Search Results (257)

This study investigates the development of a sustainable flame-retardant treatment for cotton fabrics using a hybrid coating composed of chitosan, phytic acid, APTES, and eggshell powder at concentrations of 2% and 4%, applied in one and two cycles. FTIR confirmed the deposition of the organic–inorganic layer through the appearance of characteristic bands. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/dTGA) revealed enhanced thermal stability for all treated samples, with increased char yield and a shift in the main cellulose degradation peak. Vertical flammability tests demonstrated that all coated fabrics achieved self-extinguishing behavior within 12 s, meeting NFPA 701 criteria. The 2% eggshell formulation with two applications (S2%-II) exhibited the best balance between flame retardancy and mechanical performance. Tensile tests indicated improved fiber cohesion for treated samples, while SEM micrographs confirmed uniform coating deposition and particle integration. Colorimetric analysis showed that the treatment did not cause a significant change in the natural color of the cotton. Although washing resistance remains a limitation due to the natural origin of the components, the samples remained stable over time without microbial growth or staining, suggesting potential for upholstery and covering fabrics not subjected to domestic washing. The results highlight the feasibility of using agro-industrial waste to create eco-friendly flame-retardant finishes for cotton textiles. Full article

The response of titanium (Ti) thin films is closely related to their microstructure, which is extremely sensitive to the selected deposition parameters and geometrical configurations. The present study investigates the impact of geometrical factors on the growth of Ti thin films, focusing on how variations in growth geometry influence film microstructure, surface morphology, and corrosion resistance. Three Ti thin films were prepared using Glancing Angle Deposition (GLAD) in a custom-built DC reactive magnetron sputtering system. For the first sample, the target was positioned perpendicular to the substrate surface (α = 0°); for the second and third samples, the substrate holder was positioned at an angle of 85° regarding the target direction (α = 85°), incorporating a 180° azimuthal rotation for the last (to obtain a zigzag-like deposition). The thickness and morphological features of the thin films were investigated by SEM, while the surface morphology, specifically roughness, and crystallinity of the thin films were assessed by AFM and XRD, respectively. Continuous and alternating current techniques were used for electrochemical characterization of behavior in simulated body fluid. The obtained results show a clear tendency to an improvement in anticorrosion performances varying the nanoarchitecture of the films in comparison to the conventional-grown sample, with the inclined sample presenting a slight enhancement in corrosion resistance and the zigzag-grown sample having the best corrosion resistance properties of the three. Full article

Three-dimensional cell culture systems are relevant in vitro models for studying cellular behavior. In this regard, this present study investigates the interaction between human osteoblast-like cells and 3D-printed scaffolds mimicking physiological and osteoporotic bone structures under simulated microgravity conditions. The objective is to assess the effects of scaffold architecture and dynamic culture conditions on cell adhesion, proliferation, and metabolic activity, with implications for osteoporosis research. Polylactic acid scaffolds with physiological (P) and osteoporotic-like (O) trabecular architectures were 3D-printed by means of fused deposition modeling technology. Morphometric characterization was performed using micro-computed tomography. Human osteoblast-like SAOS-2 and U2OS cells were cultured on the scaffolds under static and dynamic simulated microgravity conditions using a rotary cell culture system (RCCS). Scaffold biocompatibility, cell viability, adhesion, and metabolic activity were evaluated through Bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assays, a water-soluble tetrazolium salt assay, and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of tumor necrosis factor-α secretion. Both scaffold models supported osteoblast-like cell adhesion and growth, with an approximately threefold increase in colonization observed on the high-porosity O scaffolds under dynamic conditions. The dynamic environment facilitated increased surface interaction, amplifying the effects of scaffold architecture on cell behavior. Overall, sustained cell growth and metabolic activity, together with the absence of detectable inflammatory responses, confirmed the biocompatibility of the system. Scaffold microstructure and dynamic culture conditions significantly influence osteoblast-like cell behavior. The combination of 3D-printed scaffolds and a RCCS bioreactor provides a promising platform for studying bone remodeling in osteoporosis and microgravity-induced bone loss. These findings may contribute to the development of advanced in vitro models for biomedical research and potential countermeasures for bone degeneration. Full article

