Article
Polymer Science
Seung Hun Lee, Seul Gi Lee, Jun Seo Lee, Byung Chol Ma
Summary: Combinations of multiple inorganic fillers can enhance the flame retardancy of rigid polyurethane foam, improving thermal stability and fire resistance.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Katarzyna Uram, Maria Kuranska, Jacek Andrzejewski, Aleksander Prociak
Summary: This study successfully prepared biochar-modified rigid polyurethane foams as thermal insulation materials. The introduction of biochar caused changes in foam cell shape and enhanced the dimensional and thermal stability of the foams. Additionally, the filler-containing systems exhibited reduced apparent densities while maintaining thermal conductivity.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Adnan Srihanum, Maznee T. Tuan Noor, Kosheela P. P. Devi, Seng Soi Hoong, Nurul H. Ain, Norhisham S. Mohd, Nik Siti Mariam Nek Mat Din, Yeong Shoot Kian
Summary: In this study, palm olein-based polyol (PP) was used as a partial replacement for commercial sucrose/glycerine initiated polyether polyol (GP) to produce low density rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs). The results showed that the incorporation of PP improved the compressive strength and strain of the foam, and the lowest thermal conductivity was obtained with the addition of 10 pph PP. The foams prepared from PP exhibited acceptable dimensional stability and could be used as insulation materials for refrigerators, freezers, and piping.
JOURNAL OF CELLULAR PLASTICS
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
Beata Zygmunt-Kowalska, Patrycja Zakrzewska, Artur Szajding, Bartosz Handke, Monika Kuznia
Summary: The authors introduced a polyurethane material modified with microspheres derived from coal fly ash. The addition of microspheres improved the mechanical properties of polyurethane composites but resulted in decreased brittleness. The thermal conductivity of the polyurethane-microspheres composite was not significantly affected by the addition of microspheres. Flammability tests showed that microspheres delayed ignition but increased smoke production. The addition of microspheres to polyurethane foam was concluded to be feasible without deteriorating the material's properties.
THERMOCHIMICA ACTA
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Menghe Zhu, Zhewen Ma, Lei Liu, Jianzhong Zhang, Siqi Huo, Pingan Song
Summary: This comprehensive review focuses on the design, application, and effects of reactive, additive, and coating halogen-free flame retardants in rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF). The challenges and future research opportunities are also discussed.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Feng Ming, Mingyi Zhang, Wansheng Pei, Lei Chen
Summary: The effect of freezing-thawing cycles (FTC) on the thermal conductivity of insulation material was investigated. Measurements of water absorption and thermal conductivity were taken on a polyurethane (PU) board after undergoing different numbers of FTC. It was found that after 300 FTCs, the water absorption increased to 34.5% and the thermal conductivity increased to 0.042 W/(m.K), which were significantly higher compared to before FTC. Correction coefficients were introduced to minimize the difference between measured and designed thermal conductivities, and the water could amplify the influence of FTC on the correction coefficient. For the Lehua tunnel, it was recommended to increase the insulation layer thickness to 5.50 cm, fixed on the surface of the secondary lining.
COLD REGIONS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Manufacturing
Joel Bachmann, Elisabeth Gleis, Gabriele Fruhmann, Julius Riedelbauch, Stefan Schmoelzer, Olaf Hinrichsen
Summary: The study suggests that the urethane-methacrylate resin RPU 70 can be solidified into an elastomer at 60 degrees Celsius for 15 hours without UV light, using a temperature-sensitive crosslinking reaction. Preheating the resin can impact its mechanical properties, with a 19.56% increase in tensile modulus observed at 50 degrees Celsius preheating.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Norsuhaili Kamairudin, Luqman Chuah Abdullah, Seng Soi Hoong, Dayang Radiah Awang Biak, Hidayah Ariffin
Summary: This study focuses on introducing modified palm oil derivatives-based polyol into the formulation of rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) as a renewable material. The modified palm oil derivative, alkanolamide polyol, was successfully prepared and analyzed for its physicochemical properties. RPUFs produced with alkanolamide polyol showed improved physical, mechanical and thermal properties, making them potential candidates for insulation materials in refrigerators or freezers.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Patcharapon Somdee, Manauwar Ali Ansari, Kalman Marossy
Summary: In this study, flexible and rigid polyurethane/copper composites were prepared via a simple solution casting process. The dispersion and chemical bonding of the filler were investigated, and the thermal properties and mechanical properties of the composites were analyzed. The results showed that the thermal conductivity of the composites was significantly improved compared to the pure polyurethane, and the mechanical properties were also enhanced. The study suggests that copper microparticles can serve as an active filler in both flexible and rigid polyurethane matrices.
POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Erlin Meng, Jiawang Yang, Bo Zhou, Chenyang Wang, Jun Li
Summary: PCM foamed cement is a new material that combines phase change material (PCM) with foamed cement to improve thermal performance. PCM foamed cement roof (PCM FCR) performs the best in reducing internal surface temperature and indoor heat gain among different types of roofs.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Olga Soloveva, Sergei A. Solovev, Yuri V. Vankov, Rozalina Z. Shakurova
Summary: The study focused on the effective thermal conductivity of six samples of polyurethane foam with different cell sizes and types. The research indicated that cell size is the most important factor affecting thermal conductivity, while different types of cells also play a role in determining thermal conductivity.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Dileep Kumar, Morshed Alam, Jay Sanjayan, Muhammad Harris
Summary: Phase change materials (PCM) can reduce energy consumption and improve thermal comfort in buildings. However, there are limitations in integrating PCM into construction materials, primarily due to the selection of suitable porous materials. This study aimed to select the most suitable porous material for developing Form Stable PCM (FSPCM) cement composite for concrete panels in building envelopes. Five different porous materials were considered based on their porosity, geometry, and surface morphology, and the performance of the synthesized FSPCM composite was evaluated. The study revealed that silica aerogel granules (SAG) had the highest PCM absorption capacity, while recycled expanded glass (REG) had lower absorption capacity. The Capric Acid/Hydrophobic expanded Perlite (CAHEP) showed the best overall performance in terms of absorption, thermal conductivity, strength, thermal inertia, latent heat storage, and thermal storage.
CASE STUDIES IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Nadia Lakreb, Umut Sen, Evelyne Toussaint, Sofiane Amziane, Essaid Djakab, Helena Pereira
Summary: Six different types of cork-based sandwich panels were produced using Aleppo pine and cork as the face sheets, inner sheets, and core, respectively. The physical properties and thermal conductivity of these panels were evaluated through various methods. The results indicate that environmentally friendly cork-based sandwich panels are effective thermal insulators and can contribute to energy reduction in buildings.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Hima Haridevan, Martyn S. McLaggan, David A. C. Evans, Darren J. Martin, Trent Seaby, Zhanying Zhang, Pratheep K. Annamalai
Summary: This study discusses the enhanced dispersion of kraft lignin (KL) in a glycerol-substituted aromatic polyester polyol blend, with up to 75 wt% KL incorporated. The KL incorporation in polyol resulted in a remarkable reduction in thermal conductivity of the resultant RPUF, with minimal changes in density and compressive strength. Additionally, the presence of KL in the RPUF also led to a slight improvement in flame retardance performance.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yulei Wang, Kaibin Cui, Baizeng Fang, Fei Wang
Summary: This study presents a one-step method to prepare nanocomposites of palygorskite and rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) by modifying palygorskite with a silane coupling agent. The addition of modified palygorskite significantly enhances the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the nanocomposites. The small cell size and uniform cellular structure of the nanocomposites contribute to their improved thermal insulation performance. These nanocomposites have great potential in building insulation.
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Robert C. Pullar, Pietro Galizia, Antonio C. C. Migliano, Joa S. Amaral, Carmen Galassi, Francisco E. Carvalho
Summary: The hexagonal Z-type ferrite Sr3Co2Fe24O41 (SrZ) was synthesised in 2001 and reported as a room temperature multiferroic material in 2010. Its high frequency and microwave properties, as well as ferromagnetic resonance frequency (FMR), have been less investigated. This study measured the complex permeability and permittivity of a single phase polycrystalline ceramic sample of SrZ in the X-band frequency range and found a strong FMR at 2.3 GHz, which could be tuned by an external magnetic field. This discovery has significant implications for creating a tuneable microwave filter or absorber.
