bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite Element Analysis on the Fatigue Stresses of a Railway Vehicle Roller Bearing
Authors: Lin Feng , Zhao Yong Xiang
Published: March 2009

The distributed fatigue stresses of 353130B roller bearing of China freight car with K5
type titling bogie are investigated using an elastic-plastic finite element (FE) analysis. Policy of two
steps is applied. First, an integral FE analysis is performed on adapter-bearing-axle-wheel-track
interactive system. Second, local analysis is applied to the local axle-bearing-adapter part, in which
on the section of axle is with the bound condition obtained from the integral analysis. Wheel contact
force spectrum on a curved railway line by on-line inspection is used for the present study. Previous
proposed multivariate quadratic regression approach is applied for transferring the load spectrum to
the dynamic stress spectrum at a special position of the bearing. Results reveal that the rollers, innerand
outer-rings of bearing are subjected to distribute axially equivalent stress amplitude. The closer
to axle side, the larger the equivalent stress amplitude. The equivalent stress amplitude of outer ring at
the position close to the seal seat is relative larger to that of inner ring. The results are consistency
with the shell failures of the bearings in production. Availability of present study is indicated.
Thermal Stress Simulations of SOFC Membrane-Electrode Assembly
Authors: Yeh T.Y. , Kuo D.H. , Shiue R.K.
Published: March 2009

The compatibility of various electrolyte and electrode combinations has been assessed
based on viewpoints of mechanics. The membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) was mainly comprised
of traditional ceramic-metal materials as well as solid electrolytes. Variations of key variables such as
size and coefficient of thermal expansion were incorporated into ABAQUS sensitivity analyses.
Accordingly, general design rules in manufacturing solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) were proposed, and
these rules were beneficial to produce multilayer MEA in the future.
Kinetics of Martensitic Phase Decomposition in the Cu-10wt.%Al Alloy with Ag Additions
Authors: Adorno A.T. , Silva R.A.G.
Published: March 2009

The study of the kinetics of martensitic phase decomposition in the Cu-10wt.%Al alloy
with Ag additions showed that the presence of Ag retarded the eutectoid decomposition reaction
and enhanced martensite stabilization. This stabilization effect was attributed to Ag atoms
redistribution as structure defects, increase in the numbers of Cu-Al pairs due to Ag-Al interaction
and the Al atoms redistribution around one Cu atom at the sub-lattice of the martensitic crystal.
Effect of Electrospun Fibers on the Interlaminar Properties of Woven Composites
Authors: Kelkar Ajit D. , Mohan Ram , Bolick Ronnie , Shendokar Sachin
Published: March 2009

Failure by delamination of composite laminates due to low velocity impact damages is critical
because of the subsurface nature of delamination. Traditional methods such as stitching and Zpinning,
while improving interlaminar properties in woven composites, lead to a reduction of the inplane
properties. To alleviate these problems, use of Tetra Ethyl Orthosilicate (TEOS) nano fibers
manufactured using electrospinning technique in fiber Glass-Epon composite laminates is
investigated for their potential to improve the interlaminar properties. Electrospun coated fiber glass
woven mats are impregnated with epoxy resin using Heated-Vaccum Assisted Resin Transfer
Moulding (H-VARTM) process. The interlaminar properties of the nano engineered hybrid
composites obtained using ASTM Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) tests and short beam shear tests
are compared with those without the presence of electrospun fiber layers, to study their influence.
The short beam shear tests revealed a 20% improvement due to presence of TEOS interlaminar
electrospun nanofibers. It is also noteworthy that fibers cured at different temperature levels had
variation in performance as observed in MSBS test results.
Heat and Fluid Flow Characters of Single-Screw for Extrusion Molding by Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Chung Hyo Hee , Ko Myung Seok , Chol Seung Hyun , Kim Jae Yeol , Song Kyung Seok
Published: March 2009

Extrusion screw that is used on market of present extrusion molding catapult is divided by
single-axle extrusion screw and multi-axles extrusion screw. Simulation technique of screw that is
used in extrusion molding has become so far various. Consist of that analyze third dimension model
and that analyze two-dimension model but most Analysis that display dynamic characteristic of
screw inside of heat and flow in detail was not until present. Transfer of polymer site that typical
single-axle extrusion screw that is analysis target of this treatise is mixed in most melting state is
good, but has some controversial points. First melting transfer of balance that is not done difficult.
Second melting causes effect that weaken mechanical special quality of screw by power excessive last
month if heighten the screw speed to increase amount of done balance. Third Screw dynamic
characteristic symptoms by thermal expansion that happen in screw of heater is fallen.
Influence of Annealing on the Magnetic Properties of Fe50Co50 Films
Authors: Li Ya Qin , Guo Ge Xin , Wang Li , Li Xiu Ling
Published: March 2009

The Fe50Co50 magnetic films were prepared by magnetron sputtering onto glass substrates.
The structural and magnetic properties of the films were investigated as a function of annealing
temperature and annealing time. It is found that the films have the better crystallization orientation
after annealing. The in-plane coercivity Hc reduces with increasing annealing temperature and
annealing time. Coercivity reaches the minimum in the sample annealed at 600°C for 2h. Meanwhile,
the saturation magnetization Ms increases with increasing annealing temperature as a whole. A
scanning probe microscope was used to scan surface morphology and magnetic domain structures.
After annealing, the domain size becomes larger and the contrast of domains increases.
Preparation of NbB2-Al2O3 In Situ Composites by SHS Involving Thermite Reactions
Authors: Yeh C.L. , Li R.F.
Published: March 2009

