In this study, the degradable superhydrophobic Mg/P/Z/F/H (magnesi-um/poly(-caprolactone)/zinc oxide/1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (PFDTES)/ heating process) composite materials were prepared through one-step method for enhancing the corrosion resistance of AZ91D magnesium alloys. Electrochemical measurements showed that Mg/P/Z/F/H materials significantly improved the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys in 3.5 wt.% NaCl. The self-cleaning, adhesion and stability tests suggested that Mg/P/Z/F/H composite materials had well self-cleaning properties, good adhesion strength and stability in wet atmosphere.

Protective coatings, in recent years also from nanocomposite formulations, are commonly applied onto architectural stone and stone artefacts, mainly to prevent absorption into the porous stone structure of condensed water and dissolved atmospheric pollutants. While standard protocols are available to assess a coating’s performance, understanding the response of the coating-stone system is a complex task, due to the interplay of various factors determining the overall behaviour. Characterization techniques allowing to correlate the extent and nature of surface modification upon treatment with the most relevant physical properties (i.e water absorption and surface wettability) are thus of great interest. Electrokinetic analysis based on streaming current measurements, thanks to its sensitivity towards even minor changes in the surface chemical composition, may fulfil such requirement. Indeed, by involving the interaction with a testing aqueous electrolyte solution, this technique allows to probe not only the outer surface but also the outermost layer of the pore network, which plays a crucial role in the interaction of the stone with condensed atmospheric water. In this work a correlation was found between the extent of surface modification, as determined by streaming current measurements, surface wettability and capillary water absorption of 6 coating-lithotype combinations (3 lithotypes and 2 nanocomposites).

Over the past few decades, synthetic polymer production has increased, and the production of plastics has surpassed all other man-made materials due to their versatility. Moreover, packaging plastic makes up around 40% of global plastic production. However, the excessive usage of synthetic packaging materials has led to severe environmental and health-related issues. Therefore, biobased packages are considered alternatives to substitute synthetic packaging on the market. Furthermore, the choice of packing material in the food industry is a perplexing process as it depends on various factors, such as the type of food product, its sustainability, and environmental conditions. Interestingly, due to proven gas barrier properties and biological activity, polysaccharide-based bioplastics show the potential to expand the trends in food packaging, including edible films and intelligent and active food packaging. This review discusses the structure, properties and recent developments in polysaccharide-based bioplastics as food packaging materials.

Oriental lacquer, a natural and renewable polymeric coating, comes from the sap produced by lacquer trees. For practical application, oriental lacquer must be refined to reduce excess water and enhance its quality. In this study, drying oils were blended with oriental lacquer during the refining process to prepare an oil-modified refined lacquer (OMRL). The type and adding amount (0, 10, and 20% by wt.) of drying oils for wood coatings utilization were evaluated. Rhus succedanea oriental lacquer is composed of 54.1% urushiols, 34.3% water, 7.2% plant gum, and 4.4% nitrogenous compounds, and drying oils, including tung oil (TO), linseed oil (LO), and dehydrated castor oil (DCO) were used as materials in this study. The results show that the drying oil acts as a diluent, which reduces the viscosity and enhances the workability and could shorten the touch-free drying time and speed up the hardened drying of the OMRL. The results also indicate that the hardness, mass retention, Tg, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and lightfastness of OMRL films decrease as more drying oils are blended. Conversely, the bending resistance, elongation at break, impact resistance increase, and particularly, the gloss, is greatly improved through the blending of more drying oils. In conclusion, the LO-modified refined lacquer (RL) has the highest film gloss and the DCO-modified RL has the shortest drying time for coating; otherwise, the film properties are similar among the three types of drying oil.

Greenhouse have to provide optimal climate conditions for healthy plant growth and high production. Heating of greenhouses is required for an efficient and reliable production specially during winter time in Turkey. However, even in the temperate zones, heating costs has a great portion in the total production costs. Coal is preferred as a fuel in the greenhouse heating in provinces of Turkey where there is no geothermal energy. In this study, the heating requirements and fuel cost (fossil and geothermal energy) for Antalya, Afyon, Kütahya, Denizli, and Aydın provinces in the Aegean and Mediterranean region have been identified based on long term meteorological data. The calculations were made for two model greenhouses located in an area with 1 ha representing modern greenhouses of the regions. The first is a gothic roofed plastic model greenhouse and the second is a gable roofed polycarbonate model greenhouse. According to the results of calculations, total annual heatingrequirement values ranged from 6,096,283 (for Antalya) to 20,359,946 MJ/ha (for Afyon) for the plastic greenhouse wheras these values ranged from 3,187,074 (for Antalya) to 10,643,972 MJ/ha (for Afyon) for the polycarbonate greenhouse.

In order to design effective protective coatings against corrosion, the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as compound and composite with silver nanoparticles (nAg/PVA) were electrodeposited on copper surface employing electrochemical techniques such as linear potentiometry and cyclic voltammetry. A new paradigm was used to distinguish the features of coatings, i.e., a Deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) was implemented to automatically and hierarchically extract the discriminative characteristics from the information given by optical microscopy images. The main arguments that invoke a CNN implementation in the surface science of materials are the following: artificial intelligence techniques can be successfully applied to learn differences between surface coatings; based on their popularity for image processing, CNN can model images related to the problem of coatings; deep learning is able to extract the features that are distinguishable between material surfaces. To provide an overview of the copper surface, CNN was applied on microscope slides (CNN@microscopy) and inherently learnt distinctive characteristics for each class of surface morphology. The material surface morphology controlled by CNN without the interference of the human factor was successfully conducted, in our study, to extract the similarities/differences between unprotected and protected surfaces to establish the PVA and nAg/PVA performance to retard the copper corrosion.

Complex colloidal fluids, depending on particulates’ shapes and packing fractions, may have a wide range of shear thinning and thickening behaviors. A particular interesting way to transition between different types of such behavior is by infusing functional complex particles that can be manufactured using modern techicques such as 3D printing. In this paper, we display 2D molecular dynamics simulations of such fluids with infused star-shaped functional particles, with variable leg length and number of legs, as they are infused in a non-interacting, coarse-grained fluid. We vary the packing fraction (ϕ) of the system, and for each different system we apply shear with various strain rate that turns the fluid into a jammed state and rise the apparent viscosity of fluid. We demonstrate the dependence of viscosity with the particles’ packing fraction. We show the role of shape and design dependence of the functional particles towards the transition to a shear thickening fluid .

Two novel core-shell composites SiO2@PMDA-Si-Tb, SiO2@PMDA-Si-Tb-phen with SiO2 as the core and terbium organic complex as the shell, were successfully synthesized. The terbium ion was coordinated with organic ligand forming terbium organic complex in the shell layer. The bi-functional organosilane ((HOOC)2C6H2(CONH(CH2)3Si(OCH2CH3)3)2 (abbreviated as PMDA-Si) was used as the first ligand and phen as the second ligand. Furthermore, the silica-modified SiO2@PMDA-Si-Tb@SiO2, SiO2@PMDA-Si-Tb-phen@SiO2 core-shell-shell composites were also synthesized by sol–gel chemical route. An amorphous silica shell was coated around the SiO2@PMDA-Si-Tb and SiO2@PMDA-Si-Tb-phen core-shell composites. The core-shell and core-shell-shell composites both exhibited excellent luminescence in solid state. The luminescence of core-shell-shell composites was stronger than that of core-shell composites. Meanwhile, an improved luminescence stability property for the core-shell-shell composites was found in the aqueous solution. The core-shell-shell composites exhibited bright luminescence, high stability, long lifetime, and good solubility, which may present potential applications in the field of bio-medical.

Within the task of replacing bronze journal bearings with aluminum the processes taking part on friction surface of high-alloyed aluminum alloys working with steel are investigated. The surface and subsurface layer of experimental aluminum bearings were studied before and after tribological tests by scanning electron microscopy including energy-dispersive analysis. Both structural and composition changes in surface layer are shown. It has been revealed that secondary structures are formed on the surface during friction process and include all the chemical elements of the tribosystem which is a consequence of its self-organization. The interaction behavior of some chemical elements of tribological system is discussed.

Directed Energy Deposition (DED) is a process that enables high-speed deposition with a sub-millimeter thickness using laser technology. Thus far, defect studies on additive manufacturing, including DED, have focused mostly on preventing pores and crack defects that reduce fatigue strength. On the other hand, evaporation products, fumes and spatters, generated by the high energy have often been neglected despite being some of the main causes of porosity and defects. In high-quality metal deposition, the problems caused by evaporation products are difficult to solve, but they have not yet caught the attention of metallurgists and physicists. This review examines the effect of the laser, material, and process parameters on the evaporation products to help obtain a high-quality metal film layer in thin-DED.

Renewable nanocellulose materials received increased attention owing to their small dimensions, high specific surface area, high mechanical characteristics, biocompatibility, and compostability. Nanocellulose coatings are among many interesting applications of these materials to functionalize different by composition and structure surfaces, including plastics, polymer coatings, and textiles with broader applications from food packaging to smart textiles. Variations in porosity and thickness of nanocellulose coatings are used to adjust a load of functional molecules and particles into the coatings, their permeability, and filtration properties. Mechanical stability of nanocellulose coatings in a wet and dry state are critical characteristics for many applications. In this work, nanofibrillated and nanocrystalline cellulose coatings deposited on the surface of polymer films and textiles made of cellulose, polyester, and nylon are studied using atomic force microscopy, ellipsometry, and T-peel adhesion tests. Methods to improve coatings adhesion and stability using physical and chemical cross-linking with added polymers and polycarboxylic acids are analyzed in this study. The paper reports on the effect of the substrate structure and ability of nanocellulose particles to intercalate into the substrate on the coating adhesion.

A highly dirt resistant paint for building facades without chemicals harmful to nature and environment, is developed which resolves the unattractive disfigurement of building walls caused by dirt. The experimentation is scientifically and statistically planned with the aid of computer programming. It consists of a sequence of phases which include the selection of appropriate raw materials, adopting of Basic Language computer programming to generate a target population of paint formulations. The average PVC percentage is computed using theory and found to be 54.98% for the target population of 543143 paint formulations hence verifies the literature results. Experimentation and statistical analysis are performed to compare the classical conventional agitator with latest lab equipment like Nano mill and it is concluded that Nano mill performs better on the average than conventional agitator in preparation of paint formulations. Hence the sample of paint formulations is prepared on Nano mill and tested in laboratory using advanced available technology for the analysis and comparison of paint properties to determine the best paint formulation. The results are analyzed using Analysis Of Variance Technique (ANOVA) and it is concluded that the paint formulation named “O3” has the highest dirt resistance on the average. The final selected formula O3 is compared with three other competitor paints in market under natural environment for a period of almost one year. A regression model is also constructed to study the effect of environmental factors like time, temperature and humidity on dirt resistance of paints. It is found that O3 formulation is the best environment friendly which performs equally well with one competitor paint and has higher dirt resistance than two other competitor paint formulations containing harmful chemicals. The regression model of dirt resistance on variables including time, temperature and humidity shows that these factors are significantly affecting the dirt resistance of a given paint at 5% level of significance. 95.34% variation in the dirt resistance of a given paint is due to and explained by the given factors. The regression model is useful to predict the average dirt resistance of a given paint with a certain level of confidence. The project exemplifies the work of an applied research from conceptualization to successful commercialization for the paint industry.

A great improvement in food safety and quality controls worldwide has been achieved through the development of biosensing platforms. Foodborne pathogens continue to cause serious outbreaks due to the ingestion of contaminated food. The development of new, sensitive, portable, high-throughput, and automated platforms is a primary objective to allow detection of pathogens and their toxins in foods. Listeria monocytogenes is one common foodborne pathogen. Major outbreaks of listeriosis have been caused by a variety of foods, including milk, soft cheeses, meat, fermented sausages, poultry, seafood and vegetable products. Due to its high sensitivity and easy setup, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) has been extensively applied for biosensor fabrication and in particular in the field of microbiology as a mean to detect and quantify foodborne bacteria. Here we describe a miniaturized, portable EIS platform consisting of a microfluidic device with EIS sensors for the detection of L. monocytogenes in milk samples, connected to a portable impedance analyzer for on-field application in clinical and food diagnostics but also for biosecurity purposes. To achieve this goal microelectrodes were functionalized with antibodies specific for L. monocytogenes. The binding and detection of L. monocytogenes was achieved in the range 2.2 x 103 cfu/ml to 1 x 102 with a Limit of Detection (LoD) of 5.5 cfu/ml.

The light response and resistance switching behavior in BaTiO3 (BTO) films are studied for a symmetric Pt/BTO/Pt structure. The resistance of films as a function of time with and without ultraviolet light has been studied. Furthermore, resistance switching behavior was clearly observed based on the application of 365 nm wavelength ultraviolet light. Consequently, the polarities of resistance switching can be controlled by ultraviolet light when the energy is larger than the band excitation energy. It is proposed that the polarity of the resistance switching is dictated by the competition of the ferroelectricity and oxygen vacancy migration. This provides a new mechanism for modulating the state of ferroelectric resistive memory devices.

