Materials

27 pages, 4594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Alloy Composition, Hardness, and Milling Parameters on the Cutting Forces of Al-Li-Based Alloys

by Lida Radan, Victor Songmene, Agnes M. Samuel and Fawzy H. Samuel

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122683 (registering DOI) - 6 Jun 2025

This article explores how alloy composition, hardness, and machining parameters can affect the cutting forces encountered in aluminum–lithium (Al-Li)-based alloys. By analyzing Cu and Cu with Sc additions to Al-Li alloys and exposing them to various heat treatments to modify their hardness, this [...] Read more.

This article explores how alloy composition, hardness, and machining parameters can affect the cutting forces encountered in aluminum–lithium (Al-Li)-based alloys. By analyzing Cu and Cu with Sc additions to Al-Li alloys and exposing them to various heat treatments to modify their hardness, this research was designed to evaluate milling performance under various feed rates, cutting speeds, and cooling conditions. The findings indicate that increased hardness leads to higher cutting forces, with Al-Li-Cu-Sc exhibiting the greatest resistance due to scandium’s grain-refining effect and the formation of stable precipitates. Statistical analyses identify the feed rate as the main parameter controlling cutting force, along with hardness and cooling conditions. Notably, wet machining consistently reduces cutting forces, especially in Al-Li-Cu-Sc alloys, enhancing machinability when using high cutting speeds. This work underscores the significance of selecting optimal machining parameters tailored to specific alloy compositions. These findings contribute to improved process efficiency, reduced tool wear, and enhanced productivity. Given the attractive characteristics of these alloys, i.e., their low weight and high strength, the insights from this study are particularly beneficial for aerospace applications where machining performance directly impacts component quality, cost, and overall operational efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Al/Mg/Cu Alloys and Their Composites: Welding, Additive Manufacturing, Heterogeneous Microstructures, and Mechanical Properties)

14 pages, 2109 KiB

Open AccessArticle

XGBoost-Based Modeling of Electrocaloric Property: A Bayesian Optimization in BCZT Electroceramics

by Mustafa Cagri Bayir and Ebru Mensur

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2682; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122682 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Electrocaloric materials, which exhibit adiabatic temperature change under an applied electric field, are promising for solid-state cooling technologies. In this study, the electrocaloric response of lead-free Ba_xCa_1−xZr_yTi_1−yO₃ (BCZT) ceramics was modeled to investigate the [...] Read more.

Electrocaloric materials, which exhibit adiabatic temperature change under an applied electric field, are promising for solid-state cooling technologies. In this study, the electrocaloric response of lead-free Ba_xCa_1−xZr_yTi_1−yO₃ (BCZT) ceramics was modeled to investigate the effects of composition, processing, and measurement conditions on performance. A high-accuracy XGBoost regression model (R² = 0.99, MAE = 0.02 °C) was developed using a dataset of 2188 literature-derived data points to predict and design the electrocaloric response of BCZT ceramics. The feature space incorporated compositional ratios, processing parameters, measurement settings, and atomic-level Magpie descriptors, along with Curie temperature to account for phase-transition behavior. Feature importance analysis revealed that electric field, measurement temperature, and proximity to the Curie point are the most critical factors influencing ΔT_EC. Bayesian optimization was applied to navigate the design space and identify performance maxima under unconstrained and realistic constraints, offering valuable insights into the nonlinear interactions governing electrocaloric performance. Under room temperature and moderate-field conditions (24 °C, 40 kV/cm), the optimized ΔT_EC achieved a value of 1.03 °C for Ba_0.85Ca_0.15Zr_0.40Ti_0.60, to be processed at 1090 °C for 3 h during calcination, 1300 °C for 2 h during sintering. By integrating experimental insight with machine learning and optimization, this study offers a refined, interpretable framework for accelerating the design of high-performance electrocaloric ceramics while reducing the experimental workload. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic AI and Computational Methods for Modelling, Simulations and Optimizing of Advanced Systems: Innovations in Complexity, Second Edition)

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25 pages, 5689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Compositional Analysis of Longshan Period Pottery and Ceramic Raw Materials in the Yongcheng Region, Henan Province

by Linyu Xia, Yinhong Li, Ge Zhang, Jialing Li and Li Jaang

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2681; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122681 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study systematically analyzes the composition and microstructure of Neolithic pottery unearthed from the Dazhuzhuang, Likou, and Biting Sites in the Yongcheng District using techniques such as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive [...] Read more.

