Materials Proceedings

2 pages, 141 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review—The 2024 10th International Conference on Advanced Engineering and Technology

by Jongwan Hu, Dongkeon Kim and Mosbeh Kaloop

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018009 - 4 Sep 2024

In submitting conference proceedings to Materials Proceedings, the Volume Editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review, administered by the Volume Editors [...] Full article

2 pages, 892 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface of the 2024 10th International Conference on Advanced Engineering and Technology

by Jongwan Hu, Dongkeon Kim and Mosbeh Kaloop

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018008 - 2 Sep 2024

Abstract

The International Conference on Advanced Engineering and Technology (ICAET) took place in Incheon, Incheon National University, South Korea from 17 to 19 May 2024 [...] Full article

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8 pages, 478 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Unveiling Bottled Water Perils: Investigating Phthalate Ester Acid Leaching from Bottled Water in Qatar’s Scorching Climes

by Amna Alemadi, Marwa A. Alani, Mohammed Akkbik and Noora Al-Qahtani

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018007 - 28 Aug 2024

Abstract

Plastic bottles have gained widespread popularity due to their durability, affordability, and recyclable nature. Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are used as plasticizers in PET bottle production, which has raised concerns regarding their presence in the environment and potential adverse effects on health, including [...] Read more.

Plastic bottles have gained widespread popularity due to their durability, affordability, and recyclable nature. Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are used as plasticizers in PET bottle production, which has raised concerns regarding their presence in the environment and potential adverse effects on health, including carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting properties. PAEs can migrate from PET bottles into the contents, especially when exposed to high temperatures. This study is the first study in Qatar to determine the leaching of DBP, BBP, and DEHP in local PET drinking water bottles under different stressful thermal conditions. GC–MS is a susceptible instrument, and it is an ideal technique to detect and quantify PAEs in collected local plastic water bottles under different storage temperatures, namely at room temperature, 24 °C; 50 °C; and cyclic temperatures of 70 °C. The limits of detection for DBP, BBP, and DEHP were 0.09, 0.33, and 0.93 µg/L, respectively. Five local brands of PET bottles in Qatar were collected and stored under thermal conditions (24, 50, and 70 °C cyclic). Three kinds of leached PAEs, including dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), were detected by GC–MS , ranging from 2.84 to 17.32, 1.16 to 21.35, and 0.01 to 19.59 ng/L, respectively. Significant differences were observed between room temperature 24 °C, 50 °C, and cyclic temperature for concentrations of DBP, BBP, and DEHP. Full article

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16 pages, 6059 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Analysis and Selection of Multiple Machine Learning Methodologies in PyCaret for Monthly Electricity Consumption Demand Forecasting

by José Orlando Quintana Quispe, Alberto Cristobal Flores Quispe, Nilton Cesar León Calvo and Osmar Cuentas Toledo

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018005 - 28 Aug 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the application of several machine learning models using PyCaret to forecast the monthly demand for electricity consumption; we analyze historical data of monthly consumption readings for the Cuajone Mining Unit of the company Minera Southern Peru Copper Corporation, recorded in [...] Read more.

This study investigates the application of several machine learning models using PyCaret to forecast the monthly demand for electricity consumption; we analyze historical data of monthly consumption readings for the Cuajone Mining Unit of the company Minera Southern Peru Copper Corporation, recorded in the electricity yearbooks from the decentralized office of the Ministry of Energy and Mines in the Moquegua region between 2008 and 2018. We evaluated the performance of 27 machine learning models available in PyCaret for the forecast of monthly electricity consumption, selecting the three most effective models: Exponential Smoothing, AdaBoost with Conditional Deseasonalize and Detrending and ETS (Error-Trend-Seasonality). We evaluated the performance of these models using eight metrics: MASE, RMSSE, MAE, RMSE, MAPE, SMAPE, R2, and calculation time. Among the analyzed models, Exponential Smoothing demonstrated the best performance with a MASE of 0.8359, an MAE of 4012.24 and an RMSE of 5922.63; among the analyzed models, Exponential Smoothing demonstrated the best performance with a MASE of 0.8359, an MAE of 4012.24 and a RMSE of 5922.63, followed by AdaBoost with Conditional Deseasonalize and Detrending, while ETS also provided competitive results. Forecasts for 2018 were compared with actual data, confirming the high accuracy of these models. These findings provide a robust energy management and planning framework, highlighting the potential of machine learning methodologies to optimize electricity consumption forecasting. Full article