The development of innovative materials is one of the most important focuses of research in heritage conservation. Eligible materials can not only protect the physical and chemical integrity of artworks, but also preserve their artistic and aesthetic features. Recently, as one of the hot research topics in materials science, biomimetic superhydrophobic materials have gradually attracted the attention of conservation scientists due to their unique properties. In fact, ultra-repellent materials are particularly suitable for hydrophobization treatments on outdoor artworks. Owing to their excellent hydrophobicity, superhydrophobic materials can effectively prevent the absorption, penetration of liquid water as well as the condensation of water vapor, thus greatly relieving water-induced decay phenomena. Moreover, in presence of liquid water, the superhydrophobic surfaces equipped with self-cleaning property can clean the dirt, dust deposited spontaneously, thereby restoring the artistic features simultaneously. In the present paper, besides the basic principles of wetting on solid surfaces, materials and methods reported for preparing bioinspired ultra-repellent materials, the recently proposed materials for art conservation are also introduced and critically reviewed. Lastly, the current status and the problems encountered in practical application are also pointed out, and the focus of future research is prospected as well.

Background: Nowadays investigations in the field of dental implants engineering are focused on bioactivity and osseointegration properties.Objective: In this study, the oxide-covered titanium was functionalized by vitamin D3 molecules via a simple self-assembly method with the aim to design more corrosion resistant and at the same time more bioactive surface.Methods: Surface properties of the D3-coated titanium were examined by scanning electron microscopy, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements, while a long-term corrosion stability during immersion in an artificial saliva solution was investigated in situ by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.Results: Results of all techniques confirmed a successful formation of the D3 vitamin layer on the oxide-covered titanium. Besides very good corrosion resistivity (~5 MΩcm² ) the D3-modified titanium surface induced spontaneous formation of biocompatible bone-like calcium phosphates (CaP).Conclusion: Observed in vitro CaP-forming ability as a result of D3-modified titanium/artificial saliva interactions could serve as a promising predictor of in vivo bioactivity of implant materials.

This studies the plasmonic properties of the bimetallic quantum dot Ag@Au core-shell nanostructures embedded in the non-absorbent host medium. Local field enhancement factor and coefficient of absorption of Ag-core and Au-shell are primarily studied based on quasi-static approximation of classical electrodynamics for 6-10 nm composite radius. In this quantum dot geometry, two set of plasmonic resonances in visible spectral region are observed: the first resonance associated with inner interface of gold (Ag@Au) and the second resonance associated with outer interface of gold (Au@medium). The two plasmonic resonances are close each other and enhanced when the size of composite decreased for a fixed core size while shifted to in opposite direction and the amplitude of peak decreased when the core size is increased for a fixed composite size. For the optimized size of core/composite or shell thickness and other parameters to the desired values, such type of composites are recommended for various applications like; photocatalysis, biomedical, nano-optoelectronics.

This manuscript deals with the cavitation erosion resistance of low-velocity oxy-flame (LVOF) sprayed Al2O3–40%TiO2/NiMoAl cermet coatings, a new functional application of cermet coatings. The aim of the study was to investigate the cavitation erosion mechanism and determine the effect of feedstock powder ratio (Al2O3–TiO2/NiMoAl) of LOVF cermet coatings on their cavitation erosion resistance. As-sprayed coatings were investigated for roughness, porosity, hardness, Young’s modulus. Microstructural characteristics of the cross-section and the surface of as-sprayed coatings were examined by light optical microscopy (LOM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with the EDS and XRD methods. Coatings cavitation tests were conducted in accordance with the ASTM G32 standard with usage of reference samples made from steel, copper and aluminum alloys. Cavitation erosion resistance was measured by weight and volume loss, and normalised cavitation erosion resistance was calculated. Surface eroded due to cavitation was examined in successive time intervals by LOM and SEM-EDS. On the basis of coating properties and cavitation investigations, a phenomenological model of the cavitation erosion of Al2O3–40%TiO2/NiMoAl cermet coatings was elaborated. General relationships between their properties, microstructure and cavitation wear resistance were established. The Al2O3–40%TiO2/NiAlMo composite coating containing 80% of ceramic powder has a higher cavitation erosion resistance than the reference aluminium alloy.

Metal nanoparticle has been reported to have a high antimicrobial activity against fungi, bacteria, and yeasts. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using a chemical reduction method, at 90 oC, and used as an antifungal coating in paper packaging, to control the growth of C. gloeosporioides in cut orchid flowers during shipping. AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy and atomic force microscope (AFM). The results indicated that the shape of AgNPs was spherical and homogenous with an average size of 47 nm. Twenty and 50 particles per million (ppm) concentration of AgNPs, mixed with starch, were prepared as the coating solution. The paper coated with 50 ppm AgNPs exhibited a significant antifungal activity against C. gloeosporioides compared to 20 ppm AgNPs coating. The AgNPs coated paper had a better water resistance and mechanical properties compared to paper without coating. We observed a significant reduction in the number of anthers, of orchid inflorescences, infected by C. gloeosporioides, when stored in the coated boxes. The current study demonstrates that paper boxes coated with AgNPs are a potential solution to control the infection of C. gloeosporioides in the storage of cut orchid flowers.

Impact of the Corona, dielectric barrier discharge and low pressure radiofrequency air plasmas on the chemical composition and wettability of the medical grade polyvinylchloride was investigated. Corona plasma treatment exerted the most pronounced increase in the hydrophilization of polyvinylchloride. The specific energy of adhesion of the pristine and plasma treated PVC tubing is reported. The kinetics of hydrophobic recovery following the plasma treatment was explored. The time evolution of the apparent contact angle under the hydrophobic recovery is satisfactorily described by the exponential fitting. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy of the chemical composition of the near-surface layers of the plasma treated catheters revealed their oxidation. The effect of the hydrophobic recovery is hardly correlated with oxidation of the polymer surface, which is irreversible.

Three-dimensional nanocomposite networks consisting of percolated Si nanowires in a SiO₂ matrix, Si:SiO₂, were studied. The structures were obtained by reactive ion beam sputter deposition of SiO_x (x ≈ 0.6) thin films at 450 °C and subsequent crystallization using conventional oven as well as millisecond line focus laser annealing. Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, cross-sectional and energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy were applied for sample characterization. While oven annealing resulted in a mean Si wire diameter of 10 nm and a crystallinity of 72 % within the Si volume, almost single-domain Si structures with 30 nm in diameter and almost free of amorphous Si were obtained by millisecond laser application. The structural differences are attributed to the different crystallization processes: Conventional oven tempering proceeds via solid state, millisecond laser application via liquid phase crystallization of Si. The 5 orders of magnitude larger diffusion constant in the liquid phase is responsible for the three times larger Si nanostructure diameter. In conclusion, laser annealing offers not only significantly shorter process times but moreover a superior structural order of nano-Si compared to conventional heating.

MPC (Magneto-Photonic Crystal) Optimisation is a feature-rich Windows software application designed to enable researchers to analyze the optical and magneto-optical spectral properties of multilayers containing gyrotropic constituents. A set of computational algorithms aimed at enabling the design optimization and optical or magneto-optical (MO) spectral analysis of 1D magnetic photonic crystals (MPC) is reported, together with its Windows software implementation. Relevant material property datasets (e.g., the optical spectra of refractive index, absorption, and gyration) of several important optical and MO materials are included, enabling easy reproduction of the previously published results from the field of MPC-based Faraday rotator development, and an effective demonstration-quality introduction of future users to the multiple features of this package. We also report on the methods and algorithms used to obtain the absorption coefficient spectral dispersion datasets for new materials, for which the film thickness, transmission spectrum, and refractive index dispersion function are known.

The cellulose/GO networks as the scaffold of free-standing aerogel electrodes are developed by using lithium bromide aqueous solution as the solvent to ensure the complete dissolution of cotton linter pulp and well dispersion/reduction of GO nanosheets. PANI nanoclusters are then coated onto cellulose/GO networks via in-situ polymerization of aniline monomers. By optimized weight ratio of GO and PANI, the ternary cellulose/GO3.5/PANI aerogel film exhibits well-defined three-dimensional porous structures and high conductivity of 1.15 S/cm that contributes to its high areal specific capacitance of 1218 mF/cm2 at the current density of 1.0 mA/cm2. Utilizing this cellulose/GO3.5/PANI aerogel film as electrodes in a symmetric configuration supercapacitor can result in an outstanding energy density as high as 258.2 μWh/cm2 at a power density of 1201.4 μW/cm2. Moreover, the device can maintain nearly constant capacitance under different bending deformations, suggesting its promising applications in flexible electronics.

Recent advances and demands in clinical applications drive a large amount of research to hydroxyapatite (HA) composite coatings fabricated by plasma spray. However, lower degree of HA crystallinity related to high temperature exposure in plasma spray usually leads to rapid weakening and disintegration of HA coatings and often promotes inflammatory responses in the surrounding tissue. In this research, graphene nanosheet (GNS) reinforced HA coatings were fabricated using plasma spray and followed by heat and hydrothermal treatment (hereafter referred to as thermal treatment). The addition of GNSs resulted in competing phenomenon to influence HA crystallinity viz. increased portion of the partially melted/unmelted zones and higher cooling rate during splat formation, leading to slight increase in HA crystallinity (~46.0-51.3%) in the as-sprayed coating. XRD and FTIR results showed that thermal treatment was capable of inducing significant transformation of amorphous HA to the crystalline form and removing other foreign non-HA compounds through regaining OH- ion, and therefore HA coatings displayed ~45.5-47.1% improvements in HA crystallinity regardless of addition or not of the GNS nanofillers. Microstructure observations revealed that thermal treatment enabled microcrack propagation due to stresses caused by crystallisation and phase transformations, and the residual partially melted/unmelted zone of the thermally treated GNS/HA coating was significantly decreased in size. More importantly, the added GNSs contributed greatly to the significant increase in surface nanoroughness of the thermally treated HA coatings owing to the fact that much more structural defects along with the GNSs mainly induced by thermal treatment might act as nucleation sites to accelerate HA nanoparticle precipitation, which would be beneficial for the improved adhesion strength of the osteoblast cells on the coating surface.

Magneto-optic (MO) imaging and sensing are at present the most developed practical applications of thin-film MO garnet materials. However, future component and system-level sensors and imagers technology improvements are still necessary in order to improve sensitivity for a range of established and also the forward-looking applications. These improvements are expected to originate from new material system development. We propose a set of technological modifications for the RF-magnetron sputtering deposition and crystallization annealing of magneto-optic bismuth-substituted iron-garnet films and investigate the improved material properties. Results show that standard crystallization annealing for the as-deposited ultrathin (sputtered 10 nm thick, amorphous phase) films resulted in more than a factor of two loss in the magneto-optical activity of the films in visible spectral region, compared to the liquid-phase grown epitaxial films. Results also show that an additional 10 nm-thick metal-oxide (Bi2O3) protective layer above the amorphous film results in ~2.7 times increase in the magneto-optical quality of crystallized iron-garnet films. On the other hand, the effects of post-deposition oxygen (O2) plasma treatment on the magneto-optical (MO) properties of Bismuth substituted iron garnet thin films material is investigated. Results show that, in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum (at 532 nm), the O2 treated (up to 3 minutes) garnet films retain higher specific Faraday rotation and figure of merit than those of non-treated garnet films.

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) can often bind target molecules with high selectivity and specificity. When used as MIPs, conductive polymers may have unique binding capabilities; they often contain aromatic rings, which have a great tendency to undergo covalent and hydrogen bonding interactions with similarly structured target (or template) molecules. In this work, an electrochemical method was used to optimize the synthetic self-assembly of poly(aniline-co-metanilic acid) and testosterone, forming testosterone-imprinted polymers (TIPs) on sensing electrodes. The linear sensing range for testosterone ranged from 0.1 to 100 pg/mL, and the limit of detection was as low as ~pM. Random urine samples were collected and diluted 1000 fold to measure testosterone concentration using the above TIP sensors in comparison with a commercial ARCHITECT ci 8200 system. The testosterone concentrations in the tested samples were in the range of 0.33± 0.09 to 9.13±1.33 ng/mL. The mean accuracy of the TIP-coated sensors was 90.3 ±7.0 %.

