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Journal = Materials
Section = Polymeric Materials

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20 pages, 4427 KiB  
Article
Mechanistic Insights into m-Cresol Adsorption on Functional Resins: Surface Chemistry and Adsorption Behavior
by Yali Wang, Zhenrui Wang, Zile Liu, Xiyue He and Zequan Zeng
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3628; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153628 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 115
Abstract
The removal of high-concentration m-cresol from industrial wastewater remains a significant challenge due to its toxicity and persistence. In this study, a commercially available functionalized resin with a high BET surface area (1439 m2 g−1) and hierarchical pore structure was [...] Read more.
The removal of high-concentration m-cresol from industrial wastewater remains a significant challenge due to its toxicity and persistence. In this study, a commercially available functionalized resin with a high BET surface area (1439 m2 g−1) and hierarchical pore structure was employed for the adsorption of pure m-cresol at an initial concentration of 20 g L−1, representative of coal-based industrial effluents. Comprehensive characterization confirmed the presence of oxygen-rich functional groups, amorphous polymeric structure, and uniform surface morphology conducive to adsorption. Batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of resin dosage, contact time, temperature, and equilibrium concentration. Under optimized conditions (0.15 g resin, 60 °C), a maximum adsorption capacity of 556.3 mg g−1 and removal efficiency of 71% were achieved. Kinetic analysis revealed that the pseudo-second-order model best described the adsorption process (R2 > 0.99). Isotherm data fit the Langmuir model most closely (R2 = 0.9953), yielding a monolayer capacity of 833.3 mg g−1. Thermodynamic analysis showed that adsorption was spontaneous (ΔG° < 0), endothermic (ΔH° = 7.553 kJ mol−1), and accompanied by increased entropy (ΔS° = 29.90 J mol−1 K−1). The good agreement with the PSO model is indicative of chemisorption, as supported by other lines of evidence, including thermodynamic parameters (e.g., positive ΔH° and ΔS°), surface functional group characteristics, and molecular interactions. The adsorption mechanism was elucidated through comprehensive modeling of adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamics, combined with detailed physicochemical characterization of the resin prior to adsorption, reinforcing the mechanistic understanding of m-cresol–resin interactions. Full article
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18 pages, 4169 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Thermoelectric Composites: A Study of Bi2Te3-Filled Biobased Resin
by Luca Ferretti, Pietro Russo, Jessica Passaro, Francesca Nanni, Saverio D’Ascoli, Francesco Fabbrocino and Mario Bragaglia
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3453; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153453 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
In this work, bio-based thermoelectric composites were developed using acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) as the polymer matrix and bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) as the thermoelectric filler. The materials were formulated for both UV-curing and thermal-curing processes, with a focus [...] Read more.
In this work, bio-based thermoelectric composites were developed using acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) as the polymer matrix and bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) as the thermoelectric filler. The materials were formulated for both UV-curing and thermal-curing processes, with a focus on Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printing. Although UV curing proved ineffective at high filler concentrations due to the light opacity of Bi2Te3, thermal curing enabled the fabrication of stable, homogeneously dispersed composites. The samples were thoroughly characterized through rheology, FTIR, TGA, XRD, SEM, and density measurements. Thermoelectric performance was assessed under a 70 °C temperature gradient, with Seebeck coefficients reaching up to 51 µV/K. Accelerated chemical degradation studies in basic media confirmed the degradability of the matrix. The results demonstrate the feasibility of combining additive manufacturing with sustainable materials for low-power thermoelectric energy harvesting applications. Full article
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19 pages, 594 KiB  
Article
Influence of In Situ Polymerization on the Compressive Strength of Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) Recovered from Demolition Timber and Two Forest-Sourced Species: European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) and Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa)
by Emil Żmuda and Kamil Roman
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3439; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153439 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 159
