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Carbon fiber reinforced epoxy resin matrix composite is one of the most important composite materials in the world. Many researchers have conducted a lot of research on epoxy resin matrix systems in recent years, mainly to improve the problem with the short curing time of the matrix system and epoxy resin's high viscosity. The final aim is to enhance various aspects of composites' performance and optimize the production process. A new type of water dispersed epoxy resin matrix system is investigated in this paper and the target is to optimize the mechanical, thermal, and electrical performances of the composites with the water dispersed epoxy resin matrix by varying different doping particles and different resin/catalyst ratios. Through a series of experiments, it is evident that varying the ratio of resin to catalyst in the matrix system will not significantly improve the mechanical as well as thermal properties of the composites. However, increasing the amount of catalyst in the matrix system can greatly improve the electrical properties of its composite samples. In addition to this, the addition of doping particles to the matrix systems has the effect of slightly enhancing the tensile modulus, thermal conductivity, and electrical conductivity of their composites. Highlights: A new water‐dispersed epoxy resin matrix system improves processing technology.Increasing amount of catalyst in the matrix system improves electrical resistivity.Adding particles to matrix systems has a slight effect on different properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we conduct a comparative analysis of single-beam laser annealing (SBLA) and dual-beam laser annealing (DBLA) techniques for semiconductor manufacturing. In the DBLA approach, two laser beams were precisely aligned to simultaneously heat a phosphorus-doped silicon (Si) wafer. The main objective was to investigate the impact of the two annealing techniques on the electrical properties, crystalline structure, and diffusion profile of the treated phosphorus-doped Si at equivalent laser powers. Both SBLA and DBLA improved the electrical properties of the phosphorus-doped Si, evidenced by increased carrier concentration and reduced carrier mobility. Additionally, the crystalline structure of the phosphorus-doped Si showed favorable modifications, with no defects and improved crystallinity. While both SBLA and DBLA produced similar phosphorus profiles with no significant redistribution of dopants compared to the as-implanted sample, DBLA achieved a higher activation ratio than SBLA. Although the results suggest improved dopant activation with minimal diffusion, further studies are needed to clearly confirm the effect of DBLA on dopant activation and diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastic polymer composite materials possess physical properties such as softness, durability, and heat preservation, making them suitable for designing flexible, snug, and highly ductile devices. While polymers are generally electrical insulators, they can become electrically conductive when doped with carbon powder. Carbon can strongly interact with polymers, enabling the composites to exhibit electrical conductivity through this adsorption process. By heating and melting the polymer and incorporating thin but heavily concentrated carbon powder, these composites can achieve electrical properties similar to those of conductors or semiconductors. This study examines the adsorption and electrical properties of elastic polymer composite materials, focusing on aspects such as resistance temperature characteristics and conductivity. The results indicate that electrically conductive elastic polymers have potential applications in electrothermal devices, thermostatic control systems, sensors, and variable resistors. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is employed to analyze the material's structure for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiferroics with compositions BiFeO3, Bi0.90Ho0.10FeO3 and BiFe0.90Ho0.10O3 have been successfully prepared by solid-state reaction method. The structural analysis of Ho-substituted BiFeO3 affirms that the compounds are crystallized under rhombohedral perovskite structure with space group $R\overline 3 c$R3¯c along with non-perovskite Bi2Fe4O9 phase. Cuboidal-shaped grains are observed in the micrographs of the Ho-substituted BiFeO3 sample with Ho at the Fe site. The changes in electrical and dielectric parameters with Ho substitution at the A-/B-site of BiFeO3 have a strong co-relation to its structural density, phase transformation and presence of Bi2Fe4O9 phase. These parameters are strongly dependent on the frequency, and its high values are obtained at low frequency because of the space charge polarization effect. The smaller values of impedance phase angles of BiFeO3, Bi0.90Ho0.10FeO3 and BiFe0.90Ho0.10O3 compounds compared to the anticipated $90^\circ$90∘ for an ideal capacitor show that these BFO-based compounds possess non-ideal capacitive/pseudocapacitive behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel strategy to enhance the high‐temperature electrical performance of the silicone elastomer (SE), while ensuring control over its thermal and mechanical properties for SiC device packaging insulation application. For the same, the ultra‐low‐content inorganic/organic SE nanocomposites are prepared and tested (at room temperature and 150°C) by grafting polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanofillers and doping organic semiconductors. It is found that grafting POSS nanofillers enhances the SE's thermal and mechanical properties. Moreover, doping the grafted SE with different organic semiconductors (ITIC, PCBM, and NTCDA) further improves its electrical properties and charge dynamics at 150°C. The optimal doping content for ITIC, PCBM, and NTCDA is found to be 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15 wt%, respectively. Among these, NTCDA exhibits superior electrical performance at 150°C. Particularly, compared to pure SE, NTCDA doping and POSS grafting reduce the electrical conductivity by an order of magnitude and increase the breakdown strength, charge hopping activation energy, and trap energy level by 65.5%, 0.20 eV and 0.73 eV, respectively. This study finds that organic semiconductors outperform nanostructures in inhibiting electron injection and immobilizing free electrons at high temperatures. Highlights: Nano‐POSS grafting enhances material properties by reinforced molecular chains.Charge dynamics is studied