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Materials, Volume 6, Issue 10 (October 2013) – 34 articles , Pages 4284-4878

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777 KiB  
Article
Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of Porous Ti–6Al–4V Processed by Spherical Powder Sintering
by Lucía Reig, Concepción Tojal, David J. Busquets and Vicente Amigó
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4868-4878; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104868 - 23 Oct 2013
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8419
Abstract
Reducing the stiffness of titanium is an important issue to improve the behavior of this material when working together with bone, which can be achieved by generating a porous structure. The aim of this research was to analyze the porosity and mechanical behavior [...] Read more.
Reducing the stiffness of titanium is an important issue to improve the behavior of this material when working together with bone, which can be achieved by generating a porous structure. The aim of this research was to analyze the porosity and mechanical behavior of Ti–6Al–4V porous samples developed by spherical powder sintering. Four different microsphere sizes were sintered at temperatures ranging from 1300 to 1400 °C for 2, 4 and 8 h. An open, interconnected porosity was obtained, with mean pore sizes ranging from 54.6 to 140 µm. The stiffness of the samples diminished by as much as 40% when compared to that of solid material and the mechanical properties were affected mainly by powder particles size. Bending strengths ranging from 48 to 320 MPa and compressive strengths from 51 to 255 MPa were obtained. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Titanium Materials for Biomedical Application 2013)
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933 KiB  
Article
Shear Behavior Models of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete Beams Modifying Softened Truss Model Approaches
by Jin-Ha Hwang, Deuck Hang Lee, Hyunjin Ju, Kang Su Kim, Soo-Yeon Seo and Joo-Won Kang
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4847-4867; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104847 - 23 Oct 2013
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 7646
Abstract
Recognizing that steel fibers can supplement the brittle tensile characteristics of concrete, many studies have been conducted on the shear performance of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) members. However, previous studies were mostly focused on the shear strength and proposed empirical shear strength [...] Read more.
Recognizing that steel fibers can supplement the brittle tensile characteristics of concrete, many studies have been conducted on the shear performance of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) members. However, previous studies were mostly focused on the shear strength and proposed empirical shear strength equations based on their experimental results. Thus, this study attempts to estimate the strains and stresses in steel fibers by considering the detailed characteristics of steel fibers in SFRC members, from which more accurate estimation on the shear behavior and strength of SFRC members is possible, and the failure mode of steel fibers can be also identified. Four shear behavior models for SFRC members have been proposed, which have been modified from the softened truss models for reinforced concrete members, and they can estimate the contribution of steel fibers to the total shear strength of the SFRC member. The performances of all the models proposed in this study were also evaluated by a large number of test results. The contribution of steel fibers to the shear strength varied from 5% to 50% according to their amount, and the most optimized volume fraction of steel fibers was estimated as 1%–1.5%, in terms of shear performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Constitutive Behavior of Composite Materials)
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1021 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Various Waste Materials’ Contents on the Attenuation Level of Anti-Radiation Shielding Concrete
by Ali Basheer Azeez, Kahtan S. Mohammed, Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri Abdullah, Kamarudin Hussin, Andrei Victor Sandu and Rafiza Abdul Razak
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4836-4846; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104836 - 23 Oct 2013
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 6337
Abstract
Samples of concrete contain various waste materials, such as iron particulates, steel balls of used ball bearings and slags from steel industry were assessed for their anti-radiation attenuation coefficient properties. The attenuation measurements were performed using gamma spectrometer of NaI (Tl) detector. The [...] Read more.
Samples of concrete contain various waste materials, such as iron particulates, steel balls of used ball bearings and slags from steel industry were assessed for their anti-radiation attenuation coefficient properties. The attenuation measurements were performed using gamma spectrometer of NaI (Tl) detector. The utilized radiation sources comprised 137Cs and 60Co radioactive elements with photon energies of 0.662 MeV for 137Cs and two energy levels of 1.17 and 1.33 MeV for the 60Co. Likewise the mean free paths for the tested samples were obtained. The aim of this work is to investigate the effect of the waste loading rates and the particulate dispersive manner within the concrete matrix on the attenuation coefficients. The maximum linear attenuation coefficient (μ) was attained for concrete incorporates iron filling wastes of 30 wt %. They were of 1.12 ± 1.31×10−3 for 137Cs and 0.92 ± 1.57 × 10−3 for 60Co. Substantial improvement in attenuation performance by 20%–25% was achieved for concrete samples incorporate iron fillings as opposed to that of steel ball samples at different (5%–30%) loading rates. The steel balls and the steel slags gave much inferior values. The microstructure, concrete-metal composite density, the homogeneity and particulate dispersion were examined and evaluated using different metallographic, microscopic and measurement facilities. Full article
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1177 KiB  
Article
On the Nature of Voltammetric Signals Originating from Hydrogen Electrosorption into Palladium-Noble Metal Alloys
by Mariusz Łukaszewski, Katarzyna Hubkowska, Urszula Koss and Andrzej Czerwiński
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4817-4835; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104817 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5544
Abstract
Hydrogen sorption/desorption signals observed on cyclic voltammograms in experiments on hydrogen electrosorption into Pd-noble metal alloys (Pd-Au, Pd-Pt, Pd-Rh, Pd-Ru, Pd-Pt-Rh, Pd-Pt-Au) were characterized. The influence of electrosorption potential, scan rate and alloy bulk composition on the features of the hydrogen peaks was [...] Read more.
