in additional heat buildup during layer-by-layer deposition. Three different polymer composite systems were studied: fast-crystallizing nanofiller-based high-temperature nylon (HTN), slow-crystallizing nanofiller-based polycyclohexylene diethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PCTG), and amorphous carbon fiber-filled polyetherimide (PEI-CF). For all the polymer composite systems, the 2B showed the highest strength properties due to the shorter layer time aiding the diffusion in the interlayers. Further, rheological studies and SEM imaging were carried out to understand the influence of the two designs on fracture mechanics and interlayer bonding, providing valuable insights for the field of additive manufacturing and material science.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Composite Materials in Additive Manufacturing)
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EIS Behavior of Polyethylene + Graphite Composite Considered as an Approximation to an Ensemble of Microelectrodes
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Javier Navarro-Laboulais, José Juan García-Jareño, Jerónimo Agrisuelas and Francisco Vicente
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090378 - 22 Sep 2024
Abstract
The electrical percolation of alternating current through two-phase polyethylene/graphite composite electrodes with different contents of graphite microparticles immersed in aqueous KCl solutions has been studied. Above the graphite content of the first percolation threshold, the electrochemical impedance response of this electrode is associated
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The electrical percolation of alternating current through two-phase polyethylene/graphite composite electrodes with different contents of graphite microparticles immersed in aqueous KCl solutions has been studied. Above the graphite content of the first percolation threshold, the electrochemical impedance response of this electrode is associated with an equivalent circuit of resistance in series with a constant phase element (CPE). An insulator material + conducting filler model is proposed in which the electroactive surface is considered as the intersection of the percolation cluster through the solid and the cluster associated with the interfacial region. CPE is analyzed assuming a distribution of microcapacitors of the graphite particles in contact with the dielectric solution and inside the dielectric polymeric phase.
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(This article belongs to the Section Composites Applications)
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Evaluating the Hybridization and Treatment Effects on the Mechanical Properties of Enset and Sisal Hybrid Composites
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Abera Endesha Bekele and Hirpa G. Lemu
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090377 - 21 Sep 2024
Abstract
Natural fibers are among the most employed reinforcements in the manufacturing process of innovative fiber-based composite materials. As with any composite materials, the properties of composites depend on the type and properties of the fiber, fiber structure, composition (hybridization), and treatment. In this
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Natural fibers are among the most employed reinforcements in the manufacturing process of innovative fiber-based composite materials. As with any composite materials, the properties of composites depend on the type and properties of the fiber, fiber structure, composition (hybridization), and treatment. In this study, the composite was fabricated by using hand lay-up with 100/0, 75/25, 50/50, 25/75, and 0/100 Enset/Sisal (E/S) hybridization ratio. Three cases, i.e., untreated, 5%, and 10% NaOH treatment were considered. The effects of hybridization and treatment on the mechanical and water absorption properties of woven and unidirectional orientation of E/S hybrid composite were evaluated by using a two-factors analysis of variance. The fiber–matrix interfacial fractured surface was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The treated (5% NaOH) and woven fiber orientation exhibited better mechanical properties than untreated and unidirectional hybrid composites. The flexural and tensile strength of the woven composite was improved by 5% and 9%, respectively, when compared with woven untreated 50/50 volume ratio of composites. In both samples and orientations, the hybridization effects show a higher percentage contribution to the mechanical properties. But, in both orientations of composite samples, the treatment effects show a higher percentage contribution for water absorption properties.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Hybrid Composites)
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Lithium-Containing Sorbents Based on Rice Waste for High-Temperature Carbon Dioxide Capture
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Gaukhar Yergaziyeva, Manshuk Mambetova, Nursaya Makayeva, Banu Diyarova and Nurbol Appazov
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090376 - 21 Sep 2024
Abstract
This article studies the influence of the nature of the carrier from rice wastes on the sorption properties of lithium-containing sorbents, and also considers the impact of the modifying additive (K2CO3) and adsorption temperature on their characteristics. It has
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This article studies the influence of the nature of the carrier from rice wastes on the sorption properties of lithium-containing sorbents, and also considers the impact of the modifying additive (K2CO3) and adsorption temperature on their characteristics. It has been shown that the sorption capacity of 11LiK/SiO2 at 500 °C reached 36%, which is associated with the formation of lithium orthosilicate in the sorbent composition, as well as with an increase in the specific surface area of the sorbent. After 12 cycles of sorption–desorption, it was found that the sorption capacity of 11LiK/SiO2 for CO2 decreased by only 8%. Rice waste-based sorbents have a high sorption capacity for CO2 at high temperatures, which allows them to be used for carbon dioxide capture. The results of this study indicate the prospects of using agricultural residues to create effective adsorbents that contribute to reducing environmental pollution and combating global warming.
