Journal Description
Ceramics
Ceramics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of ceramics science and engineering, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Materials Science, Ceramics) / CiteScore - Q2 (Materials Science (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 25.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.1 (2023)
Latest Articles
Insights for Precursors Influence on the Solar-Assisted Photocatalysis of Greenly Synthesizing Zinc Oxide NPs towards Fast and Durable Wastewater Detoxification
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1100-1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030072 - 19 Aug 2024
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Herein, this study has examined the influence of Zn2+ sources during a biogenic-mediated pathway to synthesize ZnO nanoparticles with highly desirable solar-responsive catalytic properties. Salts of nitrate, acetate and chloride have been utilized. The ZnO powders underwent characterization using diverse analytical tools,
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Herein, this study has examined the influence of Zn2+ sources during a biogenic-mediated pathway to synthesize ZnO nanoparticles with highly desirable solar-responsive catalytic properties. Salts of nitrate, acetate and chloride have been utilized. The ZnO powders underwent characterization using diverse analytical tools, including XRD, FTIR, Raman, BET, SEM, TEM with EDS/elemental mapping and UV-vis absorption/emission spectroscopic analyses. Accordingly, precursors have proved to affect crystallinity, morphology, surface characteristics, optical properties and the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) model pollutant. It was observed that ZnO derived from zinc acetate precursor (Z-AC NPs) exhibits very fast photocatalytic degradation of MB at pH 11 with superior kinetic estimates of 0.314 min−1 and t1/2 = 2.2 min over many of recent reports. In contrast, the chloride precursor is not recommended along with the employed biogenic route. The intriguing findings could be directly correlated to the decreased crystal size, augmented surface area, the hexagonal morphology of the crystals, high potency in absorbing visible photons, high efficacy in separating photogenerated charge carriers and producing high amounts of •OH radicals. Further testing of Z-AC NPs in photocatalytic remediation of water samples from Dumat Aljandal Lake in Aljouf, Saudi Arabia, contaminated with MB and pyronine Y (PY) dyestuffs, showed high dye photodegradation. Therefore, this work could lead to an extremely fast avenue for decontaminating wastewater from hazmat dyestuff.
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Open AccessArticle
Characterization of ZnWO4, MgWO4, and CaWO4 Ceramics Synthesized in the Field of a Powerful Radiation Flux
by
Gulnur Alpyssova, Viktor Lisitsyn, Zhanara Bakiyeva, Ivan Chakin, Ekaterina Kaneva, Dmitriy Afanasyev, Ainura Tussupbekova, Vitalii Vaganov, Aida T. Tulegenova and Serik Tuleuov
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1085-1099; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030071 - 19 Aug 2024
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This paper presents the results of a study on the morphology, structure, and luminescent properties of ceramics synthesized in the radiation field of MeWO4 compositions (where Me is Mg, Ca, and Zn). The synthesis of ceramics was carried out by the direct
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This paper presents the results of a study on the morphology, structure, and luminescent properties of ceramics synthesized in the radiation field of MeWO4 compositions (where Me is Mg, Ca, and Zn). The synthesis of ceramics was carried out by the direct action of the electron flux on an initial mixture of powders of the given stoichiometric composition. WO3, ZnO, MgO, and CaO powders with particle sizes in the range of 1–50 microns were used for the synthesis of the samples. It was found that the yield of the radiation synthesis reaction (the ratio of the mass of the sample and the charge used), when treated with an electron flux with an energy of 1.4 MeV and a flux power density of 15–18 kW/cm2, was in the range of 75–99%. The synthesis of all compositions was carried out under the same radiation treatment modes, although the melting temperatures of the starting materials varied significantly and ranged from 1473 °C (WO3) to 2825 °C (MgO). The study of the ceramic structure showed that under the radiation effect of powerful radiation fluxes on the charge, a crystalline phase of the appropriate composition formed, regardless of the synthesis modes. The results of XRD studies show that during the radiation treatment of the charge, ceramics are formed mainly with the crystalline phases ZnWO4, MgWO4, and CaWO4. These resulting MeWO4 ceramics can be used for the same purposes as crystals. Photoluminescence (PL) and cathodoluminescence (CL) were studied under excitation using stationary ultraviolet radiation and nanosecond pulses of electron flux. In general, the PL and CL of synthesized ceramic samples ZnWO4, MgWO4, and CaWO4 showed that their luminescent properties are similar to those of luminescence in corresponding crystalline materials. This indicates the formation of a crystalline phase in synthesized ceramic samples.
