Abstract Fibers collected from plants stems, plants leaves, leaves and fruits shells are known as natural fibers. Natural fibers are preferred due to their low density, low cost, ecofriendly and biodegradability properties. Among various natural fibers, Okra fiber is one of the natural fiber which is collected from stem of Okra plant. In present investigation, the functional groups of Okra fiber is examine by FTIR test, Okra fiber reinforced epoxy composites were prepared using compression molding technique and mechanical characterization of composites were done using Taguchi approach as per ASTM standards. The tensile and fracture property of Okra fiber reinforced composite were investigated for different volume fractions of 20%, 25% and 30% with different curing temperature of 70ºC, 80ºC and 90ºC. It is observed that composites prepared with 30% volume fraction and 70ºC showed the highest tensile strength and 30% volume fraction and prepared at 90ºC showed the highest fractural strength.
Abstract Epoxy coatings are commonly chosen for protecting metals from corrosion, but surface defects and weak resistance to physical stress sometimes limit their durability. In this study, an eco-friendlier epoxy-silica (ES) composite coating is developed by using amorphous SiO 2 extracted from rice husk ash (RHA) using a simplified process. This coating was applied to mild steel and tested for both corrosion inhibition and mechanical strength. Electrochemical measurements indicated a corrosion inhibition efficiency of 71.87 ± 0.74% in potassium ferricyanide solution, outperforming the neat epoxy. Mechanical tests, such as adhesion and bending assessments, showed that the coating bonds well to the substrate and resists cracking during deformation. These results show that the epoxy-SiO 2 coating, produced through this straightforward method, offers an effective and environmentally friendly option for protecting metal surfaces in harsh conditions.
Abstract Graphene exhibits remarkable optical, electrical, and mechanical characteristics. The transformation of pristine graphene into nanoporous membranes with expanded applications is enabled by precise defect engineering, specifically through the formation of nanopores. This study examined the fracture behaviour of graphene with a triangular nanopore geometry under uniaxial tensile strain using a molecular dynamics approach. The fracture stress decreased to 38.93% under ZZ loading and 33.28% under AC loading after the formation of the triangular pore. Consequently, the fracture strain decreased to 57.03% and 47.81% under ZZ and AC loading conditions, respectively. Nevertheless, the anisotropic fracture behaviour of porous graphene was not influenced by this substantial reduction in mechanical strength. The pre-fracture strain of graphene with a triangular pore decreased more at 10 −4 ps −1 (low) than at 10 −2 ps −1 (high) strain rates as the temperature increased from 100 K (low) to 500 K (high) under both tensile loading directions. In addition, the fracture-sequence analyses indicate that the upper pore-edge region is the primary control region for ZZ failure, while the two side lower regions are responsible for AC failure. This study provides useful physical insights for nanoporous graphene for molecular sieving systems, separation membranes and nanosensors.
Abstract The technological advancement of high frequency electronics has triggered an unprecedented surge in electromagnetic pollution, creating an urgent need for EMI shielding materials that unite robust wave attenuation with sustainable manufacturing. Herein, as a green approach, solvent free ball milling process was employed to fabricate poly (vinylidene fluoride)/multi-walled carbon nanotube (PVDF/MWCNT, 15 wt%) nanocomposite, completely bypassing toxic organic solvents. Structural and morphological analyses confirmed the formation of a homogeneous, percolated conductive network within the PVDF matrix while preserving the polymer’s intrinsic structural and crystalline integrity. Vector network analysis in the X-band frequency regime revealed a total EMI shielding effectiveness (SE T ) of 22.3 dB at 8.2 GHz, blocking over 99% of incident radiation, surpassing the commercial threshold (>20dB). The attenuation was primarily absorption dominated (SE A = 16.6 dB, 74% contribution), over surface reflection (SE R = 5.7 dB, 26%), effectively suppressing secondary electromagnetic reflection pollution.
