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Strength–Ductility Synergy and Microscopic Mechanism of CNTs-Reinforced Mg-Al Composites Fabricated Through Vacuum Powder Metallurgy Coupled with Hot Extrusion–Rolling
Calcium Phosphate Nanostructured Biocomposites with Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering
Effects of Visible and UV Illumination on Dimensional Accuracy and Surface Roughness in Dual-Color Volumetric Additive Manufacturing (VAM)
Effect of Heating/Cooling Rate and Temperature on Microstructure and Electrical Properties of Sputter-Deposited PZT Thin Films Crystallized by Conventional Furnace Annealing
Selected Deposition Techniques and the Effect of Doping on the Properties of Thin ZnO Films: A Literature Review

Journal Description

Materials

Materials is an international peer-reviewed, open access journal on materials science and engineering published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Materials Society (SOCIEMAT), Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES) and Chinese Society of Micro-Nano Technology (CSMNT) are affiliated with Materials and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Ei Compendex, CaPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, Astrophysics Data System, and other databases.
Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Metallurgy and Metallurgical Engineering) / CiteScore - Q1 (Condensed Matter Physics)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2026).
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Impact Factor: 3.7 (2025); 5-Year Impact Factor: 3.8 (2025)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 1996-1944

Latest Articles

20 pages, 31900 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transient Damped Response of a 3D-Printed Composite Cantilever Beam

by Miroslaw Wesolowski, Naftal Kaleb Ngughu and Jon Aurrekoetxea Narbarte

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3074; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143074 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

This study presents a transient dynamic analysis of a 3D-printed composite cantilever beam fabricated from short carbon fibre-reinforced polyamide (CF-PA-12). Particular attention is given to acceleration response, vibration damping, and energy dissipation, which govern the transient behaviour and dynamic stability of lightweight composite [...] Read more.

This study presents a transient dynamic analysis of a 3D-printed composite cantilever beam fabricated from short carbon fibre-reinforced polyamide (CF-PA-12). Particular attention is given to acceleration response, vibration damping, and energy dissipation, which govern the transient behaviour and dynamic stability of lightweight composite structures under impulsive loading. The research combines experimental modal analysis (EMA) and transient impact testing with numerical simulations based on classical laminated plate theory (CLPT). A finite element model was developed in Simulia/Abaqus and used within a modal-superposition-based transient framework incorporating experimentally identified damping ratios and measured impact forces. The proposed approach enables realistic prediction of vibration decay and time-dependent acceleration response. Good agreement between experimental and numerical results confirms the capability of the method to reproduce the dynamic behaviour of additively manufactured composite beams subjected to impact excitation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)

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17 pages, 2779 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Probabilistic Framework for Finite Strain Damage Response of Thick Curved Beams Including the Shear Effect

by Arian Mohammadkhani, Hamid Shahsavari and Mostafa Baghani

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3073; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143073 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

Curved beams are widely used in engineering applications due to their unique geometry and mechanical advantages. In this study, the mechanical response of hyperelastic curved beams under cyclic loading is investigated, considering the Mullins stress-softening effect and the probabilistic variability of material parameters. [...] Read more.

Curved beams are widely used in engineering applications due to their unique geometry and mechanical advantages. In this study, the mechanical response of hyperelastic curved beams under cyclic loading is investigated, considering the Mullins stress-softening effect and the probabilistic variability of material parameters. A Neo-Hookean hyperelastic model integrated with the Ogden–Roxburgh damage formulation is employed to capture the cyclic stress-softening behavior. The governing partial differential equations are derived in cylindrical coordinates under plane-stress conditions and solved numerically. Unlike classical pure bending assumptions, the present formulation captures the coupled radial, circumferential, and shear stress components arising from the finite thickness and curvature of the beam. The model is validated through comparison with two-dimensional finite element solutions. The influence of material uncertainty is further examined via a probabilistic parametric analysis, and statistical measures including mean, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis are evaluated. The results demonstrate that Mullins-induced stress softening is concentrated near the inner curvature and beam root, and that inherent material variability significantly affects the damage distribution. The proposed framework provides a fast and accurate method for predicting the mechanical behavior of hyperelastic curved beams under cyclic loading. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Computation and Modeling of Materials Mechanics (2nd Edition))

38 pages, 73288 KB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructure, Mechanical Response, and Tribological Behavior of Mechanically Alloyed and Microwave-Sintered AA7068/TiB₂–TiC Hybrid Composites

by Emre Özer

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143072 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

In this study, AA7068 aluminum matrix composites reinforced with TiB₂/TiC were fabricated via mechanical alloying and microwave sintering to investigate the influence of reinforcement content and sintering temperature on microstructure, mechanical properties, and dry sliding wear. Mechanical alloying refined powders, reducing [...] Read more.

