bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of PHA on Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal
Authors: Han Wei , Yuan Linjiang , Chai Lu , Zhao Kai , Li Guang Zhu
Published: December 2012

Used A/O-SBR(anaerobic/aerobic alternating enhanced biological phosphorus removal system) to study carbon source and phosphate accumulating organisms (PAO) intracellular energy storage substance transformation, also studied PAO’s phosphorus removal capacity. PAO could uptake quick degradation organic matters and synthesis polyhydroxyalkanoates(PHA). PHA was a kind of intracellular energy storage substance, its content could affect PAO’s phosphorus removal capacity. When carbon source was plentiful, PAO could synthesis a lot of PHA, phosphorus removal capacity could reach 38.16 mgp/gvss. Sludge retention time could affect PAO synthesis PHA of quantity and structure. Along with the sludge retention time growth, intracellular PHA content was increased, and phosphorus uptake of desired aerobic time continues to decrease, so increasing the phosphorus removal efficiency. When the municipal sewage as carbon source, PHA was mainly composed of PHB(poly-ß-hydroxyvalerate) and PHV(poly-ß-hydroxyvalerate). Along with the sludge retention time prolongation, PAO could synthesis more PHV, PHB content was remain unchanged, PHA composition structure was changed.
Control of Hg0 Re-Emission from Simulated Wet Flue Gas Desulfurization Liquors by Sodium Dithiocarbamate
Authors: Chen Chuan Min , Jiang Li Xing , Liu Song Tao , Jiang Yu Ze
Published: December 2012

Secondary atmospheric pollutions may result from wet flue gas desulfurization (WFGD) systems caused by the reduction of Hg2+to Hg0and lead to a damping of the co-benefit mercury removal efficiency by WFGD systems. The effects of the operating conditions, which included the pH, temperature, and oxygen concentrations, on Hg0re-emission inhibition efficiency by DTCR from WFGD liquors was carried out. The established data reflected an outstanding performance on the Hg0re-emission inhibition from the simulated WFGD liquors by adding DTCR. Our data suggested that a concentration of 0.0005% (v/v) was enough for Hg0re-emission inhibition in the simulated WFGD liquors. The results also indicated that the Hg0re-emission inhibition efficiency by adding DTCR decreased as the operational temperatures increased and the Hg0re-emission inhibition efficiency increased as pH values and the oxygen concentration in the flue gas increased. The present findings could be valuable for industrial application of DTCR as a precipitant for stabilizing dissolved Hg2+to prevent re-emission of Hg0in WFGD solutions.
Treatment of Power Plant Sewage Based on Simultaneous Nitrification and Denitrification in SBR
Authors: Yang Tao , Zhang Wan You , Zhang Lan He , Wu Pei Ying , Yang Shuo
Published: December 2012

A SBR was used to treat power plant sewage based on SND when pH, DO(dissolved oxygen),MLSS, were 7.0-8.0, 0.5-1mg/L, 3000±200mg/L, respectively. Results indicated average removal efficiency of COD and NH4+-N were 89% ,96.34%.Because of low COD/ NH4+-N, average removal efficiency of TN(total nitrogen)was only 71.15%, effect of SND was not apparent. After improving COD/ NH4+-N by adding carbon source intermittently, removal effects of COD and NH4+-N were not reduced, and effluent NO3--N and NO2--N was not accumulated, average removal efficiency of TN was 95%, and efficiency of SND was enhanced obviously. The effluent of system was recycled effectively. It indicates that SBR based on SND is feasible in theory and technology which is applied to treat power plant sewage.
Research on Development and Characterization of Fly Ash Aggregate for Water Treatment
Authors: Wu Nan Jiang , Zhou Xiao Lv , Wang Dao Jing , Zhu Rui Jie , Li Huan
Published: December 2012

