Materials

11 pages, 824 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wood Colorization through Pressure Treating: The Potential of Extracted Colorants from Spalting Fungi as a Replacement for Woodworkers’ Aniline Dyes

by Sara C. Robinson^1,*, Eric Hinsch¹, Genevieve Weber¹, Kristina Leipus² and Daniel Cerney²

¹ Department of Wood Science & Engineering, 119 Richardson Hall, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA

² School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Dr., Houghton, MI 49931, USA

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5427-5437; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085427 - 24 Jul 2014

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 8678

Abstract

The extracellular colorants produced by Chlorociboria aeruginosa, Scytalidium cuboideum, and Scytalidium ganodermophthorum, three commonly utilized spalting fungi, were tested against a standard woodworker’s aniline dye to determine if the fungal colorants could be utilized in an effort to find a [...] Read more.

The extracellular colorants produced by Chlorociboria aeruginosa, Scytalidium cuboideum, and Scytalidium ganodermophthorum, three commonly utilized spalting fungi, were tested against a standard woodworker’s aniline dye to determine if the fungal colorants could be utilized in an effort to find a naturally occurring replacement for the synthetic dye. Fungal colorants were delivered in two methods within a pressure treater—the first through solubilization of extracted colorants in dichloromethane, and the second via liquid culture consisting of water, malt, and the actively growing fungus. Visual external evaluation of the wood test blocks showed complete surface coloration of all wood species with all colorants, with the exception of the green colorant (xylindein) from C. aeruginosa in liquid culture, which did not produce a visible surface color change. The highest changes in external color came from noble fir, lodgepole pine, port orford cedar and sugar maple with aniline dye, cottonwood with the yellow colorant in liquid culture, lodgepole pine with the red colorant in liquid culture, red alder and Oregon maple with the green colorant in dichloromethane, and sugar maple and port orford cedar with the yellow colorant in dichloromethane. The aniline dye was superior to the fungal colorants in terms of internal coloration, although none of the tested compounds were able to completely visually color the inside of the test blocks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Colorants 2014)

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16 pages, 826 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrical and Mechanical Performance of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Used as the Impressed Current Anode Material

by Ji-Hua Zhu^*, Miaochang Zhu, Ningxu Han, Wei Liu and Feng Xing^*

Shenzhen Key Lab on Durability of Civil Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5438-5453; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085438 - 24 Jul 2014

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 8260

Abstract

An investigation was performed by using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) as the anode material in the impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system of steel reinforced concrete structures. The service life and performance of CFRP were investigated in simulated ICCP systems with various configurations. [...] Read more.

An investigation was performed by using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) as the anode material in the impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system of steel reinforced concrete structures. The service life and performance of CFRP were investigated in simulated ICCP systems with various configurations. Constant current densities were maintained during the tests. No significant degradation in electrical and mechanical properties was found for CFRP subjected to anodic polarization with the selected applied current densities. The service life of the CFRP-based ICCP system was discussed based on the practical reinforced concrete structure layout. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

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16 pages, 1279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nonlinear Modeling of E-Type Ferrite Inductors Using Finite Element Analysis in 2D

by Rosa Ana Salas^* and Jorge Pleite

Departamento de Tecnología Electrónica, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad, 30, 28911 Leganés (Madrid), Spain

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5454-5469; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085454 - 25 Jul 2014

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 8670

Abstract

We present here a modeling procedure for inductors with an E-shaped ferrite core valid for calculating the inductance of an equivalent circuit from the linear operating region to the saturation region. The procedure was developed using Finite Elements in 2D. We demonstrate that [...] Read more.

We present here a modeling procedure for inductors with an E-shaped ferrite core valid for calculating the inductance of an equivalent circuit from the linear operating region to the saturation region. The procedure was developed using Finite Elements in 2D. We demonstrate that using a 2D section of the real core the results obtained are similar to the real ones, which solves the problem of convergence that appeared when E type cores were simulated in 3D, while also saving computational cost. We also discuss the effect of the gap-thickness on the magnetic properties. The data obtained by simulation are compared with experimental results. Full article

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18 pages, 1302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioactivity of Sodium Free Fluoride Containing Glasses and Glass-Ceramics

by Xiaojing Chen¹, Xiaohui Chen¹, Delia S. Brauer², Rory M. Wilson³, Robert G. Hill¹ and Natalia Karpukhina^1,*

¹ Dental Physical Science, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK

² Otto-Schott-Institut, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Fraunhoferstr. 6, Jena 07743, Germany

³ School of Engineering and Materials Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5470-5487; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085470 - 25 Jul 2014

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 8334

Abstract

The bioactivity of a series of fluoride-containing sodium-free calcium and strontium phosphosilicate glasses has been tested in vitro. Glasses with high fluoride content were partially crystallised to apatite and other fluoride-containing phases. The bioactivity study was carried out in Tris and SBF [...] Read more.

The bioactivity of a series of fluoride-containing sodium-free calcium and strontium phosphosilicate glasses has been tested in vitro. Glasses with high fluoride content were partially crystallised to apatite and other fluoride-containing phases. The bioactivity study was carried out in Tris and SBF buffers, and apatite formation was monitored by XRD, FTIR and solid state NMR. Ion release in solutions has been measured using ICP-OES and fluoride-ion selective electrode. The results show that glasses with low amounts of fluoride that were initially amorphous degraded rapidly in Tris buffer and formed apatite as early as 3 h after immersion. The apatite was identified as fluorapatite by ¹⁹F MAS-NMR after 6 h of immersion. Glass degradation and apatite formation was significantly slower in SBF solution compared to Tris. On immersion of the partially crystallised glasses, the fraction of apatite increased at 3 h compared to the amount of apatite prior to the treatment. Thus, partial crystallisation of the glasses has not affected bioactivity significantly. Fast dissolution of the amorphous phase was also indicated. There was no difference in kinetics between Tris and SBF studies when the glass was partially crystallised to apatite before immersion. Two different mechanisms of apatite formation for amorphous or partially crystallised glasses are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)

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19 pages, 2162 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Perylene Bisimide Dyes: Synthesis, Photophysical and Electrochemical Properties

by Che-Wei Chang, Hsing-Yang Tsai and Kew-Yu Chen^*

Department of Chemical Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung 40724, Taiwan

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5488-5506; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085488 - 25 Jul 2014

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 12151

Abstract

Three asymmetric amino-substituted perylene bisimide dyes with different n-alkyl chain lengths (n = 6, 12, or 18), 1-(N,N-dialkylamino)perylene bisimides (1a–1c), were synthesized under mild condition in high yields and were characterized by ¹ [...] Read more.

Three asymmetric amino-substituted perylene bisimide dyes with different n-alkyl chain lengths (n = 6, 12, or 18), 1-(N,N-dialkylamino)perylene bisimides (1a–1c), were synthesized under mild condition in high yields and were characterized by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), HRMS (High Resolution Mass Spectrometer), UV-Vis and fluorescence spectra, as well as cyclic voltammetry (CV). These molecules show intense green color in both solution and solid state and are highly soluble in dichloromethane and even in nonpolar solvents, such as hexane. The shapes of the absorption spectra of 1a–1c in solid state and in solution were found to be virtually the same, indicating that the long alkyl chains could efficiently prevent aggregation. They exhibit a unique charge transfer emission in the near-infrared region, of which the peak wavelengths show strong solvatochromism. The dipole moments of the compounds have been estimated using the Lippert-Mataga equation, and upon excitation, they show larger dipole moment changes than that of 1-aminoperylene bisimide (2). Furthermore, all of the compounds exhibit two quasi-reversible one-electron oxidations and two quasi-reversible one-electron reductions in dichloromethane at modest potentials. Complementary density functional theory (DFT) calculations performed on these dyes are reported in order to rationalize their molecular structures and electronic properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Colorants 2014)

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13 pages, 1397 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methylcellulose-Directed Synthesis of Nanocrystalline Zeolite NaA with High CO₂ Uptake

by Dilshod Shakarova¹, Arto Ojuva^1,2, Lennart Bergström¹ and Farid Akhtar^1,3,*

¹ Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm 10691, Sweden

² Berzelii Center EXSELENT on Porous Materials, Stockholm University, Stockholm 10691, Sweden

³ Division of Materials Science, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå 971 87, Sweden

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5507-5519; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085507 - 28 Jul 2014

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7074

Abstract

Zeolite NaA nanocrystals with a narrow particle size distribution were prepared by template-free hydrothermal synthesis in thermo-reversible methylcellulose gels. The effects of the amount of methylcellulose, crystallization time and hydrothermal treatment temperature on the crystallinity and particle size distribution of the zeolite NaA [...] Read more.

