Abstract: Zirconia-based ceramics are widely used in dental applications due to their excellent mechanical and chemical properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemi-cal stability of yttria partially stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) dental ceramics using a modified testing protocol based on ISO 6872. Two sample groups of Y-TZP material were used: Group 1 - pure polished zirconia, and Group 2 - pure polished zirconia with an additional glaze layer. Chemical stability, defined as corrosion resistance, was as-sessed by measuring ion release using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and by analysing the phase composition using X-ray diffraction (XRD). While ISO 6872 prescribes chemical stability testing in a 4 wt.% aqueous acetic acid (CH₃COOH) solution at 80 °C for 16 hours, the exposure duration in this study was extended to 768 hours (32 days) to enable more accurate determination of long-term corrosion behaviour. Kinetic analysis revealed that degradation followed a near-parabolic rate law, with power-law exponents of n = 2.261 for Group 1 and n = 1.935 for Group 2. The corresponding corrosion rate constants were 3.85 × 10−5 µgn⋅cm−2n⋅h−1 for Sample 1 and 132.3 µgn⋅cm−2n⋅h−1 for Sample 2. XRD results indicated that the corrosion process led to a partial phase transformation of zirconia from the tetragonal to the monoclinic phase.

Abstract: Zeolite has been widely used as an adsorption material to reduce water and air pollution. In place of the conventional hydrothermal method, zeolite in this study was synthesized by the solvent-free method to reduce the large water solvent used and limit wastewater pollutants. In addition, fly ash was used as raw material for zeolite due to its high proportion of Si and Al. It was determined by several structural and morphological characterization tequniques that the synthesized zeolite was of the analcime type with porosity comparable to those of other known zeolite adsorbents. Several experiments with Pb2+ and Cu2+ solutions under different contact times, initial ion concentrations and temperatures were conducted to investigate the adsorption behaviors of analcime zeolite toward those heavy metals. This investigation illustrates a waste-to-value approach and a green process to produce material that reduces the impact of heavy metal pollutants on environment, thus promoting a sustainable and circular economy.

Abstract: Anion-Exchange Membranes (AEMs) not only enable the fabrication of catalyst-coated membranes without precious metals, but are also projected to achieve a technology-readiness level (TRL) suitable for industrial deployment before the end of this decade. Accurate and reproducible water-uptake data are essential for guiding AEM design, yet conventional gravimetric methods—relying on manual blotting and loosely defined drying steps—can introduce variabilities exceeding 20 %. Here, we present a standardized protocol that transforms water-uptake measurements from rough estimates into precise, comparable “hydration fingerprints.” By replacing manual wiping with a calibrated pressure-blotting rig (0.44 N cm⁻² for 10 s) and verifying both dry and wet states via ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, we dramatically reduce scatter and align our FAAM-PK-75 (Fumatech) results with published benchmarks in DI water, aqueous KOH (0.1–9 M), various alcohols, and controlled humidity (39–96 % RH). These uptake profiles reveal how OH⁻ screening, thermal densification at 60 °C, and PEEK reinforcement govern equilibrium hydration. A low-cost salt-bath method for vapor-phase sorption further distinguishes reinforced from unreinforced architectures. Extending the workflow to additional commercial and custom membranes confirms its broad applicability. Ultimately, this work establishes a new benchmark for AEM hydration testing and provides a predictive toolkit for correlating water content with conductivity, dimensional stability, and membrane–ink interactions during catalyst-coated membrane fabrication.

Abstract: Eperua oleifera Ducke (Fabaceae), commonly known as copaíba-jacaré, is traditionally used for therapeutic purposes, like Copaifera oleoresins. Previous GC-MS studies reported its chemical composition as mainly composed of diterpenic acids, consistent with species of the same genus. Although GC-MS remains widely used for comparing compound retention times and fragmentation patterns, its application to diterpenic acids requires a derivatization step to form methyl esters due to the poor chromatographic performance of carboxylic acids on methyl silicone stationary phases. This step may lead to misinterpretations, especially considering recent findings of naturally occurring methyl esters in oleoresins that may co-elute with derivatized acids. This study aimed to apply more sensitive analytical techniques to identify both target and untargeted compounds. The resin of E. oleifera was analyzed by GC-MS to assess the presence of volatile components. Additionally, UHPLC-HRMS was employed using full-scan MS, data-dependent acquisition (DDA), and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) in both positive and negative ESI modes. GC-MS confirmed the absence of volatile sesquiterpenes, classifying E. oleifera as a resin. Targeted UHPLC-HRMS detected natural methyl esters of diterpenic acids, while untargeted analysis using Compound Discoverer software revealed flavonoids and phenolic compounds not previously reported. These findings support the application of UHPLC-HRMS as a powerful tool in phytochemical studies.

