The 2024 Al-Cu alloy is extensively used in aerospace, automotive, and structural applications due to its remarkable properties, such as a higher strength-to-weight ratio and lightweight nature, making it a popular choice across various industries for various applications. Therefore, in the present study, the effect of varying process parameters, such as tool traverse speed (TTS) and rotational speed (TRS), on force and torque, ripple formation during the joining of surfaces, surface morphology, surface roughness, and hardness of friction stir-welded AA2024 Al-Cu alloy was investigated. The materials were joined at different TRS of 600, 900, and 1200 rpm and TTS of 3, 5, and 7 mm/s using a taper-threaded friction stir tool at a constant tool tilt angle. The results reveal that the low ripple distance occurred at higher TTS. Further, at a constant TRS, it is observed that the TTS is increased, and the ripple distance on the welded samples is also increased. Moreover, the higher surface roughness (SR) values at the weld center (9.82 µm) and 4.38 µm from AS to RS at TRS of 900 rpm and TTS of 3 mm/s and higher micro-hardness values are observed (125HV0.1) at the same process parameters.

The valorization of non-ferrous slags as cementitious materials and aggregates represents a promising pathway for sustainable construction. Generated during the extraction and refining of metals such as copper, lead, zinc, and nickel, these industrial by-products are increasingly studied as alternatives to conventional binders and aggregates. This review synthesizes advances in understanding the physical, chemical, and mineralogical characteristics of non-ferrous slags and their influence on the fresh, mechanical, and durability properties of cement and concrete composites. Reported benefits include improvements in compressive and tensile strength, enhanced density, and potential durability gains, alongside clear economic and environmental advantages such as reduced raw material demand, waste minimization, and lower carbon footprint. However, challenges remain regarding workability, setting behavior, and long-term performance, particularly under variable production conditions and in the presence of toxic elements. Future research directions are outlined, emphasizing optimized processing, activation strategies, and life-cycle assessments to enable the safe and large-scale integration of non-ferrous slags into sustainable cement and concrete technologies.

The construction industry faces growing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, with cement production contributing approximately 7

This study examines the potential of high-volume Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) in advancing sustainable, low-cost, low-carbon Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) through a quaternary binder design. Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), Class F Fly Ash (FA), and Silica Fume (SF) were incorporated as partial replacements for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) to formulate Quaternary Blended Self-Compacting Concrete (QBSCC). Twenty-eight mixes were developed, including one control and twenty-seven quaternary blends, at a constant water-to-binder ratio of 0.4. The SCMs substitution ranged from 42.5

Friction stir welding (FSW) is an eco-friendly, sustainable, solid-state process that is increasingly being used to join metallic, non-metallic, polymer, and composite materials to create high-quality welds with minimal flaws. The tool pins’ profiles govern material flow, heat generation, and weld integrity. The literature shows that threaded, taper threaded, triangular, and hybrid pins enhance mixing, grain refinement, hardness, and tensile strength, while cylindrical or smooth pins often cause defects. Microstructural investigations confirm that complex pin geometries promote finer grains and higher strength and hardness. A fracture analysis of welded samples reveals that shift in failure location from the nugget to the thermo-mechanically affected zone (TMAZ) depends on the geometry of the tool pin. Despite these advances, only a few studies have examined different materials, and standardised evaluation of tool geometries is lacking. Using computational and machine learning methods for predictive modelling, expanding applicability to lightweight alloys in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, and developing hybrid and adaptive pin profiles are the upcoming research priorities.

This study investigates the fabrication of an AA6061 metal matrix composite reinforced with dual-phase AlCoFeNiMn high-entropy alloy (HEA) particles using friction stir processing (FSP). HEA particles, prepared via high-energy ball milling to an average size of 10 μm, served as effective strengthening agents within the aluminum matrix. Post-fabrication, the FSP-Al6061 composite (FSP-AMC) underwent T6 heat treatment to re-precipitate the β′′ phase dissolved during FSP. The heat-treated FSP-AMC exhibited refined, equiaxed grains in the stir zone (SZ) with an average grain size of 4 μm and a surface hardness of 115 HV, higher than the as-received AA6061. Tensile testing showed that the FSP-AMC with T6 treatment reached a tensile strength of 315 MPa with an elongation of 12

One of the main benefits of using eggshell powder as a sustainable construction material is that it can reduce the need for more traditional, non-renewable materials such as cement. Cement production is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions which contribute approximately 8 CO_2 emissions and consumes a large amount of energy. Eggshell waste may be transformed into a cement substitute that can be used instead of cement, which can help mitigate environmental impact and provide the building sector access to a valuable resource. Eggshell powder is primarily composed of calcium carbonate ( CaCO_3 ), which accounts for approximately 95

The purpose of this study is to improve the friction stir welded dissimilar joint aluminum alloys 7075/6061-T6 employing a wide range of FSW welding parameters. These aluminum grades are widely used in the automobile and aerospace industries for their corrosion resistance, formability and high strength-to-weight ratio. The wide range FSW parameters tool rotational speed (800-1300RPM) and tool traverse speed (20-40 mm/min) at a constant axial load (10kN) were performed the dissimilar weld joints. The characteristics of dissimilar welded joints are reported in terms of microstructure and mechanical properties which include tensile strength and hardness variations. The experimental results showed that the highest tensile strength was obtained close to 350 MPa at moderate tool rotational speed and medium tool traverse speed; however, it decreased with any change in tool traverse speed. It happens due to the formation of fine-structure and precipitations in stir zone. Whereas at high rotational speed and tool traverse slower speed, the tensile strength was found to be the least due to coarsening in structure, which increased with any change in tool traverse speed. The combination of FSW weldment properties will be utilized for different applications.

