1. A review of electro conductive textiles utilizing the dip-coating technique: Their functionality, durability and sustainabilityAlenka Ojstršek, Laura Jug, Olivija Plohl, 2022, pregledni znanstveni članek Opis: The presented review summarizes recent studies in the field of electro conductive textiles
as an essential part of lightweight and flexible textile-based electronics (so called e-textiles), with the
main focus on a relatively simple and low-cost dip-coating technique that can easily be integrated
into an existing textile finishing plant. Herein, numerous electro conductive compounds are discussed, including intrinsically conductive polymers, carbon-based materials, metal, and metal-based
nanomaterials, as well as their combinations, with their advantages and drawbacks in contributing
to the sectors of healthcare, military, security, fitness, entertainment, environmental, and fashion,
for applications such as energy harvesting, energy storage, real-time health and human motion
monitoring, personal thermal management, Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) shielding, wireless
communication, light emitting, tracking, etc. The greatest challenge is related to the wash and wear
durability of the conductive compounds and their unreduced performance during the textiles’ lifetimes, which includes the action of water, high temperature, detergents, mechanical forces, repeated
bending, rubbing, sweat, etc. Besides electrical conductivity, the applied compounds also influence
the physical-mechanical, optical, morphological, and comfort properties of textiles, depending on
the type and concentration of the compound, the number of applied layers, the process parameters,
as well as additional protective coatings. Finally, the sustainability and end-of-life of e-textiles are
critically discussed in terms of the circular economy and eco-design, since these aspects are mainly
neglected, although e-textile’ waste could become a huge problem in the future when their mass
production starts. Ključne besede: electro conductive textiles, dip-coating, characterization, functional features, durability, sustainability, recyclability Objavljeno v DKUM: 27.03.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 3
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2. Functional coatings with ethyl cellulose-calcium carbonate alkaline nanoparticles for deacidification and mechanical reinforcement of paper artifactsMatej Bračič, Jasna Malešič, Mihael Brunčko, Doris Bračič, Alenka Ojstršek, Tea Kapun, Sašo Gyergyek, Karin Stana-Kleinschek, Tamilselvan Mohan, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Paper artifacts susceptible to acid hydrolysis and mechanical stress require effective conservation methods to ensure their longevity. In this study, a novel approach for the deacidification of acidic paper using calcium carbonate (CaCO3) [1,2]-ethylcellulose nanoparticles (CaCO3-EC NPs) dispersed in a non-aqueous ethyl acetate solution is presented. The dispersions were carefully prepared and applied to model acidic paper samples using a dipcoating method and then analyzed for their effectiveness. Transmission electron microscopy showed the formation of agglomerates containing quadrangular alkaline nanoparticles with diameters of 40 to 100 nm and a total agglomerate size of 250 nm. Hydrodynamic analyzes indicate the presence of a swollen ethyl cellulose coating on these agglomerates, which facilitates their dispersion. The results show the effectiveness of the CaCO3-EC NPs system in neutralizing acidic components (change of paper pH from 4.3 to 7) due to the homogeneous distribution within the paper substrates, effectively arresting the degradation processes. Acid-base titration showed a linear correlation between the concentration of alkaline nanoparticles and the alkaline reserve, emphasizing the role of ethylcellulose in facilitating particle transport within the paper matrix. In addition, ethylcellulose was found to improve the mechanical properties of the treated paper, as demonstrated by the standard mechanical tests. Importantly, the optical properties remained unchanged after treatment, as no adverse changes in color were observed. These results underline the effectiveness of the developed deacidification dispersions for the treatment of acidic paper and potentially other cellulose-based cultural heritage documents prone to acidic degradation. This approach offers promising implications for preserving and restoring valuable historical materials. Ključne besede: ethylcellulose, calcium carbonate, functional coating, deacidification, strengthening, cultural heritage Objavljeno v DKUM: 20.03.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 1
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3. Ketoprofen-loaded PLGA-based bioactive coating prepared by supercritical foaming on a TiAl6V4 substrate for local drug delivery in orthopedic applicationsKatja Andrina Kravanja, Klodian Xhanari, Maša Knez Marevci, Uroš Maver, Matjaž Finšgar, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: In this study, a novel biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid coating containing a model anti-inflammatory drug (ketoprofen) was prepared on TiAl6V4 substrate for use in orthopedic medicine by a two-step process combining drop casting and supercritical CO2-assisted foaming. The prepared coating was first investigated by surface analysis techniques using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The combined results confirmed the loading of ketoprofen and its homogeneous spatial distribution in the coating. 