Advanced Materials Research

Preface

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190

Bibliometric Overview of Research on Materials for Microbial Fuel Cells: Catalysts and Coatings as Key Factors for Efficiency

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Segundo Jonathan Rojas Flores, Magaly De La Cruz Noriega, Renny Nazario Naveda, Santiago M. Benites, Daniel Delfin Narciso
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a sustainable solution for converting organic waste into electricity through electroactive microorganisms. However, their widespread implementation is hindered by low catalytic efficiency and the high cost of noble metal-based electrodes. This study addresses these challenges by conducting a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research trends and scientific advances in MFC materials, with a focus on catalysts and electrode coatings as key determinants of system performance. Using analytical tools such as VOSviewer and RStudio, we systematically mapped publication trends, collaboration networks, and technological developments from 2007 to 2025. Beyond bibliometric metrics, the analysis highlights significant scientific breakthroughs, including the development of a CeO2/Co3O4-PEDOT/CF nanocomposite anode, which increased voltage output by 74.9% and power density by 2.5-fold, and a Ni-Fe LDH/(DSP) cathode system that achieved 83.5% contaminant removal efficiency with notable antimicrobial activity. These findings demonstrate the potential of metal oxide-based and doped materials to replace costly platinum while maintaining high electrochemical performance. Furthermore, the integration of nanotechnology and artificial intelligence in material design is identified as an emerging trend driving future innovations. The study concludes that advancing MFC technology toward practical applications in wastewater treatment and decentralized energy systems will require enhanced global collaboration and the adoption of scalable, cost-effective materials.

Trends in Functional Materials for Energy Conversion of Perovskites and Graphene: A Bibliometric Analysis since 2010-2025

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Segundo Jonathan Rojas Flores, Magaly De La Cruz Noriega, Renny Nazario Naveda, Santiago M. Benites, Daniel Delfin Narciso
The conversion of energy through functional materials has gained significant relevance in recent years, particularly with the development of perovskites and graphene, which have demonstrated a substantial impact on photovoltaic technologies and energy storage. However, challenges remain, such as the stability of perovskites under adverse environmental conditions and the industrial scalability of graphene, highlighting the need for a bibliometric analysis to assess the state of research on these materials from 2010 to 2025. To achieve this, a systematic search was conducted in Scopus, applying specific selection criteria and utilizing tools such as VOSviewer and R Studio to visualize collaboration networks, bibliometric indices, and thematic evolution. The results reveal an exponential growth in scientific output, with Asian leadership spearheaded by Tsinghua University, reflected in citation metrics and publication quality. Perovskites have achieved efficiencies exceeding 25%, while graphene has enhanced its integration into storage devices. This bibliometric study provides key insights for guiding future research towards a more sustainable energy transition.

Tunable Electronic and Optical Properties of Silicene Quantum Dots under External Electric Fields: A DFT Investigation

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Minh Tien Tran
In this study, the effect of external electric fields on the electronic and optical properties of silicene quantum dots (SiQDs) was investigated using density functional theory (DFT) within the Quantum Espresso package. The optimized SiQD structure shows a Si–Si bond length of about 2.25 Å in the central hexagon, a buckling height of 0.50 Å, and a cohesive energy of –4.05 eV/atom, confirming structural stability. When the external electric field increases from 0 to 3.0 V/Å, the Fermi level shifts significantly from –4.43 eV to –12.35 eV, while the bandgap gradually decreases, leading to an increase in the density of states at the Fermi level and a semiconductor–metal transition. Charge density and Bader charge analysis reveal uneven redistribution of electrons: atom Si1 accumulates up to 7.8 e at 3.0 V/Å, while Si4 and Si10 lose nearly all electrons in their Bader regions. For optical properties, both dielectric and absorption spectra exhibit a pronounced red-shift; the absorption peak around 1.8 eV decreases to about 1.5 eV at 3.0 V/Å, while the reflection intensity is strongly reduced in the 1–2 eV range. These results demonstrate the controllable tuning of the electronic and optical properties of SiQDs by external electric fields, highlighting their potential for optoelectronic devices, sensors, and next-generation solar technologies.