This study systematically analyzes the composition and microstructure of Neolithic pottery unearthed from the Dazhuzhuang, Likou, and Biting Sites in the Yongcheng District using techniques such as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The results show that although the raw materials for pottery at the three sites were likely sourced from nearby ancient soil layers, significant differences in chemical composition and manufacturing techniques are evident. Pottery from the Dazhuzhuang Site is mainly composed of argillaceous gray pottery, with relatively loose raw material selection and a wide fluctuation in SiO₂ content (64.98–71.07%), reflecting diversity in raw material sources. At the Likou Site, argillaceous black pottery predominates, characterized by higher Al₂O₃ content (17.78%) and significant fluctuations in CaO content (1.46–2.22%), suggesting the addition of calcareous fluxes and the adoption of standardized manufacturing techniques. Pottery from the Biting Site mainly consists of argillaceous gray pottery, showing higher Al₂O₃ content (17.36%), stable SiO₂ content (65.19–69.01%), and the lowest CaO content (0.84–1.81%). The microstructural analysis further reveals that the black pottery (from the Likou Site) displays dense vitrified regions and localized iron enrichment. In contrast, the gray pottery (from the Dazhuzhuang and Biting Sites) shows clay platelet structures and vessel-type-specific differences in porosity. This research provides important scientific evidence for understanding raw material selection, manufacturing techniques, and regional cultural interactions in the Yongcheng area during the Longshan Culture period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials in Cultural Heritage: Analysis, Testing, and Preservation)

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15 pages, 10162 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interfacial Behavior During Reactions Between Sn and Electroplated Co–Zn Alloys

by Chao-Hong Wang and Che-Yang Lin

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2680; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122680 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the electroplating characteristics of Co-Zn alloy coatings with varying Zn contents (0.55 wt.%~8.8 wt.%) and their influence on intermetallic compound (IMC) formation during reactions with Sn solder. Co-Zn alloy coatings were successfully fabricated by electroplating using cobalt plating solutions with [...] Read more.

This study investigates the electroplating characteristics of Co-Zn alloy coatings with varying Zn contents (0.55 wt.%~8.8 wt.%) and their influence on intermetallic compound (IMC) formation during reactions with Sn solder. Co-Zn alloy coatings were successfully fabricated by electroplating using cobalt plating solutions with different concentrations of zinc sulfate. The results reveal anomalous co-deposition behavior, where the less noble Zn preferentially deposits over Co. Surface morphologies and microstructures evolve significantly with increasing Zn content, transitioning from columnar to dendritic structures. Zn incorporation into the Co lattice disrupts its crystallinity, leading to decreased crystallinity and partial amorphization. Liquid-state and solid-state interfacial reactions with Sn solder demonstrate that Zn content considerably influences IMC formation. In liquid-state reactions at 250 °C, lower Zn contents (0.55–4.8 wt.%) slightly enhance CoSn₃ growth. It exhibits a dense layered-structure without IMC spallation. In contrast, a higher Zn content (8.8 wt.%) significantly reduces IMC formation by approximately 50% and produces a duplex structure with two distinct layers. In solid-state reactions at 160 °C, the suppression effect becomes even more pronounced. The Co-0.55Zn deposit exhibits significant inhibition of CoSn₃ growth, while the Co-8.8Zn sample forms only a thin IMC layer, achieving a suppression rate exceeding 85%. These findings demonstrate that Zn doping effectively limits CoSn₃ formation during solid-state reactions and improves interfacial stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Welding and Joining Processes of Metallic Materials)

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20 pages, 1284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Self-Healing Effect of Concrete Based on Epoxy Resin Adhesive

by Jianguo Lv, Shenlong Niu, Wei Zhang and Yongshuai Sun

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122679 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The issues concerning the stability and durability of concrete structures have garnered increasing attention. This study, through theoretical analysis and experimental investigation, explores the application of epoxy resin adhesives in self-healing concrete. A three-point bending test was conducted on the self-healing system, employing [...] Read more.

The issues concerning the stability and durability of concrete structures have garnered increasing attention. This study, through theoretical analysis and experimental investigation, explores the application of epoxy resin adhesives in self-healing concrete. A three-point bending test was conducted on the self-healing system, employing C30 concrete as the substrate, with glass double tubes 80 mm in length and 1 mm in wall thickness, possessing an inner diameter of 10 mm, serving as the resin reservoirs, and modified epoxy resins serving as the healing agents. The experimental data indicate that the healing system has a certain degree of strength recovery effect on the concrete matrix, yet the recovery rate is suboptimal, and there are areas for improvement. Furthermore, this paper investigates the optimization of the epoxy resin adhesive formulation and its efficacy in self-healing concrete applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)

12 pages, 12973 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Different Heat Treatment Processes on the Microstructure and Properties of Cu-15Ni-3Al Alloys

by Jinchun Ren, Qiangsong Wang, Liyan Dong, Junru Gao and Xinlu Chai

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2678; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122678 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study systematically investigates the influence of different heat treatment processes on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of Cu-15Ni-3Al alloys, with particular emphasis on the synergistic strengthening mechanisms of spinodal decomposition and precipitation hardening. Two distinct aging routes—solution aging and direct aging—were [...] Read more.