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of in situ polymerization on the compressive strength of demolition-derived Scots pine, European beech, and black alder wood. The treatment applied was based on previously confirmed in situ polymerization systems in wood, which are known to lead to [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effect of in situ polymerization on the compressive strength of demolition-derived Scots pine, European beech, and black alder wood. The treatment applied was based on previously confirmed in situ polymerization systems in wood, which are known to lead to polymer formation and composite-like structures. In this study, we assumed similar behavior and focused on a mechanical evaluation of the modified wood. Three different polymer systems were applied to evaluate differences in performance. After modification, the compressive strength levels increased by 60% in beech, 119% in alder, and 150% in pine, with corresponding increases in density and weight percent gain (WPG). The highest relative improvement was observed in the least dense species, pine. The findings suggest that polymer treatment can significantly enhance the mechanical properties, likely due to the incorporation of polymer into the wood matrix; however, this inference is based on indirect physical evidence. Full article
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15 pages, 3980 KiB  
Article
Four-Dimensional-Printed Woven Metamaterials for Vibration Reduction and Energy Absorption in Aircraft Landing Gear
by Xiong Wang, Changliang Lin, Liang Li, Yang Lu, Xizhe Zhu and Wenjie Wang
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143371 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 327
Abstract
Addressing the urgent need for lightweight and reusable energy-absorbing materials in aviation impact resistance, this study introduces an innovative multi-directional braided metamaterial design enabled by 4D printing technology. This approach overcomes the dual challenges of intricate manufacturing processes and the limited functionality inherent [...] Read more.
Addressing the urgent need for lightweight and reusable energy-absorbing materials in aviation impact resistance, this study introduces an innovative multi-directional braided metamaterial design enabled by 4D printing technology. This approach overcomes the dual challenges of intricate manufacturing processes and the limited functionality inherent to traditional textile preforms. Six distinct braided structural units (types 1–6) were devised based on periodic trigonometric functions (Y = A sin(12πX)), and integrated with shape memory polylactic acid (SMP-PLA), thereby achieving a synergistic combination of topological architecture and adaptive response characteristics. Compression tests reveal that reducing strip density to 50–25% (as in types 1–3) markedly enhances energy absorption performance, achieving a maximum specific energy absorption of 3.3 J/g. Three-point bending tests further demonstrate that the yarn amplitude parameter A is inversely correlated with load-bearing capacity; for instance, the type 1 structure (A = 3) withstands a maximum load stress of 8 MPa, representing a 100% increase compared to the type 2 structure (A = 4.5). A multi-branch viscoelastic constitutive model elucidates the temperature-dependent stress relaxation behavior during the glass–rubber phase transition and clarifies the relaxation time conversion mechanism governed by the Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) and Arrhenius equations. Experimental results further confirm the shape memory effect, with the type 3 structure fully recovering its original shape within 3 s under thermal stimulation at 80 °C, thus addressing the non-reusability issue of conventional energy-absorbing structures. This work establishes a new paradigm for the design of impact-resistant aviation components, particularly in the context of anti-collision structures and reusable energy absorption systems for eVTOL aircraft. Future research should further investigate the regulation of multi-stimulus response behaviors and microstructural optimization to advance the engineering application of smart textile metamaterials in aviation protection systems. Full article
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20 pages, 5885 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Buckling and Failure in Thin-Walled Columns Fabricated from PLA and PETG Using FDM 3D Printing
by Denys Baranovskyi, Pawel Wysmulski, Patryk Rozylo, Hubert Debski, Maryna Bulakh, Marcin Kopyść and Sergey Myamlin
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3346; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143346 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 325
Abstract
This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the buckling and failure behavior of thin-walled square columns made from PLA and PETG polymers using FDM 3D printing technology. Thin-walled square columns made from thermoplastic materials, intended for use in lightweight load-bearing [...] Read more.
