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23 pages, 2051 KB  
Article
Experimental Analysis of Ultraviolet Radiation Transmission Behavior in Fiber-Reinforced Thermoset Composites During Photopolymerization
by Ludovico Biavati, Sylvester Vogl and Klaus Drechsler
Textiles 2025, 5(4), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles5040044 (registering DOI) - 8 Oct 2025
Abstract
As the importance of sustainability and performance increases, new developments in the manufacturing of fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPC) are requested. Ultraviolet (UV) curing offers a faster, more economical, and eco-friendlier alternative to conventionally used thermal curing methods, e.g., autoclave curing, but according to [...] Read more.
As the importance of sustainability and performance increases, new developments in the manufacturing of fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPC) are requested. Ultraviolet (UV) curing offers a faster, more economical, and eco-friendlier alternative to conventionally used thermal curing methods, e.g., autoclave curing, but according to extant research, also presents some shortcomings, such as limitations to thin FRPCs and transparent glass fibers (GFs). This study analyses the UV light transmission in different thermoset FRPCs by irradiating various fiber samples on one side, while a sensor on the opposite side measures the transmitted irradiance. The materials investigated include unidirectional (UD) carbon fibers (CF), UD flax fibers (FF), and six GF fabrics with different ply structures. The fiber samples are tested in a dry, non-impregnated state and a resin-impregnated state using a UV-curable vinyl-ester-based resin. The results show that up to 16 plies of five GF fabrics are fully cured within the 20 s irradiation time and still exhibit a relatively high light transmission, revealing the potential of curing thick FRPCs with UV light. Furthermore, up to three plies of non-transparent FFs are cured, which is promising for the UV curing of natural fibers. Full article
21 pages, 5920 KB  
Article
Enhanced CO2 Separation Performance of Mixed Matrix Membranes with Pebax and Amino-Functionalized Carbon Nitride Nanosheets
by Mengran Hua, Qinqin Sun, Na Li, Mingchao Zhu, Yongze Lu, Zhaoxia Hu and Shouwen Chen
Membranes 2025, 15(10), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15100306 - 7 Oct 2025
Abstract
Highly permeable and selective membranes are crucial for energy-efficient gas separation. Two-dimensional (2D) graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has attracted significant attention due to its unique structural characteristics, including ultra-thin thickness, inherent surface porosity, and abundant amine groups. However, the [...] Read more.
Highly permeable and selective membranes are crucial for energy-efficient gas separation. Two-dimensional (2D) graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has attracted significant attention due to its unique structural characteristics, including ultra-thin thickness, inherent surface porosity, and abundant amine groups. However, the interfacial defects caused by poor compatibility between g-C3N4 and polymers deteriorate the separation performance of membrane materials. In this study, amino-functionalized g-C3N4 nanosheets (CN@PEI) was prepared by a post-synthesis method, then blended with the polymer Pebax to fabricate Pebax/CN@PEI mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). Compared to g-C3N4, MMMs with CN@PEI loading of 20 wt% as nanofiller exhibited a CO2 permeance of 241 Barrer as well as the CO2/CH4 and CO2/N2 selectivity of 39.7 and 61.2, respectively, at the feed gas pressure of 2 bar, which approaches the 2008 Robeson upper bound and exceeded the 1991 Robeson upper bound. The Pebax/CN@PEI (20) membrane showed robust stability performance over 70 h continuous gas permeability testing, and no significant decline was observed. SEM characterization revealed a uniform dispersion of CN@PEI throughout the Pebax matrix, demonstrating excellent interfacial compatibility between the components. The increased free volume fraction, enhanced solubility, and higher diffusion coefficient demonstrated that the incorporation of CN@PEI nanosheets introduced more CO2-philic amino groups and disrupted the chain packing of the Pebax matrix, thereby creating additional diffusion channels and facilitating CO2 transport. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Membranes for Carbon Capture and Conversion)
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21 pages, 6377 KB  
Article
Fatigue Strength Study of WAAM-Fabricated Shafts with Stacked Steel Ring Substrates Using Advanced Modeling
by Pham Son Minh, Quang Tri Truong and Van-Minh Nguyen
Metals 2025, 15(10), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15101110 - 6 Oct 2025
Viewed by 41
Abstract
This study investigates the fatigue performance of 3D-printed metal shafts fabricated via Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) with stacked steel ring substrates under rotating bending (ISO 1143:2021). A Taguchi L25 orthogonal array was used to analyze five process parameters: ring diameter, current intensity, [...] Read more.