This study systematically investigates the influence of different heat treatment processes on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of Cu-15Ni-3Al alloys, with particular emphasis on the synergistic strengthening mechanisms of spinodal decomposition and precipitation hardening. Two distinct aging routes—solution aging and direct aging—were designed to facilitate a comparative assessment of microstructural characteristics and their correlation with mechanical performance. Comprehensive characterization was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and room-temperature tensile testing to elucidate the structure–property relationships. The results reveal that direct aging promotes the formation of fine, coherent L1₂-type Ni₃Al precipitates and the evolution of Ni-enriched regions initially generated through spinodal decomposition into stable Ni₃Al precipitates. These microstructural features act as effective barriers to dislocation motion, thereby significantly enhancing both strength and ductility. The findings provide valuable insights into optimizing heat treatment strategies to improve the performance of Cu-Ni-Al alloys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)

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14 pages, 6320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Deep Reinforcement Learning-Guided Inverse Design of Transparent Heat Mirror Film for Broadband Spectral Selectivity

by Zhi Zeng, Haining Ji, Tianjian Xiao, Peng Long, Bin Liu, Shisong Jin and Yuxin Cao

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122677 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

With the increasing energy consumption of buildings, transparent heat mirror films have been widely used in building windows to enhance energy efficiency owing to their excellent spectrally selective properties. Previous studies have typically focused on spectral selectivity in the visible and near-infrared bands, [...] Read more.

With the increasing energy consumption of buildings, transparent heat mirror films have been widely used in building windows to enhance energy efficiency owing to their excellent spectrally selective properties. Previous studies have typically focused on spectral selectivity in the visible and near-infrared bands, as well as single-parameter optimization of film materials or thickness, without fully exploring the performance potential of the films. To address the limitations of traditional design methods, this paper proposes a deep reinforcement learning-based approach that employs an adaptive strategy network to optimize the thin-film material system and layer thickness parameters simultaneously. Through inverse design, a Ta₂O₅/Ag/Ta₂O₅/Ag/Ta₂O₅ (42 nm/22 nm/79 nm/22 nm/40 nm) thin-film structure with broadband spectral selectivity was obtained. The film exhibited an average reflectance of 75.5% in the ultraviolet band and 93.2% in the near-infrared band while maintaining an average visible transmittance of 87.0% and a mid- to far-infrared emissivity as low as 1.7%. Additionally, the film maintained excellent optical performance over a wide range of incident angles, making it suitable for use in complex lighting environments. Building energy simulations indicate that the film achieves a maximum energy-saving rate of 17.93% under the hot climatic conditions of Changsha and 16.81% in Guangzhou, demonstrating that the designed transparent heat mirror film provides a viable approach to reducing building energy consumption and holds significant potential for practical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Machine Learning for Materials Design)

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13 pages, 3068 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructure Evolution and Fracture Mode of Laser Welding–Brazing DP780 Steel-5754 Aluminum Alloy Joints with Various Laser Spot Positions

by Bolong Li, Jiayi Zhou, Rongxun Hu, Hua Pan, Tianhai Wu and Yulai Gao

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2676; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122676 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Joining steel and Al alloys can fully utilize their advantages for both base metals (BMs) and optimize automobile structures. In this study, the laser welding–brazing technique was utilized to join DP780 steel and aluminum alloy 5754 (AA5754). The mechanical properties, microstructure, and fracture [...] Read more.

Joining steel and Al alloys can fully utilize their advantages for both base metals (BMs) and optimize automobile structures. In this study, the laser welding–brazing technique was utilized to join DP780 steel and aluminum alloy 5754 (AA5754). The mechanical properties, microstructure, and fracture locations of steel–Al joints prepared using different laser spot positions were comparatively investigated. As the proportion of the laser spot on the steel BM increased from 50% to 90%, the tensile–shear strength of the steel–Al welded joint rose from 169 MPa to 241 MPa. Meanwhile, the fracture location of the joint shifted from the interface to the BM of the aluminum alloy. The change in the laser spot position could dramatically affect the interfacial microstructure and fracture mode of the steel–Al joint. When the proportion of the laser spot on the steel BM was relatively small (50%), the growth of intermetallic compounds (IMCs) was inhibited. The metallurgical bonding effect at the steel–Al interface was poor. In this case, the interfacial zone became the primary path for the crack propagation. Thus, interface failure became the dominant failure mode of the steel–Al joint. On the contrary, metallurgical bonding at the interface was remarkably improved as the proportion of the laser spot on the BM of the steel increased (to 90%). It was determined that the IMCs could effectively hinder the propagation of cracks along the interface. Eventually, the joint fractured in the Al alloy’s BM, resulting in a qualified steel–Al joint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)