In this study, AA7068 aluminum matrix composites reinforced with TiB₂/TiC were fabricated via mechanical alloying and microwave sintering to investigate the influence of reinforcement content and sintering temperature on microstructure, mechanical properties, and dry sliding wear. Mechanical alloying refined powders, reducing D₅₀ from 51.5 µm (AA) to 22.5 µm (AC9) and enhancing dispersion and retention of TiB₂/TiC particles. XRD confirmed α-Al as the dominant matrix phase, preserved TiB₂ and TiC phases, and limited MgAl₂O₄/ZnAl₂O₄ spinel formation. Crystallite refinement and increased lattice microstrain were observed with the addition of reinforcement. Microhardness increased with reinforcement content and sintering temperature, reaching 122.2 HV_0.05 in AC9-2. At the same time, the highest compressive strength was observed in AC6-2 (431.05 MPa), indicating that optimal load-bearing depends on densification and interfacial integrity rather than hardness alone. AC9-2 exhibited the best wear resistance, with a cumulative specific wear rate of 2.723 × 10⁻⁴ mm³/Nm over 1000 m. SEM-EDS analysis revealed oxide-rich tribolayers, mechanically mixed layers, TiB₂/TiC fragments, and Fe-rich third-body debris, indicating wear is predominantly hardness-controlled but strongly influenced by microstructural factors. Overall, TiB₂/TiC hybrid reinforcement improves AA7068 wear resistance through combined hard-particle load-bearing, reduced penetration, tribolayer stability, and third-body effects, offering insight for high-performance hybrid aluminum composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Friction, Wear and Corrosion Properties of Materials (2nd Edition))

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26 pages, 19024 KB

Open AccessArticle

Temperature-Based Design Method for Concrete Cone Failure Under Fire Conditions

by Nicolas Pinoteau, Kresimir Nincevic, Kenton McBride, Killian Regnier, Antoine Labbé and Roberto Piccinin

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3071; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143071 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

This paper introduces a temperature-based design method for determining the tensile concrete cone capacity of anchors subjected to fire exposure. Current prescriptive approaches, most notably Eurocode 2, rely solely on embedment depth and fire duration for fire exposure from one or more directions [...] Read more.

This paper introduces a temperature-based design method for determining the tensile concrete cone capacity of anchors subjected to fire exposure. Current prescriptive approaches, most notably Eurocode 2, rely solely on embedment depth and fire duration for fire exposure from one or more directions on one concrete face with and without edge effects. The purpose of this work is to develop a temperature-based design method for predicting tensile concrete cone failure of anchors under fire conditions. Through an experimental program, this study demonstrates that anchor capacity can be conservatively described by temperature associated with embedment depth. A parametric analysis on the influence of concrete strength, anchor group effect, edge effect, concrete cracking, anchor type and heating orientation on different concrete faces defines the scope of application of the design method. The proposed method incorporates measured temperature profiles, offering a more precise alternative to the existing design method in Eurocode 2 and enabling flexible design for different structural configurations and fire scenarios. Optimized design is enabled in comparison to the existing prescriptive method (EN 1992-4) exclusively based on embedment depth and fire duration. Research findings demonstrate that anchor capacity correlates strongly with the temperature at the effective embedment depth under varying conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)

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22 pages, 5776 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tensile Pull-Out Behaviour and Global Sensitivity Analysis of Fastening Screws in Photovoltaic Aluminium Support Structures

by Jiahang Zhang, Qunyi Huang, Mo Chen, Zhiyu Wang and Abudureyimujiang Aosimanjiang

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3070; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143070 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

Fastening screw connections in aluminium alloy photovoltaic (PV) support structures are highly susceptible to premature failure under wind-induced uplift suctions. This paper presents a systematic experimental, numerical, and probabilistic investigation into the tensile pull-out performance and interactive parameters of these joints. Static pull-out [...] Read more.

Fastening screw connections in aluminium alloy photovoltaic (PV) support structures are highly susceptible to premature failure under wind-induced uplift suctions. This paper presents a systematic experimental, numerical, and probabilistic investigation into the tensile pull-out performance and interactive parameters of these joints. Static pull-out tests were performed to classify two typical failure mechanisms: thread stripping combined with base metal tearing (Failure Mode I) and screw shank tensile fracture (Failure Mode II). High-fidelity 3D finite element models incorporating explicit thread geometries were established, matching experimental curves with an error within 5% and accurately replicating micro-stress peeling contours. Furthermore, a multi-stage simulation loop integrating Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was implemented within a large-scale Monte Carlo framework to efficiently quantify parameter sensitivities under the elastic limit state. The global stochastic assessment reveals that the aluminium elastic modulus and RHS wall thickness are the primary positive controlling parameters, exhibiting high sensitivity coefficients of 0.44 and 0.40, respectively. Conversely, the profile width renders a significant negative sensitivity due to local out-of-plane flexing. These quantified indicators provide crucial structural optimisation directives for ensuring the safety of solar tracking and racking systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mechanics of Materials)

