Journal Description
Polymers
Polymers
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of polymer science published semimonthly online by MDPI. Belgian Polymer Group (BPG), European Colloid & Interface Society (ECIS), National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology (INSTM) and North American Thermal Analysis Society (NATAS) are affiliated with Polymers and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Ei Compendex, PubMed, PMC, FSTA, CAPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Polymer Science) / CiteScore - Q1 (Polymers and Plastics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- 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 MDPI journals, in appreciation of the work.
- Testimonials: See what our authors and editors say about Polymers.
Impact Factor:
5.0 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
5.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Preparation and Structural Analysis of a Water-Soluble Aminated Lignin
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091237 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Lignin is insoluble in water, thereby limiting its use in the synthesis of adhesives. Therefore, in this study, an aminated lignin compound was prepared through a lignin amination reaction to increase the amount of raw lignin material that can be used in the
[...] Read more.
Lignin is insoluble in water, thereby limiting its use in the synthesis of adhesives. Therefore, in this study, an aminated lignin compound was prepared through a lignin amination reaction to increase the amount of raw lignin material that can be used in the synthesis of adhesives; moreover, structural analysis was conducted. The main result of this was the introduction of amino groups into phenolic hydroxyl groups in the hydrolyzing lignin from the raw lignin materials, thus generating the product of aminated lignin. The resulting particle sizes were about 100 nm, the average molecular weight was 57,627 g/mol, and the water solubility of the aminated lignin was about 0.45 g/100 mL. Therefore, the water solubility of raw lignin was greatly improved. The proposed reaction mechanism of phenolic hydroxyl groups and carboxylic acid groups in lignin is a reaction with ammonia molecules; thus, the successful introduction of amino groups generated the aminated lignin compounds. Hence, this article enriches the scientific theory of lignin reactions and provides a reference for the widespread application of raw lignin materials in the field of adhesives.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environment-Friendly Polymers: Synthesis, Processing and Applications II)
Open AccessArticle
Development and Study of Novel Ultrafiltration Membranes Based on Cellulose Acetate
by
Anna Kuzminova, Mariia Dmitrenko, Roman Dubovenko, Margarita Puzikova, Anna Mikulan, Alexandra Korovina, Aleksandra Koroleva, Artem Selyutin, Konstantin Semenov, Rongxin Su and Anastasia Penkova
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091236 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Recently, increasing attention of researchers in the field of membrane technology has been paid to the development of membranes based on biopolymers. One of the well-proven polymers for the development of porous membranes is cellulose acetate (CA). This paper is devoted to the
[...] Read more.
Recently, increasing attention of researchers in the field of membrane technology has been paid to the development of membranes based on biopolymers. One of the well-proven polymers for the development of porous membranes is cellulose acetate (CA). This paper is devoted to the study of the influence of different parameters on ultrafiltration CA membrane formation and their transport properties, such as the variation in coagulation bath temperature, membrane shrinkage (post-treatment at 80 °C), introduction to casting CA solution of polymers (polyethylene glycol (PEG), polysulfone (PS), and Pluronic F127 (PL)) and carbon nanoparticles (SWCNTs, MWCNTs, GO, and C60). The structural and physicochemical properties of developed membranes were studied by scanning electron and atomic force microscopies, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements. The transport properties of developed CA-based membranes were evaluated in ultrafiltration of bovine serum albumin (BSA), dextran 110 and PVP K-90. All developed membranes rejected 90% compounds with a molecular weight from ~270,000 g/mol. It was shown that the combination of modifications (addition of PEG, PS, PL, PS-PL, and 0.5 wt% C60) led to an increase in the fluxes and BSA rejection coefficients with slight decrease in the flux recovery ratio. These changes were due to an increased macrovoid number, formation of a more open porous structure and/or thinner top selective, and decreased surface roughness and hydrophobization during C60 modification of blend membranes. Optimal transport properties were found for CA-PEG+С60 (the highest water—394 L/(m2h) and BSA—212 L/(m2h) fluxes) and CA-PS+С60 (maximal rejection coefficient of BSA—59%) membranes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Membranes and Films)
Open AccessArticle
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Dynamic Damage and Load Transfer of PBX Substitute Material under Low Velocity Impact
by
Youcai Xiao, Qin Fu, Wanqian Yu, Chenyang Fan, Yu Zou and Yi Sun
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091235 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The accidental initiation of explosives under mechanical loads has caused numerous catastrophic events. Therefore, the dynamic damage behavior of confined polymer-bonded explosives (PBXs) must be assessed to improve their practical applicability. In this study, polymer-bonded sugar (PBS) materials were prepared using a novel
[...] Read more.
