bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problematic Cellular Automata Segmentation and Clusterization of a Region’s Geoinformation Space
Authors: Anesyants Sarkis , Belyaev Alexander , Kramarov Sergey , Khramov Vladimir , Chebotkov Daniil
Published: December 2021

We consider the problems of clustering and segmentation for objects in the geoinformation space using the cellular automata theory, both classical and non-orthogonal ones. We clarify the terminology associated with the use of hybrid software and hardware for processing information coming from sources of different physical nature. This research is based on the geometric clusterization methods of multidimensional real or virtual spaces. As illustrative examples we consider two and three-dimensional variants, which, from our point of view, does not reduce the results’ significance in relation to the space of a greater dimension. Based on the formation conditions of the geoinformation space model as a semantic system, the use of semantic interoperability of its properties and corresponding subspaces is justified. It is shown that the unified geographic information space (UGIS) can be the data source for the formation procedures of various problem-oriented clusters used to manage socio-economic objects. As a variant of the UGIS formed subspaces this study uses a digital plan-diagram that has proven its effectiveness during previous works on the analysis of territories during their space monitoring. We also pay attention to the use of fuzzy methods and models in the processing of fuzzy source data and the clusters formation. Specific examples of clustering and segmentation using classical and non-orthogonal cellular automata are given.
Reforming the process of formation of land categories in Russia
Authors: Kustysheva I , Ermakova A , Shirokova A , Dubrovsky A
Published: December 2021

The article deals with the problem of reforming land relations in the issue of abolishing land categories and the transition to territorial zoning. The authors analyzed the current land legislation and the stages of reforming the regulatory framework in the field of land relations in the Russian Federation. The analysis of the proposed changes in the course of reforming a number of regulatory and legislative acts. A scheme for transforming land categories into territorial zones is proposed, according to the draft federal law. Proposals have been developed to improve the quality of the process under study, in relation to agricultural land, in order to develop a sequence of measures when introducing a draft law on the transition from land categories to territorial zoning.
Automated geoimage generation of Arctic industrial and natural complexes for regional management information support systems
Authors: Pilecki B M , Vicentiy A V
Published: December 2021

The problem of monitoring and management of industrial and natural complexes in the Arctic is an important problem, without solving which the effective development of the Arctic zones of the Russian Federation is impossible. Specialized information systems are actively used to support decision-making on planning and managing various types of activities in the Arctic, as well as the socio-economic development of the Arctic territories of the Russian Federation. Spatial information visualization tools are an important part of such systems. Visual representation of data is one of the most convenient types of information representation for human processing. This paper describes a method of automated geoimage generation for decision support systems based on the analysis of natural language texts. The use of such geoimages reduces the complexity of decision making for the management tasks of spatially distributed bio-socio-economic systems of the region. The paper describes the formulation of the research problem, review of geocoding tools and services, the original technology of automated geoimages (digital maps) generation based on the use of cloud geoservices. Particular attention is paid to the problem of recognition of named entities in natural language text. The recognition results are used as input data for geocoding and geovisualization process. As a result of the method, the text is converted into a geoimage (map) which can be used to support decision-making by a decision maker. In the final part of the paper, plans for further work are described to develop the capabilities of the automated geoimage generation method for decision support systems based on the analysis of natural language texts.
Application of BigData technology to improve the efficiency of Arctic shelf fields development
Authors: Katysheva E G
Published: December 2021

Development processes in the Arctic zone require that a set of tasks related to the development or improvement of technologies, as well as to the optimization of project management methods be solved. It has been noted that in order to solve the tasks, fast updated Big Data is needed, the timely acquisition and processing of which will allow for unbiased assessment of the current situation, taking appropriate management decisions, and prompt adjusting as new factors arise. It has been concluded that the introduction of Big Data technology is considered to be the most efficient Industry 4.0 tool for geological survey, and data arrays on the state of exploration of the territories and the results of exploration drilling can serve as the basis for an information model of oil and gas exploration. It has also been found that the array accumulated by subsoil users in the course of scientific research makes it possible to significantly increase the state of exploration of the natural Arctic environment and assess in an unbiased manner the natural processes that occur in the areas of the northern seas. Based on the analysis of the collected data, to predict the state of the natural environment and further develop optimal technical and managerial solutions for the development of the Arctic fields is possible.
Chronology of sedimentation in Colesbukta, Spitsbergen (Svalbard Archipelago): the results of the 2018 expedition
Authors: Meshcheryakov N I , Usyagina I S , Sharin V V , Dauvalter V A , Dukhno G N
Published: December 2021

