bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in fire weather climatology under 1.5 °C and 2.0 °C warming
Authors: Son Rackhun , Kim Hyungjun , Wang Shih-Yu (Simon) , Jeong Jee-Hoon , Woo Sung-Ho , Jeong Ji-Yoon , Lee Byung-Doo , Kim Seung Hee , LaPlante Matthew , Kwon Chun-Geun , Yoon Jin-Ho
Published: February 2021

The 2015 Paris Agreement led to a number of studies that assessed the impact of the 1.5 °C and 2.0 °C increases in global temperature over preindustrial levels. However, those assessments have not actively investigated the impact of these levels of warming on fire weather. In view of a recent series of high-profile wildfire events worldwide, we access fire weather sensitivity based on a set of multi-model large ensemble climate simulations for these low-emission scenarios. The results indicate that the half degree difference between these two thresholds may lead to a significantly increased hazard of wildfire in certain parts of the world, particularly the Amazon, African savanna and Mediterranean. Although further experiments focused on human land use are needed to depict future fire activity, considering that rising temperatures are the most influential factor in augmenting the danger of fire weather, limiting global warming to 1.5 °C would alleviate some risk in these parts of the world.
Climate drivers of Arctic tundra variability and change using an indicators framework
Authors: Bhatt Uma S , Walker Donald A , Raynolds Martha K , Walsh John E , Bieniek Peter A , Cai Lei , Comiso Josefino C , Epstein Howard E , Frost Gerald V , Gersten Robert , Hendricks Amy S , Pinzon Jorge E , Stock Larry , Tucker Compton J
Published: February 2021

This study applies an indicators framework to investigate climate drivers of tundra vegetation trends and variability over the 1982–2019 period. Previously known indicators relevant for tundra productivity (summer warmth index (SWI), coastal spring sea-ice (SI) area, coastal summer open-water (OW)) and three additional indicators (continentality, summer precipitation, and the Arctic Dipole (AD): second mode of sea level pressure variability) are analyzed with maximum annual Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (MaxNDVI) and the sum of summer bi-weekly (time-integrated) NDVI (TI-NDVI) from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer time-series. Climatological mean, trends, and correlations between variables are presented. Changes in SI continue to drive variations in the other indicators. As spring SI has decreased, summer OW, summer warmth, MaxNDVI, and TI-NDVI have increased. However, the initial very strong upward trends in previous studies for MaxNDVI and TI-NDVI are weakening and becoming spatially and temporally more variable as the ice retreats from the coastal areas. TI-NDVI has declined over the last decade particularly over High Arctic regions and southwest Alaska. The continentality index (CI) (maximum minus minimum monthly temperatures) is decreasing across the tundra, more so over North America than Eurasia. The relationship has weakened between SI and SWI and TI-NDVI, as the maritime influence of OW has increased along with total precipitation. The winter AD is correlated in Eurasia with spring SI, summer OW, MaxNDVI, TI-NDVI, the CI and total summer precipitation. This winter connection to tundra emphasizes the role of SI in driving the summer indicators. The winter (DJF) AD drives SI variations which in turn shape summer OW, the atmospheric SWI and NDVI anomalies. The winter and spring indicators represent potential predictors of tundra vegetation productivity a season or two in advance of the growing season.
Influence of TiO2film thickness on photovoltaic properties of dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Drygała A.
Published: February 2021

Generally, the dye-sensitized solar cells DSSCs are composed of a photoanode, a redox-coupled electrolyte, and a counter electrode. The nanocrystalline porous TiO2film is one of the most employed frequently photoanode materials in this type of solar cells due to its excellent optoelectronic properties. It significantly influences the photon-electron conversion efficiency of the solar cell, because of its good photo-excited electron transportation and dye adsorption. The surface morphology, crystalline phase, particle size, surface area, porosity, and dispersion of TiO2nanoparticles are the various influencing factors which determine the properties of DSSCs. In particular, the thickness of the photoanode is known to be one of the crucial factors determining the efficiency of solar cells. These properties strongly relate to the TiO2electrode method of fabrication and its parameters. Dye-sensitized solar cells based on TiO2films with different printing layers were fabricated by screen printing method. The prepared samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy SEM and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. The effects of film thickness on the current-voltage characteristics of DSSCs were also investigated.
Polish LNG terminal influence on natural gas quality available in the Polish gas transmission network
Authors: Kumor M , Porada S
Published: February 2021

