<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
    <rss version="2.0">
      <channel xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/">
        <title>Frontiers in Materials | Structural Materials section | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/materials/sections/structural-materials</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Structural Materials section in the Frontiers in Materials journal | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
        <generator>Frontiers Feed Generator,version:1</generator>
        <pubDate>2026-10-03T15:55:17.198+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
        <item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1927109</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1927109</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Stability analysis of surrounding rock during excavation unloading-reloading based on the Hoek-Brown criterion]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-10-02T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Xu-Hai Feng</author><author>Zeng-Lun Guan</author><author>Hou-Wei Sun</author><author>Zhi-Qiang Liu</author><author>Hai-Yang Huang</author><author>Pin-Qiang Mo</author>
        <description><![CDATA[The stability of surrounding rock in underground excavations is fundamentally governed by the stress evolution induced by excavation unloading and subsequent reloading processes, such as support installation, lining, or internal pressure recovery. However, existing studies have mainly focused on excavation-induced unloading, while the mechanical response of surrounding rock subjected to subsequent reloading remains insufficiently understood. To address this issue, an analytical framework based on the Hoek–Brown strength criterion is proposed to investigate the elastoplastic behavior of surrounding rock during the excavation unloading–reloading process. The proposed framework consists of two complementary components: a limit equilibrium analysis of the overlying rock mass to evaluate the global stability of underground openings, and an elastoplastic analytical solution for a circular cavern to characterize local stress redistribution, plastic zone evolution, and failure mode transition. Based on these solutions, the upper and lower limit pressures associated with tensile and shear failure mechanisms are derived. The results demonstrate that the stress path induced by unloading and reloading plays a critical role in controlling the mechanical response of surrounding rock. Subsequent reloading modifies the stress state around the excavation boundary and may lead to a transition from tensile-dominated instability to shear-controlled failure. Parametric analyses further reveal that burial depth, lateral pressure coefficient, and rock mass quality significantly affect the stability limits and failure characteristics. The proposed method provides an analytical basis for determining allowable pressure ranges and evaluating the stability of underground excavations.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1964867</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1964867</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Experimental study on strain redistribution and peak-load degradation of reinforced concrete lattice beams under localized beam-bottom support loss]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-10-02T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Chungen Wei</author><author>Shengfeng He</author><author>Zirong Huang</author><author>Sheng Liu</author><author>Cheng Yang</author><author>Biao Nie</author><author>Qingqing Zhang</author><author>Yuhang Wu</author><author>Qingyuan Liu</author><author>Yashen Gu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Localized beam-bottom support loss can alter deformation compatibility within reinforced concrete lattice beams and reduce their load-carrying capacity, yet the associated spatial response remains insufficiently quantified. This study conducted staged central-node loading tests on 1:10 square-grid lattice-beam models under complete support and three prescribed support-loss conditions (η = 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6). Optical-frequency-domain-reflectometry distributed sensing provided continuous longitudinal strain fields on the upper and lower beam surfaces. Response evolution was evaluated from strain-field patterns, signed longitudinal-profile correlation, and the recorded system-level peak load. Increasing η produced progressively stronger strain localization around Horizontal Beam 2 and the orthogonally connected vertical beams, accompanied by relative unloading of peripheral parallel beams. At η = 0.6, the upper-surface correlation coefficient of Horizontal Beam 2 decreased to −0.59 to −0.77 at 200–400 kg, indicating substantial reorganization of the longitudinal strain distribution. The recorded peak load decreased from 1235 kg under complete support to 978, 782, and 604 kg, corresponding to reductions of 20.8%, 36.7%, and 51.1%, respectively. The observations demonstrate that localized support loss changes grid-level deformation sharing while progressively degrading the model-scale peak load. These results provide an experimental basis for identifying support-loss-sensitive regions and designing distributed monitoring layouts for lattice-beam slope-protection systems.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1951523</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1951523</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Impact of the surrounding ambient temperature on the fresh and hardened properties of one-part alklai-activated materials properties incorporating recycled brick powder and aggregate]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-10-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Yazeed A. Al-Noaimat</author><author>Mazen J. Al-Kheetan</author><author>Mehdi Chougan</author><author>Ayah A. Alkhawaldeh</author><author>Seyed Hamidreza Ghaffar</author>
