Ti-6Al-4Zr-2Sn-6Mo alloy is one of the most recent titanium alloys processed using powder bed fusion-laser beam(PBF-LB)technology.This alloy has the potential to replace Ti-6Al-4V in automotive and aerospace applicati...Ti-6Al-4Zr-2Sn-6Mo alloy is one of the most recent titanium alloys processed using powder bed fusion-laser beam(PBF-LB)technology.This alloy has the potential to replace Ti-6Al-4V in automotive and aerospace applications,given its superior mechanical properties,which are approximately 10%higher in terms of ultimate tensile strength(UTS)and yield strength after appropriate heat treatment.In as-built conditions,the alloy is characterized by the presence of soft orthorhombicα″martensite,necessitating a postprocessing heat treatment to decompose this phase and enhance the mechanical properties of the alloy.Usually,PBFed Ti6246 components undergo an annealing process that transforms theα″martensite into anα-βlamellar microstructure.The primary objective of this research was to develop a solution treatment and aging(STA)heat treatment tailored to the unique microstructure produced by the additive manufacturing process to achieve an ultrafine bilamellar microstructure reinforced by precipitation hardening.This study investigated the effects of various solution temperatures in theα-βfield(ranging from 800 to 875℃),cooling media(air and water),and aging time to determine the optimal heat treatment parameters for achieving the desired bilamellar microstructure.For each heat treatment condition,differentα-βmicrostructures were found,varying in terms of theα/βratio and the size of the primaryα-phase lamellae.Particular attention was given to how these factors were influenced by increases in solution temperature and how microhardness correlated with the percentage of the metastableβphase present after quenching.Tensile tests were performed on samples subjected to the most promising heat treatment parameters.A comparison with literature data revealed that the optimized STA treatment enhanced hardness and UTS by13%and 23%,respectively,compared with those of the annealed alloy.Fracture surface analyses were conducted to investigate fracture mechanisms.展开更多
Food production demand is constantly growing,entailing a proportional increment in fertilisers and pharmaceuticals use,which are eventually introduced to the environment,leading,among others,to an imbalance in the nit...Food production demand is constantly growing,entailing a proportional increment in fertilisers and pharmaceuticals use,which are eventually introduced to the environment,leading,among others,to an imbalance in the nitrogen cycle.Electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction is a delocalised route for nitrates elimination and green ammonia production.In the present study,we carry out nitrates electroreduction over a commercial MoS_(2)catalyst,focusing on optimising selected input factors affecting the reaction.Concretely,Doehlert design of experiment and response surface methodology are employed to find the proper combination of supporting salt concentration in the electrolyte,applied potential,and catalyst loading at the working electrode,with the overall aim to boost Faradaic efficiency(FE)and ammonia production.As a matter of fact,varying these input factors,the obtained FE values ranged from∼2%to∼80%,highlighting the strength of the newly conceived approach.Moreover,our multivariate strategy allows the quantification of each factor effect and elucidates hidden interactions between them.Finally,successful extended durability tests are performed for 100 h at both FE and productivity(P)optimal conditions.In parallel,cell electrodes are characterised by in-depth structural,morphological,and surface techniques,before and after ageing,overall demonstrating the outstanding stability of the proposed electrochemical reactor.展开更多
Electron beam melting(EBM) process is an additive manufacturing process largely used to produce complex metallic components made of high-performance materials for aerospace and medical applications.Especially,lattice ...Electron beam melting(EBM) process is an additive manufacturing process largely used to produce complex metallic components made of high-performance materials for aerospace and medical applications.Especially,lattice structures made by Ti-6A1-4V have represented a hot topic for the industrial sectors because of having a great potential to combine lower weights and higher performances that can also be tailored by subsequent heat treatments.However,the little knowledge about the mechanical behaviour of the lattice structures is limiting their applications.The present work aims to provide a comprehensive review of the studies on the mechanical behaviour of the lattice structures made of Ti-6A1-4V.The main steps to produce an EBM part were considered as guidelines to review the literature on the lattice performance:(1) design,(2) process and(3) post-heat treatment.Thereafter,the correlation between the geometrical features of the lattice structure and their mechanical behaviour is discussed.In addition,the correlation among the mechanical performance of the lattice structures and the process precision,surface roughness and working temperature are also reviewed.An investigation on the studies about the properties of heat-treated lattice structure is also conducted.展开更多
Nowadays, as an emerging technology, additive manufacturing(AM) has received numerous attentions from researchers around the world. The method comprises layer-by-layer manufacturing of products according to the 3D CAD...Nowadays, as an emerging technology, additive manufacturing(AM) has received numerous attentions from researchers around the world. The method comprises layer-by-layer manufacturing of products according to the 3D CAD models of the objects. Among other things, AM is capable of producing metal matrix composites(MMCs). Hence, plenty of works in the literature are dedicated to developing different types of MMCs through AM processes. Hence, this paper provides a comprehensive overview on the latest research that has been carried out on the development of the powder-based AM manufactured MMCs from a scientific and technological viewpoint, aimed at highlighting the opportunities and challenges of this innovative manufacturing process. For instance, it is documented that AM is not only able to resolve the reinforcement/matrix bonding issues usually faced with during conventional manufacturing of MMCs, but also it is capable of producing functionally graded composites and geometrically complex objects. Furthermore, it provides the opportunity for a uniform distribution of the reinforcing phase in the metallic matrix and is able to produce composites using refractory metals thanks to the local heat source employed in the method. Despite the aforementioned advantages, there are still some challenges needing more attention from the researchers. Rapid cooling nature of the process, significantly different coe fficient of expansion of the matrix and reinforcement, processability, and the lack of suitable parameters and standards for the production of defect-free AM MMCs seem to be among the most important issues to deal with in future works.展开更多
