Journal Description
Materials
Materials
is an international peer-reviewed, open access journal on materials science and engineering published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Portuguese Materials Society (SPM), Spanish Materials Society (SOCIEMAT) and Manufacturing Engineering Society (MES) are affiliated with Materials and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Ei Compendex, CaPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, Astrophysics Data System, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering) / CiteScore - Q2 (Condensed Matter Physics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Materials.
- Companion journals for Materials include: Electronic Materials and Construction Materials.
Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Thermal Reactivation of Hydrated Cement Paste: Properties and Impact on Cement Hydration
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2659; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112659 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
In this research, the properties and cementitious performance of thermally activated cement pastes (referred to as DCPs) are investigated. Hydrated pastes prepared from Portland cement and slag blended cement were subjected to different thermal treatments: 350 °C for 2 h, 550 °C for
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In this research, the properties and cementitious performance of thermally activated cement pastes (referred to as DCPs) are investigated. Hydrated pastes prepared from Portland cement and slag blended cement were subjected to different thermal treatments: 350 °C for 2 h, 550 °C for 2 h, 550 °C for 24 h and 750 °C for 2 h. The properties and the reactivity as SCM of the DCPs were characterised as well as their effect on the mechanical performance and hydration of new blended cements incorporating the DCPs as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). It was observed that the temperature and duration of the thermal treatment increased the grindability and BET specific surface area of the DCP, as well as the formation of C2S phases and the reactivity as SCM. In contrast, the mechanical strength results for the blended cements indicated that thermal treatment at 350 °C for 2 h provided better performance. The hydration study results showed that highly reactive DCP interfered with the early hydration of the main clinker phases in Portland cement, leading to early setting and slow strength gain. The effect on blended cement hydration was most marked for binary Portland cement–DCP blends. In contrast, in the case of ternary slag cement–DCP blends the use of reactive DCP as SCM enabled to significantly increase early age strength.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (Second Volume))
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Density Distribution in a Cylindrical Specimen under Compaction Using the Example of Dry Ice
by
Jan Górecki, Maciej Berdychowski, Krzysztof Wałęsa and Boris Kostov
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2658; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112658 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
When dealing with processes involving the compaction of bulk materials, very often the quality of the product is determined based on density measurements. Methods used in the industry do not produce compacted materials with high degrees of homogeneity. As a result, the quality
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When dealing with processes involving the compaction of bulk materials, very often the quality of the product is determined based on density measurements. Methods used in the industry do not produce compacted materials with high degrees of homogeneity. As a result, the quality of the resulting product, interpreted as its density, varies over the cross-section of the product. In this article, the authors present the results of a numerical study involving the analysis of the density distribution of compacted dry ice during the reciprocating process. The Drucker–Prager/cap model was used in this study, which allowed the change in mechanical properties of the compacted material to be taken into account during the simulation of the process. The diameter, height and density of the cylindrical specimens used in the numerical tests were taken as the variable parameters. Thus, as a result of the testing, the authors could formulate conclusions relating to their impact on the homogeneity of the material.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Processing of Granular and Fibrous Materials (Second Edition))
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Open AccessArticle
Stress and Microstructures Characterization Based on Magnetic Incremental Permeability and Magnetic Barkhausen Noise Techniques
by
Hongwei Sheng, Ping Wang, Yuan Yang and Chenglong Tang
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2657; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112657 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Abstract: Both microstructure and stress affect the structure and kinematic properties of magnetic domains. In fact, microstructural and stress variations often coexist. However, the coupling of microstructure and stress on magnetic domains is seldom considered in the evaluation of microstructural characteristics. In this
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Abstract: Both microstructure and stress affect the structure and kinematic properties of magnetic domains. In fact, microstructural and stress variations often coexist. However, the coupling of microstructure and stress on magnetic domains is seldom considered in the evaluation of microstructural characteristics. In this investigation, Magnetic incremental permeability (MIP) and magnetic Barkhausen noise (MBN) techniques are used to study the coupling effect of characteristic microstructure and stress on the reversible and irreversible motions of magnetic domains, and the quantitative relationship between microstructure and magnetic domain characteristics is established. Considering the coupling effect of microstructure and stress on magnetic domains, a patterned characterization method of microstructure and stress is innovatively proposed. Pattern recognition based on the Multi-layer Perceptron (MLP) model is realized for microstructure and stress with an accuracy rate higher than 97%. The results show that the pattern recognition accuracy of magnetic domain features and micro-magnetic features simultaneously as input parameters is higher than that of micro-magnetic features alone as input parameters.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-destructive Testing (NDT) of Advanced Composites and Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Durability Analysis of Cold Spray Repairs: Phase I—Effect of Surface Grit Blasting