Preparation of NbB2-Al2O3 in situ composites with a broad range of compositions was
conducted by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) involving thermite reactions.
Three different thermite mixtures, including Al-Nb2O5, Al-B2O3, and Al-Nb2O5-B2O3, were adopted
and mixed with Nb and/or B powders to formulate the sample compacts. Experimental observations
show that the thermite reaction enhances sustainability of the synthesis reaction. Among them, the
powder compact containing the thermite mixture of Al and Nb2O5 exhibited the highest flame
velocity and combustion temperature. The lowest reaction propagation rate and temperature were
observed in the sample with Al and B2O3 as thermite reagents. Due to insufficient reaction time for
the sample containing Al and Nb2O5, the end products were composed of large amounts of two
intermediate borides Nb3B4 and NbB in addition to NbB2 and Al2O3. The SHS process involving
the thermite reaction of Al with B2O3 was favorable to produce NbB2-Al2O3 composites, confirmed
by the least Nb3B4 and NbB left in the end products.
Characterization of Iron Doped Titanium Nitride Thin Films Prepared by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Lin Wen Song , Chen Jing , Zhou Ji
Published: March 2009

Iron-doped titanium nitride films deposed on glass substrates were prepared by
magnetron sputtering technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to analyze the phases
existed in the films. Investigations have shown that as-deposited films were XRD-amorphous, and
the TiN phase was formed in the film after additional annealing. It was found that iron-doped TiN
films preserved the same crystal structure as TiN. The ferromagnetic properties of iron doped TiN
films have been measured using vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and the electric resistances
of the films were also determined by IR four-probe methods. The experiment results proved that the
iron-doped TiN films possessed ferromagnetic property with low electric resistance at room
temperature. It was investigated that the saturation magnetization was about 2.21×108 A/m, the
coercivity about 23 kA/m, and the electric resisitivity 1.401×10-6 3•m for typical
Fe-doped-TiN-films sample.
Preparation, Adhesive Performance and Stability of Natural Rubber Latex Grafted with N-Butyl Acrylate (BA) and Methyl Methacrylate (MMA)
Authors: Chumsamrong Pranee , Mondobyai Jakkarin
Published: March 2009

In order to study the potential of increasing the weather stability of natural rubber latex
for use as a water-based contact adhesive, the natural rubber latex was modified by graft
copolymerization with n-butyl acrylate (BA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA). The grafting
reaction was carried out using emulsion polymerization at 60°C. Potassium persulfate was used to
initiate polymerization. Four different weight percentage ratios of BA to MMA used in this work
were 80:20, 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50. Percentage conversion of the monomer of all latexes prepared
was ≥ 79.8 %. The grafting efficiency of grafted natural rubber latexes with a different monomer
ratio tended to decrease with an increase of MMA. The adhesion property was characterized by 90°
peel strength and 180° lap shear tests. The shear strength value of grafted natural rubber latexes
increased with an increase of MMA content. The grafted latex with the monomer ratio of 50:50
possessed higher shear strength than natural rubber latex. The peel strength value of grafted natural
rubber latexes seemed to lower than that of natural rubber latex. The weather stability of the
modified latex was characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and also the peel samples
were left in the open air for 45 days before testing. The results showed that grafted natural rubber
latex had a higher weather stability than natural rubber latex.
Polycarbonate-Carbon Nanofibers Composites: An Electron Spin Resonance Study
Authors: Chipara Mircea , Brittain William J. , Lau Kin Tak , Chipara Magdalena Dorina
Published: March 2009

Polycarbonate - carbon nanofibers, containing various concentrations of filler ranging
from 0 % to 10 % wt. have been investigated by electron spin resonance. The as obtained electron
spin resonance spectra are complex due to the overlap of several resonances originating from the
conducting electrons delocalized over the metallic domains of nanotubes, from the free radicals
generated within the polymeric matrix during the processing step, from insulating graphite particles,
and from catalyst residues (observed as magnetic impurities).
The effect of the filler on the resonance line shape is analyzed in detail. The shape of resonance
spectrum demonstrates that the resonance line located near g=2.00 originates from conducting
electrons delocalized over the metallic domains of nanotubes. Thos line was accurately fitted by a
Lorentzian line shape.
Electric Field Distribution in Macro Fiber Composite Using Interdigitated Electrodes
Authors: Nasser Houssein , Deraemaeker A. , Belouettar Salim
Published: March 2009

In this paper, an attempt has been made to understand the electric field distribution in the
Representative Volume Element (RVE) of the Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) using interdigitated
electrodes IDEs. Since the magnitude of the electric field within the Representative Volume
Element (RVE) using the IDEs is not uniform, an electrostatic study of the electric field behavior is
carried out. An approximate RVE model with conventional electrodes, which is useful for the
analytical solution, has been proposed instead of the RVE model with IDEs. Finally, the results
obtained by the proposed analytical solution are compared to those obtained numericaly using the
RVE model with IDEs.
Two-Dimensional Fractal Structures of Metal Oxides Synthesized at Room Temperature
Authors: Chen Lan , Xu Ju , Morris Michael A.
Published: March 2009

