bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of novel primer sets for easy detection of Ruegeria species from seawater
Authors: Kitamura Ruriko , Miura Natsuko , Okada Keiko , Motone Keisuke , Takagi Toshiyuki , Ueda Mitsuyoshi , Kataoka Michihiko
Published: December 2019

Some coral-associated bacteria show protective roles for corals against pathogens. However, the distribution of coral-protecting bacteria in seawater is not well known. In addition, compared with the methods for investigating coral pathogens, few methods have been developed to detect coral-protecting bacteria. Here we prepared a simple method for detecting Ruegeria spp., some strains of which inhibit growth of the coral pathogen Vibrio coralliilyticus. We successfully obtained two Ruegeria-targeting primer sets through in silico and in vitro screening. The primer sets r38F-r30R and r445F-r446R, in addition to the newly designed universal primer set U357′F-U515′R, were evaluated in vitro using environmental DNA extracted from seawater collected in Osaka. These methods and primers should contribute to revealing the distribution of Ruegeria spp. in marine environments.
Prayer animal release: An understudied pathway for introduction of invasive aquatic species
Authors: Magellan Kit
Published: December 2019

It is more cost effective to prevent invasions than to eradicate or control invasive species once they are established. We therefore need a thorough knowledge of the pathways by which invasive species are introduced. Prayer animal release is the mainly Buddhist and Taoist tradition of releasing captive animals to gain merit. Although it is assumed to benefit the animals being released as well as the practitioners, prayer release as it is currently practiced has negative impacts that are at odds with the intended compassion. Major impacts are the introduction of invasive species and enhancement of spread and establishment. In this overview, I detail what is currently known about prayer release for aquatic invasions and provide consensus views of the best ways to address any potential impacts. Prayer release is rarely investigated as a potential pathway for introduction of invasive species and there is a marked lack of research on the subject, especially in aquatic ecosystems. Invasion researchers urgently need to 1) conduct research to establish the extent and impacts of prayer release, 2) engage with faith-based groups to encourage alteration of the practice so that it maintains its spiritual intent while promoting ecological responsibility, and 3) recognize prayer release as a major pathway for the introduction of invasive species.
Net-phytoplankton community structure and its environmental correlations in central Bohai Sea and the Bohai Strait
Authors: Wang Yibo , Sun Yanyu , Wang Caixia , Chen Weiwei , Hu Xiaoke
Published: December 2019

Phytoplankton is an important indicator of, and responder to, environmental changes. This study aims to reveal the response of a phytoplankton community to environmental changes, especially the level of nutrients in the Bohai Sea. The distribution pattern of net-phytoplankton communities in the central Bohai Sea and the Bohai Strait in winter and summer were studied, and the relationship between the phytoplankton communities and environment was explored. The results showed that diatoms (e.g. A. octonarius, Paralia sulcata and Detonula pumila) dominated the phytoplankton communities in winter, while diatoms (e.g. Chaetoceros sp. and Thalassiothrix frauenfeldii) and dinoflagellates (e.g. Ceratium fusus and Ceratium tripos) were both dominant in summer. By cluster analysis, the phytoplankton communities were divided into three clusters in winter and two in summer. The community that inhabited the waters around Qinhuangdao had higher abundance and distinct taxa composition in winter, related to the higher level of DIN and phosphate. Influenced by different water masses (the Yellow Sea Warm Current and the Bohai Sea Coastal Current), the phytoplankton community composition in the northern and southern parts of the Bohai Strait were also significantly different in winter. In summer, the difference in abundance and dominant species between the two phytoplankton communities was more closely linked to the N:P ratio in the environment. These results reflect that both nutrient level and hydrodynamic condition greatly influence the phytoplankton communities in the central Bohai Sea and the Bohai Strait. Our study will provide basic data for the eutrophication and environmental changes in the Bohai Sea.
Heat transfer performance of nano-suspension of Al2O3 in ([C4mim][NT f2]) ionic liquid around a circular cylinder
Authors: Rupesh S , Deepak Selvakumar R
Published: December 2019

IoNanofluids are a new category of heat transfer fluids synthesized by suspending fine nanoparticles in ionic liquids. These IoNanofluids show superior heat transfer characteristics than conventional nanofluids and are more suitable for medium to high temperature applications. In this study, a numerical analysis of heat transfer performance of nano-suspension of Al
2
O
3 in ([C4mim][NT f2]) ionic fluid around a circular cylinder has been presented. A 2 − D, laminar, steady and forced convective flow around a hot circular cylinder at a constant temperature has been taken into account at 10 ≤ Re ≤ 40 and 0 % ≤ φ ≤ 2.5 %. Governing equations of flow and heat transfer are solved using SIMPLE algorithm based Finite Volume Method (FVM). An unique aspect of this study is the consideration of the influence of temperature on the thermo-physical properties of the IoNanofluids. Heat transfer characteristics are quantified in terms of mean Nusselt numbers and the thermal field around the circular cylinder has been visualized using isotherms. Influence of flow Reynolds number, particle volume fraction and inlet temperature over the local and mean Nusselt numbers has been discussed in detail. Evidently, increase in flow velocity and addition of nanoparticles resulted in heat transfer augmentation. Additionally, heat transfer performance of Al
2
O
3 − ([C4mim][NT f2]) IoNanofluid is compared with the conventional Al
2
O
3 − H
2
O nanofluid. Comparatively, IoNanofluids outperformed conventional water based nanofluids with 59 % higher heat transfer enhancement ratios. Also, the heat transfer enhancement ratios were noted to be higher at high temperatures. Thus, the new class of cooling liquids (IoNanofluids) are promising working fluids for advanced real time high temperature engineering applications.
Biosynthesis of spherical gold nanoparticles and their characterization
Authors: Parushuram N , Asha S , Ranjana R , Harisha K S , Shilpa M , Narayana B , Sangappa Y
Published: December 2019

