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Search Results (355)

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Keywords = steel mesh

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20 pages, 3035 KiB  
Article
Study of Taconis-Based Cryogenic Thermoacoustic Engine with Hydrogen and Helium
by Matthew P. Shenton, Jacob W. Leachman and Konstantin I. Matveev
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4114; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154114 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 209
Abstract
Taconis oscillations represent spontaneous excitation of acoustic modes in tubes with large temperature gradients in cryogenic systems. In this study, Taconis oscillations in hydrogen and helium systems are enhanced with a porous material resulting in a standing-wave thermoacoustic engine. A theoretical model is [...] Read more.
Taconis oscillations represent spontaneous excitation of acoustic modes in tubes with large temperature gradients in cryogenic systems. In this study, Taconis oscillations in hydrogen and helium systems are enhanced with a porous material resulting in a standing-wave thermoacoustic engine. A theoretical model is developed using the thermoacoustic software DeltaEC, version v6.4b2.7, to predict system performance, and an experimental apparatus is constructed for engine characterization. The low-amplitude thermoacoustic model predicts the pressure amplitude, frequency, and temperature gradient required for excitation of the standing-wave system. Experimental measurements, including the onset temperature ratio, acoustic pressure amplitudes, and frequencies, are recorded for different stack materials and geometries. The findings indicate that, independent of stack, hydrogen systems excite at smaller temperature differentials than helium (because of different properties such as lower viscosity for hydrogen), and the stack geometry and material affect the onset temperature ratio. However, pressure amplitude in the excited states varies minimally. Initial measurements are also conducted in a cooling setup with an added regenerator. The configuration with stainless-steel mesh screens produces a small cryogenic refrigeration effect with a decrease in temperature of about 1 K. The reported characterization of a Taconis-based thermoacoustic engine can be useful for the development of novel thermal management systems for cryogenic storage vessels, including refrigeration and pressurization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A5: Hydrogen Energy)
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16 pages, 4733 KiB  
Article
Vibratory Pile Driving in High Viscous Soil Layers: Numerical Analysis of Penetration Resistance and Prebored Hole of CEL Method
by Caihui Li, Changkai Qiu, Xuejin Liu, Junhao Wang and Xiaofei Jing
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2729; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152729 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 176
Abstract
High-viscosity stratified strata, characterized by complex geotechnical properties such as strong cohesion, low permeability, and pronounced layered structures, exhibit significant lateral friction resistance and high-end resistance during steel sheet pile installation. These factors substantially increase construction difficulty and may even cause structural damage. [...] Read more.
High-viscosity stratified strata, characterized by complex geotechnical properties such as strong cohesion, low permeability, and pronounced layered structures, exhibit significant lateral friction resistance and high-end resistance during steel sheet pile installation. These factors substantially increase construction difficulty and may even cause structural damage. This study addresses two critical mechanical challenges during vibratory pile driving in Fujian Province’s hydraulic engineering project: prolonged high-frequency driving durations, and severe U-shaped steel sheet pile head damage in high-viscosity stratified soils. Employing the Coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) numerical method, a systematic investigation was conducted into the penetration resistance, stress distribution, and damage patterns during vibratory pile driving under varying conditions of cohesive soil layer thickness, predrilled hole spacing, and aperture dimensions. The correlation between pile stress and penetration depth was established, with the influence mechanisms of key factors on driving-induced damage in high-viscosity stratified strata under multi-factor coupling effects elucidated. Finally, the feasibility of predrilling techniques for resistance reduction was explored. This study applies the damage prediction model based on the CEL method to U-shaped sheet piles in high-viscosity stratified formations, solving the problem of mesh distortion in traditional finite element methods. The findings provide scientific guidance for steel sheet pile construction in high-viscosity stratified formations, offering significant implications for enhancing construction efficiency, ensuring operational safety, and reducing costs in such challenging geological conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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20 pages, 3474 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Structural Parameters for 304 Stainless Steel Specific Spiral Taps Based on Finite Element Simulation
by Jiajun Pi, Wenqiang Zhang and Hailong Yang
Machines 2025, 13(8), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13080655 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 290
Abstract
To address the issues of large errors, low accuracy, and time-consuming simulations in finite element (FE) models of tapping processes, which hinder the identification of optimal structural parameters, this study integrates FE simulation with experimental testing to optimize the structural parameters of spiral [...] Read more.
