Search Results (3,434)

To address the issue of interfacial shrinkage deformation in optical resin–cement-based composites, this study examined the effects of casting methods and coupling agent treatments on the interfacial deformation behavior and underlying mechanisms at the resin–cement interface. A self-developed interfacial shrinkage testing apparatus, combined with ABAQUS numerical simulations, was employed to facilitate this analysis. The results revealed that the interfacial shrinkage strain followed a characteristic distribution—higher at both ends and lower in the middle region—as the temperature increased. The experimental data showed a strong agreement with the simulation outcomes. A comparative analysis indicated that the pre-cast cement method reduced the interfacial shrinkage strain by 16% compared to the pre-cast resin method. Furthermore, treatment with a coupling agent resulted in a 31% reduction in the strain, while combining a serrated surface modification with a coupling agent treatment achieved a maximum reduction of 43.5%. Microscopic characterization confirmed that the synergy between the coupling agent and surface roughening significantly enhanced interfacial bonding by filling microcracks, improving adhesion, and increasing mechanical interlocking. This synergistic effect effectively suppressed the relative slippage caused by asynchronous shrinkage between dissimilar materials, thereby mitigating the interfacial cracking issue in optical resin–cement-based composites. These findings provide theoretical insights for optimizing the interface design in organic–inorganic composite systems. Full article

While acetic acid has proven effective as a mild acidic treatment for removing adhered mortar from recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) surfaces, its potential for dissolving damage to the surface of the original natural coarse aggregate (NCA) within the RCA and its impact on the resultant concrete properties require careful consideration. This investigation systematically evaluates the effects of varying concentrations of dilute acetic acid solutions, commonly used in RCA treatment protocols, through a multi-methodological approach that includes comprehensive physical characterization, stylus and 3D optical profilometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and nanoindentation analysis. The results show that even dilute acid solutions have an upper concentration limit, as excessive acid concentration, specifically 0.4 M, induces significant textural dislocations on NCA surfaces, creating millimeter-scale erosion pits that increase aggregate water absorption by 18.5%. These morphological changes significantly impair concrete workability and reduce compressive strength performance. Furthermore, microstructural analysis reveals a 45.24% expansion in interfacial transition zone (ITZ) thickness, accompanied by notable reductions in elastic modulus and microhardness characteristics. In practical RCA treatment applications, for RCA containing limestone-based NCA, it is recommended to use acetic acid concentrations between 0.1 and 0.3 M to avoid substantial physical and microstructural degradation of aggregates and concrete. Full article

Due to post-cementing hydraulic fracturing and other operational stresses, inadequate mechanical properties or suboptimal design of the cement sheath can lead to tensile failure and microcrack development, compromising both hydrocarbon recovery and well integrity. In this study, three field-deployed cement slurry systems were compared on the basis of their basic mechanical properties such as compressive and tensile strength. Laboratory-scale physical simulations of hydraulic fracturing during shale oil production were conducted, using dynamic permeability as a quantitative indicator of integrity loss. The experimental results show that evaluating only basic mechanical properties is insufficient for cement slurry system design. A more comprehensive mechanical assessment is re-quired. Incorporation of an expansive agent into the cement slurry system can alleviate the damage caused by the microannulus to the interfacial sealing performance of the cement sheath, while adding a toughening agent can alleviate the damage caused by tensile cracks to the sealing performance of the cement sheath matrix. Through this research, a microexpansive and toughened cement slurry system, modified with both expansive and toughening agents, was optimized. The expansive agent and toughening agent can significantly enhance the shear strength, the flexural strength, and the interfacial hydraulic isolation strength of cement stone. Moreover, the expansion agents mitigate the detrimental effects of microannulus generation on the interfacial sealing, while the toughening agents alleviate the damage caused by tensile cracking to the bulk sealing performance of the cement sheath matrix. This system has been successfully implemented in over 100 wells in the GL block of Daqing Oilfield. Field application results show that the proportion of high-quality well sections in the horizontal section reached 88.63%, indicating the system’s high performance in enhancing zonal isolation and cementing quality. Full article

