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We investigated the possibility of applying rejected natural rubber gloves (RNRGs) as a matrix for rubber composites filled with sepiolite. The virgin natural rubber (NR) samples were also prepared for comparison. Clearly, the RNRGs can be re-mixed with rubber chemicals, re-shaped, and revulcanized. Maximum torque increased with sepiolite loading during vulcanization, along with stress at 100 and 300% strains and strain-induced crystallization ability, whereas the tensile strength and elongation at break of the RNRG composites exhibited an opposite trend. The unfilled RNRG possessed high tensile strength (~19.86 MPa) and extensibility (~600%), which was about 67% higher than that of the unfilled NR sample. However, increased sepiolite loading decreased the thermomechanical properties of the RNRG composites because the RNRG had undergone vulcanization before re-mixing and revulcanizing; the NR-based composite showed the opposite trend. Based on the results, the RNRGs can be re-used as the rubber matrix of rubber compounds when thermal properties are not critical.

Core-shell fillers represent an innovative class of fillers distinct from conventional fillers. This study explores the combined effects of filler contact, thermal contact resistance at the shell-matrix interface (R^*_s-m) and shell-core interface (R^*_c-s), core-to-shell volume fraction ratio (V_c/V_s), and core-to-shell thermal conductivity ratio (K_c/K_s) on the effective thermal conductivity of composites (k^*_eff). Through numerical simulation and experimental validation, the key mechanisms governing heat transfer in core-shell filler composites are elucidated: thermal contact resistance and filler contact exert a dominant regulatory effect on k^*_eff, while the influences of filler geometric dimensions and component thermal conductivities (K_c/K_s) are conditional on interfacial properties and threshold values. Notably, the proposed numerical model achieves high prediction accuracy by incorporating filler contact, comprehensively quantifies the interactive effects of previously neglected key factors and establishes a reliable predictive framework. The findings not only advance the fundamental understanding of heat transfer mechanisms in core-shell filler-filled composites but also provide crucial theoretical guidance for practical applications.

Pyrolytic carbon black (CBp) and graphene oxide (GO) are commonly used to reinforce polymer matrices; however, their tendency to agglomerate limits composite performance. Conventional dual filler systems are frequently costly and challenging to scale. We exploited synergistic CBp-GO interactions to suppress agglomeration and establish a stable filler network, thereby improving the mechanical and electrical properties of natural rubber (NR) composites. Composites were prepared by blending CBp (40 phr) with GO at 0–8 phr. Filler dispersion was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and a carbon black dispersibility tester. Mechanical, vulcanization, and electrical properties were measured. At an optimal CBp/GO ratio of 40:4, a continuous filler network formed, reducing volume resistivity by eight orders of magnitude relative to CBp-only composites and by three orders relative to composites containing 2 phr GO. The 300% modulus increased by 18.3%, and the electrical percolation threshold decreased by 22%. Excess GO (>4 phr) induced agglomeration and reduced tensile strength by 16.4%. A key innovation is the use of CBp in constructing a low-cost multi-filler system that suppresses GO agglomeration without chemical modification. This approach provides a sustainable route to producing highperformance rubber composites and promotes the recycling of waste rubber.

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) remains the material of choice for denture base fabrication; however, its relatively low flexural and impact strength predisposes dentures to fracture during function and accidental loading. Various reinforcement strategies, particularly metal oxide nanoparticles and glass fibres, have been investigated in vitro, although comparative evidence remains limited and methodologically heterogeneous. This systematic review critically compared the effects of zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) and titanium oxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles versus glass fiber reinforcement on the flexural and impact strength of PMMA denture base resins. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, EBSCOhost, and Google Scholar identified eligible in vitro studies published between 2014 and 2024. Five studies met the inclusion criteria. Glass fiber reinforcement consistently demonstrated the greatest improvement in flexural and impact strength, with progressive enhancements reported up to approximately 7 wt%fiber content. Among nanoparticle reinforcements, ZrO₂ showed superior mechanical performance compared with TiO₂, with optimal reinforcement observed at concentrations around 3 wt%, while higher concentrations were associated with reduced strength due to particle agglomeration and poor dispersion. Considerable heterogeneity was observed across studies in terms of PMMA type, reinforcement concentration, specimen preparation and mechanical testing protocols, precluding meta-analysis. Overall, the available in vitro evidence indicates that glass fiber reinforcement provides the most reliable mechanical enhancement of PMMA denture base resins, whereas nanoparticle-based reinforcement offers benefits only within narrow concentration ranges, underscoring the need for standardized methodologies and clinically relevant testing in future research.

An excessive intake of high-fat foods may pose a threat to human health. Oleogelation provides a promising strategy to reduce trans and saturated fatty acids in solid fats. Compared with small-molecule gelators, macromolecular gelators, particularly proteins, polysaccharides and their complexes are more suitable for this purpose. In this review, we systematically discuss the development potential of biopolymer-based oleogels. First, we elaborate the application of proteins, polysaccharides and their complexes as gelling agents. Second, despite the inherent hydrophilicity of these biopolymers, significant progress has been made in developing various preparation approaches, ranging from indirect templating strategies to direct dispersion methods. Third, we briefly discuss the underlying structuring mechanisms of these oleogels. Subsequently, we review their applications as fat replacers in specific food products. Finally, we present the conclusions and remaining challenges in this field. We aim to provide valuable insights into the utilization of biopolymer-based oleogels in the food industry.

Conventional poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and polycarbonate (PC) blends exhibit insufficient heat resistance, restricting their use in demanding applications such as new energy vehicles and portable consumer electronics. Poly(ethylene 2,6-naphthalate) (PEN) offers superior thermal stability, strength and chemical resistance, making PEN/PC blends promising alternatives. In this study, we investigated the relationships between the composition, structure and properties of PEN/PC blends through non-catalyzed melt blending. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectra (¹H NMR) confirm transesterification between PEN and PC, with the extent of exchange (X) increasing with PC content. Non-isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) show that moderate PC content promotes crystallization, while high PC content suppresses it. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows enhanced thermal stability in PEN-rich blends. Compared to PET/PC, PEN/PC blends maintain similar tensile strength but exhibit 53% higher elongation and 1–2.5% lower density. This study demonstrates the potential of PEN/PC blends for high-performance, thin-walled applications in the new energy vehicle and electronics industries.

We investigated the effectiveness of plant-based bio-additives – rhubarb, lingonberry, and blueberry (0.1–1%) – as natural UV absorbers in biodegradable polymers polylactide (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL). A novelty of this work is the direct use of plant-based raw materials as UV absorbers in polymers. We performed Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and UV-Vis analysis of the bio-additives, determined the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) for the polymer samples, and evaluated their physicochemical properties (structural changes, colour, hardness, surface energy) after weathering (PLA) and thermo-oxidative (PCL) aging. Spectroscopic tests confirmed the presence of UV-A/UV-B-absorbing chromophores in the additives. Samples with 1% berries had excellent UV protection (UPF 40–50+), while PLA and PCL containing 1% rhubarb had lower UPF values (around 22), indicating good UV blocking properties. After aging, PLA-containing berries showed a significantly lower carbonyl index (CI), indicating reduced photodegradation. For PCL with lingonberry, this additive gave the greatest reduction in thermo-oxidative degradation (lowest CI). All plant additives increased material hardness by acting as nucleating agents; they increased the crystallinity of polyester, and aging further strengthened this effect. Bio-additives, especially berries, can increase the hardness and UV resistance of polymers and limit material aging. These polymer compositions are suitable for packaging materials.