bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indonesian Patent Law Reform for Simple Patent Innovations on Achieving Welfare State Objectives
Authors: Waspiah Waspiah , Santoso Budi , Prananingtyas Paramita , Baiquni Muhammad Iqbal , Saputra Dany Eka
Published: June 2023

The main focus of this research is to examine the legal protection of simple patent innovations within the Indonesian patent system, considering their substance, structure, and legal culture. The objective is to advocate for the reformulation of regulations concerning the social and economic utilization of intellectual property, specifically simple patents, in order to address their impact on public interest from a welfare state perspective. The current regulations governing simple patents demonstrate monopolistic and individualistic tendencies. This study utilizes a normative juridical research method and employs a statute-based approach to critically analyze the provisions of Law No. 13 of 2016, commonly known as the Patent Law. The research findings indicate that the current regulation fails to adequately support inventors of simple patents. The existing first-to-file registration system, resembling that of regular patents, has resulted in low rates of acquisition and registration for simple patents. Consequently, it can be concluded that the regulation of simple patents under the Patent Law does not favor inventors of such patents. In order to rectify this issue, it is crucial to reformulate the legal protection of simple patent innovations based on the principles of the welfare state. The ideal formulation of the Patent Law should take into account the norms and values prevalent within the inventor community, thereby necessitating a reformulation of the legal protection system rooted in the substance, structure, and legal culture in Indonesia.
The Rising Tide of Financial Crime: A Ponzi Scheme Case Analysis
Authors: Anggriawan Rizaldy , Susila Muh Endriyo , Sung Ming Hsi , Irrynta Dwilani
Published: June 2023

Ponzi scheme is one of the most common types of fraud perpetrated by con artists. The reason for this is that the mode is relatively easy to conceal. In this regard, criminal law plays a significant role in countering fraudulent practices. It serves as an initial warning to individuals who intend to engage in such behavior that they may face harsh penalties if they do so. The study aims to compare and analyze the Ponzi and pyramid schemes in the framework of criminal law enforcement. It also thoroughly investigates the criminal rules and their application to specific cases associated with Ponzi and pyramid schemes in Indonesia. This normative or doctrinal legal research employs statutory, conceptual, and case approach. The study reveals that there is some confusion in the community as well as the legal enforcement officers on the practice of Ponzi and pyramid schemes. As a result of this discrepancy, law enforcement officers may be incorrect in ensnaring an allegation against the offenders, or they may even consider that offenders are innocent. It is also exacerbated by the lack of a single rule that particularly governs the issue of Ponzi schemes, which may result in a legal vacuum. This circumstance might therefore be used by irresponsible persons to create such business companies that use Ponzi schemes and conceal their actions with crypto investment or robot trading software, as recently occurred in Indonesia.
Fundraising Aspect of International Terrorism Organization in ASEAN: Legal and Political Aspects
Authors: Ginting Jamin , Talbot Patrick
Published: June 2023

Since the Bali Bombing I and Bali Bombing II Tragedy, the seriousness of combating international terrorism have become increasingly apparent. Each member of ASEAN hand in hand together enforces both international cooperation and bilateral cooperation to prevent and counteract, through appropriate domestic measures, the financing of terrorists and terrorist organizations, whether such financing is direct or indirect through organizations. International community efforts to combat terrorism activities, not only comprise the criminalization of terrorists the act criminalization financing of terrorism, and the criminalization of terrorist financing. Since that moment, the topic of money laundering is an inherent element of organized crime, with its strong linkage to terrorism, has found and always will find new methods to satisfy the also new necessities for financing terrorism. ASEAN already make a policy about terrorism which is the convention on counter-terrorist called ASEAN Convention on Counter-Terrorism (ACCT). The convention of ACCT, in article 6 Areas of Cooperation, ASEAN emphasizes the prevention of giving the fund to the terrorist group. Indonesia had given responses to financing terrorism by ratifying The International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism, 1999, and subsequently with the enacted Law Number 6 Year 2006 and also enacted the new Prevention and Eradication Money Laundering Offence, Law Number 8 of 2010.
Neutrality Law in the Age of Digitalization: An Analysis of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Authors: Towadi Mellisa , Abdussamad Zamroni , Bajrektarevic Anis , Badu Lisnawaty W , Mustika Waode
Published: June 2023

This article aims to describe the application of the concept of neutrality law in the current era with the contamination of digitalization. The main problem refers to the intervention of third countries or neutral states in the Russian conflict v. Ukraine, then questioned the existence of neutrality law in the era of digitalization. The method used is a normative juridical method with a statute approach analyzed qualitatively and descriptively. The results show that validity is needed in determining the attitude of third countries or neutral states that intervene with belligerents (Russia/Ukraine). The determination of the validity is based on the scale of the intervention provided by the third country. Validity refers to the 1907 Hague Convention and the UN Charter, which generally outlines violations of territorial sovereignty and international law. So, in conclusion, the concept of open access, broad and immeasurable digitalization, cannot be avoided in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This does not necessarily become a justification because the essence of the principle of neutrality and intervention is very different; the two cannot be combined unless a violation of international law indicates one. So basically, neutrality law can no longer be the primary regulation to control the attitude of a neutral state but requires new norms that shape the attitude of a neutral state so that it can be used as international customary law.
The Paradox of the International Law Development: A Lesson from Covid-19 Pandemic Management
Authors: Putri Ria Wierma , Putri Yunita Maya , Sabatira Febryani , Davey Orima Melati , Arya Himal C
Published: June 2023