Diamond, renowned for its exceptional electrical, physical, and chemical properties, including ultra-wide bandgap, superior hardness, high thermal conductivity, and unparalleled stability, serves as an ideal candidate for next-generation high-power and high-temperature electronic devices. Among diamond-based devices, Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) have garnered significant attention due to their simple architecture and superior rectifying characteristics. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in diamond SBDs, focusing on both metal–semiconductor (MS) and metal–interlayer–semiconductor (MIS) configurations. For MS structures, we critically analyze the roles of single-layer metals (including noble metals, transition metals, and other metals) and multilayer metals in modulating Schottky barrier height (SBH) and enhancing thermal stability. However, the presence of interface-related issues such as high densities of surface states and Fermi level pinning often leads to poor control of the SBH, limiting device performance and reliability. To address these challenges and achieve high-quality metal/diamond interfaces, researchers have proposed various interface engineering strategies. In particular, the introduction of interfacial layers in MIS structures has emerged as a promising approach. For MIS architectures, functional interlayers—including high-k materials (Al₂O₃, HfO₂, SnO₂) and low-work-function materials (LaB₆, CeB₆)—are evaluated for their efficacy in interface passivation, barrier modulation, and electric field control. Terminal engineering strategies, such as field-plate designs and surface termination treatments, are also highlighted for their role in improving breakdown voltage. Furthermore, we emphasize the limitations in current parameter extraction from current–voltage (I–V) properties and call for a unified new method to accurately determine SBH. This comprehensive analysis provides critical insights into interface engineering strategies and evaluation protocols for high-performance diamond SBDs, paving the way for their reliable deployment in extreme conditions. Full article

Secondary hypereutectic Al-Si alloys are attractive for sustainable manufacturing, yet their application is often limited by low strength and electrical conductivity due to impurity-induced microstructural defects. Achieving a balance between mechanical and conductive performance remains a significant challenge. In this work, nickel-coated carbon nanotubes (Ni-CNTs) were introduced into secondary Al-20Si alloys to tailor the microstructure and enhance properties through interfacial engineering. Composites containing 0 to 0.4 wt.% Ni-CNTs were fabricated by conventional casting and systematically characterized. The addition of 0.1 wt.% Ni-CNTs resulted in the best combination of properties, with a tensile strength of 170.13 MPa and electrical conductivity of 27.60% IACS. These improvements stem from refined α-Al dendrites, uniform eutectic Si distribution, and strong interfacial bonding. Strengthening was achieved through grain refinement, Orowan looping, dislocation generation from thermal mismatch, and the formation of reinforcing interfacial phases such as AlNi₃C₀.₉ and Al₄SiC₄. At higher Ni-CNT contents, property degradation occurred due to agglomeration and phase coarsening. This study presents an effective and scalable strategy for achieving strength–conductivity synergy in secondary aluminum alloys via nanoscale interfacial design, offering guidance for the development of multifunctional lightweight materials. Full article

Photocatalytic redox processes significantly contribute to shaping Earth’s surface environment. Semiconductor minerals exhibiting favorable photocatalytic properties are ubiquitous on rock and soil surfaces. However, the sunlight-responsive characteristics and functions of TiO₂, an excellent photocatalytic material, within natural systems remain incompletely understood, largely due to its wide bandgap limiting solar radiation absorption. This study analyzed surface coating samples, determining their elemental composition, distribution, and mineralogy. The analysis revealed enrichment of anatase TiO₂ and β-carotene. Informed by these observations, laboratory simulations were designed to investigate the synergistic effect of β-carotene on the sunlight-responsive behavior of anatase. Results demonstrate that β-carotene-sensitized anatase exhibited a 64.4% to 66.1% increase in photocurrent compared to pure anatase. β-carotene sensitization significantly enhanced anatase’s electrochemical activity, promoting rapid electron transfer. Furthermore, it improved interfacial properties and acted as a photosensitizer, boosting photo-response characteristics. The sensitized anatase displayed a distinct absorption peak within the 425–550 nm range, with visible light absorption increasing by approximately 17.75%. This study elucidates the synergistic mechanism enhancing the sunlight response between anatase and β-carotene in natural systems and its broader environmental implications, providing new insights for research on photocatalytic redox processes within Earth’s critical zone. Full article

