Fibers

12 pages, 1671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Crosstalk Suppression in Multi-Core Fiber Through Modulation of the Refractive Index

by Er’el Granot

Fibers 2025, 13(5), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050056 - 3 May 2025

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One promising method to increase the bit-rate capacity of optical fibers is the use of Multi-Core Fibers (MCFs). However, the close proximity of the cores can lead to data interference due to crosstalk between them. A novel approach is proposed to suppress crosstalk [...] Read more.

One promising method to increase the bit-rate capacity of optical fibers is the use of Multi-Core Fibers (MCFs). However, the close proximity of the cores can lead to data interference due to crosstalk between them. A novel approach is proposed to suppress crosstalk in MCFs. It is demonstrated that if the refractive index of the cores is weakly modulated harmonically, with each core having a different phase, crosstalk in two-core and three-core fibers can be entirely eliminated. Furthermore, by using specific configurations—either by selecting the fiber length or by arranging the cores’ spatial layout—crosstalk can be suppressed even in fibers with more than three cores. Full article

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18 pages, 10492 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting Nonlinear Behavior of Cellular Cross-Laminated Timber Under Bending and Rolling Shear

by Suman Pradhan and Mostafa Mohammadabadi

Fibers 2025, 13(5), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050055 - 2 May 2025

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Abstract

This study investigates the structural performance of cellular cross-laminated timber (CCLT) through a nonlinear finite element model using Hill and Hashin damage criteria in Abaqus. This study evaluates these criteria in simulating CCLT’s mechanical behavior under bending and shear loading. Experimental validation included [...] Read more.

This study investigates the structural performance of cellular cross-laminated timber (CCLT) through a nonlinear finite element model using Hill and Hashin damage criteria in Abaqus. This study evaluates these criteria in simulating CCLT’s mechanical behavior under bending and shear loading. Experimental validation included short-span and long-span bending tests, along with rolling shear tests. In bending simulations, the Hill criterion predicted maximum loads with a 7% error for long-span beams when modeling lumber as solid elements and the corrugated panel as shell elements. When the entire CCLT was modeled using shell elements, the error increased to 9%. For the short-span bending, the error remained at 8% regardless of element type. The Hashin model provided more accurate results, with deviations of 0.2% for long-span beams and 1% for short-span beams. Both models successfully predicted failure mechanisms, identifying tension failure in the lumber under long-span bending and shear failure in the corrugated core under short-span bending. In rolling shear tests, the Hill criterion underestimated the maximum shear load by 11%, while the Hashin criterion had a larger underestimation of 26%. Despite these discrepancies, both models effectively captured the nonlinear behavior of CCLT panels. These findings highlight the potential of Hill and Hashin criteria for modeling CCLT’s mechanical response, offering valuable insights into structural design applications. Full article

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14 pages, 1777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spanish broom Production Chain Improvement with a View to Sustainable Development

by Pavel Malyzhenkov, Giuseppe Chidichimo, Chiara La Torre and Alessia Fazio

Fibers 2025, 13(5), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050054 - 1 May 2025

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Abstract

The extraction of Spanish broom fibers presents significant commercial opportunities. However, the traditional production process is associated with a high environmental impact and considerable waste. This work demonstrates how to address the limitations of alkaline maceration by employing a natural maceration process. This [...] Read more.

The extraction of Spanish broom fibers presents significant commercial opportunities. However, the traditional production process is associated with a high environmental impact and considerable waste. This work demonstrates how to address the limitations of alkaline maceration by employing a natural maceration process. This innovative method not only reduces environmental harm but also facilitates the extraction of large quantities of pectin (6%). Notably, pectin has been obtained from the waste product of broom processing, creating a dual source of profit: both cellulose and pectin. This means that not only can the fibers be utilized for various applications, but the by-products can also be transformed into a valuable marketable product. Pectin, a valuable polysaccharide widely used in the food industry as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer, can significantly increase the economic viability of broom cultivation. Moreover, the high yield of pectin from Spanish broom underscores the plant’s potential as a sustainable resource, making it an attractive alternative to more environmentally damaging crops. Pectin obtained has been characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), providing valuable insights into its structural and morphological properties. Full article

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21 pages, 4947 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effective Flexural Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete T-Beams Using Bonded Fiber-Core Steel Wire Ropes

by Anggun Tri Atmajayanti, Yanuar Haryanto, Fu-Pei Hsiao, Hsuan-Teh Hu and Laurencius Nugroho

Fibers 2025, 13(5), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050053 - 30 Apr 2025

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Abstract

This study experimentally and numerically investigated the effectiveness of fiber-core steel wire ropes (FC-SWRs) in enhancing the flexural performance of reinforced concrete (RC) T-beams using a bonding technique. The investigation focused on deflection, flexural load-carrying capacity, and failure modes, along with key behaviors [...] Read more.