The accidental initiation of explosives under mechanical loads has caused numerous catastrophic events. Therefore, the dynamic damage behavior of confined polymer-bonded explosives (PBXs) must be assessed to improve their practical applicability. In this study, polymer-bonded sugar (PBS) materials were prepared using a novel agglomerate to develop a PBX substitute material with enhanced experimental safety. The mechanical properties of the PBS shell were evaluated using a dynamic compression test, which revealed that the compression response of the shell was affected by the strain rate. A low-velocity impact experiment was performed to investigate the dynamic damage and load transfer characteristics of the PBX substitute. A constitutive model was developed to characterize the mechanical response of PBS subjected to high strain rates, and implementing this model in ABAQUS ensured successful prediction of the damage evolution process associated with PBS. Simulation results indicated that the PBS specimen was primarily damaged around its center while sliding friction was dominant near the center during pressure application. Notably, different stress states result in distinct crack growth velocity histories along the axial direction, with the damage ratio progressively decreasing toward regions closer to the impact surface.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Polymeric Composites: Processing, Characterization and Mechanical Behavior)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Simulating Elastoplastic and Anisotropic Behavior in Thermoplastic Additively Manufactured Components: An Application-Oriented Modeling Approach
by
Fabian Ferrano, Miranda Fateri, Markus Merkel and Jan Hertel
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091234 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive approach aimed at developing a coupled process-structure simulation that integrates anisotropic and elastoplastic material behavior for plastic components manufactured through Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printing. The simulation incorporates material orientation considerations, linking the process simulation with structural
[...] Read more.
This paper presents a comprehensive approach aimed at developing a coupled process-structure simulation that integrates anisotropic and elastoplastic material behavior for plastic components manufactured through Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printing. The simulation incorporates material orientation considerations, linking the process simulation with structural simulation. Subsequently, stress and strain values from the simulations are compared with the test results. Moreover, the fracture behavior of components manufactured in this way is also taken into account in relation to material orientation. The executed simulations have yielded successful outcomes, affirming the efficacy of the anisotropic and elastoplastic simulation across all strand orientations. Special attention is paid to the application of the method. Here, the simulation method introduced in this contribution with the approaches for describing the material behavior under mechanical load can be used in the future in the dimensioning of FFF manufactured plastic components to predict the deformation behavior and failure, especially under consideration of a well economic and efficient virtual product development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D Printing of Polymer Materials)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Cationic Azobenzenes as Light-Responsive Crosslinkers for Alginate-Based Supramolecular Hydrogels
by
Miriam Di Martino, Lucia Sessa, Barbara Panunzi, Rosita Diana, Stefano Piotto and Simona Concilio
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091233 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Azobenzene photoswitches are fundamental components in contemporary approaches aimed at light-driven control of intelligent materials. Significant endeavors are directed towards enhancing the light-triggered reactivity of azobenzenes for such applications and obtaining water-soluble molecules able to act as crosslinkers in a hydrogel. Here, we
[...] Read more.
Azobenzene photoswitches are fundamental components in contemporary approaches aimed at light-driven control of intelligent materials. Significant endeavors are directed towards enhancing the light-triggered reactivity of azobenzenes for such applications and obtaining water-soluble molecules able to act as crosslinkers in a hydrogel. Here, we report the rational design and the synthesis of azobenzene/alginate photoresponsive hydrogels endowed with fast reversible sol–gel transition. We started with the synthesis of three cationic azobenzenes (AZOs A, B, and C) and then incorporated them in sodium alginate (SA) to obtain photoresponsive supramolecular hydrogels (SMHGs). The photoresponsive properties of the azobenzenes were investigated by UV–Vis and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Upon irradiation with 365 nm UV light, the azobenzenes demonstrated efficient trans-to-cis isomerization, with complete isomerization occurring within seconds. The return to the trans form took several hours, with AZO C exhibiting the fastest return, possibly due to higher trans isomer stability. In the photoresponsive SMHGs, the minimum gelation concentration (MGC) of azobenzenes was determined for different compositions, indicating that small amounts of azobenzenes could induce gel formation, particularly in 5 wt% SA. Upon exposure to 365 nm UV light, the SMHGs exhibited reversible gel–sol transitions, underscoring their photoresponsive nature. This research offers valuable insights into the synthesis and photoresponsive properties of cationic, water-soluble azobenzenes, as well as their potential application in the development of photoresponsive hydrogels.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Progress in Polymer Self-Assembly)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Open AccessReview
Unveiling the Future of Meat Packaging: Functional Biodegradable Packaging Preserving Meat Quality and Safety
by
Phanwipa Wongphan, Khwanchat Promhuad, Atcharawan Srisa, Yeyen Laorenza, Chayut Oushapjalaunchai and Nathdanai Harnkarnsujarit
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091232 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Meat quality and shelf life are important parameters affecting consumer perception and safety. Several factors contribute to the deterioration and spoilage of meat products, including microbial growth, chemical reactions in the food’s constituents, protein denaturation, lipid oxidation, and discoloration. This study reviewed the
[...] Read more.
