bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selected topics of quantum computing for nuclear physics*
Authors: Zhang Dan-Bo , Xing Hongxi , Yan Hui , Wang Enke , Zhu Shi-Liang
Published: December 2020

Nuclear physics, whose underling theory is described by quantum gauge field coupled with matter, is fundamentally important and yet is formidably challenge for simulation with classical computers. Quantum computing provides a perhaps transformative approach for studying and understanding nuclear physics. With rapid scaling-up of quantum processors as well as advances on quantum algorithms, the digital quantum simulation approach for simulating quantum gauge fields and nuclear physics has gained lots of attention. In this review, we aim to summarize recent efforts on solving nuclear physics with quantum computers. We first discuss a formulation of nuclear physics in the language of quantum computing. In particular, we review how quantum gauge fields (both Abelian and non-Abelian) and their coupling to matter field can be mapped and studied on a quantum computer. We then introduce related quantum algorithms for solving static properties and real-time evolution for quantum systems, and show their applications for a broad range of problems in nuclear physics, including simulation of lattice gauge field, solving nucleon and nuclear structures, quantum advantage for simulating scattering in quantum field theory, non-equilibrium dynamics, and so on. Finally, a short outlook on future work is given.
Low-temperature environments for quantum computation and quantum simulation*
Authors: Fu Hailong , Wang Pengjie , Hu Zhenhai , Li Yifan , Lin Xi
Published: December 2020

This review summarizes the requirement of low temperature conditions in existing experimental approaches to quantum computation and quantum simulation.
Degenerate cascade fluorescence: Optical spectral-line narrowing via a single microwave cavity*
Authors: Hu Liang , Hu Xiang-Ming , Hu Qing-Ping
Published: December 2020

For a three-level atom, two nondegenerate (even microwave and optical) electric dipole transitions are usually allowed; for either of these, the fluorescence spectra are well-described in terms of spontaneous transitions from a triplet of dressed sublevels to an adjacent lower-lying triplet. When the three dressed sublevels are equally spaced from each other, a remarkable feature known as degenerate cascade fluorescence takes place, which displays a five-peaked structure. We show that a single cavity can make all the spectral lines extremely narrow, whether they arise from cavity-coupled or cavity-free transitions. This effect is based on intrinsic cascade lasing feedback and makes it possible to use a single microwave cavity (even a bad cavity) to narrow the spectral lines in the optical frequency regime.
Time-varying coupling-induced logical stochastic resonance in a periodically driven coupled bistable system*
Authors: Yao Yuangen
Published: December 2020

Coupling-induced logical stochastic resonance (LSR) can be observed in a noise-driven coupled bistable system where the behaviors of system can be interpreted consistently as a specific logic gate in an appropriate noise level. Here constant coupling is extended to time-varying coupling, and then we investigate the effect of time-varying coupling on LSR in a periodically driven coupled bistable system. When coupling intensity oscillates periodically with the same frequency with periodic force or relatively high frequency, the system successfully yields the desired logic output. When coupling intensity oscillates irregularly with phase disturbance, large phase disturbance reduces the area of optimal parameter region of coupling intensity and response speed of logic devices. Although the system behaves as a desired logic gate when the frequency of time-periodic coupling intensity is precisely equal to that of periodic force, the desired logic gate is not robust against tiny frequency difference and phase disturbance. Therefore, periodic coupling intensity with high frequency ratio is an optimal option to obtain a reliable and robust logic operation.
Polarization manipulation of bright-dark vector bisolitons*
Authors: Zhou Yan , Lin Xiaoyan , Liao Meisong , Zhao Guoying , Fang Yongzheng
Published: December 2020

We simulate the polarization manipulation of bright-dark vector bisolitons at 1-μm wavelength regime. Through changing the pulse parameters, different kinds of pulse shapes and optical spectra are generated in output orthogonal polarization directions. When the input vector bisoliton is polarization-locked with 1064 nm central wavelength, “1+1” fundamental dark-dark and “2+1” pseudo-high-order bright-dark group-velocity-locked vector solitons can be achieved through changing the projection angle. When the input vector bisoliton is group-velocity-locked with 1063 nm and 1065 nm central wavelengths, “2+1” and “2+2” pseudo-high-order bright-dark group-velocity-locked vector solitons, bright-dark group-velocity-locked vector solitons with chirp-like temporal oscillations are generated. Our simulation results can provide beneficial conduct for polarization manipulation of vector multi-solitons, and have promising applications in quantum information register, optical communications, nanophotonics, and all-optical switching.
Zinc-oxide/PDMS-clad tapered fiber saturable absorber for passively mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser*
Authors: Muhammad F D , Husin S A S , Ng E K , Lau K Y , Abdullah C A C , Mahdi M A
Published: December 2020

