Abstract: 0.006Pb(Mn1/3Ta2/3)O3-0.114Pb(Ni1/3Ta2/3)O3-0.43PbZrO3-0.45PbTiO3 lead-based ceramics (PMT-PNT-PZT) were synthesized via the solid-state reaction at different sintering temperatures to study their effects on phase structure, microstructure, and electrical properties. The maximum mechanical quality factor (Qm) and relative permittivity (εr) were achieved at the sintering temperature of 1200 °C. The piezoelectric constant d33 of 400 pC/N was obtained at 1180 °C, which is attributed to the high grain density and the significant contribution from the remanent polarization and permittivity product (Prεr = 39115 μC/cm2). Compared with commercial PZT4 ceramics, the present composition sintered at 1180 °C exhibits an optimal balance between d33 and Qm, together with the superior figure of merit (FOM = 2.04 × 10⁵ pC/N). Furthermore, it demonstrates excellent temperature stability in electromechanical coupling performance.

Abstract: Resin-matrix ceramics are increasingly used in digital dentistry due to their tooth-like elasticity and ease of handling. Color stability is critical for long-term clinical success. This study evaluated the effects of surface finishing and immersion in beverages on the color stability of four resin-matrix ceramics (Cerasmart, Lava Ultimate, Shofu Block HC, and Vita Enamic). A total of 256 specimens were prepared and divided into mechanical polishing and glazing. Glazing was performed using a light-polymerized resin-based surface coating agent (Optiglaze). Specimens were immersed for 14 days in coffee, red wine, cola, or water. Color differences were measured using the CIEDE2000 formula. Three-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to evaluate the color differences, and post hoc analyses were performed using Tukey and Bonferroni tests, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results showed that surface finishing, material type, beverage type, and immersion time significantly affected color stability. Coffee and red wine caused clinically unacceptable color differences, while mechanically polished specimens demonstrated higher color stability than glazed ones. Lava Ultimate showed the lowest, and Cerasmart the highest, color stability. These findings highlight the role of surface finishing and material choice in maintaining the esthetics of resin-matrix ceramics in patients consuming pigmented beverages.

Abstract: Application of MXene-polymer composites in wearable and implantable medical devices requires the development of hydrophilic and biocompatible MXene-polymer hydrogel composites with high electromechanical response, flexibility, and durability. Here, we formulate low weight percentage MXene-hydrogel copolymer inks enabling direct light printing (DLP) of MXene-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-polyacrylic acid (PAA)-hydrogel composites. The low wt% MXene-PVA-PAA composites demonstrate high biocompatibility, mechanical flexibility, high sensitivity and high precision for sensing acute bending angles. The sub-millidegree angle resolution and sub-microradian stability of these electromechanical sensors demonstrates their suitability for applications such as high precision tracking of joint movements. In addition, the synthesized MXene membranes show promise for applications in osmotic energy conversion, with a harvested electric power density of 6.79 Wm-2.

Abstract:

Transparent materials are highly desirable for multiple optical devices, composite armours, smartphone screens and can be used as host materials for solid-state lasers. However, achieving transparency in composite materials is challenging due to the difference in refractive indices between the matrix and the fillers. The authors investigate the impact of various factors, including particle size, film thickness, and volume fraction, on the optical properties of epoxy-based nanocomposites. Using Rayleigh scattering theory, they assess the effect of different materials and manufacturing parameters on the transmittance of nanocomposites. Their findings suggest that a theoretical transmittance of over 90% can be achieved by using particle sizes less than 10 nm and film thicknesses less than 1 µm.

