Article
Polymer Science
Antonella Patti, Gianluca Cicala, Stefano Acierno
Summary: The study found that adding wood flour as a filler to recycled polyethylene leads to increased viscosity and thermal degradation with increasing wood loading. However, the material still shows good thermal stability within a certain temperature range.
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Haitao Fu, Mengyuan Dun, Binhui Chen, Zhifang Zhou, Haigang Wang, Weihong Wang, Yanjun Xie, Qingwen Wang
Summary: By studying the rheological properties of UF-WFPE under continuous deformation, a modified plug flow model was proposed to explain the rheological behavior of UF-WFPE melt. The study found that specimens with 70 wt%, 75 wt%, and 80 wt% WF displayed a stable rheological behavior period during compression, while those with 90 wt% WF entered a continuous fracture stage, lacking a stable rheological behavior period.
COMPOSITES PART B-ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Yasir Qayyum Gill, Umer Abid, Muhammad Shafiq Irfan, Farhan Saeed, Abdul Shakoor, Ateeqah Firdaus
Summary: Wood polymer composites (WPCs) are a highly competitive type of hybrid composite materials with potential applications in automotive, furniture, and construction industry. This study fabricated PP-wood flour composites using melt blending extrusion, and characterized their chemical makeup, mechanical features, thermal stability, and environmental sustainability during machining. The research highlighted the increased stiffness of WPCs due to wood flour loading, as well as the reduced waste generation through drilling composites.
ARABIAN JOURNAL FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Shengbo Ge, Shida Zuo, Minglong Zhang, Yonghong Luo, Rui Yang, Yingji Wu, Ye Zhang, Jianzhang Li, Changlei Xia
Summary: The study found that decayed wood plastic composites with chitosan exhibited better properties than decayed wood plastic composites without any additive, and even better than sound wood plastic composites. Adding chitosan to decayed wood powder and PVC improved the performance of the DWPC, reaching the level of sound wood plastic composites. This work proposed a novel green strategy for utilizing decayed wood for making polyvinyl chloride/wood flour composites.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY-JMR&T
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Alexander Stadlmann, Andreas Mautner, Maximilian Pramreiter, Alexander Bismarck, Ulrich Mueller
Summary: The study found that birch and beech solid wood and plywood treated with polyamide 6 and polypropylene showed improved mechanical properties and interfacial adhesion. The penetration of polymers into the wood structure led to plastic deformation of the wood, influencing interfacial adhesion and mechanical interlocking.
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Bekir Cihad Bal
Summary: The recycling industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with paper, plastic, glass, and metals being the most commonly recycled materials. This study explores the production of composite boards using recycled polyethylene, used Tetra Pak boxes, and pine wood flour as fillers. The experimental results indicate that while increasing the wood flour content in the composite boards can enhance certain mechanical properties, it also leads to a decrease in other properties.
Article
Polymer Science
Wanyu Liu, Yue Li, Shunmin Yi, Limin Wang, Haigang Wang, Jingfa Zhang
Summary: By modifying continuous aramid fiber, the tensile strength, tensile modulus, and impact strength of wood plastic composites were significantly increased, enhancing the overall performance of the resulting composites.
Article
Polymer Science
Geeta Pokhrel, Douglas J. Gardner, Yousoo Han
Summary: This study investigates the properties of WPCs made from wood flour and wood pellets, showing that composite products from wood pellets have higher density but lower tensile strength, tensile modulus, and impact strength compared to those made from wood flour. Flexural properties of composites made with pellets were higher without MAPP, but lower with it. Overall, the mechanical property differences between the two were low (0.5-10%) depending on the specific WPC formulations. Statistical analysis indicated no significant differences in material properties between composites made from wood flour and wood pellets, with some situations showing better WPC properties using wood pellets.
Article
Polymer Science
Jingfa Zhang, Ahmed Koubaa, Dan Xing, Haigang Wang, Yubo Tao, Xiang-Ming Wang, Peng Li
Summary: The flame retardancy and mechanical properties of multilayered wood-polymer composites were studied in this paper. The addition of boric acid improved the fire retardancy but decreased the flexural strength. The presence of PC cap layers suppressed combustion and increased the flexural strength of the composites.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Feng Chen, Xiaohui Ni, Yinan Liu, Xinghua Xia, Xun Gao
Summary: This study improves the properties of PLA/wood flour composites through different treatment methods, including crystallization, thermal and mechanical properties, and hydrophobicity. The addition of heat-treated esterified wood flour significantly enhances the strength and water resistance of the composite material.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Jaume Gomez-Caturla, Juan Ivorra-Martinez, Franco Dominici, Rafael Balart, Daniel Garcia -Garcia, Debora Puglia, Luigi Torre
Summary: This work successfully developed biopolypropylene/mango peel flour composites with improved compatibility and enhanced properties through the use of compatibilizer and cross-linker.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Francisco Burgada, Eduardo Fages, Luis Quiles-Carrillo, Diego Lascano, Juan Ivorra-Martinez, Marina P. Arrieta, Octavio Fenollar
Summary: This study manufactured green composites from recycled polypropylene and short hemp fibers reinforced with two types of compatibilizing agents. The addition of PP-g-MA improved the fiber-matrix interaction, while incorporating MLO had a plasticizing effect on the composites.