Zeolite NaA nanocrystals with a narrow particle size distribution were prepared by template-free hydrothermal synthesis in thermo-reversible methylcellulose gels. The effects of the amount of methylcellulose, crystallization time and hydrothermal treatment temperature on the crystallinity and particle size distribution of the zeolite NaA nanocrystals were investigated. We found that the thermogelation of methylcellulose in the alkaline Na₂O-SiO₂-Al₂O₃-H₂O system played an important role in controlling the particle size. The synthesized zeolite nanocrystals are highly crystalline, as demonstrated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows that the nanocrystals can also display a well-defined facetted morphology. Gas adsorption studies on the synthesized nanocrystalline zeolite NaA showed that nanocrystals with a size of 100 nm displayed a high CO₂ uptake capacity (4.9 mmol/g at 293 K at 100 kPa) and a relatively rapid uptake rate compared to commercially available, micron-sized particles. Low-cost nanosized zeolite adsorbents with a high and rapid uptake are important for large scale gas separation processes, e.g., carbon capture from flue gas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Porous Materials)

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8 pages, 1019 KiB

Open AccessReview

Transverse Anderson Localization in Disordered Glass Optical Fibers: A Review

by Arash Mafi^1,2,*, Salman Karbasi³, Karl W. Koch⁴, Thomas Hawkins⁵ and John Ballato⁵

¹ Center for High Technology Materials and the Department of Physics and Astronomy,University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA

² Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee,Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA

³ Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla,CA 92093, USA

⁴ Optical Physics and Networks Technology, Corning Incorporated, SP-AR-01-2, Sullivan Park,Corning, NY 14831, USA

⁵ Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET) and the Departmentof Materials Science and Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29625, USA

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5520-5527; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085520 - 28 Jul 2014

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6551

Abstract

Disordered optical fibers show novel waveguiding properties that can be used for various device applications, such as beam-multiplexed optical communications and endoscopic image transport. The strong transverse scattering from the transversely disordered optical fibers results in transversely confined beams that can freely propagate [...] Read more.

Disordered optical fibers show novel waveguiding properties that can be used for various device applications, such as beam-multiplexed optical communications and endoscopic image transport. The strong transverse scattering from the transversely disordered optical fibers results in transversely confined beams that can freely propagate in the longitudinal direction, similar to conventional optical fibers, with the advantage that any point in the cross section of the fiber can be used for beam transport. For beam multiplexing and imaging applications, it is highly desirable to make the localized beam radius as small as possible. This requires large refractive index differences between the materials that define the random features in the disordered fiber. Here, disordered glass-air fibers are briefly reviewed, where randomly placed airholes in a glass matrix provide the sufficiently large refractive index difference of 0.5 for strong random transverse scattering. The main future challenge for the fabrication of an optimally disordered glass-air fibers is to increase the fill-fraction of airholes to nearly 50% for maximum beam confinement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Materials and Processing Methods for Microstructured Optical Fibres)

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15 pages, 1337 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Corrosion Behavior of Titanium in Artificial Saliva by Lactic Acid

by Qing Qu^1,*, Lei Wang¹, Yajun Chen¹, Lei Li², Yue He¹ and Zhongtao Ding¹

¹ School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China

² Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5528-5542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085528 - 28 Jul 2014

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 7591

Abstract

As one of the main products produced by oral microorganisms, the role of lactic acid in the corrosion of titanium is very important. In this study, the corrosion behavior of titanium in artificial saliva with and without lactic acid were investigated by open-circuit [...] Read more.

As one of the main products produced by oral microorganisms, the role of lactic acid in the corrosion of titanium is very important. In this study, the corrosion behavior of titanium in artificial saliva with and without lactic acid were investigated by open-circuit potentials (OCPs), polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). OCP firstly increased with the amount of lactic acid from 0 to 3.2 g/L and then tended to decrease from 3.2 to 5.0 g/L. The corrosion of titanium was distinctly affected by lactic acid, and the corrosion rate increased with increasing the amount of lactic acid. At each concentration of lactic acid, the corrosion rate clearly increased with increasing the immersing time. Results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) also indicated that lactic acid accelerated the pitting corrosion in artificial saliva. A probable mechanism was also proposed to explain the experimental results. Full article

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11 pages, 2740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermodynamic Analysis for the Refining Ability of Salt Flux for Aluminum Recycling

by Takehito Hiraki^1,*, Takahiro Miki¹, Kenichi Nakajima², Kazuyo Matsubae¹, Shinichiro Nakamura³ and Tetsuya Nagasaka¹

¹ Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan

² Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan

³ Graduate School of Economics, Waseda University, Tokyo 169-8050, Japan

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5543-5553; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085543 - 30 Jul 2014

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 9332

Abstract

The removability of impurities during the aluminum remelting process by oxidation was previously investigated by our research group. In the present work, alternative impurity removal with chlorination has been evaluated by thermodynamic analysis. For 43 different elements, equilibrium distribution ratios among metal, chloride [...] Read more.

The removability of impurities during the aluminum remelting process by oxidation was previously investigated by our research group. In the present work, alternative impurity removal with chlorination has been evaluated by thermodynamic analysis. For 43 different elements, equilibrium distribution ratios among metal, chloride flux and oxide slag phases in the aluminum remelting process were calculated by assuming the binary systems of aluminum and an impurity element. It was found that the removability of impurities isn’t significantly affected by process parameters such as chloride partial pressure, temperature and flux composition. It was shown that Ho, Dy, Li, La, Mg, Gd, Ce, Yb, Ca and Sr can be potentially eliminated into flux by chlorination from the remelted aluminum. Chlorination and oxidation are not effective to remove other impurities from the melting aluminum, due to the limited parameters which can be controlled during the remelting process. It follows that a proper management of aluminum scrap such as sorting based on the composition of the products is important for sustainable aluminum recycling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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11 pages, 700 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis of Water-Dispersed Ferrecene/Phenylboronic Acid-Modified Bifunctional Gold Nanoparticles and the Application in Biosensing

by Yun Xing, Lin Liu^*, Danqing Zhao, Yixin Yang and Xiaoran Chu

College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anyang Normal University, Anyang 455000, Henan, China

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5554-5564; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085554 - 31 Jul 2014

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 7761

Abstract

Phenylboronic acids can form tight covalent bonds with diol-containing biomolecules. In this work, water-dispersed bifunctional gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) modified with ferrecene (Fc)-derivatized peptides and 4-mercaptophenylboronic acids (MBA) (denoted as Fc–MBA–AuNPs) were synthesized and characterized by UV/vis spectrometry and transmission electron microscopy. To demonstrate [...] Read more.

Phenylboronic acids can form tight covalent bonds with diol-containing biomolecules. In this work, water-dispersed bifunctional gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) modified with ferrecene (Fc)-derivatized peptides and 4-mercaptophenylboronic acids (MBA) (denoted as Fc–MBA–AuNPs) were synthesized and characterized by UV/vis spectrometry and transmission electron microscopy. To demonstrate the application and the analytical merits of the nanoparticles in biosensing, glycoprotein avidin was tested as a model analyte. Specifically, avidin was captured by the biotin-covered gold electrode via the strong biotin-avidin interaction. Then, Fc–MBA–AuNPs were attached by the captured avidin through the formation of tight covalent bonds between the boronic acid moieties of Fc–MBA–AuNPs and the oligosaccharides of avidin. As a result, a detection limit of 0.2 pM was achieved. We believe that the bifunctional nanoparticles would found many applications in amplified detection of diol-containing species by rational design of the surface chemistry of electrode. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanomaterials for Biosensors)

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16 pages, 1606 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Magnetic Glass Ceramics by Sintering of Borosilicate Glass and Inorganic Waste

by Inès M. M. M. Ponsot¹, Yiannis Pontikes², Giovanni Baldi³, Rama K. Chinnam⁴, Rainer Detsch⁴, Aldo R. Boccaccini⁴

and Enrico Bernardo^1,*

¹ Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, via Marzolo 9, 35131 Padova (PD), Italy

² Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 44 bus 2450, B-3001 Heverlee (Leuven), Belgium

³ Colorobbia Research Centre (Ce.Ri.Col.), via Pietramarina 53, 50053 Sovigliana Vinci (FI), Italy

⁴ Institute of Biomaterials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5565-5580; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085565 - 31 Jul 2014

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 10114

Abstract

Ceramics and glass ceramics based on industrial waste have been widely recognized as competitive products for building applications; however, there is a great potential for such materials with novel functionalities. In this paper, we discuss the development of magnetic sintered glass ceramics based [...] Read more.

Ceramics and glass ceramics based on industrial waste have been widely recognized as competitive products for building applications; however, there is a great potential for such materials with novel functionalities. In this paper, we discuss the development of magnetic sintered glass ceramics based on two iron-rich slags, coming from non-ferrous metallurgy and recycled borosilicate glass. The substantial viscous flow of the glass led to dense products for rapid treatments at relatively low temperatures (900–1000 °C), whereas glass/slag interactions resulted in the formation of magnetite crystals, providing ferrimagnetism. Such behavior could be exploited for applying the obtained glass ceramics as induction heating plates, according to preliminary tests (showing the rapid heating of selected samples, even above 200 °C). The chemical durability and safety of the obtained glass ceramics were assessed by both leaching tests and cytotoxicity tests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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10 pages, 813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Benzylpyrazinium Salts as Photo-Initiators in the Polymerization of Epoxide Monomers

by Moon Suk Kim¹ and Sang Bong Lee^2,*

¹ Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon 443-749, Korea

² Division of Green Chemistry & Engineering Research, Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon 305-600, Korea

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5581-5590; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085581 - 31 Jul 2014

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5921

Abstract

In order to study the capability of pyrazinium salt derivatives to act as photo-initiators of epoxide monomers, benzyl pyrazinium hexafluoroantimonate (BPH), benzyl 3,5-dimethyl pyrazine hexafluoroantimonate (BDH) and benzyl quinoxalinium hexafluoroantimonate (BQH) were synthesized by the Menschutkin reaction of benzyl bromide with pyrazine, 2,6-dimethyl [...] Read more.