This paper presents results of a study of sedimentation in Colesbukta (Isfjorden, Spitsbergen), a typical example of sedimentation in a shallow bay of the Svalbard Archipelago. We have examined sediment samples from several cores collected in Colesbukta in May 2018. To meet the goals of this study, geomorphological features of the Colesbukta catchment area have been identified and described. The lithological characteristics of bottom sediments from the study area have been described and their spatial and temporal changes analyzed. The chronology of sedimentation has been reconstructed by 210Pb and 137Cs. We have calculated sedimentation rates in Colesbukta and their temporal dynamics over the several latest decades. According to our estimations, the sedimentation rate has increased by 2–4 times compared to the middle of the 20th century and ranges from 0.2 to 0.46 mm/year depending on the individual conditions of sedimentation in each part of the bay. Climatic fluctuations are shown to have a direct impact on sedimentation processes in Colesbukta. We have revealed that on the periphery of the studied area the rate of sedimentation better depends on the temperature regime while in its central part it is rather a result of the amount of atmospheric precipitation.
Geochemistry of natural gases from sediments of terrigenous and carbonate formations of the Bukhara-Khiva oil and gas region of Uzbekistan
Authors: Mukhutdinov N , Khalismatov I , Akramova N , Zakirov R , Zakirov A , Allayarov B
Published: December 2021

The results of long-term studies of natural gases in the Bukhara-Khiva oil and gas region of Uzbekistan are summarized. The results of studying the composition of gases in hydrocarbon deposits generated by OM of continental (terrigenous deposits of the Cretaceous and Middle Jurassic) and marine (carbonate Jurassic) facies are presented. Regularities of changes in individual constituents of gases (hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.) with depth are considered; the influence exerted on the composition of gases by various factors and, above all, those of them, which, in the opinion of most researchers, are the main ones. The revealed patterns are used for predictive assessment of the distribution of various constituents of natural gases in the study area.
Justification and selection of the optimal method for draining the field of the “Angrensky” open pit mine in Uzbekistan
Authors: Baymirzaev B , Sayyidkosimov S , Morozov V , Morozov V V
Published: December 2021

An increase in the stability of the slopes of the sides of a quarry or a ledge when using drainage wells with a camouflage cavity is proved in the article by the polarization-optical method. On the obtained diagrams, the distribution of stresses within the massif clearly shows that in an intact massif, the main concentration of stresses is concentrated in the lower edge of the slope, which contributes to the formation of a plane of displacement of the massif and the development of deformations. The presence of a camouflage cavity leads to a redistribution of stresses with the formation of a stress concentration around the camouflage cavity and a significant decrease in the stress concentration in the lower edge of the slope. Thus, we can say that the use of wells with a camouflage cavity not only drains the rocks along the side, but also unloads the border massif, creating favorable conditions for increasing the stability of the drained slope of the side of the open pit.
The Tectonic event of the Zaire-Hala’alate thrust belt in Junggar Basin,China
Authors: Ma Jinghui , Nie Lishang , Han Changcheng
Published: December 2021

The Yanshanian tectonic activity intensity effect of The Zaire- Hala’alate thrust belt, which is located in the northwest margin of Junggar Basin, have been in dispute for a long time. The distribution characteristics of the FT peak age in the narrower time domain is the key to understanding the dynamic mechanism of this important intracontinental deformation. In this study, apatite fission track dating and thermal history simulation analysis were carried out on 6 samples collected from this area. The results show that the fission track ages are mainly distributed in three intervals, corresponding to the geological ages of 130∼128Ma, 92∼89Ma and 72Ma, reflecting the obvious cooling and uplifting events in the three periods. At the same time, the thermal history simulation shows that the region experienced three rapid uplift events in the Early Cretaceous, the Early Late Cretaceous and the Late Cretaceous-Eocene. The comprehensive study shows that the main thrust fold in this area started from the end of Early Cretaceous, and the tectonic movement was the most intense in Late Cretaceous. As a whole, Tectonic activity migrated from south to north, which shows a retro-thrust expansion from the basin to the orogenic belt.
Model for calculation of anchor parameters fixings for vertical exploration works
Authors: Khalmuradov R I , Khudoynazarov K , Omonov S B
Published: December 2021

It is known that effective rock hardening, as opposed to the action of tensile stresses, can be performed using anchors of various designs, depending on the specific mining and geological conditions. At the same time, there are very few publications on the calculation of roof bolting parameters for vertical shafts of different cross-sections. Therefore, in this work, a method has been developed for calculating such a support for vertical shaft shafts. Calculations were made only for the working wall, which is more dangerous in terms of fallout. Anchors are considered to work in tension when this wall is attached. For the opposite wall, such calculations are not required. Considering that here the anchors are being introduced in a direction perpendicular to the direction of bedding of rocks and they will work on a cut. In this case, the shear strength of metal and reinforced concrete anchors is 4-5 times higher than their tensile strength. The calculation method consists of methods for determining the lengths of the anchor and its locking part. In this case, the length of that part of the anchor is taken into account, which is enclosed between the base of the cone of influence of the anchor and the border of the zone of possible fallouts. The resulting formula for the length of the joint part of the anchor strongly differs from the previously known similar formulas by other authors, taking into account the effect of rock pressure, which varies with depth. Its structure contains the factor of the bedding angle with respect to the horizon and the coefficient of friction of the rock about the rock, leading to a decrease in the length of the anchor lock part. In addition, the volume of destroyed rocks in the zone of influence of the anchor is taken as the volume of the cylinder, which corresponds to the actual operating conditions of the anchor.
Temporal variance of the ice navigation conditions within the Northern Sea Route
Authors: Yu Tretyakov V , Egovtseva A V , Dmitriev V V
Published: December 2021