We propose and demonstrate a passively mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL) based on zinc-oxide/polydimethylsiloxane (ZnO/PDMS) saturable absorber (SA) that evanescently interacts with the light on a tapered fiber. The ZnO/PDMS composite is coated on the whole surface of the tapered fiber to guarantee the maximum efficiency of the SA device, with a measured insertion loss of 0.87 dB and a modulation depth of 6.4%. The proposed laser can generate soliton mode-locking operation at a threshold power of 33.07 mW. The generated output pulse yields a repetition rate and pulse width of 9.77 MHz and 1.03 ps, respectively. These results indicate that the proposed ZnO/PDMS-clad tapered fiber could be useful as an efficient, compatible, and low-cost SA device for ultrafast laser applications.
Reviewing the scope and thematic focus of 100 000 publications on energy consumption, services and social aspects of climate change: a big data approach to demand-side mitigation
*
Authors: Creutzig Felix , Callaghan Max , Ramakrishnan Anjali , Javaid Aneeque , Niamir Leila , Minx Jan , Müller-Hansen Finn , Sovacool Benjamin , Afroz Zakia , Andor Mark , Antal Miklos , Court Victor , Das Nandini , Díaz-José Julio , Döbbe Friederike , Figueroa Maria J , Gouldson Andrew , Haberl Helmut , Hook Andrew , Ivanova Diana , Lamb William F , Maïzi Nadia , Mata Érika , Nielsen Kristian S , Onyige Chioma Daisy , Reisch Lucia A , Roy Joyashree , Scheelbeek Pauline , Sethi Mahendra , Some Shreya , Sorrell Steven , Tessier Mathilde , Urmee Tania , Virág Doris , Wan Can , Wiedenhofer Dominik , Wilson Charlie
Published: December 2020

As current action remains insufficient to meet the goals of the Paris agreement let alone to stabilize the climate, there is increasing hope that solutions related to demand, services and social aspects of climate change mitigation can close the gap. However, given these topics are not investigated by a single epistemic community, the literature base underpinning the associated research continues to be undefined. Here, we aim to delineate a plausible body of literature capturing a comprehensive spectrum of demand, services and social aspects of climate change mitigation. As method we use a novel double-stacked expert—machine learning research architecture and expert evaluation to develop a typology and map key messages relevant for climate change mitigation within this body of literature. First, relying on the official key words provided to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change by governments (across 17 queries), and on specific investigations of domain experts (27 queries), we identify 121 165 non-unique and 99 065 unique academic publications covering issues relevant for demand-side mitigation. Second, we identify a literature typology with four key clusters: policy, housing, mobility, and food/consumption. Third, we systematically extract key content-based insights finding that the housing literature emphasizes social and collective action, whereas the food/consumption literatures highlight behavioral change, but insights also demonstrate the dynamic relationship between behavioral change and social norms. All clusters point to the possibility of improved public health as a result of demand-side solutions. The centrality of the policy cluster suggests that political actions are what bring the different specific approaches together. Fourth, by mapping the underlying epistemic communities we find that researchers are already highly interconnected, glued together by common interests in sustainability and energy demand. We conclude by outlining avenues for interdisciplinary collaboration, synthetic analysis, community building, and by suggesting next steps for evaluating this body of literature.
Prediction of Missing Data in Rainfall Dataset by using Simple Statistical Method
Authors: Amani Mohd Jafri Izzati , Mohamed Noor Norazian , Zia Ul-Saufie Ahmad , Suwardi Annas
Published: December 2020

Almost all of the data obtained from hydrological station contains missing data. Usually, this problem occurs due to equipment failures, maintenance work and human error. Incomplete dataset will reduce the ability of a statistical analysis and can cause a bias estimation due to systematic differences between observed and unobserved data. In this study, four simple statistical method such as Series Mean, Average Mean Top Bottom, Linear Interpolation and Nearest Neighbour were applied to predict the missing values in a rainfall dataset. An annual daily data for rainfall from nine selected monitoring station (from 2009 until 2018) were described using descriptive statistic. Then, the dataset were randomly simulated into 4 percentages of missing (5%, 10%, 15% and 20%) by using statistical package for social sciences software. The performance of this imputation methods were evaluated by using four performance indicators namely Mean Absolute Error, Root Mean Squared Error, Prediction Accuracy, and Index of Agreement. Overall, Linear Interpolation method was selected as the best imputation method to predict the missing data in the rainfall dataset.
General Framework for Ecosystem Assessment for Measures to Adapt and Mitigate the Effects of Climate Change
Authors: Valentina Coman , Madalina Voicu , Lucian Laslo , Anda Rotaru , Monica Matei , Norbert Bara , Natalia Enache , Madalina Boboc , György Deak , Silvius Tanciu , Mohamed Noor Norazian
Published: December 2020

