Nanocomposite Material Development

Nature builds strong materials through simple components and smart organization. In this work, we translated bamboo’s composite strategy into a synthetic hydrogel by designing a composite system with both strong interfaces and organized structure. Instead of extracting natural fibbers, we assembled chitosan–sodium alginate nanofibers (CSNF) from the ground up for better compatibility with the PVA matrix. To bind the components together, we introduced tannic acid (TA), a multifunctional interfacial molecule that mimics lignin’s role in bamboo. This combination allowed us to engineer not just the ingredients, but also how they interact. TA is the key element functioning at three levels. It strengthens the interface between CSNF and PVA, reinforces the PVA matrix through stronger hydrogen bonding, and reduces crystallinity to improve stress transfer. Building on this molecular design, we further aligned the nanofibers and introduced a layered matrix structure that mimics bamboo’s architecture. The result is a hydrogel composite with high tensile strength (up to 60.2 MPa), excellent stretchability (470% strain), and strong resistance to impact. This work demonstrates how molecular-level tuning and structural organization, inspired by nature, can work together to enhance mechanical performance in soft composites. Published in Nature Communications: https://lnkd.in/gVgyF554

Scientists have developed a new class of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, known as MXenes, by incorporating up to nine different metals into a single atomic layer. These ultrathin materials, just a few atoms thick, exhibit enhanced stability and performance under extreme conditions such as high temperatures and radiation. The research team, led by experts at Purdue University, utilized a process that combines entropy and enthalpy to design these high-entropy MXenes. By carefully selecting and arranging various metal atoms, they created nearly 40 distinct layered materials, each with unique properties tailored for specific applications. This approach allows for the fine-tuning of material characteristics at the atomic level. These advanced MXenes are particularly promising for use in environments where traditional materials fail. Potential applications include aerospace technologies, clean energy systems, and deep-sea exploration, where materials must withstand harsh conditions without degrading. The ability to design materials with such precision opens new avenues for innovation in various technological fields. This breakthrough represents a significant step forward in materials science, demonstrating how the strategic combination of metals at the nanoscale can lead to the development of materials with exceptional capabilities. Research Paper 📄 DOI:10.1126/science.adv4415

Interested in #4DPrinting of #ShapeMemoryPolymers (#SMP)? Our recent study introduces #PMMA/ #TPU/ #Fe3O4 #nanocomposites, a novel blend for shape memory and remote #magnetic actuation. The combination of PMMA's rigidity and TPU's flexibility creates a composite with superior toughness and #shaperecovery, addressing the brittleness of traditional SMPs. The nanocomposites show an impressive 10-15% improvement in mechanical strength. With the addition of 20 wt% Fe3O4 nanoparticles, the materials demonstrate full shape recovery within 1.5 minutes in a magnetic field. This blend also enhances flexibility, while maintaining a perfect shape fixity ratio. These composites are ideal for #softrobotics, #biomedical devices, and smart #sensors and #actuators, enabling remote control and durability. More details can be found in the open access paper: https://lnkd.in/eCQmFaCc Research Team: Afshin Ahangari, Hossein Doostmohammadi, Majid Baniassadi, Mostafa Baghani, Mahdi Bodaghi

We are excited to announce the publication of our latest work on "Boron Nitride Nanotubes Induced Strengthening in Aluminum 7075 Composite" in Advanced Composites and Hybrid Materials journal Al7075 has long been a benchmark for lightweight, high-strength structural metals. In this study, we’ve taken Al7075 to the next level by reinforcing it with boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), achieving an exceptional ~637 MPa ultimate strength 2.9x stronger than cast Al7075 alloy while maintaining excellent ductility with >10% elongation to necking. To overcome the challenge of dispersing BNNTs effectively in Al7075 powder, we developed an innovative multi-step process, including ultrasonication and milling at cryogenic temperatures. The composite powder can also be cold sprayed to form high-strength Al7075-BNNT coatings. SPS of Al7075-BNNT powder enabled the creation of a homogeneously reinforced composite with ultra-fine grains and robust interfacial bonding. The work delves deep into the synergistic strengthening mechanisms, including Hall-Petch, Orowan, dislocation-induced strengthening, and load transfer effects, revealing how BNNT dispersion can improve strength without sacrificing ductility. These findings open exciting opportunities for applications in aerospace, next-generation vehicles, and racing/automotive industries, where ultra-lightweight, ultra-strong materials are essential for performance and fuel efficiency. Thanks to my Postdoc Sohail M.A.K. Mohammed for leading this effort with incredible co-authors Ambreen Nisar, PhD, Denny John, ABHIJITH K S,Yifei Fu,Tanaji Paul, Alexander Franco Hernandez, and Sudipta Seal Enjoy reading the article: https://lnkd.in/eu8eHGsM Cold Spray and Rapid Deposition (ColRAD), Cam C., BNNT (Boron Nitride Nanotubes) #MaterialsScience #BNNT #Aluminum #AerospaceEngineering #Innovation #SPS #Research #LockheedMartin #BlueOrigin