Humidity Sensor Based on LaFe₀.₈₅Mn₀.₁₅O₃ Perovskite Prepared by Sol Gel Method

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Suida Noverni Sitohang, Djoko Triyono, Rifqi Almusawi Rafsanjani, Akhmad Futukhillah Fataba Alaih
Humidity sensors are crucial for monitoring and controlling environmental conditions in diverse sectors such as agriculture, food and beverage processing, pharmaceutical industries, electronics, healthcare and biomedical applications, building environments, automotive systems, meteorology, and research laboratories [1]. Excessively high or low humidity levels relative to the ideal range can pose detrimental effects on both the environment and human health. For example, in the food industry, uncontrolled humidity can cause product damage, promote microbial growth, accelerate chemical degradation, and reduce the quality of raw materials [2]. In healthcare and biomedical environments. When the relative humidity is too low, it may dry out the skin and respiratory passages, making people more prone to infections. On the other hand, when RH is too high,it can support the growth of microorganisms such as molds, bacteria, and viruses [3]. Therefore, humidity sensors for monitoring and controlling moisture levels are essential for ensuring human comfort and maintaining high product quality. In recent years, various efforts have been undertaken to enhance the performance of humidity sensors, particularly through the development of humidity-sensing materials capable of providing high sensitivity, high stability, a wide detection range, low hysteresis, and optimal dynamic response, including fast response and recovery times [4-5].

Fast Response and Stable Humidity Sensing Performance of La0.9Mg0.1FeO3 Perovskite Material

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Hoerudin Bayu Hidayah, Djoko Triyono, Akhmad Futukhillah Fataba Alaih, Rifqi Almusawi Rafsanjani, Nova Nur Elisa Dewi
Humidity sensors play a vital role in various industrial and environmental monitoring applications that require accurate and stable detection of moisture. In this study, La0.9Mg0.1FeO3 perovskite was synthesized via a sol–gel method, in which Mg2+ ions were substituted at the A-site of lanthanum ferrite to enhance material performance. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms the formation of a single-phase orthorhombic perovskite structure with a Pnma space group, indicating successful phase formation without detectable secondary phases. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations reveal a relatively homogeneous surface morphology with nearly spherical or polygonal grains and well-defined grain boundaries. A sensing layer was fabricated by drop-casting the synthesized material onto an interdigital alumina (IDT) substrate, and its capacitance response was measured using an LCR meter over a relative humidity (RH) range of 11%–96% at room temperature. The sensor shows stable performance after 30 days of testing, with response and recovery times of 9.8 s and 1.7 s, respectively. These results suggest that A-site Mg2+ substitution modifies the structural and electrical characteristics of LaFeO3 and supports the potential of La0.9Mg0.1FeO3 for capacitive humidity sensing applications.

Impedance Spectroscopy Study of Mg4Nb2O9 - TiO2 Composites for Ceramic Capacitors Applications

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Juscelino Chaves Sales, Francisco Alekson Chaves Nobrega, João Paulo Costa do Nascimento, Antonio Jefferson Mangueira Sales, Paulo Maria de Oliveira Silva, Felipe Felix do Carmo, Roterdan Fernandes Abreu, Marcelo Antonio Santos da Silva, Antonio Sérgio Bezerra Sombra
The dielectric properties of Mg4Nb2O9 – TiO2 composites in the low-frequency range were evaluated under temperature variation. X-ray diffraction demonstrated that Mg4Nb2O9 (MNO) reacted with the added TiO2, resulting in the formation of Mg5(Nb0.625Ti0.375)4O15 as a new phase. Using Complex Impedance Spectroscopy (CIS), it was possible to observe that the activation energy (Ea) varied between 1.16 and 1.64 eV with the addition of TiO2. Thermal stability was evaluated through the Temperature Coefficient of Capacitance (TCC), and it was observed that the systems could function as Class 1 ceramic capacitors according to EIA RS-198 at various frequencies. The TCC values suggested that the Mg4Nb2O9 – TiO2 system would be a promising candidate for applications in the low-frequency range as a ceramic capacitor.

Adsorption of Remazol Brilliant Blue R Dye Using N-Doped Carbon Based on Palm Empty Fruit Bunches Modified with Magnetite

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Susanto Susanto, Iqbal Lintang Kusuma, Prayitno Prayitno, Haris Puspito Buwono, Mufid Mufid, Cahyo Sunu Widagdo, Rofiq Hamzah
Remazol Brilliant Blue R is an azo dye consisting of aromatic compounds with N-H groups and possesses carcinogenic properties, frequently utilized in the textile industry, particularly in batik. Therefore, it is imperative to develop biomass-based adsorbents to reduce harmful dyes. This work investigated the effectiveness of N-doped carbon modified with magnetite material in adsorbing Remazol Brilliant Blue R dye, focusing on adsorption isotherms and kinetics. N-doped carbon modified material made from cellulose-based palm empty fruit bunches was modified with magnetite using a solution of ammonia-urea-NaOH and FeCl₃, then freeze-dried and pyrolyzed. Adsorption of Remazol brilliant blue R dye using N-doped carbon based on palm empty fruit bunches modified with magnetite has shown promising results in enhancing the removal efficiency of this dye from wastewater. The incorporation of magnetite not only improves the adsorption capacity but also facilitates magnetic separation, making the process more efficient and environmentally friendly. Magnetite-modified N-doped carbon composites containing active N-H and O-H groups effectively adsorbed the dye Remazol Brilliant Blue R, following the Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second-order adsorption kinetics. The adsorption capacity of magnetite-modified N-doped carbon attained 680.32 mg/g at real batik wastewater containing Remazol Brilliant Blue R.