Colloidal gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized by the reduction of chloroauric acid (HAuCl4.H2O) using silk sericin (SS) extracted from Bombyx mori silk as a biotemplate. Synthesized AuNPs were characterized by using the various analytical techniques. UV-visible (UV-vis) study confirms the formation of AuNPs in aqueous SS solution showing the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band at λ = 530 nm. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) study revealed the crystalline phase of gold nanoparticles with face centered cubic (FCC) structure. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed the formed AuNPs are spherical in shape with diameter around 8 nm. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) experiment also confirmed the formation of AuNPs in SS solution with average size 10 nm.
Investigation of the blue-green algae based bio diesel using n-hexane and n-hexanol solvents: diesel engine emission parameter and characterization studies
Authors: Shyam Sundar T , Sathish Asha , Nithya K
Published: December 2019

The present study utilizes the species namely Spirulina platensis for extracting the biodiesel using different solvents using trans-esterification process. The gas chromatographic analysis was carried out to determine the chemical compounds present in the algal extract. The selected species were cultivated in the open pond and subsequently, algae oil has been extracted using n-hexane and n-hexanol solvent. Further, the comparison of n-hexane and n-hexanol based bio-diesel in the BD-20 blended form is done. Additionally, the extracted biodiesel is tested for emission parameters in the diesel engine. These results are compared with the emission parameters of commercial diesel which shows that n-hexane and n-hexanol based bio-fuel produces lesser emissions at different load conditions. Hence the selected Spirulina platensis species is found to be the promising alternate energy source for fuel extraction. Moreover, they are prone to exhibit lesser toxic emissions in the air environment than the commercial sources and found to be a sustainable source.
Reduction of Noise in The Vehicle Cabin by Using Natural Fibres with Polyurethane and Comparison with Other acoustic Materials
Authors: Vankayala Raja , Saravanan R , Lakshmikanthan C.
Published: December 2019

As natural fibres are noise-absorbing materials, biodegradable and renewable by using natural fibres such as betel nut, sugarcane fibres are combing with polyurethane for the automobile application to reduce cabinet noise of the vehicle, which currently contains traditional materials such as foams, glass, metals and plastics that are difficult to recycle. Four samples of natural fibres were prepared with different quantities of betel nut & sugarcane ratios of 35: 35, 50: 20, 55: 15, 60: 10. Polyurethane is common with 30% of all samples. The sound absorption coefficient (SAC) in the material was tested by using impedance tube and compared with other acoustic material like nitrile rubber, nonwoven polyester fabric and glass wool. It was observed that betel nut & sugarcane showing better SAC than other acoustic materials mainly at lower and higher frequency 60% betel, 10% sugarcane & 30% polyurethane showing better sound absorption level.
Optimization in Wire Electric Discharge Machining of Nickel-Titanium Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Kulkarni Vinayak N , Gaitonde V N , Hadimani Viranna , Aiholi Vasant
Published: December 2019

The present study focuses on optimizing the process parameters during machining of NiTi (Nickel-Titanium) shape memory alloy by wire electric discharge machining (Wire EDM) for simultaneously maximizing material removal rate and minimizing tool wear rate u sing brass wire as electrode. Taguchi’s design with utility and modified utility optimization techniques have been used for simultaneous multi-response optimization. Different analyses were performed to determine the optimal settings in both utility and mo dified utility concepts. The optimal results of both methods disclose that the pulse on time of 115µsec and pulse off time of 40µsec with spark gap set voltage of 20V are useful for maximizing material removal rate and minimizing tool wear rate. The optimization results indicate that the spark gap set voltage is the majority significant parameter that affects the tool wear rate and material removal rate.
Effect of load, sliding distance and sliding velocity on the wear properties of aluminum alloy AA5052
Authors: Arjun K. B. , Harikeshava R. , Sreenath C. R. , Srihari G. , Vaira Vignesh R. , Padmanaban R.
Published: December 2019

Aluminum alloys are widely used in engineering applications. In motion established contact applications, wear is an inevitable phenomenon. In this study, the wear mechanism of AA5052was explored using pin-on-disc tribometer. The wear test parameters namely load (kg), sliding distance (m), and velocity (m/s) were varied according to central composite design. The wear tracks of the worn specimens were observed using high-resolution scanning electron microscope and the elemental composition was analysed using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. A hybrid model integrating the linear function and radial basis function was developed to explore the effect of load, sliding distance, and sliding velocity on the wear rate of the AA5052 alloy. The results indicate that increase in axial load and sliding distance decreases the wear rate of the AA5052 alloy.
Study on the performance and emission characteristics of a CI engine using diesel-calophyllum inophyllum blends
Authors: Vishnuprasad M S , Srihari S
Published: December 2019