Abstract: Application of intense infrared (IR) laser to analyze carbohydrate polymers is shown. IR free electron laser (FEL) driven by a linear accelerator possesses unique spectroscopic features in terms of extensive wavelength tunability and high laser energy in the IR region from 1000 cm^-1 (10 mm) to 4000 cm^-1 (2.5 mm). The FEL can induce IR multiphoton dissociation reaction against various molecules by giving the vibrational excitation energy to the corresponding chemical bonds. Chitin from crayfish and cellulose fiber were irradiated by the FELs that are tuned to nC-O (9.1-9.8 mm), nC-H (3.5 mm), and dH-C-O (7.2 mm) in glycoside bonds, and their low-molecular weight sugars were separated, which were revealed by combining synchrotron-radiation IR spectroscopy and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The intense IR laser can be proposed as “molecular scalpel” for dissecting and direct analyzing internal components in rigid biopolymers.

Abstract: Heusler metamagnetic shape memory alloys (MMSMAs) show a large functional response associated with a first order martensitic transformation (MT). The strong magneto-structural coupling together with mixed magnetic interactions enable controlling this MT by means of magnetic field resulting in different multifunctional properties such as giant magnetoresistance, metamagnetic shape-memory effect (MMSM), or inverse magnetocaloric effect (MCE). Both the shift rate of MT as a function of the magnetic field and its eventual suppression are key parameters for the development of all these effects. In this work we present our findings regarding the use of strong steady magnetic fields, up to 33 T, to study in detail the magnetic field induced MT and its suppression in MnNi(Fe)Sn MMSMAs, leading to creation of the T-0H phase diagrams of the MT. Moreover, we have analyzed the impact of Fe - doping and, as direct consequence, the magnetic coupling on the suppression of the magnetostructural transformation.

Abstract: Hydrogels have garnered significant attention as multifunctional materials in next generation rechargeable batteries due to their high ionic conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and structural tunability. This review presents a comprehensive overview of hydrogel types—including natural, synthetic, composite, carbon-based, conductive polymer, and MOF hydrogels—and their synthesis methods, such as chemical crosslinking, self-assembly, and irradiation-based techniques. Characterization tools like SEM, XRD, and FTIR are discussed to evaluate their microstructure and performance. In rechargeable batteries systems, hydrogels enhance ionic transport and mechanical stability, particularly in lithium-ion, sodium-ion, zinc-ion, magnesium-ion, and aluminum-ion batteries. Despite their advantages, hydrogels face challenges such as limited mechanical strength, reduced stability under extreme conditions, and scalability issues. Current research focuses on advanced formulations, self-healing mechanisms, and sustainable materials to overcome these limitations. This review highlights the pivotal role of hydrogels in shaping the future of flexible, high-performance, and environmentally friendly secondary batteries.

Abstract: Charge-transfer (CT) cocrystals of the strong π-acceptor 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ) with a series of aromatic electron donors, namely, N‑ethylcarbazole (NEC), p-dimethoxybenzene (DMB) and diphenyla-cetylene (DPA), were prepared for the first time by solvent evaporation method and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis, NMR spectroscopy and theo-retical studies. According to conducted measurements, all complexes crystallize in 1:1 donor–acceptor stoichiometry, with nearly planar π-systems that stack in alternating columns. While NEC-DDQ and DMB-DDQ pairs form strong face-to-face π–π stacks with centroid–centroid distances of 3.28 Å and 3.39 Å, respectively, DPA–DDQ com-plex shows a slipped geometry with partial overlap (larger shift distance) and weaker π–π interaction with centroid-centroid distance of 3.84 Å. NEC and DMB donors ex-hibited photoinitiation in the cationic polymerizations of cyclohexene oxide and iso-butyl vinyl ether, under visible, white and near-infrared light, attributed to their high electron-donating ability and favorable co-facial stacking with. In contrast, DPA-DDQ complex failed to initiate electron transfer, thus, photocationic polymerization due to weak donor strength and poor π–π stacking. No complexes initiated ε-caprolactone (ECL) polymerization, indicating a need for stronger Lewis acid. This comprehensive study provides design principles for engineering solid-state CT photoinitiators via do-nor choice and crystal packing.

