30 April 2026, Volume 57 Issue 4
    

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    Multi Dimensional Performance Control of Metal Functional Materials
  • Chloride corrosion behavior of alloy corrosion-resistant steel in mineral admixture extraction solutions
    LIAO Qichen, LI Xingqi, LIU Xianchao, ZHANG Junqing, AI Zhiyong, GUO Xiaojun, HUANG Ling, SONG Dan
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 1-8. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.001
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    The corrosion behavior of Cr10Mo1 alloy corrosion-resistant steel (LA) (compared with HRB400 ordinary carbon steel (LC)) in chloride salt (3.5 wt% NaCl) environments within slurry extracts containing varying mineral admixture contents (0%, 15%, 30%, 45%) was investigated using linear polarization and Tafel polarization methods. The microscopic corrosion morphology and products composition of the steels were analyzed using SEM/EDS. The results indicate that under chloride attack in all slurry extracts, the corrosion tendency of the two steels increases with mineral admixture contents. However, LA steel consistently remains a good passivity without active corrosion, while LC steel presents a contentiously intensified corrosion, producing large amounts of loose Fe-O corrosion products. This study confirms that alloy corrosion-resistant steel has excellent chloride-resistance even in slurry extracts with high mineral admixtures, providing a referring basis for the application of new prevention technologies for steel corrosion in concrete with high-volume mineral admixtures.
  • Preparation and thermoelectric properties study of Li-doped n-type Ag8SnSe6
    YANG Chao, JIANG Shuyin, LAN Judong, CAO Chenyang, LIU Xueying, LI Huiyu
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 9-16. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.002
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    Ag8SnSe6 is a ternary n-type semiconductor material with intrinsic low lattice thermal, garnering significant interest. However, the carrier concentration (1022-1023 m-3) of the Ag8SnSe6 compound is relatively low, which in turn leads to a low power factor. In this work, lithiated Ag8SnSe6 is prepared through chemical diffusion in CH3COOLi solution, and its band structures and thermoelectric performance are investigated. The calculation results show that the formation energy of Li at the interstitial sites in Ag8SnSe6 is the lowest, and Li prefers to occupy an interstitial site. The introduced Li+ can generate additional electrons, which increases the carrier concentration to some extent. Besides, the band structure of Ag8SnSe6 is changed by lithium doping. The band gap decrease and the Fermi level (Fr) moves up toward the conduction band, which is helpful for the transport of electrons. Therefore, the carrier concentration near the Fermi surface is increased from 2.50×1022 m-3 to 5.58×1024 cm-3, an improvement of two orders of magnitude. Because the increase in electrical conductivity is greater than the decrease in the Seebeck coefficient, the maximum power factor (7.66 μW/(cm·K2)) is attained with a diffusion temperature of 373 K and a diffusion time of 36 h, which is 1.89 times that of Ag8SnSe6 (4.06 μW/(cm·K2)). As a result, the ZT value of Ag8SnSe6 by lithium diffusion at 373 K for 24 h is boosted to 0.86 at 605 K, which is ~40% higher than that of the Ag8SnSe6 (ZT=0.63).
  • The study on the influence of strain partitioning mechanism on the deformation behavior and softening mechanism of duplex stainless steel
    MA Ming, DU Xiaoming
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 17-23. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.003
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    Hot tensile tests were conducted on duplex stainless steel 2507 to reveal the coordinated deformation mechanism of austenite and ferrite. This paper also investigated the effect of strain partitioning characteristics on microstructural evolution and deformation behavior of the alloy. The results show that dynamic recrystallization of the austenite does not occur in a higher temperature and relative lower strain rate which is quite different from the common alloys. The accumulation of strain energy is the decisive factor in its softening mechanism. In this study, when temperature is decreased into 950 ℃ and strain rate increased from 0.01 s-1 to 0.1 s-1, the austenite strain (εγ) reached the threshold value of 0.273, dynamic recrystallization of austenite phase was only triggered. Furthermore, the influence of hot deformation parameters on the strain partitioning between the two phases has been quantitatively described in this paper.