Scientists have developed a cutting‑edge bioplastic made from bacterial cellulose combined with nanosheets of hexagonal boron nitride. What sets this material apart is that, during production, the bacteria are grown in a rotating bioreactor that aligns their cellulose fibers in a single direction. That alignment boosts the material’s mechanical strength to levels comparable to low‑carbon steel—tensile strength reaching about 436 megapascals. Adding the boron nitride sheets further improved the strength up to 553 megapascals and enhanced heat dissipation by about three times compared to standard bacterial cellulose. Because the base material is bacterial cellulose, it is biodegradable, derived from renewable sources, and offers a potentially environmentally much better alternative to petroleum‑based plastics. The method also allows embedding various additives directly during growth, making the material highly customizable for applications such as packaging, electronics, thermal management, and structural components. Researchers envision these strong, multifunctional, eco‑friendly sheets replacing conventional plastics across many industries and helping reduce environmental damage. Research Paper 📄 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60242-1

Improving the performance of anode materials remains a crucial challenge In the fast-paced world of lithium-ion battery development. The hunt for higher capacity & better stability has led researchers to explore various silicon-based materials. Among these, silicon monoxide (SiO) has emerged as a promising candidate due to its favorable properties, such as relatively high theoretical capacity & stable cyclic performance. However, SiO faces significant hurdles, including low initial coulombic efficiency & poor electrical conductivity, which impede its commercial application. Recognizing these challenges, a research team, Yu J et al, has developed a novel hybrid structure to enhance the electrochemical performance of SiO anode materials. This approach involves combining active SiO particles with carbon nanofibers (CNFs) through an electrospinning process, creating a SiO/CNF composite that addresses the key limitations of SiO. The hybrid structure capitalizes on the conductive properties of CNFs, which form a robust skeleton that supports and uniformly embeds SiO nanoparticles. This configuration ensures a more efficient use of the active material while preventing the lumping of SiO particles. The results were impressive: the SiO/CNF composite, with a 20% mass ratio of SiO, achieves a remarkable retention rate of 73.9% after 400 cycles at a current density of 100 mA/g. Furthermore, the discharge capacity after stabilization and 100 cycles is significantly higher than that of pure SiO, at 1.47 and 1.84 times, respectively. The electrospinning technique used by them was not only effective but also environmentally friendly & cost-efficient. The process results in SiO/PAN nanofibers that, after carbonization, transform into the highly conductive SiO/CNF composite. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) & electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) further reveal the superior charge-transfer kinetics & reduced impedance of the SiO/CNF anode compared to pure SiO. The SiO/CNF composite maintains a high initial coulombic efficiency of 50.9% & exhibits excellent rate capability, with only a slight capacity loss at higher current densities. The kinetic analysis indicates a significant improvement in the li-ion diffusion coefficient, underscoring the effectiveness of the CNF skeleton in facilitating fast ion transport. The SiO/CNF hybrid structure, developed through a scalable and eco-friendly electrospinning process, offers a significant advancement towards the commercial application of SiO-based anodes. With its high capacity, stable cycling, and improved conductivity, the SiO/CNF composite holds great promise for the next generation of high-performance li-ion batteries. #lithiumionbatteries #electricvehicle #batteries Reference: Yu J, Zhang C, Huang X, Cao L, Wang A, Dai W, Li D, Dai Y, Zhou C, Zhang Y, et al. A Hybrid Structure to Improve Electrochemical Performance of SiO Anode Materials in Lithium-Ion Battery. Nanomaterials. 2024; 14(14):1223