The limited supply of fossil fuels and modern emission norms necessitates the use of mixture of alternate fuels with fossil fuels. Bio-diesel is a renewable source of energy obtained from agro-wastes or agro-based products. Oils obtained from these products maybe edible or non-edible. In this study, the suitability of Calophyllum inophyllum oil (CIO), a non-edible oil, as a bio-diesel source is studied. The bio-diesel fuel is first synthesized from the oil obtained through various stages, including transesterification. The performance characteristics such as brake thermal efficiency (BTE), specific fuel consumption (SFC) and emission variables such as CO2, NOx, HC, CO and smoke are studied. The blend percentage by volume used in the investigation are 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 100%. It is observed that HC and CO emissions are less for B10 blend. B10 blend has 20.3% less NOx emissions when compared to that of diesel fuel. BSFC is decreased by 8% and BTE is increased by 9.5% in B10 blend. Among all blends used, the lowest soot concentration is obtained with B10 blend. B10 blend provides the most suitable combination of characteristics to be used as an alternate fuel blend.
Modeling and Mechanical Vibration characteristics analysis of a Quadcopter Propeller using FEA
Authors: Ahmad Faraz , Bhandari Anamika , Kumar Pushpendra , Patil Pravin P.
Published: December 2019

Quadcopter is a mechatronic device that has four arms and each arm having a D.C. motor with a propeller. These four propellers provide the thrust to quadcopter, furthermore difference in the angular speed of these propellers is responsible for roll, pitch and yaw motion. The propeller of the quadcopter is subjected to the dynamic loading and vibration during the flight. The present study investigates the vibration characteristics of quadcopter propeller. To investigate the vibration behaviour, three different type of material are analyzed for result comparison. The solid model of propeller was designed in Creo 2.0 and Ansys 16.2 was used for analysis. Modal analysis was performed to find the First 6 natural fundamental frequencies and their mode shape. The frequency variation describes the failure and safe region through colour couture scale under different loading condition. The obtained results are compared and validated with the previous studies.
A study on the effect of pH conditions on the properties of self-healing mortar cubes
Authors: Subash Sruthy , Poornima V , Jayanarayanan Karingamanna
Published: December 2019

This paper discusses the effect of pH on the various properties of the self-healing mortars (SHM). The bacteria induced structures have the ability to heal cracks generated on its surfaces by precipitating minerals inside the pores which bio mimics the natural healing processes occurring in nature, thus being an environment friendly technology that contributes in maintaining the structural durability. The microbiologically induced precipitation accelerates at different rates at different conditions. Hence an attempt has been made to analyse the changes in the properties in mortar cubes induced with 105 cells/ml concentration of Bacillus megaterium solution and subjecting them to different curing media at different pH conditions. The healing efficiency of the cracks induced in the mortar cubes are evaluated visually for successive days. Through X-ray Diffraction analysis the white powder covering crack surface is confirmed to be calcite. The percentage reduction in the compressive strength of the samples after healing was found to be only 3% after 28 days of curing. The findings of the paper suggest promising application of self-healing mortar cubes at different geographical locations by varying the amount of bacterial solution.
Energy Consumption Pattern and Environmental Impact: A Case Study of Residential Sector in India
Authors: Jangali Satish G , Nagesha N
Published: December 2019

Energy is fundamental to the economic progress of the nation and is vital in every sector of an economy for survival and growth. The consumption of energy is going to rise further in the near future, as it sees an increase in population. The energy used in the residential sector is a critical area for the campaign to conserve energy. In this backdrop and with the growing share of India in global energy use and Carbon dioxide emissions, this paper aims to analyse the pattern of energy consumption in the residential sector of the South Indian city, Karnataka State, India and also estimates the environmental impact in terms of CO2 emission. The energy efficiency level is computed in terms of Specific Energy Consumption and Energy Intensity. The factor analysis is carried out by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method to find factors influencing energy efficiency and energy consumption. Also, these factors are studied and analysed using multiple regression models.
Paramertic Optimization of in µ-Edm Using Anova Technique for Semi Circular Feature Generation
Authors: Singh Gurpreet , Satsangi P.S.
Published: December 2019

Development of semi circular Feature and optimization of its process parameters is carried out in this paper. In the research work, Energy, RPM and Feed were taken as input parameters. The response parameters were selected as Material removal rate and Taper. From the main effect plot and S/N ratio graphs, it can be seen that energy and tool rotation are most significant parameter that affect taper. Energy is the only significant parameter that affects machining time. These results have been validated by ANOVA. The optimal combination of input parameters comes out be as energy as 2645μ joules, Tool rotation as 600 rpm and feed rate as 1mm/m. This combination gave the value of material removal rate and taper as 0.0690088 mm3/m and 1.63024° respectively.
Numerical analysis of a modified shell and tube heat exchanger model
Authors: Sreeraj S , Ameen Z , Jishnu AP , Pragatheeshwaran T , Sarath R S
Published: December 2019

