The primary aim of this study was to synthesize and characterize polyurethane (PUR) foams derived from the depolymerization products of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and MXenes (NbAlC). The depolymerized PET products were produced through a zinc acetate-catalyzed glycolysis process using diethylene glycol (DEG) as solvent. These glycolysis products were then reacted with 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), commercial polyols, and MXenes to produce the PUR foams.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPhycocyanin was extracted from using conventional extraction (CE), direct ultrasonic-assisted extraction (direct UAE), indirect ultrasonic-assisted extraction (indirect UAE), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) methods at different temperatures, extraction intervals, stirring rate, and power intensities while maintaining the same algae to solvent ratio (1:15 ). The optimization of the extraction parameters indicated that the direct UAE yielded the highest phycocyanin concentration (29.31 ± 0.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThis study presents for the first time the polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) in the presence of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) that takes place by both SARA-ATRP and SET-LRP mechanisms. The two types of polymerizations that occur in the system are PMMA grafting to the PVC backbone and the formation of a new PMMA polymer, both occurring in the presence of a Cuwire. The polymerizations were controlled as confirmed by the molecular weight evolution, polymerization kinetics, and variations in the dispersity value.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe current study highlights the synthesis and characterization of some nanocomposite materials formed by polymer particles and liquid crystals. The liquid crystals used were cholesteryl benzoate (CLB), and the particles were synthesized by emulsion polymerization in the absence of the emulsifier. Through SEM and DLS analysis, the synthesis of particles of the same size was emphasized, and the amount of CLB showed no influence on these parameters.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFShear thickening fluids (STFs) have garnered attention as potential enhancers of protective capabilities and for the optimization of Kevlar armor design. To assess the possible shear thickening properties and potential application in ballistic protection, ten formulations were developed by employing polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polypropylene glycol (PPG), along with fumed silica or Aerosil HDK. Rheological characterization facilitated the identification of formulations displaying shear thickening behavior.
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