An overview of contemporary motor fuel production technologies, including conventional fuels, biocomponents, biofuels, synthetic fuels and e-fuels produced from biomass, waste streams and carbon dioxide, was presented. The main stages of fuel technology transformation associated with the elimination of lead additives, the development of low-emission fuels, the introduction of biocomponents and transport decarbonization were discussed. Particular attention was paid to fuel quality requirements, regulatory conditions, raw material limitations, and issues related to the operational and material compatibility of modern fuels. The influence of biocomponents and alternative fuels on fuel performance, durability of fuel system components and the development of polymer materials used in fuel storage, distribution and supply systems was characterized. It was indicated that the ongoing transformation of the fuel sector leads to an increasing integration of refining, petrochemical and materials technologies, while future fuel development will be based on the parallel use of various energy carriers and further reduction of carbon and environmental footprints.
Polymer foams are lightweight materials widely used in construction, packaging, transportation, and engineering applications due to their low density, good mechanical performance, and excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties. This review summarizes the fundamental principles of polymer foaming, including gas dissolution, nucleation, bubble growth, and stabilization, as well as the role of physical and chemical blowing agents. Major foaming technologies such as extrusion, injection molding, batch foaming, bead foaming, and in-situ foaming are discussed. Particular attention is given to advanced foam structures, including microcellular, nanocellular, composite, and bio-based foams. Current applications, recycling strategies, and key technological challenges are also proposed. Future developments are expected to focus on sustainable materials, improved control of cellular architecture, and multifunctional polymer foams for advanced engineering applications.
This review outlines the principles of circular economy for PU insulation foams and discusses properties of materials including renewable and recycled raw materials. It highlights the potential of using biopolyols and waste-derived fillers, as well as current methods for recycling rigid polyurethane foams. It also examines the possibilities of reusing recycled products in the synthesis of new polyurethane foams. It identifies key challenges, such as the variability of waste raw material quality and the need for process standardization, which are crucial for the broader implementation of circular economy solutions in the polyurethane sector.
New technologies for manufacturing protective gloves and footwear using innovative materials, 3D printing technology and modification of carbon-based nanofillers were discussed, based on research conducted at the Hand and Foot Protection Laboratory at the Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB). The focus was on improving mechanical, thermal, and electrostatic properties, as well as new research methods, including chemical degradation assessment, to create more durable and functional personal protective equipment.
The development of antibacterial food packaging has attracted increasing attention due to the growing demand for improved food safety, extended product shelf life, and the reduction of food waste. Active packaging materials with antibacterial properties can inhibit the growth of microorganisms responsible for food spoilage, thereby improving the stability and quality of packaged products. This review summarizes recent advances in antibacterial packaging materials intended for food contact applications, with particular emphasis on the mechanisms of their antibacterial activity. Polymer matrices used in such materials are also discussed, along with their role in the incorporation and controlled release of antibacterial agents. In addition, the review highlights regulatory aspects related to the development of active packaging materials, including European legislation concerning food contact materials as well as environmental policies addressing sustainable packaging. Finally, current technological trends and future development directions of antibacterial packaging materials are presented.
One-and two-component polyurethane coatings containing phase change materials (PCMs) in the form of microcapsules were obtained. Selected properties of the resulting coatings were assessed, including appearance, thickness, gloss, adhesion to glass, hardness, and water resistance. It has been confirmed that coatings containing PCM exhibit significantly lower gloss compared to those without PCM. DSC confirmed the occurrence of similar transition temperatures compared to the PCMs used. Based on the observed temperature changes in the coated thermocouple, it was shown that the coating maintained a constant temperature for 16 minutes.
Biodegradable packaging films based on potato and corn starch and cabbage pomace were developed, containing natural biologically active compounds, particularly glucosinolates and their hydrolysis products, including isothiocyanates and indoles. The effect of starch, glycerol, and lactic acid on tensile mechanical properties and antimicrobial activity of the obtained films were examined. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using a model bread storage test. Potato starch films were characterized by a higher Young's modulus and higher tensile strength than those made from corn starch. Increasing the glycerol content from 1 to 3 phr (parts per hundred resin) resulted in a decrease in Young's modulus and tensile strength, while simultaneously increasing the elongation at break. The strongest anti-mold effect was achieved for films containing a cabbage biopreparation and lactic acid, for which no mold growth was observed up to approximately 45 days of storage. The obtained films were biodegradable in natural environmental conditions, indicating their potential application in the production of biodegradable packaging materials for short-term use.
Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) is one of the most important thermoplastic materials with widespread industrial applications. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the development of PVC technology, from its discovery and initial industrial production stages to current technologies, modifications, and future trends. Key aspects of vinyl chloride production and polymerization processes are discussed, with particular emphasis on suspension polymerization as the dominant industrial method. The role of additives, including plasticizers, stabilizers, and fillers, in tailoring the properties of PVC is analyzed, together with their impact on PVC material performance. Special attention is given to environmental considerations, including the development of mechanical and chemical recycling technologies and the ongoing transition toward less toxic alternatives. Current research directions are also highlighted, covering bio-based PVC, nanocomposites, smart materials, and applications in additive manufacturing. The analysis indicates that, owing to continuous advances in material design and circular economy approaches, PVC remains a promising material for modern industrial applications.
The pursuit of sustainable yet high-performance materials has driven significant interest in hybrid composites combining natural and synthetic reinforcements. In this study, hybrid and non-hybrid epoxy composites of sugar palm fiber (SPF) and woven carbon fiber (WCF) were prepared with different layer configurations (D1-D9). The SPF fibers were subjected to an alkaline surface treatment to enhance adhesion to the polymer matrix. Thermomechanical analysis (TMA) demonstrated that the layer configuration critically affects the thermal expansion and dimensional stability of the composites. The most favorable TMA properties were obtained for the D1 configuration (SPF core and WCF outer layers), as evidenced by a low coefficient of thermal expansion (26 & micro;m/(m & centerdot; degrees C) at 200 degrees C). FESEM analysis demonstrated improved interfacial adhesion and reduced void formation for the modified SPF. A balance between tensile strength, stiffness, and ductility was achieved for the hybrid laminates (D1 and D4), emphasizing the importance of interface engineering in improving damage resistance. SPF/WCF reinforced epoxy hybrid composites are promising materials for structural applications in the aerospace, automotive and construction industries where both thermal stability and environmental considerations are crucial.
Nanofibers based on poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and carbon black nanoparticles (CB) were produced by electrospinning. Conductive membranes were obtained after electron beam irradia-tion. At a percolation threshold of 12.5 wt% CB, the resistivity increased from 10(2) Omega & centerdot; cm to 10(4) Omega & centerdot; cm (for PVDF/CB composites; the resistivity of pure PVDF is in the range of 10(12)-10(15) Omega & centerdot; cm). Under irradiation with a dose of 100 kGy, this increase reached three orders of magnitude (up to 10(5) Omega & centerdot; cm), with a simul-taneous reduction in beta phase crystallinity from 74.21% to 54.30%. The positive temperature coefficient (PTC) is attributed to radiation-induced cross-linking of PVDF chains, which limits the mobility of mac-romolecular segments and inhibits elastic contraction of the conductive network upon heating. There-fore, the material exhibits a higher coefficient of expansion, which favors the separation of CB particles and the rapid disintegration of conductive paths, leading to a sharp increase in resistivity.
9-(2-(1H-pyrazol-1-yl) acetyl)-12H-benzo[b]thioxanthen-12-one (TXMPPY) was synthesized by using 1-(naphthalen-2-yl)-2-(1H-pyrazol-1-yl) ethanone (MPPY) photoinitiator as starting material. Structure of TXMPPY was characterized by UV-Vis, FT-IR and 1H-NMR spectral analysis. The polymerization of TXMPPY with methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer was studied at different concentrations in air and nitrogen atmospheres, both in the presence and absence of triethylamine (TEA), a tertiary amine. The photo physical properties of the photoinitiator and the changes in electronic transitions due to its solvent effect were elucidated using the UV-Vis spectrophotometry method. The time-resolved spectrofluorometer was employed to record fluorescence emission and decay profiles, allowing the determination of fluorescence lifetime. According to results, hydrogen abstraction process is dominant path for the formation of initiating radicals.
Hybrid nanofluids based on surface-modified anionic cellulose nanoparticles (ACNPs) and metal oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3, ZnO, TiO2, MgO) were developed to improve the dispersion stability and thermal conductivity of aqueous systems. The hybrid nanocomposites were synthesized using ACNPs and then introduced into water (1 wt%) with added polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) using a two-step method. The stability of the aqueous systems was assessed based on visual observations and zeta potential measurements. Density, viscosity, thermal conductivity, and specific heat were also determined. The ZnO-based nanofluid demonstrated the most favorable properties, remaining stable for over 60 days and exhibiting thermal conductivity 109% and 81% higher at 45 degrees C and 65 degrees C compared to water, respectively. In contrast, the MgO system was characterized by high viscosity and long-term visual stability, but there was a smaller increase in thermal conductivity.