According to research, we have learned that Mg and TiO2 are new types material of marine protective coatings. We found that the addition of Mg can improve the performance of Zn-Al coating passivation film, and TiO2 has excellent photocatalytic self-cleaning performance. In this paper Zn-Al pseudo alloy coating was prepared by cold spray technique, and Zn-Al-Mg-TiO2 pseudo alloy composite coating was prepared by adding Mg and nano-TiO2. The effects of Mg and TiO2 to the marine protective properties of Zn-Al coatings were studied by friction and wear test, dynamic salt water corrosion test, electrochemical test, scanning electron microscope(SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer(EDS) and super deep scene 3D microscope. The results show that the addition of Mg and nano-TiO2 not only fills the gap of the coating and improves the density of the coating, but also generates grid-like flocculent corrosion products on the surface of the coating which can gather other corrosion products to improve the density of corrosion products, reduce the friction coefficient and corrosion rate of the coating surface, effectively prevent the invasion of Cl- in solution, and improve the wear and corrosion resistance of the coating.

We report on the effects of the film morphology on the fluorescence spectra for a thin film including a quinoxaline-based co-polymer (TQ1) and a fullerene derivative (PC₇₀BM). The ratio between the polymer and the fullerene derivative, as well as the processing solvent were varied. Beside the main emission peak at 700 nm in the fluorescence spectra of thin films of this phase-separated blend, a broad emission band is observed with a maximum at 520 - 550 nm. The intensity of this emission band decreases with an increasing degree of mixing in the film and becomes most prominent in thicker films, films with high PC₇₀BM content, and films that were spin-coated from solvents with lower PC₇₀BM solubility. We assign this emission band to aggregated PC₇₀BM.

Even if silicon alkoxides (especially ethylsilicates) have long been used as consolidants of weathered stone monuments, their physical properties are not ideal. In this study, an innovative procedure for the consolidation of sedimentary rocks was developed that combines the use of organometallic and alkylamine catalysts with the addition of well-defined nanoparticles exhibiting a narrow size distribution centered at ca 10 nm. As a suitable test material, the Pietra di Lecce limestone was selected because of its color and problematic physico-chemical properties, such as rather low hardness. Using the developed procedure, the mechanical and surface properties of the limestone were improved without the unwanted over-consolidation of the surface layers of the stone, and any significant deterioration in the pore size distribution, water vapor permeability or the stone’s appearance. The developed modified ethylsilicates penetrated deeper into the pore structure of the stone than the unmodified ones and increased the hardness of the treated material. The formed xerogels within the stone pores did not crack. Importantly, they did not significantly alter the natural characteristics of the stone.

The process of preparing anti-glare thin films by spray-coating silica sol-gel to soda-lime glass was exclusively and statistically studied in this paper. The effects of sol-gel deliver pressure, air transport pressure, and spray gun displacement speed on the gloss, haze, arithmetic mean surface roughness, and total transmittance light were analyzed. The experimental results indicate that the factors of sol-gel deliver pressure, air transport pressure, and displacement speed exhibit significant effect on the haze, gloss, and Ra. In contrast, the variation of total transmittance light with these three factors are insignificant. Because the anti-glare property is predominantly determined by low gloss and high haze, therefore, we aim to minimize gloss and maximize haze to achieve high anti-glare. Central composite design and response rurface methodology are employed to analyze the main and interaction effects of the three factors through quadratic polynomial equations, which are confirmed by the analysis of variance and R². The response surface methodology predict the lowest gloss and highest haze are 9.2 GU and 57.0%, corresponding to the sol-gel deliver pressure, air-transport pressure, and displacement speed of 250 kPa, 560 kPa, and 140 mm/s, and 340 kPa, 620 kPa, and 20 mm/s, respectively. Comparing the predicted optimal data with the real experimental results validates the applicability of the mathematical model. This study provides an important basis for the subsequent production of anti-glare glass with different specifications to satisfy the market demand.

In order to develop waterborne silicate anticorrosive coatings to replace solvent-based anticorrosive coatings used widely in ship’s industry, epoxy modified silicate emulsions were synthesized with different content of epoxy resin, then aqueous silicate zinc-rich coatings were prepared with synthesized silicate emulsion, triethylamine and zinc powder. The influence of the content of epoxy on the properties and chemical structure of modified emulsion, mechanical properties of silicate coatings, and the corrosion behavior of silicate zinc-rich coatings in 3.5% NaCl solution were investigated. The coating samples on steel were measured by immersion test, Tafel polarization test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) test with different immersion time. The results showed that epoxy modified silicate emulsions were successfully synthesized. With the increase of epoxy content, the viscosity and the solid content of modified emulsion increases, the impact resistance of the silicate coating raises, the pencil hardness decreases, but the adhesion is not affected. Epoxy modification can reduce to s certain extent the corrosion driving force of zinc rich coating and increase the impedance of the zinc-rich coating decreases with the increase of immersion time in 3.5% NaCl solution. With the increase of the epoxy content, the resistance value of the zinc-rich coating increases, indicating the ability of the coating to resist corrosive media is enhanced.

Stabilized un-doped Zinc Telluride (ZnTe) thin films were grown on glass substrates under vacuum using closed space sublimation (CSS) technique. A dilute copper nitrate solution (0.1/100 ml) was prepared for copper doping known as ion exchange process in the matrix of ZnTe thin film. The reproducible polycrystalline cubic structure of undoped and Cu doped ZnTe thin films with preferred orientation (111) was confirmed by X-rays diffraction (XRD) technique. Lattice parameter analyses verified the expansion of unit cell volume after incorporation of Cu species into ZnTe thin films samples. The micrographs of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to measure the variation in crystal sizes of samples. The energy dispersive X-rays was used to validate the elemental composition of undoped and Cu-doped ZnTe thin films. The bandgap energy 2.24 eV of ZnTe thin film decreased after doping Cu to 2.20 eV may be due to the introduction of acceptors states near to valance band. Optical studies showed that refractive index was measured from 2.18 to 3.24 whereas thicknesses varied between 220 nm to 320 nm for un-doped and Cu doped ZnTe thin film respectively using Swanepoel model. The oxidation states of Zn⁺², Te⁺² and Cu⁺¹ through high resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses was observed. The resistivity of thin films changed from ~10⁷ Ω-cm for undoped ZnTe to ~1 Ω-cm for Cu-doped ZnTe thin film, whereas p-type carrier concentration increased from to respectively. These results predicted that Cu-doped ZnTe thin film can be used as an ideal, efficient and stable intermediate layer between metallic and absorber back contact for the heterojunction thin film solar cell technology.

In order to achieve better knowledge of the thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) by supersonic atmospheric plasma spraying (SAPS) process, an experimental study was carried out to elaborate physicochemical properties of particles in-flight during the SAPS process. One type of commercially available agglomerated and sintered yttria-stabilized-zirconia (YSZ) powders were injected into the SAPS plasma jet and collected by shock chilling method. The YSZ particles in-flight physicochemical properties of the melting state, morphology, microstructure, particle size distribution, element composition changes and phase transformation during the SAPS process have been systematically analyzed. The melting state, morphology and microstructure of the collected particles were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The particle size distribution was measured by a laser particle size analyzer (LPSA). Element compositions were quantitatively analysed by an electron probe X-ray microanalyzer (EPMA). Additionally, the X-ray diffraction (XRD) method was used to analyse the phase transformation. The results showed that the original YSZ powders injected into the SAPS plasma jet were quickly heated and melted from the outer layer companied with breakup and collision-coalescence. The outer layer of the collected particles containing roughly hexagonal shaped grains exhibited a surface texture with high sphericity and the inside was dense with hollow structure. The median particle size was decreased from 45.65 μm to 42.04 μm. Besides, phase transformation took place and the content of zirconium (Zr) and yttrium (Y) element was decreased with the evaporation of ZrO2 and Y2O3.

ZnO films with Ti atoms incorporated (TZO) in a wide range (0-18 at. %) have been grown by reactive co-sputtering on silicon and glass substrates. The influence of the titanium incorporation in the ZnO matrix on the structural and optical characteristics of the samples has been determined by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicate that the samples with low Ti content (< 4 at. %) exhibit the wurtzite-like structure, with the Ti+4 ions substitutionally incorporated into the ZnO structure, forming Ti-doped ZnO films. In particular, very low concentration of Ti (<0.9 at. %) leads to a significant increase of the crystallinity of the TZO samples. Higher Ti contents give rise to a progressive amorphization of the wurtzite-like structure so samples with high Ti content (≥18at. %), displays an amorphous structure indicating the XPS analysis a predominance of Ti-O-Zn mixed oxides. The energy gap, obtained from absorption spectrophotometry, increases from 3.2 eV for pure ZnO films to 3.6 eV for those with the highest Ti content. Ti incorporation in the ZnO samples below 0.9 at. % rises both, the blue (380 nm) and green (550 nm) bands of the photoluminescence (PL) emission, thereby indicating a significant improvement of PL efficiency of the samples.

With the decline in fossil fuels, hydrogen-based alternatives provide a reliable and clean source for sustainable energy generation. In these endeavors, photochemical splitting for hydrogen production through tandem cells has been the source of much theoretical and experimental research in science. Much focus has been placed on interfacial band gap engineering as one of the most promising routes in the generation of hydrogen.This present work explores sputtering of n-silicon to form the active electrode in a n-Si | n-TiO₂ tandem cell and investigates the effect of variations in sputtering and post sputtering treatment parameters (rapid thermal annealing and long cycle annealing) for successful deposition of crystalline Silicon. The samples were successfully characterized via Raman Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction and Optical Transmission Spectroscopy to ascertain prevalent crystalline order and optical band gap, under different sputtering and post-sputtering conditions. Relevant conclusions were drawn to ascertain the best possible deposition parameters of n-Si for photocatalytic water splitting.

The chemical synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) by using an environmentally friendly methodology for their preparation is presented. Thus, considering that plants possess components that can act as reducing agents and stabilizers in the nanoparticles production, in this work, the synthesis of Ag-NPs by using a solution of grape waste extract as reducing and capping agent is studied. First, the total polyphenols content and reducing sugars in extracts produced at different conditions are characterized. After that, Ag-NPs are synthesized regarding the interaction of Ag ions (from silver nitrate) and the grape waste extract. The effect of temperature, contact time, extract/metal solution volume ratio and pH solution in the synthesis of metal nanoparticles are studied too. Different sets of nanoparticle samples are fully characterized by means of Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-Ray for qualitative chemical identification. Ag-NPs with an average diameter of 27.7 ± 0.6 nm are selected to proof their suitability for sensing purposes. Thus, screen-printed electrodes modified with Ag-NPs are tested for the simultaneous voltammetric stripping determination of Pb(II) and Cd(II). Results indicate good reproducibility, sensitivity and limits of detection around 2.7 µg L⁻¹ for both metal ions.

The poor oxidation resistance of refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) is a major obstacle for their use in high-temperature engineering applications. Anti-oxidation coating technology is an effective method for improving the oxidation resistance. In this paper, the Si-20Cr-20Fe coating was prepared on MoNbTaTiW RHEA by a fused slurry method. The microstructural evolution and compositions of the silicide coating under high-temperature oxidation environment were studied. The results show that the silicide coating could effectively prevent the oxidation of the MoNbTaTiW RHEA. The initial silicide coating had a double-layer structure; a high silicon-content layer mainly composed of MSi2 as the outer layer and a low silicon-content layer mainly contained M5Si3 as the inner layer. Under high-temperature oxidation conditions, the silicon element diffused from the silicide coating to the RHEA substrate while the oxidation of the coating occurred. After oxidation, the coating was composed of an outer oxide layer and an inner silicide layer. The silicide layer moved toward the inside of the substrate, led to the increase of its thickness. Compared with the initial silicified layer, its structure did not change significantly. The structure and compositions of the oxide layer on the outer surface strongly depended on the oxidation temperature. This paper provides a strategy for protecting RHEAs from oxidation at high-temperature environments.

The application of metal-matrix composite coatings for protecting and improving the service life of sliding components has demonstrated to have the potentials of meeting the requirements of a diverse range of engineering industries. Recently, a significant body of research has been devoted to study the mechanical and tribological performance of dispersion-strengthened MCrAlY coatings. These coatings belong to a class of emerging wear-resistant materials, offering improved properties and being considered as promising candidates for the protection of engineering structural materials exposed to tribological damage, especially at elevated temperature regimes. This paper attempts to comprehensively review the different reinforcements used in the processing of MCrAlY-based alloys and how they influence the mechanical and tribological properties of the corresponding coatings. Further, the major fabrication techniques together with their benefits and challenges are also reviewed. Discussion on the failure mechanisms of these coatings as well as the main determining factors are also included. In addition, a comprehensive survey of studies and investigations in recent times are summarized and elaborated to further substantiate the review.

