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Search Results (489)

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Keywords = crystalline network

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20 pages, 6318 KiB  
Article
Mesoscale Damage Evolution, Localization, and Failure in Solid Propellants Under Strain Rate and Temperature Effects
by Bo Gao, Youcai Xiao, Wanqian Yu, Kepeng Qu and Yi Sun
Polymers 2025, 17(15), 2093; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152093 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 170
Abstract
High-energy solid propellants are multiphase engineering materials, whose mechanical behavior is predominantly governed by the characteristics of embedded crystalline particles. While microstructural influences have been extensively examined, quantitative correlations between microstructure and macroscopic mechanical properties remain underexplored. This work develops a cohesive finite [...] Read more.
High-energy solid propellants are multiphase engineering materials, whose mechanical behavior is predominantly governed by the characteristics of embedded crystalline particles. While microstructural influences have been extensively examined, quantitative correlations between microstructure and macroscopic mechanical properties remain underexplored. This work develops a cohesive finite element method (CFEM) framework to quantify the thermomechanical response of high-energy solid propellants at the microstructural scale. The analysis focuses on impact loading at strain rates ranging from 103 to 104 s−1, accounting for large deformation, thermomechanical coupling, and microcrack-induced failure. Damage evolution under impact conditions was evaluated using a combined neural network-based inverse identification method and a three-dimensional cohesive finite element model to determine temperature-dependent bilinear-polynomial cohesive parameters. Results demonstrate a strong dependence of the propellant’s mechanical behavior on both strain rate and temperature. Validation against experimental data confirms that the proposed temperature-sensitive CFEM accurately predicts both damage progression and macroscopic mechanical responses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Processing and Engineering)
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13 pages, 3594 KiB  
Article
The Synthesis of New Chalcogenides from the System GeTe6-Cu and a Layered Structure Based on Them and an Azo Polymer for Application in Optoelectronics
by Yordanka Trifonova, Ani Stoilova, Deyan Dimov, Georgi Mateev, Dimana Nazarova, Lian Nedelchev, Vladislava Ivanova and Vanya Lilova
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3387; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143387 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
New bulk chalcogenides from the system (GeTe6)1−xCux, where x = 5, 10, 15 and 20 mol%, have been synthesized. The structure and composition of the materials were studied using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). [...] Read more.
New bulk chalcogenides from the system (GeTe6)1−xCux, where x = 5, 10, 15 and 20 mol%, have been synthesized. The structure and composition of the materials were studied using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was applied to analyze the surface morphology of the samples. Some thermal characteristics such as the glass transition, crystallization and melting temperature and some physico-chemical properties such as the density, compactness and molar and free volumes were also determined. The XRD patterns show sharp diffraction peaks, indicating that the synthesized new bulk materials are crystalline. The following four crystal phases were determined: Te, Cu, CuTe and Cu2GeTe3. The results from the EDS confirmed the presence of Ge, Te and Cu in the bulk samples in concentrations in good correspondence with those theoretically determined. A layered thin-film material based on Ge14Te81Cu5, which exhibits lower network compactness compared to the other synthesized new chalcogenides, and the azo polymer PAZO was fabricated, and the kinetics of the photoinduced birefringence at 444 nm was measured. The results indicated an increase in the maximal induced birefringence for the layered structure in comparison to the non-doped azo polymer film. Full article
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33 pages, 167102 KiB  
Article
Influence of Mineralogical and Petrographic Properties on the Mechanical Behavior of Granitic and Mafic Rocks
by Muhammad Faisal Waqar, Songfeng Guo, Shengwen Qi, Malik Aoun Murtaza Karim, Khan Zada, Izhar Ahmed and Yanjun Shang
Minerals 2025, 15(7), 747; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15070747 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 368
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of mineralogical and petrographic characteristics on the mechanical behavior of granitic and mafic rocks from the Shuangjiangkou (Sichuan Province) and Damiao complexes (Hebei Province) in China. The research methodology combined petrographic investigation, comprising optical microscopy and Scanning Electron [...] Read more.