To address the issues of large errors, low accuracy, and time-consuming simulations in finite element (FE) models of tapping processes, which hinder the identification of optimal structural parameters, this study integrates FE simulation with experimental testing to optimize the structural parameters of spiral taps specifically designed for stainless steel. Initially, single-factor experiments were conducted to analyze the influence of mesh parameters on experimental outcomes, leading to the identification of optimal mesh coefficients. Subsequently, the accuracy of the FE tapping simulation model was validated by comparing trends in axial force, torque, and chip morphology between simulations and actual tapping experiments. Orthogonal experimental design combined with entropy weight analysis and range analysis was then employed to conduct FE simulations. The results indicated that the optimal structural parameter combination is a helix angle of 43°, cone angle of 19°, and cutting edge relief amount of 0.18 mm. Finally, based on this combination, optimized spiral taps were manufactured and subjected to comparative performance testing. The results demonstrated significant improvements: the average maximum axial force decreased by 33.22%, average maximum torque decreased by 13.41%, average axial force decreased by 38.22%, and average torque decreased by 24.87%. Error analysis comparing corrected simulation results with actual tapping tests revealed axial force and torque error rates of 5.04% and 0.24%, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Machine Design and Theory)
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12 pages, 1803 KiB  
Article
Valorization of Eggshell Powder as a Catalytic Activation Agent for Producing Porous Carbon Materials from Lignocellulosic Waste
by Chi-Hung Tsai, Hervan Marion Morgan and Wen-Tien Tsai
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080712 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 344
Abstract
This study explored the potential of reusing eggshell powders as a renewable activating agent for producing porous carbon materials from coffee husk. Carbonization and activation experiments were conducted by heating the samples at a rate of 10 °C/min up to 850 °C under [...] Read more.
This study explored the potential of reusing eggshell powders as a renewable activating agent for producing porous carbon materials from coffee husk. Carbonization and activation experiments were conducted by heating the samples at a rate of 10 °C/min up to 850 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere. A custom-designed double steel-mesh sample holder was used to hold approximately 2.0 g coffee husk on the top, with varying masses of eggshell at the bottom to achieve eggshells to coffee husk mass ratios of 2:1, 4:1, 6:1 and 8:1. The results demonstrated that CO2 released from the thermal decomposition of the eggshell powder significantly enhanced pore development at 850 °C. Compared to the pore properties of carbon material produced without eggshell (e.g., BET surface area of 321 m2/g), the activated carbon samples exhibited substantially improved pore properties (e.g., BET surface area in the range of 592 to 715 m2/g). Furthermore, the pore characteristics improved consistently with increasing eggshell content. Observations by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the structural and chemical transformations of the resulting carbon materials. Under optimal carbonization-activation conditions, the resulting carbon materials derived from coffee husk exhibited microporous structures and slit-shaped pores, as indicated by the Type I isotherms and H4 hysteresis loops. Full article
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23 pages, 4079 KiB  
Article
Investigation on the Bearing Characteristics and Bearing Capacity Calculation Method of the Interface of Reinforced Soil with Waste Tire Grid
by Jie Sun, Yuchen Tao, Zhikun Liu, Xiuguang Song, Wentong Wang and Hongbo Zhang
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2634; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152634 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 249
Abstract
Geogrids are frequently utilized in engineering for reinforcement; yet, they are vulnerable to construction damage when employed on coarse-grained soil subgrades. In contrast, waste tire grids are more appropriate for subgrade reinforcement owing to their rough surfaces, integrated steel meshes, robust transverse ribs, [...] Read more.
