International Journal of Nanoelectronics and Materials (IJNeaM)
IJNeaM aims to publish original work of importance in the fields of nanoscience and engineering. Topics covered including Theoretical, Simulation, Synthesis, Design and Fabrication of Nanomaterials and Nanodevices; Metals, Insulators, and Semiconductors with a focus on Electronic, Structural, Magnetic, Optical, Thermal, Transport, Mechanical and other properties for the specialists in Engineering, Chemistry, Physics and Materials Science. IJNeaM accepts submission in the form of Reviews, Research Articles, Short Communications, and selected conference papers.
Impact of Argon Flow Rate on Electrical and Optical Properties of Al-doped ZnO Thin Films with Insight into Ti/Al Ohmic Behaviors to n-ZnO
This study explores the impact of Ar flow rate on the electrical and optical properties of Al-doped ZnO thin films and the performance of Ti/Al Ohmic contacts to n-ZnO films. Al-doped ZnO thin films were deposited on glass substrates using a tri-axis RF sputtering system under varying Ar flow rates (30–80 sccm). Electrical properties, including resistivity, carrier concentration, and mobility, were evaluated using Hall measurements, while optical transmittance was analyzed through UV-visible spectroscopy. The resistivity decreased with increasing Ar flow rate, achieving a minimum of 9.74×10−4 Ω⋅cm at 80 sccm, alongside improved mobility and carrier concentration due to enhanced film morphology and crystallinity. We have obtained that the optical transmittance values are between 75% and 80% and we know this as a blue shift phenomenon that occurs at the UV absorption edge due to the Burstein-Moss effect. It is seen that there is an almost ideal behavior in the Ti/Al Ohmic contact, with a specific contact resistivity as low as 1.8×10−5 Ω⋅cm2 in 15 nm Ti layers. We can conclude the importance of optimizing sputtering parameters on film properties for solar cell and optoelectronic device applications. Thus, we conclude that there is an interaction between deposition conditions and material performance to improve electrical conductivity and high transparency in Al-doped ZnO films.
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The Arc Current Effect on the Structure and Resistance of Nanoparticles
This study investigates the influence of arc discharge current on the morphological, electrical, and plasma characteristics of carbon nanoparticles synthesized via submerged plasma arc discharge in deionized water. Arc currents of 40 A, 70 A, and 100 A were applied to graphite electrodes, and the resulting nanostructures were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), current-voltage (I–V) electrical measurements, and ionization energy analysis derived from time-resolved arc current behavior. The findings demonstrate that increasing the arc current significantly alters the morphology of the carbon products, transitioning from predominantly spherical carbon nano-onions (CNOs) at 40 A to multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at 100 A. Concurrently, I–V characterization reveals an increasing trend in electrical resistance, rising from ~20 kΩ at 40 A to ~90 kΩ at 100 A, suggesting a strong correlation between nanostructure geometry and macroscopic conductivity. Ionization energy distributions derived from arc current dynamics further reveal a transition from continuous energy profiles at 40 A to highly discrete peaks at 100 A, indicating a shift in plasma species and energy transfer mechanisms. These discrete ionization profiles at higher currents are proposed to facilitate anisotropic carbon growth, favoring CNT formation through directed energy delivery and ion-assisted crystallization. This work elucidates the coupled roles of arc current, plasma behavior, and nanoparticle morphology in determining the structure and electrical properties of carbon nanomaterials synthesized via arc discharge.
Development of Homogenous n-ZnO/TiO₂ Thin Film Dual-Layer Structure Utilizing the Spin-Coating Technique
Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films have recently garnered attention as promising inorganic semiconductor materials in thin-film photovoltaic applications. Aside from a single layer, a combination of TiO₂ and ZnO layers has been studied since both materials have enormous potential in optical applications. This paper demonstrated deposition of n-ZnO/TiO₂ dual-layer thin films utilizing the sol-gel deposition via spin coating. One of the important steps for n-ZnO/TiO₂ dual-layer thin film to undergo the recrystallization process is the annealing treatment to produce a high-quality thin film. By varying different annealing temperatures, the optimal annealing setting for n-ZnO/TiO₂ dual-layer thin film was 500 °Ⅽ for 2 hours. For structural properties, high intensity with preferred oriented n-(002)ZnO/(101)TiO₂ dual-layer thin film was achieved, showing anatase phase for TiO₂ and hexagonal wurtzite structure for ZnO. A compact, dense, and uniform surface morphology was observed for the n-ZnO/TiO₂ dual-layer thin film. The thickness was 266 nm for TiO₂ and 233 nm for the ZnO layer. The transmittance spectrum has also been achieved up to 70% at a wavelength of 400 nm. After the extrapolated plot, the band gap energy evaluated was 3.15 eV. In summary, the solar cell performance benefited from annealing treatment in refining the characteristics of the thin film.