Recognition of satellite images, composition of them and vectorization is used in AARI for ice charts production. There is discussed methodology and results of the ice charts processing by means of computer programs, which were elaborated by Dr. Tretyakov in Python. The paper demonstrates results of analysis of temporal variance of ice navigation circumstances within the buffer zone of the marine transport system from the Sabetta Port (the Yamal Peninsula, Russia) up to the Bering Strait. There are considered the variance for April and May from 1998 up to 2020. This intra-annual interval is the one with the heaviest ice circumstances for shipping. We used conditional length of various age and age and form gradations of the sea ice for the route as a whole, as an integral parameter for estimation of the navigation hardships of ice navigation. The conditional length of an ice age (thickness) diapason is result of multiplication of the diapason partial concentration at the length of the route leg with homogeneous ice characteristics. There were produced series of the conditional lengths for each ten-day periods during April and May. Then statistical homogeneity of the series was tested by various methods.
Computational Study of Hydrogen Molecules Adsorption on Boron Nitride with/without Adopted by One of Elements from Group IV
Authors: Naqvi Syed Amir Abbas Shah , Toh Pek-Lan , Wang Suh-Miin , Lim Yao-Cong , Ang Lee-Sin , Sim Lan-Ching
Published: December 2021

In this study, we reported the adsorption of two hydrogen (H2) molecules on six boron nitride (BN) studied models with or without adopted by one of the elements from Group IV. By employing the computational method of density functional theory (DFT), the hydrogen binding energies and electronic structures were analyzed and discussed. The computed results presented that the most favorable adsorption sites were found for the two H2 molecules in all studied systems. The computed optimal binding energies of all BN studied systems were determined to be 0.01 eV – 0.05 eV per H2 molecule, which is smaller than that of the previous literature study. Moreover, the energies of HOMO–LUMOs were predicted in the range of 1.64 eV – 6.18 eV. For the surface plots of molecular electrostatic potentials (MEPs), the H atoms at the N–edges possess the most positive electrostatic potentials, while the negative electrostatic potentials fall in the atoms of H at the B–edges. A similar trend was presented on the distribution of atomic charge. Using the scheme of Mulliken population analysis (MPA), there are two different charge values on the atom of H in this study. The H atoms at the B–edges possess the negative charges, whereas the positive charge values were found on the atoms of H at the N–edges. In addition, the findings also noted that the positive charge values were presented for all B atoms in the study. While the negative charges fall in the atoms of N.
Sustainable Production of Roofing Tiles Using Glycerine Pitch as An Alternative Binder
Authors: Ping Teoh Wei , Yong Chee Swee , Habib Noor Zainab , Bashir Mohammed J.K. , Aun Ng Choon
Published: December 2021

A large quantity of glycerine pitch (GP) generated from the oleo-chemical industry has led to significant environmental issues when it is disposed of without proper treatment. This study investigated the possibility of utilizing glycerine pitch as an alternative binder in the production of roofing tile, namely GP-RT. The percentage of GP incorporated by weight of tile ranges from 3 – 9 %. A transverse strength test was performed on the tiles in dry and wet conditions to investigate their durability in harsh conditions. A water absorption test was performed to determine the water uptake of the tiles produced. The specimen with the greatest flexural strength was achieved when 7% of GP was utilized. The mechanical properties of the tile can be enhanced when GP was mixed with a similar amount of used cooking oil (UCO), which achieved the greatest strength (4389 N and 9.48 MPa) when 5% of GP and 5% of UcO were used for the tile’s production. The water resistivity of the tiles can be enhanced by the coating process. The lowest percentage of water absorption (2.82%) and the greatest wet transverse strength (2746 N) were achieved when the tile was coated with a layer of UCO via the immersion method. Conclusively, the full replacement of cement with GP as an alternative binder is possible. The incorporation of multiple waste materials (GP, UCO, and fly ash) in tile production is a feasible attempt to reduce the disposal of these waste materials to landfills, thus preserves a greener environment for future generations.
Experimental Investigation on Effect of Inclination Angle of a Flat Plate Solar Air Collector
Authors: Ong K.S. , Gobi K. , Lim C. H. , Tan J.C. , Naghavi S. , Baljit S. , Wong S.Y.
Published: December 2021

This study investigates the effect of inclination angle of a flat plate solar air collector in Kampar, Malaysia. Flat plate solar air collectors have been investigated since the early 1950s for air heating and crop drying. Their performances under natural convection air cooling are very similar to a photovoltaic (PV) panels for power production. A PV panel becomes hot when operating under hot weather which will affect the efficiency and lifespan. The panel could be cooled down by providing an air duct underneath which allowing natural convection air circulating inside the duct. The degree of cooling would depend upon the angle of inclination of the panel. This paper presents some experimental results on the effect of inclination angle on the performance of a flat plate solar air collector under natural convection air cooling.
Thermal Resistance Model of a Flat Plate Solar Air Collector for Energy Efficiency Prediction
Authors: Ong K. S. , Gobi K. , Lim C. H. , Naghavi S. , Baljit S.
Published: December 2021