        <description><![CDATA[This study investigates the influence of the combined effect of mixing and curing temperatures on the flowability, slump height reduction, flexural and compressive strengths, water absorption, and microstructural performance of one-part alkali-activated materials (AAM), providing insight into the in situ efficiency and applicability of these materials. The effect of temperature was evaluated for two different mix designs: one prepared with 100% natural aggregates (NA) and the other with 50% brick aggregates (BA). Four different surrounding temperatures were selected: 35, 20, 10, and 0 °C, and the temperatures were varied together at 0, 10, 20, and 35 °C; consequently, the results describe the combined exposure condition and do not isolate the individual effects of mixing temperature and curing temperature. The workability of both mix designs was found to be dependent on the surrounding temperature, with lower flowability and a reduction in slump height as temperature increased. At the same time, increasing the surrounding temperature was found to increase the 3-day strength performance of the mixture. Nevertheless, 28-day mechanical strength performance was better for ambient-prepared mixtures, indicating that high temperature might initially boost AAM performance, but does not allow it to reach its maximum mechanical strength performance at later ages. Similarly, the water absorption capacity of the mixture was found to depend on the surrounding temperature, with the lowest value for the mixture prepared at 35 °C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that aggregates in both mixtures (100% NA and 50% BA) delaminated from the cement paste at 0 °C. The results presented in this study provide an insight into the efficiency and performance of AAM under varying environmental conditions.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1890188</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1890188</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Long-term skid and abrasion resistance of limestone aggregate asphalt mixtures]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-29T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Liangfa Jiang</author><author>Shengyi Huang</author><author>Liuyuan Lan</author><author>Chengli Zhao</author><author>De Yang</author><author>Yuanfeng Chen</author><author>Junlin Liang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[To reveal the evolution trend of long-term skid resistance and abrasion resistance of limestone when applied in the surface layer of asphalt pavement, this study systematically investigated the coupling effects of temperature, loading speed, and aggregate particle size on the evolution of long-term skid resistance and abrasion resistance of asphalt pavement using a self-developed laboratory accelerated abrasion test device. Meanwhile, the degradation mechanism of pavement surface morphology and its internal correlation with performance decay were analyzed. The results show that the developed device can well simulate the abrasion process of asphalt pavement and realize the accurate acquisition of abrasion depth and friction coefficient. The skid resistance of limestone asphalt pavement mainly presents two distinct evolution modes: a rapid initial decline followed by stabilization, or a short-term initial increase followed by continuous decline. The abrasion resistance of the pavement exhibits three stages, namely, slow decline, rapid decline, and stabilization. Pavements with smaller aggregate particle size are more prone to overall structural deterioration, resulting in a faster decline in abrasion resistance and skid resistance. Meanwhile, increases in temperature and loading speed both accelerate the attenuation of skid resistance and abrasion resistance of the pavement. Under low-temperature conditions, the failure mode of pavement surface morphology is single, with relatively slow performance attenuation. In contrast, under high-temperature conditions, the failure modes of pavement surface morphology are more diverse, accompanied by faster performance attenuation. The research results can provide a theoretical basis for the rational application and durability design of limestone in the surface layer of asphalt pavement.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1936820</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1936820</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Structural behaviour of bent angle-steel joints embedded in transmission tower foundations: full-scale testing and finite element modelling]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-23T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Qi-Chun Wang</author><author>Hai-Yun Ma</author><author>Da-Gang Han</author><author>Xing Huang</author><author>Song-Yang He</author><author>Xiao-Chuan Guo</author><author>Shao-Bo Kang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Bent angle-steel joints embedded in concrete foundations are commonly used as load-transfer components between transmission tower legs and foundations. Due to their bent geometry and bolted connections, these joints are subjected to complex stress states under vertical loads and auxiliary inclined or horizontal loads. To investigate the structural behaviour of bent angle-steel joints embedded in concrete foundations of transmission towers, full-scale tension and compression tests were conducted on Q420 high-strength steel joints. The specimens were subjected to vertical loads together with auxiliary inclined or horizontal loads, and the corresponding load-strain responses, stress development and failure modes were recorded. Finite element models were also developed to evaluate the stress distribution of the joint and the strength reserve of the gusset plate. The test results showed that, under tensile loading, the joint ultimately failed at a vertical tensile load of 1100 kN after local yielding developed near the upper loaded end of the angle member and tearing of steel occurred in the top loading plate. Under compressive loading, local bending first occurred on the compressive side of the angle member, and the joint eventually failed by flexural yielding at a vertical compressive load of 1989 kN. The numerical results indicated that the maximum von Mises equivalent stresses under tensile and compressive loading were 254.2 MPa and 264.1 MPa, respectively, both lower than the nominal yield stress of Q420 steel. The observed failures were mainly associated with yielding or bending of the angle member rather than yielding of the gusset plate. Under the investigated loading conditions, the joint satisfied the required load-transfer capacity.