With the growth of the construction industry, the role and importance of sustainable construction practices are also increasing. This study reviews the various advancements in the field of bio-based construction materials, including bio-aggregates, bio-binders, and bio-bricks. The origins of our centuries-old construction methods can be found in bio-based concrete materials, which have been revived and modernized to meet the needs of present-day construction. The integration of recovered construction and agricultural wastes plays a significant role in bringing these materials into the competitive building sector, aligning with sustainability goals. This study provides an in-depth examination of the processes and compositions required to achieve the desired strength and durability of bio-based materials. By comprehensively analyzing global research data, the study offers insights into the successful incorporation of biomaterials, emphasizing their potential to reduce carbon emissions and promote the responsible utilization of natural raw materials. This pathway towards more sustainable construction practices underscores the environmental benefits of bio-based concrete materials.

The valorization of municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSW-IBA) as a sustainable construction material is critical for addressing landfill diversion and resource scarcity in developing nations. This study investigates the efficacy of pozzolanic binder stabilization for MSW-IBA from two Indian waste-to-energy facilities under tropical climatic conditions. Physicochemical characterization revealed SiO2, Al2O3, and CaO as dominant oxides, with Zn and Pb below regulatory thresholds. Mechanical testing demonstrated significant gains, achieving unconfined compressive strengths of 1.8-4.2 MPa and California bearing ratio (CBR) values compliant with IRC SP:72 (2015) sub-base requirements. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy confirmed pozzolanic reactions forming calcium silicate hydrate gels and ettringite, correlating with microstructural densification and porosity reduction. Leaching tests validated heavy metal immobilization, meeting requirements. Results establish stabilized MSW-IBA from two different sources as a equally viable and competitive replacement to natural aggregates, offering tropical regions dual environmental and infrastructural benefits.

This study explores the impact of various tool pin profiles—cylindrical, conical, threaded, non-threaded, and a novel hybrid (square + threaded)—on the elongation, macro/microstructure, thermal, and mechanical properties of friction stir welded (FSW) 2050- T84 Al-Cu-Li alloy plates. The results reveal that the tool pin profile significantly affects weld quality, particularly elongation and bead structure. The hybrid pin profile, at 1400 rpm and 4 mm/s, achieved the best performance with a tensile strength of 404.2 MPa, elongation of 7.56%, and joint efficiency of 76.4%. It generated the highest heat input (1180 KJ/m) with optimal flow characteristics and lower axial force. Localized heat at the tip (25 KJ/m) and pin side (330 KJ/m) promoted refined equiaxed grains in the nugget zone and elongated grains in the TMAZ. SEM analysis confirmed ductile fracture surfaces. This work provides valuable guidance for optimizing FSW tool design and process parameters to enhance weld quality.

This review examines the emerging Book Claim mechanism as a potential market and accounting framework to accelerate decarbonization in the cement and concrete industries. The paper explores how this approach, when adapted from renewable energy markets, can enable verified emissions reductions from low-carbon concrete production to be transacted independently of physical material delivery. Key questions addressed include: How can Book Claim overcome geographic and economic barriers to low-carbon concrete adoption? What verification, governance, and policy frameworks are needed to ensure its credibility and alignment with international carbon accounting standards? Recent advances in low carbon technologies have demonstrated measurable CO₂ reductions in cement-based materials. Parallel developments such as digital registries, environmental attribute certificates, and government-supported demonstration projects highlight growing policy interest in market-based decarbonization tools. However, the mechanism remains nascent, requiring acceptance from standard setters like ISO, GHGP, and SBTi, as well as harmonization with existing carbon markets and procurement standards. The review finds that Book Claim could complement existing decarbonization pathways by creating verifiable, tradable environmental attributes for low-carbon materials. Its broader success will depend on robust measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) protocols, transparent registries, and policy recognition across jurisdictions. The mechanism offers a scalable model for connecting innovation in cement manufacturing with global emissions-reduction goals, but further empirical validation and coordinated policy support are essential for its long-term credibility and market uptake.