A fly ash aggregate was been developed with fly ash as main raw material, and dewatering sludge, clay and gesso as auxiliary materials in research. Then the characteristics of surface morphology, wear rate and broken rate, hydrochloric acid soluble rate, bulk density and apparent density, pore ratio and specific surface area, surface roughness were been tested. At the same time, a comparative study with the marketed ceramic ceramsite was been done. The results show that the fly ash aggregate has great advantages in performance characterization over ceramic.
Extraction of Poly-Phosphate from the Activated Sludge with Thermal Treatment for Phosphorus Recovery
Authors: Zhang Ming Yang , Hao Ai Min , Kuba Takahiro
Published: December 2012

Fast consumption of high quality phosphorus mines and uneven distribution in the world result in the shortage crisis for phosphorus, meanwhile lots of phosphate compounds which are discharged into nature water bodies by human beings have already induced many environmental problems. Because of this situation, phosphorus recovery from sewage sludge working in the aeration tank of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) has been researched in the present study. Poly-phosphate (poly-P) and total phosphate (T-P) accumulated inside activated sludge could be released by thermal treatment at low temperature, 30% poly-P and 29% T-P could be released from sludge by heating at 70°C. Different kinds of pretreatments had been tested to improve phosphorus release from activated sludge in thermal treatment; addition of chelating reagent at final concentration of 2 mM before thermal treatment could improve the phosphorus release obviously, 68% poly-P and 53% T-P could be released into liquid phase. Approximately 85% T-P could be precipitated with calcium at pH 11; it was interesting to find precipitation occurred in neutral condition without pH adjustment.
Factors Influence on Shrinkage of High Calcium Fly Ash Geopolymer Paste
Authors: Kamhangrittirong Parames , Suwanvitaya Prasert , Witayakul Watcharin , Suwanvitaya Patcharaporn , Chindaprasirt Prinya
Published: December 2012

This research shows the progress of geopolymer synthesis based on high calcium fly ash. In this study, the fly ash contents of 60, 65, and 70 percents by weight and sodium hydroxide solution concentrations of 8 to 12 M were used. Alkali activators for the geopolymer synthesis consisted of sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and the weight ratio of Na2SiO3 to NaOH were 0.50, 1.00, and 1.50. Drying shrinkage deformation of geopolymer paste was investigated by longitudinal measurement in a room temperature. Generally, the drying shrinkage behavior could be divided into three groups. The minimum drying shrinkage strain below 3,000 x 10-6 mm/mm was observed. The results indicated that an increase in the fly ash to alkali solution ratio and the decease of NaOH concentration significantly decreased the drying shrinkage strain. The optimum ratio of Na2SiO3 to NaOH was 1.0. The findings show that high calcium fly ash geopolymer binder could be used for alternative construction materials with low shrinkage strain.
Active Belite Cement Clinker Produced with Mineral Waste
Authors: Liu Yan Jun , Zheng Yong Chao
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a laboratory study on active belite cement linker using mineral waste as one of the major raw meal components. The main chemical component of mineral waste employed in this study is silica (SiO2), around 70%. The raw meals were soaked in Muffle Furnace at 1350oC for 10 minutes and 20minutes respectively, then, cooled down to room temperature using air blower. Boron Oxide was used to stabilize high temperature phases of C2S. QXRD analysis indicates that active belite cement clinker has major mineral components consisting of Dicalcium Silicate (C2S), Ferrite (C2 (A0.48F1.52) O5) and trace amount of Tricalcium Silicate (C3S). Among them, Dicalcium silicate is over 85 percent, Ferrite around 10 percent and Tricalcium silicate less than 10 percent. Also, significant amount of high temperature polymorphic C2S was stabilized under room temperature. Among polymorphic belite phases, αH-C2S accounts for around 66% of cement clinker, and αL-C2S for about 22% of cement clinker. Scanning Eαlectronic Microscope (SEM) analysis also shows coαnsiderable round grains of C2S. TGA-DSC spectrum indicated there is no significant phase change while cement clinker was cooling down. Also, the mechanical tests on active belite cement show that active belite cement clinker has a slow strength development at early ages, but rapid strength gain over 70Mpa at 28 days. Thus, this active belite cement clinker demonstrates very promising prospect in sustainable cement industry development.
Comparative Study of Additives Effectiveness on Portable Water Mist System
Authors: Sun Zhi Hao , Jiang Jun Cheng , Qiao Lin
Published: December 2012