This study investigates the impact of mineralogical and petrographic characteristics on the mechanical behavior of granitic and mafic rocks from the Shuangjiangkou (Sichuan Province) and Damiao complexes (Hebei Province) in China. The research methodology combined petrographic investigation, comprising optical microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy–Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) methods, with methodical geotechnical characterization to establish quantitative relationships between mineralogical composition and engineering properties. The petrographic studies revealed three lithologic groups: fine-to-medium-grained Shuangjiangkou granite (45%–60% feldspar, 27%–35% quartz, 10%–15% mica), plagioclase-rich anorthosite (more than 90% of plagioclase), and intermediate mangerite (40%–50% of plagioclase, 25%–35% of perthite). The uniaxial compressive strength tests showed great variations: granite (127.53 ± 15.07 MPa), anorthosite (167.81 ± 23.45 MPa), and mangerite (205.12 ± 23.87 MPa). Physical properties demonstrated inverse correlations between mechanical strength and both water absorption (granite: 0.25%–0.42%; anorthosite: 0.07%–0.44%; mangerite: 0.10%–0.25%) and apparent porosity (granite: 0.75%–0.92%; anorthosite: 0.20%–1.20%; mangerite: 0.29%–0.69%), with positive correlations to specific gravity (granite: 1.88–3.03; anorthosite: 2.67–2.90; mangerite: 2.43–2.99). Critical petrographic features controlling mechanical behavior include the following: (1) mica content in granite creating anisotropic properties, (2) extensive feldspar alteration through sericitization increasing microporosity and reducing intergranular cohesion, (3) plagioclase micro-fracturing and alteration to clinozoisite–sericite assemblages in anorthosite creating weakness networks, and (4) mangerite’s superior composition of >95% hard minerals with minimal sheet mineral content and limited alteration. Failure mode analysis indicated distinct patterns: granite experiencing shear-dominated failure (30–45° diagonal planes), anorthosite demonstrated tensile fracturing with vertical splitting, and mangerite showed catastrophic brittle failure with extensive fracture networks. These findings provide quantitative frameworks that relate petrographic features to engineering behavior, offering valuable insights for rock mass assessment and engineering design in similar crystalline rock terrains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization of Geological Material at Nano- and Micro-scales)
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19 pages, 5242 KiB  
Article
Polydextrose Addition Improves the Chewiness and Extended Shelf-Life of Chinese Steamed Bread Through the Formation of a Sticky, Elastic Network Structure
by Chang Liu, Bing Dai, Xiaohong Luo, Hongdong Song and Xingjun Li
Gels 2025, 11(7), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11070545 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 343
Abstract
This study explored the effects of adding a newly developed type of polydextrose on the appearance, sensory score, and textural parameters of steamed bread and the microstructure of dough, as well as the pasting, thermal, and thermal mechanical properties of high-gluten wheat flours. [...] Read more.