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12 pages, 7429 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sustainable Hydrogen from Activated Carbon Derived from Fennel Waste

by Mohamed Helally, Manal B. Alhamdan, Zainab Baloochi, Hadir M. Ibrahim, Naval Alhamdan, Mostafa H. Sliem and Noora Al-Qahtani

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018004 - 28 Aug 2024

Abstract

Hydrogen represents an environmentally friendly and renewable energy source that could substitute fossil fuels and diminish greenhouse gas emissions. However, conventional methods of producing hydrogen are frequently expensive, energy-intensive, or detrimental to the environment. This study proposes an innovative and eco-friendly approach for [...] Read more.

Hydrogen represents an environmentally friendly and renewable energy source that could substitute fossil fuels and diminish greenhouse gas emissions. However, conventional methods of producing hydrogen are frequently expensive, energy-intensive, or detrimental to the environment. This study proposes an innovative and eco-friendly approach for hydrogen production using activated carbon derived from fennel flower waste, an inexpensive agricultural by-product abundant in Qatar. The researchers prepared the activated carbon by carbonizing and chemically activating it with potassium hydroxide, and characterized its properties through various techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis. They subsequently evaluated the activated carbon’s catalytic performance in a hydrogen production system utilizing sodium borohydride and water as reactants, comparing the results with those obtained from commercial catalysts such as nickel and platinum. The findings revealed that the activated carbon derived from fennel flower waste exhibited a high hydrogen yield of 99.8%, which was comparable to or even surpassed that of the commercial catalysts. Furthermore, the activated carbon demonstrated good stability and reusability over multiple cycles. This study shows that fennel flower waste can be transformed into a valuable catalyst for hydrogen production, offering a sustainable and environmentally conscious solution for energy generation. Full article

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12 pages, 5513 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Decontamination of Heavy and Trace Metals by Using Natural Sorbents: A Case Study of Chemical Laboratory Wastewater Treatment

by Ahmed M. A. Aly, Ahmed H. A. Emam, Ala H. S. Alardah, Rinad A. M. Edriss Khataby, Ahmed Easa, Ahmad A. Ahmadi, Mohammad Ibrahim and Noora Al-Qahtani

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018006 - 21 Aug 2024

Abstract

Chemical wastewater treatment in laboratories poses a significant challenge due to the complex nature of the contaminants involved. Humic materials and clay have emerged as promising solutions for remediation due to their unique properties, such as high adsorption capacity and ability to form [...] Read more.

Chemical wastewater treatment in laboratories poses a significant challenge due to the complex nature of the contaminants involved. Humic materials and clay have emerged as promising solutions for remediation due to their unique properties, such as high adsorption capacity and ability to form stable complexes with heavy metals. This research explores the potential of humic materials and clay in wastewater treatment by evaluating their effectiveness in removing various chemicals commonly found in laboratory effluents. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to developing sustainable and cost-effective approaches for managing chemical wastewater in laboratories. Humic acid demonstrated a higher affinity for specific metals, with Cobalt (Co) showing the highest uptake, followed by Manganese (Mn) and Molybdenum (Mo), among other elements. On the other hand, the natural clay sample exhibited a different uptake sequence, indicating its distinct sorption preferences for various metals. The notable uptake of Molybdenum (Mo), Barium (Ba), and Arsenic (As) by the clay sample underscores its potential as an effective sorbent for these elements in wastewater treatment applications. Full article

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8 pages, 2219 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Idea of a “Loop Fragment” of the Finite Element Force Method in the Loop Resultant Method for Static Structural Analysis

by H. H. Ngo, V. V. Lalin, I. I. Lalina, A. M. Vavilova, T. Q. T. Le and T. M. D. Le

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018003 - 20 Aug 2024

Abstract

In this paper, a novel technique called a “loop fragment” (LF) is developed for structural analysis. A simple method is sufficient for establishing the loop system of framed structures using an original idea, the LF of the loop resultant method, and two conversion [...] Read more.