The effects of climate change are becoming more intense in the last decades. Moreover, according to many official reports, climate changes are directly affecting ecosystems and their services. To assess the impact of climate change on ecosystems, various methods are being used in order to identify changes and interactions with other pressures such as degradation or fragmentation. Adaptation and mitigation measures on the effects of climate change generally include land use changes and land use practices. In order to assess the effectiveness of adaptation and mitigation measures, the services provided by ecosystems and their status are monitored. The paper presents the general framework for evaluating adaptation and mitigation measures and it is based on research from reference works that generally recommend how to evaluate adaptation and mitigation measures. A local adaptation of the mitigation and adaptation framework is presented, by identifying methods for assessing state indicators and ecosystem services. Depending on the availability and accuracy of the data, are proposed methods structured on different levels of detail such as: statistical data, field measurements, modeling software. The application of the proposed methods was verified in a case study: Divici Pojejena wetland, for which detailed methods of assessing the state and services of ecosystems were used.
Indoor and Outdoor Particulate Matter Concentrations in the Vicinity of Plastic Waste Processing Industries
Authors: Yasina Yusuf Sara , Rahim Nur Alis Addiena A , Zulaikha Wazam Wan , Naidu Dewika , Jamian Ruwaida
Published: December 2020

While plastic recycling has gained conclusive acceptance by various stakeholders as a preferable products’ end-of-life management, plastic waste processing industries may contribute to serious air pollutants emission and impair human health, especially if it is in uncontrolled conditions. Apart from toxic gas pollutants, this industry may also emit significant concentration of particulates matter or dust, notably via physical (shredding, sorting, and washing) and melt (re-granulation and reprocessing) processes. Meanwhile, in Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia, public anguish is increasing in recent years due to mushrooming plastic waste recycling industries in its residential area. Thus, a study was conducted to analyse the day- and night-time ambient air PMio levels and their relationship with selected meteorological parameters (ambient temperature, relative humidity and wind speed) at two different locations (Cinta Sayang Resort Villa, CSRV and Metro Specialist Hospital, HM) in Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia. The mean ambient PMio levels of Cinta Sayang Resort Villa (CSRV) and Metro Specialist Hospital (HM) were found exceeding the New Malaysia Ambient Air Quality Standard at 150 (μg/m3 (24-hours), which were 568.082 + 266.441 (μg/m3 615.046 + 355.672 (μg/m3, respectively. Distribution of PMio concentrations betwen day and night-time were found to be statistically insignificant at both sites. Meteorological parameters have also contributed to the trend of PMio concentrations at both sites especially at HM. Inverse correlation with PMio at CSRV was explained by the absence of moisture (or rain) at the site while the positive correlation observed at HM was due to the hot temperature-strong wind association at the site. Temperature was found to be the manipulating factor for PMio at HM, via linear regression model developed at PMouth = - 4352.426 + 170.557 x Th with F(1, 8) = 15.224 at p < .005, accounting for 65.6% of the variation Thus, proper attention should be given to the particulates matter emitted in Sungai Petani, believed to be influenced by the uncontrolled emission from the plastic recycling industries.
Detection of Emerging Pollutants Oxytetracycline and Paracetamol and the Potential Aquatic Ecological Risk Associated with their Presence in Surface Waters of the Arges-Vedea, Buzau-Ialomita, Dobrogea-Litoral River Basins in Romania
Authors: Ilie Mihaela , Deák György , Marinescu Florica , Ghita Gina , Tociu Carmen , Matei Monica , Ileana Covaliu Cristina , Raischi Marius , Yasina Yusof Sara
Published: December 2020

Pharmaceuticals are a major group of emerging pollutants frequently identified in surface waters. The occurrence of pharmaceuticals as environmental pollutants is a problem involving multiple aspects and continue to cause new and serious challenges to ecosystems and human health. For example, antibiotics exert a selective pressure on bacterial communities in aquatic environments, leading to the selection and increase in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which is a major problem in the effective treatment of bacterial infections, while for analgesics, a number of adverse effects such as accumulation in tissues and behavioral changes were observed in aquatic organisms. In this paper, the detection by UHPLC-MS/MS of two widely used pharmaceuticals was performed, oxytetracycline (antibiotic) and paracetamol (analgesic) respectively, in surface water matrix from the Arges-Vedea, Buzau-Ialomita and Dobrogea-Litoral river basins in Romania. The potential aquatic ecological risk (RQ) was also estimated by the ratio between Measured Environmental Concentration (MEC) and Predicted No-Effect Concentration (PNEC).
Strategic Actions for Packaging Waste Management and Reduction
Authors: Radu Violeta-Monica , Chiriac Magdalena , Deak Gyorgy , Pipirigeanu Mariana , Nurati Tengku Izhar Tengku
Published: December 2020

Following the growing trend of packaging waste quantities, it has become more and more actual the issue of the impact of this waste flow over environment and human health, as a consequence of inappropriate disposal methods and technologies. For this purpose, waste hierarchy must be applied, focusing on waste prevention, prepare for reuse, recycling and recovery, while waste landfilling should be the last available option of management, which corresponds to the highest level of loss and denaturation of resources. The food packaging is not only useful for food protection, but it is key element to attract consumers and to impact their consumption behavior. Food packaging should grow the value of the product that is packed, but also must meet certain requirements for recycling when packaging becomes waste. This is the reason why proper and efficient management of packaging waste is important for environment and human health. The problems generated by the packaging waste have determined governments to take measures for policy improvement, focusing also on other options of management, such as reduction of unnecessary packaging, promotion of packaging reuse and use of alternative packaging materials, in addition to growing the recycling efficiency and gradual ban of single use packaging. This paper presents strategic actions for packaging waste management and reduction, as measures to reduce negative impact of waste on environment and human health, in the context of circular economy. Therefore, reduction of packaging waste inputs to the environment must be tackled as a global multidisciplinary approach priority.
Influence of Drainage Layer Thickness on the Preconsolidation Rate of Dredged Marine Soils: A Lab Simulation
Authors: Johan Siti Farhanah S.M. , Chan Chee-Ming
Published: December 2020