In present day shell and tube heat exchanger is the most common type heat exchanger widely used in industries, because it suites high pressure applications. The process involving stimulation consists of modeling existing and newly designed geometry and meshing the new geometry of shell and tube heat exchanger using CFD package 14.0.The objective of the project is to modify the existing heat exchanger in order to reduce the preheating time. We focus on numerical comparison of the existing design with the newly constructed geometry. Analytical data obtained for the new design is compared with the existing one. The actual design consisting of 49 U Tubes with 10mm diameter, length 1225mm and shell diameter 168mm is converted in to 18 tubes with 25.4m diameter, length 2050mm and shell diameter 273.1mm.
Influence of Cd substitution and temperature on dielectric properties of SnO2
Authors: Ahmad Naseem , Khan Shakeel , Bhargava Richa , Nizam Ansari Mohd Mohsin
Published: December 2019

The temperature dependence of dielectric properties of Cd-doped SnO2 nanoparticles has been carried out successfully in the temperature range 30 to 300 °C at specific frequencies. The dielectric constant of pure and Cd-doped SnO2 sample at selected frequency increases with increasing temperature. The loss tangent of pure and doped materials has also been examined. Ac conductivity of Cd incorporated SnO2 samples increases with increasing temperature. Further, the activation energies at different frequencies for all samples have been estimated.
Steel incorporated sawdust concrete
Authors: Ananthkumar M , Yuvan Karthick M C , Rajashekar A
Published: December 2019

The constant increase in rate of cement in developing countries such as India has aroused the need to relate research to production. This Paper deals with subject of reducing the overall construction cost of concrete by partial replacement of Pozzolanic Portland Cement(PPC) with an optimum content of sawdust to reduce the cost and addition of Lathe Scrap Powder (LSP) to compensate the loss of strength due to replacement of cement by sawdust. PPC was replaced with 6%, 8%, 10%, 12% and 15% of sawdust to find the optimum percentage. LSP was then added in 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, 1.0% and 1.5% to the sawdust concrete. After a time period of 7 days, 14 days and 28 days curing of standard size concrete cubes a compressive strength test was carried out, and the slump test was done on freshly prepared sample of concrete. Weight of the cubes was also found to calculate the bulk density of the steel incorporated sawdust concrete. Results show that on addition of 0.25% LSP on sawdust concrete indicated compressive strength (31.33) which was comparable to that of plain concrete(32.66).
Preparation and Electrical Characterization of Bi1-xNdxFeO3 (x=0.0 and 0.05) Ceramics
Authors: Jha V K , Roy M , Suthar L , Bhadala F
Published: December 2019

The solid state reaction method has been imp lemented for the preparation of mu ltiferro ic Bi1-xNdxFeO3 (x = 0.0 and 0.05) ceramics. The constituent oxides were mixed and calcined at 873 K and than sintered at 1123 K. The X-Ray Diffraction technique has been used to analyze the structure of prepared ceramics at roo m temperature (RT). Frequency and temperature dependant dielectricproperties have been measured. The DC conductivity of these compounds has also been measured fro m RT to 603K. The activation energies (Ea) are 1.84 eV and 2.02eV for pure and Nd doped compounds which has been calculated from the Arrhenius relation σ = σ˳exp (-Ea/KT).
Structure and magnetic properties of superparamagnetic ferrite nanoparticles
Authors: Farheen Atiya , Singh Rajender
Published: December 2019

Superparamagnetic Mn-Zn ferrite nanoparticles have been emerging as an important material due to its potential application in the preparation of stable ferrofluids. The superparamagnetic ferrite nanoparticles were prepared through co-precipitation method. The Rietveld refinement of X-ray diffraction confirms the cubic spinel structure with fd-3m space group. The average crystallite size of the nanoparticles observed from X-ray diffraction is ∼5nm. The transmission electron microscope micrographs also confirm the nano phase of the Mn-Zn ferrite nanoparticles. The s-shape of the magnetic hysteresis loop indicates the superparamagnetic behaviour of the nanoparticles. The narrow electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra also confirm the superparamagnetic nature of the nanoparticles.
Regenerative braking system using pulse width modulation technique on brushed DC motor
Authors: Murali Krishna V
Published: December 2019

In automobiles, large amount of energy loss due to braking takes place without any recycling. A brake is required to control the motion of an automobile. The conventional braking system uses friction of brake shoes and drums for conversion of kinetic energy developed by the vehicle into heat energy. In conventional braking system the heat energy generated at contact surfaces is dissipated to surroundings. In regenerative braking system the speed of the vehicle is reduced by the motors. No surplus energy of the vehicle will be wasted as the unwanted heat, the overhead wires receive electricity from the motors which act as a generator. In this paper, a novel technique of pulse width modulation on brushed DC motor is used for evaluating the availability of braking energy recovery. The vehicle receives power from the electrical energy taken from the battery is used by an electric motor that provides motive force to the wheels. To obtain more efficiency the regenerative braking should take place on the vehicle, so a model to control the speed of the motor has been simulated using circuit simulation software Proteus. The laboratory test has been performed on the built model before being mounted on the vehicle. The circuit is repeatedly tested for the desired wave functions and are absorbed on the oscilloscope. Results are presented for the amount of power generated during braking and variation of run speed of the vehicle with time for different rated speeds of the motor at different loads.
Synthesis and Characterisation of Copper Substituted Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticles by Sol-Gel Auto Combustion Route
Authors: Anugraha A , Lakshmi V K , Kumar Gangothri S , Raguram T , Rajni K S
Published: December 2019