Meat quality and shelf life are important parameters affecting consumer perception and safety. Several factors contribute to the deterioration and spoilage of meat products, including microbial growth, chemical reactions in the food’s constituents, protein denaturation, lipid oxidation, and discoloration. This study reviewed the development of functional packaging biomaterials that interact with food and the environment to improve food’s sensory properties and consumer safety. Bioactive packaging incorporates additive compounds such as essential oils, natural extracts, and chemical substances to produce composite polymers and polymer blends. The findings showed that the incorporation of additive compounds enhanced the packaging’s functionality and improved the compatibility of the polymer–polymer matrices and that between the polymers and active compounds. Food preservatives are alternative substances for food packaging that prevent food spoilage and preserve quality. The safety of food contact materials, especially the flavor/odor contamination from the packaging to the food and the mass transfer from the food to the packaging, was also assessed. Flavor is a key factor in consumer purchasing decisions and also determines the quality and safety of meat products. Novel functional packaging can be used to preserve the quality and safety of packaged meat products.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctional Polymeric Formulations for Sustainable Food Packaging Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Mechanical and Rheological Evaluation of Polyester-Based Composites Containing Biochar
by
Sebastian Jurczyk, Jacek Andrzejewski, Adam Piasecki, Marta Musioł, Joanna Rydz and Marek Kowalczuk
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091231 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
The use of biodegradable polymers as matrices in composites gives a wide range of applications, especially in niche areas. The assessment of the effect of the filler content on the change of mechanical properties makes it possible to optimize the composition for specific
[...] Read more.
The use of biodegradable polymers as matrices in composites gives a wide range of applications, especially in niche areas. The assessment of the effect of the filler content on the change of mechanical properties makes it possible to optimize the composition for specific needs. Biochar was used as a filler in the studied composites with two different biodegradable blends as a matrix. Poly(1,4-butylene adipate-co-1,4-butylene terephthalate)/polylactide/biochar (PBAT/PLA/BC) and polylactide/poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate]/biochar (PLA/P(3HB-co-4HB)/BC) composites with 0, 10, 15, 20 and 30 wt% of biochar underwent mechanical tests. The test results revealed a change in the properties of the composites related to the filler content. The results of the tensile test showed that increasing the biochar content increased the tensile modulus values by up to 100% for composites with 30 wt% of biochar, compared to unfilled matrices, and decreased the elongation associated with the breaking of PBAT/PLA and PLA/P(3HB-co-4HB) matrix composites. The elongation values at break of PBAT/PLA and PLA/(3HB-co-4HB) composites with 30 wt% biochar were reduced by 50% and 65%, respectively, compared to the unfilled matrices. PLA/P(3HB-co-4HB) matrix composites, in contrast to PBAT/PLA/BC, showed a decrease in tensile strength with the increases in filler content from 35.6 MPa for unfilled matrix to 27.1 MPa for PLA/P(3HB-co-4HB)/BC30 composites. An increase in filler content increased the brittleness of the composites regardless of the matrix used, as determined under the Charpy impact-test. This phenomenon was observed for all tested PLA/P(3HB-co-4HB) composites, for which the impact strength decreased from 4.47 kJ/m2 for the matrix to 1.61 kJ/m2 for the composite containing 30 wt% biochar. PBAT/PLA-based composites with 10 wt% of biochar showed slightly lower impact strength compared to the unfilled matrix, but composites with 30 wt% biochar showed 30% lower impact strength than PBAT/PLA. The complex viscosity value increased with increased filler content. For all composites tested on both polyester matrices, the viscosity decreased with increasing angular frequency.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymeric Materials and Composites: Structure-Property Relationships)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Performance of Recycled Polylactic Acid/Amorphous Polyhydroxyalkanoate Blends
by
Simran Chatrath, Mansour Alotaibi and Carol Forance Barry
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091230 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Blends of polylactic acid (PLA) with amorphous polyhydroxyalkanoate (aPHA) are less brittle than neat PLA, thus enabling their use as biodegradable packaging. This work investigated the impact of recycling on the properties of neat PLA and PLA/aPHA blends with 90 and 75 wt.
[...] Read more.
Blends of polylactic acid (PLA) with amorphous polyhydroxyalkanoate (aPHA) are less brittle than neat PLA, thus enabling their use as biodegradable packaging. This work investigated the impact of recycling on the properties of neat PLA and PLA/aPHA blends with 90 and 75 wt. % PLA. After the materials were subjected to five heat histories in a single-screw extruder, the mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties were measured. All recycled compounds with 100% PLA and 75% PLA had similar decomposition behavior, whereas the decomposition temperatures for the blends with 90% PLA decreased with each additional heat cycle. The glass transition and melting temperatures were not impacted by reprocessing, but the crystallinity increased with more heat cycles. The complex viscosity of the reprocessed PLA and PLA/aPHA blends was much lower than for the neat PLA and increasing the number of heat cycles produced smaller reductions in the complex viscosity of 100% PLA and the blend with 90% PLA; no change in complex viscosity was observed for blends with 75% PLA exposed to 2 to 5 heat cycles. The tensile properties were not affected by reprocessing, whereas the impact strength for the 75% PLA blend decreased with reprocessing. These properties suggest that users will be able to incorporate scrap into the neat resin for thermoformed packaging.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymeric Materials: Structure Property Relationships)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Chemical Composition and Cross-Linking Degree on the Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Bio-Based Thermosetting Resins: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study
by
Qiuyu Tang, Jie Jiang, Jinjin Li, Ling Zhao and Zhenhao Xi
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091229 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Bio-based epoxy resins have received significant attention in terms of concerns regarding carbon emission. Epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) derived from sustainable feedstock has been widely used to blend with traditional diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) to replace some of the petroleum-based components. In
[...] Read more.