by space charge and current integrated charge at HT.Organic semiconductors improve electrical properties and charge dynamics at HT.Organic semiconductors outperform nanofillers in immobilizing electrons at HT.The ideal organic semiconductor doping level correlates with its energy gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal and electrical properties of photovoltaic cell (PVC) under linear phenomenological heat transfer law between it and the environment is studied through finite time thermodynamics and the volt-ampere characteristic equation. The properties of PVC are affected by heat transfer between PVC and environment. There are optimal solar radiation intensity and PVC output voltage (OV), which make the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PECE) of PVC reach the highest value. When OV and solar radiation intensity are 28.50 V and 700 W/m2, the maximum PECE is 0.156. There is also the best solar radiation intensity, which makes the open-circuit voltage (OCV) reach the maximum. When solar radiant intensity is 669 W/m2, the maximum OCV is 33.14 V. The values of power output and short-circuit current (SCC) are monotonically increasing with solar radiation intensity. Given solar radiation intensity, the power output and OV exhibit a parabolic shape. The operating temperature falls first and then grows with the OV. However, the change of operating temperature with OV is not much. Band gap is a decreasing function of operating temperature. This article can give theoretical support for the design and use of PVCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors are key components for temperature sensors and actuators. In this work, Sn0.94-x-yAlxSmySb0.06O2+δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05, 0 ≤ y ≤ 0.15) ceramics were prepared by solid-state reaction method for potential application of NTC thermistors. The Sm/Al co-doped SnO2 ceramics had the main phase with tetragonal structure as that of SnO2 crystal. The prepared ceramics presented adjustable room temperature resistivity (ρ25) and temperature sensitivity (B value) for various Al contents. Sm/Al co-doping significantly improved the ageing stability, the resistance shift rate was below 3% after ageing at 150°C for 500 h, while the average resistance shift rate was 41.4% of the ceramics without Sm-doping. The conduction mechanisms and the effect of dopants on the ageing stability were investigated by analysis of impedance spectra and element valences combined with defect chemistry theory.

ZnO-Bi2O3-Co2O3-NiO-Mn3O4-SiO2-Cr2O3 varistor ceramics were prepared by solid-phase sintering method.The effects of different doping amounts of Cr2O3 on the microstructure and electrical properties of ZnO varistor ceramics were investigated, and the phases, microstructures and electrical properties of samples were characterized. The results indicate that the addition of Cr2O3 effectively inhibits the abnormal growth of ZnO grains, enhances the uniformity of grain distribution, reduces the ZnO grain resistance and increases the grain boundary resistance.In the range of 0%-0.21% (molar fraction, the same below) of Cr2O3 addition, the nonlinear coefficient of the varistor ceramics increases first and then decreases as the addition amount increases. When the Cr2O3 doping amount is 0.14%, the ZnO varistor ceramics exhibit excellent electrical properties, with a potential gradient E1 mA=216 V·mm-1, leakage current JL=0.36 μA·cm-2, nonlinear coefficient α=25, residual voltage ratio K=1.815, and aging coefficient Kct=0.647. In addition, the initial U1 mA value of varistor ceramics still maintains 96.75% after impacted by 100 kA pulse current twice with 4/10 μs waveform. The Cr2O3 doped ZnO varistor ceramics demonstrate excellent impulse stability and significant application potential for lightning arresters of power distribution systems.

The rapid development of flexible conductive materials has promoted the research on conductive polymer (CP)‐based materials. However, CPs have relatively low thermal conductivity (TC), which can result in severe heat dissipation problems for device applications. In this work, core–sheath structured polyaniline@boron nitride (BN@PANI) composites were prepared by in‐situ growth strategy, in which PANI nanowire arrays were uniformly anchored to the surface of BN microrods. Thanks to the particular structure, the as‐prepared BN@PANI composite shows excellent thermal management capabilities. Specifically, the TC of the BN@PANI composite is 4.32 W/m·K at low BN loading of 10 wt%, which is almost 17.8 times that of pure PANI. Moreover, the excellent heat dissipation performance is intuitively presented through infrared imaging technology. Impressively, the PANI nanowire arrays are vertically arranged on the BN surface to form a conductive pathway, which results in conductivity comparable to pure PANI. This work broadens the ideas for preparing high‐performance CP‐based composites by using insulating fillers. Highlights: Core–sheath structured BN@PANI composites were prepared by an in‐situ growth strategy.The thermal conductivity of composite was 4.32 W/m·K at 10 wt% BN loading.The introduction of BN had little effect on the conductivity of PANI.The BN@PANI composites possessed excellent thermal management capability.This work contributes to understanding heat transport in conductive polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing demand for advanced conductors with enhanced electrical properties to increase the energy efficiency in various applications. A promising strategy to achieve this involves the use of ultraconductive copper (UCC) composites that incorporate highly conductive carbon materials, such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), into the copper matrix. In this study, we present a scalable brush coating technique to incorporate CNTs onto Cu substrates to produce Cu–CNT–Cu composites. The process involves brush coating the CNT solution on Cu tape substrates, followed by vacuum-assisted thermal removal of organic moieties (e.g., surfactant/polymer). This step ensures the creation of a uniformly distributed CNT network within the Cu matrix. By addition of a thin film Cu overlayer, the fabricated Cu–CNT–Cu composite architecture demonstrates similar electrical conductivity, increased current carrying capacity, and enhanced mechanical properties compared to pure Cu reference tapes. The performance characteristics of these UCC tapes along with the scalability of the brush coating approach hold great promise for the fabrication of advanced conductors for wide-ranging