Applied Sciences

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20 pages, 4620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Efficacy of Seawater Batteries Using NASICON Solid Electrolyte

by Mihaela Iordache, Anișoara Oubraham, Mihaela Bazga, Gheorghe Eugen Ungureanu, Simona Elena Borta and Adriana Marinoiu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 3469; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15073469 - 21 Mar 2025

Viewed by 280

Abstract

The need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and guarantee a stable and reliable energy supply has resulted in an increase in the demand for sustainable energy storage solutions over the last decade. Rechargeable batteries with solid-state electrolytes (SSE) have become a focus area [...] Read more.

The need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and guarantee a stable and reliable energy supply has resulted in an increase in the demand for sustainable energy storage solutions over the last decade. Rechargeable batteries with solid-state electrolytes (SSE) have become a focus area due to their potential for increased energy density, longer cycle life, and safety over conventional liquid electrolytic batteries. The superionic sodium conductor (NASICON) Na₃Zr₂Si2PO₁₂ has gained a lot of attention among ESS because of its exceptional electrochemical properties, which make it a promising candidate for solid-state sodium-ion batteries. NASICON’s open frame structure makes it possible to transport sodium ions efficiently even at room temperature, while its wide electrochemical window enables high-voltage operation and reduces side reactions, resulting in safer battery performance. Furthermore, NASICON is more compatible with sodium ion systems, can help with electrode interface issues, and is simple to process. The characteristics of NASICON make it a highly desirable and vital material for solid-state sodium-ion batteries. The aim of this study is to prepare and characterize ceramic membranes that contain Na_3.06Zr₂Si₂PO₁₂ and Na_3.18Zr₂Si₂PO₁₂, and measure their stability in seawater batteries that serve as solid electrolytes. The surface analysis revealed that the Na_3.06Zr₂Si₂PO₁₂ powder has a specific surface area of 7.17 m² g⁻¹, which is more than the Na_3.18Zr₂Si₂PO₁₂ powder’s 6.61 m² g⁻¹. During measurement, the NASICON samples showed ionic conductivities of 8.5 × 10⁻⁵ and 6.19 × 10⁻⁴ S cm⁻¹. Using platinum/carbon (Pt/C) as a catalyst and seawater as a source of cathodes with sodium ions (Na⁺), batteries were charged and discharged using different current values (50 and 100 µA) for testing. In an electrochemical cell, a battery with a NASICON membrane and Pt/C catalysts with 0.00033 g platinum content was used to assess reproducibility at a constant current of 2 h. After 100 h of operation, charging and discharging voltage efficiency was 71% (50/100 µA) and 83.5% (100 µA). The electric power level is observed to increase with the number of operating cycles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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15 pages, 6206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface-Modified Ceramic Boron Carbide as a Platform for Specific Targeting in Tumour Environments

by Dawid Kozień, Karolina Krygowska, Paulina Żeliszewska, Agnieszka Szczygieł, Anna Rudawska, Bożena Szermer-Olearnik, Piotr Rusiniak, Katarzyna Wątor, Katarzyna Węgierek-Ciura, Piotr Jeleń, Jakub Marchewka, Katarzyna Pasiut, Janusz Partyka, Elżbieta Pajtasz-Piasecka and Zbigniew Pędzich

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 2734; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15052734 - 4 Mar 2025

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Abstract

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a therapeutic approach used to treat malignancies that are difficult to localise and typically inoperable. This therapy involves two stages: the administration of the boron (¹⁰B) isotope, which selectively enters cancer cells without affecting healthy [...] Read more.

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a therapeutic approach used to treat malignancies that are difficult to localise and typically inoperable. This therapy involves two stages: the administration of the boron (¹⁰B) isotope, which selectively enters cancer cells without affecting healthy tissue, followed by irradiation of the tumour with a neutron beam. In this study, boron carbide (B₄C), a ceramic material with exceptional physical and chemical properties, was used as a nanoparticle platform for BNCT. The surface of the boron carbide nanoparticles was optimised by modifying them with compounds such as dextrin, dextran T70, sorbitol, lysine, and arginine. Boron carbide was synthesised directly from boron and carbon and then subjected to grinding, washing, and centrifugation. The unmodified and modified samples were analysed for their particle size, zeta potential, and toxicity against glioblastoma T98G cells. Additionally, FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the successful surface modifications. The results demonstrate that boron carbide, as a ceramic material, can be effectively functionalised with biocompatible compounds. Among the tested modifications, B₄C-dextrin and B₄C-dextran T70 exhibited the highest toxicity towards cancer cells, demonstrating the potential of ceramic platforms in biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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24 pages, 3547 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evidence of the Formation of Crystalline Aluminosilicate Phases in Glass-Ceramics by Calcination of Alkali-Brick Aggregates, Enabling Cs⁺, Rb⁺, Co²⁺, and Sr²⁺ Encapsulation