Geogrids are frequently utilized in engineering for reinforcement; yet, they are vulnerable to construction damage when employed on coarse-grained soil subgrades. In contrast, waste tire grids are more appropriate for subgrade reinforcement owing to their rough surfaces, integrated steel meshes, robust transverse ribs, extended degradation cycles, and superior durability. Based on the limit equilibrium theory, this study developed formulae for calculating the internal and external frictional resistance, as well as the end resistance of waste tires, to ascertain the interface bearing properties and calculation techniques of waste tire grids. Based on this, a mechanical model for the ultimate pull-out resistance of waste-tire-reinforced soil was developed, and its validity was confirmed through a series of pull-out tests on single-sided strips, double-sided strips, and tire grids. The results indicated that the tensile strength of one side of the strip was approximately 43% of that of both sides, and the rough outer surface of the tire significantly enhanced the tensile performance of the strip; under identical normal stress, the tensile strength of the single-sided tire grid was roughly nine times and four times greater than that of the single-sided and double-sided strips, respectively, and the grid structure exhibited superior anti-deformation capabilities compared to the strip structure. The average discrepancy between the calculated values of the established model and the theoretical values was merely 2.38% (maximum error < 5%). Overall, this research offers technical assistance for ensuring the safety of subgrade design and promoting environmental sustainability in engineering, enabling the effective utilization of waste tire grids in sustainable reinforcement applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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17 pages, 8151 KiB  
Article
FEA-Based Vibration Modal Analysis and CFD Assessment of Flow Patterns in a Concentric Double-Flange Butterfly Valve Across Multiple Opening Angles
by Desejo Filipeson Sozinando, Bernard Xavier Tchomeni and Alfayo Anyika Alugongo
Vibration 2025, 8(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/vibration8030042 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 572
Abstract
A concentric double-flange butterfly valve (DN-500, PN-10) was analyzed to examine its dynamic behavior and internal fluid flow across multiple opening angles. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was employed to determine natural frequencies, mode shapes, and effective mass participation factors (EMPFs) for valve positions [...] Read more.
A concentric double-flange butterfly valve (DN-500, PN-10) was analyzed to examine its dynamic behavior and internal fluid flow across multiple opening angles. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was employed to determine natural frequencies, mode shapes, and effective mass participation factors (EMPFs) for valve positions at 30°, 60°, and 90°. The valve geometry was discretized using a curvature-based mesh with linear elastic isotropic properties for 1023 carbon steel. Lower-order vibration modes produced global deformations primarily along the valve disk, while higher-order modes showed localized displacement near the shaft–bearing interface, indicating coupled torsional and translational dynamics. The highest EMPF in the X-direction occurred at 1153.1 Hz with 0.2631 kg, while the Y-direction showed moderate contributions peaking at 0.1239 kg at 392.06 Hz. The Z-direction demonstrated lower influence, with a maximum EMPF of 0.1218 kg. Modes 3 and 4 were critical for potential resonance zones due to significant mass contributions and directional sensitivity. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation analyzed flow behavior, pressure drops, and turbulence under varying valve openings. At a lower opening angle, significant flow separation, recirculation zones, and high turbulence were observed. At 90°, the flow became more streamlined, resulting in a reduction in pressure losses and stabilizing velocity profiles. Full article
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17 pages, 4520 KiB  
Article
An Analysis of the Tribological and Thermal Performance of PVDF Gears in Correlation with Wear Mechanisms and Failure Modes Under Different Load Conditions
by Enis Muratović, Adis J. Muminović, Łukasz Gierz, Ilyas Smailov, Maciej Sydor and Muamer Delić
Coatings 2025, 15(7), 800; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15070800 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 374
Abstract
With engineering plastics increasingly replacing traditional materials in various drive and control gear systems across numerous industrial sectors, material selection for any gearwheel critically impacts its mechanical and thermal properties. This paper investigates the engagement of steel and Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) gear pairs [...] Read more.