Herein, we describe precisely on covalent modification of pure magnesium (Mg) surface and applied to induce in vitro osteogenic differentiation. A new concept, chemical bonding method is proposed for developing stable chemical bonds on Mg surface through serial assembly of bioactive additives including ascorbic acid (AA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The coating with such potential materials shows strong integrity to the Mg and could suitable for cell-interface interaction with the host tissue during implantation in bone tissue repair. The physicochemical and electrochemical properties of surface modified Mg assess how these nanoscales layered of biomolecules could demonstrate the significance improvement in chemical stability of coating. The modified Mg-OH-AA-BSA exhibits better anti-corrosion behavior with high corrosion potential (Ecorr ~ ‒ 0.96 V) and low corrosion current density (Icorr ~ 0.2 µA cm-2) as compared to pure Mg (Ecorr ~ ‒1.46 V, Icorr ~ 10.42 µA cm-2). Outer layer of BSA on Mg protects fast degradation rate of Mg which is the consequence of strong chemicals bonds between amine groups on BSA with carboxylic groups on AA. Collectively, the results suggest that surface modified Mg provides strong bio-interface and enhances the proliferation and differentiation of pre-osteoblast (MC3T3-E1) cells through protein-lipid interaction. Owing to this fact, the cost-effective and scalable covalent functionalization of Mg surface inherits biological advantage in orthopedic and dental implants with long term stability.

Many studies discuss carbon-based materials because of the versatility of carbon elements. These studies cover different ideas and discuss them within the scientific scope and application. Depending on the processing conditions of carbon precursors, carbon exists in its various allotropic forms. The electron transfer mechanism is responsible for converting the gaseous carbon atom into the various carbon states named graphite, nanotube, fullerene, diamond, lonsdaleite and graphene. Two pieces of dash-shaped typical energy involve transferring filled state electrons to nearby unfilled states to convert the carbon atom from the existing state to a new state. In an electron transfer mechanism, the carbon atom preserves its equilibrium state. When the pieces of dash-shaped typical energy involve, the electrons of the appropriate filled states instantaneously and simultaneously transfer to the unfilled states. The involved dash-shaped typical energy has its conserved behaviour that is partial. A transferring electron is also under the partially conserved forces. Carbon atoms in graphite, nanotube and fullerene states partially evolve and develop the structures. The structures of one dimension, two dimensions and four dimensions form, respectively. In the formation of such structures, atoms bind under the same pieces of involved dash-shaped typical energy. The graphite structure under the attained dynamics of atoms only is also formed but in two dimensions or amorphous carbon. Here, force and energy, the chemical in nature, together contribute. The structural formations in diamond, lonsdaleite and graphene state atoms involve a different shaped typical energy. Such typical energy controls the orientation of the electron while undertaking its one additional clamp of energy knot. The involved typical energy has a form like a golf stick. To undertake one additional clamp of energy knot, all four electrons of the outer ring in the depositing diamond state atom get aligned along the south pole, and all four unfilled energy knots of the outer ring in the deposited diamond state atom get stretched along the east-west poles. In this way, a depositing diamond state atom binds to the deposited diamond state atom from the ground to the south. Growth is from south to ground, so the structure of diamond is a tetra-electron topological structure. The binding of lonsdaleite state atoms is from the ground to a bit south. However, in glassy carbon, the layers of gaseous, graphite and lonsdaleite state atoms bind simultaneously. The order of these layers repeats in the growth process of glassy carbon. The Mohs hardness in different carbon materials is also sketched.

We investigated the effect of helium atmospheric-pressure plasma (PL) and deep-ultraviolet (UV) light treatments on the adhesive properties of fiber-reinforced poly(ether-ether-ketone)polymer (PEEK). PEEK disks reinforced with carbon (CPEEK) or glass (GPEEK) fibers were polished, modified with PL and UV for 60 s, and the surface energy was calculated by measuring the contact angles. The disk surfaces were analyzed by X-ray photoemission spectroscopy. Shear bond strength testing was performed using a universal testing machine, and the fracture surfaces were observed by electron probe microanalyzer. Data were analyzed with one and two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc test (p < 0.05). The surface energies were increased by the modifications, which created OH functional groups on the surfaces. The bond strengths of CPEEK were increased by PL and those of GPEEK were increased by PL and UV, owing to chemical bonding at the interface.

During the long-term operation of the plasma reactor, decreases in the plasma concentration were noticed despite the constant maintenance of all parameters. One of the factors is the decrease of the nitrogen content on the surface of the electrode, in order to eliminate it, the supply voltage has been increased to 11 kV. The next decisive factor in the decrease of plasma concentration is the oxidation of the electrode surface, therefore two electrodes were used: first one with solid gold and the other one copper covered with galvanized gold with a thickness of 10 μm. During the experiment, a large decrease in plasma concentration was observed when the electrode coated by gold was used. High-energy electrons have knocked out the gold atoms from the electrode, as a result of which the gold evaporated and the raids layers formed. After a month of working of the electrodes, metallographic researches were carried out, the results of which are described in this publication.

This article will briefly review the progress of h-BN based solid-state metal semiconductor metal (MSM) neutron detectors. In the last decade, several groups have been working on hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) based solid-state neutron detectors. Recently, the detection efficiency of 59% has been reported. Efficient, low-cost neutron detectors made from readily available materials are essential for various applications. Neutron detectors are widely used to detect fissile materials and nuclear power plants for security applications. The most common and widely used neutron detectors are 3He based, which are sometimes bulky, difficult to transport, have high absorption length, need relatively high bias voltage (>1000 V), and have low Q-value (0.764 MeV). Also, 3He is not readily available material. Thus, there is a strong need to find an alternative detection material. 10B isotope has a high neutron absorption cross-section, and it has been tested as a coating on the semiconducting materials. Due to the two-step process, neutron capture through 10B, and then electron-hole pair generation in a typical semiconducting material, the efficiency of these devices is not up to the mark. The progress in h-BN based detectors requires a review to envision the further improvement in this technology.

In this study, we propose a solution process for realizing color glass for building integrated pho-tovoltaic (BIPV) systems by spin coating a color solution composed of a pearlescent pigment mixed in a norland optical adhesive (NOA) matrix. Color solutions are made from mixing pearlescent pigments in NOA63. Compared to a physical vapor deposition process, color coatings are achieved by spin coating in a relatively simple and inexpensive process at room temperature. The optical properties can be easily controlled by adjusting the spin coating speed and the concentra-tion of the pearlescent pigments. The produced color glasses achieved a high transmittance of 85% or more in the visible wavelength range, except the wavelength spectrum exhibiting the maxi-mum reflectance. In addition, we propose a one-step lamination process of color glass on a solar cell by leveraging on the adhesive property of the NOA matrix. This eliminates the cost and pro-cess of additional ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) layer or other materials used in the conventional lamination process. The color glass produced through this study has stability that does not change its properties over time. Therefore, it is expected to be applied to the BIPV solar module market where aesthetics and energy efficiency are required.

In many instances paints interlayers delamination is attributed either to environmental or to application reasons. The composition as well as the structure, including morphology are always given for granted. The resin to pigment ratio, the surfactants, the quality of pigments and fillers (dimensions, shape, wettability, reactivity, homogeneity of distribution…) are not clearly required, defined and consequently checked. A fundamental article appeared in 1949 defining PVC and CPVC. In the following, it was quoted several times but not many improvements in the subject were shown: the subject was considered as obvious and unquestionable. We have tested some cases of coating delamination from big steel structures where other causes were either absent or not dominating if paint features were not taken into account. Many features of paint composition and structure were analyzed with both SEM and EDAX and a comparison with a carefully formulated paint was carried out.

An investigation was made to determine the effects of tungsten surface coating on the coefficient of friction of sliding contact between lubricated steel surfaces. The four-ball test was modified, using a tungsten carbide ball bearing in the spindle to cause sliding contact onto three hard steel ball bearings coated with tungsten disulfide lamellar dry lubricant coating, with a coating of grease lubrication applied to the ball bearings. The coatings, loads, speed, and grease level was varied to best understand the impact of different conditions to the friction coefficient.

Functional ZnO nanostructured surfaces are important in a wide range of applications. Here we report facile fabrication of ZnO surface structures at near room temperature with morphology resembling that of sea urchins, with densely packed, μm-long, tapered nanoneedles radiating from the urchin centre. The ZnO urchin structures were successfully formed on several different substrates with high surface density and coverage, including silicon (Si), glass, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and copper (Cu) sheets, as well as Si seeded with ZnO nanocrystals. Time-resolved SEM revealed growth kinetics of the ZnO nanostructures on Si, capturing the emergence of “infant” urchins at the early growth stage and subsequent progressive increase in the urchin nanoneedle length and density, whilst the spiky nanoneedle morphology was retained throughout the growth. ε-Zn(OH)₂ orthorhombic crystals were also observed alongside the urchins. The crystal structures of the nanostructures at different growth time were confirmed by synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurements. On seeded Si substrates, a two-stage growth mechanism was identified, with a primary growth step of vertically aligned ZnO nanoneedle arrays preceding the secondary growth of the urchins atop the nanoneedle array. The antibacterial, anti-reflective, and wetting functionality of the ZnO urchins—with spiky nanoneedles and at high surface density—on Si substrates was demonstrated. First, bacteria colonisation was found to be suppressed on the surface after 24 h incubation in Gram-negative E. coli culture, in contrast to control substrates (bare Si and Si sputtered with 20 nm ZnO thin film). Secondly, the ZnO urchin surface, exhibiting superhydrophilic property with a water contact angle ~0°, could be rendered superhydrophobic with a simple silanization step, characterised by a water static contact angle θ of 159° ± 1.4° and contact angle hysteresis ∆θ < 7°. The dynamic superhydrophobicity of the surface was demonstrated by bouncing-off of a falling 10 μL water droplet, with a contact time of 15.3 milliseconds (ms), captured using a high-speed camera. Thirdly, it was shown that the presence of dense spiky ZnO nanoneedles and urchins on the seeded Si substrate exhibited a reflectance R < 1% over the wavelength range λ = 200–800 nm. The ZnO urchins with unique morphology via a facile fabrication route at room temperature, readily implementable on different substrates, may be further exploited for multifunctional surfaces and product formulations.

Silicon-based thin-films and nanostructures are of paramount importance in a wide range of applications, including microelectronics, photovoltaics, large area sensors, as well as biomedicine. The wide accessibility of silicon and its relatively low cost have driven a continuous improvement of the technology based on this element. Plasma technology has been widely used for the synthesis of coatings and nanostructures based on silicon. Moreover, it has given a fundamental contribution for continuously improving the control of the physicochemical properties of silicon-based materials, and for allowing the synthesis of nanometric structures with well-defined shape and morphology. In this work, we have reviewed the most interesting developments of plasma-assisted processed for the synthesis of Si-based materials, both inorganic and organic, in the last five years. A special attention has been given to the new techniques, or modifications of already existing ones, that open new possibilities for the synthesis of materials with new properties, as well as nanostructures with novel characteristics.

A new approach to fabricate TiNi surfaces combining the advantages of both monolithic and porous materials for implants is used in this work. New materials were obtained by depositing a porous TiNi powder onto monolithic TiNi plates followed by sintering at 1200°C. Then, further modification of the material surface with a high-current-pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) was carried out. Three materials obtained (one after sintering and two after subsequent beam treatment by 20 and 30 pulses, respectively) were studied by XRD, SEM, EDX, EIS methods, profilometry and OCP measurements. Structural and compositional changes caused by HCPEB treatment were investigated. Surface properties of the samples during their storage in saline for 10 days were studied and a model experiment with cell growth (MCF-7) was carried out for the sample unmodified with electron beam to detect cell appearance on different surface locations.

To realize high response and selectivity gas sensor in detecting dissolved gases in transformer oil, in this study, the adsorption of four kinds of gases (H2, CO, C2H2 and CH4) on Pd-graphyne as well as the gas sensing properties evaluation were investigated. The energetically favorable structure of Pd doped γ-Graphyne was first studied, including the comparison of different adsorption sites and discussion of electronic properties. Then, the adsorption of these four molecules on Pd-graphyne was explored. The adsorption structure, adsorption energy, electron transfer and electron distribution, the band structure and density of states were calculated and analyzed. The results show that the Pd atom prefers to be adsorbed on the middle of three C≡C bonds and the band gap is smaller. The CO adsorption exhibits the largest adsorption energy and electron transfer and brings obvious change to the structure and electron properties to Pd-graphyne. Because of the conductance decrease after adsorption CO and acceptable recovery time at high temperature, the Pd-graphyne can be promising gas sensing materials to detect CO with high selectivity. This work offers theoretical support for the design of nanomaterials based gas sensor using novel structure for industrial application.

The mechanical properties and stability of hydrophobic surface structures prepared by traditional methods are still the main technical bottlenecks restricting the broad application of hydrophobic systems on workpiece surfaces. In this contribution, we propose a technique called selective laser shock peening (SLSP) to enable large-scale high efficient, low-cost manufacturing of hydrophobic metal surfaces with enhanced mechanical properties for durable applications. Using the method of experimental investigation combined with numerical calculation, the hydrophobic properties, mechanical properties, and tribological properties of the samples prepared under SLSP, all-laser shock peening (ALSP), and non-laser shock peening (NLSP) are studied. The SLSP process could prepare a 3D gradient structure material with surface structures, a two-phase (strong phase, soft phase) distribution on the surface, and a multi-level gradient distribution in the thickness direction. Compared with the 2D gradient structure prepared by the traditional process, 3D gradient structures by SLSP have more significant advantages in improving the wetting behavior and the mechanical properties of the material, which proves SLSP to be a novel method to fabricate functional metal surface structures, with highly high engineering application value.