by Abdel Boughriet, Gildas Doyemet, Nicole Poumaye, Véronique Alaimo, Sandra Ventalon, Viviane Bout-Roumazeilles and Michel Wartel

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 1379; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15031379 - 29 Jan 2025

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Abstract

The feasibility of using brick aggregates for the preparation of aluminosilicate “glass-ceramic” forms as a novel cementitious composite capable of immobilizing radioactive elements was examined. Raw brick was initially activated with sodium hydroxide. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) confirmed zeolites (Na-A and Na-P), illite, [...] Read more.

The feasibility of using brick aggregates for the preparation of aluminosilicate “glass-ceramic” forms as a novel cementitious composite capable of immobilizing radioactive elements was examined. Raw brick was initially activated with sodium hydroxide. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) confirmed zeolites (Na-A and Na-P), illite, and sand (quartz) as major phases. Thermal analysis showed several successive events: dehydration/dehydroxylation of illite, followed by degradation of illite and zeolites. Upon heating to 1000 °C, scanning electron microscopy and XRD provided evidence of the presence of novel crystalline aluminosilicate forms (analcime and leucite in the form of solid solutions). Then, upon heating to 1150 °C, the thermal process led to the additional formation of mullite and an amorphous silica-rich phase. The latter resulted from silica melting taking place, owing to the involvement of low-melting-point components on sand grains. Alkali-brick particles were then doped with Cs⁺, Rb⁺, Ca²⁺, and Sr²⁺ ions (individually) and subsequently heated at different temperatures. The corrosion resistance of the heated materials was examined in a hydrochloride acid solution. The aim was to highlight (i) the enhanced cationic-immobilization capacity of crystalline aluminosilicate phases embedded inside amorphous silica, and (ii) the role of sand in the creation of brick-based glass ceramics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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16 pages, 5315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Variable Ratios of Na₂O/K₂O Oxides in Glazes Containing BaO, ZnO, and ZrO₂: Structural Analysis, Characteristic Temperatures, and Surface Properties

by Janusz Partyka, Dawid Kozień and Katarzyna Pasiut

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15020648 - 10 Jan 2025

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Abstract

In this paper, the glazes of a multicomponent system (SiO₂-Al₂O₃-CaO-MgO-Na₂O-K₂O-BaO-ZnO-ZrO₂) were examined. This work focuses on five glazes and the difference between them as the molar ratio of the alkali oxides [...] Read more.

In this paper, the glazes of a multicomponent system (SiO₂-Al₂O₃-CaO-MgO-Na₂O-K₂O-BaO-ZnO-ZrO₂) were examined. This work focuses on five glazes and the difference between them as the molar ratio of the alkali oxides Na₂O/K₂O. Analysis of fired glazes focused on changes in phase composition (qualitative and quantitative) microstructure performed during observations made by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The changing molar ratios were also studied in the structure analysis based on the result of data obtained by middle infrared (MIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The characteristic temperatures of the analyzed glazes were also designated using high-stage microscopy. Surface properties such as the color and roughness of the fired glazes were measured by means of a spectrometer and confocal microscopy as well. The amount and type of crystalline phases with the molar ratio of alkali oxides in the analyzed glazes were changed. In the glazes, the crystalline phase of a solid solution of plagioclase was obtained. The results obtained indicate that glazes with a predominant potassium oxide are characterized by lower characteristic temperatures and greater surface smoothness. Structure analysis indicates a different role for the five-molar ratio of Na₂O/K₂O. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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14 pages, 3526 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kaolin–Fly Ash Composite for Pb²⁺ and AsO₄³⁻ Adsorption from Aqueous System

by Barbora Doušová, Eva Bedrnová, Kateřina Maxová, David Koloušek, Miloslav Lhotka, Lukáš Pilař and Milan Angelis

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5358; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125358 - 20 Jun 2024

Viewed by 904

Abstract

The expected benefit of composite adsorbents generally consists in their growing applicability, thanks to the combination of the adsorption properties of individual components. Composite adsorbents were prepared as mixtures of kaolin from a Czech deposit (kaolin Sedlec, SK) and two fly ashes (FAs) [...] Read more.