With engineering plastics increasingly replacing traditional materials in various drive and control gear systems across numerous industrial sectors, material selection for any gearwheel critically impacts its mechanical and thermal properties. This paper investigates the engagement of steel and Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) gear pairs tested under several load conditions to determine polymer gears’ characteristic service life and failure modes. Furthermore, recognizing that the application of polymer gears is limited by insufficient data on their temperature-dependent mechanical properties, this study establishes a correlation between the tribological contact, meshing temperatures, and wear coefficients of PVDF gears. The results demonstrate that the flank surface wear of the PVDF gears is directly proportional to the temperature and load level of the tested gears. Several distinct load-induced failure modes have been detected and categorized into three groups: abrasive wear resulting from the hardness disparity between the engaging surfaces, thermal failure caused by heat accumulation at higher load levels, and tooth fracture occurring due to stiffness changes induced by the compromised tooth cross-section after numerous operating cycles at a specific wear rate. Full article
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27 pages, 7468 KiB  
Article
Delamination-Driven Nonlinear Buckling of Metal–Composite Cylindrical Shells with Different Interfacial Strengths
by Chenyang Di, Yunsen Hu, Huifeng Jiao, Sakdirat Kaewunruen and Jian Zhang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(7), 1279; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13071279 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 402
Abstract
This study delves into the delamination-driven nonlinear buckling characteristics of metal–composite cylindrical shells with different interfacial strengths. Although surface treatments are known to affect bonding performance, their specific influences on the delamination buckling behavior of metal–composite cylindrical shells remain underexplored. Accordingly, sandblasting and [...] Read more.
This study delves into the delamination-driven nonlinear buckling characteristics of metal–composite cylindrical shells with different interfacial strengths. Although surface treatments are known to affect bonding performance, their specific influences on the delamination buckling behavior of metal–composite cylindrical shells remain underexplored. Accordingly, sandblasting and polishing processes were employed to the fabrication of single-lap shear specimens. The topography of the treated surface was then characterized through scanning electron microscopy, optical profilometry, and contact angle measurements. For topography characterization and performance tests, sandblasted and polished metal–composite cylindrical shells were fabricated for hydrostatic tests. A cohesive zone model was used to analyze the influences of interfacial strength on the nonlinear buckling characteristics of metal–composite cylindrical shells, and the modeling results were validated by benchmarking them with experimental results. Subsequently, a detailed parametric study was conducted to investigate the effects of cohesive zone parameters and geometric imperfection on the load-bearing capacity of the shells. The new findings reveal that among the fabricated steel specimens, the specimens subjected to 80-mesh sandblasting exhibited the highest bond strength in single-lap shear tests, with the bond strength being 2.56 times higher than that of polished specimens. Moreover, sandblasted metal–composite cylindrical shells exhibited a 55.0% higher average collapse load than that of polished metal–composite cylindrical shells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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12 pages, 2291 KiB  
Article
Processing and Evaluation of an Aluminum Matrix Composite Material
by Calin-Octavian Miclosina, Remus Belu-Nica, Costel Relu Ciubotariu and Gabriela Marginean
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(7), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9070335 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 460
Abstract
This study signifies the development and characterization of a composite material with a metallic matrix of aluminum reinforced with a steel mesh, utilizing centrifugal casting technology. An evaluation was conducted to ascertain the influence of the formulation process and the presence of the [...] Read more.
This study signifies the development and characterization of a composite material with a metallic matrix of aluminum reinforced with a steel mesh, utilizing centrifugal casting technology. An evaluation was conducted to ascertain the influence of the formulation process and the presence of the insert on the mechanical behavior with regard to tensile strength. The aluminum matrix was obtained from commercial and scrap alloys, elaborated by advanced methods of degassing and chemical modification. Meanwhile, the steel mesh reinforcement was cleaned, copper plated, and preheated to optimize wetting and, consequently, adhesion. The structural characterization was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses (EDX), which highlighted a well-defined interface and uniform copper distribution. The composite was produced by means of horizontal-axis centrifugal casting in a fiberglass mold, followed by cold rolling to obtain flat specimens. A total of eight tensile specimens were examined, with measured ultimate tensile strengths ranging from 78.5 to 119.8 (MPa). A thorough examination of the fractured specimens revealed a brittle fracture mechanism, devoid of substantial plastic deformation. The onset of failures was frequently observed at the interface between the aluminum matrix and the steel mesh. The use of SEM and EDX investigations led to the confirmation of the uniformity of the copper coating and the absence of significant porosity or interfacial defects. A bimodal distribution of tensile strength values was observed, a phenomenon that is likely attributable to variations in mesh positioning and local differences in solidification. A correlation was established between the experimental results and an analytical polynomial model, thereby confirming a reasonable fit. In sum, the present study provides a substantial foundation for the development of metal matrix composites with enhanced performance, specifically designed for challenging structural applications. This method also demonstrates potential for recycling aluminum scrap into high-performance composites with controlled microstructure and mechanical integrity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal Composites, Volume II)
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20 pages, 3408 KiB  
Article
Friction Stress Analysis of Slag Film in Mold of Medium-Carbon Special Steel Square Billet
by Xingjuan Wang, Xulin Si, Liguang Zhu, Tianshuo Wei and Xuelong Zheng
Metals 2025, 15(7), 702; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15070702 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 262
Abstract
Non-uniform friction and lubrication are the key factors affecting the surface quality of the casting billet. Based on the three-layer structure of the casting powder in the mold, the frictional stress in the mold was calculated and analyzed by using the relationship between [...] Read more.