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1910600</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1910600</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Foundation backfill prepared from inferior desulfurization gypsum and fly ash: laboratory evaluation and field application]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-23T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Jingjing Liu</author><author>Bing Bai</author><author>Qingke Nie</author>
        <description><![CDATA[While standard desulfurization gypsum is widely utilized, the application of long-term stockpiled inferior desulfurization gypsum remains limited due to its inherent compositional instability. To bridge this research gap, this study investigated the feasibility of utilizing inferior desulfurization gypsum combined with fly ash to form a geopolymer as a factory foundation fill material. Through a comprehensive approach incorporating microstructural analysis, shear strength testing, water stability evaluation, and in-situ field validation, the study evaluated the material’s macroscopic performance and discussed the hypothesized underlying reaction mechanisms. Microstructural and calorimetric analyses suggest that a polymeric network serves as the primary structural framework, which appears to be reinforced by ettringite interlocking and micro-aggregate filling and encapsulation by desulfurization gypsum and fly ash. When mixed at a mass ratio of DG:FA = 50:50 and incorporating 3% sodium hydroxide by mass, the resulting geopolymer exhibits favourable load-bearing capacity, excellent water stability, and negligible expansion effects. The plate load test results revealed a bearing capacity of 150–200 kPa and a deformation modulus of 52.7–56.5 MPa, satisfying the load-bearing and deformation requirements of the investigated project conditions.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1949496</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1949496</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effects of TiO2 activating flux concentration on A-TIG welding characteristics of inconel 738LC nickel-based superalloy]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-23T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Linggen Ren</author><author>Dong Zhang</author><author>Xudong Wen</author><author>Qinghe Xu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[To improve the weldability of Inconel 738LC nickel-based superalloy, TiO2 was employed as an activating flux for activated tungsten inert gas (A-TIG) welding, and the effects of different TiO2 concentrations on weld geometry, microstructure, cracking behavior, and mechanical properties were systematically investigated. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, real-time arc imaging, and surface-tension measurements were employed for characterization. The results showed that TiO2 concentration significantly affected weld formation and microstructural evolution. Among the investigated conditions, 1.00 g/mL TiO2 provided the most favorable overall performance, increasing the penetration depth by approximately 68.6% and the molten-pool area by 63%, while reducing the heat-affected-zone width by approximately 22%. This condition also produced a higher equiaxed dendrite fraction, and improved tensile strength and elongation, although liquation cracking was not completely eliminated. The penetration enhancement is attributed primarily to the TiO2-induced modification of the surface-tension gradient, which promotes inward Marangoni convection and downward heat transport within the molten pool. TiO2 concentration also altered the visible arc morphology, which may additionally contribute to heat redistribution. These results demonstrate that appropriate control of TiO2 addition can improve the overall welding performance of Inconel 738LC during A-TIG welding.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1950426</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1950426</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Performance regulation of porous vegetation ecological concrete using carbonated recycled coarse aggregate and fly ash-silica fume blends]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-23T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Rijin Hu</author><author>Neng Xiong</author><author>Jin Li</author><author>Xinen Pan</author><author>Bo Liu</author><author>Junlin Tang</author><author>Linjian Wu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Pores, microcracks, and alkaline calcium-bearing phases in the adhered old mortar of recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) limit its application in porous vegetation ecological concrete (PVEC). To simultaneously satisfy PVEC requirements for load-bearing performance, connected porosity, and reduced alkalinity, this study combined gaseous accelerated carbonation of RCA with the addition of the fly ash-silica fume (FA-SF) blend. The effects of parent concrete strength, RCA carbonation duration, and the FA-SF replacement ratio on the compressive strength, connected porosity, and leachate pH of PVEC were investigated. The evolution of calcium-bearing phases and the aggregate-paste interfacial transition zone (ITZ) was analyzed using thermogravimetric and derivative thermogravimetric (TG/DTG) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The