Rapidly solidified Al100-x-Cux alloys （x = 5, 10, 15, 25, 35 wt%） were prepared and analyzed. High cooling rate increased the Cu solubility in α-AI matrix. The influence of the cooling rate on Cu solubility extensi...Rapidly solidified Al100-x-Cux alloys （x = 5, 10, 15, 25, 35 wt%） were prepared and analyzed. High cooling rate increased the Cu solubility in α-AI matrix. The influence of the cooling rate on Cu solubility extension in AI was experimentally simulated. Thus the pouring was performed in metallic die and by melt spinning-low pressure （MS- LP） technique. Melt processing by liquid quenching was performed using a self-designed melt spinning set-up which combined the cooling technology of a melt jet on the spinning disc with the principle of the mold feeding from low pressure casting technology. The thickness of the melt-spun ribbons was in the range of 30-70 μm. The cooling rate provided by MS-LP was within 105-106 K/s after the device calibration. The obtained alloys were characterized from structural, thermal and mechanical point of view. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed for the microstructural characterization which was followed by X-ray analysis. The thermal properties were evaluated by dilatometric and differential scanning calorimetric measurements. Vickers microhardness measurements were performed in the study. In the case of the hypereutectic alloy with 35 wt% Cu obtained by MS-LP method, the microhardness value increased by 45% compared to the same alloy obtained by gravity casting method. This was due to the extended solubility of the alloying element in the α-AI solid solution.展开更多
The objective of this research is to improve the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of Al/GNPs（graphene nanoplatelets） nanocomposites produced by classical powder metallurgy and hot rolling techniques. T...The objective of this research is to improve the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of Al/GNPs（graphene nanoplatelets） nanocomposites produced by classical powder metallurgy and hot rolling techniques. The microstructural evaluation confirmed the uniform dispersion of GNPs at low content and agglomeration at higher contents of GNPs. The structure of graphene was studied before and after the mixing and the Raman spectrum proofs that the wet mixing has a great potential to be used as a dispersion method. There was no significant peak corresponding to the Al_4C_3 formation in both the differential scanning calorimetry curves and X-ray diffraction patterns. The microstructural observation in both fabrication techniques showed grain refinement as a function of the GNPs content. Moreover, the introduction of the GNPs not only improved the Vickers hardness of the composites but also decreased their density. The thermal conductivity investigations showed that in both the press-sintered and hot-rolled samples, although the thermal conductivity of composites was improved at low GNPs contents, it was negatively affected at high GNPs contents.展开更多
Objective： A direct-current, cold atmospheric-pressure air plasma microjet （PMJ） was performed to inactivate Staphylococcus aureus （S. aureus） and Enterococcusfaecalis （E. faecalis） in air. The process of steri...Objective： A direct-current, cold atmospheric-pressure air plasma microjet （PMJ） was performed to inactivate Staphylococcus aureus （S. aureus） and Enterococcusfaecalis （E. faecalis） in air. The process of sterilization and morphology of bacteria was observed. We wish to know the possible inactivation mechanisms of PMJ and explore a potential application in dental and other temperature sensitive treatment. Methods： In this study, we employed a direct current, atmospheric pressure, cold air PMJ to inactivate bacterias. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to evaluate the morphology of S. aureus and showed rupture of cell walls after the plasma treatment and Optical emission spectrum （OES） were used to understand the possible inactivation mechanisms of PMJ. Re- suits＂ The inactivation rates could reach 100% in 5 min. When the distance between the exit nozzle of the PMJ device and Petri dish was extended from 1 cm to 3 cm, effective inactivation was also observed with a similar inactivation curve. Conclusion： The inactivation of bacteria is attributed to the abundant reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, as well as ultroviolet radiation in the plasma. Different life spans and defensibilities of these killing agents may hold the key to understanding the different inactivation curves at different treatment distances.展开更多
In the electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide, high currents need to be employed to obtain large production rates, thus implying that mass transport of reactants and products is of crucial importance.This aspect...In the electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide, high currents need to be employed to obtain large production rates, thus implying that mass transport of reactants and products is of crucial importance.This aspect can be investigated by employing a model that depicts the local environment for the reduction reactions. Simultaneously, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, despite being a versatile technique, has rarely been adopted for studying the mass transport features during the carbon dioxide(CO_(2))electroreduction. In this work, this aspect is deeply analyzed by correlating the results of impedance spectroscopy characterization with those obtained by a bubble-induced mass transport modeling under controlled diffusion conditions on a gold rotating disk electrode. The effects of potential and rotation rate on the local environment are also clarified. In particular, it has been found that CO_(2) depletion occurs at high kinetics when the rotation is absent, giving rise to an increment of the competing hydrogen evolution reaction. This feature reflects in an enlargement of the diffusion resistance, which overcomes the charge transport one.展开更多
Ni layers were deposited on the two sides of pure Fe substrate by using electroplating to form Ni/Fe/Ni diffusion couple. After diffusion heat treatment, Fe-Ni laminated composite was obtained with Fe-Ni alloy/Fe/Fe-N...Ni layers were deposited on the two sides of pure Fe substrate by using electroplating to form Ni/Fe/Ni diffusion couple. After diffusion heat treatment, Fe-Ni laminated composite was obtained with Fe-Ni alloy/Fe/Fe-Ni alloy structure. The results indicate that the Fe-Ni layers combine well with the substrate and the Fe-Ni/Fe interface presents an interlocking microstructure with small-size grains. The concentration of element Ni in the Fe-Ni layer decreases from surface to interior exhibiting a gradient distribution. Geomagnetic shielding factor （SF） of Fe-Ni laminated composite can reach as high as 22.6, which is about seven times of that of pure Fe substrate. Mathematical equation of SF for laminated structure was derived according to magnetic circuit and resistance theory. The theoretical expression reveals that parameters such as the thickness and magnetic permeability of the shield material play an important role in the magnetic shielding behavior and the theoretical calculation results of SF coincide well with our experimental values.展开更多
