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Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization...
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Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II

A special issue of Journal of Composites Science (ISSN 2504-477X). This special issue belongs to the section "Composites Manufacturing and Processing".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2025 | Viewed by 20918

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Jeevithan Elango

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biomaterials Engineering, Faculty of Health Sciences, UCAM Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Av. de los Jerónimos, 135, Guadalupe de Maciascoque, 30107 Murcia, Spain
Interests: polymers; biomaterials; bone regeneration; skin repair; dental implants; tissue engineering
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Kuppusamy Kanagaraj

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center for Supramolecular Chemistry & Catalysis and College of Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
Interests: supramolecular chemistry (sensors and catalysis); natural products chemistry; bio-materials; bio-mimetic chemistry; environmental chemistry; bio-sensors
Dr. Natesan Thirumalaivasan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Periodontics Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Chennai 600 077, Tamil Nadu, India
Interests: sensor materials; green synthesis; nanoparticle synthesis; cancer therapeutics; in-vivo imaging; structural biology; carbon based materials

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The topic of composite materials continues to evolve in terms of range, research activities and technological importance. Composites now constitute one of the broadest and most important classes of engineering materials with industrial significance and a wide range of biomedical applications. The major advantages of composite materials in practical applications are their stiffness, strength, toughness, lightness, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Hence, composite materials are potentially used in therapeutic applications in the field of repair and regeneration (skin, bone, dental, cartilage, etc.). Many composites used today are at the leading edge of materials technology, with excellent performance and affordable costs. In general, composite materials are either derived from natural origins or are synthetic-based, such as reinforced rubber, filled polymers, collagen, chitosan, graphene, carbon nanotubes, alloys, porous and cracked media, fiber composites, polycrystalline aggregates (metals), etc. The types of composites and their properties are highly dependent on their use in practical applications. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the beneficial effects of natural composite materials in distinction from the synthetic composites.

The purpose of the present Special Issue is to collect all recent advanced works in the field of biomaterials on natural and synthetic-based materials, mainly focusing on fabrication, characterization and practical applications. We warmly welcome researchers to submit full-length articles, reviews (short, comprehensive and comparative) and clinical studies.

Dr. Jeevithan Elango
Dr. Kuppusamy Kanagaraj
Dr. Natesan Thirumalaivasan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Composites Science is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • synthetic polymer and natural polymer composites
  • polymer composite fabrication and characterization
  • surface functionalization
  • nanomaterials
  • biomaterials
  • biomolecules
  • bioceramics
  • hydrogel
  • skin regeneration
  • in vitro cell culture

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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11 pages, 3846 KiB  
Article
2K UV- and Sunlight-Curable Waterborne Polyurethane Coating Through Thiol-Ene Click Reaction
by Zichen Ling, Haoran Wang and Qixin Zhou
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(5), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9050217 - 29 Apr 2025
Abstract
Waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coatings have gained significant attention in the industry due to their low environmental impact and excellent properties. Furthermore, the UV-curing system reduces energy costs and enhances curing efficiency. Hence, exploring the UV-curable WPU system is essential for advancing the next [...] Read more.
Waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coatings have gained significant attention in the industry due to their low environmental impact and excellent properties. Furthermore, the UV-curing system reduces energy costs and enhances curing efficiency. Hence, exploring the UV-curable WPU system is essential for advancing the next generation of coatings. In this study, a 2K WPU system was developed by functionalizing isocyanate-terminated polyurethane with thiol and vinyl groups. The coating was cured under UV light through a thiol-ene click reaction, and the effects of photoinitiator content on the coating performance were investigated. The feasibility of sunlight curing for this WPU coating was also assessed. The results showed that while photoinitiator content had a slight impact on UV-cured WPU coatings, it significantly affected sunlight-cured WPU. Also, with the appropriate photoinitiator content, sunlight-cured WPU could achieve comparable performance to UV-curable ones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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18 pages, 3211 KiB  
Article
Effect of Selenium–Arabinogalactan Nanocomposite on Environmental Bacteria
by Elena I. Strekalovskaya, Alla I. Perfileva, Olga F. Vyatchina, Devard I. Stom, Aleksander V. Romashchenko, Anna I. Kasatova, Tatyana V. Kon’kova, Boris G. Sukhov and Konstantin V. Krutovsky
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(5), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9050210 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 149
Abstract
It has been previously shown that a selenium (Se) nanocomposite (NC) based on the natural polysaccharide arabinogalactan (AG) produced from Siberian larch wood (Larix sibirica Ledeb.), containing 0.000625% of Se, has antibacterial properties against phytopathogens, such as Clavibacter sepedonicus, Pectobacterium carotovorum [...] Read more.