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18 pages, 4308 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design of Cu₂O_(O)@Cu₂O_(P)@AuPt Multilevel Core–Shell Heterostructures via Mild Reduction Strategy with a Dual Function for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation

by Bo Ma, Guoqiang Huang, Wenwen Hu, Wenxue An, Gailan Ma, Maohui Li and Youjun Lu

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3069; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143069 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

The degradation of organic pollutants through photocatalysis is currently a major research focus. Core–shell heterostructures of metal semiconductors have been widely recognized as an effective strategy for enhancing photocatalytic performance, particularly when alloy nanoparticles are incorporated due to their unique electronic and catalytic [...] Read more.

The degradation of organic pollutants through photocatalysis is currently a major research focus. Core–shell heterostructures of metal semiconductors have been widely recognized as an effective strategy for enhancing photocatalytic performance, particularly when alloy nanoparticles are incorporated due to their unique electronic and catalytic properties. However, conventional synthetic approaches typically rely on high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, which often induce undesirable particle overgrowth and aggregation. Herein, AuPt bimetallic alloy nanoparticles were successfully fabricated via two successive in situ redox processes under room-temperature and ambient-pressure conditions, which were in situ integrated with Cu₂O to form multilevel core–shell composite particles. Structurally, an octahedral Cu₂O crystal serves as the inner core (denoted as Cu₂O_(O)), sequentially coated with a Cu₂O nanoparticle (denoted as Cu₂O_(P)) interlayer and a AuPt alloy nanoparticle shell. Functionally, the enhanced photocatalytic activity of Cu₂O_(O)@Cu₂O_(P)@AuPt was proven to be attributed to a dual function of AuPt, which includes an adsorption-induced polarized interface and an efficient charge-transfer mediator with the ohmic contact. This work demonstrates a mild and versatile synthetic strategy for constructing semiconductor–alloy heterostructures, offering valuable insights into the rational design of highly efficient and stable photocatalysts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Composites for Waste Valorization and Pollutant Degradation)

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18 pages, 5632 KB

Open AccessReview

Performance Evolution and Balance in the Curing Mechanism of Inorganic Thermal Insulation Mortar: A Review

by Miaorui Fu, Pinghua Zhu, Feifei Jiang, Jialei Wang, Ronggui Liu and Jiangpei Zhu

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3068; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143068 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

Inorganic thermal-insulation mortars can effectively reduce the energy consumption and carbon emissions of both existing and new buildings while maintaining the thermal stability of building envelopes. Compared with conventional mortars, these materials exhibit more pronounced multiscale coupling during curing, and their microstructural evolution [...] Read more.

Inorganic thermal-insulation mortars can effectively reduce the energy consumption and carbon emissions of both existing and new buildings while maintaining the thermal stability of building envelopes. Compared with conventional mortars, these materials exhibit more pronounced multiscale coupling during curing, and their microstructural evolution and macroscopic properties are highly sensitive to environmental variables, particularly temperature, humidity, and ionic concentration. This review systematically summarizes the effects of high-temperature curing, high-humidity curing, artificially introduced ions, and special curing regimes on the mechanical properties, durability, thermal conductivity, and fire resistance of inorganic thermal-insulation mortars. The reviewed studies indicate that hydration, geopolymerization, and CO₂-curing reactions can all promote microstructural densification and thus enhance mechanical performance and durability. Elevated temperature and humidity generally accelerate reaction kinetics, intensify internal hydration, and facilitate the generation and deposition of gel products, thereby refining the pore structure and improving strength development. However, the same densification process may also increase the continuity of the solid phase and form more effective heat-transfer pathways, which is unfavorable for thermal-insulation performance. Mildly alkaline curing environments can further stimulate binder reactions and improve matrix compactness, although excessive ionic activity may negatively affect pore stability and long-term performance. Among the coupled curing conditions, wet–dry cycling appears to provide a more favorable balance between mechanical-property development and pore-structure preservation, because periodic humidity gradients can enhance strength formation, stabilize the interfacial transition zone, and reduce cracking sensitivity. Overall, the effect of curing on inorganic thermal-insulation mortars is governed by the competition and balance between reaction enhancement, pore-structure evolution, and interfacial stabilization. Future curing design should therefore focus on system-dependent optimization to achieve a rational balance among mechanical performance, thermal insulation, and fire resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microstructure and Properties of Sustainable Cement and Concrete)

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23 pages, 2789 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Performance and Gamma Radiation Shielding of Hybrid Magnetite–Dolomite High-Density Concrete

by Muhammad Bilal Waseem, Ahsen Aleem, Muhammad Ihtasham Ali, Asad Naeem, Waqas Rafiq, Riyadh Alturki and Muhammad Imran Khan

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3067; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143067 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

Nuclear infrastructure requires reliable gamma radiation shielding, for which heavyweight concrete offers a practical, structural solution. Conventional concrete provides poor gamma shielding and heat durability, demanding a denser alternative. Prior studies show that magnetite enhances attenuation and strength, while dolomite improves thermal/mechanical stability, [...] Read more.