By the year 2019 to early 2022 the world has encountered a health emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the present Covid-19 situation is considered to be under control and countries are progressively recovering from the epidemic, there are a number of lessons that may be derived and studied as part of the development of international law. The article further observes the role of World Health Organization as a primary international organization responsible for keeping the world's health order. Following the effort of Covid-19 management, various measures have been enforced as global government regime efforts, such as quarantine, travel restrictions, and vaccination programs. However, the article highlight that there are many factors have caused obstacles in handling pandemic problems, ranging from the state's capacity to overcome the pandemic's impact to the ideology disparities in implementing global mandates. In this matter, there is a tendency by states which refuse to subject to the general mandate from WHO under the argument that their national interest comes first. This issue then determined that the problem of the Covid-19 pandemic was no longer a health issue but an issue in the evolution of the global legal order. This study will further discuss the efforts taken by WHO as the primary international health organization to combat pandemic issue and analyze to what extent has the management of the COVID-19 pandemic affects international law development.
Policy on the Right to Education of Refugees in Indonesia and Australia
Authors: Astariyani Ni Luh Gede , Rumiartha I Nyoman Prabu Buana , Ardani Ni Ketut , Kenevan Thomas John
Published: June 2023

Upholding human rights in the context of education is manifested in the form of the right to education. Realizing this right requires equal distribution of education which means the widest possible educational opportunity for everyone, including fulfilling children's rights to education for refugees or asylum seekers.  Based on data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in 2021, there are 13,459 refugees in Indonesia, of whom it is estimated that around 27% are child refugees and 114 children of whom come alone or are separated from their families. This research article will discuss the role of the Indonesian state in providing educational rights to children of refugees from other countries or children of asylum seekers as well as international arrangements related to the education rights of children of asylum seekers in transit countries. This study uses normative juridical research methods, through international regulatory approaches and conceptual approaches, in this case studying and analyzing material and legal issues based on international regulations and concepts related to the study of Human Rights from the perspective of the Educational Rights of Asylum Seeking Refugee Children.
Reconstruction of Chemical Castration Sanctions Implementation Based on the Medical Ethics Code (Comparison with Russia and South Korea)
Authors: Saputra Rian , Zaid M , Suwadi Pujiyono , Barkhuizen Jaco , Tiolince Tiara
Published: June 2023

This study aims to reconstruct the ideal setting in the implementation of chemical castration sanctions in Indonesia based on the medical code of ethics. This research is a normative legal research, the approach used is a case approach, comparative approach and a conceptual approach, with a literature study research technique. The granting of the authority to execute chemical castration by a doctor is contrary to the principles contained in the medical code of ethics, including: First, it contradicts the principle of autonomy at the level of implementation of the principle of Autonomy which is applied in the form of the principle of "informed consent" where in carrying out his duties a doctor must first choose approval from the family and the patient for all actions that result in a decrease in the patient's physical endurance. Second, it is against the principle of non-maleficence, which prohibits actions that harm or worsen the patient's condition. Third, it is against the principle of beneficence. The rules regarding the implementation of chemical castration for perpetrators of sexual crimes against children can actually be followed by referring to the provisions for the implementation of chemical castration in Russia and South Korea, both countries whose medical profession will only serve as an advisory opinion for law enforcers who have been given special competency training.
Comparative Analysis of Indonesia’s Minimum Capital Requirements for Foreign Direct Investment
Authors: Putri Luh Putu Yeyen Karista , Imarhiagbe Miriam , Mandira I Made Chandra , Withnall Eric Gordon , Duarsa Putu Yasodhara Sthita Brahmani
Published: June 2023

This research seeks to examine the compatibility of the Indonesian minimum capital requirement for foreign direct investment companies (FDI) with the national treatment obligation under international investment agreements (IIAs). The requirement is compared with investment requirements under Australian and Austrian Law. This research combines the normative legal research method with law and economics by conducting cost and benefit analysis (CBA). The national treatment protects foreign investors from less favorable treatment against domestic investors. The minimum capital requirement is contrary to national treatment because it is only applicable to FDI companies. However, not every IIA involving Indonesia provide a national treatment clause. To determine violation, the two-tier test must be conducted by analyzing the scope of the obligation and applicable exception. Some IIAs provide exceptions where a state can give different treatment to foreign investors for the sake of public interest. Indonesia justifies this requirement because it gives several benefits namely preventing foreign investors from controlling vital sectors, protecting MSMEs from unfair competition, and ensuring liquidity. Nevertheless, the benefits cannot be achieved due to weak supervision. The requirement can be easily circumvented through nominee agreements. Based on CBA, the requirement creates more harm than good. It is promiscuously applied to all business fields and is more burdensome compared to investment requirements in Australia and Austria. The solution proposed is either improving supervision or adjusting the requirement to be more consistent with the national treatment. The government can also protect national interests by empowering MSMEs and using more relevant criteria.
Indonesia-Timor Leste Maritime Boundaries on Exclusive Economic Zone: Equitable Principle
Authors: Sunyowati Dina , Ariadhi Pradnya Paramitha Putri , Romadhona Mochamad Kevin , Alfadhel Alaa Basil Baqer
Published: June 2023

