Materials Science Forum

Preface

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189

The Effect of Using Natural Fibers and Nanoparticles in Studying the Properties of Polymer Blends for Medical Applications

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Hassan A. Sharhan, Wafaa M. Salih, Sadeer M. Majeed
This article focused on the effect of natural materials on the Mechanical and Physical Properties of Polymer nanocomposite. Fibers and powder underwent treated with an alkaline solution to improve interfacial adhesion. were constructed with the hand lay-up technique with a PMMA/Epoxy blend and natural powders of egg shells and cuttle bone as reinforcements for medical applications in prosthetic arm fabrication. Therefore the cost of raw materials chosen must be important (i.e. economical and cheap for low-income amputees). Consequently, a prosthesis should be comfortable to wear, simple to put on and take off, light weight, long - lasting, and pleasing to the eye in terms of appearance. The polymer mix composition consisted of 25% PMMA and 75% epoxy, together with three distinct concentrations of natural powders (1, 2, and 3 wt.%) relative to the overall composite weight. The cured resin specimen was evaluated for mechanical and physical parameters, including impact strength, flexural strength, hardness, and density. The results demonstrated that the polymer nanocomposite sample achieved peak impact strength values of 12.2 KJ/m² for cuttle bone and 19.48 KJ/m² for eggshell. The flexural strength recorded was 73 MPa for cuttle bone and 71.2 MPa for eggshell, while hardness values were 83.6 for cuttle bone and 83.8 for eggshell at a 3% nanocomposite ratio. Conversely, the other tests of polymer blends (PMMA + Epoxy) using natural fibers (Siwak and flax) attained the highest results. The impact strength of specimens reinforced with siwak fibers significantly exceeds that of specimens reinforced with flax fibers, with flexural strength and hardness of 13.45 KJ/m², 70.6 MPa, and 86.5 shore D, respectively, compared to the base material (PMMA+EP). The density test results demonstrated an elevation in density corresponding to the increasing weight fraction of nanoparticles (eggshell and cuttle bone) in relation to the base material (PMMA+EP). Therefore, these samples may be considered suitable candidates for use as matrix materials that meet the requirements for prosthetic manufacture.

Epoxy Adhesive Exhibiting High Energetic Performance in Deflagration

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Wen Feng Zhang, Jun Liu, Yong Lyu He
Reactive structural material (RSM) has been used in modern warheads, binders in which has limitations in achieving high energy release and excellent mechanical properties. Epoxy resins, with their high oxygen content and good mechanical strength, show great potential as alternatives to traditional binders. In this work, two cured epoxy systems with different oxygen contents were prepared and tested under simulated explosion conditions. During detonation, combustion of resin fragments was observed, resulting in a peak blast pressure about 1.7 times higher than that of the bare explosive. Additional dispersion and combustion tests on resin powders confirmed that a higher oxygen content and more C-O bonds led to faster combustion and stronger pressure output. These results suggest that increasing the oxygen-rich structure of epoxy resins can effectively enhance both the combustion behavior and energy release, offering a new approach for developing high-performance binders in reactive materials.

The Role of Maleic Anhydride Polypropylene in Improvement Interaction Matrix – Reinforcement in Composites Based Waste Lignocellulose

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Suryo S. Bibit Sugito, Supriyono Supriyono, Rois Fatoni
Composite based waste lignocellulose with matrix Polypropylene (PP) is a potential material tall For application friendly environment in the sector automotive, construction, and products technique sustainable. However , the differences polarity between PP matrix which is hydrophobic and fiber lignocellulose which is hydrophilic cause problem adhesion weak interface , which results in low characteristic mechanics and stability morphology composite . Maleic Anhydride Grafted Polypropylene (MAPP) has Lots used as agent clutch (compatibilizer) for overcome incompatibility said . Article This serve review comprehensive to mechanism MAPP's work in increase interaction matrix – reinforcement in composites based waste lignocellulose . The study was conducted to various five years of primary literature last to report results experiment about characterization chemical, mechanical, thermal, and morphological from reinforced PP–MAPP composite fiber lignocellulose. MAPP works through reaction esterification between group anhydrides and groups hydroxyl on the surface fiber , forming bond covalent bonding that increases adhesion interface and allows efficient voltage transfer . The addition of MAPP in range of 2–5% proven increase strength tensile strength , modulus of elasticity , and resilience thermal. In addition that , MAPP also plays a role in repair distribution fiber and reduce defect structural . With Thus, MAPP plays role key in increase performance composite waste lignocellulose PP matrix, as well as become approach strategic For support green material development and economy circular.