by
Daren Peng, Caixian Tang, Jarrod Watts, Andrew Ang, R. K. Singh Raman, Michael Nicholas, Nam Phan and Rhys Jones
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2656; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112656 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
This paper presents the results of an extensive investigation into the durability of cold spray repairs to corrosion damage in AA7075-T7351 aluminium alloy specimens where, prior to powder deposition, the surface preparation involved grit blasting. In this context, it is shown that the
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This paper presents the results of an extensive investigation into the durability of cold spray repairs to corrosion damage in AA7075-T7351 aluminium alloy specimens where, prior to powder deposition, the surface preparation involved grit blasting. In this context, it is shown that the growth of small naturally occurring cracks in cold spray repairs to simulated corrosion damage can be accurately computed using the Hartman–Schijve crack growth equation in a fashion that is consistent with the requirements delineated in USAF Structures Bulletin EZ-SB-19-01, MIL-STD-1530D, and the US Joint Services Structural Guidelines JSSG2006. The relatively large variation in the da/dN versus ΔK curves associated with low values of da/dN highlights the fact that, before any durability assessment of a cold spray repair to an operational airframe is attempted, it is first necessary to perform a sufficient number of tests so that the worst-case small crack growth curve needed to perform the mandated airworthiness certification analysis can be determined.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Materials Science and Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
On the Crush Behavior and Energy Absorption of Sustainable Beverage Cans and Their Polyurethane Foam-Filled Structures: An Experimental Study
by
Zelin Wang, Zheng Liu, Yangzuo Liu, Wuning Ma, Zhendong Zhang, Changfang Zhao and Chunhao Yang
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2655; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112655 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
In the pursuit of global energy conservation and emissions reductions, utilizing beverage cans as energy-absorbing components offers potential for a sustainable economy. This study examines the impact of foam filling on the crushing behaviors and energy absorption of various types of beverage cans.
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In the pursuit of global energy conservation and emissions reductions, utilizing beverage cans as energy-absorbing components offers potential for a sustainable economy. This study examines the impact of foam filling on the crushing behaviors and energy absorption of various types of beverage cans. Quasi-static compression tests were conducted on five geometrically sized cans filled with three densities of polyurethane foam to study their deformation modes and calculate crashworthiness parameters within the effective stroke. Results show that empty beverage cans have lower energy absorption capacities, and deformation modes become less consistent as can size increases. Higher foam density leads to increased total energy absorption, a slight reduction in the effective compression stroke, and a tendency for specific energy absorption to initially increase and then decrease. Regarding crush behavior, smaller cans transition from a diamond mode to a concertina mode, while larger cans exhibit a columnar bending mode. Next, the coupling effect of energy absorption between foam and cans was analyzed so as to reveal the design method of energy-absorbing components. The specific energy absorption of smaller cans filled with polyurethane foam is superior to that of similar empty cans. These findings provide valuable insights for selecting next-generation sustainable energy absorption structures.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanics of Materials)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Negative Pulse on the Stability of Black Electrolytes for Magnesium Alloy Microarc Oxidation
by
Bo Chen, Rui Tong, Hongtao Li, Wenqiang Wang, Xuanyu Chen, Hao Wang, Yifeng Yang and Shiquan Zhou
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2654; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112654 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
The correlation between negative pulse and the black electrolyte properties of magnesium alloy micro-arc oxidation and the treated area was investigated by introducing a negative pulse electric field. The physical phase composition, microstructure, elemental distribution, and content of the coating were analyzed using
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The correlation between negative pulse and the black electrolyte properties of magnesium alloy micro-arc oxidation and the treated area was investigated by introducing a negative pulse electric field. The physical phase composition, microstructure, elemental distribution, and content of the coating were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results showed that the introduction of negative pulses favored the generation of MgO and MgSiO3 contents in the coatings, and an increase in the MgO phase was found in the coatings formed in the failed electrolytes; the microporous size and microcracks of the coatings were gradually and significantly reduced; the average consumption of Cu ions was 0.0453 g/L·dm2, which is only 26% of that in the unipolar condition; the introduction of the negative pulses significantly improved the “anomalous consumption” of Cu ions. The introduction of negative pulse can significantly improve the “abnormal consumption” of copper ions, which is attributed to the change in the electric field by negative pulse, which makes the cathode-enriched Cu ions migrate to the anode and reduces the reduction and precipitation of Cu ions at the cathode.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Multifunctional Coatings for New Applications)
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Open AccessCommunication
Goldene: An Anisotropic Metallic Monolayer with Remarkable Stability and Rigidity and Low Lattice Thermal Conductivity
by
Bohayra Mortazavi
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112653 - 31 May 2024
Abstract
In a recent breakthrough in the field of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, the first synthesis of a single-atom-thick gold lattice of goldene has been reported through an innovative wet chemical removal of Ti3C2 from the layered Ti3AuC2.