The expected benefit of composite adsorbents generally consists in their growing applicability, thanks to the combination of the adsorption properties of individual components. Composite adsorbents were prepared as mixtures of kaolin from a Czech deposit (kaolin Sedlec, SK) and two fly ashes (FAs) from a fluidised bed boiler in Czech operations differing in fuel type. The mixtures of SK with FA in a ratio of 50:50% wt. were prepared at 20 °C, 65 °C, and 110 °C in an autoclave. The source materials and composite adsorbents were tested for the adsorption of lead as Pb²⁺, and arsenic as AsO₄³⁻ from model solutions in laboratory conditions. The adsorption of Pb²⁺ proceeded quantitatively on the source materials except SK, and on both the composites, with an adsorption yield of >97% and a low adsorbent consumption (~2 g.L⁻¹). The AsO₄³⁻ adsorption proceeded selectively only on both FAs, with an adsorption yield of >97% again. The adsorption of AsO₄³⁻ on the composite adsorbents achieved a worse yield (˂80%), with about ten times more adsorbent consumption (~20 g.L⁻¹). An increased preparation temperature did not affect the Pb²⁺ adsorption at all, but it reduced the efficiency of AsO₄³⁻ adsorption by up to 30%. The SK–FA composites proved to have promising properties, mostly as cation-active adsorbents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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20 pages, 4170 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Autochthonous or Allochthonous, the Prehistoric Pottery of Cueva de Los Postes

by Virginia Lattao, Sara Garcês, Hugo Gomes, Pierluigi Rosina and Hipólito Collado

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4706; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114706 - 30 May 2024

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Abstract

Cueva de Los Postes is located in the southern part of the Spanish Extremadura region, in the Fuentes de León municipality. This study analyzed pottery found during archaeological excavations in Cueva de Los Postes. The aim was to determine whether the raw materials [...] Read more.

Cueva de Los Postes is located in the southern part of the Spanish Extremadura region, in the Fuentes de León municipality. This study analyzed pottery found during archaeological excavations in Cueva de Los Postes. The aim was to determine whether the raw materials had common or separate origins and determine whether or not the origin of the pottery raw material was regional. In this regard, several pottery fragments were found in different phases (Neolithic and Copper Age) of the Holocene occupation of Cueva de Los Postes. These were analyzed using ATR-FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy). The analyzed samples demonstrated no strong differences in their composition. In order to identify a possible origin for the kaolinite of the analyzed pottery, six samples of clay sediments were taken from inside and around the cave and subjected to ATR-FTIR. This was done to compare their compositions and check for a possible correlation with the pottery. The analyzed pottery, from different stratigraphic units, shows homogeneity in raw material. This finding, and the analyses made of the regional sediments, confirm that the raw material was regional and that there was a continuous use of it. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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15 pages, 3311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Sodium Phosphate and Cellulose Ethers on MgO/SiO₂ Cements for the 3D Printing of Forsterite Bioceramics

by Lorenzo Cheli, Massimo Bonini and Monica Tonelli

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 4410; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14114410 - 23 May 2024

Viewed by 1337

Abstract

Magnesium silicate ceramics are promising materials for bone tissue regeneration and can be prepared through 3D printing of magnesium oxide/silica (MgO/SiO₂) cement pastes followed by calcination. Despite the growing interest in these formulations, additive manufacturing technology has only recently been explored [...] Read more.