Extinguishing performance of portable water mist system was studied in this paper, considering the effects of additive addition and its type. The experimental results were statistically processed and numerically analysed by mathematical software. The results demonstrated that water mist with additive solution can extinguish pool fire efficiently due to physical and chemical mechanisms. The salt solution produces better fire control result than surfactant solution at low concentration, whereas the surfactant solution brings the better one at high concentration. Furthermore, the salt solution and surfactant solution have similar fire expansion behaviours to pure water in fire suppression with portable water mist system. The study, based on the application of the portable water mist system with additives, revealed that the system performed well on fire suppression and could be useful on movable fire control.
Airport Noise Environmental Impact Assessment Based on the Multi-Level Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Min , Yang Guo Qing , Xu Tao , Feng Xia
Published: December 2012

In order to solve the problems of multifactor and fuzziness of airport noise environmental impact, the multilevel fuzzy cluster analysis for comprehensive assessment of airport noise environmental impact was proposed in this paper. The method is a quantitative analysis of the environmental impact of airport noise, which integrates Fuzzy Cluster Analysis with Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The results show that the method is better reflecting of fuzziness between the levels of noise environmental pollution, better solving the problem of weight factors of various indicators, and making assessment results more reasonable. This work can provide decision support for airport noise manager.
The Effects of Selenium on Toxicity of Copper on Rape
Authors: Chao Chun Yan , Ma Deng Jun
Published: December 2012

To research the effect of how Se alleviate the harm brought by copper, we investigated the root length, stem, leaves, aberration by Cu colza in copper and Se-Cu compounds. The experimental simulation of sewage irrigation methods, the general consumption of rapeseed selected as experimental material, using the method of comparison, were dealing with a single copper, different concentrations selenium and copper concentrations were compared with experimental treatment. The Experiments were divided into three groups of treatment, respectively with a single copper, low concentrations selenium and copper and high concentrations of selenium and copper processing of rape. The focus is research the effect of selenium on the toxicity of copper. The result shows that the law of heavy metals like copper accumulation in the soil as well as in the migration and accumulation in rape and the law of metallic copper in the role of selenium in the soil accumulation as well as in the migration and accumulation in rape. The copper in the soil and rape are determinated by AAS. The results show that Selenium effectively alleviate the toxicity of copper on rape, and the ability of ease is high concentrations of selenium intensity than low concentrations of selenium.
Nitrogen Accumulation, Retranslocation and Partitioning in Oats (Avena L.) as Affected by Different Water Supply and Nitrogen Fertilization
Authors: Zhao Bao Ping , Ren Peng , Liu Jing Hui , Zhao Meng Li
Published: December 2012

In order to investigate the effect of water and nitrogen (N) supply on oat N accumulation, translocation and partitioning, we used two contrasting oat varieties, the naked Baiyan 2 (Avena nuda L.) and the hulled Baiyan 7 (Avena sativa L.) as experimental material, six treatment combinations, including 2 water supply regimes, no irrigation and 3 times irrigation and 3 levels of N application was 30, 90 and 150 kg N hm-2 were set in the experiment. The result showed that: At each growth stage, the N accumulation of Baiyan 2 was significantly higher than that of Baiyan 7 (p N3 >N1.The N petitioning to grain of irrigation treatment was higher than that of no irrigation. Suitable N (N2, 90kg N hm-2) can increase grain N and also NHI increased. From the result, we can conclude that Baiyan 2 is a higher N efficiency cultivar. Irrigation increased the whole plant N accumulation and partitioning to grain.
Effect of Disturbance on Carbon Cycling in Wetland Ecosystem
Authors: Liu Ying Nan , Ni Hong Wei , Zeng Zhao Wen , Chai Chun Rong
Published: December 2012