Rapid Detection of Chlorothalonil Fungicide Using Anisotropic Gold Nanoparticles Plasmonic Sensor
Anisotropic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are well-known for their remarkable optical properties, particularly their dual-band surface plasmon resonance (SPR) behaviour. In this study, we harnessed these unique features to develop a rapid fungicide detection system. The sensing approach relies on monitoring changes in the intensity and position of the SPR peaks, with the absorbance spectrum serving as the primary detection signal. Upon light exposure, the sensor could detect chlorothalonil in at least three seconds. Notably, chlorothalonil alone does not produce significant SPR peaks; however, when combined with AuNPs, two distinct SPR bands emerge, corresponding to the transverse (t-SPR) and longitudinal (l-SPR) resonance modes. As chlorothalonil concentration increases, the absorbance intensity of the AuNPs also rises, likely due to an increase in refractive index around the nanoparticles. Stability assessments revealed minimal variation in SPR peak values, which were consistently recorded at 1.30 ± 0.00001 and 1.18 ± 0.00001 a.u. over a 600-second period. In repeatability tests, the sensor demonstrated dependable performance across six measurement cycles, with the signal reliably returning to baseline after each medium change. The AuNPs exhibited a fast optical response, reaching maximum spectral shifts within 30 seconds. These findings underscore the potential of anisotropic AuNPs as an effective platform for rapid, consistent, and sensitive detection of fungicides.
Correlation of Target and Substrate Rotation Speeds on the Growth of Aluminum Nitride Thin Film Using an Industrial-Grade Sputtering System
Aluminum Nitride (AlN) thin films are widely used in microelectronics, piezoelectric sensors, and high-power devices because of their good electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Among various deposition methods, radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering is considered advantageous due to its ability to fabricate homogeneous, high-quality layers with strong adhesion. However, achieving optimal film properties in large-scale deposition, particularly with industrial-grade 12-inch sputtering targets, requires precise control over process parameters, including target and substrate rotation. While rotation dynamics significantly influence film thickness, surface topology, and crystallinity properties, their effects in large-area deposition remain insufficiently explored. This study examines how target/substrate rotation speeds (10/5, 15/5, 0/0, 5/5, 10/10, 5/10, and 5/15 rpm) affect the film thickness, surface topology, and crystallinity characteristics of AlN thin films. The results show that balanced rotation, especially at 10/10 rpm, produces films with superior thickness uniformity and crystallinity, making it optimal for large-area AlN deposition. Therefore, these findings offer valuable insights into improving AlN film quality for larger wafer sizes in industrial applications.
Kinetics and Reduction Mechanism from The Carboiodination Reaction of Ilmenite Ore with Different Carbon Reductants
The extraction of titanium (Ti) from ilmenite (FeTiO₃) using carboiodination offers a potential method for selective and environmental green processing, especially when employing renewable carbon sources. This study examines the reduction behaviour and kinetics of ilmenite using carboiodination, with graphite and palm-based char serving as the carbonaceous reductants. The experimental procedure was conducted in a vertical tube furnace maintained at 1000 °C under an inert argon atmosphere to ensure controlled reaction conditions. The reaction kinetic analysis was calculated based on first-order kinetic reduction from the gas produced [ carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2)] during the reduction process by the gas analyser, while Scanning Electron Microscopy/ Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM/ EDS) analysed the reduction mechanism. Palm char (PC-I) obtained the greatest reaction rate constant (0.002298 moles/s) and yielded 35.7 mass% Ti at 1000 °C, contrary to graphite (G-I), which produced 27.6 mass% Ti. The carboiodination reaction involves the formation of volatile titanium tetraiodide (TiI₄) via the reaction of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) with carbon (C) and iodine (I₂). PC-I’s enhanced performance compared to G-I is attributed to its high surface area, porosity, and catalytic mineral content, which facilitate redox reactions and lower activation energy. The findings indicate palm char’s promise as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based reductants in ilmenite reduction.
Towards Sustainable Concrete: Performance of Eco-Cement with Agricultural and Industrial Waste Materials
The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, largely due to the widespread use of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). This study investigates the potential of eco-cement produced by replacing agricultural and industrial waste materials as a sustainable alternative to customary cement. The performance of eco-cement partially replaced by Rice Husk Ash (RHA) (agricultural waste) and waste glass particles (industrial waste) was evaluated in terms of compressive strength, water absorption, porosity, and environmental impact. The results highlighted that the control sample consistently achieved impressive compressive strength up to 21.88 MPa, particularly during the early age of curing. However, the involvement of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) demonstrated slightly slow strength gain for most of the curing age. Among the SCMs, OPC/RHA evaluated samples demonstrate the most reliable and remarkable improvement for all assessed criteria, indicating an acceptable durability, followed by OPC/Waste Glass Powder (WGP) and OPC/All samples. For the sustainability assessment, the incorporation of RHA and WGP resulted in a decline in CO2 emissions, with OPC/WGP presenting a noticeable potential for CO2 savings of 4.4%. The study reveals that the combination of RHA and WGP in eco-cement is able to develop good compressive strength and minimising the environmental footprint of concrete production. Overall, this study supports the use of eco-cement as a sustainable construction material, offering both performance advantages and a major decrease in environmental impact compared to traditional cement production.