Technical start of LNG terminal in Swinoujscie, was a significant milestone in the history of Polish natural gas network development. Polish gas market is now open for suppliers from all over the world. Energy security has been significantly increased. LNG terminal availability may guarantee security of supply and also stabilize composition and other physicochemical NG parameters. The analysis of NG characteristic changes after the start of deliveries from LNG terminal is presented in this document. Concentration of methane, ethane, propane, nitrogen and parameters like gross calorific value and Wobbe index for 16 regularly distributed exit points were investigated. The chosen parameters and ingredients were matched with gas from vaporization process. 913 days before and 912 days after the terminal launch were chosen. Quality measurements of NG were made by Gas Transmission Operator GAZ-SYSTEM S.A. with chromatographs and published on their official website. Volumes of LNG vaporized during the tested time were consumed by increased demand of end users and developing underground gas storages. NG from terminal was not a substitute of fuel from other import directions. It has been proven that gas from LNG terminal could have direct and indirect influence for gas collected in exit points. Indirect influence appeared with increasing distance from Swinoujscie entry point. South-east parts of Poland were totally free of LNG regasification process influence. High purity and higher energy density of NG from vaporization process has positive influence for transmitted gas quality. Gas mixture from interconnection points, LNG terminal and domestic production meets the standards of NG quality. This mixture can be used by all end users without complaints.
Assessing the impact of demand response on peak demand in a developing country: The case of Ghana
Authors: Diawuo F A , de la Rue du Can S , Baptista P C , Silva C A
Published: February 2021

Peak demand on electricity grids is a growing problem that increases costs and risks to supply security. Residential sector loads often contribute significantly to seasonal and daily peak demand. Demand response refers to consumer actions that change the utility load profile in a way that reduces costs or improves grid security by applying price signals and automated load shedding technologies. The methodologies that are used to achieve demand response can hardly be applicable in developing countries. Peak pricing of electricity, for instance, can hardly be implemented in many developing countries as high prices would disproportionately affect the many low-income households who do not have the capacity to take action to avoid paying high peak prices. This study aims to develop demand response methodology that can be applied in developing countries to achieve residential peak demand reduction. We use a consumer preference survey to develop a methodology suitable for developing countries. The method of diversified demand is used with energy audit and monitored data to estimate the potential peak load reduction and its cost-effectiveness for Ghana. Results show that peak reduction of 15-210 MW is expected by 2040 with a positive return on investment of 2-22% for all designed scenarios.
Emission reduction process for the energetic use of biogenic residues
Authors: König Mario , Müller Mirjam , Hartmann Ingo
Published: February 2021

During the combustion of biogenic residues particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, chlorine and sulphur compounds as well as dioxins and furans occur in elevated concentrations depending on the respective fuel composition. Corresponding abatement technology is only available for the power plant sector and cannot be used economically on small biomass plants. Therefore an exhaust gas purification procedure was developed and tested which can be used economically in decentral biomass plants. The core of the exhaust aftertreatment process is a fabric filter with catalytically active filter bags which enables a combined reduction of dust and nitrogen oxides. An additional precoating of the fabric filter also removes acidic exhaust gas components such as SO2 and HCl. Experiments were conducted on pilot and field scale. Significant reduction of particle emissions, nitrogen oxides and chlorine compounds could be achieved. Further optimization of the quantities of reducing agent and precoat material supplied is necessary in order to improve the performance of the exhaust gas cleaning process.
Study of the operation of straw-fired boiler dedicated to steam generation for micro-cogeneration system
Authors: Sornek K.
Published: February 2021

The combined heat and power generation (CHP), based on the use of renewable energy sources, is an essential aspect of currently developing energy systems. Among the other renewable sources, biomass is characterized by high caloric value, wide availability, and low prices. This paper shows the operational aspects of the prototypical micro-scale CHP system powered by a straw-fired batch boiler and works according to the modified Rankine cycle. Based on the previously conducted studies, a dedicated construction of a 100-kW straw-fired batch boiler was designed and implemented. Thermal oil heated in the boiler is transferred respectively to the evaporator, superheater, and additional oil/water heat exchanger. The control of the system operation is realized using a dedicated automation system based on the programmable logic controller (PLC). Presented results include the impact of various fuel inputs on the thermal oil heating process. The average power transferred from the boiler to the thermal oil in the case of a single combustion process was ca. 69 MJ/h (consequently the amount of transferred energy was ca. 121 MJ). During the continuous combustion process, the average power was ca. 169 MJ/h and energy transferred from the boiler to the oil was ca. 542 MJ. The power generated in the power generator resulted mainly from three parameters: the actual steam pressure and steam flow as well as from the actual set of electric load. The maximum power in the case of operation without maximum power tracking was 825 W, while the maximum power obtained when maximum power tracking was used was ca. 1,150 W. Such a low value of electricity generation was a consequence of the system’s limitations (resulting e.g. in a significant drop in steam temperature and pressure in the steam bus). Finally, a list of possible modifications was given.
Adaptive fan control
Authors: Blasinski Petr , Rubina Aleš , Rubinová Olga , Jůza Štěpán
Published: February 2021