It has been previously shown that a selenium (Se) nanocomposite (NC) based on the natural polysaccharide arabinogalactan (AG) produced from Siberian larch wood (Larix sibirica Ledeb.), containing 0.000625% of Se, has antibacterial properties against phytopathogens, such as Clavibacter sepedonicus, Pectobacterium carotovorum, and Phytophthora cactorum. The same concentration of Se/AG NC stimulated the growth and development of potato plants in vitro, as well as the formation of their roots, while Se did not accumulate in potato tissues after plant treatment. However, to realize the full potential of Se/AG NC in agriculture for fighting phytopathogens with the aim of developing commercial nanopreparations, additional toxicological studies are needed to fully address their effects. In this study, to assess the environmental risk of using Se/AG NCs, it was applied to a number of bacteria isolated from soil (Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, and B. megaterium), water (Micrococcus luteus, B. subtilis, and Sarcina flava), and activated sludge and wastewater of treatment facilities (Serratia marcescens, M. luteus, B. cereus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). When studying the antibacterial activity of Se/AG NC against 11 test cultures of bacteria using the agar diffusion method, it was shown that Se/AG NC had a toxic effect only at high concentrations in the range from 40 mg/mL Se/AG NC (1.68 mg/mL Se) to 0.625 mg/mL Se/AG NC (0.026 mg/mL Se) on two types of bacteria M. luteus isolated from the waters of Lake Baikal and B. cereus obtained from activated sludge of treatment facilities. The maximum diameter of the growth inhibition zone of the test cultures after exposure to different concentrations of Se/AG NC was noted for M. luteus (water) and E. coli (soil) at 40 mg/mL − 26.3 and 20.3 mm, respectively. Thus, the negative impact of Se/AG NC on bacteria from different ecological niches was registered only at high concentrations, similar to the predicted concentrations of Se/AG NC in wastewater, which demonstrates the environmental safety of Se/AG NC for use in agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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19 pages, 7457 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Photoelectric Properties of Nanostructured Native Oxide of Gallium Monoselenide with Applications in Gas Sensors
by Veaceslav Sprincean, Alexandru Macovei, Liviu Leontie, Aurelian Carlescu, Silviu Gurlui and Mihail Caraman
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(4), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9040194 - 19 Apr 2025
Viewed by 239
Abstract
Using the Bridgman technique, GaSe single crystals were obtained which were mechanically split into plane-parallel plates with a wide range of thicknesses. By heat treatment in air at 820 °C and 900 °C, for 30 min and 6 h, micro- and nanocomposite layers [...] Read more.
Using the Bridgman technique, GaSe single crystals were obtained which were mechanically split into plane-parallel plates with a wide range of thicknesses. By heat treatment in air at 820 °C and 900 °C, for 30 min and 6 h, micro- and nanocomposite layers of Ga2Se3–Ga2O3 and β–Ga2O3 (native oxide) with surfaces made of nanowires/nanoribbons were obtained. The obtained composite Ga2Se3–Ga2O3 and nanostructured β–Ga2O3 are semiconductor materials with band gaps of 2.21 eV and 4.60 eV (gallium oxide) and photosensitivity bands in the green–red and ultraviolet-C regions that peaked at 590 nm and 262 nm. For an applied voltage of 50 V, the dark current in the photodetector based on the nanostructured β–Ga2O3 layer was of 8.0 × 10−13 A and increased to 9.5 × 10−8 A upon 200 s excitation with 254 nm-wavelength radiation with a power density of 15 mW/cm2. The increase and decrease in the photocurrent are described by an exponential function with time constants of τ1r = 0.92 s, τ2r = 14.0 s, τ1d = 2.18 s, τ2d = 24 s, τ1r = 0.88 s, τ2r = 12.2 s, τ1d = 1.69 s, and τ2d = 16.3 s, respectively, for the photodetector based on the Ga2Se3–Ga2S3–GaSe composite. Photoresistors based on the obtained Ga2Se3–Ga2O3 composite and nanostructured β–Ga2O3 layers show photosensitivity bands in the spectral range of electronic absorption bands of ozone in the same green–red and ultraviolet-C regions, and can serve as ozone sensors (detectors). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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15 pages, 3434 KiB  
Article
Underwater Explosion Analysis on Composite Marine Structures: A Comparison Between CEL and UEL Methods
by Jacopo Bardiani, Giada Kyaw Oo D’Amore, Claudio Sbarufatti and Andrea Manes
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(4), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9040177 - 5 Apr 2025
Viewed by 287
Abstract
Underwater explosion (UNDEX) problems are typically simulated using numerical coupled techniques, such as the Coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) method, to accurately capture fluid–structure interaction (FSI) effects, which are non-negligible in such scenarios. While highly accurate, coupled methods are computationally expensive. Alternatively, uncoupled (or decoupled) [...] Read more.