Abstract: This work presents a study on the erosive wear behavior of laminated composites, manufactured using the vacuum assisted resin infusion (VARI) method with an epoxy matrix reinforced with glass fibers and modified with SiO2 nanoparticles. Three materials were fabricated with SiO2 nanoparticle concentrations of 0, 1.5, and 3 wt% to evaluate the effect of nanoparticle addition and dispersion on mechanical and microstructural properties, as well as erosion resistance. The results showed that the FG-1.5-SiO2 composite, containing 1.5 wt% SiO2 nanoparticles, exhibited the best nanoparticle dispersion, as evidenced by FTIR, GIXRD, and SEM analyses. This material displayed the lowest surface roughness (Ra = 0.215 μm), the highest Vickers hardness (35.58), and the highest modulus of elasticity (19.66 GPa), indicating an effective load transfer and adequate interfacial interaction. In erosion tests, the FG-1.5-SiO2 material demonstrated the lowest total mass loss (0.0261 mg) and the lowest erosion rate (2.3360E-5 mg/g), representing an approximately 38 % improvement in erosion resistance compared to the reference material without nanoparticles (FG-0-SiO2). Profilometry and SEM analyses confirmed that this composite FG-1.5-SiO2 exhibited less severe erosional damage, with shallower wear depth, characterized by less matrix removal and a stronger fiber-matrix interface. On the other hand, the composite with 3 wt% SiO2 (FG-3-SiO2) showed poor dispersion and agglomeration, resulting in increased roughness, lower mechanical properties, and erosion resistance similar to that of the material without nanoparticle reinforcement. This was attributed to the agglomerates acting as stress concentrators and structural defects that facilitate material detachment.

Abstract:

Zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) ceramics are widely used in thermal barrier coatings and high temperature structural parts due to their excellent high temperature performance and thermal insulation characteristics. However, its high temperature phase transition, thermal expansion coefficient mismatch and thermal conductivity increase limit its further application. In order to improve the comprehensive properties of ZrO₂ ceramics, the effects of different CeO₂ doping levels (0-20 wt.%) on the microstructure, mechanical properties, tribological behavior and thermophysical properties of ZrO₂ ceramics were systematically investigated. The sample was prepared by a simple and efficient method of ball milling combined with pressure-free sintering, which has simple process and low cost, and was conducive to achieving the uniformity of composition and controllable microstructure. The results showed that 15 wt.% CeO₂ was the optimal doping concentration. At this time, the density of the material was the highest, and the hardness was 310 HV₁, which was 27.64% higher than that of the undoped sample. The friction coefficient and wear rate were reduced to 0.205 and 1.81×10⁻³ mm³/N·m, respectively, showing the optimal wear resistance. At 1200 °C, the thermal expansion coefficient decreased by 72.21%, and the thermal conductivity decreased to 0.612 W/(m·K). The improved performance was mainly attributed to the solid solution enhancement of Ce⁴⁺, grain refinement and phonon scattering effect of enhanced oxygen vacancy. This study provided an important basis for optimizing the comprehensive properties of ZrO₂ ceramics by component design.

Abstract: The internal gelation process is essential for producing spherical nuclear fuel micro-spheres. However, its application is constrained by the poor room-temperature stability of conventional broths and by the inherent trade-off between stability and strength. A novel five-component broth system (ZrO(NO₃)₂-HMTA-urea-acetylacetone (ACAC)-glucose) was developed. The synergistic effects of ACAC and glucose on sol stability and gelation ki-netics were systematically investigated. An optimal ACAC/glucose molar ratio of 1:1 and an ACAC/ZrO2+ ratio of 1.5 were identified, yielding a broth stable for over 5 h at 25°C. The resulting yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ) microspheres exhibited excellent sphericity (1.04±0.01), density (5.84 g/cm³), and crushing strength (8.0 kg/sphere). This stabilization strategy was successfully extended to a uranium system, enhancing its room-temperature stability from minutes to 6 h. The work demonstrates that the synergistic ACAC-glucose system effectively decouples the stability-strength dilemma. Its successful application to a uranium broth confirms the broader utility of the dicarbonyl complexation strategy, providing an energy-efficient route for producing high-quality nuclear fuel microspheres.