This study investigates the fatigue performance of 3D-printed metal shafts fabricated via Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) with stacked steel ring substrates under rotating bending (ISO 1143:2021). A Taguchi L25 orthogonal array was used to analyze five process parameters: ring diameter, current intensity, torch speed, ring thickness, and contact tip to workpiece distance (CTWD). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) identified ring diameter as the dominant factor, significantly enhancing fatigue life at 14.0 mm by reducing stress concentrations. Current intensity (125 A) and torch speed (550 mm/min) further improve weld quality and microstructure, while ring thickness (1.0 mm) and CTWD (1.5 mm) have minor effects. A linear regression model (R2 = 0.9603) accurately predicts fatigue life, with optimal settings yielding 299,730 cycles. The stacked-ring configuration enables intricate structures like cooling channels, ideal for aerospace and automotive applications. The 3.5% unexplained variance suggests parameter interactions, warranting further investigation into shielding gas effects and multiaxial loading to broaden material and loading applicability. Full article
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17 pages, 3452 KB  
Article
Formation of Protective Coatings on TZM Molybdenum Alloy by Complex Aluminosiliconizing and Application of a Preceramic Layer
by Tetiana Loskutova, Volodymyr Taran, Manja Krüger, Nadiia Kharchenko, Myroslav Karpets, Yaroslav Stelmakh, Georg Hasemann and Michael Scheffler
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1168; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101168 - 5 Oct 2025
Viewed by 178
Abstract
The use of molybdenum-based alloys as materials for components operating under high temperatures and significant mechanical loads is widely recognized due to their excellent mechanical properties. However, their low high-temperature resistance remains a critical limitation, which can be effectively mitigated by applying protective [...] Read more.
The use of molybdenum-based alloys as materials for components operating under high temperatures and significant mechanical loads is widely recognized due to their excellent mechanical properties. However, their low high-temperature resistance remains a critical limitation, which can be effectively mitigated by applying protective coatings. In this study, we investigate the influence of a two-step coating process on the properties and performance of the TZM molybdenum alloy. In the first step, pack cementation was performed. Simultaneous surface saturation with aluminum and silicon, a process known as aluminosiliconizing, was conducted at 1000 °C for 6 h. The saturating mixture comprised powders of aluminum, silicon, aluminum oxide, and ammonium chloride. The second step involved the application of a pre-ceramic coating based on polyhydrosiloxane modified with silicon and boron. This treatment effectively eliminated pores and cracks within the coating. Thermodynamic calculations were carried out to evaluate the likelihood of aluminizing and siliconizing reactions under the applied conditions. Aluminosiliconizing of the TZM alloy resulted in the formation of a protective layer 20–30 µm thick. The multiphase structure of this layer included intermetallics (Al63Mo37, MoAl3), nitrides (Mo2N, AlN, Si3N4), oxide (Al2O3), and a solid solution α-Mo(Al). Subsequent treatment with silicon- and boron-modified polyhydrosiloxane led to the development of a thicker surface layer, 130–160 µm in thickness, composed of crystalline Si, amorphous SiO2, and likely amorphous boron. A transitional oxide layer ((Al,Si)2O3) 5–7 µm thick was also observed. The resulting coating demonstrated excellent structural integrity and chemical inertness in an argon atmosphere at temperatures up to 1100 °C. High-temperature stability at 800 °C was observed for both coating types: aluminosiliconizing, and aluminosiliconizing followed by the pre-ceramic coating. Moreover, additional oxide layers of SiO2 and B2O3 formed on the two-step coated TZM alloy during heating at 800 °C for 24 h. These layers acted as an effective barrier, preventing the evaporation of the substrate material. Full article
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12 pages, 2884 KB  
Article
Potential Application of Fibers Extracted from Recycled Maple Leaf Waste in Broadband Sound Absorption
by Jie Jin, Yecheng Feng, Haipeng Hao, Yunle Cao and Zhuqing Zhang
Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3582; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193582 - 5 Oct 2025
Viewed by 159
Abstract
To address environmental pollution issues and optimize the utilization of waste biomass resources, this study proposes a novel eco-friendly sound-absorbing material based on maple leaf waste and tests its sound absorption performance. The fibers were extracted from maple leaf waste through a wet [...] Read more.
