Thermal and Mechanical Performance of 3-Phase Polymer Composite Panels for Structural Applications
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Journal profile
International Journal of Polymer Science publishes research on the chemistry and physics of macromolecules, including the synthesis and characterisation of polymeric materials and polymerisation processes, both theoretical and experimental.
Editor spotlight
Chief Editor Dr. Qinglin Wu is Gordon Cain Chair and Roy O. Martin Sr. Professor at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. His current research focus on sustainable nanomaterials as building blocks for composites, fluids, and energy storage materials.
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In this paper, reduced graphene oxide decorated with silver nanoparticle (rGO-Ag) nanohybrids were prepared using an environmentally friendly approach and incorporated as reinforcement in poly(vinylidene fluoride)-poly(methyl methacrylate) blends via a melt mixing process. The microstructure of rGO-Ag nanohybrids and its effect on the microstructure, mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of the PVDF/PMM/rGO-Ag was studied using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), tensile, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and impedance spectroscopy methods. FTIR and TEM analysis confirmed that rGO-Ag successfully synthesized and Ag nanoparticles are located on the rGO surface. The tensile analysis demonstrated that incorporating 1 wt.% of rGO-Ag in PVDF/PMMA blend increases Young’s modulus and strength of nanocomposite up to 31% and 35%, respectively. The Halpin-Tsai model was also used for PVDF/PMMA/rGO-Ag nanocomposites, and the results confirmed that this model works well to predict the tensile modulus. Impedance spectroscopy analysis showed that the presence of rGO-Ag nanohybrids in PVDF/PMMA blend effectively enhanced the conductivity of PVDF/PMMA blend. TGA results demonstrated that the presence of rGO-Ag nanohybrids enhanced the thermal stability of nanocomposites and increased the degradation temperature of PVDF/PMMA/rGO-Ag nanocomposites in the range of 20°C compared to PVDF/PMMA blend.
Evaluation of Monomer Releasing from Dentin Replacement Materials
The aim of this study is to determine and quantify the monomer elution from four different resin-based composite dentin replacement materials for 3 months using HPLC. Four different composite dentin replacement materials were used in the present study: EverX (EVX), X-tra base (XTB), SDR (SDR), and GrandioSO Heavy Flow (GHF). Fifteen samples from each material were prepared ( mm). After preparation, each specimen was immersed in a 10 ml 75% ethanol/distilled water solution for three different periods: 1 h, 24 h, and 3 months (). After the immersion period, 0.5 ml of solutions were taken from each bottle and analyzed using HPLC. At the end of the 3-month immersion period, the elution of monomers was determined mostly from SDR, GHF, EVX, and XTB, respectively. TEGDMA, the most released monomer of all groups, was released from all samples after 1 h, 24 h, and 3 months. The amount of monomer released in all composite groups at the end of the 3-month immersion period was significantly higher than the monomer amounts released after the 1-hour immersion period. The monomers were eluted from the composite dentin replacement materials during all immersion periods, and the amount of eluted monomers was increased with time.
Antiacne Gel Containing Aloe vera and Clindamycin Phosphate: Design, Characterization, and Optimization Using Response Surface Methodology
Clindamycin phosphate is a topical antibiotic agent used to treat acne vulgaris, while Aloe vera has both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The current study is aimed at formulating an antiacne gel with antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. The antiacne gels were prepared by using polymer HPMC K15M by cold dispersion method. Unveiling the intricacies of gel design, our research harnessed the power of Design Expert 11 to optimize critical parameters—viscosity, spreadability, and permeability. In vitro characterization tests, including pH, spreadability, viscosity, permeability, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, and stability of the gels, were performed. The results of in vitro characterization tests showed that the gels had a mint-like odor, a pH of 6.8, and a spreadability of 21.5 g cm/sec. The gels had a viscosity of 34.2 Pa s and drug content ranging within 90%-110%, as per USP standards. Notably, in vitro permeation assays reveal an exceptional 86% drug release, showcasing the efficacy of our formulation. The uniqueness of our study lies not only in the robust optimization process but also in the multifaceted characterization. Our gel emerges as a promising candidate, exhibiting not only desired antimicrobial and antioxidant properties against acne vulgaris but also demonstrating stability under varied conditions. As we advance toward in vivo studies, our research paves the way for a nuanced understanding of the safety and efficacy of this distinctive antiacne gel.