Sustainable Air Quality: Leveraging Cellulose Acetate for Sustainable Air Purification

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Nufus Kanani, Karlah Lifie Riani Mansauda, Yusvardi Yusuf, Dhimas Satria, Dwinanto Sukamto, Dedy Triawan Suprayogi, Shofiatul Ula, Mekro Permana Pinem
Diesel-based engines generate hazardous chemical compounds to the air. It is necessary to have filtration mechanism before the gas exerted. The current filter is made by inorganic polymer that needs hundreds of years to degrade after disposal. Many attempt to have alternative material for the filter that would not cause environmental problems. One of prominent candidates is cellulose based filter. However, those who work mostly focus on how effectively the filter decreases the pollutant concentration yet another important aspect to evaluate is their mechanical properties. This work examines Cellulose Acetate (CA) filtering mechanical properties. Three properties that are examined are roughness, tensile and hardness. Those parameters indicate physical integrity and durability of the filter, especially when working in high velocity flow and temperature. It was found that after exposure to exhaust gas of diesel engines, the CA filter mechanical properties change dramatically (2.5 MPa to 0.16 MPa) as a sign of deterioration after used. The exposure of high temperature and flow lead to a drastic reduction of CA filter mechanical properties.

Comparative Characterization of Biomass-Derived Carbons from Coconut Shell and Rice Husk: Structural, Thermal, Elemental, and Optical Properties

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Umi Nuraini, Dara Phonna Sibthi Zahara, Fufu Samrotul Fuadah, Firda Ainun Nisah, Metatia Intan Mauliana
This study presents a comparative characterization of carbon materials derived from coconut shell and rice husk based on their structural, thermal, elemental, and optical properties. The materials were characterized using thermogravimetric–differential thermal analysis (TGA–DTA), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. TGA–DTA results indicate that coconut shell-derived carbon exhibits higher thermal stability, with minimal weight loss of approximately 6% up to 1000°C, whereas rice husk-derived carbon undergoes significant weight loss of approximately 60% due to residual organic matter decomposition. XRF analysis reveals distinct compositional differences: rice husk carbon is dominated by SiO2 (95.06 wt%), while coconut shell carbon contains 9.66 wt% Fe2O3. XRD patterns confirm predominantly amorphous carbon structures in both materials, with partial graphitic features (d-spacing ~0.34 nm) observed in the coconut shell-derived carbon. UV–Vis spectroscopy demonstrates higher optical absorbance (~0.85) for coconut shell carbon in the wavelength range of 200–800 nm. Overall, coconut shell-derived carbon exhibits superior characteristics in terms of thermal stability, Fe2O3 content, partial graphitic ordering, and optical absorbance compared to rice husk-derived carbon.

Characteristic Analysis of Ni-Zirconia Sulfate and Natural-Based Catalysts for Waste Cooking Oil Conversion into Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Regina Julia Ardi, Arif Pawoko, Thasya Lamhotmatua, Hosta Ardhyananta, Ali Altway, Kevin Antonius, Aisyah Alifatul, Srie Mulyani, Tri Widjaja
This study evaluates hydrothermally synthesized Ni–zirconia sulfate catalysts in comparison with natural mineral–based catalysts (Cu-Bentonite and Cu-Zeolite) for waste cooking oil upgrading toward sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Catalyst properties were characterized using XRD, BET, and SEM–EDS, while catalytic cracking performance was assessed based on oil liquid product (OLP) yield and C12–C16 selectivity. XRD confirms the formation of a stable monoclinic ZrO2 phase with enhanced crystallinity after Ni incorporation, whereas Cu-Bentonite and Cu-Zeolite preserve their layered and FAU-type structures. BET and SEM–EDS analyses indicate that Ni–zirconia sulfate exhibits favorable mesoporosity and more homogeneous metal dispersion. Catalytic tests show that SZ–Ni 1% delivers the highest performance, achieving a C12–C16 selectivity of 77.37% and an OLP yield of 53.62%, outperforming Cu-based catalysts. The enhanced performance is attributed to a bifunctional acid–metal mechanism, where strong Brønsted–Lewis acidity and Ni hydrogenation sites synergistically promote cracking and hydrodeoxygenation. These findings demonstrate that Ni–zirconia sulfate is an effective catalyst for SAF-range hydrocarbon production, while natural mineral catalysts offer lower-cost but less efficient alternatives.