2D metal oxide fractal structures with different appearance and composition are
successfully grown on the silicon (100) substrates from their colloidal solutions at room
temperature. These films display very high surface coverage on the substrates and abundant
structures. The results demonstrate the appearances and dimensions of these structures are
dependent on the properties and composition of their constituent particles and the substrates. This
work may have potential applications in the fabrication of gas sensors, photon-receivers and catalyst
carriers which are not easy made by other methods at RT.
Fracture Behavior of Natural Fiber Reinforced Biopolymer Matrix Composite
Authors: Yusliza Y. , Zuraida A. , Sopyan Iis
Published: March 2009

The attention in natural fiber reinforced biopolymer composite materials has been rapidly
growing both in terms of industrial applications and basic research. This study was addressed to the
investigation of the impact properties and fracture behaviour of biodegradable composites made
from egg albumen reinforced by natural cotton fibres. The albumen-cotton composites have been
fabricated by hands lay-up technique at varied volume fiber fraction from 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 vol.%
cotton. The specimens were cured at room temperature for a fixed time of 14 days to ensure the
specimens are fully dried and harden, before being subjected to mechanical test. The cotton fibres
have contributed in a significant improvement in fracture toughness of the composites. The obtained
impact strength varied from 15.0 to 19.0 kJ/m2, and the fracture toughness varied from 0.7177 to
0.9453 J depending on vol.% cotton, with the optimum mechanical performance was obtained at 6
vol.% cotton. Morphological observation using SEM revealed that most of the fabricated specimens
failed due to fiber breakage, pull out, and void growth.
Optimal Design of Nanostructures Used in Vibration Control
Authors: Muc Aleksander
Published: March 2009

Since the atomic structure of carbon nanotubes demonstrates evidently anisotropic
mechanical properties an analytical molecular structural mechanics model is introduced in order to
derive longitudinal and circumferential moduli of nanotubes. The identification is based on the
eigenfrequencies analysis of the proposed computational model. It is combined with the FE analysis
and the interatomic potentials. Detailed derivations are presented and the predicted results are
shown and discussed with a few computational examples.
Possible Reasons of Degradation of Elements of Space Vehicle Control-Systems
Authors: Owsik J. , Sobolev Valeriy V.
Published: March 2009

It was shown experimentally that super-deep penetration (SDP) effect occurs due to collision
of a microparticles clot with a metallic thick-walled shell. It has been established that this process is accompanied
by plasma microjets ejection from an internal surface of a protective shell. Plasma microjets
are highly injurious in relation to elements (microcircuits) of electronic control systems.
Nano-Cellulose as Promising Biocarrier
Authors: Ioelovich Michael , Figovsky Oleg
Published: March 2009

Main purpose of this paper is to describe the method for preparation of the reactive nanocellulose
biocarrier and to discuss some its biomedical and cosmetic applications. The method for
preparation of the biocarrier was proposed that includes steps of controlled depolymerization of
initial cellulose; structural and chemical modification in order to graft various biologically active
substances to cellulose particles and high-power mechanical disintegration of the modified cellulose
particles in liquid media. As a result, the dispersion of the bioactive nano-cellulose was obtained.
Due to nano-size, particles of bioactive nano-cellulose capable clean skin's pores, open them and
penetrate through the lipid layer and epidermis within the skin strata. This effect of the biocarrier can
be employed at the development of advanced types of biomedical and cosmetics remedies used for
gentle care and effective treatment of the skin.
Irradiation of Synthesized Magnetic Nanoparticles and its Application for Hyperthermia
Authors: Chang Kwo Ping , Cheng Ching Han , Chiang Ying Chi , Lee Shan Chih , Lin Chih Yuan , Hsieh Bor Tsung , Ko Ching Chio , Huang Ya Ling
Published: March 2009

Hyperthermia using ferrofluid with alternating current (AC) magnetic field, which is the
principal method we try to use in this study, where chitosan was used as a surfactant agent.
Irradiation of Co-60 plays multi-function roles on the syntheses of chitosan-coated nanoparticles.
Optimal conditions for synthesizing magnetic nanoparticles have been successfully found by the
Taguchi method in which the dominated quality characteristic was SAR.
Parametric Study of Machining Effect on Residual Stress and Surface Roughness of Nickel Base Super Alloy UDIMET 720
Authors: Joshi S.V. , Vizhian S. Paul , Sridhar B.R. , Jayaram K.
Published: March 2009

Machining parameters such as speed (v), feed (f) and depth of cut (d) play an
important role in determining the residual stress as well as the surface roughness of a
material. The material used for the present study is a nickel based super alloy Udiment 720
which finds applications in the manufacture of gas turbine engine components. Residual
stress and surface roughness measured on this material showed different magnitudes for
different combinations of milling parameters but did not reveal any definite trend. Analytical
relationships developed between the magnitudes of residual stress, surface roughness and
milling parameters indicated that combined effects of the milling parameters influence both
residual stress and surface roughness.
Surfaces Modified by Amphiphilic Copolymer: Preparation and Application
Authors: Chen Xiao Nong , Qi Zai Qian , Huang Ya Qin , Pelton Robert , Ghosh Raja
Published: March 2009