Magnesium silicate ceramics are promising materials for bone tissue regeneration and can be prepared through 3D printing of magnesium oxide/silica (MgO/SiO₂) cement pastes followed by calcination. Despite the growing interest in these formulations, additive manufacturing technology has only recently been explored for these cements, and the effects of admixtures and additives on such printing inks remain largely unexplored. In this study, we prepared various MgO/SiO₂ cement formulations with differing amounts of sodium orthophosphate, a setting retarder, and cellulose ethers, used as rheo-modifiers. The samples’ setting properties were investigated, and printing parameters were properly adjusted. The most promising formulations were then 3D printed and calcined to obtain forsterite bioceramics, which were further characterized using confocal Raman microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, gas porosimetry, and compressive strength tests. Our results revealed that the cellulose derivatives influence the printability of the MgO/SiO₂ formulations without affecting the hardening time, which can be adjusted by the addition of sodium phosphate. The use of fine-tuned formulations allowed for the preparation of 3D-printed forsterite bioceramics, potentially suitable for biological applications as cancellous bone scaffolds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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13 pages, 8883 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dielectric Properties and Magnetoelectric Effect of Bi₇Fe₃Ti₃O₂₁ Ceramic Material Doped with Gadolinium Ions

by Diana Szalbot, Joanna A. Bartkowska, Jolanta Makowska, Maciej Chrunik, Katarzyna Osińska and Małgorzata Adamczyk-Habrajska

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 3920; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14093920 - 4 May 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1277

Abstract

Pure Bi₇Fe₃Ti₃O₂₁ ceramic material and gadolinium ion (Gd³⁺)-doped ones were prepared by solid-state reaction method using simple oxides. The findings of the XRD measurements confirmed the initial author’s assumption that the dopant ions substituted [...] Read more.

Pure Bi₇Fe₃Ti₃O₂₁ ceramic material and gadolinium ion (Gd³⁺)-doped ones were prepared by solid-state reaction method using simple oxides. The findings of the XRD measurements confirmed the initial author’s assumption that the dopant ions substituted in perovskite blocks influenced the dimensions of the unit cell parameters. All obtained materials are single-phase and show an orthorhombic structure with the Fm2m space group. Microstructure studies show that the admixture gadolinium doping changes the microstructure of the base material, changing grain shapes from plate-like to rounded. The temperature dependences of the electric permittivity have shown the existence of a maximum, the temperature location of which depends on both the frequency and the concentration of Gd³⁺ ions. The highest values of electric permittivity were characteristic of the material with an admixture of Gd³⁺ ions in the amount of x = 0.6 (f = 1 kHz), and the lowest values were for material with x = 0.2 (f = 1 kHz). Studies of the magnetoelectric effect have shown that the strongest coupling between magnetic and electrical properties was demonstrated by a material doped with Gd³⁺ ions in the amount of x = 0.2, for which the magnetoelectric coupling coefficient is equal to α = 12.58·10⁻⁹ s/m. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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32 pages, 4173 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insight into Adsorption Kinetics of Cs⁺, Rb⁺, Co²⁺, and Sr²⁺ on a Zeolites-Based Composite: Comprehensive Diffusional Explanation and Modelling

by Abdel Boughriet, Gildas Doyemet, Nicole Poumaye, Oscar Allahdin and Michel Wartel

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3511; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083511 - 22 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1322

Abstract

Kaolinite-rich soils were used to prepare zeolite-based composites via alkaline activation. The porous material was characterized by conducting XRD and microporosity measurements, as well as ESEM microscopy. The Weber and Morris (W-M) model was used for studying adsorption kinetics of radioactive cations on [...] Read more.

Kaolinite-rich soils were used to prepare zeolite-based composites via alkaline activation. The porous material was characterized by conducting XRD and microporosity measurements, as well as ESEM microscopy. The Weber and Morris (W-M) model was used for studying adsorption kinetics of radioactive cations on synthesized alkali-activated material. These investigations evidenced the effects of pore structure and the importance of the intrinsic characteristics of hydrated cations (ionic potential; hydrated radius; B-viscosity parameter; molar Gibbs energy of hydration of cation) on W-M kinetic rate constants. The application of diffusion-based models permitted us to assess the key diffusion parameters controlling successive diffusion regimes, and to reveal strong contributions of surface diffusion to adsorption kinetics during the course of the second and third kinetics stages of the W-M model. The magnitude of the surface diffusion coefficient was related to the capacity of hydrated cationic species to lose water molecules when penetrating brick pores. The HSDM model were tested for predicting radionuclide adsorption in a fixed-bed column. A breakthrough curve simulation indicated the predominance of the surface diffusion regime, which was in agreement with mathematical analysis of (batch) adsorption kinetics data. Ionic diffusion was linked to the characteristics of capillary porosity and connectivity of capillary pores in the composite, suggesting the generation of hydrated nuclides and their immobilization in the form of outer-sphere complexes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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11 pages, 3193 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revealing the Impact of Ga and Y Doping on Thermal and Electrical Behavior of LaMnO₃ Ceramic Materials

by Paulina Vlazan, Catalin Nicolae Marin, Iosif Malaescu, Gabriela Vlase, Titus Vlase, Maria Poienar and Paula Sfirloaga