Nuclear infrastructure requires reliable gamma radiation shielding, for which heavyweight concrete offers a practical, structural solution. Conventional concrete provides poor gamma shielding and heat durability, demanding a denser alternative. Prior studies show that magnetite enhances attenuation and strength, while dolomite improves thermal/mechanical stability, yet findings are dispersed across materials and test conditions. Hybrid magnetite–dolomite concrete requires systematic evaluation for simultaneous optimal gamma shielding and mechanical performance under nuclear conditions. Two mixes were produced by partial replacement of coarse aggregate (Mix 1: 50% magnetite, 25% dolomite; Mix 2: 25% magnetite, 50% dolomite), casted and cured per standard practice with compressive strength measured at 7 and 28 days. Gamma attenuation was quantified using Cs-137 and Co-60. Mix 1 achieved 78.78% attenuation for Cs-137 and 76.86% for Co-60, while Mix 2 reached 77.65% and 74.68%, respectively. At 28 days, peak compressive strengths were 25.8 MPa (magnetite), 22.6 MPa (dolomite), and 20.6 MPa (control), with pre-peak energy capacity ranking as follows: magnetite > dolomite > control. Magnetite increased strength and attenuation but sharpened post-peak softening, whereas dolomite enhanced deformability and energy dissipation with minimal loss in shielding. Hybrid concrete satisfied shielding and strength targets and outperformed conventional concrete, with a magnetite-forward blend offering the best overall protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Concrete and Cementitious Composite Materials)

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19 pages, 1111 KB

Open AccessArticle

Color Stability of Composite and Glass Hybrid Restorations in Storage Media Recommended for Avulsed Teeth: An In Vitro Study

by Selvinaz Göksu Apaydın, Akif Demirel, Levent Özer, Merve Berika Kadıoğlu and İlhan Kaya

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3066; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143066 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2026

Tooth avulsion is one of the most severe dental injuries, and appropriate storage media are essential for preserving avulsed teeth before replantation. However, little is known about the effects of these media on the color stability of existing restorative materials. This in vitro [...] Read more.

Tooth avulsion is one of the most severe dental injuries, and appropriate storage media are essential for preserving avulsed teeth before replantation. However, little is known about the effects of these media on the color stability of existing restorative materials. This in vitro study evaluated the color stability of a composite resin and a glass hybrid restorative material immersed in six storage media commonly recommended for avulsed teeth. A total of 120 disc-shaped specimens were prepared and allocated to dry environment, artificial saliva, tap water, cow’s milk, goat milk, and kefir groups. Color measurements were performed using the CIE L*a*b* system at baseline, 30 min, 1 h, 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h, and color change (ΔE) values were calculated. Data were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model with restorative material, storage medium, and time as fixed effects and specimen ID as a random effect. Color change increased significantly over time in all groups (p < 0.001). Glass hybrid restorations exhibited significantly higher ΔE values than composite restorations across most storage media and time points (p < 0.001). Significant material–medium–time interactions were observed (p < 0.001), indicating that the effects of storage media varied according to restorative material and exposure duration. Dry storage conditions were generally associated with the highest color changes. Within the limitations of this study, the tested composite restorative material (G-ænial Posterior) demonstrated greater short-term color stability than the tested glass hybrid restorative material (EQUIA Forte HT) in the evaluated storage media. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Biomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications)

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43 pages, 6701 KB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Air-Stable n-Type Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Composites for Thermoelectric Applications

by Asumi Eguchi, Kento Sunaga and Masayuki Takashiri

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3065; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143065 - 16 Jul 2026

With the rapid advancement of the IoT society and growing awareness of environmental issues, thermoelectric conversion technology—which directly converts waste heat into electricity—is gaining attention as a self-powered, autonomous power source capable of driving countless devices. While currently mainstream metal-based inorganic thermoelectric materials [...] Read more.