Non-uniform friction and lubrication are the key factors affecting the surface quality of the casting billet. Based on the three-layer structure of the casting powder in the mold, the frictional stress in the mold was calculated and analyzed by using the relationship between the frictional stress and the thickness and viscosity of the liquid slag film, and the lubrication state between the cast billet and the mold was evaluated. Based on the actual production data of 40Mn2 steel and combined with the numerical simulation results of the solidification and shrinkage process of the molten steel in the mold by ANSYS 2022 R1 software, the frictional stress on the cast billet in the mold was calculated. It was found that within the range of 44~300 mm from the meniscus, the friction between the cast billet and the mold was mainly liquid friction, and the friction stress value increased from 0 to 145 KPa. Within 300–720 mm from the meniscus, the billet shell is in direct contact with the mold. The friction between the cast billet and the mold is mainly solid-state friction, and the friction stress value increases from 10.6 KPa to 26.6 KPa. It indicates that the excessive frictional stress inside the mold causes poor lubrication of the cast billet. By reducing the taper of the mold and optimizing the physical and chemical properties of the protective powder, within the range of 44~550 mm from the meniscus, the friction between the cast billet and the mold is mainly liquid friction, and the friction stress value varies within the range of 0–200 Pa. It reduces the frictional stress inside the mold, improves the lubrication between the billet shell and the mold, and completely solves the problem of mesh cracks on the surface of 40Mn2 steel cast billets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical Modelling of Metal-Forming Processes)
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32 pages, 7045 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Reinforcement Methods for Brick Masonry Walls: An Experimental and Finite Element Analysis Approach
by Tahir Mehmood, Muhammad Amer Abid, Burachat Chatveera, Gritsada Sua-Iam, Panumas Saingam, Ali Ejaz, Qudeer Hussain, Panuwat Joyklad and Suniti Suparp
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2180; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132180 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1340
Abstract
This study investigates the enhancement of axial and shear strength in brick masonry walls reinforced with steel and fiberglass meshes. The novelty of this study lies in its thorough evaluation of various reinforcement types and their influence on both axial and shear strength, [...] Read more.
This study investigates the enhancement of axial and shear strength in brick masonry walls reinforced with steel and fiberglass meshes. The novelty of this study lies in its thorough evaluation of various reinforcement types and their influence on both axial and shear strength, offering valuable insights to enhance the performance of brick masonry structures. By using steel and fiberglass meshes for reinforcement, the study promotes the use of durable materials that can extend the lifespan of brick masonry structures, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements. The findings reveal that double-layer steel mesh delivers the highest strength, effectively reducing brittleness and improving deformation capacity in both single- and double-brick walls. Specifically, single-brick walls exhibited increases in compressive strength of 38.8% with single-layer steel mesh, 31.2% with fiberglass mesh, and 19.7% with plaster. In contrast, double-brick walls showed enhancements of 73.6% with double-layer steel mesh and 43.5% with fiberglass mesh. For shear strength, single-brick walls improved by 115.1% with single-layer steel mesh, 91.3% with fiberglass mesh, and 42.1% with plaster, while double-brick walls experienced increases of 162.7% with double-layer steel mesh and 132.5% with fiberglass mesh. Additionally, Abaqus modeling under axial and diagonal compression closely matched experimental results, revealing less than a 10% discrepancy across all reinforcement types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling and Testing the Performance of Masonry Structures)
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16 pages, 2704 KiB  
Article
Shear Capacity of Masonry Walls Externally Strengthened via Reinforced Khorasan Jacketing
by Cagri Mollamahmutoglu, Mehdi Ozturk and Mehmet Ozan Yilmaz
Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2177; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132177 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
This study investigates the in-plane shear behavior of solid brick masonry walls, both unreinforced and retrofitted using Reinforced Khorasan Jacketing (RHJ), a traditional pozzolanic mortar technique rooted in Iranian and Ottoman architecture. Six one-block-thick English bond masonry walls were tested in three configurations: [...] Read more.