Bio-based epoxy resins have received significant attention in terms of concerns regarding carbon emission. Epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) derived from sustainable feedstock has been widely used to blend with traditional diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) to replace some of the petroleum-based components. In this work, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were applied to track the network formation and predict the performance of methyl hexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA)-cured ESO/DGEBA blend systems. The effects of ESO content and cross-linking degree on the mass density, volumetric shrinkage, glass transition temperature (Tg), coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), Young’s modulus, yield strength, and Poisson’s ratio of the epoxy resin were systematically investigated. The results show that systems with high ESO content achieve gelation at low cross-linking degree. The Tg value, Young’s modulus, and yield strength increase with the increase in cross-linking degree, but the CTE at the glassy state and Poisson’s ratio decrease. The comparison results between the simulated and experimental data demonstrated that the MD simulations can accurately predict the thermal and mechanical properties of ESO-based thermosets. This study gains insight into the variation in thermo-mechanical properties of anhydride-cured ESO/DGEBA-based epoxy resins during the cross-linking process and provides a rational strategy for optimizing bio-based epoxy resins.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermodynamics of Polymers: Fundamentals and Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
An Efficient and Accurate SCF Algorithm for Block Copolymer Films and Brushes Using Adaptive Discretizations
by
Le Qiao, Marios Giannakou and Friederike Schmid
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1228; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091228 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Self-consistent field (SCF) theory serves as a robust tool for unraveling the intricate behavior exhibited by soft polymeric materials. However, the accuracy and efficiency of SCF calculations are crucially dependent on the numerical methods employed for system discretization and equation-solving. Here, we introduce
[...] Read more.
Self-consistent field (SCF) theory serves as a robust tool for unraveling the intricate behavior exhibited by soft polymeric materials. However, the accuracy and efficiency of SCF calculations are crucially dependent on the numerical methods employed for system discretization and equation-solving. Here, we introduce a simple three dimensional SCF algorithm that uses real-space methods and adaptive discretization, offering improved accuracy and efficiency for simulating polymeric systems at surfaces. Our algorithm’s efficacy is demonstrated through simulations of two distinct polymeric systems, namely, block copolymer (BCP) films and polymer brushes. By enhancing spatial resolution in regions influenced by external forces and employing finer contour discretization at grafting chain ends, we achieve significantly more accurate results at very little additional cost, enabling the study of 3D polymeric systems that were previously computationally challenging. To facilitate the widespread use of the algorithm, we have made our 1D-3D SCF code publicly available.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical and Computational Polymers Science: Physics, Chemistry and Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Nanocelluloses and Their Applications in Conservation and Restoration of Historical Documents
by
Ana P. S. Marques, Ricardo O. Almeida, Luís F. R. Pereira, Maria Graça V. S. Carvalho and José A. F. Gamelas
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091227 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Nanocelluloses have gained significant attention in recent years due to their singular properties (good biocompatibility, high optical transparency and mechanical strength, large specific surface area, and good film-forming ability) and wide-ranging applications (paper, food packaging, textiles, electronics, and biomedical). This article is a
[...] Read more.
Nanocelluloses have gained significant attention in recent years due to their singular properties (good biocompatibility, high optical transparency and mechanical strength, large specific surface area, and good film-forming ability) and wide-ranging applications (paper, food packaging, textiles, electronics, and biomedical). This article is a comprehensive review of the applications of nanocelluloses (cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibrils, and bacterial nanocellulose) in the conservation and restoration of historical paper documents, including their preparation methods and main properties. The novelty lies in the information collected about nanocelluloses as renewable, environmentally friendly, and sustainable materials in the field of cultural heritage preservation as an alternative to conventional methods. Several studies have demonstrated that nanocelluloses, with or without other particles, may impart to the paper documents excellent optical and mechanical properties, very good stability against temperature and humidity aging, higher antibacterial and antifungal activity, high protection from UV light, and may be applied without requiring additional adhesive.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellulose and Its Derivatives: Applications, and Future Perspectives II)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Facile Preparation of Lightweight Natural Rubber Nanocomposite Foams with High Wear Resistance
by
Hua Jin and Fuquan Deng
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091226 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The light weight and excellent mechanical properties of rubber foam means that it is widely applied in the aerospace, automobile, and military industries. However, its poor wear resistance contributes directly to a short service life and a waste of resources. Therefore, the design
[...] Read more.