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In a recent breakthrough in the field of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, the first synthesis of a single-atom-thick gold lattice of goldene has been reported through an innovative wet chemical removal of Ti3C2 from the layered Ti3AuC2. Inspired by this advancement, in this communication and for the first time, a comprehensive first-principles investigation using a combination of density functional theory (DFT) and machine learning interatomic potential (MLIP) calculations has been conducted to delve into the stability, electronic, mechanical and thermal properties of the single-layer and free-standing goldene. The presented results confirm thermal stability at 700 K as well as remarkable dynamical stability of the stress-free and strained goldene monolayer. At the ground state, the elastic modulus and tensile strength of the goldene monolayer are predicted to be over 226 and 12 GPa, respectively. Through validated MLIP-based molecular dynamics calculations, it is found that at room temperature, the goldene nanosheet can exhibit anisotropic tensile strength over 9 GPa and a low lattice thermal conductivity around 10 ± 2 W/(m.K), respectively. We finally show that the native metallic nature of the goldene monolayer stays intact under large tensile strains. The combined insights from DFT and MLIP-based results provide a comprehensive understanding of the stability, mechanical, thermal and electronic properties of goldene nanosheets.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermal Management of Two-Dimensional Materials and Their Van der Waals Heterostructures)
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Open AccessArticle
Inspection of Liner Wall Thinning and Interface Debonding in Bimetallic Lined Pipes Using Pulsed Eddy Current Testing
by
Weifan Chen, Xiaofeng Zhou, Baixi Liu, Zhiping Li, Zan Luo and Zhiyuan Xu
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2652; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112652 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Bimetallic lined pipe (BLP) has been increasingly used in offshore and subsea oil and gas structures, but how to identify the invisible inner defects such as liner wall thinning and interface debonding is a challenge for future development. A nondestructive testing (NDT) method
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Bimetallic lined pipe (BLP) has been increasingly used in offshore and subsea oil and gas structures, but how to identify the invisible inner defects such as liner wall thinning and interface debonding is a challenge for future development. A nondestructive testing (NDT) method based on pulsed eddy current testing (PECT) has been proposed to face these difficulties. The inspection of the BLP specimen (AISI1020 base tube and SS304 liner) is implemented from outside of the pipe by using a transmitter–receiver-type PECT probe consisting of two induction coils. By simplifying the BLP specimen to stratified conductive plates, the electromagnetic field interaction between the PECT probe and specimen is analytically modeled, and the probe inspection signals due to liner wall thinning and interface debonding are calculated. In order to highlight the weak response (in microvolts) from the liner, the inspection signals are subtracted by the signal, which is calculated in the case of only having a base tube, yielding differential PECT signals. The peak voltage of the differential signal is selected to characterize the liner wall thinning and interface debonding due to its distinguishable and linear variation. Experiment verification is also carried out on a double-walled specimen simulated by a combination of a Q235 casing pipe and SS304 tubes of different sizes. The experimental results basically agree with the analytical predictions. The peak value of the PECT signal has an ascending and descending variation with the increase in the remaining liner wall thickness and debonding gap, respectively, while the negative peak value shows opposite changes. The peak value exhibits a larger sensitivity than the negative peak value. The proposed method shows potential promise in practical applications for the evaluation of the inner defects in BLP lines.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing and Monitoring Technologies in Composite Materials)
Open AccessArticle
Experimental Study Based on Box–Behnken Design and Response Surface Methodology for Optimization Proportioning of Activated Lithium Slag Composite Cement-Based Cementitious Materials
by
Weixing Shao, Wenhua Zha, Xueyun Zhou and Tao Xu
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2651; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112651 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Cement-based cementitious materials occupy a central position in the construction industry, but the problem of high carbon dioxide(CO2) emissions from cement production has attracted global attention. To meet this challenge, finding low-carbon alternative materials has become a top priority in the
