Degradation studies of hydrophilic, partially degradable and bioactive cements (HDBCs) incorporating chemically modified starch

The degradation rate in Hydrophilic, Degradable and Bioactive Cements (HDBCs) containing starch/cellulose acetate blends (SCA) is still low. In order to increase degradation, higher amounts of starch are required to exceed the percolation threshold. In this work, gelatinization, acetylation and methacrylation of corn starch were performed and assessed as candidates to replace SCA in HDBCs. Formulations containing methacrylated starch were prepared with different molar ratios of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate in the liquid component and the amount of residual monomer released into water was evaluated. The concentration of reducing sugars, percentage of weight loss and morphologic analyses after degradation all confirmed increased degradation of HDBC with alpha-amylase, with the appearance of pores and voids from enzymatic action. Methacrylated starch therefore is a better alternative to be used as the solid component of HDBC then SCA, since it leads to the formation of cements with a lower release of toxic monomers and more prone to hydrolytic degradation while keeping the other advantages of HDBCs.The authors acknowledge to Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), who supported this study through funds from project Concept2Cement (POCTI/CTM/60735/2004)

Comparison between physical properties of ring-spun yarn and compact yarns spun from different pneumatic compacting systems

A comparative study pertaining to physical and mechanical properties of ring-spun yarn vis-à-vis compact yarns spun using three different compacting systems has been reported. Rieter (K-44), Toyota (RX-240) and Suessen (Fiomax) spinning machines have been used and the condensing process of the fibres in the yarn cross-section as per these compact spinning systems is accomplished pneumatically. Thus, a yarn of linear density 5.9 tex (100 Ne) is spun on the spinning systems using Egyptian cotton of the type Giza 86. One way Anova together with least significant difference are employed to feature the means of the properties of spun yarns and a significant difference among them is observed. According to the performed statistical analysis, there is a significant difference between ring - spun yarn properties and each of the pnuematic compact spun yarns. These compact-spun yarns are also found to differ significantly in terms of their physical and mechanical properties; however, they are all found superior to the ring-spun yarn

Morphing in nature and beyond: a review of natural and synthetic shape-changing materials and mechanisms

Shape-changing materials open an entirely new solution space for a wide range of disciplines: from architecture that responds to the environment and medical devices that unpack inside the body, to passive sensors and novel robotic actuators. While synthetic shape-changing materials are still in their infancy, studies of biological morphing materials have revealed key paradigms and features which underlie efficient natural shape-change. Here, we review some of these insights and how they have been, or may be, translated to artificial solutions. We focus on soft matter due to its prevalence in nature, compatibility with users and potential for novel design. Initially, we review examples of natural shape-changing materials—skeletal muscle, tendons and plant tissues—and compare with synthetic examples with similar methods of operation. Stimuli to motion are outlined in general principle, with examples of their use and potential in manufactured systems. Anisotropy is identified as a crucial element in directing shape-change to fulfil designed tasks, and some manufacturing routes to its achievement are highlighted. We conclude with potential directions for future work, including the simultaneous development of materials and manufacturing techniques and the hierarchical combination of effects at multiple length scales.</p

Preparation and Evaluation of CuO/Chitosan Nanocomposite for Antibacterial Finishing Cotton Fabric

Cupric oxide—chitosan nanocomposite was prepared in aqueous solution. Copper ions were adsorbed into the chitosan mainly by chelation to form copper-loaded chitosan. Copper-loaded chitosan was reduced by using sodium hydroxide at specific pH. Copper oxide nanoparticle-loaded chitosan was formed by oxidation of Cu(OH)2-loaded chitosan by using drops of H2O 2 (30%). CuO nanoparticles-loaded chitosan molecules were stirred with a high-speed homogenizer at 10,000 rpm for 30 minutes. The corresponding CuO/chitosan nanocomposite formed was characterized by using transmission electron microscope images. The copper oxide/chitosan nanocomposite was applied to cotton fabric by using pad-dry cure technique. Cotton fabric treated with CuO—chitosan nanocomposite was characterized via scanning electron microscope supplied with energy dispersive spectroscopy to verify the elemental composition of deposited materials on the fabric. Antimicrobial activity of the prepared fabric samples treated with chitosan nanoparticles and CuO/chitosan nanocomposites against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aurous) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) were investigated. Durability of treated cotton fabrics with nanocomposites has been evaluated. </jats:p