  • Influence of different element doping on the amorphous formation ability and soft magnetic properties of FeSiBY alloy
    QU Yongjia, JI Li, YANG Jun, YANG Simeng, ZHANG Yizhen, LIU Jin, GUO Junhua, XU bei
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 24-29. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.004
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    This paper systematically investigated the effects of trace elements P, Ti, Cu, and C on the amorphous forming ability, thermal stability, and soft magnetic properties of the Fe78Si7B12.4Y0.6 alloy. The alloy thin strips were prepared by vacuum arc melting and single-roll spin cooling methods, and their microstructure and properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The results showed that the addition of P and C elements, due to their large size difference from Fe atoms, effectively promoted the formation of a complete amorphous structure, while Ti and Cu led to the precipitation of α-Fe phase due to factors such as atomic size and mixing enthalpy, reducing the amorphous forming ability. The DSC analysis indicated that the alloy with Cu doping had the largest width of the overcooled liquid phase region ΔTx (126.2 ℃), showing the best thermal stability, while the alloy with C doping had ΔTx the smallest (only 30.0 ℃), with poorer thermal stability. The soft magnetic performance results showed that the P-doped alloy maintained a high saturation magnetic induction (Bs=1.50 T) while having the lowest coercivity (Hc=29.96 A/m), which was attributed to the uniform amorphous structure effectively reducing the magnetic domain wall pinning effect, while the C-doped alloy had the highest Bs (1.63 T), but the huge internal stress led to its excessive Hc. The Ti and Cu-doped alloys had deteriorated soft magnetic properties due to the presence of crystalline phases. In summary, the P element exhibited the best balance in amorphous forming ability and comprehensive soft magnetic properties, making it the most ideal microalloying element for optimizing the performance of the FeSiBY series amorphous alloys.
  • Ti-NiTi assembled mechanical metamaterials for reusable energy absorption with large specific energy absorption and high cyclic stability
    LIU Helong, LI Haohang, ZHOU Meng, YANG Ying, CUI Lishan, HAO Shijie
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 30-38. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.005
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    Traditional metallic energy-absorbing structures cannot recover their initial shape after impact deformation, which limits their application in fields such as aerospace and transportation. Using TC4 titanium alloy as an example, despite its excellent properties including high specific energy absorption, lightweight, and corrosion resistance, its "single-use energy absorption" characteristic restricts its reusability. To address this issue, this study combines titanium alloy with the superelastic NiTi alloy to fabricate Ti-NiTi assembled mechanical metamaterials (Ti-NiTi AMM). This structure integrates the high energy absorption capacity of titanium alloy with the reusability of NiTi alloy through a sandwich design. Under 60% compressive strain, the Ti-NiTi AMM exhibits a shape recovery rate of 74.7%, which remains at 66.2% after 1000 compression cycles. Additionally, the Ti-NiTi AMM demonstrates outstanding energy absorption capability, with a specific energy absorption of 1.0 MJ/m3 per cycle. This research provides a novel approach to developing high-performance, reusable energy-absorbing metallic structures.
  • High-strength, high-conductivity 6××× series aluminum alloys: fabrication processes and performance optimization
    XIANG Yinghan, ZHANG Congrui, LIU Wenjie, DING Yi, HOU Shibo, WU Yifu, GUO Xu
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 39-52. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.006
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    The 6××× series (Al-Mg-Si) aluminum alloys are pivotal materials for replacing copper conductors in power transmission and new energy vehicles. However, the inherent trade-off between their strength and electrical conductivity presents a significant research challenge. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in enhancing the overall performance of these alloys through composition design, heat treatment, and deformation processing. It critically examines the decisive role of the Mg/Si ratio on precipitation behavior and the synergistic mechanisms of microalloying elements such as Cu, Mn, Cr, Sc, Zr, and La. The regulation of microstructure and properties by conventional homogenization-solution-aging treatments, combined with novel processes like cryogenic treatment and severe plastic deformation, is also analyzed. Finally, the review outlines existing challenges in synergistic optimization and industrial application, proposing future research directions focused on multi-scale microstructure design to achieve breakthrough performance.