The paper presents the possibility of management the fan performance in dependence on CO2 concentration. A mathematical calculation is made from the prediction of the electric energy consumption for a variant control algorithm. The most advantageous algorithm is programmed into the actual fan control system, and its power consumption is shown in graph. Finally, the saving of the adaptive control is compared to the classical control over time. To program the control algorithm, the CO2 mass balance equation is used. The equation depends on the input values, namely the number of CO2 sources, the room volume and the supply air. Due to the infinitely variable of fan control, it is possible to adjust the power setting depending on the expected development of the logarithmic rise of CO2 concentration in the room. This prediction is programmed with the Visual Basic code and program code can be used to the Arduino control unit, which controls the EC fan power with a 0-10 V signal. Although significant savings over a short period of time can not be expected, the ventilation system where the fan runs for a significant part of the year will be substantial. Therefore, the result will be presented by graphical diagrams of different ways of controlling the fan per year of operation.
Mitigation of sea accident consequences
Authors: Bogalecka M
Published: February 2021

The model of shipping critical infrastructure accident consequences is applied to the forecasting of environment losses associated with the chemical release generated by the dynamic ship critical infrastructure network operating at the Baltic Sea waters. Next, minimal values of these environment losses obtained through their optimization are presented and compare with previous ones. Finally, suggestions on the strategy assuring lower environment losses concerned with chemical releases generated by an accident of ships are proposed.
A proposal of low-cost technology for nutrient recovery from leachate of anaerobic digester at a biological wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Dereszewska A , Cytawa S
Published: February 2021

Removal of nutrients from wastewater with simultaneous recovery of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) in the form assimilable by plants is possible by the precipitation of ammonium magnesium phosphate (struvite). This method benefits environmental protection but has not been widely implemented in Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs). One of the reasons is the high costs of available technologies. The aim of the work is to investigate the low-cost methods of reduction and recovery of nutrients from wastewater. It involves the precipitation of struvite from phosphate-rich leachate from WWTP fermentation chambers. The reaction was carried out in the prototype of a simple horizontal reactor, ensuring the possibility of collecting sediment in the funnel. A cheap waste magnesium salt was used to precipitate the struvite, which significantly reduced the costs of its acquisition. The reduction of P exceeded 80% in most of performed tests in leachate waters. The precipitant removed from the reactor has the character of sludge with a significant degree of hydration (85%). After drying, it is a dusty powder with an average P content of 40% and a total N content of 8% and a trace of heavy metals. It was proposed to mix the obtained aqueous form of struvite sediments with compost produced from excessive sludge, without drying it. Studies have shown that one percent of struvite admixture in compost results in an increase of P and N content by 13% and 2.7%, respectively.
Assessment of the AERMOD dispersion model in complex terrain with different types of digital elevation data
Authors: Rzeszutek M , Szulecka A
Published: February 2021

The AERMET/AERMOD (American Meteorological Society (AMS)/EPA Regulatory Model) dispersion modeling system constitutes a tool recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) both for flat and complex terrain in a local scale with a distance of 50 km. This model requires several input data for pollutant prediction. As part of the research, the effectiveness evaluation of the AERMOD model was conducted based on two of the model evaluation databases (Martin’s Creek and Lovett) depending on different available DEM sources. The analysis involved comparison of different modeling results obtained with the application of different DEM datasets, i.e. NED (National Elevation Dataset), ASTER (Aster Global Digital Elevation Model), SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) and USDEM (US GeoData Digital Elevation Models). Achieved outcomes indicated, that the use of different elevation datasets did not influence the evaluation results of the AERMOD model in a local scale and complex terrain significantly. Regardless of the field experiment and DEM dataset, for each case the values of FB and FBRHC
fell within the range of ± 0.33. The highest values of the model performance measures reached 0.89 – 0.91 for IOA and 0.78 – 0.81 for COE in the case using the NED dataset. Slightly worse model performance was observed for the SRTM data with IOA equal to 0.82 – 0.91 and COE reaching 0.64 – 0.83.
Determination of Carbon Footprint of Automobile Origin in Izmir City
Authors: Baycan N , Zengin TO
Published: February 2021

Global warming and climate change, which are one of the most important agenda items of recent years, have become one of the biggest threats to life. Measures need to be taken to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming and climate change, and to prove that they will benefit from the research. The global success of these measures was achieved through the Kyoto Protocol. According to this protocol, countries are responsible for emissions, and they should take measures and try to minimize them. These oscillations must be calculated in order not to exceed the emission limits specified by the protocol. The carbon footprint, which is a measure of the damage to the environment, is an indicator of greenhouse gas emissions and the unit is expressed in terms of carbon dioxide equivalent. While determining the carbon footprint, IPCC, GHG Protocol, UNFCCC, ISO 14064 STANDARD are taken into account. In this study, the number of automobiles in Izmir was taken from Turkey Statistics Institution (TUIK) data, and their carbon footprints were classified according to the type of fuel they used. IPCC Tier-1 method was used in the calculations and IPCC 2006 guide was used for the values based on fuels. As a result of the calculations, the total CO2 emissions of 821.391 cars in Izmir, in terms of gasoline, diesel and LPG CO2 emissions were also calculated. It was found 1.857.845 tons of CO2 equivalent per year.
Initial assessment of the legitimacy of limiting the maximum permissible speed on highways and motorways based on tests in real traffic conditions
Authors: Gis Wojciech , Gis Maciej , Wiśniowski Piotr , Taubert Sławomir
Published: February 2021

