http://hdl.handle.net/10498/6792 Thu, 05 Nov 2026 05:19:16 GMT 2026-11-05T05:19:16Z http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39380 Ribbons of Light: Emerging (Sb,Bi)(S,Se)(Br,I) Van der Waals Chalcohalides for Next-Generation Energy Applications Caño, Iván; Navarro-Güell, A.; Edoardo Maggi; Maggi, Edoardo; Gon Medaille, Axel; Rovira, David; Jimenez-Arguijo, Alex; Segura, Oriol; Torrens, Arnau; Jimenez, Maykel; López, Cibrán; Benítez, Pol; Cazorla, Claudi; Jehl, Zac; Gong, Yuancai; Asensi, José Miguel; Calvo Barrio, Lorenzo; Soler, Lluís; Llorca, Jordi; Tamarit, Josep Lluís; Galiana, Beatriz; Dimitrievska, Mirjana; Ruiz Marín, Nazaret; Chun, Hao Zhe; Wong, Lydia; Puigdollers, Joaquim; Placidi, Marcel; Saucedo, Edgardo (Sb,Bi)(S,Se)(Br,I) pnictogen chalcohalides constitute an emerging family of Van der Waals (VdW) semiconductors with remarkable potential for energy-related applications, including photovoltaics (PV), photocatalysis (PC), and photoelectrocatalysis (PEC). These ternary compounds exhibit a quasi-1D orthorhombic crystalline phase, and an electronic structure analogous to lead-halide perovskites, making them promising candidates for sustainable and high-performance energy devices. This study introduces a new versatile and adaptable synthesis methodology, which combines co-evaporation of binary chalcogenides with reactive annealing under high-pressure halide atmospheres, to fabricate the eight (Sb,Bi)(S,Se)(Br,I) chalcohalides. Comprehensive structural, compositional, and optoelectronic analyses reveal a wide bandgap range (1.2–2.2 eV), high absorption coefficients, and anisotropic properties driven by unique ribbon-like morphology. Theoretical and experimental results highlight their high stability, versatile chemical adaptability, and defect-tolerant characteristics. Moreover, the distinct differences in morphology and crystallization between Sb and Bi-based compounds, as well as the influence of chalcogen and halogen elements on the optical and structural properties are discussed. Demonstrations of functional devices, including photocatalytic systems, underscore the practical viability of these materials. This work establishes a foundation for the development of pnictogen chalcohalides as scalable and eco-friendly alternatives for advanced energy applications. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39380 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39358 Sonic Contrasts at Sea: A Comparative Case Study of Noise Exposure and Crew Fatigue on a Conventional Ferry and a High-Speed Craft Crestelo Moreno, Fernando; Bouzón Otero, Rebeca; Díaz-Secades, Luis-Alfonso; Amado Sánchez, Yolanda Santísima Trinidad This study provides a comparative analysis of noise exposure and its occupational implications for two types of vessels operating in the Strait of Gibraltar: a conventional steel roll-on/roll-off passenger ferry (Ro-Pax) and an aluminium high-speed catamaran (HSC). A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating objective acoustic measurements with subjective assessments of fatigue, workload, and circadian typology using validated survey instruments. The comparative framework is based on International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolution A.468(XII), which establishes design-based noise limits for both vessel types. This framework is supported by the High-Speed Craft (HSC) Code and European Union (EU) Directive 2003/10/EC, both of which address occupational exposure. While both vessels comply with IMO design standards, the HSC consistently exceeds the noise limits set out in the HSC Code and European regulations in the accommodation and bridge areas. These elevated noise levels correlate with higher fatigue and workload scores among HSC crew, particularly in the engine and deck departments. In contrast, the Ro-Pax ferry demonstrates better acoustic insulation due to its steel construction, resulting in lower overall exposure and improved rest conditions. The results highlight the inadequacy of applying uniform noise standards to structurally distinct vessels, emphasising the importance of vessel-specific acoustic management strategies. Crucially, the study reaffirms the importance of maintaining compliance with both IMO design standards and EU occupational health regulations to ensure the comprehensive protection of seafarers’ well-being and safety. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39358 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39352 Computationally Enhanced Paper-Like Problem Solving: pSolver as a Digital Notebook for Engineering Education Coronel, Juan F.; Pérez-Lombard, Luis; Rodríguez Maestre, Ismael Engineering problem solving is a fundamental component of technology education. However, students often struggle due to mathematical complexity, fragmented computing tools, and limited instructional time. Although technical computing software is widely available, many tools lack transparency and tracking, which takes students away from the logical progression of problem solving. This study presents pSolver (http://psolver.org), a pedagogically oriented digital notebook that emulates traditional paper-based workflows while integrating automated computation. The contribution lies in the educational design and integration of existing computational components into a unified, traceable environment for engineering learning. It provides a descriptive account of the platform's architecture and curricular uptake, supported by aggregated usage data, classroom observations, and informal feedback from students and instructors over four academic years. The descriptive evidence collected during classroom use suggests that pSolver supports active learning by facilitating conceptual understanding, increasing student autonomy, and reducing procedural workload. According to informal feedback, users valued the document-like interface, the seamless integration of computation and visual structure, and the ability to check results within the same environment. These perceptions illustrate the platform's educational potential. No formal causal evaluation or effect-size analysis was conducted. pSolver aligns with pedagogical best practices by promoting structured reasoning in problem solving. Based on its design, features, and observed classroom adoption, the environment appears consistent with potential benefits for teaching and learning. Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39352 2025-11-14T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39329 Parameter-based optimization of the 3D clay-printability Diz Mellado, Eduardo María; Jiménez Guerrero, Adriana; Pérez Fenoy, José; Rivera Gómez, Carlos; Galán Marín, Carmen This study focuses on optimizing the 3D printability through Liquid Deposition Modelling (LDM) of ceramic clays, particularly addressing the challenges of processing low-moisture mixtures. The main objective was to assess how the chemical and physical composition of clays, along with some deflocculant additive, affects their performance during 3D printing. The plasticity and other properties of different types of clay were evaluated. The results showed that clays with higher plasticity, like White, allowed for easier printing with lower pressures, while Red clay, with lower plasticity, required Sodium Silicate to enhance printability at reduced moisture levels. The addition of deflocculates improved the fluidity of the clay, facilitating smoother extrusion without needing higher pressure. However, the study highlighted that reducing water content significantly could not be fully offset by additives, underscoring the importance of maintaining a balanced moisture level. In conclusion, the controlled use of additives and precise regulation of printing conditions greatly improved the efficiency and quality of 3D printing. This research contributes to advancements in ceramic additive manufacturing, offering important insights for improving material handling and print quality in clay-based 3D printing applications. Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://hdl.handle.net/10498/39329 2025-12-01T00:00:00Z