Journal Description
Ceramics
Ceramics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of ceramics science and engineering, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Materials Science, Ceramics) / CiteScore - Q2 (Materials Science (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 20.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.1 (2023)
Latest Articles
A Novel Approach to Strengthening the Microtensile Bond Between Lithium Disilicate Ceramics Manufactured by CAD/CAM and Dentin Using Coatings of Natural and Synthetic Bio-Modifiers
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020034 - 31 Mar 2025
Abstract
Substantial tooth bonding is the defining characteristic of effective minimally invasive all-ceramic restorations. Natural and synthetic cross-linkers that could strengthen the bonding quality are currently drawing enormous interest. Thus, this study aimed to assess the microtensile bond strength and nanoleakage of computer-aided design/computer-aided
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Substantial tooth bonding is the defining characteristic of effective minimally invasive all-ceramic restorations. Natural and synthetic cross-linkers that could strengthen the bonding quality are currently drawing enormous interest. Thus, this study aimed to assess the microtensile bond strength and nanoleakage of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)-fabricated ceramics to pretreated dentin with chlorhexidine or Salvadora persica extract, compared to no pretreatment, after thermomechanical cyclic loading. Consequently, forty-five extracted third-molar teeth (n = 45) were utilized to obtain mid-coronal dentin and assigned into three groups (n = 15) in accordance with dentin pretreatment; (group I: no dentin pretreatment (control), group II: 2% chlorhexidine, and group III: Salvadora persica extract pretreatments). Ceramic onlays were milled from lithium disilicate IPS e.max CAD/CAM blocks and cemented to prepared teeth with etch-and-rinse resin cement (Variolink Esthetic DC system kit). Microtensile bond strength and interfacial nanoleakage were accessed after thermomechanical cyclic loading. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. Additionally, p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The chlorhexidine pretreated group showed the most favorable outcome compared to the control group. Conversely, using Salvadora persica pretreatment did not affect the bond strength and nanoleakage compared to the control group (p > 0.05). Consequently, unlike Salvadora persica extract, chlorhexidine–dentin pretreatment maintained superior bonding strength to ceramics after thermomechanical cyclic loading, facilitating minimally invasive, yet lasting, aesthetic restoration.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics Containing Active Molecules for Biomedical Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Internal Adaptation of Different CAD/CAM Endocrown Materials: A Comparative Microcomputed Tomography Study
by
Wala Saad, Abdul Rahman Saleh and Manal Almaslamani
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020033 - 31 Mar 2025
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Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to assess and compare the internal adaptation of different distinct CAD (Computer-aided design)/CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing) endocrown materials: feldspathic porcelain, indirect composite, hybrid ceramic, reinforced lithium disilicate, and lithium disilicate, utilizing microcomputed tomography. Methods: Standardized endocrown restorations
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Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to assess and compare the internal adaptation of different distinct CAD (Computer-aided design)/CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing) endocrown materials: feldspathic porcelain, indirect composite, hybrid ceramic, reinforced lithium disilicate, and lithium disilicate, utilizing microcomputed tomography. Methods: Standardized endocrown restorations were fabricated for mandibular first molar models. A total of seventy-five restorations were evenly allocated into five groups (n = 15 each): Group I (Cerec Blocks), Group II (Lava Ultimate), Group III (PICN Vita Enamic), Group IV (Celtra Duo), and Group V (Cerec Tessera). The restorations were bonded using PANAVIA V5 adhesive resin cement. To evaluate internal adaptations within the restorations, three distinct locations were selected for the acquisition of high-resolution micro-CT scans: the margin, the axial wall, and the pulpal floor. Data were analyzed using SPSS. To identify statistically significant differences among groups, a two-way ANOVA was conducted, followed by post hoc Tukey tests. Results: The statistical analysis did not reveal significant differences in internal gap measurements across the various material groups (p = 0.055). However, significant variations were observed within individual material groups (p < 0.001) at distinct locations, with the most pronounced discrepancies in thickness evident at the pulpal floor. Conclusion: While no significant differences were observed in internal adaptations among the various endocrown materials, substantial intra-group variability, particularly in terms of pulpal floor thickness, was evident. Since the study maintained a consistent preparation design across all groups, the observed variations in internal adaptation are likely attributed to differences in material behavior rather than changes in preparation geometry.