energy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We reported the growth of (AlGa)2O3 layers on (11 2 ¯ 0), (10 1 ¯ 0), and (10 1 ¯ 2) α -Al2O3 substrates using MBE, and the electrical characterization of Si-doped (AlGa)2O3 layers. The Ga2O3 layers grown on (10 1 ¯ 0) and (10 1 ¯ 2) α -Al2O3 were α -phase single crystals, while the Ga2O3 layer grown on (11 2 ¯ 0) α -Al2O3 consisted of (11 2 ¯ 0) α -Ga2O3 and ( 2 ¯ 01) β -Ga2O3. The Al composition of the (11 2 ¯ 0) and (10 1 ¯ 0) (AlGa)2O3 layers was controlled by varying the Al flux. The Si-doped (10 1 ¯ 0) α -(Al x Ga1- x )2O3 layers with x = 0–0.41 were electrically conducting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of microelectronics products with high density and high power, it is urgent to improve the electrical and thermal conductivity of electronic paste to achieve the new requirements of packaging materials. In this work, a new synthesis method of Ag-MWCNTs was designed: Firstly, carboxylated MWCNTs and stannous chloride were used as raw materials to prepare high-loading-rate Sn-MWCNT composite material to ensure the high loading rate of metal on the MWCNT surface. Then, Ag-MWCNT composite material was prepared by the chemical displacement method to solve the problem of the low loading rate of silver nanoparticles on the MWCNT surface. On the basis of this innovation, we analyzed and compared the electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties of Ag-MWCNT composite electronic paste. Compared with the electronic paste without adding Ag-MWCNTs, the resistivity was reduced by 77%, the thermal conductivity was increased by 66%, and the shear strength was increased by 15%. Therefore, the addition of Ag-MWCNTs effectively improves the electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties of the paste, making it a promising and competitive choice for new packaging materials in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive borosilicate glasses having weight composition (74-X) SiO2, 16 Na2O, 10 B2O3 and (X) V2O5 (wt%), where (X = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2.5, 4 wt %) were synthesized using the conventional melting procedure. Bioactive glass samples were melted in a platinum crucible of 50 ml capacity at 1400 °C in the globular furnace with air as the furnace atmosphere and kept hold for 2 h. These glasses were characterised and tested by using several experiment techniques like XRD, FTIR, SEM and EDX. The bioactivity of the borosilicate samples was determined by submerging them in simulated body fluid (SBF) for different time intervals. The developed hydroxy apatite (HA) was identified by FTIR, XRD, SEM and EDX technique. The obtained results demonstrate that the in-vitro bioactivity of the samples increases with the increase in V2O5 doping in samples. Various properties like density, compressive strength and electrical properties are determined. Physical and mechanical properties are improved after V2O5 doping. Electrical properties are improved after SBF doping, and the result shows the ion movement due to increased bioactivity. The in-vitro hemocompatibility and cellular compatibility on MG-63 cell lines were carried out. It was found that samples were compatible with human blood. Cellular proliferation is increased with increasing concentration of V2O5. However beyond 0.5% V2O5 doping the value of bioactivity decreases at higher concentrations of samples in culture media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To collect aged silicone rubber (SiR) insulators with different numbers of years in use, which is for developing a degradation diagnostic system of SiR, is difficult. Therefore, it is desired to make degraded SiR surface which has similar characteristics to the degraded surface in outdoor. To realize the fabrication, we characterized the surfaces of aged SiR specimens cut out from a 22 kV line post insulator used in the coastal area for 20 years. The results showed that to introduce fine particles into the surface is necessary for making degraded surface having the minute surface roughness. Additionally, it was found that to activate the dispersion of LMW with foreign matters is also necessary. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In order to provide guidance for the manufacturers and the related researchers of the electric shock shielding clothing, the mechanism of the electric shock shielding functional fabric was analyzed theoretically, and the key parameters to be considered in the design of the electric shock shielding functional fabric were explored. The development of the electric shock shielding clothing at home and abroad was comprehensively reviewed, including the electrical conductivity of the electric shock shielding functional fabric, and the structural design of the shielding clothing, electrical property test as well as durability and so on. The problems in the research and development of the electric shock shielding clothing were analyzed. It is proposed that in the future, the research and development of the electric shock shielding clothing should focus on high performance, lightweight, low cost, durability and green development and so on. In particular, the standard test method for its electrical property should be formed as soon as possible so as to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of periodical check of the shielding clothing and the personal safety of the relevant workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Silicon anodes hold promise for future lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high capacity, but they face challenges such as severe volume expansion and low electrical conductivity. In this study, we present a straightforward and scalable electrostatic self-assembly method to fabricate WSi@SiOx/Ti3C2 composites for LIBs. Silicon nanosheets and the ultra-thin oxide layer SiOx serve as sufficient buffers against volume changes, while the layered MXene enhances the electrical conductivity of the composite and promoted Li+/e− transport. Additionally, cationic surfactant-treated Ti3C2 provides more active sites for WSi@SiOx attachment and acts as an intercalating agent, enabling WSi@SiOx to enter the interlayer spaces of Ti3C2. The WSi@SiOx/Ti3C2 electrodes significantly improved electrochemical performance, achieving a capacity of 1,130 mAh g−1 after 800 charge/discharge cycles at 500 mA g−1. This study not only presents a straightforward pathway for high-value utilization of silicon waste but also offers a feasible route for preparing high-performance and cost-effective silicon-based LIBs.