Underwater explosion (UNDEX) problems are typically simulated using numerical coupled techniques, such as the Coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) method, to accurately capture fluid–structure interaction (FSI) effects, which are non-negligible in such scenarios. While highly accurate, coupled methods are computationally expensive. Alternatively, uncoupled (or decoupled) techniques, like the Uncoupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (UEL) approach, offer greater computational efficiency by neglecting FSI effects, but at the cost of reduced predictive accuracy. This study provides a qualitative and quantitative evaluation of how far UEL results deviate from the more realistic CEL solutions in UNDEX scenarios. The comparison focuses on the structural response of a floating double-bottom fiber-reinforced composite structure subject to a near-field UNDEX. The numerical results indicate that the UEL approach overestimates structural response by up to 190% compared to CEL when added mass effects are considered, and up to 400% when they are not. However, a correction strategy based on modifying the Hull Shock Factor (HSF) is proposed to bridge the gap between UEL and CEL predictions. This study demonstrates that, with proper calibration, UEL simulations can serve as a computationally efficient alternative for preliminary UNDEX assessments in naval engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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18 pages, 6288 KiB  
Article
Effects of Alkaline and Carboxilated Graphene Oxide (CGO) Treatment on Mechanical, Thermal, and Electrical Properties of Jute Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
by Hironmoy Chowdhury, Atik Saha, Mahbub Hasan and Julfikar Haider
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(3), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9030104 - 24 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1369
Abstract
Sustainable and eco-friendly materials are vital for structural and energy storage applications. Synthetic fiber composites have long been utilized, but their high manufacturing cost and negative environmental impacts are concerning. This study aims to enhance the mechanical strength, thermal stability and electrical conductivity [...] Read more.
Sustainable and eco-friendly materials are vital for structural and energy storage applications. Synthetic fiber composites have long been utilized, but their high manufacturing cost and negative environmental impacts are concerning. This study aims to enhance the mechanical strength, thermal stability and electrical conductivity of jute fiber–reinforced epoxy composites by hand-lay-up technique with fiber surface modification with alkali (KOH) and carboxilated graphene oxide (CGO). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy confirmed fiber surface modification and the presence of CGO particles over the fiber surface. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to analyze the thermal stability and crystallinity of the samples. The electrical conductivity was measured by an electrometer, and the mechanical properties were assessed through tensile and flexural strength tests. Alkaline and CGO-treated jute fiber epoxy composites exhibited remarkable enhancement in mechanical properties, which were attributed to improved fiber-matrix interfacial bonding. Electrical conductivity also improved significantly. However, a trade-off between mechanical and electrical properties, particularly due to the susceptibility of cellulose to alkaline treatment, warrants optimizing the performance of the composites. The developed composites would be suitable for industrial applications where improved mechanical properties, thermal stability, and electrical conductivity are required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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10 pages, 845 KiB  
Article
Application of a Multi-Component Composite Edible Coating for the Preservation of Strawberry Fruit
by Rafael González-Cuello, Aura Lucia Parada-Castro and Rodrigo Ortega-Toro
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(12), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8120515 - 6 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1132
Abstract
The rapid perishability of strawberries due to factors such as fungal decay, mechanical damage, and respiration significantly limits their shelf life. In this study, a novel multi-component edible coating composed of bacterial cellulose, chitosan, and gellan gum (BChG) was developed to enhance the [...] Read more.