In order to study the capability of pyrazinium salt derivatives to act as photo-initiators of epoxide monomers, benzyl pyrazinium hexafluoroantimonate (BPH), benzyl 3,5-dimethyl pyrazine hexafluoroantimonate (BDH) and benzyl quinoxalinium hexafluoroantimonate (BQH) were synthesized by the Menschutkin reaction of benzyl bromide with pyrazine, 2,6-dimethyl pyrazine, and quinoxaline, followed by exchanging with hexafluoroantimonate (SbF₆). BPH, BDH, and BQH exhibited characteristic ultraviolet (UV) absorbance as well as exothermic peaks as a function of irradiation time in a differential photo-calorimeter (DPC). In the absence of photo-irradiation, cyclohexene oxide (CHO) underwent slow polymerization at 25 °C using BPH derivatives, but quantitative conversion was achieved even after a 5-min photo-irradiation. In addition, photo-irradiation was required for the photo-polymerization of CHO and styrene oxide (STO), which was characterized by a short induction period followed by a very rapid and exothermic polymerization. While glycidyl methyl ether (GME) required long induction periods, glycidyl phenyl ether (GPE) underwent rather slow and/or no photo-polymerization. The reactivity order of the monomers was CHO > STO >> GME >>> GPE, and the reactivity order for the photo-polymerization of CHO was BPH > BQH > BDH. It was found that BPH, BDH, and BQH could serve as photo-latent initiators for CHO, STO and GME, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photocatalytic Materials)

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12 pages, 2236 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nanomechanical Optical Fiber with Embedded Electrodes Actuated by Joule Heating

by Zhenggang Lian^†, Martha Segura^*,†, Nina Podoliak^†, Xian Feng, Nicholas White and Peter Horak

¹ Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5591-5602; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085591 - 31 Jul 2014

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6230

Abstract

Nanomechanical optical fibers with metal electrodes embedded in the jacket were fabricated by a multi-material co-draw technique. At the center of the fibers, two glass cores suspended by thin membranes and surrounded by air form a directional coupler that is highly temperature-dependent. We [...] Read more.

Nanomechanical optical fibers with metal electrodes embedded in the jacket were fabricated by a multi-material co-draw technique. At the center of the fibers, two glass cores suspended by thin membranes and surrounded by air form a directional coupler that is highly temperature-dependent. We demonstrate optical switching between the two fiber cores by Joule heating of the electrodes with as little as 0.4 W electrical power, thereby demonstrating an electrically actuated all-fiber microelectromechanical system (MEMS). Simulations show that the main mechanism for optical switching is the transverse thermal expansion of the fiber structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Materials and Processing Methods for Microstructured Optical Fibres)

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14 pages, 1094 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recycling of Clay Sediments for Geopolymer Binder Production. A New Perspective for Reservoir Management in the Framework of Italian Legislation: The Occhito Reservoir Case Study

by Bruno Molino¹, Annamaria De Vincenzo², Claudio Ferone³

, Francesco Messina³, Francesco Colangelo^3,* and Raffaele Cioffi³

¹ Department of Biotechnology and Territory, University of Molise, Campobasso 86100, Italy

² School of Engineering, University of Basilicata, Potenza 85100, Italy

³ Department of Engineering, University of Naples "Parthenope", Centro Direzionale Isola C4, Naples 80143, Italy

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5603-5616; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085603 - 31 Jul 2014

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 7934

Abstract

Reservoir silting is an unavoidable issue. It is estimated that in Italy, the potential rate of silting-up in large reservoirs ranges from 0.1% to 1% in the presence of wooded river basins and intensive agricultural land use, respectively. In medium and small-sized reservoirs, [...] Read more.

Reservoir silting is an unavoidable issue. It is estimated that in Italy, the potential rate of silting-up in large reservoirs ranges from 0.1% to 1% in the presence of wooded river basins and intensive agricultural land use, respectively. In medium and small-sized reservoirs, these values vary between 0.3% and 2%. Considering both the types of reservoirs, the annual average loss of storage capacity would be of about 1.59%. In this paper, a management strategy aimed at sediment productive reuse is presented. Particularly, the main engineering outcomes of an extensive experimental program on geopolymer binder synthesis is reported. The case study deals with Occhito reservoir, located in Southern Italy. Clay sediments coming from this silted-up artificial lake were characterized, calcined and activated, by means of a wide set of alkaline activating solutions. The results showed the feasibility of this recovery process, optimizing a few chemical parameters. The possible reuse in building material production (binders, precast concrete, bricks, etc.) represents a relevant sustainable alternative to landfill and other more consolidated practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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16 pages, 1227 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation and Characterization of Bioplastic-Based Green Renewable Composites from Tapioca with Acetyl Tributyl Citrate as a Plasticizer

by Chi-Hui Tsou^1,2,3,*

, Maw-Cherng Suen⁴, Wei-Hua Yao³, Jen-Taut Yeh⁵, Chin-San Wu⁶, Chih-Yuan Tsou¹, Shih-Hsuan Chiu¹, Jui-Chin Chen³, Ruo Yao Wang³, Shang-Ming Lin³, Wei-Song Hung^2,*, Manuel De Guzman², Chien-Chieh Hu² and Kueir-Rarn Lee²

¹ Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, No. 43, Sec. 4, Keelung Rd., Da'an Dist., Taipei 10607, Taiwan

² Research and Development Center for Membrane Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Chung Yuan University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan

³ Department of Materials and Textiles, Oriental Institute of Technology, Pan-Chiao 22064, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Creative Fashion Design, Taoyuan Innovation Institute of Technology, Jhongli 32091, Taiwan

⁵ Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Kao Yuan University, Kaohsiung County 82151, Taiwan

⁶ Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5617-5632; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085617 - 4 Aug 2014

Cited by 71 | Viewed by 11164

Abstract

Granular tapioca was thermally blended with poly(lactic acid) (PLA). All blends were prepared using a plasti-corder and characterized for tensile properties, thermal properties and morphology. Scanning electron micrographs showed that phase separation occurred, leading to poor tensile properties. Therefore, methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) was [...] Read more.

Granular tapioca was thermally blended with poly(lactic acid) (PLA). All blends were prepared using a plasti-corder and characterized for tensile properties, thermal properties and morphology. Scanning electron micrographs showed that phase separation occurred, leading to poor tensile properties. Therefore, methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) was used as an interfacial compatibilizer to improve the mechanical properties of PLA/tapioca blends. The addition of MDI could improve the tensile strength of the blend with 60 wt% tapioca, from 19.8 to 42.6 MPa. In addition, because PLA lacked toughness, acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) was added as a plasticizer to improve the ductility of PLA. A significant decrease in the melting point and glass-transition temperature was observed on the basis of differential scanning calorimetry, which indicated that the PLA structure was not dense after ATBC was added. As such, the brittleness was improved, and the elongation at break was extended to several hundred percent. Therefore, mixing ATBC with PLA/tapioca/MDI blends did exhibit the effect of plasticization and biodegradation. The results also revealed that excessive plasticizer would cause the migration of ATBC and decrease the tensile properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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10 pages, 1359 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Carrier Gas Composition on the Stress of Al₂O₃ Coatings Prepared by the Aerosol Deposition Method

by Michael Schubert

, Jörg Exner

and Ralf Moos^*

Department of Functional Materials, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstraße 30, Bayreuth 95440, Germany

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5633-5642; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085633 - 5 Aug 2014

Cited by 69 | Viewed by 10820

Abstract

Al₂O₃ films were prepared by the aerosol deposition method at room temperature using different carrier gas compositions. The layers were deposited on alumina substrates and the film stress of the layer was calculated by measuring the deformation of the substrate. [...] Read more.

Al₂O₃ films were prepared by the aerosol deposition method at room temperature using different carrier gas compositions. The layers were deposited on alumina substrates and the film stress of the layer was calculated by measuring the deformation of the substrate. It was shown that the film stress can be halved by using oxygen instead of nitrogen or helium as the carrier gas. The substrates were annealed at different temperature steps to gain information about the temperature dependence of the reduction of the implemented stress. Total relaxation of the stress can already be achieved at 300 °C. The XRD pattern shows crystallite growth and reduction of microstrain while annealing. Full article

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21 pages, 583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reduction of Photoluminescence Quenching by Deuteration of Ytterbium-Doped Amorphous Carbon-Based Photonic Materials

by Hui-Lin Hsu¹, Keith R. Leong¹, I-Ju Teng^2,3, Michael Halamicek¹, Jenh-Yih Juang², Sheng-Rui Jian³

, Li Qian^1,* and Nazir P. Kherani^1,4,*

¹ Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G4, Canada

² Center for Interdisciplinary Science, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 30010, Taiwan

³ Department of Materials Science and Engineering, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 84001, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E4, Canada

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5643-5663; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085643 - 6 Aug 2014

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 10535

Abstract

In situ Yb-doped amorphous carbon thin films were grown on Si substrates at low temperatures (<200 °C) by a simple one-step RF-PEMOCVD system as a potential photonic material for direct integration with Si CMOS back end-of-line processing. Room temperature photoluminescence around 1 µm [...] Read more.