The boundaries of the sea area between one country's territory affect the sovereignty in the sea territory of another country. Indonesian Sea borders several countries, both in the EEZ and on the continental shelf. However, Indonesia has not yet finalized the determination of its maritime border with Timor Leste. The undetermined maritime boundary between Indonesia and Timor Leste affects the sovereignty of Timor Leste and affects Indonesia's space for movement. The purpose of this study is to find out the provisions and principles of determining maritime boundaries between the countries of Indonesia and Timor Leste. The method in this research is normative research with a statutory approach, a case approach, and a conceptual approach. The results of this study indicate that the Government of the Republic of Indonesia in determining territorial boundaries negotiates to determine how to draw maritime boundaries between the two countries by applying equitable principles. The process of negotiating maritime boundaries between Indonesia and Timor Leste with equitable principles can be a solution thus maritime boundaries between the two countries are immediately agreed upon
Illegal Online Loans in Indonesia: Between the Law Enforcement and Protection of Victim
Authors: Angkasa Angkasa , Wamafma Filep , Juanda Ogiandhafiz , Nunna Bhanu Prakash
Published: June 2023

The phenomenon of online loans in Indonesia is becoming increasingly prevalent, accompanied by the proliferation of online loan provider services. However, this growth has also led to numerous instances of fraudulent practices within the online lending sector. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of law enforcement and victim protection in cases of illegal online lending in Indonesia by comparing relevant laws and regulations. The findings of this study reveal that illegal online loans have severe consequences, resulting in victims suffering from material loss, psychological distress, physical harm, and social ramifications. Unfortunately, the current state of law enforcement falls short of delivering justice to the victims, as evidenced by the leniency of sentences imposed on offenders.
Recycling of valueless paper dust to a low grade cellulose acetate: Effect of pretreatments on acetylation
Authors: Loo Milly Mei Li , Hashim Rokiah , Leh Cheu Peng
Published: June 2023

The feasibility of the production of cellulose acetate (CA) from recycled paper dust from carton boxes was examined. Two pre-treatments were carried out on the carton box’s paper dust (CPD) to improve the pulp properties for better effect of synthesis. The results showed that the acid and oxygen-alkaline pretreatments were capable of increasing the alpha-cellulose content from 80.5 percent to 87.3 percent and 85.3 percent, respectively. Both pre-treatments also decreased the hemicellulose and ash contents by more than 50 percent. The degree of substitution (DS) of the resultant CA from pre-treated paper dust was improved from 1.94 to 2.13-2.16. The CA that was synthesized from the recycled paper dust showed comparable DS and had a similar trend of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra. Both pretreated pulps also showed an increment in the degree of crystallinity and had maximum degradation effect of temperature when compared to CPD CA. However, all the cellulose acetates produced showed a lower DS and thermal stability compared to commercial cellulose acetate (C CA). The degree of crystallinity of all the cellulose acetate was decreased in comparison to the original material.
Biosorption of lead(II) on modified barks explained by the hard and soft acids and bases (HSAB) theory
Authors: Astier Cédric , Chaleix Vincent , Faugeron Céline , Ropartz David , Krausz Pierre , Gloaguen Vincent
Published: June 2023

Chemical modification of Douglas fir bark and its subsequent utilization in adsorption of Pb(II) from aqueous solutions was investigated. The polysaccharidic moiety of barks was functionalized by periodate oxidation and derivatized after reductive amination in the presence of aminated oligo-carrageenans. Pb(II) adsorption isotherms of derivatized barks were then determined and compared to the capabilities of crude barks using the Langmuir adsorption model in terms of affinity (b) and maximum binding capacity (qmax). Compared to crude barks, the derivatization of barks by oligo-carrageenans resulted in significant enhancements of qmax and b by up to x8 and x4, respectively. The results obtained from crude barks on chemically grafted carboxylic and sulfated barks are discussed and interpreted through the Hard and Soft Acids and Bases (HSAB) theory.
Exploring optimal feed to microbes ratio for anaerobic acidogenic fermentation of cassava residue from brewery
Authors: Wang Xinying , Zhang Shuting , Wang Jing , Yu Xiaoyan , Lu Xuebin
Published: June 2023

