Solids

This review systematizes data on the phase composition and key properties of compounds in the W–B system, including thermodynamic stability, crystal structure, and hardness. The current understanding of the binary W–B phase diagram and the stability of individual borides is discussed, alongside the influence of defects and non-stoichiometry on their properties. The main methods for synthesizing these materials and producing coatings based on them are summarized. Potential applications of tungsten borides are highlighted, particularly for high-temperature environments, cutting tools, and protective and functional coatings. Finally, key directions for future research are outlined, focusing on the refinement of phase equilibria, the scaling of production methods, and the development of W–B-based materials with tailored performance characteristics.

Enhancing the solubility and processability of graphene remains a critical challenge, limiting its integration into advanced materials systems. In this work, poly(tert-butyl acrylate) (PtBA) and poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM) were grafted onto graphene via controlled atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) to create well-defined polymer–graphene hybrids with tunable interfacial properties. ATRP enabled the synthesis of PtBA and PNIPAM homopolymers with narrow molecular weight distributions and systematically varied chain lengths (4–18 kDa), allowing direct correlation between polymer architecture and material performance. Notably, the thermos-responsive behavior of PNIPAM was strongly dependent on chain length, highlighting the importance of controlled polymer design. Raman and FTIR spectroscopy confirmed successful grafting and chemical modification of the graphene surface. In addition, pilot studies demonstrate the ATRP synthesis of PtBA-b-PNIPAM block copolymers and their hydrolysis to PAA-b-PNIPAM, providing a platform for future development of multifunctional graphene interfaces. Overall, this study establishes a versatile and precisely controlled route for engineering polymer-grafted graphene with enhanced solubility and tunable functionality, enabling broader applications in smart materials and hybrid nanocomposites.

Aluminum foam is expected to be applied in various industrial fields as a lightweight, multifunctional material. When it is used as an industrial product, it is essential to form it into the required shape. There have been some attempts to form aluminum foam. However, the formability remains low. In this study, we attempted to form aluminum foam, which was fabricated by heat foaming a precursor, into a flat plate by reheating it above its foaming temperature and then roller forming it. It was found that heating above the foaming temperature and subsequent roller forming enabled the aluminum foam to be formed into a flat plate without causing defects. In a sample in which the precursor was roller-formed immediately after foaming, it was found that compared to the as-foamed aluminum foam, the decrease in porosity was limited to approximately 5%, enabling roller forming while minimizing the influences on pore structures. In samples that were roller-formed after reheating, porosities slightly decreased, but most pores were retained. Even when the aluminum foam was roller-formed to the same thickness as the initial precursor before foaming, the porosities exhibited around 65%, limiting the reduction in porosities to approximately 15% compared to the as-foamed aluminum foam.