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Synthesis and Sintering of Novel High-Entropy Barium Cerates Designed Through the Cluster-Plus-Glue Atom Model
by
Luca Spiridigliozzi, Antonello Marocco, Viviana Monfreda and Gianfranco Dell’Agli
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020032 - 28 Mar 2025
Abstract
This work presents the design and synthesis of novel high-entropy perovskite oxides (HEPOs) derived from BaCeO3, formulated using the cluster-plus-glue atom model. Particularly, through a carbonate-based co-precipitation technique, we synthesized three novel high-entropy perovskite oxides (HEPOs) derived from barium cerate by
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This work presents the design and synthesis of novel high-entropy perovskite oxides (HEPOs) derived from BaCeO3, formulated using the cluster-plus-glue atom model. Particularly, through a carbonate-based co-precipitation technique, we synthesized three novel high-entropy perovskite oxides (HEPOs) derived from barium cerate by substituting cerium with different combinations of five different elements (Ce, Zr, Yb, Sm, La, Gd, Nd) in equal molar ratios, i.e., Ba(Ce0.2Zr0.2Yb0.2La0.2Sm0.2)O2.7, Ba(Ce0.2Sm0.2Yb0.2Nd0.2Gd0.2)O2.6, and Ba(Ce0.2Zr0.2Nd0.2La0.2Sm0.2)O2.7. Upon calcination of the as-synthesized samples at different temperatures and subsequent quenching, the formation of an entropy-stabilized single phase was analyzed and assessed. To rationalize the observed differences in phase evolution, a novel set of empirical descriptors, including configurational entropy, Goldschmidt tolerance factor, and B-site size mismatch, was proposed and discussed. With the aim of studying the sinterability of the single-phase samples, the calcination treatment was optimized by reducing its temperature and duration (i.e., 1300 °C for 6 h) so that subsequent densification higher than 95% was achieved by sintering at 1500 °C for 6 h.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ceramics, 3rd Edition)
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Islamic Middle Ages Pottery from Muge (Portugal), Serradinho Archaeological Site—A Long-Lasting Tradition of Pottery Production
by
Carlos Andrés Camara, Gonçalo Lopes, Nicola Schiavon, José Mirão and Massimo Beltrame
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020031 - 27 Mar 2025
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During the Islamic period, ceramic workshops were commonly established in settlements throughout the Gharb al-Andalus region (Western Iberia at the time), to produce ceramics for local supply. Along the middle valley of the Tagus river (i.e., nowadays central Portugal), hundreds of Islamic ceramic
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During the Islamic period, ceramic workshops were commonly established in settlements throughout the Gharb al-Andalus region (Western Iberia at the time), to produce ceramics for local supply. Along the middle valley of the Tagus river (i.e., nowadays central Portugal), hundreds of Islamic ceramic sherds, either glazed or common wares, were recovered over different archaeological excavations. At the archaeological site of Serradinho, located at Muge (Municipality of Salvaterra de Magos, Santarem District, Portugal), a fortuitous finding was unearthed during agricultural works in which ceramic sherds from the Emiral (8–9th century) to the Almoravid (mid–12th century) period were recorded. The uninterrupted time lapse evidenced by these ceramic artefacts is a one-off opportunity to trace back early Islamic ceramic production and to link it with the long-lasting ceramic tradition documented at Muge by ethnographic studies. In this study, insights into the provenance of raw materials and the pottery-manufacturing processes will be approached by means of different optical and analytical methods, namely Optical Microscopy (OM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), Scanning Electron Microscope, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and granulometric tests on sediments offering some interesting parallels between archaeological and modern ceramic production. Results suggested that most ceramics were locally produced, while others were imported into the settlement during the Islamic Middle Ages. Moreover, data indicate that a locally available raw material which is still used nowadays for the production of traditional ceramics had been employed. This result confirms the exploitation of the same raw material over time, linking Islamic Middle Ages ceramic production to the modern one.
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Open AccessArticle
Enhancing the Thermal Insulation Properties of Clay Materials Using Coffee Grounds and Expanded Perlite Waste: A Sustainable Approach to Masonry Applications
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Ioannis Makrygiannis, Konstantinos Karalis and Ploutarchos Tzampoglou
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020030 - 24 Mar 2025
Abstract
The development of energy-efficient and sustainable construction materials is essential for reducing environmental impact and enhancing building performance. This study investigates the incorporation of coffee grounds and expanded perlite waste—two underutilized industrial byproducts—into clay-based ceramics to improve thermal insulation while maintaining mechanical integrity.
