bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetic study of immobilized ω-transaminase for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral amine
Authors: Vijaya Kumar S. D. , Handani Z. B. , Abu R.
Published: March 2020

Biocatalysis is a powerful tool for the synthesis of high value products such as, chiral molecules and intermediates. Chiral amines can be synthesized by kinetic resolution of racemic amines or by the asymmetric synthesis from pro-chiral ketones. Kinetic parameter estimation for biocatalytic reaction is useful to evaluate process and technology options. In this work, the Michaelis–Menten kinetic parameters of immobilized ω-transaminase on methacrylate beads for the asymmetric synthesis of (R)-1-phenylethylamine (PEA) from acetophenone (ACP) and alanine (ALA) were determined. The parameters such as, MichaelisMenten constant (Km) and maximum rate of reaction (Vmax) were measured from initial rate experiments by varying ACP concentrations (2 mM to 10 mM) at a fixed 100 mM ALA under mild reaction conditions (pH 7.5 and temperature 30 °C). The concentration of ACP and PEA were measured by gas chromatography. Lineweaver-burk plot was used to estimate the Vmax and Km from the initial rate data. The results yielded a Vmax of 6.87 mM/min and a Km of 2.52 mM. The Michaelis-Menten model is useful for understanding the kinetic properties of immobilized enzymes.
Pyrolysis Study of mixed plastics waste
Authors: Jadhao S B , Seethamraju S
Published: March 2020

There is limited work reported on the pyrolysis of mixed plastics waste. The objective of this work is to investigate the effect of interaction of various types of plastics on the quality and yields of liquid oil obtained from pyrolysis. The plastics chosen in this work were polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) since their combination contributes to approximately 80% of the plastics waste in India. In addition, previous studies showed that polyolefins (HDPE, LDPE, PP, and PS) were best suited for chemical recycling through pyrolysis. Experiments were performed in a bench-scale batch reactor with individual components (PE, PP and PS) and binary mixtures of them in various proportions. In this study, the dependent variables were the yields and quality of pyrolysis products. There was non- linearity observed in the liquid and gas yield and product composition with varying mixture constitution. This study on interaction effects is envisaged to help in further development and scale-up of the plastic pyrolysis process.
Photodegradation of Paracetamol using Electrosynthesized Silver Supported on Durio Zibethinus Husk
Authors: Jusoh N W C , Mustapha M H , Masudi A , Jaafar N F
Published: March 2020

An advanced oxidation process (AOPs) using heterogeneous semiconductor photocatalysts such as TiO2, ZnO, CuO, and ZrO2 have become a popular method for the removal of toxic pollutants from wastewater. Recently, the noble metal nanoparticles (NPs), such as silver (Ag), gold (Au) and platinum (Pt) has also been intensively studied and show the intense UV and visible light absorbance capability. However, the usage of pure noble metal might be limited due to its cost, hence the utilization of support material is needed. Herein in this study, a simple electrochemical method was used to prepare a series of Ag (5, 10 and 15 wt%) loaded onto Durio Zibethinus Husk (Ag/DZH) as support material. The synthesized catalyst was examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to measure the crystallinity, chemical composition and morphology, respectively. Additionally, the effect of Ag loading on DZH catalysts was evaluated through photocatalytic reaction to degrade 5 mg/L of pH 9 paracetamol in aqueous solution using 0.03 g/L catalyst. Among the catalysts, 10 wt% Ag/DZH shows the highest degradation rate of 0.01197 mg/L.min due to its size, well distribution as well as metal-support interaction.
Photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange using Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs) derived from watermelon rinds
Authors: Remli U R R P , Aziz A A
Published: March 2020

In this study, a facile synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) was successfully conducted by hydrothermal treatment at mild temperature (120 °C) using watermelon rinds as carbon precursor. The synthesized CQDs was aimed to harvest the visible light from artificial source for photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) dye. The prepared CQDs were characterized by TEM to check the physical properties. The produced CQDs demonstrated a band of spherical dots which display a complete dispersion of particles in water. The spherical morphology of the CQDs was clearly seen with narrow size distribution, averagely around 1 -5 nm in diameter. The CQDs exhibited an excellent photocatalytic performance with 68.9% of MO degradation rate within 120 min reaction owing to the large surface area for adsorption and reaction process to take place.
Blue luminescence carbon quantum dots derived from oil palm empty fruit bunch biomass
Authors: Mahat Nur Akma , Shamsudin Siti Aisyah
Published: March 2020