A Comparative Study of Hot Pressed Resin Composite Reinforced with Teak Sawdust and Coconut Coir Fiber

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Muhamad Fitri, Edy Herianto Majlan, Alfian Noviyanto, Dedik Romahadi, Muhammad Aziz, Dwi Pudji Susilo, Samir Sani Abdulmalik, Stenlly Damar Surya Jati
Natural fiber-based composites are increasingly used in engineering applications due to their superior performance in producing lightweight, strong, and environmentally friendly materials. This study compares hot-pressed resin composites reinforced with teak sawdust become Teak sawdust Reinforced-Hot Pressed Resin Composite (TSR-HPRC) and coconut fiber became Reinforced Hot Pressed Resin CompositeCoconut coir Reinforced (CCR-HPRC). Teak sawdust is a wood industry waste with high strength and aesthetic value, while coconut fiber comes from coir and is abundant in tropical regions. Both are used as reinforcements for composite resins to improve mechanical properties. Through the hot-pressing method, this study evaluated the tensile strength, hardness, and coefficient of friction of TSR-HPRC and CCR-HPRC. Thorough testing was carried out, including statistical analysis (ANOVA) to determine the optimal reinforcement conditions. The results showed that TSR-HPRC had the highest tensile strength of 22.78 MPa and Shore D hardness of 80.87, superior to CCR-HPRC which only achieved 10.48 MPa and hardness of 76.55. The friction coefficient of TSR-HPRC ranges from 0.25–0.33, while that of CCR-HPRC ranges from 0.17–0.24. This study supports the development of cost-effective and sustainable composite materials, reducing dependence on synthetic fibers.

Optimization of Epoxy Resin Mixing Ratios on the Strength of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Composite Joints

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Sugiyanto Sugiyanto, Sarjito Sarjito, Rois Fatoni
Glass fiber-reinforced composites (GFRC) are widely used in structural applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent fatigue resistance. Nevertheless, the mechanical integrity of adhesive joints remains a critical challenge in composite structural engineering. This study aims to investigate the influence of varying epoxy resin mixing ratios on the lap shear strength of glass fiber-reinforced composite joints. Two experimental schemes were conducted by varying the resin-to-hardener composition in the range of 10:50 to 70:50 (by weight). Single-lap joint specimens were fabricated and tested in accordance with ASTM D5868-95. The results demonstrated that a resin-to-hardener ratio of 50:50 yielded the maximum lap shear strength, reaching 5.71 MPa for resin system A and 5.28 MPa for resin system B. This ratio indicated a stoichiometric balance between epoxy groups and active amine groups, resulting in optimal curing with maximum cross-linking density. Deviations from this optimal ratio, either due to excess or deficiency of one component, led to a significant reduction in joint strength, as indicated by brittle fracture or weak adhesive bonding. These findings highlight the importance of precise control over epoxy adhesive formulations to ensure reliable mechanical performance in composite structures. The implications of this research contribute to the development of more durable and efficient adhesive systems, particularly for GFRC applications in the automotive, aerospace, and marine industries.

Antibacterial Enhancement of 3D Printed Dental Resin Photopolymer Using Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Rohmadi Rohmadi, Widyanita Harwijayanti, Kuncoro Diharjo, Ubaidillah Ubaidillah, Joko Triyono
This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial properties of dental resin photopolymer (DRP) specimens modified with additive titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles using stereolithography 3D printing technology. TiO2 known for its excellent biocompatibility, making it a promising additive for enhancing bacterial resistance. Specimens were fabricated with varying compositions of TiO2 and characterized for surface morphology using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Antibacterial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. SEM analysis revealed that TiO2 particles were relatively well-dispersed on the matrix surface. Antibacterial testing showed the formation of inhibition zones, particularly in sample with composition 5%wt TiO2, indicating increasing antibacterial performance. The activity was more pronounced against S. aureus, attributed to its less complex cell wall structure and more susceptible to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by TiO2 photocatalytic conditions. These findings suggest that TiO2-modified DRP has strong potential as an antimicrobial dental restorative material fabricated through SLA-based 3D printing.