The reduction of emissions of harmful exhaust gases is one of the main aspects in broadly understood automotive sector. Representatives of the European Union are encouraging vehicle manufacturers to comply with increasingly stringent standards related to the emission of harmful substances in passenger cars. From 2020, the new standard for CO, HC and NOX road emissions from these vehicles will come into force. It also assumes average CO2 emissions from fleets producer car at the level of 95 g/km. It is a big challenge.

The emission of harmful emissions is also a problem during the operation of vehicles. In real traffic conditions, a big challenge is the need to reduce average driving speeds due to emissions of harmful exhaust substances. With increasing driving speed, it increases. Therefore, the authors of the article decided to investigate the problem on the initial road and highway.

In our research, mobile PEMS type testing equipment was used for tests of vehicles with emission standards: EURO 5 and EURO 6. The tests were carried out in real traffic conditions on a fast-moving and motorway road with speeds up to 110, 120, 140 and 160 km/h. The research was aimed at showing differences in the level of exhaust emissions of emitted vehicles resulting from the speed of travel. In the article, on the basis of the tests carried out, speed was determined and recommended, which from the point of view of emission will be optimal for efficient and ecological movement on this discussed type of roads.
Measurements of particulate emissions from Euro 5/6 passenger cars in different drive settings
Authors: Pielecha J , Gis M , Skobiej K , Kurtyka K
Published: February 2021

The article presents the particulate emission measurements of passenger cars that meet the latest emission norms, the development of which has so far been dictated by requirements of downsizing. The comparison was made based on the selected vehicles equipped with spark-ignition engines, which are an example of reducing the displacement volume while maintaining the operational parameters of the drive units. Particle emissions were measured during tests in real traffic conditions. The change in the vehicle's emission category caused an increase in requirements regarding emitted particles number from these engines. As a result, the introduction of particulate filters into exhaust after-treatment systems of gasoline engines (so far only three-way catalytic converters have been used) became necessary. Comparisons of the mass and particles number and their dimensional distribution for vehicles of different ecological classes, and also engines before and after downsizing were the basis for making conclusions about the direction of changes in traditional propulsion units in modern vehicles.
Measurement and analysis of acoustic phenomena occurring in public transport buses based on surveys and field study
Authors: Orczyk M , Tomaszewski F
Published: February 2021

The article presents results and analysis of noise measurements in passenger compartments of public transport buses. Ten Solaris Urbino 12 m buses were selected for performing the measurements, including five buses with an automatic 4-speed transmission and five with a 6-speed transmission. The research related to the assessment of the acoustic climate in buses was conducted in two stages: in the first stage surveys were carried out, which were then followed by field study in the second stage. The aim of the performed research was to identify places inside the bus with potentially high sound levels and then a real assessment of the noise affecting passengers. The survey aimed at the assessment of vibroacoustic comfort in buses while driving. The questions answered by the respondents concerned places inside the vehicle and vehicle movement phases, during which noise and vibration are the strongest. Additionally, the respondents made a subjective assessment of noise and vibration inside the bus while driving. The filed study was conducted with 10 measuring microphones placed in the passenger compartment of the bus and consisted in simultaneous recording of sound levels and the speed at which the bus moved. The study was carried out at a standstill and while driving. The conducted measurements allowed the identification of the highest and lowest sound levels in the vehicle at a standstill and while driving.
Impact of Fragile Water Management Strategies and Mitigation-A Case Study of Pune City, India
Authors: Sudarsan J S , Reddy Kakuru Jyothi Priyanka , Biyabani Haseeb.A.H. , Kumari Purnima , Sinha Swati
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study is to know about the impact of water management system on the city of Pune due to the fluctuating monsoon. To achieve this, research study was carried out in exploring the factors which are contributing for this variation in amount of precipitation. For instance, improper urbanization and industrialization in the states such as that of Maharashtra is happening in a haphazard manner owing to the uncontrolled burst in population in the cities and town. To ascertain the impact caused due to heavy rainfall this study was initiated. Data of population of Pune city was collected as it is our study area for research. Based on the analysis it was clear that there is a drastic increment in last three decades. A survey was conducted and responses from people across the city were collected regarding the management of rain water as well as the issues faced during peak rainfall and it was analyzed to evaluate the impact. For analysis and identifying the regions that were most affected, SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) tool has been used. The survey responses collected were analyzed using SPSS and various parameters have been compared to identify the relevant ones. Based on the analysis of the data obtained from the survey it is concluded that in many regions proper rain water management strategies are not adopted and also rain water harvesting technique is not installed. This results in various problems like water logging, traffic congestion and improper drainage. The output obtained is conclusive on identifying the parameters that have crucial impact on the city during monsoons and if corrected, can bring a change in the rain water management strategies adopted and make Pune a better city to live in.
Water Audit Study for East Tambaram
Authors: Hameed Shaik Abdul , Muadh M F , Khanam Nisha
Published: February 2021