Hexagonal Boron Nitride (hBN) and Cordierite in Epoxy Underfill Materials: Single Filler System
As electronic devices become increasingly powerful and compact, the materials used for packaging must withstand high thermal and mechanical stress. Epoxy underfill materials are essential in providing thermal conductivity, mechanical reinforcement, and electrical insulation. However, differences in thermal expansion among silicon chips, solder joints, and substrates can cause failures over time. This research investigates the enhancement of epoxy composites through the addition of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and cordierite fillers to improve their mechanical, thermal, and dielectric properties. Composites were prepared with filler loadings ranging from 0 to 9 vol%, utilising mechanical stirring and ultrasonic dispersion, with diethyl toluene diamine (DETDA) serving as the hardener. The study evaluated properties such as viscosity, flexural strength, fracture toughness, thermal conductivity and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), thermal stability, and dielectric behavior. Testing was performed using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), KD2 Pro thermal analyzer, Linseis L75 dilatometer, NDJ-9S viscometer, and an LCR meter. Results indicated that hBN fillers significantly increased thermal conductivity, reaching up to 0.340 W/m·K at 9 vol% loading, while cordierite fillers improved mechanical strength, achieving a maximum flexural strength of approximately 119.91 MPa. Higher filler contents led to increased viscosity, with hBN composites demonstrating notably higher viscosity than cordierite-based systems. These findings suggest that hBN is more suitable for thermal management, whereas cordierite offers better structural reinforcement. Overall, the study highlights the critical role of filler selection in customising epoxy composites for advanced electronic packaging applications.
Effect of TiC Nanoparticles Deposition on UNS S31803 Surface Using Tungsten Arc Melting Method
This study focused on the application of nanoceramic particles in reinforcing the surface properties of UNS S31803 steel through the deposition of titanium carbide (TiC) nanoparticles of 5 nm and 10 nm using the tungsten arc melting process. Despite the advantages of UNS S31803, its soft material and low wear resistance are significant disadvantages to its application in engineering. The objective is to determine how various melting processes affect the composite coating layer in terms of hardness and wear resistance. The process involved precise control over tungsten arc melting conditions, with a constant arcing current of 140 A and pulse frequencies of 15, 20, and 25 Hz to achieve a nanoparticle dispersion and distribution. Microstructure, hardness, and wear behavior were analyzed by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) analyzer, Vickers micro-hardness testing, and reciprocating wear tests. The results indicate that 5 nm TiC nanoparticles, which were treated at 140 A using 25 Hz, achieved the best results with a high element composition of 91.6%, maximum microhardness value of 415.96 Hv, and minimum wear rate of 1.01 x 10-5 mm3/Nm with shallow surface grooves. The present work makes significant contributions to industries that would wish to improve the durability of wear resistant components since it makes a contribution to improvements in sustainability and material science.
Development and Preliminary Analysis of 3D Printing Filament from Post-consumer Polypropylene
In the past few years, many researchers have focused on using recycled or post-consumer materials in three-dimensional (3D) printing, which leads to better plastic waste management and sustainable practices. This study focuses on the fabrication of post-consumer polypropylene (rPP) filaments for use in the most common 3D printing method, fused filament fabrication (FFF). The rPP filaments were prepared by blending injection-grade rPP (i-rPP) and extrusion-grade rPP (e-rPP) at various ratios. The effect of different rPP grade ratios on filament diameter consistency, filament ovality, and melt flow index (MFI) was measured. The various ratios of i-rPP to e-rPP, such as 100:0, 40:60, 50:50, 60:40, and 0:100, were prepared. The 50:50 ratio was found as the starting point for achieving a consistent filament diameter. The MFI results showed that the MFI decreases when more e-rPP is incorporated in the blend. The tensile properties of 3D printed 50:50 rPP blend are also measured and compared with commercial PP. Overall, this research exhibits the potential of upcycling PP waste materials into functional filaments for sustainable 3D printing applications.
The Stress Analysis of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Nanocube Using Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) stands as a significant polymer, recognised for its unique combination of mechanical attributes, processing friendliness, and chemical stability [1]. The present study focuses on the use of molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to study the mechanical response of PMMA nanostructures to uniaxial tensile loading as an initial step to understanding the mechanisms of deformation, assessing the mechanical stability, and describing the tensile behaviour of PMMA at the nanoscale. To examine thermodynamic equilibrium, NVT—and NPT equilibria (NVT: number of particles, volume, and temperature; NPT: number of particles, pressure, and temperature) equilibrium simulations were performed along with deformation molecular configuration energy minimisation to ensure stable molecular configurations. These analyses were necessary for the advancement of PMMA to accommodate new flexible electronics, biomedical devices, and other nanotechnology systems. The nanostructures were designed in JMOL and PACKMOL software, and the simulation was executed in LAMMPS using the COMPASS force field. Structural stability was ensured by performing energy minimisation and equilibrating prior to tensile loading at 300 K and 1 atm under both NVT and NPT conditions. The findings show that PMMA nanostructures with greater aspect ratios show greater elongation under tension. The sequential stress–strain data contained separate and distinct regions of elastic and plastic deformation, which also helped to elucidate the mechanics of the material at the nanoscale and the constraints thereof. The mechanical performance of the studied PMMA nanostructures, when compared to bulk PMMA and other polymer nanostructures, was also superior and can be linked to the mechanical properties of the nanostructured morphology. This study enhances the knowledge of the PMMA in tension and provides a basis for the design and refinement of new advanced nanostructured polymeric materials. These findings should contribute to the fabrication of flexible electronics with greater durability, biomedical devices, and other applications in nanotechnology.