With the rapid advancement of the IoT society and growing awareness of environmental issues, thermoelectric conversion technology—which directly converts waste heat into electricity—is gaining attention as a self-powered, autonomous power source capable of driving countless devices. While currently mainstream metal-based inorganic thermoelectric materials demonstrate high performance, their high rigidity and brittleness, as well as their frequent inclusion of toxic heavy metals, have limited their application in biological systems and on curved surfaces. As a next-generation alternative, single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs)—which possess excellent flexibility, electrical conductivity, and mechanical strength while being low in toxicity—are garnering significant attention. However, n-type SWCNT materials, which are essential for thermoelectric module fabrication, have faced two major barriers to practical application: low atmospheric stability (they easily revert to p-type upon exposure to atmospheric oxygen and moisture) and thermoelectric performance that falls short of inorganic materials. This review comprehensively outlines the latest composite approaches designed to overcome these critical challenges and achieve both extreme atmospheric stability and high thermoelectric performance in n-type SWCNT materials, along with the flexibility required to withstand severe deformation. Three main strategies are discussed. The first is the organic/polymer approach, which involves doping with organic small molecules that control the LUMO level or bicyclic organic superbases with strong electron-donating properties, as well as polymer coating, to achieve long-term stable n-type characteristics and high power output even in air or under severe high-temperature conditions. The second is the inorganic hybrid strategy, which involves nanoscale compositing with inorganic materials such as Bi₂Te₃ and Cu₂O; this reduces thermal conductivity through phonon scattering via interface control, while the inorganic layer physically blocks oxygen to ensure long-term atmospheric stability. The third approach involves ultra-long-term stabilization techniques, such as bulk encapsulation using cationic or gemini surfactants, and environmentally friendly aqueous processes utilizing natural amino acids. Furthermore, we discuss the latest developments in imparting practical-level toughness (flexibility) capable of withstanding thousands of bending cycles and high tensile stress through the introduction of dynamic covalent network polymers and elastomers. The conformal flexible thermoelectric power generation modules created through the integration of composite optimization, low-environmental-impact processes, and doping techniques will serve as a crucial foundational technology for realizing a sustainable next-generation electronics society, including future wearable devices, artificial skin, and smart sensor networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Smart Materials)

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25 pages, 1003 KB

Open AccessReview

TiZrHf-Based B2-B19′/B19-High Entropy Shape Memory Alloys: A Review and Recent Advances

by Yoko Yamabe-Mitarai

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3064; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143064 - 16 Jul 2026

This review summarizes the development of Ti-based high-entropy and multi-principal element shape memory alloys (SMAs), with a particular focus on TiZrHfCoNiCu, TiHf(Zr)Ni(Pt)Pt, and TiPd-based systems. Alloy composition and heat treatment significantly influence martensitic transformation temperatures (MTTs), thermal hysteresis, superelasticity (SE), shape memory effect [...] Read more.

This review summarizes the development of Ti-based high-entropy and multi-principal element shape memory alloys (SMAs), with a particular focus on TiZrHfCoNiCu, TiHf(Zr)Ni(Pt)Pt, and TiPd-based systems. Alloy composition and heat treatment significantly influence martensitic transformation temperatures (MTTs), thermal hysteresis, superelasticity (SE), shape memory effect (SME), and elastocaloric effect (eCE) through precipitation reactions, compositional partitioning, and lattice strain effects. These parameters are summarized in the tables. Furthermore, recent advances in machine learning have provided powerful tools for predicting MTTs and thermal hysteresis. Important features governing phase transformation behavior, as well as suitable regression models for predicting MTT and thermal hysteresis, are introduced. These developments demonstrate a transition from empirical alloy development toward data-driven and physics-informed design of next-generation HE-SMAs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Shape Memory Alloys: From Alloy Design to Functional Performance)

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25 pages, 13515 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Kiln-Transformation Mechanism of 3D-Printed Body of Hejin Gray Pottery

by Shuai Liu, Wenjie Hao, Guolong Gao, Yu Liu, Hanjie Guo, Yongsheng Zhou, Jiafeng Lv and Yalin Liu

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3063; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143063 - 16 Jul 2026

The firing of traditional gray pottery relies on complex physicochemical reactions governing its color, dimensional accuracy, and structural stability. Unclear kiln-transformation mechanisms restrict standardized and digital production of this Chinese intangible cultural heritage. Herein, direct ink writing (DIW) was used to fabricate Hejin [...] Read more.

