Article
Chemistry, Physical
Zhihao Li, Xiaoli Wang, Yanqiang Hu, Lizhou Li, Chenfei Wang
Summary: The study compared the influence of BaTiO3/polyimide nanocomposite films on the output performance of VCS-TENG and LS-TENG, finding that the nanocomposite film with proper doping mass fraction not only increased wear resistance of LS-TENG, but also improved output performance.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Amel Aattache
Summary: This paper presents an experimental study on the properties and durability of partially replaced cement-based composite mortars. The findings show that the addition of polyethylene and nanosilica superplasticiser improves the compressive strength, porosity, and durability of the composite mortars. The polyethylene powder and superplasticiser inhibit the hydration of cement, thereby enhancing the durability of the composite mortars. Moreover, the composite mortars exhibit better performance under carbonation and nitric acid attack conditions.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xiaohao Sun, Linchang Miao, Hengxing Wang, Junhao Yuan, Guangcai Fan
Summary: This study explored the method of combining EICP-PVAc-PEG treatment in the field of dust control, finding that this treatment can significantly improve the shear resistance and rainfall-erosion resistance of treated dust soils, increase surface strength, and reduce dust generation.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Kai Yu, Yunsheng Deng, Shaowu Jiang, Chang Qiu
Summary: Geopolymers, as a new type of green soil-curing agent, have been found to possess high strength and good durability in solidifying sludge. The study investigated the strength and micromorphology of slag-based polymer-solidified sludge under dry-wet cycling with chloride salt solutions, using different alkali excitants. The results showed that the strength of the solidified sludge varied with the curing age and the number of dry-wet cycles, and different alkali excitants had varying resistance to the effect of dry-wet cycles.
ADVANCES IN CIVIL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Zhongtao Luo, Tianyi Zhi, Lei Liu, Jie Mi, Meng Zhang, Chongfei Tian, Zhengkai Si, Xiaohai Liu, Yuandong Mu
Summary: This study utilized geopolymer as a matrix to solidify/stabilize the heavy metal Cr in chromium slag, and evaluated the durability of the composite geopolymer in corrosive environments. The study discussed the mechanisms of hydration and solidification/stabilization based on various analysis techniques. The findings suggest the safe dosage of chromium slag in geopolymer matrix with 60-70 wt% red mud is less than 10 wt%, while it can reach up to 30 wt% in geopolymer matrix with 50 wt% red mud. The addition of chromium slag had a promoting effect on the mechanical property of red mud-based geopolymer, but a higher percentage had the opposite effect. The study provides valuable insights for the utilization and disposal of chromium slag and red mud.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yang Liu, Xin Xu, Yu Wei, Yongsong Chen, Meng Gao, Zhengjian Zhang, Chuanling Si, Hongpeng Li, Xinyi Ji, Jiajie Liang
Summary: This study proposes an interface tailoring strategy to improve the performance of silver nanowires-based transparent stretchable conductors (TSCs). By introducing a mercapto compound as an intermediate cross-linked layer, a stable protective layer and buffer layer are formed, which enhances the stretchability and durability of TSCs.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Soumyaprakash Sahoo, Suresh Prasad Singh
Summary: This study reports on the strength and durability properties of expansive soil treated with slag-based geopolymer and compares it to conventional stabilizers. The geopolymer stabilized soil shows superior strength and durability, with dense and compact structures and better formation of cementitious products.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Jun-Jie Zeng, Yan Zhuge, Sheng-Da Liang, Yu-Lei Bai, JinJing Liao, Lihai Zhang
Summary: This study conducted durability tests on 282 LRS FRP sheets and found that the changes in elastic modulus for PEN FRP sheets after aging at different temperatures were minor. The degradation rate of tensile strength was around 10%, and the degradation rate of tensile rupture strain was around 12.5% for PEN FRP sheets aged in 60°C solutions for 365 days. Additionally, higher exposure temperatures led to a significant decrease in the tensile strength of LRS FRP composites. The durability of PEN FRP sheets was more affected in alkaline environments compared to seawater environments, and PEN FRP composites showed better alkaline resistance than PET FRP composites.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Dawei Wang, Wei Rao
Summary: This study proposes a concept of instantizing Ga-based liquid metals nanoparticles (LMPs) and develops a composite material using a spongy structural scaffold encapsulating strategy. The synthesized composite sponge shows stability, dissolution, and synergistic photothermal/chemotherapeutic effects.