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The development of energy-efficient and sustainable construction materials is essential for reducing environmental impact and enhancing building performance. This study investigates the incorporation of coffee grounds and expanded perlite waste—two underutilized industrial byproducts—into clay-based ceramics to improve thermal insulation while maintaining mechanical integrity. Unlike previous studies that explore these additives separately or in impractically high dosages, this research focuses on their combined effect at low, industrially viable ratios to ensure large-scale feasibility. Four clay mixtures were analyzed: a reference clay (TZ), clay with coffee grounds (TZCF), clay with expanded perlite waste (TZPW), and clay with both additives (TZCFPW). Laboratory testing and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were employed to assess the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of these formulations. The results indicated that coffee grounds increased plasticity, while expanded perlite waste reduced it, requiring adjustments in processing parameters. Both additives contributed to lower shrinkage and drying sensitivity, improving dimensional stability during production. Although mechanical strength declined due to increased porosity—most notably in the TZPW mixture—the fired bending strength remained within acceptable limits for masonry applications. The most significant finding was the substantial improvement in thermal performance, with all the modified formulations exhibiting reduced thermal conductivity and enhanced insulation. The best performance was observed in the TZPW mixture, which demonstrated the lowest thermal conductivity, highest thermal resistance, and optimal U-values in masonry wall testing, confirming its potential for energy-efficient construction. CFD simulations further validated these enhancements, providing detailed insights into heat transfer mechanisms. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of repurposing industrial waste materials to create scalable, eco-friendly building products. Future research should refine formulation ratios to optimize the balance between strength and insulation, ensuring widespread adoption in sustainable construction.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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Open AccessArticle
Formation of Alpha-Al2O3 Coatings on Tungsten Substrate by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation
by
Stevan Stojadinović and Pedro Nelson
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020029 - 22 Mar 2025
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Oxide coatings formed by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of tungsten substrate for 10 min in a phosphate alkaline electrolyte (PAE, 2 g/L Na3PO4·12H2O) with an addition of 2 g/L, 3 g/L, and 4 g/L NaAlO2 were
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Oxide coatings formed by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of tungsten substrate for 10 min in a phosphate alkaline electrolyte (PAE, 2 g/L Na3PO4·12H2O) with an addition of 2 g/L, 3 g/L, and 4 g/L NaAlO2 were investigated by SEM/EDS and XRD. In PAE + 2 g/L NaAlO2, a weakly crystalline coating is formed, consisting of amorphous Al2O3, the triclinic phase of WO3, the cristobalite phase of AlPO4 and the gamma and alpha phases of Al2O3. Strong micro-discharges during PEO in PAE with the addition of 3 g/L and 4 g/L NaAlO2 lead to the crystallization of amorphous Al2O3 into gamma-Al2O3 and alpha-Al2O3 phases. The coating formed in PAE + 4 g/L NaAlO2 is well crystallized and rich in alpha-Al2O3, which makes it suitable for high-temperature applications. To explain the composition of the formed coatings and the transformation of the amorphous Al2O3 into gamma and alpha phases, we followed the change in morphology, thickness, chemical and phase composition of the coatings during PEO in PAE + 4 g/L NaAlO2.