The firing of traditional gray pottery relies on complex physicochemical reactions governing its color, dimensional accuracy, and structural stability. Unclear kiln-transformation mechanisms restrict standardized and digital production of this Chinese intangible cultural heritage. Herein, direct ink writing (DIW) was used to fabricate Hejin gray pottery green bodies from local ternary raw materials. Thermodynamic calculations, TG–DTG/DSC, XRD, XRF, and atmosphere-controlled firing tests were combined to reveal coupled phase evolution and reduction color-forming mechanisms during sintering. Two interrelated kiln-transformation processes were identified. First, sequential mineral reconstruction occurs at four critical temperatures: free water loss at 119.8 °C, two-stage dehydroxylation of hydrous silicates at 270.5 °C and 767.9 °C, and CaCO₃ decomposition at 547.9 °C. Uneven shrinkage and gas release at these temperatures induce cracking, blistering, and deformation of printed bodies. Micron-sized CaCO₃ (equivalent radius ≈ 1.31 μm) exhibits high surface energy and significantly reduces its decomposition temperature, consistent with experimental observations. Second, reducing atmospheres trigger competitive phase formation. Distinct from the conventional Fe₂O₃ → Fe₃O₄ → FeO reduction pathway, Fe oxides preferentially react with abundant Al₂O₃ to form thermodynamically stable FeAl₂O₄ spinel, yielding uniform celadon-gray tones. The final color is nearly independent of 20–90 vol% CO, and air-isolated cooling below 600 °C is mandatory to prevent secondary oxidation and reddening. This work establishes a thermodynamic framework for DIW-printed Hejin gray pottery kiln transformation, clarifies microscale defect and color-evolution mechanisms, and offers theoretical guidance for atmosphere-controlled firing and digital mass production of heritage ceramics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced and Functional Ceramics and Glasses)

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2 pages, 524 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Ma et al. 3D Printing of Conductive Tissue Engineering Scaffolds Containing Polypyrrole Nanoparticles with Different Morphologies and Concentrations. Materials 2019, 12, 2491

by Chunyang Ma, Le Jiang, Yingjin Wang, Fangli Gang, Nan Xu, Ting Li, Zhongqun Liu, Yongjie Chi, Xiumei Wang, Lingyun Zhao, Qingling Feng and Xiaodan Sun

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3062; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143062 - 16 Jul 2026

In the original publication [...] Full article

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30 pages, 11097 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on the Influence of Inter-Layer Ironing Parameters on the Surface Quality of MEX-Fabricated PLA-LW and PLA Parts

by Ioan Tamașag, Costică Bejinariu, Traian-Lucian Severin, Ștefan-Constantin Lupescu, Marius-Constantin Beniuga, Delia-Aurora Cerlincă, Irina Beșliu-Băncescu, Adrian-Constantin Sachelarie, Gabriel-Dragos Vasilescu and Nicanor Cimpoesu

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3061; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143061 - 16 Jul 2026

The current trend in both academic research and industrial applications is to expand the use of additive manufacturing processes across an increasing number of functional domains. This has led to substantial efforts aimed at improving the overall performance of additively manufactured components, particularly [...] Read more.

The current trend in both academic research and industrial applications is to expand the use of additive manufacturing processes across an increasing number of functional domains. This has led to substantial efforts aimed at improving the overall performance of additively manufactured components, particularly those produced by Material Extrusion (MEX). One of the main limitations of MEX-fabricated parts is the presence of air voids formed between deposited lines and layers, which reduce mechanical strength and structural uniformity. In this context, the present study investigates the influence of inter-layer ironing process parameters, an approach intended to modify near-surface morphology and improve the surface quality and dimensional accuracy of two commonly used materials, namely lightweight polylactic acid (PLA-LW) and standard. The experimental setup involved varying the ironing direction, nozzle diameter, and ironing spacing, while keeping all other manufacturing parameters constant. A complete 4 × 3 × 3 factorial experimental design was employed, considering three process parameters: ironing direction at four levels, nozzle diameter at three levels, and ironing spacing at three levels, resulting in 36 parameter combinations applied to each material separately. Performance evaluation included surface roughness (S_a), Shore D hardness, waviness (W_a), microscopic morphology analysis, and qualitative ultrasonic inspection used to observe internal void-related features, whereas the quantitative analysis focused on Sa, Wa, and hardness variations. The results were compared with those obtained for specimens produced using final-layer-only ironing and no ironing. Inter-layer ironing generally improved surface quality compared with non-ironed specimens, reducing Sa by up to 85.22% and increasing Shore D hardness by up to 10.40% for individual PLA-LW specimens manufactured using the 0.4 mm nozzle. The waviness response was strongly material-dependent; increasing the ironing spacing from 0.1 to 0.3 mm reduced Wa by 47.71% for PLA-LW and 13.39% for standard PLA, while the same spacing increase reduced Sa by 25.61% for PLA-LW but increased Sa by 10.87% for standard PLA. While PLA-LW specimens exhibited localized surface defects possibly associated with the compaction or collapse of near-surface voids, standard PLA specimens showed more pronounced waviness and material accumulation, highlighting the different responses of compact and foamed polymer structures to repeated thermo-mechanical ironing actions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synergistic Approaches to Surface Modification, Lubrication, and Wear Control)

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24 pages, 4330 KB

Open AccessArticle

On the Measurements and Discrepancies Between Declared and Actual Thermal Performance of Reflective Insulation

by Tomasz Kisilewicz

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3060; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143060 - 16 Jul 2026

Infrared reflective materials are increasingly used in building applications; however, their actual reflective performance is not always consistent with manufacturers’ claims. Reliable and accessible methods for evaluating their thermal and reflective properties are therefore needed. This study aimed to develop and validate a [...] Read more.

