Browse Topic: Nanomaterials

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Design of a Biomimetic Spherical-End Tool Based on Gastropod-Shell Surface Microstructures and an Investigation of its Polishing Performance2026-99-10018/7/2026
To improve stress-distribution uniformity and reduce wear during polishing, a biomimetic flexible polishing tool was developed by incorporating microstructured surface features inspired by the gastropod shell. A biomimetic flexible polishing tool was first geometrically modeled, and then the tool–workpiece contact was analyzed in the elastic polishing regime using Preston’s material removal equation to elucidate stress transmission and contact deformation mechanisms. An Abaqus finite-element model of the elastic tool–workpiece contact was subsequently established to compute tool and workpiece stress fields and contact-area fraction during polishing. The biomimetic tools were fabricated by curing silicone rubber mixed with carbon nanotubes. Polishing validation was performed on a small CNC platform using quartz glass under the parameters α=15°, ap=2mm, and w=30r/s. Results indicate that the biomimetic tool incorporating gastropod-shell microstructures increases the machining contact area by up to 48.60% relative to a conventional tool, and after t=30 min of polishing the surface roughness Ra decreased from 1.019μm to 76nm. These outcomes demonstrate that the biomimetic microstructured flexible tool effectively improves contact stress uniformity and enhances surface- processing accuracy for quartz glass.
Song, Jintao, Hui, Jizhuang, Guo, Lei, Xu, Chen, Hei, Zhengqiang, Zhong, Taiyang, Wang, Jiawei, Liu, Jin
Screen-Printed Flexible Sensor for Conveyor Belt Fault Monitoring2026-99-01957/31/2026
Conveyor belt fault detection is critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of industrial material transportation. In this study, a screen-printed flexible strain sensor based on a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) substrate and graphene conductive ink was fabricated. The sensor exhibited excellent flexibility, mechanical robustness, and stable electromechanical performance. Comprehensive evaluations were conducted, including microstructural analysis, strain sensitivity, hysteresis, dynamic response, and long-term cycling stability. The results demonstrated that a two-layer graphene configuration achieved an optimal balance between sensitivity and structural stability, showing high gauge factor, fast response, and reliable cyclic performance. Furthermore, the sensor was applied to conveyor belt fault monitoring. Experiments validated its ability to detect both halting faults and foreign object intrusions, with distinctive resistance signal features enabling not only fault occurrence detection but also identification of fault location, type, and severity. These findings highlight the potential of the proposed flexible sensor system as a promising solution for intelligent conveyor belt monitoring in harsh industrial environments.
Zhang, Bo, Ai, Shigeng, Zhang, Xiaobo, Sun, Wanting, Li, Pengfei
Preparation and Characterization of Glycerol-Based Fe3O4 Magnetic Fluids2026-99-02447/31/2026
To optimize the preparation protocol and tribological performance of glycerol-based Fe^3O^4 magnetic fluids, three hybrid agitation systems—(i) chemical co-precipitation coupled with magnetic stirring (H+C), (ii) chemical co-precipitation coupled with mechanical stirring (H+J), and (iii) chemical co-precipitation integrated with mechanical plus ultrasonic agitation (H+J+C)—were systematically investigated with respect to their influence on the physicochemical characteristics and lubricating behaviour of the resulting magnetic nanoparticles. Relative to the H+C and H+J protocols, the H+J+C protocol effectively suppressed intermediate agglomeration, yielding a 15 % increase in Fe^3O^4 productivity and a 15 % reduction in the full-width at half-maximum of the particle-size distribution. A binary surfactant system composed of oleic acid and citric acid achieved complete surface passivation, producing nanoparticles with a saturation magnetization of 59.2 emu g^–1. Under a magnetic flux density of 0.0341 T, tribometric evaluation revealed that the friction coefficient of the fluid prepared via the H+J+C route decreased to 0.041, corresponding to reductions of 7.1 % and 22 % relative to the H+J and H+C counterparts, respectively, thereby demonstrating superior tribological performance. The present work furnishes an experimental foundation for the rational design of high-performance magnetically responsive lubricants and the optimization of magnetic-fluid synthesis protocols.
Hu, Rui, Zhong, Shihao, Xu, Chunxia, Chen, Binhua, Liu, Yang
Tailored Thermo-Mechanical Behaviour of CNT/Epoxy Nanocomposites via Solvent-Assisted Dispersion2026-99-01897/31/2026
Carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced epoxy nanocomposites were prepared using a solvent-assisted dispersion method and characterized to evaluate their structural, mechanical, and thermal behaviour. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the presence of CNTs in the polymer matrix through the characteristic (002) reflection, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that CNTs were found to be uniformly embedded within the epoxy matrix, showing limited agglomeration and strong interfacial bonding. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) supported these observations by revealing absorption bands associated with C=C stretching, C–O–C ether linkages, and O–H vibrations, indicating chemical interactions between CNTs and the epoxy network. Mechanical testing showed that CNT concentrations of 0.25–0.50 wt.% provided the most effective reinforcement, with notable and measurable improvements in tensile and compressive strength as well as modulus. At higher CNT loadings, however, agglomeration led to reduced tensile performance, despite compressive strength remaining comparatively stable. Thermal conductivity increased steadily with CNT addition, from 0.2143 W/m.K for neat epoxy to 0.2435 W/m.K at 0.75–1.00 wt.%, with the most pronounced improvements observed above 0.25 wt.% due to the formation of more efficient conductive pathways. Overall, these findings suggest that low-to-intermediate CNT loadings achieve a practical and useful balance between strength and thermal conductivity while avoiding the drawbacks of excessive filler content. Effective dispersion of nanotubes is a critical factor that governs the mechanical and thermal behaviour of the composites. These results indicate that CNT/epoxy nanocomposites produced under optimized conditions can serve as lightweight, mechanically reliable, and thermally stable materials, making them attractive candidates for advanced applications in aerospace, automotive, and energy-related sectors where both structural performance and efficient thermal management are required.
Gul, Aysenur, Kamali, Ali Reza
Desulfurization and Acid Resistance of Multifunctional Protective Coatings in Severe Environment2026-99-02387/31/2026
Desulfurization equipment in electric power industry is in a multi-field coupled corrosion environment with high temperature, high humidity, strong acid and solid-containing slurry. The annual direct economic loss of corrosion exceeds 5 billion yuan, and the equipment replacement cycle is only 1.5-2 years. Traditional protective coatings are difficult to meet the needs. The concept of “bionic barrier-intelligent response-in-situ purification” is proposed to construct multifunctional protective coatings: The Langmuir-Blodgett technique was used to alternately assemble MXene nanosheets and polysilazane. Ti-O-Si covalent bonds enhanced the interface bonding, resulting in a coating hardness of 4H and an elongation of 200%. After 1500 hours of extreme environment test, the coating has low weight loss rate, high self-repair and antibacterial rate, and its service life is extended by 8 times. The engineering application makes the maintenance period of desulfurization tower of a 660MW unit extended from 8 months to 6 years, saving 1.2 million yuan annually, and increasing 200,000 yuan annually by recovering H ˇ SO 2. It provides a cross-scale scheme for electric power corrosion protection.