Hydrogen sorption/desorption signals observed on cyclic voltammograms in experiments on hydrogen electrosorption into Pd-noble metal alloys (Pd-Au, Pd-Pt, Pd-Rh, Pd-Ru, Pd-Pt-Rh, Pd-Pt-Au) were characterized. The influence of electrosorption potential, scan rate and alloy bulk composition on the features of the hydrogen peaks was investigated. The experimental results were compared with those obtained on the basis of a model taken from the literature. It was confirmed that the rate of the α-β phase transition controls the overall rate of the process of hydrogen absorption/desorption into/from thin Pd-based electrodes. It was demonstrated that from the analysis of the changes of the hydrogen oxidation peak potential with the hydrogen electrosorption potential in cyclic voltammetric experiments it is possible to determine the limiting Pd bulk content, below which the β-phase in the alloy-hydrogen system is not formed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogen Storage Alloys)
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1401 KiB  
Article
Ba-Doped Iron Oxide as a New Material for NO2 Detection
by Christian Lopez, Chiara Baroni and Jean-Marc Tulliani
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4801-4816; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104801 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4517
Abstract
Various compositions of barium-doped hematite between pure hematite (α-Fe2O3) and pure barium hexaferrite (BaFe12O19) were synthesized by solid state reaction. The XRD analyses confirmed the progressive evolution of the two crystalline phases. Tests as humidity [...] Read more.
Various compositions of barium-doped hematite between pure hematite (α-Fe2O3) and pure barium hexaferrite (BaFe12O19) were synthesized by solid state reaction. The XRD analyses confirmed the progressive evolution of the two crystalline phases. Tests as humidity sensors show that the electrical resistance of samples containing high proportions of hexaferrite phase is strongly influenced. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analyses under air or argon revealed an intrinsic semiconducting behavior for hematite and samples doped with 3 and 4 wt % equivalent BaO. The samples containing higher proportions of barium exhibited an extrinsic semiconducting behavior characterized by a variation of the conductivity with the oxygen partial pressure. This study allowed us to define the percolation threshold of the barium hexaferrite crystalline phase in the hematite matrix. The value was estimated to hematite doped with 5 wt % BaO, i.e., 36 wt % of barium hexaferrite phase. EIS analyses under various NO2 partial pressures confirmed the sensitivity of these materials. The linearity of the response was particularly evident for the 5, 10 and 14 wt % samples. Full article
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475 KiB  
Article
Controlled Aloin Release from Crosslinked Polyacrylamide Hydrogels: Effects of Mesh Size, Electric Field Strength and a Conductive Polymer
by Sumonman Niamlang, Tawansorn Buranut, Amornrat Niansiri and Anuvat Sirivat
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4787-4800; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104787 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 7042
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects of hydrogel mesh size, a conductive polymer, and electric field strength on controlled drug delivery phenomena using drug-loaded polyacrylamide hydrogels prepared at various crosslinking ratios both with and without a conductive polymer system. [...] Read more.
The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects of hydrogel mesh size, a conductive polymer, and electric field strength on controlled drug delivery phenomena using drug-loaded polyacrylamide hydrogels prepared at various crosslinking ratios both with and without a conductive polymer system. Poly(p-phenylene vinylene), PPV, as the model conductive polymer, was used to study its ability to control aloin released from aloin-doped poly(p-phenylene vinylene)/polyacrylamide hydrogel (aloin-doped PPV/PAAM). In the passive release, the diffusion of aloin from five aloin-doped PPV/PAAM hydrogel systems each was delayed ranging from during the first three hours to during the first 14 h due to the ionic interaction between the anionic drug and PPV. After the delayed periods, aloin could diffuse continuously into the buffer solution through the PAAM matrix. The amount of aloin released from the aloin-doped PPV/PAAM rose with increasing electric field strength as a result of the three mechanisms: the expansion of PPV chains inside the hydrogel, iontophoresis, and the electroporation of the matrix pore size, combined. Furthermore, the conductive polymer and the electric field could be used in combination to regulate the amount of release drug to a desired level, to control the release rate, and to switch the drug delivery on/off. Full article
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262 KiB  
Article
Self-Sensing Properties of Alkali Activated Blast Furnace Slag (BFS) Composites Reinforced with Carbon Fibers
by Josep Lluís Vilaplana, Francisco Javier Baeza, Oscar Galao, Emilio Zornoza and Pedro Garcés
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4776-4786; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104776 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 64 | Viewed by 6711
Abstract
In recent years, several researchers have shown the good performance of alkali activated slag cement and concretes. Besides their good mechanical properties and durability, this type of cement is a good alternative to Portland cements if sustainability is considered. Moreover, multifunctional cement composites [...] Read more.
In recent years, several researchers have shown the good performance of alkali activated slag cement and concretes. Besides their good mechanical properties and durability, this type of cement is a good alternative to Portland cements if sustainability is considered. Moreover, multifunctional cement composites have been developed in the last decades for their functional applications (self-sensing, EMI shielding, self-heating, etc.). In this study, the strain and damage sensing possible application of carbon fiber reinforced alkali activated slag pastes has been evaluated. Cement pastes with 0, 0.29 and 0.58 vol % carbon fiber addition were prepared. Both carbon fiber dosages showed sensing properties. For strain sensing, function gage factors of up to 661 were calculated for compressive cycles. Furthermore, all composites with carbon fibers suffered a sudden increase in their resistivity when internal damages began, prior to any external signal of damage. Hence, this material may be suitable as strain or damage sensor. Full article
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1333 KiB  
Article
Form-Stable Phase Change Materials Based on Eutectic Mixture of Tetradecanol and Fatty Acids for Building Energy Storage: Preparation and Performance Analysis
by Jingyu Huang, Shilei Lu, Xiangfei Kong, Shangbao Liu and Yiran Li
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4758-4775; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104758 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 72 | Viewed by 9721
Abstract
This paper is focused on preparation and performance analysis of a series of form-stable phase change materials (FSPCMs), based on eutectic mixtures as phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) polymer as supporting materials. The PCMs [...] Read more.