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Open AccessArticle
Mechanical Properties of an Extremely Tough 1.5 mol% Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Material
by
Frank Kern and Bettina Osswald
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1066-1084; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030070 - 15 Aug 2024
Abstract
Yttria-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) ceramics with a drastically reduced yttria content have been introduced by different manufacturers, aiming at improving the damage tolerance of ceramic components. In this study, an alumina-doped 1.5Y-TZP was axially pressed, pressureless sintered in air at 1250–1400 °C for 2
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Yttria-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) ceramics with a drastically reduced yttria content have been introduced by different manufacturers, aiming at improving the damage tolerance of ceramic components. In this study, an alumina-doped 1.5Y-TZP was axially pressed, pressureless sintered in air at 1250–1400 °C for 2 h and characterized with respect to mechanical properties, microstructure, and phase composition. The material exhibits a combination of a high strength of 1000 MPa and a high toughness of 8.5–10 MPa√m. The measured fracture toughness is, however, extremely dependent on the measurement protocol. Direct crack length measurements overestimate toughness due to trapping effects. The initially purely tetragonal material has a high transformability of >80%, the transformation behavior is predominantly dilational, and the measured R-curve-related toughness increments are in good agreement with the transformation toughness increments derived from XRD data.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Horizons in Ceramic Processing and Manufacturing: Celebrating the Institute for Manufacturing Technologies of Ceramic Components and Composites of the University of Stuttgart)
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Open AccessArticle
Optimization of Yb:CaF2 Transparent Ceramics by Air Pre-Sintering and Hot Isostatic Pressing
by
Xiang Li, Chen Hu, Lihao Guo, Junlin Wu, Guido Toci, Angela Pirri, Barbara Patrizi, Matteo Vannini, Qiang Liu, Dariusz Hreniak and Jiang Li
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1053-1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030069 - 15 Aug 2024
Abstract
Yb:CaF2 transparent ceramics represent a promising laser gain medium for ultra-short lasers due to their characteristics: low phonon energy, relatively high thermal conductivity, negative thermo-optical coefficient, and low refractive index. Compared to single crystals, Yb:CaF2 ceramics offer superior mechanical properties, lower
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Yb:CaF2 transparent ceramics represent a promising laser gain medium for ultra-short lasers due to their characteristics: low phonon energy, relatively high thermal conductivity, negative thermo-optical coefficient, and low refractive index. Compared to single crystals, Yb:CaF2 ceramics offer superior mechanical properties, lower cost, and it is easier to obtain large-sized samples with proper shape and uniform Yb3+ doping at high concentrations. The combination of air pre-sintering and Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) emerges as a viable strategy for achieving high optical quality and fine-grained structure of ceramics at lower sintering temperatures. The properties of the powders used in ceramic fabrication critically influence both optical quality and laser performance of Yb:CaF2 ceramics. In this study, the 5 atomic percentage (at.%) Yb:CaF2 transparent ceramics were fabricated by air pre-sintering and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) using nano-powders synthesized through the co-precipitation method. The co-precipitated powders were optimized by studying air calcination temperature (from 350 to 550 °C). The influence of calcination temperature on the microstructure and laser performance of Yb:CaF2 ceramics was studied in detail. The 5 at.% Yb:CaF2 transparent ceramics air pre-sintered at 625 °C from powders air calcined at 400 °C and HIP post-treated at 600 °C exhibited the highest in-line transmittance of 91.5% at 1200 nm (3.0 mm thickness) and the best laser performance. Specifically, a maximum output power of 0.47 W with a maximum slope efficiency of 9.2% at 1029 nm under quasi-CW (QCW) pumping was measured.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transparent Ceramics—a Theme Issue in Honor of Dr. Adrian Goldstein)
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Open AccessArticle
Excellent Energy Storage and Photovoltaic Performances in Bi0.45Na0.45Ba0.1TiO3-Based Lead-Free Ferroelectricity Thin Film
by
Jianhua Wu, Tiantian Zhang, Xing Gao, Lei Ning, Yanhua Hu, Xiaojie Lou, Yunying Liu, Ningning Sun and Yong Li
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1043-1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030068 - 1 Aug 2024
Abstract
Inorganic dielectric films have attracted extensive attention in the field of microelectronic and electrical devices because of their wide operating temperature range, small size, and easy integration. Here, we designed and prepared eco-friendly (1-x)Bi0.45Na0.45Ba0.1TiO3-xBi(Mg1/3