This study conducted to investigate the improved consolidation rate of dredged marine soils used as backfills in land reclamation, with the aim of making the material’s reuse more favourable on site compared to disposal as in the normal practice. In order to quicken the dissipation of excess pore water under loading, efficiency of the drainage layers sandwiching the dredged marine soil plays an important role. With modification of a large oedometer, the present study examines the efficiency of three granular materials, i.e. sand (S), palm oil clinker (POC) and pavement milling waste (PMW) in two different drainage thicknesses for the effective discharge of pore water during consolidation of the dredged marine soils. With sand adopted as Control, it observed that thicker layers (100%) of the granular materials produced higher consolidation rates by 10% compared to 50% of thickness. Settlement reduction also found at POC and PMW as the drainage layers, i.e. 0.6% and 0.5% respectively in comparison with sand. Obviously, the improvement of DMS consolidation about 2% when implantation of granular layer.
Synthesis of Studies Conducted to Reveal the Impact of the Bastroe Canal on the Physico-Chemical Conditions and Biodiversity in Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve (DDBR)
Authors: Bratfanof Edward , György Deak , Tudor Georgeta , Dănălache Tiberius , Holban Elena , Boboc Mădălina
Published: December 2020

This paper aims to identify the impact of anthropogenic changes caused by the construction of the Bastroe Canal on the hydrology, hydrochemistry and biodiversity of the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve (DDBR). The paper wants to provide a knowledge tooi that can be a working basis for government and local decision-makers due to the special importance of conserving the biodiversity of this area. The impact of the Bastroe Canal will be revealed through a synthesis of the conclusions of the main studies carried out by institutes in Romania in the period 2004 - 2020.
Effect of Dye Sensitized Solar Cell Fabricated with Different Thickness of Rutile-Anatase TiO2 Electrode on the Electrical Performance
Authors: Gomesh Nair , Santiagoo Ragunathan , Daud Zawawi , Azan Tajarudin Husnul , Ong Song-Quan , Ramli Syafinar
Published: December 2020

DSSC is in the third generation of PV technology which employ easily available raw material with low cost manufacturing methods. Dye- Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) consist of a photo electrochemical cell of oxide semiconductor layer, dye molecules, electrolyte and counter electrode. This paper presents the comparison of the thickness of the TiO2 using Rutile-Anatase composition at 1:4 ratioto the electrical performance of the DSSC. The Dr. Blade method was employed to the fabrication of the DSSC with a reference dyes and platinum sputtered technique counter electrode. The result shows that solar cell with an efficiency of 0.36 % of was produced from electrode film thickness of 10 µm. Further increase in the thickness shows decreased of the efficiency, especially the short circuit current. From the experiment conducted, it shows the 10 µm is suitable size to fabricate the DSSC using the RA-TiO2 but further investigation is needed to verify the electron transfer efficiency and recombination rate in thicker/thinner films.
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Enforcement Officers’ Perception Towards Imposing Punitive Action Against Errand Employers in Manufacturing Sector in Kelantan
Authors: Hassan Ramli , Rasdan Ismail Ahmad , Kamilah Makhtar Nor , Jusoh Norfadzilah
Published: December 2020

Compliance to occupational safety and health (OSH) laws in Malaysia is enforced by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), Ministry of Human Resource. The acts involved are Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA) and Factory and Machinery Act 1967 (FMA). Actions taken against employers who breached the laws are either persuasive or punitive. Persuasive and punitive refer to the type of action taken by the enforcement officers against the errand employers. Making remarks in a log book, giving out directive letters and issuing notices (Notice of Prohibition, NOI and Notice of Improvement, NOP) are considered persuasive whilst opening an investigation paper (IP) for the purpose of offering compound and bringing the matter to court are considered punitive. From the statistics, it is clear that the OSH enforcement officers use more persuasive strategy compared to punitive strategy. The objective of the study is to study the perception of OSH enforcement officers towards imposing punitive action against errand employers. The study used questionnaires developed after a thorough literature review on enforcement factors. The questionnaires were distributed to selected population i.e. DOSH Kelantan’s officers. The data was analysed using SPSS version 25 software. The study shows that generally the respondents are in favour of imposing punitive actions against errand employers and the most paramount factors in doing so is the knowledge, understanding and expertise in conducting investigation and preparing investigation paper (IP).
Physial Properties of Nanocellulose Extracted from Empty Fruit Bunch
Authors: Ibrahim A , Abdullah M F , Sam S T
Published: December 2020