The light weight and excellent mechanical properties of rubber foam means that it is widely applied in the aerospace, automobile, and military industries. However, its poor wear resistance contributes directly to a short service life and a waste of resources. Therefore, the design and development of high-wear-resistance rubber foam are of great importance. In this work, some nanoclay/rubber composite foams were prepared by blending NR/EPDM with different kinds of nanoclays containing layered double hydroxide (LDH), montmorillonite (MMT), and attapulgite (ATP) to indicate the effects of the kinds of nanoclays on the wear resistance and mechanical properties of nanoclay/rubber composite foams. The kinds of nanoclay/rubber composite foams were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The results showed that nanoclay has heterogeneous nucleation in composite foamed materials. The wear resistance of the composite foam materials with added nanoclay was significantly improved, and the MMT of the lamellar structure (increased by 43.35%) and LDH (increased by 38.57%) were significantly higher than the ATP of the rod-like structure (increased by 13.04%). The improvement in the wear resistance of the matrix was even higher. Compared with other foams, the wear resistance of the OMMT–NR/EPDM foam (increased by 58.89%) with a lamellar structure had the best wear resistance. Due to the increase in the lamellar spacing of the modified OMMT, the exfoliation of worn rubber molecular chains has little effect on the adjacent molecular chains, which prevents the occurrence of crimp wear and further improves the wear resistance of composite foaming materials. Therefore, this work lays the foundation for the manufacturing of rubber foams for wear-resistant applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
Open AccessArticle
Injection Molding Condition Effects on the Mechanical Properties of Coconut-Wood-Powder-Based Polymer Composite
by
Quach Van Thiem, Van-Thuc Nguyen, Dang Thu Thi Phan and Pham Son Minh
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091225 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the mechanical properties of coconut sawdust powder combined with polypropylene (PP). The effect of compatibility content, wood powder (WP) content, and injection molding parameters on the properties of coconut wood powder composite (WPC) is evaluated. The results could be used
[...] Read more.
This study investigates the mechanical properties of coconut sawdust powder combined with polypropylene (PP). The effect of compatibility content, wood powder (WP) content, and injection molding parameters on the properties of coconut wood powder composite (WPC) is evaluated. The results could be used to figure out the optimal mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation, elastic modulus, and flexural strength by selecting suitable parameters and composition. The bonding between the WP particles and the PP matrix is good, and the WP is uniformly distributed across the composite matrix, as indicated in the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results. Interestingly, with the presence of the compatibilizer oleamide, increasing the WP content from 20 wt.% to 40 wt.% did not result in WP accumulation in the composite matrix. Notably, at 20 wt.% WP, the elongation is the highest (at 7.40 wt.%), while at 30 wt.% WP, the elastic modulus reaches the highest value. The maximum ultimate tensile strength (UTS) value is obtained at 35 wt.% WP. Higher WP mostly results in greater flexural strength and shore D hardness. At 40 wt.% WP, the WPC achieves its peak shore D hardness of 77.6. The Taguchi results suggest that WP content is the most critical factor in the UTS value of coconut WPCs. The filling pressure ranks second, followed by the packing pressure. Finally, unlike the other characteristics, the melt temperature has a minimal impact on the UTS value.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Behavior of Polymeric Materials: Recent Study)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Preparation of a Polymeric Phosphoramide Flame-Retardant and Its Effect on the Flame-Retardant Properties of Epoxy Resin
by
Hao Wang, Yinjie Wang, Yan Su, Chuang Yu, Jia Han and Jiping Liu
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091224 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
The flammability of epoxy resins and knowing how to achieve curing are particularly important factors during use. A novel approach for enhancing the fire resistance and reducing the smoke emission of epoxy resin during the curing process is suggested, which involves the utilization
[...] Read more.
The flammability of epoxy resins and knowing how to achieve curing are particularly important factors during use. A novel approach for enhancing the fire resistance and reducing the smoke emission of epoxy resin during the curing process is suggested, which involves the utilization of a three-source integrated polymerization intumescent flame-retardant. In this study, the synthesis of poly 4,4-diaminodiphenylsulfone spirocyclic pentaerythritol bisphosphonate (PCS) is achieved through using solution polymerization, utilizing 4,4′-diaminodiphenylsulfone (DDS) and spirocyclic pentaerythritol bisphosphorate disphosphoryl chloride (SPDPC) as initial components. Following that, the EP underwent the inclusion of PCS to examine its resistance to heat, its ability to prevent flames, its effectiveness in reducing smoke and its curing effect. Compared to the unmodified epoxy resin, the addition of PCS can not only cure the epoxy resin, but also decompose before the epoxy resin and has a good carbonization effect. With the addition of 7 wt.% PCS, the LOI value can achieve 31.2% and successfully pass the UL-94 test with a V-0 rating. Moreover, the cone calorimeter experiment demonstrated a noteworthy decline of 59.7% in the maximum heat release rate (pHRR), 63.7% in overall heat release (THR), and 42.3% in total smoke generation (TSP). Based on the examination of TG-FTIR and SEM findings, there is ample evidence to suggest that PCS, functioning as a phosphorus-nitrogen intumescent flame-retardant that combines three origins, has the potential to exhibit a favorable flame-retardant impact in both its gas and condensed phases.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Flame Retardant Property and Thermal Degradation of Polymer Composites)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Fiber Bragg Gratings Sensor Strain–Optic Behavior with Different Polymeric Coatings Subjected to Transverse Strain
by
Manuel González-Gallego, Félix Terroba Ramírez, Juan Luis Martínez-Vicente, Miguel González del Val, Juan José López-Cela and Malte Frövel
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091223 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
This research work is based on a previous study by the authors that characterized the behavior of FBG sensors with a polyimide coating in a structural monitoring system. Sensors applied to structural health monitoring are affected by the presence of simultaneous multidirectional strains.
