Materials Technologies (United States)

Kaolinite was treated with silane and copper acetate using microwave (MW) heating at different time intervals. The prepared kaolinites were utilized as fillers (10 phr) in SMR composites. FT-IR, thermal analysis, and SEM demonstrate alterations in the spectral and structural properties after merely 30 min. of chemical/MW treatment. The application of silanized fillers resulted in a decreased vulcanization rate and facilitated the processing and curing of the composites. The favorable mechanical properties affirm the reinforcement provided by MW-modified kaolinite.

High-temperature photothermal response functional materials are an important branch of advanced photothermal materials. However, pure organic high-temperature photothermal materials are currently relatively scarce, and their molecular design and synthesis are challenging. In this research, a highly efficient [2 + 2] cycloaddition–retroelectrocyclization reaction has been carried out between the precursor molecule containing N,N-diphenyl-4-(phenylethynyl)aniline and piperazine-2,5-dione units (TP) and the typical electron-deficient unit 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (4F-TCNQ), and a rigid and twisted high-temperature photothermal organic material (named TTP) has been successfully designed and synthesized. This material is easy to synthesize and solution-processable, has broad spectral absorption (320–1900 nm), and can be triggered for high-temperature (∼400 °C) photothermal response by a near-infrared region II (NIR-II) laser (1064 nm). It has also been successfully applied to laser ignition, the construction of high-temperature shape memory actuators, and photowelding of metals with a 1064 nm laser, demonstrating the attractive potential for high-temperature NIR-II photothermal applications.

This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the microstructure and mineralogy of the paper-like material found in Asian hornet nests (referred to as AHN P-LM) and the nearby tree leaves, utilising scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analysis conducted through SEM-EDS demonstrates that AHN P-LM is primarily composed of plant fragments, with slight traces of inorganic substances (such as CaOx). The thread-like morphologies observed in the SEM analysis, which are linked to the secretion of hornets, warrant attention due to their significance in understanding the microstructure of AHN P-LM. The presence of nitrogen (N) in the EDS analysis of AHN P-LM, in contrast to its absence in analysed leaves, strongly implies that the nitrogen originates from hornet saliva. Additionally, SEM-EDS analysis revealed the impact of chemical composition variations on colour differences within AHN P-LM. Furthermore, X-ray diffraction analysis on ash samples from AHN P-LM confirmed the presence of minerals such as quartz, lime, phlogopite, and microcline. These findings about mineral composition align closely with results obtained from SEM-EDS analyses, presenting various aspects related to understanding the structure and compositional makeup of AHN P-LM. Biomimicry principles can be applied to draw inspiration from the AHN P-LM for replication in the civil engineering field, facilitating innovative solutions. Understanding hornet behaviour and nest material composition is essential. Future outlook includes utilising these materials in wood construction, 3D printing for structural components, shelters, infrastructure repair, green building, and architectural innovation.

The article investigates the effect of diffusion plasma exposure time (30 s, 60 s) on the physicochemical properties of the surface of a natural rubber-based composite. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to assess the properties. Wettability and surface free energy tests were also performed. The application of plasma leads to surface oxidation (EDS). The obtained properties did not change for 21 days, and the plasma exposure time had no significant effect on the physicochemical changes of the composite surface.