Journal of Powder Materials

[English]
Self-Assembled Monolayers in Area-Selective Atomic Layer Deposition and Their Challenges: Si Eun Jung, Ji Woong Shin, Ye Jin Han, Byung Joon Choi; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(3):179-190. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00094

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Abstract PDF: Area-selective atomic layer deposition (AS-ALD) is a bottom-up process that selectively deposits thin films onto specific areas of a wafer surface. The surface reactions of AS-ALD are controlled by blocking the adsorption of precursors using inhibitors such as self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) or small molecule inhibitors. To increase selectivity during the AS-ALD process, the design of both the inhibitor and the precursor is crucial. Both inhibitors and precursors vary in reactivity and size, and surface reactions are blocked through interactions between precursor molecules and surface functional groups. However, challenges in the conventional SAM-based AS-ALD method include thermal instability and potential damage to substrates during the removal of residual SAMs after the process. To address these issues, recent studies have proposed alternative inhibitors and process design strategies.

[English]
Recent Advances in Thermoelectric Materials and Devices: Improving Power Generation Performance: Momanyi Amos Okirigiti, Cheol Min Kim, Hyejeong Choi, Nagamalleswara Rao Alluri, Kwi-Il Park; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(1):1-15. Published online February 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2024.00395

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Thermoelectric materials have been the focus of extensive research interest in recent years due to their potential in clean power generation from waste heat. Their conversion efficiency is primarily reflected by the dimensionless figure of merit, with higher values indicating better performance. There is a pressing need to discover materials that increase output power and improve performance, from the material level to device fabrication. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements, such as Bi2Te3-based nanostructures that reduce thermal conductivity while maintaining electrical conductivity, GeTe-based high entropy alloys that utilize multiple elements for improved thermoelectric properties, porous metal-organic frameworks offering tunable structures, and organic/hybrid films that present low-cost, flexible solutions. Innovations in thermoelectric generator designs, such as asymmetrical geometries, segmented modules, and flexible devices, have further contributed to increased efficiency and output power. Together, these developments are paving the way for more effective thermoelectric technologies in sustainable energy generation.

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Mathematical and simulation modeling of photovoltaic systems utilizing thermoelectric modules for effective thermal management
Muhammad Sohaib Tahir, Xue Dong, Muhammad Mansoor Khan
Results in Engineering.2025; 27: 106344. CrossRef

[English]
Thermodynamic and Electronic Descriptor-Driven Machine Learning for Phase Prediction in High-Entropy Alloys: Experimental Validation: Nguyen Lam Khoa, Nguyen Duy Khanh, Hoang Thi Ngoc Quyen, Nguyen Thi Hoang Oanh, , Le Hong Thang, Nguyen Hoa Khiem, Nguyen Hoang Viet; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(3):191-201. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00143

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Abstract PDF

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) exhibit complex phase formation behavior, challenging conventional predictive methods. This study presents a machine learning (ML) framework for phase prediction in HEAs, using a curated dataset of 648 experimentally characterized compositions and features derived from thermodynamic and electronic descriptors. Three classifiers—random forest, gradient boosting, and CatBoost—were trained and validated through cross-validation and testing. Gradient boosting achieved the highest accuracy, and valence electron concentration (VEC), atomic size mismatch (δ), and enthalpy of mixing (ΔHmix) were identified as the most influential features. The model predictions were experimentally verified using a non-equiatomic Al₃₀Cu₁₇.₅Fe₁₇.₅Cr₁₇.₅Mn₁₇.₅ alloy and the equiatomic Cantor alloy (CoCrFeMnNi), both of which showed strong agreement with predicted phase structures. The results demonstrate that combining physically informed feature engineering with ML enables accurate and generalizable phase prediction, supporting accelerated HEA design.