Wetland is a special terraqueous ecosystem. Wetland ecosystem is an important carbon pool in the world and the carbon stored in which accounts for 15% of the total terrestrial carbon storage. Carbon cycling in wetlands largely affected global carbon cycling and also possibly global climatic change. Carbon cycle model of wetland has been changed by human disturbance is increased which exert a profound and lasting influence upon global change. Some researches show that wetland restoration and reconstruction are helpful to carbon accumulation and GHG reduction. So, through analyze the effect of human disturbance on carbon cycling in wetland, a necessary scientific basis is provided for the study of the effect of wetland on global change.
Application of Bayesian Theory to Water Quality Comprehensive Assessment
Authors: Liu Mei , Lu Jun
Published: December 2012

According to many uncertain problems of current water quality comprehensive assessment, a Bayesian model for water quality evaluation was established based on the basic principles of Bayesian formula. Select monthly monitoring data for 5 parameters at 15 different monitoring sections, generated from July 2006 to June 2007 and use Chinese GB3838-2002 as evaluation standards to analyze the water quality grade in this study. The annual evaluation results show that the water quality of ChangLe River mainly belongs to Ⅲ and Ⅳ grade. The monthly water quality has a certain relation with rainfall. The Bayesian method has the characteristic of more integrated, suitable for both large and small samples, simple calculation and easily to be used widely.
Fe-Modified ZSM-5 and β Zeolites for Direct N2O Decomposition
Authors: Guo Quan Hui , Li Juan , Li Ying Xia
Published: December 2012

Fe-modified ZSM-5 and β zeolites were prepared by adopting liquid ion-exchange method and their catalytic performance was studied in the N2O decomposition reaction. The state of Fe loaded on Fe-zeolites was investigated by means of UV-vis diffuse spectra, infrared spectroscopy, EPR and H2-TPR. The results of IR of hydroxyl stretching and UV-vis investigationSubscript texts indicated that part of the iron-ions was introduced into zeolites at the charge-balancing sites. The results of EPR and H2-TPR investigations showed that the same iron species were loaded on ZSM-5 and β zeolites. However, the results of IR of the perturbed anti-symmetric T-O-T vibrations of iron-ions indicated that different types of ZSM-5 and β zeolites resulted in different distributions of charge-balancing iron cations. The iron-ions could replace Brönsted acid protons at the straight channel wall (α sites), intersection of straight and sinusoidal channels (β sites), and sinusoidal channel wall (γ sites) within the ZSM-5 zeolite. In the case of Fe-β zeolites, iron-ions mainly located in the straight channels. We observed that the catalytic activity of the iron ions located on the α sites of ZSM-5 zeolites was better than those of iron ions located on β and γ sites in N2O direct decomposition, since the former was the most easily reduced from Fe3+to Fe2+in H2. Furthermore, it was found that Fe-β zeolite showed higher catalytic activity than Fe-ZSM-5 zeolite. This difference was attributed to the active sites located almost exclusively in the straight zeolite channels.
The Contrast between the Models’ in PSD-BPA and those in PSASP
Authors: Yan Chang You , Wang Min , Lu Jing Jing
Published: December 2012

Both PSD-BPA and PSASP are all important power system analysis tools. The aim in this paper is the models’ contrast and studing the difference between PSD-BPA and PSASP. First by the models contrast, the experience will be summed up. The method of model contrast is to deduce the transfer functions in order to find the differences of transfer functions between PSD-BPA and PSASP, so as to analyze the difference. After the research work, the discussion and study on the common problems will be taken and the rational advice will be put forward in the power flow calculation. The common problems in the transient calculation will be expounded, and the result will be tabled in order that these contents are obvious at a glance. At last the conclusion will be brought forward and some pieces of advice will be summed up.
Based on ARM Embedded Remote Data Acquisition System
Authors: Liu Qiang , Fu Guo Hua , Lian Xin Ge , Wang Jun
Published: December 2012