This study explored the effects of adding a newly developed type of polydextrose on the appearance, sensory score, and textural parameters of steamed bread and the microstructure of dough, as well as the pasting, thermal, and thermal mechanical properties of high-gluten wheat flours. The results revealed that, compared with a control sample, 3–10% of polydextrose addition significantly increased the hardness, adhesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness of steamed bread, but other textural parameters like springiness, cohesiveness, and resilience remained basically the same. Further, in contrast to the control sample, 3–10% polydextrose addition significantly reduced the specific volume and width/height ratio of steamed bread but increased the brightness index, yellowish color, and color difference; improved the internal structure; and maintained the other sensory parameters and total score. Polydextrose addition decreased the peak, trough, final, breakdown, and setback viscosity of the pasting of wheat flour suspension solutions but increased the pasting temperature. Polydextrose additions significantly reduced the enthalpy of gelatinization and the aging rate of flour paste but increased the peak temperature of gelatinization. A Mixolab revealed that, with increases in the amount of added polydextrose, the dough’s development time and heating rate increased, but the proteins weakened, and the peak torque of gelatinization, starch breakdown, and starch setback torque all decreased. Polydextrose additions increased the crystalline regions of starch, the interaction between proteins and starch, and the β-sheet percentage of wheat dough without yeast and of steamed bread. The amorphous regions of starch were increased in dough through adding polydextrose, but they were decreased in steamed bread. Further, 3–10%of polydextrose addition decreased the random coils, α-helixes, and β-turns in dough, but the 3–7% polydextrose addition maintained or increased these conformations in steamed bread, while 10% polydextrose decreased them. In unfermented dough, as a hydrogel, the 5–7% polydextrose addition resulted in the formation of a continuous three-dimensional network structure with certain adhesiveness and elasticity, with increases in the porosity and gas-holding capacity of the product. Moreover, the 10% polydextrose addition further increased the viscosity, freshness, and looseness of the dough, with smaller and more numerous holes and indistinct boundaries between starch granules. These results indicate that the 3–10% polydextrose addition increases the chewiness and freshness of steamed bread by improving the gluten network structure. This study will promote the addition of polydextrose in steamed bread to improve shelf-life and dietary fiber contents. Full article
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22 pages, 3797 KiB  
Article
Structurally Ordered NIPUs via Catalyst-Free Synthesis with Hard Segments Based on Erythritol and a Long-Chain Diamine
by Edyta Hebda, Karolina Wróbel, Aleksandra Cieślik, Kinga Szołdrowska, Jan Ozimek, Paulina Zając, Konstantinos N. Raftopoulos and Krzysztof Pielichowski
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 2912; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30142912 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 753
Abstract
A series of linear isocyanate-free polyurethanes (NIPUs) were obtained via the aminolysis of erythritol dicarbonate (EDC) with polyethers (diamino-PEG, diamino-PPO, and diamino-PEG/PPO) and 1,12-diaminododecane (DADD), which acts as a chain extender to form hard segments. The obtained NIPUs contained different concentrations of DADD [...] Read more.
A series of linear isocyanate-free polyurethanes (NIPUs) were obtained via the aminolysis of erythritol dicarbonate (EDC) with polyethers (diamino-PEG, diamino-PPO, and diamino-PEG/PPO) and 1,12-diaminododecane (DADD), which acts as a chain extender to form hard segments. The obtained NIPUs contained different concentrations of DADD relative to the polyether (72.5–80 wt%). A detailed chemical structure analysis of the synthesized NIPU was performed using a combination of FTIR and 1H NMR. FTIR spectra confirmed that the EDC/DADD segments formed a network of hydrogen bonds. This is reflected in WAXD diffractograms showing ordered crystalline domains originating in DADD. The reflections assigned to the EDC/DADD segments exhibited changes in their position and intensity with decreasing concentration, indicating an increase in interplanar spacing and a loss of higher-order order. WAXD also showed that the soft segments of PEG and PEG/PPO retain their ordered crystal structure regardless of the EDC/DADD content. At a larger length scale, SAXS revealed similar micromorphology for the different polyethers, with a broad peak indicating long-range order in the EDC/DADD-rich segments and a weak separation of the soft and hard phases. DSC analyses confirmed the complex phase behavior, where the PEG-based materials showed melting of crystalline fragments, and the amorphous PPO showed a glass transition. DMA indicated the stability of the glass transition temperature in the PPO samples and the presence of an unusual structural transition. The results emphasize the influence of the type of poly(ether) on the thermal and microphase properties of the studied non-isocyanate polyurethanes. Full article
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21 pages, 9386 KiB  
Article
Structural Characterization and Segmental Dynamics Evaluation in Eco-Friendly Polymer Electrospun Fibers Based on Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)/Polyvinylpyrrolidone Blends to Evaluate Their Sustainability
by Svetlana G. Karpova, Anatoly A. Olkhov, Ivetta A. Varyan, Ekaterina P. Dodina, Yulia K. Lukanina, Natalia G. Shilkina, Anatoly A. Popov, Alexandre A. Vetcher, Anna G. Filatova and Alexey L. Iordanskii
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(7), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9070355 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 366
Abstract
Ultrafine fibers from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and their blends with different component ratios in the range of 0/100 to 100/0 wt.% were obtained, and their structure and dynamic properties were studied. The polymers were obtained via electrospinning in solution mode. The [...] Read more.