The high content of cellulose in lignocellulosic waste can be further utilized to produce nanocellulose (NCC). Conventional method of dissolving lignocellulosic waste in acid solvent is detrimental to the environment. Thus, a new method for utililizing lignocellulosic waste using environmental friendly solvent should be developed. NCC can be produced by dissolution of palm oil empty fruit bunch (EFB) in green solvent, natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES). In this study, palm oil EFB was used to produce NCC by dissolving in NADES and analysed for its characterization. Atomic force microscope (AFM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were used to evaluate the NCC’s morphology and dimension. Under AFM analysis, the average height of NCC produced was 15.574±3.658 nm while the obtained diameter is 53.179±24.237 nm. Using TEM analysis, the NCC produced was a needle-like particles with average diameter of 17.842 ± 2.859 nm, while the length is 185.486 ± 91.776 nm. Based on TGA results, NCC produced has a thermal stability at 224 °C. From the results obtained, the dissolution of cellulose in NADES is able to produce nanocellulose with similar properties as nanocellulose produced using conventional method.
Life Cycle Analysis of Plastic Packaging
Authors: Nuraiti Tengku Izhar Tengku , Voon May Yap
Published: December 2020

Due to the increasing demand of plastic usage all around the world, the production and disposal of plastic packaging have a significant increase in amount. This study is aimed to analyze the environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) plastic packaging by using life cycle analysis (LCA) method which implemented as in ISO 14040 and ISO 14044. The system is designed to study the cradle-to-grave process of LDPE plastic packaging which included the production of polymers, manufacture of packaging, distribution of packaging, overall transportation, and the end-of-life treatments, with the functional unit of 1000 kg, using GaBi LCA software and TRACI 2.1 method, to assess the significant environmental impacts throughout the processes which were the global warming (climate change), acidification, smog formation, eutrophication, and particulate matter emission. The findings show that climate change is the most significant impact (43% contribution) while the most relevant unit process is the manufacture of LDPE packaging (52% contribution). Landfill has found to be the best option within end-of-life treatments, with the least pollutant emissions. However, the design of landfill had to be enhanced to cope with the long-lasting effects of plastic in landfill.
Tensile Properties of Kenaf Core with Polypropylene and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber Composites
Authors: Santiagoo Ragunathan , Nair Gomesh , Azan Tajarudin Husnul , Daud Zawawi , Zainal Mustaffa
Published: December 2020

The reaction of kenaf core powder (KCP)/polypropylene/acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) blends with and without a coupling agent, benzoyl chloride is analyzed. The filler loading ranging from 0% to 30% were prepared by using grinding machine and blended with the PP/NBR composites. The increase in only KCP loading in PP/NBR/KCP composites reduced the tensile strength and the elongation at break but increases the tensile modulus. The addition of benzoyl chloride as a coupling agent increased the tensile strength, elongation at break, and modulus of the composites. This investigation proves the enhancement in the adhesion between the filler and polymer matrix. The incorporation of coupling agent also increases the tensile properties of treated composite.
Farmer’s Knowledge in Land Suitability Evaluation and Farmers’ Awareness in Organic Farming for Sustainable Agriculture: A Case Study in Perlis
Authors: Abdullah Norasmanizan , Zolkafli Amirulikhsan , Suhaili Mansor Nur , Abdullah Chik Norlaila
Published: December 2020

Sustainable agriculture is the heart of organic farming, and human resources are playing a vital role in directing the community toward sustainable development in agricultural practices. The research objective is to evaluate the Farmer’s Knowledge (FK) in land suitability variables for crop type’s suitability in Perlis. After that, the collected spatial information variables applied to allocate the spatial distribution for four main crop types in Perlis. Besides that, to investigate farmer’s awareness in organic farming in achieving sustainable agriculture and at the same time to identify young participants in the agriculture field. Participatory Geographical Information System (PGIS) practices and mixed-method approach has applied to collect spatial data information in the study area. Spatial data interpolated using the Kriging method in GIS software. It found that soil types and soil suitability are the most important variables that classed by farmers in land suitability evaluation. The spatial distribution map of crop suitability has the potential to indicate agreement or conflict with a land resource development for the study area. The results show the farmer’s awareness in applying organic farming still low, with the percentage of applying organic fertilizer is 18%. Besides, the results indicate that the young generation has a small contribution, with 30% involved in the agriculture sector. Nowadays, the participation of the young farmers is more realistic in applied new technology for instance Precision Agriculture (PA) practices.
Assessing the Recovery Opportunities of Different Types of Wastes by their Embedment in Inorganic Binders
Authors: Moncea Mihaela-Andreea , Dumitru Florina-Diana , Baraitaru Andreea-Georgiana , Georgiana Boboc Mădălina , Deák György , Abdul Razak Rafiza
Published: December 2020