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(This article belongs to the Section Composites Applications)
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Nanostructured C@CuS Core–Shell Framework with High Lithium-Ion Storage Performance
by
Changqing Jin, Zaidong Peng, Yongxing Wei, Ruihua Nan, Zhong Yang, Zengyun Jian and Qingping Ding
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090375 - 21 Sep 2024
Abstract
In this study, we have synthesized a nanostructured core–shell framework of carbon-coated copper sulfide (C@CuS) through a one-step precipitation technique. The carbon sphere template facilitated the nucleation of CuS nanostructures. The synthesized nanocomposites have demonstrated remarkable lithium-ion storage capabilities when utilized as an
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In this study, we have synthesized a nanostructured core–shell framework of carbon-coated copper sulfide (C@CuS) through a one-step precipitation technique. The carbon sphere template facilitated the nucleation of CuS nanostructures. The synthesized nanocomposites have demonstrated remarkable lithium-ion storage capabilities when utilized as an anode in lithium-ion batteries. Notably, they exhibit an impressive rate capability of 314 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 5000 mA g−1, along with excellent long-term cycle stability, maintaining 463 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 after 800 cycles. This superior performance is due to the core–shell architecture of the composite, where the carbon core enhances the conductivity of CuS nanoparticles and mitigates volume expansion, thus preventing capacity loss. Our study not only elucidates the significance of carbon in the construction of nano-heterojunctions or composite electrodes but also presents a practical approach to significantly boost the electrochemical performance of CuS and other metal sulfides.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Composite Materials for Energy Storage Applications)
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Towpreg—An Advanced Composite Material with a Potential for Pressurized Hydrogen Storage Vessels
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Anka Trajkovska Petkoska, Blagoja Samakoski, Bisera Samardjioska Azmanoska and Viktorija Velkovska
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090374 - 21 Sep 2024
Abstract
Hydrogen is one of the critical components to address global challenges such as climate change, environmental pollution and global warming. It is a renewable source of energy that has many advantages compared to other renewables. Even though it may not be a “silver
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Hydrogen is one of the critical components to address global challenges such as climate change, environmental pollution and global warming. It is a renewable source of energy that has many advantages compared to other renewables. Even though it may not be a “silver bullet” solution for the polluted world, there is still a big expectation that it can solve some of the energy crisis and challenges in the transportation, domestic and industry sectors. This study reviews the latest advancements in materials science, especially in the composite materials used for energy storage/transportation tanks. Special attention is given to towpreg material structures as the most promising ones for hydrogen storage. Various types of storage vessels are reviewed with emphasis on the most advanced type IV and type V vessels for energy (hydrogen) storage. The manufacturing processes, mainly filament winding (FW) and automatic fiber placement (AFP), are reviewed with their pros and cons. The sustainability aspects for the most promising hydrogen technologies, limitations and future challenges are also discussed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite Materials for Energy Management, Storage or Transportation)
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Core–Shell Inorganic/Organic Composites Composed of Polypyrrole Nanoglobules or Nanotubes Deposited on MnZn Ferrite Microparticles: Electrical and Magnetic Properties
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Marek Jurča, Lenka Munteanu, Jarmila Vilčáková, Jaroslav Stejskal, Miroslava Trchová, Jan Prokeš and Ivo Křivka
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090373 - 21 Sep 2024
Abstract
Core–shell inorganic/organic composites have often been applied as fillers in electromagnetic interference shielding. Those composed of conducting polymers and ferrites are of particular interests with respect to their electrical and magnetic properties. Pyrrole was oxidized in aqueous medium in the presence of manganese-zinc
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Core–shell inorganic/organic composites have often been applied as fillers in electromagnetic interference shielding. Those composed of conducting polymers and ferrites are of particular interests with respect to their electrical and magnetic properties. Pyrrole was oxidized in aqueous medium in the presence of manganese-zinc ferrite microparticles with ammonium peroxydisulfate or iron(III) chloride to yield polypyrrole-coated, core–shell microstructures. The effect of methyl orange dye on the conversion of globular polypyrrole to nanotubes has been demonstrated by electron microscopy when iron(III) chloride was used as an oxidant. The formation of polypyrrole was proved by FTIR spectroscopy. The completeness of ferrite coating was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. The resistivity of composite powders was determined by four-point van der Pauw method as a function of pressure applied up to 10 MPa. The conductivity of composite powders was determined by a polypyrrole matrix and only moderately decreased with increasing content of ferrite. The highest conductivity of composites, 13–25 S cm−1, was achieved after the deposition of polypyrrole nanotubes. Magnetic properties of composites have not been affected by the polypyrrole moiety, and the magnetization of composites was proportional to the ferrite content.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Journal of Composites Science in 2024)
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Polymer Boron-Containing Composite for Protecting Astronauts of Manned Orbital Stations from Secondary Neutron Radiation