results showed that, as the strength grade of the parent concrete increased from C30 to C50, the compressive strength of recycled-coarse-aggregate porous vegetation ecological concrete (R-PVEC) increased from 3.96 MPa to 5.15 MPa, whereas the leachate pH increased from 12.14 to 12.62. When RCA derived from C40 concrete was carbonated for 5 days at 20 °C, 70% relative humidity, and a CO2 concentration of 20%, the compressive strength of carbonated recycled coarse aggregate porous vegetation ecological concrete (CR-PVEC) reached 5.63 MPa, equivalent to 98.4% of the compressive strength of CR-PVEC in the 7 days carbonation group. In addition, after accelerated carbonation for 5 days, the connected porosity of CR-PVEC remained at 27.99%, while its leachate pH decreased to 11.68. The addition of the FA-SF blend further improved the overall performance of CR-PVEC. At a FA-SF replacement ratio of 25%, CR-PVEC exhibited the highest compressive strength, at 6.56 MPa. When the replacement ratio was increased to 30%, the compressive strength, connected porosity, and leachate pH of the specimens were 6.32 MPa, 28.55%, and 10.51, respectively. Microstructural analyses showed that RCA carbonation and the addition of the FA-SF blend reduced the estimated Ca(OH)2 content from 1.21% to 0.70%, increased the CaCO3 content from 21.89% to 25.66%, and reduced the ITZ thickness from 36 μm to 15 μm. RCA carbonation primarily regulated the calcium-bearing phases and local defects in the adhered old mortar, while the addition of the FA-SF blend further optimized the new paste and interfacial structure. Together, these two measures enhanced the load-bearing capacity of the CR-PVEC skeleton and reduced the leachate pH.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1959894</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1959894</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Corrosion-resistant cladding strategies for molten salt reactor components: Ni-based alloys and laser cladding on 316H stainless steel]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Mini Review</category>
        <author>Seonghyeon Kim</author><author>Jiyeon Choi</author><author>Yun Jin Song</author><author>You Cheol Lee</author><author>Hyungmo Kim</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Structural materials remain a central obstacle to molten salt reactor (MSR) deployment. Hastelloy N, the historical reference alloy for fluoride-salt service, does not have an established Class A design basis under ASME Section III, Division 5, whereas industrially available 316H stainless steel does within the applicable limits but suffers chromium dealloying in halide melts. This mini review examines a bimetallic strategy in which 316H provides the structural function and a thin, corrosion-resistant, Ni-based clad protects salt-wetted surfaces. We summarize corrosion mechanisms in fluoride and chloride salts and compare candidate materials in terms of corrosion performance and the availability of a Division 5 Class A design basis and integrate evidence from three areas: (i) immersion tests showing that electroplated Ni protects 316H in FLiNaK and that deposited Ni clads outperform bare 316H in a molten chloride salt, (ii) weld-overlay and laser-directed-energy-deposition studies defining dilution windows, and (iii) a draft ASME Code Case-compatible design methodology for clad Class A components. Available evidence indicates that clad performance is specific to salt chemistry and operating conditions: electroplated Ni protects 316H in FLiNaK, while weld- and laser-deposited Ni clads outperform bare 316H in NaCl–MgCl2; however, wrought Ni-200 degrades severely in a separate chloride screening. Candidate clads must therefore be validated under the target salt chemistry and operating conditions. We conclude by identifying the main industrialization gaps: irradiation response of clad layers and diluted interfaces, volumetric inspection of anisotropic clad structures, joining at field welds, thermal-expansion mismatch, and specialty-alloy supply chains.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1928488</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1928488</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Mechanical properties and normal-incidence sound absorption performance of crumb-rubber-modified porous asphalt mixtures]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Wenhua Wang</author><author>Kaidi Liu</author><author>Jiaxiang Fang</author><author>Xufeng Wang</author><author>Yizhe Han</author><author>Guangyong Wang</author><author>Xu Wang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionPorous asphalt mixtures provide effective drainage and acoustic-energy absorption, but their mechanical durability under thermal and moisture exposure remains an important engineering concern. This study evaluated the effects of wet-process crumb rubber (CR) dosage on the mechanical, volumetric, moisture-related, and normal-incidence sound absorption performance of OGFC-13 mixtures.MethodsCR dosages of 0%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% by mass of the base asphalt were investigated, and the corresponding mixtures were designated R-0, R-10, R-15, R-20, and R-25. Paired specimens were evaluated before and after accelerated laboratory aging at 85 °C for 120 h to compare their relative aging susceptibility. A comprehensive performance index (CPI) and weight-sensitivity analysis were further used to evaluate the overall performance of the mixtures under different engineering priorities.ResultsR-15 exhibited the highest unaged dynamic stability of 5450 cycles/mm and the lowest Cantabro loss, whereas R-20 provided the highest low-temperature deformation capacity and normal-incidence sound absorption, with a peak absorption coefficient of 0.79 and an average coefficient of 0.50. Under the baseline engineering weighting scenario, the CPI values of R-15 and R-20 were 76.42 and 76.22, respectively. Weight-sensitivity analysis showed that the preferred dosage varied between 15% and 20% as the engineering priorities changed.DiscussionThe results indicate that a CR dosage of 15–20% provides a stable high-performance range for OGFC-13 mixtures. Approximately 15% CR is recommended for heavy-traffic applications in which rutting resistance and aging durability are prioritized, whereas approximately 20% CR may be preferred where low-temperature, moisture, or acoustic performance is given greater importance.