Using optical characterization, it is evident that the spin state of the spin crossover molecular complex [Fe{H2B(pz)2}2(bipy)] (pz = tris (pyrazol-1-1y)-borohydride, bipy = 2,2’-bipyridine) depends on the ferroelectric polarization of an adjacent thin film of the polymer ferroelectric polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene (PVDF-HFP). The UV-Vis spectroscopy reveals that room temperature switching of [Fe{H2B(pz)2}2(bipy)] molecules in bilayers of PVDF-HFP/[Fe{H2B(pz)2}2(bipy)] as a function of ferroelectric polar polarization. The electric polarity dependence of bilayers of PVDF-HFP/[Fe{H2B(pz)2}2(bipy)] shows a strong dependence on the thickness of the PVDF-HFP layer. The PVDF-HFP/[Fe{H2B(pz)2}2(bipy)] interface may affect polarization retention in the PVDF-HFP thin film limit.

Here we report the effect of substrate, sonication process, and post-annealing on the structural, morphological, and optical properties of ZnO thin films grown in the presence of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) at temperature 30 – 65 ℃ by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method on both soda lime glass (SLG) and Cu foil. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the preferential growth (002) and (101) plane of wurtzite ZnO structure while grown on SLG and Cu foil substrate respectively. Both XRD and Raman spectra confirmed the ZnO and Cu-oxide phases of the deposited films. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of the deposited films shows compact and uniformly distributed grains for samples grown without sonication while using IPA at temperature 50 and 65 ℃. The post-annealing treatment improves the crystallinity of the films, further evident by XRD and transmission and reflection results. The estimated optical bandgaps are in the range of 3.37-3.48 eV for as-grown samples. Results revealed that high-quality ZnO thin films could be grown without sonication using IPA dispersant at 50 ℃, which is much lower than the reported results using the SILAR method. This study suggests that in the presence of IPA, the SLG substrate results in better c-axis oriented ZnO thin films than that of DI water, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol at the optimum temperature of 50 ℃. Air-annealing of the samples grown on Cu foils induced the formation of Cu_xO/ZnO junctions which is evident from the characteristic I-V curve including the structural and optical data.

Highly transparent thin films with the chemical formula BaSrMgWO6 were deposited by spin coating using a solution of nitrates of Ba, Sr and Mg and ammonium paratungstate in dimethylformamide with a ratio Ba:Sr:Mg;W=1:1:1:1. XRD, SEM, EDX and XPS investigations evidenced that an annealing at 800 ºC for 1h leaves the structure amorphous with a precipitate on the surface and that a supplementary annealing at 850 ºC for 45 min forms a nanocrystalline structure and dissolves a part of precipitates. It was evidenced a textured double perovskite cubic structure (61.9%) decorated with tetragonal and cubic impurity phases (12.7 %) like BaO2, SrO2 and MgO and an under-stoichiometric phase (24.4%) with the chemical formula Ba2-(x+y) SrxMgyWO5. From transmittance measurements the values of optical band gap were estimated for the amorphous (Eg= 5.15) and nanocrystalline (Eg=4.58 eV) phases. The presence of a lattice disorder was indicated by the high values of Urbach and weak absorption tail energies A decrease in their values was observed and attributed to the crystallization process and cation redistribution.

THz band-pass filters were fabricated by laser ablation of micro-foils of stainless steel and Kapton. Their spectral performance was tested in transmission and re- flection at the THz beamline at the Australian Synchrotron (AuSy). A 25 μm Kapton film performed as a Fabry-Pérot etalon with a free spectral range of FSR = 119 cm−1, high finesse Fc ≈ 17, and was tuneable over ~10 μm (at ~5 THz band) with β = 30° tilt. The structure of the THz beam focal region as extracted by the first mirror (slit) shows a complex polarisation-wavelength- position dependence across the beam. This is important for polarisation sensitive measurements (in transmission and reflection) and requires normalisation at each orientation of linear polarisation.

Background: Implant surface topography is a key element in achieving osseointegration. Nanostructured surfaces have shown promising results in accelerating and improving bone healing around dental implants. The main objective of the present clinical and histological study is to compare, at 4 and 6 weeks, (w) bone-to-implant contact in implants having either machined surface (MAC), SLA medium roughness surface or a Nanostructured Calcium-Incorporated sur-face (XPEED®). Methods: 35 mini-implants with 3 different surface treatments (XPEED® (n=16) – SLA (n=13) – Machined (n=6), were placed in the posterior maxilla of 11 patients then, retrieved at either 4 or 6w in a randomized split-mouth study design. Results: The BIC rate measured at 4 and 6w respectively, was: 16.8 % (±5.0) and 29.0 % (±3.1) for MAC surface; 18.5 % (±2.3) and 33.7 % (±3.3) for SLA surface; 22.4 % (±1.3) and 38.6 % (±3.2) for XPEED® surface. In all types of in-vestigated surfaces, the time factor appeared to significantly increase the BIC rate (p < .05). XPEED® surface showed a significantly higher values when compared to both SLA and MAC values at 4w (p < .05). Also, at 6w, both roughened surfaces (SLA and XPEED® ) showed signifi-cantly higher values (p < .05) than turned surface (MAC). Conclusion: Nanostructured Calcium titanate coating is able to enhance bone deposition around implants at early healing stages.

The contribution aims to bring forth a novel synthesis route in developing transparent UV-LED curable coatings accounting various exposure options. A selection of perfluoropolyether (PFPE)-urethane methacrylate and acrylate resins, free-radical photo-initiator Omnirad 2100, and two distinct silane based crosslinking agents were blended under a weight ratio of 75:20:5 (without crosslinker) and 70:15:5:10, respectively. The coatings were cured under a UV-LED 4 x 3 matrix light emitting source, in a chamber under controlled atmosphere, by means of an in-house developed conveyor belt type platform, at different conveyor belt speed (5, 50, 150, 250, and 500 mm/s). The morphologies of fabricated coatings were characterized by FTIR revealing high conversion rates (e.g., from 98 to 100%) for increased exposure time as resulted from the 5 or 50 mm/s values, on all combinations. Dynamic-mechanical and optical properties of UV-LED cured transparent coatings were also investigated. A negative shift of a glass transition temperature values with a decrease in exposure time, in all combinations, from about 60 °C to 30 °C, along with storage moduli lowering in the glassy plateau further favor on higher exposure times for curing. The refractive indices of polymers were from 1.38 to 1.40, whereas the thermo-optic coefficients are showing minor changes around value of 2.55∙10-4 K-1.

In recent years, natural polymers have replaced synthetic polymers for antibacterial orthopedic applications owing to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. Zein is a biopolymer found in corn. The lacking mechanical stability of zein is overcome by incorporating bioceramics e.g. mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBGNs). In present study, pure zein and zein/Zn-Mn MBGNs composite coatings were deposited via electrophoretic deposition (EPD) on 316L stainless steel (SS). Zn and Mn were co-doped in MBGNs in order to make use of their antibacterial and osteogenic potential, respectively. A Taguchi design of experiment (DoE) study was established to evaluate the effect of various working parameters on the morphology of the coatings. It was observed that coatings deposited at 20 V for 5 min with 4 g/L concentration (conc.) of Zn-Mn MBGNs showed highest deposition yield. Uniform coatings with highly dispersed MBGNs were obtained adopting these optimized parameters. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to investigate the morphology and elemental composition of zein/Zn-Mn MBGNs composite coating. Surface properties i.e. coating roughness and wettability analysis concluded that composite coatings were appropriate for cell attachment and proliferation. For adhesion strength various techniques including tape test, bend test, pencil hardness test, and tensile test were performed. Wear and corrosion analysis highlighted the mechanical and chemical stability of coatings. Colony forming unit (CFU) test showed that zein/Zn-Mn MBGNs composite coating was highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) due to the presence of Zn. The formation of hydroxyapatite (HA) like structure upon immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) validated the in vitro bioactivity of the coating. It was concluded that zein/Zn-Mn MBGNs coating synthesized in this work can be used for bioactive and antibacterial orthopedic applications.

In this paper, we have used magnetron sputtering to grow the high-quality GeSn layer on Ge (100) with Sn compositin up to 7%. The crystallinity of the GeSn layer is pretty good, and the strain relaxation degree of the GeSn layer is evaluated to be approximately 50%. The root mean square (RMS) value is 0.8 nm, and the averaged TDDs in the GeSn layer is 8.7×109 cm-2, which is obtained from the rocking curve of GeSn layer along (004) plane. PL measurement result shows the significant optical emission from the deposited high-quality GeSn layer, which also means that magnetron sputtering is an optional way to achieve the higher Sn composition GeSn luminescent material. To verify whether our deposited GeSn can used for optoelectronic devices, we fabricate the simple vertical p-i-n diode, and the room temperature current-voltage (I-V) characteristic was obtained. This result paves the way for future sputtered-GeSn optimization, which is critical for the optoelectronic application.

Traditionally, neutron scattering is an essential method for the analysis of spin structures and spin excitations in bulk materials. Over the last 30 years, polarized neutron scattering in terms of reflectometry has also contributed largely to the analysis of magnetic thin films and magnetic multilayers. More recently it has been shown that polarized neutron reflectivity is, in addition, a suitable tool for the study of thin films laterally patterned with magnetic stripes or islands. We provide a brief overview of the fundamental properties of polarized neutron reflectivity, considering different domain states, domain fluctuations, and different domain sizes with respect to the neutron coherence volume. The discussion is exemplified by a set of simulated reflectivities assuming either complete polarization and polarization analysis, or a reduced form of polarized neutron reflectivity without polarization analysis. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of the neutron coherence volume for the interpretation of specular and off-specular intensity maps, in particular when studying laterally non-homogeneous magnetic films. Finally, experimental results, fits, and simulations are shown for specular and off-specular scattering from a magnetic film that has been lithographically patterned into a periodic stripe array. These experiments demonstrate the different and mutually complementary information that can be gained when orienting the stripe array parallel or perpendicular to the scattering plane.

Interface solar steam generation (ISSG) are charming for its applications in desalination and wastewater treatment. Biomass is an attractive substrate for utilizing solar vapor evaporators because of its natural pore structure and water transportability. Polymers like polydopamine (PDA) and polypyrrole (PPy) with broadband spectrum absorption are fascinating in photothermal materials (PTMs). Herein, PDA coated daikon-based (PDA-DK) and PPy coated daikon-based (PPy-DK) PTMs have been exploited for solar steam generation. When polyethylene foam (PEF) was used as an insulating layer to limit heat loss from the PTMs to bulk water, the evaporation rate of PDA-DK and PPy-DK was raised from 0.82 kg m–2 h–1 and 0.96 kg m–2 h–1 to 1.50 kg m–2 h–1 and 1.60 kg m–2 h–1, respectively. Meanwhile, the corresponding photothermal conversion efficiency was increased to 89.01% and 98.97%, which was increased by nearly 40% under 1-sun irradiation. In addition, PDA-DK and PPy-DK exhibited remarkable stability for the solar steam generation without significant change through 15 cycles. Furthermore, PDA-DK and PPy-DK could effectively desalt seawater and purify dyeing wastewater. All the results indicate that PDA-DK and PPy-DK have great potential in real-world applications for solar steam generation.

The manuscript reported the synthesis of Al2O3 nano-coating onto quartz fiber by plasma electrolysis spray for enhanced thermal conductivity and stability. The nano- and micro-sized clusters were partially observed on the coating, while most coating was relatively smooth. It was suggested that the formation of a ceramic coating was followed as the nucleation-growth raw, that is, the formation of the coating clusters was dependent on the fast grow-up partially, implying the inhomogeneous energy distribution in the electrolysis plasma. The deposition of the Al2O3 coating increased the annealing tensile strength from 19.2 MPa to 58.1 MPa. The thermal conductivity of the coated quartz fiber was measured to be 1.17 W m-1 K-1, increased by ~45% compared to the bare fiber. The formation mechanism of the Al2O3 coating was preliminarily discussed. We believe that the thermally conductive quartz fiber with high thermal stability by plasma electrolysis spray will find a wide range of applications in industries.