This paper is focused on preparation and performance analysis of a series of form-stable phase change materials (FSPCMs), based on eutectic mixtures as phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) polymer as supporting materials. The PCMs were eutectic mixtures of tetradecanol (TD)–capric acid (CA), TD–lauric acid (LA), and TD–myristic acid (MA), which were rarely explored before. Thermal properties of eutectic mixtures and FSPCMs were measured by differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The onset melting/solidification temperatures of form-stable PCMs were 19.13 °C/13.32 °C (FS TD–CA PCM), 24.53 °C/24.92 °C (FS TD–LA PCM), and 33.15 °C/30.72 °C (FS TD–MA PCM), respectively, and latent heats were almost greater than 90 J/g. The surface morphologies and chemical stability of form-stable PCM were surveyed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, respectively. The thermal cycling test revealed that the thermal reliability of these three form-stable PCMs was good. Thermal storage/release experiment indicated melting/solidification time was shortened by introducing 10 wt % aluminum powder (AP). It is concluded that these FSPCMs can act as potential building thermal storage materials in terms of their satisfactory thermal properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction Materials)
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1318 KiB  
Article
Surface Roughness and Morphology Customization of Additive Manufactured Open Porous Ti6Al4V Structures
by Grzegorz Pyka, Greet Kerckhofs, Ioannis Papantoniou, Mathew Speirs, Jan Schrooten and Martine Wevers
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4737-4757; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104737 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 205 | Viewed by 12481
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) is a production method that enables the building of porous structures with a controlled geometry. However, there is a limited control over the final surface of the product. Hence, complementary surface engineering strategies are needed. In this work, design of [...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing (AM) is a production method that enables the building of porous structures with a controlled geometry. However, there is a limited control over the final surface of the product. Hence, complementary surface engineering strategies are needed. In this work, design of experiments (DoE) was used to customize post AM surface treatment for 3D selective laser melted Ti6Al4V open porous structures for bone tissue engineering. A two-level three-factor full factorial design was employed to assess the individual and interactive effects of the surface treatment duration and the concentration of the chemical etching solution on the final surface roughness and beam thickness of the treated porous structures. It was observed that the concentration of the surface treatment solution was the most important factor influencing roughness reduction. The designed beam thickness decreased the effectiveness of the surface treatment. In this case study, the optimized processing conditions for AM production and the post-AM surface treatment were defined based on the DoE output and were validated experimentally. This allowed the production of customized 3D porous structures with controlled surface roughness and overall morphological properties, which can assist in more controlled evaluation of the effect of surface roughness on various functional properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Titanium Materials for Biomedical Application 2013)
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6261 KiB  
Article
Multiscale Microstructures and Microstructural Effects on the Reliability of Microbumps in Three-Dimensional Integration
by Zhiheng Huang, Hua Xiong, Zhiyong Wu, Paul Conway and Frank Altmann
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4707-4736; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104707 - 22 Oct 2013
Viewed by 6110
Abstract
The dimensions of microbumps in three-dimensional integration reach microscopic scales and thus necessitate a study of the multiscale microstructures in microbumps. Here, we present simulated mesoscale and atomic-scale microstructures of microbumps using phase field and phase field crystal models. Coupled microstructure, mechanical stress, [...] Read more.
The dimensions of microbumps in three-dimensional integration reach microscopic scales and thus necessitate a study of the multiscale microstructures in microbumps. Here, we present simulated mesoscale and atomic-scale microstructures of microbumps using phase field and phase field crystal models. Coupled microstructure, mechanical stress, and electromigration modeling was performed to highlight the microstructural effects on the reliability of microbumps. The results suggest that the size and geometry of microbumps can influence both the mesoscale and atomic-scale microstructural formation during solidification. An external stress imposed on the microbump can cause ordered phase growth along the boundaries of the microbump. Mesoscale microstructures formed in the microbumps from solidification, solid state phase separation, and coarsening processes suggest that the microstructures in smaller microbumps are more heterogeneous. Due to the differences in microstructures, the von Mises stress distributions in microbumps of different sizes and geometries vary. In addition, a combined effect resulting from the connectivity of the phase morphology and the amount of interface present in the mesoscale microstructure can influence the electromigration reliability of microbumps. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and Simulation in Materials Study)
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1754 KiB  
Article
Difference between Toxicities of Iron Oxide Magnetic Nanoparticles with Various Surface-Functional Groups against Human Normal Fibroblasts and Fibrosarcoma Cells
by Won Jun Yang, Jong Ho Lee, Seong Cheol Hong, Jaewook Lee, Jaebeom Lee and Dong-Wook Han
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4689-4706; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104689 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 52 | Viewed by 7133
Abstract
Recently, many nanomedical studies have been focused on magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) because MNPs possess attractive properties for potential uses in imaging, drug delivery, and theranostics. MNPs must have optimized size as well as functionalized surface for such applications. However, careful cytotoxicity and genotoxicity [...] Read more.
Recently, many nanomedical studies have been focused on magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) because MNPs possess attractive properties for potential uses in imaging, drug delivery, and theranostics. MNPs must have optimized size as well as functionalized surface for such applications. However, careful cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assessments to ensure the biocompatibility and biosafety of MNPs are essential. In this study, Fe3O4 MNPs of different sizes (approximately 10 and 100–150 nm) were prepared with different functional groups, hydroxyl (–OH) and amine (–NH2) groups, by coating their surfaces with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) or TEOS/APTMS. Differential cellular responses to those surface-functionalized MNPs were investigated in normal fibroblasts vs. fibrosarcoma cells. Following the characterization of MNP properties according to size, surface charge and functional groups, cellular responses to MNPs in normal fibroblasts and fibrosarcoma cells were determined by quantifying metabolic activity, membrane integrity, and DNA stability. While all MNPs induced just about 5% or less cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in fibrosarcoma cells at lower than 500 μg/mL, APTMS-coated MNPs resulted in greater than 10% toxicity against normal cells. Particularly, the genotoxicity of MNPs was dependent on their dose, size and surface charge, showing that positively charged (APTMS- or TEOS/APTMS-coated) MNPs induced appreciable DNA aberrations irrespective of cell type. Resultantly, smaller and positively charged (APTMS-coated) MNPs led to more severe toxicity in normal cells than their cancer counterparts. Although it was difficult to fully differentiate cellular responses to various MNPs between normal fibroblasts and their cancer counterparts, normal cells were shown to be more vulnerable to internalized MNPs than cancer cells. Our results suggest that functional groups and sizes of MNPs are critical determinants of degrees of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, and potential mechanisms of toxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)
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1512 KiB  
Article
Simulations and Measurements of Human Middle Ear Vibrations Using Multi-Body Systems and Laser-Doppler Vibrometry with the Floating Mass Transducer
by Frank Böhnke, Theodor Bretan, Stefan Lehner and Tobias Strenger
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4675-4688; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104675 - 22 Oct 2013
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 7156
Abstract
The transfer characteristic of the human middle ear with an applied middle ear implant (floating mass transducer) is examined computationally with a Multi-body System approach and compared with experimental results. For this purpose, the geometry of the middle ear was reconstructed from μ-computer [...] Read more.