Abstract: Chronic and complex wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, burns and post-surgical defects, remain difficult to manage due to persistent inflammation, impaired angiogenesis, microbial colonisation and insufficient extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Conventional dressings provide protection, but they do not supply the necessary biochemical and structural signals for effective tissue repair. This review examines recent advances in hydroxyapatite–collagen (HAp–Col) composite dressings, which combine the architecture of collagen with the mechanical reinforcement and ionic bioactivity of hydroxyapatite. Analysis of the literature indicates that in situ and biomimetic mineralization, freeze-drying, electrospinning, hydrogel and film pro-cessing, and emerging 3D printing approaches enable precise control of pore structure, mineral dispersion, and degradation behavior. Antimicrobial functionalization re-mains critical: metallic ions and locally delivered antibiotics offer robust early anti-bacterial activity, while plant-derived essential oils (EOs) provide broad-spectrum an-timicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects with reduced risk of resistance. Preclinical studies consistently report enhanced epithelialization, improved collagen deposition and reduced bacterial burden in HAp–Col systems; however, translation is limited by formulation variability, sterilisation sensitivity and the lack of standardised clinical trials. Overall, HAp–Col composites represent a versatile framework for next-generation wound dressings that can address both regenerative and antimicrobial requirements.

Abstract: Al–Al₄C₃ composites exhibit promising mechanical properties including high specific strength, high specific stiffness. However, high reinforcement contents often promote brittle behavior, making it necessary to understand the mechanisms governing their limited toughness. In this work, a microstructural and mechanical study was carried out to evaluate the energy storage capacity in Al–Al₄C₃ composites fabricated by mechanical milling followed by heat treatment Using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and CMWP fitting, the microstructural parameters governing the initial stored energy after fabrication were determined: dislocation density (ρ), dislocation character (q), and effective outer cut-off radius (Rₑ). Compression tests were carried out to quantify the elastic energy stored during loading (Es). The energy absorption efficiency (EAE) in the elastic region of the stress–strain curve was evaluated with respect to the elastic energy density per unit volume stored (Ee), obtained from microstructural parameters (ρ, q, and Re) present in the samples after fabrication and determined by XRD. A predictive model is proposed that expresses Es as a function of Ee and q, where the parameter q is critical for achieving quantitative agreement between both energy states. In general, samples with high EAE exhibited microstructures dominated by screw-character dislocations. High-resolution TEM analyses revealed graphite regions near Al₄C₃ nanorods—formed during prolonged sintering—which, together with the thermal mismatch between Al and graphite during cooling, promote the formation of screw dislocations, their dissociation into extended partials, and the development of stacking faults. These mechanisms enhance the redistribution of stored energy and contribute to improved toughness of the composite.

Abstract:

Self-adhesive dual-cure resin cements (DCRC) simplified clinical application to a single-step procedure. Studies reported inferior mechanical properties compared to conventional resin cements. This study evaluated and compared the compressive strength (CS) and flexural strength (FS) of commercial DCRC against its modification using 10 vol% nanozirconia and 10 vol% nanodiamond. Three groups were prepared: Group 1 (commercial resin cement), Group 2 (nanozirconia-modified), and Group 3 (nanodiamond-modified), with 10 samples per group. 3-(Trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate was used as coupling agent. Specimens were prepared according to manufacturer instructions and tested for CS and FS using a Universal Instron testing machine. Data was analysed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test. Compressive strength values were Group 2 = 132.18 ± 27.93 MPa, Group 3 = 126.21 ± 12.54 MPa, Group 1 = 121.12 ± 19.35 MPa. Flexural strength values were Group 2 = 72.5 ± 10.4 MPa, Group 3 = 71.06 ± 6.3 MPa, Group 1 = 66.92 ± 5.27 MPa. Both nanozirconia and nanodiamond incorporation showed improvements in CS and FS compared to the control group. Within the limitations of this study, nanozirconia modified dual cure resin cement showed higher values compared to nanodiamond modified dual cure resin. These results support further research to optimize nanofiller-reinforced luting cements.