The temperature of a PV panel rises during operation which affects its power output. A PV panel is similar to a flat plate solar collector. This paper presents a simple theoretical heat transfer resistance model and a solution procedure to predict the absorber plate surface temperature of the solar collector. The model consisted of a rectangular cross-section steel duct placed inclined at an angle to the horizontal and exposed to solar radiation. The heat absorbed on the top surface of the plate is transmitted by conduction through the plate and heats the air in the duct. This creates a natural buoyancy effect which induces a natural convection air flow rate. A simple one-dimensional theoretical model of the solar collector with the thermal resistances of the various components is proposed. Simulated results of plate temperature and induced air flow velocity are presented.
Removal of Methyl Red using Adsorbent Produced from Empty Fruit Bunches by Taguchi Approach
Authors: Tay Wan Yee , Ng Law Yong , Ng Ching Yin , Sim Lan Ching
Published: December 2021

Contamination of anionic dye in the water streams may cause harm to human being and aquatic species. The conventional adsorbent used in the adsorption process is normally produced using expensive and unsustainable precursor such as coal. In this work, activated carbon was produced through carbonization and activation of raw oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFBs). Taguchi approach was employed to determine the optimum dye removal parameters. The percentages of contribution of each factor in the removal of Methyl Red (MR) by raw EFB and EFB based activated carbon (AC) were determined using analysis of variance (ANOVA). According to ANOVA, for raw EFB, agitation speed has the highest percentage of contribution. As for EFB based AC, the amount of adsorbent is the most significant factor. The optimum parameters for both adsorbents were obtained from mean and S/N ratio. The optimum operating parameters for raw EFB were 25 ppm of initial dye concentration, 0.01 g of adsorbent and 200 rpm of agitation speed whereas the optimum operating parameters for EFB based AC were 20 ppm of initial dye concentration, 0.06 g of adsorbent and 120 rpm of agitation speed. The predicted percentages of dye removal for raw EFB (55.54%) and EFB based AC (86.72%) were in good agreement with the experimental values for raw EFB (50.5%) and EFB based AC (84.61%), respectively. This study provides a useful insight into the practicability of using the Taguchi method in the removal of anionic dye using raw EFB and EFB based AC as adsorbents.
Performance Analysis of Photovoltaic Module with Different Passive Cooling Methods
Authors: Azahari Muhammad Arif bin , Long Chua Yaw , Yan Koh Yit
Published: December 2021

This paper analyses the difference in terms of performance of passive cooling systems for photovoltaic (PV) modules. The objective of this paper is to identify which passive cooling systems offers the best results in reducing the operating temperature and improving the generation of output power. The performance of photovoltaic (PV) module will gradually decrease as the operating temperature increases. The energy from the sun’s photons are not enough to knock out the electrons from the atom to generate more electricity. That being the case, two passive cooling systems is developed which is the cotton wick structures with water and aluminium fins were attached to the back side of the photovoltaic (PV) module. The cotton wick structures with water utilises the capillary action of the water to extract excess heat from the module while the aluminium fins act as a heat sink that can remove heat from module to the adjacent air. Results showed that the cooling systems managed to enhance the output power by an average of 3.94% for the module with cotton wick structures with water while an average of 2.67% increment for the module under aluminium fin mounted as the cooling system.
Facile synthesis of hierarchical ZnO structure for photocatalytic degradation of dimethyl phthalate
Authors: Hui Chin Ying , Chung Sin Jin , Mun Lam Sze
Published: December 2021

A facile co-precipitation method was employed to fabricate hierarchical ZnO structure and characterized by various analytical instruments. The images of ZnO from field-emission scanning electron microscopy exhibited spheroidal morphology which composed of numerous layers of nanosheets and formed a hierarchical structure. Energy dispersive X-ray spectrum validated the presence of Zn and O atoms and its purity. X-ray diffraction pattern of ZnO revealed the establishment of hexagonal wurtzite structure. Optical property analysis disclosed that the as-fabricated ZnO had strong absorbance of wavelength from 350-410 nm with an absorption band edge of 367 nm. In this paper, the photocatalytic activity of hierarchical ZnO structure was confirmed by degradation of endocrine disrupting chemical, namely dimethyl phthalate under UV lamp irradiation. The photodegradation of dimethyl phthalate in aqueous solution over as-fabricated ZnO reached 55.9% after 60 min irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation of DMP obeyed the pseudo first-order kinetic reaction with a rate constant of 0.0166 min−1.
Generation of Offshore Environments in the Numerical Wave Tank to Model Metocean Conditions Interaction with Offshore Structure Near the Free Surface
Authors: Ahmed Mushtaq , Nizamani Zafarullah , Nakayama Akihiko , Osman Montasir
Published: December 2021