[...] Read more.
This research work is based on a previous study by the authors that characterized the behavior of FBG sensors with a polyimide coating in a structural monitoring system. Sensors applied to structural health monitoring are affected by the presence of simultaneous multidirectional strains. The previous study observed the influence of the transverse strain ( ) while keeping the longitudinal strain constant ( ), where the x direction is the direction of the optical fiber. The present study develops an experimental methodology consisting of a biaxial test plan on cruciform specimens with three embedded FBG sensors coated with polyimide, acrylate, and ORMOCER®. Applying the Strain–Optic Theory as a reference, a comparison of the experimental values obtained with the different coatings was studied. This experimental work made it possible to study the influence of the transverse strain ( ) on the longitudinal measurements of each FBGS and the influence of the coating material. Finally, the calibration procedure was defined as well as (strain sensitivity factor) for each sensor.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Membranes and Films)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCommunication
Synthesis and Oxidative Degradation of Leucine-Based Poly(diacylhydrazine)
by
Kanda Wongwailikhit, Ratha Suwannakeeree and Nobuhiro Kihara
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091222 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2024
Abstract
Diacylhydrazine is thermally and chemically stable, and it remains inert to oxygen even at high temperatures. However, it is rapidly oxidized by sodium hypochlorite, leading to its decomposition into carboxylic acid and nitrogen gas. In the synthesis of a novel poly(diacylhydrazine) as an
[...] Read more.
Diacylhydrazine is thermally and chemically stable, and it remains inert to oxygen even at high temperatures. However, it is rapidly oxidized by sodium hypochlorite, leading to its decomposition into carboxylic acid and nitrogen gas. In the synthesis of a novel poly(diacylhydrazine) as an oxidatively degradable polymer, L-leucine methyl ester is acylated by terephthaloyl chloride. Subsequent hydrazination yields a bishydrazide monomer. The oxidative coupling polymerization of this monomer produces poly(diacylhydrazine). The molecular structures of the products are confirmed by an 1H NMR analysis. A polymodal molecular weight distribution and a large polydispersity index are observed by GPC in all cases. A 10% weight loss temperature is noted at 286 °C in air by TGA. The obtained polymer is not oxidized by oxygen. No glass transition is observed below the decomposition temperature. Upon the treatment of the poly(diacylhydrazine) with sodium hypochlorite solution, decomposition occurs rapidly, resulting in monomeric carboxylic acid and nitrogen gas. The L-leucine-based poly(diacylhydrazine) serves as a novel on-demand degradable polymer with high levels of thermal and chemical stability during usage.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Design and Synthesis of Polymers)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Injectable Thermo-Responsive Peptide Hydrogels and Its Enzyme Triggered Dynamic Self-Assembly
by
Bowen Yin, Ruoxue Wang, Yu Guo, Liuxuan Li and Xiuli Hu
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1221; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091221 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Endogenous stimuli-responsive injectable hydrogels hold significant promise for practical applications due to their spatio-temporal controllable drug delivery. Herein, we report a facile strategy to construct a series of in situ formation polypeptide hydrogels with thermal responsiveness and enzyme-triggered dynamic self-assembly. The thermo-responsive hydrogels
[...] Read more.