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Cement-based cementitious materials occupy a central position in the construction industry, but the problem of high carbon dioxide(CO2) emissions from cement production has attracted global attention. To meet this challenge, finding low-carbon alternative materials has become a top priority in the research of new building materials. At the same time, the problem of large amounts of lithium slag piling up needs to be solved, and resource utilization has become its potential way out. In this study, the volcanic ash activity of lithium slag was activated by composite activation means of high-temperature calcination and sodium silicate, and it was used as an alternative mix to cement. The Box–Behnken design and response surface method (BBD-RSM) was utilized to optimize the ratio of activated lithium slag composite cement-based cementitious materials, and high-performance new solid waste cementitious materials were prepared. The results show that activated lithium slag composite cementitious materials activated lithium slag exhibit excellent performance when activated lithium slag mass fraction is 7.3%, the sodium silicate dosage is 8.8%, and water–solid ratio is 0.6:1. The composite cementitious material under this ratio shows excellent performance, with fluidity 235.69 mm, gelation time 73.54 s, water evolution rate 1.123%, 3d and 28d compressive strengths, respectively, are 11.54 MPa and 22.9 MPa. Compared with ordinary Portland-cement-based cementing materials, the uniaxial compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and tensile strength at break of activated lithium slag cementitious material solidified body were increased by 34.33%, 36.43%, and 34.98%, and the compressive deformation and tensile deformation were enhanced by 37.78% and 40%. This study not only provides a theoretical basis and experimental foundation for the preparation of new solid waste cementitious materials, but also provides a new solution for the reinforcement of crushed rock bodies in engineering practice, which is of great significance for promoting the low-carbon development of the construction industry.
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(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Failure Analysis for Overall Overturning of Concrete Single-Column Pier Bridges Induced by Temperature and Overloaded Vehicles
by
Yelu Wang, Yongjun Zhou, Yuxin Xue, Changwei Yao, Kailong Wang and Xuchang Luo
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2650; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112650 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Several overloaded-induced overturning incidents of girder bridges with single-column piers have occurred in recent years, resulting in significant casualties and economic losses. Temperature, in addition to overloading, may also play a role in exacerbating bridge overturning. To investigate the association between temperature and
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Several overloaded-induced overturning incidents of girder bridges with single-column piers have occurred in recent years, resulting in significant casualties and economic losses. Temperature, in addition to overloading, may also play a role in exacerbating bridge overturning. To investigate the association between temperature and bridge overturning, an explicit finite element model (EFEM) of a three-span concrete curved continuous bridge considering nonlinearities was developed to simulate overall collapse. The effects of uniform and gradient temperatures on the overall overturning stability of curved and straight bridges were evaluated based on the EFEMs. Furthermore, the temperature–bridge coupling model and temperature–vehicle–bridge coupling model were utilized to examine how gradient temperature influences bridge overturning. The results show that the overall overturning collapse of a bridge follows four stages: stabilization, transition, risk and overturning. Variations in uniform temperature from −30 °C to 60 °C had a negligible effect on the ultimate vehicle weight for bridge overturning, with a variation of less than 1%. As the gradient temperature ranged from −30 °C to 60 °C, curved bridges show less than a 2% variation in ultimate vehicle weights, compared to a range of −6.1% to 11.7% for straight bridges. The torsion caused by positive gradient temperature in curved bridges can exacerbate bridge overturning, while negative gradient temperature in straight bridges can lead the girder to ‘upward warping’, facilitating girder separation from bearings. Monitoring the girder rotation angle and vertical reaction force of bearings can serve as important indicators for comparing the stability of bridges.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Recent Advances in Structural Health Monitoring, 2nd Volume)
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Open AccessReview
Research Progress on Helmet Liner Materials and Structural Applications
by
Xingyu Zhang, Bin Yang, Jinguo Wu, Xin Li and Ronghua Zhou
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2649; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112649 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
As an important part of head protection equipment, research on the material and structural application of helmet liners has always been one of the hotspots in the field of helmets. This paper first discusses common helmet liner materials, including traditional polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene,