Water auditing is a system to overwhelm the drought related issues, water losses, leakage etc. It plays the significant role in conservation measures to minimize the water loss which increase the efficiency of Urban Local Bodies and reduce the need to search for additional water sources. The main aim of the water audit study is to compute the amount of water that is being supplied by a water system, that is not being distributed or billed to customers. However, for the effective use of this system is to identify losses in the sums, the ULBs must first employ water auditing as a routine business practice. The various associations, such as IWA and AWWA which initiated a large-scale effort to assess the reduction of water related problems with the help of audit. Hence, a detail study on water audit is explored on the areas were water is being used in a system, identifying the sources of lost water, and an action plan is also developed to control or reduce water losses.
Investigational study on Influence of Fiber Reinforced Polymer Wrapping on Concentrically Loaded Concrete Column
Authors: Pannirselvam N , SudalaiGunaseelan B , Rajprasad J
Published: February 2021

The aim of research work to study the column with varying dimension and parameter. Along with wrapping of the column. The study has been made on axial load, axial deflection and lateral deflection. There 18 specimens have been casted and testing is done. Such as 300mm height and 150mm diameter column of six numbers, 450mm height and 150mm diameter columns of six numbers, 600mm height and 150mm diameter columns of six numbers. The 300mm height of the columns has been fully wrapped with 0-degree orientation of one-layer thickness, fully wrapped with 45-degree orientation of one-layer thickness, partially wrapped with 0-degree orientation of double-layers thickness, partially wrapped with 45-degree orientation of double layers thickness, fully wrapped with 45-degree orientation of double layers thickness and one number of unwrapped concrete columns. The 450mm height of the columns has been fully wrapped with 0-degree orientation of one-layer thickness, fully wrapped with 45-degree orientation of one-layer thickness, partially wrapped with 0-degree orientation of double-layers thickness, partially wrapped with 45-degree orientation of double layers thickness, fully wrapped with 45-degree orientation of double layers thickness and one number of unwrapped concrete column. The 600mm height of the columns has been fully wrapped with 0-degree orientation of one-layer thickness, fully wrapped with 45-degree orientation of one-layer thickness, partially wrapped with 0-degree orientation of double-layers thickness, partially wrapped with 45-degree orientation of double layers thickness, fully wrapped with 45-degree orientation of double layers thickness and one number of unwrapped concrete column. The specimens have been tested and corresponding results are obtained.
Impact of the Lead Rubber Base Isolators on Reinforced Concrete Building
Authors: Ravi Kant , Agha Wesam Al , Thakur Mohindra Singh , Umamaheswari N
Published: February 2021

Civil engineering infrastructures are prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes. Dissipation energy plays the main role in design of structures under Earthquake loads and controls the behavior of buildings when it bears the lateral loads and transfers them to the foundation. To resist the vibrations in the structure, it is important to use a high technology like Base isolation which reduces base frequency of building vibration and reaching it to a lower value. In other words, seismic isolation has the main objective to protect structure during earthquake events. Base isolation is a flexible layer between foundation and superstructure thus decoupling the structure from damaging effect of ground motion. This edits the dynamic characteristics of the structural system. A comparative study is conducted of seismic performance on three types of thickness (100mm,200mm, 300mm) in which M1T1, M2T1, M3T1, M1T2, M2T2, M3T2, M1T3, M2T3, M3T3, M1T4, M2T4, and M3T4 has been analyzed of isolators namely Lead Rubber Base Isolators (LRBI). For this evaluation, an 8-story structure has been analyzed by using (ETABS) finite element program where Models have ordinary RC moment- resisting frames with square column cross- sections. Parameters like drift, displacement, story acceleration, frequency, and story velocity have been analyzed and it has been found that due to the presence of Lead Rubber Isolators the story drift, story accelerations, base shear, lateral shear forces, and velocity are greatly reduced and story displacement is increased in both X and Y directions compared for various thickness of lead rubber base isolation systems under near and far-field earthquakes. Most importantly it has been established that the transmission of the high energy seismic waves to the superstructure is greatly reduced by introducing base isolators in between the top of the footing and the bottom of the superstructure. The base isolator with thickness 100mm for the concrete grade M20, M30, M40 performed more efficiently than other thicknesses. In conclusion, the deformation and transmissibility ratio must be minimized to introduce as a solution for absorbing the vibrations where the engineer should consider this effect for adequate design.
Study On Leachate And Its Effects On Soil Properties
Authors: Lavanya Damaraju Lakshmi
Published: February 2021