Ultrafine fibers from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and their blends with different component ratios in the range of 0/100 to 100/0 wt.% were obtained, and their structure and dynamic properties were studied. The polymers were obtained via electrospinning in solution mode. The structure, morphology, and segmental dynamic behavior of the fibers were determined using optical microscopy, SEM, EPR, DSC, and IR spectroscopy. The low-temperature maximum on the DSC endotherms provided information on the state of the PVP hydrogen bond network, which made it possible to determine the enthalpies of thermal destruction of these bonds. The PHB/PVP fiber blend ratio significantly affected the structural and dynamic parameters of the system. Thus, at low concentrations of PVP (up to 9%) in the structure of ultra-fine fibers, the distribution of this polymer occurs in the form of tiny particles, which are crystallization centers, which causes a significant increase in the degree of crystallinity (χ) activation energy (Eact) and slowing down of molecular dynamics (τ). At higher concentrations of PVP, loose interphase layers were formed in the system, which caused a decrease in these parameters. The strongest changes in the concentration of hydrogen bonds occurred when PVP was added to the composition from 17 to 50%, which was due to the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonds both in PVP and during the interaction of PVP and PHB. The diffusion coefficient of water vapor in the studied systems (D) decreased as the concentration of glassy PVP in the composition increased. The concentration of the radical decreased with an increase in the proportion of PVP, which can be explained by the glassy state of this polymer at room temperature. A characteristic point of the 50/50% mixture component ratio was found in the region where an inversion transition of PHB from a dispersion material to a dispersed medium was assumed. The conducted studies made it possible for the first time to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the effect of the component ratio on the structural and dynamic characteristics of the PHB/PVP fibrous material at the molecular scale. Full article
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22 pages, 2366 KiB  
Article
Using Machine Learning and Analytical Modeling to Predict Poly-Crystalline PV Performance in Jordan
by Sinan S. Faouri, Salah Abdallah and Dana Helmi Salameh
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3458; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133458 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 269
Abstract
This study investigates the performance prediction of poly-crystalline photovoltaic (PV) systems in Jordan using experimental data, analytical models, and machine learning approaches. Two 5 kWp grid-connected PV systems at Applied Science Private University in Amman were analyzed: one south-oriented and another east–west (EW)-oriented. [...] Read more.
This study investigates the performance prediction of poly-crystalline photovoltaic (PV) systems in Jordan using experimental data, analytical models, and machine learning approaches. Two 5 kWp grid-connected PV systems at Applied Science Private University in Amman were analyzed: one south-oriented and another east–west (EW)-oriented. Both systems are fixed at an 11° tilt angle. Linear regression, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), ElasticNet, and artificial neural networks (ANNs) were employed for performance prediction. Among these, linear regression outperformed the others due to its accuracy, interpretability, and computational efficiency, making it an effective baseline model. LASSO and ElasticNet were also explored for their regularization benefits in managing feature relevance and correlation. ANNs were utilized to capture complex nonlinear relationships, but their performance was limited, likely because of the small sample size and lack of temporal dynamics. Regularization and architecture choices are discussed in this paper. For the EW system, linear regression predicted an annual yield of 1510.45 kWh/kWp with a 2.1% error, compared to 1433.9 kWh/kWp analytically (3.12% error). The south-oriented system achieved 1658.15 kWh/kWp with a 1.5% error, outperforming its analytical estimate of 1772.9 kWh/kWp (7.89% error). Productivity gains for the south-facing system reached 23.64% (analytical), 10.43% (experimental), and 9.77% (predicted). These findings support the technical and economic assessment of poly-crystalline PV deployment in Jordan and regions with similar climatic conditions. Full article
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15 pages, 2618 KiB  
Article
A Homogeneous Hexagonal-Structured Polymer Electrolyte Framework for High-Performance Polymer-Based Lithium Batteries Applicable at Room Temperature
by Seungjin Lee, Changseong Kim, Suyeon Kim, Gyungmin Hwang, Deokhee Yun, Ilhyeon Cho, Changseop Kim and Joonhyeon Jeon
Polymers 2025, 17(13), 1775; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17131775 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 460
Abstract
In polymer-based lithium batteries, polymer electrolytes (PEs) exhibit limited ionic conductivity at room temperature (25 °C). To address this issue, this paper describes a hexagonal-structure-based single-ion conducting gel polymer electrolyte (h-SICGPE) framework with a robust and efficient cross-linked polymer network, applicable [...] Read more.
