Open Access

REVIEW

Xinyuan Shan^1,2, Yuan Wei¹, Jiayao Chen^1,*, Peng-Fei Cao^1,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 571-586, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.068907 - 30 September 2025
Abstract In recent years, ultrathin polymer-based electrolytes (UPEs) have emerged as a promising strategy to enhance the energy density of rechargeable batteries for wearable devices by minimizing electrolyte volume, demonstrating higher ionic conductance and lower internal resistance, and more compact battery stacking compared to conventional thick polymer-based electrolyte. This mini review systematically summarizes recent advances in ultrathin solid-state and gel-state electrolytes, focusing on their preparation strategies, advantages, and disadvantages, where the energy density, interfacial stability, mechanical properties, and ion-transport mechanisms are also analyzed for understanding the UPE application. Moreover, the challenges such as dendrite penetration and More >

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753

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REVIEW

Yinglai Tang, Jiale Xie, Yujie Chen, Xingxu Liu, Xiaomin Kang^*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 587-619, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.067647 - 30 September 2025
Abstract With the rapid development of flexible and wearable electronic devices, the demand for flexible power sources with high energy density and long service life is imminent. Zinc-air batteries have long been regarded as an important development direction in the future due to their high safety, environmental efficiency, abundant reserves and low cost. However, problems such as zinc dendrite growth, corrosion, by-product generation, hydrogen evolution and leakage, and evaporation of electrolyte affect the commercialization of zinc-air batteries. In addition, currently widely used aqueous electrolytes lead to larger batteries, which is not conducive to the development of… More >

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REVIEW

Caixia Chen¹, Pengyu Liu¹, Changhua Wang¹, Yanyan Xie¹, Wei Wang^1,*, Xiaomin Kang^2,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 621-660, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.068852 - 30 September 2025
Abstract Due to their high water content, stimulus responsiveness, and biocompatibility, hydrogels, which are functional materials with a three-dimensional network structure, are widely applied in fields such as biomedicine, environmental monitoring, and flexible electronics. This paper provides a systematic review of hydrogel characterization methods and their applications, focusing on primary evaluation techniques for physical properties (e.g., mechanical strength, swelling behavior, and pore structure), chemical properties (e.g., composition, crosslink density, and degradation behavior), biocompatibility, and functional properties (e.g., drug release, environmental stimulus response, and conductivity). It analyzes the challenges currently faced by characterization methods, such as a More >

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723

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REVIEW

Nanpu Cao¹, Huan Luo¹, Song Yue¹, Yong Chen¹, Mao Xu¹, Pu Cao¹, Tao Xin¹, Hongying Luo¹, Fa Zhang^2,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 661-675, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.067313 - 30 September 2025
Abstract This review systematically summarizes recent advancements in the design of antibacterial hydrogels and the surface-related factors influencing microbial adhesion to polymeric materials. Hydrogels, characterized by their three-dimensional porous architecture and ultra-high water content, serve as ideal platforms for incorporating antibacterial agents (e.g., metal ions, natural polymers) through physical/chemical interactions, enabling sustained release and enhanced antibacterial efficacy. For traditional polymers, surface properties (e.g., roughness, charge, superhydrophobicity, free energy, nanoforce gradients) play critical roles in microbial adhesion. Modifying the surface properties of polymers through surface treatment can regulate antibacterial performance. In particular, by referencing the micro/nanostructures found More >

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494

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168

Open Access

REVIEW

Md. Tanvir Raihan¹, Md. Himel Mahmud², Badhon Chandra Mazumder², Md. Nazif Hasan Chowdhury³, Mohammad Tajul Islam^1,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 677-711, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.068356 - 30 September 2025
Abstract Electrospinning has gained significant importance across various fields, including biomedicine, filtration, and packaging due to the control it provides over the properties of the resulting materials, such as fiber diameter and membrane thickness. Chitosan is a biopolymer that can be utilized with both natural and synthetic copolymers, owing to its therapeutic potential, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. However, producing electrospun chitosan is challenging due to its high solution viscosity, which often results in the formation of beads instead of uniform fibers. To address this issue, the spinnability of chitosan is significantly enhanced, and the production of continuous More >