Nie, Pengfei, Gao, Jiangyu, Chen, Wei
Predictive Model and Analysis of the Resultant Force in the Dry Machining of Mg-4Zn/Si 3 N 4 Nanocomposites2026-26-07626/1/2026
The development of lightweight materials for use in aerospace and automotive applications is extremely significant. Magnesium (Mg)-based alloys and composites are good candidate materials from the perspective of low density, good specific strength, and abundance. The Mg-4Zn alloy is one such alloy, which is a lightweight, biocompatible, and eco-friendly Mg-based alloy. In spite of these advantages, there is a strong need and scope to improve its wear resistance and mechanical properties. Mg-4Zn nanocomposites with Si3N4 reinforcements (a biocompatible bioceramic) are hypothesized to possess superior properties. Microstructural analysis of the vacuum stir-cast nanocomposites confirms grain refinement and a consequent increase in microhardness with an increase in Si3N4 reinforcement wt.%. The addition of Si3N4 reinforcement to improve the properties of the Mg-4Zn alloy could introduce challenges in machining. To make products from the nanocomposites, machining them with minimal subsurface defects with minimal energy consumption under sustainable conditions is necessary. The resultant machining force (Fr) is a good indicator of subsurface quality and energy consumption in machining. To investigate the effect of reinforcement wt.% and machining parameters on the resultant machining force, dry turning experiments on the vacuum stir-cast Mg-4Zn/Si3N4 nanocomposites were carried out based on the response surface methodology-based Box-Behnken design. It is observed that the regression model for Fr is influenced by the reinforcement wt.%, cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut and also their squares and their mutual interactions. Increase in microhardness, variation in porosity, thermal softening, and strain hardening contribute to the variation in Fr. Minimal Fr and hence better subsurface quality and lower energy consumption are obtained at mid values of Si3N4 reinforcement wt.% and cutting speed and low values of feed rate and depth of cut. The developed model is an excellent fit, with R2 and adjusted R2 values of 0.9907 and 0.9799, respectively.
N, Anand, Shaju, Tony M, G, Nagamalleswara Rao, D, Bijulal, K, Jayaprakash Reddy, K, Vijayan, Chaman, Joji J
Lightweight Magnesium Nanocomposites with Enhanced Wear Resistance for Landing Gear Application2026-26-07516/1/2026
This study systematically evaluated the wear resilient performance of AZ61 magnesium alloy reinforced with 15 wt.% SiC and diverse amounts of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) under dry sliding circumstances adopting pin-on-disc apparatus (ASTM G99). To identify the influence of factors like sliding speed (SS) (1-3 m/s), axial load (AL) (10-30 N), and MWCNT concentration (0-3 wt.%) that affect tribological performance, experiments were developed using a Central Composite Design (CCD) under Response Surface Methodology (RSM). SEM micrographs revealed a dispersion optimum near 2 wt.% MWCNT, where CNTs anchor to SiC and bridge the α-Mg matrix, while 3 wt.% shows agglomerates and micro-voids. Findings showed that wear loss (WL) and friction coefficient (CoF) was greatly amplified by increasing AL owing to localized heating and contact stresses. A compacted tribolayer was formed by increasing SS, which decreased WL but marginally raised the CoF. At low AL (10 N), SS (2.09 m/s), and 2.12 wt.% MWCNT, the wear resistance was significantly improved by improving load transfer and creating a lubricating carbon-rich coating, resulting in a decreased WL of 0.006 g. The CoF persisted within the range of 0.19 to 0.28. Agglomeration of MWCNTs caused increased WL and CoF when the MWCNT content is increased above 2 wt.%. Worn-surface microscopy at the optimum showed fine wear tracks and a continuous carbon/oxide glaze, evidencing a lubricious CNT-rich third-body film, whereas high AL/low MWCNT produced deep grooves and delamination.
Senthilkumar, N.
Improvement of Mechanical Properties of Synthetic Fiber Reinforced Composites through Addition of Graphene Oxide2026-26-07536/1/2026
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) demand structural materials that are lightweight, strong, impact-resistant, and durable in diverse environments. The synthetic fiber reinforced polymer composites have varying mechanical performance depending on the fiber matrix interfacial properties. This research analyzes the influence of Graphene Oxide (GO) nano fillers on mechanical properties of composites. Firstly, the epoxy resin was modified by incorporating different weight percentage of Graphene Oxide. This resin was used to make an composite laminate using different materials (Carbon, Glass and combination of these fibers). Then the composites were put through the tensile, compression, flexural tests. The synthetic fiber reinforced polymer composites have a significant improvement in mechanical properties due to the addition of Graphene Oxide.
Manoharan, Dinesh, Langford, Peter, M.K., Padmanabhan, R, Prithviraj, Rajkumar, Subbiah, Karthikeyan, Ravikumar, Veeramuthu, Balasubramaniyan, Gunaseelan, John, T, Thangaraj
Drilling Studies on Sustainable Lightweight Hybrid Polymer Matrix High-Performance Nanocomposites2026-26-07326/1/2026
Worldwide, engineers are exploring the possibility of using polymer composites in their quest for lightweight materials. In this study, injection moulding was used to develop a biodegradable polymer PLA composite containing 20 wt.% vetiver fibers (VFs) and 2 wt.% nano-silica (nSiO2) obtained from pearl millet, which is sustainable. Materials need machining as secondary operation that required joining. Desirability analysis was used to examine and optimize machining (drilling) studies that were designed with Taguchi's design (L9 orthogonal array). Surface roughness (SR) and delamination factor (Fd) were taken as outputs, while spindle speed (SS), feed rate (FR), and drill diameter (DD) were the inputs. Drilling studies were performed on a single vertical machining center (VMC). ANOVA identifies that the FR had the most decisive influence on SR (F=559.24, p=0.001785), followed by DD and SS. FR is the dominant contributor to Fd (F=379, p=0.00263), followed by SS and DD. At low SS and high FR, excessive thrust and heat cause fiber-matrix tearing and poor hole finish. Higher SS softens the PLA matrix, improving surface quality. Fd decreases with increasing SS, whereas it rises with extreme FR and DD due to elevated thrust and matrix cracking. The optimized parameters SS of 3000 rpm, FR of 15 mm/min, and DD of 6 mm achieved a maximum combined desirability of 1. A non-traditional meta-heuristic technique, the frog leaping algorithm (FLA), is adopted to optimize the inputs based on the developed regression model. FLA also provides the identical optimal condition as the desirability function, predicting the outputs SR=2.2195 μm and Fd=1.0383, which are very close.
Senthilkumar, N.
Development of Graphene Filled Polypropylene Nanocomposite for Aerospace Application2026-26-07396/1/2026
Polypropylene, a commodity plastic, is the semi-crystalline thermoplastics widely used in high volume for general purpose application. Polypropylene is the macro molecules of soft and weak backbone, which by reinforcement of fillers in different forms such as fiber, spheroids, nanotubes, flakes, etc., can influence its mechanical, thermal, electrical, creep resistance, and flame resistance properties for use in aerospace applications. Currently, polycarbonate and nylon plastics are used in aerospace applications, however, they are expensive compared with polypropylene. In this thesis, efforts are put to study the effect of reinforcement fillers in the properties of polypropylene composite, primarily the mechanical and flammability properties. The matrix element, polypropylene co polymer and reprocessed polypropylene blended in equal ratio, are coupled with the dispersing phases such as graphene, mica, fumed silica, and polydimethylsiloxane polymer. Effect of graphene as reinforcing filler at different weight % to polypropylene composite’s properties are studied and compared with that of the neat polypropylene. Effect of coupling agent, Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), on mineral fillers and Polydimethylsiloxane polymer (PDMS) used for crosslinking with the polypropylene matrix is also studied and compared using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) techniques.