This study experimentally and numerically investigated the effectiveness of fiber-core steel wire ropes (FC-SWRs) in enhancing the flexural performance of reinforced concrete (RC) T-beams using a bonding technique. The investigation focused on deflection, flexural load-carrying capacity, and failure modes, along with key behaviors such as ductility, stiffness, energy absorption, and steel strain response. Two beams were tested under four-point bending until failure—one serving as the control specimen and the other strengthened with bonded FC-SWRs to improve its flexural behavior. Additionally, an analytical study was conducted using a computer program based on the Modified Compression Field Theory (MCFT), and the results were compared with experimental findings. The validation of the analytical model enabled further parametric investigations, examining the influence of the FC-SWR diameter, modulus of elasticity, and steel reinforcement ratio on flexural performance. Full article

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18 pages, 5924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Performance of Bio-Based Materials for Sustainable Building Insulation: A Numerical Study

by Labouda Ba, Abdelkrim Trabelsi, Tien Tung Ngo, Prosper Pliya, Ikram El Abbassi and Cheikh Sidi Ethmane Kane

Fibers 2025, 13(5), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050052 - 30 Apr 2025

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Abstract

This study investigates the thermal and energy performance of various bio-based materials, including Typha Australis, straw, banana fiber, Alfa fiber, peanut shells, and VSS (a blend of wood pulp, cotton, flax, and hemp), in comparison to conventional concrete. A combined approach integrating numerical [...] Read more.

This study investigates the thermal and energy performance of various bio-based materials, including Typha Australis, straw, banana fiber, Alfa fiber, peanut shells, and VSS (a blend of wood pulp, cotton, flax, and hemp), in comparison to conventional concrete. A combined approach integrating numerical simulations and experimental analyses was employed to ensure robust and comprehensive insights. COMSOL Multiphysics was utilized for detailed thermal modeling of wall assemblies, while TRNSYS enabled dynamic simulations to evaluate the impact of these materials on overall cooling energy demand. The results demonstrate that bio-based materials offer significantly improved thermal insulation, reducing air conditioning needs by over 30% relative to concrete, with banana fiber exhibiting the highest performance. This study underscores the need for industrial-scale optimization, supportive regulatory frameworks, and real-world implementation to promote broader adoption. Despite their strong potential, challenges remain, particularly regarding cost-effectiveness, durability, and market penetration. Ultimately, this research advocates for a transition toward more sustainable and environmentally conscious construction practices, aligning with efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions and enhance building energy efficiency. Full article

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20 pages, 8165 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Application of Different Types of Pineapple Leaf Fibers (PALF) in Cement-Based Composites

by Julianna M. da Silva, Adilson Brito de Arruda Filho, Lidianne do N. Farias, Everton Hilo de Souza, Fernanda V. D. Souza, Cláudia F. Ferreira and Paulo R. L. Lima

Fibers 2025, 13(5), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050051 - 30 Apr 2025

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Abstract

The use of plant fibers as reinforcement in cement composites has gained significant interest due to their favorable mechanical properties and inherent sustainability, particularly when sourced from agro-industrial waste. In this study, six types of pineapple leaf fibers from commercial and hybrid varieties [...] Read more.

The use of plant fibers as reinforcement in cement composites has gained significant interest due to their favorable mechanical properties and inherent sustainability, particularly when sourced from agro-industrial waste. In this study, six types of pineapple leaf fibers from commercial and hybrid varieties were characterized in terms of morphology, crystallinity index, water absorption, dimensional stability, and mechanical properties to evaluate their potential as reinforcement in cement-based composites. An anatomical analysis of the leaves was conducted to identify fiber distribution and structural function. Cement-based composites reinforced with 1.5% (by volume) of long and aligned pineapple leaf fibers were produced and tested in bending. The results indicate that the tensile strength of pineapple fibers, ranging from 180 to 753 MPa, surpasses that of fibers already successfully used in composite reinforcement. Water absorption values ranged from 150% to 187%, while fiber diameter varied between 45% and 79% as fiber moisture changed from the dry state to the saturated state. The flexural behavior of the composites modified with pineapple leaf fibers exhibited multiple cracking and deflection hardening, with increases in flexural strength ranging from 6.25 MPa to 11 MPa. The cracking pattern under bending indicated a strong fiber–matrix bond, with values between 0.41 MPa and 0.93 MPa. All composites demonstrated high flexural toughness and great potential for the development of construction elements. Full article

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15 pages, 6656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation of ZIF-67@PAN Nanofibers for CO₂ Capture: Effects of Solvent and Time on Particle Morphology

by Guilherme Henrique Franca Melo, Tiffany Yau, Yuxin Liu and Uttandaraman Sundararaj

Fibers 2025, 13(5), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050050 - 22 Apr 2025

Viewed by 246

Abstract

Advanced materials including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a critical piece of the puzzle in the search for solutions to various scientific and technological challenges, such as climate change due to the ever-increasing emissions of greenhouse gas. There is intense interest in MOFs due [...] Read more.

Advanced materials including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a critical piece of the puzzle in the search for solutions to various scientific and technological challenges, such as climate change due to the ever-increasing emissions of greenhouse gas. There is intense interest in MOFs due to their potential use for a variety of environmental applications, including catalysis and gas storage. In this work, we specifically focus on the in situ growth of zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) on poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) fibers and its potential application in CO₂ adsorption. Nanofibers were spun from a solution containing PAN and cobalt (II) nitrate hexahydrate using electrospinning. Then, the fibers were immersed in solution with 2-methylimidazole for different time durations. Via the diffusion of the cobalt ions through the fibers and interaction with the ligands in the solution, ZIF-67 was formed. From analysis via SEM, FTIR, PXRD, and CO₂ adsorption, it is evident that varying different parameters—the type of solvent, immersion time, and ligand concentration—affected the morphology of the formed ZIF-67. It was found that immersion for 4 h in 6.0 mg/mL of ligands in methanol created the ZIF-67@PAN best suited for CO₂ adsorption, showing a CO₂ uptake of 0.4 mmol/g at 1.2 bar and 273 K. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning Nanofibers)

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Fibers, Volume 13, Issue 5 (May 2025) – 7 articles

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