In situ Yb-doped amorphous carbon thin films were grown on Si substrates at low temperatures (<200 °C) by a simple one-step RF-PEMOCVD system as a potential photonic material for direct integration with Si CMOS back end-of-line processing. Room temperature photoluminescence around 1 µm was observed via direct incorporation of optically active Yb³⁺ ions from the selected Yb(fod)₃ metal-organic compound. The partially fluorinated Yb(fod)₃ compound assists the suppression of photoluminescence quenching by substitution of C–H with C–F bonds. A four-fold enhancement of Yb photoluminescence was demonstrated via deuteration of the a-C host. The substrate temperature greatly influences the relative deposition rate of the plasma dissociated metal-organic species, and hence the concentration of the various elements. Yb and F incorporation are promoted at lower substrate temperatures, and suppressed at higher substrate temperatures. O concentration is slightly elevated at higher substrate temperatures. Photoluminescence was limited by the concentration of Yb within the film, the concentration of Yb ions in the +3 state, and the relative amount of quenching due to the various de-excitation pathways associated with the vibrational modes of the host a-C network. The observed wide full-width-at-half-maximum photoluminescence signal is a result of the variety of local bonding environments due to the a-C matrix, and the bonding of the Yb³⁺ ions to O and/or F ions as observed in the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. Full article

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24 pages, 1996 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spark Plasma Sintering As a Solid-State Recycling Technique: The Case of Aluminum Alloy Scrap Consolidation

by Dimos Paraskevas^1,*, Kim Vanmeensel², Jef Vleugels², Wim Dewulf¹, Yelin Deng¹ and Joost R. Duflou¹

¹ Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leuven–KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 300A, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium

² Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering (MTM), University of Leuven–KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 44, B-3001 Heverlee, Belgium

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5664-5687; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085664 - 6 Aug 2014

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 11684

Abstract

Recently, “meltless” recycling techniques have been presented for the light metals category, targeting both energy and material savings by bypassing the final recycling step of remelting. In this context, the use of spark plasma sintering (SPS) is proposed in this paper as a [...] Read more.

Recently, “meltless” recycling techniques have been presented for the light metals category, targeting both energy and material savings by bypassing the final recycling step of remelting. In this context, the use of spark plasma sintering (SPS) is proposed in this paper as a novel solid-state recycling technique. The objective is two-fold: (I) to prove the technical feasibility of this approach; and (II) to characterize the recycled samples. Aluminum (Al) alloy scrap was selected to demonstrate the SPS effectiveness in producing fully-dense samples. For this purpose, Al alloy scrap in the form of machining chips was cold pre-compacted and sintered bellow the solidus temperature at 490 °C, under elevated pressure of 200 MPa. The dynamic scrap compaction, combined with electric current-based joule heating, achieved partial fracture of the stable surface oxides, desorption of the entrapped gases and activated the metallic surfaces, resulting in efficient solid-state chip welding eliminating residual porosity. The microhardness, the texture, the mechanical properties, the microstructure and the density of the recycled specimens have been investigated. An X-ray computed tomography (CT) analysis confirmed the density measurements, revealing a void-less bulk material with homogeneously distributed intermetallic compounds and oxides. The oxide content of the chips incorporated within the recycled material slightly increases its elastic properties. Finally, a thermal distribution simulation of the process in different segments illustrates the improved energy efficiency of this approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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12 pages, 373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Acoustic Properties of Water Submerged Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta) and Spruce (Picea spp.) Wood and Their Suitability for Use as Musical Instruments

by Calvin Hilde¹, Renata Woodward², Stavros Avramidis³ and Ian D. Hartley^2,*

¹ Department of Physics, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada

² Ecosystem Science and Management Program, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada

³ Department of Wood Science, the University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5688-5699; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085688 - 6 Aug 2014

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5993

Abstract

Wood is a common material used for the manufacture of many products, and submerged wood, in particular, has been used in niche markets and musical instruments. In order to examine if submerged wood in British Columbia, Canada, would be appropriate for use as [...] Read more.

Wood is a common material used for the manufacture of many products, and submerged wood, in particular, has been used in niche markets and musical instruments. In order to examine if submerged wood in British Columbia, Canada, would be appropriate for use as musical instruments, a study was performed in 2007 on submerged wood from Ootsa Lake, British Columbia, Canada. The results of that study showed the wood was not suitable for musical instruments. In this paper, the wood samples were allowed to age untouched in a laboratory setting and were then retested under the hypothesis that physical acoustic characteristics would improve. It was shown, however, that acoustic properties became less adequate after being left to dry over time. This article describes the density, speed of sound, acoustic constant and characteristic impedance properties for submerged wood and a comparison is made for different applications for musical instruments. Full article

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11 pages, 750 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Power Spark Delivery System Using Hollow Core Kagome Lattice Fibers

by Ciprian Dumitrache¹, Jordan Rath² and Azer P. Yalin^1,2,*

¹ Department of Mechanical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA

² Seaforth LLC, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5700-5710; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085700 - 7 Aug 2014

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 8241

Abstract

This study examines the use of the recently developed hollow core kagome lattice fibers for delivery of high power laser pulses. Compared to other photonic crystal fibers (PCFs), the hollow core kagome fibers have larger core diameter (~50 µm), which allows for higher [...] Read more.

This study examines the use of the recently developed hollow core kagome lattice fibers for delivery of high power laser pulses. Compared to other photonic crystal fibers (PCFs), the hollow core kagome fibers have larger core diameter (~50 µm), which allows for higher energy coupling in the fiber while also maintaining high beam quality at the output (M² = 1.25). We have conducted a study of the maximum deliverable energy versus laser pulse duration using a Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm. Pulse energies as high as 30 mJ were transmitted for 30 ns pulse durations. This represents, to our knowledge; the highest laser pulse energy delivered using PCFs. Two fiber damage mechanisms were identified as damage at the fiber input and damage within the bulk of the fiber. Finally, we have demonstrated fiber delivered laser ignition on a single-cylinder gasoline direct injection engine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Materials and Processing Methods for Microstructured Optical Fibres)

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24 pages, 6926 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Inhibition of Aluminum Corrosion in Sulfuric Acid by Poly(1-vinyl-3-alkyl-imidazolium Hexafluorophosphate)

by Paulina Arellanes-Lozada¹, Octavio Olivares-Xometl^2,*, Diego Guzmán-Lucero³, Natalya V. Likhanova³

, Marco A. Domínguez-Aguilar³, Irina V. Lijanova⁴ and Elsa Arce-Estrada¹

¹ Instituto Politécnico Nacional, ESIQIE, Departamento de Metalurgia y Materiales, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional S/N, Col. Lindavista, México D.F. 07300, Mexico

² Facultad de Ingeniería Química, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria. Col. San Manuel, Puebla, Puebla 72570, Mexico

³ Instituto Mexicano del Petróleo, Programa de Investigación y Posgrado, Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas No. 152, Col. San Bartolo Atepehuacán, México D.F. 07730, Mexico

⁴ Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CIITEC, Cerrada Cecati S/N, Colonia Santa Catarina, Azcapotzalco, México D.F. 02250, Mexico

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5711-5734; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085711 - 7 Aug 2014

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 12161

Abstract

Compounds of poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs), derived from imidazole with different alkylic chain lengths located in the third position of the imidazolium ring (poly(1-vinyl-3-dodecyl-imidazolium) (PImC₁₂), poly(1-vinyl-3-octylimidazolium) (PImC₈) and poly(1-vinyl-3-butylimidazolium) (PImC₄) hexafluorophosphate) were synthesized. These compounds were tested as [...] Read more.

Compounds of poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs), derived from imidazole with different alkylic chain lengths located in the third position of the imidazolium ring (poly(1-vinyl-3-dodecyl-imidazolium) (PImC₁₂), poly(1-vinyl-3-octylimidazolium) (PImC₈) and poly(1-vinyl-3-butylimidazolium) (PImC₄) hexafluorophosphate) were synthesized. These compounds were tested as corrosion inhibitors on aluminum alloy AA6061 in diluted sulfuric acid (0.1–1 M H₂SO₄) by weight loss tests, polarization resistance measurements and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Langmuir’s isotherms suggested film formation on bare alloy while standard free energy indicated inhibition by a physisorption process. However, compound efficiencies as inhibitors ranked low (PImC₁₂ > PImC₈ > PImC₄) to reach 61% for PImC₁₂ in highly diluted acidic solution. Apparently, the high mobility of sulfates favored their adsorption in comparison to PILs. The surface film displayed general corrosion, and pitting occurred as a consequence of PILs’ partial inhibition along with a continuous dissolution of defective patchy film on formation. A slight improvement in efficiency was displayed by compounds having high molecular weight and a long alkyl chain, as a consequence of steric hindrance and PIL interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion of Materials)

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11 pages, 984 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optical Spectra Tuning of All-Glass Photonic Bandgap Fiber Infiltrated with Silver Fast-Ion-Conducting Glasses

by Ioannis Konidakis^* and Stavros Pissadakis

Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), P.O. Box 1385, 71110 Heraklion, Greece

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5735-5745; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085735 - 7 Aug 2014

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6616

Abstract

Silver iodide metaphosphate glasses of the xAgI + (1−x)AgPO₃ family are embedded inside the air capillaries of a commercial silica photonic crystal fiber (PCF) by means of vacuum-assisted infiltration technique. In this paper, we report on tuning the photonic [...] Read more.