CERAMICS INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
J. S. Amaral, V. S. Amaral
Summary: Magnetocaloric materials are important for energy applications, and materials with first-order magnetic phase transition are advantageous for enhanced magnetization change and magnetocaloric effect. This study provides an overview of models used to simulate magnetic field and temperature-dependent properties of these materials, including mean-field models and Ising-like microscopic models. The limitations and predicted properties of these models are discussed.
FRONTIERS IN MATERIALS
(2023)
Review
Energy & Fuels
M. Moreira, J. Dias-de-Oliveira, C. Amaral, F. Neto, T. Silva
Summary: This article provides an overview of the use of phase change materials (PCM) in radiant systems, including their techniques, challenges, advantages, and disadvantages. The incorporation of PCM in building solutions has the potential to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption. The article focuses on PCM macroencapsulated floors in radiant systems and reviews existing literature to lay the foundation for future research. However, there are some research gaps, such as the lack of information on climatic conditions, macroencapsulation techniques, and a standardized method for comparing PCM solutions in building envelopes.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2023)
Article
Architecture
Rafael Ramirez Eudave, Tiago Miguel Ferreira, Romeu Vicente, Paulo B. Lourenco, Fernando Pena
Summary: This study assesses the seismic vulnerability of historical buildings in the central region of Mexico using a parameter-based approach. Data on more than 160 adobe buildings were collected and managed using open-source GIS software, Python-based database management tool, and a cloud-based platform for onsite data collection. The study finds that the parameter-based approach is effective and also trains a Machine Learning algorithm using the database to overcome representativeness limitations of the method.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Luis Nascimento, Cristiana Fernandes, Ricardo. M. Silva, Angela Semitela, Barbara M. de Sousa, Paula A. A. P. Marques, Sandra I. Vieira, Rui. F. Silva, Nathalie Barroca, Gil Goncalves
Summary: A novel therapeutic approach based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is explored in this study to enhance the regeneration of neural cells. Different morphologies of CNTs are created and tested for their ability to stimulate the formation of neurons and networks. The findings provide a new avenue for the construction of electroresponsive scaffolds for neural tissue engineering.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Fernanda R. Vieira, Nuno V. Gama, Dmitry V. Evtuguin, Carlos O. Amorim, Vitor S. Amaral, Paula C. O. R. Pinto, Ana Barros-Timmons
Summary: Rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) were synthesized using lignin-based polyol obtained through the reaction of kraft lignin with propylene carbonate. The formulations were optimized to achieve low thermal conductivity and low density for lightweight insulation. The resulting bio-based RPUFs exhibited comparable properties to commercial RPUFs and showed potential as a replacement for petroleum-based RPUFs. This study introduces a novel approach using 100% unpurified lignin-based polyol in the production of RPUFs.
