Non-isothermal thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was employed to investigate the degradation of polypropylene (PP) during simulated product manufacturing in a secondary process and wood–plastic composites. Multiple batch mixing cycles were carried out to mimic the actual recycling. Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), Ozawa–Flynn–Wall (OFW), Friedman, Kissinger and Augis models were employed to calculate the apparent activation energy (E_a). Experimental investigation using TGA indicated that the thermograms of PP recyclates shifted to lower temperatures, revealing the presence of an accelerated degradation process induced by the formation of radicals during chain scission. Reprocessing for five cycles led to roughly a 35% reduction in ultimate mixing torque, and a more than 400% increase in the melt flow rate of PP. E_a increased with the extent of degradation (α), and the dependency intensified with the reprocessing cycles. In biocomposites, despite the detectable degradation steps of wood and PP in thermal degradation, a partial coincidence of degradation was observed under air. Deconvolution was employed to separate the overlapped cellulose and PP peaks. Under nitrogen, OFW estimations for the deconvoluted PP exposed an upward shift of E_a at the whole range of α due to the high thermal absorbance of the wood chars. Under air, the E_a of deconvoluted PP showed an irregular rise in the initial steps, which could be related to the high volume of evolved volatiles from the wood reducing the oxygen diffusion.

With the ever-increasing development in science and technology, as well as social awareness, more requirements are imposed on the production and property of all materials, especially polymeric foams. In particular, rubber foams, compared to thermoplastic foams in general, have higher flexibility, resistance to abrasion, energy absorption capabilities, strength-to-weight ratio and tensile strength leading to their widespread use in several applications such as thermal insulation, energy absorption, pressure sensors, absorbents, etc. To control the rubber foams microstructure leading to excellent physical and mechanical properties, two types of parameters play important roles. The first category is related to formulation including the rubber (type and grade), as well as the type and content of accelerators, fillers, and foaming agents. The second category is associated to processing parameters such as the processing method (injection, extrusion, compression, etc.), as well as different conditions related to foaming (temperature, pressure and number of stage) and curing (temperature, time and precuring time). This review presents the different parameters involved and discusses their effect on the morphological, physical, and mechanical properties of rubber foams. Although several studies have been published on rubber foams, very few papers reviewed the subject and compared the results available. In this review, the most recent works on rubber foams have been collected to provide a general overview on different types of rubber foams from their preparation to their final application. Detailed information on formulation, curing and foaming chemistry, production methods, morphology, properties, and applications is presented and discussed.

The primary goal of this review is to explore both the fundamental dynamics of moisture ingress and practical strategies for its mitigation. Moisture ingress remains a critical issue due to its impact on the structural integrity of buildings and the health and safety of occupants. This work adopts a systematic approach, focusing on key mechanisms of water transport—capillary action, vapour diffusion, and condensation—and how different parameters influence the process of moisture transport. Moisture ingress, whether through direct leakage, capillary action, air infiltration, or vapour diffusion, poses significant risks to the premature degradation of building envelope materials. In this study, emphasis has been placed on describing the methods for controlling liquid water movement, preventing condensation, and using moisture-resistant materials. Additionally in this study, the advanced design and hygrothermal performance simulation tools are examined; the use of such tools is considered essential for predicting and managing moisture-related issues in building envelopes. Finally, the significance of complying with moisture control standards and guidelines is highlighted, ensuring a comprehensive framework for effective moisture management in building design and maintenance. Beyond this review, key knowledge gaps in moisture control strategies have been identified, particularly in respect to material performance, the accuracy of predictive modeling, and the standardization of mitigation techniques. Addressing these gaps is essential for advancing building design, maintenance practices, and regulatory frameworks that together combine to enhance moisture resilience.