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747

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ARTICLE

Imandeena Sofileeya^1,2, Surajudeen Sikiru^1,2,*, Nur Hidayah Shahemi¹, Niraj Kumar³, Mohd Muzamir Mahat^1,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 713-728, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.065378 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Innovative Smart Polymeric Materials for Sustainable Energy Solutions: Bridging Advances in Energy and Biomedical Applications)
Abstract Spinal cord injury presents a significant challenge in regenerative medicine due to the complex and delicate nature of neural tissue repair. This study aims to design a conductive hydrogel embedded with magnetic MgFe₂O₄ nanoparticles to establish a bioelectrically active and spatially stable microenvironment that promotes spinal cord regeneration through computational analysis (BIOVIA Materials Studio). Hydrogels, known for their biocompatibility and extracellular matrix-mimicking properties, support essential cellular behaviors such as adhesion, proliferation, and migration. The integration of MgFe₂O₄ nanoparticles imparts both electrical conductivity and magnetic responsiveness, enabling controlled transmission of electrical signals that are crucial for guiding… More >

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529

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186

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ARTICLE

Nurrul Asyiqin Shamsuri¹, Zamil Khairuddin², Muhamad Hafiz Hamsan³, Norhana Abdul Halim⁴, Mohd Fakhrul Zamani Kadir^1,5, Muhammad Fadhlullah Shukur^6,7,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 729-742, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.069060 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Innovative Smart Polymeric Materials for Sustainable Energy Solutions: Bridging Advances in Energy and Biomedical Applications)
Abstract Polymeric materials have emerged as a promising alternative to electrolytic solutions in energy storage applications. However, high crystallinity and poor ionic conductivity are the main barriers restricting their daily application. In this study, we propose a polymer electrolyte system consisting of methylcellulose-polyvinyl alcohol (MC-PVA) blend as host material and lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiCF₃SO₃) as dopant, which was prepared using the solution-casting method. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis revealed a maximum conductivity of 5.42 × 10⁻⁶ S cm⁻¹ with 40 wt.% LiCF₃SO₃. The key findings demonstrated that the variation in the dielectric loss (ε_i) and dielectric constant (ε_r) was… More >

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722

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ARTICLE

Ahmad Faldo¹, Labanta Marbun¹, Hezekiah Lemuel Putra Zebua¹, Fateha Fateha², Rossy Choerun Nissa², Yurin Karunia Apsha Albaina Iasya³, Riri Uswatun Annifah³, Amrul Amrul¹, Yeyen Nurhamiyah^2,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 743-755, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.069981 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Development and Application of Biodegradable Plastics)
Abstract Conventional bioplastic production from seaweed often relies on extraction processes that are costly, time-consuming, and yield limited product. This study presents a direct fabrication method using Gracilaria sp., a red seaweed rich in polysaccharides, to produce bioplastic films without the need for extraction. Sorbitol was incorporated as a plasticizer at concentrations of 0%–10% (w/w) to modify film characteristics. Thermal analysis revealed improved stability at moderate sorbitol levels (5%–7%), while excessive plasticizer slightly reduced thermal resistance. Mechanical testing showed that sorbitol increased film flexibility and elongation at break, though tensile strength and stiffness declined. Tear strength followed More >

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1393

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793

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ARTICLE

Qiang Sun^1,2,*, Zheng-Song Qiu¹, Tie Geng², Han-Yi Zhong¹, Weili Liu², Yu-Lin Tang², Jin-Cheng Dong²
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 757-772, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.069808 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Functional Polymer Composites: Synthesis, Characterization and Applications)
Abstract Addressing the critical challenges of viscosity loss and barite sag in synthetic-based drilling fluids (SBDFs) under high-temperature, high-pressure (HTHP) conditions, this study innovatively developed a hyperbranched amide polymer (SS-1) through a unique stepwise polycondensation strategy. By integrating dynamic ionic crosslinking for temperature-responsive rheology and rigid aromatic moieties ensuring thermal stability beyond 260°C, SS-1 achieves a molecular-level breakthrough. Performance evaluations demonstrate that adding merely 2.0 wt% SS-1 significantly enhances key properties of 210°C-aged SBDFs: plastic viscosity rises to 45 mPa·s, electrical stability (emulsion voltage) reaches 1426 V, and the sag factor declines to 0.509, outperforming conventional More >

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1164

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753

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ARTICLE

Jeyapaul Angel Ida Chellam¹, Bright Brailson Mansingh², Daniel Stalin Alex³, Joseph Selvi Binoj^4,*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 773-794, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.069295 - 30 September 2025
Abstract Machine learning models can predict material properties quickly and accurately at a low computational cost. This study generated novel hybridized nanocomposites with unsaturated polyester resin as the matrix and Areca fruit husk fiber (AFHF), tamarind fruit fiber (TFF), and nano-sized coconut shell powder (NCSP). It is challenging to determine the optimal proportion of raw materials in this composite to achieve maximum mechanical properties. This task was accomplished with the help of ML techniques in this study. The tensile strength of the hybridized nanocomposite was increased by 134.06% compared to the neat unsaturated polyester resin at… More >