    • Focuses & Concerns
  • Preparation and energy storage efficiency study of Sr0.7Bi0.1TiO2.85-composite-modified (Pb, La)(Zr, Sn, Ti)O3 antiferroelectric ceramics
    LI Mingwei, WU Tianhe, BAI Yaoning, SUN Qingchi, ZHANG Yiwen, JI Huiming
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 53-58. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.007
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    A (1-x)Pb0.94La0.04(Zr0.42Sn0.40Ti0.18)O3-xSr0.7Bi0.1TiO2.85 (PLZST-SBT) composite material was synthesized via the solid-state reaction method. The influence of the SBT amount (x=0.1-0.4) on the microstructure and energystorage efficiency of the antiferroelectric material was investigated. When x=0.1 and 0.2, the tetragonal phase of PLZST and cubic phase of SBT coexist within the material, enhancing its energy storage efficiency through the hysteresis loop characteristics of the cubic phase. At x=0.3, the polar nanometer-size regions (PNRs) formed by Bi3+ diffusion into PLZST become the dominant polarization mechanism. Residual antiferroelectricphase regions remain, resulting in a relaxor-like antiferroelectric behavior. Notably, the material demonstrates optimal energy storage performance at x=0.3. Following process optimization, an energy storage efficiency of 81% and an energy storage density of 0.86 J/cm3 are achieved. Ultimately, the results of this study demonstrate that (Sr, Bi)TiO3-composite (Pb, La)(Zr, Sn, Ti)O3-based ceramics represent a promising strategy for enhancing the energy storage efficiency of antiferroelectric materials.
  • Preparation method and performance characterization of heat-resistant phase-change particles
    DAI Chenxi, WEI Kun, NI Tengfei, WANG Sifan
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 59-68. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.008
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    Phase change particles hold significant potential for temperature regulation, yet currently face numerous challenges such as insufficient thermal stability, low phase change enthalpy values, and costly preparation processes. To address the thermal stability issue of phase change particles, this study proposes a synergistic “porous adsorption-epoxy encapsulation” multi-level encapsulation technology. By combining the physical adsorption of phase change materials by porous carriers with the chemical method of forming a dense shell through epoxy resin encapsulation and curing, high-temperature and low-temperature composite phase change particles (HTPCMP/LTPCMP) with excellent comprehensive performance were prepared. Systematic evaluation of the thermal stability and microstructure of the phase change particles was conducted using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results indicate that the high-temperature phase change particles (HTPCMP) exhibited a phase change enthalpy of 100.7 J/g and a phase change temperature range from 45 to 60 ℃. While the low-temperature phase change particles (LTPCMP) exhibited a phase change enthalpy of 50.5 J/g and a phase change temperature range of -1.4 to 15.8 ℃. After undergoing heat treatment at 160 ℃ for 30 min and multiple thermal cycles, both types of phase change particles maintained stable phase change enthalpy and temperature ranges, demonstrating excellent thermal stability and cycle stability.
  • The influence of TiB2 content on the microstructure and properties of in-situ TiB2/7075 aluminum matrix composites
    ZHENG Yang, ZHANG Hui, LIAO Zhongni, LI Yapeng, WANG Taotao, LI Junjie
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 69-76. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.009
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    The TiB2 particle-reinforced aluminum matrix composites prepared by the mixed salt method have shown broad application prospects in aerospace, automotive EMus and other fields due to their advantages such as simple forming process, low cost, light weight and high strength, excellent mechanical properties and good mechanical processing performance. In this paper, TiB2/7075 aluminum matrix composites with different TiB2 mass fractions were prepared by in-situ synthesis of mixed salt reaction method. The influence of TiB2 content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the composites was studied. The results show that the addition of TiB2 could inhibit the growth of grains and achieve grain refinement. When the TiB2 content was 4.5 wt%, the grain refinement effect was the most significant, and the grain size of the composite material was refined from 83.42 μm of 7075 aluminum alloy to 48.35 μm. At the same time, the mechanical properties were most significantly improved, with tensile strength and elongation increasing by 26.8% and 8%, respectively. Computational analysis shows that the TiB2/7075 aluminum matrix composite was mainly strengthened by the Orowan mechanism, supplemented by fine-grained strengthening, load transfer strengthening, and thermal mismatch strengthening. Under the combined effect of several strengthening mechanisms, the mechanical properties of the composite are effectively improved.
  • Preparation and performance study of sulfhydryl-modified nano-silver/polyvinyl alcohol intelligent color-change repeatably removable coatings
    ZHANG Ziyuan, RAN Ke, CHEN Hongzhi, HE Zhiyu
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 77-84. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.010
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    During the daily operation and decommissioning processes of the nuclear industry, lead, as an important metallic element, is widely used. However, due to its significant environmental impact, there is a critical need for effective monitoring technologies. In response to the limitations of existing major monitoring techniques—such as their inadequacy for real-time, rapid on-site analysis in nuclear facilities, along with the need for improved detection capability and selectivity—this study developed a colorimetric peelable decontamination material specifically targeting lead ions. By introducing specific chemical groups, this material enables selective adsorption of lead ions accompanied by a distinct color change, thereby achieving visual monitoring of lead contamination. This paper discusses factors influencing the lead ion detection performance through modifications of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), including the amount of dispersant, reagent concentration, temperature, and infrared spectroscopy analysis. Furthermore, a comprehensive evaluation of the decontamination material’s practical application potential was conducted through tests of mechanical properties, contact angle, and ZETA potential.