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As an important part of head protection equipment, research on the material and structural application of helmet liners has always been one of the hotspots in the field of helmets. This paper first discusses common helmet liner materials, including traditional polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, etc., as well as newly emerging anisotropic materials, polymer nanocomposites, etc. Secondly, the design concept of the helmet liner structure is discussed, including the use of a multi-layer structure, the addition of geometric irregular bubbles to enhance the energy absorption effect, and the introduction of new manufacturing processes, such as additive manufacturing technology, to realize the preparation of complex structures. Then, the application of biomimetic structures to helmet liner design is analyzed, such as the design of helmet liner structures with more energy absorption properties based on biological tissue structures. On this basis, we propose extending the concept of bionic structural design to the fusion of plant stalks and animal skeletal structures, and combining additive manufacturing technology to significantly reduce energy loss during elastic yield energy absorption, thus developing a reusable helmet that provides a research direction for future helmet liner materials and structural applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Materials Science for Engineering Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Separation of Adjacent Light Rare Earth Elements Using Silica Gel Modified with Diglycolamic Acid
by
Takeshi Ogata and Hirokazu Narita
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2648; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112648 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
The separation of adjacent rare earth elements (REEs) is a challenging issue due to their chemical similarity. We have investigated the separation of adjacent REEs using four types of adsorbents consisting of silica gel modified with diglycolamic acid with different functional groups at
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The separation of adjacent rare earth elements (REEs) is a challenging issue due to their chemical similarity. We have investigated the separation of adjacent REEs using four types of adsorbents consisting of silica gel modified with diglycolamic acid with different functional groups at the amide position. For all the adsorbents, the adsorption ratio of REEs increased with the increase in atomic number from La to Sm and then became constant for heavy REEs. Among them, EDASiDGA, an adsorbent containing secondary and tertiary amides, showed a high separation factor for Nd/Pr of 2.8. The EDASiDGA-packed column was tested for individual recovery of Pr, Nd, and Sm. After the adsorption of these REEs from 0.10 M HCl, desorption tests were performed with 0.32 and 1.0 M HCl. As a result, Pr and Nd were eluted separately with 0.32 M HCl, and Sm was recovered with 1.0 M HCl. Since the EDASiDGA-packed column showed excellent separation of Pr/Nd/Sm without any chelating agent, it is promising for practical use.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends of Functional Materials for Wastewater Treatment Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Underwater Melting Process and Leakage Plugging Performance of Phase-Change Materials
by
Shenghang Zhang, Lei Tang, Fei Li, Po Li, Yao Sima and Song Zhao
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2647; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112647 - 30 May 2024
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Leakage is a high-incidence disease of embankment dams, and efficiently addressing this disease guarantees the safe operation of dams. Underwater leakage self-priming plugging technology is a new technology that utilizes the melting and solidifying characteristics of phase-change materials and the negative pressure in
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Leakage is a high-incidence disease of embankment dams, and efficiently addressing this disease guarantees the safe operation of dams. Underwater leakage self-priming plugging technology is a new technology that utilizes the melting and solidifying characteristics of phase-change materials and the negative pressure in the leakage entry area to accurately plug the leakage. However, little is yet known about the underwater melting process of phase-change materials and how their characteristics influence the plugging effect. In this study, three kinds of phase-change materials, namely, paraffin, rosin, and stearic acid, were used to conduct underwater leakage self-priming plugging tests, observe and analyze the underwater melting process, and compare the plugging effects. The results showed that the underwater melting process of phase-change materials exhibited different plugging window periods depending on their melting points, specific heat capacities, and mobilities, which were the main factors affecting their plugging effects. In the final plugging stage, paraffin had the best plugging effect, but the material strength was low; rosin had good plugging compactness, but the fluidity performance was poor, and the material effective utilization was low; stearic acid had a low melting point but dispersed easily. Therefore, a blocking material with a suitable blocking window period can be produced by adjusting the material properties accordingly for an improved blocking effect.