The transfer characteristic of the human middle ear with an applied middle ear implant (floating mass transducer) is examined computationally with a Multi-body System approach and compared with experimental results. For this purpose, the geometry of the middle ear was reconstructed from μ-computer tomography slice data and prepared for a Multi-body System simulation. The transfer function of the floating mass transducer, which is the ratio of the input voltage and the generated force, is derived based on a physical context. The numerical results obtained with the Multi-body System approach are compared with experimental results by Laser Doppler measurements of the stapes footplate velocities of five different specimens. Although slightly differing anatomical structures were used for the calculation and the measurement, a high correspondence with respect to the course of stapes footplate displacement along the frequency was found. Notably, a notch at frequencies just below 1 kHz occurred. Additionally, phase courses of stapes footplate displacements were determined computationally if possible and compared with experimental results. The examinations were undertaken to quantify stapes footplate displacements in the clinical practice of middle ear implants and, also, to develop fitting strategies on a physical basis for hearing impaired patients aided with middle ear implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and Simulation in Materials Study)
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1257 KiB  
Review
Thermodynamic Tuning of Mg-Based Hydrogen Storage Alloys: A Review
by Min Zhu, Yanshan Lu, Liuzhang Ouyang and Hui Wang
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4654-4674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104654 - 18 Oct 2013
Cited by 179 | Viewed by 11407
Abstract
Mg-based hydrides are one of the most promising hydrogen storage materials because of their relatively high storage capacity, abundance, and low cost. However, slow kinetics and stable thermodynamics hinder their practical application. In contrast to the substantial progress in the enhancement of the [...] Read more.
Mg-based hydrides are one of the most promising hydrogen storage materials because of their relatively high storage capacity, abundance, and low cost. However, slow kinetics and stable thermodynamics hinder their practical application. In contrast to the substantial progress in the enhancement of the hydrogenation/dehydrogenation kinetics, thermodynamic tuning is still a great challenge for Mg-based alloys. At present, the main strategies to alter the thermodynamics of Mg/MgH2 are alloying, nanostructuring, and changing the reaction pathway. Using these approaches, thermodynamic tuning has been achieved to some extent, but it is still far from that required for practical application. In this article, we summarize the advantages and disadvantages of these strategies. Based on the current progress, finding reversible systems with high hydrogen capacity and effectively tailored reaction enthalpy offers a promising route for tuning the thermodynamics of Mg-based hydrogen storage alloys. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogen Storage Alloys)
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893 KiB  
Article
CO2 Separation and Capture Properties of Porous Carbonaceous Materials from Leather Residues
by José M. Bermúdez, Pablo Haro Dominguez, Ana Arenillas, Jaume Cot, Jens Weber and Rafael Luque
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4641-4653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104641 - 18 Oct 2013
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7686
Abstract
Carbonaceous porous materials derived from leather skin residues have been found to have excellent CO2 adsorption properties, with interestingly high gas selectivities for CO2 (α > 200 at a gas composition of 15% CO2/85% N2, 273K, 1 [...] Read more.
Carbonaceous porous materials derived from leather skin residues have been found to have excellent CO2 adsorption properties, with interestingly high gas selectivities for CO2 (α > 200 at a gas composition of 15% CO2/85% N2, 273K, 1 bar) and capacities (>2 mmol·g−1 at 273 K). Both CO2 isotherms and the high heat of adsorption pointed to the presence of strong binding sites for CO2 which may be correlated with both: N content in the leather residues and ultrasmall pore sizes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Porous Materials)
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1665 KiB  
Article
Electron Beam Melting and Refining of Metals: Computational Modeling and Optimization
by Katia Vutova and Veliko Donchev
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4626-4640; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104626 - 18 Oct 2013
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6764
Abstract
Computational modeling offers an opportunity for a better understanding and investigation of thermal transfer mechanisms. It can be used for the optimization of the electron beam melting process and for obtaining new materials with improved characteristics that have many applications in the power [...] Read more.
Computational modeling offers an opportunity for a better understanding and investigation of thermal transfer mechanisms. It can be used for the optimization of the electron beam melting process and for obtaining new materials with improved characteristics that have many applications in the power industry, medicine, instrument engineering, electronics, etc. A time-dependent 3D axis-symmetrical heat model for simulation of thermal transfer in metal ingots solidified in a water-cooled crucible at electron beam melting and refining (EBMR) is developed. The model predicts the change in the temperature field in the casting ingot during the interaction of the beam with the material. A modified Pismen-Rekford numerical scheme to discretize the analytical model is developed. These equation systems, describing the thermal processes and main characteristics of the developed numerical method, are presented. In order to optimize the technological regimes, different criteria for better refinement and obtaining dendrite crystal structures are proposed. Analytical problems of mathematical optimization are formulated, discretized and heuristically solved by cluster methods. Using important for the practice simulation results, suggestions can be made for EBMR technology optimization. The proposed tool is important and useful for studying, control, optimization of EBMR process parameters and improving of the quality of the newly produced materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and Simulation in Materials Study)
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1243 KiB  
Article
The Synthesis of α-MoO3 by Ethylene Glycol
by Tzu Hsuan Chiang and Hung Che Yeh
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4609-4625; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104609 - 17 Oct 2013
Cited by 82 | Viewed by 10566
Abstract
This study investigated the use of ethylene glycol to form α-MoO3 (molybdenum trioxide) from ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate at various sintering temperatures for 1 h. During the sintering process, the morphologies of the constituents were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier [...] Read more.