Abstract: The Textiles and Clothing sector is increasingly focused on transitioning towards circular production, with industrial companies striving to integrate sustainable practices. Achieving this goal can involve rapidly adopting innovative materials, meaning using innovative raw ones and maximising the use of recycled and recyclable fibres. This implicitly means acting on the total transparency of information along the entangled supply chains in this sector. It is precisely this complexity that hampers efforts to track and disclose material usage accurately. To address this issue, this paper presents a systematic literature review to explore the main challenges in adopting technologies like digital product passports, which can help track materials information along supply chains to support sustainable transitions. The review's findings are discussed, focusing on identifying key material-related data that should be monitored to ensure responsible material use and strengthen sustainable production practices in the textiles and clothing sector to guarantee control over the use of materials and prevent their early dismissal.

Abstract: Carbon nanohorns (CNHs), their nanocomposites, and nanohybrids have demonstrated significant potential for relative humidity (RH) monitoring at room temperature (RT) due to their exceptional physicochemical and electronic properties. At the same time, over the last few decades, resistive sensors have been extensively designed and manufactured due to their simple design, small size, low cost, robustness, quick response times, and wide RH measurement ranges. Recently, resistive sensors with CNHs as key sensing elements have been reported for use in RH monitoring. We summarize in this review the recent progress on resistive RT RH sensors based on CNHs. The most effective strategies to synthesize CNHs and approaches for functionalization, as well as the most relevant physicochemical and electronic properties of nanohorns, are presented in the first two sections of this review. The design of various RH resistive sensors, employing carbon nanohorn-based materials as sensing films, and the synthesis and performance of several CNH-based sensing materials in RH monitoring within the context of resistive sensor design are presented in the following two parts of this review. Pristine and functionalized carbon nanohorns, nanocomposites with different hydrophilic polymers, and nanohybrids with several semiconducting metal oxides are compared in terms of sensitivity, response time, and recovery time. The fifth part of this review presents several sensing mechanisms that are involved in RH monitoring. Finally, in the sixth part of this review, the authors aim to explain which are the most important advantages of using CNHs- based sensing layers in resistive RH detection and why these nanocarbonic materials are less used, at least for the moment, than graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, single and double- walled carbon nanotubes.

Abstract: Accurate detection of water in organic solvents is essential for various industrial and analytical applications. In this study, we present a simple, rapid, and sensitive fluorescence-based method for water quantification using 1,5-diaminonaphthalene (1,5-DAN) as a solvatochromic probe. The method exploits the excited-state intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) behavior of 1,5-DAN, which undergoes a symmetry-breaking transition in the presence of protic solvents such as water, leading to a distinct redshift in its emission spectrum and a change from a structured double band to a single ICT band. We demonstrate that in solvents like acetonitrile and tetrahydrofuran, the emission maxima of 1,5-DAN correlate linearly with water content up to 100%, while ratiometric analysis of peak intensities allows for sensitive detection in the low concentration range. The method achieved limits of detection as low as 0.08% (v/v) in MeCN, with high reproducibility and minimal sample preparation. Application to a real MeCN–water azeotrope confirmed the method’s accuracy, matching classical refractometric measurements.Our findings highlight the potential of 1,5-DAN as a low-cost, efficient, and non-destructive fluorescent sensor for monitoring moisture in organic solvents, offering a practical alternative to conventional methods such as Karl Fischer titration for both bulk and trace water analysis.

Abstract: Bisphosphonates are pharmaceutical compounds commonly used in the treatment of osteoporosis, Paget’s disease, and multiple myeloma. Their lipophilicity was measured using a sensor array composed of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)-based ion-selective membranes (ISMs), modified with a polyaniline (PANI) layer that affects surface properties and acts as an anion-exchanger. The lipophilicity of bisphosphonates including ibandronate, clodronate, risedronate, and alendronate was analyzed both in standard and commercial samples. The influence of membrane composition (presence or absence of an anion-exchanger) and PANI deposition conditions (monomer form and/or salt content) on membrane surface properties (lipophilicity and signal stability) was investigated and confirmed using surface-wetting characterization, SEM-EDS mapping and potentiometry. Principal component analysis (PCA) enabled discrimination among the bisphosphonates based on lipophilicity and revealed distinct contributions of individual ISMs in both standard and commercial samples.

