Today's KNOWLEDGE Share : Effect of post-curing on the mechanical properties of carbonized phenolic resins:

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share

Effect of post-curing on the mechanical properties of carbonized phenolic resins:

After curing, phenol-formaldehyde resins were post-cured at 160°C, 230°C, and 300°C in air for several hours, and then those post-cured samples were carbonized at 1000°C. The effect of post-curing on the physical properties and microstructure of the carbonized phenolic resin is reported in this article. The purpose of post-curing was to improve the mechanical properties of the carbonized resins. The post-curing process promoted the crosslinking reaction and the evolution of gases. The cured resin post-cured at a higher post-curing temperature (300°C) had a significantly higher weight loss, greater linear shrinkage and lower density than other samples.

During carbonization the post-curing process not only decreased the weight loss but also limited the shrinkage. Post-curing also promoted the formation of carbon basal planes and the chemical densification in structures of the final carbonized resins. The increase in post-curing temperature and time had the effect of reducing the linear shrinkage of the resin during carbonization. The TGA thermal analysis showed that the post-cured resins improved the total weight loss more than 15 wt% over the unpost-cured resin. The carbonized resins developed from the post-cured resins had a greater flexural modulus by about 10–50% and improved the linear shrinkage by about 10% over that developed from unpost-cured resins.

source :Tse-Hao Ko, Tsu-Sheng Ma

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share : GFRP MESH

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share

One truck vs. Six!

When it comes to transportation efficiency, the difference between GFRP mesh and traditional steel mesh is crystal clear. To transport the same amount of steel mesh, you would need 6 trucks like the one in this photo, but with GFRP mesh, just 1 truck does the job!

This lightweight innovation doesn't just save on logistics and costs; it also reduces fuel consumption, emissions, and time. That’s the kind of efficiency we aim for at Composite Tech FRP as we continue to provide cutting-edge composite solutions.

The future of construction is lighter, greener, and stronger with GFRP 💪

source:Anton Ocunev- Composite Tech FRP

Huntsman to launch gripping new footwear range at NW Materials Show

Footwear experts from Huntsman’s Polyurethanes business will be exhibiting at the NW Materials Show at the end of August where they will launch a gripping new soling development for the footwear industry.

Dependable, durable, and developed with circularity in mind, the new portfolio of high performing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) products will be of interest to footwear brands producing running, hiking and safety shoes.

Matthew Canoy, Global Marketing Director PU Elastomers at Huntsman, said: “We’re always excited to attend the NW Materials Show. This year there is an extra layer of anticipation as we prepare to launch a new range of soling materials for the footwear industry. Our latest product innovation follows the successful launch, last September, of SMARLITE® O liquid TPU (LTPU). The new technology we’ll be launching in August is compatible with SMARTLITE® O LTPU and is aligned with the sustainability, automation, customization and smart manufacturing needs of a sector that is renowned for fast-paced innovation.”

To register to receive more information about Huntsman’s new product line, go to:

https://www.getthegrip.online

Alternatively, visit Huntsman at the NW Materials Show at Booth 4007.

August 28-29, 2024

Oregon Convention Center

Portland, Oregon

source:Huntsman

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share : Polymers against Fungal Infections

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share

Synthetic polymers against fungal infections

When combined with antifungal drugs, synthetic polymers are particularly effective against Candida albicans. This is what a German-Australian research team found out and also clarified the mechanism of action behind it. The international collaboration came about by chance during an unplanned research stay that initiated the study at the Leibniz-HKI in Jena.

Every year, over two million people are affected by invasive fungal infections, which are often caused by Candida species and are associated with high mortality rates. The development of new therapies is progressing very slowly. However, the need is increasing, especially as drug resistance is developing more and more frequently. An interdisciplinary research team led by Dr. Sascha Brunke from the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI) has now investigated the mode of action and therapeutic potential of synthetic polymers.

New synthetic polymers with strong efficacy:

The unexpected team developed several synthetic polymers from the polyacrylamide family that showed strong efficacy against Candida albicans , even against resistant strains. In particular, the polymer called LH, together with the drug caspofungin, was extremely effective against the fungus and significantly improved the survival rate of infected moth larvae in laboratory tests.

All-round strike against fungal cells:

In the study, the team also uncovered the exact mode of action of the compounds for the first time. "The synthetic polymers attack the fungal cells in different ways at the same time. They also use new target structures and are therefore very efficient. This is the difference to conventional antimycotics, which only have a one-sided effect. The compounds caused stress in the fungal cell and weakened it by hindering glycosylation on the cell surface. In this chemical process, sugar chains are bound to proteins, which is important for the stability and function of the cells. The polymers also damaged the walls and membranes of the fungal cells, causing them to die. In addition, the polymers also supported immune cells in the destruction of fungal cells, as was discovered in interaction tests.

Hope for resistant fungi:

"It was also remarkable that LH together with antifungal agents did not lead to the development of resistance in C. albicans in the laboratory. This indicates that such combination therapies are not only more effective, but also more sustainable than previous therapies and can therefore lead to better treatment success. "The production of synthetic polymers is relatively inexpensive. They are also stable and storable compared to conventional active ingredients. They could therefore make a significant contribution to public health, particularly in low-income countries.