N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM)-ethylene oxide (EO) copolymer was grafted on filter
paper surface to obtain paper-based adsorptive membrane. Protein adsorption on and release from the
membrane was evaluated under various conditions using humanized monoclonal antibody as model
protein. The results obtained indicated that amphiphilic copolymer modified filter paper could be
used as a novel chromatographic membrane for protein separation/purification. Comb-block
copolymers of NIPAM with N-vinylpyrrolidone (VP) were prepared through RAFT polymerization
and macromonomer techniques. Surface modification of substrates, such as plastics and glass, was
carried out by treatment of the substrates in aqueous solution of the amphiphilic comb-block
copolymer (adsorptive coating, pre-adsorption). It was found that the adsorbed copolymer layer was
stable in aqueous environment even when shear stress was applied. Protein adhesion on the material
surfaces before and after the modification was investigated using lysozyme as model protein. The
results obtained showed that the adsorptive coating layer on the material surfaces significantly
reduced non-specific protein adhesion.
Active Vibration Control of Smart Hull Structure Using Piezoelectric Composite Actuators
Authors: Sohn Jung Woo , Choi Seung Bok
Published: March 2009

In this paper, active vibration control performance of the smart hull structure with
Macro-Fiber Composite (MFC) is evaluated. The governing equations of motion of the hull structure
with MFC actuators are derived based on the classical Donnell-Mushtari shell theory. Subsequently,
modal characteristics are investigated and compared with the results obtained from finite element
analysis and experiment. The governing equations of vibration control system are then established
and expressed in the state space form. Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) control algorithm is
designed in order to effectively and actively control the imposed vibration. The controller is
experimentally realized and control performances are evaluated.
Study on Blood Compatibility of SIS Modified by Plasma Surface Grafting
Authors: Zhao Yan Fei , Wang Xiu Fen
Published: March 2009

In this paper, water-soluble polymer PEG of different molecular weight was grafted on the
SIS films by plasma surface grafting modification. These surface modifed SIS films were
characterized by contact angle measurement, ATR-FTIR and XPS. The contact angle of water
decreased significantly while the surface free energy and hydrophilicity increased. The relative ratio
of oxygen to carbon increased from 0.06 to 0.21 . All the results revealed that the PEG molecules
were incorporated onto the surface of the SIS films through covalent bonds and the surface
properties changed to some extent. The blood compatibilities of the surface-modified SIS films
were examined using APTT, APTT of the SIS-PEG2000 exhibted the best blood compatibility
In Vitro Degradation and Protein Adsorption Characteristics of PHBV/PLLA Blends and PHBV/PLLA-Based Tissue Engineering Scaffolds
Authors: Sultana Naznin , Wang Min
Published: March 2009

Poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) was used to make composite scaffolds
for bone tissue engineering in our previous studies. To control the degradation rate and process of
composite scaffolds, PHBV was blended with poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), which has a much higher
degradation rate than PHBV, and PHBV/PLLA blends were used as polymer matrices for composite
scaffolds. Composite scaffolds based on these blends and containing nano-sized hydroxyapatite
(nHA) were fabricated using an emulsion freezing / freeze-drying technique. Non-porous films of
PHBV/PLLA blends were prepared using the solvent casting method. In vitro degradation tests of
non-porous PHBV/PLLA blends and porous composite scaffolds were conducted by immersing
samples in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) for various periods of time. It was found that the
composition of polymer blends affected water uptake of films and scaffolds. For PHBV/PLLA-based
scaffolds, the incorporated nHA particles also significantly increased water uptake within the initial
immersion time. Both PHBV/PLLA blends and composite scaffolds underwent rapid weight losses
within the first few weeks. The degradation of composite scaffolds arose from the dissolution of nHA
particles and degradation of the PLLA component of polymer blends. Composite scaffolds exhibited
enhanced adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA), a model protein, in the current study.
Design and Control of Magnetorheological Fluid-Based Multifunctional Haptic Device for Vehicle Applications
Authors: Han Young Min , Kim Chan Jung , Choi Seung Bok
Published: March 2009

This paper presents control performances of a magnetorheological (MR) fluid-based
multifunctional haptic device which is applicable to realization of in-vehicle comfort functions. By
combining the functions into a single device, the proposed haptic device can transmit various
reflection forces for each comfort function to a driver without requiring the driver’s visual attention.
As a multifunctional haptic device, a MR knob is proposed in this work and devised to be capable of
both rotary and push motions with a single knob. Based on the optimally determined design
parameters to maximize a control torque, the proposed haptic device is manufactured. And in-vehicle
comfort functions are constructed in virtual environment which makes the functions to communicate
with the haptic device. Subsequently, a feed-forward controller using torque/force maps is formulated
for the force tracking control. Control performances such as reflection force of the haptic device are
experimentally evaluated via the torque/force map-based feed-forward controller.
Deposition of Diamond-Like Carbon Films on Polyoxymethylene Substrates by Magnetic Filtered Cathodic Vacuum Arc Deposition
Authors: Xu Lan Xin , Li Peng , Wang Jin , Leng Yong Xiang , Sun Hong , Cai Guang Jun , Huang Nan
Published: March 2009

In order to improve the abrasion property of polyoxymethylene (POM)，diamond like
carbon (DLC) film was deposited on POM substrate by the method of magnetic filtered cathodic
vacuum arc deposition (MFCVAD). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed that the sp3
fraction decreased with the negative bias voltages increased. According to the result of the
nano-indenter, the hardness of POM plates coated with DLC films was significantly harder than
POM substrate. The results of ball-on-disc tribological testing demonstrated that the hardest DLC
film had the lowest friction coefficient (0.11). The evaluation of in vitro platelet adhesion test
indicates that the numbers of adhered and activated platelet on the DLC film deposited under the
condition of 0V and 9min were remarkably decreased compared with that of the untreated POM.
The Biomedical Material of Functional ePTFE Hydrogels by the Cold Plasma Method and Radiation Technique
Authors: Wu Te Hsing , Chen Ko Shao , Chen Su Chen , Yeh Yi Chun , Shen Lie Hang
Published: March 2009

Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) is a bioinert material. It has the superior
properties of thermal and chemical stabilities, low surface energy and high resistivity, so it was
applied in many biomedical fields. In order to improve the ePTFE film biocompatibility, the cold
plasma technology was used with acetic acid as monomer to deposit onto ePTFE film and then
(N-isopropylacrylamide) was grafted onto the surface by photo-grafting. The characteristics of the
material surface were evaluated with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), FTIR and water
contact angle. It was found that the contact angle of water on the untreated ePTFE significantly
decrease from125° to 72° after ePTFE film being treated with acetic acid plasma deposition
procedure. Due to the hydrophilicity of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), so the contact angle of water
on the ePTFE-g-NIPAAm almost approached to 0°. And we obtained the thermal-sensitive ePTFE
hydrogels.
Radiolytic Deposition of Pt-Ru Catalysts on the Conductive Polymer Coated MWNT and their Catalytic Efficiency for CO and MeOH
Authors: Bae Hyoung Bong , Ryu Jung Ho , Byun Bok Soo , Choi Seong Ho , Kim Sang Ho , Hwang Chul Gyun
Published: March 2009

Pt-Ru@CP-MWNT catalysts were prepared by radiolytic deposition of Pt-Ru
nanoparticles on conduction polymer (CP) coated multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) surfce.
Three different types of conducting polymers; polypyrrole(PPy), polyaniline(PANI), and
polythiophene (PTh), were coated on the MWNTs surface by in situ polymerization. Then Pt-Ru
nanoparticles were deposited onto CP-MWNTs composite by the reduction of metal ions using
gamma-irradiation to obtain Pt-Ru@CP-MWNT catalysts. The size, morphology and composition of
Pt-Ru@CP-MWNT catalysts were characterized by SEM, TEM and elemental analysis. The catalytic
efficiency of Pt-Ru@CP-MWNT catalyst was examined for CO stripping. Pt-Ru@PPy-MWNT and
Pt-Ru@PANI-MWNT electrodes show enhanced activity for electrooxidation of CO and methanol
over Pt-Ru@PTh-MWNT catalyst.
Natural Fiber Reinforced Plastic Foams from Plant Oil-Based Resins
Authors: Rong Min Zhi , Wu Su Ping , Zhang Ming Qiu
Published: March 2009

In this work, a simple but effective approach was reported for preparing natural fiber
reinforced plastic foams based on plant oil with excellent compressive performance and
biodegradability. Firstly, epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) was converted into its acrylate ester AESO,
which can be free-radically copolymerized with reactive diluents like styrene to give thermosetting
resins and their foam plastics. Then the bio-foam composites were produced using short sisal fiber as
the reinforcement. Effects of fiber loading, length and surface treatment on properties of the foam
composites were investigated. It was found that exposure of the fibers to gas cells of the foam reduced
the effectiveness of interfacial effect, which is different from conventional bulk composites. As a
result, reinforcing ability of sisal fibers became a function of fiber length, loading, etc. Furthermore,
the plastic foams based on plant oil resin were proved to be biodegradable in soil burial or in the
presence of fungi.
Resistive Type Sensor Using Ceria Thick Film with Nano Particles
Authors: Izu Noriya , Itoh Toshio , Nishibori Maiko , Shin Woosuck , Matsubara Ichiro
Published: March 2009

For gas sensors, not only sensitivity and selectivity but also fast response speed is very
important. We fabricated a restive type gas sensor using ceria (cerium oxide) porous thick film with a
particle size of about 100 nm in order to improve the response speed of the sensor. First, we
investigated the sensing properties for the change of oxygen partial pressure. The sensor was able to
detect the variation of oxygen partial pressure in the wide range from 10-18 Pa to 105 Pa at 873 K. The
response time (t90), which is defined as the time until response changes 90% of the saturated value
after a sudden change of oxygen partial pressure, was about 10 ms at 1073 K. Next, we investigated
the sensing properties for carbon monoxide. We developed the new sensor having two ceria thick
films with and without catalyst layer to give selectivity. The sensor was able to detect carbon
monoxide over 330 ppm at 773 K, and t90 was 2 s at 723 K. By using Pt/Al2O3 catalyst, the sensor
hardly responded for hydrogen, so it was implied that the sensor had a good selectivity for carbon
monoxide.
The Influence of the Marine Bacterium Vibrio Natriegens Growth on Metallic Corrosion as Studied by Microscope Technologies
Authors: Yin Yan Sheng , Cheng Sha , Lau Kin Tak , Chen Shou Gang , Liu Tao
Published: March 2009

Biofilm formation and the adsorption of nonsulfate-reducing marine bacterium Vibrio
natriegens (V. natriegen) to different metallic surfaces have been studied by atomic force
microscopy (AFM). The nature of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) has been monitored
through the force-distance curve. EPS may act as adhesive binding adjacent cells and thus further
enhance the aggregation of microbes during cluster formation due to its adhesiveness in nature. The
AFM images supply the change of the morphology of microbial cells and colonies, the distribution
of microbial colonies and the presence of EPS on the surfaces with immersion. Results show that
the biofilms formed on the surfaces increase in thickness and heterogeneity with time and that 3~7
days is the proliferation period of the bacteria on metallic surfaces. The corrosion type of the metals
by V. natriegens could be confirmed as typical pitting attack through scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) observation.
Quantum Chemical and Electrochemical Studies on the Inhibitive Effect of Carboxymenthylchitosan for Mild Steel in Different PHs
Authors: Chen Shou Gang , Cheng Sha , Lau Kin Tak , Yin Yan Sheng
Published: March 2009