Abstract While plant-fibre composites have been extensively characterized under solid-particle impact, the erosion response of VARTM-consolidated keratin (sheep wool) fibre/epoxy laminates remains poorly quantified. The present study addresses this gap through ASTM G76 air-jet erosion testing of four coarse sheep wool (CSW) configurations (CSW2, CSW3, CSW4, and CSW5) fabricated with two to five layers of non-woven coarse sheep wool (fibre volume fractions of approximately 22.4% to 29.5%), whose physical (including density and void content), mechanical, and thermal characteristics have been previously established by the authors. A Taguchi L16 orthogonal array was used to quantify the effect of four factors at four levels each, impact velocity (30 to 75 m/s), impingement angle (45 to 90°), erodent size (100 to 250 μm), and fibre-layer configuration (CSW2 to CSW5), through signal-to-noise ratios (smaller-is-better) and ANOVA, complemented by a fixed-erodent (100 μm) parametric study of the angle and velocity dependence. CSW4 (approximately 27.3% fibre) recorded the lowest erosion rate, close to 30% below CSW2 in the fixed-erodent study, confirming it as the tribologically optimal laminate. ANOVA identified impact velocity as the dominant factor (approximately 54% contribution), followed by impingement angle (approximately 25%), fibre-layer configuration (approximately 10%), and erodent size (approximately 9%); erosion peaked near 75°, consistent with the semi-ductile response characteristic of natural fibre composites. The optimum operating window comprised an impact velocity of 30 m/s, an impingement angle of 90°, an erodent size of 100 μm, and the CSW4 configuration.
Abstract Heteropoly acids are good popular catalytic oxidation materials. They are polyoxometallates in nature. Heteropoly acids which are prepared by simple procedures have Keggin structures. Silicon based heteropoly acid catalysts can be used to catalyse various oxidation reactions. Ashes are good sources of silicon. In this study we have prepared H 3 PMo 12 O 40 , H 4 SiW 12 O 40 , H x CAMo 12 O 40 , H x CDMo 12 O 40 , H x CAW 12 O 40 , and H x CDW 12 O 40 (where CA→coal ash, and CD→cow dung ash) heteropoly acids. Synthesis of heteropoly acids using renewable abundant ashes is a valorization process and is a renewable sustainable green synthesis method. The synthesized heteropoly acids have been characterized by XRD, IR spectroscopy and UV – Visible spectroscopy. XRD studies show crystalline Keggin type structures for parent heteropoly acids and amorphous Keggin type structures for ash based heteropoly acids. In ashes along with silicon many other elements like Ca, Mg, Na etc. are present. Presence of such different elements, especially in high amount, make the ash based heteropoly acids to hinder the long range order in solid heteropoly acids, and hence produces amorphous nature. IR spectra of parent polyoxometallate compounds show standard finger print peaks and few characteristic peaks in group frequencies. Ash based polyoxometallates showed little broadened IR peaks. UV- Visible spectra of these compounds show characteristic main absorption peaks in ultraviolet region. In UV - Visible spectra also ash based heteropoly acids show little broad absorption peaks due to perturbation produced on electronic energy bands by various elements present in source ash materials.
Abstract Temperature homogeneity in stainless steel billets during industrial heating is critical for ensuring product quality such as microstructural consistencies, surface finish, and proper austenitization for subsequent hot-working processes. During billet reheating, difference in temperature at the core and the surface of the billet is important factor causing heterogeneity. This study presents a combined experimental and numerical investigation of the thermal behavior of 410L stainless steel billet muffle furnace heating. Experiments are performed using thermocouple-instrumented specimens heated under controlled environment to obtain transient temperature histories. Subsequently, a 3D numerical model is formulated by employing an effective heat transfer coefficient that incorporates heat transfer models at the boundary surface to simulate the complex heat exchange within the furnace chamber. The numerical predictions is validated against experimental data, showing good agreement. This study examines the gaps in establishing temperature homogeneity in industrial practice. The validated model offers a computationally efficient tool to predict soaking time with improved productivity.
Abstract Lead-based halide perovskites have revolutionized photovoltaics and optoelectronics due to their tunable band gaps, strong optical absorption, long carrier diffusion lengths, and record efficiencies. However, the presence of toxic lead and limited stability pose severe barriers to commercialization. Vacancy-ordered double perovskites have recently attracted significant attention in optoelectronics due to their high efficiency and reduced toxicity. They offer greater thermodynamic and chemical stability than regular perovskites. Here, we present first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations that compare the optoelectronic properties of Cs 2 ZrI 6 , Cs 2 TiI 6 , and Cs 2 MnI 6 . We discuss their crystal structures, electronic band structures, and optical spectra, and compare them with those of lead perovskites. Interestingly, our calculations reveal that (i) Cs 2 ZrI 6 and Cs 2 TiI 6 are direct bandgap semiconductors (bandgap = 1.524 eV and 0.76 eV, respectively), while (ii) Cs 2 MnI 6 exhibits semi-metallic properties. Moreover, the optical absorption peaks of Cs 2 ZrI 6 lie in the ultraviolet (UV) region, whereas Cs 2 TiI 6 and Cs 2 MnI 6 show strong absorption in the visible region. These properties indicate that Cs 2 ZrI 6 has great potential for use as a UV absorber or in tandem cells. At the same time, Cs 2 TiI 6 and Cs 2 MnI 6 may be suitable for visible and near-infrared photovoltaics or photodetectors.