The rapid perishability of strawberries due to factors such as fungal decay, mechanical damage, and respiration significantly limits their shelf life. In this study, a novel multi-component edible coating composed of bacterial cellulose, chitosan, and gellan gum (BChG) was developed to enhance the postharvest quality and extend the shelf life of strawberries. The coated fruits were evaluated over a 15-day storage period for key parameters such as weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), enzymatic activity, color retention, antioxidant activity, and microbiological analysis. The results demonstrated that coated strawberries exhibited significantly lower weight loss, reduced cellulase activity, and higher retention of TSS and TA compared to uncoated controls. The evaluation of microbial quality indicated that coatings, particularly those with higher concentrations of chitosan, control the growth of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB) and molds and yeasts (MY), due to the antimicrobial properties of chitosan. This contributed to extending the shelf life of the fruit by preventing spoilage and reducing the risk of toxic compound formation. Additionally, the BChG coatings also preserved the characteristic red color of the fruit and maintained higher antioxidant activity, with BChG-4 being the most effective formulation. The inclusion of chitosan in the coatings was found to play a crucial role in reducing respiration, delaying ripening, and enhancing the fruit’s resistance to oxidative damage. Overall, multi-component coatings, particularly those with higher chitosan concentrations, offer a promising method for extending the shelf life of strawberries, reducing postharvest losses, and preserving fruit quality under ambient storage conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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10 pages, 1647 KiB  
Article
Application of Olivine Powder as a Filler for Silicone Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives
by Adrian Krzysztof Antosik
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(12), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8120501 - 2 Dec 2024
Viewed by 699
Abstract
In this work, new self-adhesive materials were obtained based on cross-linked silicone self-adhesives obtained by modifying the composition with the addition of a silicon filler, olivine. Silicone pressure-sensitive resin DOWSIL 7358 was used as a basis and modified with various amounts of olivine. [...] Read more.
In this work, new self-adhesive materials were obtained based on cross-linked silicone self-adhesives obtained by modifying the composition with the addition of a silicon filler, olivine. Silicone pressure-sensitive resin DOWSIL 7358 was used as a basis and modified with various amounts of olivine. New materials (self-adhesive tape samples) were characterized in terms of peel adhesion, tack, cohesion at room and elevated temperatures, SAFT test (shear adhesion failure temperature), pot life (storage stability), and shrinkage (dimensional stability). During the tests, an increase in thermal resistance (>225 °C) and a drastic reduction in shrinkage values (below 0.5%) were noted for all modified samples tested. All tests were performed in compliance with international standards, e.g., FINAT FTM 1, FINAT FTM 8, FINAT FTM 9, FINAT FTM 14, and GTF 6001. This allows us to conclude that the new material has significant application potential due to the good performance results. The results of adhesion and tack were in ranges accepted in the PSA industry, cohesion was kept at an unchanged level (above 72 h), and a great increase in the thermal resistance was observed (from 147 °C for pure resin to high above 225 °C for even the smallest additions of the olivine powder. Moreover, the shrinkage of prepared adhesive films was reduced significantly. In the available literature, there are no references to the modification of adhesives using powdered silicon minerals of natural origin, which is a novelty due to their higher bulk density compared to commercial powdered silicon fillers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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16 pages, 8585 KiB  
Article
Hemp Waste Stream Valorization Through Pyrolytic Carbonization for Epoxy Composite Strengthening
by Silvia Zecchi, Giovanni Cristoforo, Mattia Bartoli, Carlo Rosso and Alberto Tagliaferro
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(11), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8110473 - 14 Nov 2024
Viewed by 714
Abstract
This research addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the combined use of hemp and hemp hurds in composites, presenting a novel approach to bio-composite development. We report on the mechanical properties of epoxy resin composites reinforced with hemp fibers and hemp [...] Read more.