Source:www.bionity.com

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share : ECKART Launches Borosilicate-based Red Pigment with High Visual Impact

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share

With LUXAN CFX B842 Immersion Red, effect pigment manufacturer ECKART is launching a new effect pigment based on borosilicate glass.

It is characterized by a pure, powerful red tone, combined with a high sparkle.

Maximized Visual Impact with Low Pigmentation

The pigment stands out from conventional earth-tone effect pigments in that it does not transition into undesirable red-brownish color spaces.

Compared to the already successfully launched LUXAN CFX C842 Spotlight Red, the new LUXAN CFX B842 Immersion Red has a more subtle effect, a smoother clear coat level and a reduced graininess - and thus fulfils the noticeable market demand for smaller particle sizes.

The impressive sparkle creates a three-dimensional appearance with an optical depth effect. This so-called "diving effect" enhances every base color. Even low pigmentation levels maximize the visual impact.

LUXAN CFX B842 Immersion Red is available in a weather-, shear- and chemical-resistant CFX version. It lends an elegant appearance to high-quality automotive paints, electronics, sports and household appliances and is compatible with water-, solvent- and UV-based systems as well as all common application methods. LUXAN CFX B842 Immersion Red offers high radar permeability and impresses with its color purity, deep sparkle and strong chroma.

Source: ECKART/www.polymer-additives.specialchem.com

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share: Waste Plastics into Valuable Carbon Nanotubes

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share

New Research Converts Waste Plastics into Valuable Carbon Nanotubes

A research team in the Department of Energy and Chemical Engineering at UNIST has unveiled an innovative technology for converting waste plastics into carbon nanotubes (CNTs), a high-value material that plays a critical role in achieving carbon neutrality and promoting a circular economy.

Demonstrating Mass-production of Low Emissions CNTs:

Led by Professor Kwangjin An and Professor Hankwon Lim in the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering and the Graduate School of Carbon Neutrality at UNIST, the joint research team developed a method to produce carbon nanotubes using mixed gases generated from waste mask substances.

During the pyrolysis of waste plastics, these materials are transformed into hydrocarbon gases, including methane, ethylene, and propylene. The researchers harness these gases, subjecting them to high-temperature treatment to create CNTs.

The carbon nanotubes generated through this upcycling process are eco-friendly, producing lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to traditional methane and hydrogen-based methods. Notably, this approach eliminates the need for a waste separation process, streamlining the procedure.

By utilizing the gases produced from the thermal decomposition of mask waste, the research team demonstrated that carbon nanotubes can be mass-produced at a low cost. Remarkably, the upcycling process operates at costs comparable to existing methods, despite the complexity of the system.

Scaling Up CNT Production with Renewables

In addition, the research team has outlined a carbon neutrality strategy through scenario analyses utilizing renewable energy sources. This study marks the first economic and environmental evaluation of carbon nanotube production via waste plastic upcycling, revealing a promising avenue for transforming plastic waste into high-value materials.

First authors Kim Hee-hyang and Nam Eon-woo stated, “The process can achieve low production costs if scaled up and if supply and demand for electricity are managed effectively using renewable energy. This would result in a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.”

Professors Hankwon Lim and Kwanjin An emphasized, “An increase in carbon nanotube supply due to advancements in pyrolysis technology will also enhance energy security.”

This research was supported by the Carbon Neutrality Demonstration and Research Center of UNIST, the Agency for Defense Development, and the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE), along with contributions from JEIO Co. The findings were published online in the international journal, Chemical Engineering Journal on June 28, 2024.

Source: UNIST/www.polymer-additives.specialchem.com

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share : JETTING

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share

At times, the flow front in injection molding appears to chart its own course, making unexpected decisions.

For instance, one would anticipate that the shorter and thicker side would fill the flange before moving on to fill the main pipe walls in this example.

However, it's not uncommon to witness a counterintuitive scenario where a supposedly more challenging section fills faster, despite the expectation of higher pressure drop.

Physics dictates that there must be a rationale behind such occurrences.

Upon observing this phenomenon with RPVC, it became apparent that the significant extensional viscosity of the polymer played a crucial role. This viscosity demanded additional energy or pressure to navigate the 90° bend turn. Essentially, in situations where extensional viscosity is notable, it's easier for the flow to progress straight through a slightly narrower channel than to negotiate a sharp turn into a wider one.

Traditional flow analysis software often struggles with simulating this.

Moreover, similar unexpected filling patterns might be due or wrongly attributed to the inertia effect, known as "jetting". When these unexpected fill patterns are observed at low fill rate, inertia can almost immediately be ruled out.

So...it looks like jetting but it is NOT jetting !

It's imperative to delve into the underlying physics of the observed issues. Understanding the principles at play will lead you closer to effective solutions.- and help designing better parts and tools.

Source : Vito leo

BASALT STONE available in India

 BASALT STONE available in India:

We have Basalt rock available in India with more than a couple of million tonnes available for sale under government leased agreement.

Interested buyers can write to me on here rosaram211@gmail.com to have further discussion on placing the order.

