Classical and Quantum Models of Diffusion
Abstract
1950 11475
Classical and Quantum Models of Diffusionby
Abstract
The objective of the paper is twofold: first, to review the classical diffusion models and show the approximations at the origin of the parabolic character of the classical equations; second, to demonstrate a connection between the quantum and classical models of diffusion. As diffusion is inherently related to the motion of constituents, the consistent models are framed within the dynamics of mixtures. The derivation of diffusion equations is then determined based on the related, pertinent approximations. 1950 11475 |
Contactless Detection of Natural Bending Frequencies using Embedded Metallic-Glass Ribbons inside Plastic Beams made of 3-D PrintingAbstract
In the current work, to identify the bending mode harmonics, 30 microns thin magnetoelastic ribbons made of metallic glass are embedded inside 6 mm thick PLA plastic cantilever beams made by 3-D printing. This is possible because the ribbons are of magnetoelastic nature and thus change their mechanical state inducing a corresponding change in their magnetic state. The ribbons are placed at four different depths, starting with zero depth at the beam’s external surface all the way inside to the beam’s mid-plane. This [...] 1688 8741 |
The behaviour of Nitinol Wire Bundles for Structural ApplicationsAbstract
Shape memory alloys (SMA) belong to a family of smart materials, which undergo diffusionless phase transformations when subjected to thermo-mechanical changes making them ideally suitable for utilization in several structural engineering applications. Within this class of materials, Ni-Ti (Nickel-Titanium) alloys are predominantly used due to their non-linear behaviour. Nitinol, one of the Ni-Ti alloys, possesses unique properties such as super-elasticity and shape- memory effect, which makes it suitable for dampin [...] 3820 23238 |
Effect of Fiber/Matrix Interface Modification on Basalt Fiber Reinforced Geopolymer Compositesby
Abstract
Continuous fiber reinforced geopolymer matrix composites offer the potential for use in structural applications at temperatures up to 700°C, while enabling the manufacture at temperatures below 100°C. Studies have investigated a variety of high temperature structural fiber reinforcements, including carbon, SiC and Al2O3. While there has been active research into various grades of Al2O3 fibers, SiC is most commonly used for high temperature reinforcement of geopolymers in oxidizing environments. Both familie [...] 1938 11121 |
Progress of Nanomaterials in Preventative and Restorative DentistryAbstract
To date, many studies have examined the development and use of novel materials, enhancing the performance of existing dental composites and improving methods for restoring tooth structure. In recent years, nanotechnology-based techniques have been used to develop a variety of nanomaterial-based dental products aimed at conservative dentistry applications. These new nanomaterial-based materials offer improved physicochemical and mechanical properties, combined with enhanced aesthetics that makes them superior restor [...] 2916 21128 |
Dimensional, Mechanical and LCA Characterization of Terrazzo Tiles along with Glass and Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW)by
Abstract
In this work, two types of wastes were introduced, namely, glass from municipal waste and Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW). The latter, which was obtained from rubble generated by the seismic events occurred in Central Italy in 2016, was introduced in two configurations, the single-layer and the double-layer of the cement-based Terrazzo tiles. A maximum of 77% of waste introduction was proven to be possible, therefore creating the possibility of obtaining construction products including high quantities of se [...] 2421 20249 |
High-Performance Polymers for Aeronautic Wires Insulation: Current Uses and Future Prospectsby
Abstract
Polymers such as polyimides and fluoropolymers are widely used for insulating aeronautic wires. They are exposed to various changing factors such as temperature, pressure, moisture, vibration, chafing, etc. The electrification on the horizon can potentially increase the demand for these systems. Indeed, this impending evolution of technology pushes the boundaries of commonly-employed wires. Downsizing systems and enhancing the performance is an urgent requirement. A new generation of insulating materials capable of [...] 3829 31406 |
Toward Next Generation Plasmonic Nanopore Slit Platform with a ~10 nm Slit-Widthby
Abstract
We fabricated various nanoaperture plasmonic platforms for single-molecule detection. We fabricated nanoapertures like nanopores on a pyramid and nanoslits on an Au flat membrane using a Ga ion focused ion beam drilling technique, followed by irradiating with a high energy electron beam, dependent on the electron beam current density to obtain nanoapertures with a few nanometer sizes (circular nanopore, nanoslit pores). We examined their optical characteristics with varying aperture sizes and sample thicknesses. We [...] 6314 19281 |
Tribological Behaviour of Sputter Coated ZnO Thin FilmsAbstract
The tribological properties of ZnO thin film coated on an aluminium work piece by RF magnetron sputtering were studied as a function of deposition power, substrate coating temperature, heat treatment and rotation speed. The variation in the coefficient of friction of ZnO films produced under various levels of coating parameters and conditions were experimentally determined using a pin-on-disk tribometer. The results showed that with change in deposition conditions and heat treatment, there are significant microstru [...] 1871 11399 |
Deflection of a Concrete T-beam with Prestressed and Non-prestressed Fiber Reinforcement Polymers at Elevated TemperaturesAbstract