Infrared reflective materials are increasingly used in building applications; however, their actual reflective performance is not always consistent with manufacturers’ claims. Reliable and accessible methods for evaluating their thermal and reflective properties are therefore needed. This study aimed to develop and validate a practical laboratory procedure for assessing the reflective properties of building materials. The proposed method combines comparative reflectance testing with measurements of thermal resistance. The procedure employs commonly available laboratory equipment, including a high-resolution thermal imaging camera and a plate apparatus used for thermal conductivity evaluation. Five commercially available materials with an aluminum reflective layer were tested using this method. The laboratory measurements showed good agreement with ISO standard-based calculations, confirming the reliability of the method. Among the five tested materials, only two exhibited the declared reflective properties. Scanning electron reflectometry analysis revealed that poor-performing materials either lacked aluminum particles in the surface layer or contained aluminum coatings that were too thin. The proposed procedure provides a simple and effective method for evaluating reflective insulation materials. The results demonstrate that not all products marketed as reflective insulation possess the required reflective characteristics, and that aluminum layer thickness and surface composition are critical factors affecting thermal performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)

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16 pages, 14522 KB

Open AccessArticle

Melting Behavior and Phase Transition Characteristics of Superalloy FGH96 Powder and Bulk Material During Vacuum Induction Melting

by Wei Sun, Runfang Xiang, Fuyang Cao, Lunyong Zhang, Jianfei Sun and Yongjiang Huang

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3059; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143059 - 16 Jul 2026

Vacuum induction melting (VIM) of recycled powder with bulk master alloy represents an industrialized approach for recycling metallic waste. However, the intrinsic mechanisms governing the co-melting behavior of materials with distinct melting characteristics, such as powder bed and bulk alloy, remain insufficiently understood. [...] Read more.

Vacuum induction melting (VIM) of recycled powder with bulk master alloy represents an industrialized approach for recycling metallic waste. However, the intrinsic mechanisms governing the co-melting behavior of materials with distinct melting characteristics, such as powder bed and bulk alloy, remain insufficiently understood. To address this, a coupled multiphysics model was developed to simulate the evolution of induction melting involving homogeneous alloys with different morphologies. This model integrates magnetic, electric, and phase-field dynamics while incorporating melt convective heat transfer, thereby establishing a fully coupled electromagnetic-thermo-hydrodynamic framework. Through this modeling approach, the entire VIM process of melting homogeneous alloy with different morphologies can be comprehensively analyzed. The validity of the model was verified via small-scale VIM experiments using FGH96 powder/bulk composite, supported by infrared temperature measurements. This simulation methodology is not only applicable to small-scale recycling but can also be extended to large-scale industrial production, providing a reliable theoretical foundation for the recycling of powder materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Control of Microstructure and Mechanics in Additively Manufactured Metallic Materials)

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29 pages, 2534 KB

Open AccessReview

Marine Durability of Alkali-Activated Materials Under Multi-Ion Attack: Mechanisms, Responses, and Mitigation Strategies

by Xue Bai, Zhiliang Zhou, Menglei Yue, Lilin Yang, Tong Gao, Man Feng and Ning Xie

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3058; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143058 - 16 Jul 2026

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) are widely regarded as promising alternatives to ordinary Portland cement for marine engineering because of their low carbon footprint, efficient utilization of industrial by-products, and potentially favorable mechanical and durability performance. However, their long-term application in marine environments remains challenging, [...] Read more.

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) are widely regarded as promising alternatives to ordinary Portland cement for marine engineering because of their low carbon footprint, efficient utilization of industrial by-products, and potentially favorable mechanical and durability performance. However, their long-term application in marine environments remains challenging, as the original advantages of AAMs can be progressively weakened by the individual and coupled actions of aggressive seawater ions, particularly chloride (Cl⁻), sulfate (SO₄²⁻), and magnesium (Mg²⁺). These ions affect AAMs through distinct but interconnected mechanisms, including chloride binding and transport, competitive ion interactions, phase transformation, destabilization of reaction products, pore-structure evolution, and the subsequent degradation of macroscopic properties. Meanwhile, the response of AAMs to marine exposure is highly system-dependent, since precursor chemistry, activator design, reaction-product assemblage, and pore structure strongly govern their resistance to ion attack. In recent years, considerable efforts have been devoted to improving the marine durability of AAMs through composition and phase design, pore-structure refinement, and transport control. Nevertheless, current understanding remains fragmented, particularly regarding the coupled effects of multiple seawater ions and the links between microstructural evolution and long-term performance. The primary purpose of this review is to provide a systematic overview of the marine durability of AAMs from the perspectives of multi-ion threats, material-dependent responses, and existing mitigation strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on the roles of Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, and Mg²⁺, the controlling effects of precursor and activator chemistry, and the translation of micro-mechanisms into macroscopic durability evolution. By integrating these aspects within a unified framework, this review aims to support the design and application of AAMs for reliable long-term use in coastal and offshore engineering. Future research should prioritize standardized multi-ion exposure protocols, coupled transport–reaction models, long-term field validation, and durability assessment of reinforced AAM concretes under realistic marine conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Sustainable Cementitious Materials: Design, Mechanisms and Performance)