APPLIED MATERIALS TODAY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Pengcheng Yao, Zipeng Chen, Tianji Liu, Xiangbiao Liao, Zhengwei Yang, Jinlei Li, Yi Jiang, Ning Xu, Wei Li, Bin Zhu, Jia Zhu
Summary: Polymer-based passive daytime radiative cooling materials have the potential to save energy, but their durability needs improvement. By incorporating nanofiber dopants, the mechanical properties and UV stability of the polymer matrix are enhanced, resulting in improved durability for large-scale applications of polymer-based PDRC materials.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Sakhayana N. Danilova, Sofia B. Yarusova, Yuri N. Kulchin, Ivan G. Zhevtun, Igor Yu. Buravlev, Aitalina A. Okhlopkova, Pavel S. Gordienko, Evgeniy P. Subbotin
Summary: The study found that synthetic CaSiO3 wollastonite is an effective filler for UHMWPE, significantly improving the performance and wear resistance of the composite materials. Various analytical methods confirmed the enhancement of thermodynamic, mechanical, and tribological characteristics of the materials with the addition of wollastonite.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
M. O. Younis, Mohamed Amin, Ahmed M. Tahwia
Summary: The study aims to save natural resources, utilize building wastes, and explore the effects of different admixtures on the properties of concrete. The experimental results show that with the use of a certain proportion of PEG6000, both the mechanical properties and durability of the concrete are significantly improved.
CASE STUDIES IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Alireza Fakhrabadi, Moein Ghadakpour, Asskar Janalizadeh Choobbasti, Saman Soleimani Kutanaei
Summary: This study evaluated the durability of clayey-sand stabilized with copper slag-based geopolymer against wetting-drying cycles. With varying percentages of copper slag and NaOH concentrations, the experiments demonstrated the reduction in strength and increase in microcracks and voids with each cycle. The results showed that all mixtures endured 12 cycles and exhibited low mass loss, indicating the effectiveness of this stabilization method for the soil.
BULLETIN OF ENGINEERING GEOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Yinchun Fang, Jianguo Wu, Yongqiang Chen, Lingshuang Wu
Summary: In this study, PET fabrics were treated with a crosslinking agent GPTMS covalently bonded with PA and CS to achieve durable flame retardancy. The treated PET fabric showed excellent fire retardancy with an LOI value of 34% and damage length of 6.5 cm after 20 BLs CS/PA coating using layer-by-layer assembly method. After 4 times washing, the treated PET fabric still maintained good flame retardant durability. This research provides a foundation for durable flame retardant textiles using bio-based flame retardants through the formation of covalent bonds.
PROGRESS IN ORGANIC COATINGS
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Jiaxing Zhang, Xiangjun Pei, Guohua Zhang, Lu Wei
Summary: This study investigated the effect of activated silica fume (ASF) on restraining the expansion of cement stabilized saline soil (C-S) through stability and durability tests. The results showed that ASF can effectively inhibit expansion and improve stability. The salt content, silica fume content, erosion conditions, and freeze-thaw cycles all have an impact on the volume, strength, and stability of the sample.
CASE STUDIES IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Laura Aliotta, Vito Gigante, Giovanna Molinari, Roberto D'Ambrosio, Luigi Botta, Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Andrea Lazzeri
Summary: Micro Fibrillated Cellulose (MFC) has gained interest in both academia and industry, but there are challenges in utilizing it for industrial MFC/biocomposite applications. The agglomeration of MFC during processing is a major issue. Plasticizers have been used to optimize the extrusion process and counterbalance the stiffness caused by MFC addition. However, the migration of plasticizers from the finished product needs to be evaluated to avoid negative effects. This study evaluated the role of MFC in controlling plasticizer migration and confirmed the expected benefits through mechanical and thermal analysis.
Article
Polymer Science
Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Domenico Liarda, Manuela Ceraulo, Maria Chiara Mistretta
Summary: This article introduces a facile way to remove the non-polymeric layers and investigates the effect of the repetitive extrusion process on the processability and mechanical properties of recycled polycarbonate. The removal of the non-polymeric layers can be easily achieved through a thermo-mechanical treatment in a basic solution containing ammonia. The process is considered green as it is carried out at low temperature with a small amount of water and ammonia, saving energy and water. The properties of the polycarbonate remain good if mechanical recycling is conducted after drying the post-consumer polycarbonate.