In polymer-based lithium batteries, polymer electrolytes (PEs) exhibit limited ionic conductivity at room temperature (25 °C). To address this issue, this paper describes a hexagonal-structure-based single-ion conducting gel polymer electrolyte (h-SICGPE) framework with a robust and efficient cross-linked polymer network, applicable to polymer-based batteries even at 25 °C. The proposed cross-linked polymer network backbone of the h-SICGPE, as a semisolid-state thin film type, has the homogeneous honeycomb structure incorporating anion receptor(s) inside each of its hexagonal closed cells and is obtained by cross-linking between trimethylolpropane tris(3-mercaptopropionate) and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate in a newly synthesized anion–receptor solution. The excellent structural capability of the h-SICGPE incorporating Li+/TFSI can enhance ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability by suppressing crystallinity and expanding free volume. Further, the anion receptor in its free volume helps to effectively increase the lithium-ion transference number by immobilizing counter-anions. Experimental results demonstrate dramatically superior performance at 25 °C, such as ionic conductivity (2.46 mS cm−1), oxidative stability (4.9 V vs. Li/Li+), coulombic efficiency (97.65%), and capacity retention (88.3%). These results confirm the developed h-SICGPE as a promising polymer electrolyte for high-performance polymer-based lithium batteries operable at 25 °C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Applications)
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21 pages, 10268 KiB  
Article
Identification and Bioinformatics Analysis of the HSP20 Family in the Peony
by Haoran Ma, Heling Yuan, Wenxuan Bu, Minhuan Zhang, Yu Huang, Jian Hu and Jiwu Cao
Genes 2025, 16(7), 742; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16070742 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Background: The peony (Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.), a globally valued woody ornamental species, suffers severe heat-induced floral damage that compromises its horticultural value. While the HSP20 proteins are critical for plant thermotolerance, their genomic organization and regulatory dynamics remain uncharacterized in the peony. [...] Read more.
Background: The peony (Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.), a globally valued woody ornamental species, suffers severe heat-induced floral damage that compromises its horticultural value. While the HSP20 proteins are critical for plant thermotolerance, their genomic organization and regulatory dynamics remain uncharacterized in the peony. This study aims to systematically identify the PsHSP20 genes, resolve their molecular features, and elucidate their heat-responsive expression patterns to enable targeted thermotolerance breeding. Methods: The genome-wide identification employed HMMER and BLASTP searches against the peony genome. The physicochemical properties and protein structures of the gene family were analyzed using online websites, such as Expasy, Plant-mPLoc, and SOPMA. The cis-regulatory elements were predicted using PlantCARE. Expression profiles under different times of 40 °C heat stress were validated by qRT-PCR (p < 0.05). Results: We identified 58 PsHSP20 genes, classified into 11 subfamilies. All members retain the conserved α-crystallin domain, and exhibit predominant nuclear/cytoplasmic localization. Chromosomal mapping revealed uneven distribution without lineage-specific duplications. The promoters were enriched in stress-responsive elements (e.g., HSE, ABRE) and in 24 TF families. The protein networks linked 13 PsHSP20s to co-expressed partners in heat response (GO:0009408) and ER protein processing (KEGG:04141). Transcriptomics demonstrated rapid upregulation of 48 PsHSP20s within 2 h of heat exposure, with PsHSP20-12, -34, and -51 showing the highest induction (>15-fold) at 6 h/24 h. Conclusions: This first genome-wide study resolves the architecture and heat-responsive dynamics of the PsHSP20 family. The discovery of early-induced genes (PsHSP20-12/-34/-51) provides candidates for thermotolerance enhancement. These findings establish a foundation for molecular breeding in the peony. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics and Genomics)
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35 pages, 5219 KiB  
Review
Pulsed Power Plasma Stimulation: A Comprehensive Review and Field Insights
by Son T. Nguyen, Mohamed E.-S. El-Tayeb, Mohamed Adel Gabry and Mohamed Y. Soliman
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3334; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133334 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 596
Abstract
Pulsed Power Plasma Stimulation (3PS) represents a promising and environmentally favorable alternative to conventional well stimulation techniques for enhancing subsurface permeability. This comprehensive review tracks the evolution of plasma-based rock stimulation, offering insights from key laboratory, numerical, and field-scale studies. The review begins [...] Read more.