Prestressed concrete members have gained popularity as an efficient and effective way of designing a structural member with the best engineering and material properties. The method of prestressing a structural concrete member has the capability of controlling increased service loads with less depth over longer spans. However, deflections from over-loading or loading over time give a disadvantage to the common steel reinforced concrete members by the effect of corrosion as the structural concrete develop cracks. To [...] 1731 12330 |
Acknowlegement to Reviewers of Recent Progress in Materials in 2020Abstract
The editors of Recent Progress in Materials would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2020. We greatly appreciate the contribution of expert reviewers, which is crucial to the journal's editorial process. We aim to recognize reviewer contributions through several mechanisms, of which the annual publication of reviewer names is one. Reviewers receive a voucher entitling them to a discount on their next LIDSEN publication and can download a certificate o [...] 1044 6491 |
Clinical Significance of Internal Friction Connection and Micro-Threads in Implant-Supported Prostheses: A Literature ReviewAbstract
A connection structure using both a screw and friction is advantageous to secure an abutment to an implant. Understanding the biomechanics of the implant-abutment connection is necessary for the long-term clinical survival of a dental implant with decreased complications. The internal conical friction connection structure and micro-threads have shown favorable biological hard tissue response with exceptional structural features. The internal conical connection structure maintains the soft tissue seal and the margin [...] 2678 16812 |
The Effect of Curing Temperature on the Morphology and Electro-Optical Properties of a Flexible UV-Cured Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC)Abstract
In this work, the experimental data on flexible PDLC films at the industrial scale and the effect of cure temperature (Tc) on the morphology and electro-optical properties of a UV-cured PDLC system via polymer-induced phase separation (PIPS) method were studied. Under constant UV radiation intebsity and thickness, the morphological parameters such as dimension, number density, and volume fraction of the phase-separated liquid crystal droplets as well as the optical transmissions and switching voltages as a function [...] 1801 11108 |
Mechanical and Rheological Properties of 3D Printable Cement CompositesAbstract
Additive manufacturing is a recent revolution in the construction field since cementitious materials became printable. This extrusion technique has enabled the construction of very complex geometry with a reduction in costs, time and labour interventions. This study aims to evaluate the possibility of reinforcing 3D printable cementitious composites with the use of nano and micro materials, particularly nano silica, micro silica and microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) which are known for their ability to enhance the f [...] 2111 10810 |
Additive Manufacturing Techniques for Fabrication of Bone Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering ApplicationsAbstract
Bone tissue engineering (BTE) as a modern and more effective treatment for bone defects has recently received lots of attention. One of the pivotal parts of BTE is the “scaffold”, which functions as an indwelling carrier of cells and additives, as well as, providing a foundation for cell growth and eventually forming new, native-like bone. Up to now, many methods and materials have been employed to manufacture bone scaffolds. This review focuses on providing both basic knowledge of BTE as well as possible methods o [...] 4088 30377 |
Wave Propagation and Scattering due to Debonding in CFRP Strengthened Reinforced Concrete Beamsby
Abstract
Carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) systems as sheets or plates are commonly used to strengthen and retrofit damaged reinforced concrete beams. In general, the bond between the FRP element and concrete defines the effectiveness of the externally bonded FRP materials. In most cases, the interface bonding behaviour is usually tested via static loading conditions. In this paper, the bonding is verified under dynamic conditions. Wave propagation is modelled in delaminated CFRP strengthened reinforced concrete beam. [...] 1865 11083 |
Enhanced Long-term Antithrombogenicity Instigated by Covalently-Attached Surface Modifier on Biomedical PolymersAbstract
During a variety of medical procedures such as renal dialysis, bypass surgery, and lung transplantation patient blood is exposed to the surface of a number of polymeric materials such as polycarbonate (PC), poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) and polysulfone (PS) for a period up to several days. Such exposure may result in undesirable protein-material interactions that can potentially trigger deleterious biological processes including thrombosis, which may be responsible for other complications such as cognitive disability [...] 2097 10290 |
Using Acoustic Fields to Fabricate ECM-Based Biomaterials for Regenerative Medicine ApplicationsAbstract
Ultrasound is emerging as a promising tool for both characterizing and fabricating engineered biomaterials. Ultrasound-based technologies offer a diverse toolbox with outstanding capacity for optimization and customization within a variety of therapeutic contexts, including improved extracellular matrix-based materials for regenerative medicine applications. Non-invasive ultrasound fabrication tools include the use of thermal and mechanical effects of acoustic waves to modify the structure and function of extracell [...] 2306 14257 |