Govindaraju, Parthasarathy
Unidirectional Carbon Fiber Tape Epoxy Repair Prepreg, Vacuum Curing Part 5 - Material Specification for Unidirectional Carbon Fiber Tape Epoxy Prepreg for Repair and Film Adhesive for Repair, 120 to 145 °C (250 to 290 °F) CuringAMS6885/5 (Current)5/7/2026
AMS6885/5 is the Material Specification (MS) which defines the requirements of a unidirectional carbon fiber tape epoxy repair prepreg capable of curing under vacuum for repair of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy structures. It also defines the requirements of an epoxy film adhesive to be applied in a co-bonding process with the prepreg for solid laminate and sandwich bonding.
AMS CACRC Commercial Aircraft Composite Repair Committee
Giving Magnets the Graphene TreatmentTBMG-550795/1/2026
The electronic and magnetic properties of two-dimensional materials both have strong potential for technological applications. Researchers have long assumed that they are distinct phenomena, but Illinois Grainger engineers have demonstrated that they share a mathematical language.
ANN and RSM-Driven Optimization of Tribological Characteristics of CuO-Doped Castor Oil Bio-Lubricants2026-01-03534/7/2026
The development of renewable and eco-friendly bio-lubricants can address the environmental challenges posed by petroleum-based lubricants. At the same time, it is possible to improve the tribological properties of lubricants through alternative sources. To overcome these problems, castor oil is a potential basis for bio-lubricants due to its high viscosity, natural lubricity, and biodegradability. In the current work, castor oil was chemically modified by the epoxidation process. This process has improved the tribological properties of castor oil through the epoxidation method. In this method, the presence of hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent while sulfuric acid serves as a catalyst, converting the unsaturated double bonds present in the oil into oxirane rings. At the same time, this modification enhanced the thermal stability and tribological applications in harsh operating conditions. The tribological performance of the epoxidized castor oil, further reinforced with copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles, was examined using a four-ball tribometer. In the present test, pressure, temperature, nanoparticle concentration, and rotational speed were considered as process parameters, while the Coefficient of Friction (COF) and Wear Scar Diameter (WSD) were evaluated as the primary responses. To understand the influence of these parameters and their interactions, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models were employed. The RSM model, developed to optimize the COF, showed a high correlation with R2 = 0.999, which was found to be highly consistent with the experimental results. This model provides more than 90% prediction accuracy and also highlights important interactions between various factors. The optimal operating conditions 0.2 wt.% CuO nanoparticles, 1300 rpm, 25 mbar, and 120 °C resulted in a minimum COF of 0.0409 and a WSD of 0.6288 mm. An ANN model trained using the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm, configured with double hidden layers of ten neurons each, and further validated the RSM results. The network achieved prediction errors of less than 1% for both responses. Overall, the study concludes that CuO-enhanced epoxidized castor oil significantly improves friction and wear characteristics, representing a viable and sustainable alternative to mineral-based lubricants. The combined use of RSM and ANN provides a reliable pathway for optimizing future bio-lubricant formulations.
Prabhakaran, J, Pali, Harveer Singh, Singh, Nishant Kumar
Using Waste to Purify WaterTBMG-548714/1/2026
Using waste to purify water may sound counterintuitive. But at TU Wien, this is exactly what has now been achieved: a special nanostructure has been developed to filter a widespread class of harmful dyes from water. A crucial component is a material that is considered waste: used cellulose, for example, in the form of cleaning cloths or paper cups. The cellulose is utilized to coat a fine nanofabric to create an efficient filter for polluted water.
New Method Uses Carbon Nanotubes for Health SensorsTBMG-549374/1/2026
Researchers have produced purified single-wall carbon nanotubes that could enable the development of significantly more accurate healthcare sensors. Because certain biomolecules — such as female hormones — are present in the body at extremely low concentrations, next-generation biosensors must detect minute fluctuations with far greater sensitivity than current glucose monitors.
CONNECTOR ACCESSORIES, ELECTRICAL, TERMINATION, SHIELD SPLIT SUPPORT RING, COMPOSITE, NONENVIRONMENTAL, STRAIGHT, CATEGORY 7AS85049/93C (Current)3/6/2026
AE-8C1 Connectors Committee
Holey Carbon AllotropesTBMG-545622/1/2026
Researchers at NASA have developed new methods to manufacture carbon materials (e.g., nanotubes, graphene) with holes through the graphitic surface of the particles. The methods generate materials with increased accessible surface area, increased functional groups at damage sites, and improved through-surface molecular transport properties.
Printable Nanoparticles Enable Mass Produced BiosensorsTBMG-545232/1/2026
Engineers have developed a technique for inkjet printing arrays of special nanoparticles that enables the mass production of long-lasting wearable sweat sensors. These sensors could be used to monitor a variety of biomarkers, such as vitamins, hormones, metabolites, and medications, in real time, providing patients and their physicians with the ability to continually follow changes in the levels of those molecules.
New Material Significantly Enhances Green Hydrogen Production EfficiencyTBMG-545612/1/2026
Green hydrogen, produced through water electrolysis, is a next-generation eco-friendly energy source as it does not generate pollutants like carbon dioxide during production. Catalysts play a crucial role in the water electrolysis process, splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. The efficiency of green hydrogen production largely depends on the performance of these catalysts. Therefore, the commercialization of green hydrogen hinges on the development of cost-effective catalysts capable of maintaining high performance over extended periods.
Case Study: Nanocomposite-Based 3D Printing and the Implementation of Quality Management to Enhance the Production of Automotive Parts2025-36-020612/18/2025
Additive manufacturing is one of the pillars of technologies of the industry 4.0 and enables rapid prototyping, testing of new materials, and customized manufacturing of parts with personalized design. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a bio-based and biodegradable polymer that is used in packaging, medical applications, and consumer goods. However, it presents low mechanical strength and thermal stability, which limits its use in automotive parts. The use of reinforcement materials such as cellulose nanofibers (CNF) aim to increase the mechanical strength and thermal stability of PLA without reducing its ecological appeal. However, the addition of nanofibers in the 3D printing process can lead to reproducibility problems and constant clogging of the extruder nozzle due to the material’s lower printability. These difficulties may restrict its application to industrial processes due to reduced productivity. To address the challenges in the production of automotive parts with PLA/CNF composites, this paper explored the implementation of a quality management tool to improve the additive manufacturing process using nanocomposite-based filaments. The Ishikawa diagram was used to understand the difficulties observed during production and based on the potential root causes an action plan was developed using 5W2H (five whys and two hows) technique. Through the implementation of the Ishikawa diagram, it was possible to identify critical areas of improvement. Through the 5W2H, specific actions were defined in the whole process, from the nanocomposite and filament manufacturing process to 3D printing parameters. Additionally, standard operating procedures (SOPs) with special routines for the maintenance of the equipment and also for continuously monitoring all the actions that were implemented along the processing stages. For future work, new quality management tools such as checklists and operation flowcharts will be implemented to guarantee better performance of nanocomposites in 3D printing manufacturing processes.