This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the buckling and failure behavior of thin-walled square columns made from PLA and PETG polymers using FDM 3D printing technology. Thin-walled square columns made from thermoplastic materials, intended for use in lightweight load-bearing applications such as structural supports in transportation, construction, and mechanical assemblies, were tested under axial compression from the onset of buckling to complete failure. The novelty of this work lies in the application of an interdisciplinary experimental approach to the analysis of the behavior of thin-walled columns made of PLA and PETG materials during FDM 3D printing under compression until complete failure, as well as the use of acoustic and optical diagnostic methods for a comprehensive assessment of damage. The experimental results are as follows: Buckling load (N): PLA—1175 ± 32, PETG1—1910 ± 34, PETG2—1315 ± 27. Ultimate load (N): PLA—2770, PETG1—4077, PETG2—2847. Maximum strain: PLA—11.35%, PETG1—11.77%, PETG2—10.99%. Among the tested materials, PETG1 exhibited the highest resistance and energy absorption capacity upon failure, making it a favorable choice for manufacturing 3D-printed load-bearing columns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymeric Materials)
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18 pages, 3288 KiB  
Article
Influence of Material Optical Properties in Direct ToF LiDAR Optical Tactile Sensing: Comprehensive Evaluation
by Ilze Aulika, Andrejs Ogurcovs, Meldra Kemere, Arturs Bundulis, Jelena Butikova, Karlis Kundzins, Emmanuel Bacher, Martin Laurenzis, Stephane Schertzer, Julija Stopar, Ales Zore and Roman Kamnik
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3287; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143287 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 322
Abstract
Optical tactile sensing is gaining traction as a foundational technology in collaborative and human-interactive robotics, where reliable touch and pressure feedback are critical. Traditional systems based on total internal reflection (TIR) and frustrated TIR (FTIR) often require complex infrared setups and lack adaptability [...] Read more.
Optical tactile sensing is gaining traction as a foundational technology in collaborative and human-interactive robotics, where reliable touch and pressure feedback are critical. Traditional systems based on total internal reflection (TIR) and frustrated TIR (FTIR) often require complex infrared setups and lack adaptability to curved or flexible surfaces. To overcome these limitations, we developed OptoSkin—a novel tactile platform leveraging direct time-of-flight (ToF) LiDAR principles for robust contact and pressure detection. In this extended study, we systematically evaluate how key optical properties of waveguide materials affect ToF signal behavior and sensing fidelity. We examine a diverse set of materials, characterized by varying light transmission (82–92)%, scattering coefficients (0.02–1.1) cm−1, diffuse reflectance (0.17–7.40)%, and refractive indices 1.398–1.537 at the ToF emitter wavelength of 940 nm. Through systematic evaluation, we demonstrate that controlled light scattering within the material significantly enhances ToF signal quality for both direct touch and near-proximity sensing. These findings underscore the critical role of material selection in designing efficient, low-cost, and geometry-independent optical tactile systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymeric Materials)
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19 pages, 7553 KiB  
Article
Effect of Mass Reduction of 3D-Printed PLA on Load Transfer Capacity—A Circular Economy Perspective
by Aneta Liber-Kneć and Sylwia Łagan
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3262; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143262 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 495
Abstract
(1) Background: Optimizing infill density in 3D-printed PLA parts reduces material usage, cost, and waste. This study examines mechanical behavior in the initial and hydration stages. The findings provide valuable data for numerical simulations and engineering applications in additive manufacturing. (2) Methods: PLA [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Optimizing infill density in 3D-printed PLA parts reduces material usage, cost, and waste. This study examines mechanical behavior in the initial and hydration stages. The findings provide valuable data for numerical simulations and engineering applications in additive manufacturing. (2) Methods: PLA specimens were printed with infill densities of 100%, 75%, and 25%. Mechanical tests, including tensile