Abstract: This study identifies the technological signature of ancient and alternative “Chu” and “Kriab” gold glass mosaic mirrors from Thailand. Although these mirrors play an important role in Thai decorative heritage, their production routes and interfacial chemistry at the lead-to-glass interface have remained unclear. A survey of 154 sites across Thailand shows mosaic glass was widely distributed and likely produced during the Ayutthaya period (~300 years ago). PXRF, WD-XRF, SEM, and XPS were used to examine the material properties of observed Chu mirrors. Most samples can be classified as a mixed lead-alkaline glass type, with PbO content ranging from 4.28 to 48.17 wt%. Their yellow tone is controlled by iron and manganese redox states. Chemical and physical analyses distinguish between Chu1 and BKK[7], which share a silica source but rely on different flux, pointing to different glass workshops. Additionally, some Chu and Kriab samples exhibit evidence of potential use of recycled materials. Depth profiling showed that there were lead species at the interface, including PbO4, PbO, and Pb0. The ancient samples had higher Pb0 concentration due to reducing kiln conditions. Silanol groups on the glass surface are identified as the key factor promoting the adhesion of lead coating to the glass surface. Variations in raw materials and coating techniques further differentiate ancient Chu mirrors from modern reproductions. This research offers useful information about the technological ingenuity of ancient artisans and supports the conservation and replication of these culturally significant artifacts. The results contribute to preserving Thailand’s rich heritage in decorative glasswork and lay a foundation for future research into material provenance and historical restoration practices.

Abstract: In this study, the potential use of Epsom salt production waste as a supplementary ce-mentitious material was investigated. This acidic waste was neutralized with lime milk and used to replace up to 25 wt.% of Portland cement. The following research methods were employed: XRD, XRF, SEM, DSC-TG, and isothermal calorimetry. The waste neutralization process was found to proceed consistently, producing a neutral material (pH = 7.5) composed of amorphous silicon compounds with a negligible im-purity of crystalline antigorite. Consequently, this material exhibits very high poz-zolanic activity. The neutralized Epsom salt production waste accelerates the early hydration of Portland cement and promotes an intense pozzolanic reaction. This new material is a highly effective supplementary cementitious material, capable of replac-ing up to 25 wt.% of Portland cement without reducing its strength class.

Abstract: Cordierite diesel particulate filters (DPFs) were prepared using pure cordierit powder with organic binders, sodium silicate aids and pore formers by extrusion technique. The orthogonal test method was adopted to investigate the optimal value of the multi-objective and multi-factor problems. Based on results from statistical analysis, sintering temperature is the most important factor. The optimal parameters included a 3 h holding time, 10 wt.% pore former, 12 wt.% sintering aid, and a sintering temperature of 1150 °C. As the sodium silicate liquid increased and viscosity decreased with the increasing of temperature, which led to the formation of glass phases and the improvement of density. Therefore, with increasing sintering temperature, the porosity and coefficient of thermal expansion decreased. Both the mechanical properties and chemical stability of the prepared samples are strengthened. When the sintering temperature was 1150 °C, the prepared samples with high porosity (67.82%), compressive strength (5.88 MPa), bending strength (13.10 MPa), low thermal expansion coefficient (CTE, 1.82×10-6/oC) showed the best comprehensive performance of thermal shock resistance and filtration efficiency. These results demonstrate great potential for DPF applications and provide a refrence for the design of other honeycomb ceramics with optimum level of liquid phase.

Abstract: Valorization of construction and demolition waste (CDW) through alkali activation enables the formulation of geopolymers with a lower carbon footprint. This study evaluates binary pastes prepared with powdered recycled concrete (PCR) and powdered recycled brick (PLR) in seven proportions (0–100% PCR), activated with NaOH/Na₂SiO₃/KOH and cured for 7, 14, and 28 days. Compressive strength, microstructure (SEM-EDS), and chemical structure (XRD, FTIR) were characterized. Mixtures with 30% PCR reached the highest 28-day strength, associated with a denser microstructure and lower porosity. EDS analysis evidenced an increase in Ca with increasing PCR, promoting C-A-S-H gels coexisting with N-A-S-H; XRD showed a reduction of non-reactive crystalline phases, and FTIR an intensification of T–O–Si bands, both consistent with higher polymerization. Higher PCR contents diluted reactive aluminosilicates and reintroduced microdefects, leading to a drop in strength. Altogether, an optimal window at ~30% PCR is identified to maximize densification and mechanical performance without compromising the aluminosilicate network. These results support the combined use of PCR/PLR as geopolymer precursors to manage CDW and produce sustainable construction materials.