Endogenous stimuli-responsive injectable hydrogels hold significant promise for practical applications due to their spatio-temporal controllable drug delivery. Herein, we report a facile strategy to construct a series of in situ formation polypeptide hydrogels with thermal responsiveness and enzyme-triggered dynamic self-assembly. The thermo-responsive hydrogels are from the diblock random copolymer mPEG-b-P(Glu-co-Tyr). The L-glutamic acid (Glu) segments with different γ-alkyl groups, including methyl, ethyl, and n-butyl, offer specific secondary structure, facilitating the formation of hydrogel. The L-tyrosine (Tyr) residues not only provide hydrogen-bond interactions and thus adjust the sol–gel transition temperatures, but also endow polypeptide enzyme-responsive properties. The PTyr segments could be phosphorylated, and the phosphotyrosine copolymers were amphiphilies, which could readily self-assemble into spherical aggregates and transform into sheet-like structures upon dephosphorylation by alkaline phosphatase (ALP). P(MGlu-co-Tyr/P) and P(MGlu-co-Tyr) copolymers showed good compatibility with both MC3T3-E1 and Hela cells, with cell viability above 80% at concentrations up to 1000 μg/mL. The prepared injectable polypeptide hydrogel and its enzyme-triggered self-assemblies show particular potential for biomedical applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocompatible Polymers for Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Predicting Mechanical Properties of Polymer Materials Using Rate-Dependent Material Models: Finite Element Analysis of Bespoke Upper Limb Orthoses
by
Syed Hammad Mian, Usama Umer, Khaja Moiduddin and Hisham Alkhalefah
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1220; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091220 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Three-dimensional printing—especially with fused deposition modeling (FDM)—is widely used in the medical field as it enables customization. FDM is versatile owing to the availability of various materials, but selecting the appropriate material for a certain application can be challenging. Understanding materials’ mechanical behaviors,
[...] Read more.
Three-dimensional printing—especially with fused deposition modeling (FDM)—is widely used in the medical field as it enables customization. FDM is versatile owing to the availability of various materials, but selecting the appropriate material for a certain application can be challenging. Understanding materials’ mechanical behaviors, particularly those of polymeric materials, is vital to determining their suitability for a given application. Physical testing with universal testing machines is the most used method for determining the mechanical behaviors of polymers. This method is resource-intensive and requires cylinders for compression testing and unique dumbbell-shaped specimens for tensile testing. Thus, a specialized fixture must be designed to conduct mechanical testing for the customized orthosis, which is costly and time-consuming. Finite element (FE) analysis using an appropriate material model must be performed to identify the mechanical behaviors of a customized shape (e.g., an orthosis). This study analyzed three material models, namely the Bergström–Boyce (BB), three-network (TN), and three-network viscoplastic (TNV) models, to determine the mechanical behaviors of polymer materials for personalized upper limb orthoses and examined three polymer materials: PLA, ABS, and PETG. The models were first calibrated for each material using experimental data. Once the models were calibrated and found to fit the data appropriately, they were employed to examine the customized orthosis’s mechanical behaviors through FE analysis. This approach is innovative in that it predicts the mechanical characteristics of a personalized orthosis by combining theoretical and experimental investigations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical and Computational Polymers Science: Physics, Chemistry and Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Simulated Dental Pulpal Pressure Using Fetal Bovine Serum for the Bonding Performance of Contemporary Adhesive to Dentin
by
Yitong Li, Masahiko Maeno, Carolina Cecilia Cifuentes-Jimenez, Mei Komoto, Yunqing Liu, Yoichiro Nara, Hidehiko Sano, Pedro Alvarez-Lloret, Monica Yamauti and Atsushi Tomokiyo
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091219 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of simulated pulpal pressure (SPP) conditions and storage time on contemporary adhesive systems’ microtensile bond strength (µTBS) to dentin. Extracted human molars were prepared and randomly divided into four groups according to the adhesives: Clearfil Megabond 2 (CSE),
[...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effect of simulated pulpal pressure (SPP) conditions and storage time on contemporary adhesive systems’ microtensile bond strength (µTBS) to dentin. Extracted human molars were prepared and randomly divided into four groups according to the adhesives: Clearfil Megabond 2 (CSE), Beautibond Xtreme Universal (BXU), G2-Bond (G2B), and Scotchbond Universal Plus (SBP). Each adhesive group was further divided following the SPP conditions: control with no simulation (SPP-CTR), SPP with distilled water (SPP-DTW), and SPP with fetal bovine serum (SPP-FBS). Resin composite build-ups were prepared, and teeth were stored in water (37 °C) for 24 h (24 h) and 3 months (3 m). Then, teeth were sectioned to obtain resin–dentin bonded beams and tested to determine the µTBS. Data were analyzed using three-way ANOVA, Tukey post hoc tests (=0.05), and Weibull failure analysis. Failure mode was observed using scanning electron microscopy. The µTBS response was affected by adhesive systems, simulated pulpal pressure conditions, and storage time. SPP-CTR groups presented a higher overall bond strength than SPP-DTW and SPP-FBS, which were not significantly different from each other. Only for SBP, the SPP-FBS group showed higher µTBS than the SPP-DTW group. The Weibull analysis showed that the bonding reliability and durability under SPP-DTW and SPP-FBS were inferior to SPP-CTR, and the 24 h bonding quality of adhesives to dentin was superior to that of 3 m. SPP drastically reduced the µTBS of all adhesives to dentin regardless of solution (distilled water or fetal bovine serum). Storage after 3 m also decreased µTBS despite the SPP condition.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymers Strategies in Dental Therapy)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Biodegradation Study of Styrene–Butadiene Composites with Incorporated Arthrospira platensis Biomass
by
Marius Bumbac, Cristina Mihaela Nicolescu, Traian Zaharescu, Ion Valentin Gurgu, Costel Bumbac, Elena Elisabeta Manea, Ioana Alexandra Ionescu, Bogdan-Catalin Serban, Octavian Buiu and Crinela Dumitrescu
Polymers 2024, 16(9), 1218; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16091218 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The preparation of polymer composites that incorporate material of a biogenic nature in the polymer matrices may lead to a reduction in fossil polymer consumption and a potentially higher biodegradability. Furthermore, microalgae biomass as biogenic filler has the advantage of fast growth and
[...] Read more.