Silver iodide metaphosphate glasses of the xAgI + (1−x)AgPO₃ family are embedded inside the air capillaries of a commercial silica photonic crystal fiber (PCF) by means of vacuum-assisted infiltration technique. In this paper, we report on tuning the photonic bandgap (PBG) guidance characteristics of the fabricated all-glass photonic bandgap fibers, by varying the composition of the fast-ion-conducting phosphate glass infiltration medium. Doping AgPO₃ metaphosphate glass with AgI significantly alters the PBG guidance patterns in the examined range between 350 and 1750 nm, as it leads to the introduction of numerous additional transmission stop-bands, while affecting scattering dependant losses. The effect of phosphate glass cooling method during sample fabrication on the transmission behavior of the xAgI + (1−x)AgPO₃/PCFs is also considered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Materials and Processing Methods for Microstructured Optical Fibres)

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15 pages, 904 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Corrosion Sensor for Monitoring the Early-Stage Environmental Corrosion of A36 Carbon Steel

by Dong Chen^1,*, Max Yen¹, Paul Lin¹, Steve Groff¹, Richard Lampo², Michael McInerney² and Jeffrey Ryan²

¹ College of Engineering, Technology, and Computer Science, Indiana University-Purdue University, 2101 E Coliseum Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46805, USA

² Army Engineer Research & Development Center, Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, P.O. Box 9005, Champaign, IL 61826, USA

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5746-5760; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085746 - 8 Aug 2014

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 7941

Abstract

An innovative prototype sensor containing A36 carbon steel as a capacitor was explored to monitor early-stage corrosion. The sensor detected the changes of the surface- rather than the bulk- property and morphology of A36 during corrosion. Thus it was more sensitive than the [...] Read more.

An innovative prototype sensor containing A36 carbon steel as a capacitor was explored to monitor early-stage corrosion. The sensor detected the changes of the surface- rather than the bulk- property and morphology of A36 during corrosion. Thus it was more sensitive than the conventional electrical resistance corrosion sensors. After being soaked in an aerated 0.2 M NaCl solution, the sensor’s normalized electrical resistance (R/R₀) decreased continuously from 1.0 to 0.74 with the extent of corrosion. Meanwhile, the sensor’s normalized capacitance (C/C₀) increased continuously from 1.0 to 1.46. X-ray diffraction result indicates that the iron rust on A36 had crystals of lepidocrocite and magnetite. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion of Materials)

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8 pages, 1044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Self-Aligned a-IGZO Thin-Film Transistor Using a New Two-Photo-Mask Process with a Continuous Etching Scheme

by Ching-Lin Fan^1,2,*, Ming-Chi Shang¹, Bo-Jyun Li¹, Yu-Zuo Lin², Shea-Jue Wang³ and Win-Der Lee⁴

¹ Graduate Institute of Electro-Optical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei City 106, Taiwan

² Department of Electronic Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei City 106, Taiwan

³ Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei City 106, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Electrical Engineering, Lee-Ming Institute of Technology, New Taipei City 243, Taiwan

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5761-5768; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085761 - 11 Aug 2014

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 12730

Abstract

Minimizing the parasitic capacitance and the number of photo-masks can improve operational speed and reduce fabrication costs. Therefore, in this study, a new two-photo-mask process is proposed that exhibits a self-aligned structure without an etching-stop layer. Combining the backside-ultraviolet (BUV) exposure and backside-lift-off [...] Read more.

Minimizing the parasitic capacitance and the number of photo-masks can improve operational speed and reduce fabrication costs. Therefore, in this study, a new two-photo-mask process is proposed that exhibits a self-aligned structure without an etching-stop layer. Combining the backside-ultraviolet (BUV) exposure and backside-lift-off (BLO) schemes can not only prevent the damage when etching the source/drain (S/D) electrodes but also reduce the number of photo-masks required during fabrication and minimize the parasitic capacitance with the decreasing of gate overlap length at same time. Compared with traditional fabrication processes, the proposed process yields that thin-film transistors (TFTs) exhibit comparable field-effect mobility (9.5 cm²/V·s), threshold voltage (3.39 V), and subthreshold swing (0.3 V/decade). The delay time of an inverter fabricated using the proposed process was considerably decreased. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Compound Semiconductor Materials 2014)

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20 pages, 1047 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Different Recycling Scenarios on the Mechanical Design of an LED Weatherproof Light Fitting

by Víctor Camañes¹, Daniel Elduque²

, Carlos Javierre^2,* and Ángel Fernández³

¹ Zalux, Centro Empresarial Miralbueno, 50012 Zaragoza, Spain

² Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, C/María de Luna, 3, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain

³ AITIIP Technology Center (Centro Tecnológico en Inyección de Plásticos), Polígono Industrial Empresarium, C/Romero 12, 50720 Zaragoza, Spain

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5769-5788; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085769 - 11 Aug 2014

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6776

Abstract

This paper analyzes the high relevance of material selection for the sustainable development of an LED weatherproof light fitting. The research reveals how this choice modifies current and future end of life scenarios and can reduce the overall environmental impact. This life cycle [...] Read more.

This paper analyzes the high relevance of material selection for the sustainable development of an LED weatherproof light fitting. The research reveals how this choice modifies current and future end of life scenarios and can reduce the overall environmental impact. This life cycle assessment has been carried out with Ecotool, a software program especially developed for designers to assess the environmental performance of their designs at the same time that they are working on them. Results show that special attention can be put on the recycling and reusing of the product from the initial stages of development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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13 pages, 8949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Purity and Yield of Boron Nitride Nanotubes Using Amorphous Boron and a Nozzle-Type Reactor

by Jaewoo Kim^1,2,*, Duckbong Seo³, Jeseung Yoo^1,4, Wanseop Jeong⁵, Young-Soo Seo^4,* and Jaeyong Kim⁵

¹ Nuclear Materials Research Division, Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), 111-989 Daeduck-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon-si 305-353, Korea

² World Class Institute (WCI) Quantum Beam based Radiation Research Center, Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, 111-989 Daeduck-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon-si 305-353, Korea

³ Nuclear Technology Division, EnesG, 8 Techno10-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon-si 305-510, Korea

⁴ Department of Nano Science and Technology, Sejong University, 98 Gunja-dong, Gwangjin-gu 143-747, Korea

⁵ Department of Physics, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimliro, Sungdong-gu, Seoul 133-791, Korea

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5789-5801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085789 - 11 Aug 2014

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 8275

Abstract

Enhancement of the production yield of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) with high purity was achieved using an amorphous boron-based precursor and a nozzle-type reactor. Use of a mixture of amorphous boron and Fe decreases the milling time for the preparation of the precursor [...] Read more.

Enhancement of the production yield of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) with high purity was achieved using an amorphous boron-based precursor and a nozzle-type reactor. Use of a mixture of amorphous boron and Fe decreases the milling time for the preparation of the precursor for BNNTs synthesis, as well as the Fe impurity contained in the B/Fe interdiffused precursor nanoparticles by using a simple purification process. We also explored a nozzle-type reactor that increased the production yield of BNNTs compared to a conventional flow-through reactor. By using a nozzle-type reactor with amorphous boron-based precursor, the weight of the BNNTs sample after annealing was increased as much as 2.5-times with much less impurities compared to the case for the flow-through reactor with the crystalline boron-based precursor. Under the same experimental conditions, the yield and quantity of BNNTs were estimated as much as ~70% and ~1.15 g/batch for the former, while they are ~54% and 0.78 g/batch for the latter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Compound Semiconductor Materials 2014)

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14 pages, 621 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chloride Permeability of Damaged High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Cement Composite by Repeated Compressive Loads

by Byung Jae Lee¹, Jung Hwan Hyun², Yun Yong Kim²

and Kyung Joon Shin^2,*

¹ Center Manager, JNT INC, Korea

² Department of Civil Engineering, Chungnam National University, 99 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-764, Korea

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5802-5815; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085802 - 11 Aug 2014

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6502

Abstract

The development of cracking in concrete structures leads to significant permeability and to durability problems as a result. Approaches to controlling crack development and crack width in concrete structures have been widely debated. Recently, it was recognized that a high-performance fiber-reinforced cement composite [...] Read more.

