Journal Description
Journal of Composites Science
Journal of Composites Science
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on the science and technology of composites published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), Inspec, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Materials Science, Composites) / CiteScore - Q1 (Engineering (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.0 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.3 (2023)
Latest Articles
Experimental Investigation of Low-Cost Bamboo Composite (LCBC) Slender Structural Columns in Compression
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100435 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
This paper experimentally investigates the behavior of innovative sustainable Low-Cost Bamboo Composite (LCBC) structural columns under compressive loading. The LCBC columns are manufactured from bamboo culms in combination with bio-based resins to form composite structural columns. Different LCBC cross-sectional configurations are investigated in
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This paper experimentally investigates the behavior of innovative sustainable Low-Cost Bamboo Composite (LCBC) structural columns under compressive loading. The LCBC columns are manufactured from bamboo culms in combination with bio-based resins to form composite structural columns. Different LCBC cross-sectional configurations are investigated in this study, including the Russian doll (RD), Big Russian doll (BRD), Hawser (HAW), and Scrimber (SCR). Two bio-based resins, including one bio-epoxies and one furan-based resin, in addition to a soft bio-based filler and a synthetic epoxy resin, are applied. The bamboo species used as the cast-in-place giant bamboo for all configurations include Moso, Guadua, and Tali. Slender LCBC columns showed maximum stress equal to 60 MPa at failure. The study found that the samples with bio-epoxy resin (BE2) exhibited enhanced material stiffness when compared to synthetic epoxy (EPX) and furan-based resin (PF1), while PF1 specimens demonstrated increased ductility. Among the specimens with Moso bamboo and BE2 resin, those with SCR and HAW configurations achieved the highest compressive strengths.
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(This article belongs to the Section Composites Applications)
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Removal of Ibuprofen from Aqueous Solutions by Using Graphene Oxide@MgO
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Natalia Malouchi, Athanasia K. Tolkou, Konstantinos N. Maroulas, Ioannis A. Katsoyiannis and George Z. Kyzas
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100434 - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
In this study, a new composite adsorbent, namely magnesium oxide modified graphene oxide (hereafter abbreviated GO@MgO), was prepared for the removal of Ibuprofen (IBU), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) compound. Graphene oxide was modified with MgO to improve its properties. Several factors important
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In this study, a new composite adsorbent, namely magnesium oxide modified graphene oxide (hereafter abbreviated GO@MgO), was prepared for the removal of Ibuprofen (IBU), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) compound. Graphene oxide was modified with MgO to improve its properties. Several factors important for the evolution of the adsorption process were investigated, such as the dose of the adsorbent, the pH, and the initial IBU content, as well as the duration of the procedure and temperature. According to the results obtained, it was found that at pH 3.0 ± 0.1, by applying 0.5 g/L GO@MgO to 100 mg/L IBU, more than 80% was removed, reaching 96.3% with the addition of 1.5 g/L adsorbent in 24 h. After 30 min, the equilibrium was reached (77% removal) by adding 0.5 g/L of GO@MgO. This study proves that GO@MgO is capable of economical and efficient adsorption. The IBU kinetic data followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were used to interpret the adsorption, but the Freundlich model described the adsorption method more accurately. The positive values of ΔH0 (14.465 kJ/mol) confirm the endothermic nature of the adsorption. Due to the increase of ΔG0 values with temperature, the adsorption of IBU on GO@MgO is considered to be spontaneous.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Hybrid Composites)
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Vibration Analysis of Multilayered Quasicrystal Annular Plates, Cylindrical Shells, and Truncated Conical Shells Filled with Fluid
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Xin Feng, Han Zhang and Yang Gao
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100433 - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
An approach to estimate the dynamic characteristic of multilayered three-dimensional cubic quasicrystal cylindrical shells, annular plates, and truncated conical shells with different boundary conditions is presented. These investigated structures can be in a vacuum, totally filled with quiescent fluid, and subjected to internal
