Surface Technology (表面技术)•2026•DOI: 10.16490/j.cnki.issn.1001-3660.2026.09.005
Polishing of BK7 optical glass suffers from rapid tool wear, low material removal rates, and unstable surface quality. This study introduces an internal-configuration optimization strategy for flexible polishing tools based on I-graph-wrapped package (IWP) triply periodic minimal surface unit cells. Two complementary architectures—skeletal lattice (IWP-1) and perforated lattice (IWP-2)—were fabricated via stereolithography (SLA) photocuring additive manufacturing at Shore A hardness levels of 35 A and 60 A. A corrected material removal function was developed by coupling Hertzian contact theory, the Preston equation, and effective abrasive count, with elastic-plastic deformation analysis of individual grains. Static finite element analysis revealed that IWP topologies homogenize contact pressure and reduce stress concentration. CFD-DPM/DEM fluid-structure interaction simulations showed that internal channels and surface depressions enhance slurry supply, circulation, and abrasive spatial distribution. Orthogonal polishing experiments (three factors, three levels) identified optimal parameters: IWP-1 at 2 mm compression and 60 A hardness achieved Ra = 0.033 μm, suitable for final polishing; IWP-2 at 2 mm compression and 35 A hardness achieved Ra = 0.075 μm with a material removal rate ηMRR = 0.0558 mm³/min, suitable for pre-polishing. These results demonstrate a tunable balance between removal efficiency and surface quality, providing a structural design framework for non-Newtonian hydrodynamic polishing of hard-brittle optical components.
Opto-Electronic Advances (光电进展)•2026•DOI: 10.29026/oea.2026.250269
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates face an intrinsic trade-off: the ultrasensitive hottest spots required for single-molecule detection amplify analyte signals by orders of magnitude, causing each molecule to be miscounted as hundreds during quantification. This study demonstrates a timeshare SERS platform that circumvents this contradiction by dynamically toggling between quantitative and sensitive modes on demand. The platform is constructed by transferring a monolayer gold nanosphere film onto an elastic hydrogel substrate. The hydrogel's volume change adjusts the inter-nanosphere distance, reversibly controlling the formation or extinction of SERS hottest spots without altering the spatial distribution of analyte molecules. In the absence of hottest spots, the platform exhibits strong quantification capability; when equipped with a substantial number of hottest spots, it achieves ultrahigh sensitivity. The authors demonstrate quantitative and ultrasensitive detection of various analyte molecules using the respective modes. This approach opens a route to designing SERS substrates that simultaneously offer high sensitivity and robust quantification, addressing a long-standing bottleneck in trace detection for analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, food safety, and biomedical diagnostics.
Chinese Journal of Energetic Materials (含能材料)•2026•DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026054
The solubility of β-octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (β-HMX) in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)–methanol, DMSO–ethanol, and DMSO–n-propanol binary solvent mixtures was measured using a static method over the temperature range of 293.15–343.15 K at atmospheric pressure. The mole fraction of alcohol in the mixed solvent was varied from 0 to 1. The experimental solubility data were correlated with the Apelblat, Jouyban–Acree, and NRTL models. The Apelblat model provided the best fit, with an average relative deviation (ARD) below 5% and a root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) below 0.11%. Thermodynamic properties, including Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, and entropy of dissolution, were derived from the NRTL model. The dissolution process was endothermic, entropy-driven, and spontaneous in all three solvent systems. Solid-phase characterization by PXRD and DSC confirmed that no polymorphic transition of β-HMX occurred under the experimental conditions. Solvent composition stability tests showed that the maximum relative change in solubility due to composition fluctuation was less than 6.3%, corresponding to an equivalent temperature variation of 1.4–2.7 K. These data provide a foundation for optimizing anti-solvent crystallization processes for β-HMX.