Characterization of SnO₂ Nanoparticles via Morinda citrifolia Leaf Extract
This study reports the use of Morinda citrifolia leaf extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the green synthesis of tin oxide nanoparticles (SnO₂ NPs). Extract concentrations of 1:1, 1:3, 1:5, 1:7, and 1:10 were examined for the influence on the structural, optical, and chemical properties. XRD, FTIR, UV-DRS, and XPS were employed for characterization. XRD examination showed a tetragonal rutile structure with different crystalline extent, maximum at 1:3 extract ratio. Meanwhile, the formation of Sn-O-Sn and Sn-OH functional groups was verified by FTIR. UV-DRS revealed that the optical properties were tunable, ranging from 3.17 to 3.71 eV, and this depended on the extract concentration. XPS characterization of the optimal low-band-gap sample (1:10) confirmed the presence of Sn⁴⁺ and lattice oxygen. The study demonstrates that extract concentration significantly affects properties of SnO₂ NPs, highlighting the potential of M. citrifolia for eco-friendly nanoparticle synthesis.
A Comparative Study of Fused Filament Fabrication Using Recycled Polystyrene and Commercial High-Impact Polystyrene
Discarded expanded polystyrene (EPS) poses significant environmental challenges due to its accumulation in landfills and resistance to degradation. Upcycling EPS into 3D-printable recycled polystyrene (rPS) filament for use in fused filament fabrication (FFF) shows a promising sustainable solution. This study explores the mechanical recycling of EPS into rPS resin, which is then extruded into 3D-printable filament using a 3DEVO filament maker. A key focus is on studying the filament’s properties and the properties of its printed specimen. Filament diameter was monitored in real-time during extrusion using DevoVision software. The results showed that the rPS filament achieved an average diameter of 1.75 mm with a standard deviation of ±0.03 mm when extruded at 200 °C. Extrusion at temperatures above 200 °C resulted in filament diameters exceeding 1.75 mm. Specimens printed with rPS filament exhibited higher tensile strength, tensile modulus, and elongation at break, but lower impact strength compared to those printed with commercial high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) filament. Micrographs show that HIPS is a more ductile material, which contributes to its better impact strength. However, due to poor layer adhesion during printing, it exhibited lower tensile properties. The onset and maximum decomposition temperature of rPS did not show a significant change during the recycling process from EPS to filament. The onset decomposition temperature was above printing temperature, thus it did not limit the use of rPS for FFF printing applications. Despite HIPS displaying greater thermal stability, rPS still demonstrates strong potential as a sustainable printing material, and its applications include printing prototypes and serving as a support material in 3D printing, since it can be dissolved in acetone.
Enhanced Tribological and Thermal Performance of CNC–Al₂O₃ Hybrid Nanolubricant for Internal Combustion Engines: A Comprehensive Stability–Thermophysical–Tribological Assessment
This experiment investigates the stability, thermophysical, and tribological characteristics of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC), aluminum oxide (Al2O3), and hybrid CNC-Al2O3 nanolubricants as additives in SAE 40 engine oil for internal combustion engine applications. Stability assessments were conducted through zeta potential analysis at various concentrations (0.01% to 0.05%) and temperatures (30°C to 90°C). The hybrid CNC-Al2O3 nanolubricants demonstrated excellent dispersion stability with zeta potential values exceeding 150 mV at optimal concentrations. Thermophysical property analysis revealed that dynamic viscosity increased significantly, with the hybrid system showing a 56% enhancement at 0.03% concentration and 30°C. The tribological testing revealed a remarkable 78.6% reduction in the coefficient of friction at a 0.01% concentration and an optimal specific wear rate of 0.016 mm³/Nm at a 0.05% concentration. These synergistic improvements in stability, thermophysical, and tribological properties demonstrate the CNC–Al₂O₃ hybrid’s significant potential to enhance efficiency, durability, and heat management in internal combustion engines, offering a novel, high-performance alternative to conventional lubricant additives.
Shape and Size Dependent Sensing Enhancement by Gold Nanomaterials
Gold nanomaterials (GNs) of different shapes (nanospheres, nanorods, nanostars) and sizes exhibit properties to enhance the surface area. The surface plasmon resonance of GNs can be tuned by changing their shape and size, which affects the binding efficiency of target antigen and antibody interaction. The shape of GNs can also affect the orientation of attached antibodies and antigens, leading to improved specificity in sensing platforms. This study has investigated the morphological and optical properties of GNs, evaluated the impact of different sizes and shapes on ELISA surfaces, and optimized the conditions to enhance the sensitivity. The morphology and optical properties of GNs were studied using a 3D nanoprofiler and, UV-Visible spectrophotometer. Gold nanospheres (GNPs) with 10, 15 and 30 nm, nanorods with 500,700 and 980 nm, and gold nanostars with 60 nm were employed. Smaller GNPs may have higher binding capacities due to their increased surface area to volume ratio. The height and roughness of anti-spike protein antibody morphology increased when 10 nm GNPs were added, demonstrating attachment between spike-antibody molecules and GNPs. The attained limit of detection (LOD) is 1 pM, where the limit of quantification (LOQ) is 10 pM. Gold nanospheres and nanostars behave better than nanorods and provide good LOD and LOQ.