Mesoporous silicon dioxide films have been shown to be well suited as adhesion-promoting interlayers for generating high-strength polymer–metal interfaces. These films can be fabricated via microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition using the precursor hexamethyldisiloxane and oxygen as working gas. The resulting mesoporous structures enable polymer infiltration during overmolding, which leads to a nanoscale form-locking mechanism after solidification. This mechanism allows for efficient stress transfer across the interface and makes the resulting adhesion highly dependent on the morphology of the deposited film. To gain a deeper understanding of the underlying deposition mechanisms and improve process stability, this work investigates the growth behavior of mesoporous silica films using a multiple regression analysis approach. The seven process parameters coating time, distance, chamber pressure, substrate temperature, flow rate, plasma pulse duration, and pause-to-pulse ratio were systematically varied within a Design of Experiments framework. The resulting films were characterized by their free surface area, mean agglomerate diameter, and film thickness using digital image analysis, white light interferometry, and atomic force microscopy. The deposited films exhibit a wide range of morphological appearances, ranging from quasi-dense to dust-like structures. As part of this research, the free surface area varied from 15 to 55 percent, the mean agglomerate diameter from 17 to 126 nm, and the film thickness from 35 to 1600 nm. The derived growth model describes the deposition process with high statistical accuracy. Furthermore, all coatings were overmolded via injection molding and subjected to mechanical testing, allowing a direct correlation between film morphology and their performance as adhesion-promoting interlayers. Full article

This study presents a bibliometric analysis of the evolution and research trends in the additive manufacturing (AM) of superalloys over the last decade (2015–2025). The review follows a structured methodology based on the PRISMA 2020 protocol, utilizing data from the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. Particular attention is devoted to the intricate process–structure–property relationships and the specific behavioral trends associated with different superalloy families, namely Ni-based, Co-based, and Fe–Ni-based systems. The findings reveal a substantial growth in scientific output, with the United States and China leading contributions and an increasing trend in international collaboration. Key research areas include process optimization, microstructural evolution and control, mechanical property assessment, and defect minimization. The study highlights the pivotal role of technologies such as laser powder bed fusion, electron beam melting, and directed energy deposition in the fabrication of high-performance components. Additionally, emerging trends point to the integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence for real-time quality monitoring and manufacturing parameter optimization. Despite these advancements, challenges such as anisotropic properties, porosity issues, and process sustainability remain critical for both industrial applications and future academic research in superalloys. Full article

This study investigates the electroplating characteristics of Co-Zn alloy coatings with varying Zn contents (0.55 wt.%~8.8 wt.%) and their influence on intermetallic compound (IMC) formation during reactions with Sn solder. Co-Zn alloy coatings were successfully fabricated by electroplating using cobalt plating solutions with different concentrations of zinc sulfate. The results reveal anomalous co-deposition behavior, where the less noble Zn preferentially deposits over Co. Surface morphologies and microstructures evolve significantly with increasing Zn content, transitioning from columnar to dendritic structures. Zn incorporation into the Co lattice disrupts its crystallinity, leading to decreased crystallinity and partial amorphization. Liquid-state and solid-state interfacial reactions with Sn solder demonstrate that Zn content considerably influences IMC formation. In liquid-state reactions at 250 °C, lower Zn contents (0.55–4.8 wt.%) slightly enhance CoSn₃ growth. It exhibits a dense layered-structure without IMC spallation. In contrast, a higher Zn content (8.8 wt.%) significantly reduces IMC formation by approximately 50% and produces a duplex structure with two distinct layers. In solid-state reactions at 160 °C, the suppression effect becomes even more pronounced. The Co-0.55Zn deposit exhibits significant inhibition of CoSn₃ growth, while the Co-8.8Zn sample forms only a thin IMC layer, achieving a suppression rate exceeding 85%. These findings demonstrate that Zn doping effectively limits CoSn₃ formation during solid-state reactions and improves interfacial stability. Full article

Recent advancements in lithium-metal-based battery technology have garnered significant attention, driven by the increasing demand for high-energy storage devices such as electric vehicles (EVs). Lithium (Li) metal has long been considered an ideal negative electrode due to its high theoretical specific capacity (3860 mAh g⁻¹) and low redox potential. However, the commercialization of Li-metal batteries (LMBs) faces significant challenges, primarily related to the safety and cyclability of the negative electrodes. The formation of lithium dendrites and uneven solid electrolyte interphases, along with volumetric expansion during cycling, severely hinder the commercial viability of LMBs. Among the various strategies developed to overcome these challenges, the introduction of artificial protective layers and the structural engineering of current collectors have emerged as highly promising approaches. These techniques are critical for regulating Li deposition behavior, mitigating dendrite growth, and enhancing interfacial and mechanical stability. This review summarizes the current state of Li-negative electrodes and introduces methods of enhancing their performance using a protective layer and current collector design. Full article

This study describes the development, characterization and in vitro evaluation of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) nanoparticles loaded with xanthyletin for the control of Atta sexdens rubropilosa through the inhibition of its symbiotic fungus Leucoagaricus gongylophorus. Nanoparticles were prepared via interfacial polymer deposition, with formulation NC5 selected based on optimal physicochemical properties. NC5 exhibited an encapsulation efficiency of 98.0%, average particle size of 304 nm and zeta potential of −29.3 mV. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed spherical morphology and the absence of crystalline residues. The formulation remained physically stable for four months at 4 °C. In vitro release showed biphasic behavior, with an initial burst followed by sustained release. Under UV exposure, NC5 enhanced xanthyletin photostability by 15.4-fold compared to the free compound. Fungicidal assays revealed 76% inhibition of fungal growth with NC5, compared to 85% with free xanthyletin. These results support the potential application of xanthyletin-loaded PCL nanoparticles as a stable and controlled delivery system for the biological control of leaf-cutting ants by targeting their fungal mutualist. Further in vivo studies are recommended to assess efficacy under field conditions. Full article