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 1546; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14041546 - 15 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1279

Abstract

The synthesis, thermal behavior and electrical properties of a series of undoped and 1% Ga- or Y-doped lanthanum manganite compounds, obtained via the sol–gel technique, are reported. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analyses were performed [...] Read more.

The synthesis, thermal behavior and electrical properties of a series of undoped and 1% Ga- or Y-doped lanthanum manganite compounds, obtained via the sol–gel technique, are reported. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analyses were performed on all synthesized samples. The XRD results confirmed a good crystallinity for all studied samples, and a change in the crystal structure of Ga- or Y-doped lanthanum manganite (Pm-3m space group) was observed compared to the pristine sample (R-3c space group). Thermal analysis highlighted a different behavior of the doped samples compared to the undoped sample, observed by the different mass losses in the analyzed temperature range. For these materials, it is shown for the first time that the static electrical conductivity, σ_DC, of Ga- or Y-doped LaMnO₃ compounds increases compared to the σ_DC of the pristine sample, and the thermal activation energy of the process of electrical conduction, E_A,cond, increases linearly with the temperature for all three studied samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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18 pages, 6690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of an Active Soldering Zn-Mg Alloy and the Study of Ultrasonic Soldering of SiC Ceramics with Copper Substrate

by Roman Kolenak, Alexej Pluhar, Jaromir Drapala, Peter Gogola, Matej Pasak and Mikulas Sloboda

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14041504 - 13 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1270

Abstract

The aim of this study was to characterize a Zn-Mg type soldering alloy and direct soldering of SiC ceramics with a copper substrate. The Zn1.5Mg solder exerts a wider melting interval. The temperature of the eutectic reaction was 365 °C, and the liquidus [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to characterize a Zn-Mg type soldering alloy and direct soldering of SiC ceramics with a copper substrate. The Zn1.5Mg solder exerts a wider melting interval. The temperature of the eutectic reaction was 365 °C, and the liquidus temperature was 405 °C. The microstructure of the soldering alloy is comprised of a zinc matrix. Segregation of binary eutectics in the form of (Zn) + Mg₂Zn₁₁ lamellas occurred on the boundaries of Zn grains. Additionally, the presence of a MgZn₂ magnesium phase was observed in the solder matrix. The SiC/solder bond was formed due to magnesium distribution from solder to the boundary with SiC ceramics, where magnesium reacts with silicon, which is infiltered in SiC ceramics. By a mutual interaction, a new Mg₂Si phase is formed. An interaction between the molten zinc solder and Cu substrate occurred on the boundary of the Cu/substrate joint at the formation of a transition zone composed of two new phases, namely the γCu (Cu₅Zn₈) non-wettable phase type, approximately 30 µm wide, and a wettable (CuZn₄) phase type ε, approximately 12 µm wide. The average shear strength of a combined SiC/Cu joint fabricated using Zn1.5Mg solder was 44 MPa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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14 pages, 4720 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New PVP–Ag or Pd-Doped Perovskite Oxide Hybrid Structures for Water Splitting Electrocatalysis

by Adina Căta, Bogdan-Ovidiu Țăranu, Ioana Maria Carmen Ienașcu and Paula Sfirloaga

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(3), 1186; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14031186 - 31 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1585

Abstract

Global warming and the global energy crisis are two major challenges humanity is currently confronting that are pressuring the scientific community to find efficient, low-cost, and environmentally sustainable solutions. Within this context, hydrogen has emerged as a clean and efficient energy carrier promising [...] Read more.