To address environmental pollution issues and optimize the utilization of waste biomass resources, this study proposes a novel eco-friendly sound-absorbing material based on maple leaf waste and tests its sound absorption performance. The fibers were extracted from maple leaf waste through a wet decomposition and grinding process. Metallurgical microscopy was employed to observe the microstructural characteristics of maple leaf fibers to identify the potential synergistic effect. The effects of two key factors—sample thickness and mass density—on sound absorption performance were investigated. The sound absorption coefficients were measured using the transfer function method in a dual-microphone impedance tube to evaluate their sound-absorbing performance. Experimental results demonstrate that the prepared maple leaf fibers, as acoustic materials, exhibit excellent acoustic performance across a wide frequency range, with an average sound absorption coefficient of 0.7. Increasing sample thickness improves the sound absorption coefficient in low- and mid-frequency ranges. Additionally, increased sample mass density was found to enhance acoustic performance in low- and mid-frequency bands. This study developed an eco-friendly material with lightweight and efficient acoustic absorption properties using completely biodegradable maple leaf waste. The results provide high-performance, economical, and ecologically sustainable solutions for controlling building and traffic noise while promoting the development of eco-friendly acoustic materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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18 pages, 1472 KB  
Article
Cassava Starch–Onion Peel Powder Biocomposite Films: Functional, Mechanical, and Barrier Properties for Biodegradable Packaging
by Assala Torche, Toufik Chouana, Soufiane Bensalem, Meyada Khaled, Fares Mohammed Laid Rekbi, Elyes Kelai, Şükran Aşgın Uzun, Furkan Türker Sarıcaoğlu, Maria D’Elia and Luca Rastrelli
Polymers 2025, 17(19), 2690; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17192690 - 4 Oct 2025
Viewed by 533
Abstract
This study valorizes onion peel, an agro-industrial by-product rich in phenolic compounds and structural carbohydrates, for the development of cassava starch-based biodegradable films. The films were prepared using the solution casting method; a cassava starch matrix was mixed with a 2.5% glycerol solution [...] Read more.
This study valorizes onion peel, an agro-industrial by-product rich in phenolic compounds and structural carbohydrates, for the development of cassava starch-based biodegradable films. The films were prepared using the solution casting method; a cassava starch matrix was mixed with a 2.5% glycerol solution and heated to 85 °C for 30 min. A separate solution of onion peel powder (OPP) in distilled water was prepared at 25 °C. The two solutions were then combined and stirred for an additional 2 min before 25 mL of the final mixture was cast to form the films. Onion peel powder (OPP) incorporation produced darker and more opaque films, suitable for packaging light-sensitive foods. Film thickness increased with OPP content (0.138–0.218 mm), while moisture content (19.2–32.6%) and solubility (24.0–25.2%) decreased. Conversely, water vapor permeability (WVP) significantly increased (1.69 × 10−9–2.77 × 10−9 g·m−1·s−1·Pa−1; p < 0.0001), reflecting the hydrophilic nature of OPP. Thermal analysis (TGA/DSC) indicated stability up to 245 °C, supporting applications as food coatings. Morphological analysis (SEM) revealed OPP microparticles embedded in the starch matrix, with FTIR and XRD suggesting electrostatic and hydrogen–bond interactions. Mechanically, tensile strength improved (up to 2.71 MPa) while elongation decreased (14.1%), indicating stronger but less flexible films. Biodegradability assays showed slightly reduced degradation (29.0–31.8%) compared with the control (38.4%), likely due to antimicrobial phenolics inhibiting soil microbiota. Overall, OPP and cassava starch represent low-cost, abundant raw materials for the formulation of functional biopolymer films with potential in sustainable food packaging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Biopolymer-Based Composites in Food Technology)
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19 pages, 4026 KB  
Article
Structural Optimization of Sustainable Lightweight Hemp Shive-Fiber Panels
by Viktor Savov, Petar Antov, Viktoria Dudeva and Georgi Ivanov
Forests 2025, 16(10), 1541; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16101541 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 211
Abstract
This study investigates the structural optimization of lightweight three-layer panels made from industrial hemp shives (core) and hemp fibers (faces) as a sustainable alternative to wood-based materials in furniture manufacturing. Panels with target densities of 400–600 kg·m−3 and face-layer contents of 30%–50%were [...] Read more.