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Qing Wu, Huanhuan Bai, Ruyi Zhao, Ziyi Ye, Hao Deng, Bolin Xiao, Jianfeng Zhu
Summary: In this study, amine-caged ZrO2@GO multilayer core-shell hybrids were successfully fabricated and incorporated into an epoxy matrix for the first time to enhance the carbon fiber-matrix interfacial adhesion. The addition of this hybrid resulted in the highest interfacial shear strength, with significant enhancements compared to untreated, ZrO2, and GO reinforced composites. The strengthening mechanism is achieved by increasing the wettability of the resin to the fiber.
COMPOSITES PART B-ENGINEERING
(2022)
Review
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Thabisile Brightwell Jele, Jerome Andrew, Maya John, Bruce Sithole
Summary: Wood is a versatile resource with unique properties that make it a valuable material for various applications. Engineered transparent wood (ETW) is a sustainable alternative to glass, offering excellent optical, thermal, and mechanical properties. ETW has the potential to be used in a wide range of applications, including construction and optics.
Article
Polymer Science
Slim Souissi, Ferdaous Lachtar, Ahmed Elloumi, Anne Bergeret
Summary: This study aimed to improve the compatibility and mechanical properties of polypropylene/olive wood flour (OWF) composites by using different treatment methods. Results showed that silane and heat treatments enhanced the thermal stability of OWF and heat treatment introduced higher toughness in the composites. Scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrated the improved interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties by the treatments.
IRANIAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Coatings & Films
Eyitayo Olatunde Olakanmi, Kinsman Malikongwa, Sipiwe Trinity Nyadongo, Shaik Hoosain, Sisa Lesley Pityana
Summary: The study explores the inter-relationships between geometrical properties, microstructural characteristics, and corrosion resistance with the laser-material interaction parameter. It is found that a specific laser-material interaction parameter within a certain range can impart coatings with optimal microstructure, microhardness, and corrosion resistance. This research offers guidance in designing Inconel 625 coatings with desirable microstructures and corrosion resistance.
SURFACE ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Automation & Control Systems
Kinsman Malikongwa, Monnamme Tlotleng, Eyitayo Olatunde Olakanmi
Summary: Taguchi design of experiments was used to determine optimal laser cladding parameters for Tribaloy (T-800) coatings, with focus on microstructural and anti-wear properties. Statistical analysis showed significant dependence of microhardness and wear rates on powder feed rates and scanning speeds, while coefficient of friction was influenced by spot diameter. Samples with optimum parameters exhibited excellent performance for wear applications in the mining industry.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Kariska Potgieter, Elize Smit, Reinout Meijboom
Summary: This study utilized a multidimensional group testing approach for deconvoluting reagents in a Suzuki cross-coupling reaction, aiming to accelerate the identification of the optimal reagents. Through two deconvolution approaches, it was determined that K2CO3, ethanol, and benzyldiphenylphosphine were the optimal reagents. This approach enables faster identification of optimal reagents and greatly reduces the number of reactions required.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dele Peter Fapojuwo, Charles O. Oseghale, Christianah Aarinola Akinnawo, Reinout Meijboom
Summary: Interfacially active monometallic Pd/SM-CN and bimetallic PdM/SM-CN (M = Co, Ni) catalysts were successfully synthesized via wet impregnation method for stabilizing a water/toluene emulsion system, leading to higher catalytic efficiency in Pickering emulsion systems. The first efficient application of bimetallic Pd based catalyst for the hydrogenation of aromatic compounds in the water Pickering emulsion system was reported.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Semakaleng Bewana, Matumuene Joe Ndolomingo, Reinout Meijboom, Ndzondelelo Bingwa
Summary: The study successfully achieved the selective acetalization of glycerol into solketal using heterogeneous catalysis with bimetallic oxide catalysts. The most active catalyst was found to be Co3O4/SnO2 (75:25) with conversions greater than 90% under optimal conditions. Catalyst stability evaluations showed that Co3O4/SnO2 (50:50) can be recycled up to 6 catalytic cycles with minor catalyst loss.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
Nametso L. Moumakwa, Matthews Mokoba, Tobias Bader, Eyitayo O. Olakanmi
Summary: This study compares the impact of chemical and thermo-chemical surface treatments on water reed and mokolwane palm fibers, finding that thermo-chemical treatment is more effective in improving the thermal resistance and mechanical properties of the fibers.
JOURNAL OF NATURAL FIBERS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Manufacturing
Sipiwe Trinity Nyadongo, Eyitayo Olatunde Olakanmi, Sisa Lesley Pityana
Summary: This study investigated the use of LCAP for remanufacturing of EN8 equipment and optimized T-800/WC-86 composite coating through RSM and CCD. Pre-heat temperature was found to be the most influential factor on the responses obtained. The optimum composite coating was achieved under specific parameters.