The development of cracking in concrete structures leads to significant permeability and to durability problems as a result. Approaches to controlling crack development and crack width in concrete structures have been widely debated. Recently, it was recognized that a high-performance fiber-reinforced cement composite (HPFRCC) provides a possible solution to this inherent problem of cracking by smearing one or several dominant cracks into many distributed microcracks under tensile loading conditions. However, the chloride permeability of HPFRCC under compressive loading conditions is not yet fully understood. Therefore, the goal of the present study is to explore the chloride diffusion characteristics of HPFRCC damaged by compressive loads. The chloride diffusivity of HPFRCC is measured after being subjected to various repeated loads. The results show that the residual axial strain, lateral strain and specific crack area of HPFRCC specimens increase with an increase in the damage induced by repeated loads. However, the chloride diffusion coefficient increases only up to 1.5-times, whereas the specific crack area increases up to 3-times with an increase in damage. Although HPFRCC shows smeared distributed cracks in tensile loads, a significant reduction in the diffusion coefficient of HPFRCC is not obtained compared to plain concrete when the cyclic compressive load is applied below 85% of the strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

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27 pages, 1141 KiB

Open AccessReview

Long-Term Soft Denture Lining Materials

by Grzegorz Chladek^1,*

, Jarosław Żmudzki¹ and Jacek Kasperski²

¹ Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Engineering Materials and Biomaterials, Silesian University of Technology, ul. Konarskiego 18a, Gliwice 44-100, Poland

² Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Medical University of Silesia, pl. Akademicki 17, Bytom 41-902, Poland

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5816-5842; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085816 - 12 Aug 2014

Cited by 69 | Viewed by 12871 | Correction

Abstract

Long-term soft denture lining (LTSDL) materials are used to alleviate the trauma associated with wearing complete dentures. Despite their established clinical efficacy, the use of LTSDLs has been limited due to the unfavorable effects of the oral environment on some of their mechanical [...] Read more.

Long-term soft denture lining (LTSDL) materials are used to alleviate the trauma associated with wearing complete dentures. Despite their established clinical efficacy, the use of LTSDLs has been limited due to the unfavorable effects of the oral environment on some of their mechanical and performance characteristics. The unresolved issue of LTSDL colonization by Candida albicans is particularly problematic. Silicone-based LTSDL (SLTSDL) materials, which are characterized by more stable hardness, sorption and solubility than acrylic-based LTSDLs (ALTSDLs), are currently the most commonly used LTSDLs. However, SLTSDLs are more prone to debonding from the denture base. Moreover, due to their limitations, the available methods for determining bond strength do not fully reflect the actual stability of these materials under clinical conditions. SLTSDL materials exhibit favorable viscoelastic properties compared with ALTSDLs. Furthermore, all of the lining materials exhibit an aging solution-specific tendency toward discoloration, and the available cleansers are not fully effective and can alter the mechanical properties of LTSDLs. Future studies are needed to improve the microbiological resistance of LTSDLs, as well as some of their performance characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)

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15 pages, 786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality Assessment of Mixed and Ceramic Recycled Aggregates from Construction and Demolition Wastes in the Concrete Manufacture According to the Spanish Standard

by Desirée Rodríguez-Robles^*, Julia García-González, Andrés Juan-Valdés

, Julia Mª Morán-del Pozo

and Manuel I Guerra-Romero

Superior and Technical School of Agricultural Engineering, University of Leon, Avda. Portugal 41, 24071 Leon, Spain

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5843-5857; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085843 - 13 Aug 2014

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7202

Abstract

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) constitutes an increasingly significant problem in society due to the volume generated, rendering sustainable management and disposal problematic. The aim of this study is to identify a possible reuse option in the concrete manufacturing for recycled aggregates with [...] Read more.

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) constitutes an increasingly significant problem in society due to the volume generated, rendering sustainable management and disposal problematic. The aim of this study is to identify a possible reuse option in the concrete manufacturing for recycled aggregates with a significant ceramic content: mixed recycled aggregates (MixRA) and ceramic recycled aggregates (CerRA). In order to do so, several tests are conducted in accordance with the Spanish Code on Structural Concrete (EHE-08) to determine the composition in weight and physic-mechanical characteristics (particle size distributions, fine content, sand equivalent, density, water absorption, flakiness index, and resistance to fragmentation) of the samples for the partial inclusion of the recycled aggregates in concrete mixes. The results of these tests clearly support the hypothesis that this type of material may be suitable for such partial replacements if simple pretreatment is carried out. Furthermore, this measure of reuse is in line with European, national, and regional policies on sustainable development, and presents a solution to the environmental problem caused by the generation of CDW. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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8 pages, 1092 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

One-Dimensional Organic-Inorganic Nanocomposite Synthesized with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Templates

by Wei Li^1,*, Aili Wei¹, Huaiping Zhang¹ and Dojin Kim^2,*

¹ Department of Material Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China

² Department of Material Science and Engineering, Chungnam National University, Deajeon 305764, Korea

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5858-5865; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085858 - 13 Aug 2014

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6027

Abstract

This study reports on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) as templates for the preparation of 1D porous organic-inorganic hybrid composites. The in situ deposited SWCNT were sputter coated with Sn metal and thermally oxidized in air to form a SnO₂/SWCNT nanowire framework [...] Read more.

This study reports on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) as templates for the preparation of 1D porous organic-inorganic hybrid composites. The in situ deposited SWCNT were sputter coated with Sn metal and thermally oxidized in air to form a SnO₂/SWCNT nanowire framework on SiO₂/Si substrate. Poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) was coated onto this scaffold through UV light-induced radical polymerization, which resulted in the final formation of hybrid composites. The structures of hybrid composites were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The results show that PAA was successfully coated and the structural advantage of nanowire was fairly maintained, which indicates that this framework is very stable for organic functionalization in solution. The simplicity of this method for the formation of porous organic-inorganic hybrid composites provides a potential application for nanoelectronic devices. Full article

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17 pages, 5425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Mucin and Bicarbonate Ion on Corrosion Behavior of AZ31 Magnesium Alloy for Airway Stents

by Yongseok Jang^1,†, Daniel Owuor^1,†, Jenora T. Waterman², Leon White¹, Boyce Collins¹, Jagannathan Sankar¹, Thomas W. Gilbert³ and Yeoheung Yun^1,*

¹ Engineering Research Center for Revolutionizing Metallic Biomaterials (ERC-RMB), North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, 1601 E. Market St, IRC RM 119, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA

² Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, 1601 E. Market St, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA

³ ACell Inc., 6640 Eli Whitney Drive, Suite 200, Columbia, MD 21046, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5866-5882; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085866 - 15 Aug 2014

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 8859

Abstract

The biodegradable ability of magnesium alloys is an attractive feature for tracheal stents since they can be absorbed by the body through gradual degradation after healing of the airway structure, which can reduce the risk of inflammation caused by long-term implantation and prevent [...] Read more.

The biodegradable ability of magnesium alloys is an attractive feature for tracheal stents since they can be absorbed by the body through gradual degradation after healing of the airway structure, which can reduce the risk of inflammation caused by long-term implantation and prevent the repetitive surgery for removal of existing stent. In this study, the effects of bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻) and mucin in Gamble’s solution on the corrosion behavior of AZ31 magnesium alloy were investigated, using immersion and electrochemical tests to systematically identify the biodegradation kinetics of magnesium alloy under in vitro environment, mimicking the epithelial mucus surfaces in a trachea for development of biodegradable airway stents. Analysis of corrosion products after immersion test was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to identify the effects of bicarbonate ions and mucin on the corrosion behavior of AZ31 magnesium alloys with the temporal change of corrosion resistance. The results show that the increase of the bicarbonate ions in Gamble’s solution accelerates the dissolution of AZ31 magnesium alloy, while the addition of mucin retards the corrosion. The experimental data in this work is intended to be used as foundational knowledge to predict the corrosion behavior of AZ31 magnesium alloy in the airway environment while providing degradation information for future in vivo studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Light Alloys and Their Applications)

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20 pages, 670 KiB

Open AccessReview

Challenges and Alternatives to Plastics Recycling in the Automotive Sector

by Lindsay Miller^*, Katie Soulliere, Susan Sawyer-Beaulieu, Simon Tseng and Edwin Tam

Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5883-5902; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085883 - 15 Aug 2014

Cited by 142 | Viewed by 20436

Abstract

Plastics are increasingly a preferred material choice in designing and developing complex, consumer products, such as automobiles, because they are mouldable, lightweight, and are often perceived to be highly recyclable materials. However, actually recycling the heterogeneous plastics used in such durable items is [...] Read more.