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Open AccessReview
Porous Glass for Thermal Insulation in Buildings with a Focus on Sustainable Materials and Technologies: Overview and Challenges
by
Francesco Baino and Pardeep Kumar Gianchandani
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010028 - 12 Mar 2025
Abstract
In response to environmental challenges and primary resource scarcity, sustainable approaches that rely on recycling and reusing waste materials are becoming valuable and highly appealing options in modern society. This paper deals with the usage of porous glass and glass-ceramic products derived from
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In response to environmental challenges and primary resource scarcity, sustainable approaches that rely on recycling and reusing waste materials are becoming valuable and highly appealing options in modern society. This paper deals with the usage of porous glass and glass-ceramic products derived from waste in the field of thermal insulation in buildings. After providing an overview of the current state of the art with a focus on existing commercial products and related manufacturing methods (foaming strategies), this review discusses the emerging trends toward greener approaches, including the use of by-products or waste substances as foaming agents (e.g., eggshells or mining residues), the use of vitrified bottom or fly ashes from municipal solid waste incinerators as starting materials, the application of surface treatment to reduce post-processing temperatures, and the promise of additive manufacturing technologies in this field. The increased use and spread of sustainable practices are expected to significantly contribute to glass recycling, to minimize landfilling, and to generally reduce energy consumption as well as greenhouse emissions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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Open AccessArticle
Inhibition Mechanism of Corrosion of Aluminium Alloy in Ordinary Portland Cement Paste by Polyaluminium Sulphate
by
Haining Geng, Qi Wei, Haosen Ma and Qiu Li
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010027 - 10 Mar 2025
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The expansion, cracking and deterioration of properties during utilisation and solidification of municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash are key problems that are caused by the reaction of metallic aluminium in the bottom ash in the highly alkaline environment of hardened Portland cement.
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The expansion, cracking and deterioration of properties during utilisation and solidification of municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash are key problems that are caused by the reaction of metallic aluminium in the bottom ash in the highly alkaline environment of hardened Portland cement. In this study, polyaluminium sulphate (PAS) was introduced into ordinary Portland cement (OPC) to inhibit the corrosion of aluminium alloy. The results indicate that PAS successfully inhibited the corrosion of Al in hardened OPC paste, prevented the expansion and cracking, reduced the amount of hydrogen gas release and formed a thinner and dense corrosion layer on the Al plate surface. The mechanism of corrosion inhibition of Al by PAS was the increase of initial Al(OH)4− concentration by hydrolysis, which expanded the pH range of passivation and transformed the porous loose bayerite layer to a dense homogeneous one around the Al plate without modification of the corrosion product (bayerite). The corrosion rate of the Al alloy in hardened OPC paste was reduced by 213 times by the addition of PAS, from 288.30 mm a−1 without PAS addition to 1.35 mm a−1 with PAS addition. This study casts light on the effective inhibition of corrosion of the Al alloy in OPC.
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Open AccessArticle
Impact Resistance of Yttria- and Ceria-Doped Zirconia Ceramics in Relation to Their Tetragonal-to-Monoclinic Transformation Ability
by
Mohamed Imariouane, Malika Saâdaoui, Norberto Labrador, Helen Reveron and Jérôme Chevalier
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010026 - 7 Mar 2025
Abstract
In this work, the impact resistance of three zirconia ceramics was investigated: two yttria-stabilized zirconia (3Y-TZP and 1.5Y-TZP) and a ceria-stabilized-zirconia (Ce-TZP) composite. The impact resistance was evaluated through drop-ball impact tests on disk-shaped samples. The results are discussed in terms of the
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In this work, the impact resistance of three zirconia ceramics was investigated: two yttria-stabilized zirconia (3Y-TZP and 1.5Y-TZP) and a ceria-stabilized-zirconia (Ce-TZP) composite. The impact resistance was evaluated through drop-ball impact tests on disk-shaped samples. The results are discussed in terms of the materials’ transformability, which was correlated to the size of tetragonal-to-monoclinic (t-m) transformation zones observed after the impact tests and to the volume fraction of the monoclinic content on fractured surfaces. The findings show that impact resistance increases with the ability of the material to undergo t-m transformation. The Ce-TZP composite exhibited the highest transformability and consequently the highest impact resistance, followed by 1.5Y-TZP, and then 3Y-TZP.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behavior and Reliability of Engineering Ceramics)
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Open AccessArticle
Heat Treatment-Driven Structural and Morphological Transformation Under Non-Parametric Tests on Metal–Ceramic-Sputtered Coatings
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Federico Gamboa-Soto, Roberto Bautista-García, Diana I. Llanes-Gil López, Juan E. Bermea, René Tinoco Mendiola, Sion F. Olive-Méndez and Andrés González-Hernández
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010025 - 6 Mar 2025
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The present study analyzes experimental data using qualitative and quantitative methods to identify significant statistical changes. These methods were employed to evaluate the results from the structural characterization of annealed TiWN and TiWC coatings elaborated by magnetron sputtering. The as-grown coatings were thermally
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The present study analyzes experimental data using qualitative and quantitative methods to identify significant statistical changes. These methods were employed to evaluate the results from the structural characterization of annealed TiWN and TiWC coatings elaborated by magnetron sputtering. The as-grown coatings were thermally treated at 500 °C in a furnace under an Ar atmosphere. Structural characterization was performed by X-ray diffraction and optical and electronic microscopy. The chemical composition was determined by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis (K-W) and Spearman correlation tests as non-parametric methods, employing free statistical software. The response variable—the crystallite size calculated through the Scherrer formula—is statistically tested. The data of the crystallite size of each sample were forecasted using the simple moving average (SMA) method to increase the number of data points of each sample to 12. The crystallite size of each sample remained unchanged before and after thermal treatment. However, microscopy analyses revealed strong surface cracking. The average crystallite size before and after the thermal treatment was analyzed by the K-W correlation, revealing significant changes considering a reliability level of 95% and a significance error of 5%. The analysis revealed a strong correlation between experimental data and statistical treatment results.