The resources of earth are supporting the man kind, but various actions of man increases the generation of waste causing a huge solid waste, presently which is a third pollution in world –wide. The gradual decomposition of solid waste, includes various bye-products and soluble materials like nutrients, pesticides, chemicals are leaching into the soil and causing a soil pollution as well as ground water pollution. The leaching liquid known as Leachate, percolates into the layers of soil and effects the Various Geo-technical properties. The study confines to identify the effects of the leachate on soil properties and also to study the variations in treating the leachate by Recirculation method to decrease the concentrations levels. By collecting the waste, an artificial dump yard is created and water is added to the waste for formation of leachate. A setup is made, the leachate is treated by one of the Leachate treatment methods the method of recirculation. Leachate is collected and parameters pH, BOD, COD, Alkalinity, Sulphates, Nitrates, Conductivity, Total hardness, Total Dissolved Solids, Total Suspended Solids, Chlorides of leachate are tested in before and after the recirculation process. The soil property at the site was observed before and after leachate formation. Also the recirculated leachate is sprinkled in the site, soil properties was tested. For soil engineering properties, geo-synthetics like geo-membranes can be used at the dumping site to reduce the effect of leachate on soil properties.
An approach to derive seismic fragility curves
Authors: Vedhanayaghi V J , Manoharan M , Jasper Daniel J , Premkumar S , ArunBharathi S
Published: February 2021

Seismic risk assessment is needed for the evaluation of disaster management, emergency preparedness and prior retrofitting. Based on feasible collapse mechanisms and calculation of their associated seismic parameter Peak Ground Displacement, the failure analysis of the structure is identified. Further, the outputs are manipulated to produce a measure vulnerability obtained from failure analysis. In regions of moderate and high seismicity, Zone – III Fragility analysis is used. An investigation is made on low rise Unreinforced masonry (URM) structure located in Zone – III, particularly in Chennai. To obtain capacity curve and bi-linear capacity curve the structure is modelled as Equivalent Frame Model (EFM), and non – linear static pushover analysis (NPOA).The structure damages, under various level of seismic excitation was developed by an analytical seismic fragility curve. For prioritizing retrofit, pre-earthquake planning, and loss estimation tools such as cost-benefit analysis this curve is utilized. The damage states considered for determining probability of exceeding a specified damage state involved in fragility curve generation are slight, moderate, extreme and collapse.
A Study on Polymeric Fibre Reinforced Stabilized Mud Blocks
Authors: Vignesh N.P. , Arunachelam N. , Mahendran K. , Dinesh Kumar B.
Published: February 2021

It is a known fact that mud blocks casted out of black cotton soil have poor damage resistance due to clayey, brittle and weak nature of the black cotton soil. In order to improve the strength of the cotton soil based mud blocks, additives such as polypropylene filament, polypropylene flakes and poly styrene fibres have been used in addition to a natural binder namely Terminalia chebula. By varying the percentage of the additives and as also soil, sand and lime various fibre reinforced blocks are made. The as-prepared reinforced mud blocks on analysis were found to possess a maximum strength of 13.75MPa when polypropylene was added as a additive. The study revealed that the addition of polymeric additives with the use of Terminalia chebula resulted in reinforcement of the stabilised mud blocks with enhanced strength and durability.
Use of bio additives in diesel engine fuels
Authors: Rusev D P , Kazakov P P , Iliev A L , Dimitrov M S
Published: February 2021

The use of fuel additives in various engines improves their performance. In particular, biodiesel is considered to be a good additive in diesel fuel. It is one of the alternative fuels used in diesel engines. The use of this type of fuel is also of strategic importance in the development of the economy of the countries. The main problem is to find the optimal ratio between biofuel and conventional diesel fuel in the mixtures injected into the engine cylinders. One of the advantages of biofuel is that it significantly reduces the amount of harmful emissions from engines - especially CO and HC. Along with this advantage, there is an increase in nitrogen oxides, which are released during the combustion of the mixture of the bio-additive and ordinary diesel fuel. Many of the challenges facing the use of biofuels are related to the reduction of NOx. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) is also used to reduce them.
Methodology for irrigation water uptake time estimation based on RGB colorimetric measurements of leaves (A visual-graphical observation)
Authors: Atanasov S
Published: February 2021