Plastics are increasingly a preferred material choice in designing and developing complex, consumer products, such as automobiles, because they are mouldable, lightweight, and are often perceived to be highly recyclable materials. However, actually recycling the heterogeneous plastics used in such durable items is challenging, and presents very different scenarios to how simple products, such as water bottles, are recovered via curbside or container recycling initiatives. While the technology exists to recycle plastics, their feasibility to do so from high level consumer or industrial applications is bounded by technological and economical restraints. Obstacles include the lack of market for recyclates, and the lack of cost efficient recovery infrastructures or processes. Furthermore, there is a knowledge gap between manufacturers, consumers, and end-of-life facility operators. For these reasons, end-of-life plastics are more likely to end up down-cycled, or as shredder residue and then landfilled. This paper reviews these challenges and several alternatives to recycling plastics in order to broaden the mindset surrounding plastics recycling to improve their sustainability. The paper focuses on the automotive sector for examples, but discussion can be applied to a wide range of plastic components from similarly complex products. Full article

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17 pages, 1152 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Use of Deconstructed Tires as Elastic Elements in Railway Tracks

by Miguel Sol-Sánchez^†, Fernando Moreno-Navarro^† and Mª Carmen Rubio-Gámez^*

¹ Laboratory of Construction Engineering, University of Granada, C/Severo Ochoa s/n, Granada 18071, Spain

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5903-5919; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085903 - 18 Aug 2014

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 7795

Abstract

Elastic elements such as rail pads, under sleeper pads and under ballast mats are railway components that allow for a reduction in track deterioration and vibrations. And they are furthermore commonly used to obtain an optimal vertical stiffness of the infrastructure. However, the [...] Read more.

Elastic elements such as rail pads, under sleeper pads and under ballast mats are railway components that allow for a reduction in track deterioration and vibrations. And they are furthermore commonly used to obtain an optimal vertical stiffness of the infrastructure. However, the use of elastomeric materials can increase construction costs and the consumption of raw materials. Thus, the utilization of used tire layers offers an alternative to reuse an abundant waste reducing the cost of elastic elements. In addition, an innovator technique allows deconstructing tire layers without grinding up the material, reducing production costs at the same time that tire properties are remained. This research is focused on the study of the viability of developing elastic components from used tire layers by evaluating the influence of thickness, the resistance capacity of the elements and their behavior in a ballast box. Results indicate the ability of tire pads to manufacture elastic elements (rail pads, under sleeper pads and under ballast mats) to be used in railway tracks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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14 pages, 746 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural and Mechanical Characterization of Sustainable Composites Based on Recycled and Stabilized Fly Ash

by Stefano Besco¹, Alberto Bosio², Mariangela Brisotto², Laura E. Depero², Alessandra Lorenzetti¹, Elza Bontempi^2,*

, Renato Bonora¹ and Michele Modesti¹

¹ Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, via Marzolo 9, 35131 Padova, Italy

² INSTM and Chemistry for Technologies Laboratory, University of Brescia, via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5920-5933; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085920 - 18 Aug 2014

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7566

Abstract

This paper reports the results on the use of an innovative inert, based on stabilized fly ash from municipal solid waste incineration as a filler for polypropylene. The starting material, which contains large quantities of leachable Pb and Zn, was stabilized by means [...] Read more.

This paper reports the results on the use of an innovative inert, based on stabilized fly ash from municipal solid waste incineration as a filler for polypropylene. The starting material, which contains large quantities of leachable Pb and Zn, was stabilized by means of an innovative process using rice husk ash as a waste silica source, together with other fly ashes, such as coal fly ash and flue gas desulfurization residues. The use of all waste materials to obtain a new filler makes the proposed technology extremely sustainable and competitive. The new composites, obtained by using the stabilized material as a filler for polypropylene, were characterized and their mechanical properties were also investigated. A comparison with a traditional polypropylene and calcium carbonate based compound was also done. This research activity was realized in the frame of the COSMOS-RICE project, financed by the EU Commission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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25 pages, 2958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on the Seismic Performance of Recycled Concrete Brick Walls Embedded with Vertical Reinforcement

by Wanlin Cao, Yongbo Zhang, Hongying Dong^*, Zhongyi Zhou and Qiyun Qiao

College of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5934-5958; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085934 - 19 Aug 2014

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 10436

Abstract

Recycled concrete brick (RCB) is manufactured by recycled aggregate processed from discarded concrete blocks arising from the demolishing of existing buildings. This paper presents research on the seismic performance of RCB masonry walls to assess the applicability of RCB for use in rural [...] Read more.

Recycled concrete brick (RCB) is manufactured by recycled aggregate processed from discarded concrete blocks arising from the demolishing of existing buildings. This paper presents research on the seismic performance of RCB masonry walls to assess the applicability of RCB for use in rural low-rise constructions. The seismic performance of a masonry wall is closely related to the vertical load applied to the wall. Thus, the compressive performance of RCB masonry was investigated firstly by constructing and testing eighteen RCB masonry compressive specimens with different mortar strengths. The load-bearing capacity, deformation and failure characteristic were analyzed, as well. Then, a quasi-static test was carried out to study the seismic behavior of RCB walls by eight RCB masonry walls subjected to an axial compressive load and a reversed cyclic lateral load. Based on the test results, equations for predicting the compressive strength of RCB masonry and the lateral ultimate strength of an RCB masonry wall were proposed. Experimental values were found to be in good agreement with the predicted values. Meanwhile, finite element analysis (FEA) and parametric analysis of the RCB walls were carried out using ABAQUS software. The elastic-plastic deformation characteristics and the lateral load-displacement relations were studied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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23 pages, 2234 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Material and Structural Performance Evaluations of Hwangtoh Admixtures and Recycled PET Fiber-Added Eco-Friendly Concrete for CO₂ Emission Reduction

by Bon-Min Koo¹, Jang-Ho Jay Kim^2,*, Sung-Bae Kim^3,4 and Sungho Mun⁵

¹ Concrete Structural Engineering Laboratory, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, A404 Engineering Building #A, 134 Shinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-794, Korea

² Concrete Structural Engineering Laboratory, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, A274 Engineering Building #A, 134 Shinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-794, Korea

³ Concrete Structural Engineering Laboratory, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, A404 Engineering Building #A, 134 Shinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-794, Korea

⁴ Baytech Korea, Inc., Institute Technology, Joong-il Eines Platz 9F, 513-22, Sangdaewon-dong, Jungwon-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyunggi-do 462-120, Korea

⁵ Department of Civil Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Engineering Building, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 139-743, Korea

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5959-5981; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085959 - 19 Aug 2014

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 10405

Abstract

In order to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and produce an eco-friendly construction material, a type of concrete that uses a minimal amount of cement, yet still retains equivalent properties to ordinary cement concrete, has been developed and studied all over [...] Read more.

In order to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and produce an eco-friendly construction material, a type of concrete that uses a minimal amount of cement, yet still retains equivalent properties to ordinary cement concrete, has been developed and studied all over the world. Hwangtoh, a type of red clay broadly deposited around the world, has traditionally been considered an eco-friendly construction material, with bonus advantages of having health and cost benefits. Presently, Hwangtoh is not commonly used as a modern construction material due to properties such as low strength and high rates of shrinkage cracking. Recent studies, however, have shown that Hwangtoh can be used as a mineral admixture to improve the strength of concrete. In addition, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers recycled from PET bottle waste can be used to control shrinkage cracks in Hwangtoh concrete. Therefore, in this study, performance verification is conducted on newly developed Hwangtoh concrete mixed with short recycled PET fibers. The results show that Hwangtoh concrete has compressive strength, elastic modulus, and pH properties that are similar to these features in ordinary cement concrete. The properties of carbonation depth and creep strain of Hwangtoh concrete, however, are larger and smaller, respectively, than in ordinary cement concrete. According to flexural tests, reinforced concrete (RC) specimens cast with Hwangtoh admixtures (with and without PET fibers) possess similar or better capacities than ordinary RC specimens. The addition of PET fibers significantly improves the structural ductility of RC specimens under normal environmental conditions. However, the implementations of the concrete in aggressive environment must be carefully considered, since a previous study result indicates degradation of its durability performance in aggressive environments, such as seawater [1]. The results of this study validate the possibility of using eco-friendly Hwangtoh concrete reinforced with recycled PET fibers as a structural material for modern construction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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10 pages, 4214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recycling of Coal Fly Ash for the Fabrication of Porous Mullite/Alumina Composites

by Kyu H. Kim, Seog Y. Yoon and Hong C. Park^*

School of Materials Science and Engineering, Pusan National University, Pusan 609-735, Korea

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5982-5991; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085982 - 19 Aug 2014

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7211

Abstract

Coal fly ash with the addition of Al₂O₃ was recycled to produce mullite/alumina composites and the camphene-based freeze casting technique was processed to develop a controlled porous structure with improved mechanical strength. Many rod-shaped mullite crystals, formed by the mullitization [...] Read more.