3D profilometry revealed increased surface roughness of the coating compared to the bare TiAl6V4 substrate, which is favorable for cell adhesion. Furthermore, the electrochemical measurements (i.e., electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic curve measurements) demonstrated that the coating application significantly mitigated corrosion compared to the bare TiAl6V4 substrate. In vitro drug release tests revealed extended drug release in simulated body fluids with zero-order release kinetics. Finally, the promising cell testing results using adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells and osteoblasts confirmed the applicability of the coating for implants. Overall, the results of this study highlight the significant potential of the developed bioactive coating for future orthopedic applications. Ključne besede: TiAlV, bioactive coating, implants, PLGA, supercritical foaming, ketoprofen Objavljeno v DKUM: 14.03.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 4
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4. Functionalization of surgical mask polypropylene layers with application of natural substancesMarjana Simonič, Olivija Plohl, Maša Vračevič, Lidija Fras Zemljič, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: The anti-viral efficacy of face mask was enhanced by applying the protein lactoferrin, the polyphenol catechin individually, and in combination. Individual solutions of protein and polyphenol were meticulously prepared and subsequently sprayed onto the inner surface of face mask layers composed of polypropylene. The functionalized mask layers were subjected to comprehensive characterization through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta-potential measurements, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Goniometry was employed to assess the wettability of the modified surface layer, and air permeability was quantified both before and after the application of potential anti-viral agents. Bioactivity, such as anti-oxidant activity using ABTS assay and anti-viral efficiency against the model virus phi6, was followed as well. Our findings indicate the successful modification of mask with lactoferrin, while functionalization by catechin proved to be unsuccessful. The measured contact angles underscored the hydrophobic nature of the functionalized samples, ensuring reduced wettability in the presence of saliva droplets. Notably, the individual coating layers exhibited enhanced anti-oxidant activity and demonstrated anti-viral properties against the model virus phi6, when the outer layer of the mask was spray-coated. These results suggest promising technology to integrating these functionalized layers into masks for enhanced safety performance. Ključne besede: catechin, lactoferrin, PP mask, spray-coating, anti-viral properties Objavljeno v DKUM: 07.02.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 3
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5. Properties of the fluoroacrylate and methacryloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane applied to a layer of Cu2O on bronze as either single or multi-component coatingsLuka Škrlep, Tadeja Kosec, Matjaž Finšgar, Andrijana Sever Škapin, Erika Švara Fabjan, 2023, izvirni znanstveni članek Ključne besede: bronze, Cu2O layer on bronze, fluoropolymer coating, protection efficiency, surface spectroscopy Objavljeno v DKUM: 10.05.2024; Ogledov: 183; Prenosov: 12
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6. Slot‑die coating of cellulose nanocrystals and chitosan for improved barrier properties of paperYlenia Ruberto, Vera Vivod, Janja Juhant Grkman, Gregor Lavrič, Claudia Graiff, Vanja Kokol, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and chitosan (Cht) have been studied extensively for oxygen and water vapour barrier coatings in biodegradable, compostable or recyclable paper packaging. However, rare studies have been performed by using scalable, inexpensive, and fast continuous slot-die coating processes, and none yet in combination with fast' and high-throughput near-infrared (NIR) light energy drying. In this frame, we studied the feasibility of a moderately concentrated (11 wt%) anionic CNC and (2 wt%) cationic Cht coating (both containing 20 wt% sorbitol related to the weight of CNC/Cht), by using plain and pigment pre-treated papers. The effect of coating parameters (injection speed, dry thickness settings) were investigated on coating quantity (dry weight, thickness) and homogeneity (coverage), papers' structure (thickness, grammage, density), whiteness, surface wettability, barrier (air, oxygen and water vapour) properties and adhesion (surface strength). The coating homogeneity was dependent primarily on the suspensions' viscosity, and secondarily on the applied coating parameters, whereby CNCs could be applied at 1–2 times higher injection speeds (up to 80 mL/min) and versatile coating weights, but required a relatively longer time to dry. The CNCs thus exhibited outstanding air (4.2–1.5 nm/Pa s) and oxygen (2.7–1.1 cm3 mm/m2 d kPa) barrier performance at 50% RH and 22–33 g/m2 deposition, whereas on top deposited Cht (3–4 g/m2) reduced its wetting time and improved the water vapour barrier (0.23–0.28 g mm/m2 d Pa). The balanced barrier properties were achieved due to the polar characteristic of CNCs, the hydrophobic nature of Cht and the quantity of the applied bilayer coating that can provide sustainable paper-based packaging. Ključne besede: paper, nanocellulose, chitosan, slot‑die coating, near-infrared (NIR) drying, barrier properties Objavljeno v DKUM: 06.05.2024; Ogledov: 227; Prenosov: 18