Offshore structures play a vital role in the economy of offshore oil-producing countries, where mostly fixed jacket type structures are used to produce oil and gas installed in shallow water. In an offshore environment where structures are installed, there exist met ocean forces such as wind, waves, and currents. These met ocean conditions when interacting with offshore structures near the free surface, generate loads. The estimation of such loads is very much important for the proper design of these structures. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the interaction of waves with a jacket platform by generating offshore environments in the numerical wave tank (NWT). To achieve this goal, ANSYS Fluent is used for the flow analysis by using continuity and Navier Stokes equation. Results are verified and validated with the analytical work. Wave crests under operating condition generate a force of 1.3 MN which is the lowest in magnitude as compared to wave crest which produces 4.5 MN force under extreme conditions. Unlike operating wave crest, the operating wave trough generates a higher force of 1 MN than extreme conditions which account for 1.5 MN forces. Forces produced by the extreme offshore environment are 30% higher than those generated under operating conditions. It is concluded from the results that a positive force is exerted onto the structure during the water entry phase while a negative force is observed when the water leaves the structure.
Evaluation of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch for Cellulose Production
Authors: Wong Yi Hang , Chew Eamon Marcus T-Z , Toh Pey Yi , Chng Lee Muei
Published: December 2021

Oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) with a cellulose content of 39 wt% is a good promise to be an alternative lignocellulosic feedstock for cellulose production through environmentally friendly extraction process. Therefore, this research was aimed to establish an effective cellulose extraction scheme from OPEFB via introduction of ultrasonication in the alkaline pulping stage for process intensification. The process could greatly reduce alkali solvent usage for cellulose extraction, hence alleviating the environmental impact caused by chemical disposal. Firstly, four distinct pre-treatment techniques had been used to pre-treat the OPEFB powder, namely autoclave, organosolv, acid and microwave pre-treatments. Afterwards, the pre-treated samples further underwent ultrasonic-assisted alkali extraction to extract the cellulose content. It was observed that the autoclave pre-treated ultrasonic extract achieved the highest cellulose content of 77.14 wt% at optimum KOH concentration of 0.75 M, ultrasonic amplitude of 30%, duration of 30 min and temperature of 80 °C. Therefore, the introduction of ultrasonication in alkali extraction of cellulose was indeed an effective approach in establishing a green production scheme of cellulose from lignocellulose.
Reliability Assessment of Regional Climate Modeling: Case study in Johor State, Malaysia
Authors: Choong Ping Khang , Tan Kok Weng , Chin Kah Seng
Published: December 2021

This paper presents the work of statistically downscaling the CAN ESM 2 (Canada Earth System Model 2) climate data into regional climate data to produce the future climate scenario using the RCP (Representative Concentration Pathways) 2.6,4.5 and 8.5 green-house gas concentration trajectory suggested by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fifth Assessment Reports (IPCC-AR5). Selected location for regional climate downscaling includes Batu Pahat (1° 52’ N 102° 59’ E) and Kulai (1° 38’ N 103° 40’ E), downscaled outcome of monthly rainfall (mm), daily maximum (Tmax) and daily minimum (Tmin) temperature (°C) was produced by using SDSM (Statistical Downscaling Model) software to calibrate the CANESM2 output with the historical data. Quantile-mapping bias correction by using exponential distribution function was done to obtain bias corrected rainfall data. Reliability test using Pearson correlation coefficient was done by comparing between actual historical data. Based on Pearson correlation applied on bias corrected results, for Batu Pahat, the most suitable RCP model for both Tmax and Tmin is RCP 2.6, with correlation of 0.74 and 0.72, most suitable model for rainfall is RCP 4.5 with correlation of 0.24. For Kulai, the most suitable RCP model for Tmin is RCP 8.5, with correlation of 0.63, for Tmax and rainfall the suitable model is RCP 2.6, with correlation of 0.73 and 0.36. In overall, the more appropriate model to describe the climate for both Batu Pahat and Kulai based on Pearson correlation from year 2006 to 2019 is RCP 2.6, as the RCP 2.6 model are having higher correlation to the historical data.
Enhanced production from an Air Gap Membrane Distillation Desalination system by varying the feed entry angle
Authors: Bahar Rubina , Bappy Mohammad Jabed Perves
Published: December 2021