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have attracted tremendous attention for their interesting properties such as excellent chemical and photo stability, good water dispersibility, biocompatibility and possessing outstanding photoluminescence (PL) properties. In this study, oil palm biomass is used as the carbon precursor to produce CQDs and exhibit high luminescent properties. However, a large amount of biomass produces by the oil palm industry is either burnt in the open air or disposed in waste ponds and contributes to global climate change via emissions of carbon dioxide and methane. Hence, synthesis the CQDs from oil palm biomass by hydrothermal treatment method has formed excellent properties in optical properties that could be comparable to semiconductor quantum dots. The results have shown the diameter size of CQDs in the range of 2-5 nm. While, the optical properties, UV-vis spectrum of CQDs have given a strong absorption at 282 nm and obtains in brown color under visible light and emitting blue luminescence under 365 nm of UV lamp. Furthermore, PL spectra of CQDs have shown excitation and emission wavelength at 360 nm and 450 nm, respectively. This is attribute to the excitation-wavelength dependent of PL properties. Hence, the spectra from FTIR showed the existence of hydroxyl and carboxyl groups on the CQDs would have originated from lignocellulosic materials, thus resulted in excellent water stability and solubility properties of CQDs. The presented study is the green approached reprocessed biomass from waste to materials with excellent optical properties that could utilize in various field of applications.
Preparation and physicochemical properties of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8)/rice husk derived graphene (GRHA) nanohybrid composites
Authors: Arifin N F T , Yusof N , Nordin N A H M , Raimi N I C , Jaafar J , Ismail A F , Aziz F , Salleh W N W
Published: March 2020

This paper proposes an improve nanohybrid composites of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8)/Rice husk Derived Graphene (GRHA). The main goal of this work is to prepare the nanohybrid composites with high surface area and enhanced porosity. The composite is prepared via aqueous room temperature method which is simple and fast. Based on Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis, it shows that the produced ZIF- 8 is in sodalite (SOD) structure while GRHA is in amorphous due to the presence of multilayer graphene. Raman analysis shows that the prepared GRHA has a high degree of graphitization. The BET specific surface area (BETSSA) is found to increase up to three times higher (1632.10 m2/g) as compared to pristine GRHA (518.11 m2/g) and ZIF-8 (687.32 m2/g) respectively. Therefore, it is envisaged that this composite can be very useful for hydrogen storage.
The effects of biomass binders and moisture content on the mechanical durability of rice husk pellets
Authors: Abdul-Rahman A A , Yusoff N , Abd-Rahman A
Published: March 2020

Paddy straw and rice husk (RH) are considered agricultural waste. About 22 wt% of paddy is RH, which is normally disposed of by open burning. Pelletizing RH increases the bulk density of the waste and is capable of providing benefits such as ease of transport and potentially a more efficient fuel for combustion. This will allow for RH to be utilized for more meaningful applications instead of just being burnt. However, one of the main challenges of producing RH pellets is their low durability, causing pellets to be broken into fines and dust during transportation and thus making them unattractive to potential buyers. This work aims to investigate suitable locally-sourced biomass waste as binder compounds that could improve the mechanical durability of RH pellets. Here, the effects of binder types, binder contents and moisture contents on RH pellet durability were evaluated. Palm kernel shell (PKS), palm oil mill effluent (POME) and sawdust were selected due to their abundance in Malaysia. In general, it was observed that the mean durability improved as moisture contents increased. More specifically, pellets with PKS and POME binders improved mean durability whereas sawdust deteriorated the durability. The results presented would be beneficial for the improvement of RH pellet production for domestic and export consumptions.
Formation of NaY zeolite membrane: influence of intermediate layer and its characterization
Authors: Aimen Isa M , Hanif Halim M , Chew Thiam Leng , Yeong Yin Fong
Published: March 2020

In the synthesis process of zeolite membranes, the zeolites crystals are crystallized and grow during crystallization period to form polycrystalline film.Secondary growth method is an effective method to synthesis high quality zeolite membranes which involves two main steps which are coating and hydrothermal treatment (HT) synthesis. There are several problems associated with the coating process in secondary growth method such as lack of good adherence of the seeds, rough surface of the support, and thermal mismatch between the zeolite seeds and supports during hydrothermal process. In order to solve these issues, an intermediate layer (buffer layer) could be applied between the support and the seeds layer hence to reduce the defects forms during the hydrothermal treatment (HT) synthesis process. In current study, two different types of intermediate layer were studied and results were compared in terms of zeolite seeds coverage on the surface of the support and zeolite layer formed during subsequent hydrothermal treatment (HT) to form zeolite membranes. The formed zeolite membranes were characterized with X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX).
Investigation on the water absorbency, chemical and thermal properties of superabsorbent poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide)/spent coffee ground composite
Authors: Lim H L , Mazlan S N A , Ghazali S , Abd Rahim S , Jamari S S
Published: March 2020

Superabsorbent polymer (SAP) is defined as a material that can absorb huge amount of water while remain its original shape without loss the water or aqueous solution that had been absorb. The incorporation of filler in SAP could increase the water absorbency of the polymer. Thus, this work aim to investigate the properties of spent coffee ground (SCG) bio- filler into the SAP network using inverse suspension polymerization method. The structural, thermal and also morphological characterizations of the synthesized SAPs were performed by FTIR, TGA, and FESEM techniques. Based on the results obtained, the optimum of water absorbency of SAP was shown at SAP_0.05SCG filler respectively. For the effect of filler loading, the observed result was supported by FESEM microstructures of SAP where the surface morphology of all sample with varied filler composition shown coarse surface. It is observed using FTIR spectra that the O-H band is broader and sharper at SAP_0.05SCG compared to the control and the SCG filler. For the TGA, the SAP_0.05SCG is easier to thermally degrade compared to the control. Thus, this research has proved that the SCG is able to enhance the water absorbency of superabsorbent polymer which could give better contributions in various applications.
Improvement of ethylene epoxidation by palladium–silver catalysts in a low-temperature dielectric barrier discharge system
Authors: Suttikul T , Photsathian T , Chavadej S
Published: March 2020