The color of a thin copper oxide layer formed on a copper plate was transformed from reddish-brown into blue-purple by irradiation with 5 keV Ar+ ions to a fluence as low as 1 1015 Ar+ cm–2. In the unirradiated copper oxide layer, the copper valence state of Cu2+ as well as Cu+ and/or Cu0 was included as indicated by the presence of a shake-up satellite line in a photoemission spectrum. While for the irradiated one, the satellite line decreased in intensity, indicating that irradiation resulted in the reduction from Cu2+ to Cu+ and/or Cu0. Furthermore, nuclear reaction analysis using a 16O(d, p)17O reaction with 0.85 MeV deuterons revealed a significant loss of oxygen (51015 O atoms cm–2) in the irradiated layer. Thus, the chromatic change observed in the present work originated in the irradiation-induced reduction of a copper oxide.

A detailed structural investigation of a promising bio-based polymer, polyglycerol citrate poly-ester, obtained by bulk polycondensation of glycerol (Gly) against citric acid (Cit) under mild reaction was performed. This polymer was suggested to be well suited for coating seeds or similar agricultural applications. The reaction in conditions with and without catalyst use (sulfuric acid, H2SO4) was investigated, showing evidence that it is possible to modify the polymer solubility according to the ratio and catalyst utilization. 13C and 1H NMR indicated that synthesis catalyzed with Cit excess leads to higher esterification degrees of citrates groups. In contrast, the Gly moi-eties are more prominent in catalyzed polymers regardless of the excess monomers. Overall, a successful conversion of Gly and Cit into polyesters was attained, even without catalysis, enabling a simple route for large-scale production of this green material to be used as coating material. Tests on soybean seed coating with a PGCit solution of 75% indicated that the seed quality and ger-mination rate was not affected by PGCit coating, concluding that this polymer is promising for this application.

In this work, cobalt doped ZnO nanorod arrays with anticorrosion function were successfully prepared on FTO substrate by a simple aqueous solution method. XRD and EDS results indicate the doped Co2+ has successfully incorporated into the ZnO crystal lattice. Photocurrent density and open circuit potential (OCP) results indicate the photocathodic protection performance for 316 stainless steel (316 SS) and Q235 carbon steel in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution under 300 W Xe lamp enhanced with the increase of cobalt concentration, and the photoanode with 15% Co/Zn ratio has the optimal photocathodic protection effect. The mechanism of enhancement may be result from the narrowed band gap, the lower recombination rate of photogenerated electron-holes, the intermediate impurity level and the split of the hypo-outer shell of cobalt ions.

Several coatings configurations of combined aluminizing and diffusion layered aluminide on 316 steel were produced and characterized. These coatings, typically employed as thermal barrier coating (TBC), can also be effective as vibration reduction elements at intermediate and high temperatures. This preliminary work has been focused on the microstructural design and processing effects of the coatings. The damping of the produced specimens was measured up to 450°C and compared with that of the steel substrate. The most performing coatings contain an Al-Si layer and exhibit a steep damping increase above 200 °C, reasonably due to dislocation movements by plastic straining of soft alloy layer and to the interface sliding between layers with different elastic moduli.

Erosion caused by the repeated impact of particles on a substance surface is a usual wear method resulting in gradual and continual loss of objects. It is a crucial problem in several modern industries because their surfaces are frequently subjected to destructive erosive situations. Polymers and their hybrid materials include several applications to be used as a coating in the form of powder for different applications. This review paper aims to provide extensive information on the erosion behavior of thermoset and thermoplastic neat resin and their hybrid materials composites. Focus is specifically paid to highlight the influence of properties of selected materials, impingnation parameters such as incident Angle of erodent, impact velocity of erodent, erodent nature, and the erosion mechanism. The review further extends the information about the erosion techniques and numerical simulation methods used for wear studies of surfaces. An investigation has been carried out for researchers to explore the selection of materials and methods in terms of conditions and parameters to meet the current and future needs and challenges for the protection of surfaces of the advanced industries. During review according to the findings achieved from the literature of the past fifty years, it has been noted that the thermoplastic nature of the composite is a key component to determine the anti-wear properties, the composites with lower glass transition, higher ductility, and greater crystallinity can provide better protection to erosion in advance surface applications.

he present experiment concerns deposition of ZnO by ALD and subsequent growth of nanowires by chemical bath. We used a novel AISI 301 steel substrate with mechanical parameters that make it suitable to use as a piezoelectric component in an energy harvesting device. We found out that a thin layer of another oxide below ZnO provides outstanding adhesion. Without it, ZnO exhibits island growth and is mechanically unstable. Such prepared samples were placed under repeated mechanical stress. They showed a piezoelectric signal which is stable after hundreds of actuations. This shows good promise for use of our device based on ZnO, an earth-abundant and non-toxic material, as an alternative to widespread in piezo components but environmentally unfriendly PZT. The piezo layers generated enough power for operations performed by a IoT chip. The designed measurement setup allowed for the demonstration of an application of AISI 301 steel substrate coated with ZnO by atomic layer and chemical bath deposition techniques as a piezoelectric component capable of generating energies usable in Internet of Things applications.

Cenospheres are hollow particles in fly-ash, a by-product of coal burning, and are widely used as reinforcement for developing low density composites called syntactic foams. This study investigates the physical, chemical, and thermal properties of cenospheres obtained from 3 different sources, CS1, CS2, and CS3, for the development of syntactic foams. Description of floatation method to separate broken particles is given, and it was seen that up to 11 % of the particles were damaged. Post heat treatment samples show development of SiO2 phase in the cenosphere, which is not present in the as received product. CS3 had the highest quantity of Si element, compared to the other two, showing the difference in the source quality. The particle size distribution for CS2 is very narrow while for the others is much broader. All censopheres have porous walls but the morphology of CS2 is the most uniform and smooth. For the application of metallic layer and subsequent consolidation via spark plasma sintering, CS2 was deemed the most physically, thermally, and chemically suitable.

The adsorption of surfaces exposed to sunlight results in increased temperature that can cause physical damage and increase in energy consumption. The infrared reflective coatings that keep objects cooler have significant benefits in a wide variety of application by reflecting the infrared lights, reducing the operating costs, improving energy efficiency of buildings and vehicles (roofs, walls and windows), extend the objects’ lifespan. Our research focused on the elaboration of coatings with minimum adsorption in the infrared wavelength range. This was achieved by production of coatings that have infrared transparent and infrared reflective ability. The infrared reflection and surface warm up was investigated in the function of concentration and composition of pigments in the coatings. With investigation of different coating compositions the pigments and the binding systems were optimized. The coatings with different compositions were characterized by total solar reflection in the UV, visible and infrared wavelength range as well as by infrared reflection. Different coatings were produced in RAL7016 anthracite green color but with much better infrared reflectance, transparency as well as with heat reflectance.

Controlled deposition of CoCrFeNiMo0.2 high entropy alloy (HEA) micro-particles was achieved using laser induced forward transfer (LIFT). Ultra-short laser pulses, 230 fs of 515 nm wavelength, were tightly focused into ∼ 2.4 μm focal spots on the ∼50 nm thick plasma-sputtered films of CoCrFeNiMo0.2. The HTA films were transferred onto glass substrates by magnetron sputtering in vacuum (10−8 atm) from the thermal spray coated substrates. The absorption coefficient of CoCrFeNiMo0.2 α ≈ 6 × 105 cm−1 was determined at 600 nm wavelength. The real and imaginary parts of refractive index (n + iκ) of HEA were determined from reflectance and transmittance using nano-films.

The encapsulation of proteins into core-shell structures is a widely utilised strategy for controlling protein stability, delivery and release. Despite the recognised utility of these microstructures, however, core-shell fabrication routes are often too costly or poorly scalable to allow for industrial translation. Furthermore, many scalable routes rely upon emulsion-techniques implicating denaturing or environmentally harmful organic solvents. Herein, we investigate core-shell protein encapsulation through single-feed, aqueous spray drying: a cheap, industrially ubiquitous particle-formation technology in the absence of organic solvents. We show that an excipient’s preference for the surface of the spray dried particle is well-predicted by its hydrodynamic diameter (Dh) under relevant feed buffer conditions (pH and ionic strength) and that the predictive power of Dh is improved when measured at the spray dryer outlet temperature compared to room temperature (R2 = 0.64 vs. 0.59). Lastly, we leverage these findings to propose an adaptable design framework for fabricating core-shell protein encapsulates by single-feed aqueous spray drying.

The integration of bacteriophages, a particular class of viruses that specifically infect bacteria and archaea, in biosensors for the monitoring of pathogens in foods and beverages is highly desirable. To this end, an increasing focus has been set on the exploration of covalent and physical methods for the immobilization of phages on solid surfaces. This work investigates the electrostatic assembly of tailed phages, specifically anti-Listeria monocytogenes P100 phages, on an ultrathin self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of 11-amino-1-undecanethiol (AUT). The cationic properties of AUT may allow for the electrostatic capture of P100 in a capsid-down fashion, thus, exposing the specific receptor-binding proteins on their tails to the corresponding pathogens in analytical samples. The physical properties of immobilized phages have been studied using AFM, SEM, and electrochemical techniques, providing insight into the orientation of the phages and revealing that the pH plays a remarkable role in the morphology and charge transfer behavior of the adsorbed films. Overall, this research portrays SAMs of amino-akylthiols as a valid platform for the oriented immobilization of bacteriophages on surfaces for electroanalytical purposes.

Perovskite Solar Cell (PSC) is a third-generation photovoltaic device known for its rapid improvement in efficiency levels over the past decade. Moreover, the added benefits of abundant sourcing of raw materials, uncomplicated fabrication process, organic and inorganic device materials, and tuneable bandgaps make this technology a sustainable energy alternative. However, the efficiency values of these devices are subjected to variation depending on factors such as material compatibility, environmental conditions, energy band alignment of device components and stability characteristics to extrinsic and intrinsic factors. One such vital intrinsic factor is film morphology, homogenous and superior film quality formation and pinhole and trap-free films. In this study, we have investigated the formation of perovskite films on a qualitative basis using metal chloride washing of salts such as Erbium, Antimony, Cadmium and Chromium Chloride. The study aims to analyse the difference in film formation with various metal chloride washing and how this could potentially impact or contribute to photovoltaic performance if the devices are fabricated.

Delayed atomic layer deposition (ALD) of ZnO, i.e., area selective (AS)-ALD, was successfully achieved on silicon wafers (Si/SiO2) terminated with tris(dimethylamino)methylsilane (TDMAMS). This resist molecule was deposited in a home-built, near atmospheric pressure, flow-through , gas-phase reactor. TDMAMS has been shown to react with Si/SiO2 in a single cycle/reaction and to drastically reduce the number of silanols that remain at the surface. ZnO was deposited in a commercial ALD system using dimethylzinc (DMZ) as the zinc precursor and H2O as the coreactant. Deposition of TDMAMS was confirmed by spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and wetting. ALD of ZnO, including its selectivity on TDMAMS – terminated Si/SiO2 (Si/SiO2/TDMAMS), was confirmed by in situ ellipsometry, ex situ SE, XPS, and/or high sensitivity – low energy ion scattering (HS-LEIS). The thermal stability of the TDMAMS resist layer, which is an important parameter for AS-ALD, was investigated by heating Si/SiO2/TDMAMS in air and nitrogen at 330 ºC. ALD of ZnO takes place more readily on Si/SiO2/TDMAMS heated in the air than in N2, suggesting greater damage to the surface heated in the air. To better understand the in situ ALD of ZnO, the data were also plotted as the normalized growth per cycle and to show the selectivity. Even one, short pulse of TDMAMS effectively passivates Si/SiO2. TDMAMS can be an effective small molecule inhibitor of ALD of ZnO on Si/SiO2 surfaces.

Transparent conducting oxides (TCO) with high electrical conductivity and at the same time high transparency in the visible spectrum are an important class of materials widely used in many devices requiring a transparent contact such as light-emitting diodes, solar cells and display screens. Since the improvement of electrical conductivity usually leads to degradation of optical transparency, a fine-tuning sample preparation process and a better understanding of the correlation between structural and transport properties is necessary for optimizing the properties of TCO for use in such devices. Here we report a structural and magnetotransport study of tin oxide (SnO₂), a well-known and commonly used TCO, prepared by a simple and relatively cheap Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Vapour Deposition (APCVD) method in the form of thin films deposited on soda-lime glass substrates. The thin films were deposited at two different temperatures (which were previously found to be close to optimum for our setup), 590 °C and 610 °C, and with (doped) or without (undoped) the addition of fluorine dopants. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Grazing Incidence X-ray Diffraction (GIXRD) revealed the presence of inhomogeneity in the samples, on a bigger scale in form of grains (80–200 nm), and on a smaller scale in form of crystallites (10–25 nm). Charge carrier density and mobility extracted from DC resistivity and Hall effect measurements were in the ranges 1–3 × 10²⁰ cm⁻³ and 10–20 cm²/Vs, which are typical values for SnO₂ films, and show a negligible temperature dependence from room temperature down to -269 °C. Such behaviour is ascribed to grain boundary scattering, with the interior of the grains degenerately doped (i.e., the Fermi level is situated well above the conduction band minimum) and with negligible electrostatic barriers at the grain boundaries (due to high dopant concentration). The observed difference for factor 2 in mobility among the thin-film SnO₂ samples most likely arises due to the difference in the preferred orientation of crystallites (texture coefficient).