In the form of a sequence of actions, in a laboratory set of experiments, a methodology for measuring the absorption time of the irrigation water from greenhouse tomato plants is proposed. Based on pure scientific observation, before the actual measurements and during the experiment, a hypothesis is put forward, that in the experiment’s particular environmental conditions and this tomato variety, the water moves to the top of a plant for 1 to 2 hour (there is lack of information and measurements in this matter). Based on the same pure scientific observation was found, that the drier leaves darken and after the watering, they become lighter-green, which was later proven by the colorimetric measurements. It was also observed noticeable fading of leaf veins by watered plants, they become brighter, more protruding and are enlarged. After the experiment, it has been proven that water uptake time is 1 hour per 1-meter high plant and 1:30 hours water to be absorbed to the top of 1,60-meter high plant in described laboratory conditions. This is proven by leaves color lightening and the noticeably protruding of leaves veins.
Bacteriostatic properties of medical textiles treated with nanomaterials based on Fe2O3
Authors: Riabchykov Mykola , Sychov Yuriy , Alekszndrov Olexandr , Nikulina Anastasiia
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this work is to reveal the bacteriostatic properties of medical textiles treated with magnetite nanoparticles. Cotton materials with a surface density of 120 g/m2 were used as textile materials. The mixture of magnetite nanoparticles is applied to the textile material. The characteristic of such a textile material is Q - Force per unit area of material from a magnet with an induction of 1 Tesla at a distance of 1 cm. A broth-based nutrient solution was prepared, which was impregnated with textile samples. The growth rate of such fungi is inversely proportional to the bacteriostatic properties of the material. Visual observation of the growth of molds in Petri dishes showed a significant difference in their growth efficiency depending on the saturation of the material with magnetite. Microscopic studies showed the lengths of molds grown on different samples of textile material. The content of magnetite in a textile material significantly affects its bacteriostatic properties. This makes it possible to recommend such materials as promising medicines for the treatment of purulent wounds.
Analysis of the capabilities of software products to simulate the behavior of dynamic fluid flows
Authors: Nely Georgieva , Sivelina Delcheva , Petko Tsankov
Published: February 2021

In practice there are many processes that have complicated and complex character. Most often, these are dynamic systems with a large number of variable parameters, which significantly complicates their study, analysis and prediction. For their study most commonly used simulations that allow you to gain knowledge of their systemic nature. In these systems include and the thermodynamic systems where, due to a change of the many influencing parameters: temperature, pressure, velocity, fluid flow rate, various physical processes take place. For their study is widely used computer simulations to help predict the behaviour of systems under various conditions. Simulations are closely related to direct geometric modelling to enable to interactive design research and rapid model creation, allowing engineers to experiment with design ideas and immediately see the result of their changes. As an object of the simulation is most often fluid, structural and thermal simulation applications, which are used both for research and for innovative practical solutions in manufacturing enterprises. Computer simulations allow to predict the behaviour of certain processes in a real environment through virtual testing of CAD models. The main stages contain a methodical sequence, which includes the construction of a mathematical model, its numerical solution and processing of the obtained results. The main equations that make up the mathematical models are the balance equations of mass, momentum and energy, which determine the distribution of velocities, pressures, densities, temperatures and other control parameters. For modelling of flows of liquids and gases for industrial tasks, turbulence, heat transfer and chemical reactions, etc. are taken into account. In the practice, a large number of software solutions to simulate the processes occurring in thermal and fluid flows offered by many manufacturing companies are used. The aim of the present study is to analyse the possibilities of the software products used in practice to simulate the behaviour of dynamic fluid flows under certain initial conditions. Based on the analysis and the formulated conclusions, the choice of a software module for specific thermal research and construction of a geometric model of the studied objects through which numerical (CFD) simulations will be performed using different models, research in different modes of work, as well as the validation of the created methodologies, will be substantiated.
Growth and activity of probiotic bacteria in fermented milks fortified with polyphenol extract from strawberry by-product
Authors: Dimitrova M R , Ivanova I V , Slavchev A K , Ivanov G Y
Published: February 2021

The effect of polyphenol-enriched extract from a strawberry by-product (SPE) on lactic acid production and the viability of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus S19 (Lb. bulgaricus), Lactobacillus rhamnosus YW (Lb. rhamnosus) and Streptococcus thermophilus S13 (Str. thermophilus) in fermented milks during refrigerated storage was investigated. The fermented milks, with SPE (samples S1 and S2) and without the addition of the SPE (samples K1 and K2), were stored at 4±2°C for 15 days. A constant tendency to decrease in the pH values from 4.40±0.06 to 4.05±0.11 and an increase in the lactic acid concentration from 8.33±0.10 g/L to 11.12±0.41 g/L, respectively, were observed. The residual lactose content of the control and test samples at the end of the refrigerated storage was in the range of 31.44±0.39 g/L. The addition of polyphenol-enriched extracts did not significantly affect (P>0.05) the viability of Lactobacillus spp. and Str. thermophilus during the refrigerated storage.
Effect of Calcium Fluoride Buffer on PdY deposited Optical Fiber Hydrogen Sensor
Authors: Singh Mukesh Pratap , Chaurasia Santosh Kumar
Published: February 2021