This work was to improve the ethylene (C2H4) epoxidation reaction by adding different catalysts in a low-temperature dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) system. The studied catalysts for the ethylene epoxidation were 0.1 wt.% silver (Ag), 0.005 wt.% palladium (Pd), 0.01 wt.% Pd, and 0.01 wt.% Pd-0.1 wt.% Ag catalysts, which were coated on the second half surface of the frosted glass plates, used as a dielectric barrier material. A separate O2/C2H4 feed with a C2H4 feed position fraction of 0.5 was employed to suppress all undesired reactions and to enhance the EO selectivity. The C2H4 separate feed from O2 reduced opportunity of the collision between C2H4 molecules with high energetic electrons, causing the reduction in carbon monoxide (CO) formation, carbon dioxide (CO2) formation, dehydrogenation, C2H4 cracking, and ethylene oxide (EO) oxidation. Interestingly, the presence of any active catalyst (0.1 wt.% Ag, 0.01 wt.% Pd or 0.01 wt.%Pd-0.1 wt.% Ag catalysts) provided the significant increases in the EO selectivity due to the addition of surface reactions on the active sites of the applied catalysts. The bimetallic 0.01 wt.% Pd-0.1 wt.% Ag catalyst in the DBD system exhibited the best synergistic process performance in terms of the highest EO selectivity and yield. The addition of the Pd on the 0.1 wt.% Ag catalyst promoted the reaction of oxametallacycle (OMC) intermediate to form the desired EO and maximized the difference in the activation energies between the desired EO formation and undesired acetaldehyde formation of OMC, resulting in the improved EO selectivity.
Isolation of Bacillus strains inhibition disease resistance of Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease on the Shrimp in Can Gio, Vietnam
Authors: Phung L T , Phuong T T M , Phung N K , Nicolas M
Published: March 2020

Recently, the outbreak and severe damage to the shrimp farming industry is Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) or Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND). The selection of Bacillus strains inhibition disease resistance of the acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease on the shrimp is a research filed that is much attention due to Bacillus subtilis is a group of beneficial bacteria that presents in the majority of biological products for aquaculture, especially for shrimp. Competitiveness of Bacillus subtilis towards the harmful bacteria firstly is the number of bacterial cells. Beside, Bacillus has capacity to create a large amount of extracellular enzymes aid digestion, antibiotics or the inhibitor has the characteristic for resistance to the strains of Vibrio Parahaemolyticus. In this work, the inhibition ability of the Bacillus strains for the AHPND on the brackish water shrimp is studied. In which, the Bacreria is isolated and filtered from shrimp farm in Can Gio province that contain the characteristic of antagonizing Vibrio parahaemolyticus, which cause AHPND on shrimp in laboratory conditions. The results show that Bacillus subtilis produced 2,5 – Diketopiperazines capable to inbihite the growth of pandemic strain of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Landy media for hightest activity was 200 AU/mL after 24 h of culture. This research is create the possibility of using probiotics to control the pantogenic clones Vibrio parahaemolyticus that cause AHPND for brackish water shrimp farming in Can Gio province as well as other areas in Vietnam.
Evaluation of polyphenol, anthocyanin content and antioxidant capacity of some Vietnamese fruits
Authors: Pham T N , Nhan L T H , Cang M H , Lam T D , Thu D N A , Nguyen T Q , Danh V T
Published: March 2020

Polyphenol-rich fruits are plant materials of interest due to the high anthocyanin content and number of antioxidant compounds. Besides, anthocyanins also possess other various beneficial properties, including antioxidant activity and mitigation of risk of circulatory diseases. In this study, different polyphenol-rich fruit species including Ficus racemosa, Fragaria ananassa, Passiflora edulis, Carissa carandas Linn, and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa were harvested and compared for total anthocyanin content, total phenolic, and antioxidant activity. Extraction conditions included solvent of 50% ethanol, material/solvent ratio of 1:5, temperature of 60°C temperature and extraction time of 30 minutes. In terms of total phenolic content, Fig fruit achieved 136.08 mg GAE/g. Among examined fruits, strawberries contained the largest amounts of anthocyanin (355.27 mg cy-3glu L−1). Passion fruit showed the highest antioxidant activity (409.89ug/mL). The results of this study are expected to contribute to further development in utilization of the said fruits and open new pathways in enhancing value of agricultural products in Vietnam.
A design on the collimator for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) research facility at the thermal column of TRIGA MARK II
Authors: Shalbi S , Sazali N , Wan Salleh W N
Published: March 2020