Pulsed Power Plasma Stimulation (3PS) represents a promising and environmentally favorable alternative to conventional well stimulation techniques for enhancing subsurface permeability. This comprehensive review tracks the evolution of plasma-based rock stimulation, offering insights from key laboratory, numerical, and field-scale studies. The review begins with foundational electrohydraulic discharge concepts and progresses through the evolution of Pulsed Arc Electrohydraulic Discharge (PAED) and the more advanced 3PS systems. High-voltage, ultrafast plasma discharges generate mechanical shockwaves and localized thermal effects that result in complex fracture networks, particularly in tight and crystalline formations. Compared to conventional well stimulation techniques, 3PS reduces water use, avoids chemical additives, and minimizes induced seismicity. Laboratory studies demonstrate significant improvements in permeability, porosity, and fracture intensity, while field trials show an increase in production from oil, gas, and geothermal wells. However, 3PS faces some limitations such as short stimulation radii and logistical constraints in wireline-based delivery systems. Emerging technologies like plasma-assisted drilling and hybrid PDC–plasma tools offer promising integration pathways. Overall, 3PS provides a practical, scalable, low-impact stimulation approach with broad applicability across energy sectors, especially in environmentally sensitive or water-scarce regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pulsed Power Science and High Voltage Discharge)
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16 pages, 4000 KiB  
Article
Microstructure Engineered Nanoporous Copper for Enhanced Catalytic Degradation of Organic Pollutants in Wastewater
by Taskeen Zahra, Saleem Abbas, Junfei Ou, Tuti Mariana Lim and Aumber Abbas
Materials 2025, 18(13), 2929; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18132929 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1121
Abstract
Advanced oxidation processes offer bright potential for eliminating organic pollutants from wastewater, where the development of efficient catalysts revolves around deep understanding of the microstructure–property–performance relationship. In this study, we explore how microstructural engineering influences the catalytic performance of nanoporous copper (NPC) in [...] Read more.