Nano-Micro Letters•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01999-4
With the widespread application of lithium batteries in electric vehicles and energy storage systems, battery-related safety and reliability issues have become increasingly prominent. Conventional monitoring methods often struggle to address dynamic changes under complex operando. In recent years, flexible sensing technology has emerged as a promising solution for battery health monitoring due to its high adaptability and conformability to complex structures. Meanwhile, empowered by artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis, the collected data enables efficient and accurate state assessment, offering robust support for accident prevention. Against this background, this paper first explores the integrated applications of flexible sensors in battery health monitoring and their unique advantages in addressing complex battery operating conditions, while analyzing the potential of AI in battery state analysis. Subsequently, it systematically reviews mainstream flexible sensing technologies (e.g., film sensors, thermocouples, and optical fiber sensors), elucidating their mechanisms for revealing intricate internal battery processes during operation. Finally, the paper discusses AI’s role in enhancing monitoring efficiency and accuracy, and envisions future research directions and application prospects. This work aims to provide technical references for the battery health monitoring field as well as promote the application of flexible sensing technologies in improving battery system safety and reliability.
Journal of Central South University•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6194-5
This study analyzed the interaction between sequentially installed combined support systems and the surrounding rock. Six distinct forms of elastic-brittle-plastic rock masses with reinforcement were analyzed, along with the critical displacements that governed their transition behaviors. Virtual support pressure was introduced to assess the spatial influence of the tunnel face. It was determined by integrating the longitudinal displacement profile with the proposed ground characteristic curve solutions under various ground conditions. Considering the timing of support installation, the support-rock interaction was divided into three phases. A method was presented to determine the evolution of this interaction based on critical displacements. An analytical approach was further proposed to describe the complete process of support system-rock interaction using displacement coordination. The analytical results are validated against numerical simulations and field measurements, and the method's advantages are demonstrated through comparisons with existing models and the convergence-confinement approach. Finally, the effects of surrounding rock and support parameters are examined. The results indicate that residual cohesion, the friction angle of reinforced ground, and reinforcement thickness strongly influence tunnel behavior. Additionally, increasing the stiffness or advancing the installation of secondary support substantially raises secondary support pressure.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01694-4
Elevating the upper cutoff voltage to 4.6 V could effectively increase the reversible capacity of LiCoO2 (LCO) cathode, whereas the irreversible structural transition, unstable electrode/electrolyte interface and potentially induced safety hazards severely hinder its industrial application. Building a robust cathode/electrolyte interface film by electrolyte engineering is one of the efficient approaches to boost the performance of high-voltage LCO (HV-LCO); however, the elusive interfacial chemistry poses substantial challenges to the rational design of highly compatible electrolytes. Herein, we propose a novel electrolyte design strategy and screen proper solvents based on two factors: highest occupied molecular orbital energy level and LCO absorption energy. Tris (2, 2, 2-trifluoroethyl) phosphate is determined as the optimal solvent, whose low defluorination energy barrier significantly promotes the construction of LiF-rich cathode/electrolyte interface layer on the surface of LCO, thereby eventually suppresses the phase transition and enhances Li+ diffusion kinetics. The rationally designed electrolyte endows graphite||HV-LCO pouch cells with long cycle life (85.3% capacity retention after 700 cycles), wide-temperature adaptability (−60–80 °C) and high safety (pass nail penetration). This work provides new insights into the electrolyte screening and rational design to constructing stable interface for high-energy lithium-ion batteries.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01638-4
Magnetic absorbers with high permeability have significant advantages in low-frequency and broadband electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption. However, the insufficient magnetic loss and inherent high conductivity of existing magnetic absorbers limit the further expansion of EMW absorption bandwidth. Herein, the spinel (FeCoNiCrCu)3O4 high-entropy oxides (HEO) are successfully constructed on the surface of FeCoNiCr0.4Cu0.2 high-entropy alloys (HEA) through low-temperature oxygen bath treatment. On the one hand, HEO and HEA have different magnetocrystalline anisotropies, which is conducive to achieving continuous natural resonance to improve magnetic loss. On the other hand, HEO with low conductivity can serve as an impedance matching layer, achieving magneto-electric co-modulation. When the thickness is 5 mm, the minimum reflection loss (RL) value and absorption bandwidth (RL < −5 dB) of bi-phase high-entropy composites (BPHEC) can reach −12.8 dB and 633 MHz, respectively. The RCS reduction value of multilayer sample with impedance gradient characteristic can reach 18.34 dB m2. In addition, the BPHEC also exhibits temperature-stable EMW absorption performance, high Curie temperature, and oxidation resistance. The absorption bandwidth maintains between 593 and 691 MHz from −50 to 150 °C. This work offers a new and tunable strategy toward modulating the electromagnetic genes for temperature-stable ultra-broadband megahertz EMW absorption.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01639-3