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7. Comparison of surface and spectral properties of optical sensor layers prepared by spin/spray coating and printing techniquesNena Dimitrušev, Polonca Nedeljko, Allwin Mabes Raj, Aleksandra Lobnik, 2023, izvirni znanstveni članek Ključne besede: optical sensor layers preparation, spin coating, spray coating, inkjet printing, SFE, XPS, NH3, response, real-time response Objavljeno v DKUM: 28.03.2024; Ogledov: 198; Prenosov: 13
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8. Comprehensive analysis of different coating materials on the POM substrateTonica Bončina, Srečko Glodež, Brigita Polanec, Lara Hočuršćak, Franc Zupanič, 2023, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: This study presents a comprehensive analysis of different coating materials on the POM substrate. Specifically, it investigated physical vapour deposition (PVD) coatings of aluminium (Al), chromium (Cr), and chromium nitride (CrN) of three various thicknesses. The deposition of Al was accomplished through a three-step process, particularly plasma activation, metallisation of Al by magnetron sputtering, and plasma polymerisation. The deposition of Cr was attained using the magnetron sputtering technique in a single step. For the deposition of CrN, a two-step process was employed. The first step involved the metallisation of Cr using magnetron sputtering, while the second step involved the vapour deposition of CrN, obtained through the reactive metallisation of Cr and nitrogen using magnetron sputtering. The focus of the research was to conduct comprehensive indentation tests to obtain the surface hardness of the analysed multilayer coatings, SEM analyses to examine surface morphology, and thorough adhesion analyses between the POM substrate and the appropriate PVD coating. Ključne besede: POM, PVD coating, metal coating, adhesion analyses, indentation tests Objavljeno v DKUM: 15.02.2024; Ogledov: 304; Prenosov: 38
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9. Amoxicillin doped hyaluronic acid/fucoidan multifunctional coatings for medical grade stainless steel orthopedic implantsMatej Bračič, Sanja Potrč, Matjaž Finšgar, Lidija Gradišnik, Uroš Maver, Hanna Budasheva, Dorota Korte, Mladen Franko, Lidija Fras Zemljič, 2023, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: This work investigated the potential of amoxicillin-doped hyaluronic acid/fucoidan multifunctional coatings on medical grade stainless steel as biocompatible, osteointegration enhancing, antimicrobial, and bacterial biofilm inhibiting coatings for orthopedic implants. The coatings were prepared by layer-by-layer spin coating and confirmed by optical contact angle goniometry and infrared spectroscopy. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry showed a homogeneous distribution of the individual layers. In contrast, thermal diffusivity, and thermal conductivity measurements by photothermal beam deflection spectrometry showed diffusion of the amoxicillin into the hyaluronic acid and fucoidan layers. In vitro release of amoxicillin showed complete release within one hour, as reflected by the formation of inhibition zones against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Synergistic effects were observed between the hyaluronic acid and amoxicillin in inhibiting S.Aureus biofilm, and between the fucoidan and amoxicillin in improving the antioxidant properties by an ABTS radical scavenging assay. Biocompatibility was determined with human osteoblasts, confirming the potential of such multifunc- tional coatings to enhance the bioactivity of steel-based orthop edic implants. Ključne besede: orthopedic implant, medical grade stainless steel, amoxicillin, hyaluronic acid, fucoidan, multifunctional coating Objavljeno v DKUM: 18.08.2023; Ogledov: 588; Prenosov: 123
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10. Two-layer functional coatings of chitosan particles with embedded catechin and pomegranate extracts for potential active packagingSanja Potrč, Tjaša Kraševac Glaser, Alenka Vesel, Nataša Poklar Ulrih, Lidija Fras Zemljič, 2020, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Two-layer functional coatings for polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) films were developed for the active packaging concept. Prior to coating, the polymer films were activated by O$_2$ and NH$_3$ plasma to increase their surface free energy and to improve the binding capacity and stability of the coatings. The first layer was prepared from a macromolecular chitosan solution, while the second (upper) layer contained chitosan particles with embedded catechin or pomegranate extract. Functionalized films were analyzed physico-chemically to elemental composition using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and XPS. Further, oxygen permeability and wettability (Contact Angle) were examined. The antimicrobial properties were analyzed by the standard ISO 22196 method, while the antioxidative properties were determined with an ABTS assay. Functionalized films show excellent antioxidative and antimicrobial efficacy. A huge decrease in oxygen permeability was achieved in addition. Moreover, a desorption experiment was also performed, confirming that the migration profile of a compound from the surfaces was in accordance with the required overall migration limit. All these properties indicate the great potential of the developed active films/foils for end-uses in food packaging. Ključne besede: plasma, chitosan, polyphenols, coating, active package Objavljeno v DKUM: 12.07.2023; Ogledov: 618; Prenosov: 61
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