The membrane distillation (MD) process is an evaporative metho driven by the partial pressure difference between two different temperature solutions, namely the hot feed and the coolant. The hot feed evaporates, and the vapour gets condensed to the cooler side. A hydrophobic membrane maintains the evaporating surface. Air Gap Membrane Distillation(AGMD) separates the hot feed from the coolant by a narrow air gap and a coolant plate. The condensate forms on the coolant plate, and the air gap works as an insulation for the heat loss through the membrane. The salient parameters like feed temperature, coolant temperature, and air gap thickness have already been identified through research in previous years. In this study, an innovative technique has been tested to minimize the polarization and increase the production from an AGMD lab-scale unit. The effect of the feed flow entry angle has been investigated. Also, the combined effect of inclined flow entry and a finned coolant surface has been studied. It has been found from the experiments that with a feed flow entry angle of 60°, the system shows an average of 10% to 14% boost in performance. When 60° inlet flow angle and finned coolant plate work in combination, an average of 69% to 78% increase of distillate flux was observed with the same energy input.
A combined hydro-pyrometallurgical process for zinc oxide and iron oxide extraction from electric arc furnace dust waste
Authors: Lee Hwang Sheng , Teo Yao Yi
Published: December 2021

Electric arc furnace (EAF) dust waste is generated during EAF steelmaking process. Zinc and iron which comprise the highest composition in EAF dust are secondary resources for making steel products. They mainly present in the form of stable zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4), leading to the extraction process difficult. In this study, a combined hydro-pyrometallurgical process was developed to extract both zinc oxide and iron oxide from EAF dust. Initially, hydrometallurgical leaching was used to leach zinc and iron from EAF dust. Results show that 10 M of hydrochloric acid (HCl) at 25°C can achieve zinc and iron leaching of 92% and 91%, respectively. The liquid solution post leaching was subjected to pyrometallurgical process to form Fe2O3 mixture at 250°C while retaining zinc chloride (ZnCl2) as solid residue. Then, the obtained ZnCl2 was treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and nitric acid (HNO3) to form ZnO. The Fe2O3 and ZnO extraction were 2.5 g and 1.5 g, respectively out of 10 g of EAF dust with their respective purity of 87% and 98%. The developed process can provide new insight into recovering zinc oxide and iron oxide simultaneously from EAF dust, thereby paving the way to circular economy development and sustainable steel dust waste management for steel industries.
Medium-Term Oceanic Transport of River-Derived Microplastics in the South China Sea Analyzed with a Particle Tracking Model
Authors: Matsushita Kosei , Uchiyama Yusuke , Takaura Naru , Kosako Taichi
Published: December 2021

Plastic waste is currently one of the biggest global environmental issues. To gain the comprehensive understanding of oceanic microplastic contamination as a key global environmental problem, Lagrangian particle tracking experiments were conducted to evaluate the transport of microplastics (MPs) derived from the four major rivers that have been known to discharge large amounts of plastic waste into the South China Sea (SCS). We carried out two types of experiments using a pre-computed 3D current climatological oceanic model: (1) 2D tracking of MP particles placed at the surface to represent positively buoyant (light) MPs, and (2) fully 3D tracking of neutrally buoyant MP particles that are passively transported by ambient current. The seasonally varying monsoons in the SCS were found to provoke strong seasonal variability in the river-derived MP transport. It was found that a large number of MPs, especially from south China, are transported to the East China Sea in the seasons when the southwesterly monsoon prevails. Moreover, the difference in the density of MPs substantially affects their oceanic transport patterns. The buoyant MPs accumulated near the surface tend to be transported toward nearshore areas by wind-driven Ekman currents.
A Numerical Analysis on Coral Larval Networks across Reef Areas on the Northwest Coast of Okinawa Main Island, Japan
Authors: Takeyasu Kimika , Uchiyama Yusuke , Zhang Xu , Matsushita Kosei , Mitarai Satoshi
Published: December 2021

Coral bleaching has recently occurred extensively over the world’s oceans, primarily due to high water temperatures. Mesophotic corals that inhabit at depths of approximately 30–150 m are expected to survive during bleaching events and to reseed shallow water corals afterward. In particular, in Okinawa, Japan, mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) have been reported to serve as a refuge to preserve genotypic diversities of bleaching-sensitive corals. Connectivity of larval populations between different habitats is a key element that determines the area to be conserved for desirable coral ecosystems. Coral larvae generally behave passively to the surrounding currents and are transported by the advective and dispersive effects of ambient ocean currents. Thus, numerical ocean circulation models enable us to quantify connectivity with detailed spatiotemporal network structures. Our aim in this study is to quantify the short-distance and vertical connectivity of coral larvae in reef areas on the northwest coast of Okinawa Main Island. For the reason that both short-distance and vertical larval transport are influenced by complex nearshore topography, a very high-resolution 3-D circulation model is required. Therefore, we developed a quadruple nested high-resolution synoptic ocean model at a lateral spatial resolution of 50 m, coupled with an offline 3-D Lagrangian particle-tracking model. After validation of the developed model, short-distance horizontal coral connectivity across reef areas on the northwest coast was successfully evaluated. Furthermore, a series of Lagrangian particle release experiments were conducted to identify the vertical coral migration and 3-D connectivity required for the preservation of MCEs. The model revealed that coral larvae released from the semi-enclosed areas tended to remain near the source area, whereas they were diffused and dispersed gradually with time. The mesophotic corals were dispersed vertically to the deeper zone below the mixed layer, while upward transport occurred to induce the mesophotic corals to emerge near the surface, under the influence of the surface mixed layer. The model results solidly indicated significant connectivity between MCEs and shallow coral ecosystems.
Effect of Curing Temperature on the Properties of Latex Based Membrane for Oily Wastewater Filtration
Authors: Yong Tzyy-Jeng , Munusamy Yamuna , Ong Yit-Thai , Yeoh Wei-Ming , Kchaou Mohamed
Published: December 2021