The development of the Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) facility in Malaysia can be performed at the thermal column of the Malaysia research reactor. TRIGA MARK II is one of the facilities that can provide neutron source for BNCT facility. The specification of neutron flux and the gamma dose rate must consider for the development of the BNCT facility as a safety precaution for this research. Based on previous research, the thermal column identified as a suitable place for BNCT facility. To design the neutron collimator for BNCT purpose, the characterization of material towards thermal neutron flux explored using TLD and Microspec-6 and the collimator design was simulate using Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) software based on the characterize materials in order to produce high thermal neutron flux. The combination of lead, HDPE, 30% borated polyethylene and aluminium as collimator design D1 simulate the highest thermal neutron 1.5770 x 109 neutron.cm−2s−1 and suitable for BNCT research purpose at the thermal column.
Optimization of Rebaudioside A extraction from stevia leaves using response surface methodology
Authors: Muthusamy K , Abdul Munaim M S
Published: March 2020

Rebaudioside A or Reb A is an extractable component from stevia leaves or scientifically known as Stevia rebaudiana. Reb A is famous for its exceptional sweetness and widely used as a non-caloric sweetener. Its potential widespread use requires an easy and effective extraction method. In this study, extraction of Reb A from stevia leaves with parameters such as temperature, material ratio and extraction time were investigated. Time of extraction were 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3 hours. Temperature was varied at 400C, 450C, 500C, 55

0

C and 600C. Material ratio was 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20 and 1:25. Then, using Design Expert software, the ranges of the parameters were entered in the Central Composite Design (CCD) to create 20 different combinations of parameters for extraction. After executing the experiments, the yield of Reb A obtained was keyed in Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for optimization. Finally, the optimum condition was tested and validated by calculating the percentage error. Since the percentage error was less than 10%, the optimum condition, which is, 350C, 1:6 material ratio and 5 hours of extraction was accepted.
Modified recycled paper-based adsorbent for nickel removal
Authors: Awang N A , Salleh W N W , Hasbullah H , Ahmad S Z N , Ismail N H , Rosman N , Yusof N
Published: March 2020

The outcome from the industrialization and urbanization promotes the environmental problems especially related to the release of heavy metals. The adsorption method is a promising technique among all the available approaches in heavy metal removal treatment due to its high efficiency, low cost, and simplicity in design and operation. A good selection of solid sorbent becomes one of the greatest problems in adsorption technique. In this present work, we developed recycled paper-based cellulose adsorbent grafted with acrylonitrile in the presence of ceric ammonium nitrate as the initiator. The modified adsorbent was used to adsorb Ni(II) from the aqueous solution. The adsorption process was conducted at different operational conditions by varying the pH of the solution, initial concentration of the Ni(II), and the contact time for the adsorption to reach equilibrium and obtained the highest adsorption capacity. The result demonstrated that the grafted recycled paper-based cellulose adsorbent had improved the adsorption capacity of Ni(II) ions. The most propitious condition obtained was at pH 5 after 1 h, with an initial concentration of 160 mg/L of Ni(II) ions; the removal reached 317.5 mg/g (79.3% removal). The surface studies of the adsorbent before and after Ni(II) ions adsorption was analyzed by using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The adsorption equilibrium data of Ni(II) ions was best described by the Freundlich and Pseudo-second-order model. Conclusively, the prepared grafted recycled paper-based cellulose adsorbent proved to be competitive and a promising adsorbent for the removal of Ni(II) ion from aqueous solution, as well as in wastewater treatment application.
Influence of monsoon seasons on accidental chlorine leak and dispersion around Gebeng industrial area
Authors: Law W P , Abdul Aziz B , Rani S I , Gimbun J
Published: March 2020

This paper presents the prediction of hypothetical chlorine leak dispersion around Gebeng industrial area using Areal Location of Hazardous Atmosphere (ALOHA) software. The effect of the different wind speed and direction to chlorine dispersion in the meteorological microscale area was investigated. The wind speed ranging from 1.32 to 10.7 m/s obtained from a local weather station was considered. Heavy gas dispersion model was used to determine the concentration of chlorine plume within the area of concern. The leakage rate was set to correspond to a leakage from the chlorine tank at 792 kg/h. The result showed that the residential areas R1 and R2 are affected by the plume dispersed by southwest and northern winds, respectively. A greater hazard area was found when the wind speed is below 2.3 m/s. Meanwhile, the hazard zone reduced to nearly half when the wind speed is above 5.4 m/s. The appropriate evacuation routes were developed to reduce risk of exposure to toxic gas. Finding from this work is useful to understand the risk of noxious gas dispersion around Gebeng industrial area.
Study on humic acid derived from EFB based vermicompost as biopesticide
Authors: Khiew A A M , Lew J H , Shamsuddin M R , Aqsha  , Mustapa N I , Narasimha M M
Published: March 2020