Oliveira, Vinícius, Horiuchi, Lucas Nao, Gonçalves, Ana Paula, Souza, Mariana, Polkowski, Rodrigo
Synergistic Effects of Graphene Oxide and Nanoclay on the Structural and Electrical Properties of Automotive Nanocomposite Insulation2025-36-016112/18/2025
As vehicles become increasingly connected and electrified, the demand for high-performance cables and electrical connectors is growing quickly. Electrical insulation materials play an essential role in protecting and insulating those critical components, ensuring reliability, safety and durability. The development of a more robust composite material is essential to promote sustainability and energy efficiency, in both component application and its manufacturing processes. This research explores the development of advanced nanocomposite material for automotive electrical applications. The nanocomposite material comprises low-density polyethylene (LDPE), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), nanoclay (NC) and graphene oxide (GO), processed via melt mixing in a twin-screw extruder. A design of experiments (DOE) was performed using 23, factorial design two levels and three variables (wt.% of EVA, NC and GO), to evaluate the effect of each variable on the material performance. Mechanical tests, (longitudinal stability, tensile strength and elongation at break), electrical insulation (dielectric strength and electrical resistivity) and flame-retardant properties were evaluated. The synergistic effect of GO and NC improved nanofiller dispersion and polymer-filler interactions, leading to enhanced structural integrity and efficiency for such applications. Experimental results confirm that the developed material offers improved resistance to deformation while maintaining excellent processability, that is critical for automotive wiring protection. An optimization of EVA, GO and NC was performed, and the nanocomposite material ensures enhanced insulation, mechanical strength and environmental resistance.
Horiuchi, Lucas Nao, Kerche, Eduardo Fischer, Gonçalves, Everaldo Carlos, Polkowski, Rodrigo
Nanosilica-Based Treatments for Fabrics: Aspects of Wettability and Selective Oil/Water Separation2025-36-021312/18/2025
Nanosilica-treated fabrics have a variety of properties, such as durability, water resistance, and specific surface characteristics. Due to that, many applications of those components are highlighted in literature. Some examples include waterproofing and water repellency, stain resistance, flame retardancy, improved durability, UV protection, improved comfort, antimicrobial properties, and textile coatings for electronics. These applications demonstrate how nanosilica-based treatments can enhance the performance of fabrics, making them more suitable for various specialized uses. In this work, a technical fabric with a mesh opening of 45 μm and an open area of 29.6% was surface treated. The treatments were performed by the dip-coating method using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) and nanosilica at different concentrations. Optical microscopy (OM) images of the fabrics’ surface and water contact angle (WCA) measurements were carried out before and after the fabrics’ treatments. The results showed a significant increase in the water contact angle of the treated fabrics compared to the untreated ones. After treatment with PDMS (4 wt.%) and silica nanoparticles (0.1 wt.%), the fabrics reached WCA values of approximately 140°, demonstrating the effectiveness of the coating in enhancing hydrophobicity compared to the untreated fabric (WCA of 103°). OM images demonstrated a good uniformity and dispersion of the nanoparticles on the fabrics’ surfaces after the treatments. Untreated fabric was not able to separate water from oil, while all the treated fabrics demonstrated efficient oil/water separation, varying only flux rate, depending on the type of surface treatment. In conclusion, the oil/water separation was effective when surface treatments were applied to the fabrics’ surfaces.
Kerche, Eduardo Fischer, Leal, Débora, Romano, Paulo, Oliveira, Vinícius, Polkowski, Rodrigo
Natural Fiber Composites with Nanomaterials: A Sustainable Alternative to Metals in the Automotive Industry2025-36-004012/18/2025
This paper analyzes the potential of combining natural fibers with nanomaterials to develop advanced composites for automotive sector applications, providing a sustainable alternative to parts traditionally produced with metallic materials. The metallic alloy in the automotive industry is widely used in vehicle manufacturing, but faces significant challenges, such as high production costs, high weight, susceptibility to corrosion, and rigorous recycling processes. Natural fibers stand out for favorable mechanical properties, low cost, low weight, and eco-friendly material, making promising alternatives to metals and synthetic fibers. The combination of natural fibers and nanomaterials creates composites with improved mechanical and thermal, reducing any limitations inherent to natural fibers. Therefore, composites combined, called hybrid, have a high potential for use in various automotive components, such as in structural and non-structural applications. This study also analyzes the performance of these composites with metals used in the automotive industry. Considering aspects such as mechanical properties, thermal properties, corrosion resistance, collision behavior, weight, economic and sustainable impact, and social impact, hybrid composites presented greater advantages for applications than metal alloys. A finite element analysis (FEA) is conducted to assess the viability of composites, evaluating key mechanical parameters under realistic loading conditions. The methodology of the computational simulation quantitatively evaluates the structural behavior of the new hybrid composites that can be used for applications in vehicles and the automotive industry. The environmental impact and economic viability of replacing metals with natural fiber-reinforced composites are also discussed, highlighting the advantages in terms of sustainability and energy efficiency. Finally, the technical challenges and future perspectives for implementing these composite materials are presented, analyzing the optimization and performance to facilitate large-scale production in the automotive sector.
Corrêa, Karytha, Cabral, Gabriel, Santiago, Marcelo, Veloso, Verônica, Chaves, Matheus
Development of Temperature Sensor for Automotive2025-28-039410/30/2025
The work presents a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) temperature sensor that has been designed using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0 software for use in predicting the temperature of automotive parts. Due to its versatility, the shape of this design employs a meander, and this involves joule heating physics. It clearly shows the variation of resistance with temperature. For this design, Nitinol nano material is used because of the following advantages: Enhanced Shape Memory Effect, Superior Super elasticity, Increased Surface Area, Increased Surface Area, Improved Biocompatibility, Tunable Properties, Enhanced Mechanical Properties. Nitinol having high strength to weight ratio find its application in aerospace industry. This sensor works based on the principle of temperature dependence of resistance; that is, the resistance of the material increases or decreases based on temperature. It is observed that Nitinol has low von Mises stress, proving the safety nature of the material in operating conservative stress regime
P, Geetha
Graphene Based Solar Photonic Battery for Aircraft-A Finite Element Based 2D Analysis2025-28-038910/30/2025
Over the past decade, significant progress in nano science and nanotechnology has opened new avenues for the development of high-performance photovoltaic cells. At present, a variety of nanostructure-based designs—comprising metals, polymers, and semiconductors—are being explored for photovoltaic applications. Advancements in the understanding of optical and electrical mechanisms governing photovoltaic conversion have been supported by theoretical analyses and modeling studies. Nevertheless, the high fabrication cost and relatively low efficiency of conventional solar photovoltaic cells remain major barriers to their large-scale deployment. One-dimensional (1D) nano materials, in particular, have introduced promising prospects for enhancing photovoltaic performance owing to their unique structural and electronic characteristics. Nanowires, nano rods, and nanotubes exemplify such 1D nanostructures, offering substantial potential to improve photon absorption, electron transport, and charge collection within photovoltaic devices. Graphene, a two-dimensional (2D) atomically thin lattice of carbon arranged in a hexagonal configuration, has emerged as a material of exceptional scientific interest. Its superior mechanical properties are attributed to the sp2-hybridized covalent bonds formed by three of the four valence electrons of each carbon atom with neighboring atoms. The remaining delocalized electron contributes to the remarkable optoelectronic properties of graphene, including its exceptionally high carrier mobility, which surpasses that of many conventional conductive materials. Furthermore, graphene thin films can be fabricated through a range of solution-based processing techniques, such as spin-coating, thereby enabling cost-effective, scalable, and versatile production. In the present study, a graphene-based two-dimensional solar cell is modeled and analyzed using the finite element method (FEM) to investigate its photovoltaic behavior and performance characteristics. It is found that the cell potential is 3.85V, VoC is 4.05V, Load cycle current is 4.25V with the surface temperature as 319K. The battery gets saturated at 1500s with graphene. Meanwhile, lithium battery produces cell potential as 3.05V, VoC is 3.05V, Load cycle current is 3.25V. Thus, grapene shows an improvement of 8% in cell potential, 25% in load current value. Lithium battery used for cell phones has the Qn=3500mAh capacity. In graphene, it is 3958mAh with an improvement of 13%.
