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 > 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.

Abstract:

Oxygen diffusion in (Pu_xTh_1−x)O₂ mixed oxide crystals was investigated using molecular dynamics simulation. The model systems were isolated nanocrystals of 5460 and 15960 particles, featuring a free surface. The oxygen diffusion coefficient D increased with decreasing thorium content, in accordance with the decrease in the melting temperature of (Pu_xTh_1−x)O₂ as x varied from 0 to 1. The temperature dependences D(T) exhibited non-linearity in the Arrhenius coordinates lnD = f(1/kT). The three linear segments of the plots corresponded to the superionic state, a transitional region, and the low-temperature crystalline phase. The transitional region was characterized by maximum values of the effective diffusion activation energy E_D(PuO₂) = 3.47 eV, E_D(ThO₂) = 5.24 eV and a complex collective mechanism of oxygen migration, which involved the displacement of anions into interstitial sites. At lower temperatures, an interstitialcy mechanism of oxygen diffusion was observed. The temperature dependence of D(PuO₂) showed quantitative agreement with low-temperature experimental data.

Abstract: As a promising class of structure/function integrated materials, aluminum-based boron carbide composites exhibit exceptional mechanical properties, neutron-shielding capabilities, and excellent thermophysical properties, demonstrating significant potential for applications in nuclear energy, aerospace, and national defense industries. This paper systematically reviews recent research progress on aluminum-based boron carbide composites with a focus on technical advancements and persistent challenges in fabrication, material properties, and applications. Future research directions are outlined, aiming to provide a guideline for further advancing this field.

Abstract: Transparent ferroelectric ceramics have garnered significant research interest in recent years owing to their unique optical transparency and electrical properties. Among them, potassium sodium niobate (KNN)-based ceramics stand out as a prominent lead-free ferroelectrics, exhibiting exceptional optoelectrical coupling performance due to their high Curie temperature, excellent ferroelectric properties, environmental friendliness, and optical transparency. In this work, an effective strategy involving multi-component doping in KNN-based materials is proposed. An energy density of 3.18 J/cm³ along with a high efficiency of 79%, and a light transmittance of 71% at 1800 nm, are achieved in K0.5Na0.5NbO3 lead-free composite ceramic, which exhibits fast discharging characteristics, with t0.9 = 1.27 μs at the current density (CD = 248.73 A/cm²) and power density (PD = 23.88 MW/cm³). The strategy provides a feasible routine for combining energy storage functionality with optical transparency, illustrating its great potential to be generally applicable in the design of lead-free composite ceramics with excellent overall performance.

Abstract: The development of the ceramic industry requires the creation of new innovative products with improved properties. Given the growing demand for high-quality finishing materials and the limited availability of traditional raw materials, the search for more efficient technologies for porcelain stoneware production is a relevant challenge. The aim of this study was to develop porcelain stoneware with enhanced performance characteristics. The research presents the results of a study aimed at improving the production technology of porcelain stoneware in Kazakhstan using local raw materials and microsilica. The raw materials from the Turkestan region were examined for their suitability for porcelain stoneware production. The influence of technological parameters (firing temperature, particle size) on the properties of porcelain stoneware was studied. New ceramic compositions with various microsilica contents, a byproduct of silicon production, were investigated. Different compositions with varying raw material mixtures and microsilica content were prepared and fired at temperatures of 1100, 1150, and 1200°C. The optimization of process parameters for producing porcelain stoneware in different compositions showed the degree of yield dependence on firing temperature and time, as well as the effect of microsilica content. The temperature, time, and visually determined parameters at which different yield values were achieved were highlighted in different colors. The results showed that changes in the mixture composition and sintering temperature affect the quality of ceramic tiles. The final experimental conclusions demonstrated that the production of ceramic tiles containing up to 3% microsilica at a firing temperature of 1200°C, with improved engineering characteristics that meet the minimum ISO-13006 standards, is quite feasible. The addition of microsilica increases the flexural strength of porcelain stoneware to 41 MPa (exceeding the standard), reduces water absorption to 0.023%, increases frost resistance to 107 cycles, and also enhances shrinkage. These findings open new prospects for the development of the domestic ceramic industry, the expansion of the product range, and the resolution of environmental issues.