Implants are used to replace damaged biological structures in human body. Although stain-less-steel (SS) is a well-known implant material, corrosion of SS implants led to the release toxic metallic ions which produce harmful effects in human body. To prevent material degradation and its harmful repercussions, these implanted materials are subjected to biocompatible coatings. Polymeric coatings play a vital role in enhancing the mechanical and biological integrity of the implanted devices. Zein is a natural protein extracted from corn and is known to have good bio-compatibility and biodegradability. In this study, Zein/Ag-Sr doped mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (Ag-Sr MBGNs) were deposited on SS substrates via electrophoretic deposition (EPD) at different parameters. Ag and Sr ions were added to impart antibacterial and osteogenic properties to the coatings, respectively. In order to examine the surface morphology of coatings, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. To analyze me-chanical strength, pencil scratch test, bend test, corrosion and wear tests were conducted on ze-in/Ag-Sr doped MBGNs coatings. The results show good adhesion strength, wettability, corro-sion, and wear resistance for zein/Ag-Sr doped MBGNs coatings as compared to bare SS sub-strate. Thus, good mechanical and biological properties were observed for zein/Ag-Sr doped MBGNs coatings. Results suggested these zein/Ag-Sr MBGNs coatings have great potential in bone regeneration applications.

The supramolecular aggregation processes occurring on metallic (aluminum and gold) surfaces in aqueous solutions of bovine serum albumin (BSA) during drying were studied using advanced scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The possible mechanism for the formation of amazing intricate fractal structures on metallic surfaces was proposed based on the analysis of SEM images, size distribution diagrams and EDX-scanning elements distribution maps.

In this study we present gas-phase fluorination as a method to create a thin LiF layer on Li6.5La3Zr1.5Ta0.5O12 (LLZTO). We compare these fluorinated films with LiF films produced by RF-magnetron sputtering, where we investigated the interface between the LLZTO and the deposited LiF showing no formation of a reaction layer. Furthermore, we investigate the ability of this LiF layer as a protection layer against Li2CO3 formation in ambient air. By this we show that Li2CO3 formation is absent at the LLZTO surface after 24 h in ambient air supporting the protective character of the formed LiF films and hence could enhance the handling of LLZTO in air for battery production. With respect to the use within hybrid electrolytes consisting of LLZTO and a mixture of polyethylene oxide (PEO) and Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) we also investigated the interface between the formed LiF films and a mixture of PEO LiTFSI by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showing decomposition of the LiTFSI at the interface.

In this work, TiO₂ QDs modifed NiO nanosheets was employed to imporve the room-temperature NO₂ sensing properties of NiO. The gas-sensing studies showed that the response of nanocomposites with the optimal ratio to 60 ppm NO₂ was nearly 10 times larger than that of bare NiO, exhibiting potential application in gas-sensing. Considering the commonly reported immature mechanism that the effective charge transfer between two phases contribute to enhanced sensitivity, QDs sensitization mechanism was further detailed by designing a seirs of contrast experiments. First, the important role of QDs size effect was revealed by comparing a little enhanced sensitivity of TiO₂ particle-modified NiO with largely enhanced senstivity of TiO₂ QDs-NiO. Second, and more important, the direct evidence of heterointerface charge transfer efficiency was detailed by extracted interface bond (Ti-O-Ni) using XPS peak fitting. We hope this work can provide guideline to design more QDs-modified nanocomposites with the higher sensitivty for practical application.

Copper nitride (Cu3N), a metastable semiconductor material, but with reasonably-high-stability at room temperature, is drawing a great deal of attention as a very promising next-generation, earth-abundant, thin-film solar absorber. Its non-toxicity, on the other hand, makes it a very attractive eco-friendly semiconducting material. In the present work, Cu3N thin films were grown by employing radio-frequency magnetron sputtering, at room temperature, with 50-W RF-power, and partial nitrogen pressures of 8.0 and 1.0, onto glass substrates. Thus, the influence of argon on the optical properties of the Cu3N thin films was studied, with the goal of being able to achieve a low-cost, light absorber material, with appropriate properties in order to substitute the more conventional silicon, in photovoltaic cells. Variable-angle spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements have been conducted at three angles, 50∘, 60∘, and 70∘, respectively, in order to obtain the two ellipsometric parameters psi, ψ, and delta, Δ, respectively. For the constructed optical model, the bulk planar Cu3N layer is described by a one-dimensional graded-index model, combine with the mixture of a Tauc-Lorentz oscillator and up to four Gaussian oscillators, whereas a BEMA model with 50%-air-void is adopted in order to account for the existing surface-roughness layer. In addition, the optical properties such as the energy-band gap, and refractive index and absorption coefficient, were determined in order to assess the actual capability of this material as a light absorber for solar cells. The direct and indirect band gap energies were accurately calculated, and they were found to be in the ranges of 2.14-2.21 eV and very clse to 1.50 eV, respectively.

The unique properties and morphology of liquid marbles (LMs) make them potentially useful for various applications. Non-edible hydrophobic organic polymer particles are widely used to prepare LMs. It is necessary to increase the variety of LM particles to extend their use into food and pharmaceuticals. Herein, we focus on hydrophobically modified gelatin (HMG) as a base material for the particles. The surface tension of HMG decreased as the length of alkyl chains incorporated into the gelatin and the degree of substitution (DS) of the alkyl chains increased. HMG with a surface tension of less than 37.5 mN/m (determined using equations based on the Young-Dupré equation and Kaelble-Uy theory) successfully formed LMs of water. The minimum surface tension of a liquid in which it was possible to form LMs using HMG particles was approximately 53 mN/m. We also showed that the liquid-over-solid spreading coefficient S_(L/S) is a potential new factor for predicting if particles can form LMs. The HMG particles and the new system for predicting LM formation could expand the use of LMs in food and pharmaceuticals.

Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable source of energy, and it has been used in addition of specified technologies, such as solar cooling. The demand for cooling continues to increase in line with environmental changes and a greater desire for human comfort. This study primarily aimed to analyze the performance of an evaporative cooling system powered by solar energy and assess the economic and environmental impact of this system. In this system, hot, dry incoming air is used to evaporate water, thus transforming part of its sensitive heat into latent heat without any variation in enthalpy or total heat. The outputted air then has a lower temperature and a greater humidity, thus providing a more comfortable, healthier environment for its users. To achieve this study’s objectives, numerical code was developed and implemented in MATLAB. The obtained results reveal that the efficiency of the evaporative cooler exceeds 90%, with maximum efficiency being reached at a high wet-bulb depression, while minimum efficiency was observed when the dry air has a high relative humidity and a low dry-bulb temperature.

Surface modification of polypropylene (PP) films is achieved using gamma-irradiation-induced grafting to proffer with antimicrobial activity. The copolymer was obtained through a versatile two-step route; pristine PP is exposed to gamma rays and grafted using methyl methacrylate (MMA), then N-vinylimidazole (NVI) is grafted onto the copolymer PP-g-MMA by simultaneous irradiation. The characterization included Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and physicochemical analysis of swelling and contact angle. The copolymer (PP-g-MMA)-g-NVI was loaded with vancomycin, and the drug released was quantified by UV-vis spectrophotometry at different pH. The surface of (PP-g-MMA)-g-NVI exhibited pH-responsiveness and moderate hydrophilicity, suitable properties for controlled drug release.

Millions of people use public transportation daily worldwide and frequently touch surfaces, thereby producing a reservoir of microorganisms on surfaces increasing the risk of transmission. Constant occupation makes sufficient cleaning difficult to achieve. Thus, an autonomous, perma-nent antimicrobial coating (AMC) could keep down the microbial burden on such surfaces. A photodynamic AMC was applied to frequently touched surfaces in buses. The microbial burden (colony forming units, cfu) was determined weekly and compared to equivalent surfaces in buses without AMC (references). The microbial burden ranged from 0 – 209 cfu/cm² on references and from 0 – 54 cfu/cm² on AMC. The means were 13.4 ± 29.6 cfu/cm² on references and 4.5 ± 8.4 cfu/cm² on AMC (p<0.001). The difference of microbial burden on AMC and references was al-most constant throughout the study. Considering a hygiene benchmark of 5 cfu/cm², the data yield an absolute risk reduction of 22.6 % and a relative risk reduction of 50.7 %. In conclusion, photo-dynamic AMC kept down the microbial burden, reducing the risk of transmission of microor-ganisms. AMC permanently and autonomously contributes to hygienic conditions on surfaces in public transportation. Photodynamic AMC therefore are suitable for reducing the microbial load and closing hygiene gaps in public transportation.

Uncontrollable Zn dendrite formations and parasitic side reactions on Zn electrodes induce poor cycling stability and safety issues, preventing the large-scale commercialization of Zn-ion batteries. Herein, to achieve uniform Zn deposition and suppress side reactions, an electrospun ferroelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) copolymer, a [P(VDF-TrFE)] nanofiber layer, is introduced as an artificial solid-electrolyte interface on a Cu substrate acting as a current collector. The aligned molecular structure of β-P(VDF-TrFE) can effectively suppress localized current density on the Cu surface, lead to uniform Zn deposition, and suppress side reactions by preventing direct contact between electrodes and aqueous electrolytes. The half-cell configuration formed by the newly fabricated electrode can achieve an average coulombic efficiency of 99.2% over 300 cycles without short circuiting at a current density of 1 mA cm-2 and areal capacity of 1 mAh cm-2. Stable cycling stability is also maintained for 200 cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g-1 in a full-cell test using MnO2 as a cathode.

When liquids are confined into nanometer-scale slit, the induced layering-like film structure allows the liquid to sustain non-isotropic stresses and thus being load-bearing. Such anisotropic characteristics of liquid under confinement arise naturally from the liquids’ wave number dependent compressibility that does not need solidification to take place as a prerequisite. In other words, liquids under confinement can still remain fluidity with molecules being (sub-)diffusive. However, the extensively prolonged structural relaxation time can cause hysteresis of stress relaxation of confined molecules in response to the motions of confining walls and thereby yield the quasi-static stress tensor history-dependent. In this work, by means of molecule dynamics, the discrepancy of stress tensor of a highly confined key base-oil component, i.e. 1-decene trimer, is captured after its relaxation from being compressed and decompressed. The results indicate that among the effects (e.g. confinement, molecular structure, and film density) that can potentially affect confined stress tensor, the ordering status of the confined molecules plays a predominant role.

In order to further reduce the emissivity of the hydrophobic low infrared emissivity composite coating and improve the mechanical properties of the coating, the dispersant, adhesion enhancer, and defoamer were used to improve the dispersion state of the fillers, the interface structure, and the surface state of the hydrogen silicone oil modified polyurethane/Al composite coating. The effects of dispersant, adhesion enhancer, and defoamer on the micro-structure, emissivity, glossiness, hydrophobic property, and mechanical properties of the coating were systematically studied. The results show that the polycarboxylate anionic dispersant can obviously improve the dispersion state of flake Al powder and nano-SiO2 in the coating, so that the infrared emissivity of the coating can be reduced, and the coating can have higher hydrophobic and mechanical properties. The bonding strength between the resin matrix and the metal substrate of the coating can be significantly improved by the adhesion enhancer through the bridging action, so that the adhesion strength and impact strength of the coating can be significantly improved. The defoamer can significantly reduce the pores in the coating, so that the surface state of the coating can be significantly improved, and the mechanical properties of the coating can be significantly improved. The coating has the best emissivity (0.527), glossiness (4.3), adhesion strength (grade 1), impact strength (40 kg.cm), and hydrophobic property (water contact angle (WCA) is 140o) when the amount of dispersant, adhesion enhancer, and defoamer is 5 wt%, 4 wt%, and 1 wt%, respectively.

In the present study, the corrosion resistance of amorphous coating and composite coatings in 3.5 wt.% NaCl, 0.5 M H₂SO₄ and 10 wt.% NaOH solution were studied. The composite coatings exhibit superior corrosion resistance. When the content of AT13 （Al₂O₃–13 wt.% TiO₂）was 15 wt.%, the composite coating has the lowest corrosion current density (1.75×10^-6 A cm^-2), which is 5.14×10^-5 A cm^-2 for Fe-based metallic glassy coating, and the highest corrosion potential (-411 mV), which is -580 mV for Fe-based metallic glassy coating. The breakdown potential of the passivation film in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was much higher than that of 316L.The long-time immersion corrosion tests carried out on different coatings showed that the corrosion protection effect of coating was enhanced with the increase of the amount of AT13 added.