This study investigates the structural optimization of lightweight three-layer panels made from industrial hemp shives (core) and hemp fibers (faces) as a sustainable alternative to wood-based materials in furniture manufacturing. Panels with target densities of 400–600 kg·m−3 and face-layer contents of 30%–50%were produced and tested to European standards. The optimal configuration—600 kg·m−3 with ~37%–41% face layers—achieved a modulus of elasticity up to 3750 N·mm−2 and a bending strength (MOR) up to 21.57 N·mm−2. Across the design space, water absorption ranged from ~83% to 162%, and the minimum thickness swelling was ~29%, indicating that while the mechanical properties meet the requirements for P2 particleboards (EN 312) and in some cases approach MDF benchmarks for dry use, thickness swelling remains above the EN 622-5 limit (12%) and thus precludes MDF classification. These findings demonstrate the technical feasibility of hemp shive–fiber panels and underscore the need to balance density and face-layer ratio to avoid loss of core densification at excessive face contents. From a sustainability perspective, the use of rapidly renewable hemp and agricultural residues highlights the potential of these composites to support resource-efficient, low-carbon furniture production, while future work should target improved water resistance through binder and process modifications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research and Technology on Biomass Materials in Forestry)
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28 pages, 7165 KB  
Article
Phosphate Low-Melting Glasses as Synergist in Flame-Retardant Cable Sheath Composition: Performance and Mode of Action
by Diana Amin Alsayed, Rodolphe Sonnier, Belkacem Otazaghine, Patrick Jean, Yves Brocheton and Laurent Ferry
Polymers 2025, 17(19), 2679; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17192679 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 334
Abstract
Nowadays, fiber optic cables are a strategic issue because of their importance in telecommunications. Due to the densification of optic cables and the reduction in polymeric layer thickness, the flammability of the external sheath has to be improved. Three novel flame-retardant compositions using [...] Read more.
Nowadays, fiber optic cables are a strategic issue because of their importance in telecommunications. Due to the densification of optic cables and the reduction in polymeric layer thickness, the flammability of the external sheath has to be improved. Three novel flame-retardant compositions using phosphate low-melting glasses (LMGs) as aluminum trihydrate (ATH) synergist were assessed in a polyethylene–ethylene vinyl acetate (PE-EVA) matrix. It was highlighted that LMG at a 10 wt% content reduced the peak and mean value of heat release rate (HRR), respectively, to 142 and 90 kW/m2 corresponding to 52% and 42% reduction compared to ATH only. Potassium phosphate LMG was shown to perform better than sodium or zinc phosphate LMG. The improvement was assigned to the formation of an expanded mineral layer at the surface of the material during combustion that acts as a thermal shield slowing down the pyrolysis rate. The structural analysis revealed that the presence of alkaline cations in glasses led to short phosphate chains that resulted in low softening point and low-viscosity liquid. It was evidenced that under heat exposure the melted glass is likely to flow between the dehydrating ATH particles, creating a cohesive layer that expands. Additionally, interactions between ATH and LMG were also evidenced. The new crystalline species may also play a role in the cohesion of the layer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flame-Retardant Polymer Composites II)
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27 pages, 8850 KB  
Article
Dual-Path Framework Analysis of Crack Detection Algorithm and Scenario Simulation on Fujian Tulou Surface
by Yanfeng Hu, Shaokang Chen, Zhuang Zhao and Si Cheng
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1156; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101156 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
Fujian Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is highly vulnerable to environmental and anthropogenic stresses, with its earthen walls prone to surface cracking that threatens both structural stability and cultural value. Traditional manual inspection is inefficient, subjective, and may disturb fragile surfaces, highlighting [...] Read more.