In the present study, the structural, functional, morphological and magnetic characteristics of copper substituted cobalt ferrite nanoparticles were investigated. The samples of Co1-xCuxFe2O4 at x = 0.06, 0.08 and 0.1 M were prepared by Sol-gel auto combustion route. X-ray diffraction technique was used to confirm the phase formation and structural analysis which matches with the JCPDS Data. The average crystallite size was found to be ∼25, ∼19 and ∼18 nm for x = 0.06, 0.08 and 0.1 respectively. The Micro Raman Spectroscopy revealed the stretching vibrations at 274 cm−1, 660 cm−1, and 466 cm−1, which are characteristic of Spinel Ferrites. From the FTIR analysis, the band observed at 3457cm−1 and 1650 cm−1 is assigned to hydrogen bonded O-H group and ionic stretching of C-H bond. The band assigned at 1105 cm−1, is due to Co – O and Cu - O or Fe – O vibrations. The existence of water adsorption band and metal oxygen band confirms the existence of Co and Cu in the synthesized sample. The surface morphology of samples was imaged by the field emission scanning electron microscope. The substitution of Cu2+ in the parent systems caused a significant reduction in particle size. The compositional analysis was done, which confirmed that the concentration of copper was increased in the samples. The samples were subjected to magnetic characterization because magnetic behavior is also affected by substitution of Copper in Cobalt ferrite. Magnetic hysteresis study at room temperature confirmed the reduction in saturation magnetization (MS = 14.25 to 8.33 emu/g.) and reduction in coercivity (HC = 602.64 to 380.94 Oe) when size is reduced. As the concentration of Cu into CoFe2O4 matrix increases, particle size decreases and the saturation magnetization decreases.
The effect of nano composite on phosphate adsorption in rich black soil
Authors: Pani J V M S M , Vipin P , Praveen K R R , Saritha A , Prasad Geena , Babu Jeetu S
Published: December 2019

Industrial waste disposal is one of the major causes for the contamination of water bodies and soil. This leads to increase in the amount of elements like phosphorous in the water bodies. As a possible solution to this problem, we investigate the effect of introducing a nano sized coating of graphene on coastal sand in the adsorption of phosphate. In the present study we employ batch adsorption techniques to perform Phosphate adsorption (p-Adsorption) on rich black coastal sand and nano composite. This will help us in understanding the physical properties of clay soils, the effect of nanoscale coating on the adsorption of phosphate in soil and its dependence on contact time, concentration and ph values.
Multiferroic properties of lead-free 0.2(Ni0.8 Zn0.2Fe2O4)-0.8(Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3) magnetoelectric composite
Authors: Nair Anu V , Vishnunarayanan S. , Vaishnavi K S , Suresh Pittala , Anil Kumar P S
Published: December 2019

In this work the structural, electric and magnetic characteristics of 0.2(Ni0.8 Zn0.2Fe2O4 (NZF))-0.8 (Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3 (BCZT)) multiferroic composite is investigated. The constituent phases were synthesized by sol-gel process, and mixed in an appropriate ratio to form the composite. The XRD data and Rietveld refinement confirm that the composite exists in cubic+tetragonal+orthorhombic mixed phases. The P-E loop of the composite shows a finite loop opening with a decrease in the polarization compared to the pure BCZT. The M-H loops show a saturated loop at an applied field ∼ 1 kOe and the values of magnetization decreased nearly by four orders, compared to the pure NZF.
Modeling Of Energy-Band Diagram for Plasma-Metal Junction
Authors: Anjana K P , Saravanan A , Perumal M , Sinha Suraj Kumar
Published: December 2019

Plasma based technologies find wide technological applications. The theory for electrical properties of plasma is well established, for different systems including simple dc discharges to complex fusion machines, using fluid model and statistical model. However, there are still several areas that are unexplored and one of such topics is plasma-material interaction. In present investigation we propose the concept of energy band diagram for plasma-metal junction analogous to the energy band diagram of P-N junction. The I-V characteristics of P-N junction diode and Schottky barrier diode are explained using well established energy band theory. In this work the concept of energy-band diagram for plasma-metal junction has been introduced and concentrates on how the I-V characteristics of plasma-metal junction vary for metals with different work functions. Using the proposed energy band diagram, I-V characteristics of plasma-metal junction obtained numerically. The I-V characteristics obtained using this concept of energy-band diagram of plasma-metal junction is consistent with theory and therefore this concept may have wide impact on laboratory plasmas and may provide a new method for higher accuracy for experimental measurements.
2-D Surface Morphology and Dielectric Properties of Sr and Zr co-doped CaTiO3
Authors: Bhadala F , Suthar L , Roy M , Jha V K , Singh R P
Published: December 2019