This Review examines up-to-date advancements in the integration of biomolecules and solar energy technologies, with a particular focus on biohybrid photovoltaic systems. Biomolecules have recently garnered increasing interest as functional components in a wide range of solar cell architectures, since they offer a huge variety of structural, optical, and electronic properties, useful to fulfill multiple roles within photovoltaic devices. These roles span from acting as light-harvesting sensitizers and charge transport mediators to serving as micro- and nanoscale structural scaffolds, rheological modifiers, and interfacial stabilizers. In this Review, a comprehensive overview of the state of the art about the integration of biomolecules across the various generations of photovoltaics is provided. The functional roles of pigments, DNA, proteins, and polysaccharides are critically reported improvements and limits associated with the use of biological molecules in optoelectronics. The molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between biomolecules and semiconductors are also discussed as essential for a functional integration of biomolecules in solar cells. Finally, this Review shows the current state of the art, and the most significant results achieved in the use of biomolecules in solar cells, with the main scope of outlining some guidelines for future further developments in the field of biohybrid photovoltaics. Full article

This study investigates the bond behavior of fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) composites with three common masonry substrates—solid clay bricks (SBs), perforated bricks (PBs), and concrete hollow blocks (HBs)—using knitted polyester grille (KPG) fabric. Through uniaxial tensile tests of the KPG fabric and FRCM system, along with single-lap and double-lap shear tests, the interfacial debonding modes, load-slip responses, and composite utilization ratio were evaluated. Key findings reveal that (i) SB and HB substrates predominantly exhibited fabric slippage (FS) or matrix–fabric (MF) debonding, while PB substrates consistently failed at the matrix–substrate (MS) interface, due to their smooth surface texture. (ii) Prism specimens with mortar joints showed enhanced interfacial friction, leading to higher load fluctuations compared to brick units. PB substrates demonstrated the lowest peak stress (69.64–74.33 MPa), while SB and HB achieved comparable peak stresses (133.91–155.95 MPa). (iii) The FRCM system only achieved a utilization rate of 12–30% in fabric and reinforcement systems. The debonding failure at the matrix–substrate interface is one of the reasons that cannot be ignored, and exploring methods to improve the bonding performance between the matrix–substrate interface is the next research direction. HB bricks have excellent bonding properties, and it is recommended to prioritize their use in retrofit applications, followed by SB bricks. These findings provide insights into optimizing the application of FRCM reinforcement systems in masonry structures. Full article

A modular strategy for the molecular design of silicone-based antifoaming agents was developed by precisely controlling the architecture of poly (methylhydrosiloxane) (PMHS). Sixteen PMHS variants were synthesized by systematically varying the siloxane chain length (L1–L4), backbone composition (D₃T₁ vs. D₃₀T₁), and terminal group chemistry (H- vs. M-type). These structural modifications resulted in a broad range of Si-H functionalities, which were quantitatively analyzed and correlated with defoaming performance. The PMHS matrices were integrated with high-viscosity PDMS, a nonionic surfactant, and covalently grafted fumed silica—which was chemically matched to each PMHS backbone—to construct formulation-specific defoaming systems with enhanced interfacial compatibility and colloidal stability. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization via FT-IR, ¹H NMR, GPC, TGA, and surface tension analysis revealed a nonmonotonic relationship between Si-H content and defoaming efficiency. Formulations containing 0.1–0.3 wt% Si-H achieved peak performance, with suppression efficiencies up to 96.6% and surface tensions as low as 18.9 mN/m. Deviations from this optimal range impaired performance due to interfacial over-reactivity or reduced mobility. Furthermore, thermal stability and molecular weight distribution were found to be governed by repeat unit architecture and terminal group selection. Compared with conventional EO/PO-modified commercial defoamers, the PMHS-based systems exhibited markedly improved suppression durability and formulation stability in high-viscosity environments. These results establish a predictive structure–property framework for tailoring antifoaming agents and highlight PMHS-based formulations as advanced foam suppressors with improved functionality. This study provides actionable design criteria for high-performance silicone materials with strong potential for application in thermally and mechanically demanding environments such as coating, bioprocessing, and polymer manufacturing. Full article