The preparation of polymer composites that incorporate material of a biogenic nature in the polymer matrices may lead to a reduction in fossil polymer consumption and a potentially higher biodegradability. Furthermore, microalgae biomass as biogenic filler has the advantage of fast growth and high tolerance to different types of culture media with higher production yields than those provided by the biomass of terrestrial crops. On the other hand, algal biomass can be a secondary product in wastewater treatment processes. For the present study, an SBS polymer composite (SBSC) containing 25% (w/w) copolymer SBS1 (linear copolymer: 30% styrene and 70% butadiene), 50% (w/w) copolymer SBS2 (linear copolymer: 40% styrene and 60% butadiene), and 25% (w/w) paraffin oil was prepared. Arthrospira platensis biomass (moisture content 6.0 ± 0.5%) was incorporated into the SBSC in 5, 10, 20, and 30% (w/w) ratios to obtain polymer composites with spirulina biomass. For the biodegradation studies, the ISO 14855-1:2012(E) standard was applied, with slight changes, as per the specificity of our experiments. The degradation of the studied materials was followed by quantitatively monitoring the CO2 resulting from the degradation process and captured by absorption in NaOH solution 0.5 mol/L. The structural and morphological changes induced by the industrial composting test on the materials were followed by physical–mechanical, FTIR, SEM, and DSC analysis. The obtained results were compared to create a picture of the material transformation during the composting period. Thus, the collected data indicate two biodegradation processes, of the polymer and the biomass, which take place at the same time at different rates, which influence each other. On the other hand, it is found that the material becomes less ordered, with a sponge-like morphology; the increase in the percentage of biomass leads to an advanced degree of degradation of the material. The FTIR analysis data suggest the possibility of the formation of peptide bonds between the aromatic nuclei in the styrene block and the molecular residues resulting from biomass biodegradation. It seems that in industrial composting conditions, the area of the polystyrene blocks from the SBS-based composite is preferentially transformed in the process.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodegradable Polymer Composites: Fabrication and Applications II)
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Polymers Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Materials, Nanomaterials, Photonics, Polymers, Applied Sciences, Sensors
Optical and Optoelectronic Properties of Materials and Their Applications
Topic Editors: Zhiping Luo, Gibin George, Navadeep ShrivastavaDeadline: 20 May 2024
Topic in
Biomedicines, Cancers, JFB, Nanomaterials, Polymers
Advanced Functional Materials for Regenerative Medicine
Topic Editors: Antonino Morabito, Luca ValentiniDeadline: 6 June 2024
Topic in
Bioengineering, JMMP, Materials, Micromachines, Polymers
Advances in Filament Engineering for Biomaterials
Topic Editors: Ming-Wei Chang, Zeeshan Ahmad, Hui-Min David WangDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Foods, Materials, Polymers, Sensors, Applied Sciences
Scientific Advances in STEM: Synergies to Achieve Success, 3rd Volume
Topic Editors: Yadir Torres Hernández, Ana María Beltrán Custodio, Manuel Félix ÁngelDeadline: 31 July 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Polymers
Polymers, Additives and Reinforcements from Upgraded Wastes from the Food Industry and Agroforestry
Guest Editors: Rafael Antonio Balart Gimeno, Pablo Stefani, Franco Dominici, Marina Patricia Arrieta Dillon, Luís Jesús Quiles CarrilloDeadline: 30 April 2024
Special Issue in
Polymers
Soft Polymeric Materials: Synthesis, Characterizations and Applications
Guest Editors: Kumkum Ahmed, MD Nahin Islam Shiblee, Chanchal Kumar Roy, Hidemitsu FurukawaDeadline: 15 May 2024
Special Issue in
Polymers
Artificial Intelligence Enhanced Design of Polymer Materials and Manufacturing
Guest Editors: Yingtao Liu, Changjie Cai, Blake HerrenDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Polymers
Permanently Porous Polymers
Guest Editors: Magdalena Rogulska, Małgorzata Maciejewska, Marta GrochowiczDeadline: 15 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Polymers
Progress in Theory of Polymers at Interfaces
Collection Editors: Jens-Uwe Sommer, Martin Kröger
Topical Collection in
Polymers
State-of-the-Art Polymer Science and Technology in Poland (2021,2022)
Collection Editors: Marek M. Kowalczuk, Mirosława El Fray, Łukasz Klapiszewski, Dorota Neugebauer, Michał Cegłowski
Topical Collection in
Polymers
Proteins and Peptides
Collection Editors: Horia Iovu, Vladimir N. Uversky