This research addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the combined use of hemp and hemp hurds in composites, presenting a novel approach to bio-composite development. We report on the mechanical properties of epoxy resin composites reinforced with hemp fibers and hemp hurds, selected for their sustainability, biodegradability, and environmental benefits. These natural fibers offer a renewable alternative to synthetic fibers, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly materials in various industries. The primary objective was to evaluate how different filler contents and hemp hurd-to-hemp fiber ratios affect the composite’s performance. Composites with 1:1 and 3:1 ratios were prepared at filler concentrations ranging from 1 wt.% to 10 wt.%. Tensile tests revealed that the 3:1 ratio composites exhibited better stiffness and tensile strength, with a notable UTS of 19.8 ± 0.4 MPa at 10 wt.%, which represents a 160% increase over neat epoxy. The 1:1 ratio composites showed significant reductions in mechanical properties at higher filler contents due to filler agglomeration. The study concludes that a 3:1 hemp hurd-to-hemp fiber ratio optimizes mechanical properties, offering a sustainable solution for enhancing composite materials’ performance in industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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19 pages, 9689 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the Effect of Preparation Parameters on the Structural and Mechanical Properties of Gelatin/Elastin/Sodium Hyaluronate Scaffolds Fabricated by the Combined Foaming and Freeze-Drying Techniques
by Mansour Qamash, S. Misagh Imani, Meisam Omidi, Ciara Glancy and Lobat Tayebi
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100408 - 4 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1221
Abstract
This paper aimed to evaluate the effects of different preparation parameters, including agitation speed, agitation time, and chilling temperature, on the structural and mechanical properties of a novel gelatin/elastin/sodium hyaluronate tissue engineering scaffold, recently developed by our research group. Fabricated using a combination [...] Read more.
This paper aimed to evaluate the effects of different preparation parameters, including agitation speed, agitation time, and chilling temperature, on the structural and mechanical properties of a novel gelatin/elastin/sodium hyaluronate tissue engineering scaffold, recently developed by our research group. Fabricated using a combination of foaming and freeze-drying techniques, the scaffolds were assessed to understand how these parameters influence their morphology, internal microstructure, porosity, mechanical properties, and degradation behavior. The fabrication process used in this study involved preparing a homogeneous aqueous solution containing 8% gelatin, 2% elastin, and 0.5% sodium hyaluronate (w/v), which was then subjected to mechanical agitation at speeds of 500, 1000, and 1500 rpm for durations of 5, 15, and 25 min. This mixture was subsequently frozen at −20 °C and −80 °C, followed by freeze-drying and cross-linking. Morphological analyses using laser microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated that the scaffolds had pore sizes ranging from 100 to 300 µm, which are conducive to effective cell interaction and tissue regeneration. This confirmed the efficacy of the combined foaming and freeze-drying method in creating highly interconnected porous structures. Our findings indicated that chilling temperature slightly influenced pore size. In contrast, higher agitation speeds and longer duration times led to increased porosity and degradation rate but decreased modulus. Mathematical estimators were developed for the porosity and compressive modulus of the scaffolds by statistical analysis of the preparation parameters. The estimators were validated experimentally, with the error between estimated and experimental values being less than 6% for porosity and less than 21% for compressive modulus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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19 pages, 2705 KiB  
Article
Natural Rubber Latex Wastes from Balloon Production as Valuable Source of Raw Material: Processing, Physico-Mechanical Properties, and Structure
by Jacek Kędzia, Józef Haponiuk and Krzysztof Formela
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090365 - 18 Sep 2024
Viewed by 2422
Abstract
This study explores the potential for recycling natural rubber (NR) latex waste from balloon production through the devulcanization and revulcanization processes. The mechanical devulcanization of colored latex balloon waste was conducted, followed by revulcanization using a sulfur-based system. The reclaimed rubber’s properties, including [...] Read more.