This study investigated the use of ethylene glycol to form α-MoO3 (molybdenum trioxide) from ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate at various sintering temperatures for 1 h. During the sintering process, the morphologies of the constituents were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to explain the reaction process. In this work, the results obtained using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XRD) demonstrated that, when the molybdenum trioxide powder was treated thermally at 300 °C, the material exhibited crystallinity. The peaks were indexed to correspond with the (110), (040), (021), (111), and (060) crystallographic planes, and the lattice parameters of a, b, and c were about 3.961, 13.876, and 3.969 Å. Using these observations, we confirmed that orthorhombic α-MoO3 was formed for sintering temperatures from 300 to 700 °C. Pattern images were obtained by the selected area electron diffraction pattern (SAED) technique, and the d distance of the high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images were almost 0.39 and 0.36 nm, and the Mo 3d5/2, Mo 3d3/2, and O 1s of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were located at 233.76, 237.03, and 532.19 eV, which also demonstrated that α-MoO3 powder had been synthesized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Manufacturing Processes and Systems)
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791 KiB  
Review
The Current Status of Hydrogen Storage Alloy Development for Electrochemical Applications
by Kwo-hsiung Young and Jean Nei
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4574-4608; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104574 - 17 Oct 2013
Cited by 167 | Viewed by 14026
Abstract
In this review article, the fundamentals of electrochemical reactions involving metal hydrides are explained, followed by a report of recent progress in hydrogen storage alloys for electrochemical applications. The status of various alloy systems, including AB5, AB2, A2 [...] Read more.
In this review article, the fundamentals of electrochemical reactions involving metal hydrides are explained, followed by a report of recent progress in hydrogen storage alloys for electrochemical applications. The status of various alloy systems, including AB5, AB2, A2B7-type, Ti-Ni-based, Mg-Ni-based, BCC, and Zr-Ni-based metal hydride alloys, for their most important electrochemical application, the nickel metal hydride battery, is summarized. Other electrochemical applications, such as Ni-hydrogen, fuel cell, Li-ion battery, air-metal hydride, and hybrid battery systems, also have been mentioned. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogen Storage Alloys)
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746 KiB  
Article
Development of Screen-Printed Texture-Barrier Paste for Single-Side Texturization of Interdigitated Back-Contact Silicon Solar Cell Applications
by Yu-Shun Chiu, Chin-Lung Cheng, Thou-Jen Whang and Chi-Cheng Chen
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4565-4573; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104565 - 17 Oct 2013
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 6364
Abstract
Continuous cost reduction of silicon-based solar cells is needed to lower the process time and increase efficiency. To achieve lower costs, screen-printed texture-barrier (SPTB) paste was first developed for single-side texturization (ST) of the interdigitated back-contact (IBC) for silicon-based solar cell applications. The [...] Read more.
Continuous cost reduction of silicon-based solar cells is needed to lower the process time and increase efficiency. To achieve lower costs, screen-printed texture-barrier (SPTB) paste was first developed for single-side texturization (ST) of the interdigitated back-contact (IBC) for silicon-based solar cell applications. The SPTB paste was screen-printed on silicon substrates. The SPTB paste was synthesized from intermixed silicate glass (75 wt %), a resin binder (ethyl cellulose ethoce: 20 wt %), and a dispersing agent (fatty acid: 5 wt %). The silicate glass is a necessity for contact formation during firing. A resin binder and a dispersing agent determine the rheology of the SPTB paste. In this work, by modulating various parameters, including post SPTB firing, alkali texturing, and removal of the SPTB, the ST of IBC silicon solar cells was achieved. Since the advantages of the SPTB paste include low toxicity and prompt formation of the texture-barrier, SPTB is potentially suited for simple fabrication at low-cost for solar cell applications. The cost of the SPTB is around $100/kg which is lower than the SiH4/NH3 gas ambient used in plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Thus, the expensive Si3N4 film deposited by PECVD using SiH4 and NH3 gas ambient for silicon solar cells can be replaced by this SPTB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy Materials 2013)
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2951 KiB  
Article
Structural Response of Polyethylene Foam-Based Sandwich Panels Subjected to Edgewise Compression
by Antonio Boccaccio, Caterina Casavola, Luciano Lamberti and Carmine Pappalettere
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4545-4564; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104545 - 16 Oct 2013
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6831
Abstract
This study analyzes the mechanical behavior of low density polyethylene foam core sandwich panels subjected to edgewise compression. In order to monitor panel response to buckling, strains generated in the facesheets and overall out-of-plane deformations are measured with strain gages and projection moiré, [...] Read more.