and compression tests, and one-hour stress-relaxation at 2% strain were conducted. The digital image correlation method was used to obtain the strain fields on the samples’ surface under tensile loading. Mechanical properties, including the elastic modulus, strength values, and Poisson’s ratio, were assessed. Hydrolytic degradation effects over one month were also evaluated. (3) Results: Lowering the PLA infill density reduced the ultimate tensile strength (from 60.04 ± 2.24 MPa to 26.24 ± 0.77 MPa), Young’s modulus (from 2645.05 ± 204.15 MPa to 1245.41 ± 83.79 MPa), compressive strength (from 26.59 ± 0.80 MPa to 21.83 ± 1.01 MPa), and Poisson’s ratio (from 0.32 to 0.30). A 40% mass reduction (form 100% to 25% infill density) resulted in a 56% decrease in tensile strength and a 53% decrease in Young’s modulus. A 31% mass reduction was observed for compression samples. Stress relaxation decreased significantly from 100% to 75% density, with further reductions having minimal impact. Hydrated samples showed no mechanical changes compared to baseline specimens. (4) Conclusions: Optimizing infill density in 3D-printed PLA parts helps to balance mechanical performance with material efficiency. The best mechanical properties are typically achieved with an infill density of 100%, but results show that decreasing the mass of the part by a reduction in infill density from 75% to 25% does not significantly affect the ability to transfer tensile and compression loads. PLA’s biodegradability makes it a viable alternative to stable polymers. By minimizing material waste and enabling the efficient use of resources, additive manufacturing aligns with the principles of a closed-loop economy, supporting sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Researches in Polymer and Plastic Processing)
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27 pages, 6448 KiB  
Article
Valorization of Olive Tree Pruning and By-Products from the Truck Industry in the Manufacture of Low-Environmental-Impact Particleboard
by Juan José Valenzuela Expósito, Elena Picazo Camilo, Griselda Elisabeth Perea Toledo and Francisco Antonio Corpas Iglesias
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143258 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 442
Abstract
This study presents the development of particleboards made from olive tree pruning (OTP) residues and truck industry by-products (RCM), using PUR resin as a binder. Five formulations with different OTP/RCM ratios were designed and physical, thermal, mechanical, chemical and microstructural properties were evaluated. [...] Read more.
This study presents the development of particleboards made from olive tree pruning (OTP) residues and truck industry by-products (RCM), using PUR resin as a binder. Five formulations with different OTP/RCM ratios were designed and physical, thermal, mechanical, chemical and microstructural properties were evaluated. The results showed that increasing the RCM content improves the dimensional stability, reduces water absorption and swelling and decreases thermal conductivity, reaching 0.061 W/mK. At the mechanical level, MOR, MOE and IB values of 7.11, 630 and 0.134 MPa, respectively, were obtained. A higher OTP content allows a reduction in the density of the particleboard (752.67 kg/m3) due to the granulometry of the material. FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed the good integration of the materials with the resin, highlighting a lower porosity and higher compaction in formulations with a high RCM content. These results demonstrate that the combination of agricultural and industrial by-products is feasible to manufacture a sustainable particleboard with customizable properties, promoting the circular economy and reducing the dependence on virgin raw materials in the construction sector. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Recycling/Reuse of Polymers and Composites)
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23 pages, 18015 KiB  
Article
Interaction Mechanisms in «Portland Cement—Functional Polymer Mineral Additives» Binder Produced by Different Methods
by Valeria Strokova, Svetlana Bondarenko, Irina Markova, Natalia Kozhukhova, Nikita Lukyanenko and Danil Potapov
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3178; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133178 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 320
Abstract
The construction industry is the main consumer of mineral resources. At the same time, the Portland cement (PC) industry occupies a leading position, using expensive, high-quality raw materials. This is due to the high rate of construction in different areas (industrial, civil, road [...] Read more.