Fujian Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is highly vulnerable to environmental and anthropogenic stresses, with its earthen walls prone to surface cracking that threatens both structural stability and cultural value. Traditional manual inspection is inefficient, subjective, and may disturb fragile surfaces, highlighting the need for non-destructive and automated solutions. This study proposes a dual-path framework that integrates lightweight crack detection with independent physical simulation. On the detection side, an improved YOLOv12 model is developed to achieve lightweight and accurate recognition of multiple crack types under complex wall textures. On the simulation side, a two-layer RFPA3D model was employed to parameterize loading conditions and material thickness, reproducing the four-stage crack evolution process, and aligning well with field observations. Quantitative validation across paired samples demonstrates improved consistency in morphology, geometry, and topology compared with baseline models. Overall, the framework offers an effective and interpretable solution for standardized crack documentation and mechanistic interpretation, providing practical benefits for the preventive conservation and sustainable management of Fujian Tulou. Full article
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19 pages, 6667 KB  
Article
Numerical Simulation Analysis of Twin-PBL Rubber-Ring Shear Connector
by Jun Wei, Peiwen Chen and Qiaowen Hu
Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3567; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193567 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 160
Abstract
In recent years, a growing number of studies have focused on improving shear distribution and mitigating stress concentration in PBL shear connectors through the incorporation of composite materials. However, research on Twin-PBL shear connectors remains limited. Therefore, this study employed the finite element [...] Read more.
In recent years, a growing number of studies have focused on improving shear distribution and mitigating stress concentration in PBL shear connectors through the incorporation of composite materials. However, research on Twin-PBL shear connectors remains limited. Therefore, this study employed the finite element method to develop 23 finite element models to evaluate the shear performance of the Twin-PBL rubber-ring shear connector. The results indicate that the Twin-PBL rubber-ring shear connector with a 4 mm thick rubber ring exhibits a 7.5% decrease in shear force and a 71.1% reduction in shear stiffness compared to the conventional Twin-PBL shear connector. Furthermore, parametric analysis reveals that increasing the thickness of the rubber ring reduces both shear capacity and shear stiffness, while higher concrete strength, greater perforated rebar strength, and larger perforated rebar diameter enhance both shear capacity and stiffness. In contrast, the strength of the perfobond steel plate has minimal influence. Based on these findings, a predictive formula is proposed to estimate the shear capacity of the Twin-PBL rubber-ring shear connector. Full article
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22 pages, 6737 KB  
Article
Molecular Dynamics Study on the Effect of Surface Films on the Nanometric Grinding Mechanism of Single-Crystal Silicon
by Meng Li, Di Chang, Pengyue Zhao and Jiubin Tan
Micromachines 2025, 16(10), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16101141 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 364
Abstract
To investigate the influence of surface films on the material removal mechanism of single-crystal silicon during nanogrinding, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed under different surface-film conditions. The simulations examined atomic displacements, grinding forces, radial distribution functions (RDF), phase transformations, temperature distributions, and [...] Read more.
To investigate the influence of surface films on the material removal mechanism of single-crystal silicon during nanogrinding, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed under different surface-film conditions. The simulations examined atomic displacements, grinding forces, radial distribution functions (RDF), phase transformations, temperature distributions, and residual stress distributions to elucidate the damage mechanisms at the surface and subsurface on the nanoscale. In this study, boron nitride (BN) and graphene films were applied to the surface of single-crystal silicon workpieces for nanogrinding simulations. The results reveal that both BN and graphene films effectively suppress chip formation, thereby improving the surface quality of the workpiece, with graphene showing a stronger inhibitory effect on atomic displacements. Both films reduce tangential forces and mitigate grinding force fluctuations, while increasing normal forces; the increase in normal force is smaller with BN. Although both films enlarge the subsurface damage layer (SDL) thickness and exhibit limited suppression of crystalline phase transformations, they help to alleviate surface stress release. In addition, the films reduce the surface and subsurface temperatures, with graphene yielding a lower temperature. Residual stresses beneath the abrasive grain are also reduced when either film is applied. Overall, BN and graphene films can enhance the machined surface quality, but further optimization is required to minimize subsurface damage (SSD), providing useful insights for the optimization of single-crystal silicon nanogrinding processes. Full article
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15 pages, 3467 KB  
Article
Repeated Impact Performance of Carbon Spread-Tow Woven Stitched Composite with Anti-Sandwich Structure
by Minrui Jia, Jingna Su, Ao Liu, Teng Fan, Liwei Wu, Kunpeng Luo, Qian Jiang and Zhenkai Wan
Polymers 2025, 17(19), 2670; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17192670 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 252
Abstract
Spread-tow woven fabrics (STWs) have attracted considerable attention owing to their thin-layered characteristics, high fiber strength utilization rate and superior designability, finding wide application in the aerospace field. To meet the application requirements for materials with high specific strength/specific modulus in the aerospace [...] Read more.