Cassava residue from breweries is being generated in large amounts in Guangxi Province of China, and this has potential to cause serious environmental problems if disposed of improperly. Two-stage anaerobic fermentation is a promising method for the treatment of such residue. In this study, the effect of feed to microbes ratio (F/M ratio) on the anaerobic acidogenic fermentation of cassava residue was studied to determine the optimal F/M ratio and to maximize the performance in a subsequent methanogenic stage. The experiments were carried out at the F/M ratios of 0.2, 0.61, 1.02, 2.05, 3.07, and 4.09 g cassava-TS/g sludge-VSS in six laboratory-scale, completely stirred, tank reactors (CSTR) at mesophilic temperature (35°C). An F/M ratio of 1.02 g cassava-TS/g sludge-VSS resulted in the highest solid removal efficiency and VFA/COD ratio, while starch removal efficiency was still near 100 percent, and acidification was relatively high. As a further benefit, the VFA distribution was more suitable for the subsequent methanogenic fermentation stage.
Pi-pi stacking of the aromatic groups in lignosulfonates
Authors: Deng Yonghong , Feng Xinjia , Yang Dongjie , Yi Chonghua , Qiu Xueqing
Published: June 2023

p–p stacking of the aromatic groups in SL. Results show that the charge-free aromatic groups of SL tend to form oriented p–p stacking with the spectroscopic characteristics of J–aggregates. The formation of J–aggregates in SL are recognized by a significant spectral red shift in fluorescent excitation spectra. The other effects that may cause spectral shift, such as the SL species, solvent effect, and the impurities, are investigated to confirm that the formation of J-aggregates is the only viable explanation for the significant spectral redshift of SL. causes molecular shrinkage of SL polyelectrolytes, but has no influence on J–aggregates of the aromatic groups as detected by lack of spectral shift, indicating that the aromatic groups are charge-free. This suggests that not all the aromatic groups but only the charge-free aromatic groups can form p–p stacking. This work demonstrates the presence of J–aggregation in aqueous SL solutions for the first time, which gives an insight in understanding the preferred orientation of the aromatic groups in lignin-based biopolymers.
Efficacy of tannin in fixing boron in wood: Fungal and termite resistance
Authors: Tondi Gianluca , Wieland Stefanie , Lemenager Nicolas , Petutschnigg Alexander , Pizzi Antonio , Thevenon Marie-France
Published: June 2023

The easy leaching of boron from wood preservation formulations has limited the use of this highly active fungicide. The recently discovered adduct with flavonoids allows boron to be retained for longer periods of time within wood and consequently to extend its life. Two different leaching treatments were compared, and the fungal and termite decay were examined. The biological tests showed extremely high resistance of the leached samples against both fungus (Coriolus Versicolor and Coniophora Puteana) and termites (Reticulitermes Santonensis). The retention of 2.5 kg/m³ was determined as the threshold of efficacy of boron in flavonoid-based wood preservative. Furthermore, solid state 13C-NMR analysis of the tannin resin indicated that boron can be covalently fixed to the tannin-hexamine network.
Waveform features of acoustic emission provide information about reversible and irreversible processes during spruce sapwood drying
Authors: Rosner Sabine
Published: June 2023

Acoustic emission (AE) and radial dimensional changes during dehydration under ambient conditions were compared between fully saturated fresh Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) sapwood and sapwood exposed to one or two rewetting-dehydration cycles. The aim of the study was to find out whether AE detected by wideband transducers (100 to 1000 kHz) gives useful information about the mechanical stresses generated during dehydration of small sapwood specimens. AE activity and peak amplitudes became lower after each dehydration-rewetting run. During the first dehydration run the highest peak amplitudes were detected at moderate moisture loss, whereas rewetted wood peaked towards the end of dehydration. AE of fresh, never-dried sapwood was also characterized by a higher count rate of low frequency AE (<175 kHz). Differences in amplitude and frequency clusters between small earlywood and latewood specimens suggest that earlywood is much more sensitive to irreversible processes upon drying than latewood, which might be related to pit functioning and shrinkage anisotropy. At moderate moisture loss, fresh, never-dried sapwood showed higher radial dimensional changes compared to re-wetted sapwood. If it is assumed that fresh, never-dried sapwood is more prone to dehydration stresses than pre-dried sapwood, critical stages during drying can be characterized by high mean peak amplitudes and by a higher count rate of low frequency AE.
Strength and stiffness assessment technologies for improving grading effectiveness of radiata pine wood
Authors: Baillères Henri , Hopewell Gary , Boughton Geoff , Brancheriau Loic
Published: June 2023

This work was designed to provide the Australian structural radiata pine processing industry with some indications for improving stress grading methods and/or technologies to give an increase in structural grade yields, and significantly reduce processing costs without compromising product quality. To achieve this, advanced statistical techniques were used in conjunction with state-of-the-art property measurement systems applied to the same sample of sawn timber. Acoustic vibration analyses were conducted on green and dry boards. Raw data from existing in-line systems was captured on the same boards. The Metriguard HCLT stress rating system was used as the “reference” machine grading because of its current common use in the industry. A WoodEye® optical scanning system and an X-ray LHG scanner were also able to provide relevant information on knots. The data set was analyzed using classical and advanced statistical tools to provide correlations between data sets, and to develop efficient strength and stiffness prediction equations. Reductions in non-structural dry volumes can be achieved.
Moisture sorption in artificially aged wood-plastic composites
Authors: Segerholm B. Kristoffer , Ibach Rebecca E. , Wålinder Magnus E. P.
Published: June 2023