Global warming and the global energy crisis are two major challenges humanity is currently confronting that are pressuring the scientific community to find efficient, low-cost, and environmentally sustainable solutions. Within this context, hydrogen has emerged as a clean and efficient energy carrier promising to replace environmentally hazardous fossil fuels. The present study, of relevance to the water splitting domain, concerns the synthesis of two novel hybrid structures, namely polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) functionalized with Ag-doped LaMnO₃ and Pd-doped LaMnO₃, respectively. The water electrolysis catalytic activity of these new materials was evaluated in a strongly alkaline medium. Perovskite-based modified electrodes were manufactured through four different procedures. The samples displayed electrocatalytic activity for the O₂ evolution reaction and the most active electrode was the one obtained by drop-casting a mixture of LaMnO₃:Ag/PVP and Carbon Black on graphite support. The study is aimed at and succeeds in increasing the scientific database concerning the role of perovskite oxides in the water-splitting field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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22 pages, 5455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibacterial and In Vitro Bioactivity Studies of Silver-Doped, Cerium-Doped, and Silver–Cerium Co-Doped 80S Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Particles via Spray Pyrolysis

by Mannie Belay Taye, Henni Setia Ningsih and Shao-Ju Shih

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(23), 12637; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132312637 - 24 Nov 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2394

Abstract

Researchers are concentrating on discovering reducing treatments for bacterial infections due to the worrisome and quick rise of drug-resistant microbial-related illnesses. Metallic ion doping and co-doping mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) can defend against drug-resistant pathogens of Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection [...] Read more.

Researchers are concentrating on discovering reducing treatments for bacterial infections due to the worrisome and quick rise of drug-resistant microbial-related illnesses. Metallic ion doping and co-doping mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) can defend against drug-resistant pathogens of Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection of wounds and solve the issues of bone deformities. In this study, un-doped MBG, silver-doped MBG (Ag-doped MBG), cerium-doped MBG (Ce-doped MBG), and silver–cerium co-doped MBG (Ag-Ce co-doped MBG) have been successfully synthesized via the spray pyrolysis method. In addition, various characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and nitrogen adsorption–desorption, were used to investigate the phase compositions, surface morphologies, chemical compositions, inner structure morphologies, chemical bonds/functional groups, and specific surface areas, respectively. The antibacterial efficacy against E. coli was assessed using the colony count technique. All types of MBG with Ag, Ce, and Ag-Ce were effective against E. coli. Furthermore, when immersed in simulated body fluid, the MBGs formed hydroxyapatite and could be used to improve bone defects. Only 5.75 mol% Ag-doped MBG showed toxicity in the MTT assay test. According to our analysis, the 80S-Ag-Ce-MBG was the first Ag-Ce co-doped MBG. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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12 pages, 7778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrophysical Properties of PZT-Type Ceramics Obtained by Two Sintering Methods

by Przemysław Niemiec, Dariusz Bochenek and Grzegorz Dercz

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(20), 11195; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132011195 - 12 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2151

Abstract

This study demonstrates the impact of two sintering techniques on the fundamental properties of doped PZT-type ceramic materials (with Mn⁴⁺, Sb³⁺, Gd³⁺, and W⁶⁺), with the general chemical formula Pb(Zr_0.49Ti_0.51)_0.94 [...] Read more.

This study demonstrates the impact of two sintering techniques on the fundamental properties of doped PZT-type ceramic materials (with Mn⁴⁺, Sb³⁺, Gd³⁺, and W⁶⁺), with the general chemical formula Pb(Zr_0.49Ti_0.51)_0.94Mn_0.021Sb_0.016Gd_0.012W_0.012O₃. The synthesis of ceramic powders was carried out through the calcination method. Two different methods were used in the final sintering process: (i) pressureless sintering (PS) and (ii) hot pressing (HP). The PZT-type ceramics were subjected to electrophysical measurements, encompassing various analyses such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), microstructure (scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), ferroelectric and dielectric properties, and DC electrical conductivity. The analysis of the crystal structure at room temperature showed that the material belongs to the perovskite structure from the tetragonal phase (P4mm space group) without foreign phases. Both sintering methods ensure obtaining the material with appropriate dielectric and ferroelectric parameters, and the tests carried out verified that the ceramic materials have a diverse range of parameters appropriate for use in micromechatronic and microelectronic applications. The obtained ceramic material has high permittivity values, low dielectric loss tangent values, and high resistance. At room temperature, the ceramic samples’ P-E hysteresis loops do not saturate at a field of 3.5 kV/mm (P_m maximum polarization is in the range from 12.24 to 13.47 μC/cm²). However, at higher temperatures, the P-E hysteresis loops become highly saturated, and, at 110 °C, the P_m maximum polarization values are in the range from 28.02 to 30.83 μC/cm². Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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11 pages, 1355 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of the Lock-In Technique in Magnetoelectric Coupling Measurements of the PZT/Terfenol-D Composite

by Jakub Grotel, Tomasz Pikula and Rafał Mech

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(17), 9543; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13179543 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1833

Abstract

This paper presents a study of magnetoelectric (ME) properties of the PZT/Terfenol-D composite with a varying number of layers. The composite consists of piezoelectric and magnetostrictive phases that are mechanically coupled. The purpose of this setup is to gain control over the electric [...] Read more.