In this paper, a novel technique called a “loop fragment” (LF) is developed for structural analysis. A simple method is sufficient for establishing the loop system of framed structures using an original idea, the LF of the loop resultant method, and two conversion rules are necessary to find the structure (or equivalent) flexibility matrix of the rod system. This LF is generated by splitting the given structure into indeterminate basic loops. Instead of the conventional approach of treating the redundant forces in the whole structure, the current approach allows for the calculation to be simplified, thanks to the loop compatibility conditions and by dealing with the primary unknowns for each basic loop. Some numerical examples are considered for the structural frame subjected to temperature loads. Full article

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7 pages, 6735 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Effect of Alumina as an Anti-Soiling Nanomaterial for Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance

by Ala H. S. Alardah, Alfajer M. Alrasheed, Fatima Ahmad Alemadi, Sumalatha Bonthula, Enas Fares, Rajender Boddula, Ahmed Bahgat Radwan and Noora Al-Qahtani

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018002 - 20 Aug 2024

Abstract

Anti-soiling coatings are an essential tool for repelling or protecting surfaces from all sorts of particles, sand, and dust. It is usually used on photovoltaic (PV) cells and solar cells to generate electricity in dry regions such as Qatar and the Gulf countries. [...] Read more.

Anti-soiling coatings are an essential tool for repelling or protecting surfaces from all sorts of particles, sand, and dust. It is usually used on photovoltaic (PV) cells and solar cells to generate electricity in dry regions such as Qatar and the Gulf countries. However, due to soiling, the performance of solar and PV cells significantly degrades, and they are unable to achieve their potential for success. Thus, an anti-soiling coating is applied to prevent dust accumulation, which interferes with the function of solar panels by restricting the required power output. In this study, an alumina nanomaterial was used in the preparation of the ink, which was coated onto a normal glass substrate using the spin coating technique, and the coated samples were characterized using SEM and XRD. The results showed that the coating was able to significantly reduce the surface energy of the glass substrate while improving its hydrophobicity. The anti-soiling performance of the coating was evaluated using a gravimetric method, which showed that the coating had excellent anti-soiling properties. The reference and coated glass substrates were placed outdoors for a given period of time, and the results showed that the amount of dust that was deposited on the coated sample that was outdoors was greatly reduced. Full article

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7 pages, 2781 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Intelligent Smart Coatings for Enhanced Corrosion Protection in Carbon Steel

by Marwa A. Al-Ani, Ala H. Al-Ardah, Amal Mahgoub, Noora Aboumattar, Hadir Ibrahim, Muddasir Nawaz, R. A. Shakoor, Ahmed Radwan and Noora Al-Qahtani

Mater. Proc. 2024, 18(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024018001 - 19 Aug 2024

Abstract

This study explores a new approach for corrosion protection of carbon steel, focusing on the application of polymeric coatings. Anticorrosive pigments were synthesized by loading 2-Mercaptobenzothiazole into zirconium oxide particles, and then an epoxy coating was applied on a steel substrate to analyze [...] Read more.