Sensors for Polystyrene Nanoplastics Detection in Water Samples
Polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) are increasingly discovered in aquatic ecosystems, posing ecological and human health problems. Identifying PS-NPs in complex environmental matrices remains difficult due to their small dimension, chemical passiveness, and the existence of background interferences. Recent improvements in sensor and biosensor technologies have shown promise for improving the sensitivity, selectivity and portability of PS-NPs detection systems. However, maintaining high detection accuracy while minimizing false signals and matrix interferences remains a significant challenge. Limited selectivity, sensor fouling, and a lack of standardization across detection platforms add to the complexity of analysis. To improve recognition performance, several ways have been investigated, including surface functionalization, nanomaterial immobilization and substrate modification. These strategies seek to overcome limitations in sensitivity, repeatability, and environmental applicability. As a result, more advanced sensor platforms capable of detecting low concentrations in real time are urgently needed. This study highlights recent research on sensor and biosensor technologies used to detect PS-NPs, with a focus on the integration of nanomaterials and molecular recognition elements. Literature from ScienceDirect and IEEE Xplore indexed journals until June 2025 was reviewed. The findings indicate that hybrid sensor systems, particularly those employing plasmonic nanoparticles and functionalized nanostructures, are at the forefront of PS-NPs detection research. To find novel sensing methodologies, this review examines current technologies and compares their merits using recent case studies and performance analysis.
Rajapaksha Dewage Asanka Amith Rajapaksha
Unintended Catalysis and Defect Formation in Electroless Metallization of Semiconductor Wafers
Owing to the advantages like minimized material waste and green streamlined process, additive metallization has grown as an attractive technique in semiconductor fabrication. Still, reliability issues such as the formation of metallic nodules prevent its widespread use. To date, the formation mechanism of these metallic nodules remains unclear. In this study, a comprehensive formation mechanism of metallic nodules on electroless-plated wafers was investigated using a thorough physical failure analysis (PFA). Optical microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), focused ion beam (FIB) cross-sectioning, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were among the analytic techniques used to reveal that the nodules (mainly composed of Ni and Pd) are loosely adhered to the passivation layer. Metal oxide residues were identified as potential catalytic sites for unintended metal deposition by EDX line scan after the delayering process. A formation mechanism of nodules is proposed, which includes the leftover of metal residue during the physical vapour deposition (PVD) etching process, oxidation of metal residue and autocatalytic deposition using electroless plating. A potential mitigation strategy, which is ultrasonic, was proven to be effective in dislodging the nodules upon formation. These results provide valuable insight into preventing defect formation and streamlining the electroless metallization for cutting-edge semiconductor applications.
Liquid Silicone Rubber as Secondary Matrix in Epoxy/Graphene Nano-Platelets (GNP) Conductive Materials
Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) were employed as conductive fillers in an epoxy/liquid silicone rubber (LSR) system, with a range of filler loadings from 5 vol.% to 20 vol.%. An investigation was carried out to assess the mechanical, electrical, and thermal stability properties. At low GNP loading (0.2 vol.%), a notable enhancement in the toughness of epoxy/LSR/GNP system was observed. At high GNP loading (0.8 vol.%), the toughness and flexural properties were slightly reduced, but there was a dramatic increase in electrical conductivity. The epoxy system with 5 vol.% of LSR and 0.8 vol.% of GNP had better mechanical properties but lower electrical conductivity compared to the epoxy system with 20 vol.% of LSR and 0.8 vol.% of GNP. Moreover, the epoxy/LSR/GNP system exhibited superior thermal stability compared to the pure epoxy. The incorporation of GNP nano-fillers in the epoxy/LSR system resulted in an improvement in mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.
Melt Behavior of Soil-Buried Polypropylene/Polylactic Acid Blends Reinforced with Kenaf Particles
The increasing demand for sustainable materials has intensified research into the flow behavior of biodegradable polymer blends reinforced with natural fillers such as kenaf particles. Understanding their rheological performance, especially after environmental exposure like soil burial, is crucial for optimizing polymer processing and for recycling purposes. Thus, this study was set up to investigate the flow behavior of polypropylene (PP)/polylactic acid (PLA) blends filled with kenaf particles before and after the soil burial testing. The polymer blends were formulated with PP/PLA ratios of 90/10 and 70/30, incorporating 5 and 10 phr of kenaf particles. The compounding process was carried out using a heated two-roll mill at 190 °C. Meanwhile, the rheological behavior was evaluated using the melt flow index (MFI) and a capillary rheometer to examine the effects of soil degradation and aging on the prepared blends and composites. After 3 months of soil burial, the MFI of the 90/10 blend decreased from 2.23 to 2.01 g/min, suggesting the formation of crosslinked structures, possibly due to the presence of ethylene copolymer segments in the PP chains. In contrast, the 70/30/10 composite exhibited a substantial increase in MFI, from 3.34 to 5.50 g/10 min, indicating significant PLA degradation caused by polymer chain scission, which led to an increased fraction of low molecular weight PLA. A similar trend was observed in the apparent viscosity (napp) of the 70/30/10 composite that showed a consistent decline ofter 3 months of soil degradation period. This was further supported by a reduction in extrudate die swell, confirming molecular weight loss due to chain scission during soil burial. Overall, the results suggest that a higher content of kenaf particles in PP/PLA blends accelerates the composites degradation under soil burial conditions. This is attributed to the water retention capability of incorporated kenaf particle, which promotes hydrolysis and consequently causing molecular weight reduction for the PLA chain during the degradation process.