Abstract: Magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) are pivotal for spintronic applications such as magnetoresistive memory and sensors. Two-dimensional van der Waals heterostructures offer a promising platform for miniaturizing MTJs while enabling twist-angle engineering of their properties. Here, we investigate the impact of twisting the insulating barrier layer on the performance of a van der Waals MTJ with the structure graphene/1T-VSe₂/h-BN/1T-VSe₂/graphene, where 1T-VSe₂ serves as the ferromagnetic electrodes and monolayer h-BN acts as the tunnel barrier. Using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) combined with the non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) formalism, we systematically calculate the spin-dependent transport properties for 18 distinct rotational alignments of the h-BN layer (0° to 172.4°). Our results reveal that the tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) ratio exhibits dramatic, rotation-dependent variations, ranging from 2328% to 24608%. The maximum TMR occurs near 52.4°. Analysis shows that the twist angle modifies the d-orbital electronic states of interfacial V atoms in the 1T-VSe₂ layers and alters the spin polarization at the Fermi level, thereby governing the spin-dependent transmission through the barrier. This demonstrates that rotational manipulation of the h-BN layer provides an effective means to engineer the TMR and performance of van der Waals MTJs.

Abstract: In the manufacture of single-crystal blades for aero-engines, the problem of eutectic aggregation on the upper surface of the blades has long been restricting the casting performance improvement. To investigate this phenomenon, this paper employs a simplified blade-like shape casting and focuses a 3rd generation nickel-based single-crystal superalloy as the research material. A systematic analysis is conducted to elucidate the distribution of γ/γ' eutectic during solidification. Experimental results show distinct spatial variations in γ/γ' eutectic distribution. Pronounced eutectic aggregation‌ is observed on the upper surface of the blade but with sparse eutectic dispersion‌ on the lower regions of the casting. Relatively uniform eutectic distribution‌ dominates the mid-section of the specimen. To unravel the underlying mechanisms, this paper utilized a ‌multiphase volume-averaged solidification model‌, developed in prior work, to numerically simulate the γ/γ' eutectic evolution during directional solidification. This computational framework enabled a comprehensive ‌quantitative analysis‌ of spatial and temporal variations in the eutectic volume fraction along the solidification direction. The integration of experimental and modeling approaches provides critical insights into the interplay between thermal gradients, alloy composition, and microstructural heterogeneity.

Abstract: Microplastic (MP) analysis via microspectroscopy typically examines only 1-10% of filter substrates due to time constraints, requiring reliable extrapolation methods for quantitative environmental monitoring. Current subsampling strategies suffer from heterogeneous particle dispersion, leading to 50-80% error in MP quantification. Additionally, MP researchers require enhanced environmental MP mass datasets, necessitating reliable conversion algorithms from two-dimensional morphological data to mass estimates. This study introduces an area-based extrapolation technique that compares the MP-to-generic particle area ratio within a rectangular field of view against total particle area on the entire filter membrane, combined with a simplified morphology-to-mass conversion model (Hagelskjær model). First, two Sphagnum moss samples were analyzed using Raman microspectroscopy and critical angle darkfield illumination microscopy. Results demonstrated stable MP concentrations (17% RSD [n = 8]) despite heterogeneous generic particle distribution (31% RSD [n = 8]), with mean particle-area coverage of 2.4% per subsample. Then, twenty MP fragment subsamples (10 µm to 1500 µm) were used to calibrate the height multiplier (Mh) which ranged from 0.26 to 0.47 (mean: 0.34 ± 0.05, 15% RSD), establishing that particle height equals approximately one-third of the minimum Feret diameter with this simplified plane-particle model. These methods enable MP quantification and mass estimation from limited spectroscopic analysis.