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Inorganic dielectric films have attracted extensive attention in the field of microelectronic and electrical devices because of their wide operating temperature range, small size, and easy integration. Here, we designed and prepared eco-friendly (1-x)Bi0.45Na0.45Ba0.1TiO3-xBi(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 multifunctional ferroelectric thin films for energy storage and photovoltaic. The results show that Bi(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 can effectively improve the energy storage performance. At x = 0.05, the energy storage density and efficiency are as high as 73.1 J/cm3 and 86.2%, respectively, and can operate stably in a wide temperature range. The breakdown field strength of the thin films increased significantly, and the analysis showed that the addition of Bi(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 caused a change in the internal conduction mechanism. At the same time, the generation of polar nanoregions increases the relaxation characteristics, thus improving the energy storage properties. In addition, the thin film material also has excellent ferroelectric photovoltaic properties. This work represents a new design paradigm that can serve as an effective strategy for developing advanced multi-functional materials.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Electronic Ceramics)
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Open AccessCommunication
The Direct Cold Sintering of α-Al2O3 Ceramics in a Pure Water Medium
by
Anastasia A. Kholodkova, Maxim V. Kornyushin, Arseniy N. Khrustalev, Levko A. Arbanas, Andrey V. Smirnov and Yurii D. Ivakin
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1030-1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030067 - 31 Jul 2024
Abstract
Porous α-Al2O3 ceramics are a highly sought-after material with a multitude of applications; for example, they are used as filters, substrates, biomedicine materials, etc. Despite the availability of raw materials, a challenge associated with this technology is the high energy
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Porous α-Al2O3 ceramics are a highly sought-after material with a multitude of applications; for example, they are used as filters, substrates, biomedicine materials, etc. Despite the availability of raw materials, a challenge associated with this technology is the high energy budget caused by sintering above 1500 °C. For the cold sintering processing (CSP) of ceramics, lowering the α-Al2O3 sintering temperature is one of the most urgent challenges in the background of its rapid development. This paper is the first to demonstrate a solution to this problem using the CSP of α-alumina ceramics in the presence of pure water as a transient liquid. The manufactured materials were examined using XRD analysis; the evolution of their microstructures during CSP was revealed by SEM; and the porosity was evaluated using the Archimedes method. Ceramics with an open porosity up to 36% were produced at 380–450 °C and 220 MPa in 30 min. An increase in the pressure was found to impede α-Al2O3 formation from γ-AlOOH. The development of the microstructure was discussed within the framework of the dissolution–precipitation model and homogenous nucleation. The results of the SEM study pointed to the coalescence of γ-AlOOH grains during CSP.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Horizons in Ceramic Processing and Manufacturing: Celebrating the Institute for Manufacturing Technologies of Ceramic Components and Composites of the University of Stuttgart)
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Open AccessReview
Synthesis of Bulk-Nucleated Glass–Ceramics and Porous Glass–Ceramic Composites through Utilization of Fly Ashes
by
Hugo R. Fernandes, Oguzhan Gunduz and Dilshat U. Tulyaganov
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1014-1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030066 - 30 Jul 2024
Abstract
Coal combustion in power plants for electric power generation produces millions of tons of residues that are generally disposed of in landfills or ponds occupying vast land, resulting in serious environmental pollution. Fly ash (FA) is one of the main solid wastes generated
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Coal combustion in power plants for electric power generation produces millions of tons of residues that are generally disposed of in landfills or ponds occupying vast land, resulting in serious environmental pollution. Fly ash (FA) is one of the main solid wastes generated in coal-based thermal power plants, representing the largest fraction of coal combustion residues (65–95%). Unfortunately, the enormous amount of FA residue is utilized only partly, mainly in the cement industry and building materials field. An alternative approach to using FA is its incorporation into ceramic, glass and glass–ceramic production, aligning with circular economy principles and reducing the environmental footprint of both the energy and ceramic sectors. In this review article, the topics of the composition, properties, classification, and utilization of fly ashes from thermal power plants are discussed. The main objective of this work is a critical analysis of the experimental trials directed to the involvement of FA as a raw material in the fabrication of glass–ceramics and porous ceramic composites.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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Open AccessArticle
Energy Storage Performance of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–CaHfO3 Lead-Free Ceramics Regulated by Defect Engineering
by
Zhuo Li, Jing Zhang, Zixuan Wang, Xiaotian Wei, Dingjie Long, Xin Zhao and Yanhui Niu
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1002-1013; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030065 - 28 Jul 2024
Abstract
Over the past decades, Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT)-based ceramics have received increasing attention in energy storage applications due to their high power density and relatively large maximum polarization. However, their high remnant polarization (Pr) and low breakdown field