Bio-Based Substances from the Compost of Bio-Waste for Decontamination of Waste WaterAbstract
A literature survey shows that the valorization of urban and/or agricultural biowastes into chemicals has caught the attention of experts and is gradually becoming quite an important issue. This review presents the application of the Bio-Based Substances (BBS) isolated from the compost of bio-wastes from urban gardening and park trimming residues. The non-cost BBS has been well studied in the literature. BBS are biological macromolecules with a complex lignin-derived structure containing several functional groups, [...] 1784 9854 |
Dirac's Spectrum from Newton’s Laws in Grapheneby
Abstract
The present report provides a phenomenological theory for monolayer graphene, in which two worlds, the quantum and the classical, meet and complete each other in the most natural manner. In the present report, electron mass-vortex representation is introduced, and the surface tension excitation states in the monolayer graphene are defined. The band-mass of the electrons at the Dirac’s point was calculated through the mathematical introduction of a mass-dispersion relation. As a consequence, the Dirac’s [...] 1816 12586 |
Effects of Quantum Confinement of Hydrogen in Nanocavities – Experimental INS Results and New InsightsAbstract
Current developments of non-relativistic quantum mechanics appear to predict, and reveal, counter-intuitive dynamical effects of hydrogen in nanostructured materials that are of considerable importance for basic research as well as for technological applications. In this review, the experimental focus is on H2O and H molecules in carbon nanotubes and other nanocavities that have been experimentally investigated using the well-established technique of incoherent inelastic neutron scattering (INS). For instance, the [...] 2097 11808 |
Enhancement of String Tension Using Thin-Film Metallic Glass CoatingsAbstract
Inspired by the application of metallic glass sheet as face material for improving the performance of golf clubs, the present work was aimed to explore the application of thin-film metallic glass (TFMG) coatings for enhancing the performance of strings. In order to achieve this aim, badminton strings were coated with TFMG coatings of different thicknesses. The compositions of these TFMG coatings were analyzed using an electron probe micro-analyzer. The amorphous structure of the film was verified using X-ray diffra [...] 1680 9436 |
Polystyrene Topography Sticker Array for Cell-Based AssaysAbstract
Cells can respond to different topographical cues in their natural microenvironment. Hence, scientists have employed microfabrication techniques and materials to generate culture substrates containing topographies for cell-based assays. However, one of the limitations of custom topographical platforms is the lack of adoption by the broad research community. These techniques and materials have high costs, require high technical expertise, and can leach components that may introduce artifacts. In this study, we devel [...] 1835 11535 |
The Use of Biomaterials in Internal Radiation TherapyAbstract
Radiotherapy has become one of the most prominent and effective modalities for cancer treatment and care. Ionising radiation, delivered either from external or internal sources, can be targeted to cancerous cells causing damage to DNA that can induce apoptosis. External beam radiotherapy delivers either photon radiation (x-rays or gamma rays) or particle radiation (neutrons or protons) in a targeted manner to specific tumour locations. Internal radiotherapy involves placing radioactive sources within the body to de [...] 2553 19694 |
Innovation in Skin Regeneration: Novel Approaches with β-1,3/1,6-Glucan-Based Treatmentsby
Abstract
Skin regeneration is a multidisciplinary topic that involves plastic surgery, aesthetics, and dermatology. In the last few years, several molecules have been used to prevent or delay the skin aging process. Recently, promising investigations on novel β-1,3/1,6-glucan-based treatments, associated with sodium hyaluronate, have demonstrated the induction of a naïve biological stimulus in soft tissues. Serum Revitalizing Face (Lot 00118a0051 of 11/19/2018 approved by the Italian Ministry of Health as a Medical Device-C [...] 1662 10478 |
Mechano-Vibrational Spectroscopy of Tissues and Materials Using Vibrational Optical Coherence Tomography: A New Non-Invasive and Non-Destructive TechniqueAbstract
Elastic moduli of tissues and synthetic polymeric materials are important design properties needed to develop new implants. In this paper we report the use of vibrational optical coherence tomography (VOCT) to measure the resonant frequency and calculate the modulus of tissues and synthetic polymers non-invasively and non-destructively in vitro and in vivo. Values of tissue and polymer moduli were obtained by applying an audible sinusoidal sound wave to the surface of each specimen. The sound wave travels to the in [...] 2913 22839 |
Quantum Decoherence in Dense Media: A Few ExamplesAbstract
Decoherence is a relatively recent concept in the field of quantum mechanics. Although the pioneers of the field must have understood that loss of phase coherence in quantum superpositions is the reason underlying the appearance of definite outcomes in the quantum measurement problem, the latter was not treated in terms of decoherence until sixty years after the formulation of quantum mechanics as described in a report by Joos and Zeh in 1983 [1]. However, soon after, the theory was developed in further detail, and [...] 2426 22171 |
Antibody-Based Capture and Behaviour of Endothelial Cell Lines on Pre-Surface Modified Medical Grade Steelby
Abstract