Development and Characterisation of Nano Bioplastic Infused with Lemongrass Essential Oil for Fruit Packaging Application
In the present research, bioplastic films based on polylactic acid (PLA) were developed for food packaging applications. Food packaging protects food from environmental factors and extends its shelf life by preventing chemical and microbiological contamination. Notably, the limitation of PLA in brittleness was improved by incorporating nanoclay as a filler. To enhance the antimicrobial activity of the bioplastic films, lemongrass essential oil (NBLG) was infused into the solution. The nano bioplastic infused with NBLG films was evaluated for antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The results reveal that NBLG films exhibited antimicrobial properties, especially against S. aureus, with an inhibition zone of 18.40 mm. The NBLG film was then used as plastic packaging for red grapes, and the quality of the grapes was assessed on day 1, day 7, and day 14 of storage. Interestingly, on day 14, grapes packed with NBLG film were observed to have less physical deterioration, and their weight was 14.55% higher compared to those packed with control PLA film, which demonstrated a 46.70% weight reduction from their initial weight. At the same time, the fruit firmness decreased by 37.5% and 17.4% for grapes packed with PLA and NBLG film, respectively. Overall, it was asserted that PLA bioplastic filled with nanoclay and infused with NBLG can be used as an alternative, eco-friendly packaging with antimicrobial properties to increase the shelf life of packed fruit.
Investigation on Properties of Carbon Black/Lignin Filled NR/BR Composites Influenced by Silane Coupling Agents
In this investigation, we explore the impact of silane coupling agents on the characteristics of composites comprising bis-(3-triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide (TESPT), 3-octanoyl-thiopropyl-triethoxy (NXT), and triethoxy (vinyl) (VTEO) with carbon black and lignin. The study delves into the role of these silane coupling agents, specifically focusing on their influence on the properties of the NR/BR composites filled with carbon black and lignin. TESPT, NXT, and VTEO were employed to enhance compatibility between an incompatible polar filler and non-polar rubber, forming a bridge between the filler and the rubber matrix during the mixing and vulcanization processes, thereby contributing to the improved performance of bio-filler-filled rubber compounds. The amounts of silane coupling agents added were in the range of 2-10 wt.% based on the lignin content to assess the optimum amount for interfacial bonding, rheological, and mechanical performance. A slight improvement has been observed in curing behavior, resulting in a shorter optimum cure time with the incorporation of TESPT and enhanced scorch safety with the inclusion of NXT in CB/lignin-filled NR/BR composites. Meanwhile, hardness values of the compounds with TESPT display higher values and thus higher crosslink density than NXT and VTEO compounds. The findings demonstrated the benefits of utilizing TESPT, NXT, and VTEO as effective silane coupling agents between CB/lignin fillers and rubber.
Mechanical and Electrical Behavior of PLA Composites with Various Carbon Black Concentrations
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a promising biodegradable polymer with low carbon footprint, yet its brittleness and absence of electrical properties limit its applicability in functional contexts. To address these limitations, a study was done by incorporate recycled carbon black (CB) a sustainable and conductive filler into the PLA matrix at loading of 0,1,2 and 3 wt.%. The composites were produced using melt-mixing and 3D printing Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), thereafter examining for mechanical, electrical and biodegradation properties. The result indicated that the recycled-CB markedly enhanced tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and hardness, with optimal reinforcement occurring at 2 wt.% due to efficient filler dispersion. Electrical conductivity exhibited a marked rise with the recycled CB content, where it reached a maximum at 3 wt.% due to the formation of percolation networks. Nevertheless, the increase in recycled-CB loading lowered the biodegradation rate by restricting water absorption and microbiological activity. The 2 wt% CB composites proved to be the optimal balance, providing robust mechanical properties, moderate conductivity and retained though slowed biodegradability. The finding of this study indicates that recycled CB can transform pure PLA into multifunctional material suitable for sustainable and biodegradable packaging for electrical while applying environmentally responsible engineering.
Optimizing BaTiO3 Content in Flexible PVDF Films for Enhanced Piezoelectric Nanogenerator Performance
This study addresses the underutilized potential of harvesting mechanical energy from routine human activities, while also addressing environmental and flexibility concerns associated with conventional lead-based piezoelectric materials. With the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions, lead-free piezoelectric technologies have emerged as a promising alternative, particularly in the development of flexible nanogenerators. In this study, the flexible PVDF/BaTiO₃ composite films fabricated via drop casting with varying BaTiO₃ filler loadings (1 wt%, 3 wt%, and 5 wt%) were analyzed for their influence on piezoelectric performance. Characterization techniques included contact angle analysis, FESEM, XRD, FTIR, and piezoelectric output. Results showed that 1 wt% BaTiO₃ yielded the highest output voltage (8.24 V), attributed to optimal β-phase formation. However, loadings beyond 3 wt% led to void formation and particle agglomeration, reducing β-phase crystallinity and overall performance. These findings demonstrate that controlled BaTiO₃ loading enhances piezoelectric performance while promoting environmental safety and device flexibility.