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Over the past decades, Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT)-based ceramics have received increasing attention in energy storage applications due to their high power density and relatively large maximum polarization. However, their high remnant polarization (Pr) and low breakdown field strength are detrimental for their practical applications. In this paper, a new solid solution (1−x)Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–xCaHfO3 (x = 0.04, 0.08, 0.12, 0.16) was constructed by introducing CaHfO3 into NBT, and thus was prepared using a conventional solid-state reaction. With the addition of CaHfO3, the disorder of the structure increased, A-site vacancies formed, and thus oxygen vacancies were suppressed due to the replacement of the Na+ by Ca2+, resulting in the enhanced relaxation behavior and the reduced Pr, the refined grain, and improved breakdown strength. Furthermore, an optimal recoverable energy storage density (Wrec) of 1.2 J/cm3 was achieved in 0.92Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–0.08CaHfO3 ceramics under the breakdown strength of 140 kV/cm, which is mainly attributed to the resultant defect of Na+ vacancy.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Electronic Ceramics)
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Open AccessArticle
Preparation of Polycrystalline Silicon by Metal-Induced Crystallization of Silicon–Carbon Powder
by
Natalia Igorevna Cherkashina, Vyacheslav Ivanovich Pavlenko, Andrey Ivanovich Gorodov and Dar’ya Aleksandrovna Ryzhikh
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 989-1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030064 - 27 Jul 2024
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In this study, we successfully obtained crystalline silicon from silica powder using a metal-induced crystallization method. For this purpose, powders were first prepared from organosilicon compounds and finely dispersed aluminum particles, then their metal-induced crystallization was carried out by annealing at the temperature
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In this study, we successfully obtained crystalline silicon from silica powder using a metal-induced crystallization method. For this purpose, powders were first prepared from organosilicon compounds and finely dispersed aluminum particles, then their metal-induced crystallization was carried out by annealing at the temperature of 570 °C. Powders of organosilicon compounds (tetraethoxysilane and polyethylhydrosiloxane) were prepared by different technological operations in order to determine precisely the presence of carbon in the product. The results showed that the presence of carbon in silica powder affects the production of crystalline silicon. In silica powders containing no carbon, the formation of crystalline substances does not occur at the annealing temperature of 570 °C. The results of this study are of great importance for the production of polycrystalline silicon powders obtained at reduced temperatures.
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Open AccessArticle
Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of a Ceramic Bone Filler Containing Polyphenols from Grape Pomace
by
Elisa Torre, Marco Morra, Clara Cassinelli and Giorgio Iviglia
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 975-988; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030063 - 18 Jul 2024
Abstract
Bone loss is a major burden for society and impacts people’s health all over the world. In a changing world looking toward a more conscious use of raw materials, efforts are being made to increasingly consider new promising biomaterials that account for, on
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Bone loss is a major burden for society and impacts people’s health all over the world. In a changing world looking toward a more conscious use of raw materials, efforts are being made to increasingly consider new promising biomaterials that account for, on one side, the ability to provide specific functional biological activities and, on the other, the feature of being well tolerated. In this regard, the use of phenolic compounds in the field of bone-related bioengineering shows a rising interest in the development of medical solutions aimed at taking advantage of the multiple beneficial properties of these plant molecules. In this work, the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory power of a biphasic calcium phosphate synthetic bone filler coated with a mixture of phenolic compounds was investigated by evaluating the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) value against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis and the expression of genes involved in inflammation and autophagy by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) on J774a.1 murine macrophage cells. Results show a MIC of 0.8 μg/mL, a neat anti-inflammatory effect, and induction of autophagy key genes compared to a ceramic bone filler. In conclusion, functionalization with a polyphenol-rich extract confers to a ceramic bone filler anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring Enhanced Structural and Dielectric Properties in Ag-Doped Sr(NiNb)0.5O3 Perovskite Ceramic for Advanced Energy Storage
by
Faouzia Tayari, Majdi Benamara, Madan Lal, Manel Essid, Priyanka Thakur, Deepak Kumar, S. Soreto Teixeira, M. P. F. Graça and Kais Iben Nassar
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 958-974; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030062 - 10 Jul 2024