Bamboo-weave baskets were manufactured using fused deposition modeling (FDM) from a hybrid PLA-WF filament (84.4% PLA; 15.6% poplar wood fiber). Process parameters affecting the sur-face quality of 3D printed products were optimized: (i) extrusion temperature, (ii) extrusion speed, and (iii) retraction distance. Both the arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) and the mean maximum roughness height (Rz) of PLA-WF printed products decreased with increasing extrusion temperature, decreasing extrusion speed, and increasing retraction distance. The best surface quality and dimensional accuracy were obtained using an extrusion temperature of 230 degrees C, an extrusion speed of 40 mm/s, and a retraction distance of 6 mm.
This study investigated the flexural behavior of prestressed fiber-reinforced concrete (FRPC) beams reinforced with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer laminates (CFRP). The use of steel and poly-propylene fibers, as well as hybrid systems, resulted in increased load-bearing capacity, ductility, and improved crack control, with the hybrid systems showing the best results. Flexural modulus (MoR) and testing of beam core samples confirmed improved strength after cracking, indicating an effective and durable hybrid strengthening strategy.
Poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) composites modified with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphite were developed for use as sensors in conventional non-destructive testing. Their electrical conductivity, thermal diffusivity, electrothermal properties, and piezoresistive response were investigated. PBT/MWCNT composites showed the highest strain sensitivity, while PBT/MWCNT-graphite hybrid composites showed better electrical stability and better heat transfer, which indicates their potential as sensors in conventional non-destructive testing.
The current state of knowledge in the field of chemical recycling of poly(ethylene 2,5-furandi-carboxylate) (PEF) is presented, with particular emphasis on effective depolymerization methods such as methanolysis, hydrolysis, and glycolysis. New directions of development of PEF recycling technology were discussed in the aspect of environmental challenges within the circular economy.
Effect of 1 and 3 wt% nanocrystalline arrowroot cellulose (ARNC) on the structure and pro-perties of arrowroot starch (AS)-based films was investigated. The addition of ARNC increased the film density and reduced its water absorption, indicating improved moisture barrier properties. Fur-thermore, tensile strength increased (from 2.5 MPa to 4.3 MPa) and elongation at break (from 13.4% to 45%). Simultaneously, Young's modulus decreased (from 65.7 MPa to 32.5 MPa), suggesting increased flexibility. FESEM analysis revealed good dispersion of cellulose nanocrystals in the composite, with a tendency to agglomerate at higher ARNC content.
Effect of zinc oxide-modified magnesium oxide (ZnO/MgO) and its preparation methods (two-or single-step calcination using zinc acetylacetonate or zinc acetate, respectively) on the thermal conductivity and thermal stability of PE was investigated. SEM, XRD, and XPS studies confirmed effec-tive deposition of ZnO on MgO surface, uniform particle distribution, preservation of MgO crystalline structure, and formation of a stable coating. The synergistic effect of both oxides significantly improved both the thermal conductivity and thermal stability of PE, with better results obtained using ZnO-mod-ified MgO manufactured in the two-step process. The highest thermal conductivity and thermal stabil-ity were observed for MgO containing 2 wt% ZnO. At higher ZnO content, agglomerates were formed, which resulted in deterioration of thermal properties.
This article presents a strength analysis of drone structural components made of polymeric materials (PLA, PETG, ASA). The geometry of three-dimensional research models was developed and constructed using artificial intelligence-based software. The geometric data was processed for produc-tion using a 3D printer based on MEX (Material Extrusion) polymer layer extrusion technology. Strength tests of the drone's arms, which serve as motor mounts, were performed using a static bending tester equipped with a special fixture.
In this study, cellulose acetate (CA) membranes were fabricated using the dry-wet phase in-version method and modified with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to improve their separation properties. The addition of CNTs contributed to the strengthening of the membrane structure and to selective interactions with aromatic dye molecules. The membranes were characterized using FT-IR, XRD, and SEM. Tensile properties were also examined. The matrix density was determined by the high CA con-centration and the presence of CNTs, which resulted in an increase in the naphthol dye retention rate to 65% at a permeate flux of 75.1 +/- 3.7 LMH. Furthermore, the CNT-modified membranes demonstrated a balanced improvement in permeability, selectivity, and mechanical strength.