In this work, arc ion plating (AIP) was employed to deposit AlCrMoN coatings on cemented carbide substrates, and the effects of substrate bias voltages (−80 V, −100 V, −120 V, and −140 V) on the microstructures, mechanical properties, and tribological behaviors of the coatings were investigated. The results showed that all AlCrMoN coatings exhibited a single-phase face-centered cubic (FCC) structure with columnar crystal growth and excellent adhesion to the substrate. As the negative bias voltage increased, the grain size of the coatings first decreased and then increased, while the hardness and elastic modulus showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing, with the maximum hardness reaching 36.2 ± 1.33 GPa. Room-temperature ball-on-disk wear tests revealed that all four coatings demonstrated favorable wear resistance. The coating deposited at −100 V exhibited the lowest average friction coefficient of 0.47 ± 0.02 and wear rate ((3.27 ± 0.10) × 10⁻⁸ mm³/(N∙m)), featuring a smooth wear track with minimal oxide debris. During the steady-state wear stage, the dominant wear mechanisms of the AlCrMoN coatings were identified as oxidative wear combined with abrasive wear. Full article

This study examines the surface-dependent formation of interpolymer complexes (IPCs) by the layer-by-layer (LBL) deposition method. The materials used in this analysis are poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) combined with cellulose ethers, namely methyl cellulose (MC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), and hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), and poloxamers PX188 and PX407. PMMA, PS, and glass surfaces have been used to study the influence of hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity on IPC growth and its properties. Through contact angle measurements, PMMA and PS were found to be hydrophobic and glass hydrophilic. It was revealed by gravimetric analysis that IPC films reveal the highest growth on PMMA substrates, followed by PS and glass. Both the molecular weight of HEC and the hydrophobicity of the surface considerably affected the growth. Hydrogen-bonded complexation was evident by means of FTIR spectroscopy, while changes in some characteristic absorption bands demonstrated the extent of interactions between polymers. Scanning electron microscopy showed that variations in the microstructure of surfaces occur; PAA-MC and poloxamer complex layers were well organized on hydrophobic substrates. Thus, the experimental results showed surface properties, especially hydrophobicity, to be important for IPC growth and structure. These findings contribute to the understanding of IPC behavior on different substrates, thus giving insights into applications in drug delivery, coatings, and functional films. Full article

Pharmaceuticals and microplastics are persistent emerging contaminants that pose significant risks to aquatic ecosystems and ecological health. Although extensively reviewed individually, a comprehensive, integrated assessment of their environmental pathways, bioaccumulation dynamics, and toxicological impacts remains limited. This review synthesizes current research on the environmental fate and impact of pharmaceuticals and microplastics, emphasizing their combined influence on aquatic organisms and ecosystems. This review provides a thorough and comprehensive examination of their predominant pathways, sources, and distribution, highlighting wastewater disposal, agricultural runoff, and atmospheric deposition. Studies indicate that pharmaceuticals, such as antibiotics and painkillers, are detected in concentrations ranging from ng/L to μg/L in surface waters, while MPs are found in densities up to 106 particles/m³ in some marine and freshwater systems. The toxicological effects of these pollutants on aquatic organisms, particularly fish, are discussed, with emphasis on bioaccumulation and biomagnification in the food chain, physiological effects including effects on growth, reproduction, immune system performance, and behavioral changes. The ecological consequences, including disruptions to trophic dynamics and ecosystem stability, are also addressed. Although valuable efforts, mitigation and remediation strategies remain inadequate, and further research is needed because they do not capture the scale and complexity of these hazards. This review highlights the urgent need to advance treatment technologies, establish comprehensive regulatory frameworks, and organize intensive research on long-term ecological impacts to address the environmental threats posed by pharmaceuticals and microplastics. Full article

Ti-6Al-4V (Ti64) is widely used in the additive manufacturing (AM) industry for its superior mechanical properties; however, severe anisotropy is inevitable. In this work, a Ti64 sample fabricated using laser-directed energy deposition is used for fundamental investigations into the anisotropy of its microstructure, mechanical properties, and fracture behaviors. The microstructure of martensite α and prior β-Ti grains are characterized in both the XOY and XOZ planes. The tensile/compressive properties and microhardness along the building direction (BD) and scanning direction (SD) are tested, and it is found that the sample along the SD has better comprehensive mechanical properties. Due to grain boundary α (GB-α), different fracture behaviors and crack propagation paths are found along the BD and SD. When tensile force is parallel to the growth orientation of GB-α, a much higher density of microcracks caused by fractured GB-α is found to contribute to a prolonged elongation and the weakening of strength. While stretching along the SD, the cracks would propagate along the GB-α easily and straightly, which might lead to lower elongation. Full article