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An approach to estimate the dynamic characteristic of multilayered three-dimensional cubic quasicrystal cylindrical shells, annular plates, and truncated conical shells with different boundary conditions is presented. These investigated structures can be in a vacuum, totally filled with quiescent fluid, and subjected to internal flowing fluid where the fluid is incompressible and inviscid. The velocity potential, Bernoulli’s equation, and the impermeability condition have been applied to the shell–fluid interface to obtain an explicit expression, from which the fluid pressure can be converted into the coupled differential equations in terms of displacement functions. The state-space method is formulated to quasicrystal linear elastic theory to derive the state equations for the three structures along the radial direction. The mixed supported boundary conditions are represented by means of the differential quadrature technique and Fourier series expansions. A global propagator matrix, which connects the field variables at the internal interface to those at the external interface for the whole structure, is further completed by joint coupling matrices to overcome the numerical instabilities. Numerical examples show the correctness of the proposed method and the influence of the semi-vertical angle, different boundary conditions, and the fluid debit on the natural frequencies and mode shapes for various geometries and boundary conditions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Journal of Composites Science in 2024)
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Comparative Study of Unhatched and Hatched Chicken Egg Shell-Filled Glass Fibre/Polyester Composites
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Suhas Kowshik, Sathyashankara Sharma, Sathish Rao, S. V. Udaya Kumar Shetty, Prateek Jain, Pavan Hiremath, Nithesh Naik and Maitri Manjunath
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100432 - 17 Oct 2024
Abstract
The incorporation of filler materials to enhance the properties of fibre-reinforced plastics is a prevalent practise in materials science. Calcium carbonate is a commonly used inorganic filler in composite fabrication. Eggshell, a rich source of calcium carbonate, offers an organic alternative to conventional
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The incorporation of filler materials to enhance the properties of fibre-reinforced plastics is a prevalent practise in materials science. Calcium carbonate is a commonly used inorganic filler in composite fabrication. Eggshell, a rich source of calcium carbonate, offers an organic alternative to conventional inorganic fillers. This study investigates the efficacy of different types of eggshells as filler materials. Three variants, viz., unhatched raw eggshell, unhatched boiled eggshell, and post-hatched eggshell, were used to fabricate composite variants, which were then subjected to mechanical characterization and compared with unfilled composites. The results indicated that composites filled with unhatched eggshells outperformed those with post-hatched eggshells. Tensile testing revealed a significant enhancement in the tensile properties of all eggshell-filled composites in comparison to the unfilled ones. The composite variant filled with unhatched raw eggshell filler showcased the utmost tensile modulus and strength, with a notable 36% improvement in comparison with the unfilled variant. Similarly, flexural tests demonstrated a 53% increase in flexural strength for unhatched raw eggshell-filled composites over unfilled composites. SEM imaging confirmed these findings by showing crack arrests, deviations, particle distribution, and strong interfacial bonding in the eggshell-filled composites.
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(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites)
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PLGA/Ti-Zn as Nanocomposite for Drug Delivery of Oleoresin
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Noé Rodríguez-Barajas, Ubaldo de Jesús Martin-Camacho, Jasmin Salazar-Mendoza, Suresh Ghotekar, Jorge Alberto Sánchez-Burgos, Oscar Arturo González-Vargas, Mamoun Fellah, Monserrat Macías-Carballo, Yanet Karina Gutiérrez-Mercado, Gabriela Camargo-Hernández, Christian Martin Rodríguez-Razón and Alejandro Pérez-Larios
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100431 - 16 Oct 2024
Abstract
Capsicum annuum L. var. “Chile de árbol” combined with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and TiO2-ZnO oxides synthesized at different molar ratios and pH (Ti-Zn A and B 3:1, 1:1, and 1:3) via the sol-gel method was characterized by the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method,
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Capsicum annuum L. var. “Chile de árbol” combined with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and TiO2-ZnO oxides synthesized at different molar ratios and pH (Ti-Zn A and B 3:1, 1:1, and 1:3) via the sol-gel method was characterized by the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method, a UV-Vis spectrophotometer (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC-DAD), and a release profile through mathematical models to explain its behavior. Furthermore, FTIR revealed the presence of PLGA, TiO2, and ZnO as well as amino group characteristics from oleoresin components, principally alkaloid groups (capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin), as evidenced by HPLC, to identify the presence of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin. The UV-Vis spectra showed a slight hypsochromic shift in the PLGA treatments. The release profile demonstrated a higher controllable release in the PLGA treatments than in the double nanoemulsions. Moreover, it is important to note that the effect of NPs influenced the release profile itself, increasing the release when NPs were synthesized at an acidic pH. Therefore, the TiZnOl/PLGA A characteristics suggest that these results have potential for pharmaceutical (as drug carriers) and medical applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Hybrid Composites)