This study explores a new approach for corrosion protection of carbon steel, focusing on the application of polymeric coatings. Anticorrosive pigments were synthesized by loading 2-Mercaptobenzothiazole into zirconium oxide particles, and then an epoxy coating was applied on a steel substrate to analyze the corrosion inhibition activity. Analytical techniques like FTIR and XRD confirmed the successful loading of corrosion inhibitors onto zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (ZrO₂), revealing changes in chemical bonding and structural patterns. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the spheroidal morphology of ZrO₂ after inhibitor loading, while contact angle measurements showed improved hydrophobicity due to reduced porosity from the nanoparticles. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed enhanced corrosion resistance in the modified coatings compared to reference coatings, demonstrating stable impedance values and delayed electrolyte uptake. These findings suggest the potential of the developed coating system in mitigating carbon steel corrosion, offering insights for its application across various industries. Full article

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6 pages, 1378 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Utilization of Stone Wool Kiln Ash in Cement-Based Materials

by Tolga Aydın, Zeynep Başaran Bundur, Kaan Aksoy, Barış Karabıyık, Ezgi Perin, Türker İnce and Mihriban Sarı

Mater. Proc. 2023, 15(1), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2023015089 - 5 Aug 2024

Abstract

The main goal of this study was to validate a circular production route utilizing the waste ash generated during stone wool production in cementitious binders. To achieve this goal, two types of waste ash with different compositions and particle sizes were used. The [...] Read more.

The main goal of this study was to validate a circular production route utilizing the waste ash generated during stone wool production in cementitious binders. To achieve this goal, two types of waste ash with different compositions and particle sizes were used. The performance evaluation results showed that silica-based ashes exhibit pozzolanic behavior, reduce the amount of portlandite, and can improve the strength of the mortar even at early ages. The ashes increased the initial setting time regardless of their composition. The outcomes of this study create an economic value for large volumes of material of previously zero value. Full article

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10 pages, 1227 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Environmental Product Declaration Reporting in the Metal Sector

by Maria Vastardi, Eugenia Filtikaki, George Mavraganis and Katerina Adam

Mater. Proc. 2023, 15(1), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2023015088 - 22 Jul 2024

Abstract

In an increasingly globalized and sustainability-conscious market, the environmental attributes of products consist of the information of primary importance for the sustainable development of manufacturing companies. The aim of the paper is to statistically analyze the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) reports that have [...] Read more.

In an increasingly globalized and sustainability-conscious market, the environmental attributes of products consist of the information of primary importance for the sustainable development of manufacturing companies. The aim of the paper is to statistically analyze the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) reports that have resulted from Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) in the metal products industry based on two parameters: (i) the geographical scope and (ii) the category of the product. During recent years, EPDs have been developed as a tool for the carbon footprint assessment of products; however, they not yet very widely applied by metal-manufacturing companies and/or requested by key stakeholders as customers. Moreover, in the metal industry, the use of EPD reports is not yet as widespread as in other industrial segments such as plastics. The present article is based on the EPD Library of the official website of the International EPD System (Environdec) and the published EPDs of the Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V. (IBU). Data were extracted, and the relevant information was compiled by using the available filters of the EPD and the IBU Libraries. Based on these data, the number of EPD reports issued by manufacturing companies was examined as per country of origin and product category. Full article

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1 pages, 139 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Sofia Javed, Waheed Miran, Erum Pervaiz and Iftikhar Ahmad

Mater. Proc. 2024, 17(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024017002 - 22 Jul 2024

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Materials Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of CEMP 2023)

0 pages, 1477 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Thiosulfate for Gold Recovery from Pressure Oxidation Residues

by Christiana Mystrioti, Konstantina Kousta, Nymphodora Papassiopi, Katerina Adam, Maria Taxiarchou and Ioannis Paspaliaris

Mater. Proc. 2023, 15(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2023015087 - 6 Jun 2024

Abstract

This paper investigated the potential of thiosulfate as an alternative to cyanide for gold recovery from pressure oxidation residues. Thiosulfate leaching experiments were conducted under controlled conditions, varying parameters such as initial thiosulfate concentration, initial pH, temperature and solid–liquid mixing ratio (S/L). The [...] Read more.