Article
Polymer Science
Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Marilena Baiamonte, Stefania Santangelo, Roberto Scaffaro, Maria Chiara Mistretta
Summary: The photo-oxidation of polypropylene was studied at different temperatures and in different environments. The oxidation reactions were found to be strongly influenced by the availability of oxygen and the temperature. The degradation was fastest in air, followed by sea water and distilled water. Increasing the temperature significantly increased the degradation kinetics due to decreased oxygen solubility.
Review
Polymer Science
Giulia Infurna, Gabriele Caruso, Nadka Tz. Dintcheva
Summary: The thermochemical decomposition of polymer waste, food waste, and biomasses into fuels, syngas, and solid phase particles, known as char/biochar particles, has been extensively researched in the past two decades. Various thermochemical decomposition processes have been explored, producing char/biochar particles with different properties such as carbon-content, compositions, porosity, and adsorption ability. These particles have potential applications in agriculture as fertilizers and in water treatment, as well as high adsorption particles. They can also be used as fillers in polymers and biopolymers, improving their mechanical and fire resistance properties.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Nadka Tz. Dintcheva, Elisabetta Morici
Summary: Considering circular principles, this study explores the use of dry rose flower and rose flower waste as suitable materials for biopolymer packaging films. The particles were characterized and their radical scavenger ability was investigated. The formulated films were analyzed through various tests, and the influence of the particles on PLA's photo-oxidation behavior was evaluated. The results suggest that dry rose flower and rose flower waste have a beneficial effect on PLA's degradation and could be used as packaging films.
Article
Polymer Science
F. Carfi Pavia, V. Brucato, M. C. Mistretta, L. Botta, F. P. La Mantia
Summary: By using biodegradable polymers instead of fossil-derived polymers in certain applications, the release of carbon dioxide into the environment can be greatly reduced. In this study, prototypes of aquaculture trays were produced using the biodegradable polymer Mater-Bi-(R) through injection molding. Characterization tests revealed that the polymer used has suitable properties for producing tools for aquaculture applications. Additionally, the samples underwent a biodegradation test in conditions that simulate the marine environment, showing a relatively low degradation rate for the thick molded samples.
Article
Polymer Science
Vincenzo Titone, Emmanuel Fortunato Gulino, Francesco Paolo La Mantia
Summary: Not recycling or recovering waste results in the loss of raw materials, but recycling plastics can reduce this loss and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting the decarbonization of plastic. However, recycling mixed plastics is challenging due to their incompatibility. This study examined the effect of temperature, rotational speed, and time on the morphology, viscosity, and mechanical properties of heterogeneous mixed polymers, including PE, PP, PS, and PET, to understand the behavior of these blends. The results showed that the blends had a brittle behavior, which improved slightly at lower temperatures and higher rotational speeds. A brittle-ductile transition was observed with increased mechanical stress, attributed to decreased particle size and the formation of copolymers.
Article
Polymer Science
Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Roberto Scaffaro, Marilena Baiamonte, Manuela Ceraulo, Maria Chiara Mistretta
Summary: Polymers are influenced by various environmental stresses during processing and usage, resulting in changes in their chemical and molecular structure as well as morphology. The main observed changes are reduction in molecular weight and the formation of double bonds and oxygenated groups due to degradation. These changes dramatically modify the macroscopic properties, especially in the recycling process of post-consumer plastic products.
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Nadka Tz. Dintcheva, Elisabetta Morici, Claudio Colletti
Summary: The growing demand for energy in the past two decades has led to significant development in photovoltaic module production. Selecting appropriate encapsulant materials and technologies for cell embedding is critical in the module design process. The chosen encapsulants have a significant impact on module efficiency, stability, and reliability. The encapsulant materials must be selected properly to ensure the unchanged performance of PV modules over time, while maintaining a balance between performance and production costs.