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11 pages, 1484 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

High-Performance Vacuum-Free Processed Organic Solar Cells with Gallium-Based Liquid Metal Top Electrodes

by Rui Hu, Di Xie, Yi Jin, Xiaojie Ren, Xiang Huang, Yitong Ji, Xiaotong Liu, Xueyuan Yang and Wenchao Huang

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2675; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122675 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Conventional fabrication of high-efficiency organic solar cells (OSCs) predominantly relies on vacuum-evaporated metal top electrodes such as Ag and Al, which hinder large-scale industrial production. Gallium-based liquid metals (GaLMs), particularly the eutectic gallium–indium alloy (EGaIn), represent promising candidates to conventional vacuum-evaporated metal top [...] Read more.

Conventional fabrication of high-efficiency organic solar cells (OSCs) predominantly relies on vacuum-evaporated metal top electrodes such as Ag and Al, which hinder large-scale industrial production. Gallium-based liquid metals (GaLMs), particularly the eutectic gallium–indium alloy (EGaIn), represent promising candidates to conventional vacuum-evaporated metal top electrodes due to their excellent printability and high electrical conductivity. In this study, we fabricated vacuum-free OSCs based on GaLM electrodes (Ga, EGaIn, and Galinstan) and analyzed the device performances. Rigid devices with EGaIn electrodes achieved a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.6%. Remarkably, all-solution-processed ultrathin flexible devices employing silver nanowire (AgNW) bottom electrodes in combination with EGaIn top electrodes achieved a PCE of 13.8% while maintaining 83.4% of their initial performance after 100 compression–tension cycles (at 30% strain). This work highlights the potential of GaLMs as cost-effective, scalable, and high-performance top electrodes for next-generation flexible photovoltaic devices, paving the way for their industrial adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Materials)

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23 pages, 3329 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Modulus of Elasticity of Concrete Using Different Homogenization Methods

by Jing Zhou, Hang Lin, Kaishun Qiu, Ke Ou and Fenghua Nie

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122674 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Concrete is a highly heterogeneous composite material, and accurately predicting its elastic modulus remains a major challenge in mechanical analysis. To address this, this study systematically investigates the predictive performance of several classical homogenization methods for estimating the effective elastic modulus of concrete, [...] Read more.

Concrete is a highly heterogeneous composite material, and accurately predicting its elastic modulus remains a major challenge in mechanical analysis. To address this, this study systematically investigates the predictive performance of several classical homogenization methods for estimating the effective elastic modulus of concrete, including the dilute approximation, self-consistent method, generalized self-consistent method, Mori–Tanaka model, differential method, as well as the Voigt and Reuss models. To enhance prediction accuracy, an improved computational framework is proposed based on an iterative strategy that enables dynamic updating of model parameters. This approach combines principles of mesomechanics with numerical simulation techniques and is implemented using Mathematica for both symbolic and numerical computations. The performance of the models is evaluated under varying aggregate volume fractions and aggregate-matrix stiffness combinations, and validated using multiple experimental datasets from the literature. The results show that the iterative strategy significantly improves the predictive accuracy of several models, reducing the maximum error by up to 30%. Further analysis indicates that the dilute method performs best at low aggregate volume fractions, the Mori–Tanaka model yields the most accurate results when the aggregates are stiff and moderately concentrated, and the generalized self-consistent method outperforms the standard version when the elastic moduli of the aggregate and matrix are similar. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)

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20 pages, 6006 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Grouting Materials from Shield Sludge via Alkaline Hydrothermal Activation: A Resource Utilization Approach

by Lianjun Chen, Meiyue Liu, Penghui Li, Junxiang Wang and Xiaoqiang Cao

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2673; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122673 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Frequently, the viscous mixture from shield operations is disposed of because its significant water ratio and the presence of polymers like foaming agents result in subpar structural qualities, contributing to the unnecessary consumption of land and the squandering of soil assets. Therefore, these [...] Read more.