Cited by 1
Abstract
The ceramic Sr(NiNb)0.5O3, incorporating silver doping in the A site, was synthesized using a sol–gel route and subjected to comprehensive analysis through various experimental techniques. X-ray diffraction data analysis indicates a rhombohedral crystal structure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination
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The ceramic Sr(NiNb)0.5O3, incorporating silver doping in the A site, was synthesized using a sol–gel route and subjected to comprehensive analysis through various experimental techniques. X-ray diffraction data analysis indicates a rhombohedral crystal structure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination reveals densely packed grains with minimal surface porosity. A thorough investigation of electrical properties, encompassing dielectric constant, loss tangent, electrical impedance, modulus, conductivity, etc., was conducted across a wide frequency range (103–106 Hz) and temperature range (260–340 K). This analysis provided valuable insights into structure–property relationships and conduction mechanisms. The discussion highlights the significance of interface effects, space charge polarization, and Maxwell–Wagner dielectric relaxation in achieving the material’s high dielectric constant at low frequencies and elevated temperatures. Examination of temperature dependence through Nyquist plots elucidates the contributions of grain behavior to the material’s resistive and capacitive properties. The dielectric permittivity, dissipation of energy, and electrical characteristics like impedance, modulus and conductivity are notably influenced by the frequency of the applied electric field and temperature. Overall, the material exhibits promising potential for industrial applications such as energy storage, given its intriguing properties.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Electronic Ceramics)
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Open AccessArticle
Pretreatment of Hybrid Ceramics Using Ho: YAG, Low-Level Laser Therapy Activated Malachite Green, and Non-Thermal Plasma on Surface Roughness, Bond Strength, and Color Change, SEM and EDX Analysis
by
Fahad Alkhudhairy and Yasser F. AlFawaz
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 944-957; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030061 - 9 Jul 2024
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The study aimed to assess the effects of different surface conditionings on hybrid ceramics (HBC). Hydrofluoric acid was combined with a silane (HFA+S), low-level laser therapy activated Malachite green (LLLT-MG), Ho: YAG laser, and non-thermal plasma (NTP) as surface conditioning methods for HBC.
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The study aimed to assess the effects of different surface conditionings on hybrid ceramics (HBC). Hydrofluoric acid was combined with a silane (HFA+S), low-level laser therapy activated Malachite green (LLLT-MG), Ho: YAG laser, and non-thermal plasma (NTP) as surface conditioning methods for HBC. Eighty-four HBC discs were prepared and divided into four groups according to surface conditioning methods. The total number of samples (n = 21) for each group was further split into two for the non-thermocycling and thermocycling subgroups. After surface treatment, all samples were examined to study the effect of color change and surface roughness. The shear bond strength (SBS) test of HBC was performed on thermo-cycled samples. Statistical analysis using ANOVA with Tukey post hoc was performed to observe any significant difference among tested groups, p > 0.05. The HFA+S and Ho: YAG surface-treated samples showed higher SBS than other surface-treated samples due to higher surface roughness. All surface conditioning methods, except NTP, induced noticeable color change, making them less suitable for aesthetical purposes in clinical settings. Overall, surface conditioning methods are critical in affecting shear bond strength through surface roughness and color change.
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Open AccessArticle
2D/2D Heterojunctions of Layered TiO2 and (NH4)2V3O8 for Sunlight-Driven Methylene Blue Degradation
by
Juan Aliaga, Matías Alegria, J. Pedro Donoso, Claudio J. Magon, Igor D. A. Silva, Harold Lozano, Elies Molins, Eglantina Benavente and Guillermo González
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 926-943; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030060 - 2 Jul 2024
Abstract
Photocatalysis based on titanium dioxide (TiO2) has become a promising method to remediate industrial and municipal effluents in an environmentally friendly manner. However, the efficiency of TiO2 is hampered by problems such as rapid electron–hole recombination and limited solar spectrum
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Photocatalysis based on titanium dioxide (TiO2) has become a promising method to remediate industrial and municipal effluents in an environmentally friendly manner. However, the efficiency of TiO2 is hampered by problems such as rapid electron–hole recombination and limited solar spectrum absorption. Furthermore, the sensitization of TiO2 through heterojunctions with other materials has gained attention. Vanadium, specifically in the form of ammonium vanadate ((NH4)2V3O8), has shown promise as a photocatalyst due to its ability to effectively absorb visible light. However, its use in photocatalysis remains limited. Herein, we present a novel synthesis method to produce lamellar (NH4)2V3O8 as a sensitizer in a supramolecular hybrid photocatalyst of TiO2–stearic acid (SA), contributing to a deeper understanding of its structural and magnetic characteristics, expanding