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994

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683

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ARTICLE

Xiangyang Zhou¹, Yashi Wang¹, Min Xiao^1,*, Jiajun Liu^1,2, Jiahao Wen¹, Haodong Shen³, Hucan Hong¹
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 795-810, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.068200 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Polymer Materials: Multifunctional Design and Sustainable Applications)
Abstract Sugarcane bagasse (SCB) is a promising natural fiber for bio-based composites, but its high moisture absorption and poor interfacial adhesion with polymer matrices limit mechanical performance. While chemical treatments have been extensively explored, limited research has addressed how thermal treatment alone alters the surface properties and reinforcing behavior of SCB fibers. This study aims to fill that gap by investigating the effects of heat treatment on SCB fiber structure and its performance in starch/poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composites. Characterization techniques including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning… More >

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960

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705

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ARTICLE

Deepti Rekha Sahoo, Trinath Biswal^*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 811-835, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.067022 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Cellulose and Nanocellulose in Polymer Composites: Sustainable Engineering Approach)
Abstract The purpose of this research work is to determine the removal efficiency of Cu²⁺ and Pb²⁺ ions using polyvinyl alcohol/neem leaf extract/chitosan (PVA/NLE/CS) composite films as adsorbent materials from an aqueous medium, with respect to pH, contact time, and adsorbent dosage. The synthesized composite material was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis-Derivative Thermogravimetry (TGA-DTG), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). The antibacterial activity and swelling response of the material were studied using suitable methodologies. The FTIR study confirmed the interactions among PVA, chitosan, and… More >

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268

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154

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ARTICLE

Jhony César Muñoz Zambrano, Douglas Alexander Bermúdez Parrales, María Antonieta Riera^*
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 837-851, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.067277 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Cellulose and Nanocellulose in Polymer Composites: Sustainable Engineering Approach)
Abstract Agricultural waste is a potentially interesting resource due to the compounds present. In this study, cellulose was extracted from corn stalks (Zea mays) and subsequently converted into cellulose acetate (CA). Before the extraction process, the waste sample was characterized by pH, moisture, ash, protein content, total reducing sugars (TRS), carbohydrates, cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Acid and alkaline hydrolysis were performed with different reagents, concentrations, and extraction times. Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and acetic acid (CH₃COOH) were used in the acid hydrolysis, while sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was used in the alkaline hydrolysis. Three concentrations (0.62, 1.25, 2.5)% and two… More >

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245

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ARTICLE

Nuraqilah Syamimi Mat Jauilah¹, Kobun Rovina^2,*, Wahidatul Husna Zuldin³, Sarifah Supri¹, Patricia Matanjun¹, Luh Suriati⁴
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 853-871, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.066751 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Innovative Smart Polymeric Materials for Sustainable Energy Solutions: Bridging Advances in Energy and Biomedical Applications)
Abstract Food breakdown during storage and transit greatly adds to worldwide food waste. Biodegradable edible coatings derived from natural sources provide a sustainable method to extend the shelf life and preserve the freshness of fresh fruit. This study explores the potential of the readily available and nutrient-rich seaweed, Caulerpa lentillifera, as a base material for edible coatings that can enhance the shelf life and maintain the physicochemical properties of fruits and vegetables. Caulerpa lentillifera, a marine macroalga renowned for its unique biochemical composition, presents a promising avenue for developing sustainable bio-coatings to improve the post-harvest quality of fresh… More >

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334

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149

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ARTICLE

Mahim Masfikun Hannan, Deng’an Cai^*, Xinwei Wang
Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.42, No.3, pp. 873-891, 2025, DOI:10.32604/jpm.2025.064978 - 30 September 2025
（This article belongs to the Special Issue: Damage and Fracture of Polymer Composites)
Abstract This study investigates the low-velocity impact and post-impact flexural properties of 3D integrated woven spacer composites, focusing on their orthotropic behavior when tested along two principal directions, i.e., warp (X-type) and weft (Y-type) directions. The same composite material was tested in these orientations to evaluate the differences in impact resistance and residual bending strength. Specimens were fabricated via vacuum-assisted molding and tested at 2, 3, 5, and 7 J impact energies using an Instron Ceast 9350 drop-weight impact testing machine, in accordance with ASTM D7136. Post-impact flexural tests were performed using a four-point bending method… More >

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