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Open AccessArticle
Properties and Possibilities of Using Biochar Composites Made on the Basis of Biomass and Waste Residues Ferryferrohydrosol Sorbent
by
Katarzyna Wystalska, Mariusz Kowalczyk, Tomasz Kamizela, Małgorzata Worwąg and Magdalena Zabochnicka
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2646; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112646 - 30 May 2024
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Biochar enriched with metals has an increased potential for sorption of organic and inorganic pollutants. The aim of the research was to identify the possibility of using biochar composites produced on the basis of waste plant biomass and waste FFH (ferryferrohydrosol) containing iron
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Biochar enriched with metals has an increased potential for sorption of organic and inorganic pollutants. The aim of the research was to identify the possibility of using biochar composites produced on the basis of waste plant biomass and waste FFH (ferryferrohydrosol) containing iron atoms, after CO2 capture. The composites were produced in a one-stage or two-stage pyrolysis process. Their selected properties were determined as follows: pH, ash content, C, H, N, O, specific surface area, microstructure and the presence of surface functional groups. The produced biochar and composites had different properties resulting from the production method and the additive used. The results of experiments on the removal of methylene blue (MB) from solutions allowed us to rank the adsorbents used according to the maximum dye removal value achieved as follows: BC1 (94.99%), B (84.61%), BC2 (84.09%), BC3 (83.23%) and BC4 (83.23%). In terms of maximum amoxicillin removal efficiency, the ranking is as follows: BC1 (55.49%), BC3 (23.51%), BC2 (18.13%), B (13.50%) and BC4 (5.98%). The maximum efficiency of diclofenac removal was demonstrated by adsorbents BC1 (98.71), BC3 (87.08%), BC4 (74.20%), B (36.70%) and BC2 (30.40%). The most effective removal of metals Zn, Pb and Cd from the solution was demonstrated by BC1 and BC3 composites. The final concentration of the tested metals after sorption using these composites was less than 1% of the initial concentration. The highest increase in biomass on prepared substrates was recorded for the BC5 composite. It was higher by 90% and 54% (for doses of 30 g and 15 g, respectively) in relation to the biomass growth in the soil without additives. The BC1 composite can be used in pollutant sorption processes. However, BC5 has great potential as a soil additive in crop yield and plant growth.
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Carbon Fiber and Potassium Titanate Whisker on the Mechanical and Impact Tribological Properties of Fe-Based Impregnated Diamond Bit Matrix
by
Zhiming Wang, Chengkai Guan, Wucheng Sun, Songcheng Tan, Longchen Duan and Xiaohong Fang
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2645; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112645 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Various contents of carbon fibers (CFs) and potassium titanate whiskers (PTWs) were added to an Fe-based impregnated diamond bit (IDB) matrix to enhance its adaptability to percussive–rotary drilling. A series of mechanical tests were conducted successively to find the effects of the reinforcing
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Various contents of carbon fibers (CFs) and potassium titanate whiskers (PTWs) were added to an Fe-based impregnated diamond bit (IDB) matrix to enhance its adaptability to percussive–rotary drilling. A series of mechanical tests were conducted successively to find the effects of the reinforcing materials on the properties of the Fe-based IDB samples. Then, the fracture surfaces of the samples were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and the worn surfaces and abrasive debris of the samples were analyzed using a laser scanning confocal microscope and SEM. The results show that both the CF and PTW can effectively improve the hardness and bending strength of an Fe-based IDB matrix, and those parameters reached their maximum values at the additive amount of 1 wt%. However, the CF had a better enhancement effect than the PTW. Furthermore, the CF improved the impact wear resistance of the IDB matrix, with a minimum wear rate of 2.38 g/min at the additive amount of 2 wt%. However, the PTW continuously weakened the impact wear resistance of the IDB matrix with increases in its content. Moreover, the morphologies of the worn surfaces indicated that the minimum roughness of the CF-reinforced IDB matrix decreased significantly to as low as 4.91 μm, which was 46.16% lower than that without CF, whereas the minimum roughness of the PTW-reinforced samples decreased by 11.31%. Meanwhile, the abrasive debris of the CF-reinforced samples was more uniform and continuous compared to that of the PTW-reinforced samples. Overall, the appropriate addition of CF or PTWs can enhance the mechanical properties of Fe-based IDB matrices, which can be used on different formations based on their impact wear resistance.