  • First-principles investigation of doping effects on the optical properties of NO adsorption on MoTe2
    XU Fengxia, ZHU Hongqiang, LUO Lei, YIN Kaihui, WU Zebang, GAO Tianjun, GU Yonghong, YUE Yuanxia, YANG Tong, JIA Weiyao
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 85-90. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.011
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    Using first-principles calculations within density functional theory, we systematically investigate the adsorption of NO molecules on pristine MoTe2 and on B-doped, Fe-doped, and B-Fe co-doped MoTe2 surfaces. The adsorption distance, charge transfer, band structure, density of states, and optical properties are computed. Compared with pristine MoTe2, all three doped surfaces exhibit shorter adsorption distances and larger charge transfer between the MoTe2 surface and the NO molecule. Doping reduces the band gap of each adsorption system and introduces impurity levels near the Fermi level, providing new channels for electronic transitions. Within the visible-light range (1.60-3.20 eV), B-Fe co-doping yields the most pronounced enhancement of optical performance among the three doping strategies. The peak absorption and reflection coefficients increase by approximately 1.13 and 1.60 times, respectively, relative to the pristine system. B-Fe co-doping not only strengthens the interaction between the MoTe2 surface and NO but also effectively improves the material’s optical properties, offering theoretical guidance and experimental reference for MoTe2-based NO gas-sensing research.
    • Review & Advance
  • Areview on the research progress of designing hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts based on electrochemical double layer capacitors
    HU Jiaxing, LIAO Dan, ZHANG Wenzhan, ZHOU Donglan, QIU Xiaolin
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 91-98. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.012
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    Double-layer capacitance serves as a critical indicator of charge distribution and energy storage characteristics at the electrode-electrolyte interface, profoundly influencing charge transfer kinetics and energy efficiency in catalytic reactions. This review systematically traces the evolution of double-layer capacitors and elucidates their intrinsic connections to hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance. The latest achievements in the design of hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts based on the strategy of double-layer capacitors were reviewed around the catalyst framework, electronic structure, and reaction interface. The challenges and future development directions faced by double-layer capacitors in guiding the design of hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts were pointed out.
  • Research progress on the preparation and application of conjugated microporous polymer composites
    GUO Yu, XU Yuan, CUI Mengjiao, YU Jiao, LEI Yang
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 99-109. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.013
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    Conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) are a class of porous organic materials with rigid π-conjugated frameworks and permanent microporous properties, which are characterized by high specific surface area and structural tunability. With the continuous development of synthesis methods and nanoscience, CMPs have been successfully combined with a variety of functional materials such as carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, silicon dioxide, etc., to form composite materials with better performance than single components. In this paper, the research progress of the preparation of a variety of CMPs matrix composites is reviewed, and the applications of CMPs matrix composites in the fields of energy storage, catalysis and separation are introduced, and the challenges and development directions of CMPs matrix composites are proposed.
  • Advancesin the preparation of novel functional materials by reutilizing coal gangue
    WANG Ranxing, XI Shuang, KE Jun, WANG Jia
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 110-120. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.014
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    With the growing demand for resource recycling and green development, the high-value utilization of coal gangue has become a research hotspot in the fields of solid waste treatment and functional materials. Based on a systematic review of research progress in the preparation of adsorption materials, ceramic materials, catalytic materials, and new energy materials from coal gangue, this paper focuses on analyzing pretreatment methods and process innovations in the preparation of various functional materials, and provides in-depth discussions on breakthroughs in key technologies such as component regulation and activation modification, as well as their efficacy improvement mechanisms. In response to challenges such as significant regional variations in raw material composition, high activation costs, and difficulties in scaled production, innovative strategies are proposed, including the collaborative utilization of multi-source coal gangue, new energy storage, gradient activation, and process coupling.