Abstract: Mechanical characterization of fiber-reinforced composites is a cornerstone of materials engineering but typically relies on destructive and time-consuming experimental protocols. To address this limitation, we present a novel deep learning framework that leverages image-based analysis for automated prediction of tensile behavior in 3D-printed fiber-reinforced nylon composites. The proposed system integrates a YOLOv8n object detection model with a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images as input. The YOLOv8n model was trained to detect and quantify deformation regions before and after tensile testing, achieving an accuracy of 0.93, precision of 0.895, recall of 0.832, F1-score of 0.899, and a Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 0.851 for deformation classification. Complementarily, the CNN was employed to predict the deformation rate directly from raw SEM image data. These outputs were further processed to estimate maximum deformation rate and ultimate tensile load, yielding near-perfect agreement with experimental measurements (R² = 0.9995, Pearson r = 0.9998). Model interpretability was enhanced through Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM), which highlighted the localized image features most influential in CNN predictions. By combining high-resolution imaging, robust object detection, and predictive modeling, this framework provides an accurate, explainable, and scalable solution for virtual mechanical testing. The proposed approach has potential to reduce reliance on destructive testing, accelerate composite material design, and facilitate the development of digital twins for advanced manufacturing applications.

Abstract: The mass transfer phenomenon causes a lot of morphological changes. Heat-resistance of ceramic fibers can be classified in this category. Third generation SiC polycrystalline fibers demonstrated excellent heat resistance. However, at temperatures above 1800℃, sintered fiber (Tyranno SA) and non-sintered fiber (Hi-Nicalon Type S) show remarkable differences in heat resistance. At temperatures above 1800℃, the non-sintered fiber underwent scared structural changes, including the formation of a surface carbon layer and abnormal SiC grain growth, whereas the sintered fiber maintained its stable polycrystalline structure. Here, we explained the dramatic differences in heat resistance that occurred at high temperatures in relation to a mass transfer of excess carbon. Our findings should be widely used for the development of a much more stable structure and long-term use of materials at higher temperatures in applications such as airplane engines and turbines.

Abstract: Nature is a reliable laboratory to offer a rich variety of successful solutions to a broad array of scientific and engineering problems. The inspiration from nature has prompted the development of novel designs for high-performance materials and technologies. In the current work, 3D-printed specimens were fabricated from nature-inspired infill patterns such as gyroid and honeycomb. FDM printing filament was made from banana microfibers, a crop waste mixed with PLA to develop biocomposites favourable to the principles of the circular economy. For investigating the impact of infill density, raster orientation, and banana microfibre load, a Taguchi T9 design of experiment was adopted, offering nine different print conditions. Different mechanical characterizations, like tensile, flexural, compressive, impact, interfacial shear strength, and natural frequency, were conducted. Maximum tensile strength (62.45 ± 2.10 MPa), tensile modulus (5.04 ± 0.07 GPa), and natural frequency (60.36 ± 1.16 Hz) were achieved in the fourth print condition. Maximum flexural strength (79.78 ± 3.51 MPa) and compressive strength (60.73 ± 2.10 MPa) were observed for the seventh condition, whereas maximum impact strength (22.17 ± 0.83 kJ/m²) and elongation at break (1.82 ± 0.04%) were observed with the first condition. Inasmuch as the various conditions were best under different properties, the VIKOR multi-criteria decision analysis was utilized, and the third condition (50% infill density, 45° raster orientation, 9% banana fibre loading, honeycomb pattern) was found as the optimal overall. These banana-waste-based PLA biocomposites demonstrate strong potential to replace conventional materials in various industrial and engineering applications.