𝗧𝗢𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝗦𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗢𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗦: 𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗣𝗛𝗘𝗡𝗘-𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗘𝗗 𝗝𝗨𝗧𝗘 𝗙𝗜𝗕𝗘𝗥 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗢𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗦 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗕𝗜𝗢-𝗕𝗔𝗦𝗘𝗗 𝗘𝗣𝗢𝗫𝗬 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗡 𝗝𝘂𝘁𝗲—𝗮 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗯𝗲𝗿 that 𝗰𝗮𝗽𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝘅𝘆𝗴𝗲𝗻 during cultivation—can be recycled and biodegraded, making it an attractive option for environmentally friendly composites compared to synthetic fiber reinforced polymer (SFRP) composites. However, jute fibers often suffer from poor mechanical properties due to the presence of 20 wt.%–50 wt.% of noncellulosic materials. To address this, Prof. Nazmul Karim, Mohammad Hamidul Islam, and researchers from The University of the West of England have developed 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗷𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗯𝗶𝗼-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗲𝗽𝗼𝘅𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗻. 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: ➡ The team used Tossa white jute fiber from Bangladesh. The fibers were cut, dried, treated with hot water and a 0.5% NaOH solution, and rinsed to improve fiber-matrix bonding. ➡ Treated jute fibers were assembled into unidirectional structures, known as "preforms". ➡ Preforms were coated with graphene oxide (GO) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) using a dip coating method. ➡ Bio-epoxy (BE) laminating resin was infused into the preforms and cured at room temperature for 48 hours. 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 The incorporation of GO and GNP significantly enhanced the mechanical properties of the composites. 1️⃣ Tensile Strength: 248 ± 15.1 MPa (vs. 165 ± 7.4 MPa for untreated jute fiber) 2️⃣ Flexural Strength: 223 ± 8.4 MPa (vs. 145 ± 8.2 MPa for untreated jute fiber) Compared to untreated J/BE composites, GNP treated J/BE composites exhibited increases in tensile and flexural strength by approximately 50%. ✅ 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁: The production of 1 tonne of glass fibres shows a carbon footprint of about 1.7–2.5 tonnes CO2-eq per tonne of fibre, whereas 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗷𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗯𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝟬.𝟯𝟱–𝟬.𝟱𝟱 𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗢𝟮-𝗲𝗾 𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗶𝗯𝗿𝗲. This is an 𝟴𝟬% 𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿carbon footprint than that of glass fibres. Because of the enhanced mechanical properties these graphene-based jute composites can potentially 𝗿𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝗻-𝗯𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝘄𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆. #graphene #sustainability Complete paper [Link in the comment section]

LATEST PAPER: Tailoring Piezoelectricity of 3D Printing PVDF-MoS2 Nanocomposite via In Situ Induced Shear Stress ACS Applied Nanomaterials https://lnkd.in/eb_BgeXk Rifat Hasan Rupom, Md Nurul Islam, Zoriana Demchuk, Rigoberto Advincula, Narendra B. Dahotre, Yijie Jiang*, Wonbong Choi* BREAKTHROUGH! We have observed and now explained in detail how 3D printing Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) together with 2D nanomaterials enables highly induced piezoelectric behavior (up to 8X) with shear directionality. There is high potential to use this phenomenon to make 3D printed sensors, actuators, OEM device parts, valves, filters, etc. Machine Learning (ML) or AI/ML played a very important role in accelerating this study. ABSTRACT: 3D printing of unique structures with tunable properties offers significant advantages in fabricating complex and customized electronic devices. This study introduces a process-microstructure–property-guided manufacturing route to fabricate PVDF-2D MoS2 piezoelectric nanocomposites with tunable piezoelectric properties without having a post-process. We control PVDF’s microstructure through direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing while tuning PVDF-MoS2 interfacial strain by controlling rheology and 3D printing parameters, such as nozzle size and printing speed. Our approach demonstrates tunable piezoelectricity in PVDF-MoS2, achieving a 15-fold increase in the piezoelectric coefficient (d33) at a printing-induced shear stress of 6685 Pa. This enhancement arises from the electrostatic interactions between PVDF and MoS2 and the filler distribution and alignment caused by the in situ shear stress in 3D printing, as confirmed by XPS and Raman mapping analyses. Our findings advance the understanding of piezoelectric mechanisms in PVDF-based nanocomposites, laying the foundation for 3D printing piezoelectric sensors in wearable device applications with enhanced performance and customization capabilities. This work is funded through the US Department of Energy (DOE), EERE-VTO office. The study was led by collaborators at the University of North Texas and the University of Oklahoma Rigoberto Advincula Oak Ridge National Laboratory University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge Innovation Institute U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) University of Tennessee, Knoxville Tickle College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee #3dprinting #polymers #chemistry #sensors #materialsscience #materials #nanomaterials #industry #technology #ai #ml #plastics #devices