Because of the data acquisition system is more and more wide application range, involved the signal source and the type of more and more of the requirement of measurement, more and more is also high, the domestic now has quite a few data collection system and measurement, but many systems are simple function, and acquisition channel, the sampling rate is low, less complex operation, and higher requirements for test environment. People need a wide application range, high performance/price ratio of data acquisition system. In this paper, the main content is the use of ARM9 processor C2440A primarily controller series 3, design an embedded data acquisition system. Using ARM9 chip do microprocessor design remote data acquisition system, through the embedded Linux system video data collection USB cameras, the JPEG compression coding, ARM9 chip control data acquisition by most industrial environmental restrictions for collection system that has a large capacity of the storage and wireless forwarding function. This paper to S3C2440A as the core, with A piece of FPGA and A piece of Ethernet CS8900A controller for auxiliary to realize the digital parts of the system hardware, analog part two way by the A/D acquisition, variable gain amplifier and basic amplifying circuit component. The system also realize the SD card memory function and various interface such as serial ports and JTAG mouth. In the software of realized in development platform on Linux system of transplantation, separately from the Bootloader transplantation, Linux kernel transplantation and root file system, the establishment of the three are expounded. And completion of the A/D converter, SD card and CS8900A in the drive design under Linux, and finally the data acquisition, storage design and forwarding program.
The Mechanism of Mangrove Tree in Wave Energy Propagation
Authors: Abdul Aziz Nuraini , Inayatullah Othman , Mohamad Jusoh Mohamad Zamin Bin
Published: December 2012

The role of mangrove trees in reducing the tsunami waves during the tragedy of Andaman tsunami occurred on December 26, 2004, has been credited and these indirectly raise awareness about the role of mangroves forest as a natural breakwater on the beach. This paper will focus on the mangrove trees from Avicennia and Rhizophora species in order to identify the methods of breaking wave energy that has been carried out by the mangrove roots and stems. Analysis of the mangrove roots coordination pattern had been conducted by gathering data at study site located at Kemaman, Terengganu and the data had been plotted in Gambit software for simulation purpose in Fluent Inc software. Hence, the simulation result showed that the ratio of wave height and velocity reduction may vary depending on factors such as the species of the mangrove trees and density of the roots that grow around the tree. Consequently, the study will be examining the waveform that is mitigated by the both species Avicennia and Rhizophora using turbulent flow and experiment will be conducted to validate the data obtained by the simulation.
Application of Heat Pump Water Heating System with Heat Recovery in Ammonia Refrigeration System
Authors: Huang Tao , Yuan Dong Li
Published: December 2012

In this paper, a heat pump water heating system with waste heat recovery in ammonia refrigeration system was put forward, based on the practical project analysis of energy demand and waste heat emission. Based on the operating characteristics of ammonia refrigeration system, the ammonia heat exchanger was designed to be installed in series on the ammonia main pipe, which can ensure the system operate efficiently and reliably. Through the analysis of measured data, significant economic benefits had been brought about by using the heat pump water heating system. This project can save 2.19 million RMB in annual operating cost, and the investment recovery period will be only 1.5 years. The heat pump water heating system has excellent development prospect.
Manufacturing Resources and Demand Intelligent Matching in Cloud Manufacturing Environment
Authors: Tai Li Jun , Hu Ru Fu , Chen Cao Wei , Huang Yuan Dong
Published: December 2012

According to the problem that the concrete realization process of cloud manufacturing service mode was researched not enough, the process of manufacturing capability semantic modeling and intelligent service matching was studied in cloud manufacturing platform. Firstly, the properties and characteristics of manufacturing resources and demand were analyzed; then intelligent matching algorithm based on ontology semantic similarity was put forwarded, this algorithm comprehensive the advantage of semantic distance, properties, structure and examples four kinds of similarity algorithm, multistage matching, step by step refinements, realized the intelligent matching of supply and demand. Finally, the supply and demand intelligent matching process was build, based on analyzing the manufacturing resource and demand attributes and characteristics.
Studies on Foam Flow in the Porous Media in the Last Decade: A Review
Authors: Lv Ming Ming , Wang Shu Zhong , Jing Ze Feng , Luo Ming
Published: December 2012