This study explores the potential for recycling natural rubber (NR) latex waste from balloon production through the devulcanization and revulcanization processes. The mechanical devulcanization of colored latex balloon waste was conducted, followed by revulcanization using a sulfur-based system. The reclaimed rubber’s properties, including crosslink density, tensile strength, and abrasion resistance, were compared with those of virgin NR. The results demonstrate that the reclaimed rubber maintains a crosslink density close to that of virgin NR. Hardness and abrasion resistance were comparable, indicating successful material recovery. Structural analyses, including FTIR and SEM microscopy, revealed that the devulcanization process effectively allowed for successful revulcanization. This study concludes that NR latex waste can be effectively recycled and reused in rubber composite formulations, offering a sustainable approach to waste management in the rubber industry and contributing to developing eco-friendly materials. In the context of this research, integrating advanced chemical and physical methods, such as solubility parameter calculations and enhanced devulcanization techniques, could further optimize the devulcanization process. These methods quantitatively enhance the efficiency of material recovery, offering a path to more sustainable recycling practices. The findings suggest that combining such advanced methodologies could significantly improve recycled NR latex’s overall performance and applicability in industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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11 pages, 692 KiB  
Article
Composite Coatings of Gellan Gum and Inulin with Lactobacillus casei: Enhancing the Post-Harvest Quality of Guava
by Rafael Emilio González-Cuello, Leidy Mendoza-Nova, Virginia Consuelo Rodriguez-Rodriguez, Joaquín Hernández-Fernández and Rodrigo Ortega-Toro
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090353 - 9 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1172
Abstract
Guava is a highly sought-after tropical fruit in the market due to its high content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other phenolic compounds. However, due to its climacteric nature, it has a short post-harvest shelf life. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.
Guava is a highly sought-after tropical fruit in the market due to its high content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other phenolic compounds. However, due to its climacteric nature, it has a short post-harvest shelf life. The aim of this study was to develop coatings based on gellan gum (GG) and inulin (IN) incorporating Lactobacillus casei, which were tested for their potential ability to extend the post-harvest shelf life of whole guava fruit. The coatings were prepared using the following formulations: 0.5 GG/1.0 IN (w/v), 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v), 0.5 GG/1.0 IN(w/v), and 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v). The coated and uncoated (control) fruits were stored at 25 °C for 12 days, and various quality attributes were evaluated (including respiration rate, soluble solids, titratable acidity, weight loss, total phenol content, and color). The results indicated that the application of the coatings reduced weight loss, color change, and respiration rate in the fruits. However, the 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v) formulation provided the best maintenance of post-harvest quality for the fruit evaluated. The coatings with a higher inulin content showed the highest growth of L. casei, which could enhance the antimicrobial effect of the coating. Therefore, the combined application of L. casei and inulin in coatings based on gellan gum can be considered an effective treatment to extend the shelf life and preserve the quality of guava fruits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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14 pages, 5772 KiB  
Article
False Boss Connection for Precision Machining of Composites with Soft and Brittle Characteristics
by Xinman Yuan, Bo Li, Feng Feng, Jie Xu, Ge Song, Yiying Liang, Yuan Ma, Chao Xu, Fuji Wang and Pingfa Feng
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(8), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8080292 - 29 Jul 2024
Viewed by 956
Abstract
Composite materials are widely used in the new generation of aviation equipment due to their comprehensive performance. However, the part fixture is usually difficult during the machining of composites with soft and brittle characteristics, such as the Nomex honeycomb. Therefore, the holding method [...] Read more.
Composite materials are widely used in the new generation of aviation equipment due to their comprehensive performance. However, the part fixture is usually difficult during the machining of composites with soft and brittle characteristics, such as the Nomex honeycomb. Therefore, the holding method based on the false boss connection can be utilized due to its advantages of low cost, less pollution, and a short preparation period. In this study, the method to determine and optimize the critical parameters of the false boss design is proposed to address the issue that they previously relied heavily on the experience of engineers, which often results in much waste of materials. To determine the critical parameters, a simulation model is constructed for Nomex honeycomb core parts machining with a false boss holding. Based on the simulation model, the stability of the machining process is analyzed, and the weak link of the false boss between different milling areas is studied. Furthermore, the difference in the shape of different parts is considered, and the reasonable critical parameters of the false boss are obtained through analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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14 pages, 6011 KiB  
Article
Flax–Reinforced Vitrimer Epoxy Composites Produced via RTM
by Patricio Martinez and Steven Nutt
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(7), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8070275 - 16 Jul 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1414
Abstract
Composite laminates were produced by RTM using similar glass and flax fabrics and both vitrimer epoxy and aerospace-grade epoxy, both formulated for liquid molding. Tensile and flexural properties were measured and compared, revealing that the vitrimer composites exhibited equivalent performance in flexural strength [...] Read more.