The use of wastes in the architecture of new binders for construction domain is the key for the success of the progress regarding environmental, technical and economical issues. For instance, bricks wastes have huge recycling value but are often discarded for worthless junk. The wastes glasses which are difficult to be recovered are regularly disposed in landfflls although they successfully could replace the fine and coarse aggregates in concrete. More than that the glass aggregates can be used for decoration of concrete structure floors, patio, entrances etc. Paper slag ash has a similar chemical composition to that of cement, but the mineral phase composition significantly differs and is no reactive with water. Therefore she can be used in the production of concrete, a beneficial idea regarding exhaustible resources and intelligent recycling within circular economy and durable development context. Although the large paper producers fight with this challenge, until now the construction industry didn’t find the courage to tackle these opportunities, continuing to adopt classical methods for designing construction materials. In this context the paper presents reuse potential of different types of wastes as supplementary addition for cement based materials obtaining. In order to demonstrate their functionality the new mortars specimens were mechanically tested. The obtained results highlighted of many times similar properties with that of the classical compositions, sustaining thus the idea of sustainable development within civil industry domain.
Recycling Fly Ash from MSWI for Artificial Aggregate Production for Concrete
Authors: Mohamad Ibrahim Norlia , Nizar Ismail Khairul , Che Amat Roshazita , Liza Rahim Nur , Abdul Rahim Mustaqqim
Published: December 2020

This study focusses on the development of new lightweight aggregate (LWA) that eventually will have comparable properties with existing natural aggregate which is granite. The main objectives of this study is to examine potential use of recycled municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash as raw material in LWA production with a method of cold-bonded palletization process. The ashes are collected from Cameron Highland Incineration Plant, Malaysia that can be divided into bottom ash (BA) and fly ash (FA). This study uses FA as partial raw material to substitute the Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). The properties FA are studied by means of X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). The LWA is fly ash lightweight aggregate (FALA). The production of LWA is based on cold-bonded palletization technique. FALA have experienced two different curing process for 28 days namely room-room (RR) and room-water (RW) curing conditions. The percentage of FA used in this study is 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% of cement replacement and the size is fixed between 10 mm to 20 mm with circular shape. The properties of FALA produced in this study is examined including loose bulk density, and aggregate impact value (AIV). Other physical properties including colour and texture are also being investigated. From the results of LWA it is clearly seen that 20% FA were the best percentage of ash used to produce good quality LWA. Loose bulk density of FALA selected is 716.72 kg/m3 and AIV 13.80%.
Overview on Use of Zeolites as Bulking Agent to Optimize Organic Waste Composting Process
Authors: Jannah Abdul Hamid Nur , Abdul Kadir Aeslina , Amira Sarani Noor , Ikhmal Haqeem Hassan Mohd , Nabila Huda Hashar Nurul , Amiza Hashim Azini , Fatin Nabila Hissham Nur , Qian Yi Lim , Nuraiti Tengku Izhar Tengku
Published: December 2020

There is about 2.01 billion metric tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) produced annually and organic waste constitutes of a major portion from total waste generation worldwide. This current circumstance not only create extra burden on the landfill, but also causing some environmental issues such as greenhouse gases emission, odor emission and leachate production. Therefore, a sustainable and pro-environmental of organic waste disposal solution is acknowledged by composting practice. However, organic waste consists of some significant properties include high in salt, oil, nitrogen and moisture content. All of these properties contributing difficulties on the efficiency of organic waste composting process. In previous studies, researchers had studied various bulking agents such as biochar, sawdust, lime and others in order to optimize the efficacy of composting process. Nevertheless, utilization of zeolite as bulking agent in composting process is getting famous in the recent years due to its unique physiochemical characteristics. Hence, this article attempts to review the potential of zeolites in optimizing the composting process for better understanding of the mechanism as well provides valuable insights for sustainable organic waste management practice.
Materials of Characterization for Development and Fabrication of Ergonomics Sofa
Authors: Hafizi Abdul Nasir Ahmad , Rasdan Ismail Ahmad , Azhar Mat Daud Khairul , Husna Che Hassan Nurul , Jusoh Norfadzilah
Published: December 2020

The basic material in an ergonomic sofa is a design process that has a specification of the basic material that is adapted to the sofa design. This is because the human factor is very much related to the ergonomics of the design in which this specification will affect the physical human. To achieve this goal, a survey questionnaire involving 30 people among the sofa makers was distributed to get feedback on the type of material used in the ergonomic sofa reconstruction process. Survey questions focus on type of material used. Based on the data analysis, results show that the type of material used such as frame and sponge is very much influenced by the design of the sofa as it is related to ergonomic features. These surveys are important to look at the specification of the key ingredients in the design of ergonomic sofas through perceptions of the maker sofa.
Potential Small Scale Sea Water Reclamation from Plastic Waste Contamination
Authors: Baharudin Ridzuan Mohd , Daud Zawawi , Detho Amir , Awang Halizah , Arif Rosli Mohd , Zakariah Zulfairul
Published: December 2020