Moisture sorption in wood-plastic composites (WPCs) affects their durability and dimensional stability. In certain outdoor exposures, the moisture properties of WPCs are altered due to e.g. cracks induced by swelling and shrinkage of the components, as well as UV degradation or biological attack. The aim of this work was to study the effect of different artificial ageing routes on the moisture sorption properties of WPCs. Extruded WPCs were prepared with either unmodified or acetylated wood and recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The WPC samples were artificially aged involving water soaking, artificial weathering, and white- or brown-rot decay in different combinations. After the ageing, the samples were conditioned in either 65% or 90% relative humidity (RH) until equilibrium moisture content was reached. A dynamic moisture sorption analyzer was used to monitor the sorption rate of samples subjected to a climate change from 65% to 90% RH. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the surface morphology of the aged composites. Results showed that the artificial weathering caused cracking of the HDPE matrix at the composite surface, as well as a wood-matrix debonding, resulting in an increased moisture sorption rate. The WPC samples subjected to white-rot decay showed the highest moisture sorption rate.
Bacillus subtilis SJ01 produces hemicellulose degrading multi-enzyme complexes
Authors: Jones Sarah M. , van Dyk J. Susan , Pletschke Brett I.
Published: June 2023

Cellulose and hemicellulose account for a large portion of the world’s plant biomass. In nature, these polysaccharides are intertwined, forming complex materials that require multiple enzymes to degrade them. Multi-enzyme complexes (MECs) consist of a number of enzymes working in close proximity and synergistically to degrade complex substrates with higher efficiency than individual enzymes. The aim of this study was to isolate and characterise a (hemi-) cellulolytic MEC from the aerobic bacterium, Bacillus subtilis SJ01, using ultrafiltration followed by size-exclusion chromatography on a Sephacryl S-400 column. Two MECs, C1 and C2 of 371 and 267 kDa, respectively, were purified, consisting of 16 and 18 subunits, respectively, five of which degraded birchwood and oat spelt xylan. The MECs degraded xylan substrates (C1: 0.24 U/mg, C2: 0.14 U/mg birchwood xylan) with higher efficiency than amorphous cellulose substrates (C1: 0.002 U/mg, C2: 0.01 U/mg carboxymethyl cellulose – CMC). Low or no binding to insoluble substrates indicated that the MECs lacked some of the features characteristic of cellulosomes. The significance of this study lies in the discovery of MECs that differ structurally from cellulosomes that can hydrolyse substrates with high hemicellulose content.
Analysis of the tensile modulus of polypropylene composites reinforced with stone groundwood fibers
Authors: López Joan Pere , Mutjé Pere , Pèlach M. Àngels , El Mansouri Nour-Eddine , Boufi Sami , Vilaseca Fabiola
Published: June 2023

One of the most relevant properties of composite materials to be considered is stiffness. Fiberglass has been used traditionally as a fibrous reinforcing element when stiff materials are required. However, natural fibers are been exploited as replacements for synthetic fibers to satisfy environmental concerns. Among the different natural fibers, wood fibers show the combination of relatively high aspect ratio, good specific stiffness and strength, low density, low cost, and less variability than other natural fibers of such those from annual crops. In this work, composites from polypropylene and stone groundwood fibers from softwood were prepared and mechanically characterized under tensile loads. The Young’s moduli of the ensuing composites were analyzed and their micromechanics aspects evaluated. The reinforcing effect of stone groundwood fibers was compared to that of conventional reinforcement such fiberglass. The Halpin-Tsai model with the modification proposed by Tsai-Pagano accounted fairly for the behavior of PP composites reinforced with stone groundwood fibers. It was also demonstrated that the aspect ratio of the reinforcement plays a role in the Young’s modulus of injection molded specimens.
Effect of heat-dispersing on stickies and their removal in post-flotation
Authors: Gao Yang , Qin Menghua , Yu Hailong , Zhang Fengshan
Published: June 2023

The effect of heat-dispersing on sticky substances in a deinking pulping line was studied under different conditions including varying temperature, disc clearance, and pulp consistency. Sticky substances were quantitatively investigated before and after the heat-dispersing, and categorized into macro-, mini-, and micro-stickies as well as dissolved and colloidal substances. Meanwhile, their extents of removal in post-flotation were evaluated. The results showed that raising temperature, reducing disc clearance, or increasing pulp consistency significantly improved the dispersion of sticky particles, an effect that will be beneficial to their removal in the subsequent flotation process. Under temperature of 100 °C, disc clearance of 0.3 mm, and pulp consistency of 30%, macro- and mini-stickies decreased by 92% and 83%, respectively. Due to being dispersed to smaller sizes, removals of mini- and micro-stickies were enhanced in post-flotation to 25-26% and 68-70%, respectively. Only a small amount of dissolved and colloidal substances was removed in flotation.
Influence of the specimen depth to length ratio and lamination construction on Young’s modulus and in-plane shear modulus of plywood measured by flexural vibration
Authors: Yoshihara Hiroshi
Published: June 2023