P, Geetha, Sudarmani, R, c, Venkataramanan, Satyam, Satyam, Nagarajan, Sudarson
Nanoparticles-Based Wearable BiosensorsTBMG-5392210/1/2025
A team of Caltech engineers has developed a technique for inkjet printing arrays of special nanoparticles that enables the mass production of long-lasting wearable sweat sensors. These sensors could be used to monitor a variety of biomarkers, such as vitamins, hormones, metabolites, and medications, in real time, providing patients and their physicians with the ability to continually follow changes in the levels of those molecules.
Automotive Engineering: August 202525AUTP088/7/2025
Moving targets: How improvements to SiC, GaN power electronics will redefine EVs Smaller devices that can do the same or more efficient work than silicon can to markedly smaller EV powertrain components. Toyota's multi-pathway future on full display The automaker's showcase HQC event highlights engineering efforts to bring PHEV, EV, H2 powertrains to more people. 48V is coming, and not just for EVs While electric powertrains are driving 48V adoption, OEMs are realizing that xEV and ICE vehicles can benefit from a shift away from 12-volt architectures. Editorial Governmental nonsense Supplier Eye Delay and extend and rescope Industry vet: Rapid change required to catch up to Chinese EV makers ZF meets changing EV market with suite of improved components Factory robots see slight drop in growth, but still have momentum SAE J3400/2 update brings quicker NACS charging Audio updates you can't even hear 2026 Toyota bZ: improved, but still not a wheeeeeEV New styling, performance in a better Nissan Leaf Q&A Lyten: 3D Graphene ready to disrupt racing, automotive and space
Q&A25AUTP08_138/1/2025
Lyten is best-known as the developer of next-gen lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery technology. SAE Media spoke with Keith Norman, Lyten's chief sustainability officer, on how 3D Graphene is getting Lyten to branch out into motorsports.
Blanco, Sebastian
Modern Low Friction Coating Technology for Automotive Tribology2025-01-02476/16/2025
The aim of this work is to present the overviewing results of the low friction coating technology for modern automotive application with the themes, e.g. electric vehicle (EV), R&D trends and bioethanol fuel application. According to Forbes, China, armed with EV, could have several companies among the top 10 global brands by sales in 2030. EV’s friction is more severe than traditional powertrain friction. For the protection of EV’s wear and friction, the coatings, diamond like carbon (DLC) and CrCuN, are compared in the literature. Global coating companies developed with the keywords: hybrid process, low-temperature coating process for polymer material. Last coating conferences showed R&D trends: coating for polymer materials, tetrahedral amorphous carbon (taC) coating, low-temperature coating process and multi-elements containing coatings. In Korea, research institutions, universities and Hyundai Motor Group have a long-term project for the development of ultralow friction coatings of moving parts incl. EV application. From current friction coefficient of 0.05, candidates of the friction coefficient 0.03 are, e.g. metal-doped carbon based materials. The final target is a friction coefficient of 0.01; recent results are discussed. The object of this work is firstly to overview the R&D status and the new taC coating for fuel injector ball is to investigate for the protection of bioethanol induced corrosion and wear. Furthermore the results of on developing future coatings, nanocomposite coatings, are presented.
Cha, Sung Chul, Moon, Kyoung Il, Kim, Jongkuk, Park, Chang Ho, Kim, Dong Sik
Ultra-Sensitive Sensor with Gold Nanoparticle ArrayTBMG-532236/1/2025
Researchers have developed a new type of sensor platform using a gold nanoparticle array. The sensor is made up of a series of gold disk-shaped nanoparticles on a glass slide. When an infrared laser is pointed at a precise arrangement of the particles, they start to emit unusual amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light.
Fast-Charging, Long-Running, Bendable SupercapacitorTBMG-532256/1/2025
A new bendable supercapacitor made from graphene has been developed that charges quickly and safely stores a record-high level of energy for use over a long period. The technology overcomes the issue faced by high-powered, fast-charging supercapacitors: they usually cannot hold a large amount of energy in a small space.
Experimental Investigation of Carbon Nanotube Additives Effect on Performance and Emission of a High-Injection Pressure Common Rail Diesel Engine03-18-03-00205/16/2025
Due to the continuous decrease in fossil fuel resources, and drawbacks of some biofuel properties, in addition to restricted environmental concerns, it becomes a vital manner to innovate some approaches for energy saving and emission reduction. One of the promising approaches is to enhance the fuel properties via adding nanoparticles. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) blended with biofuels get extensive investigations by researchers using conventional diesel engines at relatively limited operating regimes. The objective of this work is to extend these studies using diesel fuel, rather than biofuels, on a high-injection pressure (1400–1600 bar) common rail diesel engine at wide operating conditions and higher CNT concentrations. Experimental results show an increase in peak pressure up to 24.46% than pure diesel when using 100 ppm CNTs concentration. Also, BSFC has decreased by 33.19%, and BTE increased by 54.2% compared to pure diesel fuel at high speeds and loads. NOx and CO2 emissions raised by 24.3% and 23.3%, respectively, while CO emission decreased by 23.68%. These results could be a motivation for extra investigations for CNTs using smaller sizes, lower than 10 Nm, at wider engine regimes and particle concentrations.
Moaayet, Sayed, Neseem, Waleed Mohamed, Amin, Mohamed Ibrahim, Shahin, Motasem Abdelbaky
Advanced Manufacturing and Materials: Vol. 1EPRCOMPV0220244/30/2025
Lee-Jeffs, Ann, Safi, Joanna, Muelaner, Jody Emlyn, Barkan, Terrance
Test Method for Catalytic Carbon Brake Disk OxidationAIR5567A (Current)4/14/2025
The scope of the test method is to provide stakeholders including fluid manufacturers, airport operators, brake manufacturers, aircraft constructors, aircraft operators and airworthiness authorities with a relative assessment of the effect of deicing chemicals on carbon oxidation. This simple test is only designed to assess the relative effects of runway deicing chemicals by measuring mass change of contaminated and bare carbon samples tested under the same conditions. It is not possible to set a general acceptance threshold oxidation limit based on this test method because carbon brake stack oxidation is a function of heat sink design and the operating environment.