This paper investigated the potential of thiosulfate as an alternative to cyanide for gold recovery from pressure oxidation residues. Thiosulfate leaching experiments were conducted under controlled conditions, varying parameters such as initial thiosulfate concentration, initial pH, temperature and solid–liquid mixing ratio (S/L). The results indicate that thiosulfate demonstrates promising gold recovery rates, with optimization potential through parameter adjustments. This study aimed to provide valuable insights into the feasibility of adopting thiosulfate as a gold recovery agent, promoting environmentally responsible practices in the metallurgical industry while addressing the challenges associated with pressure oxidation residues. Full article

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6 pages, 1132 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparative Study of Conical and Cylindrical Basins for Gravitational Water Vortex Turbines

by Usman Zafar, Waqas Javid, Furqan Jamil, Shahid Iqbal, Sikander Ahmed, Abdul Aziz and Tayyab Mehmood

Mater. Proc. 2024, 17(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024017030 - 6 May 2024

Abstract

The demand for energy is gradually increasing; governments are looking for affordable and long-lasting solutions. Hydropower is crucial for addressing this issue. Low-head hydropower stations are necessary in certain regions due to their geographical position. Gravitational water vortex turbines are an alternative for [...] Read more.

The demand for energy is gradually increasing; governments are looking for affordable and long-lasting solutions. Hydropower is crucial for addressing this issue. Low-head hydropower stations are necessary in certain regions due to their geographical position. Gravitational water vortex turbines are an alternative for these low-head turbines. They use the water’s tangential flow to create a vortex, converting mechanical energy to kinetic energy. The design of turbine blades and basins using SolidWorks and CFD analysis was carried out during this research. CFD investigation showed that the conical basin had a higher exit velocity than the cylindrical basin, indicating a successful design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of CEMP 2023)

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7 pages, 1689 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Mining and Mineral Exploration Projects within the Natura 2000 Area: Case Studies from Northern Finland

by Toni Eerola, Nike Luodes and Hannu Panttila

Mater. Proc. 2023, 15(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2023015086 - 24 Apr 2024

Abstract

The Rompas–Prajapat (Au-Co) and Sakatti (Ni-Cu-PGE) mineral deposits are among the only important discoveries of the last few decades in Finland. Both are partially located in Natura 2000 areas, which are among the most sensitive land use contexts in which mining and mineral [...] Read more.

The Rompas–Prajapat (Au-Co) and Sakatti (Ni-Cu-PGE) mineral deposits are among the only important discoveries of the last few decades in Finland. Both are partially located in Natura 2000 areas, which are among the most sensitive land use contexts in which mining and mineral disputes have emerged in Finland. Consequently, the project holders apply low-impact mineral exploration technologies and practice active stakeholder engagement and communication. In fact, projects seem to be mostly favored by local populations. However, because of their association with protected areas (and uranium in the case of Rompas), projects are opposed by non-governmental organizations, as well as by reindeer herders in the case of Sakatti. Project holders perform feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments. Mining licenses are applied under a new Finnish mining act and the European Union’s Raw Materials acts. Full article

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5 pages, 1589 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Enhanced Supercapacitor Performance through the Synergistic Effects of a Biomass-Derived Activated Carbon and Electrochemically Deposited Polyaniline Composite

by Syed Shaheen Shah, Md. Abdul Aziz and Munetaka Oyama

Mater. Proc. 2024, 17(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024017029 - 24 Apr 2024

Abstract

This research delves into asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) design, utilizing activated carbon from bamboo poles (AC) and electrodeposited polyaniline (PANI) on nickel foam (NF) as key active components. The composite electrode formed from AC and PANI exhibited enhanced electrochemical attributes in various electrochemical configurations. [...] Read more.