The ceramic sample of Ca1-xSrxTi1-yZryO3 where x = 0.5 and y = 0.5 (CSTZO) was synthesized by solid state reaction method. Analysis of X-ray diffraction data confirmed the formation of orthorhombic phase. The 2-D surface mo rphology was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The micrograph shows that the spherical shaped grains vary in the range of 1-2μm and the size of agglo merates varies in the range of 5 to 10 μm in diameter. The dielectric permittivity improved by the substitution of Sr and Zr on A and B-sites. Further, the dc conductivity measured by the two probe method in a temperature scan of 470K to 670K, showed NTCR of the material.
Properties of Aerated Hempcrete as a potential sustainable Building Material
Authors: Geetha S. , Selvakumar M.
Published: December 2019

Aerated concrete is lightweight concrete commercially available as aerocon blocks for the construction of infill walls. The compressive strength of these blocks varies from 4 to 6 MPa. This paper discusses the properties of aerated concrete by the use of mineral admixtures like fly ash, construction and demolition waste (C&D Waste) and hemp fibres. In order to reduce CO2 emissions, save energy and conserve natural resources, there is a need for reducing the production and consumption of concrete products. This paper manifests the investigations carried out to study the feasibility of using aerated Hemp concrete Blocks in Urban Housing. Industrial Hemp fibers have been identified to potentially absorb carbon. Hence the use of processed Hemp hurd can be used to develop concrete blocks. The aeration process and the complete elimination of coarse aggregates make the blocks light-weight and energy absorbing. In addition, the partial replacement of Cement with Fly Ash and sand with pulverized Construction and Demolition waste is also employed here, thereby providing a cost-efficient, energy-efficient and moreover, recyclable model. The properties of concrete containing these replacements were examined and it was concluded that this beneficial, high-silica content crop can be effectively utilized as a building material, without sacrificing the strength and performance of the concrete. Improvement in engineering properties of this aerated hemp block is also investigated in this paper.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Zinc Cobalt Telluride Nanorod towards Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER)
Authors: Majhi K C , Karfa P , De S , Madhuri R
Published: December 2019

With an increasing demand for clean and sustainable energy which is directly related to water splitting, regenerative fuel cells, metal-air batteries, etc., exploring an efficient and inexpensive electrocatalyst with highly stable for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is very important. In this article, here we demonstrated the nanorod Zn-Co-Te, is found to be a very good electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkali medium (KOH, pH = 15.14) with onset potential 1.38 V vs RHE. When this catalyst used as an electrocatalyst Zn-Co-Te nanorod obtained low overpotential 221 mV at a 10 mAcm−2 current density with Tafel slope 91 mV/dec and high stability within three months.
Design and Experimentation of Double Slope Desalination Unit Coupled with Photovoltaic Thermal Collector
Authors: Aswathi G , Rajesh V R
Published: December 2019

Solar cells being highly sensitive to temperature, I-V characteristics of the cell get adversely affected with temperature rise. Solar insolation heats up the panel which may lead to the decrease in efficiency. For longer life of cells, waste heat produced has to be discarded. Hybrid photovoltaic solar thermal system consists of photovoltaic modules and thermal collector. Placing thermal collector at back side of panel helps in waste heat extraction (water/air/any substance can be used as fluid medium). If the fluid medium is water, it can be given to desalination unit which in turn helps to improve the solar still performance. The main problem solar still facing is its lower productivity. Feeding the preheated water from PV/T system is a feasible solution. This in turn improves system efficiency. This paper discusses a simple design of desalination unit coupled with photovoltaic thermal system and ways and means to improve the performance of desalination unit.
Structural and Magnetic properties of Cobalt Ferrite (CoFe2O4) Nanoparticles by Sol-Gel Technique using Yeast
Authors: Vignesh H , Vishnu V , Balakumar P , Raguram T , Rajni K S
Published: December 2019

The aim of the present work is to synthesize cobalt ferrite nanoparticles by sol-gel technique using yeast. The source culture is prepared using yeast, carbon and nitrogen. Three samples are prepared by mixing the source culture with ferric nitrate (0.2 M) and cobalt nitrate (0.15, 0.2, 0.25M) and stirred for suitable duration to get the gel. The final product is heated at 600°C to get the cobalt ferrite nanopowder. Structural analysis reveals the cubic phase of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles with the peaks corresponding to the plane (220), (311), (400), (511) and (440) matches with the PDF data. The peaks are sharp showing the crystalline nature of the prepared samples. From the microstructural parameters calculated for the prominent peak (311) shows the average crystallite size is 44 nm. The lattice constant is found to be around 8.350 Å which is close to the bulk value of cobalt ferrite nanoparticle (8.373Å). The calculated X-ray density is more than their bulk counterpart and is attributed to the formation of pores throughout the synthesis method. FTIR analysis shows the existence of functional groups within the prepared sample. EDAX analysis shows the rise in the atomic weight percentage of cobalt with increase in weight proportion of cobalt nitrate. SEM analysis shows the surface morphology of the prepared sample and the ferromagnetic behavior of the cobalt ferrite nanoparticle is observed by VSM studies.
Annealing Effect of Magnesium Tin Oxide Thin Films Prepared by Nebulizer Spray Pyrolysis Technique for DSSC applications
Authors: Kiruthiga Prabhu G , Raguram T , Rajni K S
Published: December 2019