Article
Polymer Science
Fabio M. Silva, Ricardo J. B. Pinto, Ana Barros-Timmons, Carmen S. R. Freire
Summary: A solvent-free photopolymerizable paper coating was developed using two acrylic monomers. The coated papers showed improved water resistance and maintained their mechanical properties and air barrier properties. These solventless formulations have the potential to be used for producing hydrophobic papers for packaging applications.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Rafael Ramirez Eudave, Daniel Rodrigues, Tiago Miguel Ferreira, Romeu Vicente
Summary: This article proposes a novel approach to establish a vulnerability-oriented database linked to external services using open-source tools. The database is applied in a Geographical Information System (GIS) environment to survey the seismic vulnerability of masonry constructions based on an adapted version of the GNDT-II approach. Additionally, a customised Python-based software for reading, managing, and editing the database is presented, which includes calculations for vulnerability index and levels of damage. Furthermore, alternative methods for distributing the database, such as cloud-based distribution and the use of the Transactional Web Feature Service (WFS-T) protocol, are discussed.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Maria J. Pereira, Tiago Santos, Rafael Correia, Joao S. Amaral, Vitor S. Amaral, Simone Fabbrici, Franca Albertini
Summary: An innovative study of the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) was conducted using infrared thermography on a Co-doped Ni-Mn-Ga bulk sample with microscopic resolution. MCE maps were created for different sample temperatures, revealing spatially heterogeneous behavior during heating and cooling processes. Significant differences were observed between heating and cooling, with greater amplitude and inhomogeneity on heating. The study also identified varying temperatures and magnitudes of the structural transformation occurring in different micro-regions.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICS-MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
C. Amaral, F. Gomez, M. Moreira, T. Silva, R. Vicente
Summary: This study focuses on the development and analysis of a new multifunctional facade panel incorporating PCM in foam layers. The thermal performance was analysed using a hotbox heat flux meter method, and the main findings are presented. Experimental tests in climatic chambers were used to calibrate and validate numerical simulations using Ansys Fluent, with a correlation factor of 0.9674 achieved. The results show the significant potential of the multi-layered panel with PCM incorporation in regulating indoor space temperature for thermal comfort.
Article
Thermodynamics
Yong Cheng, Fukai Song, Lei Fu, Saishuai Dai, Zhiming Yuan, Atilla Incecik
Summary: This paper investigates the accessibility of wave energy absorption by a dual-pontoon floating breakwater integrated with hybrid-type wave energy converters (WECs) and proposes a hydraulic-pneumatic complementary energy extraction method. The performance of the system is validated through experiments and comparative analysis.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jing Gao, Chao Wang, Zhanwu Wang, Jin Lin, Runkai Zhang, Xin Wu, Guangyin Xu, Zhenfeng Wang
Summary: This study aims to establish a new integrated method for biomass cogeneration project site selection, with a focus on the application of the model in Henan Province. By integrating Geographic Information System and Multiple Criterion Decision Making methods, the study conducts site selection in two stages, providing a theoretical reference for the construction of biomass cogeneration projects.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mert Temiz, Ibrahim Dincer
Summary: The current study presents a hybrid small modular nuclear reactor and solar-based system for sustainable communities, integrating floating and bifacial photovoltaic arrays with a small modular reactor. The system efficiently generates power, hydrogen, ammonia, freshwater, and heat for residential, agricultural, and aquaculture facilities. Thermodynamic analysis shows high energy and exergy efficiencies, as well as large-scale ammonia production meeting the needs of metropolitan areas. The hybridization of nuclear and solar technologies offers advantages of reliability, environmental friendliness, and cost efficiency compared to renewable-alone and fossil-based systems.
Editorial Material
Thermodynamics
Wojciech Stanek, Wojciech Adamczyk
Article
Thermodynamics
Desheng Xu, Yanfeng Li, Tianmei Du, Hua Zhong, Youbo Huang, Lei Li, Xiangling Duanmu
Summary: This study investigates the optimization of hybrid mechanical-natural ventilation for smoke control in complex metro stations. The results show that atrium fires are more significantly impacted by outdoor temperature variations compared to concourse/platform fires. The gathered high-temperature smoke inside the atrium can reach up to 900 K under a 5 MW train fire energy release. The findings provide crucial engineering insights into integrating weather data and adaptable ventilation protocols for smoke prevention/mitigation.
Article
Thermodynamics
Da Guo, Heping Xie, Mingzhong Gao, Jianan Li, Zhiqiang He, Ling Chen, Cong Li, Le Zhao, Dingming Wang, Yiwei Zhang, Xin Fang, Guikang Liu, Zhongya Zhou, Lin Dai
Summary: This study proposes a new in-situ pressure-preserved coring tool and elaborates its pressure-preserving mechanism. The experimental and field test results demonstrate that this tool has a high pressure-preservation capability and can maintain a stable pressure in deep wells. This study provides a theoretical framework and design standards for the development of similar technologies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Aolin Lai, Qunwei Wang
Summary: This study assesses the impact of China's de-capacity policy on renewable energy development efficiency (REDE) using the Global-MSBM model and the difference-in-differences method. The findings indicate that the policy significantly enhances REDE, promoting technological advancements and marketization. Moreover, regions with stricter environmental regulations experience a higher impact.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mostafa Ghasemi, Hegazy Rezk
Summary: This study utilizes fuzzy modeling and optimization to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). By simulating and analyzing experimental data sets, the ideal parameter values for increasing power density, COD elimination, and coulombic efficiency were determined. The results demonstrate that the fuzzy model and optimization methods can significantly improve the performance of MFCs.