Frequently, the viscous mixture from shield operations is disposed of because its significant water ratio and the presence of polymers like foaming agents result in subpar structural qualities, contributing to the unnecessary consumption of land and the squandering of soil assets. Therefore, these problems urgently need to be solved economically and effectively. This study relies on the shield sludge produced by Qingdao Metro Line 6 project, and sand and shield sludge were used as the raw materials for synchronous grouting. By applying the basic principles of geopolymerization, ingredients like shield sludge and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) were mixed with sodium hydroxide, serving as the activating agent, in the preparation of the simultaneous grout formulas. A broad range of laboratory tests was conducted to evaluate the performance of these grout formulations. The effects of varying material ratios on key performance indicators—namely, fluidity, water secretion rate, setting time, and 3-day unconfined compressive strength (UCS)—were systematically analyzed. Based on these findings, the optimal material ratios for shield sludge-based synchronous grouting materials were proposed. Subsequently, component geopolymer was prepared from the activated shield sludge and shield sludge without adding any additional alkaline activators by simply adding water. A geopolymer with a 28-day compressive strength of 51.08 MPa was obtained when the shield sludge dosing was 60 wt%. This study aims to provide a reference for the preparation of synchronous grouting materials for the resource utilization of shield sludge. Full article

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16 pages, 4044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reaction Pathway Analysis of Methane and Propylene Cracking: A Reactive Force Field Simulation Approach

by Wei Yang, Yiqiang Hong, Youpei Du, Zhen Dai, Guangyuan Cui, Geng Chen, Dabo Xing, Yunlong Ma, Lei Liang and Hongyang Cui

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2672; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122672 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study presents the development and validation of an elementary reaction pathway tracking algorithm based on reactive force field simulations, enabling the dynamic monitoring of cracking products at the 20,000-atom scale, the accurate identification of chain reaction pathways, and the comprehensive tracking of [...] Read more.

This study presents the development and validation of an elementary reaction pathway tracking algorithm based on reactive force field simulations, enabling the dynamic monitoring of cracking products at the 20,000-atom scale, the accurate identification of chain reaction pathways, and the comprehensive tracking of large carbon chain formation. The research demonstrates that the differences between methane and propylene cracking–polymerization reactions primarily stem from disparities in bond dissociation energies, radical stabilities, and molecular topologies, and the operation of molecular dynamics relies on LAMMPS 3 March 2020. The cracking pathway of methane is relatively straightforward, predominantly involving the homolytic cleavage of C–H bonds, followed by radical chain propagation leading to the formation of large carbonaceous species. In contrast, propylene, owing to its unsaturated structure and multiple reactive sites, exhibits more complex reaction networks and a wider diversity of products. Furthermore, the study elucidates the reaction pathways of intermediate species during methane and propylene cracking and investigates the effect of reaction temperature on carbon sheet development. In conclusion, the algorithm established in this work offers a detailed mechanistic insight into the gas-phase cracking of methane and propylene, providing a new theoretical basis for the optimization of gas-phase deposition processes and the rational design of carbon-based materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Materials)

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18 pages, 2648 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fundamental Properties of Expanded Perlite Aggregated Foamed Concrete with Different Supplementary Cementitious Materials

by Kaixing Fan, Jie Wei and Chengdong Feng

Materials 2025, 18(12), 2671; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18122671 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) on the material performance of foamed concrete containing lightweight coarse aggregates, namely hydrophobically modified expanded perlite (EP). The EP aggregates were treated with a sodium methyl silicate solution to impart water-repellent properties prior [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effects of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) on the material performance of foamed concrete containing lightweight coarse aggregates, namely hydrophobically modified expanded perlite (EP). The EP aggregates were treated with a sodium methyl silicate solution to impart water-repellent properties prior to being incorporated into the foamed concrete mixtures. Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) was partially replaced with various SCMs, namely, silica fume (SF), mineral powder (MP), and metakaolin (MK) at substitution levels of 3%, 6%, and 9%. Key indicators to evaluate the material performance of foamed concrete included 28-day uniaxial compressive strength, thermal conductivity, mass loss rate under thermal cycling, volumetric water absorption, and shrinkage. The results noted that all three SCMs improved the uniaxial compressive strength of foamed concrete, with MP achieving the greatest improvement, approximately 97% at the 9% replacement level. Thermal conductivity increased slightly with the addition of SF or MP but decreased with MK, highlighting the superior insulation capability of MK. Both SF and MK reduced the mass loss rate under thermal cycling, with SF exhibiting the highest thermal stability. Furthermore, MK was most effective in minimizing water absorption and shrinkage, attributed to its high pozzolanic reactivity and the resulting refinement of the microstructures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cement-Based/Non-Cement-Based Constructional Materials: Multiscale Mechanics under Diverse Loadings)

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Materials, Volume 18, Issue 12 (June-2 2025) – 13 articles

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