Foam has been used for several decades to decrease the mobility of drive gas or steam, thereby increasing the reservoir sweep efficiency and enhancing the oil recovery. The optimization of the operations requires a thorough understanding of the physical aspects involved in foam flow through porous media. The present paper aims mainly at reviewing experimental and modeling studies on foam flow in porous media particularly during the last decade, to stress the new achievements and highlight the areas that are less understood. X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a useful tool to study in-situ foam behaviors in porous media and new findings were obtained through this technology. The population-balance model was improved in different forms by researchers.
Review of Coal Tar Preparation and Processing Technology
Authors: Zhang Jun Xia
Published: December 2012

To generate coal tar with coal is the key technology of coal chemical industry, the generated coal tar is one of the important industry fuel and chemistry raw materials, and more attentions were attracted in coal tar preparation and processing technologies in recent years. Therefore, review of the updated technologies is developed at the present work. As for coal tar preparation technology, coal carbonization processing and coal hydropyrolysis are mature and has been applied to industry production. In comparison, hydrogenation of coal tar is just at the development. In term of coal tar processing technology, the present leading directions are how to manufacture clean fuel as well as phenol. Based on the status of coal tar preparation and processing technology, resources recycling use isn’t enough, consumptions of per ton coal is higher, environmental pollution is serious, and deep processing technology of coal tar needs to be raised.
Low Molecular Weight Compounds Contained in Coal and the Behaviors of Methane Adsorbed by Coal at Isothermal High-Pressure Condition
Authors: Yan Jiang Wei
Published: December 2012

Coal seam mehtane deposit at depth has been paid attention to. With the theory of coal structure, techniques of isothermal high-pressure adsorption and the method of Soxhlet solvent extraction, the behaviors of methane adsorbed by coal sample and its residuals were studied. At the condition of the isothermal and high methane pressure, the results of adsorption experiment show that when the methane pressure is continuously increased, the capability of methane absorbed by Pingdingshan fat coal sample gradually increases, reach to a maximum, then decrease, this phenomenon do not accord with the Langmuir’s model, but the capability of methane absorbed by Jiaozuo anthracite sample and Pingdingshan fat coal’s residuals with tetrahydrofuran gradually increase to a fixed value, and is not changed any longer. Solvent extraction of coal indicate that low molecular weight compounds contained in coal have three modes of occurrence, including free, absorbent and co-soluble mode. We can infer to conclusion: (1) low molecular weight compounds contained in coal affect greatly on the behaviors of methane adsorbed by coal at isothermal high-pressure condition, (2) low molecular weight compounds contained in fat coal is high in content, and the free mode of them are forced to remove and displace the potential space of methane molecule occupancy, the capability of methane absorbed by coal is reduced at condition of methane pressure above certain value. And it is concluded that at fat coal rank, methane content gradually increases, reach to a maximum, then decrease, but at rank of the anthracite, it gradually increases to a fixed value, and is not changed any longer with the increase of buried deepness and confining pressure in coal seam.
Failure Analysis and Structure Improvement of Beam of Liner Vibrating Screen
Authors: Li Cheng Long , He Fan , Zhang Ying Ying , Gao Yang , Gao Peng
Published: December 2012

Aiming at the frequently fracture happening in the large-scale liner vibrating screen beams, the software of finite-element analysis, ANSYS is used to analyze the modal and harmonic response of the beam structure. The analysis result suggests the danger area where beam is prone to fracture because of fatigue. The improvement scheme of the beam structure is proposed and a theoretical basis is provided for the same type of product design in the future. The failure form of the beam is fatigue failure. The maximum equivalent stress value of the improved beam structure comparing to the original design is decreased obviously, improving the stress state and the fatigue life and reliability of the liner vibrating screen.
The Effect of Amount of Surfactant and Types of Drug on Amorphous Silica Drug Delivery System (DDS)
Authors: Hajarul Azwana Ab Wab , Khairunisak Abdul Razak , Nor Dyana Zakaria , Azlan Abdul Aziz
Published: December 2012