Advanced oxidation processes offer bright potential for eliminating organic pollutants from wastewater, where the development of efficient catalysts revolves around deep understanding of the microstructure–property–performance relationship. In this study, we explore how microstructural engineering influences the catalytic performance of nanoporous copper (NPC) in degrading organic contaminants. By systematically tailoring the NPC microstructure, we achieve tunable three-dimensional porous architectures with nanoscale pores and macroscopic grains. This results in a homogeneous, bicontinuous pore–ligament network that is crucial for the oxidative degradation of the model pollutant methylene blue in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The catalytic efficiency is assessed using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, which reveals first-order degradation kinetics with a rate constant κ = 44 × 10−3 min−1, a 30-fold improvement over bulk copper foil, and a fourfold increase over copper nanoparticles. The superior performance is attributed to the high surface area, abundant active sites, and multiscale porosity of NPC. Additionally, the high step-edge density, nanoscale curvature, and enhanced crystallinity contribute to the catalyst’s remarkable stability and reactivity. This study not only provides insights into microstructure–property–performance relationships in nanoporous catalysts but also offers an effective strategy for designing efficient and scalable materials for wastewater treatment and environmental applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Porous Materials)
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13 pages, 2792 KiB  
Article
Engineering C–S–H Sorbents via Hydrothermal Synthesis of PV Glass and Carbide Sludge for Chromium(III) Removal
by Tran Ngo Quan, Le Phan Hoang Chieu and Pham Trung Kien
Coatings 2025, 15(6), 733; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15060733 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 609
Abstract
This study investigates the hydrothermal synthesis of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) from photovoltaic (PV) waste glass and carbide sludge as a strategy for resource recovery and sustainable chromium removal from wastewater. Waste-derived precursors were co-ground, blended at controlled Ca/Si molar ratios (0.8, 1.0, [...] Read more.
This study investigates the hydrothermal synthesis of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) from photovoltaic (PV) waste glass and carbide sludge as a strategy for resource recovery and sustainable chromium removal from wastewater. Waste-derived precursors were co-ground, blended at controlled Ca/Si molar ratios (0.8, 1.0, 1.2), and hydrothermally treated at 180 °C for 96 h to yield C-S-H with tunable morphology and crystallinity. Comprehensive characterization using XRD, FT-IR, SEM-EDX, and UV-Vis spectroscopy revealed that a Ca/Si ratio of 1.0 produced a well-ordered tobermorite/xonotlite structure with a high surface area and fibrous network, which is optimal for adsorption. Batch adsorption experiments showed that this material achieved rapid and efficient Cr(III) removal, exceeding 90% uptake within 9 h through a combination of surface complexation, ion exchange (Ca2+/Na+ ↔ Cr3+), and precipitation of CaCrO4 phases. Morphological and structural evolution during adsorption was confirmed by SEM, FT-IR, and XRD, while EDX mapping established the progressive incorporation of Cr into the C-S-H matrix. These findings highlight the viability of upcycling industrial waste into advanced C-S-H sorbents for heavy metal remediation. Further work is recommended to address sorbent regeneration, long-term stability, and application to other contaminants, providing a foundation for circular approaches in advanced wastewater treatment. Full article
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16 pages, 1441 KiB  
Article
Effects of Tricholoma Matsutake-Derived Insoluble Fiber on the Pasting Properties, Structural Characteristics, and In Vitro Digestibility of Rice Flour
by Qin Qiu, Jing Chen, Dafeng Sun, Yongshuai Ma, Yujie Zhong, Junjie Yi, Ming Du, Man Zhou and Tao Wang
Foods 2025, 14(12), 2143; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14122143 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 498
Abstract
This study explores the effects of Tricholoma matsutake-derived insoluble dietary fiber (TMIDF) on the pasting behavior, structural properties, and in vitro digestibility of rice flour. The incorporation of 5% TMIDF significantly increased the peak viscosity (from 2573.21 to 2814.52 mPa·s) by competitively [...] Read more.