Coronary artery disease is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Coronary stents, tube-shaped medical implants that are placed in narrowed coronary arteries, have been used successfully in the management of this condition. However, re-narrowing (i.e. restenosis) of the artery can occur which is instigated by an immune response towards the implanted ‘foreign’ material. A new approach to prevent restenosis and reduce the stent-induced immune response has been proposed previously, which involve [...] 1325 9793 |
Self-Consistent Theory of Screening and Transport in Narrow, Translation-Invariant Hall Bars under the Conditions of the Integer Quantum-Hall-EffectAbstract
We summarize and discuss a self-consistent screening and magneto-transport theory, developed to understand the results of scanning-force-microscope experiments on the current distribution in a two-dimensional electron system (2DES), located in a narrow Hall bar under the conditions of the integer quantum Hall effect (IQHE) and its breakdown. The theory explains why, at low temperatures, at certain intervals of the applied perpendicular magnetic field, the current density is confined to “incompressible stripes” (ISs [...] 1625 13117 |
Transient Phenomenon in Polymer-Dispersed Liquid CrystalsAbstract
In the present study, we report the experimental results related to the transient phenomenon, i.e., the time-dependent changes in the electro-optical properties of as-made polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) films prepared by the UV-curing phase-separation method. This phenomenon occurs explicitly via polymer-induced phase separation when the matrix curing is not complete, some liquid crystal plasticized in the matrix, and some uncured pre-polymer components remain in the liquid crystal droplets. The outcome is [...] 1804 11662 |
Biomedical Applications of Wrinkling PolymersAbstract
Advancements in surface engineering and material fabrication techniques have enabled the creation and replication of naturally occurring surface topographies or the extrapolation of natural patterns to become achievable targets. Polymers are used extensively in the field of biomedical sciences for containment, handling, and as cell culture substrates. It is well established that several polymers exhibit good biocompatibility for cell culture, with properties that include exhibiting minimal to no cytotoxicity and be [...] 2540 18823 |
Assessment of the Processing Method for the Development of Hybrid Biopolymer-Based Scaffoldsby
Abstract
The present study deals with the development of scaffolds based on gelatin (G) and/or chitosan (CH) through modifications in the central processing method. This process consists of the fabrication of a hydrogel which is, then submitted to a freeze-drying stage. To compare the effects of the different modifications, the mechanical properties of the various systems were characterized, employing both dynamic compressive strain and frequency sweep tests. In addition, their porosity as well as the structure and fiber di [...] 1639 9946 |
Initial Adhesion Behavior of Osteoblast on Titanium with Sub-Micron Scale Roughnessby
Abstract
The surface roughness of titanium could regulate various cellular functions such as survival and growth. In the context of cell adhesion to materials, cell spreading and cell shape are also closely linked to various cellular functions. Previously, we found that Ti substrate with a 100-nm scale surface roughness reduced cell survival. However, effects of surface roughness on cell shape were not investigated. Herein, we quantified the initial adhesion behavior of osteoblasts on a Ti substrate with ~100 nm scale surfa [...] 2225 14035 |
Relativistic Wigner Function for Quantum WalksAbstract
A relativistic Wigner function for free Discrete Time Quantum Walks (DTQWs) on the square 2D space-time lattice is defined. The transport equation obeyed by the relativistic Wigner function is derived in terms of discrete derivatives and degenerates in the continuum limit into the transport equation obeyed by the Wigner function of 2D Dirac fermions. The first corrections to the continuous equation induced by the discreteness of the lattice are also determined and the similarities with non-quantum relativistic tran [...] 1739 11624 |
Phase Equilibria of Flexible Polymer and Monomer Liquid Crystal Blendsby
Abstract
In this study, we explored the phase equilibria in blends of a nematic liquid crystal monomer and a nematic liquid crystal flexible polymer within the whole composition of the phase diagram. The crystal-nematic and nematic-isotropic transition temperatures, as well as the transition enthalpies and entropies, indicated the total miscibility in this mesogenic blend system. We also extracted an empirical axial ratio of 4.52 for the polymer from the nematic-isotropic transitions of the blends. Further, from the biphasi [...] 1606 10038 |
Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles to Tune Oxidative Degradation Rates in Composite Shape Memory PolymersAbstract
Biomedical applications of shape memory polymers (SMPs) are limited by their biostability, degradability, and possible toxicity risks after implantation. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) were used to increase the oxidative biostability (increase time until degradation occurs) using antioxidants and to induce oxidative degradation through incorporation of hydrogen peroxide-containing MSNs with modified surfaces. The presented results confirm increased oxidative stability using antioxidants, and alternatively, [...] 1711 10695 |
Silk-CNT Mediated Fibroblast Stimulation toward Chronic Wound RepairAbstract
Background:Diabetic patients suffer from chronic wounds partly due to altered function of fibroblasts. Fibroblasts of diabetic patients synthesize collagen I (COLI) at a much higher level than collagen III (COLIII), resulting in delayed tissue granulation and, consequently, a delay in the overall wound healing process.