Quinoa protein isolate (QPI) and sodium alginate (SA) have excellent biocompatibility and functional properties, making them promising candidates for food-grade delivery systems. In this study, we developed, for the first time, a QPI/SA complex-stabilized Pickering emulsion for curcumin encapsulation. The coacervation behavior of QPI and SA was investigated from pH 1.6 to 7.5, and the structural and interfacial characteristics of the complexes were analyzed using zeta potential measurements, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and contact angle analysis. The results showed that the formation of QPI/SA complexes was primarily driven by electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and hydrophobic interactions, with enhanced amphiphilicity observed under optimal conditions (QPI/SA = 5:1, pH 5). The QPI/SA-stabilized Pickering emulsions demonstrated excellent emulsification performance and storage stability, maintaining an emulsification index above 90% after 7 d when prepared with 60% oil phase. In vitro digestion studies revealed stage-specific curcumin release, with sustained release in simulated gastric fluid (21.13%) and enhanced release in intestinal fluid (88.21%). Cytotoxicity assays using HeLa cells confirmed the biocompatibility of QPI/SA complexes (≤500 μg/mL), while curcumin-loaded emulsions exhibited dose-dependent anticancer activity. These findings suggest that QPI/SA holds significant potential for applications in functional foods and oral delivery systems. Full article

Gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) crystallization underpins numerous industrial processes, yet its response to chemical admixtures remains incompletely understood. This study investigates diffusion-controlled crystal growth in a coaxial test tube system to evaluate how three Sika^® ViscoCrete^® superplasticizers—430P, 111P, and 120P—affect nucleation, growth kinetics, morphology, and thermal behavior. The superplasticizers, selected for their surface-active properties, were hypothesized to influence crystallization via interfacial interactions. Ion diffusion was maintained quasi-steadily for 12 weeks, with crystal evolution tracked weekly by macro-photography; scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric/differential scanning were performed at the final stage. All admixtures delayed nucleation in a concentration-dependent manner. Lower dosages (0.5–1.0 wt%) yielded platy-to-prismatic morphologies and higher dehydration enthalpies, indicating more ordered lattice formation. In contrast, higher dosages (1.5–2.0 wt%) produced denser, irregular crystals and shifted dehydration to lower temperatures, suggesting structural defects or increased hydration. Among the additives, 120P showed the strongest inhibitory effect, while 111P at 0.5 wt% resulted in the most uniform crystals. These results demonstrate that ViscoCrete^® superplasticizers can modulate gypsum crystallization and thermal properties. Full article

In this study, the influences of natural fibres (sugarcane bagasse (SB) and sawdust (SD)) on the material properties of polybutylene succinate (PBS) prepared through melt compounding were investigated. The study further evaluated the effects of incorporating halloysite nanotubes (HS) and expandable graphite (EG) on the properties of PBS/SD and PBS/SB binary and PBS/SB/SD hybrid composites. The morphological analysis indicated poor interfacial adhesion between PBS and the fibres. The obtained findings indicated enhancements in the complex viscosity of PBS in the presence of natural fibres, and further improvements in the presence of HS and EG. The stiffness of PBS hybrid composites also increased upon the addition of HS and EG. Moreover, the crystallization temperatures of PBS increased in the presence of fillers, with EG showing better nucleation efficiency. However, the mechanical properties (toughness and impact resilience) decreased due to the increased stiffness of the composites and the poor interfacial adhesion between the matrix and the fillers, indicating the need to pre-treat the fibres to enhance compatibility. Overall, the material properties of PBS/SD/SB hybrid composites were enhanced by incorporating HS and EG at low concentrations. Full article