The influence of carboxymenthylchitosan(CM-chitosan) on the corrosion of mild steel in
different pHs was studied by the quantum chemical calculation and electrochemical measurements.
Mulliken atomic charges and LUMO energies calculated by DFT method for CM-chitosan and
protonated CM-chitosan show that the protonated CM-chitosan adsorbs easier on the surface of
mild steel. The expeimental results of polarization curves and electrochemical impedance
spectroscopy (EIS) also indicate that the acid media has the best inhibition efficiency for
CM-chitosan. Furthermore, the inhibitive effect of CM-chitosan for mild steel in 1 M HCl solution was
studied by weight loss measurements, and the inhibition efficiency increases with the concentration
of CM-chitosan to attain 93 % at 200mg/l.
Multifunctional Performance of Europium-Doped Feldspar Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Lin , Bu Nan , Yamada Hiroshi , Xu Chao Nan
Published: March 2009

We have successfully developed a multifunctional ceramics, europium-doped feldspar
MAl2Si2O8:Eu (MASE, M=Ca, Sr, Ba) and demonstrated that MASE was able to emit high
mechanoluminescence (ML), strong photoluminescence (PL) and electroluminescence (EL).
According to the XRD measurement result, the space group of MASE was identified to P1 .The ML
intensity increased proportionally with the increase of the compressive load, which suggests an
efficient conversion of mechanical to optical energy. Furthermore, strong PL and EL emission from
MASE were confirmed. The PL, ML, and EL spectra were found to be similar in both peak shape
and position, which indicates all the emissions result from 5d-4f transition of Eu2+.
Thermal and Tensile Properties of PP Nanocomposite Blends
Authors: Rosales C. , Contreras V. , Matos M. , Perera R. , Villarreal N. , Gallego R. , Pastor J.M.
Published: March 2009

Polypropylene/polyamide-6 and polypropylene/metallocene polyethylene blends containing 2.5 phr
of organophilic modified montmorillonite were prepared in a twin-screw extruder followed by
injection molding. In order to compare, blends without layered clay were also made. Styreneethylene-
butylene-styrene copolymer and polypropylene grafted with anhydride maleic were used
as compatibilizers in the ternary blends and in the PP nanocomposite preparation, respectively. The
presence of tactoids, intercalated and exfoliated structures was observed by TEM in some of the
samples containing layered clay and modified PP materials. Results showed that the compatibilized
blends prepared without clay are tougher than those prepared with the nanocomposite of PP as the
matrix phase and no significant changes in tensile moduli were observed between them. However,
the binary blend with a nanocomposite of PP as matrix and metallocene polyethylene exhibited
better tensile toughness and lower tensile modulus, than those prepared with a nanocomposite of PP
and polyamide-6 as dispersed phase. These results are related to the degree of clay dispersion in the
PP and to the type of morphology developed in the different blends. Differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC) showed that blends with a finer and homogeneously dispersed morphology
determined by SEM, the PA component exhibited fractionated crystallization exotherms in the
temperature range of 159-185°C. Also, nucleation of the PP component by PA phase and/or the
layered clay was observed in the blends with PA as dispersed phase.
Stick-Slip Compensation of Micro-Positioning Using Elastic-Plastic Static Friction Model
Authors: Jang Min Gyu , Lee Chul Hee , Choi Seung Bok
Published: March 2009

In this paper, a stick-slip compensation for the micro-positioning is presented using the
statistical rough surface contact model. As for the micro-positioning structure, PZT (lead(Pb)
zirconia(Zr) Titanate(Ti)) actuator is used to drive the load for precise positioning with its high
resolution incorporating with the PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) control algorithm. Since the
stick-slip characteristics for the micro structures are highly nonlinear and complicated, it is necessary
to incorporate more detailed stick-slip model for the applications involving the high precision motion
control. Thus, the elastic-plastic static friction model is used for the stick-slip compensation
considering the elastic-plastic asperity contact in the rough surfaces statistically. Mathematical model
of the system for the positioning apparatus was derived from the dynamic behaviors of structural parts.
Since the conventional piezoelectric actuator generates the short stroke, a bridge-type flexural hinge
mechanism is introduced to amplify the linear motion range. Using the proposed smart structure,
simulations under the representative positioning motion were conducted to demonstrate the
micro-positioning under the stick-slip friction.
Melamine Resin-Walled Microcapsules Containing Styrene: Preparation and Characterization
Authors: Wang Hai Ping , Yuan Yan Chao , Rong Min Zhi , Zhang Ming Qiu
Published: March 2009