In the present work, Magnesium Tin Oxide (MTO), transparent conducting oxide thin films (TCO) are prepared by Nebulizer Spray Pyrolysis Technique and the properties are compared with the available ITO substrate. Magnesium acetate (MA), Tin (II) chloride (TC) are taken in three different ratios (0.1:0.1M, 0.1:0.2M, 0.1:0.3M) and the thin films are prepared onto the glass substrate at 400°C. The prepared films were annealed at 400°C for three hours. The structural analysis show the presence of Magnesium Tin Oxide with maximum intensity showing the crystallinity of the prepare samples. Also, the peak corresponds to magnesium oxide and Tin oxides were also observed with less intensity. The crystallite size was found to be around 5 nm and the thickness of the film is found to be 0.23, 0.27 and 0.32 µm for the films prepared at MA: TC in the ration of 0.1:0.1M, 0.1:0.2M and 0.1:0.3M. The sign of bulk carrier concentration shows that the coated film is having n-type conductivity and the resistivity value is very low in the range of 7 x 10 −3Ω cm which is very close to the resistivity value of ITO (8 x10−4Ω cm). The Percentage of Transmittance is between 75 to 85% in the visible region and the band gap value is 3.8 eV. From the results, it is concluded that MTO is a Best alternative for ITO and can be used in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC).
Effect of matrix type on the mechanical and magnetic properties of ferrite based natural and nitrile rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Anjali D P , Jitha R , Sajeev C J , Sambhudevan Sreedha , Shankar Balakrishnan
Published: December 2019

Copper doped nickel ferrite particles were prepared using co-precipitation method. The prepared particles were analysed using FTIR, XRD and SEM to confirm the formation of spinel ferrite structures, particle size and distribution. These ferrite nanoparticles are then embedded in natural and nitrile rubber at different loadings to compare the effect of matrix type on the mechanical and magnetic properties of composite samples. Nitrile rubber (NBR) composites show excellent magnetic properties than natural rubber (NR) composites. Saturation magnetisation, magnetic coercivity and magnetic retentivity values of NBR composites are superior to NR composites. In contrast mechanical properties are found to be inferior for NBR composites.
Investigation of friction models in the machining of Inconel 625 Super Alloy using FEM
Authors: Manoranjan K S , Harish Narayanan V , Manoj Kumar T , Ashwin R , Vijay Sekar K S
Published: December 2019

Simulation of metal cutting by Finite Element Method largely depends on material model and friction model. Inconel 625 is one of the super alloys, which has numerous applications but has no specific material model and friction model for simulating metal cutting. The Inconel 625 has a behaviour of softening at higher strain and strain rates. Material models that are already available do not represent this behaviour of Inconel 625. This paper follows the modified Johnson-Cook material model suggested by Hokka to obtain the flow stress data. Parameters like Cutting force, Temperature at tool chip interface, Tool Wear can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of friction model by comparing those obtained experimentally with the simulation results. In this paper, the Cutting forces are considered for evaluation of friction model. Cutting forces obtained experimentally by the turning of Inconel 625 rod with TiN tool insert. Simulation of the turning of Inconel 625 is done in DEFORM 3D software. Coulomb Friction model and Shear Friction model are the two friction models taken for investigation in this paper. Simulation is carried out by applying the two friction models and the actual process parameters. On comparison with the experimental results, Shear Friction model is found to be more accurate than the coulomb friction model for Inconel 625.
Zirconia based pyrochlore thermal barrier coatings
Authors: Pasupuleti Kirti Teja , Ghosh Souvik , Ramaswamy Parvati , Narayana Murty SVS
Published: December 2019

Improvements in thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) technology, further than what is already in service to enable adequate protection to metallic components from higher (>1100°C) operating temperatures requires newer developments in materials. Many research activities have been undertaken by scientists to seek alternatives after discovering the threshold of Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) TBCs on standard aero-space materials at elevated temperatures. To increase the thermal performance of gas turbine engines, alternate TBC materials with better sintering resistance and lower thermal conductivity are required. One of the promising candidates for the TBCs is Pyrochlore-type rare earth zirconium oxides (Re2Zr2O7, Re = rare earth). Re2Zr2O7 TBCs have higher phase stability, lower thermal conductivity, lower sintering rate, no phase transformation, and lower coefficient of thermal expansion at elevated temperatures when compared with YSZ. In this work, plasma spray powders of Lanthanum Zirconate (La2Zr2O7) and Lanthanum Ceria Zirconate (La2 (Zr0.7Ce0.3)2O7) were synthesized by the solid-state reaction method with the goal to develop pyrochlore oxide-based coatings with desired properties at high temperatures (>1200°C), better than the YSZ TBCs: currently the most popular choice for TBCs. These TBCs are expected to increase gas turbine efficiencies while protecting the underlying metallic substrate at high operation temperatures. The evaluation of the synthesised TBCs has been carrying out by studying their performances at 1200°C. Results of evaluation for phase composition by employing X-Ray Diffractometry (XRD), microstructure via Scanning electron Microscope (SEM) and chemical composition via Energy Dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) also have been included.
Plasma sprayed nano refractory coatings
Authors: Gowtham Sanjai S , Pinto Ratan , Ramaswamy Parvati
Published: December 2019