The Effects of Temperature on CO2 Corrosion of Mild Steel in 3.5 wt.% NaCl: Corrosion Rate, Surface Morphology, and Phase Characterisation
CO2 corrosion of mild steel constitutes a significant integrity threat within hydrocarbon transport systems. This work comparatively investigates the temperature-dependent corrosion behaviour of mild steel in CO₂-saturated and CO₂-free environments through weight loss test, surface morphology, and phase characterisation. Mild steel samples were exposed to two media, which are CO2-rich 3.5% NaCl solution and CO2-free 3.5% NaCl solution at 25°C, 40°C, 60°C, and 80°C for 7 days. Morphology changes, microstructure of corrosion products, cross sections, and phase characterisation were analysed using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), optical microscope (OM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results from weight loss tests found that an increase in temperature resulted in an accelerated corrosion rate. However, in a CO2 environment, a decrease in corrosion rate was observed at higher temperatures, attributed to the emergence of protective layers. FESEM images revealed that mild steel in a CO2 environment underwent uniform corrosion, whereas localised corrosion was observed in the absence of CO2. The corrosion scales thickened with increasing temperature in both media; however, the development of a protective carbonate layer in the CO₂ environment inhibited further deposition, leading to a thinner final layer. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of siderite, hematite, and ferrous hydroxide in a CO2 environment, while cementite, hematite, and ferric oxyhydroxide were identified in a non-CO2 environment. These findings suggest that while temperature initially accelerates sweet corrosion, the emergence of a compact FeCO3 scale above 60°C transitions the behaviour to partial protection, guiding the developing temperature-dependent mitigation strategies and the application of nano-enabled monitoring in CO2-rich pipeline environments.
Engku Sofiyyah Hanan Engku Omar Amiruddin
Lead-Free BCZT-PDMS Piezoelectric Energy Harvester
This article presents the synthesis and characterisation of lead-free BCZT (Ba₀.₈₅Ca₀.₁₅Ti₀.₉Zr₀.₁O₃) nanopowder produced by the solid-state reaction technique, employing between four to five cycles of grounding to enhance crystallinity. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) verified that grounding the materials five times yielded a highly crystalline BCZT with a cubic perovskite structure. The BCZT powder was filled into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix at different weight percentages (1%, 3%, 5%, and 10%) to investigate the performance in terms of piezoelectric coefficient and generated voltage. The BCZT-PDMS composites displayed an amorphous form attributable to the polymer matrix. While preserving the functional piezoelectric characteristics of the ceramic filler, the result shows that the 10% wt sample exhibits a higher d33 measurement with 45 pC/N, which increased approximately 50% compared to 5% wt. Furthermore, the performance was assessed using d₃₃ measurements and voltage production during mechanical excitation, utilising a solenoid with a constant force of 2 N and a frequency of 10 Hz. The findings indicated that the piezoelectric generates voltage well with BCZT-PDMS composite with 10 wt%, yielding a maximum output voltage of 8 V. Finally, the capability of BCZT-PDMS to harvest energy has been presented in this paper.
Electrical Performance Evaluation Based on Design Parameters of Silicon Nanowire Gate-All-Around (GAA) TFET
The silicon nanowire gate-all-around (SiNW GAA) is one of the technologies with potential for improved short-channel behavior and gate control over conductivity. This work investigates the impact of various geometrical sizes on the electrical properties of SiNW GAA tunneling field-effect transistor (TFET). The gate oxide thickness (TOX), channel radius, type of dielectric, gate metal work function, with low or high drain voltage are varied to analyze the electrical characteristics of SiNW GAA TFET. The electrical characteristics studied in this work consist of subthreshold slope (SS), current ratio, and threshold voltage (Vth). The findings indicate that an oxide thickness of 3 nm, a channel radius ranging from 10 nm to 18 nm, and the use of SiO2 as a dielectric material are optimal for achieving superior characteristics in SiNW GAA TFETs.. The gate metal TiN exhibits a work function that, in conjunction with a drain voltage of 0.5 V, optimally enhances device performance. This study highlights the potential of GAA nanowire TFETs to drive innovation in semiconductor technology through superior electrical performance.