High-performance Cu/Graphene composite wire synergistically strengthened by nano Cr 3 C 2 phase was directly synthesized via hot press sintering followed by severe cold plastic deformation, using liquid paraffin and CuCr alloy powder as the raw materials. Since graphene is in situ formed under the catalysis of copper powder during the sintering process, the problem that graphene is easy to agglomerate and difficult to disperse uniformly in the copper matrix has been solved. The nano Cr 3 C 2 -particles nailed at the interface favor to improve the interface bonding. The Cu/Graphene composite possesses high electrical conductivity, hardness, and plasticity. The composite wire exhibits high electrical conductivity of 96.93% IACS, great tensile strength of 488 MPa, and excellent resistance to softening. Even after annealing at 400°C for 1 h, the tensile strength can still reach 268 MPa with a conductivity of about 99.14% IACS. The wire's temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) is largely reduced to 0.0035/°C due to the complex structure, which leads the wire to present low resistivity at higher temperatures. Such Cu/Graphene composite wire with excellent comprehensive performance has a good application prospect in high-power density motors.

editorial

Not only can perovskite solar cells be exposed to high temperatures, up to 80 °C, depending on the operating environment, but absorbed energy is lost as heat, so it is important to have thermal stability for commercialization. However, in the case of the recently reported p-i-n structure solar cell, most of the electron and hole transport layers are composed of organic materials vulnerable to heat transfer, so the light absorption layer may be continuously exposed to high temperatures when the solar cell is operated. In this study, we attempted to improve the thermal conductivity of the electron transport layer using phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) containing zinc oxide (ZnO). As a result, the thermal conductivity was improved by more than 7.4% and 23.5% by adding 6.57vol% and 22.38vol% of ZnO to PCBM, respectively. In addition, the insertion of ZnO resulted in changes in the electron transport behavior and energy level of the electron transport layer. As a result, it was confirmed that not only could the temperature stability of the perovskite thin film be improved, but the efficiency of the solar cell could also be improved from 14.12% to 17.97%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report the structural and electrical properties of TiZrN thin films deposited by dc-magnetron sputtering under a working pressure of 0.67 Pa at room temperature. The phase structure, crystallinity, morphology, electrical properties, and hydrophilicity of TiZrN films were found to be strongly dependent on the nitrogen gas ratio of N2/(Ar+N2). In vitro Baby hamster kidney (BHK) cell adhesion on the TiZrN films was also tested for primary biocompatibility evaluation. The sputtered films exhibit a single-phase structure of (Ti, Zr)Nx without the presence of secondary phases such as TiNx or ZrNx. The lowest surface resistivity and resistivity values are observed in the films deposited at a 10% nitrogen ratio, with values of 12 Ω/□ and 1.79 × 10−5 Ω.m, respectively. TiZrN films deposited at different nitrogen ratios between 3–30% show hydrophilic properties, with contact angles ranging from 60 to 83 degrees. In vitro BHK cell test indicated that TiZrN films possess excellent biocompatibility. With the interesting performances indicated, TiZrN films have great potential for electrode applications and biomedical implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work reports fabrication of polyaniline (PANI)-porous silicon (PS) heterostructure obtained by PANI coating on PS using vacuum coating deposition technique. Electrical properties are studied through the measurement of current (I)–voltage (V) characteristics. Some parameters (viz. ideality factor, barrier height, series resistance) are calculated from the I-V plots. Fitting of these curves is done with the thermionic emission (TE) and Cheung's method. It is found that Cheung's method provides better knowledge about the heterostructure in terms of series resistance. The heterostructure comes out as an electrically active material with minimal series resistance of 23.53 kΩ resulting high-driven electric current. The I–V of the heterostructure follows space charge limited conduction (SCLC) mechanism due to the presence of traps or imperfection in the heterostructure. Prior to electrical measurement the device is characterized through field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), UV–vis–NIR reflectance, photoluminescence (PL) and Raman spectra for morphological and optical properties. FESEM shows the modified PS structure after PANI deposition revealing short-chained PANI molecules due to thermal treatment. UV–vis-NIR shows lower reflectance of the heterostructure due to impregnation of PANI to the pores of PS resulting change in refractive index. PANI-PS shows quenched PL peak. Raman spectra complement the FESEM results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet light (UV) irradiation crosslinked linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE)/ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) composites with different blending ratios were prepared using benzophenone (BP) as photoinitiator and triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC) as crosslinking agent. The irradiation time was determined, the effects of rubber‐plastic ratio on the crystallization behaviors, mechanical properties, crosslinking properties and electrical properties of LLDPE/EPDM composites were investigated. The results show that with the increase of EPDM content, the crystalline structure of LLDPE/EPDM composite become looser and the crystallinity decreased. The blending of EPDM and LLDPE results in two different aggregation states of the same crystalline form. With the increase of LLDPE content, the crosslinking efficiency, tensile strength, and energy storage modulus show a significant upward trend. When two polymers simultaneously exist in the material, if the difference between the contents of two polymers is large, the breakdown strength of the composite is relatively lower. The relaxation polarization of LLDPE/EPDM at low frequencies increases with the content of EPDM, thus leading to the increase of loss factor at low frequencies. A novel UV crosslinked modified EPDM insulating material with high production efficiency and improved insulation performances has been developed for use as an insulating layer for flexible power cables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Binary blends of unsaturated polyester (70%) and nitrile rubber (NR) (30%) and their composites are prepared. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were used as a filler in the hand-lay method. ZnONP weight ratios ranged from 0 to 3 wt.%. The ZnONPs were characterised using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine their crystalline structure and shape. The thermal and dielectric properties of the samples were examined as a function of filler content. Additionally, the theoretical and experimental densities of the nanocomposites were examined using the mixing rule and Archimedes’ principle, respectively. The thermal conductivity and diffusivity values exhibited variations between increasing and decreasing trends as the filler concentrations increased. Among all samples tested, the one containing 2.5% ZnONPs demonstrated the highest thermal conductivity and the lowest diffusivity when compared to the pure blend. As the ZnONP weight ratio increased, the corresponding dielectric constant value rose linearly, while the resistivity decreased linearly. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed a significant improvement in the level of char yield and thermal stability of nanocomposites with increasing ZnONP concentration in the matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique for the preparation of Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3 (BCZT) epitaxial films usually requires high deposition temperature and is prone to contain oxygen vacancy defects. In order to provide a post-annealing treatment process based on PLD, high-quality BCZT epitaxial films were successfully prepared on conductive substrates, and the effects of annealing temperature on the structure and properties of BCZT epitaxial films were investigated. The films annealed at different temperatures of 750, 800, 850 and 900 °C show pure phases. The ferroelectric properties of the films are gradually improved as the annealing temperature increase, with 2Pr increasing from 4. 2 to 17. 6 μC/cm². However, the sample at the annealing temperature of 900 °C has the most serious leakage current problem. By fitting the J-E relationship, it is found that the films annealed from 700 °C to 850 °C follow the Ohmic conduction mechanism at low fields, while the samples annealed at 900 °C follow the space charge limited current mechanism, and all the films follow the Fowler- Nordheim tunneling mechanism at high fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PN junction with p-Si / n-Ga2O3 structure was developed by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) technology on p-type Si (111) substrate. The crystal structure, surface morphology and surface roughness were measured by X-ray diffractometer and atomic force microscope. Then Ti / Au electrodes on these samples were developed by magnet sputtering and evaporation for testing the PN junction characteristics such as I-V curve chart, threshold voltage, on-off current ratio, reverse saturation current, ideal factor, and the barrier height at zero bias voltage. The regulation of PN junction characteristics with growing parameters such as doping concentration and film thickness was studied, and the reasons were given. The crystal quality of β-Ga2O3 thin film and the characteristics of the devices were improved by two-step growing method. A set of PN junction samples were fabricated at three different temperatures when the buffer was developed. Finally, the best conditions of fabricating the PN junction devices was found, and the lattice mismatch and thermal mismatch between Si substrate and β-Ga2O3 thin film were reduced. A high quality n-type β-Ga2O3 thin film with surface roughness of 4. 21 nm and a PN junction with low ideal factor of 42. 1 was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastic polymer composite materials possess physical properties such as softness, durability, and heat preservation, making them suitable for designing flexible, snug, and highly ductile devices. While polymers are generally electrical insulators, they can become electrically conductive when doped with carbon powder. Carbon can strongly interact with polymers, enabling the composites to exhibit electrical conductivity through this adsorption process. By heating and melting the polymer and incorporating thin but heavily concentrated carbon powder, these composites can achieve electrical properties similar to those of conductors or semiconductors. This study examines the adsorption and electrical properties of elastic polymer composite materials, focusing on aspects such as resistance temperature characteristics and conductivity. The results indicate that electrically conductive elastic polymers have potential applications in electrothermal devices, thermostatic control systems, sensors, and variable resistors. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is employed to analyze the material’s structure for further research.

In this study, we conduct a comparative analysis of single-beam laser annealing (SBLA) and dual-beam laser annealing (DBLA) techniques for semiconductor manufacturing. In the DBLA approach, two laser beams were precisely aligned to simultaneously heat a phosphorus-doped silicon (Si) wafer. The main objective was to investigate the impact of the two annealing techniques on the electrical properties, crystalline structure, and diffusion profile of the treated phosphorus-doped Si at equivalent laser powers. Both SBLA and DBLA improved the electrical properties of the phosphorus-doped Si, evidenced by increased carrier concentration and reduced carrier mobility. Additionally, the crystalline structure of the phosphorus-doped Si showed favorable modifications, with no defects and improved crystallinity. While both SBLA and DBLA produced similar phosphorus profiles with no significant redistribution of dopants compared to the as-implanted sample, DBLA achieved a higher activation ratio than SBLA. Although the results suggest improved dopant activation with minimal diffusion, further studies are needed to clearly confirm the effect of DBLA on dopant activation and diffusion.