🚧 Can "Smart Nanotech Concrete" Tackle Both Frost Damage and Climate Change? ❄️🌍 Two recent studies from the University of Miami and Washington State University showcase a significant advance toward low-carbon, high-durability infrastructure, thanks to a patented clinker-free geopolymer concrete. 🧪 What’s New? Graphene Oxide + Geopolymer Paste ➤ Adding just 0.02% graphene oxide (GO by mass of ash) to fly ash-based geopolymer paste makes a notable difference. No cement is needed for this type of concrete! ➤ The result? Much better strength retention after 84 rapid freeze-thaw cycles and stronger resistance to post-damage carbonation. ➤ GO improves hydration chemistry and reduces moisture uptake—key for durability in cold, wet regions. CFRP-Confined Geopolymer Columns ➤ Researchers encased GO-modified geopolymer concrete in carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) tubes, creating high-strength, ductile structural members. ➤ Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) over a 100-year lifespan shows: ✅ Up to 34% lower CO₂ emissions than traditional cement concrete columns ✅ Excellent resilience, even under extreme loading and environmental conditions 💡 Why It Matters These innovations pave the way for next-generation infrastructure—stronger, greener, and more resilient. 👷♀️ Civil engineers: Ready to rethink your materials? 🎓 This is where chemistry, mechanics, and sustainability converge. 📚 Learn more: • Li & Shi, Cement and Concrete Composites, 2025 – https://lnkd.in/g-5hRfHi • Li et al., Transportation Research Record, 2025 – https://lnkd.in/gpbWKkS3 #CivilEngineering #FlyAsh #Geopolymer #GrapheneOxide #FrostResistance #CFRP #SustainableConstruction #ConcreteInnovation #LifeCycleAssessment #InfrastructureResilience #STEM #FutureEngineers

Breakthrough Nano-Architected Materials Revolutionize Strength-to-Weight Ratios Researchers at the University of Toronto have created groundbreaking nano-architected materials with a strength comparable to carbon steel and the lightness of Styrofoam. These materials, which combine high strength, low weight, and customizability, have the potential to transform industries such as aerospace and automotive, where lightweight yet durable components are critical. Key Features of the Nano-Architected Materials • Exceptional Strength-to-Weight Ratio: The materials utilize nanoscale geometries to achieve unprecedented performance, leveraging the “smaller is stronger” phenomenon. • Customizable Design: The nanoscale shapes resemble structural patterns, such as triangular bridges, that enhance durability and stiffness while minimizing weight. • Versatility Across Industries: Their application extends to aerospace, automotive, and other fields where maximizing efficiency and reducing material weight are paramount. Addressing Design Challenges with AI • Stress Concentrations: Traditional lattice designs suffer from stress concentrations at sharp corners, leading to early failure. This limits the material’s effectiveness despite its high strength-to-weight ratio. • Machine Learning Solutions: Peter Serles, the lead researcher, highlighted how machine learning algorithms were applied to optimize these nano-lattices. AI models helped identify innovative geometries that minimize stress points and extend material durability. Implications for Aerospace and Automotive These materials can be game-changing for industries where reducing weight while maintaining strength is vital. For aerospace, lighter and stronger components mean increased fuel efficiency and improved performance. In automotive applications, they can reduce energy consumption while ensuring safety and durability. The successful application of machine learning to material science marks a pivotal moment, enabling innovations that were previously limited by traditional design methods. These developments could pave the way for a new generation of high-performance, sustainable materials.