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Open AccessReview
Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Biocomposites for Marine Applications: A Review
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Yang Huang, Mohamed Thariq Hameed Sultan, Farah Syazwani Shahar, Rafał Grzejda and Andrzej Łukaszewicz
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100430 (registering DOI) - 16 Oct 2024
Abstract
Highly efficient fiber-reinforced composites find extensive application in diverse industries. Yet, conventional fiber-reinforced composites have significant environmental impacts during both manufacturing and disposal. Environmentally friendly fiber-reinforced composites have garnered significant attention within the framework of sustainable development. Utilizing natural fibers in place of
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Highly efficient fiber-reinforced composites find extensive application in diverse industries. Yet, conventional fiber-reinforced composites have significant environmental impacts during both manufacturing and disposal. Environmentally friendly fiber-reinforced composites have garnered significant attention within the framework of sustainable development. Utilizing natural fibers in place of synthetic fibers and progressively decreasing the use of synthetic fibers are the main approaches to achieving a balance between economic progress and environmental quality. Attention is increasingly being drawn to natural fiber-reinforced biocomposites that exhibit outstanding environmental performance, exceptional physical and mechanical capabilities, and biological features. The lightweight and high-strength characteristics of these biocomposites enable them to significantly decrease the weight of structures, making them increasingly popular in many industries. The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of hybrid fiber-reinforced biocomposites in marine applications, specifically examining their mechanical characteristics, resistance to seawater, and ability to absorb moisture, all while advocating for sustainable material methodologies. To achieve this objective, the paper delineates the distinction between synthetic and natural fibers, examines the benefits of hybrid fiber-reinforced biocomposite materials, and addresses the obstacles and effective approaches in their production and application in seawater. Considering the review analysis, it can be inferred that the use of fiber-reinforced biocomposites in maritime applications shows significant potential and has abundant untapped growth prospects in the future years.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Hybrid Composites)
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Chemical Synthesis and Characterization of Fatty Acid-Capped ZnO Nanoparticles
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Alina Matei, Marius Stoian, Gabriel Crăciun and Vasilica Țucureanu
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100429 (registering DOI) - 16 Oct 2024
Abstract
In the current study, ZnO nanoparticles were obtained using a chemical process employing zinc acetate as the precursor, followed by thermal processing in air. To prevent agglomeration and increase the stability of ZnO nanoparticles, two unsaturated acids (e.g., elaidic acid and linoleic acid)
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In the current study, ZnO nanoparticles were obtained using a chemical process employing zinc acetate as the precursor, followed by thermal processing in air. To prevent agglomeration and increase the stability of ZnO nanoparticles, two unsaturated acids (e.g., elaidic acid and linoleic acid) and two saturated acids (e.g., stearic acid and lauric acid) were selected as capping agents. ZnO nanoparticles were investigated before and after surface modification with different fatty acids. Structural and morphological analyses of the samples were performed using FTIR and RAMAN spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, SEM microscopy, and wetting capacity. Characterization studies revealed that the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles present well-defined crystalline structures, with crystallite sizes varying between 26 and 28 nm, and the average particle size was in the range of 10–55 nm (depending on the type of fatty acids used). The goniometric analysis followed the wetting capacity of the sample surface. The study results reveal that the capping agents have a considerable impact on the surface modification of the nanoparticles by increasing the contact angle. By producing nanoparticles with hydrophobic behavior, there is the possibility of opening up future research for their use in various applications across many industrial fields.