A-5A Wheels, Brakes and Skid Controls Committee
3D Design and Analyses of an IC Engine Piston under Fatigue Test Conditions Using CNTs for the Next-Generation of Motorcycles2025-01-83594/1/2025
CNTs play an important role in modern engineering projects, especially in engine pistons design for the next-generation of motorcycles. This work presents a comprehensive analyses proposed project using finite element method under actual operating conditions purpose performance evaluation of a motorcycle engine piston design, investigating the suitability of four distinct materials. Precise material properties adhering to linear elastic isotropic behavior were defined within the software environment and proposed advanced nanomaterial ensuring accurate representations of the proposed under the prescribed loading scenarios. The primary objective was to identify the optimal material choice for the piston, ensuring superior strength, minimal deformation, and lightweight characteristics essential for high-performance engine applications. Moreover interpreting and understanding the dynamic behavior of common and advanced engineering materials. Through a comprehensive evaluation of the simulation results, incorporating factors such as material strength, surface deformation characteristics, and lightweight considerations, the Aluminum alloy reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes (Al-CNTs) emerged as the most favorable choice for the motorcycle engine piston design. This advanced composite material offers an exceptional combination of high strength, minimal deformation, and reduced weight, making it an ideal candidate for high-performance engine components subjected to substantial mechanical stresses and thermal loads. The study provides valuable insights into material selection strategies and design optimization techniques for critical automotive and aerospace components, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and adherence to stringent performance standards. Furthermore, the deformation patterns were analyzed, with maximum displacements of 0.01057 mm for AISI 1020 steel, 0.01006 mm for Alloy Steel, 0.01810 mm for Al-CNTs, and 0.02836 mm for 2618-T61 aluminum alloy. Al-CNTs composite demonstrated one of the two lowest surface deformations with significant improvement in high compression tolerance of 265.9 MPa achieved a safety factor of 2.25 with significant reduction in piston weight, further enhancing its suitability for the high-performance piston application. Eventually, the study result and analysis provides valuable insights into material selection strategies and design optimization techniques for critical motorcycle, automotive and aerospace components, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and adherence to stringent performance standards. In conclusion, this research presents an unprecedented innovative step in the use of carbon nanotubes in the design of engine pistons for next generation motorcycles.
Ali, Salah H. R., Ahmed, Youssef G. A., Ali, Amr S.H.R.
A Systematic Review about Heat Shrink Sleeves Using Nanomaterials for the Automotive Industry2025-01-83294/1/2025
Heat shrink polymer is a type of material used in many industries’ segments due to their ability to contract and fit snugly around objects when heat is applied. These products are commonly commercialized in tube format (e.g.: sleeves), made from polyolefin or fluoropolymers, which have the property of shrinking when heated. Nanomaterials present many applications, and their usage is a remarkable tool aiming to improve many properties of materials. Then, many improvements including increase of performance and price reduction may be achieved due to its unique properties when nanomaterials are used into heat shrink polymer sleeves. This work presents a systematic review about the state of the art on heat-shrinkable materials for the automotive industry. As a methodology, articles from the last 10 years on the subject were selected. The keywords “heat shrink” AND “nanomaterial” AND “tubes OR sleeves” were used in three different databases, being “Scopus”, “Web of Science” and “MDPI”. After using the keywords, articles only in English were selected, excluding conference and review articles. As a result, 513 articles were obtained. Those that use polyethylene as a matrix for the heat shrink were selected, being the main scope. As a result, 53 articles were obtained, using exclusion and inclusion criteria. The main nanomaterial used in the studies was montmorillonite with 27 articles, followed by other nanosilicates, such as nanoquartz among others. Graphene and its derivatives also appeared in the research, with 6 articles. Finally, new trends were found for the use of nanofillers and other matrices can also be explored in the future, such as polypropylene.
Kerche, Eduardo F., Polkowski, Rodrigo, Horiuchi, Lucas, Goncalves, Everaldo
Physicists Measure a Key Aspect of Superconductivity in ‘Magic-Angle’ GrapheneTBMG-528744/1/2025
Mechanical Analysis of a Non-Pneumatic Tire’s Spokes2025-01-83274/1/2025
Mechanical analysis was performed of a non-pneumatic tire, specifically a Michelin Tweel size 18x8.5N10, that can be used up to a speed of 40 km/h. A Parylene-C coating was added to the rubber spoke specimens before performing both microscopic imaging and cyclic tensile testing. Initially, standard ASTM D412 specimens type C and A were cut from the wheel spokes, and then the specimens were subjected to deposition of a nanomaterial. The surfaces of the specimens were prepared in different ways to examine the influence on the material behavior including the stiffness and hysteresis. Microscopic imaging was performed to qualitatively compare the surfaces of the coated and uncoated specimens. Both coated and uncoated spoke specimens of each standard type were then subjected to low-rate cyclic tensile tests up to 500% strain. The results showed that the Parylene-C coating did not affect the maximum stress in the specimens, but did increase the residual strain. Type C specimens also had a higher maximum stress on average than the Type A specimens. These mechanical tests provide useful data to determine material properties, such as Ogden material parameters, for future simulation of both the hyperelastic and hysteresis behavior of the rubber spokes.
Collings, William, Li, Chengzhi, Schwarz, Jackson, Lakhtakia, Akhlesh, Bakis, Charles, El-Sayegh, Zeinab, El-Gindy, Moustafa
Nanocomposites Made with Poly(Lactic Acid)/Cellulose Nanofibers for Automotive Applications: The Impact of Annealing on 3D Printed Parts2025-01-83284/1/2025
The advance of regulatory emission standards for light-duty vehicles, trucks and motorcycles, coupled with rising sustainability concerns, particularly United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 12 (responsible consumption and production), has created an urgent need for lighter, stronger, and more ecological materials. Polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable polymer derived from plant sources, offers promising mechanical tensile strength and processability. Nanocomposites, a solution that combines a base matrix with a nanoreinforcing filler, provides a path toward developing sustainable materials with new properties. Cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) are a valuable nanofiller obtained through industrial waste or vegetal fibers, offer a promising avenue for strengthening PLA-based materials. Additive manufacturing (AM) has gained popularity due to its ability to create complex parts, prototyping designs, and to evaluate new nanocomposite materials such as PLA/CNF, showing significant potential for the automotive sector. However, the AM process may result in lower mechanical strength and anisotropy, which can hinder the application and reliability of printed automotive parts. To alleviate this problem, chemical treatments can soften layers, while annealing can reduce voids and relieve internal stress. This article aims to study the impact of the annealing process on a PLA/CNF nanocomposite. Two combinations of temperature-time were evaluated: 75 °C for 1 and 2 h, and 90 °C for 1 and 2 h. Tensile tests of 3D-printed specimens were conducted according to ASTM D638 type V and differential scanning calorimetry analyses. The results revealed that the nanocomposite exhibited an increase in thermal properties and crystallinity, but lower mechanical strength when compared to the pure PLA, mainly attributed to printing defects that may have acted as stress concentrators. It is expected that this research will help to expand the use of additive manufacturing technologies applied to the automotive industry and development of new PLA nanocomposites with CNF.
de Oliveira, Vinícius, Horiuchi, Lucas Nao, Goncalves, Ana Paula, De Andrade, Marina, Polkowski, Rodrigo
Spray Characterization in a Constant Volume Chamber of Aluminum Oxide Nanoparticles-Diesel Blends2025-01-84554/1/2025
Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles are considered a promising fuel additive to enhance combustion efficiency, reduce emissions, and improve fuel economy. This study investigates the spray characteristics of diesel fuel blended with aluminum oxide nanoparticles in a constant volume chamber. The blends were prepared by dispersing Al₂O₃ nanoparticles in diesel at varying concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mg of aluminum oxide nanoparticles into 1 L of pure diesel, respectively) using a magnetic stirrer and ultrasonication to ensure stable suspensions. Spray characterization was conducted in a high-pressure and high-temperature constant volume chamber, simulating actual engine conditions. The ambient temperatures for this experiment were set from 800 to 1200 K, and the oxygen concentrations were set from 21% to 13%. The study focused on key spray parameters such as spray penetration length, spray angle, and spray area, analyzed using high-speed imaging and laser diffraction techniques. Images of the spray evolution process for tested blends were also captured to reveal the effects of nanoparticles on spray characteristics. Results showed that the addition of Al₂O₃ nanoparticles altered the spray behavior, with changes in spray penetration length compared to pure diesel. Furthermore, the effects of varying nanoparticle concentrations on the spray characteristics were evaluated, revealing an optimal concentration that balances improved atomization without significantly increasing fuel viscosity. This research highlights the potential of Al₂O₃ nanoparticle-diesel blends as a promising alternative fuel for diesel engines, offering insights into their spray dynamics under controlled conditions. The findings provide a foundational understanding for further exploration of nanoparticle additives in fuel blends, aiming at optimizing engine performance and emissions.