the range of visible light absorption, and improving the efficiency of photogenerated electron–hole separation. Materials, such as TiO2–SA and (NH4)2V3O8, were synthesized and characterized. EPR studies of (NH4)2V3O8 demonstrated their orientation-dependent magnetic properties and, from measurements of the angular variation of g-values, suggest that the VO2+ complexes are in axially distorted octahedral sites. The photocatalytic results indicate that the 2D/2D heterojunction layered TiO2/vanadate at a ratio (1:0.050) removed 100% of the methylene blue, used as a model contaminant in this study. The study of the degradation mechanism of methylene blue emphasizes the role of reactive species such as hydroxyl radicals (•OH) and superoxide ions (O2•−). These species are crucial for breaking down contaminant molecules, leading to their degradation. The band alignment between ammonium vanadate ((NH4)2V3O8) and TiO2–SA, shows effective separation and charge transfer processes at their interface. Furthermore, the study confirms the chemical stability and recyclability of the TiO2–SA/(NH4)2V3O8 photocatalyst, demonstrated that it could be used for multiple photocatalytic cycles without a significant loss of activity. This stability, combined with its ability to degrade organic pollutants under solar irradiation, means that the TiO2–SA/(NH4)2V3O8 photocatalyst is a promising candidate for practical environmental remediation applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ceramics, 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Computational Investigation of the Influencing Parameters on the Solidification of Thermoplastic Beryllium Oxide Slurry in a Cylindrical Shell
by
Zamira Sattinova, Bakytzhan Assilbekov, Tassybek Bekenov and Gaukhar Ramazanova
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 906-925; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030059 - 1 Jul 2024
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This article presents a computational study of the influencing parameters on the solidification of the thermoplastic beryllium oxide slurry in an annular forming cavity. The main purpose of this paper is to study the effect of cooling and casting conditions on the solidification
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This article presents a computational study of the influencing parameters on the solidification of the thermoplastic beryllium oxide slurry in an annular forming cavity. The main purpose of this paper is to study the effect of cooling and casting conditions on the solidification of the BeO suspension by considering the temperature-dependent rheological and physical properties. The results of calculations of the Bingham–Papanastasiou rheological model with experimental data in the intervals of phase transitions with different casting rates of beryllium ceramics have been validated. The use of the regularization parameter made it possible to approximate the flow of the slurry at all levels of its shear rates as highly viscous, followed by a continuous transition to a solid state. The speed of heat removal from the molding during the solidification period is determined by the speed of movement of the slurry and the temperature field on which the width of the transition region depends. The process of solidification of the slurry mass has been evaluated by changing its heat flow distribution and density along the length of the concentric channel. The obtained model calculation results make it possible to control the casting process and eventually realize a uniform structure of castings.
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Open AccessArticle
Properties of a Pressureless Sintered 2Y-TZP Material Combining High Strength and Toughness
by
Frank Kern and Bettina Osswald
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 893-905; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030058 - 28 Jun 2024
Abstract
Yttria stabilized zirconia materials are frequently used in mechanical engineering and biomedical applications. Demanding loading conditions require materials combining a high level of strength and fracture toughness. A ready-to-press alumina doped 2 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia powder was shaped by axial pressing and sintering
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Yttria stabilized zirconia materials are frequently used in mechanical engineering and biomedical applications. Demanding loading conditions require materials combining a high level of strength and fracture toughness. A ready-to-press alumina doped 2 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia powder was shaped by axial pressing and sintering in air at 1250–1500 °C for 2 h. At 1350 °C the best combination of strength (1450 MPa) and toughness (7.8 MPa√m) was achieved. Materials sintered in the middle of the chosen temperature range combine full density, high transformability and small grain size. Toughness measurements by direct crack length measurements delivered unrealistically high fracture toughness values.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behavior and Reliability of Engineering Ceramics)
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Open AccessArticle
The Mechanical Properties of Geopolymers as a Function of Their Shaping and Curing Parameters
by
Camille Zoude, Elodie Prud’homme, Kévyn Johannes and Laurent Gremillard
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 873-892; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030057 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of curing conditions, porosity and shaping techniques on the mechanical properties of metakaolin-based geopolymers. Geopolymers offer versatility in shaping, including 3D printing, yet the influence of curing conditions after printing on mechanical properties remains unclear. This is assessed