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Roman Nikolaevich Yastrebinsky, Anna Viktorovna Yastrebinskaya, Andrey Ivanovich Gorodov and Anastasia Vladislavovna Akimenko
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090372 - 21 Sep 2024
Abstract
This article considers the prospects of using heat-resistant polyimide boron-containing composites to protect astronauts of manned orbital stations from secondary neutron radiation. Variant calculations are performed regarding neutron and gamma-quanta flux distributions in a polyimide composite material with different boron content used to
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This article considers the prospects of using heat-resistant polyimide boron-containing composites to protect astronauts of manned orbital stations from secondary neutron radiation. Variant calculations are performed regarding neutron and gamma-quanta flux distributions in a polyimide composite material with different boron content used to reduce capture radiation. The dependences of spatial distributions of thermal neutron flux density and the gamma-quanta dose rate in a polyimide composite layer with a boron content of 0 to 5% are obtained. An experimental assessment of the energy distribution of neutron and gamma radiation behind the protective polyimide composite is carried out. The introduction of boron atoms in an amount of 3.0 wt.% shows the absence of bursts of secondary gamma radiation energy in the composite, which is due to the high cross-section of thermal neutron absorption by boron atoms. As a result, with a material layer thickness of 3–10 cm, the gamma-quanta dose rate decreases by 2–3 times. The differential thermal analysis method showed that the upper limit of the working temperature of the polyimide composite is 500 °C. The polyimide matrix filled with boron atoms can find effective application in the development of new radiation-protective polymer materials used in manned orbital stations.
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(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites)
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Advancing Thermochromic Glass Durability: Reinforcing Thermosensitive Hydrogels with Enhanced Adhesion Techniques
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Dewei Qian, Suili Peng, Tao Zhang, Liang Qin and Weijia Wen
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090371 - 20 Sep 2024
Abstract
The growing use of glass in architecture has driven research into reducing its energy consumption. Thermochromic (TC) glass technology shows promise for enhancing building energy efficiency by regulating solar heat dynamically. Although TC glass helps reduce heat radiation, additional solutions like Low-E or
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The growing use of glass in architecture has driven research into reducing its energy consumption. Thermochromic (TC) glass technology shows promise for enhancing building energy efficiency by regulating solar heat dynamically. Although TC glass helps reduce heat radiation, additional solutions like Low-E or vacuum glass are needed to control heat convection and conduction. Low-E glass, while effective in lowering heat transfer, may increase surface temperature. Thermo-sensitive hydrogels, known for their light-scattering properties at high temperatures, have been explored to complement TC glass. However, their stability at elevated temperatures remains a challenge, especially for applications requiring durability under varying weather conditions. This study proposes enhancing the adhesion between hydrogel and glass by introducing silica–oxygen bonds. As a result, TC glass demonstrates stable performance over 100 cycles within temperature ranges from 85 °C to 30 °C in summer and 40 °C to −20 °C in winter. Furthermore, by incorporating ethylene glycol, the freezing point of TC glass is reduced to −26 °C, rendering it suitable for use in colder regions. The implementation of TC glass effectively addresses the dual requirements of summer shading and winter heating in areas with both cold winters and hot summers, significantly reducing building energy consumption. This study contributes substantially to developing advanced intelligent building materials, paving the way for more sustainable architectural designs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution)
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Ballistic Performance of Raffia Fiber Fabric Reinforcing Epoxy Composites as Standalone Targets
by
Douglas Santos Silva, Raí Felipe Pereira Junio, Marcelo Henrique Prado da Silva and Sergio Neves Monteiro
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090370 - 20 Sep 2024
Abstract
Reliable ballistic armor systems are crucial to ensure the safety of humans and vehicles. Typically, these systems are constructed from various materials like fiber-reinforced polymer composites, which are utilized for a favorable weight to ballistic protection ratio. In particular, there has been a
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Reliable ballistic armor systems are crucial to ensure the safety of humans and vehicles. Typically, these systems are constructed from various materials like fiber-reinforced polymer composites, which are utilized for a favorable weight to ballistic protection ratio. In particular, there has been a quest for eco-friendly materials that offer both strong mechanical properties and sustainable advantages. The present work conducted a ballistic analysis of epoxy matrix composites using raffia (Raphia vinifera) fibers from the Amazon region as reinforcement. The experiments investigated the limit and residual velocities of composites with 10, 20, and 30 vol% of raffia. The experimental density of the composites was lower than that of the epoxy. Fractured surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to reveal the failure mechanism. The results showed that composites with 10 vol% raffia fiber fabric had the highest ballistic energy absorption (168.91 J) and limit velocity (201.43 m/s). The ones with 30 vol% displayed a higher level of physical integrity. The SEM micrographs demonstrated the failure mechanisms were associated with delamination and fiber breakage. There was a small variation in residual velocity between the composites reinforced with 10, 20, and 30 vol% of raffia, with 826.66, 829.75, and 820.44 m/s, respectively.