Oily wastewater pollution has always been part of the most serious worldwide environmental disaster. Thus, the treatment of oily wastewater is notably crucial. In this work, nitrile butadiene rubber/graphene oxide (NBR/GO) membranes were fabricated by latex compounding and curing method which is comparatively brand-new technique to produce membranes for wastewater treatment. Therefore, the steps in the production need to be studied to enhance the performance of the membrane. Curing temperature is an important factor in the production of the latex-based membrane. In this paper, the effect of curing temperature in the range of 90 °C – 110 °C on the morphology, tensile properties, permeation flux, and oil rejection rate performance of the membrane was studied. The curing temperature was found to affect the surface morphology and integrity of the membranes which sequentially affects the performance of the membrane in terms of strength, permeation flux, and oil rejection rate. NBR/GO membranes cured at the temperature of 100 °C exhibit the highest flux of 491.84 L/m2.hr with an oil rejection rate of 95.44 %, with the ultimate tensile strength (UTS), elongation break (EB%), and E-Modulus (E-mod) of 34.490 MPa, 1627.11 %, and 1.309 MPa, respectively.
Biomass Wastes as Precursor For The Synthesis of Carbon Nanoparticle
Authors: Lian Brenda Lim Ai , Lim Steven , Yean Pang Ling , Shuit Siew Hoong , Kam Huei Wong
Published: December 2021

The development of technology and the growth in human population had resulted in a surge in energy demand and biomass waste production. Metal-air battery (MAB) is a potential energy storage technology with high theoretical energy density and safety. However, the conventional air cathode material synthesized from carbon nanotube (CNT) is rather costly. In this study, several biomass wastes such as oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB), garlic peel (GP) and oil palm frond (OPF) were investigated to identify a suitable greener and efficient precursor to syntheelesize carbon nanoparticle as air electrode material for MAB. The carbon materials were synthesized through carbonization of precursor at different temperatures of 450 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C before activation with potassium hydroxide (KOH) through wet impregnation method. The materials synthesized were evaluated based on its chemical and physical properties through characterization using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersion x-ray (SEM-EDX), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) analysis. Based on the experiments conducted, it was found that the suitable precursor was the OPF as it displayed a better tunability for enhanced electrical conductivity as it was able to achieve smaller sized particles with higher specific surface area of 548.26 m2/g and hierarchical porous structure at 700 °C compared to OPEFB and GP. This study proved that OPF could be a promising alternative to CNT as an electrode material which is more sustainable and cost efficient for energy storage application such as MAB.
Enhanced oil recovery from palm oil mill effluent using ultrasonication technique
Authors: Tang Y M , Wong W Y , Tan K T , Wong L P
Published: December 2021

Palm oil is the planet’s most exploited vegetable oil. However, its extensive commercialization has resulted in massive waste, particularly palm oil mill effluent (POME), contributing to severe environmental pollution. POME has a high concentration of oil and grease (O&G) with the mean value of 4,340 mg/L, exceeding the standard discharge limit of 50 mg/L. Hence, the recovery of oil content in POME is crucial as it could be a key material in biodiesel production. The oil droplets in POME exist in two phases: floating in the supernatant and suspended in the solids. During the solvent extraction process, the oil adsorbed by the solid particles is not entirely recovered. Thus, ultrasonication-based process intensification is introduced. Ultrasonication can break apart the solid particles and release the oil content using the principle of sound waves, thereby it will eventually increase the yield of oil recovery from POME. Although some studies were done on oil extraction from POME, the use of ultrasonication technique to enhance the extraction of oil from POME has never been done. The current research work is to investigate the feasibility of using ultrasonication technique to enhance the oil recovery from POME and compare it to a non-ultrasonicated POME. Overall, this research discovered that using ultrasonication as a pre-treatment would improve oil recovery yield from POME by 39.17% as compared to non-ultrasonicated sample under the optimum ultrasonication conditions of 30% amplitude and 30 seconds duration.
Analysis the Performance of Hydrophilic and Corrosion Resistant Coatings on the Distillation Desalination Tube in High Temperature Seawater
Authors: Lv Jiang , Chen Zhi-li
Published: December 2021