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(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposites)
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A Study on the Degradability and Mechanical–Rheological Correlations of PLA/Silk Composites
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Mohammadreza Mansourieh, Soheil Farshbaf Taghinezhad, Amin Abbasi, Yuanyuan Chen and Declan Devine
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100428 (registering DOI) - 16 Oct 2024
Abstract
High-strength biodegradable polymer composites have potential applications in a variety of biomedical applications. This study investigates the influence of silk fiber on the properties of the commonly used biodegradable polylactic acid-based composites, focusing on mechanical, rheological, morphological, and degradation characteristics. Mechanical tests revealed
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High-strength biodegradable polymer composites have potential applications in a variety of biomedical applications. This study investigates the influence of silk fiber on the properties of the commonly used biodegradable polylactic acid-based composites, focusing on mechanical, rheological, morphological, and degradation characteristics. Mechanical tests revealed that the addition of 2.5 wt% silk fibers enhanced the ductility of PLA composites, increasing tensile strain at break from 7.39% for pure PLA to 11.51% for the composite. However, higher silk contents (≥10 wt%) resulted in lower elongation at breaks but higher moduli, indicating a trade-off between flexibility and the structural rigidity of the composite. Rheological tests demonstrated that the presence of silk fibers up to 7.5% improved the storage modulus, reflecting better network formation within the PLA matrix. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) photomicrographs illustrated improved fiber dispersion, while higher contents introduced voids and stress concentrations, adversely affecting mechanical properties. Degradation tests in phosphate-buffered saline at 37 °C showed that silk additions slowed PLA degradation, suggesting controlled degradation suitable for biomedical applications. The optimal silk fiber content for balancing mechanical integrity and flexibility was identified to be ca 7.5 wt%, providing insights into the design of PLA/silk composites for enhanced performance in practical applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Hybrid Composites)
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Polylactide-Based Polymer Composites with Rice Husk Filler
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Roman Aleksandrovich Lyubushkin, Natalia Igorevna Cherkashina, Daria Vasilievna Pushkarskaya, Elena Vitalievna Forova, Artem Yuryevich Ruchiy and Semyon Nikolaevich Domarev
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100427 (registering DOI) - 16 Oct 2024
Abstract
In this work, composites made of polylactide (PLA) and filled with alkali-pretreated rice husk (RH) were investigated. Composites containing 20, 30, and 40 wt.% of RH were synthesized. It was shown that alkaline treatment, along with the change in crystal lattice, led to
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In this work, composites made of polylactide (PLA) and filled with alkali-pretreated rice husk (RH) were investigated. Composites containing 20, 30, and 40 wt.% of RH were synthesized. It was shown that alkaline treatment, along with the change in crystal lattice, led to an increase in the content of non-crystalline parts and the volume of intercrystalline spaces, and the internal surface of the cellulose fiber increased, which resulted in improved adhesion of the fiber with the matrix. The addition of rice husk to the PLA matrix led to an increase in the flexural modulus, which increased to 2881 MPa for the PLA/RH (80/20 wt.%) and 3034 MPa for the PLA/RH (70/30 wt.%) composites and lowered the peak load stress by approximately 43% for the composite with 20 wt.% RH and 56% for the composite with 30 wt.% RH. The reduction in the degree of PLA crystallinity allows macromolecules to move more freely in amorphous regions, which has a positive effect on increasing the flexibility of materials in general. The optimal formulation is a composite consisting of 30% RH and 70% PLA matrix.
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(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites)
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Particularities on the Low-Velocity Impact Behavior of 3D-Printed Sandwich Panels with Re-Entrant and Honeycomb Core Topologies
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Andrei Ioan Indreș, Dan Mihai Constantinescu, Oana Alexandra Mocian and Ștefan Sorohan
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100426 (registering DOI) - 15 Oct 2024
Abstract
This work describes, through experimental and numerical investigations, the mechanical behavior and energy absorption characteristics of 3D-printed sandwich panels with cellular cores subjected to low-velocity impact. Using fused deposition modeling techniques (FDM), three different sandwich panels, one with a regular hexagonal core and
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This work describes, through experimental and numerical investigations, the mechanical behavior and energy absorption characteristics of 3D-printed sandwich panels with cellular cores subjected to low-velocity impact. Using fused deposition modeling techniques (FDM), three different sandwich panels, one with a regular hexagonal core and two with re-entrant cores at 0 and 90 degrees, were fabricated. The sandwich panels were subjected to low-velocity impact, at impact energies of 10 J and 15 J. A comprehensive investigation of the panels’ behavior through experimental testing and numerical simulation was conducted. The results indicate that the sandwich panel with a 90 degrees re-entrant core is stiffer and absorbs the largest amount of impact energy but, at the same time, suffers significant damage to the upper facesheet. The 0 degrees re-entrant core is compliant and provides both impact resistance and good energy absorption characteristics. Such a sandwich panel finds its application in the construction of personal protective equipment, where the aim is to minimize the forces transmitted during low-velocity impacts and maximize the total absorbed energy. Re-entrant core sandwich panels prove to be very good candidates for replacing the honeycomb core sandwich, depending on the desired engineering application.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lightweight Composites Materials: Sustainability and Applications, Volume II)
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Surface-Modified Iron Oxide Nanoparticles with Natural Biopolymers for Magnetic Hyperthermia: Effect of Reducing Agents and Type of Biopolymers
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Abdollah Hajalilou, Liliana P. Ferreira, M. E. Melo Jorge, César P. Reis and Maria Margarida Cruz
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100425 - 14 Oct 2024
Abstract
Magnetic fluid hyperthermia, a minimally invasive localized therapy that uses heat generated by magnetic nanoparticles under an AC magnetic field, is a complementary approach for cancer treatment that is excellent due to its advantages of being noninvasive and addressing only the affected region.