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Open AccessArticle
Reduction and Phase Transformation of Ce-Doped Zirconolites
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Kohei Hayashizaki, Shun Hirooka, Tadahisa Yamada, Takeo Sunaoshi, Tatsutoshi Murakami and Kosuke Saito
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010024 - 4 Mar 2025
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Zirconolite is a wasteform that can immobilize Pu. Herein, zirconolites comprising Ce as a Pu simulant and Al as a charge compensator of Ce/Pu were synthesized by sintering raw CaO, ZrO2, TiO2, CeO2, and Al2O
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Zirconolite is a wasteform that can immobilize Pu. Herein, zirconolites comprising Ce as a Pu simulant and Al as a charge compensator of Ce/Pu were synthesized by sintering raw CaO, ZrO2, TiO2, CeO2, and Al2O3 powder mixtures at 1400 °C in static air. The reduction behavior and phase transformation of zirconolites during their heat treatment in an Ar–H2 gas flow were investigated. In pure and Ce–Al co-doped zirconolite compositions, 2M-zirconolite and small amounts of perovskite were obtained after sintering. In contrast, 2M-, 4M-zirconolite and relatively large amounts of perovskite were obtained in Ce-doped zirconolite composition. All zirconolite compositions first underwent reduction at ~1050 °C by forming a small domain of perovskite phase. Ce–Al co-doped zirconolite showed a smaller fraction of phase transformation in perovskite than Ce-doped zirconolite, indicating the advantage of using a charge compensator to prevent perovskite formation.
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Experimental and Theoretical Study of the Thermal Shock Behavior of Insulating Refractory Materials
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Anabella Mocciaro, Ricardo Anaya, María Florencia Hernández, Diego Richard and Nicolás Maximiliano Rendtorff
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010023 - 28 Feb 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the thermal shock behavior of three Al2O3-SiO2 commercial insulating refractory materials (JM23, JM26, and JM28) used in high-temperature industries (>1000 °C). Thermal shock resistance was evaluated through experimental tests and compared with theoretical parameters (R,
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This study investigates the thermal shock behavior of three Al2O3-SiO2 commercial insulating refractory materials (JM23, JM26, and JM28) used in high-temperature industries (>1000 °C). Thermal shock resistance was evaluated through experimental tests and compared with theoretical parameters (R, R⁗, Rst) based on thermoelastic and thermomechanical models. The tests revealed that JM23 did not withstand thermal shock due to its fragility when in contact with water at room temperature, resulting in its immediate collapse. In contrast, JM26 and JM28 maintained their mechanical strength after several thermal shock cycles, although JM28 experienced a more significant decrease in compressive strength. The mechanical behavior under compression changed from semi-fragile to apparently plastic after severe heat treatments. Porosity analysis showed that JM26 had a lower pore size distribution, which contributed to its better thermal shock performance. Theoretical parameters were calculated, confirming that JM26 exhibited the highest resistance to thermal shock. These findings suggest that controlled porosity and microstructure are key factors in improving the thermal performance and durability of insulating refractory materials in high-temperature applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behavior and Reliability of Engineering Ceramics)
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Open AccessArticle
Hot Modification of Silicomanganese Slag in Its Crystallization and Viscosity Properties for Preparation of Cast Stone
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Yi Huang, Yu Li, Zhaoyang Cheng and Wei Feng
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010022 - 25 Feb 2025
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The direct hot modification and subsequent preparation of qualified building materials from molten slag has gained significant attention at present due to its characteristics of saving energy and reducing CO2 emissions. Molten silicomanganese slag, discharged at 1500–1600 °C with high content of
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The direct hot modification and subsequent preparation of qualified building materials from molten slag has gained significant attention at present due to its characteristics of saving energy and reducing CO2 emissions. Molten silicomanganese slag, discharged at 1500–1600 °C with high content of SiO2 and Al2O3 (above 50 mass%), was suitable for the preparation of casting stone. To ensure a qualified casting stone, the study focused on improving the crystallization properties and fluidity of molten silicomanganese slag by modifying of its composition, crystallization, structure, and viscosity. The raw slag and two modified slags were compared, and the physical properties of their final cast stone were discussed. The results showed that after being modified by addition of 10 mass% chromite and serpentine or 20 mass% ferrochrome slag into the silicomanganese slag, both the crystallization ability and fluidity of the molten slag