Composite laminates were produced by RTM using similar glass and flax fabrics and both vitrimer epoxy and aerospace-grade epoxy, both formulated for liquid molding. Tensile and flexural properties were measured and compared, revealing that the vitrimer composites exhibited equivalent performance in flexural strength and tensile modulus, but slightly lower performance in tensile strength relative to reference epoxy composites. In general, glass–fiber composites outperformed flax–fiber composites in tension. However, both glass and flax–fiber composites yielded roughly equivalent flexural strength and tensile modulus-to-weight ratios. Flax fabrics were recovered from composites by matrix dissolution, and a second-life laminate showed full retention of the mechanical properties relative to those produced from fresh flax. Finally, a demonstration of re-forming was undertaken, showing that simple press-forming can be used to modify the composite shape. However, re-forming to a flat configuration resulted in local fiber damage and a decrease in mechanical properties. An alternative forming method was demonstrated that resulted in less fiber damage, indicating that further refinements might lead to a viable forming and re-forming process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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Review

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25 pages, 1413 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Nanotechnology in Dental Medicine
by Carmen-Larisa Nicolae, Diana-Cristina Pîrvulescu, Adelina-Gabriela Niculescu, Marius Rădulescu, Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu and George-Alexandru Croitoru
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090352 - 7 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2957
Abstract
The dentistry industry has been modernized by nanotechnology, as this emerging field has opened up new doors for dental treatment, restoration, and tissue regeneration. The potential applications of nanomaterials in dentistry are reviewed in this paper, ranging from advanced restorative materials to targeted [...] Read more.
The dentistry industry has been modernized by nanotechnology, as this emerging field has opened up new doors for dental treatment, restoration, and tissue regeneration. The potential applications of nanomaterials in dentistry are reviewed in this paper, ranging from advanced restorative materials to targeted drug delivery systems. Due to their unique characteristics (e.g., high surface area-to-volume ratios and tunable physicochemical properties), nanomaterials allow for the precise control of material behavior at the nanoscale. The ability of nanostructured materials to promote tissue regeneration offers the prospect of developing new approaches in bone and periodontal regeneration. Therefore, this review thoroughly analyzes nanomaterials’ characteristics and biomedical applications, highlighting how they can aid in overcoming challenges in dental care and create possibilities for more individualized and less-invasive dental treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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19 pages, 2159 KiB  
Review
Woven Fabrics for Composite Reinforcement: A Review
by Indraneel R. Chowdhury and John Summerscales
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(7), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8070280 - 18 Jul 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5846
Abstract
Fibres in different textile forms (woven, knitted, stitched, and non-crimp) are used to reinforce composites for multifaced applications, including automotive, aerospace, marine, rail, energy, construction, and defence sectors. Textile fabric-based fibre reinforcements for composites possess some outstanding features, such as good dimensional stability, [...] Read more.
Fibres in different textile forms (woven, knitted, stitched, and non-crimp) are used to reinforce composites for multifaced applications, including automotive, aerospace, marine, rail, energy, construction, and defence sectors. Textile fabric-based fibre reinforcements for composites possess some outstanding features, such as good dimensional stability, subtle conformability, deep draw moldability/processability, lightweightness, high strength and stiffness, and low cost. The greatest advantage of textile fibre-reinforced composites is the freedom to tailor their strength and stiffness properties for specific applications. Therefore, the design of composites involves defining the fabric geometry, stacking sequence, and orientation of fibres to optimise the system. Compared to knitted, stitched, and non-crimp fabrics, woven fabric-based fibre-reinforced composites are widely used in the industry. The properties of woven fabric-reinforced composites depend on several factors, such as types of fibre, compositions, polymeric matrices, and fibre/matrix interfacial strength. Some of the advantages are reduced preforming process steps, good impact and delamination resistance, and thermo-mechanical properties. This review has been written to provide detailed information and discussions, including the fabrication processes, relationship between fabric structure and composite properties, and morphological characteristics encompassing the current state-of-the-art in woven fabrics for composite reinforcement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Composite Materials from Natural and Synthetic Sources: Fabrication, Characterization and Practical Application, Volume II)
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