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Preparation and Arc Erosion Behavior of Cu-Based Contact Materials Reinforced with High Entropy Particles CuCrNiCoFe
Jiacheng Tong, Jun Wang, Huimin Zhang, Haoran Liu, Youchang Sun, Zhiguo Li, Wenyi Zhang, Zhe Wang, Yanli Chang, Zhao Yuan, Henry Hu
Metallurgical and Materials Transactions B.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

[Korean]
Thermal Atomic Layer Etching of the Thin Films: A Review: Hyeonhui Jo, Seo Hyun Lee, Eun Seo Youn, Ji Eun Seo, Jin Woo Lee, Dong Hoon Han, Seo Ah Nam, Jeong Hwan Han; J Powder Mater. 2023;30(1):53-64. Published online February 1, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/KPMI.2023.30.1.53

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Abstract PDF

Atomic layer etching (ALE) is a promising technique with atomic-level thickness controllability and high selectivity based on self-limiting surface reactions. ALE is performed by sequential exposure of the film surface to reactants, which results in surface modification and release of volatile species. Among the various ALE methods, thermal ALE involves a thermally activated reaction by employing gas species to release the modified surface without using energetic species, such as accelerated ions and neutral beams. In this study, the basic principle and surface reaction mechanisms of thermal ALE?processes, including “fluorination-ligand exchange reaction”, “conversion-etch reaction”, “conversion-fluorination reaction”, “oxidation-fluorination reaction”, “oxidation-ligand exchange reaction”, and “oxidation-conversion-fluorination reaction” are described. In addition, the reported thermal ALE processes for the removal of various oxides, metals, and nitrides are presented.

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Self-Assembled Monolayers in Area-Selective Atomic Layer Deposition and Their Challenges
Si Eun Jung, Ji Woong Shin, Ye Jin Han, Byung Joon Choi
Journal of Powder Materials.2025; 32(3): 179. CrossRef

[Korean]
Recent Studies on Area Selective Atomic Layer Deposition of Elemental Metals: Min Gyoo Cho, Jae Hee Go, Byung Joon Choi; J Powder Mater. 2023;30(2):156-168. Published online April 1, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/KPMI.2023.30.2.156

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Abstract PDF

The semiconductor industry faces physical limitations due to its top-down manufacturing processes. High cost of EUV equipment, time loss during tens or hundreds of photolithography steps, overlay, etch process errors, and contamination issues owing to photolithography still exist and may become more serious with the miniaturization of semiconductor devices. Therefore, a bottom-up approach is required to overcome these issues. The key technology that enables bottom-up semiconductor manufacturing is area-selective atomic layer deposition (ASALD). Here, various ASALD processes for elemental metals, such as Co, Cu, Ir, Ni, Pt, and Ru, are reviewed. Surface treatments using chemical species, such as self-assembled monolayers and small-molecule inhibitors, to control the hydrophilicity of the surface have been introduced. Finally, we discuss the future applications of metal ASALD processes.

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Selective Atomic Layer Deposition of Co Thin Films Using Co(EtCp)2 Precursor
Sujeong Kim, Yong Tae Kim, Jaeyeong Heo
Korean Journal of Materials Research.2024; 34(3): 163. CrossRef

[English]
Advances in Powder Metallurgy for High-Entropy Alloys: Sheetal Kumar Dewangan, Cheenepalli Nagarjuna, Hansung Lee, K. Raja Rao, Man Mohan, Reliance Jain, Byungmin Ahn; J Powder Mater. 2024;31(6):480-492. Published online December 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2024.00297

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Abstract PDF

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) represent a revolutionary class of materials characterized by their multi-principal element compositions and exceptional mechanical properties. Powder metallurgy, a versatile and cost-effective manufacturing process, offers significant advantages for the development of HEAs, including precise control over their composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties. This review explores innovative approaches integrating powder metallurgy techniques in the synthesis and optimization of HEAs. Key advances in powder production, sintering methods, and additive manufacturing are examined, highlighting their roles in improving the performance, advancement, and applicability of HEAs. The review also discusses the mechanical properties, potential industrial applications, and future trends in the field, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of HEA development using powder metallurgy.