So far, poly(L-lactic acid), PLLA, nanosheets proved to be promising for wound healing. Such biodegradable materials are easy-to-prepare, bio-friendly, cost-effective, simple to apply and were shown to protect burn wounds and facilitate their healing. At the same time, certain metal ions are known to be essential for wound healing, which is why this study was motivated by the idea of incorporating PLLA nanosheets with Zn2+ ion containing nanoparticles. Upon being applied on wound, such polymer nanosheets should release Zn2+ ions, which is expected to improve wound healing. The work thus focused on preparing PLLA nanosheets embedded with several kinds of Zn-containing nanoparticles, their characterization and ion-release behavior. ZnCl2 and ZnO nanoparticles were chosen as model particles with different solubility in water, both types showing similar ion release dynamics in liquid medium with pH around 7.4.

Since 2007, at the Electron Science Research Institute (ESRI) nano-fabrication laboratories, Edith Cowan University, Australia, we have devoted research efforts to the synthesis and characterization of bismuth-containing ferrite-garnet-type thin-film magneto-optic (MO) materials of different compositions. We report on the development and properties of highly bismuth-substituted iron-garnet thin films prepared by using radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. We study the process parameters associated with the RF magnetron sputter deposition technique and investigate the results of optimizing process parameters and implementing several special techniques including the fabrication of co-sputtered nanocomposite films, all-garnet multilayer structures, applying oxygen plasma treatment on amorphous garnet layers just after the deposition process, and designing modifications of the annealing crystallization process and regimes for achieving the best MO properties. We demonstrated significant improvement in MO properties of Bi-containing ferrite-type garnet thin-film materials, including record-high MO figures of merit and improved conventional and un-conventional hysteresis loops of Faraday rotation. The attractive optical, magnetic, and magneto-optic properties obtained in highly bismuth-substituted iron garnet thin-film materials of multiple composition types are relevant in the context of manufacturing next-generation ultra-fast optoelectronic devices, such as light intensity switches and modulators, high-speed flat panel displays, and high-sensitivity sensors.

Bio-based packaging materials and efficient drug delivery systems are gaining attention, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is one of the most soluble cellulose derivatives, is a good candidate material due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and reproducibility. However, CMC-based films are lack of sufficient mechanical properties, limiting its widespread application. In this paper, the molecular interactions between CMC and additives with different molecular structures have been studied with rheological method. The additives are chitosan and cellulose derivatives including O-carboxymethylated chitosan (O-CMCh), N-2-hydroxypropyl-3-trimethylammonium-O-carboxymethyl chitosan (HTCMCh), hydroxypropyltrimethyl ammonium chloride chitosan (HACC), cellulose nanofibers (CNC), and cellulose nanofibers (CNF). The influencing factors, such as molecular structure, concentration of additives and temperature on the rheological properties were studied, which results revealed the information intermolecular interactions. Based on the rheological properties, several systems were selected to prepare films, which show very good transparency, wettability, mechanical properties, biodegradability, and cytotoxicity. These good characteristics of the selected films also proved the good biocompatibility of CMC and chitosan and cellulose derivatives. This work will provide an idea to prepare CMC-based food packaging and effective drug delivery materials with specific properties.

In recent years, antibacterial coatings have become a significant approach in the global fight against bacterial pathogens. Developments in materials science, chemistry and biochemistry have led to a plethora of materials and chemical compounds that have potential for creating antibacterial coatings. Nonetheless, there has been insufficient consideration given to the analysis of the techniques and technologies used to apply these coatings. Among the various inorganic coating techniques, Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) is noteworthy. It enables the successful synthesis of high-purity inorganic nanocoatings on surfaces of complex shape and topography, while also providing precise control over their thickness and composition. ALD has various industrial applications, but its practical application in medicine is still limited. In recent years, a substantial number of papers have been published on the suggested implementation of thin films and coatings produced through ALD in medicine, notably those with antibacterial properties. The aim of this paper is to carefully evaluate and analyse the relevant literature on this subject. Simple oxide coatings, including TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3, MgO, and ZrO2, were examined, as well as coatings containing metal nanoparticles such as Ag, Cu, Pt, and Au, and mixed systems such as TiO2-ZnO, TiO2-ZrO2, ZnO-Al2O3, TiO2-Ag, and ZnO-Ag. Through comparative analysis, we have been able to draw conclusions on the effectiveness of various antibacterial coatings of different compositions, including key characteristics such as thickness, morphology, and crystal structure. ALD has been analysed in its use for developing antibacterial coatings for various applications. Furthermore, assumptions regarding the most promising development areas have been presented.

One of the modern methods of improving operating characteristics of titanium and titanium-based alloys under conditions of friction and increased contact loads is the method of ion-plasma nitriding. The effect of nitriding of VT5 alloy (Al 4,5-6,7 %, V to 1,2 %, Mo to 0,8 % − analogue 3.7115) in the plasma of a glow discharge excited in a hollow cathode on its tribological characteristics in pairs with different materials in T-1 fuel and under dry friction conditions has been studied. For research and tribological tests, samples of VT5 alloy were nitrided in the plasma of a glow discharge excited in a hollow cathode at a temperature of 975 ± 15°C and a pressure of 58 ± 2 PA in a nitrogen-argon gas mixture with a nitrogen content of 78 %. Studies of samples of VT5 alloy after nitriding showed that the surface roughness Ra was in the range of 0.58-0.64, and the surface hardness HV5 was 525 ± 20 kgf/mm² at a base hardness of 325 ± 15 kgf/mm². Tribological tests were performed on a friction machine 2070 SMT-1 according to the scheme "cube - roller". Tests under conditions of friction with oil were performed at a load of 200 N. The sliding speed during the tests was 1.3 m/s, the test time was 75 sec. The test under dry friction conditions was carried out at a load of 100 N and a sliding speed of 0.785 m/s, the test time was 30 minutes. Low wear ability in relation to the nitrided titanium alloy VT5 (<2.4x10^-4 mm³/s), as well as friction coefficients at the level of 0.08 to 0.12 in the order of their growth had bronze VB-23NTS (Pd 18–22 %, Ni 3–4 %, Zn 3–4 %, Sb 3–4 %, P 0.15–0.3) r.O10C2N3, VB-24 (Sb 4.7–6, 2 %, P 0.4–0.9), steel 1.3505, cast iron GGG80, cemented steel 20Cr3MoWV.

A FIB/STEM interfacial study was performed on a TBC/Ti₂AlC MAX phase system, oxidized in an aggressive burner rig test (Mach 0.3 at 1300°C for 500 h). The 7YSZ TBC, a-Al₂O₃ TGO, and MAXthal 211 Ti₂AlC base were variously characterized by TEM/STEM, EDS, SADP, and HRTEM. The YSZ was a mix of ‘clean’ featureless and ‘faulted’ high contrast grains. The latter exhibited ferro-elastic domains of high Y content tetragonal t'' variants. No martensite was observed. The TGO was essentially a duplex a-Al₂O₃ structure of inner columnar plus outer equiaxed grains. It maintained a perfectly intact, clean interface with the Ti₂AlC substrate. The Ti₂AlC substrate exhibited no interfacial Al-depletion zone, but rather numerous faults along the basal plane of the hexagonal structure. These are believed to offer a means of depleting Al by forming crystallographic, low-Al planar defects, proposed as Ti_2.5AlC_1.5. These characterizations support and augment prior optical, SEM, and XRD findings that demonstrated remarkable durability for the YSZ/Ti₂AlC MAX phase system in aggressive burner tests.

Oil-water separation using special wettability materials has received much attention due to its low energy consumption and high separation efficiency. Herein, a fluorine-free superhydrophobic cotton fabric(PDMS/STA -coated cotton fabric) was successfully prepared by a simple impregnation method using hydroxyl-capped polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS-OH), tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and stearic acid (STA) as precursors. The Investigation found that the cross-linking reactions between the hydroxyl groups form PDMS-OH, hydrolyzed TEOS made a strong interact of PDMS-OH and cotton fabric. Besides, a suitable roughness surface of coated cotton fabric was established by introducing STA due to its long chain-structure. The contact angle of this composite can reach 158.7°under optical condition due to its low surface energy and desired roughness. The oil/water separation efficiency of PDMS/STA-coated cotton fabric is higher than 90% even after 10 cycles of oil-water separation, the oil flux can reach 11862.42 L m-2 h-1. In addition, PDMS/STA-coated cotton fabric exhibits excellent chemical stability and durability under extreme conditions such as strong acid (HCl, pH=1~2) and alkali (NaOH, pH=13~14), the hydrophobicity of PDMS/STA-coated cotton fabric was decreased to 147° even after 350 cycles of abrasion testing.

In this work, we demonstrate that cutting diamond crystals with a laser (532 nm wavelength, 0.5 mJ energy, 200 ns pulse duration at 15 kHz) produces a ≲20nm thick surface layer with magnetic order at room temperature. We have measured the magnetic moment with a SQUID magnetometer of six natural and six CVD diamond crystals of different size, nitrogen content and surface orientations. A robust ferromagnetic response at 300 K is observed only for crystals that were cut with the laser along the (100) surface orientation. The magnetic signals are much weaker for the (110) and negligible for the (111) orientations. We attribute the magnetic order to the disordered graphite layer produced by the laser at the diamond surface. The ferromagnetic signal vanished after chemical etching or after moderate temperature annealing. The obtained results indicate that laser treatment of diamond may pave the way to create ferromagnetic spots at its surface.

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) have potential for various gas and ion separations due to their well-defined pore structure and relatively easy fabrication process compared to other metal-organic frameworks. As a result, many reports have focused on preparing polycrystalline and continuous ZIF layers on porous supports. In this study, we investigated how humidity and chamber temperature influence the structure of a ZIF-8 layer prepared by the hydrothermal method. We controlled the chamber temperature (ranging from 50 °C to 70 °C) and relative humidity (ranging from 20 % to 100 %) using a thermos-hygrostat chamber. We found that as the chamber temperature increased, ZIF-8 preferentially grew into particles rather than forming a continuous polycrystalline layer. By measuring the temperature of the reacting solution based on chamber humidity, we discovered that the heating rate of the reacting solution varied with humidity, even at the same chamber temperature. At higher humidity, thermal energy transfer was accelerated as water vapor delivered more energy to the reacting solution. Therefore, a continuous ZIF-8 layer could be formed more easily at low humidity ranges (ranging from 20 % to 40 %), while micron ZIF-8 particles were synthesized at a high heating rate. Our findings suggest that controlling the heating rate of the reacting solution is critical to preparing a continuous ZIF-8 layer, particularly for future scale-up of ZIF-8 membranes.

Food waste disposal to landfills practice contributes to greenhouse problem due to the emission of gases such as methane to the atmosphere. Shelf-life extension of food products and further valorization of food wastes such as the conversion to activated carbon are tested nowadays as alternative techniques. The development and use of biobased active coatings against food oxidation/bacterial deterioration is an environmentally friendly technique. In this study, a novel food active coating was successfully developed based on a chitosan (CS)/poly-vinyl alcohol (PVOH) matrix activated with a nanohybrid of natural thymol (TO) adsorbed in activated carbon (AC) derived from spent coffee. The results shown that, compared to the pure CS/PVOH polymeric matrix, the coating with 15% wt. TO@AC nanohybrid concentration achieved +23.5 % Young’s modulus value, +20.1% ultimate strength value, increased barrier of +50.2% for water and +74.0 % for oxygen, +69.0% antioxidant activity, increased antibacterial activity of +5.5% against Escherichia coli, +17.8% against Salmonella enterica, +42.5% against Staphylococcus aureus, and +2.5% against Listeria monocytogenes. A visual evaluation of this coating shown a delay to fresh bananas enzymatic browning and significantly decrease their weight loss. This indicates that it could be potentially used to extend the shelf-life of fresh fruits.

For the first time, an environmentally friendly waste-free closed cycle for the formation of EMI shielding materials that are promising for 5G communications is considered. Based on the proposed closed technological cycle, two types of EMI shielding materials have been obtained; both materials have significant prospects for signal shielding in all ranges that are allocated in different countries for 5G communication. The first type of materials are transparent conductive meshes with a transparency of more than 80% and with a shielding efficiency of more than 40 dB in the S and L bands and about 30 dB in the K and Ka bands. The study of signal reflection characteristics in the S, L, C, K and Ka bands showed the promise of using these materials as transparent 5G signal reflectors. The reflection coefficient in all considered ranges is above 90% (-0.5 dB). The second type of shielding material are continuous silver micro caps films characterized by a shielding efficiency of 90.1 dB at a thickness of 6.2±1.2 µm. We have also shown that silver micro caps can separate into silver flakes and ribbons when sonicated. These materials can also be used to produce EMI shielding coatings and composites. A detailed analysis of the shielding properties showed that each type of materials obtained in a closed technological cycle is comparable with the best literature results and significantly wins in terms of cost.