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1885401</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1885401</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Machine learning-based prediction of shear and flexural capacity of reinforced concrete beams: a parallel modeling framework with SHAP interpretability and design code benchmarking]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-16T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Guangyi Zhang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionDesign-code equations for the shear and flexural capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) beams are conservative and variable across structural conditions. This study develops a parallel modeling framework — two structurally independent machine-learning pipelines, one trained only on shear-failure specimens and one only on flexure-failure specimens, each using an identical set of four algorithms (gradient boosting [GB], random forest, support vector regression, and artificial neural network).MethodsThe pipelines were trained on 487 shear and 412 flexural beam specimens obtained from physical laboratory tests reported in the peer-reviewed literature. Model predictions were benchmarked against the unfactored characteristic equations of Eurocode 2 (EC2), ACI 318-19, and fib Model Code 2010, and were interpreted with SHAP.ResultsThe top-performing GB model achieved R² = 0.963 (shear) and R² = 0.971 (flexure), with more than 36% lower RMSE than the best-performing code. All three codes were systematically conservative, especially at low reinforcement ratios and high shear-span-to-depth ratios. SHAP identified mode-specific feature rankings: the shear-span-to-depth ratio dominated shear (Kani-valley behaviour), and the longitudinal reinforcement ratio dominated flexure (saturation near the balanced ratio).DiscussionThe results support mode-specific parallel pipelines for physically interpretable capacity prediction and offer guidance for future code calibration and practical assessment/retrofit applications.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1908847</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1908847</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effect of aging temperature on microstructure, texture and tensile properties of Ti662 titanium alloy]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Xiaole Tong</author><author>Mingyu Zhang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[In order to study the effect of aging temperature on the microstructure, texture and tensile properties of Ti662 titanium alloy, the hot-rolled Ti662 titanium alloy sheet was solution treated at 920 °C (2 h, water cooling) and aged at different temperatures (500 °C, 530 °C, 560 °C) (6 h, air cooling). The microstructure, phase composition, texture characteristics and mechanical properties of the alloy were systematically analyzed by means of optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, electron backscatter diffraction, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope and room temperature tensile test. The results show that the microstructure of the alloy after solution treatment is composed of primary α phase, acicular α′ martensite and orthorhombic α martensite. The texture is R type and the texture strength is 3.04. After aging treatment, the metastable martensite phase is decomposed into secondary α phase and a small amount of residual β phase (as indicated by XRD and TEM analyses), and the texture type remains unchanged, but the texture strength increases from 4.58 to 6.63 with the increase of aging temperature. In terms of mechanical properties, aging treatment significantly improves the tensile strength and yield strength of the alloy but reduces the elongation after fracture. With the increase of aging temperature from 500 °C to 560 °C, the tensile strength increases from 1,431 ± 14.14 MPa to 1,472 ± 14.09 MPa, the yield strength increases from 1,172 ± 13.11 MPa to 1,211 ± 13.18 MPa, and the elongation decreases from 8% ± 1.41%–5% ± 1.40%. These results demonstrate a clear trade-off between strength and ductility with varying aging temperature. For engineering applications, aging at 530 °C is recommended as a preferred condition for components requiring a combination of strength and sufficient formability or fracture safety, whereas aging at 560 °C is more suitable for load-bearing components where maximizing strength is the primary design objective.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1853747</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1853747</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Comparative study of biodegradable coolants on aluminum–lithium alloys using the design of experiment approach and machine learning model]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Roopa K. Rao</author><author>Sachin C. Kulkarni</author><author>Padma Dandannavar</author><author>Praveena Bindiganavile Anand</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Environmentally friendly methods are essential to improve surface quality and machining performance while reducing negative environmental impacts. This has significantly affected the approach to cutting fluids for machining high-performance materials like third-generation aluminum–lithium alloys. In the current study, a comparative analysis of two types of lubricants, Trim E950 and glycol, was conducted. The five variables, namely, surface speed, feed rate, axial depth of cut, corner radius, and lubricant concentration, are selected