This study analyzes the mechanical behavior of low density polyethylene foam core sandwich panels subjected to edgewise compression. In order to monitor panel response to buckling, strains generated in the facesheets and overall out-of-plane deformations are measured with strain gages and projection moiré, respectively. A finite element (FE) model simulating the experimental test is developed. Numerical results are compared with moiré measurements. After having been validated against experimental evidence, the FE model is parameterized, and a trade study is carried out to investigate to what extent the structural response of the panel depends on the sandwich wall construction and facesheet/core interface defects. The projection moiré set-up utilized in this research is able to capture the sudden and very localized buckling phenomena occurring under edgewise compression of foam-based sandwich panels. Results of parametric FE analyses indicate that, if the total thickness of the sandwich wall is fixed, including thicker facesheets in the laminate yields a larger deflection of the panel that becomes more sensitive to buckling. Furthermore, the mechanical response of the foam sandwich panel is found to be rather insensitive to the level of waviness of core-facesheet interfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Constitutive Behavior of Composite Materials)
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559 KiB  
Article
Obtaining and Utilizing Cellulose Fibers with in-Situ Loading as an Additive for Printing Paper
by Maria Emiliana Fortuna, Maria Harja, Daniel Bucur and Sorin Mihai Cimpeanu
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4532-4544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104532 - 15 Oct 2013
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5338
Abstract
The goal of this study was to analyze the effects of cellulose fibers loading by precipitation in-situ of calcium carbonate over the properties of printing paper obtained from mixtures of the softwood and hardwood fibers. The effects of fibers with in-situ loading were [...] Read more.
The goal of this study was to analyze the effects of cellulose fibers loading by precipitation in-situ of calcium carbonate over the properties of printing paper obtained from mixtures of the softwood and hardwood fibers. The effects of fibers with in-situ loading were analyzed comparatively with conventional paper loading respectively, by adding precipitated calcium carbonate into fiber stock. The effectiveness of the methods was evaluated by various analyses and investigations: calcium carbonate content, Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images, X-ray diffraction, optical and mechanical properties of the paper sheets. The evaluation of the effects on paper properties led to the conclusion that, at the same filler content, the in-situ loading method gives higher opacity and brightness than conventional methods. The utilization of cellulose fibers with in-situ loading as additive, shown as a modification of the ratio between fibers with in-situ loading and fibers without loading, regardless of whether they are softwood or hardwood fibers, allowed us to optimize printing paper properties, especially regarding the relationship between optical and strength properties. Full article
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211 KiB  
Article
Room-Temperature Electron Spin Generation by Femtosecond Laser Pulses in Colloidal CdS Quantum Dots
by Haifang Tong, Donghai Feng, Xiao Li, Li Deng, Yuxin Leng, Tianqing Jia and Zhenrong Sun
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4523-4531; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104523 - 15 Oct 2013
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6129
Abstract
We present an experimental investigation of optical spin orientation in colloidal CdS quantum dots (QDs) by a femtosecond laser pulse at room temperature. The spin carrier and its spin-generation process are clarified. Firstly, the observed spin signals of CdS QDs in time-resolved Faraday [...] Read more.
We present an experimental investigation of optical spin orientation in colloidal CdS quantum dots (QDs) by a femtosecond laser pulse at room temperature. The spin carrier and its spin-generation process are clarified. Firstly, the observed spin signals of CdS QDs in time-resolved Faraday rotation measurements are shown to belong to electron carriers, by comparing the spin dephasing dynamics and Landé g factor between CdS QDs and bulk materials. Secondly, spin dynamics unaffected by the faster carrier recombination suggests that the spin-polarized electrons are not photoexcited but resident in the dots. Moreover, hole spins should dephase very fast compared with electron spins, otherwise the trion (two electrons with opposite spin orientations and one hole) recombination process will affect the resident electron spin signals. The electron spin is generated in a short time of which the excitation light is absorbed and the resident electron is excited to trion states, i.e., of pulse durations. Due to fast hole spin dephasing, trion recombination gives null spin signals, and the subsequent electron spin dynamics is controlled by its intrinsic mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spintronics)
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522 KiB  
Article
Vanadium Pentoxide-Based Composite Synthesized Using Microwave Water Plasma for Cathode Material in Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries
by Masashi Inamoto, Hideki Kurihara and Tatsuhiko Yajima
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4514-4522; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104514 - 11 Oct 2013
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6960
Abstract
Multivalent cation rechargeable batteries are expected to perform well as high-capacity storage devices. Rechargeable magnesium batteries have an advantage in terms of resource utilization and safety. Here, we report on sulfur-doped vanadium pentoxide (S-V2O5) as a potential material for [...] Read more.
Multivalent cation rechargeable batteries are expected to perform well as high-capacity storage devices. Rechargeable magnesium batteries have an advantage in terms of resource utilization and safety. Here, we report on sulfur-doped vanadium pentoxide (S-V2O5) as a potential material for the cathodes of such a battery; S-V2O5 showed a specific capacity of 300 mAh·g−1. S-V2O5 was prepared by a method using a low-temperature plasma generated by carbon felt and a 2.45 GHz microwave generator. This study investigates the ability of S-V2O5 to achieve high capacity when added to metal oxide. The highest recorded capacity (420 mAh·g−1) was reached with MnO2 added to composite SMn-V2O5, which has a higher proportion of included sulfur than found in S-V2O5. Results from transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Micro-Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy show that the bulk of the SMn-V2O5 was the orthorhombic V2O5 structure; the surface was a xerogel-like V2O5 and a solid solution of MnO2 and sulfur. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Processing of Materials)
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445 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Properties of Cu2O Thin Films by Nanoindentation
by Sheng-Rui Jian, Guo-Ju Chen and Wei-Min Hsu
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4505-4513; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104505 - 11 Oct 2013
Cited by 55 | Viewed by 7249
Abstract
In this study, the structural and nanomechanical properties of Cu2O thin films are investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nanoindentation techniques. The Cu2O thin films are deposited on the glass substrates [...] Read more.