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Fabrication and Alloying Behavior of Ultra-Lightweight AlTiCrVMg High-Entropy Alloy via Al-Mg Mutual Solubility and Sintering Control
Eunhyo Song, Hansung Lee, Byungmin Ahn
Journal of Powder Materials.2025; 32(3): 254. CrossRef
Thermodynamic and Electronic Descriptor-Driven Machine Learning for Phase Prediction in High-Entropy Alloys: Experimental Validation
Nguyen Lam Khoa, Nguyen Duy Khanh, Hoang Thi Ngoc Quyen, Nguyen Thi Hoang, Oanh, Le Hong Thang, Nguyen Hoa Khiem, Nguyen Hoang Viet
Journal of Powder Materials.2025; 32(3): 191. CrossRef

[English]
A Review of Inorganic Solid Electrolytes for All-Solid-State Lithium Batteries: Challenges and Progress: Seul Ki Choi, Jaehun Han, Gi Jeong Kim, Yeon Hee Kim, Jaewon Choi, MinHo Yang; J Powder Mater. 2024;31(4):293-301. Published online August 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2024.00206

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Abstract PDF

All-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) are receiving attention as a prospective next-generation secondary battery technology that can reduce the risk of commercial lithium-ion batteries by replacing flammable organic liquid electrolytes with non-flammable solid electrolytes. The practical application of ASSLBs requires developing robust solid electrolytes that possess ionic conductivity at room temperature on a par with that of organic liquids. These solid electrolytes must also be thermally and chemically stable, as well as compatible with electrode materials. Inorganic solid electrolytes, including oxide and sulfide-based compounds, are being studied as promising future candidates for ASSLBs due to their higher ionic conductivity and thermal stability than polymer electrolytes. Here, we present the challenges currently facing the development of oxide and sulfide-based solid electrolytes, as well as the research efforts underway aiming to resolve these challenges.

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A facile synthesis of bulk LiPON in solution for solid-state electrolytes
Osma J. Gomez, Adam Antar, Alex T. Hall, Leopoldo Tapia-Aracayo, Joshua Seo, Nam Kim, Zihan Sun, Ryan Lim, Fu Chen, Yue Li, John Cumings, Gary Rubloff, Sang Bok Lee, David Stewart, Yang Wang
Journal of Materials Chemistry A.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Uniform lithium deposition using Cu teepee structures for anode-free lithium metal batteries
Seo Yun Jung, Jaehun Han, Seul Ki Choi, Se Youn Cho, Jong Ho Won, Jaewon Choi, Minho Yang
Chemical Engineering Journal.2025; : 167302. CrossRef

[English]
A Review of Recent Developments in CoCrFeMnNi High-Entropy Alloys Processed by Powder Metallurgy: Cheenepalli Nagarjuna, Sheetal Kumar Dewangan, Hansung Lee, Eunhyo Song, K. Raja Rao, Byungmin Ahn; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(2):145-164. Published online April 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2024.00430

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In recent years, high-entropy alloys (HEAs) have attracted considerable attention in materials engineering due to their unique phase stability and mechanical properties compared to conventional alloys. Since the inception of HEAs, CoCrFeMnNi alloys have been widely investigated due to their outstanding strength and fracture toughness at cryogenic temperatures. However, their lower yield strength at room temperature limits their structural applications. The mechanical properties of HEAs are greatly influenced by their processing methods and microstructural features. Unlike traditional melting techniques, powder metallurgy (PM) provides a unique opportunity to produce HEAs with nanocrystalline structures and uniform compositions. The current review explores recent advances in optimizing the microstructural characteristics in CoCrFeMnNi HEAs by using PM techniques to improve mechanical performance. The most promising strategies include grain refinement, dispersion strengthening, and the development of heterogeneous microstructures (e.g., harmonic, bimodal, and multi-metal lamellar structures). Thermomechanical treatments along with additive manufacturing techniques are also summarized. Additionally, the review addresses current challenges and suggests future research directions for designing advanced HEAs through PM techniques.