Effects of SiO2 Nanoparticles in LDPE Insulation for HVAC Application

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Matthew Ding Jie Wee, Nazatul Shiema Moh Nazar, Pairu Ibrahim, Noor Fadzilah Mohamed Sharif, Norazrina Mat Jali, Suresh Thanakodi
It has been studied how SiO₂ nanoparticles affect the mechanical and electrical properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The tensile strength, microstructural features, and AC breakdown characteristics of LDPE containing silicon dioxide (SiO₂) nanoparticles were investigated in this work. The concentrations of filler were adjusted to 0.5 wt%, 1.0 wt%, 1.5 wt%, 2.0 wt%, 3.0 wt%, and 4.0 wt%. The samples were prepared by using Haake machine and shaped by compression moulding, and a sphere to sphere electrode arrangement was used for AC breakdown testing. The breakdown reliability was assessed using the Weibull distribution. Molecular interaction and nanoparticle dispersion were analysed using Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The findings demonstrated that mechanical strength and breakdown voltage increases with filler concentration, reaching a maximum at 2.0 wt% SiO₂. When compared to pure LDPE, the AC breakdown voltage increased by 27.54% at this concentration. SEM pictures showed a homogeneous dispersion of nanoparticles, while Raman spectra verified improved interfacial bonding. AC breakdown voltage above 2.0 wt% shows decrease value due to agglomeration of nanoparticles. According to this study, LDPE insulation performance is best enhanced by 2.0 wt% SiO₂.

Influence of Magnesium Oxide (MgO) Nanoparticles for High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Cable Insulation

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Z.K. Hong, Noor Fadzilah Mohamed Sharif, Norshafarina Ismail, M.N. Nazatul Shiema, Nor Laili Ismail
This study discusses the development of enhanced insulating materials for High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) cable insulations by reinforcing Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) with nanomagnesia (MgO) particles. The main emphasis of this work is to investigate the DC breakdown voltage performance of LDPE/MgO nanocomposites as a function of filler content. Increase in DC breakdown strength is very important for long-term reliability and safety of HVDC cable insulation. Besides electrical performance, tensile strength and morphological study were made as complementary studies to check the mechanical stability and quality of particle dispersion. The nanocomposites were fabricated using the melt-blending method, where 40 grams of LDPE was mixed with 1.25 wt.%, 2.5 wt.% and 5wt.% of nanomagnesia at 170 [°C] and 50 rpm (rotation per minute) using a Haake internal mixer. The resulting materials were hot-pressed into 1 mm thin films at 160 [°C] and 50 bar pressure. DC breakdown voltage tests were conducted on the samples to determine their breakdown voltage. Tensile testing was conducted for the mechanical property evaluation where the LDPE and 2.5 wt% MgO composite show slightly lower strain, indicating decreased ductility. Overall, the incorporation of MgO enhances stiffness but reduces flexibility and strain-hardening capacity, resulting in a stronger yet less ductile material. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was undertaken to complement the results, which included the dispersion quality of MgO particles and the filler interfacial bonding. Results indicated that nanomagnesia incorporation improved the DC breakdown voltage of LDPE, with the optimum value at 2.5 wt.% of MgO. At this loading, the material showed the strongest dielectric strength while retaining reasonable tensile properties. Thus, this study has proven that LDPE reinforced with 2.5 wt.% of nanomagnesia is a viable and efficient insulation material for HVDC cable applications at average of 40.1 [kV] compared to pure LDPE at 32.41 [kV].

Prediction of Ascorbic Acid Dissolution by UV-Vis Spectroscopy for Oral Dispersible Film (ODF) Using Artificial Neural Network (ANN)

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Fetriya Fatihah Nasar, Noor Fitrah Abu Bakar, Nur Asyikin Ahmad Nazri, Jamaluddin Mahmud
Oral dispersible film (ODF) containing ascorbic acid (AA) was synthesised using the electrospinning process, and its dissolving behaviour was analysed by Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. The obtained time, wavelength and absorbance data were applied to train an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) using the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. A total of 42 datasets were separated into training (90%), validation (5%) and testing (5%) sections. The ANN model displayed good predictive ability, giving a low mean squared error (MSE) and a regression coefficient (R=1), demonstrating a significant correlation between predicted and experimental dissolution profiles. These results demonstrate that ANN can efficiently predict ODF dissolution profiles, hence lowering experimental burden and boosting efficiency in pharmaceutical formulation research.