This study explores the effects of Tricholoma matsutake-derived insoluble dietary fiber (TMIDF) on the pasting behavior, structural properties, and in vitro digestibility of rice flour. The incorporation of 5% TMIDF significantly increased the peak viscosity (from 2573.21 to 2814.52 mPa·s) by competitively adsorbing water and forming a dense transient network, while simultaneously reducing the final viscosity (from 1998.27 to 1886.18 mPa·s) by inhibiting amylose recrystallization. Multi-scale structural analyses revealed that TMIDF enhanced V-type crystallinity and limited enzyme access via a porous fibrous matrix. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance analyses confirmed that hydrogen bonding and water redistribution were key interaction mechanisms. TMIDF significantly lowered in vitro starch digestibility and increased resistant starch content by 16% (from 14.36% to 30.94%) through synergistic effects, including physical encapsulation of starch granules, formation of enzyme-resistant amylose-lipid complexes, and α-amylase inhibition (31.08%). These results demonstrate that TMIDF possesses a unique multi-tiered modulation mechanism, involving structural optimization, enzyme suppression, and diffusion control, which collectively surpasses the functional performance of conventional plant-derived insoluble dietary fibers. This research establishes a theoretical basis for applying fungal insoluble dietary fibers to develop low glycemic index functional foods, highlighting their dual role in improving processing performance and nutritional quality. Full article
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20 pages, 4826 KiB  
Article
The Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Cinnamomum camphora chvar. Borneol Essential Oil In Vitro
by Shanshan Xiao, Hang Yu, Yahui Guo, Yuliang Cheng and Weirong Yao
Plants 2025, 14(12), 1880; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14121880 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 765
Abstract
Cinnamomum camphora chvar. Borneol essential oil (BEO, 16.4% borneol) is a by-product obtained during the steam distillation process used to produce natural crystalline borneol (NCB, 98.4% purity). This study aimed to compare the antibacterial activity of BEO and NCB against Staphylococcus epidermidis, [...] Read more.
Cinnamomum camphora chvar. Borneol essential oil (BEO, 16.4% borneol) is a by-product obtained during the steam distillation process used to produce natural crystalline borneol (NCB, 98.4% purity). This study aimed to compare the antibacterial activity of BEO and NCB against Staphylococcus epidermidis, and to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of BEO in vitro. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), determined by broth microdilution, were identical for both BEO and NCB (0.5 mg/mL). Despite this, BEO exhibited stronger antibacterial activity, suggesting synergistic enhancement by other components. Mechanistic studies revealed that BEO disrupted the bacterial cell wall, causing leakage of nucleic acids and proteins, and ultimately bacterial death. In LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages, BEO dose-dependently reduced the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 (r = −0.9847, −0.9456, −0.9315). Network pharmacology, combined with primary and secondary factor analysis, was employed to identify anti-inflammatory pathways and key active compounds. Borneol contributed over 50% to the anti-inflammatory effect, followed by β-caryophyllene, limonene, camphor, and γ-terpinene. These findings highlight the potential enhanced bioactivity of BEO due to multi-component synergy. Full article
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41 pages, 5987 KiB  
Review
The Mechanical Glass Transition Temperature Affords a Fundamental Quality Control in Condensed Gels for Innovative Application in Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals
by Vilia Darma Paramita, Naksit Panyoyai and Stefan Kasapis
Foods 2025, 14(12), 2098; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14122098 - 14 Jun 2025
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Abstract
A subject of increasing fundamental and technological interest is the techno- and bio-functionality of functional foods and nutraceuticals in high-solid gels. This encompasses the diffusion of natural bioactive compounds, prevention of oxidation of essential fatty acids, minimization of food browning, and the prevention [...] Read more.
A subject of increasing fundamental and technological interest is the techno- and bio-functionality of functional foods and nutraceuticals in high-solid gels. This encompasses the diffusion of natural bioactive compounds, prevention of oxidation of essential fatty acids, minimization of food browning, and the prevention of malodorous flavour formation in enzymatic and non-enzymatic reactions, to mention but a few. Textural and sensory considerations require that these delivery/encapsulating/entrapping vehicles are made with natural hydrocolloids and co-solutes in a largely amorphous state. It is now understood that the mechanical glass transition temperature is a critical consideration in monitoring the performance of condensed polymer networks that incorporate small bioactive compounds. This review indicates that the metastable properties of the rubber-to-glass transition in condensed gels (as opposed to the thermodynamic equilibrium in crystalline lattices) are a critical parameter in providing a fundamental quality control of end products. It appears that the “sophisticated synthetic polymer research” can provide a guide in the design of advanced biomaterials for targeted release or the prevention of undesirable byproducts. Such knowledge can assist in designing and optimizing functional foods and nutraceuticals, particularly those including vitamins, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, stimulants for performance enhancement, and antimicrobials. Full article
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