were improved simultaneously. Augite and spinel precipitated in the modified slag, compared with glass phase in the raw slag. The precipitation of spinel, on the one hand, acted as a nucleation agent, dynamically promoting the formation of augite, and on the other hand, increased the proportion of SiO2 and its polymerization of [SiO4] structural units in the residual liquid slag, further promoting the generation of augite in the composition and structure. The gradual precipitation of crystals effectively mitigated sudden viscosity fluctuations resulting from crystallization, contributing to a smooth casting process for molten slag. Both cast stones from the modified slag exhibited qualified physical properties, compared with the broken glass from the raw slag. This indicated the feasibility of low-cost modification during the discharging process of molten silicomanganese slag by blending 10 mass% cold modifiers or 20 mass% molten ferrochrome slag into it.
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Open AccessArticle
Modification of Sepiolite for Its Catalytic Upgrading in the Hydrogenation of Furfural
by
Antonio Guerrero-Torres, Rocío Maderuelo-Solera, Cristina García-Sancho, José J. Quirante-Sánchez, Ramón Moreno-Tost, Pedro J. Maireles-Torres and Juan A. Cecilia
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010021 - 25 Feb 2025
Abstract
In this work, a new methodology for dispersing metal particles supported in clay has been described. For this purpose, a sepiolite has been modified by a microwave-assisted treatment to increase the surface area and pore volume due to the progressive leaching of the
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In this work, a new methodology for dispersing metal particles supported in clay has been described. For this purpose, a sepiolite has been modified by a microwave-assisted treatment to increase the surface area and pore volume due to the progressive leaching of the Mg2+-species located in the octahedral sheet. These materials have been used as support to incorporate Cu species on the surface by a precipitation-deposition process from the thermal decomposition of urea at 95 °C. Once calcined and reduced, the Cu-based catalysts showed a Cu0-particle size lower than 5 nm in the case of catalysts whose support is a sepiolite subjected to acid treatment. On the other hand, when raw sepiolite is used as a support, the Cu0-crystal size is much larger (15–20 nm). This difference in Cu0-crystal size showed a variable catalytic behavior for the hydrogenation reaction of furfural in gas-phase. Catalysts with larger particle size promote the hydrogenation reaction, obtaining a yield towards furfuryl alcohol close to 60% after 5 h at 190 °C. In contrast, catalysts with smaller particle size promote the hydrogenation reaction and subsequently the hydrogenolysis reaction, obtaining methylfuran as a product with a yield of 58% after 1 h of reaction at 190 °C; however, the sites where hydrogenolysis are involved are more prone to be deactivated.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Manufacturing Processes of Silicate Materials)
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From Andalusia to the Atlantic During Early Globalization: Multidisciplinary Archaeometric Approach to Ceramic Production from Jerez de la Frontera (Spain)
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Saúl Guerrero Rivero, Javier G. Iñañez, Fernando Amores Carredano, Joana B. Torres, André Teixeira, Gorka Arana and José Luis Sánchez Zavala
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010020 - 24 Feb 2025
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The technological development of ceramic production during the early modern period in the Iberian Peninsula is a crucial topic in historical archaeological research. The present study analyzes pottery from Jerez de la Frontera, Andalusia, focusing on ceramic materials from the Convent of Santo
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The technological development of ceramic production during the early modern period in the Iberian Peninsula is a crucial topic in historical archaeological research. The present study analyzes pottery from Jerez de la Frontera, Andalusia, focusing on ceramic materials from the Convent of Santo Domingo (late 15th to early 17th centuries). Through the analysis of production wastes, including dolia and olive jars (botijas), this text unveils key aspects of regional ceramics practices. Using a multidisciplinary archaeometric approach, we applied petrography, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to investigate compositional, technological, and provenance characteristics. The petrographic analysis identified clay matrix variability and mineral inclusions, indicating diverse raw material sources and production techniques. The XRD analysis confirmed key mineral phases that reflect controlled firing temperatures, while the ICP-MS analyses provided trace element profiles that were used to distinguish between local and non-local raw materials. Together, these results reveal technological shifts and resource diversity over time, challenging the assumption that Seville was the sole supplier of ceramics for Atlantic trade. This study establishes Jerez as a potential complementary production center, offering a new understanding of early globalization processes and ceramics manufacturing in southwestern Andalusia.