Ji, Huangchang, Zhao, Zhiyu, Lee, Timothy
Stir Casting Synthesis and Evaluation of SiC Nanoparticle-Reinforced AZ31 Magnesium Alloy Nanocomposites2025-01-50133/10/2025
In an attempt to improve its mechanical characteristics in the as-fasted conditions, the AZ31 Mg alloy was investigated herein from being reinforced with diverse SiC weight percentages (3, 6, and 9 wt.%). To develop lightweight AZ31-SiC composites, a simple and inexpensive technique, the stir casting process, was used. Microstructural analysis of the as-cast samples showed that the SiC particles were distributed rather uniformly, were firmly bonded to the matrix, and had very little porosity. The substantial improvement in tensile, compressive, and hardness characteristics was caused by fragmentation and spreading of the Mg17Al12 phase, while the addition of SiC had only a slight effect on the microstructure in the as-cast state. Surfaces of AZ31-SiC composites were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. A study identified the AZ31-SiC composite as a unique material for applications involving a high compressive strength, such as those found in the aviation and automobile engineering fields.
Thillikkani, S., Kumar, N. Mathan, Francis Luther King, M., Soundararajan, R., Kannan, S.
Synthesis and Characterization of Poly (Aniline –Co-Chloroaniline) Polymers and Applications in Automotive Industries as Paint Coatings2025-28-00372/7/2025
Polyaniline (PANI)-polymer based smart paints have emerged as a promising solution for enhancing the durability and performance of automobile surface coatings. These paint coatings offer a superior corrosion resistance, conductivity, and environmental stability, making it an ideal. Here novel copolymers of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid(DBSA) aided poly (aniline-co-m-chloroaniline) nanocomposites of various compositions were prepared by oxidative method in micellar solution. These nanocomposites were analyzed by using UV-Vis and FT-IR spectroscopic methods. The crystalline nature of the polymer was evidenced through XRD patterns. SEM revealed the presence of particles with spherical morphology 100 nm in diameter. The electrical activity of the doped polymer was found to be content increasing from 3:1 to 3:3 x 10-2 S/cm to 5.64 x 10-7 S/cm with chloroaniline. These copolymers are added as additives in manufacturing of paint. These novel paints offer multiple protective mechanisms, including barrier protection, passivation, inhibition of cathodic and anodic reactions, and electrochemical stabilization. These mechanisms work synergistically to prevent the penetration of corrosive agents and redistribute electrochemical activity across the metal surface, thereby reducing the rate of corrosion. In addition to corrosion resistance, these paints also provide anti-static properties contributing to the overall functionality and longevity of automotive components.
Pachanoor, Vijayanand, Moorthi, Bharathiraja
Development of Composite PCM To Enhance Heat Transfer Rate with the Addition of Nanoparticles in Thermal Energy Storage2025-28-00232/7/2025
This paper explores the augmentation of thermal conductivity in paraffin wax through the incorporation of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles, leading to the development of composite phase change materials (PCMs). The objective is to enhance heat transfer rates, crucial for various energy storage applications including industrial waste heat recovery and solar thermal energy storage. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) testing was employed to experimentally investigate the thermal properties of the resulting nanocomposite PCM. The experimental results reveal that the nanocomposite PCM, composed of 96.14% paraffin wax, 2% aluminum oxide, and 1.6% copper oxide, exhibits 1.35 times increase in heat transfer rate compared to conventional paraffin wax. The integration of nanoparticles into the PCM matrix, facilitated by a magnetic stirrer at 50oC for 4 hours, results in uniform distribution and improved grain morphology, as evidenced by SEM images. Moreover, the composite PCM demonstrates superior performance, surpassing paraffin wax by 1.35 times durin g heating and 1.5 times during cooling, while maintaining similar peak temperatures. The normalized enthalpy of the composite PCM exceeds that of paraffin wax by 1.25 times, highlighting enhanced energy storage capacity. The significant enhancements in thermal conductivity and phase change behavior are attributed to the presence of aluminum oxide and copper oxide nanoparticles. Notably, an optimized composition comprising 96.15% paraffin wax, 2.15% aluminum oxide, and 1.7% copper oxide Considered by mass demonstrates a delicate balance between improved thermal properties and material stability. This study underscores the immense promise of nanoparticles – enhanced composite PCMs as a transformative solution for enhancing thermal energy storage efficiency, with implications for sustainable energy technologies. The results shows that the thermal conductivity improved by 48% and the enthalpy increased by 25%.
Tarigonda, Hariprasad, Kumar, YB Kishore, Kala, Lakshmi K, R L, Krupakaran
Optimization of Machining Parameters Based on Desirability Function Analysis for Stir Casted Aluminium Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites2025-28-01192/7/2025
These days, aluminum and other material composites are indispensable for a wide range of engineering applications, including automotive-related ones. The machinability investigations of hybrid metal matrix composites (HMMC) made of Al 6061 are reported in this paper. Graphene nanoparticles (GNp) and boron carbide were used to reinforce Al6061 alloy for the experiment. Stir casting was used to create the hybrid composite under the right circumstances. Since HMMC is not easy to machine using conventional machining procedures, the advanced method of electrical discharge machining (EDM) was used. EDM machinability studies were carried out on stir-casted Al-B4C-GNP composite materials to examine the effects of wire EDM machining variables, including current, pulse on, and pulse off, on surface roughness and material removal rate. Taguchi based Desirability function Analysis was used to optimize the EDM process parameters for maximization of the material removal rate (MRR) and minimization of the surface roughness responses. The desirability function analysis yielded the composite desirability value, which was used to estimate the ideal machining parameters. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was also used to determine the components that contributed significantly.
Kala, Lakshmi K, Madhuri, K, Reddy, Damodara, Tarigonda, Hariprasad, R L, Krupakaran, Tharehallimata, Gurubasavaraju, Naidu, B Vishnu Vardhana
Optimization of Vibrational Characteristics Using Taguchi Method for CNT Reinforced Composite Plates2025-28-01742/7/2025
The integration of carbon nanotubes (CNT) into composite materials has revolutionized various high-performance industries, including aerospace, marine, and defense, for their exceptional thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties. The critical nature of these applications demands precise control over the manufacturing process to ensure the optimal performance of the CNT-reinforced composites. This study employs the Taguchi approach to systematically investigate and determine the optimal proportion of CNT volume fraction, fiber volume fraction, and stacking sequence in composite materials to achieve the optimal fundamental frequency. The Taguchi method, known for its efficiency in optimizing design parameters with a minimal number of experiments, enables the identification of the most influential factors and their optimal levels for enhancing material properties. Our findings demonstrate that the proper arrangement and proportioning of these components significantly improve the composite's strength, durability, and overall performance. The optimized parameters derived from this study provide a robust framework for manufacturing superior CNT-reinforced composites, advancing their application in critical sectors where performance and reliability are paramount. To ascertain the material properties of the required combination of glass fiber and CNT, Ansys Material Designer was used. A unidirectional fiber in a hexagonal lattice was considered for the material, where the matrix consisted of CNT reinforcement and epoxy resin. To conduct the vibrational analysis of the study, Ansys software was used to model the rectangular composite plate and find the frequencies of the first 6 modes of each variation of factors. The rectangular plate was modeled in Ansys ACP and the frequency analysis was conducted on Ansys Modal. The plate was subjected to clamped boundary conditions and different volume fractions of glass fiber, CNT reinforcement and stacking sequence for the analysis. The results of this study show that out of the three factors considered, the fiber volume fraction is the most influential and the stacking sequence is the next most influential. This gives us an idea on the considerations needed while manufacturing composite plates and most importantly, the applications which they can and cannot be used for due to their fundamental frequency.