  • Research progress on NiFe-layered double hydroxides in the electrocatalysis of seawater oxidation
    JIA Ziyi, MA Zexing, ZHOU Jiajun, HAN Jie, ZHANG Junjun, BAO Weiwei
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 121-131. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.015
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    With the increasing global energy demand and worsening environmental pollution, hydrogen energy has emerged as a promising clean and renewable alternative. Traditional hydrogen production methods rely on fossil fuels and are accompanied by high carbon emissions. Although hydrogen production through electrolysis of water is environmentally friendly, it is limited by the scarcity of fresh water resources. Seawater electrolysis has become an alternative solution due to its abundant resources, but it faces challenges such as slow reaction kinetics, competitive side reactions and electrode corrosion. Among them, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is the efficiency bottleneck, while nickel-iron layered dihydroxide (NiFe-LDH) has become a research hotspot for anode catalysts in seawater electrolysis due to its low cost, high activity and structural adjustability. This paper systematically reviews the preparation methods (such as hydrothermal method and electrodeposition method) and modification strategies (such as intercalation engineering, element doping and heterostructure design) of NiFe-LDH to enhance its catalytic performance and stability, providing theoretical support and direction prospects for promoting the large-scale application of seawater electrolysis hydrogen production technology.
  • Research progress on the application of hydrochar and its modification in anaerobic digestion
    JIANG Li, XIE Gengxin, ZHANG Hong
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 132-146. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.016
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    Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a crucial technology for the harmless treatment and resource recovery of organic waste. However, it still faces some challenges such as low methane yield and poor system stability in practical applications. Hydrochar, a carbon-rich material produced from waste biomass through hydrothermal carbonization, has been proven to effectively enhance AD systems. Firstly, this review summarizes the effects of hydrochar’s raw materials, preparation parameters (reaction temperature and residence time), and dosage on the properties of hydrochar and the AD process. Secondly, it systematically reviews the influences of various modification methods (physical modification and chemical modification) on the properties of hydrochar, as well as the enhancement efficiency of modified hydrochar on AD system. Finally, the mechanism of hydrochar is discussed from three aspects: the adsorption effect of hydrochar, the enhancement of functional microorganisms and their metabolic functions, and the establishment of direct interspecies electron transfer between syntrophic microorganisms. Additionally, it points out the key directions for future research. This review aims to provide theoretical guidance for the practical engineering application of hydrochar in enhancing the AD process.
    • Research & Development
  • Study on the microstructure and mechanical properties of cold-sprayed Al6061/SiC composite coatings
    YU Bo, WANG Feng, XIN Hongmin, CHENG Qingsi, ZHOU Jinhua, LI Yihan, LI Guangping
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 147-154. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.017
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    To extend the service life of aluminum alloys, it is often necessary to fabricate coatings on their surfaces to enhance hardness and wear resistance. In this study, Al6061/SiC composite coatings were prepared on Al6061 substrates via cold spray technology. The effects of SiC content in the feedstock powder on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the coatings were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile tests, and friction-wear tests. The results showed that the coatings prepared with SiC contents of 15 wt%, 30 wt%, and 45 wt% in the feedstock were all dense. With the increase of SiC content in the initial powder, the SiC particle content in the composite coatings increased from 8% to 23%, while the porosity first increased and then decreased, reaching a minimum of 1.58% at 45 wt% SiC. The microhardness exhibited a non-linear variation, attaining a maximum value of 111.4 HV0.3 at 45 wt% SiC. The bonding strength increased significantly with the rise of SiC content, from 24.04 MPa to 40.37 MPa. However, the tensile strength decreased to 126.59 MPa due to particle agglomeration, and the wear mass loss reduced from 2.61 mg to 1.9 mg as a result of the change in friction mechanism.