The construction industry is the main consumer of mineral resources. At the same time, the Portland cement (PC) industry occupies a leading position, using expensive, high-quality raw materials. This is due to the high rate of construction in different areas (industrial, civil, road construction, etc.). The widespread application of PC is due primarily to the strength and durability of composite materials based on it. Taking into account their specific purpose, PC-based composites are usually optimized to achieve specified characteristics and rational use of raw materials. To reduce PC consumption and justify the possibility of its use in complex binders, this manuscript analyzes the composition of a functional polymer–mineral additive; the nature and mechanisms of its interaction with PC depend on the method of introducing the additive (dry mixing/joint grinding of the clinker–gypsum mixture with the additive at the stage of binder preparation). Based on the data of XRD, IR, and SEM analysis, as well as taking into account patent information, the composition of the additive was clarified. The combined application of the above methods allowed us to establish the uniformity of the additive distribution in the binder depending on the introduction method and to evaluate the effect of each additive component and its mutual impact on the processes occurring during cement hydration. As a result, it was established that the most effective introduction method is combined grinding. A phenomenological model of the structure formation of additives containing cement paste is proposed. The binder production by the combined grinding method promotes the intensification of the processes occurring during hydration, as evidenced by the data of qualitative and quantitative XRD, IR, and DTA analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and TGA analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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24 pages, 11951 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Various Chemical Modifications of Sheep Wool Fibers on the Long-Term Mechanical Properties of Sheep Wool/PLA Biocomposites
by Piotr Szatkowski
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3056; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133056 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 437
Abstract
Sheep wool is a natural fiber from various sheep breeds, mainly used in clothing for its insulation properties. It makes up a small share of global fiber production, which is declining as synthetic fibers replace wool and meat farming becomes more profitable. Wool [...] Read more.
Sheep wool is a natural fiber from various sheep breeds, mainly used in clothing for its insulation properties. It makes up a small share of global fiber production, which is declining as synthetic fibers replace wool and meat farming becomes more profitable. Wool from slaughter sheep, often unsuitable for textiles, is treated as biodegradable waste. The aim of the study was to develop a fully biodegradable composite of natural origin from a polylactide (PLA) matrix reinforced with sheep wool and to select the optimal modifications (chemical) of sheep wool fibers to obtain modified properties, including mechanical properties. The behavior of the composites after exposure to aging conditions simulating naturally occurring stimuli causing biodegradation and thus changes in the material’s performance over its lifespan was also examined. Dynamic thermal analysis was used to describe and parameterize the obtained data and their variables, and the mechanical properties were investigated. The research culminated in a microscopic analysis along with changes in surface properties. The study demonstrated that wool-reinforced composites exhibited significantly improved resistance to UV degradation compared to pure PLA, with samples containing 15% unmodified wool showing a 54% increase in storage modulus at 0 °C after aging. Chemical modifications using nitric acid, iron compounds, and tar were successfully implemented to enhance fiber–matrix compatibility, resulting in increased glass transition temperatures and modified mechanical properties. Although wool fiber is not a good choice for modifications to increase mechanical strength, adding wool fiber does not improve mechanical properties but also does not worsen them much. Wool fibers are a good filler that accelerates degradation and are also a waste, which reduces the potential costs of producing such a biocomposite. The research established that these biocomposites maintain sufficient mechanical properties for packaging applications while offering better environmental resistance than pure polylactide, contributing to the development of circular economy solutions for agricultural waste valorization. So far, no studies have been conducted in the literature on the influence of sheep wool and its modified versions on the mechanical properties and the influence of modification on the degradation rate of PLA/sheep wool biocomposites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers and Composites for Multifunctional Applications)
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24 pages, 11394 KiB  
Article
A Comprehensive Experimental, Simulation, and Characterization Mechanical Analysis of Ecoflex and Its Formulation Under Uniaxial Testing
by Ranjith Janardhana, Fazli Akram, Zeynel Guler, Akanksha Adaval and Nathan Jackson
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3037; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133037 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 544
Abstract
The current study focuses on the manufacturing and characterization of various forms of Ecoflex and their composites to improve the mechanical properties and surface texture, specifically for use in wearable sensors and electronic skin applications. Various types of Ecoflex elastomers were mixed to [...] Read more.