Plastics have become a potential source of contaminants in addition to being a universal environmental eyesore due to its global occurrence in every waste stream. Copper (Cu) adsorbed at high concentrations can be damaging to health. The optimum parameter conditions for the minimization of Cu from contaminated water due to plastic using coconut shell activated carbon were investigated. The influence of two experimental variables (adsorbent dosage and pH) were analyzed by the application of response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD). Quadratic models were developed for efficiency improvement in treatment. The optimal removal settings attained were the adsorbent dosage of 26.58 g and 150rpm shaking speed, achieving 89.62% removal with a desirability value of 0.999. The predicted compared to the experimental data revealed that the experimental values are relatively in close agreement with the predicted results, which therefore define that the generated model has encapsulated the correlation between the adsorption variables and the response. The Langmuir model was best fitted to the experimental data.
Adsorption of Methylene Blue by Banana Stem Adsorbent in a Continuous Fixed Bed Column Study
Authors: Akbar N A , Rosman N D , Hambali S , Abu Bakar A A
Published: December 2020

Methylene Blue is a cationic dye that releases aromatic amines in many textile industries and can cause potential harm to human health. Agricultural waste has been explored for their adsorption abilities towards Methylene Blue dye from textile wastewater. This study described the performance of fixed-bed column using banana stem as filter media under the effect of various bed height (10, 30, 50 cm) and initial concentration of Methylene Blue ( 0.02 and 0.03 mg/L) to assess the breakthrough curve. From the fixed-bed column study, the column with initial Methylene Blue concentration of 0.02 mg/L and bed height of 50cm performed well in removing Methylene Blue from the synthetic Methylene Blue solution. The breakthrough time and exhaustion time were 953.57 minutes and 4560 minutes, respectively. As a conclusion, banana stem filter media is an effective alternative in removing Methylene Blue from textile wastewater.
Feasibility Study to Retrofit Existing Rotary Drum into A Chemical Sludge Thermal Dewatering System Through Lab-Scale Experimental Investigations
Authors: Zhi Yong Koh , Chien Hwa Chong , Chee Ming Choo , Vui Soon Chok , Fariz Bin Majid Mohd
Published: December 2020

The adoption of the landfill method for chemical sludge management is an issue of concern as landfill leachates can cause negative impacts on the environment. Furthermore, the high moisture content in chemical sludge has resulted in higher disposal costs due to its heavyweight. This research study is conducted to determine the optimum thermal dewatering condition for chemical sludge through experimental testing and thereafter deduce a recommendation to retrofit an existing rotary drum for chemical sludge dewatering. The water removal rate from chemical sludge was evaluated through thermal dewatering experiments using a lab-scale furnace. Referring to results obtained, increased dewatering temperature and dewatering time, and decreased volume of chemical sludge has improved the water removal rate. The highest water removal rate is 82% when 1.0 cm³ chemical sludge sample is dewatered under a temperature of 250ºC for 90.0 min. Based on the economic evaluation between current chemical sludge handling and newly installed rotary drum dewatering methods, an estimate of one hundred and fifty-four thousand Malaysian Ringgit in annual net-saving is expected to be achieved through dewatering of chemical sludge in retrofitted equipment. The finding has justified the feasibility of retrofitting the current rotary drum for chemical sludge dewatering.
Hydrocarbon and Dye Degradation by Actinomycetes from Flooded Soils
Authors: Jheng Wai Chow , Ain Yusop Nurul , Pahirulzaman Khomaizon A.K.
Published: December 2020

Hydrocarbon and dye pollutants could exert adverse effects to the polluted surroundings and their occurrences are often anthropogenic. The presence of both pollutants could endanger the environment if there are no preventive and corrective measures taken. Fifteen actinomycete strains were used for potential application on hydrocarbon degradation and 10 strains used for dye degradation study. Kerosene, petrol and diesel were introduced to the actinomycetes in separate media as source of carbon and energy. Seven actinomycete strains were able to grow well on hydrocarbon growth medium and they showed notable changes in terms of number and size of colonies formed, formation of mycelia and the colour of colonies formed. Four actinomycetes that grow well on hydrocarbon medium were further cultivated in MSM liquid media supplemented with hydrocarbon. Optical density (OD) of culture media was measured as an indicator of actinomycete growth. Strain D053 and D25.2 showed higher trend of overall OD measurement. Although OD measurement is lower, the growth of Strain KSJ12.7 and D13.5 were observed where tiny cell cluster or cellular flocs were formed. Kerosene and diesel were found to be good growth substrate for the actinomycetes. For dye degradation, the decrease in absorbance will determine the percentage of decolourization of Congo Red achieved by actinomycete strains. Highest decolorization of Congo Red recorded by Strain D4 in ISP-1 at 79.22%, whereas Strain D008 in MSM at 8.88%. These two different media indicated that actinomycete strains need additional sources of carbon and nitrogen and did not only depend on the dye as their sole carbon and nitrogen sources. This study showed that actinomyctes could potentially be used in hydrocarbon and dye degradation given their ability to grow in both.
Ecological Engineering Approach as a Sustainable Solution for Wastewater and Surface Water Issues in Rural Areas of Bario, Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Syuhadaa Mohd Nuruol , Koting Suhana , Othman Faridah , Ismail Zubaidah , Painaidu Logeswary , Farahin Che Nordin Nur , Redzwan Ghufran , Ibrahim Shaliza , Hussein Elshafie Ahmed
Published: December 2020