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Open AccessArticle
Nanoflower-Shaped ZnO Nanoparticles Reduced with Blueberry Waste and Their Evaluation of Malachite Green Dye Degradation
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Iván Balderas-León, Jorge Manuel Silva-Jara, Miguel Ángel López-Álvarez, Pedro Ortega-Gudiño, Arturo Mendoza-Galván, Omar Fabela-Sánchez, Rocío Ivette López-Roa and María Esther Macías-Rodríguez
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010019 - 21 Feb 2025
Abstract
This work focuses on the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to be used as a photocatalyst, preparing a blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) extract as a reducing agent, zinc chloride as a precursor, and NaOH as precipitating agent (1, 7
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This work focuses on the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to be used as a photocatalyst, preparing a blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) extract as a reducing agent, zinc chloride as a precursor, and NaOH as precipitating agent (1, 7 and 14 M). Characterization techniques included X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. The XRD analysis confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite crystalline structure of ZnO NPs, while the SEM and TEM revealed a flower-like morphology. Moreover, the ZnO NPs exhibited a band gap energy in the range of 3.17 to 3.27 eV, depending on the concentration of NaOH. Regarding the photocatalytic activity, the synthesized ZnO NPs showed a photocatalytic efficiency greater than 90%, degrading malachite green (MG) dye in 60 min under sunlight. The proposed photocatalytic mechanism includes reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide radicals (O2−)). The XRD and Raman analysis also revealed that the ZnO NPs maintained structural integrity after repeated photocatalytic cycles, emphasizing their stability and suitability for practical applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Glass Fiber Content on Sintering of Construction and Demolition Waste to Manufacture Ceramic Parts
by
José Carlos Rebollo-Alburquerque, Jesús Iñaki Gómez-Domínguez and María Natividad Antón Iglesias
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010018 - 21 Feb 2025
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The present work aims to determine the possibility of using construction and demolition waste (CDW) and wind turbine blade waste (WTBW) together for the fabrication of sintered specimens using only waste materials. The sinterability curve was determined for five compositions with different amounts
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The present work aims to determine the possibility of using construction and demolition waste (CDW) and wind turbine blade waste (WTBW) together for the fabrication of sintered specimens using only waste materials. The sinterability curve was determined for five compositions with different amounts of WTBW (from 10 to 50% in mass). The materials were characterized by optical and electronic microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Later, the series was mechanically characterized by the application of the Brazilian test. The obtained tensile strength values were approximately 12 MPa, which were sufficient for their utilization as building materials; however, the composition with more WTBW was problematic due to the deformation in the specimens, which was the main effect of the addition of a larger amount of WTBW.