An oat protein isolate is an ideal raw material for producing a wide range of plant-based products. However, oat protein exhibits weak functional properties, particularly in emulsification. Casein-based ingredients are commonly employed to enhance emulsifying properties as a general practice in the food industry. pH-shifting processing is a straightforward method to partially unfold protein structures. This study modified a mixture of an oat protein isolate (OPI) and casein by combining a pH adjustment (adjusting the pH of two solutions to 12, mixing them at a 3:7 ratio, and maintaining the pH at 12 for 2 h) with an atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) treatment to improve the emulsifying properties. The results demonstrated that the ACP treatment significantly enhanced the solubility of the OPI/casein mixtures, with a maximum solubility of 82.63 ± 0.33%, while the ζ-potential values were approximately −40 mV, indicating that all the samples were fairly stable. The plasma-induced increase in surface hydrophobicity supported greater protein adsorption and redistribution at the oil/water interface. After 3 min of treatment, the interfacial pressure peaked at 8.32 mN/m. Emulsions stabilized with the modified OPI/casein mixtures also exhibited a significant droplet size reduction upon extending the ACP treatment to 3 min, decreasing from 5.364 ± 0.034 μm to 3.075 ± 0.016 μm. The resulting enhanced uniformity in droplet size distribution signified the formation of a robust interfacial film. Moreover, the ACP treatment effectively enhanced the emulsifying activity of the OPI/casein mixtures, reaching (179.65 ± 1.96 m²/g). These findings highlight the potential application value of OPI/casein mixtures in liquid dairy products. In addition, dairy products based on oat protein are more conducive to sustainable development than traditional dairy products. Full article

Titanium is widely recognized as an interesting material for electrodes due to its excellent corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. However, further functionalization is often necessary to impart advanced interfacial properties, such as selective ion transport or stimuli responsiveness. In this context, the integration of smart polymers, such as poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA)—noted for its dual pH- and thermo-responsive behavior—has emerged as a promising approach to tailor surface properties for next-generation devices. This work compares two covalent immobilization strategies for PDMAEMA on titanium: the “graft-to” method, involving the attachment of pre-synthesized polymer chains, and the “graft-from” method, based on surface-initiated polymerization. The resulting materials were characterized with size exclusion chromatography (SEC) for molecular weight, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for chemical structure, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology, and contact angle measurements for wettability. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and polarization studies were used to assess electrochemical performance. Both strategies yielded uniform and stable coatings, with the mode of grafting influencing both surface morphology and functional stability. These findings provide valuable insights into the development of adaptive, stimuli-responsive titanium-based interfaces in advanced electrochemical systems. Full article

This research paper employed novel sustainable alternative materials to reduce the environmental impact of thermoset/synthetic fibre composites. The effect of seawater hydrothermal ageing at 45 °C for 45 and 90 days on the physical and interlaminar fracture toughness (mode I and mode II) of a semi-unidirectional non-crimp basalt fibre (BF)-reinforced acrylic matrix and epoxy matrix composites was investigated. Optical and scanning electron microscopes were used to describe the fracture and interfacial failure mechanisms. The results show that the BF/Elium composite exhibited higher fracture toughness properties compared to the BF/Epoxy composite. The results of the mode I and mode II interlaminar fracture toughness values for the BF/Elium composite were 1280 J/m² and 2100 J/m², which are 14% and 56% higher, respectively, than those of the BF/Epoxy composite. The result values for both composites were normalised with respect to the density of each composite laminate. The saturated moisture content and diffusion coefficient values of seawater-aged samples at 45 °C and room temperature for the BF/Elium and BF/Epoxy composites were analysed. Both composites exhibited signs of polymer matrix decomposition and fibre surface degradation under the influence of seawater hydrothermal ageing, resulting in a reduction in the mode II interlaminar fracture toughness values. Enhancement was observed in mode I fracture toughness under hydrothermal ageing, particularly for the BF/Epoxy composite, due to matrix plasticisation and fibre bridging. Full article