In this study, the Young’s modulus and the in-plane shear modulus of 3-, 5-, and, 7-ply Lauan wood (Shorea sp.) were determined by conducting a flexural vibration test with various specimen depth to length ratios and performing a subsequent finite element analysis (FEA). The length and depth directions of the specimen used for the vibration test coincided with the length/width and width/length directions of the plywood panel. The results obtained from the experiment and FEA revealed that the influence of specimen configuration and lamination construction did not significantly affect the measurement of the Young’s modulus. However, the results suggested that the in-plane shear modulus decreased as the depth to length ratio of the specimen decreased. The FEA result suggested that this decreasing tendency is more pronounced as the ply number decreases and the thickness of the plywood increases. A statistical analysis on the experimental results suggested that the length of the specimen must be less than 10 times the depth to reduce the influence of specimen configuration on the measured value of the in-plane shear modulus.
Properties of binderless particleboard panels manufactured from oil palm biomass
Authors: Hashim Rokiah , Wan Nadhari Wan Noor Aidawati , Sulaiman Othman , Sato Masatoshi , Hiziroglu Salim , Kawamura Fumio , Sugimoto Tomoko , Seng Tay Guan , Tanaka Ryohei
Published: June 2023

The objective of the study was to investigate physical and mechanical properties of experimental particleboard panels manufactured from oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) biomass without using any adhesives. Different parts of oil palm, including the core and mid sections of trunks, fronds, bark, and leaves, were used to make the panels with an average target density of 0.80g/cm3. Based on the test results, it seems that panels made from bark and leaves did not have satisfactory strength and dimensional stability. However, the panels having particles from the core portion of the trunks exhibited the highest modulus of rupture and internal bond strength but lowest in thickness swelling and water absorption values among the samples. The panels made with particles of mid-section of trunks and fronds followed the samples having core portion trunks material. Three types of raw material, namely fronds, mid-, and core-parts of the trunks appeared as though they could have potential to manufacture particleboard panels with acceptable properties based on requirements stated in Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS). Similar to the above findings, surface quality of the samples were also found acceptable for the panels made from three types of particles. Based on the results of this work, oil palm in the form of biomass could be considered as an environmentally friendly alternative raw material to manufacture binderless particleboard panels.
DecolorizatioDecolorization of process waters in deinking mills and similar applications: A reviewn of process waters in deinking mills and similar applications: A review
Authors: Huber Patrick , Carré Bruno
Published: June 2023

Process waters in deinking mills often feature a strong coloration, due to dyes and pigments released from the recovered paper. This can usually be remediated by pulp bleaching treatment with appropriate chemicals. However, the red shade (from rhodamine dye) is resistant to conventional bleaching treatments. This largely limits the use of deinked pulp in white paper grades. In this review, the available technologies for process water decolorization are discussed (chemical methods, physico-chemical methods and biological treatments). Ozonation of the process water appears to be the most promising technique for decolorization of process water in deinking mills. Other emerging technologies such as photo-catalytic treatment or mineralization by white-rot fungi (after adsorption on low-cost agricultural residues) should be considered as well.
Estimation of heat-treated beechwood properties by color change
Authors: Todorović Nebojša , Popović Zdravko , Milić Goran , Popadić Ranko
Published: June 2023

Changes in color (CIE L*a*b*) and properties (density, mass loss, density loss, and bending properties) of heat-treated beechwood were researched, as well as the possibilities of predicting these properties based on color. Considering the different market values of sapwood and red heartwood, the aim of this study was to establish whether these parts of beechwood differ after a heat treatment. Samples were exposed to temperatures of 170oC, 190oC, and 210oC, respectively, for 4 hours. In order to predict the properties, a linear regression with color change (ΔE) and ΔL predictors was used, as well as the partial least squares (PLS) regression with 12 color variables. It has been shown that heat treatment reduces the properties of sapwood and red heartwood in the same manner, and equalizes the colors. The PLS-R showed the best results of prediction and presented the very high coefficients of determination for the mass loss, density loss, and modulus of rupture (MOR) in both sapwood and red heartwood. The equalized colors of heat-treated red heartwood and sapwood can significantly increase the use of products made out of red heartwood. Color can be an important indicator of the quality of such beechwood.
Physical and chemical performance of eucalyptus wood with impregnated chemicals
Authors: Wu Guofeng , Lang Qian , Chen Heyu , Pu Junwen
Published: June 2023

Methylolurea and carbamide were used to impregnate eucalyptus wood to improve its physical and chemical properties. The physical properties and dimensional stability were examined. TGA was used to evaluate the thermal stability of the wood. FTIR was used to state the changes of functional groups. The changes of wood structure were observed by SEM. The results showed the bending strength and compressive strength parallel to the grain by 15.10% and 16.78%, respectively. The basic density of modified wood was improved by 14.29%. The shrinkage of volume and swelling of volume were significantly decreased to the untreated wood. The TGA results indicated that the mass loss was around 8% during the second stage, from 120°C up to 280°C, while the mass loss of treated wood was around 4%. The treated wood exhibited LOI (limited oxygen index) values of about 42%, while the natural wood exhibited a LOI value of 22%. he FTIR analysis successfully showed that chemical bond was produced between wood and methylolurea as a result of chemical reaction between wood and methylolurea. The SEM results indicated that the transverse and tangential sections of the treated specimens were filled with the reaction products, which can prevent the absorption of moisture.
Method for automatic analysis of wheat straw pulp cell types
Authors: Karjalainen Mikko , Ämmälä Ari , Rousu Päivi , Niinimäki Jouko
Published: June 2023