Abstract: This study investigates the dielectric relaxation dynamics of lithium aluminosilicate (LAS) glass-ceramics using the Debye and Cole–Cole relaxation frameworks to elucidate their high-frequency dielectric behaviour. Numerical simulations were performed in a MATLAB environment across a wide range of frequencies and temperatures, employing the Debye, Cole–Cole, and Arrhenius models to characterize polarization and relaxation processes. The Debye model revealed a noticeable frequency dependence, with the dielectric constant (ε^') exhibiting high values at low frequencies and progressively decreasing with increasing frequency, while the dielectric loss (ε^'') exhibited a characteristic relaxation peak associated with the condition ωτ=1. Temperature-dependent analysis indicated that ε^' increased with temperature due to enhanced dipolar mobility, whereas ε^'' decreased, suggesting reduced energy dissipation at elevated temperatures. The Cole–Cole model predicted slightly higher dielectric constants but demonstrated similar overall trends, capturing the non-ideal relaxation behaviour characteristic of LAS. Activation energies obtained from Arrhenius analysis ranged from 0.046–0.476 eV (Debye) and 0.045–0.464 eV (Cole–Cole), aligning closely with reported literature values. These findings highlight the distributed and thermally activated nature of dipolar and ionic relaxation in LAS glass-ceramics.

Abstract: This study explores the feasibility of constructing a microwave kiln for artisanal ceramics using accessible materials and homemade susceptors. Two modified microwave ovens (18L and 50L) were equipped with insulation and susceptors to achieve temperatures up to 1280°C. Susceptors were fabricated from silicon carbide (SiC) and magnetite (Fe₃O₄) powders via microwave-assisted reactive sintering. Magnetite-poor susceptors (SiC/Fe₃O₄ &gt; 2 by weight) demonstrated excellent durability, maintaining stable thermal performance over multiple cycles. In contrast, magnetite-rich susceptors (SiC/Fe₃O₄ ∼ 1) exhibited high initial efficiency and the ability to control redox conditions but degraded significantly after 10–15 cycles due to partial melting. The microwave kiln achieved significant time savings, completing the ramp up of the firing cycles in 1 hour, compared to 8-10 hours in conventional kilns. Energy consumption per litre was comparable to large electric kilns but significantly lower than small ones. The fired ceramics, including porcelain and earthenware, showed excellent mechanical and aesthetic qualities, with glazes performing well even at lower temperatures than recommended. The study highlights the advantages of microwave heating, such as faster processing, energy efficiency, and the ability to control redox conditions, which mimic traditional gas-fired kilns. The developed susceptors are cost-effective and easy to manufacture, making this approach accessible to craftspeople and amateurs. While magnetite-rich susceptors enable redox control, their limited lifespan requires further optimization. This work demonstrates the potential of microwave kilns for artisanal ceramics, offering flexibility, efficiency, and quality comparable to traditional methods, with promising applications for unique or small-scale production. Future research should focus on refining susceptor durability and validating redox control effects on ceramic glazes.

Abstract:

This study evaluated the effects of different sintering protocols on the mechanical and microstructural properties of two multilayered zirconia materials: strength-gradient zirconia (KATANA YML) and color-gradient zirconia (KATANA UTML). Bar-shaped specimens were fabricated from both zirconia types. Three sintering protocols were applied: manufacturer recommended conventional (7 h at 1550 °C), high-speed (54 min at 1600 °C), and a modified high-speed protocol (51 min at 1600 °C). Eighty-four specimens underwent three-point flexural strength testing. SEM and XRD analyses were used to assess microstructure and phase composition. No significant differences in flexural strength were found among sintering protocols (p > 0.05), but YML consistently showed higher strength than UTML (p < 0.05). The highest strength in YML was observed after high-speed sintering, followed by the shortened and conventional protocols. In UTML, the modified protocol yielded the highest strength, followed by the high-speed and then conventional protocol. SEM revealed finer, more homogeneous grains with shorter sintering times. XRD confirmed stable phase composition across all protocols. High-speed and modified high-speed sintering protocols can reduce processing time without compromising zirconia’s mechanical performance. Material type had a greater effect on flexural strength than sintering time, though microstructure was protocol dependent. Proper selection of zirconia type and sintering strategy is essential for optimal outcomes.