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Open AccessArticle
Enhancement of Sol–Gel Coatings for Photoprotection of Rosé Wines
by
Jennifer Moriones, Javier Osés, Pablo Amézqueta, José F. Palacio, Jonathan Fernández De Ara and Eluxka Almandoz
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010017 - 19 Feb 2025
Abstract
Exposure to short-wavelength light, including UV-A and blue light, can degrade high-value products like rosé wine, which are usually packaged in colourless bottles. This study investigates the optimisation of sol–gel coatings enhanced with UV-absorbing additives (Tinuvin 479 and semaSORB 20109) to provide photoprotection
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Exposure to short-wavelength light, including UV-A and blue light, can degrade high-value products like rosé wine, which are usually packaged in colourless bottles. This study investigates the optimisation of sol–gel coatings enhanced with UV-absorbing additives (Tinuvin 479 and semaSORB 20109) to provide photoprotection for rosé wines. Coatings with varying additive concentrations (0.5%, 0.75%, 1%, and 1.5%) were applied to glass substrates via spin coating and cured with UV light. Then, optical and mechanical characterisation was performed. The 1.5% concentration semaSORB 20109 bilayer coating demonstrated improved photoprotective properties without compromising colour properties, leading to successful application on glass bottles by spray coating. Accelerated degradation tests confirmed that the optimised coating effectively protected against photodegradation, as indicated by the stability of polyphenol levels and colour parameters in rosé wines. The results suggest that these coatings could be a suitable option for commercial-scale applications, enhancing the light resistance of colourless-bottled products.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transparent Ceramics—a Theme Issue in Honor of Dr. Adrian Goldstein)
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Open AccessReview
Speciation of 3d Elements in Spinel Versus Corundum: Elucidating the Interplay Between Ligand Field, Structural Dissimilarities and Processing Conditions
by
Adrian Goldstein and Alessio Zandonà
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010016 - 19 Feb 2025
Abstract
The simultaneous analysis of optical and electronic paramagnetic resonance spectra of all 3d metals, doped into transparent α-Al2O3 and MgAl2O4 spinel, was effectuated with a view of establishing the speciation pattern of the dopants. The examination of
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The simultaneous analysis of optical and electronic paramagnetic resonance spectra of all 3d metals, doped into transparent α-Al2O3 and MgAl2O4 spinel, was effectuated with a view of establishing the speciation pattern of the dopants. The examination of these patterns enabled the revelation of certain regularities (rules) affecting the correlation between the physical factors controlling the process and speciation patterns. It was observed that structural dissimilarities between the lattices significantly affected the correlation. Thus, the spinel lattice was found to impose the accommodation of the dopants as 2+ cations replacing native Mg2+ ions located in tetrahedral sites, with the process concerning only the late 3d elements. The difference in behavior between the early and late 3d elements is mostly caused by the increase in ionization potential along the series. In alumina, the dopants are accommodated as 3+ cations in octahedral sites; 6-coordinated 2+ cation stabilization is feasible but requires extremely reductive conditions for late 3d elements.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transparent Ceramics—a Theme Issue in Honor of Dr. Adrian Goldstein)
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Open AccessArticle
Design and Mechanical Properties of ZTA–Niobium Composites with Reduced Graphene Oxide
by
Sergey Grigoriev, Oleg Yanushevich, Natella Krikheli, Olga Kramar, Yuri Pristinskiy, Nestor Washington Solis Pinargote, Pavel Peretyagin and Anton Smirnov
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010015 - 19 Feb 2025
Abstract
Niobium–graphene oxide–zirconia-toughened alumina (ZTA) composites were produced by wet mixing and spark plasma sintering. The microstructure and mechanical properties of this novel composite have been studied. The results show that niobium particles are homogeneously dispersed in the ZTA matrix. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the
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Niobium–graphene oxide–zirconia-toughened alumina (ZTA) composites were produced by wet mixing and spark plasma sintering. The microstructure and mechanical properties of this novel composite have been studied. The results show that niobium particles are homogeneously dispersed in the ZTA matrix. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the thermal reduction in graphene oxide during sintering. The presence of ductile metal and graphene flakes leads to an increase in the crack resistance value of the ZTA matrix. The developed composites demonstrate a fracture toughness of 16 MPa∙m1/2, which is three times higher than ZTA ceramic composites. The high toughness values found in this new composite are a consequence of the strong interaction between the simultaneous action of several toughening mechanisms, specifically involving crack trapping, crack blunting, crack renucleation, and the bridging mechanisms of the metallic and graphene particles. Moreover, this increase has also occurred due to the enhancement of the transformability of zirconia in ceramic–metal composites.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Horizons in Ceramic Processing and Manufacturing: Celebrating the Institute for Manufacturing Technologies of Ceramic Components and Composites of the University of Stuttgart)
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