The current study focuses on the manufacturing and characterization of various forms of Ecoflex and their composites to improve the mechanical properties and surface texture, specifically for use in wearable sensors and electronic skin applications. Various types of Ecoflex elastomers were mixed to form blended composite materials, which could be used to tune the mechanical properties. Experimental and simulation methods were conducted to understand the mechanical behavior and material properties of the manufactured samples under large deformation (1200% strain) by various dynamic loading conditions. Further, the surface conditions of specimens were analyzed and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and contact angle goniometer. The Yeoh model reasonably predicts the viscoelastic and hysteresis behavior of Ecoflex and its composites in accordance with the experimental data for small and large strain. The surface smoothness and moisture-resistant properties of the material surface were enhanced up to a contact angle of 127° (maximum) by adding x = 15 wt% of surface tension diffusers, with a slight compromise in stretchability. This comprehensive investigation and database of Ecoflex–Ecoflex composite can guide and help researchers in selecting and applying the most appropriate Ecoflex/blended solutions for a specific application, while providing insight into the mechanics of materials of blended materials. Full article
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17 pages, 4709 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Particle-Reinforced Resin Using Highly Functional ZnO Particle Filler Driven by Supramolecular Interactions
by Haruka Nakagawa and Kohei Iritani
Materials 2025, 18(13), 2986; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18132986 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 350
Abstract
The surface modification of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) with organic compounds has been shown to improve their dispersibility. In this study, to develop a highly functional material, ZnONP modified with 6-amino-1-hexanol bearing both amino and hydroxyl functional groups was synthesized. Scanning electron microscopy–energy [...] Read more.
The surface modification of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) with organic compounds has been shown to improve their dispersibility. In this study, to develop a highly functional material, ZnONP modified with 6-amino-1-hexanol bearing both amino and hydroxyl functional groups was synthesized. Scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses confirmed that functionalized ZnONP was successfully obtained by a hydrothermal synthetic method. The mechanical properties of composite films of polylactic acid (PLA) reinforced with the functionalized ZnONP were then evaluated. The composite containing functionalized ZnONP exhibited a higher maximum stress than that containing unmodified ZnONP. These ZnONP/polymer composites therefore show promise as novel high-performance materials. Full article
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24 pages, 3669 KiB  
Review
Advances in Polypyrrole Nanofiber Composites: Design, Synthesis, and Performance in Tissue Engineering
by Lu Hao, Demei Yu, Xinyu Hou and Yixuan Zhao
Materials 2025, 18(13), 2965; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18132965 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 489
Abstract
This review is different from previous studies focusing on polypyrrole (PPy) in universal fields such as sensors and supercapacitors. It is the first TO systematically review the specific applications of PPy-based electrospun nanofiber composites in the biomedical field, focusing on its biocompatibility regulation [...] Read more.
This review is different from previous studies focusing on polypyrrole (PPy) in universal fields such as sensors and supercapacitors. It is the first TO systematically review the specific applications of PPy-based electrospun nanofiber composites in the biomedical field, focusing on its biocompatibility regulation mechanism and tissue repair function. Although PPy exhibits exceptional electrical conductivity, redox activity, and biocompatibility, its clinical translation is hindered by processing challenges and poor degradability. These limitations can be significantly mitigated through composite strategies with degradable nanomaterials, enhancing both process compatibility and biofunctionality. Leveraging the morphological similarity between electrospun nanofibers and the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), this work comprehensively analyzes the topological characteristics of three composite fiber architectures—randomly distributed, aligned, and core–shell structures—and elucidates their application mechanisms in nerve regeneration, skin repair, bone mineralization, and myocardial tissue reconstruction (e.g., facilitating oriented cell migration and regulating differentiation through specific signaling pathway activation). The study further highlights critical challenges in the field, including PPy’s poor solubility, limited spinnability, insufficient mechanical strength, and scalability limitations. Future efforts should prioritize the development of multifunctional gradient composites, intelligent dynamic-responsive scaffolds, and standardized biosafety evaluation systems to accelerate the substantive translation of these materials into clinical applications. Full article
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22 pages, 5538 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Biochemical and Microbial Behavior of Poly(Lactide) Composites with Polyethersulfone and Copper-Complexed Cellulose Phosphate
by Marcin H. Kudzin, Zdzisława Mrozińska, Anna Kaczmarek, Jerzy J. Chruściel, Martyna Gloc and Renata Żyłła
Materials 2025, 18(13), 2954; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18132954 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 457
Abstract
This research investigates the biochemical and microbiological characteristics of a composite comprising poly(lactide) (PLA) combined with polyethersulfone (PESf) and copper-complexed cellulose phosphate (CelP-Cu). The material was produced using the pneumothermic melt-blown method and then modified with polyethersulfone and cellulose phosphate, followed by complexation [...] Read more.