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Magnetic fluid hyperthermia, a minimally invasive localized therapy that uses heat generated by magnetic nanoparticles under an AC magnetic field, is a complementary approach for cancer treatment that is excellent due to its advantages of being noninvasive and addressing only the affected region. Still, its use as a stand-alone therapy is hindered by the simultaneous requirement of nanoparticle biocompatibility, good heating efficiency, and physiological safe dose. To overcome these limits, the biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles’ heating efficiency must be optimized. Iron oxide nanoparticles are accepted as the more biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles available. Therefore, in this work, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized by a low-cost coprecipitation method and modified with starch and gum to increase their heating efficiency and compatibility with living tissues. Two different reducing agents, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH), were used to compare their influence. The X-ray diffraction results indicate the formation of a single magnetite/maghemite phase in all cases, with the particle size distribution depending on the coating and reducing agent. Citric acid functionalized water-based ferrofluids were also prepared to study the heating efficiency of the nanoparticles under a magnetic field with a 274 kHz frequency and a 14 kAm−1 amplitude. The samples prepared with NaOH display a higher specific loss power (SLP) compared to the ones prepared with NH4OH. The SLP value of 72 Wg−1 for the magnetic nanoparticles coated with a combination of starch and gum arabic, corresponding to an intrinsic loss power (ILP) of 2.60 nWg−1, indicates that they are potential materials for magnetic hyperthermia therapy.
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(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites)
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Insights into the Various Cellular Antimicrobial Responses, Biocompatibility, Osteogenesis, Wound Healing, and Angiogenesis of Copper-Doped Nano-Hydroxyapatite Composite Calcium Phosphate Bone Cement In Vitro
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Ssu-Meng Huang, Wen-Cheng Chen, Shih-Ming Liu, Chia-Ling Ko, Jian-Chih Chen and Chi-Jen Shih
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100424 - 14 Oct 2024
Abstract
Calcium phosphate bone cement (CPC) is a popular material for bone remodeling, and nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) represents a breakthrough that has a wide range of clinical applications. During the early stages of bone repair, antibacterial and angiogenesis effects are essential to remodel new bone
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Calcium phosphate bone cement (CPC) is a popular material for bone remodeling, and nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) represents a breakthrough that has a wide range of clinical applications. During the early stages of bone repair, antibacterial and angiogenesis effects are essential to remodel new bone tissues. In this study, an antibacterial effect was achieved by incorporating Cu2+-doped nano-hydroxyapatite (Cu–nHA) synthesized through hydrothermal methods into CPC, and the impact of various amounts of Cu–nHA addition on the antibacterial and mechanical properties of CPC hybridization was evaluated. Moreover, the effects of Cu–nHA/CPC composites on the proliferation and mineralization of mouse progenitor osteoblastic cells (D1 cells) were characterized; the cell migration and angiogenesis ability of vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) were also studied. Results indicated that incorporating 5 wt.% and 10 wt.% Cu–nHA into CPC led to a practical short-term antibacterial effect on S. aureus but not on E. coli. These Cu–nHA/CPC slurries remained injectable, anti-disintegrative, and non-toxic. Furthermore, compared with pure CPC, these Cu–nHA/CPC slurries demonstrated positive effects on D1 cells, resulting in better proliferation and mineralization. In addition, these Cu–nHA/CPC slurries were more effective in promoting the migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs. These findings indicate that 10 wt.% Cu–nHA/CPC has great application potential in bone regeneration.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biocomposites)
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Fatigue Damage Monitoring of Composite Structures Based on Lamb Wave Propagation and Multi-Feature Fusion
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Feiting Zhang, Kaifu Zhang, Hui Cheng, Dongyue Gao and Keyi Cai
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100423 - 14 Oct 2024
Abstract
To address the challenges associated with fatigue damage monitoring in load-bearing composite structures, we developed a method that utilizes Lamb wave propagation and partial least squares regression (PLSR) for effective monitoring. Initially, we extracted diverse characteristics from both the time and frequency domains