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This study investigates the impact of curing conditions, porosity and shaping techniques on the mechanical properties of metakaolin-based geopolymers. Geopolymers offer versatility in shaping, including 3D printing, yet the influence of curing conditions after printing on mechanical properties remains unclear. This is assessed by measuring the bending properties of 3D-printed metakaolin-based geopolymer filaments cured under varied humidity and temperature conditions. The influences of porosity and of shaping technique are observed by comparing the compression properties of molded and 3D-printed samples of various porosity. Samples cured at low humidity exhibit unusually high mechanical properties, which decrease when moved from a dry to a humid environment. This behavior may be due to the presence of PEG within the composition and/or to residual stresses due to the too rapid evacuation of water. High humidity is therefore necessary to ensure optimal curing and stable properties. Increasing the curing temperature helps accelerate geopolymerization without significantly compromising mechanical properties. Direct ink writing offers design flexibility and suitable porosity, but the samples appear to exhibit different failure mechanisms than the molded samples. Additional studies are necessary to understand the interactions between PEG and the geopolymer as well as to better identify the fracture mechanisms within the different samples.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Manufacturing Processes of Silicate Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Sodium Oxide on Structure of Lanthanum Aluminosilicate Glass
by
Assia Mabrouk, Ahmed Bachar, Yann Vaills, Aurélien Canizarès and Stuart Hampshire
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 858-872; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030056 - 22 Jun 2024
Abstract
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Rare earth (RE) aluminosilicate glasses exhibit several favorable chemical, mechanical and thermal properties. As such, they are considered to be model systems for long-half-life actinides and are candidate containment materials for long-term immobilization of radioactive wastes. The aim of the present study was
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Rare earth (RE) aluminosilicate glasses exhibit several favorable chemical, mechanical and thermal properties. As such, they are considered to be model systems for long-half-life actinides and are candidate containment materials for long-term immobilization of radioactive wastes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the substitution of sodium oxide on the glass transition temperature and structure of lanthanum aluminosilicate glasses. The primary objective was to elucidate the relationship between the substitution of Na2O for La2O3 on the Tg reduction and structural characteristics of lanthanum aluminosilicate glass, including identifying changes in the main Qn species and local environments of Si and Al. The structure of SiO2–Al2O3–La2O3–Na2O glasses has not been studied previously, and, thus, this investigation is the first to assess the structural changes occurring when La2O3 is substituted by Na2O. Three glasses were prepared with general composition (mol.%): 55SiO2–25Al2O3–20M2On (M = La or Na; n = 3 or 1). Glass G1 contains 20 mol.% La2O3; in G2, 15 mol.% of La2O3 was substituted by 15 mol.% Na2O; and Glass G3 contains 20 mol.% Na2O. The glasses were characterized by DSC to determine glass transition temperatures. As expected, as Na is substituted for La, Tg decreases substantially. Structural studies were carried out by FTIR spectroscopy, 29Si, and 27Al MAS NMR. As Na is substituted for La in these aluminosilicate glasses, the main goals that were achieved were the identification of Qn species and also changes in the local environments of Si and Al: {QnSi(mAl)} and {QnAl(mSi)}.
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Open AccessArticle
0.98(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3–0.02(Bi0.5Na0.5)(Zr0.85Sn0.15)O3 Single Crystals Grown by the Seed-Free Solid-State Crystal Growth Method and Their Characterization
by
Eugenie Uwiragiye, Thuy Linh Pham, Jong-Sook Lee, Byoung-Wan Lee, Jae-Hyeon Ko and John G. Fisher
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 840-857; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030055 - 21 Jun 2024
Abstract
(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3-based single crystals are of interest as high-performance lead-free piezoelectric materials, but conventional crystal growth methods have some disadvantages such as the requirement for expensive Pt crucibles and difficulty in controlling the composition of the crystals. Recently,