A simple and reliable strategy was proposed to engineer the glutathione grafted graphene oxide/ZnO nanocomposite(glutathione-GO/ZnO)as electrode material for the high-performance piroxicam sensor.The prepared glutathi...A simple and reliable strategy was proposed to engineer the glutathione grafted graphene oxide/ZnO nanocomposite(glutathione-GO/ZnO)as electrode material for the high-performance piroxicam sensor.The prepared glutathione-GO/ZnO nanocomposite was well characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectrum(FTIR),X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),field emission scanning electron microscopy(FE-SEM),cyclic voltammetry(CV),electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS)and differential pulse voltammetry(DPV).The novel nanocomposite modified electrode showed the highest electrocatalytic activity towards piroxicam(oxidation potential is 0.52 V).Under controlled experimental parameters,the proposed sensor exhibited good linear responses to piroxicam concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 500 μM.The detection limit and sensitivity were calculated as 1.8 μM and 0.2 μA/μM·cm^(2),respectively.Moreover,it offered excellent selectivity,reproducibility,and long-term stability and can effectively ignore the interfering candidates commonly existing in the pharmaceutical tablets and human fluids even at a higher concentration.Finally,the reported sensor was successfully employed to the direct determination of piroxicam in practical samples.展开更多
Copper patinas are generally regarded as aesthetically pleasing and are supposed to protect copper against further corrosion. The preparation of artificial sulphate patina on bronzes has been realized by immersing the...Copper patinas are generally regarded as aesthetically pleasing and are supposed to protect copper against further corrosion. The preparation of artificial sulphate patina on bronzes has been realized by immersing the bronze into CuSO4 solution. The effect of immersion time on the formation of the patina has been investigated. The sulphate patina obtained with immersion time of 500 h in CuSO4 solution consists of fiat area and crystals. The flat area in the patina is mainly made of cuprite, whereas the crystals are mainly composed of brochantite. The electrochemical measurement of sulphate patina in simulated acid rain with pH 3.1 shows that the protective effectiveness of patina decreases with time and the dissolution of patina is the key factor leading to the degradation of patina. The investigation of the formation mechanism of sulphate patina shows that the cuprite layer forms on the surface of bronze in the initial patination. Then, crystal brochantite grows on the surface of cuprite by the oxidation of cuprite and the incorporation of CuSO4 solution.展开更多
This work investigated the sensitivity toward humidity, NO2 and H2 of ZnO modified sepiolite （Si12Mg8O30（OH）4.（H2O）4.8H2O）. To this aim, sepiolite powder was first modified by leaching magnesium ions in HCI then...This work investigated the sensitivity toward humidity, NO2 and H2 of ZnO modified sepiolite （Si12Mg8O30（OH）4.（H2O）4.8H2O）. To this aim, sepiolite powder was first modified by leaching magnesium ions in HCI then by precipitating nano-sized Zn-based compounds under basic conditions. A subse- quent thermal treatment at 550 ℃ for 1 h was performed. The powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction （XRD）, specific surface area measurements, thermogravimetric and differential thermal anal- ysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy, as well as high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The XRD patterns showed that all leached heat treated samples were made of anhydrous sepiolite and of ZnO. Sensors were then obtained by screen printing these materials onto commercial alumina substrates with Pt electrodes. All the investigated compositions were capable of detecting NO2 down to ppm level and 20 ppm H2, at an optimal working temperature of 300°C. These detection limits are in line with the current best results reported in literature.展开更多
An efficient and promising approach for effectively dispersing multi-walled carbon nanotubes(MWCNTs)in cementitious composites has been investigated.The naturally occurring organic extracts from species of indigenousl...An efficient and promising approach for effectively dispersing multi-walled carbon nanotubes(MWCNTs)in cementitious composites has been investigated.The naturally occurring organic extracts from species of indigenously known‘Keekar’trees scattered along tropical and sub-tropical regions;is found as an exceptional replacement to the non-natural commercial surfactants.In the initial phase of investigation,ideal surfactant’s content required for efficient dispersion of MWCNTs in solution was determined using ultra-violet spectroscopy.The experimental investigations were then extended to five different cement composite formulations containing 0.0,0.025,0.05,0.08 and 0.10%MWCNTs by weight of cement.It was observed that the natural surfactant produced efficient dispersion at much reduced cost(approx.14%)compared with the commercial alternate.The estimated weight efficiency factor f was found 6.5 times higher for the proposed sustainable replacement to the conventional along with remarkable increase of 23%in modulus of rupture on 0.08 wt%addition of MWCNTs.Besides strength enhancement,the dispersed MWCNTs also improved the first crack and ultimate fracture toughness by 51.5%and 35.9%,respectively.The field emission scanning electron microscopy of the cryofractured samples revealed efficient dispersion of MWCNTs in the matrix leading to the phenomenon of effective crack bridging and crack branching in the composite matrix.Furthermore,the proposed scheme significantly reduced the early age volumetric shrinkage by 39%.展开更多