  • Synergistic flame retardant effect of double-layer coated ammonium polyphosphate and OATP in LDPE
    ZHOU Whenqian, OU Hongxiang, LIU Menglong, LUO Anqi, ZHU Fang, XUE Honglai
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 155-165. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.018
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    The double-layer core-shell ammonium polyphosphate (PA@SiO2@APP) was prepared by the sol-gel method and the in-situ polymerization to improve the poor compatibility between the polar flame retardant and the polymer matrix. The intumescent flame retardant system, comprising PA@SiO2@APP, melamine polyphosphate (MPP) and tris(2-hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate (THEIC), was effectively compounded with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) to develop a flame-retardant composite. To further improve the flame retardant efficiency, the synergist organic modified attapulgite was introduced into the system. The results indicated that the double-layer coating of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) with phytic acid (PA) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) gel imparts excellent hydrophobicity and compatibility to APP. After organic modification, the compatibility of OATP with the LDPE matrix is significantly enhanced. This improved compatibility allows OATP to disperse more evenly within the matrix, which strengthens the interface bonding and reduces stress concentration. Consequently, the resulting composites exhibit an elongation at break of 465.9% and a tensile strength of 15.1MPa. The Si and Al in OATP promote the formation of a denser char barrier, which significantly reduces the combustion intensity and protects the matrix from further decomposition. When 28 wt% IFR and 2 wt% OATP are added, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) of LDPE5 reaches 31.8%. Furthermore, the material successfully achieves a V-0 rating in the UL-94 vertical burning test. In order to gain further insight into the burning behavior, cone calorimeter tests (CCT) are employed to assess the fire properties of the materials. Compared with LDPE, the material and the peak heat release rate (pHRR) and total heat release (THR) of LDPE5 decrease by 67.7 % and 24.4 %, respectively. Analysis of the cone calorimeter residue revealed that the char layer of LDPE5 exhibits a remarkably high degree of graphitization. This was further evidenced by its dense and highly complete morphological structure. The fire safety of LDPE flame retardant composites has been significantly improved.
  • Preparation and performance study of expanded graphite/potassium carbonate composite adsorption-based thermal storage materials
    DUAN Zhiyin, ZHANG Chenglong, HU Ran, HUANG Ke
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 166-172. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.019
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    Acidic nano-silica sol was used to modify expanded graphite (EG) to prepare hydrophilic modified expanded graphite (MEG). A K2CO3@MEG composite thermal storage material was prepared by solution impregnation, with the optimal ratio being 88∶12 (K2CO3∶MEG). The water uptake of the composite material was higher than the theoretical value, and its adsorption rate, cyclic stability, desorption equilibrium time, and residual water content were all superior to potassium carbonate hydrate. SEM and EDS tests showed that the surface of MEG was covered by a silica coating with irregular cracks, and the salt was uniformly distributed in the pores in a coral-like morphology, which increased surface roughness and specific surface area, thereby improving the hydration rate. XRD and FT-IR spectrum tests indicated that the modification of EG by silica sol and the composite formation were both physical combinations. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermal conductivity meter tests showed that the material had a thermal storage density of 571.47 kJ/kg, and due to the introduction of MEG, the thermal conductivity increased to 2.05 W/(m·K), which was 16-24 times the theoretical value of potassium carbonate. The adsorption rate, mechanical stability, and thermal conductivity of the composite material were all significantly improved.
  • Cationically modified bacterial cellulose composite membranes and their performance in lithium metal batteries
    HUANG Jiajing, LI Shuai, ZHAO Maomao, HUANG Yuechun, YUAN Jing, JIA Jingke, CHEN Chuanhong, NA Bing
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 173-182. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.020
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    Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) represent one of the most promising energy storage devices. However, uncontrolled growth of lithium dendrites endangers battery safety. Separators can effectively regulate the stability of lithium deposition/stripping. Therefore, developing functional separators offers an efficient solution to address the safety challenges of LMBs. Herein, this paper presents a novel composite separator (B2P1) fabricated via vacuum-assisted electrostatic assembly of bacterial cellulose (BC) and (poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride), PDDA). It exhibits advantageous properties including a high lithium ion migration number (tLi+ = 0.79), high ionic conductivity (1.35 mS/cm), and excellent thermal stability (no shrinkage at 210 °C). Furthermore, lithium metal batteries based on the B2P1 separator demonstrate significantly superior cycling performance at 1 C while compared to those based on polyolefin separators, exhibiting higher initial discharge specific capacity (150.1 mAh/g vs. 144.6 mAh/g) and capacity retention (94.27% vs. 78.98% after 200 cycles). This work proposes a novel approach for preparing high-performance composite separators and offers a new route for suppressing lithium dendrite growth to enhance the safety of LMBs.