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16 pages, 13243 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation on Fatigue Damage Characteristics of Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Asphalt Mixtures with High RAP Content

by Chunfeng Zhu, Zhenyu Wang, Yongyong Yang, Shandong Fang, Yonghong Chen, Bo Xiao and Di Yu

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3057; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143057 - 16 Jul 2026

High-RAP asphalt mixtures are highly susceptible to fatigue brittle fracture. This study investigated the fatigue damage evolution of basalt fiber (BF)-reinforced high-RAP mixtures. Four-point bending fatigue tests were performed to evaluate the stiffness damage factor and the ratio of cumulative dissipated energy change [...] Read more.

High-RAP asphalt mixtures are highly susceptible to fatigue brittle fracture. This study investigated the fatigue damage evolution of basalt fiber (BF)-reinforced high-RAP mixtures. Four-point bending fatigue tests were performed to evaluate the stiffness damage factor and the ratio of cumulative dissipated energy change

R_{C E D C}

. The ExpDec2 model and a second-derivative criterion were utilized to quantify steady-state energy dissipation and partition damage stages. Results indicate that BF extended fatigue life, yielding a 55% improvement at 70% RAP content. Model evaluations revealed that in the initial stage, increasing RAP delayed the critical damage inflection point due to accelerated non-steady damage, whereas BF shifted inflection points forward by constraining early damage accumulation. In the stable propagation stage, BF reduced the energy dissipation rates of 50% and 70% RAP mixtures by 44% and 22%, respectively. These quantitative results provide essential performance data regarding the effect of BF on the fatigue life and energy dissipation of high-RAP mixtures, serving as a practical reference for the design and durability optimization of sustainable asphalt pavements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Pavement Materials: Design, Application and Performance Evaluation (Second Edition))

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5 pages, 161 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Solar Cell Materials and Structures—Second Edition

by Grzegorz Wisz, Mirosław Łabuz, Lyubomyr Nykyruy and Rostyslav Yavorskyi

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3056; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143056 - 16 Jul 2026

The theme of this Special Issue, entitled “Advances in Solar Cell Materials and Structures”, directly addresses the key challenges facing contemporary renewable energy engineering in the context of the global energy crisis and the urgent need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels [Contribution [...] Read more.

The theme of this Special Issue, entitled “Advances in Solar Cell Materials and Structures”, directly addresses the key challenges facing contemporary renewable energy engineering in the context of the global energy crisis and the urgent need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels [Contribution 1] [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Solar Cell Materials and Structures—Second Edition)

9 pages, 1871 KB

Open AccessArticle

Widely Tunable Narrow-Linewidth Continuous-Wave MIR Laser at 2.2–5.1 μm

by Shuai Ye, Feifei Wang, Yongping Yao, Runze Liang, Hongkun Nie, Zhiyuan Zuo and Baitao Zhang

Materials 2026, 19(14), 3055; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19143055 - 16 Jul 2026

A widely tunable narrow-linewidth continuous-wave (CW) mid-infrared (MIR) laser was realized with a PPMgO:LN-based optical parametric oscillator (OPO) pumped by a 1060 nm single-frequency fiber laser. The MIR laser tuning with a range from 2250.7 to 5092.7 nm was obtained using the two [...] Read more.

A widely tunable narrow-linewidth continuous-wave (CW) mid-infrared (MIR) laser was realized with a PPMgO:LN-based optical parametric oscillator (OPO) pumped by a 1060 nm single-frequency fiber laser. The MIR laser tuning with a range from 2250.7 to 5092.7 nm was obtained using the two multi-period PPMgO:LN crystals. The output power was larger than 520 mW@2250.7–4000 nm, 160 mW@4000–4300 nm, and 15 mW@4300–5095.4 nm, where the maximum output power of 4.64 W@2500 nm was obtained with an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 15.5%. The linewidth was measured to be ~0.41 MHz at 3300 nm using the delayed self-homodyne method. The output power stability was measured to be RMS = 1.43% for 8 h. The beam quality factors at 2786, 3360, and 4453 nm were 1.18, 1.19, and 1.26, measured using the knife-edge method. Finally, an engineering prototype was developed using high-reliability engineering design and system integration. Our results will play a significant role in the development of widely tunable narrow-linewidth MIR lasers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Laser Materials)

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