Coal fly ash with the addition of Al₂O₃ was recycled to produce mullite/alumina composites and the camphene-based freeze casting technique was processed to develop a controlled porous structure with improved mechanical strength. Many rod-shaped mullite crystals, formed by the mullitization of coal fly ash in the presence of enough silicate, melt. After sintering at 1300–1500 °C with the initial solid loadings of 30–50 wt.%, interconnected macro-sized pore channels with nearly circular-shaped cross-sections developed along the macroscopic solidification direction of camphene solvent used in freeze casting and a few micron-sized pores formed in the walls of the pore channels. The macro-pore size of the mullite/alumina composites was in the range 20–25 μm, 18–20 μm and 15–17 μm with reverse dependence on the sintering temperature at 30, 40 and 50 wt.% solid loading, respectively. By increasing initial solid loading and the sintering temperature, the sintered porosity was reduced from 79.8% to 31.2%, resulting in an increase in the compressive strength from 8.2 to 80.4 MPa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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18 pages, 2112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Pressure Pneumatic Forming of Ti-3Al-2.5V Titanium Tubes in a Square Cross-Sectional Die

by Gang Liu^1,2,*, Jianlong Wang¹, Kexin Dang¹ and Zejun Tang³

¹ College of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China

² National Key Laboratory for Precision Hot Processing of Metals, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China

³ Mechanical and Electrical College, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, China

Materials 2014, 7(8), 5992-6009; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7085992 - 20 Aug 2014

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7510

Abstract

A new high strain rate forming process for titanium alloys is presented and named High Pressure Pneumatic Forming (HPPF), which might be applicable to form certain tubular components with irregular cross sections with high efficiency, both with respect to energy cost and time [...] Read more.

A new high strain rate forming process for titanium alloys is presented and named High Pressure Pneumatic Forming (HPPF), which might be applicable to form certain tubular components with irregular cross sections with high efficiency, both with respect to energy cost and time consumption. HPPF experiments were performed on Ti-3Al-2.5V titanium alloy tubes using a square cross-sectional die with a small corner radius. The effects of forming of pressure and temperature on the corner filling were investigated and the thickness distributions after the HPPF processes at various pressure levels are discussed. At the same time, the stress state, strain and strain rate distribution during the HPPF process were numerically analyzed by the finite element method. Microstructure evolution of the formed tubes was also analyzed by using electron back scattering diffraction (EBSD). Because of different stress states, the strain and strain rate are very different at different areas of the tube during the corner filling process, and consequently the microstructure of the formed component is affected to some degree. The results verified that HPPF is a potential technology to form titanium tubular components with complicated geometrical features with high efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Light Alloys and Their Applications)

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18 pages, 2203 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Assessment of Completely Recyclable Concrete

by Mieke De Schepper¹, Philip Van den Heede¹

, Isabel Van Driessche² and Nele De Belie^1,*

¹ Magnel Laboratory for Concrete Research, Department of Structural Engineering, Ghent University Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 904, B-9052 Gent, Belgium

² SCRiPTS, Department of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281–S3, B-9000 Gent, Belgium

Materials 2014, 7(8), 6010-6027; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7086010 - 21 Aug 2014

Cited by 160 | Viewed by 13583

Abstract

Since the construction sector uses 50% of the Earth’s raw materials and produces 50% of its waste, the development of more durable and sustainable building materials is crucial. Today, Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) is mainly used in low level applications, namely as [...] Read more.

Since the construction sector uses 50% of the Earth’s raw materials and produces 50% of its waste, the development of more durable and sustainable building materials is crucial. Today, Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) is mainly used in low level applications, namely as unbound material for foundations, e.g., in road construction. Mineral demolition waste can be recycled as crushed aggregates for concrete, but these reduce the compressive strength and affect the workability due to higher values of water absorption. To advance the use of concrete rubble, Completely Recyclable Concrete (CRC) is designed for reincarnation within the cement production, following the Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C) principle. By the design, CRC becomes a resource for cement production because the chemical composition of CRC will be similar to that of cement raw materials. If CRC is used on a regular basis, a closed concrete-cement-concrete material cycle will arise, which is completely different from the current life cycle of traditional concrete. Within the research towards this CRC it is important to quantify the benefit for the environment and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) needs to be performed, of which the results are presented in a this paper. It was observed that CRC could significantly reduce the global warming potential of concrete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recycled Materials)

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17 pages, 1088 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Magnetic Graphene Oxide Composite Absorbent for Removing Trace Residues of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Water

by Ning Gan^*, Jiabing Zhang, Shaichai Lin, Nengbing Long, Tianhua Li and Yuting Cao^*

The State Key Laboratory Base of Novel Functional Materials and Preparation Science, Faculty of Material Science and Chemical Engineering of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Zhejiang, China

Materials 2014, 7(8), 6028-6044; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7086028 - 21 Aug 2014

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7748

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to develop a facile method for the fabrication of a stable and reusable magnetic graphene composite absorbent to remove trace levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in water treatment. The poly cationic Fe₃O₄@PDDA (poly(diallyldimethyl [...] Read more.

The purpose of the study was to develop a facile method for the fabrication of a stable and reusable magnetic graphene composite absorbent to remove trace levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in water treatment. The poly cationic Fe₃O₄@PDDA (poly(diallyldimethyl ammonium chloride) (PDDA)) core-shell structured nanoparticles were first synthesized, and then, DNA was laid on the surface of graphene oxide (GOx) to prepare the polyanionic GOx@DNA composite. The above materials were then mixed together and adhered together through sol-gel technology. Thus, the Fe₃O₄@PDDA/GOx@DNA composite absorbent was prepared. Its performance was tested by disperse solid phase extraction and gas chromatography/mass spectrometric (GC/MS) for removing six kinds of indicative polybrominated diphenyl ethers (BDEs) in water samples. The removal percentages of several real samples for six kinds of BDEs (BDE17, BDE28, BDE 71, BDE 47, BDE 66, BDE 100) at the ng/mL order of magnitude were in the range of 88.2%–99.1%. The removal percentage still reached 80.0% when the adsorbent was reused at least 20 times. The results suggested that the magnetic absorbent can obviously remove trace levels of BDEs from large volumes of aqueous solutions in environmental pollution cleanup with high removal efficiency. Full article

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19 pages, 999 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modified Powder-in-Tube Technique Based on the Consolidation Processing of Powder Materials for Fabricating Specialty Optical Fibers

by Jean-Louis Auguste^1,*, Georges Humbert¹, Stéphanie Leparmentier¹, Maryna Kudinova¹, Pierre-Olivier Martin¹, Gaëlle Delaizir², Kay Schuster³ and Doris Litzkendorf³

¹ Xlim Research Institute, UMR 7252 CNRS/University of Limoges, 123 avenue Albert THOMAS, 87060 LIMOGES, France

² SPCTS, UMR 7315 CNRS/University of Limoges, European Ceramic Center, 12 rue Atlantis, 87068 LIMOGES, France

³ Leibnitz Institute of Photonic Technology IPHT, Albert-Einstein-Str. 9, 07745 Jena, Germany

Materials 2014, 7(8), 6045-6063; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7086045 - 22 Aug 2014

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 8138

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the interest of a consolidation process associated with the powder-in-tube technique in order to fabricate a long length of specialty optical fibers. This so-called Modified Powder-in-Tube (MPIT) process is very flexible and paves the way [...] Read more.

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the interest of a consolidation process associated with the powder-in-tube technique in order to fabricate a long length of specialty optical fibers. This so-called Modified Powder-in-Tube (MPIT) process is very flexible and paves the way to multimaterial optical fiber fabrications with different core and cladding glassy materials. Another feature of this technique lies in the sintering of the preform under reducing or oxidizing atmosphere. The fabrication of such optical fibers implies different constraints that we have to deal with, namely chemical species diffusion or mechanical stress due to the mismatches between thermal expansion coefficients and working temperatures of the fiber materials. This paper focuses on preliminary results obtained with a lanthano-aluminosilicate glass used as the core material for the fabrication of all-glass fibers or specialty Photonic Crystal Fibers (PCFs). To complete the panel of original microstructures now available by the MPIT technique, we also present several optical fibers in which metallic particles or microwires are included into a silica-based matrix. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Materials and Processing Methods for Microstructured Optical Fibres)

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28 pages, 1635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Epoxy Resin Composite Based on Functional Hybrid Fillers

by Mariusz Oleksy^1,*, Karolina Szwarc-Rzepka², Maciej Heneczkowski¹, Rafał Oliwa¹ and Teofil Jesionowski²

¹ Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology, Al. Powstancow Warszawy 6, PL-35959 Rzeszow, Poland

² Institute of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology, Poznan University of Technology, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 2, PL-60965 Poznan, Poland

Materials 2014, 7(8), 6064-6091; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma7086064 - 22 Aug 2014

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 8931

Abstract

A study was carried out involving the filling of epoxy resin (EP) with bentonites and silica modified with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS). The method of homogenization and the type of filler affect the functional and canceling properties of the composites was determined. The [...] Read more.

A study was carried out involving the filling of epoxy resin (EP) with bentonites and silica modified with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS). The method of homogenization and the type of filler affect the functional and canceling properties of the composites was determined. The filler content ranged from 1.5% to 4.5% by mass. The basic mechanical properties of the hybrid composites were found to improve, and, in particular, there was an increase in tensile strength by 44%, and in Charpy impact strength by 93%. The developed hybrid composites had characteristics typical of polymer nanocomposites modified by clays, with a fine plate morphology of brittle fractures observed by SEM, absence of a plate separation peak in Wide Angles X-ray Scattering (WAXS) curves, and an exfoliated structure observed by TEM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

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Materials, Volume 7, Issue 8 (August 2014) – 43 articles , Pages 5427-6104

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