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(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Materials Characterization)
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Open AccessArticle
Microstructure Evolution, Hardness, and Tribological Behaviors of Ti-50.8Ni SMA Alloy with Ultrasonic Surface Shot Peening Treatment
by
Zihan Chen, Xuanpeng Li, Yong Li, Yu Wang and Yongxin Jian
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2644; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112644 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
To explore a new method to improve the wear resistance of TiNi shape memory alloy (SMA), Ti-50.8Ni alloy was treated by the method of ultrasonic surface shot peening. The microstructure evolution, hardness, and tribological behaviors have been further investigated to evaluate the effect
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To explore a new method to improve the wear resistance of TiNi shape memory alloy (SMA), Ti-50.8Ni alloy was treated by the method of ultrasonic surface shot peening. The microstructure evolution, hardness, and tribological behaviors have been further investigated to evaluate the effect of ultrasonic surface shot peening (USSP). The surface microstructure can be refined to some extent while the basic phase composition has little change. USSP can facilitate the martensitic transformation in the surface layer, which benefits improving the surface hardness. Additionally, the hardness of Ti-50.8Ni alloy increases first and then decreases with the increase of applied load, but the USSP-treated alloy tends to be more sensitive to load. USSP treatment can improve the wear resistance and reduce the coefficient of friction (COF) in case of a low sliding wear speed of 5 mm/s. However, the tribological properties of USSP-treated alloy are reversely worse in the case of 10 mm/s. This is mainly attributed to the combined effect of stress-induced martensite transformation and degeneration resulting from the frictional heating during the dry sliding wear process.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Ceramic-Based Materials/Coatings for Anti-wear and Corrosion Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Realizing the Creep and Damage Effect on Masonry Panel Design Based on Reliability Analysis
by
Jung Joong Kim
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2643; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112643 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, a masonry panel under a high compressive stress to strength ratio is considered. The panel is modeled as a composite structure by considering a repeated unit cell of mortar and brick. Load redistributions due to creep in mortar and brick
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In this study, a masonry panel under a high compressive stress to strength ratio is considered. The panel is modeled as a composite structure by considering a repeated unit cell of mortar and brick. Load redistributions due to creep in mortar and brick as composite materials are accounted for. A step-by-step in-time analysis is performed to calculate the load redistribution in the composite masonry. Time-dependent system reliability analysis of the masonry panel is performed by defining the component and system limit state functions at each time step. While the reliability index of ductile materials depends on the load level in each part of masonry, the reliability index of brittle materials depends only on the overall load. By proposing the reliability index of quasi-brittle materials being between these two reliability index bounds, the reliability index of quasi-brittle materials depends on both the load level in each part and the overall load. Using the proposed reliability index of quasi-brittle materials, partial safety factors for masonry panel design considering creep and damage are calibrated based on the Hasofer and Lind method. A design example using the proposed partial safety factor is presented.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Defect Identification and Analysis in Building Materials: Emphasizing Concrete, Masonry, and Mortar Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Cyclic Ice Plug Deformation on Microstructure and Mechanical Behaviors of Nuclear-Grade Low-Carbon Tubular Steel
by
Minglei Hu, Wei Zhang, Ke Xu, Bin Hu, Dongsheng Li, Lan Wang, Rencai Liu and Xiaohua Zhao
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2642; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112642 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
This study subjected nuclear-grade 20# pipeline steel to cyclic freeze–thaw ice plugging tests, simulating the plastic deformation experienced by pipes during ice plug removal procedures. Subsequently, the dislocation morphology and mechanical properties of the specimens post cyclic ice plugging were examined. The cyclic