With the development of microelectronics products with high density and high power, it is urgent to improve the electrical and thermal conductivity of electronic paste to achieve the new requirements of packaging materials. In this work, a new synthesis method of Ag-MWCNTs was designed: Firstly, carboxylated MWCNTs and stannous chloride were used as raw materials to prepare high-loading-rate Sn-MWCNT composite material to ensure the high loading rate of metal on the MWCNT surface. Then, Ag-MWCNT composite material was prepared by the chemical displacement method to solve the problem of the low loading rate of silver nanoparticles on the MWCNT surface. On the basis of this innovation, we analyzed and compared the electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties of Ag-MWCNT composite electronic paste. Compared with the electronic paste without adding Ag-MWCNTs, the resistivity was reduced by 77%, the thermal conductivity was increased by 66%, and the shear strength was increased by 15%. Therefore, the addition of Ag-MWCNTs effectively improves the electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties of the paste, making it a promising and competitive choice for new packaging materials in the future.

Not only can perovskite solar cells be exposed to high temperatures, up to 80 °C, depending on the operating environment, but absorbed energy is lost as heat, so it is important to have thermal stability for commercialization. However, in the case of the recently reported p-i-n structure solar cell, most of the electron and hole transport layers are composed of organic materials vulnerable to heat transfer, so the light absorption layer may be continuously exposed to high temperatures when the solar cell is operated. In this study, we attempted to improve the thermal conductivity of the electron transport layer using phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) containing zinc oxide (ZnO). As a result, the thermal conductivity was improved by more than 7.4% and 23.5% by adding 6.57vol% and 22.38vol% of ZnO to PCBM, respectively. In addition, the insertion of ZnO resulted in changes in the electron transport behavior and energy level of the electron transport layer. As a result, it was confirmed that not only could the temperature stability of the perovskite thin film be improved, but the efficiency of the solar cell could also be improved from 14.12% to 17.97%.

editorial

AgSTe based materials have recently been identified as promising thermoelectric materials that have favorable properties at room temperature. They are usually obtained by conventional processes involving melting, annealing, and sintering, which incur significant energy and time expenditures. The present investigation involved the synthesis of Ag 20 S 7 Te 3 compounds by a fast non-equilibrium methodology, i.e., plasma activated sintering from raw elemental powders. The monoclinic Ag 20 S 7 Te 3 phase crystal was successfully formed at a temperature of 673 K, accompanied by the presence of a secondary monoclinic phase, Ag 2 S. The Ag 20 S 7 Te 3 phase predominated in the monoclinic form, constituting a significant percentage at temperature of 873 K. Furthermore, the thermoelectric figure of merit (zT) of the AgSTe phase at 873 K was determined to be 0.42. The rapid sample synthesis described herein has the potential to significantly reduce the duration required for material synthesis, hence presenting a conspicuous advantage in the context of manufacturing on a wide scale. [Display omitted] • The work employed plasma-activated sintering, to synthesise Ag 20 S 7 Te 3 compounds using raw elemental powders. • The synthesis successfully produced the monoclinic Ag 20 S 7 Te 3 phase at a temperature of 873 K, combined with a secondary monoclinic phase, Ag 2 S. • The innovative approach of rapid high-temperature sintering successfully produced dense pellets, within a few minutes. • The figure of merit (zT) for the Ag 20 S 7 Te 3 at 873 K was determined to be 0.42, providing a quantitative value of the material's thermoelectric efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon anodes hold promise for future lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high capacity, but they face challenges such as severe volume expansion and low electrical conductivity. In this study, we present a straightforward and scalable electrostatic self-assembly method to fabricate WSi@SiO x /Ti 3 C 2 composites for LIBs. Silicon nanosheets and the ultra-thin oxide layer SiO x serve as sufficient buffers against volume changes, while the layered MXene enhances the electrical conductivity of the composite and promoted Li + /e - transport. Additionally, cationic surfactant-treated Ti 3 C 2 provides more active sites for WSi@SiO x attachment and acts as an intercalating agent, enabling WSi@SiO x to enter the interlayer spaces of Ti 3 C 2 . The WSi@SiO x /Ti 3 C 2 electrodes significantly improved electrochemical performance, achieving a capacity of 1,130 mAh g -1 after 800 charge/discharge cycles at 500 mA g -1 . This study not only presents a straightforward pathway for high-value utilization of silicon waste but also offers a feasible route for preparing high-performance and cost-effective silicon-based LIBs., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024 The Authors.)