In this work, two types of CP Ti cubes with similar volumetric energy densities(VED) but diff erent process parameters were produced using laser powder bed fusion(LPBF) method. The corrosion behavior of the fabricated...In this work, two types of CP Ti cubes with similar volumetric energy densities(VED) but diff erent process parameters were produced using laser powder bed fusion(LPBF) method. The corrosion behavior of the fabricated specimens was investigated by conducting electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS) and polarization experiments in simulated body fl uid(SBF) solution at 37 °C. The results indicated that the microstructure and porosities, which are of great importance for biomedical applications, can be controlled by changing the process parameters even under constant energy densities. The sample produced with a lower laser power(E1) was featured with a higher level of porosity and thinner alpha laths, as compared with the sample fabricated with a higher laser power(E2). Moreover, results obtained from the bioactivity tests revealed that the sample produced with a higher laser power conferred a slight improvement in the bioactivity due to the higher amount of porosity. Lower laser power and hence higher porosity level promoted the formation of bone-like apatite on the surface of the printed specimens. The potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed inferior corrosion resistance for the fabricated sample with higher porosity. Moreover, the EIS results after diff erent immersion times indicated that a stable oxide film was formed on the surface of samples for all immersion times. After 1 and 3 days of immersion, superior passivation behavior was observed for the sample fabricated with lower laser power. However, very similar impedance and phase values were observed for all the samples after 14 days of immersion.展开更多
In this study,the mechanical properties of glass scaffolds manufactured by robocasting are investigated through micro computed tomography(/x-CT)based finite element modeling.The scaffolds are obtained by printing fibe...In this study,the mechanical properties of glass scaffolds manufactured by robocasting are investigated through micro computed tomography(/x-CT)based finite element modeling.The scaffolds are obtained by printing fibers along two perpendicular directions on parallel layers with a 90°tilting between two adjacent layers.A parametric study is first presented with the purpose to assess the effect of the major design parameters on the elastic and strength properties of the scaffold;the mechanical properties of the 3D printed scaffolds are eventually estimated by using the\i-CT data with the aim of assessing the effect of defects on the final geometry which are intrinsic in the manufacturing process.The macroscopic elastic modulus and strength of the scaffold are determined by simulating a uniaxial compressive test along the direction which is perpendicular to the layers of the printed fibers.An iterative approach has been used in order to determine the scaffold strength.A partial validation of the computational model has been obtained through comparison of the computed results with experimental values presented in[10]on a ceramic scaffold having the same geometry.All the results have been presented as non-dimensional values.The finite element analyses have shown which of the selected design parameters have the major effect on the stiffness and strength,being the porosity and fiber shifting between adjacent layers the most important ones.The analyses carried out on the basis of the/x-C7 data have shown elastic modulus and strength which are consistent with that found on ideal geometry at similar macroscopic porosity.展开更多
The wetting behavior of Cu-Ti powder compacts with 22 wt %Ti and 50 wt %Ti on carbon materials, including graphite and carbon fiber reinforced carbon composites（CFC）, has been investigated in a vacuum using the sess...The wetting behavior of Cu-Ti powder compacts with 22 wt %Ti and 50 wt %Ti on carbon materials, including graphite and carbon fiber reinforced carbon composites（CFC）, has been investigated in a vacuum using the sessile drop method. The equilibrium contact angles of Cu-22Ti（containing 22 wt%Ti） on the graphite and the CFC substrates at 1 253 K are 32 o and 26 o, respectively, whereas the equilibrium contact angle of 9° is obtained for Cu-50Ti（containing 50 wt%Ti） on both the graphite and the CFC substrates at 1 303 K.Microstructural analysis of the wetting samples shows that a thin TiC reaction layer is developed at the interfacial area and Ti-Cu intermetallic compounds are formed over the reaction layer. The investigation on the spreading kinetics of Cu-Ti compacts on carbon materials substrates at fixed temperatures reveals that the spreading is controlled by the interfacial reactions in the first stage and then by the diffusion of the active Ti from the drop bulk to the triple line in the later stage. The spreading is promoted by the intense reaction at higher Ti concentrations.展开更多
An historical collection of more than one hundred samples of minerals and ore, used in the second half of the XVIII century was found and acquired during Munich Mineralientage 2014. The samples contained in numbered g...An historical collection of more than one hundred samples of minerals and ore, used in the second half of the XVIII century was found and acquired during Munich Mineralientage 2014. The samples contained in numbered glass vials but lacking description, were prepared for teaching purpose about determinative mineralogy and ore recognition. All samples were analysed and identified. The identification effort drove the authors along a historical excursus about the didactics of mineralogy and the dry method analysis, nowadays neglected.展开更多
If electrons (e) and holes (h) in metals or semiconductors are heated to the temperatures Te and Th greater than the lattice temperature Tp, the electron-phonon interaction causes energy relaxation. In the non-uniform...If electrons (e) and holes (h) in metals or semiconductors are heated to the temperatures Te and Th greater than the lattice temperature Tp, the electron-phonon interaction causes energy relaxation. In the non-uniform case a momentum relaxation occurs as well. In view of such an application, a new model, based on an asymptotic procedure for solving the generalized kinetic equations of carriers and phonons is proposed, which gives naturally the displaced Maxwellian at the leading order. After that, balance equations for the electron number, hole number, energy densities, and momentum densities are constructed, which constitute now a system of five equations for the electron chemical potential, the temperatures and the drift velocities. In the drift-diffusion approximation the constitutive laws are derived and the Onsager relations recovered.展开更多
The synthesis and structures of two novel zwitterionic ruthenium triazolato complexes are reported. The treatment of the ruthenium azido complex [Ru]-N3 (1, [Ru] = (η5-C5H5)(dppe)Ru, dppe = Ph2PCH2CH2PPh2) with an ex...The synthesis and structures of two novel zwitterionic ruthenium triazolato complexes are reported. The treatment of the ruthenium azido complex [Ru]-N3 (1, [Ru] = (η5-C5H5)(dppe)Ru, dppe = Ph2PCH2CH2PPh2) with an excess of ethyl propiolate in CHCl3 or CH2Cl2 under ambient conditions for 15 days results in the formation of a mixture of the Z- and E-forms of N(1)-bound ruthenium 3-ethylacryl-4-carboxylate-3H-1,2,3-triazolato complexes [Ru]N3(CH=CHCO2Et)C2H(CO2) (Z-3) and (E-3) in a ratio of ca. 5:2. The structures of E-3 and Z-3 were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and fully characterized by 1H, 31P, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis. The negatively charged carboxylate moieties of the zwitterionic ruthenium triazolato complexes Z-3 and Z-3 are highly nucleophilic and reactive toward a variety of electrophiles, making Z-3 and Z-3 potential starting materials for the development of biologically active 1,2,3-triazole derivatives.展开更多