This research investigates the biochemical and microbiological characteristics of a composite comprising poly(lactide) (PLA) combined with polyethersulfone (PESf) and copper-complexed cellulose phosphate (CelP-Cu). The material was produced using the pneumothermic melt-blown method and then modified with polyethersulfone and cellulose phosphate, followed by complexation with copper ions using the dip-coating technique. Comprehensive physicochemical and biological evaluations were conducted to characterize the composite. The physicochemical assessments involved elemental analysis (C, O, Cu) and morphology examination. The biological evaluations encompassed microbiological testing and biochemical–hematological analysis, including activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT). Antimicrobial activity was assessed according to the EN ISO 20645:2006 and EN 14119:2005 standards, by placing material specimens on agar plates inoculated with representative microorganisms. The results revealed that the composites exhibited significant antimicrobial effects against model microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus atrophaeus, Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Aspergillus niger, Chaetomium globosum. This study highlights the potential of PLA/PESf/CelP-Cu composites for novel biomedical applications, demonstrating their biocompatibility and their influence on hemostatic processes and antimicrobial properties. Full article
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16 pages, 9334 KiB  
Article
Polyethyleneimine Modified Expanded Vermiculite-Supported Nano Zero-Valent Iron for Cr(VI) Removal from Aqueous Solution
by Xinyu Yang, Yan Mu, Lina Zhang, Dan Sun, Tiantian Jian and Weiliang Tian
Materials 2025, 18(13), 2930; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18132930 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 820
Abstract
In order to develop an efficient, environmentally friendly heavy metal ions adsorbent, the amino-modified expanded vermiculite-supported nano zero-valent iron (nZVI@PEI/EVMT) was prepared by using polyethyleneimine (PEI) as the functional reagent and expanded vermiculite (EVMT) as the carrier. The characterization results of nZVI@PEI/EVMT confirm [...] Read more.
In order to develop an efficient, environmentally friendly heavy metal ions adsorbent, the amino-modified expanded vermiculite-supported nano zero-valent iron (nZVI@PEI/EVMT) was prepared by using polyethyleneimine (PEI) as the functional reagent and expanded vermiculite (EVMT) as the carrier. The characterization results of nZVI@PEI/EVMT confirm that the PEI modification did not destroy the crystal configuration of EVMT, and when nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) was successfully loaded onto the PEI/EVMT surface, the value of saturation magnetic field was 41.5 emu/g, which could be separated from solution with magnet. The performance of Cr(VI) adsorption onto nZVI@PEI/EVMT was studied, showing that the ideal mass ratio for nZVI@PEI/EVMT was 1:1, and the removal capacity was largest when solution pH was 2. After four adsorption–desorption cycles, the adsorption amounts remained 40.1 mg/g. The Cr(VI) adsorption onto nZVI@PEI/EVMT was more consistent with a pseudo-second-order kinetics equation. Isotherm adsorption data accord with the Langmuir model, which suggests that the adsorption was the monolayer, the maximum adsorption amount was 116.2 mg/g at 30 °C and pH 2, and the adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic. It was inferred that the adsorption mechanisms included electrostatic attraction, reduction, chemical complexation, and co-precipitation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymeric Materials)
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