Carbon-based perovskite solar cells (C-PSCs) exhibit notable stability and durability. However, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) is significantly hindered by energy level mismatches, which result in interfacial charge transport barriers at the electrode-related interfaces. Herein, we report a back electrode that utilizes atomically dispersed metallic cobalt (Co) in carbon nanosheets (Co1/CN) to adjust the interfacial energy levels. The electrons in the d-orbitals of Co atoms disrupt the electronic symmetry of the carbon nanosheets (CN), inducing a redistribution of the electronic density of states that leads to a downward shift in the Fermi level and a significantly reduced interfacial energy barrier. As a result, the C-PSCs using Co1/CN as back electrodes achieve a notable PCE of 22.61% with exceptional long-term stability, maintaining 94.4% of their initial efficiency after 1000 h of continuous illumination without encapsulation. This work provides a promising universal method to regulate the energy level of carbon electrodes for C-PSCs and paves the way for more efficient, stable, and scalable solar technologies toward commercialization.
New Carbon Materials (新型炭材料)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(NCM2024-39-01-09)
Designing efficient and robust catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is imperative for saline water electrolysis technology. A catalyst composed of CoxP nanowires array with N-doped carbon nanosheets (NC) was fabricated on Ni foam (NF) by an in-situ growth strategy. The material is designated as NC/CoxP@NF. In the preparation process, Co(OH)2 nanowires were transformed into a metal organic framework of cobalt (ZIF-67) on NF by the dissolution-coordination of endogenous Co2+ and 2-methylimidazole. The resulting cactus-like microstructure gives NC/CoxP@NF abundant exposed active sites and ion transport channels, which improve the HER catalytic reaction kinetics. Furthermore, the interconnected alternating nanowires and free-standing nanosheets in NC/CoxP@NF improve its structural stability, and the formation of surface polyanions (phosphate) and a NC nanosheet protective layer improve the anti-corrosive properties of catalysts. Thus, the NC/CoxP@NF has an excellent performance, requiring overpotentials of 107 and 133 mV for HER to achieve 10 mA cm−2 in 1.0 mol L−1 KOH and 1.0 mol L−1 KOH + 0.5 mol L−1 NaCl, respectively. This in-situ transformation strategy is a new way of constructing highly-efficient HER catalysts for saline water electrolysis.
New Carbon Materials (新型炭材料)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(NCM2024-39-01-02)
Electrocatalytic carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction is an important way to achieve carbon neutrality by converting CO2 into high-value-added chemicals using electric energy. Carbon-based materials are widely used in various electrochemical reactions, including electrocatalytic CO2 reduction, due to their low cost and high activity. In recent years, defect engineering has attracted wide attention by constructing asymmetric defect centers in the materials, which can optimize the physicochemical properties of the material and improve its electrocatalytic activity. This review summarizes the types, methods of formation and defect characterization techniques of defective carbon-based materials. The advantages of defect engineering and the advantages and disadvantages of various defect formation methods and characterization techniques are also evaluated. Finally, the challenges of using defective carbon-based materials in electrocatalytic CO2 reduction are investigated and opportunities for their use are discussed. It is believed that this review will provide suggestions and guidance for developing defective carbon-based materials for CO2 reduction.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2025•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/25010024
In this work, we design and fabricate AlGaN/GaN-based Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) on a silicon substrate with a trenched n+-GaN cap layer. With the developed physical models, we find that the n+-GaN cap layer provides more electrons into the AlGaN/GaN channel, which is further confirmed experimentally. When compared with the reference device, this increases the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) density by two times and leads to a reduced specific ON-resistance (Ron,sp) of ~2.4 mΩ·cm2. We also adopt the trenched n+-GaN structure such that partial of the n+-GaN is removed by using dry etching process to eliminate the surface electrical conduction when the device is set in the off-state. To suppress the surface defects that are caused by the dry etching process, we also deposit Si3N4 layer prior to the deposition of field plate (FP), and we obtain a reduced leakage current of ~8 × 10−5 A·cm−2 and breakdown voltage (BV) of 876 V. The Baliga’s figure of merit (BFOM) for the proposed structure is increased to ~319 MW·cm−2. Our investigations also find that the pre-deposited Si3N4 layer helps suppress the electron capture and transport processes, which enables the reduced dynamic Ron,sp.