For bulk order,you can visit our place and can test the available stone /powder for your future requirements.

Applications:

Basalt fiber have been widely used in manufacturing of tanks,rope,honeycomb panel,fire resistant panel,braiding,Basalt chopped fiber reinforcements with asphalt road and concrete,rebars,Tubes,Geogrid mesh reinforcement for roads,Mufflers filler,Fabrics for thermal resistance,generator blades,headliners,brake pads,sports parts,thermoplastics composites etc.

BASALT ROCK TEST RESULTS:

BULK DENSITY:2.94 g/cm3

SiO2:52.6%

Mn:14.9%

Al2O3 :7.7%

I was introduced to have trials with Basalt fiber by the end of 2003 and then we had manufactured Type 4 CNG cylinders out of Basalt fiber and also was engaged in a Highways road project with the Indian ministry to extend the life term of the roads with basalt fiber with the existing road formulations.Since then my focus on trying Basalt fibers/fabrics with rebars and kitchenware products etc.

#basaltfiber #composites #construction #automotive

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share : CNSL for Brake Pads

Today's KNOWLEDGE Share

Development of Refined Natural Resin based Cashew Nut Shell Oil Liquid (CNSL) for Brake Pads Composite

Development the composite-based brake pads aim to reduce the damage of train wheels and sparks during braking continually. Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) is an oil composed from a complex phenolic compounds with long carbon chain branched and unsaturated. CNSL extraction that's done using hot water, which is then dried to remove water from the extract of physical separation by centrifugation.The main structure CNSL is 90% anarcadic acid and 10% cardol, but in detail components in the CNSL separated will depend on the treatment path will be executed.

The increase in the levels of cardanol done through extraction using semi-polar and non-polar solvent. Raw CNSL has a high relative density because it has anarcadic acid as the major fraction, there is intermolecular attraction between the electronegative oxygen atom and the partially positive hydrogen atom of the phenol core as a result the molecules are closely packed together. The structure of anacardic acid, cardol, cardanol and 2-methyl-cardol were founded in crude CNSL. CNSL compound was added as a resilience in the binder system and reduces brake noise. 

FTIR analysis of technical CNSL and decarboxylated CNSL result were shown. Infrared spectra absorption were in the regions of 3424 cm-1, 2700-2900 cm-1, 1615 cm-1, 1200-1600 cm-1, and 500-700 cm-1 representing as -OH hydroxyl, C-H stretching, C-O, C=C aromatic stretching, and aromatic ring respectively. The presence of –OH hydroxyl has a role as a reactive group which will react with other components of composite material, so that CNSL can be used as an alternative of phenolic resin. But, raw CNSL still content impurities so that needed decarboxilation procedure to remove the impurities.

Simulant Thermal Analysis (STA) for the determination of thermal resistance of materials. Based on thermal analysis using STA indicated that the CNSL has high stability in temperature under 400 ºC, proved by the small decrease of its mass in the temperature range of 0 - 350 ºC. Nevertheless, when the temperature up to 400 ºC, the more mass loss because of the decomposition of the CNSL coumpound.

Cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) have been used as a substituent of phenolic resin. The CNSL compound of cardanol, acid cardanol and cardol can act as a binder in the brake pads composite preparation due to the functional group in their compound. Infrared test showed the presence of hydroxyl groups belong Cardanol. The CNSL has high stability in temperature under 400 ºC, proved by the small decrease of its mass in the temperature range of 0 - 350 ºC. The addition of CNSL resin also improve mechanical properties of brake pads composites proven by higher tensile strenght, elongation and excellent pressure strength of formula 2, 900 N, 2,59 MPa and 20.000 N respectively.

source: S Wahyuningsih et al 2017 IOP Conf. 

Hexagon Composites’ net zero targets validated by the Science Based Target initiative

Hexagon Composites, world leader in composite cylinder technology and systems for storage and transportation of clean gaseous energy, has committed to being net zero by 2050. In July 2024, Hexagon’s net zero targets were validated by the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi).

The SBTi defines and promotes best practice in science-based target setting, and independently assesses and approves companies’ targets. Being a provider of solutions that help fleets and OEM’s transition to low-carbon and carbon negative solutions, Hexagon recognizes the importance of reducing its own carbon footprint and is proud to join the over 5,800 businesses around the world that are working with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

“We are pleased to have received the approval of our science-based net zero targets by SBTi,” says Jon Erik Engeset, CEO Hexagon Composites. “While we enable other industries to accelerate the pace of their emission reductions, we are committed to doing our part to reduce the environmental impact of our operations and support the 1.5-degree target.”

In line with the 1.5-degree trajectory, Hexagon will reduce its direct emissions by 2033, and work with partners and suppliers to be net zero across its value chain by 2050.

Near-term targets:

By 2033, Hexagon commits to reducing 54.6% of absolute scope 1 and 2 emissions and 61% of Scope 3 emissions per cubic meter of container volume sold.

Long-term targets:

By 2050, Hexagon commits to reducing 90% of absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, and 97% of Scope 3 emissions per cubic meter of container volume sold.

Hexagon will report its progress on a regular basis.

source:Hexagon Group/www.jeccomposites.com