Abstract This paper presents the design and pilot evaluation of an Interactive Lecture Demonstration (ILD)-based worksheet for teaching thermal interaction and thermal equilibrium in grade 8. The lesson sequence combined individual prediction, whole-class discussion, a teacher-led Arduino measurement, and the interpretation of exported temperature-time data. The pilot was carried out with 29 students in a Budapest school during two lessons. Students completed a baseline attitude questionnaire, a lesson-evaluation questionnaire, and a short post-lesson test. The analysis focused on overall classroom response and on an exploratory subgroup of students with the lowest baseline attitude scores. The lesson was evaluated positively, particularly regarding group work and measurement activities. In the post-lesson test, the lower-baseline-attitude subgroup performed similarly to their peers on most tasks, while lower scores appeared mainly on an open-ended explanatory item. Because the study involved a single class, a small exploratory subgroup, and no control group, the results should be interpreted cautiously. Nevertheless, the pilot suggests that combining prediction, measurement, and graph interpretation is a promising way to support conceptual discussion of thermal equilibrium and to engage students who begin with a less positive attitude toward physics.
Abstract The integration of mobile devices into school physics remains contested, as teachers face a combination of institutional constraints, pedagogical concerns, and practical challenges. In Czechia, decisions about mobile phone use are largely decentralised, placing responsibility on schools and teachers and making it important to understand the conditions shaping classroom integration. This paper presents the design and administration of a questionnaire developed to explore Czech physics teachers’ perceived barriers to and opportunities for using mobile devices, with a particular focus on student-owned devices. The instrument draws on established theoretical frameworks, including first- and second-order barriers, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Mobile Learning Readiness Scale, and was adapted to the Czech educational context. The questionnaire consists of two parts addressing teachers’ beliefs and reported patterns of device use. Data were collected online from 337 physics teachers. The paper focuses on the methodological framework, instrument construction, sampling, early descriptive insights illustrating the scope of the dataset, and a brief exploratory psychometric examination of the Likert-type batteries, and provides a foundation for subsequent analyses of teachers’ readiness and practices related to mobile device use in physics education.
Abstract This study examines the growing role of extended reality (XR) in physics education, highlighting its capacity to enhance visualisation, interaction, and understanding of complex scientific concepts. In this context, this study aims to describe XR resources developed within the REFODIGE project through a qualitative approach, employing observations, questionnaires, and reports across three phases. Furthermore, various XR tools—virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and 3D models—were analysed, focusing on their technological design, accessibility, and pedagogical applications. Notably, these open-access digital resources are specifically designed for students in their final years of secondary education and higher education. The findings indicate that 36 XR resources enhance engagement, creativity, and observational learning; however, challenges related to cost, access, and content quality persist. Overall, XR demonstrates significant educational potential; nevertheless, its effectiveness ultimately depends on robust pedagogical integration, ethical considerations, and further methodological research.
Abstract By the beginning of the 21st century’s second quarter, space sciences—and their applications in everyday life—have become a natural part of modern society. Their integration into physics education is gradually finding its appropriate place, and it no longer appears forced to refer to space-science–related aspects in virtually every thematic unit of physics teaching. In contrast, the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence has occurred only within the past few years in the outer circle. As educators, we cannot ignore this development, since—just like our students—we utilize artificial intelligence daily, both in our everyday lives and, increasingly, in our teaching practices. The present paper addresses these two topics in parallel, focusing on the rapidly expanding role of artificial intelligence and space sciences in contemporary physics education. It examines how recent advances in artificial intelligence can support teaching and learning processes, while also highlighting the pedagogical potential of space science-related content as a motivating and integrative framework within the physics curriculum.
Abstract This study explores the use of Augmented Reality (AR) in Physics Education through AnReAL (AugmeNted REality Active Learning), an application for Meta Quest and PICO headsets designed to enhance the teaching and learning of motion-related concepts. By leveraging real-time tracking and visualization of trajectories, vectors, and graphs, AnReAL transforms motion-related physics quantities into observable phenomena, fostering engagement, collaboration, and conceptual understanding. Pilot activities indicate positive responses from both students and teachers. Future work will address teacher training, structured teaching-learning sequences, and systematic evaluation of AnReAL’s impact on physics education.
Abstract Multimodal large language models are quickly expanding what AI can support in STEM instruction and assessment, but they also undermine answer-focused, unsupervised assessments. We describe Project Ethel, an institutional platform for course-specific, instructor-controlled AI assistance that emphasizes controlled context injection and human oversight. The paper summarizes early deployments of retrieval-augmented course chatbots, accessibility support for annotated materials, formative feedback on handwritten and computational work, and AI-assisted workflows for summative grading. For handwritten exams, we outline rubric-guided scoring and confidence-based triage (including item-response approaches) to route uncertain cases to human graders. We discuss operational constraints and design choices intended to support equitable access and course alignment while avoiding lock-in to provider-specific frontends.