For purposes of developing a novel self-healing chemistry for polymer composites,
melamine-formaldehyde (MF) resin-walled microcapsules containing styrene were prepared by
in-situ polymerization in an oil-in-water emulsion. Chemical structure of the microcapsules was
identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and proton magnetic resonance
spectroscopy (1H NMR), respectively. In addition, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical
microscope (OM) were used to investigate morphology and geometry of the product. The effects of
dispersion rate, weight ratio of core to shell and emulsifier concentration were carefully analyzed. It
was found that poly(melamine-formaldehyde) (PMF) microcapsules containing styrene were
successfully synthesized through the proposed technical route, and their mean diameters fall in the
range of 20~71 µm. The rough surface of the microcapsules is composed of agglomerated PMF
nanoparticles. Both core content and size of the microcapsule can be adjusted by selecting different
processing parameters. The highest loading of styrene in the capsules is about 60% and the emulsifier
with lower molecular weight used to result in higher core content. In terms of differential scanning
calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), thermal behavior and storage stability of
the capsules were studied. The results indicated that the microcapsules can be handled up to 72 oC.
Shape Memory Alloy Combined with Piezoelectric Materials Applied for Structure Vibration Control
Authors: Hsu Chih Yu
Published: March 2009

A new configuration of smart structures which could be automatically adjusted according
to changes of forcing frequencies is proposed for vibration suppression. The new configuration is a
laminated beam-plate or wide beam composed of layers of piezoelectric sensors and actuators and
Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) wires embedded in the middle plane of the laminated structure. The
structural natural frequencies can be adjusted closely to the forcing frequencies by adjusting electric
heating for controlling temperature of SMA. In each layer, the piezoelectric sensors and actuators
whose electrode are trimmed to modal shapes in conjunction with proper control algorithm, to
achieve expected control effects. The sensors and actuators are connected with each other if they have
the same shapes and they are linked together by a controller to form a close loop feedback control.
Using active control algorithm to control behavior of the piezoelectric material can suppress the
structural vibration. Theoretical simulations are formulated and performed without physical
experimentation for evaluating its feasibility. The Hamilton's principle is used to derive the governing
equation and boundary conditions for the structure which is composed of PVDF and SMA materials.
Modal analysis is used to obtain the result of dynamical response.
Mechanical Properties of Polybenzimidazole Reinforced by Carbon Nanofibers
Authors: Zhang Li , Ni Qing Qing , Natsuki Toshiaki
Published: March 2009

Polybenzimidazole (PBI) and vapor grown carbon nanofibers (VGNFs) nanocomposites
were developed successfully by using ultrasonic mixing followed by hot compress. The contents of
VGNFs used were 0.5wt%, 1wt%, 2wt% and 5wt%. The mechanical properties of neat PBI and
PBI/VGNFs nanocomposites were discussed and the results were that the Young’s modulus, tensile
strength, storage modulus and hardness were improved after adding VGNFs. Microscopic analysis
showed that the dispersion of VGNFs in nanocomposites with a lower amount was considered to be
uniform.
Health Monitoring of Laminate Plates with AE Signals and Wave Propagation
Authors: Du Chao , Natsuki Toshiaki , Ni Qing Qing
Published: March 2009

Based on Laminate plate theory, a formulation, including the effects of shear deformation
and rotary inertia on the characterization of plate wave propagation, was derived. The
characteristics of plate waves propagating were investigated and the influences of frequency, plate
thickness and propagating direction were clearly known. A health monitoring system was built and
the plate waves generated by lead break source were received by acoustic emission (AE) sensors.
By the wavelet transform [1], the time-frequency domain of AE signal was derived. For a certain
frequency, the first peak of the magnitude of wavelet transform indicates the arrival times of plate
waves. The locations of lead break source and the delaminations of plate were compared with the
predictions of theory.
Effects of Electro-Fenton Process on Blood Compatibility and Nickel Suppression of NiTi Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Chu C.L. , Hu T. , Wu S.L. , Pu Y.P. , Chung C.Y. , Yeung K.W.K. , Chu Paul K.
Published: March 2009

Electro-Fenton process as a modified Fenton’s oxidation method in waster water
treatment can provide a stable hydroxyl radical (·OH) source by continuous reaction of
electrochemically generated H2O2 with Fe2+ ions for surface oxidation modification of NiTi shape
memory alloy (SMA). In this work, effects of electro-Fenton process on blood compatibility and
nickel suppression of NiTi SMA were investigated by SEM and XPS, inductively-coupled plasma
mass spectrometry (ICPMS), hemolysis analysis and blood platelet adhesion test. It is found that
electro-Fenton process is a notably effective way to impede out-diffusion of Ni from NiTi SMA in
simulated body fluids during the entire ten week immersion period. It can also improve the
hemolysis resistance and thromboresistance of biomedical NiTi SMA. The improvement of blood
compatibility and nickel suppression of NiTi SMA can be attributed to the formation of surface
titania film with a Ni-free zone near its top surface by electro-Fenton process.
Catalytic Destruction and Removal of Toluene by Microwave/Fe3O4 System
Authors: Cheng Kai Yuan , Chang Chen Yu , Hsieh Yung Hsu , Yao Kuo Shan , Cheng Ta Chih , Cheng Chun Yang
Published: March 2009

A microwave/Fe3O4 catalytic system was proposed for treatment of volatile organic
carbons (VOCs). This system comprises a household microwave oven modified as the reaction
chamber, which was fitted with a vertical, cylindrical quartz reactor comprising a catalytic packed
column filled with granular Fe3O4, a microwave catalyst of iron (II, III) oxide. Experimental results
showed that the destruction and removal efficiency (DRE) of toluene by microwave alone was close
to zero, but with the microwave/Fe3O4 system, the temperature of the catalytic packed column
increased rapidly and reached thermal balance within 10-15 min. Analysis of the rear gas after
combustion showed that most of the toluene was thermal oxidized into CO2 and H2O. The successful
application of the proposed microwave/Fe3O4 system to thermal destruction of toluene promises a
new technology for treatment of VOCs.
Three-Dimensional Charge Redistribution of Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites with Uncertainty in Surface Conductivity
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yang Yao Wen
Published: March 2009