Int. Journal of Mining Science and Technology (采矿与安全工程)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2025.11.001
It is of great significance to study the failure mode of mining roadways for safe coal mining. The unconventional asymmetric failure (UAF) phenomenon was discovered in the 9106 ventilation roadway of Wangzhuang coal mine in Shanxi Province. The main manifestation is that the deformation of the roadway on the coal side is much greater than that on the coal pillar side. A comprehensive study was conducted on on-site detection, theoretical analysis, laboratory tests and numerical simulation of the UAF phenomenon. On-site detection shows that the deformation of the coal sidewall can reach 50–80 cm, and the failure zone depth can reach 3 m. The deformation and fracture depth on the coal pillar side are much smaller than those on the coal side. A calculation model for the principal stress of surrounding rock when the axial direction of the roadway is inconsistent with the in-situ stress field was established. The distribution of the failure zone on both sides of the roadway has been defined by the combined mining induced stress. The true triaxial test studied the mechanical mechanism of rock mass fracture and crack propagation on both sides of the roadway. The research results indicate that the axial direction, stress field distribution, and mining induced stress field distribution of the roadway jointly affect the asymmetric failure mode of the roadway. The angle between the axis direction of the roadway and the maximum horizontal stress field leads to uneven distribution of the principal stress field on both sides. The differential distribution of mining induced stress exacerbates the asymmetric distribution of principal stress in the surrounding rock. The uneven stress distribution on both sides of the roadway is the main cause of UAF formation. The research results can provide mechanical explanations and theoretical support for the control of surrounding rock in roadways with similar failure characteristics.
Int. Journal of Mining Science and Technology (采矿与安全工程)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2025.10.002
Retrogressive landslides in sensitive clays pose significant risks to nearby infrastructure, as natural toe erosion or localized disturbances can trigger progressive block failures. While prior studies have largely relied on two-dimensional (2D) large-deformation analyses, such models overlook key three-dimensional (3D) failure mechanisms and variability effects. This study develops a 3D probabilistic framework by integrating the Coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) method with random field theory to simulate retrogressive landslides in spatially variable clay. Using Monte Carlo simulations, we compare 2D and 3D random large-deformation models to evaluate failure modes, runout distances, sliding velocities, and influence zones. The 3D analyses captured more complex failure modes—such as lateral retrogression and asynchronous block mobilization across slope width. Additionally, the 3D analyses predict longer mean runout distances (13.76 vs. 11.92 m), wider mean influence distance (11.35 vs. 8.73 m), and higher mean sliding velocities (4.66 vs. 3.94 m/s) than their 2D counterparts. Moreover, 3D models exhibit lower coefficients of variation (e.g., 0.10 for runout distance) due to spatial averaging across slope width. Probabilistic hazard assessment shows that 2D models significantly underpredict near-field failure probabilities (e.g., 48.8% vs. 89.9% at 12 m from the slope toe). These findings highlight the limitations of 2D analyses and the importance of multi-directional spatial variability for robust geohazard assessments. The proposed 3D framework enables more realistic prediction of landslide mobility and supports the design of safer, risk-informed infrastructure.