Cobalt electrochemical deposition, with its bottom–up growth properties, is a core technology for creating metal interconnects. Additives are crucial during electrodeposition to control the quality of deposits by adsorbing onto the Co surface. The functional groups of additive molecules are the key to tailoring the adsorption behavior. This study focuses on heteroaromatic thiol additives, including 2-mercaptobenzimidazole (MBI), 2-mercapto-5-benzimidazolesulfonic acid sodium salt dehydrate (MBIS), and 2-mercaptobenzoxazole (MBO). Cyclic voltammetry, chronopotentiometry, quantum chemical calculations, and characterization tests were employed to investigate the adsorption behavior of additive molecules with different functional groups on cobalt. The results indicate that the inhibitory strength of the three additives on electrodeposition follows the following order: MBI > MBIS > MBO. The strong inhibitory effect of MBI primarily stems from the adsorption of the thiol group, the pyridine-like nitrogen in the heterocycle, and the benzene ring. MBIS exhibits reduced inhibitory capability due to the combined effects of the sulfonic acid group and hydrolysis ionization. MBO, with the introduction of an oxygen atom in the heterocycle, shows the weakest adsorption and inhibitory capability among the three. Full article

Titanium oxynitride (TiNO) thin films represent a multifaceted material system applicable in diverse fields, including energy storage, solar cells, sensors, protective coatings, and electrocatalysis. This study reports the synthesis of TiNO thin films grown at different substrate temperatures using pulsed laser deposition. A comprehensive structural investigation was conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Non-Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (N-RBS), and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), which facilitated a detailed analysis that determined the phase, composition, and crystallinity of the films. Structural control was achieved via temperature-dependent oxygen in-diffusion, nitrogen out-diffusion, and the nucleation growth process related to adatom mobility. The XPS analysis indicates that the TiNO films consist of heterogeneous mixtures of TiN, TiNO, and TiO₂ phases with temperature-dependent relative abundances. The correlation between the structure and electrochemical behavior of the thin films was examined. The TiNO films with relatively higher N/O ratio, meaning less oxidized, were more electrochemically active than the films with lower N/O ratio, i.e., more oxidized films. Films with higher oxidation levels demonstrated enhanced crystallinity and greater stability under electrochemical polarization. These findings demonstrate the importance of substrate temperature control in tailoring the properties of TiNO film, which is a fundamental part of designing and optimizing an efficient electrode material. Full article

In this study, a thin film of silicon carbide (SiC) was deposited on a porous silicon (P-Si) substrate using pulsed laser deposition (PLD). The photo–electrochemical etching method with an Nd: YAG laser at 1064 nm wavelength and 900 mJ pulse energy and at a vacuum of 10⁻² mbar P-Si was utilized to create a sufficiently high amount of surface area for SiC film deposition to achieve efficient SiC film growth on the P-Si substrate. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed on the crystalline structure of SiC and showed high-intensity peaks at the (111) and (220) planes, indicating that the substrate–film interaction is substantial. Surface roughness particle topography was examined via atomic force microscopy (AFM), and a mean diameter equal to 72.83 nm was found. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) was used to analyze surface morphology, and the pictures show spherical nanoparticles and a mud-sponge-like shape demonstrating significant nanoscale features. Photoluminescence and UV-Vis spectroscopy were utilized to investigate the optical properties, and two emission peaks were observed for the SiC and P-Si substrates, at 590 nm and 780 nm. The SiC/P-Si heterojunction photodetector exhibited rectification behavior in its dark I–V characteristics, indicating high junction quality. The spectral responsivity of the SiC/P-Si observed a peak responsivity of 0.0096 A/W at 365 nm with detectivity of 24.5 A/W Jones, and external quantum efficiency reached 340%. The response time indicates a rise time of 0.48 s and a fall time of 0.26 s. Repeatability was assured by the tight clustering of the data points, indicating the good reproducibility and stability of the SiC/P-Si deposition process. Linearity at low light levels verifies efficient photocarrier generation and separation, whereas a reverse saturation current at high intensities points to the maximum carrier generation capability of the device. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis confirmed the structural quality and elemental composition of the SiC/P-Si film, further attesting to the uniformity and quality of the material produced. This hybrid material’s improved optoelectronic properties, achieved by combining the stability of SiC with the quantum confinement effects of P-Si, make it useful in advanced optoelectronic applications such as UV-Vis photodetectors. Full article