Shape memory and mechanical properties of cross-linked polyethylene/clay nanocomposites

Shape memory polymer (SMP) such as cross-linked low-density polyethylene (XLDPE), can return from its temporary shape to the original (permanent) shape upon heating. SMP in comparison with shape memory alloy (SMA) and shape memory ceramic (SMC) has lower stiffness, so generates lower recovery force when it is being used as an actuator. Also, when SMP is reinforced with traditional micro-fillers, it often loses its shape memory effect due to the high weight fraction of filler (20-30%). To overcome these disadvantages, nanoclays can be used. The smart resultant nanocomposite, even in small clay loading level (0-10 wt.%), shows higher modulus, strength, and the other physical properties such as higher recovery force, required to act as an actuator.In this work, the effect of modified montmorillonite on mechanical and shape memory properties as well as the force generation of a shape memory cross-linked low density polyethylene were investigated.The results show that the modulus of elasticity, the recovery temperature, the recovery force and force recovery rate increase with increasing organoclay in nanocomposites, but final recovery strain decreases slightly.     

Rapid and Highly Sensitive Detection of Target DNA Related to COVID-19 Virus With a Fluorescent Bio-conjugated Probe via a FRET Mechanism

Journal of Fluorescence - A novel cyanine 3 (Cy3)-based bio-conjugated sensor has been developed to detect target DNA or extracted RNA from COVID -19 samples using the fluorescence resonance energy...     

N‐Benzyl‐DABCO‐tribromide as an efficient and mild reagent for deprotection of dithioacetals

N‐Benzyl‐DABCO‐ammonium tribromide was found to be an efficient and recyclable reagent for the deprotection of dithioacetals in dichloromethane/methanol at room temperature. The reaction can be performed cleanly, in short time, and in high yield.