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(This article belongs to the Section Fiber Composites)
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Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Different Blending Methods on the Thermal, Mechanical, and Optical Properties of PMMA/SiO2 Composites
by
Chi-Kai Lin, Jia-Wei Xie, Ping-Jui Tsai, Hao-Yu Wang, Zhi-Wei Lu, Tung-Yi Lin and Chih-Yu Kuo
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090369 - 20 Sep 2024
Abstract
In this study, PMMA/SiO2 composites were fabricated with monodispersed SiO2 and PMMA using four distinct methods—physical blending, in situ polymerization, random copolymerization, and block copolymerization—to investigate the composites’ thermal, mechanical, and optical properties. In the physical blending approach, SiO2 nanoparticles
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In this study, PMMA/SiO2 composites were fabricated with monodispersed SiO2 and PMMA using four distinct methods—physical blending, in situ polymerization, random copolymerization, and block copolymerization—to investigate the composites’ thermal, mechanical, and optical properties. In the physical blending approach, SiO2 nanoparticles were dispersed in a PMMA solution, while during in situ polymerization, silica nanoparticles were incorporated during the synthesis of PMMA/SiO2 composites. 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS) was modified on the SiO2 surface to introduce the reactive double bonds. The MPS@SiO2 was either random- or block-copolymerized with PMMA through RAFT polymerization. The PMMA/SiO2 composites prepared via these different methods were characterized using FTIR, TGA, and DSC to determine their chemical structures, thermal degradation temperatures, and glass transition temperatures, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to observe the microstructures and dispersion of the composites. This comprehensive analysis revealed that the PMMA/SiO2 composites prepared via block copolymerization exhibited thermal stability at temperatures between 200 and 300 °C. Additionally, they demonstrated excellent transparency (86%) and scratch resistance (≥6H) while maintaining mechanical strength, suggesting their potential application in thermal insulation materials.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Polymer Composites, Volume III)
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Hydrogen Generation by Nickel Electrodes Coated with Linear Patterns of PTFE
by
Alion Alushi, Atheer Al-Musawi, Kyuman Kim, Chong-Yong Lee, Klaudia Wagner and Gerhard F. Swiegers
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090368 - 19 Sep 2024
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that partially coating electrode surfaces with patterns of ‘islands’ of hydrophobic tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE; Teflon) may lead to more energy efficient gas generation. This occurred because the gas bubbles formed preferentially on the PTFE, thereby freeing up the catalytically active
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Previous studies have shown that partially coating electrode surfaces with patterns of ‘islands’ of hydrophobic tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE; Teflon) may lead to more energy efficient gas generation. This occurred because the gas bubbles formed preferentially on the PTFE, thereby freeing up the catalytically active metallic surfaces to produce the gas more efficiently. This work examined electrochemically induced hydrogen bubble formation on a nickel electrode surface that had been coated with linear patterns of PTFE. The impact of the PTFE line size (width) and degree of coverage was examined and analyzed. No improvement in electrical energy efficiency was observed up to 15 mA/cm2 when comparing the PTFE-coated electrodes with the control bare uncoated electrode. However, increasing PTFE coverage up to 15% generally improved electrolysis performance. Moreover, samples with 50% wider lines performed better (at the equivalent PTFE coverage), yielding an overpotential decline of up to 3.9% depending on the PTFE coverage. A ‘bubble-scavenging’ phenomenon was also observed, wherein bubbles present on the PTFE lines rapidly shrunk until they disappeared.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Composite Materials for Energy Storage Applications)
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