This study investigates the in-plane shear behavior of solid brick masonry walls, both unreinforced and retrofitted using Reinforced Khorasan Jacketing (RHJ), a traditional pozzolanic mortar technique rooted in Iranian and Ottoman architecture. Six one-block-thick English bond masonry walls were tested in three configurations: unreinforced with Horasan plaster (Group I), reinforced with steel mesh aligned to wall edges (Group II), and reinforced with mesh aligned diagonally (Group III). All the walls were plastered with 3.5 cm of Horasan mortar and tested after 18 months using diagonal compression, with load-displacement data recorded. A detailed 3D micro-modeling approach was employed in finite element simulations, with bricks and mortar modeled separately. The Horasan mortar was represented using an elastoplastic Mohr-Coulomb model with a custom softening law (parabolic-to-exponential), calibrated via inverse parameter fitting using the Nelder-Mead algorithm. The numerical predictions closely matched the experimental data. Reinforcement improved the shear strength significantly: Group II showed a 1.8 times increase, and Group III up to 2.7 times. Ductility, measured as post-peak deformation capacity, increased by factors of two (parallel) and three (diagonal). These enhancements transformed the brittle failure mode into a more ductile, energy-absorbing behavior. RHJ is shown to be a compatible, effective retrofit solution for historic masonry structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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23 pages, 23602 KiB  
Article
Exploration of the Supercapacitive Performance of 3D Flower-like Architecture of Quaternary CuNiCoZnO Developed on Versatile Substrates
by Priya G. Gaikwad, Nidhi Tiwari, Rajanish K. Kamat, Sadaf Jamal Gilani, Sagar M. Mane, Jaewoong Lee and Shriniwas B. Kulkarni
Micromachines 2025, 16(6), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16060645 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 450
Abstract
The demand for high-performance supercapacitors has driven extensive research into novel electrode materials with superior electrochemical properties. This study explores the supercapacitive behavior of quaternary CuNiCoZnO (CNCZO) films engineered into a three-dimensional (3D) flower-like morphology and developed on versatile substrates, including carbon cloth, [...] Read more.
The demand for high-performance supercapacitors has driven extensive research into novel electrode materials with superior electrochemical properties. This study explores the supercapacitive behavior of quaternary CuNiCoZnO (CNCZO) films engineered into a three-dimensional (3D) flower-like morphology and developed on versatile substrates, including carbon cloth, stainless steel mesh, and nickel foam. The unique structural design, comprising interconnected nanosheets, enhances the electroactive surface area, facilitates ion diffusion, and improves charge storage capability. The synergistic effect of the multi-metallic composition contributes to remarkable electrochemical characteristics, including high specific capacitance, excellent rate capability, and outstanding cycling stability. Furthermore, the influence of different substrates on the electrochemical performance is systematically investigated to optimize material–substrate interactions. Electrochemical evaluations reveal outstanding specific capacitance values of 2318.5 F/g, 1993.7 F/g, and 2741.3 F/g at 2 mA/cm2 for CNCZO electrodes on stainless steel mesh, carbon cloth, and nickel foam, respectively, with capacitance retention of 77.3%, 95.7%, and 86.1% over 5000 cycles. Furthermore, a symmetric device of CNCZO@Ni exhibits a peak specific capacitance of 67.7 F/g at a current density of 4 mA/cm2, a power density of 717.4 W/kg, and an energy density of 25.6 Wh/kg, maintaining 84.5% stability over 5000 cycles. The straightforward synthesis of CNCZO on multiple substrates presents a promising route for the development of flexible, high-performance energy storage devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Conversion and Storage Devices: Materials and Applications)
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30 pages, 4701 KiB  
Article
Electrocoagulation with Fe-SS Electrodes as a Fourth Stage of Tequila Vinasses Treatment for COD and Color Removal
by Rafael González Pérez, Aída Lucía Fajardo Montiel, Edgardo Martínez Orozco, Norberto Santiago Olivares, Juan Nápoles Armenta and Celestino García Gómez
Processes 2025, 13(6), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13061637 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 530
Abstract
The tequila industry faces several environmental challenges due to its high yields of contaminants, especially tequila distillation stillage or tequila vinasses, with ten to twelve liters produced per liter of tequila. All treatments aim to shorten retention times to avoid the need for [...] Read more.