Methods:We aimed to revive the matrix protein productivity of diabetic fibroblasts by employing aligned, electrically conductive and biocompatible spider silk-CNT fibers as a cell culture matrix to m [...] 2319 12628 |
Engineering Bacterial Cellulose for Diverse Biomedical ApplicationsAbstract
Increasing interest in bacterial cellulose due to the huge potential which exists for the development of this new biomaterial for medical applications has been met with recent growth in research in engineering this unique microbial manufactured material. The mechanical properties, porosity, and biocompatibility of bacterial cellulose derived biomaterials are particularly attractive for use in wound healing, tissue engineering, and drug delivery applications. Advances in synthetic biology and soft materials engineer [...] 2682 19899 |
Electrochemical Atomic Layer Epitaxy Deposition of Ultrathin SnTe Filmsby
Abstract
Tin telluride (SnTe) ultrathin films were deposited electrochemically on polycrystalline and monocrystalline gold substrates using the electrochemical atomic layer epitaxy (ECALE) method. The electrochemical behaviors of Sn and Te were studied systematically by means of cyclic voltammetry. Cyclic voltammetry curves for Sn displayed a broad peak in the region between -0.15 V and -0.35 V, which was related to the under-potential deposition (UPD), while the curves for Te displayed a peak at 0.3 V for Te UPD. X-ray pho [...] 1833 89679 |
Formulation-Properties of Novel Ibuprofen-Loaded Soy Protein Wound DressingsAbstract
Background:Wound management is an important field in medical care, as annually, millions of wounds require treatment worldwide. Soy protein is highly biocompatible, easily processed, and a relatively cheap natural polymer, which can be used for wound dressing applications.
Methods:In this study, solvent cast soy protein films, plasticized by glycerol and cross-linked by glyoxal, were thermally treated and their mechanical properties were evaluated as a function of various processing parameters. Samples were then lo [...] 2014 9594 |
Super-Resolution of Nano-Materials and Quantum Effects Obtained by Microspheresby
Abstract
In this article, microsphere super-resolution, which are beyond the Abbe classical limit, are described. The conversion of evanescent waves into propagating waves is analyzed by using the geometry of the microsphere. In microsphere experiments, a nanojet is produced near the focal plane, where its width is smaller than the Abbe limit and remains unchanged in the axial direction for certain wavelengths. The interference between the evanescent waves being converted into propagating waves and the nanojet leads to an i [...] 1795 9781 |
Evaluation of Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) for Passive Rear Projection Screen ApplicationAbstract
In the past few years, there have been many attempts to commercialize Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) for Rear Projection Screen (RPS) in electrically switchable films and glass products. This application is based on the exceptional image quality of PDLC at a wide viewing angle. However, due to the high price of conventional switchable PDLC privacy glass, the integration of RPS in PDLC failed to attract large multimedia and entertainment markets. An obvious solution to this problem is the independent develo [...] 2982 22267 |
Valued Applications of Lignin NanoparticlesAbstract
Technical lignins from the biorefinery, pulp, and paper industries are largely underutilized, even though this aromatic and randomly structured biopolymer could be an interesting raw material for advanced applications in addition to bulk daily goods. Recently, colloidal lignin particles (CLPs) have gained much of the research interests due to the attractive multi-functional properties of the biopolymer. Utilization of lignin in nanoparticulate morphology resolves most of the drawbacks when using lignin (heterogenei [...] 2596 16776 |
TOP