Article
Thermodynamics
Zhang Ruan, Lianzhong Huang, Kai Wang, Ranqi Ma, Zhongyi Wang, Rui Zhang, Haoyang Zhao, Cong Wang
Summary: This paper proposes a grey box model for fuel consumption prediction of wing-diesel hybrid vessels based on feature construction. By using both parallel and series grey box modeling methods and six machine learning algorithms, twelve combinations of prediction models are established. A feature construction method based on the aerodynamic performance of the wing and the energy relationship of the hybrid system is introduced. The best combination is obtained by considering the root mean square error, and it shows improved accuracy compared to the white box model. The proposed grey box model can accurately predict the daily fuel consumption of wing-diesel hybrid vessels, contributing to operational optimization and the greenization and decarbonization of the shipping industry.
Article
Thermodynamics
Huayi Chang, Nico Heerink, Junbiao Zhang, Ke He
Summary: This study examines the interaction between off-farm employment decisions between couples and household clean energy consumption in rural China, and finds that two-paycheck households are more likely to consume clean energy. The off-farm employment of women is a key factor driving household clean energy consumption to a higher level, with wage-employed wives having a stronger influence on these decisions than self-employed ones.
Article
Thermodynamics
Hanguan Wen, Xiufeng Liu, Ming Yang, Bo Lei, Xu Cheng, Zhe Chen
Summary: Demand-side management is crucial to smart energy systems. This paper proposes a data-driven approach to understand the relationship between energy consumption patterns and household characteristics for better DSM services. The proposed method uses a clustering algorithm to generate optimal customer groups for DSM and a deep learning model for training. The model can predict the possibility of DSM membership for a given household. The results demonstrate the usefulness of weekly energy consumption data and household socio-demographic information for distinguishing consumer groups and the potential for targeted DSM strategies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Xinglan Hou, Xiuping Zhong, Shuaishuai Nie, Yafei Wang, Guigang Tu, Yingrui Ma, Kunyan Liu, Chen Chen
Summary: This study explores the feasibility of utilizing a multi-level horizontal branch well heat recovery system in the Qiabuqia geothermal field. The research systematically investigates the effects of various engineering parameters on production temperature, establishes mathematical models to describe their relationships, and evaluates the economic viability of the system. The findings demonstrate the significant economic feasibility of the multi-level branch well system.
Article
Thermodynamics
Longxin Zhang, Songtao Wang, Site Hu
Summary: This investigation reveals the influence of tip leakage flow on the modern transonic rotor and finds that the increase of tip clearance size leads to a decline in rotor performance. However, an optimal tip clearance size can extend the rotor's stall margin.
Article
Thermodynamics
Kristian Gjoka, Behzad Rismanchi, Robert H. Crawford
Summary: This paper proposes a framework for assessing the performance of 5GDHC systems and demonstrates it through a case study in a university campus in Melbourne, Australia. The results show that 5GDHC systems are a cost-effective and environmentally viable solution in mild climates, and their successful implementation in Australia can create new market opportunities and potential adoption in other countries with similar climatic conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jianwei Li, Guotai Wang, Panpan Yang, Yongshuang Wen, Leian Zhang, Rujun Song, Chengwei Hou
Summary: This study proposes an orientation-adaptive electromagnetic energy harvester by introducing a rotatable bluff body, which allows for self-regulation to cater for changing wind flow direction. Experimental results show that the output power of the energy harvester can be greatly enhanced with increased rotatory inertia of the rotating bluff body, providing a promising solution for harnessing wind-induced vibration energy.