The effect of cyclic bending on the electrical properties of a flexible Cu 2 ZnSn(S,Se) 4 (CZTSSe) solar cell fabricated on a Mo foil was investigated at curvature radii R of 35 and 50 mm. The device parameters obtained from the current–voltage curves of the solar cell were analyzed as a function of the number of bending cycles N. The sample was fabricated using two types of Mo foil substrates in the "perpendicular" and "parallel" rolling orientations. Compared with an unstressed solar cell, the relative solar efficiency Δη / η 0 of the fabricated cell decreased monotonically by −8.8% under repeated bending until N = 3000 cycles, and the difference in Δη / η 0 between the two rolling orientations was within 2.3%. Its degradation was caused by a decrease in the relative short-circuit density ΔJ sc/ J sc 0 and an increase in the relative series resistance ΔR s/ R s 0. Conversely, for the sample prepared in a different batch process, a similar decrease in Δη / η 0 of −9.1% even after N = 1000 cycles under both tensile and compressive stresses was observed and the degradation of the fill factor ΔFF / FF 0 and open-circuit voltage ΔV oc/ V oc 0 was concluded to relate with a change in the CZTSSe absorber layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissolved algal organic matter (dAOM) originating from harmful algal blooms (HABs) can deteriorate the quality of municipal water supplies, threaten the health of aquatic environments, and interfere with modified clay (MC)-based HABs control measures. In this study, we explored the composition of dAOM from Prorocentrum donghaiense , a typical HAB organism, and assessed the influence of dAOM on MC flocculation. Our results suggested that dAOM composition was complex and had a wide molecular weight (MW) distribution. MW and electrical properties were important dAOM characteristics affecting flocculation and algal removal efficiency of MC. Negatively charged high-MW components (>50 kDa) critically affected algal removal efficiency, reducing the zeta potential of MC particles and leading to small and weak flocs. However, the effect of dAOM depended on its concentration. When the cell density of P. donghaiense reached HAB levels, the high-MW dAOM strongly decreased the algal removal efficiency of MC. [Display omitted] • Dissolved algal organic matter (dAOM) hinders the effect of modified clay (MC). • Molecular weight (MW) and electrical properties of dAOM determine impact on MC. • Negatively charged high-MW dAOM had a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect. • Flocculation was inhibited by altering surface electrical properties of MC particle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A multifunctional smart textile was fabricated by a simple impregnation method. • Excellent flame retardancy, electrical conductivity and hydrophobicity were acquired. • Self-powered triggered fire-alarm system was designed and engineered. The domain of smart textiles represents a widely researched area, showcasing promising prospects. Herein, a multifunctional smart textile (CF@PM-AA) has been designed and fabricated, amalgamating flame retardancy, electrical conductivity, and hydrophobicity into a unified entity. The flame retardant, synthesized through the reaction between amino trimethylene phosphonic acid and allantoin, was impregnated into cotton fabric through a facile impregnation method. Through surface modification with polydimethylsiloxane and multi-walled carbon nanotubes, the obtained CF@PM-AA acquires exceptional hydrophobic and acid-base environment durability. Significantly, the electrical conductivity of CF@PM-AA is greatly enhanced, with a reduced resistance down from 15.9 GΩ to 13 MΩ. Based on their electrical characteristics, the copper sheet and CF@PM-AA function as the electrode and friction layers, respectively, in the construction of the triboelectric nanogenerator. This configuration produces a voltage output of up to 125.6 V at a frequency of 4 Hz. Given its outstanding flame retardancy, hydrophobicity, and electrical performance, CF@PM-AA can be integrated into firefighting suits to establish a fire-alarm system with remote signal transmission function, enhancing personnel safety. Simultaneously, the CF@PM-AA holds promise for diverse applications in wearable flame-retardant and fire-alarm systems, opening new avenues for smart textile utilization in the Internet of Things domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the effects of annealing on the structural, optical, and semiconducting properties of hydrothermally derived CoS 2 nanoparticles and its impact on carrier transport through a Schottky junction ITO/CoS 2 /Al device. The current rectification ratio obtained from current–voltage measurements for CoS 2 (derived at room temperature) was 21.57 at a potential of ±1 V, but it was 70.61 for the Schottky junction fabricated by annealing (at 250 °C) with CoS 2. The ideality factor (n), series resistance (R s), barrier potential (φ b), and other parameters were determined for the devices. The ideality factor improved significantly to 1.34 for the sample, produced at 250 °C. The charge transport phenomenon was examined based on thermionic emission theory and related parameters, such as the mobility (of the order of 10−4 m2V−1s−1), carrier concentration (of the order of 1020 m−3), density of state (of the order of 1021 eV−1m−3), and transit time (of the order of 10−9s), were estimated by employing space charge limited conduction (SCLC) theory. The occurrence of free carriers gave rise to ferromagnetic behavior, which was also studied. This is the first study to investigate the relationship between the magnetic spin and electronic behavior of CoS 2 nanoparticles. The observed intrinsic ferromagnetism and magnetic behavior with respect to the temperature and magnetic field indicated the suitability of the material for spin-based electronic applications. Finally, the potential behavior of annealed (at 250 °C) CoS 2 in the ITO/CoS 2 /Al Schottky device was observed. [Display omitted] • Hydrothermal synthesis and characterizations of CoS 2 nanomaterial. • Derived CoS 2 annealed at 200 °C and 250 °C. • Successful fabrication of ITO/CoS 2 /Al Schottky device. • Annealed CoS 2 improves carrier transport behavior. • Studied magnetic behavior to check potentiality of materials in spintronic application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new testing instrument and method were designed to assess the weathering and coating of stone cultural relics. The test instrument applied the principle of transferring liquid to porous materials and monitoring the mass-transfer process in conjunction with impedance-testing instruments. The analysis of liquid transport through a material was based on the impedance–time curve, followed by an analysis of the material properties. The laboratory results indicated that the maximum values of conductivity and capacitance (G-max and