B, Srivatsan, Balakrishna Sriganth, Pranav, Bhaskara Rao, Lokavarapu, Biswas, Sayan
Enhancing Solar Still Productivity with Aluminium Oxide Nanoparticles and Phase Change Materials2025-28-00262/7/2025
The present study is focused on the integration of phase change materials (PCMs) and Al2O3 nanoparticles into solar stills presents a promising approach to enhance their efficiency. This paper explores the design and performance analysis of a solar still system incorporating PCMs and Al2O3 nanoparticles with different concentration like 200ppm and 400ppm. The primary goal is to investigate the impact of these enhancements on the solar still’s productivity and thermal efficiency.The Aluminium Oxide Nanoparticle were synthesized by chemical co-precipitation method. XRD and TEM were used to characterize the aluminum oxide particles. In this study, Aluminum oxide nanoparticles were employed as thermal conductivity materials, while TN+30 were utilized as a phase change material. After taking about 25 (liters) of water, it was discovered that 1 cm was the ideal depth. Compared to PCM, the energy materials TN+30 and Al2O3 increased collection efficiency with 200 ppm and 400 ppm of 21.65% and 32.97%, respectively.
R L, Krupakaran, Sagaya Raj, Gnana, Petla, Ratna Kamala, Kala, Lakshmi K, Anchupogu, Praveen
Investigation on Heat Transfer Properties of Graphene Nanoplatelets Blended Distilled Water-Ethylene Glycol Mixtures in Battery Thermal Management System2025-28-00892/7/2025
This study investigates the heat transfer properties of graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) blended with distilled water-ethylene glycol (DW-EG) mixtures, focusing on their potential application in battery thermal management systems (BTMS). Compared to other nanoparticles, carbon nanostructures exhibit higher thermal conductivity due to their low density and integrated thermal conductivity. The experimental findings are relevant in that compared with the base fluid, nanofluid samples had heat transfer capability. The physicochemical characteristics of investigated GNP were characterized using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), pH and UV–Vis spectrophotometry. The thermal conductivity and physical properties of graphene platelets having the specific surface area of 500 m2/g in the base fluid of Distilled Water-Ethylene Glycol (DW-EG 70:30) and 100 % vol. of Ethylene Glycol (EG 100) were determined after 120 minutes of sonication time. The graphene nanofluids with the platelet concentrations of 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, and 0.1 wt% were investigated for the dispersion properties. The stability of nanofluid was examined using a zeta potential and UV-visible spectrophotometer. According to the thermal conductivity facts, dispersed nanoparticles always improve the heat conductivity of the DW-EG 70:30s base fluid, with the greatest improvement occurring at a concentration of 0.1 weight per cent GNPs. The study suggests that the GnP-infused nanofluids exhibit excellent heat transfer performance, making them promising candidates for enhancing the efficiency of BTMS in electric vehicles, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for thermal management.
S, Palanisamy, Selvan, Arul Mozhi
Effect of Single Vacancy Defect on Fundamental Frequency of Single Walled Carbon Nanotube2025-28-01112/7/2025
This paper studies the effect of single vacancy defect on the fundamental frequency of carbon nanotube using finite element method. Cantilevered and bridged boundary conditions have been used for carbon nanotube with and without attached mass. There is less effect on the frequency of cantilevered structure due to presence of defect at center rather than its presence at other positions. Presence of defect near to fixed end shows more effect on fundamental frequency of bridged structure as opposed to other positions. Cantilevered structure with mass attached shows increase in effect due to presence of defect when mass ranges from 10-3 to 10-6 femtogram, while it seems to remain constant with further decrease in mass. This paper is mainly concerned about the overall effect of single vacancy defect at the different positions and with different parameters of carbon nanotube with and without attached mass on the frequency and frequency shift. Nano materials are playing a vital role in all the sectors. Particularly nano materials are used in automotive industries in a wide range such as as reinforcement materials in vehicle Production, fuel component system to increase the fuel efficiency etc. Use of SWCNTs and DWCNTs in tires allows significant improvement in their stiffness, tear resistance, fuel efficiency and grip, printable, thermoform able, capacitive touch sensors for replacing membrane switches in automotive interiors (as well as in white goods and medical equipment and devices).
Kharche, Gaurav, Bhaskara Rao, Lokavarapu, B, Srivatsan, Balakrishna Sriganth, Pranav, Biswas, Sayan
Preparation and Evaluation of Lubricating Properties of Neem Seed Oil under the Influence of an Anti-Wear Additive as Sustainable Alternative to Commercial Engine Oil2025-28-01162/7/2025
The search for environmentally friendly and sustainable lubricants for automotive and industrial applications has led to extensive research on bio lubricants as a viable alternative to conventional engine oils and mineral oils. The biodegradable and ecofriendly nature of vegetable oil, makes it an excellent replacement for the depleting mineral oils. Still, a good number of modifications must be brought in, to overcome the drawbacks of vegetable oils. In this work, the preparation and evaluation of lubricating properties like tribological, rheological, thermal etc. of Neem seed oil (NSO) with and without additives were carried out and effectively compared with the lubricating properties of synthetic oil, Polyalphaolefin 6 (PAO 6) and with a commercial engine oil, SAE20W40. The copper oxide nanoparticles were dispersed in neem seed oil as additive in various proportions (0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 wt.%) to enhance the tribological properties. The tribological analysis were carried out to evaluate the friction and wear performance of neem seed oil using the four-ball tester. The neem seed oil with 0.2wt% copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles has attained an improvement of 13.8% in its friction coefficient and a reduction in wear scar diameter of base oil by 20% and seemed to be better than synthetic oil and comparable to SAE20W40. The viscosity was evaluated using redwood viscometer and seemed better than synthetic oil. The properties like flash point, fire point and pour point were also investigated in this study. These results showed that the addition of copper oxide nanoparticles significantly improved the lubricating properties of neem seed oil and the formulated lubricant is comparable to the properties of SAE20W40 and can be considered as an alternative in automotive applications with proper modifications.
Menon, Krishnaprasad S, R, Ambigai
Viscosity and Thermal Conductivity Characterization of Magnesium Oxide Nanofluids for Improved Automobile Thermal Management2024-01-52541/28/2025
Magnesium oxide (MgO) nanofluids are of great interest for enhancing the performance in thermal management especially in automotive applications, where efforts have been made to reduce parasitic losses from traditional cooling systems. These findings highlight the effects of Water–ethylene glycol and MgO nanofluids on viscosity and thermal conductivity in specific filling a gap in research that allows to clarify how these states behave at different temperature (T) and concentration (C) conditions. Test results demonstrate that the thermal conductivity of MgO nanofluids improved adequately /while its corresponding change in viscosity remained under control, affirming a significant improvement for energy savings by means heat transfer enhancement using new generation coolants based on this nano-additive. The results also provide useful information for design and development of automotive cooling systems, including real numbers on performance improvements that lead to more efficient and reliable thermal management designs.
Jeyanthi, P.
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