Abstract: Bullet-resistant vests, commonly confused as "bulletproof," provide limited protection owing to material limitations. Conventional vests employ steel or ceramic plates with fibers such as Kevlar, Spectra, or Dyneema. Although Kevlar has excellent tensile strength, its low compression resistance makes it imperative to seek alternative materials. Modern materials such as graphene, carbon nanotube composites, TWIP steel, and STF-infused panels hold promise owing to their enhanced strength and flexibility. Natural fibers such as Kenaf, blended with Kevlar polymers, and rugged fabrics such as Cordura and ballistic nylon are also under investigation. All these notwithstanding, most alternatives are still in research phases and are not yet commercially available for large-scale military applications.

Abstract: This study focuses on the synthesis of CoCuFe₂O₄ mixed ferrites supported on nanoporous carbon materials. The carbon supports were derived from two mixtures: a mixture of spent motor oil and pine wood chips (designated as AC-A), and mixture of spent motor oil and crushed coal obtained from the Chukurovo mine (designated as AC-B). Additionally, two types of carbon components – nanodiamond and graphene oxide were used for the synthesis of nanosized ceria-based hybrid nanocomposites. The structural and physicochemical properties of the resulting materials were comprehensively characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen physisorption, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) analysis. The results revealed that the active phase deposited on the carbon supports consists of a complex mixture of finely dispersed ferrite nanoparticles as well as small CeO₂ crystallites in the hybrid nanocomposites. The dispersion and phase composition were found to be strongly influenced by the textural properties of the respective carbon support. Among the investigated materials, the graphene oxide-modified composites exhibited superior catalytic performance for hydrogen production via methanol decomposition.

Abstract: Graphene, a two-dimensional material with remarkable electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties, has revolutionized the fields of electronics, energy storage, and nanotechnology. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of graphene synthesis techniques, which can be classified into two primary approaches: top-down and bottom-up. Top-down methods, such as mechanical exfoliation, oxidation-reduction, arc discharge, unzipping carbon nanotubes, and liquid-phase exfoliation, are highlighted for their scalability and cost-effectiveness, albeit with challenges in controlling defects and uniformity. In contrast, bottom-up methods, including Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and epitaxial growth on silicon carbide, offer superior structural control and quality but are often constrained by high costs and limited scalability. The interplay between synthesis parameters, material properties, and application requirements is critically examined to provide insights into optimizing graphene production. This review also emphasizes the growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches, aligning with the global push for green nanotechnology. By synthesizing current advancements and identifying critical research gaps, this work offers a roadmap for selecting the most suitable synthesis techniques and fostering innovations in scalable and high-quality graphene production. The findings serve as a valuable resource for researchers and industries aiming to harness graphene's full potential in diverse technological applications.

Abstract: Biopolymers’ most significant barrier to commercialisation is their sensitivity to external factors and poor material properties. In recent years significant progress has been made to enhance these materials so that they are able to provide their unique physiological benefits while maintaining acceptable material performance. As these materials have developed so too has their application in the food and medical industry, which often requires them to undergo sterilization. Sterilization is a process in which all microbial life and spores are removed from the surface and within materials and is a regulatory requirement for some food packaging products and all medical applications. Sterilization is carried out primarily using radiation, chemical and heat treatment which are all effective in disrupting cell regulation and causing cell death. These processes are known to induce structural and/or chemical changes in materials as well as potential migratory or leeching effects. This review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of these sterilization processes and the effects they have on polysaccharides, while established data is discussed providing insight into the market viability post sterilization and the importance of further characterization using sterilization.

Abstract: Magnetron sputtering (MS) has undergone significant advancements since its inception. This review explores the evolution of MS, encompassing its fundamental principles, various techniques (including reactive sputtering, pulsed magnetron sputtering, and high-power impulse magnetron sputtering), and its wide-ranging industrial applications. While detailing the advantages of high deposition rates, versatility in material selection, and precise control over film properties, the review also addresses inherent challenges such as low target utilization and plasma instability. A significant portion focuses on the crucial role of MS in the automotive industry, highlighting its use in creating durable, high-quality coatings for both aesthetic and functional purposes. The transition from traditional electroplating methods to more environmentally friendly MS techniques is also discussed, emphasizing the growing demand for sustainable manufacturing processes. This review concludes by summarizing the key advancements, remaining challenges, and potential future trends in magnetron sputtering technologies, particularly within the high-tech industrial sector.