Agricultural residues are receiving increasing interest when studying renewable raw materials for industrial use. Residues, generally referred to as nonwood materials, are usually complex materials. Wheat straw is one of the most abundant agricultural residues around the world and is therefore available for extensive industrial use. However, more information of its cell types is needed to utilize wheat straw efficiently in pulp and papermaking. The pulp cell types and particle dimensions of wheat straw were studied, using an optical microscope and an automatic optical fibre analyzer. The role of various cell types in wheat straw pulp and papermaking is discussed. Wheat straw pulp components were categorized according to particle morphology and categorization with an automatic optical analyzer was used to determine wheat straw pulp cell types. The results from automatic optical analysis were compared to those with microscopic analysis and a good correlation was found. Automatic optical analysis was found to be a promising tool for the in-depth analysis of wheat straw pulp cell types.
Crude palm oil as a bioadditive in polypropylene blown film
Authors: Jusoh Emiliana R. , Ismail M. Halim Shah , Abdullah Luqman C. , Y. Robiah , Wan Abdul Rahman W. A.
Published: June 2023

Growing public concern about environment and potential risks to health in the polymer and plasticizer industry promises to increase the market for a safer alternative plasticizer such as a vegetable oil-based agent. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of crude palm oil as a bio-additive in polypropylene blown films. The polypropylene was blended with 1%, 3%, and 5% dosages of CPO using a twin screw extruder. The extruded samples were blown using the blown thin film technique. Mechanical, physical, and morphological properties were characterized. Modifying polypropylene with CPO showed good enhancement in the mechanical properties of the polypropylene. Tensile strength, elongation at break, impact strength, and tear strength all increased. The scanning electron microscopy photographs of the CPO-modified PP clearly supported the results from the mechanical strength tests. The presence of CPO in the PP matrices decreased the density and increased the melt flow rate. These findings contribute new knowledge to the additives area and give important implications for designing and manufacturing polymer packaging materials.
The role of cellulose binding domains in the adsorption of cellulases onto fibers and its effect on the enzymatic beating of bleached kraft pulp
Authors: Liu Jun , Hu Huiren
Published: June 2023

The adsorption of cellulases onto fibers may be one of the most important factors affecting the enzymatic reaction between cellulases and fibers. This study investigated the adsorption kinetics involved, using isothermal adsorption equations. Cellulose binding domains (CBDs) were isolated from a commercial cellulase, and their role in the adsorption and enzymatic reaction was evaluated. Approximately 13% to 24% of the refining energy was saved after northern bleached softwood kraft pulp samples were pretreated with full cellulase, CBDs, or cellulase lacking CBDs under optimal conditions. The absence of CBDs in cellulase resulted in less effective enzyme adsorption and hydrolysis of the fibers. These data suggest that pretreatment of northern bleached softwood kraft pulp with CBDs may not only improve the beating degree of the pulp and reduce refining energy consumption but also improve the tensile index of the handsheet. Analysis of the degree of cellulose crystallinity and fiber surface morphology by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy revealed that the CBDs in cellulase help modify the crystalline area and facilitate the enzymatic degradation of cellulose. The adsorption parameters of the cellulases calculated from isothermal adsorption experiments confirmed the role of CBDs in the adsorption of cellulases onto fibers.
Thermal, mechanical, and moisture absorption properties of wood-TiO2 composites prepared by a sol-gel process
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Liu Junliang , Chai Yubo
Published: June 2023

Wood-TiO2 (titania) composites were prepared by a sol-gel process, in which wood was impregnated with the precursor solutions prepared from tetrabutyl titanate (TBT), followed by a curing step. The surface morphology and moisture absorption behavior of the wood composites, as well as their thermal and mechanical performances, were examined. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) analysis revealed that TiO2 gels were deposited principally in the cell lumens and partly in the cell walls, as confirmed by the energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. By this inorganic modification, the hygroscopicity of wood was significantly reduced and its dimensional stability was improved consequently. Greater amounts of TiO2 gel deposited in the cell lumens were not helpful in enhancing the hygroscopicity of wood. Thermal analysis (TG-DTA) showed that the incorporation of TiO2 gel retarded the thermal decomposition of wood matrix and improved the thermal stability of wood. The incorporated inorganic gel seemed to stiffen the wood cell walls, as indicated by the increased resistance of the wood composites to deformation and collapse in compression.
Paper strength development and recyclability with polyamideamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE)
Authors: Su Jielong , Mosse Wade K. J. , Sharman Scot , Batchelor Warren , Garnier Gil
Published: June 2023