Turning Waste into Value: A Systematic Review of Eggshell Powder Applications in Green Soil Stabilization

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Furqaan Harjanto, Hafidzul 'Azmi, Tsulis Iq'bal Khairul Amar, Syakir Maghfuri, Aisya Galuh Laksita
This systematic literature review evaluates the potential of eggshell powder (ESP) as a sustainable soil stabilization material, synthesizing evidence from 22 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025. This review tries to comprehensively assess its effects across multiple geotechnical properties and multiple soil types, covering standalone, blended, and bio-stabilization systems. The screening was done from a major database, extracting data on soil type, additive content, and mechanical performance. Findings reveal that ESP consistently enhances unconfined compressive strength (UCS) by 70 - 200%, increases California Bearing Ratio (CBR) by 100 - 200%, and reduces plasticity index (PI) sufficiently to improve soil classification from high to low plasticity categories. Optimal ESP contents range from 4–10% for standalone application to 3–15% in blended systems, with 10% recommended for bio-stabilization. Improvements are driven by pozzolanic reaction, cation exchange, flocculation, void filling, and calcite precipitation. ESP offers significant environmental benefits through waste valorization and reduced carbon footprint compared to cement and lime. However, challenges remain in scaling laboratory successes to field application and assessing long-term durability. This review supports the integration of ESP into sustainable geotechnical practice while highlighting the need for further applied research.

Mechanical Characterization of Forged Carbon Composites from Waste Prepreg

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Komkrisd Wongtimnoi, Nadlene Razali, Laurent Mezeix
The increasing use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) in aerospace and automotive has led to a growing volume of prepreg waste, creating economic and environmental challenges. This study investigates the feasibility of repurposing expired carbon fiber prepreg waste into Forged Carbon Fiber (FCF) composites through compression molding. Chopped fibers recovered from ambient-aged unidirectional T700 prepreg were used to manufacture waste forged carbon fiber composites (WFCF) and were compared with forged composites made from new chopped fibers (NFCF) and from mixed WFCF/NFCF formulations. Thermal analysis by differential scanning calorimetry confirmed that the waste prepreg fibers had undergone partial curing during storage, resulting in a modified resin structure before reprocessing. Mechanical performance was evaluated using tensile, three-point bending, and Charpy impact tests. The WFCF composites exhibited low tensile strength and modulus, but a relatively high flexural modulus, highlighting a strong dependence on loading mode. In contrast, NFCF composites reached higher tensile strengths. These results demonstrate that although 100% waste prepreg fibers are unsuitable for structural applications, their use in forged carbon composites becomes viable when blended with virgin fibers. This approach offers a practical pathway to valorize prepreg waste and support a more sustainable circular economy for advanced composite materials.

Mechanical Performance of Cementitious Composites Reinforced with Low Coconut Fiber Content

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 17 July 2026
Source: Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1190
Author(s): Danielle Ferreira dos Santos, Philippe Bachmeyer de Meirelles
The environmental impact associated with cement production has intensified the search for sustainable alternatives for cementitious composites. Coconut fiber, a renewable and low-cost material widely available in tropical regions, has attracted attention as a natural reinforcement for concrete applications. This study evaluated the mechanical behavior of cementitious composites reinforced with low contents of coconut fiber (0.10%, 0.20%, and 0.30% w/w). The reference mixture presented an average axial compressive strength of approximately 15.8 MPa and an average diametral tensile strength of approximately 8.0 MPa. The incorporation of 0.10% coconut fiber resulted in the highest average mechanical performance among the evaluated mixtures. Axial compressive strength showed a slight increase to approximately 15.9 MPa, while diametral tensile strength increased to approximately 9.4 MPa. Higher fiber contents (0.20% and 0.30%) resulted in reductions in compressive strength, with no substantial additional gains in diametral tensile strength. The incorporation of coconut fibers also modified the fracture behavior of the composites, indicating reduced brittleness and possible crack-bridging action. Overall, the results suggest that low fiber incorporation may contribute to improved tensile-related performance without significantly compromising compressive strength. Among the investigated compositions, 0.10% (w/w) presented the most balanced mechanical behavior, demonstrating the potential of coconut fiber as a sustainable reinforcement material for cementitious composites in civil construction.