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Thermodynamic and Electronic Descriptor-Driven Machine Learning for Phase Prediction in High-Entropy Alloys: Experimental Validation
Nguyen Lam Khoa, Nguyen Duy Khanh, Hoang Thi Ngoc Quyen, Nguyen Thi Hoang, Oanh, Le Hong Thang, Nguyen Hoa Khiem, Nguyen Hoang Viet
Journal of Powder Materials.2025; 32(3): 191. CrossRef

[English]
The Effect of Aluminum Powder Size on the Structure and Mechanical Properties of Foam: Seunghyeok Choi, Sungjin Kim, Tae-Young Ahn, Yu-Song Choi, Jae-Gil Jung, Seung Bae Son, Seok-Jae Lee; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(3):232-243. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00157

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Abstract PDF: In this study, we analyzed the structural and mechanical properties of aluminum foams fabricated using aluminum powders of varying sizes and mixtures. The effects of sintering and pore structure at each size on the integrity and mechanical properties of the foams were investigated. Structural characteristics were examined using scanning electron microscopy and micro–computed tomography, while mechanical properties were evaluated through compression testing. The experimental results demonstrated that smaller powder sizes improved foam integrity, reduced porosity and pore size, and resulted in thinner cell walls. In combination, these effects increased compressive strength as the powder size decreased. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding and improvement of the mechanical properties of aluminum foams and highlight their potential for use in a wide range of applications.

[Korean]
Development of Aluminum Alloys for Additive Manufacturing Using Machine Learning: Sungbin An, Juyeon Han, Seoyeon Jeon, Dowon Kim, Jae Bok Seol, Hyunjoo Choi; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(3):202-211. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00150

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Abstract PDF: The present study introduces a machine learning approach for designing new aluminum alloys tailored for directed energy deposition additive manufacturing, achieving an optimal balance between hardness and conductivity. Utilizing a comprehensive database of powder compositions, process parameters, and material properties, predictive models—including an artificial neural network and a gradient boosting regression model, were developed. Additionally, a variational autoencoder was employed to model input data distributions and generate novel process data for aluminum-based powders. The similarity between the generated data and the experimental data was evaluated using K-nearest neighbor classification and t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding, with accuracy and the F1-score as metrics. The results demonstrated a close alignment, with nearly 90% accuracy, in numerical metrics and data distribution patterns. This work highlights the potential of machine learning to extend beyond multi-property prediction, enabling the generation of innovative process data for material design.

[English]
Ultra-Low-Temperature (4.2 K) Tensile Properties and Deformation Mechanism of Stainless Steel 304L Manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion: Seung-Min Jeon, Young-Sang Na, Young-Kyun Kim; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(2):95-103. Published online April 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00066

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Abstract PDF: This study investigated the ultra-low-temperature (4.2 K) tensile properties and deformation mechanisms of stainless steel 304L manufactured via laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The tensile properties of LPBF 304L were compared to those of conventional 304L to assess its suitability for cryogenic applications. The results revealed that LPBF 304L exhibited a significantly higher yield strength but lower ultimate tensile strength and elongation than conventional 304L at 4.2 K. The temperature dependence of the yield strength also favored LPBF 304L. Microstructural analysis demonstrated that LPBF 304L features a high density of dislocation cells and nano-inclusions, contributing to its greater strength. Furthermore, strain-induced martensitic transformation was observed as a key deformation mechanism at cryogenic temperatures, where austenite transformed into both hexagonal-closed packed (HCP) and body-centered cubic (BCC) martensite. Notably, BCC martensite nucleation occurred within a single HCP band. These findings provide critical insights into the mechanical behavior of LPBF 304L at cryogenic temperatures and its potential for applications in extreme environments.

[English]
Epsilon Iron Oxide (ε-Fe₂O₃) as an Electromagnetic Functional Material: Properties, Synthesis, and Applications: Ji Hyeong Jeong, Hwan Hee Kim, Jung-Goo Lee, Youn-Kyoung Baek; J Powder Mater. 2024;31(6):465-479. Published online December 31, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2024.00290

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Abstract PDF: Iron oxide (ε-Fe₂O₃) is emerging as a promising electromagnetic material due to its unique magnetic and electronic properties. This review focuses on the intrinsic properties of ε-Fe₂O₃, particularly its high coercivity, comparable to that of rare-earth magnets, which is attributed to its significant magnetic anisotropy. These properties render it highly suitable for applications in millimeter wave absorption and high-density magnetic storage media. Furthermore, its semiconducting behavior offers potential applications in photocatalytic hydrogen production. The review also explores various synthesis methods for fabricating ε-Fe₂O₃ as nanoparticles or thin films, emphasizing the optimization of purity and stability. By exploring and harnessing the properties of ε-Fe₂O₃, this study aims to contribute to the advancement of next-generation electromagnetic materials with potential applications in 6G wireless telecommunications, spintronics, high-density data storage, and energy technologies.