In this paper, the three-dimensional charge redistribution of IPMC material under
dynamic electric potentials with uncertainty in surface conductivity is studied. The governing
equations of charge redistribution are derived from the Nernst-Planck equation, the Poisson
equation, the mass conservation equation and the basic electrostatic equations. The surface
conductivity is viewed as a Gaussian distribution. A travelling wave type analytical solution is
obtained to account for the three-dimensional cation movement under the applied electric potentials.
InGaP/GaAs pnp Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor with δ-Doped Sheet between Base-Emitter Junction
Authors: Tsai Jung Hui , Chiu Shao Yen , Lour Wen Shiung , Li Chien Ming , Wu Yi Zhen , Su Ning Xing , Huang Yin Shan
Published: March 2009

In this article, a novel InGaP/GaAs pnp δ-doped heterojunction bipolar transistor is first
demonstrated. Though the valence band discontinuity at InGaP/GaAs heterojunction is relatively
large, the addition of a δ-doped sheet between two spacer layers at the emitter-base junction
effectively eliminates the potential spike and increases the confined barrier for electrons,
simultaneously. Experimentally, a high current gain of 25 and an offset voltage of 100 mV are
achieved. The offset voltage is much smaller than the conventional InGaP/GaAs pnp HBT. The
proposed device could be used for linear amplifiers and low-power complementary integrated
circuit applications.
Influence of Secondary Oxide Phases on Microstructural and Gas Sensitive Properties of Nanostructured Titanium Dioxide Thin Films
Authors: Mohammadi M.R. , Ghorbani Mohammad , Fray Derek J.
Published: March 2009

A systematic comparison of single and binary metal oxide TiO2, TiO2-Ga2O3, TiO2-Er2O3
and TiO2-Ta2O5 gas sensors with nanocrystalline and mesoporous microstructure, prepared by solgel
route, was conducted. The gas sensitivity was increased by secondary phase introduction into
TiO2 film via two mechanisms, firstly through the inhibition of anatase-to-rutile transformation,
since the anatase phase accommodates larger amounts of adsorbed oxygen, and secondly through
the retardation of grain growth, since the higher surface area provides more active sites for gas
molecule adsorption. The binary metal oxides exhibited a remarkable response towards low
concentrations of CO and NO2 gases at low operating temperature of 200°C, resulting in increasing
thermal stability of sensing films as well as decreasing their power consumption. The calibration
curves revealed that all sensors followed the power law ( B gas A S ] [ = ) (where S is sensor response,
coefficients A and B are constants and [gas] is gas concentration). The response magnitude of the
sensors obtained in this work is superior to TiO2-based sensors reported in previous studies.
Precision Transfer and Replication of Ultrasonic Nanoimprint
Authors: Huang Chiung Fang , Lee Jeou Long , Shen Yung Kang , Lin Yi , Wu Chih Wei
Published: March 2009

This study succeeds to replicate a micro-feature by ultrasonic nanoimprint.
The conjunction effect of the pressure and the ultrasonic vibration enables flowing of
plastic into a more precise micro-feature of the metal mold. The longitudinal wave
generated by an ultrasonic system of the frequency 35KMz and output power 900W.
The micro-feature of the Ni mold insert used in the experiment is a groove shape. The
groove’s width is 49 µm and its depth is 25 µm. The PMMA, PC and PP are chosen
with the replication materials. This study also discusses the replication properties of
plastic film by different processing parameters (delay pressure, fusion pressure,
embossing pressure, delay time, fusion time and embossing time).
Thermal Degradation of Novel Exfoliated PLLA/LDH Nanocomposites
Authors: Chiang Ming Feng , Wu Tzong Ming
Published: March 2009

In this article, we report the fabrication of novel poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) nanocomposites
based on PLLA and magnesium-aluminium layered double hydroxides (MgAl-LDH) which were
mixed the polylactide with carboxyl end group (PLA-COOH) in acetone . Both the X-ray diffraction
data and transmission electron microscopy images of the PLLA/LDH nanocomposites indicate that
most of the LDH layers were disorderly exfoliated into the PLLA matrix. The thermal degradation
behaviors of PLLA and its nanocomposites were studied using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA)
under nitrogen atmosphere at heating rates from 5 to 40 °C/min. The TGA profiles of the PLLA/LDH
nanocomposites show less thermal stability than that of neat PLLA due to the presence of Mg and Al
which has a drastic influence on thermal stability of PLLA. The activation energy of PLLA, 1 wt%
and 3 wt% PLLA/LDH nanocomposites were 158, 140 and 130 kJ/mol, respectively.
An Impact Events Monitoring System for Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Shin C.S. , Chen B.L. , Cheng J.R.
Published: March 2009

An impact monitoring system using an array of fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors has been
established on a wind turbine blade. The effect of the locations and detection capability of the FBG
have been investigated. The possibility to identify the location of an impact is also discussed. This
preliminary work may shed some light on how to establish an optimal monitoring system with a
minimum number of sensors while achieving the acceptable sensitivity and coverage. With such a
system, the corresponding strain history and occurrence of local damage can be monitored, thus
helping to narrow down the scope of more detailed examination during an overhaul and enabling the
integrity of a wind turbine blade to be more reliably assessed and monitored.