The increment of global population by 1.1% annually demands higher agricultural yield to ensure sustainable food source which leads to intensive usage of chemical fertilizer and pesticide. However, this practice poses various environmental and health problems which ultimately encourages the development of safer organic fertilizers and bio-pesticides. One potential method is to utilize Humic Acid (HA), a natural plant’s growth promoter, present in organic compost as an environmental-friendly fertilizer as well as insect control agent. This study investigated the effectiveness of HA extracted from vermicompost of Palm Oil Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) as biopesticide. HA was extracted from the vermicompost via alkaline extraction followed by precipitation in strong acid that resulted in HA mass yield of 2.336%. The insect repellent ability of HA, Garlic Extract (GE) and 87% GE + 13% HA was investigated by spraying the solution onto soil samples in the presence of crickets. The effectiveness of the insect control agents was determined by recording the number of crickets avoiding the infected area. The test revealed that the insects exhibited most repulsive behavior towards 87% GE + 13% HA, followed by HA and lastly GE. The results indicate that HA has the potential to be used as biopesticide, with higher prospect when combined with GE. The dual benefits of HA utilization as plant growth promoter and insect repellent promise a more sustainable approach towards modern agriculture.
Stability analysis and improvement evaluation on residual soil slope: building cracked and slope failure
Authors: Goh J R , Ishak M F , Zaini M S I , Zolkepli M F
Published: March 2020

A case study of the building and road utilities which was loading directly on the slope at IIUM, Kuantan campus was damaged due to slope failure and landslide. This research are conducted to investigate and analyze the soil properties and parameters which affected the stability of residual soil slope against failure by conducting a comprehensive laboratory testing and software analysis. The properties of soil are determined from several physical index tests and shear strength tests. Numerical simulation model from engineering software SLOPE/W were performed to show the stability analysis (Factor of Safety - FOS) of typical residual soil slope without reinforcement and new innovative design of slope with reinforcement. This paper presents two types of slope design which are single reinforcement load and combination reinforcement loads. Through this research it is proved that both single and combination reinforcement load can improve the soil properties and parameters of the residual soil slope. The new slope design successfully proved to produce positive results by achieving up to 82.49% of stability improvement (FOS) within the correct position of reinforcement load added at failure slip surface on the slope.
Monitoring soil slope of tropical residual soil by using tree water uptake method
Authors: Zaini M S I , Ishak M F , Zolkepli M F
Published: March 2020

From years to years, the construction of residential buildings at hill-site in Malaysia will lead to various fatalities event. Cutting down of trees can vanish the reinforcement provided by the root of tree to the soil by means of weakening the soil shear strength due to the increasing value of pore water pressure and decreasing value of effective stress. Root of a tree plays an important part in preventing landslides event to occur either it is by modifying the soil moisture regime via evapotranspiration or providing root reinforcement within the soils. Water uptake by plant roots is fundamental in many applications agriculture. This study is conducted to explores the vegetation approach by using tropical mature tree and monitors the activeness of the root zone of a tree that lies at the top of the slope by which the data of the matric suction generated within this section of the slope is recorded by using Tensiometer and applied to the slope stability problem to increase the value of factor of safety (FOS). Based on the research conducted, it is proven that by using tree water uptake method can increase the FOS of the slope up to 57%. In retrospect, the method used in preventing the landslides event to occur at the slope is economical and eco-friendly which can be implemented globally as this is the most nature method to prevent landslide and required low cost compared to other methods.
Effect of Al Content on Microstructure and Properties of Zn-Cu-Al Alloy
Authors: Wang Hongxing , Zhang Yan , Wang Changsheng , Cao Shuo , Bai Wan , Wu Canhui , Qian Jiahao
Published: March 2020

Zn-Cu-Al zinc alloy was prepared by metal mould casting. The effects of Al addition on the microstructure, electrical conductivity and wear resistance of Zn-Cu-Al alloy were studied. The results show that the structure of Zn-Cu-Al alloy is composed of Zn solid solution containing Cu and Al (η phase), eutectic phase (α+η) and CuZn5 (ε phase); Al0.4Zn0.6 phase appeared when Al addition content exceeded 2.0wt.%; With the increase of Al addition content, eutectic phase (α+η) content increased and η phase grain refined. Meanwhile, the hardness and electrical conductivity of the alloy increase with the increase of Al addition content. When the addition of Al is 5.0 wt.%, the hardness and electrical conductivity of the alloy reach the maximum, 151HV and 26.4% IACS, respectively. The wear mechanism of the alloy is mainly plastic deformation with a mixture mode of plastic deformation and adhesion.
Design and Experimental Study of Wire Saw Machine for Cutting Oil Pipeline
Authors: Cao Liwen , Miao Shuaitong
Published: March 2020

According to the structural characteristics of the oil pipeline, repair cutting quality requirements, designed a special cutting wire saw machine. The structural characteristics of the oil pipeline and the variation of the area of the steel pipe section and the slit width of the oil pipeline are analyzed. The structural form, working principle and technical parameters of the hydraulic power system of the wire saw machine are determined. The wire sawing machine cut the oil pipeline and tested it, and established a mathematical model of the cutting force, two correspondences were obtained, one of which is the beading cutting force and wear rate of the wire saw machine, and the other is the feed speed and cutting speed. Engineering practice has proved that the use of wire saws to cut oil pipelines is an effective cutting method, both cutting quality and cutting efficiency are superior to other cutting methods.
3D Motion Simulation of Engineering Equipment Working Mechanism Based on Reverse Drive Mode
Authors: Chu Weijun , Zhu Zicheng
Published: March 2020