to investigate surface finish and the heat-affected zone. A central composite design, a class of response surface methodology, was used to design the experimental runs with a 95% confidence level. Analysis of variance confirmed the goodness-of-fit, with feed rate and corner radius showing significant influence due to their higher F-values. SEM analysis indicated minimum surface irregularities at 8% glycol and 12% Trim E950 lubricant concentrations. The optimum Ra values obtained were 0.211 µm using Trim E950 and 0.21 µm using glycol. Similarly, the optimum heat-affected zone (HAZ) values achieved were 20.82 IACS for Trim E950 and 20.3 IACS for glycol. The Random Forest Regressor machine learning model was chosen to validate the experimental dataset. The model showed excellent predictive accuracy for Ra with R2 score values of 0.98 and 0.97 for Trim E950 and glycol, respectively, whereas HAZ prediction exhibited moderate sensitivity to the training dataset size.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1931864</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1931864</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Analysis of resistance to uneven deformation of typical photovoltaic support in coal mining subsidence area]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-11T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Yulong Chen</author><author>Kai Zhang</author><author>Yuangen Li</author><author>Fuqing Li</author><author>Weisi Dai</author><author>Qiuxin Gu</author><author>Lan Shen</author><author>Liangfeng Ke</author><author>Yan Shen</author>
        <description><![CDATA[In this study, the impact of differential settlement in coal mining subsidence areas on the structural safety and operational performance of photovoltaic (PV) support structures was evaluated. Three-dimensional finite element models of fixed, horizontal single-axis tracking and flexible PV support structures were developed in ANSYS. Linear-gradient settlement was selected to represent ground inclination. The load-transfer paths, critical locations, and deformation adaptability of the three support types were compared. The results indicate that for fixed PV support structures, additional internal forces are mainly concentrated in the constrained columns. Mechanical response is strongly affected by both the support–settlement-gradient angle and the foundation constraint layout. The controlling critical inclination ranges from 17.5‰ to 19.2‰. Most load cases are governed by the column-top horizontal displacement limit. For horizontal single-axis tracking PV support structures, the strength-controlled and displacement-controlled critical inclinations are 31.8‰ and 17.5‰, respectively. However, the allowable height difference of the drive system limits the operation-controlled critical inclination to only 2.8‰. For flexible PV support structures, the prestressed steel strands are not the strength-controlled members within the analyzed range. In contrast, the Q235 end columns yield first. At this critical state, the controlling critical inclination is 18.3‰, and the column-top displacements remain within the code-specified limits. Fixed and flexible PV support structures exhibit comparable adaptability to the investigated inclination. In contrast, the horizontal single-axis tracking PV support structure is much more sensitive to foundation levelness and inter-column height differences. These findings provide a case-specific reference for comparing the deformation adaptability of the three investigated PV support systems under the prescribed linear-gradient settlement condition.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1872082</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1872082</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Long-term mechanical and environmental performance of municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash as a partial cement replacement in concrete]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Alireza Bahrami</author><author>Marita Wallhagen</author><author>Mathias Cehlin</author><author>Mikael Björling</author><author>Shveta Soam</author><author>Honghao Ren</author><author>Oliver Nexén</author>
        <description><![CDATA[The decarbonization of concrete is an urgent goal in sustainable construction because cement is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, the growing volumes of municipal solid waste (MSW) also require more circular and efficient management strategies. Municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWBA), generated during MSW incineration, has potential as a partial cement replacement in concrete. However, its practical use as a cement replacement remains uncertain because its properties vary depending on its source, treatment, and chemical composition. Therefore, both technical performance and environmental safety must be considered simultaneously. This study examined the feasibility of using MSWBA as a partial cement replacement in concrete through an integrated mechanical and environmental assessment. Specifically, the present work focused on the long-term performance of MSWBA-incorporated concrete, with compressive strength evaluated at the curing ages of 90 and 180 days, alongside assessments of leaching behavior and cradle-to-gate CO2 emissions. Five MSWBA samples (denoted B1–B5) were first characterized, of which B3 and B5 were selected for further use in concrete production. The selected MSWBA samples were used in raw and mechanically activated forms at cement replacement levels of 10% and 20% to assess their long-term mechanical performance and environmental implications. The results showed that performance depended strongly on MSWBA type and replacement level, with the 10% replacement mixtures exhibiting more favorable performance. In contrast, the 20% replacement mixtures generally resulted in greater reductions in compressive strength. From an environmental perspective, partial cement replacement reduced cradle-to-gate CO2 emissions by 9.45% at the 10% replacement level and by 19.27% at the 20% replacement level compared with the control concrete (without MSWBA). Leaching tests further revealed increased release of Al, Ba, Cr, Mo, and chloride ions in mixtures containing MSWBA, although the measured concentrations of individual substances remained below the evaluated limits for the tested concrete specimens. The results also indicated that higher replacement levels led to greater environmental concerns than the 10% replacement level, highlighting the importance of controlling the MSWBA content in concrete mixtures. This study demonstrated that MSWBA can contribute to the decarbonization of concrete when suitable MSWBA samples are appropriately selected and utilized, thereby contributing to both a greener construction sector and a more effective approach to MSW recycling.