Abstract:

Aim: This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the marginal and internal fit of three monolithic CAD/CAM zirconia ceramics with different Y-TZP contents, prepared with chamfer and rounded shoulder finish lines. Methods. Sixty zirconia crowns were fabricated and equally divided into three material groups, each further subdivided into chamfer and rounded shoulder designs. Marginal and internal gaps were assessed using the silicone replica technique under a stereomicroscope by a single operator. Statistical analysis was performed with three-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05). Results: The occlusal region exhibited the largest gap values, while the axial region showed the smallest across all groups. Mean marginal and internal gaps were 33.79 µm for chamfer and 43.37 µm for rounded shoulder finish lines. Zirconia with higher Y-TZP content demonstrated significantly greater gap values than those with lower percentages (p < 0.05). Significant interactions were found among finish line design, material type, and measurement region (P < 0.05), with rounded shoulder margins showing larger gaps (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Y-TZP content significantly affects marginal and internal adaptation, with higher percentages associated with increased gap values. Both finish line types produced clinically acceptable fits, although chamfer margins provided superior adaptation.

Abstract: Alumina-spinel refractory bricks, composed of 86 wt.% alumina phase and 13 wt.% MgAl2O4 spinel phase, are used in steel making ladles due to their ability to resist chemical attack and thermal shock. Thermal shock resistance is determined, in part, by the thermal conductivity of the material. Measurements of thermal conductivity were made with the laser flash technique from 20 °C to 1100 °C. Analysis of the influence of the microstructure on the thermal conductivity of the alumina-spinel refractory bricks was based on simplified analytical relations and validated by comparing the behaviour with four different alumina model materials. A model of thermal resistors in series was used to describe the combined effect of grains and grain boundaries on the solid phase conductivity whereas the effect of porosity was calculated with Landauer’s relation. Though the overall conductivity of the refractory brick was evaluated as 6.5 W m-1 K-1 at room temperature, the thermal conductivity of the alumina grains was deduced to be 33 W m-1 K-1, close to that of single crystal sapphire at 36 W m-1 K-1. The strongly attenuated conductivity of alumina-spinel refractory is explained by the roles of porosity, grain boundary thermal resistance and the spinel phase thermal conductivity.

Abstract: Due to industrialization and globalization, water sources are increasingly contaminated with drugs. Among the various methods available, adsorption remains one of the most widely used techniques for drug removal. This work was to develop polysulfone (PSF) membranes integrated with montmorillonite (MMT) clay. The fabricated membranes were subsequently evaluated for their performance in removing diclofenac (DCF) from aqueous solutions. The membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), contact angle measurements, as well as chemical and mechanical tests. Adding MMT at 1.5 and 2 wt% improved both hydrophilicity and mechanical strength. The natural hydrophilicity of MMT also accelerates the non-solvent/solvent exchange during phase inversion, resulting in higher porosity. These structural and surface modifications increased water permeability (7.5 L.m⁻².h⁻¹.bar⁻¹), achieved 79% DCF removal, and enhanced antifouling properties. However, increasing the MMT clay content to 2.5 wt% caused particle aggregation, which reduced membrane performance. Fouling resistance tests with bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model foulant showed a rejection rate of 89% and a flux recovery ratio (FRR) above 82% using an optimized membrane. These findings demonstrate that PSF/MMT membranes can serve as promising candidates for sustainable pharmaceutical wastewater treatment.