The working mechanism of engineering equipment has a relatively complicated structure which contains many kinematical pairs, its 3D motion simulation is a difficult problem. Based on the reverse drive mode linked by forward kinematics, 3D motion simulation model of working mechanism is analysed, and the kinematic chains are further established. General procedure of reverse drive mode is summed up, and the establishment strategy of reverse kinematic chain is expounded. This paper discussed these problems of adjusting motion axis and restraining DOF in reverse drive mode, and illustrated the controllers which control the form of 3D motion simulation. Through the above method, the 3d motion simulation of the working mechanism is realized. The analysis indicates that the 3D motion simulation of engineering equipment working mechanism based on reverse drive mode have more flexible use, convenient control and lifelike simulation result.
Analysis of Man-machine-environment System in Industrial Design and Comprehensive Evaluation of Products Man-machine Relationship
Authors: Chen Wei
Published: March 2020

The study of safety, reliability and amenity in industrial design is to analyze the factors in the “man-machine-environment” system by means of ergonomics so as to provide reliable design parameters and test data for product design. According to ergonomics, how about the design of product man-machine relationship? Does safety, reliability and suitability meet the design requirements? This requires a more objective and fair evaluation standard. The evaluation of product man-machine system is not only the judgment of the value of the product designed, but also the judgment of the product design results. Based on the analysis of various factors in the “man-machine-environment” system, this paper presents a comprehensive evaluation method of man-machine relationship of products by using fuzzy theory.
Software Implementation Analysis of Fingerprint Identification System
Authors: Liu Ruijie
Published: March 2020

With the fast development of E-time, the scope of Human-Computer Interaction Techniques’ application has become broader and broader. At the same time, the information security and identity verification have drawn increasing attention. Fingerprint recognition technology, which has played an important role in finance, internet, medicine and security fields, develops first, and is relatively more mature in these three. This paper mainly discusses the software part of the fingerprint recognition system. The extract of fingerprint’s image is directly from existing fingerprint database. Then a series of preprocessing, such as the grid, segment, smooth and converge of images, and so on, will be done. By doing these, image features could be extracted, so as to match the images of fingerprint. This paper using an implementation method, based on VC6.0 environment, in the sections of image’s preprocessing and feature matching, which contains 2 easy-operation function modules.
Preparation And Electrochemical Performance of Nano Si@Short Hard Carbon Fiber Composites as Anodes for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wang J , Liu X Y , Xing A
Published: March 2020

The bamboo paper was soaked by the silica sol. After drying, the nano-silicon@short hard carbon fiber was prepared by vacuum high-temperature carbonization treatment followed by grind, which was one-dimensional composite. The structure and morphology of the composite material were characterized by X-ray diffraction and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the diameter of the short hard carbon fiber is about 2∼8 μm and the length is about several tens of microns. The nano-silicon particles are sparsely distributed on the outer wall of the short bamboo charcoal fiber. The adhesion between nano silicon and short hard carbon fiber is strong due to the effect of thermal diffusion and Van der Waals’ force. The prepared nano-silicon@short hard carbon fiber composite was used as a negative electrode material for lithium battery for charge and discharge test. When the current density was 100 mA.g−1, the capacity was only attenuated by 6.54% after 50 cycles. Meanwhile, the composite also exhibits well rate performance.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation on Dielectric Constant and Thermal Conductivity of Crosslink Epoxy/functionalized graphene Nano-composites
Authors: Shen L , Zou L , Ding M , Zhao T , Zhang L , Li Q
Published: March 2020

Nanoscale graphene fillers are expected to enhance electronic and thermal properties of polymers owing to the superior performances of graphene. In this paper, dielectric constant and thermal conductivity of crosslink epoxy/functionalized graphene nano-composites were investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. The results show that graphene nanoplatelets (GN) can improve performances of polymer matrix, covalent functional groups can further enhance this improvement. Among different functional groups, hydroxyl is more effective than carboxyl and amino in reducing dielectric constant. Correspondingly, the introduction of graphene fillers also leads to an increase in thermal conductivity. GN and amino functionalized GN raise thermal conductivity of crosslink epoxy by 30.69% and 44.86% respectively. All the results demonstrate that functionalization of GN can suppress polarization and enhance thermal transportation.
Preparation and Characterization of Anatine TiO2/Expanded Graphite with High Expansion Volume
Authors: Qi Lai , Fuchang Peng , Chanyu i Zhong , Xueping Luo , Lei Liu , Chuanhai Xiao
Published: March 2020

