Materials Science Forum Vol. 1168

Abstract: Silicon materials are currently being explored for usage in lithium-ion battery anodes due to their high lithium storage capacity. We have developed a novel method, using a simple thermal treatment of low-cost silicon powder and nanographite, resulting in a composite where silicon nanoparticles are grown on the graphene surfaces. Electrodes fabricated from these Si-NG composites delivered a stable capacity of 489 mAh/g during 25 cycles, i.e. higher than conventional graphite anodes (theoretical capacity: 372 mAh/g). The method uses low-cost materials and avoids complex setups, thereby suggesting industrial scalability.

Abstract: This comprehensive review paper provides an in-depth analysis of the tribo-corrosion behaviour and wear resistance of biomedical materials, focusing on their application in orthopaedic and dental implant settings. Various materials such as titanium alloys, stainless steel, CoCrMo alloy, UHMWPE, and Ti-based alloys are examined for their mechanical, tribological, and corrosion properties. The impact of surface modifications, coatings, and manufacturing techniques on the performance of these materials is thoroughly explored. Experimental investigations and characterization techniques including SEM analysis, X-ray diffraction, nanoindentation, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are utilized to assess tribo-corrosion behaviour, wear resistance, and mechanical properties. The significance of specific parameters such as coating thickness, temperature, sliding speed, and load in determining the performance of biomedical materials is highlighted. The review emphasizes the need for continued research and development to enhance the tribological properties of biomedical metallic materials, with promising implications for orthopaedic implant longevity and human health. Keywords: Tribo-corrosion, Wear Resistance, Biomedical Materials, coatings, Pin-on Disc

Abstract: This review highlights the recent advancements in the synthesis and application of magnetic spinel ferrites (SFs) for wastewater treatment, focusing on their photocatalytic and adsorptive properties. SF nanoparticles, with unique characteristics such as high surface area, tunable magnetic properties, and chemical stability, offer efficient pollutant degradation and recovery via magnetic separation. Various synthesis techniques, including sol-gel, hydrothermal, and solution combustion, have been explored to enhance their morphology, porosity, and catalytic efficiency. SFs demonstrate exceptional performance in degrading organic pollutants, dyes, and pharmaceutical contaminants under visible light, leveraging their photocatalytic and adsorption mechanisms. The effectiveness is further increased by combining SFs with advanced materials including g-C3N4 and r-GO. A worldwide sustainable water treatment issue makes this study significant because SFs present scalable environmentally friendly solutions that have revolutionary potential.

Abstract: In recent years, the demand of ready-mix concrete (RMC) has been significantly increased due to shortage of space and good quality control at site. The retarder plays vital role in increasing the retention time of RMC. Polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PCE) is a commonly used admixture and the incorporation of sodium gluconate SG has been accepted as the most efficient way to improve the basic performance of PCE in ready mix concrete. However, this improvement cannot always be achieved because adding more than 0.08% SG (by weight of cement) does not increase retention beyond 120 minutes for pumpable concrete. To extend the retention time to 180 minutes, the GA dosage needs to be increased by up to 0.05% beyond the initial 0.08% SG. In this study, gluconic acid (GA) was used with SG as a retarder, and its effects on fresh concrete properties and hardened concrete properties were examined. It was observed that the addition of 0.05% GA can provide a retention time of up to 180 minutes without causing segregation and bleeding. GA exhibited higher performance in terms of workability and strength when used in concrete.

Abstract: Bamboo fibers, as sustainable and renewable resources, have gained significant interest as a reinforcement material in concrete. However, the hydrophilic nature of bamboo fibers limits their compatibility with the concrete matrix. To improve the interfacial bonding and mechanical properties of bamboo fibers, an alkali-silane treatment was employed to modify the fiber surface. This study investigated the effects of alkali-silane treatment, with varying silane concentrations, on the chemical composition, thermal stability, surface morphology, and mechanical properties of bamboo fibers. Treated and untreated fibers were incorporated into concrete composites and subjected to mechanical tests, which include splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and compressive strength tests. FTIR spectra, TGA curves, and SEM micrographs identified that the alkali-silane treatment of 5% NaOH+10% 3-Methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH570) solution was most effective in improving fiber properties and concrete composite performance. The treated fiber-reinforced concrete composites exhibited improved splitting tensile strength (+25.03%), flexural strength (+25.45%), and compressive strength (+26.26%) compared to untreated fiber-reinforced and non-reinforced concrete. These findings demonstrate the potential of alkali-silane-treated bamboo fibers as a promising reinforcement material for sustainable concrete composites.