High-energy heavy-ion irradiation is known to produce effective vortex pinning centers in the high-T_(c) cupratesuperconductors, as amorphous columnar tracks. However, while the beneficial effects on pinning has been ...High-energy heavy-ion irradiation is known to produce effective vortex pinning centers in the high-T_(c) cupratesuperconductors, as amorphous columnar tracks. However, while the beneficial effects on pinning has been wellestablished through dc and low-frequency characterizations, the same analysis in the high-frequency regime isfar from complete. Even less investigated are the effects of heavy ion irradiation on the microwave propertiesof metallic low-T_(c) superconducting films. Here, we report on the effects of 1.15 GeV Pb irradiation on the highfrequency properties of YBa_(2)Cu_(3)O_(7−x)(YBCO) and Nb_(3)Sn thin films. The microwave analysis, performed in therange 7-8 GHz, allows obtaining the fundamental properties of both the materials, as the London penetrationdepth and gap values, and of the main pinning parameters, through the determination of the Campbell lengthby measurements in dc magnetic fields up to 4 T. GeV heavy-ion irradiation confirmed to be extremely effectivefor YBCO also in the high frequency regime, enhancing both the pinning constant and the depinning frequency,thus pushing the critical current density to about 30% of the depairing current density. On the other hand, thediscontinuous but correlated defects produced in Nb_(3)Sn was found to be ineffective to enhance the pinningproperties (the pinning constant in fact decreases), while the observed increment of the depinning frequencyis ascribed to the reduction of the vortex viscosity, in turn due to the growth of the normal state resistivity.展开更多
基金financed by the European Union-Next Generation EU(National Sustainable Mobility Center CN00000023,Italian Ministry of University and Research Decree n.1033-17/06/2022,Spoke 11-Innovative Materials&Lightweighting)。
文摘Ti-6Al-4Zr-2Sn-6Mo alloy is one of the most recent titanium alloys processed using powder bed fusion-laser beam(PBF-LB)technology.This alloy has the potential to replace Ti-6Al-4V in automotive and aerospace applications,given its superior mechanical properties,which are approximately 10%higher in terms of ultimate tensile strength(UTS)and yield strength after appropriate heat treatment.In as-built conditions,the alloy is characterized by the presence of soft orthorhombicα″martensite,necessitating a postprocessing heat treatment to decompose this phase and enhance the mechanical properties of the alloy.Usually,PBFed Ti6246 components undergo an annealing process that transforms theα″martensite into anα-βlamellar microstructure.The primary objective of this research was to develop a solution treatment and aging(STA)heat treatment tailored to the unique microstructure produced by the additive manufacturing process to achieve an ultrafine bilamellar microstructure reinforced by precipitation hardening.This study investigated the effects of various solution temperatures in theα-βfield(ranging from 800 to 875℃),cooling media(air and water),and aging time to determine the optimal heat treatment parameters for achieving the desired bilamellar microstructure.For each heat treatment condition,differentα-βmicrostructures were found,varying in terms of theα/βratio and the size of the primaryα-phase lamellae.Particular attention was given to how these factors were influenced by increases in solution temperature and how microhardness correlated with the percentage of the metastableβphase present after quenching.Tensile tests were performed on samples subjected to the most promising heat treatment parameters.A comparison with literature data revealed that the optimized STA treatment enhanced hardness and UTS by13%and 23%,respectively,compared with those of the annealed alloy.Fracture surface analyses were conducted to investigate fracture mechanisms.
基金This project has received funding from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (grant agreement No. 948769, project title: SuN_2rise)the 《HYDREAM》 project–funded by European Union-Next Generation EU–within the PRIN 2022 program (D.D. 104-02/02/2022 Ministero dell’Università e della Ricerca)supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement no. 101107906
文摘Food production demand is constantly growing,entailing a proportional increment in fertilisers and pharmaceuticals use,which are eventually introduced to the environment,leading,among others,to an imbalance in the nitrogen cycle.Electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction is a delocalised route for nitrates elimination and green ammonia production.In the present study,we carry out nitrates electroreduction over a commercial MoS_(2)catalyst,focusing on optimising selected input factors affecting the reaction.Concretely,Doehlert design of experiment and response surface methodology are employed to find the proper combination of supporting salt concentration in the electrolyte,applied potential,and catalyst loading at the working electrode,with the overall aim to boost Faradaic efficiency(FE)and ammonia production.As a matter of fact,varying these input factors,the obtained FE values ranged from∼2%to∼80%,highlighting the strength of the newly conceived approach.Moreover,our multivariate strategy allows the quantification of each factor effect and elucidates hidden interactions between them.Finally,successful extended durability tests are performed for 100 h at both FE and productivity(P)optimal conditions.In parallel,cell electrodes are characterised by in-depth structural,morphological,and surface techniques,before and after ageing,overall demonstrating the outstanding stability of the proposed electrochemical reactor.
文摘Electron beam melting(EBM) process is an additive manufacturing process largely used to produce complex metallic components made of high-performance materials for aerospace and medical applications.Especially,lattice structures made by Ti-6A1-4V have represented a hot topic for the industrial sectors because of having a great potential to combine lower weights and higher performances that can also be tailored by subsequent heat treatments.However,the little knowledge about the mechanical behaviour of the lattice structures is limiting their applications.The present work aims to provide a comprehensive review of the studies on the mechanical behaviour of the lattice structures made of Ti-6A1-4V.The main steps to produce an EBM part were considered as guidelines to review the literature on the lattice performance:(1) design,(2) process and(3) post-heat treatment.Thereafter,the correlation between the geometrical features of the lattice structure and their mechanical behaviour is discussed.In addition,the correlation among the mechanical performance of the lattice structures and the process precision,surface roughness and working temperature are also reviewed.An investigation on the studies about the properties of heat-treated lattice structure is also conducted.