Spread-tow woven fabrics (STWs) have attracted considerable attention owing to their thin-layered characteristics, high fiber strength utilization rate and superior designability, finding wide application in the aerospace field. To meet the application requirements for materials with high specific strength/specific modulus in the aerospace field, this study designed an anti-sandwich structured composite with high specific load-bearing capacity. Herein, the core layer was a load-bearing structure composed of STW, while the surface layers were hybrid lightweight structures made of STW and nonwoven (NW) felt. Repeated impact test results showed that increasing the thickness ratio of the core layer enhanced the impact resistant stiffness of the overall structure, whereas increasing the proportion of NW felt in the surface layers improved the energy absorption of the composites but reduced their load-bearing stiffness and strength. The composite exhibited superior repeated impact resistance, achieving a peak impact load of 17.43 kN when the thickness ratio of the core layer to the surface layers was 2:1 and the hybrid ratio of the surface layers was 3:1. No penetration occurred after 20 repeated impacts at the 50 J or 3 repeated impacts at 100 J. Meanwhile, both the maximum displacement and impact duration increased, whereas the bending stiffness declined as the number of impacts increased. The failure mode was mainly characterized by progressive interfacial cracking in the surface layers and fracture in the core layer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
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23 pages, 2194 KB  
Article
Long-Term Evaluation of CNT-Clad Stainless-Steel Cathodes in Multi-Channel Microbial Electrolysis Cells Under Variable Conditions
by Kevin Linowski, Md Zahidul Islam, Luguang Wang, Fei Long, Choongho Yu and Hong Liu
Energies 2025, 18(19), 5241; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18195241 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 247
Abstract
Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) present a viable platform for sustainable hydrogen generation from organic waste, but their scalability is limited by cathode performance, cost, and durability. This study evaluates three hybrid carbon nanotube (CNT) cathodes—acid-washed CNT (AW-CNT), thin layer non-acid-washed CNT (TN-NAW-CNT), and [...] Read more.
Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) present a viable platform for sustainable hydrogen generation from organic waste, but their scalability is limited by cathode performance, cost, and durability. This study evaluates three hybrid carbon nanotube (CNT) cathodes—acid-washed CNT (AW-CNT), thin layer non-acid-washed CNT (TN-NAW-CNT), and thick layer non-acid-washed CNT (TK-NAW-CNT)—each composed of stainless-steel-supported CNTs coated with molybdenum phosphide (MoP). These were benchmarked against woven carbon cloth (WCC) under varied operational conditions. A custom multi-channel reactor operated for 341 days, testing cathode performance across applied voltages (0.7–1.2 V), buffer types (phosphate vs. bicarbonate), pH (7.0 and 8.5), buffer concentrations (10–200 mM), and substrates including acetate, lactate, and treated acid whey. CNT-based cathodes consistently showed higher current densities than WCC across most conditions with significant difference found at higher applied voltages. TK-NAW-CNT achieved peak current densities of 259 A m−2 at 1.2 V and maintained >41 A m−2 in real-waste conditions with no added buffer. Long-term performance losses were minimal: 4.5% (TN-NAW-CNT), 0.1% (TK-NAW-CNT), 10.8% (AW-CNT), and 6.8% (WCC). CNT cathodes showed improved performance from reduced resistance and greater electrochemical stability, while proton transfer improvements benefited all materials due to buffer type and pH conditions. These results highlight CNT-based cathodes as promising, scalable alternatives to WCC for energy-positive wastewater treatment. Full article
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25 pages, 4111 KB  
Article
Influence of the Pattern of Coupling of Elements and Antifriction Interlayer Thickness of a Spherical Bearing on Structural Behavior
by Anna A. Kamenskikh, Anastasia P. Bogdanova, Yuriy O. Nosov and Yulia S. Kuznetsova
Designs 2025, 9(5), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9050117 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 199
Abstract
In this study, the behavior of the spherical bearing component of the L-100 bridge part (AlfaTech LLC, Perm, Russia) is considered within the framework of a finite element model. The influence of the pattern of the coupling of the antifriction interlayer with the [...] Read more.