Determination of Dynamic Mechanical Properties on Addition of Carbon Black-Nanosilica Hybrid Fillers in NR-SBR Blends with Special Reference to Power Transmission Belt Applications
Next to tyres, power transmission belts are one of the most complicated rubber products which is having a constant increase for demand in the market. Due to this high demand along with the requirement to meet certain special operating conditions, it is necessary to improve the belt properties continuously. In the last few decades, nanotechnology evolved as a suitable method for enhancing the properties of various rubber products without impacting the environment. Nanofillers which are having unique morphology along with excellent properties help to reduce the dependency in petroleum products and in turn make the products more sustainable. Even though, studies related to the usage of nanotechnology in the power transmission belt division are very limited. So, in this study, the effect of nanosilica on the dynamic mechanical properties of the natural rubber- (NR-) styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) blends is thoroughly studied with special reference to power transmission belt applications. The developed composites were analysed to ensure the rheological, mechanical, and morphological properties in comparison with the controlled samples. The nanosilica-based belt properties were analysed in reference with regular carbon black-filled belts, and a 15% improvement in belt life was obtained for newly developed belts.
Biopolymer Composite Materials in Oil and Gas Sector
In the oil and gas industry, the demand for alternative materials is rising due to corrosion and the desire to reduce costs through weight reduction. Polymer composites are gaining attention for their corrosion resistance, favourable strength-to-weight ratio, and cost-effectiveness. The biopolymer composite is projected to have an output worth $4.95 billion between 2021 and 2025 and growth at a 5.38% compound annual growth rate. This review focuses on exploring the potential of natural fibres as reinforcement for biofibre polymer composite pipes in oil and gas, highlighting their ecofriendliness, biodegradability, and cost-efficiency. The paper assesses biopolymer composite pipes’ development, challenges, and applications, particularly those using continuous basalt and banana fibres. While basalt fibre has found field applications, banana fibre-reinforced polymer composites are still in the early research stages. Despite significant oil and gas industry players already endorsing polymer composites, further research is needed for biopolymer composites to address challenges like compatibility, environmental impact, standardisation, long-term durability, production processes, and regulatory acceptance. Advancing biocomposite research and exploring new research opportunities are essential for engineering advancements and advanced materials.
Investigation of the Impact of Chemical Modifications on the Photostability of Polymethyl Methacrylate
For practical application, it is crucial to ensure that polymeric materials are protected against degradation due to aging and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. A range of advancements in developing novel photostabilizers has been made in the last few years. Another approach is the alteration of polymer structures to enhance their ability to resist photodegradation and photooxidation on exposure to UV light for extended periods in harsh conditions. Polymeric chain modifications have proved to be efficient in increasing the photostability of materials. The current work deals with the surface functionalization of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) by incorporating organotin moieties on the polymer backbone. PMMA reacts with ethylenediamine to attach amino groups to the polymer chains. The amino group reacts with 2-hydroxynaphthaldehyde to produce the corresponding Schiff base. Adding trisubstituted (methyl, butyl, and phenyl) tin chloride led to the addition of organometallic residence to the polymeric chains. Thin films of the modified PMMA were made and irradiated with ultraviolet light for long durations to test the effect of chain modification on the photostability of polymeric materials. The effect of the substituent on the tin atom on the photostability of PMMA has been analyzed. Various methods were used for assessment, including infrared spectroscopy, weight loss, surface morphology, and roughness factor. The modified polymers showed increased resistance to photodegradation and had lower roughness factor, weight reduction, surface damages, and small fragments generated compared to the blank PMMA. The polymer containing phenyl substituents showed the most apparent photostabilization effect and the least destructive changes in the PMMA surface on photoirradiation.