Nano powders may be reconstituted into micron sized plasma sprayable powders either by using a spray drier or a manual process by employing organic binders to agglomerate them. This paper deals with the synthesis of nano sized alumino-silicate plasma sprayable powders and plasma sprayed coatings prepared from them. Nano sized raw materials involving kyanite and andalusite refractory powders were converted into plasma sprayable powders by using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) binders. The preparation methodology involved obtaining free flowing, micron sized agglomerated nano –alumino-silicates particles which could be plasma spray coated by using an Atmospheric Spray Coating Facility. About 220 microns thick nano-alumino silicate coatings were deposited on 75 microns thick commercial NiCrAlY bond coat on stainless steel substrates. The challenges involved in plasma spray coating the nano material with low density was in obtaining good deposition efficiency, retaining the nano micro structures and the structural phase composition of the coating. The coatings were evaluated for materials characteristics such as crystal structural phase via XRD, microstructure via SEM and chemical composition via EDS. The microstructure depicted fine grained nano-sized surface morphologies, kyanite and andalusite phase structure, with high potential for application as refractory coatings.
Experimental investigation to improve performance and emission characteristics of a diesel engine by using n-butanol as additive to the biodiesel-diesel blends
Authors: Senthil Kumar D , Thirumalini S , Praveen H S S K
Published: December 2019

Fossil fuels are non-renewable resources and are limited in supply. The combustion of these fuels produces environmental pollution with the release of dangerous gases like Nitrogen oxides, Carbon monoxide and Carbonaceous soot. In this sense, fuel like biodiesel produced from vegetable oils can be considered as a better alternative to the fossil fuels. For this study, waste cooking oil biodiesel is used. In this work, the effect of addition of n-butanol on the performance and emission characteristics of diesel engine running at the speed of 2300 rpm is investigated. The biodiesel is prepared by transesterification process using KOH as catalyst. n-Butanol is added to B20 blend in varying volume percentages of 5, 10 and 15 to evaluate its effect on performance and emission characteristics. It is observed that BU15 possesses better performance characteristics among n-butanol blends compared to B20 with an average decrease of 18% in BSFC and increase of 21% in BTE at high loads. The experimental results showed that NOx and CO2 emissions were further reduced by 19% and 28% respectively with the addition of butanol. There has been reduction in smoke emissions by 4.7% but an increase of 22% in HC emissions for n-butanol blends.
Fabrication of disposable electrochemical dopamine sensor using photoluminescent graphene oxide
Authors: Gunasekaran Sowmya , Raveendran Jeethu , Suneesh P V , Satheesh Babu T. G
Published: December 2019

Graphene oxide (GO) with photoluminescent property was prepared by modifiedHummer’s method. Spectroscopic and morphological studies were carried out using photoluminescence spectroscopy, UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, FT-IR, XRD and FE-SEM. Electrochemical dopamine sensor was fabricated by drop casting GO onto screen printed carbon electrodes (SPCE). Cyclic voltammogram, differential pulse voltammogram and amperometry were performed to test the fabricated sensor. The sensor exhibits wide detection range of 12.5 μM to 1 mM dopamine concentrations in 0.1 M PBS of pH 7.4. The major interferents such as ascorbic acid shown negligible current response compared to dopamine.
Design and simulation of passive micromixers with ridges for enhanced efficiency
Authors: Vijayanandh Vidhya , Pradeep Aarathi , Suneesh P V , Satheesh Babu T G
Published: December 2019

Uniform and rapid mixing between various streams in a microfluidic device is essential for the development of device involving reaction between multiple streams. In this work, microfluidic channels of various geometries were designed and their fluid flow patterns were analyzed to optimize complete mixing of different fluids. The designs were modified by incorporating different types of ridges (square, curved and triangular shaped) in the microfluidic channels. Numerical analysis of the designs was carried out using COMSOL Multiphysics 4.3a. The extent of mixing in each of the design was calculated and the optimized design was fabricated using photolithography followed by soft lithography. The performance of the developed micromixer was studied using colored solutions and it was found to be in good agreement with the simulated results.
An experimental investigation of the effect of tool rotational speed on the force, torque and mechanical behaviour of friction stir welded PVC sheets
Authors: Nath Rahul Kanti , Barma John Deb , Singh Nitish
Published: December 2019

In this investigation, an attempt has been made to join the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheet of 3mm thickness with a taper cylindrical pin tool. They are butt welded under different weld parameters by Friction Stir Welding. This study is focused on the effect of tool rotational speed on the force, torque and mechanical behaviour of friction stir welded polyvinyl chloride sheets. The welding parameters are the tool rotational speed; varied between 1500 and 1800 RPM and the traverse speed; varied between 0.3 and 0.7 (mm/sec) with a constant tilt angle of 1°. It is observed that the spindle torque is first increasing then decreasing with increasing tool rotational speed whereas in some cases the spindle torque is also found to decrease with increase in traverse speed. Z-force is found to reduce as the tool rotation speed increases. With a change in traverse speed inconsistent variation of Z-force is observed causing disturbed material flow and weld irregularities. Minimum micro-voids and blisters are observed in Scanning Electron Micrographs of the nugget zone of the specimen welded at 1600 RPM and 0.3 mm/sec traverse speed. The specimen with least micro-voids also exhibits highest ultimate tensile strength.