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This study subjected nuclear-grade 20# pipeline steel to cyclic freeze–thaw ice plugging tests, simulating the plastic deformation experienced by pipes during ice plug removal procedures. Subsequently, the dislocation morphology and mechanical properties of the specimens post cyclic ice plugging were examined. The cyclic ice plugging process led to an increase in the dislocation density within the specimens. After 20 and 40 cycles of ice plugging, the internal dislocation structures evolved from individual dislocation lines and dislocation tangles to high-density dislocation walls and dislocation cells. These high-density dislocation walls and cells hindered dislocation motion, giving rise to strain hardening phenomena, thereby resulting in increased strength and hardness of the specimens with an increasing number of ice plugging cycles. In addition, a large stress field was generated around the dislocation buildup, which reduced the pipe material’s plastic toughness. The findings elucidate the effects of cyclic ice plugging on the microstructure and properties of nuclear-grade 20# pipeline steel, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the safe and stable application of ice plugging technology in nuclear piping systems.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Steel Materials: Recrystallization, Phase Transformation and Microstructure Analysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Enhancing Mesopore Volume and Thermal Insulation of Silica Aerogel via Ambient Pressure Drying-Assisted Foaming Method
by
Jinjing Guo, Kaiqiang Luo, Wenqi Zou, Jun Xu and Baohua Guo
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2641; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112641 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Ambient pressure drying (APD) of silica aerogels has emerged as an attractive method adapting to large-scale production. Spring-back is a unique phenomenon during APD of silica aerogels with volume expansion after its shrinkage under capillary force. We attribute the intense spring-back at elevated
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Ambient pressure drying (APD) of silica aerogels has emerged as an attractive method adapting to large-scale production. Spring-back is a unique phenomenon during APD of silica aerogels with volume expansion after its shrinkage under capillary force. We attribute the intense spring-back at elevated drying temperatures to a dense structure formed on the surface and the formation of positive internal pressure. Furthermore, an APD-assisted foaming method with an in situ introduction of NH4HCO3 was proposed. NH4HCO3 decomposing at drying temperatures hastened the emergence of positive pressure, thereby increasing the expansion volume. Compared to the previous method, the porosity of silica aerogel increased from 82.2% to 92.6%, and mesopore volume from 1.79 cm3 g−1 to 4.54 cm3 g−1. By adjusting the amount of the silicon source, silica aerogels prepared by the APD-assisted foaming method generated higher volume expansion and lower thermal conductivity. After calcination to remove undecomposed ammonium salts, the hydrophobic silica aerogel with a density of 0.112 g cm−3 reached a mesopore volume of 5.07 cm3 g−1 and a thermal conductivity of 18.9 mW m−1·K−1. This strategy not only improves the thermal insulation properties, but also offers a significant advancement in tailoring silica aerogels with specific porosity and mesopore volume for various applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 15th Anniversary of Materials—Recent Advances in Materials Chemistry)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Mixing Techniques and Material Compositions on the Compressive Strength and Thermal Conductivity of Ultra-Lightweight Foam Concrete
by
Tongyu Xu and Harald Garrecht
Materials 2024, 17(11), 2640; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112640 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
The research focuses on ultra-lightweight foam concrete with a dry density below 200 kg/m3, primarily used as insulation material. Factors that may affect material properties are categorized into mixing techniques and material composition, and experimental investigations were conducted on the impact
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The research focuses on ultra-lightweight foam concrete with a dry density below 200 kg/m3, primarily used as insulation material. Factors that may affect material properties are categorized into mixing techniques and material composition, and experimental investigations were conducted on the impact of these factors on the rheological properties of cement slurry, density at different time intervals, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity of foam concrete samples. The experimental results indicate the influence of mixing speed and mixing duration on the instrument during the cement slurry production and mixing process with foam. Additionally, variations in foam concrete sample properties are observed due to the water-to-cement ratio, foam content, and foam density in the selected material compositions. By analyzing the material density at different time intervals, the relationship between the ambient air trapped during the mixing process and the viscosity of the material can be indirectly observed. This analysis can also reveal the correlation between the unplanned air content and the properties of the material.
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(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)
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