In this study, the structural and nanomechanical properties of Cu2O thin films are investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nanoindentation techniques. The Cu2O thin films are deposited on the glass substrates with the various growth temperatures of 150, 250 and 350 °C by using radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The XRD results show that Cu2O thin films are predominant (111)-oriented, indicating a well ordered microstructure. In addition, the hardness and Young’s modulus of Cu2O thin films are measured by using a Berkovich nanoindenter operated with the continuous contact stiffness measurements (CSM) option. Results indicated that the hardness and Young’s modulus of Cu2O thin films decreased as the growth temperature increased from 150 to 350 °C. Furthermore, the relationship between the hardness and films grain size appears to closely follow the Hall-Petch equation. Full article
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1411 KiB  
Article
Epoxy/Polycaprolactone Systems with Triple-Shape Memory Effect: Electrospun Nanoweb with and without Graphene Versus Co-Continuous Morphology
by Márta Fejős, Kolos Molnár and József Karger-Kocsis
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4489-4504; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104489 - 9 Oct 2013
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 7826
Abstract
Triple-shape memory epoxy (EP)/polycaprolactone (PCL) systems (PCL content: 23 wt %) with different structures (PCL nanoweb embedded in EP matrix and EP/PCL with co-continuous phase structure) were produced. To set the two temporary shapes, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of [...] Read more.
Triple-shape memory epoxy (EP)/polycaprolactone (PCL) systems (PCL content: 23 wt %) with different structures (PCL nanoweb embedded in EP matrix and EP/PCL with co-continuous phase structure) were produced. To set the two temporary shapes, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the EP and the melting temperature (Tm) of PCL served during the shape memory cycle. An attempt was made to reinforce the PCL nanoweb by graphene nanoplatelets prior to infiltrating the nanoweb with EP through vacuum assisted resin transfer molding. Morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectrometry. Triple-shape memory characteristics were determined by dynamic mechanical analysis in tension mode. Graphene was supposed to act also as spacer between the nanofibers, improving the quality of impregnation with EP. The EP phase related shape memory properties were similar for all systems, while those belonging to PCL phase depended on the structure. Shape fixity of PCL was better without than with graphene reinforcement. The best shape memory performance was shown by the EP/PCL with co-continuous structure. Based on Raman spectrometry results, the characteristic dimension of the related co-continuous network was below 900 nm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Polymers and Polymeric Structures)
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799 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Optoelectronic Characteristics of ZnO/CuO-Cu2O Complex Inverse Heterostructure with GaP Buffer for Solar Cell Applications
by Chih-Hung Hsu, Lung-Chien Chen and Yi-Feng Lin
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4479-4488; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104479 - 9 Oct 2013
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 7325
Abstract
This study reports the optoelectronic characteristics of ZnO/GaP buffer/CuO-Cu2O complex (COC) inverse heterostructure for solar cell applications. The GaP and COC layers were used as buffer and absorber in the cell structure, respectively. An energy gap widening effect and CuO whiskers [...] Read more.
This study reports the optoelectronic characteristics of ZnO/GaP buffer/CuO-Cu2O complex (COC) inverse heterostructure for solar cell applications. The GaP and COC layers were used as buffer and absorber in the cell structure, respectively. An energy gap widening effect and CuO whiskers were observed as the copper (Cu) layer was exerted under heat treatment for oxidation at 500 °C for 10 min, and arose from the center of the Cu2O rods. For preparation of the 30 nm-thick GaP buffer by sputtering from GaP target, as the nitrogen gas flow rate increased from 0 to 2 sccm, the transmittance edge of the spectra demonstrated a blueshift form 2.24 to 3.25 eV. Therefore, the layer can be either GaP, GaNP, or GaN by changing the flow rate of nitrogen gas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy Materials 2013)
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474 KiB  
Article
Carbon Derived from Jatropha Seed Hull as a Potential Green Adsorbent for Cadmium (II) Removal from Wastewater
by Masita Mohammad, Zahira Yaakob and Siti Rozaimah Sheikh Abdullah
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4462-4478; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104462 - 9 Oct 2013
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5757
Abstract
Carbon from jatropha seed hull (JC) was prepared to study the adsorption of cadmium ions (Cd2+) from aqueous solutions under various experimental conditions. Batch equilibrium methods have been used to study the influences of the initial metal ion concentration (0.5–50 ppm), [...] Read more.
Carbon from jatropha seed hull (JC) was prepared to study the adsorption of cadmium ions (Cd2+) from aqueous solutions under various experimental conditions. Batch equilibrium methods have been used to study the influences of the initial metal ion concentration (0.5–50 ppm), dosage (0.2–1 g), contact time (0–300 min), pH (2–7), and temperature (26–60 °C) on adsorption behavior. It has been found that the amount of cadmium adsorbed increases with the initial metal ion concentration, temperature, pH, contact time, and amount of adsorbent. A kinetic study proved that the mechanism of Cd2+ adsorption on JC followed a three steps process, confirmed by an intraparticle diffusion model: rapid adsorption of metal ions, a transition phase, and nearly flat plateau section. The experimental results also showed that the Cd2+ adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order kinetics. The Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models were used to describe the experimental data, with the former exhibiting a better correlation coefficient than the latter (R2 = 0.999). The monolayer adsorption capacity of JC has been compared with the capacities of the other reported agriculturally-based adsorbents. It has been clearly demonstrated that this agricultural waste generated by the biofuel industry can be considered a potential low-cost adsorbent for the removal of Cd2+ from industrial effluents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)
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594 KiB  
Article
Mechanical and Microstructural Evaluations of Lightweight Aggregate Geopolymer Concrete before and after Exposed to Elevated Temperatures
by Omar A. Abdulkareem, Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri Abdullah, Kamarudin Hussin, Khairul Nizar Ismail and Mohammed Binhussain
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4450-4461; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104450 - 9 Oct 2013
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7389
Abstract
This paper presents the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of a lightweight aggregate geopolymer concrete (LWAGC) synthesized by the alkali-activation of a fly ash source (FA) before and after being exposed to elevated temperatures, ranging from 100 to 800 °C. The results show that [...] Read more.