Article
Materials Science, Characterization & Testing
Maria Chiara Mistretta, Vincenzo Titone, Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Valeria Pellitteri, Luigi Botta
Summary: This study assessed the use of a nanofiller for the mechanical recycling of multilayer barrier plastic bags. The results showed that the addition of GnPs improved the properties of the polymer composites, providing increased stiffness without a significant reduction in ductility. The performance of the nanocomposites was influenced by the conditions in which the plastic bags were used.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Clara Celauro, Rosalia Teresi, Nadka Tz. Dintcheva
Summary: Increasing environmental awareness has led to research efforts in developing sustainable pavements using bituminous mixtures incorporating waste materials. Some waste materials have been found to enhance the performance of road bitumen, offering potential solutions for environmental, economic, and technical benefits.
Editorial Material
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Beatrice Castellani
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Salvatore Marullo, Floriana Petta, Giulia Infurna, Nadka T. T. Dintcheva, Francesca D'Anna
Summary: In this study, supramolecular gels were prepared in deep eutectic solvents (DES) from polysaccharides. The gels exhibited self-healing and load bearing ability, and they were found to be injectable. The gelation process was influenced by the number of hydrogen bond sites on the hydrogen bond donor, and cholinium cations interposed between polysaccharide chains affecting interchain hydrogen bonding. The gel's radical scavenging ability was reduced upon gelation, but when doped with natural antioxidants, the high scavenging ability was preserved. Films prepared from the gels showed stability to sunlight and exposure to water, with the TA-doped film being the most resistant to UV-light and retaining its radical scavenging ability.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Salvatore Marullo, Giuseppe Gallo, Giulia Infurna, Nadka Tz. Dintcheva, Francesca D'Anna
Summary: We prepared and characterized supramolecular ionic liquid gels based on biopolymer mixtures without the need for a cross-linking agent or acid treatment. The gels showed notable properties influenced by the ionic liquid anion. They exhibited higher antioxidant ability and bactericidal activity compared to their individual components. The gel based on a chitosan:chitin mixture in the IL [bmim][Cl] had the fastest killing effect against E. coli, with almost complete eradication of bacterial cells within 30 minutes. We also observed an inverse relationship between the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the gels.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Vincenzo Titone, Francesco Paolo La Mantia, Luigi Botta
Summary: This paper investigates the impact of reprocessing on the rheological and mechanical properties of a biocomposite. The results reveal that increasing the number of extrusions leads to a decrease in viscosity and molecular weight of the matrix and biocomposite. Additionally, the mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and elongation, decrease with the number of extrusions for the matrix, while the biocomposite shows a temporary increase in these properties after the first extrusion, followed by a slight decrease but still higher values compared to the virgin biocomposite.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Tetsu Sato, Mariko Takahashi, Takeshi Saito, Masahito Toyonaga, Itsuo Tanuma, Rie Yamada, Satoru Hosoda
Summary: An automatic evaluation system for photooxidation has been developed and successfully applied to assess the photo-OIT of LDPE samples containing photooxidation stabilizers. The system allows independent setting of various measurement conditions and provides detailed information on the photooxidation process.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
Article
Polymer Science
Zongzheng Zuo, Shuxue Zhou
Summary: In this study, three fluoroalkyl trimethoxysilane (FATMS) additives with different chain lengths were incorporated into a two-component polyurethane clearcoat to improve its hydrophobic durability. The coatings modified with FATMS maintained their surface hydrophobicity under various conditions, but quickly lost it when exposed to both UV irradiation and/or high temperature with water. The results suggest that the FATMS route is more suitable for indoor applications at room temperature.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
Article
Polymer Science
Song Li, Feng Zhao, Xueya Wang, Zhihua Liu, Jingze Guo, Yutong Li, Shuangmei Tan, Zhenxiang Xin, Shuai Zhao, Lin Li
Summary: Green flame retardants have garnered attention for their environmental friendliness, but current options fall short in achieving high flame retardancy for flammable polymers and maintaining environmental protection. This study takes a two-pronged approach to address flame retardants and the flame-retardant process. An eco-friendly bio-based synergistic flame retardant (PAU), synthesized using phytic acid (PA) and urea (U), is used to create a flame retardant coating that can be directly applied to any surface shape using polydopamine as an adhesive. The resulting EPS-PAU exhibits excellent flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and light weight while only slightly increasing the density.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2024)