Abstract The use of physics textbooks in education has a long-standing tradition and has been examined from multiple perspectives. More recently, growing interest has emerged in incorporating literary texts into science education. This study aims to present the results of research in which several freely accessible Large Language Models (LLMs) were employed to analyse literary texts originally written in Polish or translated into that language. The paper also presents in details some text-based assessment activities. The primary goal was to identify physics related topics and phenomena that could be assessed using these texts and to compare the LLM-generated classifications with the authors’ initial expert judgments. The outcomes of this comparison are subsequently presented and discussed from multiple educational perspectives.
Abstract Gamification is a form of learning organization that uses game design tools – goals, challenges, feedback, progression, choice, framework story, etc. – to support the understanding and application of the curriculum and the development of student competencies. This paper presents the initial phase of a gamified physics learning environment developed for students in a Hungarian primary school. The paper focuses on the design principles of the system and reports early observations. The study also identifies practical challenges, particularly the management of points across multiple digital platforms, and outlines directions for further development and quantitative evaluation.
Abstract This study investigates the impact of student-generated videos on learning gas physics. Ninth-grade students were divided into an experimental group (creating experiment videos) and a control group (solving calculation tasks). Quantitative analysis (ANCOVA) showed no significant difference in conceptual knowledge or attitudes between the groups. However, boys significantly outperformed girls in knowledge post-tests, and initial attitude strongly predicted final attitude. The video method did not enhance test scores but developed practical and digital skills, yielding reusable educational materials. Gender differences in learning outcomes merit further research.
Abstract The paper presents a Low Temperature Differential Gamma Stirling-engine realized within the framework of a secondary school project. The studied engine served as an illustration of heat engines and the 1st and 2nd laws of the thermodynamics. We designed an experiment in which data were collected during the full operation of the Stirling-engine by a video editor software. The data analysis allows us to determine the flywheel frequency and the temperatures of heat reservoirs. The diagrams flywheel frequency as function of time and flywheel frequency as a function of temperature-difference were represented. For physics class applications the data collection were automated with an Arduino-controlled infrared sensor that adapts to the operation of the engine. The complex operation of the Stirling-engines lays beyond the framework of the secondary school physics. Therefore we simplified its description using a Stirling-cycle, on where we can already follow the operation of the engine. The thermal efficiencies of both a Stirling-cycle and a Carnot-cycle were calculated in a special situation where the initial state was identical to that of the studied Stirling-engine.
Abstract Spin defects in wide-bandgap semiconductors hold great promise for the implementation of solid-state quantum bits (qubits) within quantum technologies. These defective qubits can be engineered by applying external optical, electrical, or mechanical controls. In this study, we present electrical- and strain-driven approaches for the deliberate design of defect spins in functional silicon carbide that could serve as qubits. By employing advanced ab-initio calculations based on the standard density functional theory, we predict that the divacancy centers in silicon carbide exhibit spin-triplet ground states, and their electronic and spin-related properties can be tuned by applying the electric field and the realistic uniaxial and biaxial strains. These spin defects can be effectively used to realize qubits. The strain-driven strategy demonstrated in this work can be readily extended to a broad range of point defects in other wide-bandgap semiconductors, thus paving the way for manipulating the spin properties of defects in ionic systems, leading to potential advancements in spintronic technologies.
Abstract Red-emitting SrMoO 4 phosphors co-doped with Eu 3+ and Bi 3+ were synthesized using a standard solid-state reaction method. Phase analysis confirms the formation of a pure scheelite-type tetragonal structure without secondary phases. The optimized phosphor, obtained at 1200 °C for 5 hours with 3%Eu 3+ and 4%Bi 3+ , exhibits significantly enhanced luminescence performance. Under blue-light excitation, the phosphor exhibits intense emission in the red spectral region 590 - 710 nm, which arises from the characteristic 5 D 0 → 7 F j (j = 1, 2, 4) transitions of Eu 3+ ions. Notably, Bi 3+ co-doping leads to an approximately 28-fold increase in emission intensity compared with the singly Eu 3+ -doped sample, owing to effective transfer of excitation energy from Bi3+ sensitizers to Eu 3+ activators. These results demonstrate that SrMoO 4 :Eu 3+ /Bi 3+ demonstrates considerable potential as a red phosphor for advanced pc-WLED applications.
