4D printing technology combines additive manufacturing with materials that can change shape or properties over time, enabling objects to self-assemble, self-repair, and adapt to their environment. It has potential applications in robotics, autonomous systems, energy and environmental systems, and smart materials for energy storage and distribution. The text discusses the potential of 4D printing technology and its role in shaping the future of wearable technology, robotics, energy, transportation, and fashion industries. It looks at future applications of 4D printing in fashion and design, such as dynamic and customizable clothing and accessories, shape-changing jewelry and wearable art, responsive and interactive fashion shows and events, and sustainable and adaptive fashion manufacturing processes. It emphasizes the importance of continued research and development to unlock the full potential of 4D printing and its transformative impact on various industries.

Magnesium matrix composites are extensively used in automotive and structural applications due to their low density, high strength, and wear-resistant properties. To reach the scope of industry needs, research is carried out regarding enhancing the mechanical and tribological behavior of the magnesium composites by reinforcing the nano-sized reinforcements. In the present work, research has been carried out to enhance the properties of the magnesium AZ91D hybrid composite by reinforcing carbon fibers (CFs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with varying weight percentages (AZ91D + 0.5% CF’s + 0.5% MWCNT and AZ91D + 0.75% CF’s + 0.75% MWCNT, respectively). The experimental tests were carried out to evaluate the mechanical and tribological behavior of the composites. The test results showed that the addition of CF and MWCNT reinforcements improved the hybrid Mg composite’s hardness, tensile strength, and impact strength compared to the base Mg matrix. The AZ91D + 0.75% CF’s + 0.75% MWCNT hybrid composite showed a 19%, 35%, and 66% increased hardness, tensile strength, and impact strength, respectively, compared to the base Mg AZ91D. The wear test results also showed the improved wear resistance of the Mg composite compared to the base matrix. The enhanced wear resistance of the composite is due to the addition of hard MWCNT and CF reinforcements. The wear rate of the AZ91D + 0.75%CF’s + 0.75% MWCNT composite for a load of 30 N at a sliding distance of 1500 m is lower as compared to the base matrix. The SEM micrographs of the worn surfaces revealed the existence of abrasive wear. The improved mechanical and tribological behavior of the magnesium composite is also due to the homogeneous distribution of the hard reinforcement particles along the grain boundaries.

Aims: AA7076 is a well-defined alloy for its excellent physical and mechanical properties such as high strength, toughness, and low density. To meet the requirements of the automobile and aerospace industry, the properties of AA7076 alloy have to be improved by reinforcing nano-sized graphene amine particles. Objective: The aim of this study is to synthesize and characterize the AA7076 alloy reinforced with graphene nanofillers for different structural engineering applications. Methods: In this present work, nano-sized graphene amine particles were added and dispersed homogeneously using a motorized stir casting technique. AA7076/graphene amine composites were prepared by varying wt.% percent of graphene amine reinforcement particles (0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25 wt.% (weight-percentage)). Results: The SEM micrographs reveal the homogeneous distribution of graphene amine reinforcements along the grain boundaries of the AA7076 matrix material. The experimental test results showed that with the addition of graphene amine reinforcements, the mechanical properties of the AA7076/graphene amine composites improved as compared to the AA7076 matrix material. Conclusion: The composite with 1 wt.% graphene amine showed higher strength and hardness as compared to other reinforcements.