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To address the challenges associated with fatigue damage monitoring in load-bearing composite structures, we developed a method that utilizes Lamb wave propagation and partial least squares regression (PLSR) for effective monitoring. Initially, we extracted diverse characteristics from both the time and frequency domains of the Lamb wave signal to capture the essence of the damage. Subsequently, we constructed a PLSR model, leveraging Lamb wave multi-feature fusion, specifically tailored for in-service fatigue damage monitoring. The efficacy of our proposed approach in quantitatively monitoring fatigue damage was thoroughly validated through rigorous standard fatigue tests. In practical applications, our model effectively mitigated the impact of multicollinearity among feature variables on model accuracy. Furthermore, the PLSR model demonstrated superior accuracy compared to the PCR model, given an equal number of principal components. To strike a harmonious balance between efficiency and precision, we optimized the size of the feature variable. The results show that the optimized PLSR model achieved an R-squared value exceeding 97% in predicting the in-service damage area. This underscores the robustness and reliability of our method in accurately monitoring fatigue damage in load-bearing composite structures.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Continuous Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites)
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Effects of Grapevine Fiber and Additives on the Properties of Polylactic Acid Green Bio-Composites
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Chun-Wei Chang, Chien-Chung Huang, Yi-Jing Jiang, Po-Hsiang Wang and Yeng-Fong Shih
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100422 - 13 Oct 2024
Abstract
In recent years, numerous researchers have incorporated plant fibers into polymers to alter the thermal and mechanical properties of materials. Grapevines, considered agricultural waste, have led to burdens for farmers and environmental challenges due to their mass production. This study aims to reduce
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In recent years, numerous researchers have incorporated plant fibers into polymers to alter the thermal and mechanical properties of materials. Grapevines, considered agricultural waste, have led to burdens for farmers and environmental challenges due to their mass production. This study aims to reduce the brittleness of polylactic acid (PLA) by adding polybutylene succinate (PBS) as a toughening agent and employing grapevine fiber (GVF) as a biomass filler. Additionally, the influence of GVF, toughening agents, compatibilizers, and lubrication agents on the tensile strength, heat deflection temperature (HDT), and impact strength of the composites was examined. The findings revealed that the addition of 10% GVF and 5% PBS increased the impact and tensile strengths of PLA from 17.47 J/m and 49.74 MPa to 29.7 J/m and 54.46 MPa, respectively. Moreover, the HDT of the composites exceeded 120 °C when the GVF content was more than 40 wt%. Additionally, the inclusion of a compatibilizer and a lubrication agent enabled the composite containing 30% GVF to achieve tensile and impact strengths of 45.30 MPa and 25.52 J/m, respectively. Consequently, these GVF/PLA green bio-composites not only improve the mechanical and thermal properties of PLA but also promote the reuse of waste grapevines.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)
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Open AccessArticle
Eco-Friendly Concrete with Improved Properties and Structure, Modified with Banana Leaf Ash
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Sergei A. Stel’makh, Evgenii M. Shcherban’, Alexey N. Beskopylny, Andrei Chernilnik and Diana Elshaeva
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100421 - 13 Oct 2024
Abstract
The reduction of carbon footprint, the recycling of agricultural waste, and the development of novel environmentally friendly building materials are urgent matters that necessitate innovative solutions. The objective of this study is to explore the feasibility of utilizing banana leaf ash (BLA) as
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The reduction of carbon footprint, the recycling of agricultural waste, and the development of novel environmentally friendly building materials are urgent matters that necessitate innovative solutions. The objective of this study is to explore the feasibility of utilizing banana leaf ash (BLA) as a partial substitute for cement in conventional density concrete technology. The BLA-modifying additive was produced under laboratory conditions. Its chemical, phase and granulometric composition was assessed. To determine the degree of effectiveness of BLA, eight concrete compositions were developed, where the BLA content varied from 0% to 14% with an interval of 2%. The properties of fresh concrete, such as density and slump, as well as compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and microstructure of hardened concrete, were studied. It has been determined that the BLA additive exhibits pozzolanic activity, with a SiO2 content of 50.83%. It is recommended that the replacement of cement with BLA does not exceed 10% for optimal results. Concrete modified with 6% BLA had the best properties and structure. The study revealed a significant 7.42% increase in compressive strength, a 7.01% increase in flexural strength, and a notable 9.28% decrease in water absorption. Thus, the obtained result proves the possibility of using BLA as a modifying additive in the technology of cement composites. The developed concrete has improved properties and is a more environmentally friendly building material than conventional concrete.