Element of Ti was introduced to expandable graphite surface by Sol-gel method; TiO2/expanded graphite was prepared after expansion of high temperatures. Detection by scanning electron microscope(SEM), X-ray diffraction(XRD), energy disperse spectroscopy(EDS) and differential scanning calorimetry(DSC) to semples, the results were founded: The better process conditions with high expansion volume are as follows: graphite that particle size is more than 180μm, expansion temperature is about 650°C-750°C. The contents of Ti in compounds of anatine TiO2/expanded graphite can be reached 3.16%; the volume of compounds can be reached 234ml/g. The results showed that the lower temperature and smaller particle size of graphite is benefit for anatine type of TiO2, but higher temperature is good to high expansion volume. The preparation condition should be balanced with crystal type, heat loss and expansion volume.
Theoretical Analysis of Two Evaporator Configurations for a Conventional Refrigerator Coupled To a Phase Change Material
Authors: Berdja M , Yahi F , Tetbirt A , Ouali M , Djebiret M A , Mokrane M
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we present the study and development of prototypes of refrigeration systems that operate more efficiently and consume less electrical energy, and this based on the use of Phase change materials (PCM) as thermal energy storage (TES). These materials have the ability to store thermal energy on its latent heat form, which is produced during off-peak periods, and then release this thermal energy to the consumer during the desired period or during periods when electrical demand is high. The effect of phase change material on the energy performance of a conventional refrigerator has been highlighted for two different evaporator configurations; a flat evaporator and a ventilated finned evaporator. An analysis to select the adequate phase change material (PCM) as well as its arrangement to be integrated into the refrigerator, and the mechanism by which the PCM affects the refrigerator operating conditions according to the type of evaporator has also been discussed.
The study of a small-sized Thai chili paste supply chain
Authors: Srilarp J , Ongkunaruk P
Published: March 2020

The highly competitive lifestyle results in the increasing demand for ready to eat food. In Thailand, chili paste is a traditional food that has been passed down from generation to generation. It plays an important role in Thai meals and becomes more popular in convenience stores and hypermarkets. The objectives of this study are to explore the current supply chain of a small-sized Thai chili paste enterprise, to analyze the business processes and identify the problem and provide the recommendation for improvement. First, we observe and perform an in-depth interview of the owner and staff for realizing the business process. Then, the result is analyzed by using the Integration Definition for Function Modeling (IDEF0) to show the existing stakeholders and current key activities in Thai chili paste. The major problems are lack of data collection, low forecast accuracy, lack of inventory management, and low productivity. The proper controls are proposed. Finally, our guidelines could enhance the productivity of other small-sized enterprises which can increase the potential capability for domestic and international markets.
The improvement of the high value-added supply chain: a cordyceps beverage case study
Authors: Poochinya P , Ongkunaruk P
Published: March 2020

A healthy food trend is becoming popular which makes people become more aware of taking care of themselves. This causes the growth of healthy business phenomena such as supplements and herb in Thailand. Cordyceps which is known as “winter worm summer grass” is a famous Chinese herbal medicine and very expensive because it is rare. People believe that it provides benefits for enhancing health and boosting energy. Today Thai farmers and entrepreneurs can cultivate cordyceps by themselves resulting in widespread use and lower the price. The objective of this research is to analyze a cordyceps beverage supply chain of a small-sized entrepreneur using Integration Definition for Function Modeling (IDEF0). It explains the overall flow of business and related activity of cordyceps beverage. Then we conduct an analysis of the current problems and recommend how to improve the efficiency of the supply chain. Currently, there is a lack of systematic data collection, no proper KPI and inventory policy and low forecast accuracy. We recommend the entrepreneur to use the spreadsheet for forecasting and record data, create KPI to evaluate performance, set standard and target. Establish an inventory policy to manage material and evaluate supplier’s performance. We hope our research will promote the entrepreneur to stay competitive in the dynamic market.
The use of physical simulation to evaluate thermal properties of food containers in cold chain logistics
Authors: Chaitanoo N , Ongkunaruk P , Leingpibul D
Published: March 2020

Cold chain logistics has gained significant attention among all stakeholders in the food and pharmaceutical delivery industries due to the stricter food safety enforcement and tighter quality assurance [1-3]. Most cold chain logistics providers seek to determine the right packaging that ensures temperature control delivery in order to gain and/or retain their competitive advantage in the market place. Nowadays, materials such as Polystyrene Foam (PS), Polyethylene-Nylon (PE-Nylon), and Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) are widely used in the construction of delivery boxes. The objective of this study is to use a physical simulation approach to determine which materials are most suitable for delivery boxes. First, three delivery boxes with different materials (PS, PE-Nylon and VIP) were used as test subjects in this study. Second, the cold chain delivery process was simulated for each box and the temperature at each critical point had been measured throughout the delivery process. Third, data analysis was performed by comparing the temperature pattern among all three subjects. The thermal conductivity data for each box was calculated by mathematic equations to help interpret the results. The result showed that the box made from VIP material showed the best thermal resistance. The application of this thermal conductivity estimation procedure might help guide food delivery related practitioners to determine the best materials for their delivery box equipment and the findings might help effectively and efficiently improve their delivery services.
Influence of ethylene glycol treatment on conductivity and stability of poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate coated cotton yarn
Authors: Pattanarat K , Petchsang N , Jaisutti R
Published: March 2020