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1947086</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1947086</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Stabilization of water-based drilling cuttings using an alkali-activated GGBS–FA-based composite binder for road construction]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Qiqi Zhan</author><author>Bailin Shan</author><author>Xuejuan Cao</author><author>Yanling Xu</author><author>Lin Wang</author><author>Xiaoyu Li</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Water-based drilling cuttings (WBDC) are generated in large quantities during oil and gas development, but their reuse in road construction is restricted by insufficient bearing capacity, moisture sensitivity, and potential contaminant release. This study developed an alkali-activated GGBS-FA-based composite binder containing cement and sodium silicate to stabilize WBDC for road construction. The optimized binder was evaluated in terms of mechanical properties, water stability, wet-dry and freeze-thaw durability, environmental performance, and microstructural characteristics. At a total binder dosage of 15%, the stabilized WBDC achieved a 28d unconfined compressive strength of 10.17 MPa, a splitting tensile strength of 1.46 MPa, and a water stability coefficient of 94.44%. After nine wet-dry and freeze-thaw cycles, the corresponding strength retention ratios were 97.06% and 87.25%, respectively. Stabilization reduced the leachate chemical oxygen demand from 260 to 4 mg/L. SEM-EDS observations showed that products with gel-like and needle-like morphologies progressively coated and connected WBDC particles and improved matrix continuity. The results provide a low-energy route for the large-volume utilization of WBDC and indicate that a 15% binder dosage provides a practical balance between engineering performance and binder consumption for road construction.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1906993</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1906993</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Mortar composites incorporating VO2/MWCNT solid–solid nanophase change material for passive indoor temperature regulation]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-08T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>J. R. Villegas-Méndez</author><author>C. Y. Fragoso-Fernández</author><author>J. R. González-López</author><author>M. A. Guerra-Cossío</author><author>M. Z. Figueroa-Torres</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Phase change materials (PCMs) have emerged as promising materials for improving the thermal performance of building envelopes. In this study, a solid–solid nanophase change material (nanoPCM) composed of vanadium dioxide (VO2) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was synthesized and incorporated into cement mortar at contents ranging from 0.5 to 3 wt%. The effects of nanoPCM incorporation on hydration behavior, microstructure, compressive strength, thermophysical properties (specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, diffusivity and effusivity), thermal regulation capacity and energy saving were investigated. The results revealed a synergistic interaction between VO2 and MWCNTs, reducing the phase transition temperature (Tc) from 72.41 °C to 63.73 °C while increasing thermal conductivity by approximately 3.5 times. The incorporation of nanoPCM slightly increased mortar density and improved long-term compressive strength, with a maximum increase of 24.5% observed at 1 wt% nanoPCM addition. Hydration calorimetry revealed that nanoPCM delayed early-age hydration kinetics without suppressing the overall hydration process. In the mortar composites, nanoPCM incorporation reduced thermal conductivity, diffusivity and effusivity with a slight decrease in the specific heat capacity, resulting in enhanced thermal inertia and delayed heat transfer. Thermal regulation tests confirmed a reduction in temperature fluctuations, while building energy simulations demonstrated annual energy savings of up to 2.23%, depending on climatic conditions. These findings demonstrate that tailoring the thermophysical properties of cementitious materials through VO2/MWCNT solid–solid nanoPCM represents an effective strategy for improving passive indoor temperature regulation and reducing building energy demand without compromising mechanical performance.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1888752</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1888752</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Multi-response optimization of mechanical, chemical durability, and microstructural performance of sustainable hybrid fiber-reinforced high-strength concrete incorporating pyrolyzed coffee grounds using RSM]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-03T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Amani Abdallah Hepautwa</author><author>Askwar Hilonga</author><author>Fina Lesafi</author><author>Register Mrosso</author><author>Tusekile Alfredy</author><author>Yusufu Abeid Chande Jande</author>