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Composite Construction Materials, Volume II)
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The Impact of Activated Carbon–MexOy (Me = Bi, Mo, Zn) Additives on the Thermal Decomposition Kinetics of the Ammonium Nitrate–Magnesium–Nitrocellulose Composite
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Zhanerke Yelemessova, Ayan Yerken, Dana Zhaxlykova and Bagdatgul Milikhat
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100420 - 12 Oct 2024
Abstract
This research investigates the impact of additives such as activated carbon (AC) combined with metal oxides (Bi2O3, MoO3, and ZnO) on the thermal decomposition kinetics of ammonium nitrate (AN), magnesium (Mg), and nitrocellulose (NC) as a basic
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This research investigates the impact of additives such as activated carbon (AC) combined with metal oxides (Bi2O3, MoO3, and ZnO) on the thermal decomposition kinetics of ammonium nitrate (AN), magnesium (Mg), and nitrocellulose (NC) as a basic AN–Mg–NC composite. To study the thermal properties of the AN–Mg–NC composite with and without the AC–MexOy (Me = Bi, Mo, Zn) additive, a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis was conducted. The DSC results show that the AC–MexOy (Me = Bi, Mo, Zn) additive catalytically affects the basic AN–Mg–NC composite, lowering the peak decomposition temperature (Tmax) from 534.58 K (AN–Mg–NC) to 490.15 K (with the addition of AC), 490.76 K (with AC–Bi2O3), 492.17 K (with AC–MoO3), and 492.38 K (with AC–ZnO) at a heating rate of β equal to 5 K/min. Based on the DSC data, the activation energies (Ea) for the AN–Mg–NC, AN–Mg–NC–AC, and AN–Mg–NC–AC–MexOy (Me = Bi, Mo, Zn) composites were determined using the Kissinger method. The results suggest that incorporating AC and AC–MexOy (Me = Bi, Mo, Zn) additives reduce the decomposition temperatures and activation energies of the basic AN–Mg–NC composite. Specifically, Ea decreased from 99.02 kJ/mol (for AN–Mg–NC) to 93.63 kJ/mol (with addition of AC), 91.45 kJ/mol (with AC–Bi2O3), 91.65 kJ/mol (with AC–MoO3), and 91.76 kJ/mol (with AC–ZnO). These findings underscore the potential of using AC–MexOy (Me = Bi, Mo, Zn) as a catalytic additive to enhance the performance of AN–Mg–NC-based energetic materials, increasing their efficiency and reliability for use in solid propellants.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical and Computational Investigation on Composite Materials)
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Open AccessReview
Sustainable Polyamide Composites Reinforced with Nanocellulose via Melt Mixing Process
by
Ellana Nabilah Nur Averina Ansar, Merreta Noorenza Biutty, Ki-Se Kim, Seongwoo Yoo, PilHo Huh and Seong Il Yoo
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 419; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100419 - 11 Oct 2024
Abstract
Introduction of biomass-based nanofillers into the polyamide matrix may represent a sustainable approach for the development of high-performance engineering plastics. From this standpoint, nanocellulose, derived from various cellulosic sources, has attracted a great deal of attention because of is exceptional mechanical properties, lightweight
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Introduction of biomass-based nanofillers into the polyamide matrix may represent a sustainable approach for the development of high-performance engineering plastics. From this standpoint, nanocellulose, derived from various cellulosic sources, has attracted a great deal of attention because of is exceptional mechanical properties, lightweight nature, and biodegradability, which presents significant advantages over conventional inorganic fillers. However, a technical challenge arises in the industrially favorable melt processing of polyamides and nanocellulose. This challenge is associated with the thermal degradation of nanocellulose at high processing temperatures, as well as the strong tendency of nanocellulose to aggregate within the polymer matrix. This review examines recent developments to address these issues. Key approaches based on the surface treatment of nanocellulose as well as optimization of processing conditions are discussed in detail, which can provide insights on the development of nanocellulose-reinforced polyamide composites.