Int. Journal of Mining Science and Technology (采矿与安全工程)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2025.12.006
In deep coal mining, surrounding rock is subjected to both high in-situ stress and intense mining disturbances, leading to significant time-dependent behavior. Accurately capturing this behavior is essential for predicting long-term roadway stability, necessitating the development of a reliable constitutive creep model and numerical simulation approach. In this study, creep experiments were conducted on pre-damaged rock with varying initial damage levels to investigate the time-dependent mechanical properties. Based on the experimental results, an accelerated-creep criterion was proposed, and an elastic-viscoplastic creep damage model (EVPCD) was established that simultaneously considers the effects of time-dependent damage and instantaneous damage caused by stress disturbances on rock creep behavior. Subsequently, the effectiveness of the proposed creep model was verified using experimental data, and the secondary development of the EVPCD model was completed based on the FLAC3D platform. Following this, a long-term stability analysis method of deep surrounding rock that accounts for excavation-and mining-induced disturbances was proposed. Using the main roadway of Xutuan Coal Mine as a case study, numerical simulations were carried out to investigate the time-dependent deformation and failure characteristics of the surrounding rock following excavation and mining disturbance. Combined with on-site monitoring of the surrounding rock damage areas, the results indicate that the EVPCD outperforms the CVISC and Nishihara models in predicting the time-dependent behavior of deep surrounding rock.
Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s12613-024-3005-6
Thermal and mechanical properties of yttrium tantalate (YTaO4), a top coat ceramic of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) for aeroengines, are enhanced by synthesizing Y1−xTa1−xM2xO4 (M = Ti, Zr, Hf; x = 0.06, 0.12, 0.18, 0.24) medium-entropy ceramics (MECs) using a two-step sintering method. In addition, the thermal conductivity, thermal expansion coefficients (TECs), and fracture toughness of MECs were investigated. An X-ray diffraction study revealed that the Y1−xTa1−xM2xO4 MECs were monoclinic, and the Ti, Zr, and Hf doping elements replaced Y and Ta. The variations in atomic weights and ionic radii led to disturbed atomic arrangements and severe lattice distortions, resulting in improving the phonon scattering and reduced thermal conductivity, with Y1−xTa1−xM2xO4 MECs (x = 0.24) exhibiting the lowest thermal conductivity of 1.23 W·m−1·K−1 at 900°C. The introduction of MO2 increased the configurational entropy and weakened the ionic bonding energy, obtaining high TECs (10.4 × 10−6 K−1 at 1400°C). The reduction in the monoclinic angle β lowered the ferroelastic domain inversion energy barrier. Moreover, microcracks and crack extension toughening endowed Y1−xTa1−xM2xO4 MECs (x = 0.24) with the highest fracture toughness of (4.1 ± 0.5) MPa·m1/2. The simultaneous improvement of the thermal and mechanical properties of the MO2 (M = Ti, Zr, Hf) co-doped YTaO4 MECs can be extended to other materials.
Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering•2025•DOI: 10.1186/s10033-024-01173-8
Despite significant progress in the Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) domain using pattern learning systems from data, machine learning (ML) still faces challenges related to limited generalization and weak interpretability. A promising approach to overcoming these challenges is to embed domain knowledge into the ML pipeline, enhancing the model with additional pattern information. In this paper, we review the latest developments in PHM, encapsulated under the concept of Knowledge Driven Machine Learning (KDML). We propose a hierarchical framework to define KDML in PHM, which includes scientific paradigms, knowledge sources, knowledge representations, and knowledge embedding methods. Using this framework, we examine current research to demonstrate how various forms of knowledge can be integrated into the ML pipeline and provide roadmap to specific usage. Furthermore, we present several case studies that illustrate specific implementations of KDML in the PHM domain, including inductive experience, physical model, and signal processing. We analyze the improvements in generalization capability and interpretability that KDML can achieve. Finally, we discuss the challenges, potential applications, and usage recommendations of KDML in PHM, with a particular focus on the critical need for interpretability to ensure trustworthy deployment of artificial intelligence in PHM.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6121-1