Comparative Analysis of Bovine Serum Albumin Detection Using Cuvettes, 1 Biofunctionalized, and Non-Biofunctionalized Tapered Optical Fiber
Advances in optical sensor technologies have been substantial in recent years, especially in the detection of biomolecules like Bovine 24 Serum Albumin (BSA), driven by the need for more sensitive and precise diagnostic tools. The detection of BSA plays a critical role, 25 particularly in the early diagnostic tools for chronic kidney disease. This work aims to investigate the performance of three different BSA 26 detection methods: biofunctionalized and non-biofunctionalized tapered optical fiber sensors and conventional cuvettes. This study 27 conducted an experimental investigation, utilizing a 3.5 ml cuvette and tapered optical fibers with design parameters including upper 28 and lower taper lengths of 10 mm, a waist length of 10 mm, and a waist diameter of 10 μm. The sensors were fabricated using the Vytran 29 GPX 3400 machine. Measurements of time response, intensity, and absorbance were carried out using a Deuterium-Tungsten DT-2-GS 30 light source and an Ocean Optics Flame spectrometer. The biofunctionalization of the sensing area involved three sequential steps: 31 hydroxylation with a 0.1M sodium hydroxide solution, salinization with a 2% (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane solution, and aldehyde 32 activation using a 2% glutaraldehyde solution. The experiment used 120 ml of BSA solutions at concentrations of 31.25 mg/dL, 62.5 33 mg/dL, and 125 mg/dL. Each method exhibits a unique spectral response across the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared regions. Both 34 intensity and absorbance assessments reveal a significant reduction in sensitivity when transitioning from the cuvette to the tapered 35 optical fiber. Notably, the sensitivity decreases by 99.96% for intensity measurements and by 97.76% for absorbance. Nonetheless, after 36 biofunctionalization, the tapered optical fiber's sensitivity increased, showing a 207.1% increase in absorbance and a 1494.72% increase 37 in intensity measurements compared to the non-biofunctionalized tapered optical fiber.
Structural, Electrical and Piezoelectric Properties of Ba1-xNdxTiO3 Ceramic for Microelectronic Applications
Neodymium (Nd)-doped barium titanate (BaTiO3) ceramics with general formula Ba1-xNdxTiO3 (0 ≤ x ≤0.13) were synthesized by the conventional solid-state reaction method at 1400 ᵒC for 36 hours in air. A single-phase structure of Nd-doped BaTiO3 was observed from 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.10. The tetragonal distortion of undoped BaTiO3 progressively decreased with increasing Nd content (x). The samples retain a tetragonal structure for x ≤ 0.015, transformed to a cubic phase for 0.03≤ x ≤ 0.1 and showed to coalesce at x = 0.13. The undoped BaTiO3 exhibited a maximum permittivity approximately  = 8500 at the Curie temperature (Tc), while a slightly reduced value of about  = 8200 for Nd at x = 0.005. Nd substitution resulted in a shift of the permittivity maximum towards lower Tc within the tetragonal region, whereas compositions in the cubic displayed a nearly linear temperature dependence without a distinct maximum. The composition with x = 0.005 showed the highest piezoelectric charge coefficient, d33 = 49 pC/N and piezoelectric voltage coefficient of g33 = 0.2 x 10-2 V.m/N.
Modification of Epoxy/Recovered Carbon Black (rcB): The Effect of Defoamer and Dispersing Agent
This study focused on recovered carbon black (rCB), obtained from the pyrolysis of end-of-life (EOL) rubber tyres. The rCB was mixed with epoxy resin and diethyl toluene diamine (DETDA) as a hardener to produce epoxy/rCB composites intended for electrostatic discharge (ESD) applications. A defoamer was added to the pre-mixed solution to restrict air bubble formation produced from mixing, while a dispersing agent was used to ensure more uniform dispersion of rCB in the epoxy matrix. This work studied the mechanical, morphological, and electrical properties of untreated epoxy/rCB systems and treated systems with defoamer and dispersing agent. Outcomes showed that the addition of defoamer reduced bubble formation and improved the composite properties. However, adding a dispersing agent led to the formation of more bubbles, which deteriorated the properties of the composite system.
Comparative Evaluation of CTAB and AP1 Buffers in On-Chip DNA Extraction of Pathogenic Fungus for Microfluidic Interdigitated-Electrode Biosensing
Conventional methods such as tissue culture and PCR-based analyses are expensive and time-consuming, often requiring up to two weeks and intensive labor. In contrast, microfluidic lab-on-a-chip systems provide much faster detection (roughly an hour), reduce costs, and require only minimal sample volumes. This study presents a streamlined PDMS microfluidic workflow for on-chip DNA extraction and label-free detection of Ganoderma boninense, a pathogenic fungus that majorly impacts palm oil plantations in Malaysia. We compared two lysis buffers, CTAB and AP1, to evaluate DNA yield and purity. UV-Vis analysis indicated that AP1 consistently resulted in higher DNA concentrations, while CTAB extracts exhibited smoother absorbance spectra, suggesting lower levels of impurities. In addition to that, the expected peak near 260 nm was observed with additional shoulders around 280–290 nm across extracts, which are characteristic of both dsDNA and ssDNA, demonstrating successful DNA extraction on the microfluidics chip. Electrical I-V measurements using the AuNP-ZnO-coated IDE biosensor revealed increased DNA hybridization signals, confirming both extraction and detection processes were successful. Overall, AP1 produced a much higher DNA recovery (albeit with increased background absorbance), whereas CTAB yielded ‘purer’ DNA. This integrated microfluidic system enables rapid and sensitive detection of G. boninense, demonstrating its potential for field-based diagnostic applications.