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(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites)
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Open AccessArticle
On the Fabrication Processes of Structural Supercapacitors by Resin Transfer Molding and Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding
by
Chien-Chih Wu and Wen-Bin Young
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100418 - 11 Oct 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the manufacturing processes for structural supercapacitors (SSCs) using smear molding (RS), resin transfer molding (RTM), and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). Woven carbon fibers were used as the electrode, woven glass fibers as an insulating layer, and an alkaline/epoxy compound
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This study investigated the manufacturing processes for structural supercapacitors (SSCs) using smear molding (RS), resin transfer molding (RTM), and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). Woven carbon fibers were used as the electrode, woven glass fibers as an insulating layer, and an alkaline/epoxy compound as the electrolyte. In the RTM process, due to the vacuum and the high-pressure injection of the electrolyte, the electrochemical and mechanical properties of the SSC can be greatly improved, and the void contents in the SSC can be reduced. The balanced electrochemical performance and mechanical properties of SSCs were observed in the range of epoxy content from 15 wt% to 30 wt%. This study contributes to the development of SSCs through the establishment of the fabrication process for improvements in part quality. The fabrication method demonstrated here can be directly applied by industries to produce even larger-scale SSCs, opening up new possibilities for practical implementation and scalability.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prospect and Current State-of-the-Art Progress in Composites for High-Performance Supercapacitors)
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Open AccessReview
Composite Panels from Wood Waste: A Detailed Review of Processes, Standards, and Applications
by
Isuri Tamura Amarasinghe, Yi Qian, Tharaka Gunawardena, Priyan Mendis and Benoit Belleville
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100417 - 11 Oct 2024
Abstract
The global demand for sustainable building materials has fuelled research into composite panels from wood waste. Despite their potential, the widespread adoption of this practice is hindered by the absence of quality standards, inconsistent material properties, and uncertainties about durability and strength. This
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The global demand for sustainable building materials has fuelled research into composite panels from wood waste. Despite their potential, the widespread adoption of this practice is hindered by the absence of quality standards, inconsistent material properties, and uncertainties about durability and strength. This paper critically reviews existing standards, manufacturing processes, and the suitability of panels from wood waste. A systematic review is conducted to identify the influencing processes and parameters affecting panel performance, from waste collection to the finishing stages. The findings indicate that incorporating 10–30% of wood waste can enhance the mechanical and physical properties, with particularly improved hygroscopic properties and greater dimensional stability. By establishing comprehensive standards and optimizing manufacturing processes, wood waste-based panels can emerge as a viable and eco-friendly alternative. Furthermore, the potential for repeated recycling in a closed-loop process offers promising environmental benefits, though it necessitates balancing resource conservation with product quality. By addressing these challenges, wood waste-based panels can significantly contribute to environmental conservation and resource management.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composites: A Sustainable Material Solution)
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Open AccessReview
Prediction of Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed Particle-Reinforced Resin Composites
by
K. Rooney, Y. Dong, A. K. Basak and A. Pramanik
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100416 - 10 Oct 2024
Abstract
This review explores fundamental analytical modelling approaches using conventional composite theory and artificial intelligence (AI) to predict mechanical properties of 3D printed particle-reinforced resin composites via digital light processing (DLP). Their mechanisms, advancement, limitations, validity, drawbacks and feasibility are critically investigated. It has
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This review explores fundamental analytical modelling approaches using conventional composite theory and artificial intelligence (AI) to predict mechanical properties of 3D printed particle-reinforced resin composites via digital light processing (DLP). Their mechanisms, advancement, limitations, validity, drawbacks and feasibility are critically investigated. It has been found that conventional Halpin-Tsai model with a percolation threshold enables the capture of nonlinear effect of particle reinforcement to effectively predict mechanical properties of DLP-based resin composites reinforced with various particles. The paper further explores how AI techniques, such as machine learning and Bayesian neural networks (BNNs), enhance prediction accuracy by extracting patterns from extensive datasets and providing probabilistic predictions with confidence intervals. This review aims to advance a better understanding of material behaviour in additive manufacturing (AM). It demonstrates exciting potential for performance enhancement of 3D printed particle-reinforced resin composites, employing the optimisation of both material selection and processing parameters. It also demonstrates the benefit of combining empirical models with AI-driven analytics to optimise material selection and processing parameters, thereby advancing material behaviour understanding and performance enhancement in AM applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Journal of Composites Science in 2024)
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