Recently electronic textiles have received much interest due to their board applications in wearable electronics such as solar energy, physical and chemical sensors. In this work, the conductive cotton is prepared by dip coating poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) on commercial cotton yarn. The electrical conductivity of conductive cotton can be enhanced by secondary treated PEDOT:PSS with ethylene glycol (EG). The EG-treated conductive cotton exhibits lower resistance of 600 Ω/cm by comparison with the pristine PEDOT:PSS coated cotton yarn (110 kΩ/cm). The electrical resistances of the conductive cottons are also investigated as a function of temperature and humidity. The pristine conductive cotton increases in electrical resistance as the temperature increases, while there is no resistance change for EG-treated conductive cotton. SEM images show well distribute of PEDOT:PSS on the cotton yarn surface. FTIR analysis also confirms the residue of PEDOT:PSS coated on cotton yarn. In addition, the treated conductive cotton exhibit high stability under air as they show slightly change in electrical resistance after keeping for 30 days.
Biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)/wheat gluten blends: Effect of PBAT modification on morphological, mechanical and water adsorption properties
Authors: Saraphat K , Phaorung R , Saengsuk U , Hemsri S
Published: March 2020

Biodegradable polymer blends between poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and wheat gluten (WG) were prepared in various ratios of 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50 by weight. Modified PBAT with maleic anhydride (PBAT-g-MA) was used as a compatibilizer in this work. Morphological, mechanical and impact properties as well as water adsorption of the PBAT/WG blends with and without the compatibilizer were investigated. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis revealed that the PBAT/WG blends with PBAT-g-MA showed a better compatibility between PBAT and WG phases. Moreover, addition of the compatibilizer into the blends significantly improved tensile strength, elongation at break and impact strength compared to the PBAT/WG blends without compatibilizer. Furthermore, water adsorption of the blends with compatibilizer is lower than that of uncompatibilized PBAT/WG blends.
Applicability of density functional and wave function theories combined with the three-dimensional reference interaction site model self-consistent field method to the d–d transitions of a transition metal aqua complex
Authors: Yang C , Watanabe Y , Yoshida N , Nakano H
Published: March 2020

The applicability of density functional theory (DFT) and wave function theory combined with the three-dimensional reference interaction site model self-consistent field method to the d–d transitions of transition metal aqua complexes was examined using [Cr(H2O)6]3+ in aqueous solution as an example. DFTs with hybrid functionals, multiconfigurational self-consistent field followed by perturbation theory, and coupled-cluster singles and doubles (CCSD) followed by the equation of motion CCSD, gave reasonable d–d transition energies.
The Reference Interaction Site Model Integrated Calculator (RISMiCal) program package for nano- and biomaterials design
Authors: Yoshida Norio
Published: March 2020

Solvent molecules play an essential role in various chemical, physical, and biological processes in solution phase. The reference interaction site model (RISM) and its three-dimensional extension (3D-RISM) are powerful tools for considering the solvation effect on chemical reactions, biological functions, and structure formation upon coupling with the quantum chemistry electronic structure theory and/or molecular dynamics simulation technique. We recently developed the reference interaction site model integrated calculator (RISMiCal) program package based on the RISM and 3D-RISM theories, which has interfaces for external programs such as GAMESS and Tinker. The features of the RISMiCal package are reviewed here.
Non-destructive assessment of moisture content and modulus of rupture of sawn timber Hevea wood using near infrared spectroscopy technique
Authors: Ruangkhasap S , Noypitak S , Noknoi W , Terdwongworakul A
Published: March 2020

The sawn timber Para rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) wood is an important wood product accounting for the highest export value of Thailand. The objective of this research was to build a prediction model of moisture content and modulus of rupture of sawn timber Hevea wood samples using desktop near infrared spectrometer. The timber samples were collected from the southern region and eastern region of Thailand and scanned using Fourier transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectrometer in a range of 12489–3594 cm−1 (800-2700 nm) in diffuse reflectance mode. Then they were determined for moisture content and modulus of rupture (MOR) following ASTM. The predictive models were built by the partial least squares regression (PLSR). The result showed high performance in prediction of moisture content with correlation coefficient of prediction, Rp = 0.89 and root mean square error of prediction; RMSEP = 0.70%db. Regarding a predictive model of modulus of rupture, the results showed fair performance giving Rp = 0.78 and RMSEP = 17.11 MPa. Therefore, using near-infrared spectroscopy technique to predict the moisture content and strength based on the modulus of rupture of timber Hevea wood offered a rapid and non-destructive measurement as an alternative to the destructive checking the quality of sawn timber Hevea wood.
The exchange bias effects of CoFe2O4@NiO nanofibers fabricated by electrospinning
Authors: Dai Jianfeng , Feng Wei , Cheng Chen , Wen Xinchao
Published: March 2020

Exchange bias effect(HEB) systems offer various technological application, which has been playing a key role in spintronics. CoFe2O4@NiO with core–shell nanostructure has been synthesized through coaxial electronspinning. The exchange bias of CoFe2O4@NiO is different in the different molar ratio of core to shell, when the ratio of core to shell is 1:3, its maximum value is of 763 Oe at 5 K. Also, the values of Mr, Ms, Mr/Ms and Hc at 300 K and 5 K are first increases then decreases due to the molar ratio of NiO, its pinning effect play a vital role. Its anisotropy and magnetic domain structure have been primarily studied. The improvement of Hc will influence the HEB, which has a significant application value in spintronic devices.