  • Study on the curing of cement-stabilized stainless steel slag materials and its influencing factors
    MING Yang, ZHU Qiyang, LI Ling, ZHANG Yaowen, ZHANG Hongri, ZHANG Xin, WANG Yin, LIN Jinjun
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 183-189. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.021
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    This study addresses the issue of heavy metal leaching from stainless steel slag. Through experiments, the types and dosages of curing agents were determined to identify the optimal curing agent and its amount. The influence of the curing agent on the mechanical properties of cement-stabilized stainless steel slag materials was further investigated. Analyses were conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTG), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that, compared to the control group without curing agents, the experimental group with 4‰ liquid curing agent showed an increase in unconfined compressive strength of 35.4% and 52.4% at 7 d and 28 d, respectively. The indirect tensile strength improved by 35.9% and 70.3% at 28 d and 90 d, respectively, while the flexural strength increased by 26.3% and 36.4% at 90 d and 120 d, respectively. The curing effects for chromium ions reached 51.1%, manganese ions 49.2%, and mercury ions 35.6%.
  • Integral sintered fabrication and surface magnetic field of neodymium iron boron radiation ring
    MIAO Lei, HE Huan, ZHANG Baohua, HAN Xiaoxing, GUO Jingdong, ZHANG Hui, SUN Youyi
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 190-195. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.022
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    The integral sintered neodymium iron boron (NdFeB) radiation ring has broad application prospects in aerospace, new energy vehicles, drones, medical devices and other fields due to its radial distribution of magnetic field, large controllable size range (especially for preparing large diameters), high mechanical and magnetic properties. However, due to the lack of mature commercial magnetic field molding equipment and the problem of sintering cracking caused by anisotropic magnetic orientation, currently, sintered NdFeB radiation rings are mostly based on spliced structures. There is relatively little research on the preparation and application of integral sintered NdFeB radiation rings. To solve the above problem, new magnetic field molding equipment has been designed and developed to fabricate integral sintered NdFeB radiation rings. Furthermore, the influence of molding magnetic field sizes (1.0 T and 1.5 T) on the microstructure and magnetic properties of integral sintered NdFeB radiation rings is investigated. The research results show that as the forming magnetic field increases from 1.0 T to 1.5 T, the surface magnetic field of the magnetic ring increases from 110.5 mT to 125.7 mT. These research results provide theoretical basis and guidance for further design and preparation of high-performance sintered neodymium iron boron radiation rings.
  • Silkfibroin aerogel via deionized water-based thermal treatment: structural and performance analysis
    LIAO Xiaokan, JU Jun, WANG Juan, LU Zhisong
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 196-205. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.023
    Abstract ( ) Download PDF ( ) Knowledge map Save
    In this study, we constructed regenerated silk fibroin aerogels with adjustable structures and properties by replacing the traditional alkalion-solution-based thermal treatment with deionized-water-based thermal treatment in the pretreatment stage of raw silk, followed by room-temperature lithium bromide dissolution and freeze-drying. In the process, the effects of different thermal treatment conditions on the morphology of silk fiber, the size of fibers after dissolution, the molecular weight distribution of silk fibroin, and the structure and properties of the aerogels after molding were systematically investigated. The results showed that compared with the conventional thermal treatment, the deionized-water-based thermal treatment was more gentle, and the obtained silk fibroin had a larger molecular weight, which better preserved the multi-level structure of silk fibroin fibers. By changing the duration of thermal treatment, the proportion of flake and fiber components within the aerogels could be effectively regulated, and a “reinforced concrete-like” structure with water-soluble silk fibroin as the matrix and multi-scale fibers as the skeleton was obtained. The resulting aerogels had a maximum compressive stress of 3.86-9.13 kPa at a compressive strain of 80% and a compressive modulus range of 1.02-2.29 kPa in the elastic deformation region, both of which were higher than those obtained from the traditional thermal treatment group. The thermal insulation performance test showed that temperature difference of the aerogels prepared with the deionized-water-based thermal treatment ranged from 27.1-28.4 ℃, which was higher than that of the carbonate-solution thermal treatment group. In summary, the mechanical properties and thermal insulation performance of silk fibroin aerogels can be effectively regulated by deionized-water-based thermal treatment, making them adaptable to a wider range of application scenarios.