This paper presents the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of a lightweight aggregate geopolymer concrete (LWAGC) synthesized by the alkali-activation of a fly ash source (FA) before and after being exposed to elevated temperatures, ranging from 100 to 800 °C. The results show that the LWAGC unexposed to the elevated temperatures possesses a good strength-to-weight ratio compared with other LWAGCs available in the published literature. The unexposed LWAGC also shows an excellent strength development versus aging times, up to 365 days. For the exposed LWAGC to the elevated temperatures of 100 to 800 °C, the results illustrate that the concretes gain compressive strength after being exposed to elevated temperatures of 100, 200 and 300 °C. Afterward, the strength of the LWAGC started to deteriorate and decrease after being exposed to elevated temperatures of 400 °C, and up to 800 °C. Based on the mechanical strength results of the exposed LWAGCs to elevated temperatures of 100 °C to 800 °C, the relationship between the exposure temperature and the obtained residual compressive strength is statistically analyzed and achieved. In addition, the microstructure investigation of the unexposed LWAGC shows a good bonding between aggregate and mortar at the interface transition zone (ITZ). However, this bonding is subjected to deterioration as the LWAGC is exposed to elevated temperatures of 400, 600 and 800 °C by increasing the microcrack content and swelling of the unreacted silicates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Construction Materials)
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417 KiB  
Article
Potentiodynamic Polarization Studies and Surface Chemical Composition of Bismuth Titanate (BixTiyOz) Films Produced through Radiofrequency Magnetron Sputtering
by José E. Alfonso, Jhon J. Olaya, Manuel J. Pinzón and José F. Marco
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4441-4449; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104441 - 8 Oct 2013
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6366
Abstract
The applications of Bismuth Titanate (BixTiyOz) materials have been focused on their electronic and optical properties, but with respect to the use of these compounds in applications like corrosion resistance, have been very few or nonexistent. For [...] Read more.
The applications of Bismuth Titanate (BixTiyOz) materials have been focused on their electronic and optical properties, but with respect to the use of these compounds in applications like corrosion resistance, have been very few or nonexistent. For this reason, in the present investigation BixTiyOz thin films were deposited using RF magnetron sputtering onto silicon wafers, stainless steel 316L, and titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) substrates, in order to carry out a study of the corrosion behavior of this compound. The structural properties of the coatings were studied through X-ray diffraction (XRD), the morphology was determined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), the corrosion resistance behavior of the coated and uncoated substrates was evaluated via the Potentiodynamic Polarization technique, and surface chemical composition was evaluated through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The XRD results indicated that the films were amorphous. The SEM micrographs showed that the deposited films were homogeneous, but in some cases there were cracks. The potentiodynamic polarization technique showed that the corrosion current in the coated substrates decreased by an order of two magnitudes with respect to the uncoated substrates, but in both cases the corrosion mechanism was pitting due to the pores in the film. The XPS analysis shows that the deposited films contain both Bi3+ and Ti4+. Full article
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2913 KiB  
Review
Outside Mainstream Electronic Databases: Review of Studies Conducted in the USSR and Post-Soviet Countries on Electric Current-Assisted Consolidation of Powder Materials
by Eugene A. Olevsky, Elena V. Aleksandrova, Alexandra M. Ilyina, Dina V. Dudina, Alexander N. Novoselov, Kirill Y. Pelve and Eugene G. Grigoryev
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4375-4440; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104375 - 30 Sep 2013
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 10139
Abstract
This paper reviews research articles published in the former USSR and post-soviet countries on the consolidation of powder materials using electric current that passes through the powder sample and/or a conductive die-punch set-up. Having been published in Russian, many of the reviewed papers [...] Read more.
This paper reviews research articles published in the former USSR and post-soviet countries on the consolidation of powder materials using electric current that passes through the powder sample and/or a conductive die-punch set-up. Having been published in Russian, many of the reviewed papers are not included in the mainstream electronic databases of the scientific articles and thus are not known to the scientific community. The present review is aimed at filling this information gap. In the paper, the electric current-assisted sintering techniques based on high- and low-voltage approaches are presented. The main results of the theoretical modeling of the processes of electromagnetic field-assisted consolidation of powder materials are discussed. Sintering experiments and related equipment are described and the major experimental results are analyzed. Sintering conditions required to achieve the desired properties of the sintered materials are provided for selected material systems. Tooling materials used in the electric current-assisted consolidation set-ups are also described. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Net-shaped PM (Powder Metallurgical) Parts)
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744 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of Well-Aligned ZnO Nanorods Using a Composite Seed Layer of ZnO Nanoparticles and Chitosan Polymer
by Kimleang Khun, Zafar Hussain Ibupoto, Mohamad S. AlSalhi, Muhammad Atif, Anees A. Ansari and Magnus Willander
Materials 2013, 6(10), 4361-4374; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma6104361 - 30 Sep 2013
Cited by 52 | Viewed by 7204
Abstract
In this study, by taking the advantage of both inorganic ZnO nanoparticles and the organic material chitosan as a composite seed layer, we have fabricated well-aligned ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate using the hydrothermal growth method. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized [...] Read more.
In this study, by taking the advantage of both inorganic ZnO nanoparticles and the organic material chitosan as a composite seed layer, we have fabricated well-aligned ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate using the hydrothermal growth method. The ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by the Raman spectroscopic techniques, which showed the nanocrystalline phase of the ZnO nanoparticles. Different composites of ZnO nanoparticles and chitosan were prepared and used as a seed layer for the fabrication of well-aligned ZnO nanorods. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and infrared reflection absorption spectroscopic techniques were utilized for the structural characterization of the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods on a gold-coated glass substrate. This study has shown that the ZnO nanorods are well-aligned, uniform, and dense, exhibit the wurtzite hexagonal structure, and are perpendicularly oriented to the substrate. Moreover, the ZnO nanorods are only composed of Zn and O atoms. An optical study was also carried out for the ZnO nanoparticles/chitosan seed layer-coated ZnO nanorods, and the obtained results have shown that the fabricated ZnO nanorods exhibit good crystal quality. This study has provided a cheap fabrication method for the controlled morphology and good alignment of ZnO nanorods, which is of high demand for enhancing the working performance of optoelectronic devices. Full article
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