This study is initiated with the aim of providing solutions for an effective wastewater management in Bario, a remote area situated in the middle of thick forest, close to Sarawak-Kalimantan border, with the only access is either by 55-minutes flying with 16-seat twin otter plane or 14-hour drive on 4WD vehicles using logging trail. Wastewater samples were collected at eight sites all over Bario and analyzed for pH, DO, BOD, COD, TSS, Ammonia NH3-N and E.Coli. The results have highlighted a crucial issue, that is, open ditch and rivers posed high COD and highly contaminated with NH3-N and E.Coli. The primary source of NH3-N and E.Coli were believed to be originating from human excretion due to the leaking septic tank. Therefore, we proposed solutions that will be targeting all three stages of wastewater management system of Bario. Firstly, the 200 L makeshift drum barrel that were being used as septic tank need to be replaced with a proper septic tank. Secondly, in order to make the open ditch becoming self-treating, it needs to be sparsely planted with vegetation (i.e. water lilies) that can absorb the nutrient from the wastewater as well as increasing the aesthetic of the ditch. Thirdly, we proposed a constructed wetland as a treatment system for the wastewater before being released into the river. Conclusively, as the sewage is treated in septic tanks, and the greywater is treated using wetland, Bario has huge potential to facilitate more sustainable, economical and effective decentralized wastewater management system.
Circular Economy-Waste Reuse into a Spongy Oxide Material with Photocatalytic Activity for a Sustainable Development
Authors: Florina Burlacu Iasmina- , Deák György , Marcu Ecaterina , Proriol Serre Ingrid , Balloy David , Suriyani Che Halin Dewi
Published: December 2020

The most recent studies in the field of heterogenous catalysis are directed towards the diffrent anchoring supports for immobilising commonly employed photocatalysts for the degradation of emergent organic compounds from wastewater. The technique of immobilisation of the catalytic semiconductors helps to avoid one of the main technical issue which concerns the post- recovery process of the classical particles in suspension after the water treatment. In the context of the transition towards a circular economy and sustainable development, this paper presents the results regarding a novel catalyst immobilized on fix support starting from some general waste and its photo catalytically functionalization through deposition of various concentrations of zinc oxide on its surface. The morphological and structural characterization of the synthetized oxide spongy materials was performed. This new oxide material presents a great potential as a low-cost, environmental friendly and sustainable water treatment technology.
Peat Soil for Synthetic Acid Mine Drainage Treatment: Characteristic Study
Authors: Halim M S M , Ibrahim A H , Tengku Izhar T N , Ismail Suhaina , Mohamed Jaafar Z F
Published: December 2020

Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is an untreated outflow of acidic water from metal or coal mines. Improper treatment of the harmful effluent causes major environmental concern and remains as an unsolved problem for mining operators worldwide. The untreated AMD contains high concentration of several heavy metals despite low pH level. Iron (Fe) is most dominant element of heavy metal spotted in the AMD water and must be filtered and treated before being released to open water bodies. Current practises by the industries adopted two categories of AMD treatment methods, namely active and passive treatments. Passive treatment method was adopted into this study by using successive alkalinity producing system (SAPS) to reduce Fe concentration in the AMD. Strict regulations by mine operators to acquire on-site AMD, led to use of synthetic AMD. Peat soil was introduced as organic substrate treatment media, as compared to common materials used such as mushroom spent, wood shaving and animal manure. In this research the peat soil was characterized and its effectiveness to filter the Fe content was assessed using laboratory scale studies. Prior to the test, the natural peat soil was analyzed via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis, Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) analysis and carbon-hydrogen-nitrogen-sulphur (CHNS) element analysis. After going through laboratory tests, the peat soil residues were assessed through SEM-EDX analysis to determine the trapped Fe content. The natural peat soil does not contain any Fe substance. However, the analyzed peat soil residues showed that, approximately one to four percent of the Fe were found in the peat soil residues. The use of the peat soil for the AMD treatment in SAPS method is applicable and can be used as alternative organic substrate for treatment media.
Experimental Approach for Chemical Oxygen Demand and Ammonia Nitrogen Removal from Natural Rubber Wastewater via Adsorption by Kaolin
Authors: Daud Zawawi , Santiagoo Ragunathan , Azan Tajarudin Husnul , Gomesh Nair , Awang Halizah , Nasir Nazlizan , Baharudin Ridzuan Mohd , Detho Amir
Published: December 2020

Natural rubber is an important material because of its high strength compared to synthetic rubber. However, the production process of natural rubber discharges a large amount of wastewater containing high concentrations of organic compounds and nitrogen. Therefore, discharging natural rubber processing wastewater without an appropriate treatment can lead to environmental problems such as deterioration of water quality and eutrophication. In this study, the batch adsorption experiment was carried out for the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonia nitrogen from natural rubber wastewater using kaolin as adsorbent. The efficiency of the kaolin was studied by varying the parameters adsorbent dose, pH, shaking speed and contact time. The experimental equilibrium data for this system has been analyzed using the linearized forms of Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. COD and ammonia nitrogen removal efficiencies were 71.6% and 75.8%, respectively. While, Langmuir isotherm was found to provide the best theoretical correlation of the experimental data.