C-max, respectively) were linearly and positively correlated with the porosity of white marble. Field experiments revealed that white marble components with higher G-max experienced more severe weathering, leading to a faster decrease in conductivity (G) and a larger difference in conductivity (ΔG). A higher level of aging resulted in better conductivity of components coated with lower-conductivity materials. The test method was nondestructive, portable, highly sensitive, and exhibited good stability during the testing process. This makes it promising for characterizing the properties of the insulating materials found in heritage sites, such as stone carvings, ceramics, and wall paintings. [Display omitted] • This invention combines porous media flow with fundamental electrical laws. • This invention can effectively detect the damage of the material • This invention achieves surprising results in the survey of heritage diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) properties of nanomaterials provide a promising paradigm for the development of next-generation nanoscale electronic devices, especially in 6 G communication systems. However, realizing ENZ in the radio frequency (RF) domain remains a challenge due to the scarcity of materials. Here, a strategy is proposed to exploit the intrinsic excitation of polarons and delocalized electrons to modify the carrier dynamics in transition metal perovskite for tailored dielectric response in the RF domain. Polarons and delocalized electrons are introduced into the material through lattice distortion and exchange mechanisms between magnetic atoms, and are precisely governed. The tunable kHz-band ENZ is realized in La 0.90 Ba 0.10 CoO 3 and described using the Debye-Drude model. Importantly, the purely resistive effect is experimentally observed under ENZ condition, manifesting as near-zero reactance and phase angle, which is attributed to the inductor-capacitor resonance through equivalent circuit analysis. These findings provide a new avenue for implementing ENZ at RF domain and identify transition metal perovskites as ENZ candidates. We engineer metal oxide perovskites to achieve an ENZ material whose dielectric response is tailored for the RF frequency range, which is achieved by a weighted combination of polarization and plasma oscillations. The kHz-band ENZ behavior is thereby realized. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein has been identified as one of the major membrane foulants in wastewater treatment and reclamation applications. The specific molecular configuration of bovine serum albumin (BSA) impedes electron transfer at the interface, resulting in poor electrochemical signal, and is often used as a blocker for electrochemical biosensors. To improve the precision and speed of fouling detection, the study proposes integrating the electrical properties with the organic fouling process of the membrane to provide the BSA fouling electrical response signal. The unique electrical properties of carboxylate multi-walled carbon nanotubes (O-MWCNTs) were introduced into polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration membranes using a pre-coating method. The conductive coated layer of O-MWCNT facilitates real-time observation of membrane fouling and enables timely cleaning of the membrane to improve fouling resistance. To improve the loading and binding strength of the O-MWCNTs, phenylenediamine (MXAD) was utilized as a cross-linking agent, which improved the composite membrane's overall performance and decreased the membrane's resistance from 1.33 × 106 Ω–37.91 Ω. The electrical signal received from the four-probe resistivity meter showed a response to the fouling level. The combined comparison of the normalized flux and electrical signal trends resulted in a more visual, rapid, sensitive, and accurate indication of membrane BSA fouling, which paves the way for the detection of electrical BSA fouling and subsequent cleaning and reuse of the separation membranes. [Display omitted] • The electrical properties of O-MWCNTs are introduced into PVDF membranes to enhance its electrical conductivity. • O-MWCNTs modified conductive layer produces electrical signal response to BSA macromolecules. • Real-time dynamic electrical response to BSA membrane fouling. • Sandwich structured composite membranes with high junction and strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) forests densely formed on diverse metallic substrates are desirable as large-area electrodes and thermal interface materials. In this study, we achieved high-density CNT forests on stainless steel and Cu substrates by preventing the interaction between the metallic elements and Fe catalysts at high temperatures. We found that coating the substrate surface with a combination of Ta and SiO 2 effectively suppressed the diffusion of metallic elements of the substrate to the catalytic layer. The macroscopic electrical resistivity of longer forests was found to increase as the number density of CNTs decreased during the growth process. This increase in resistivity was reproduced by the dynamic density decay model in which CNT density decreases with forest growth. We point out the importance of the relationship between the length and density of CNT forests for applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the relationship between tungsten oxides with a controlled amount of oxygen vacancies and their gas-sensing properties with respect to hydrogen sulfide is interesting for developing excellent comprehensive gas-sensing performance materials with fast and accurate response. In this work, the WO 3 nanoparticles with oxygen defective structure were synthesized by a straightforward one-step muffle calcining method. The WO 3 nanoparticles prepared at the calcination temperature of 600 ℃ (Ov-WO 3 -600) display the high response value (2777) and ultra-fast response time (2 s) to 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) at 100 ℃. Moreover, it also exhibits low practical detection limit (100 ppb), long-term stability, as well as remarkable admirable selectivity. The gas sensing mechanism can be explained by the fact that oxygen vacancies, as donor energy levels provide more electrons, increase the carrier mobility and narrow the band gap. This makes it easier for oxygen to capture electrons to form more adsorbed oxygen, which improves the gas sensing performance of WO 3 -based sensors. Hence, our study can offer guidance for the construction of fast and accurate sensing materials based on WO 3. [Display omitted] • The WO 3 nanoparticle was prepared by a simple one-step muffle calcining method. • The relationship between electronic structure and gas-sensing property was studied. • Sensor shows an ultra-fast response speed (15 s) to low concentration H 2 S(0.1 ppm). • Benefiting from the oxygen vacancy, the carrier mobility and band gap are enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]