Distillation desalination can use solar energy and other renewable energy, it is one of the most potential technologies for desalination. However, distillation desalination system pervades problems such as low desalination efficiency and poor corrosion resistance. Based on our preliminary study (i.e., apply hydrophilic modification on the surface of distillation desalination tube can effectively improve desalination efficiency), this paper introduces a composite functional coating with the micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coatings sealed with hydrophilic organic coating-TiO2 hybrid sols (OT-MAO) by sol-gel process. Through contact angle measurement, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and potentiodynamic polarization test to analyze and compare the performance of hydrophilicity and corrosion resistance of the MAO coatings and the OT-MAO composite coatings in high temperature seawater environment. The corrosion mechanism of the OT-MAO composite coatings was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results show that the OT-MAO composite coatings in high temperature seawater has much better hydrophilicity and corrosion resistance than the MAO coatings. This paper provides theoretical and technical reference for developing a new type of surface modified distillation desalination tube.
Friction Analysis Of Waste Palm Methyl Ester (WPME) Under Stribeck Lubrication Regimes
Authors: Hamdan Hartini , Nasaruddin Noorannisa Irdina , Redzuan Nor Qayrawani , Fong William Chong Woei , Hadi Norulakmal Nor
Published: December 2021

This paper aims to investigate the tribological friction using the Stribeck curve lubrication regime using an alternative source of biodiesel. Replacement of current usage of fossil fuels is essential, therefore, it is important to develop a proper recycling, renewable and sustainable product that reduces global warming. Biodiesel also known as Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME), is biodegradable, produced from a renewable source, non-toxic, and produces a minimum greenhouse gas emissions. To reduce raw material cost, waste cooking oil is one of the most suitable replacements of vegetable oil for biodiesel synthesis. Rheological behavior of Waste Palm Methyl Ester (WPME), such as kinematic viscosity, density, and acid value, was measured based on EN14214 and compared with Palm Methyl Ester (PME). The friction performance of WPME was evaluated using a pin on the disc tribometer machine. The influence of different operating conditions such as loads at 1kg, 2kg, 3kg and 4kg and sliding velocity range from 0.00625 m/s to 4 m/s were optimized in this study. The preliminary result shows significant changes on the Stribeck curve concerning the sliding speed and also loads. It is found that as for the same entrainment velocity and surface roughness, a higher load will initiate a higher temperature, thus lead to decreasing the viscosity and coefficient of friction. In summary, WPME is highly considered as a potential waste that can replace the current energy source.
A Case Study of an Office Building to Identify Energy Consumption and Carbon Management Solutions Using Physical Data and Simulation Software
Authors: Subramaniam Ramesh , Ponniah Vignes , Sanmargaraja Shalini , Lou Eric , Adli Muhammad Afiq Bin Nor , Gunasegaran Muthu Kumaran
Published: December 2021

To measure the level of energy performance of a building, there are several categories of energy consumption to be calculated such as oil, natural gas and electricity. In order to significantly minimise the Greenhouse gas emission in an office, it is important to tap into the positive progress of energy efficiency of equipment which contributes to total energy performance of a building. Consequently, to enable accurate building energy consumption of a building, energy modelling method is applied to identify total consumption and cost of energy usage with effects of carbon emission. Hence, this will help to reduce the costing of energy inside building with differences of efficiency options. Therefore, this paper aims to analyse an office building in terms of the level of energy consumption and carbon emission as a case study. The first objective is to identify the amount of energy consumption and carbon emission inside the building using the simulation software. Secondly, to identify the differences between the data recorded through simulation software and physical data. Finally, to identify solutions to decrease the carbon emission by applying measures towards reducing energy consumption inside the building.
Titanium Dioxide Loaded Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite Film as Counter Electrodes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Low Foo Wah , Heah Cheng Yong , Liew Yun Ming , Islam Mohammad Aminul
Published: December 2021

The demands on conventional fossil fuels are increasing especially developing countries. The growth of population among countries also put a lot of pressure on coil consumption and resulted effect of greenhouse. These phenomena will dramatically increase the global warming and pollutes the nature of earth. For the worse, it would forming some erratic patterns like flood, draughts, wildfire, and so on. Therefore, renewable solar energy is the key target to reduce the fossil fuel consumption, minimize global warming issues, and involuntary minimizes the erratic weather patterns. Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSCs) is one of the promising prospects for efficient renewable resources. Most of the researchers were tried to use platinum as counter electrode to perform the photovoltaic studies. However, the platinum material will made higher for the entire fabrication cost. Recently, we demonstrated a counter electrode in DSSCs system using the low-cost titanium dioxide (TiO2) decorated reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite film. The TiO2-rGO nanocomposite (TiO2-rGO NC) as counter electrode is addressed to minimize electron losses and hence rapid the rate of dye regeneration at ground state. Practically, TiO2-rGO NC synthesized via one-step hydrothermal method. The crystallinity, functional groups, element composition, and morphology of TiO2-rGO NC were comprehensively studied. One-step hydrothermal method revealed that Ti particles (∼60 nm) have capable bonded with rGO thin film, as agreement with XRD and FTIR results. In DSSCs photovoltaic performance, the optimized power conversion energy (PCE) of TiO2-rGO NC as counter electrode achieved a 2.90%, which achieved a desire performance as comparable with rGO and TiO2. In this work, the low-cost TiO2-rGO NC as counter electrode with suppressed recombination in DSSCs is studied.