        <description><![CDATA[The use of agricultural waste materials and hybrid fiber reinforcement in concrete offers a sustainable approach for producing high-performance construction materials with improved mechanical properties and durability. This study investigated the mechanical, chemical durability, thermal, and microstructural performance of high-strength concrete incorporating 15% pyrolyzed coffee grounds (PCG) produced at 350 °C as a partial fine-aggregate replacement. Hooked-end steel fibers and alkali-treated banana fibers were used as hybrid reinforcements, while Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Design (CCD) was employed to optimize the effects of fiber dosage and steel–banana hybridization ratio. Mechanical performance was evaluated through compressive, splitting tensile, and flexural strength tests, while durability was assessed under 10% NaCl, 5% HCl, and 5% HNO3 exposure. Microstructural characterization was conducted using SEM/EDX, XRD, and TGA/DTG analyses. The results showed that the combined incorporation of PCG and hybrid fibers enhanced concrete performance through improved crack-bridging, matrix densification, and pore refinement. The optimum mixture, containing 1.25%–1.50% total fiber dosage and a steel-to-banana fiber ratio of 80:20, achieved a compressive strength of 69.6 MPa, splitting tensile strength of 9.0 MPa, and flexural strength of 14.0 MPa. The same mixture exhibited superior chemical durability, with minimum mass losses of 2.45%, 3.90%, and 4.40% under NaCl, HCl, and HNO3 exposure, respectively. Microstructural analyses confirmed a denser matrix, stronger fiber–matrix bonding, reduced pore connectivity, and enhanced hydration-product formation, while TGA/DTG results indicated improved thermal stability. Validation experiments closely matched model predictions, confirming the reliability of the CCD-RSM models. Overall, the synergistic use of pyrolyzed coffee grounds and hybrid steel–banana fibers produced a durable, high-strength, and environmentally sustainable concrete suitable for structural applications in aggressive environments while promoting the valorization of coffee-processing waste within a circular economy framework.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1921706</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1921706</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Steel rolling in the age of artificial intelligence: a review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-09-03T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Nanfu Zong</author><author>Tao Jing</author><author>Jean-Christophe Gebelin</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Driven by recent advances in machine learning, steel rolling is transitioning toward intelligent, data-centric operation. This study presents a unified machine learning framework for predictive, closed-loop quality control of steel strips across hot and cold rolling processes. The model explicitly quantifies the complex, nonlinear effects of key operational parameters, such as rolling force and gap settings, on final product quality. The proposed framework enables real-time monitoring and dynamic compensation of dimensional deviations and shape defects, thereby improving dimensional consistency and process stability. Additionally, a multimodal perception-based system is introduced for early anomaly detection and coordinated parameter optimization, facilitating adaptive setpoint adjustment and proactive defect mitigation. Collectively, these machine learning-driven approaches enhance product uniformity and rolling efficiency while offering a scalable pathway toward more autonomous, resource-efficient, and sustainable rolling operations, aligning with the paradigm of AI-driven sustainable manufacturing.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1910551</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmats.2026.1910551</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Metal additive manufacturing for unmanned aerial vehicle propulsion: a narrative review of recent advances in gas turbine systems]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-27T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Alberto Boretti</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Metal additive manufacturing (MAM) is revolutionizing the design and production of high-performance components across the aerospace sector. This narrative review examines recent research on gas turbine propulsion systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with a particular focus on the transformative role of metal additive manufacturing (MAM) in enabling lighter, more efficient, and more complex engine architectures. The study analyzes the operating principles, performance characteristics, and applications of turbojet, turbofan, and turboprop engines while highlighting key technological advances in hybridization, cycle optimization, and advanced manufacturing. Particular attention is given to MAM of high-temperature alloys (e.g., Inconel, titanium aluminides) and the integration of topology-optimized lattice structures, internal cooling channels, and monolithic rotors. Recent studies on additive manufacturing (AM) for drone components—including metal-doped plastics, composite filaments, and high-performance polymers—provide complementary insights into material selection, structural integrity, and functional integration that are directly relevant to gas turbine development. The study also incorporates the emerging roles of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in evaluating environmental sustainability and the use of machine learning for advanced fault diagnostics. Drawing on thermodynamic analyses, experimental studies, and modelling efforts, this review identifies current challenges and future directions in MAM for UAV propulsion, and briefly discusses potential cross-fertilization with biomedical AM, where similar challenges in process control, microstructure optimization, and post-processing are being addressed.]]></description>
      </item>
      </channel>
    </rss>