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(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3-based single crystals are of interest as high-performance lead-free piezoelectric materials, but conventional crystal growth methods have some disadvantages such as the requirement for expensive Pt crucibles and difficulty in controlling the composition of the crystals. Recently, (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3-based single crystals have been grown by the seed-free solid-state crystal growth method, which can avoid these problems. In the present work, 0.98(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3–0.02(Bi0.5Na0.5)(Zr0.85Sn0.15)O3 single crystals were grown by the seed-free solid-state crystal growth method. Sintering aids of 0.15 mol% Li2CO3 and 0.15 mol% Bi2O3 were added to promote single crystal growth. Pellets were sintered at 1150 °C for 15–50 h. Single crystals started to appear from 20 h. The single crystals grown for 50 h were studied in detail. Single crystal microstructure was studied by scanning electron microscopy of the as-grown surface and cross-section of the sample and revealed porosity in the crystals. Electron probe microanalysis indicated a slight reduction in K and Na content of a single crystal as compared to the nominal composition. X-ray diffraction shows that the single crystals contain mixed orthorhombic and tetragonal phases at room temperature. Raman scattering and impedance spectroscopy at different temperatures observed rhombohedral–orthorhombic, orthorhombic–tetragonal and tetragonal–cubic phase transitions. Polarization–electric field (P–E) hysteresis loops show that the single crystal is a normal ferroelectric material with a remanent polarization (Pr) of 18.5 μC/cm2 and a coercive electrical field (Ec) of 10.7 kV/cm. A single crystal presents d33 = 362 pC/N as measured by a d33 meter. Such a single crystal with a large d33 and high Curie temperature (~370 °C) can be a promising candidate for piezoelectric devices.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ceramics, 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Nanoceramic-Plated Waste Carbon Fibers on Alkali-Activated Mortar Performance
by
Matteo Sambucci, Yazeed A. Al-Noaimat, Seyed Mostafa Nouri, Mehdi Chougan, Seyed Hamidreza Ghaffar and Marco Valente
Ceramics 2024, 7(2), 821-839; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7020054 - 19 Jun 2024
Abstract
Waste carbon fibers as reinforcing elements in construction materials have recently gained increasing interest from researchers, providing outstanding strength performance and a lower environmental footprint compared to virgin fibers. Combination with cement-free binders, namely alkali-activated materials, is becoming increasingly important for sustainable development
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Waste carbon fibers as reinforcing elements in construction materials have recently gained increasing interest from researchers, providing outstanding strength performance and a lower environmental footprint compared to virgin fibers. Combination with cement-free binders, namely alkali-activated materials, is becoming increasingly important for sustainable development in the construction industry. This paper presents results relating to the potential use of waste carbon fibers in alkali-activated mortars. The waste carbon fiber fraction utilized in this research is difficult to integrate as reinforcement in ceramic–cementitious matrices due to its agglomerated form and chemical inertness. For this reason, a nanoceramic coating pretreatment based on nanoclay has been implemented to attempt improvements in terms of deagglomeration, dispersibility, and compatibility with alkali-activated materials. After chemical–physical and microstructural analysis on the nanoclay-plated fibers (including X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, and electron microscopy) mortars were produced with four different dosages of treated and untreated waste fibers (0.25 wt.%, 0.5 wt.%, 0.75 wt.%, and 1 wt.%). Mechanical tests and fractographic investigations were then performed. The nanoclay coating interacts compatibly with the waste carbon fibers and increases their degree of hydrophilicity to improve their deagglomeration and dispersion. Compared to the samples incorporating as-received fillers, the addition of nanoclay-coated fibers improved the strength behavior of the mortars, recording a maximum increase in flexural strength of 19% for a fiber content of 0.25 wt.%. This formulation is the only one providing an improvement in mechanical behavior compared to unreinforced mortar. Indeed, as the fibrous reinforcement content increases, the effect of the nanoclay is attenuated by mitigating the improvement in mechanical performance.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress in Ceramic Coatings)
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Open AccessArticle
Mullite 3D Printed Humidity Sensors
by
Yurii Milovanov, Arianna Bertero, Bartolomeo Coppola, Paola Palmero and Jean-Marc Tulliani
Ceramics 2024, 7(2), 807-820; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7020053 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mullite substrates with two different porosities were 3D printed, and tested as humidity sensors. To evaluate the effects of porosity on humidity sensitivity, the samples were sintered at 1400 °C (Sensor 1) and 1450 °C (Sensor 2). The sensors were tested in a
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Mullite substrates with two different porosities were 3D printed, and tested as humidity sensors. To evaluate the effects of porosity on humidity sensitivity, the samples were sintered at 1400 °C (Sensor 1) and 1450 °C (Sensor 2). The sensors were tested in a range from 0% to 85% relative humidity (RH) at room temperature. When exposed to water vapor at room temperature, the impedance value dropped down from 155 MΩ under dry air to 480 kΩ under 85 RH% for Sensor 1 and from 115 MΩ under dry air to 410 kΩ for Sensor 2. In addition, response time and recovery time were below 2 min, whatever the firing temperature, when RH changed from 0% to 74%. Finally, tests carried out involving ammonia, methane, carbon dioxide and nitrogenous oxide, as well as ethanol and acetone, showed no interference.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Manufacturing Processes of Silicate Materials)
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