基金Open access funding provided by Politecnico di Torino within the CRUI-CARE Agreement。
文摘Nowadays, as an emerging technology, additive manufacturing(AM) has received numerous attentions from researchers around the world. The method comprises layer-by-layer manufacturing of products according to the 3D CAD models of the objects. Among other things, AM is capable of producing metal matrix composites(MMCs). Hence, plenty of works in the literature are dedicated to developing different types of MMCs through AM processes. Hence, this paper provides a comprehensive overview on the latest research that has been carried out on the development of the powder-based AM manufactured MMCs from a scientific and technological viewpoint, aimed at highlighting the opportunities and challenges of this innovative manufacturing process. For instance, it is documented that AM is not only able to resolve the reinforcement/matrix bonding issues usually faced with during conventional manufacturing of MMCs, but also it is capable of producing functionally graded composites and geometrically complex objects. Furthermore, it provides the opportunity for a uniform distribution of the reinforcing phase in the metallic matrix and is able to produce composites using refractory metals thanks to the local heat source employed in the method. Despite the aforementioned advantages, there are still some challenges needing more attention from the researchers. Rapid cooling nature of the process, significantly different coe fficient of expansion of the matrix and reinforcement, processability, and the lack of suitable parameters and standards for the production of defect-free AM MMCs seem to be among the most important issues to deal with in future works.
基金supported by the Sectoral Operational Programme Human Resources Development(SOP HRD)ID59321 financed from the European Social Fundsupported by the Romanian Government
文摘Rapidly solidified Al100-x-Cux alloys （x = 5, 10, 15, 25, 35 wt%） were prepared and analyzed. High cooling rate increased the Cu solubility in α-AI matrix. The influence of the cooling rate on Cu solubility extension in AI was experimentally simulated. Thus the pouring was performed in metallic die and by melt spinning-low pressure （MS- LP） technique. Melt processing by liquid quenching was performed using a self-designed melt spinning set-up which combined the cooling technology of a melt jet on the spinning disc with the principle of the mold feeding from low pressure casting technology. The thickness of the melt-spun ribbons was in the range of 30-70 μm. The cooling rate provided by MS-LP was within 105-106 K/s after the device calibration. The obtained alloys were characterized from structural, thermal and mechanical point of view. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed for the microstructural characterization which was followed by X-ray analysis. The thermal properties were evaluated by dilatometric and differential scanning calorimetric measurements. Vickers microhardness measurements were performed in the study. In the case of the hypereutectic alloy with 35 wt% Cu obtained by MS-LP method, the microhardness value increased by 45% compared to the same alloy obtained by gravity casting method. This was due to the extended solubility of the alloying element in the α-AI solid solution.
文摘The objective of this research is to improve the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of Al/GNPs（graphene nanoplatelets） nanocomposites produced by classical powder metallurgy and hot rolling techniques. The microstructural evaluation confirmed the uniform dispersion of GNPs at low content and agglomeration at higher contents of GNPs. The structure of graphene was studied before and after the mixing and the Raman spectrum proofs that the wet mixing has a great potential to be used as a dispersion method. There was no significant peak corresponding to the Al_4C_3 formation in both the differential scanning calorimetry curves and X-ray diffraction patterns. The microstructural observation in both fabrication techniques showed grain refinement as a function of the GNPs content. Moreover, the introduction of the GNPs not only improved the Vickers hardness of the composites but also decreased their density. The thermal conductivity investigations showed that in both the press-sintered and hot-rolled samples, although the thermal conductivity of composites was improved at low GNPs contents, it was negatively affected at high GNPs contents.
基金supported by Bioelectrics Inc.(USA),Peking University Biomed-X Foundation and China International Science and Technology Cooperation(No.2008KR1330)
文摘Objective： A direct-current, cold atmospheric-pressure air plasma microjet （PMJ） was performed to inactivate Staphylococcus aureus （S. aureus） and Enterococcusfaecalis （E. faecalis） in air. The process of sterilization and morphology of bacteria was observed. We wish to know the possible inactivation mechanisms of PMJ and explore a potential application in dental and other temperature sensitive treatment. Methods： In this study, we employed a direct current, atmospheric pressure, cold air PMJ to inactivate bacterias. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to evaluate the morphology of S. aureus and showed rupture of cell walls after the plasma treatment and Optical emission spectrum （OES） were used to understand the possible inactivation mechanisms of PMJ. Re- suits＂ The inactivation rates could reach 100% in 5 min. When the distance between the exit nozzle of the PMJ device and Petri dish was extended from 1 cm to 3 cm, effective inactivation was also observed with a similar inactivation curve. Conclusion： The inactivation of bacteria is attributed to the abundant reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, as well as ultroviolet radiation in the plasma. Different life spans and defensibilities of these killing agents may hold the key to understanding the different inactivation curves at different treatment distances.
文摘In the electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide, high currents need to be employed to obtain large production rates, thus implying that mass transport of reactants and products is of crucial importance.This aspect can be investigated by employing a model that depicts the local environment for the reduction reactions. Simultaneously, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, despite being a versatile technique, has rarely been adopted for studying the mass transport features during the carbon dioxide(CO_(2))electroreduction. In this work, this aspect is deeply analyzed by correlating the results of impedance spectroscopy characterization with those obtained by a bubble-induced mass transport modeling under controlled diffusion conditions on a gold rotating disk electrode. The effects of potential and rotation rate on the local environment are also clarified. In particular, it has been found that CO_(2) depletion occurs at high kinetics when the rotation is absent, giving rise to an increment of the competing hydrogen evolution reaction. This feature reflects in an enlargement of the diffusion resistance, which overcomes the charge transport one.
文摘Ni layers were deposited on the two sides of pure Fe substrate by using electroplating to form Ni/Fe/Ni diffusion couple. After diffusion heat treatment, Fe-Ni laminated composite was obtained with Fe-Ni alloy/Fe/Fe-Ni alloy structure. The results indicate that the Fe-Ni layers combine well with the substrate and the Fe-Ni/Fe interface presents an interlocking microstructure with small-size grains. The concentration of element Ni in the Fe-Ni layer decreases from surface to interior exhibiting a gradient distribution. Geomagnetic shielding factor （SF） of Fe-Ni laminated composite can reach as high as 22.6, which is about seven times of that of pure Fe substrate. Mathematical equation of SF for laminated structure was derived according to magnetic circuit and resistance theory. The theoretical expression reveals that parameters such as the thickness and magnetic permeability of the shield material play an important role in the magnetic shielding behavior and the theoretical calculation results of SF coincide well with our experimental values.