  • Preparation of biochar-sodium alginate immobilized fungal pellets and their adsorption characteristics for Pb2+
    QI Yongmei, LI Haihong, LUO Haoli
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 206-213. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.024
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    With the acceleration of industrialization, heavy metal pollution such as lead poses a serious threat to ecosystems and human health. Biological adsorption technology has become one of the important technical means for removing metal ions due to its economic, environmental, and non secondary pollution characteristics. Using sodium alginate and biochar as carriers, CaCl2 as crosslinking agent, immobilized fungal spheres of the subphylum genus were prepared by adsorption embedding method, and characterized and analyzed to study the adsorption mechanism of Pb2+ by the spheres. The results showed that Pb2+ was mainly adsorbed through extracellular precipitation and inner sphere coordination. Using the removal rate of Pb2+ as an evaluation index, the influence of external conditions on the adsorption performance of immobilized bacterial balls for Pb2+ removal was studied. The results showed that the optimal conditions for Pb2+ removal were pH=6, ball dosage of 3.0 g, adsorption time of 120 h, and initial concentration of 2 000 mg/L. Under these conditions, the removal rate of Pb2+ reached 90.34%. According to the adsorption kinetics and isotherms, the adsorption process of immobilized bacterial balls on Pb2+ was more in line with pseudo second order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm adsorption model, belonging to monolayer adsorption and mainly chemical adsorption.
  • Mechanical properties and aging resistance of natural rubber enhanced by coupling agent-modified gypsum whiskers
    MA Yunlong, WANG Zhenfeng, JIA Zhongshuai, CHEN Mingguang, WANG Jiping, LI Yong
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 214-220. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.025
    Abstract ( ) Download PDF ( ) Knowledge map Save
    To address the suboptimal mechanical and aging resistance properties of natural rubber (NR), this study utilized KH-550, KH-560 and KH-570 to modify calcium sulfate whiskers (CSW). Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses confirmed successful silane coupling agent attachment to the CSW surface and reaction with its hydroxyl groups, without altering the crystal structure. Particle size analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) identified the most dispersible silane coupling agent. Modified CSW/NR composites were then prepared via dry mixing. Results indicate that ultrasonic coupling agent-modified CSW effectively enhances the mechanical properties and aging resistance of NR. When the modified CSW content reached 3 phr, the mechanical properties of NR (tensile strength, elongation at break, 100% elongation, 300% elongation, and hardness) increased by 0.39-fold, 0.18-fold, 0.42-fold, 0.42-fold, and 0.15-fold, respectively, compared to the blank sample. The aging resistance properties of NR (tensile strength, elongation at break, 100% elongation, 300% elongation, and hardness) increased by 0.66 times, 0.15 times, 0.41 times, 0.35 times, and 0.05 times, respectively, compared to the blank sample.
  • In-situ silica-modified nanocellulose composite separator and high-performance lithium metal battery
    JIA Jingke, YUAN Jing, LI Shuai, HUANG Jiajing, ZOU Shufen, NA Bing
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 221-229. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.026
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    Lithium batteries play a vital role in next-generation energy storage devices, with separators being critical to both battery safety and electrochemical performance. Therefore, it is essential to produce separators with excellent porosity, electrolyte infiltration and thermal stability. This study utilizes cellulose nanofibers as raw material to prepare composite separators through polyethyleneimine crosslinking and in situ silica modification. The separator exhibits excellent porosity (78.2%), electrolyte uptake (346.1%), and lithium ion transference number (0.69). Batteries assembled with LiFePO4 as the cathode and lithium metal as the anode have the highest discharge specific capacity (158.4 mAh/g) at 0.5 C and maintain a discharge specific capacity of 99.6 mAh/g at 5 C, demonstrating excellent interfacial compatibility and cycling stability.
  • Research on carbon fixation enhancement in microalgae using carbon-stable-isotope-based nanomaterials
    MA Yunjie, LIU Yu, WANG Guoguang, RONG Guangzhi, WANG Haixia
    Journal of Functional Materials. 2026, 57(4): 230-236. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.1001-9731.2026.04.027
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    This study systematically investigated the effects of Fe3O4, ZIF-8 and Fe3O4@ZIF-8 (0-25 mg/L) on the growth and carbon fixation performance of Nitzschia closterium. Results indicate that nanomaterials exhibited concentration-dependent effect on algal growth, promoting growth at low concentrations while inhibiting it at high concentrations. Biomass increased by up to 47.91% under Fe3O4@ZIF-8 treatment. Material characterization (SEM, BET, XPS) revealed their involvement in algal growth processed via interfacial interactions. CO2 fixation rates increased by up to 63.64%, δ13C fractionation values decreased, and significant alterations in carbonic anhydrase and ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (rubisco) enzyme expression were observed, indicating that nanomaterials enhanced carbon assimilation efficiency by regulating enzyme activity and carbon utilization pathways. This study provides a theoretical foundation for enhancing microalgal carbon capture technology using nanomaterials.
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