This study investigates the degradation potential of metakaolin-based geopolymer (GP) composites when exposed to real and simulated acidic environments. Traditional OPC concrete, commonly used in wastewater treatment facilities, faces considerable deterioration due to the destructive chemical composition of municipal wastewater. This extensive investigation aims to assess the performance of GP composites as a sustainable alternative to such materials. The metakaolin-based GP mortar samples were prepared and subjected to immersion in a primary clarifier unit at a local wastewater treatment plant (real) and a laboratory-made acetic acid solution (simulation) for up to four weeks after curing. The analysis included measurements of % strength and % weight loss, as well as characterization techniques such as isothermal calorimetry, microstructure (SEM), and mercury porosimetry (MIP). The outcomes signified a cumulative heat generation of 534 J/g at three days, with an average compressive strength of 79.4 MPa past 28 days. Exposure to acetic acid led to a 13% decline in compressive strength and a 3.90% loss in sample weight, while exposure to real wastewater resulted in an 18% strength and a 5.60% weight loss. Observations from SEM revealed microstructural changes, including the formation of biofilms and air voids, indicating multifaceted interactions between the GP matrix and its surrounding environment. This research effectively highlights the potential of metakaolin-based geopolymer composites to improve durability against acidic conditions, suggesting future applications in the construction of infrastructure exposed to such harsh chemical environments.

Replacement of cement with electric arc furnace (EAF) slag at higher volumes causes volumetric expansion; therefore, such blends are not recommended in concrete production. In this study, the effect of this slag on the performance and microstructure of mortar samples based on wollastonite (CaSiO3) was examined. The samples were cured in a CO2-rich environment, resulting in the formation of non-expansive products, including aragonite, calcite, and traces of tobermorite in the microstructure. The addition of slag above 20% affected the workability and strength developments. However, the formation of pores above 100 nm reduced with increasing slag content to 60%, highlighting the beneficial effect of slag when used in higher volumes. EAF slag contains a higher amount of Fe2O3 which limits its disposal at landfills, but its increased use in the production of CO2 gas-cured wollastonite concrete can reduce the environmental burdens caused by the Portland cement and steel manufacturing industries.

Li-ion batteries are a key component of today’s electric cars. However, those pushing for more electric vehicles are concerned about battery performance. Because temperature determines the battery’s durability, regulating the heat and maintaining the temperature and temperature changes in the battery packs within an acceptable range is critical. A battery cooling system can prevent early degradation of battery life. The first section of this study looks at the impact of PCM and its composite on battery performance in three different cooling conditions: low temperature, high temperature, and ambient temperature in environmental conditions. The battery cooling system is then thoroughly explored, focusing on battery modeling approaches and thermal management techniques. This article summarizes active and passive cooling based on PCM and the influence of high and low-temperature environments on lithium-ion battery technology and their aging effects. In addition, this paper examines some real-world accidents involving electric vehicles under Indian climate conditions. The southern regions typically have hot weather for most of the year. Most accidents occur in the southern region, where the temperature is high.

In the grand narrative of human civilization, the evolution of materials stands as a testament to our journey from rudimentary shelters to towering edifices that define our contemporary landscapes. This transformation of materials, which initially served basic sheltering needs, has been driven by the pressing demands of a rapidly changing planet. This discourse embarks on an exploration of this evolutionary trajectory, tracing the symbiotic relationship between humanity and the materials it has shaped, from the simplicity of ancient caves to the complexity of modern skyscrapers. Woven through this narrative is a thread that transcends time, highlighting the critical intersection of architectural innovation, ever-evolving materials and environmental stewardship. From the dawn of civilization, the manipulation of materials has not only influenced the form and function of our habitats but also reflected our evolving relationship with the environment. As we stand at the precipice of environmental challenges, these materials have undergone a metamorphosis, adapting to the multifaceted demands of a planet in flux. This editorial underscores the imperative of this transformation, advocating for a fusion of innovative design, responsible materials work and sustainable practices in the face of a dynamic climate. As we navigate the ages from rudimentary shelters to the urgent demands of a changing climate, the narrative of material evolution is a profound reflection of our collective journey.

This study investigates the behavior of stabilized Incinerated Bottom Ash (BA) reinforced with fiber when tested under Triaxial conditions. A number of lab-based Unconsolidated Undrained (UU) tests were performed on BA specimens with changing cement content (0–10

The performance of the Li-ion battery module (6S5P) with composite PCMs is investigated for its cooling behavior. To transfer the heat generated by the battery module, paraffin (PCM1) and Granular Paraffin (PCM2) with copper sintering are used. The battery module consists of 30 cells with a capacity of 13 Ah, and the nominal voltage is 22.2 V. The performance of battery modules is studied at a discharge rate of 1C with different cooling approaches viz natural cooling, forced cooling, PCM cooling, and PCM + Copper sintering cooling. The composite PCM is prepared by the sintering method to control the temperature achieved during the solidification of copper. It has been observed that the addition of copper sintering to the PCM enhances the cooling performance of battery modules. The thermal efficiencies obtained in different cooling approaches, viz natural cooling, forced cooling, PCM1, PCM1 + Cu, PCM2, and PCM2 + Cu efficiencies are 9.15 %, 11.04 %, 30.35 %, 38.92 %, 48.38 %, and 54 %, respectively. The results indicate the importance of PCM-based cooling in improving the cooling efficiency of lithium-ion battery packs, particularly when sintered with copper compared with natural and forced cooling in terms of maximum temperature (Tmax) and maximum temperature difference (ΔTmax).