基金supported by SERB(Science and Engineering Research Board),New Delhi,India[File.No:EMR/2014/000020].
文摘A simple and reliable strategy was proposed to engineer the glutathione grafted graphene oxide/ZnO nanocomposite(glutathione-GO/ZnO)as electrode material for the high-performance piroxicam sensor.The prepared glutathione-GO/ZnO nanocomposite was well characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectrum(FTIR),X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),field emission scanning electron microscopy(FE-SEM),cyclic voltammetry(CV),electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS)and differential pulse voltammetry(DPV).The novel nanocomposite modified electrode showed the highest electrocatalytic activity towards piroxicam(oxidation potential is 0.52 V).Under controlled experimental parameters,the proposed sensor exhibited good linear responses to piroxicam concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 500 μM.The detection limit and sensitivity were calculated as 1.8 μM and 0.2 μA/μM·cm^(2),respectively.Moreover,it offered excellent selectivity,reproducibility,and long-term stability and can effectively ignore the interfering candidates commonly existing in the pharmaceutical tablets and human fluids even at a higher concentration.Finally,the reported sensor was successfully employed to the direct determination of piroxicam in practical samples.
基金Funded by the Special Fund for Talent of Wuhan Instituteof Technologythe Fellowship for Junior Researchers fromPolitecnico di Torino and Regione Piemonte,Italy
文摘Copper patinas are generally regarded as aesthetically pleasing and are supposed to protect copper against further corrosion. The preparation of artificial sulphate patina on bronzes has been realized by immersing the bronze into CuSO4 solution. The effect of immersion time on the formation of the patina has been investigated. The sulphate patina obtained with immersion time of 500 h in CuSO4 solution consists of fiat area and crystals. The flat area in the patina is mainly made of cuprite, whereas the crystals are mainly composed of brochantite. The electrochemical measurement of sulphate patina in simulated acid rain with pH 3.1 shows that the protective effectiveness of patina decreases with time and the dissolution of patina is the key factor leading to the degradation of patina. The investigation of the formation mechanism of sulphate patina shows that the cuprite layer forms on the surface of bronze in the initial patination. Then, crystal brochantite grows on the surface of cuprite by the oxidation of cuprite and the incorporation of CuSO4 solution.
基金the financial support of Erasmus-Mundus program(FFEEBB project Action 2(scholarship application number L020900787) and EMECW,WELCOME Project Action 2(scholarship application number WELC11011869),Coordination Office:Politecnico di Torino,Turin,Italy,respectively)
文摘This work investigated the sensitivity toward humidity, NO2 and H2 of ZnO modified sepiolite （Si12Mg8O30（OH）4.（H2O）4.8H2O）. To this aim, sepiolite powder was first modified by leaching magnesium ions in HCI then by precipitating nano-sized Zn-based compounds under basic conditions. A subse- quent thermal treatment at 550 ℃ for 1 h was performed. The powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction （XRD）, specific surface area measurements, thermogravimetric and differential thermal anal- ysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy, as well as high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The XRD patterns showed that all leached heat treated samples were made of anhydrous sepiolite and of ZnO. Sensors were then obtained by screen printing these materials onto commercial alumina substrates with Pt electrodes. All the investigated compositions were capable of detecting NO2 down to ppm level and 20 ppm H2, at an optimal working temperature of 300°C. These detection limits are in line with the current best results reported in literature.
文摘An efficient and promising approach for effectively dispersing multi-walled carbon nanotubes(MWCNTs)in cementitious composites has been investigated.The naturally occurring organic extracts from species of indigenously known‘Keekar’trees scattered along tropical and sub-tropical regions;is found as an exceptional replacement to the non-natural commercial surfactants.In the initial phase of investigation,ideal surfactant’s content required for efficient dispersion of MWCNTs in solution was determined using ultra-violet spectroscopy.The experimental investigations were then extended to five different cement composite formulations containing 0.0,0.025,0.05,0.08 and 0.10%MWCNTs by weight of cement.It was observed that the natural surfactant produced efficient dispersion at much reduced cost(approx.14%)compared with the commercial alternate.The estimated weight efficiency factor f was found 6.5 times higher for the proposed sustainable replacement to the conventional along with remarkable increase of 23%in modulus of rupture on 0.08 wt%addition of MWCNTs.Besides strength enhancement,the dispersed MWCNTs also improved the first crack and ultimate fracture toughness by 51.5%and 35.9%,respectively.The field emission scanning electron microscopy of the cryofractured samples revealed efficient dispersion of MWCNTs in the matrix leading to the phenomenon of effective crack bridging and crack branching in the composite matrix.Furthermore,the proposed scheme significantly reduced the early age volumetric shrinkage by 39%.
基金financially supported by the Invited Collaborative Research Program(ICRP),Center for International Scientific Studies and Collaboration,Ministry of Science,Research and Technology of Iran。
文摘In this work, two types of CP Ti cubes with similar volumetric energy densities(VED) but diff erent process parameters were produced using laser powder bed fusion(LPBF) method. The corrosion behavior of the fabricated specimens was investigated by conducting electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS) and polarization experiments in simulated body fl uid(SBF) solution at 37 °C. The results indicated that the microstructure and porosities, which are of great importance for biomedical applications, can be controlled by changing the process parameters even under constant energy densities. The sample produced with a lower laser power(E1) was featured with a higher level of porosity and thinner alpha laths, as compared with the sample fabricated with a higher laser power(E2). Moreover, results obtained from the bioactivity tests revealed that the sample produced with a higher laser power conferred a slight improvement in the bioactivity due to the higher amount of porosity. Lower laser power and hence higher porosity level promoted the formation of bone-like apatite on the surface of the printed specimens. The potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed inferior corrosion resistance for the fabricated sample with higher porosity. Moreover, the EIS results after diff erent immersion times indicated that a stable oxide film was formed on the surface of samples for all immersion times. After 1 and 3 days of immersion, superior passivation behavior was observed for the sample fabricated with lower laser power. However, very similar impedance and phase values were observed for all the samples after 14 days of immersion.