Additive manufacturing (AM) of SiCP/Al composites has shown significant potential for expanding the application of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) due to their outstanding mechanical properties and wear performance. However, conventional mechanically mixed powders for AM are limited due to the possible powder agglomeration and poor fluidity. In this study, the spherical SiCP/AlSi10Mg composite powders prepared by spray granulation were employed to fabricate SiCP-reinforced AlSi10Mg composites using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The impacts of laser power on microstructure evolution and wear properties of composites were systematically investigated. The results indicated that an in-situ reaction between the aluminum matrix and SiCP during the LPBF process, resulted in the formation of particle-like and strip-like strengthening phase Al4SiC4. By adjusting the laser power (from 270 W to 350 W) to change the ratio of SiCP to Al4SiC4, micro-defects could be effectively limited, and wear performance could be improved. Consequently, with an optimized ratio of SiCP to Al4SiC4, the composite exhibited a mixed strengthening mechanism caused by the SiCP and Al4SiC4 reinforcing phases. At a laser power of 310 W, the sample exhibited minimal porosity with a microhardness value reaching 265.38HV, while maintaining relatively low average friction coefficient and wear rate. In addition, compared with other studies, the hardness obtained was superior to that of the AlSi10Mg and other reported SiCP/AlSi10Mg composites with similar volume fractions using the mixed powders.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6089-x
Aiming at the problem that the distance between the main roadway and the working face in Hudi Coal Industry Panel was more than 100 m, which was still affected by mining, high stress concentration of the roadway, and difficulty of supporting overall convergence of the section, the mechanical characteristics of the core bearing strata of the overlying rock caving in the working face were studied. The correlation mechanism between the overlying rock caving and the deformation and failure of the roadway was analyzed, and the quantitative evaluation index was established to comprehensively analyze different influencing factors. Based on the key strata theory, the mechanical difference transfer model of working face mining and panel roadway deformation and failure was established. It was considered that the difference in fracture morphology was the key to the far-field stress disturbance. The regional stress control technology was proposed to block or reduce the stress transfer, so that the peak stress of the panel main roadway was reduced, and the deformation of the surrounding rock was significantly reduced, which provides a reference value for the roadway support with serious influence of mining roadway.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6112-2
This study investigates the effects of varying Sc content on phase composition, corrosion resistance and passive film characteristic of Al1.2CoCrFeNiScx (x=0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) high-entropy alloys in 0.5 mol/L H2SO4 solution. The addition of Sc causes the alloys to form a Laves phase which is a (Ni, Co)2Sc intermetallic compound with face centred cubic (FCC) structure and lattice parameter of 0.695 nm. During the potentiodynamic polarization process, Laves phase is severely corroded due to its large grain orientation spread value and high electrochemical activity. Sc deteriorates the corrosion resistance of the alloy primarily by significantly accelerating the corrosion rate rather than altering the corrosion tendency. Al1.2CoCrFeNiScx alloys exhibit poorer corrosion resistance in 0.5 mol/L H2SO4 than in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution, with severe intergranular corrosion observed on the alloy surface. The passive films on Sc-free alloys primarily composed of Al2O3 and Cr2O3, while for Sc-containing alloys, the film mainly contains Al2O3, Cr2O3 and Sc2O3. In addition, the passive films on Sc-free alloys behave as an n-type semiconductor, while the passive films on Sc-containing alloys surface exhibit the electronic characteristics of p-n junctions. As the Sc content rises, the defect density in passive film increases from 1021 cm−3 to 1023 cm−3, which leads to a less compact and less protective passive film, ultimately decreasing the alloy’s corrosion resistance. This work holds significant guiding significance for the engineering application of high-entropy alloys in acidic environments and is conducive to the development of high-performance corrosion-resistant alloys.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6071-7