Optimization of Binder Content and Evaluating the Mechanical Performance Incorporating Garnet Waste as Additives

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Hazirah binti Bujang, Mohamad Yusri bin Aman, Mohammad Nasir bin Mohamad Taher, Mohd Khairolnizam bin Yunos
In hot and humid climates, premature pavement failures, such as rutting and surface deformation, continue to be significant problems. High temperatures shorten the stiffness and durability of asphalt mixtures by encouraging the softening and aging of the binder. Using the right additives to increase asphalt's mechanical strength and resistance is essential for prolonging pavement life. Hence,this study investigates the optimization of binder content and mechanical performance of asphalt mixtures incorporating garnet waste at various proportions. The optimum bitumen content was prepared utilizing Marshalll mix design method then evaluated the mechanical performance using Marshall stability and resilient modulus. 75 samples of AC14 mixture were produced with addition of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% garnet. As a result, 15% of garnet mixture demonstrates the highest stability of 24,300 N and stiffness of 8,450 N/mm. Meanwhile, resilient modulus analysis observed that 5% of garnet exhibit the optimal propotions, with increased modulus of 5709 MPa at 25 °C and maintained at 40 °C with modulus of 1,343 MPa. The binder aggregate bond was weakened when increasing the proportions of garnet in the mixture as well as reducing the structural of samples. Thus, incorporating garnet waste shows a sustainable additive to improve asphalt mixture properties while promoting environmental sustainability through industrial waste reuse.

Creep Rupture Strength and Microstructural Changes due to Creep of Mod.9Cr-1Mo Steel with High Initial Hardness

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Li Bin Niu, Tomohiro Mori, Yuichi Yamamoto
To investigate creep rupture properties and microstructural changes due to creep of the Mod.9Cr-1Mo steel with high initial hardness, creep rupture tests were carried out at 600°C and 650°C. The hardness of the gauge and grip portions of the ruptured specimens were also measured. This steel exhibited higher creep rupture strength than the conventional material at the two temperatures, but its creep rupture strength showed a larger decreasing tendency at 650°C. For the specimens ruptured at 600°C, an increasing tendency in lath width and a decreasing one in hardness were confirmed in gauge portions, but they were not observed in grip portions. However, for the specimens ruptured at 650°C, the hardness of both gauge and grip portions tended to decrease with the time to rupture, and the recovery of the lath structure and the coarsening of M23C6 carbides were particularly noticeable in the gauge portions.

Characterization for Different Temperatures to Achieve Sustainable Protection by Using an Eco-Friendly Corrosion Inhibitor (SiO₂-NPs) Synthesized in the Lab

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Samer Noaman Shattab, Kadhim F. Alsultani
This study evaluates the effect of temperature variations on the corrosion rates of A106 Grade B steel using dynamic polarization and weight-loss methods. Carbon steel samples were immersed in a 1-molecular-concentration hydrochloric acid electrolyte solution at different temperatures ranging from 25 to 55°C, with or without inhibitors at different concentrations, for a specified period. In this study, nano silica was synthesized in the laboratory using a Sol-gel process to serve as an environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitor derived from natural sand (Najaf, Iraq). The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the inhibitor, producing favorable corrosion rates even at high temperatures in its presence, while corrosion rates decreased in the absence of added inhibitor concentrations (400–1000 ppm). The results and statistical data were analyzed using Tafel and CR plots, Arrhenius analysis (ln (CR) vs. 1/T), and percentage inhibition ratios. Corrosion rates, current densities, and Tafel constants (CR, icorr., βc, βa) were determined during polarization, while the weights of the inhibitor-treated and non-inhibited samples were evaluated during weight loss studies. Tests (XRD, FTIR, AFM, TGA/TDS, and SEM) demonstrated the achievement of the work goal of developing a protective silicate layer of silica (SiO2) nanoparticles, which provided effective and durable protection of the target metal surface samples from corrosion, especially under temperature fluctuations.