This paper presents a study of magnetoelectric (ME) properties of the PZT/Terfenol-D composite with a varying number of layers. The composite consists of piezoelectric and magnetostrictive phases that are mechanically coupled. The purpose of this setup is to gain control over the electric polarization of a material via an external magnetic field. Unlike most similar composites, our samples utilize a commercial piezoelectric patch instead of pure PZT. At present, researchers face two main problems regarding magnetoelectric materials: (i) the effect is observed far below room temperature for single-phase materials, and (ii) the ME coupling is too weak to be commercially viable. Our research was carried out via the lock-in technique on two PZT/Terfenol-D samples we synthesized. Relatively strong room-temperature magnetoelectric coupling between piezoelectric and magnetostrictive phases was observed for both samples. Two types of characteristics were investigated: (i) ME voltage versus magnetic AC field frequency, and (ii) ME voltage versus magnetic DC field. We detected multiple, grouped signal peaks ascribed to different resonance modes. Uniquely, the peaks form band-like characteristics which might be an important step in bringing the materials closer to wider commercial use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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15 pages, 8026 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dielectric Spectroscopy Studies and Modelling of Piezoelectric Properties of Multiferroic Ceramics

by Agata Lisińska-Czekaj, Dionizy Czekaj, Barbara Garbarz-Glos, Wojciech Bąk, Temesgen Tadeyos Zate and Jae-Ho Jeon

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(12), 7193; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13127193 - 16 Jun 2023

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Abstract

Compounds and solid solutions of bismuth ferrite (BiFeO₃)—barium titanate (BaTiO₃) system are of great scientific and engineering interest as multiferroic and potential high-temperature lead-free piezoelectric materials. In the present paper, the results of research on the synthesis and characterisation [...] Read more.

Compounds and solid solutions of bismuth ferrite (BiFeO₃)—barium titanate (BaTiO₃) system are of great scientific and engineering interest as multiferroic and potential high-temperature lead-free piezoelectric materials. In the present paper, the results of research on the synthesis and characterisation of 0.67Bi₁.₀₂FeO₃–0.33BaTiO₃ (67BFBT) ceramics in terms of crystal structure and dielectric and piezoelectric properties are reported. It was found that the produced 67BFBT ceramics were characterised by a tetragonal crystal structure described by the P4mm space group, an average crystallite size <D> ≈ 80 nm, and an average strain <ε> = 0.01%. Broad-band dielectric spectroscopy (BBDS) was employed to characterise the dielectric response of polycrystalline ceramics. The frequency range from ν = 10⁻¹ Hz to ν = 10⁵ Hz was used to characterise the influence of the electric field strength on dielectric response of the ceramic sample at room temperature. The dielectric spectra were checked for consistency with the Kramers–Kronig test, and the high quality of the measurements were confirmed. The electric equivalent circuit method was used to fit the dielectric spectra within the frequency range that corresponded to the occurrence of the resonant spectra of the radial mode for thin disk sample, i.e., from ν = 10⁵ Hz to ν = 10⁷ Hz and the temperature range from T = −20 °C to T = 50 °C. The electric equivalent circuit [R_sCPE₁([L₁R₁C₁]C₀)] was used, and good fitting quality was reached. The relevant calculations were performed, and it was found that the piezoelectric charge coefficient exhibited a value of d₃₁ = 35 pC/N and the planar coupling factor was k_p = 31% at room temperature. Analysis of impedance spectra performed in terms of circumferential magnetic field made it possible to establish an influence of magnetic field on piezoelectric parameters of 67BFBT multiferroic ceramics. Additionally, the “magnetic” tunability of the modulus of the complex dielectric permittivity makes 67BFBT a sensing material with vast potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications)

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