[English]
SnF₂-Induced LiF Interphase for Stable Lithium Metal Anodes with Suppressed Dendrite Growth: Yeong Hoon Jeon, Seul Ki Choi, Yun Seung Nah, Wonil Shin, Yong-Ho Choa, Minho Yang; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(3):212-221. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00164

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Abstract PDF: Lithium (Li) metal is a promising anode for next-generation batteries due to its high capacity, low redox potential, and low density. However, dendrite growth and interfacial instability limit its use. In this study, an artificial solid electrolyte interphase layer of LiF and Li-Sn (LiF@Li-Sn) was fabricated by spray-coating SnF2 onto Li. The LiF@Li-Sn anode exhibited improved air stability and electrochemical performance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated a charge transfer resistance of 25.2 Ω after the first cycle. In symmetric cells, it maintained a low overpotential of 27 mV after 250 cycles at 2 mA/cm2, outperforming bare Li. In situ microscopy confirmed dendrite suppression during plating. Full cells with NMC622 cathodes and LiF@Li-Sn anodes delivered 130.8 mAh/g with 79.4% retention after 300 cycles at 1 C and 98.8% coulombic efficiency. This coating effectively stabilized the interface and suppressed dendrites, with promising implications for practical lithium metal batteries.

[Korean]
Extraction of MgSO₄ from dolomite and synthesis of Mg(OH)₂ in Bittern: HyunSeung Shim, Jiyeon Kim, Areum Choi, Nuri Oh, YooJin Kim; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(2):122-130. Published online April 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00073

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Abstract PDF: We synthesized magnesium hydroxide using bittern and dolomite, which are domestic resources. In Bittern, there is a high concentration of Mg2+ ions, but the impurity Ca2+ ion content is also significant, requiring a purification process to remove it. There are two main methods for this purification. Firstly, there is a separation method that utilizes the difference in solubility between Mg2+ ions and Ca2+ ions by using sulfuric acid on dolomite. Adding MgSO4 solution from dolomite to Bittern removes Ca2+ ions as CaSO4. This process simultaneously purifies Ca impurities and increases the Mg/Ca ratio by adding extra Mg2+ ions. In this study, purified bittern was obtained by using dolomite and sulfuric acid to extract MgSO4, which was then used to purify Ca2+ ions. High-purity Mg(OH)2 was synthesized by optimizing the NaOH and NH4OH ratio as an alkaline precipitant.

[Korean]
Effect of Support Structure on Residual Stress Distribution in Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion: Seungyeon Lee, Haeum Park, Min Jae Baek, Dong Jun Lee, Jae Wung Bae, Ji-Hun Yu, Jeong Min Park; J Powder Mater. 2025;32(3):244-253. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4150/jpm.2025.00087

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Abstract PDF: Ti-6Al-4V alloy is widely utilized in aerospace and medical sectors due to its high specific strength, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. However, its low machinability makes it difficult to manufacture complex-shaped products. Advancements in additive manufacturing have focused on producing high-performance, complex components using the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) process, which is a specialized technique for customized geometries. The LPBF process exposes materials to extreme thermal conditions and rapid cooling rates, leading to residual stresses within the parts. These stresses are intensified by variations in the thermal history across regions of the component. These variations result in differences in microstructure and mechanical properties, causing distortion. Although support structure design has been researched to minimize residual stress, few studies have conducted quantitative analyses of stress variations due to different support designs. This study investigated changes in the residual stress and mechanical properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloy fabricated using LPBF, focusing on support structure design.

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