JOURNAL OF MANUFACTURING PROCESSES
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Tafadzwa Precious Mabate, Reinout Meijboom, Ndzondelelo Bingwa
Summary: Catalytic transfer hydrogenation reactions offer an economical, safe, green, and sustainable method for producing value-added chemicals. However, developing stable, selective, and cheap catalysts has been a significant challenge. In this study, glycerol was used as a hydrogen donor and metal-oxides (SnO2, LaFeO3, and LaSnO3) were employed as heterogeneous catalysts for the hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde. Perovskite-type catalysts were chosen for their ease of synthesis, availability of metal components, and potential as alternatives to noble metals. The catalysts were synthesized using a nanocasting method with SiO2 (KIT-6) as a template. The resulting catalysts exhibited high cinnamaldehyde conversion rates of up to 99%, and interestingly, they also catalyzed the etherification of glycerol in one pot.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Matthew Nel, Kariska Potgieter, Oyekunle Azeez Alimi, Andre L. Nel, Reinout Meijboom
Summary: Recent advances in laboratory automation and digitization require a teaching strategy that includes relevant skills for undergraduate students, in order to prepare them for work in modern laboratories. This article presents a simple automated setup for undergraduate teaching, introducing students to new skills and exposing them to laboratory automation through the synthesis of aspirin. This activity encourages critical thinking about automation within the laboratory and demonstrates the possibilities of a robotic-driven workflow combined with programming, coding, and synthesis.
JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL EDUCATION
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Oyekunle Azeez Alimi, Kariska Potgieter, Aisha A. Khumalo, Kgabo Zwane, Lesiba S. M. Mashishi, Odirile G. Gaborone, Reinout Meijboom
Summary: The field of flow chemistry is gaining attention across different disciplines, however, there is little focus on teaching flow chemistry, especially at the undergraduate level. This study presents the development of low-cost flow chemistry equipment for educational purposes, allowing students to fabricate flow reaction devices through 3D printing and gain hands-on experience in flow chemistry and chemical engineering. The skills acquired by undergraduate students through this study are an exciting aspect, as they learn to operate fabrication equipment, set up flow experiments, and conduct experiments with the fabricated devices.
JOURNAL OF FLOW CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Oluwatayo Racheal Onisuru, Ali K. Ilunga, Kariska Potgieter, Charles O. Oseghale, Reinout Meijboom
Summary: The thermal reduction method was used to synthesize metal nanoparticles with poly(1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone) as an organic stabilizer. The synthesized colloidal metal nanoparticles, including gold, palladium, and gold-palladium nanoparticles, were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometry and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. All of these metal nanoparticles exhibited catalytic activity in the reductive degradation of orange II in the presence of borohydride ions. The kinetic activity on the surface of the AuPd nanocatalyst interface was found to be lower than that of Au and Pd.
REACTION KINETICS MECHANISMS AND CATALYSIS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Kim Elli Roberts, Zelinda Engelbrecht, Kariska Potgieter, Reinout Meijboom, Marianne Jacqueline Cronje
Summary: Novel silver(I) phosphine complexes were synthesized and characterized. Complex 1 exhibited significant inhibitory effects and superior selectivity against malignant colorectal cancer cells (HT-29) while showing minimal toxicity towards non-malignant cells. Complex 1 induced regulated cell death, likely through mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis.
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Gadada Naganagowda, Zelinda Engelbrecht, Kariska Potgieter, Frederick P. Malan, Phendukani Ncube, Marianne J. Cronje, Reinout Meijboom
Summary: Cancer is a fast-growing and deadly disease, necessitating the search for alternative anti-cancer agents. Silver(I) phosphine complexes were synthesized and evaluated as potential anti-cancer agents. However, these complexes exhibited significant cytotoxicity to both malignant and non-malignant cells, indicating that they are not suitable for anti-cancer treatment in their current form.
JOURNAL OF COORDINATION CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Oluwatayo Racheal Onisuru, Dele Peter Fapojuwo, Charles O. Oseghale, Oyekunle Azeez Alimi, Reinout Meijboom
Summary: The use of water as a solvent in chemical reactions has received public attention due to its eco-friendly nature. This study demonstrates the potential of a hydrogel such as HPMC in enhancing reactant solubility. By employing water and HPMC as the solvent, the viscosity of the reaction medium was significantly increased. Silica-supported Pd particles (Pd@SiO2) were successfully synthesized and efficiently catalyzed the reduction of acetophenone, yielding high conversion rates and selectivity towards 1-phenyl ethanol.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Joyce Elisadiki, Mavis K. Gabookolwe, Oluwatayo R. Onisuru, Reinout Meijboom, Cosmas Muiva, Cecil K. King'ondu
Summary: This study successfully derived mesoporous carbon materials from Washingtonia robusta bark and investigated their electrical performance in a 2-electrode supercapacitor device. The relationship between carbon materials processing, properties, and performance was comprehensively examined. The results showed the potential of fan palm bark as electrode materials with good stability and high-rate capability for supercapacitor application.