文摘In this study,the mechanical properties of glass scaffolds manufactured by robocasting are investigated through micro computed tomography(/x-CT)based finite element modeling.The scaffolds are obtained by printing fibers along two perpendicular directions on parallel layers with a 90°tilting between two adjacent layers.A parametric study is first presented with the purpose to assess the effect of the major design parameters on the elastic and strength properties of the scaffold;the mechanical properties of the 3D printed scaffolds are eventually estimated by using the\i-CT data with the aim of assessing the effect of defects on the final geometry which are intrinsic in the manufacturing process.The macroscopic elastic modulus and strength of the scaffold are determined by simulating a uniaxial compressive test along the direction which is perpendicular to the layers of the printed fibers.An iterative approach has been used in order to determine the scaffold strength.A partial validation of the computational model has been obtained through comparison of the computed results with experimental values presented in[10]on a ceramic scaffold having the same geometry.All the results have been presented as non-dimensional values.The finite element analyses have shown which of the selected design parameters have the major effect on the stiffness and strength,being the porosity and fiber shifting between adjacent layers the most important ones.The analyses carried out on the basis of the/x-C7 data have shown elastic modulus and strength which are consistent with that found on ideal geometry at similar macroscopic porosity.
基金Funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.51304148)the Scientific Research Project under Hubei Provincial Department of Education(No.D20131504)Graduate Education Innovation Fund of Wuhan Institute of Technology(No.CX2016008)
文摘The wetting behavior of Cu-Ti powder compacts with 22 wt %Ti and 50 wt %Ti on carbon materials, including graphite and carbon fiber reinforced carbon composites（CFC）, has been investigated in a vacuum using the sessile drop method. The equilibrium contact angles of Cu-22Ti（containing 22 wt%Ti） on the graphite and the CFC substrates at 1 253 K are 32 o and 26 o, respectively, whereas the equilibrium contact angle of 9° is obtained for Cu-50Ti（containing 50 wt%Ti） on both the graphite and the CFC substrates at 1 303 K.Microstructural analysis of the wetting samples shows that a thin TiC reaction layer is developed at the interfacial area and Ti-Cu intermetallic compounds are formed over the reaction layer. The investigation on the spreading kinetics of Cu-Ti compacts on carbon materials substrates at fixed temperatures reveals that the spreading is controlled by the interfacial reactions in the first stage and then by the diffusion of the active Ti from the drop bulk to the triple line in the later stage. The spreading is promoted by the intense reaction at higher Ti concentrations.
文摘An historical collection of more than one hundred samples of minerals and ore, used in the second half of the XVIII century was found and acquired during Munich Mineralientage 2014. The samples contained in numbered glass vials but lacking description, were prepared for teaching purpose about determinative mineralogy and ore recognition. All samples were analysed and identified. The identification effort drove the authors along a historical excursus about the didactics of mineralogy and the dry method analysis, nowadays neglected.
文摘If electrons (e) and holes (h) in metals or semiconductors are heated to the temperatures Te and Th greater than the lattice temperature Tp, the electron-phonon interaction causes energy relaxation. In the non-uniform case a momentum relaxation occurs as well. In view of such an application, a new model, based on an asymptotic procedure for solving the generalized kinetic equations of carriers and phonons is proposed, which gives naturally the displaced Maxwellian at the leading order. After that, balance equations for the electron number, hole number, energy densities, and momentum densities are constructed, which constitute now a system of five equations for the electron chemical potential, the temperatures and the drift velocities. In the drift-diffusion approximation the constitutive laws are derived and the Onsager relations recovered.
文摘The synthesis and structures of two novel zwitterionic ruthenium triazolato complexes are reported. The treatment of the ruthenium azido complex [Ru]-N3 (1, [Ru] = (η5-C5H5)(dppe)Ru, dppe = Ph2PCH2CH2PPh2) with an excess of ethyl propiolate in CHCl3 or CH2Cl2 under ambient conditions for 15 days results in the formation of a mixture of the Z- and E-forms of N(1)-bound ruthenium 3-ethylacryl-4-carboxylate-3H-1,2,3-triazolato complexes [Ru]N3(CH=CHCO2Et)C2H(CO2) (Z-3) and (E-3) in a ratio of ca. 5:2. The structures of E-3 and Z-3 were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and fully characterized by 1H, 31P, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis. The negatively charged carboxylate moieties of the zwitterionic ruthenium triazolato complexes Z-3 and Z-3 are highly nucleophilic and reactive toward a variety of electrophiles, making Z-3 and Z-3 potential starting materials for the development of biologically active 1,2,3-triazole derivatives.
文摘High-energy heavy-ion irradiation is known to produce effective vortex pinning centers in the high-T_(c) cupratesuperconductors, as amorphous columnar tracks. However, while the beneficial effects on pinning has been wellestablished through dc and low-frequency characterizations, the same analysis in the high-frequency regime isfar from complete. Even less investigated are the effects of heavy ion irradiation on the microwave propertiesof metallic low-T_(c) superconducting films. Here, we report on the effects of 1.15 GeV Pb irradiation on the highfrequency properties of YBa_(2)Cu_(3)O_(7−x)(YBCO) and Nb_(3)Sn thin films. The microwave analysis, performed in therange 7-8 GHz, allows obtaining the fundamental properties of both the materials, as the London penetrationdepth and gap values, and of the main pinning parameters, through the determination of the Campbell lengthby measurements in dc magnetic fields up to 4 T. GeV heavy-ion irradiation confirmed to be extremely effectivefor YBCO also in the high frequency regime, enhancing both the pinning constant and the depinning frequency,thus pushing the critical current density to about 30% of the depairing current density. On the other hand, thediscontinuous but correlated defects produced in Nb_(3)Sn was found to be ineffective to enhance the pinningproperties (the pinning constant in fact decreases), while the observed increment of the depinning frequencyis ascribed to the reduction of the vortex viscosity, in turn due to the growth of the normal state resistivity.