Performance Evaluation of Stretchable Electrode from Orange Peel and Lignin for Flexible Electronics and Energy Storage Applications

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Olakunle Ibrahim Oresegun, Bo Jin, Shu Lan Zhou, Chen Liu, Zhao Tao He, Chun Ge Wang, Sheng Zhang, Qian Qian Wang
The growing energy crisis and environmental challenges have spurred the development of sustainable energy storage solutions. This study synthesizes 3D porous Orange Peel-Lignin activated carbon (OPLAC) from orange peel waste and lignin using a two-step pyrolysis process with KOH activation. The OPLAC was combined with styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS) and SUPER P conductive carbon black to create stretchable electrode composites with varying compositions (70:20:10, 60:30:10, and 50:40:10). Mechanical testing revealed that increasing the SIS content improved stretchability, with the 50:40:10 composition achieving 300% strain and retaining 95% durability after 100 cycles. However, higher SIS content reduced electrical conductivity, with the 70:20:10 composition showing the highest conductivity (12 S/cm) and the 50:40:10 the lowest (7 S/cm). The 60:30:10 composition offered a balance between flexibility and conductivity. These results demonstrate the potential of biomass-derived activated carbon for sustainable, high-performance supercapacitor electrodes, particularly for flexible electronics and wearable devices, while highlighting the valorization of agricultural and industrial waste in energy storage applications. Keywords: Stretchable electrode, activated carbon, orange peel waste, Lignin, flexible electronics

Recent Advances in Incorporating Nanomaterials as Additives in Solid Electrolytes for Efficient Lithium–Battery

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Nkechi Elizabeth Offia-Kalu, Bernice Ngwi Abraham, Daniel Amune, Uchenna C. Obi, Vitalis Anye, Simeon C. Nwanonenyi, Abdulhakeem Bello
Solid polymer electrolytes are recently investigated as alternatives to enhance the efficiency of lithium-ion batteries because of their inherent advantages. However, ionic transport through solid polymer electrolytes and mechanical properties of the electrolyte tend to be poorer compared with the liquid organic salt electrolytes. Granted, nanobased materials have attracted increased interest due to their ability to improve the properties of the electrolytes of lithium-ion batteries. This review is intended to highlight recent advances in utilizing nanomaterials in improving the electrochemical and mechanical characteristics of the solid electrolyte to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries. The synthetic techniques employed, as well as limitations of nanomaterials, are summarized. Recommendations for further development of novel functional nanomaterials for lithium-ion batteries are presented. Insight from this research will guide researchers in lithium battery technologies to make informed decisions, specifically when using nanobased materials.

Scalable Fabrication of High-Performance UV Photodetectors Using Spin-Coated SWCNT/Polyaniline Nanocomposites

Fri, 1 May 2026 00:00:00 +0200

Publication date: 1 May 2026
Source: Materials Science Forum Vol. 1189
Author(s): Kadhim A. Hubeatir, Iman N. Nassef, Hawraa Khudeir, Bayan Mahdi Sabbar
Ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors have garnered considerable attention because of their critical roles in diverse technological applications. This study reports the fabrication and characterization of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT)/polyaniline (PANI) nanocomposite films prepared via the spin-coating technique on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) substrates for ultraviolet (UV) photodetector applications. Two weight concentrations of SWCNTs (0.04 g and 0.06 g) were investigated to assess their influence on the optical and structural properties of the films. Structural consistency was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while UV–visible spectroscopy revealed optical band gaps of 1.60–2.08 eV. Electrical characterization demonstrated that an increased SWCNT content led to an enhanced current response. The device with 0.04 g SWCNT achieved a detectivity of 1.12 × 10¹⁶ Jones and a photoresponsivity of 11.361 μA/mW, with response and recovery times of 0.36 s and 0.34 s, respectively. The 0.06 g SWCNT device showed improved performance, reaching a photoresponsivity of 12.1414 μA/W and detectivity of 1.43 × 10¹⁶ Jones, with response and recovery times of 0.36 s and 0.38 s, respectively. These findings demonstrate the potential of SWCNT/PANI composites for high-performance UV photodetector applications.