Optical fiber sensor having transducer layer PdY is highly sensitive to detect hydrogen. The main advantage of PdY is reducing the cracking effect in optical fiber hydrogen sensor having transducer thickness palladium.To analyze the optical fiber H2 sensor apply the modal approach. The effect of calcium fluoride buffer influencing the optical fiber hydrogen sensor of sensitivity. The thickness of calcium fluoride buffer and palladium yttrium alloy layers are maximized to obtain higher sensitivity.
Effect of Post-mixing Vacuum Degassing time of MWCNT/Epoxy Mixture and MWCNT Content on the Flexural Behaviour of MWCNT Filled Glass/Epoxy Composite
Authors: Mohanty Sarat Chandra , Jana Anup Kumar , Rachakonda Ranjith Kumar , Kumar Gummadi Manoj , Teja A S N S R
Published: February 2021

In the current examination, adjustment of epoxy resin has been conducted by multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) by a consecutive cycle containing stirring, sonication and followed by vacuum degassing (VD). Accentuation has been centred on the impact of I) VD time (4, 12, 18 and 50 hours) of MWCNT/epoxy mixture and ii) MWCNT content in the epoxy resin (0.1 and 0.3 wt. % w.r.t epoxy) on flexural properties of MWCNT installed glass/epoxy-composite (MWCNT- GE) concerning the control glass/epoxy (GE) composites. Greatest flexural quality in the MWCNT (0.1%)- GE composite was acquired with 18 hours VD (27% higher than the control GE), whereas modulus was found to be maximum with 12 hours VD (nearly22% higher than control GE). Incorporation of a higher MWCNT content (0.3wt. %)resulted in a poor flexural performance due to agglomeration as confirmed from scanning electron microscope(SEM).
Synthesis and Characterization of Aluminium Composite with Graphene Oxide Reinforcement
Authors: Fuhaid Mutlag Sh. , Murali R V , Maleque M A , Krishnan P K , Rahaman M. A.
Published: February 2021

Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) find a broader spectrum of applications inconsiderable number of industries globally as AMCs possess excellent mechanical properties at lower mass density. Due to many advantages, researchers continue to find a new generation of materials that offer designers many benefits in converting traditional materials into commercial and industrial materials to use low cost or waste materials as reinforcing phase while producing AMCs. In this research work, Graphene Oxide (GO) is used as a reinforcing phase in the LM6 aluminium matrix, and this paper attempts to lay more emphasis on synthesis and characterization of LM6 matrix and GO particulates and LM6/GO composites as a whole. A modified stir casting process was employed to develop the above composite material. The composite test pieces were subject to physical and mechanical tests, i.e., density, hardness, tensile, and impact. Microanalysis methods such as SEM and XRD analysis were also performed on the composite specimens to analyze the feasibility and suitability of the materials for further research work (friction welding of composites) being pursued by the authors. The results and insights drawn from the comprehensive laboratory analysis demonstrated that the LM6/GO composite could be successfully used as alternative materials replacing metal and alloys. Furthermore, the composite can be easily subject to the welding process resulting in quality welded joints and assemblies.
Investigation of effect of different geometric parameters on fundamental natural frequency of composite laminate plate
Authors: Gadhve Ashish N , Kulkarni Nishant S
Published: February 2021

Composite materials have remarkable properties such as high strength to weight ratio, wear resistance, good electrical and thermal properties compared to metals. A laminated composite material consists of several layers of a composite laminas made of matrix and fibers. Each layer with different fiber orientations may have similar or dissimilar material properties. In this study, the effect of the fiber orientations on the fundamental natural frequency of laminated composite plate is investigated. The problem is analyzed and solved using the finite element method and Matlab. A variety of boundary conditions are used in the analysis. Numerical results were obtained for orthotropic symmetric laminated plate. Fundamental natural frequency of composite plates depends upon various characteristics like aspect ratio, boundary condition and fiber orientation. The effect of cut outs on fundamental natural frequency is analysed. It is observed that the ply angles are playing major role while deciding the fundamental natural frequency of composite laminate plate.
Effect of Span Length on Flexural Strength of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite
Authors: Venkatram Reddy A , Chandra Shekar K , Singaravel B , Vishnu Tapan N C , Rajasri I
Published: February 2021

Investigation and assessment of mechanical properties for FRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymer) composites have been instrumental in qualifying it for the final use. Pronounced among mechanical properties is flexural strength which diversifies with varying test span length, Specimen depth and temperature for different materials. Current work focuses on unearthing the optimum span length of epoxy Glass fiber reinforced composites for which flexural strength is to be scrutinized. Investigations for flexural test in accordance to ASTM Standard D790 are executed by altering the span lengths to acknowledge the functioning of the flexural modulus and strength thereby acquiring an optimum span length, which, can be employed by the composite designers and manufacturers to engineer meliorated testing procedures. From the experimental results it is found that the composite failed by shear mode at lower span lengths.