Mechanical activation (MA) is a significant pretreatment technique for enhancing the dissolution of mineral; however, its promotion effect on the role of pyrite during chalcopyrite bioleaching has not been elucidated up to now. In this study, the effect of MA on the role of pyrite on chalcopyrite bioleaching mediated by Acidithiobacillus ferroxidans was investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, particle size distribution analysis, and electrochemical measurement. The results showed MA could significantly reduce the minerals particle size, and increase the specific surface area and surface energy of minerals. For example, the d50 of chalcopyrite reduced from 13.40 to 0.31 μm after MA. The copper extraction of mixed MA-chalcopyrite and MA-pyrite system was 63.4%, which exhibited a 51.8% enhancement compared to the non-activated mixed system. Electrochemical experiments identified that the strengthening effect of pyrite on chalcopyrite dissolution was negligible before MA. After MA, the dissolution mechanism of chalcopyrite was not changed, and pyrite could not only provide additional oxidants (acids and iron) but also act as the cathode in the galvanic couple. In this case, the bioleaching of chalcopyrite was accelerated. Therefore, a model of the promotion effect of mechanical activation on the role of pyrite on chalcopyrite bioleaching was proposed.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6067-3
Ground reinforcement is crucial for tunnel construction, especially in soft rock tunnels. Existing analytical models are inadequate for predicting the ground reaction curves (GRCs) for reinforced tunnels in strain-softening (SS) rock masses. This study proposes a novel analytical model to determine the GRCs of SS rock masses, incorporating ground reinforcement and intermediate principal stress (IPS). The SS constitutive model captures the progressive post-peak failure, while the elastic-brittle model simulates reinforced rock masses. Nine combined states are innovatively investigated to analyze plastic zone development in natural and reinforced regions. Each region is analyzed separately, and coupled through boundary conditions at interface. Comparison with three types of existing models indicates that these models overestimate reinforcement effects. The deformation prediction errors of single geological material models may exceed 75%. Furthermore, neglecting softening and residual zones in natural regions could lead to errors over 50%. Considering the IPS can effectively utilize the rock strength to reduce tunnel deformation by at least 30%, thereby saving on reinforcement and support costs. The computational results show a satisfactory agreement with the monitoring data from a model test and two tunnel projects. The proposed model may offer valuable insights into the design and construction of reinforced tunnel engineering.
Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s12613-024-3069-3
The rust layer is a critical factor in determining the corrosion resistance performance of weathering bridge steel. Understanding the evolution mechanism of this rust layer is fundamental for the design and optimization of such steel. This study investigates the evolution of the rust layer on high-Cr-content weathering bridge steel, using an atmospheric corrosion monitoring (ACM) sensor and big data mining techniques in a simulated tropical marine atmosphere. Results reveal that the protective properties of the rust layer follow a periodic pattern of “ascending–constant” rather than a continuous ascending. Correlation analysis indicates that this phenomenon is attributed to the introduction of Cr, which promotes the formation of FeCr2O4 in the rust layer. FeCr2O4 helps prevent chloride ions from penetrating the rust layer, exerting a protective effect. These findings provide a strong scientific foundation for the design and improvement of new high-Cr-content weathering bridge steels.
Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s12613-024-2975-8
Weathering steel exhibits excellent corrosion resistance and is widely used in bridges, towers, railways, highways, and other engineering projects that are exposed to the atmosphere for long periods of time. However, before the formation of stable rust layers, weathering steel is prone to liquid rust sagging and spattering, leading to environmental pollution and city appearance concerns. These factors limit the application and development of weathering steel. In this study, a rapid and environmentally friendly method was developed by introducing alloying elements, specifically investigating the role of Sn in the rapid stabilization of rust layers in marine atmospheric environments. The rust layer formed on weathering low-alloy steel exposed to prolonged outdoor conditions and laboratory immersion experiments was explored using electron probe micro-analyzer (EPMA), micro-Raman, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical measurements. Results showed an optimal synergistic effect between Sn and Cr, which facilitated the accelerated densification of the rust layer. This beneficial effect enhanced the capability of the rust layer to resist Cl− erosion and improved the protection performance of the rust layer.
Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s12613-024-2873-0
The utilization of iron coke provides a green pathway for low-carbon ironmaking. To uncover the influence mechanism of iron ore on the behavior and kinetics of iron coke gasification, the effect of iron ore on the microstructure of iron coke was investigated. Furthermore, a comparative study of the gasification reactions between iron coke and coke was conducted through non-isothermal thermogravimetric method. The findings indicate that compared to coke, iron coke exhibits an augmentation in micropores and specific surface area, and the micropores further extend and interconnect. This provides more adsorption sites for CO2 molecules during the gasification process, resulting in a reduction in the initial gasification temperature of iron coke. Accelerating the heating rate in non-isothermal gasification can enhance the reactivity of iron coke. The metallic iron reduced from iron ore is embedded in the carbon matrix, reducing the orderliness of the carbon structure, which is primarily responsible for the heightened reactivity of the carbon atoms. The kinetic study indicates that the random pore model can effectively represent the gasification process of iron coke due to its rich pore structure. Moreover, as the proportion of iron ore increases, the activation energy for the carbon gasification gradually decreases, from 246.2 kJ/mol for coke to 192.5 kJ/mol for iron coke 15wt%.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01594-z
Emerging two-dimensional MXenes have been extensively studied in a wide range of fields thanks to their superior electrical and hydrophilic attributes as well as excellent chemical stability and mechanical flexibility. Among them, the ultrahigh electrical conductivity (σ) and tunable band structures of benchmark Ti3C2Tx MXene demonstrate its good potential as thermoelectric (TE) materials. However, both the large variation of σ reported in the literature and the intrinsically low Seebeck coefficient (S) hinder the practical applications. Herein, this study has for the first time systematically investigated the TE properties of neat Ti3C2Tx films, which are finely modulated by exploiting different dispersing solvents, controlling nanosheet sizes and constructing composites. First, deionized water is found to be superior for obtaining closely packed MXene sheets relative to other polar solvents. Second, a simultaneous increase in both S and σ is realized via elevating centrifugal speed on MXene aqueous suspensions to obtain small-sized nanosheets, thus yielding an ultrahigh power factor up to ~156 μW m−1 K−2. Third, S is significantly enhanced yet accompanied by a reduction in σ when constructing MXene-based nanocomposites, the latter of which is originated from the damage to the intimate stackings of MXene nanosheets. Together, a correlation between the TE properties of neat Ti3C2Tx films and the stacking of nanosheets is elucidated, which would stimulate further exploration of MXene TEs.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01536-9
The incidence of large bone defects caused by traumatic injury is increasing worldwide, and the tissue regeneration process requires a long recovery time due to limited self-healing capability. Endogenous bioelectrical phenomena have been well recognized as critical biophysical factors in bone remodeling and regeneration. Inspired by bioelectricity, electrical stimulation has been widely considered an external intervention to induce the osteogenic lineage of cells and enhance the synthesis of the extracellular matrix, thereby accelerating bone regeneration. With ongoing advances in biomaterials and energy-harvesting techniques, electroactive biomaterials and self-powered systems have been considered biomimetic approaches to ensure functional recovery by recapitulating the natural electrophysiological microenvironment of healthy bone tissue. In this review, we first introduce the role of bioelectricity and the endogenous electric field in bone tissue and summarize different techniques to electrically stimulate cells and tissue. Next, we highlight the latest progress in exploring electroactive hybrid biomaterials as well as self-powered systems such as triboelectric and piezoelectric-based nanogenerators and photovoltaic cell-based devices and their implementation in bone tissue engineering. Finally, we emphasize the significance of simulating the target tissue’s electrophysiological microenvironment and propose the opportunities and challenges faced by electroactive hybrid biomaterials and self-powered bioelectronics for bone repair strategies.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01520-3
Plasmonic nanoantennas provide unique opportunities for precise control of light–matter coupling in surface-enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA) spectroscopy, but most of the resonant systems realized so far suffer from the obstacles of low sensitivity, narrow bandwidth, and asymmetric Fano resonance perturbations. Here, we demonstrated an overcoupled resonator with a high plasmon-molecule coupling coefficient (μ) (OC-Hμ resonator) by precisely controlling the radiation loss channel, the resonator-oscillator coupling channel, and the frequency detuning channel. We observed a strong dependence of the sensing performance on the coupling state, and demonstrated that OC-Hμ resonator has excellent sensing properties of ultra-sensitive (7.25% nm−1), ultra-broadband (3–10 μm), and immune asymmetric Fano lineshapes. These characteristics represent a breakthrough in SEIRA technology and lay the foundation for specific recognition of biomolecules, trace detection, and protein secondary structure analysis using a single array (array size is 100×100 µm2). In addition, with the assistance of machine learning, mixture classification, concentration prediction and spectral reconstruction were achieved with the highest accuracy of 100%. Finally, we demonstrated the potential of OC-Hμ resonator for SARS-CoV-2 detection. These findings will promote the wider application of SEIRA technology, while providing new ideas for other enhanced spectroscopy technologies, quantum photonics and studying light–matter interactions.