The tensile strength behavior and recyclability of the paper prepared with the addition of polyamideamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE) were investigated. The dry and wet tensile strengths obtained with different PAE dosage were measured. The highest wet-to-dry strength ratio of 35% was obtained at 10 mg/g; above this addition level wet strength dropped slightly and then remained constant. The repulpability of strengthened paper was correlated directly with wet strength. The effect of electrolyte on tensile strength was also quantified by varying sodium chloride and calcium chloride concentration in the furnish stock. Without PAE, high salt concentrations (100 mM) reduced the tensile strength by 15-20%. At constant PAE addition level of 10 mg/g, low levels of salt addition (of either 10 mM NaCl or 10 mM CaCl2) slightly improved the strength; paper strength decreased at high salts concentrations. The cation valency and concentration in the process water were important variables which affected the efficiency of PAE. These results present the significance of developing sustainable wet strength agents that can be applied in demanding salty conditions while maintaining the product recyclability.
Densification of wood veneers combined with oil-heat treatment. Part II: Hygroscopicity and mechanical properties
Authors: Fang Chang-Hua , Cloutier Alain , Blanchet Pierre , Koubaa Ahmed
Published: June 2023

In an effort to achieve high mechanical performance and improved dimensional stability, densification combined with . was determined. OHT at 180, 200, and 220ºC for 1, 2, and 3 hours was applied to densified Aspen (Populus tremuloides) veneers. OHT was found to be an efficient treatment to reduce the hygroscopicity of densified aspen veneers, although OHT had a negative impact on Brinell hardness. However, due to the contribution of densification, the hardness of oil-heat treated veneers was still two to three times higher than that of non-densified veneers. Similar results were found for tensile strength. Bending strength increased slightly at low OHT temperature, and then decreased at high temperature. Bending strength of oil-heat treated densified veneer samples was higher than that of non-densified ones. No significant effect of OHT was found on tensile MOE, but bending MOE increased after OHT. Compared to OHT duration, OHT temperature had a larger impact on densified wood hygroscopicity and mechanical properties.
Catalytic conversion of formic acid to methanol with Cu and Al under hydrothermal conditions
Authors: Yao Hansong , Zeng Xu , Cheng Min , Yun Jun , Jing Zhenzi , Jin Fangming
Published: June 2023

Catalytic conversion of formic acid into methanol was investigated with Cu as a catalyst and Al as a reductant under hydrothermal conditions. It was found that formic acid can be converted into methanol by such means. The highest yield of methanol (30.4%) was attained with a temperature of 300 °C and a reaction time of 9 h. The AlO(OH) formed from Al oxidation may also play a catalytic role in the formation of methanol. This process may provide a promising solution to producing methanol from carbohydrate biomass combined with the process of converting the carbohydrate into formic acid, which is expected to emit no CO2.
Biomodification of kenaf using white rot fungi
Authors: Halis Rasmina , Tan Hui Rus , Ashaari Zaidon , Mohamed Rozi
Published: June 2023

White rot fungi can be used as a pretreatment of biomass to degrade lignin. It also alters the structure of the lignocellulosic matter, thus increasing its accessibility to enzymes able to convert polysaccharides into simple sugars. This study compares the ability of two species of white rot fungi, Pycnoporous sanguineus and Oxyporus latemarginatus FRIM 31, to degrade lignin in kenaf chips. The white rot fungi were originally isolated from the tropical forest in Malaysia. Kenaf chips were first inoculated with each fungus separately using corn steep liquor as a fungal growth promoter. The kenaf chips were inoculated with white rot fungus for a period of 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 weeks, after which they were observed under the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Chemical analyses were conducted following TAPPI Standard Methods and Fourier Transmission Infra Red (FTIR). SEM observations showed evidence of fungal colonization. When calculating weight loss, both P. sanguineus and O. latemarginatus FRIM 31 showed the greatest reduction. Amounts by mass of cellulose, hemicelluloses, extractives, and lignin in the treated kenaf chips all were lowered. The results show that O. latemarginatus FRIM 31 had a greater ability to degrade lignin when compared to P. sanguineus .
Study on Mg-Al hydrotalcites in flame-retardant paper preparation
Authors: Wang Songlin , Huang Jianlin , Chen Fushan
Published: June 2023

Mg-Al-CO3 LDH was synthetized, using co-, and was used in flame-retardant paper as filler. The crystallizations, granularities of Mg-Al LDH, and characters of flame-retardant papers were investigated through XRD, FT-IR, TEM, TG-DTA, and SEM techniques. The results indicated that Mg-Al hydrotalcites were layered hexagonal nanoparticles, with high positive charge density, perfectly crystallized structure, and striking performance in furnish retention improvement. Mg-Al hydrotalcites with high whiteness can improve the whiteness of flame-retardant paper; the whiteness of flame-retardant paper increased by 82.1% while the dosage of LDH was 20wt%, but the Mg-Al hydrotalcites affected the strength index of flame-retardant paper adversely. The flame-retardant papers based on fiber using Mg-Al hydrotalcites as fillers showed excellent inflaming retarding performance. The oxygen index of the flame-retardant paper produced was above 25% at the dosage of 20wt%.