This research delves into asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) design, utilizing activated carbon from bamboo poles (AC) and electrodeposited polyaniline (PANI) on nickel foam (NF) as key active components. The composite electrode formed from AC and PANI exhibited enhanced electrochemical attributes in various electrochemical configurations. The specified ASC, PANI@AC/NF//AC/NF, demonstrated a potential of 1.8 V. Impressively, it reached an areal capacitance measuring 423 mF/cm², coupled with an energy density of 190 µWh/cm² at a power density of 900 µW/cm², and maintained ~82% capacitance after 5000 GCD cycles. Notably, our developed ASC presents outstanding research potential for scholars and scientists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of CEMP 2023)

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4 pages, 1563 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Effect of Annealing Temperature on the Morphology, Structure and Optical Properties of Spin-Coated SnO₂ Films for Solar Cell Application

by Sumbal Hakeem, Saqib Ali, Muhammad Arman Liaqat, Ayesha Jamshed, Maryam Basit, Muhammad Talha Masood and Sofia Javed

Mater. Proc. 2024, 17(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024017028 - 24 Apr 2024

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have rapidly become a hot area of research in the photovoltaic field due to their (e.g., 26.2%), ease of fabrication, and low cost. Over the last decade the electron transport layer (ETL) has been one of the most critical [...] Read more.

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have rapidly become a hot area of research in the photovoltaic field due to their (e.g., 26.2%), ease of fabrication, and low cost. Over the last decade the electron transport layer (ETL) has been one of the most critical elements in achieving high-performing solar cells, necessitating a higher electron mobility and superior charge extraction ability. Consequently, there is a significant demand for an improved ETL that is not only cost-effective but also exhibits high charge extraction and mobility, particularly in the context of planar solar cell architecture. Tin Oxide (SnO₂) has emerged as one of the most promising high-performance inorganic ETLs suitable for PSCs. In this work, we synthesize solution-processed SnO₂. The spin-coated SnO₂ thin films undergo annealing at relatively low temperatures ranging from 130 °C to 180 °C and various characterization tools are employed for the evaluation of thin films. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of CEMP 2023)

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4 pages, 1374 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fabrication of 2-D Nanosheets of NbSe₂ via Liquid Phase Exfoliation and Their Morphological, Structural, and Optical Characterization

by Ayesha Jamshed, Maryam Basit, Saqib Ali, Sumbal Hakeem, Muhammad Arman Liaqat, Fatima Jamshed, Rahim Jan and Sofia Javed

Mater. Proc. 2024, 17(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024017027 - 24 Apr 2024

Abstract

The present work is on the synthesis and investigation of the structural, optical, and optoelectrical properties of NbSe₂ as an efficient material for energy conversion applications. The liquid phase exfoliation method was employed for the synthesis of 2D nanosheets from the bulk [...] Read more.

The present work is on the synthesis and investigation of the structural, optical, and optoelectrical properties of NbSe₂ as an efficient material for energy conversion applications. The liquid phase exfoliation method was employed for the synthesis of 2D nanosheets from the bulk NbSe₂ at different exfoliation levels. SEM was used to confirm the physical dimensions of the nanosheets, while XRD was used to verify the structural retention of hexagonal nanosheets. The results demonstrate that high-quality, single-crystalline NbSe₂ nanosheets with a size of ≈1 μm in the lateral dimension and ≈6–12 nm thick were obtained. The 2D nanosheets will be further explored for energy storage and conversion applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of CEMP 2023)

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4 pages, 149 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Alternative Resources of Rare Earth Elements in Pakistan

by Muhammad Daniel Saeed Pirzada

Mater. Proc. 2024, 17(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/materproc2024017026 - 23 Apr 2024

Abstract

Rare earth elements (REEs) have emerged as strategic elements. Due to their unique electronic and magnetic properties, REEs have extensive applications in modern-day technologies. Two aspects make the supply chain of REEs very critical: first, more than ~85% of the global rare earth [...] Read more.

Rare earth elements (REEs) have emerged as strategic elements. Due to their unique electronic and magnetic properties, REEs have extensive applications in modern-day technologies. Two aspects make the supply chain of REEs very critical: first, more than ~85% of the global rare earth elements are processed by China alone; second, presently, hardly any substitute materials exist for these elements. The supply chain of these elements is vulnerable because of the Chinese monopoly on rare earth resources. These circumstances drove researchers to explore alternative resources for these elements. This article reviews the prospective alternative resources of REEs. Based on the available resources and technical experience, a road map has also been suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of CEMP 2023)

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Materials Proceedings

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