The tequila industry faces several environmental challenges due to its high yields of contaminants, especially tequila distillation stillage or tequila vinasses, with ten to twelve liters produced per liter of tequila. All treatments aim to shorten retention times to avoid the need for large equipment or new facilities and the saturation of residues within tequila distilleries. The complexity of tequila vinasses has led to treatments with several stages, whereby most of the organic matter content is reduced, but the treatment range results are insufficient. This study aimed to evaluate a fourth-stage tequila vinasse treatment using an electrocoagulation system that uses inexpensive electrodes (SS cathodes and iron anodes), has a low electrical consumption, and applies low voltages in order to meet safety, economic, and environmental criteria so as to comply with Mexican norm NOM-001-SEMARNAT-2021. Three sets of voltage–amperage controllable power source, a 4 mm cylindrical 304 stainless-steel cathode, and a 9 mm iron anode with 200 mL samples in 250 mL beakers were used; three replicas (R1, R2, and R3) underwent 2 h treatment at 1–6 volts to evaluate the voltage effect and 1–6 h of 5-volt treatment to assess the time effect. All samples were filtered with 8 μm and 0.25 μm meshes. Chemical oxygen demand, pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, and color measurements (SAC for λ 436, 525, and 620 nm) were taken. The experiments determined the optimal voltage and time, considering a hydraulic retention time below 6 h. The results show that electrocoagulation of pretreated tequila vinasses effectively helps in the final removal of organic matter measured as COD, reaching values below 150 COD mg/L at 5–6 h with 5 V treatments and color reduction with 5 V, 1 h treatment. This leads to final polishing that complies with the Mexican wastewater discharge norm criteria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental and Green Processes)
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16 pages, 5435 KiB  
Article
Structural Properties of Wire-Mesh-Reinforced Straw Concrete Sandwich Panels for Sustainable Construction
by Guoliang Guo, Chun Lv, Jie Liu and Yu Zhang
Buildings 2025, 15(10), 1632; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15101632 - 13 May 2025
Viewed by 481
Abstract
Straw as a building material alternative is in line with sustainable development goals. To make effective use of straw resources such as rice and corn stalks in rural areas, a kind of steel wire mesh-reinforced straw concrete sandwich panel (SCSP) was developed. The [...] Read more.
Straw as a building material alternative is in line with sustainable development goals. To make effective use of straw resources such as rice and corn stalks in rural areas, a kind of steel wire mesh-reinforced straw concrete sandwich panel (SCSP) was developed. The SCSP was composed of cold-drawn low-carbon steel-wire mesh (SWM), fine gravel concrete (FGC), and straw. The used type of FGC was shotcrete. A cold-drawn low-carbon SWM was arranged on the upper and lower sides of the SCSP, and a vertical wire tie was arranged between the upper and lower cold-drawn low-carbon SWMs. The FGC was sprayed on the SWM to make the SCSP layer work together. The loading process of the SCSP could be divided into three stages: elastic working state, cracking state, and failure state. The results of the four-point loading test show that the maximum flexural moment of the SCSP can be up to 7.5 kN·m in the elastic range. The ultimate bearing capacity of SCSP reaches 10.9 kN·m, and the maximum crack width can reach 3~4 mm. At the same time, based on the assumption of the flexural section of SCSP, two simplified calculation models of SCSP bearing capacity were established. The average error was 2.99% and 9.41%, respectively, by comparing the experimental values with the two calculated values. The results obtained by using the two models were in good agreement with the experimental results. Full article
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