In this study, the behavior of the spherical bearing component of the L-100 bridge part (AlfaTech LLC, Perm, Russia) is considered within the framework of a finite element model. The influence of the pattern of the coupling of the antifriction interlayer with the lower steel plate on the operation of the part is examined in terms of ideal contact, full adhesion, and frictional contact. The thickness of the antifriction interlayer varied from 4 to 12 mm. The dependencies of the contact parameters and the stress–strain state on the thickness were determined. Structurally modified polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) without AR-200 fillers was considered the material of the antifriction interlayer. The gradual refinement of the behavioral model of the antifriction material to account for structural and relaxation transitions was carried based on a wide range of experimental studies. The elastic–plastic and primary viscoelastic models of material behavior were constructed based on a series of homogeneous deformed-state experiments. The viscoelastic model of material behavior was refined using data from dynamic mechanical analysis over a wide temperature range [−40; +80] °C. In the first approximation, a model of the deformation theory of plasticity with linear elastic volumetric compressibility was identified. As a second approximation, a viscoelasticity model for the Maxwell body was constructed using Prony series. It was established that the viscoelastic model of the material allows for obtaining data on the behavior of the part with an error of no more than 15%. The numerical analog of the construction in an axisymmetric formulation can be used for the predictive analysis of the behavior of the bearing, including when changing the geometric configuration. Recommendations for the numerical modeling of the behavior of antifriction layer materials and the coupling pattern of the bearing elements are given in this work. A spherical bearing with an antifriction interlayer made of Arflon series material is considered for the first time. Full article
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11 pages, 702 KB  
Article
Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Diaphragm and Abdominal Wall Muscle Thickness with Fatty Liver Density in Elderly Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Eda Gökçelik, Coşkun Yılmaz, Cemallettin Budak, Hakan Hüseyin Soylu, Serdar Bayrakdaroğlu, Halil İbrahim Ceylan, Raul Ioan Muntean, Hamza Küçük and Levent Ceylan
Medicina 2025, 61(10), 1784; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61101784 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 272
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Post-menopausal estrogen decline is considered a contributing factor to sarcopenia, and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may provide benefits in this demographic. This study examined the impact of a four-week IMT program on diaphragm thickness, abdominal wall muscle thickness (AWMT; transversus [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Post-menopausal estrogen decline is considered a contributing factor to sarcopenia, and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may provide benefits in this demographic. This study examined the impact of a four-week IMT program on diaphragm thickness, abdominal wall muscle thickness (AWMT; transversus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique), and liver fat percentage in healthy elderly women. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six women aged 60–80 years were randomly assigned to an IMT group (n = 13) or a control group (n = 13). The IMT group used the PowerBreathe® Classic device at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), with weekly increments of 10%. Training was performed twice daily, five days per week, with 30 breathing cycles per session (60 per day). The control group maintained their usual routines. AWMT, diaphragm thickness (DT), and fatty liver density (FLD) were measured by a radiologist before and after the intervention. Results: After four weeks, the IMT group showed significant improvements in all parameters compared to controls. Mid-diaphragm thickness (MDT) increased by 11.44% (effect size (ES) = 0.358, p < 0.001) versus 0.76% in controls (p = 0.271). Posterior diaphragm thickness (PDT) improved by 7.48% (ES = 0.282, p < 0.001) versus 0.38% (p = 0.564). Right AWMT increased by 12.7% (ES = 0.492, p < 0.001) compared to 0.10% (p = 0.872), and left AWMT increased by 9.93% (ES = 0.395, p < 0.001) versus 2.64% (p = 0.014). FLD improved by 11.79% (ES = 0.959, p < 0.001) in the IMT group, while the control group showed no meaningful change (−0.13%, p = 0.847). Conclusions: A short-term IMT protocol significantly enhanced diaphragm and AWMT and reduced liver fat in elderly women. These findings support the use of IMT as a simple, non-invasive intervention to preserve musculoskeletal and metabolic health in aging populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Therapy: A New Perspective)
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