This study describes the formation of silica nanocolloids for drug delivery system (DDS) via micelles formation approach. Micelles formed above critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the surfactant in aqueous solution. In this study, non-ionic Tween 80 was used as a surfactant and its effect on size and distribution of silica nanocolloids DDS was systematically studied. From transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, the size of silica increased from 30 nm to 50 nm with increasing amount of Tween 80 from 0.02 wt%, 0.0275wt%, 0.035wt% and 0.045 wt% respectively. Silica DDS with 0.0275wt% as optimum amount of Tween 80 encapsulated poor water soluble drug, Rifampicin has larger size (~53.8 nm) with better encapsulation efficiency compared to silica DDS encapsulated water soluble drug, Isoniazid (~39.9 nm). X-ray diffraction spectrum shows that silica DDS produced is in amorphous structure. Stability test of silica DDS encapsulated Rifampicin in 1M Sodium Chloride (NaCl) and 1% mouse serum are 42.78 % and 64.91%, respectively, which is inacceptable range for drug delivery application.
Friction Stir Processing of Mild Steel to Enhance its Surface Hardness
Authors: Grewal Harpreet S. , Singh Harpreet , Agrawal Anupam , Arora Harpreet S.
Published: December 2012

Friction stir processing (FSP) is a material processing technique recognized to enhance the mechanical properties of the material owing to micro-structural refinement. In the present study, the feasibility of the use of FSP for processing of mild steel has been explored. Using FSP, the micro-structural refinement of the steel surface was obtained, resulting in an average grain sizes of the order of 100 nm as confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Along with grain size refinement, an evolution of various phases was also studied with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD). It was observed that ferrite was the only phase present in both processed and unprocessed steel.FSP was found to be useful to enhance the micro-hardness of the steel by 50 to 80%, in comparison with that of the un-processed steel.
Production of Porous Cordierite through Sol-Gel Polymeric Sponge Method
Authors: Mohamad Hasmaliza , Siti Naqiah M. , Shafinaz R.J. , Norfadhilah Ibrahim
Published: December 2012

Cordierite (2MgO.2Al2O3.5SiO2) is widely used in high temperature applications due to its high melting temperature and high resistance to thermal shock, chemical and corrosion. In this study, porous cordierite was synthesized using sol-gel method followed by replication of polymeric sponge method. Three different sintering temperatures were studied (1200°C, 1300°C and 1400°C to determine the crucial temperatures meant for pure cordierite phase. The effect of different temperature on the pore size, density and porosity were also studied. Produced porous cordierite was then analyzed using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). XRD results showed that pure cordierite phase was obtained at 1300°C. SEM micrograph shows that with increasing sintering temperature, the pore size decreased and sample sintered at 1300°C has pore size ranging from 61-126μm.
Growth of ZnO Nanostructures at Different Temperatures without Catalyst by Wet Thermal Oxidation Process
Authors: Abdulgafour Hind I. , Yusof Yushamdan , Yam F.K. , Zainuriah Hassan
Published: December 2012

In this study, an efficient method to achieve a wide range of high-quality zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures through zinc powder evaporation at different temperatures is developed. ZnO nanostructures could be synthesized on n-type silicon substrates by a simple thermal evaporation technique without a catalyst at 600°C, 700°C, 800°C, and 900°C. Samples are annealed in wet oxygen and ambient argon gases. Surface morphology, crystallinity, and optical properties of the ZnO nanostructures are examined by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscope measurements, X-ray diffraction, and photoluminescence measurement.
Intermetallic Evolution of Sn-3.5Ag-1.0Cu-0.1Zn/Cu Interface under Thermal Aging
Authors: Yahya Iziana , Ab Ghani Noor Asikin , Abiddin Nur Nadiah Zainal , Abd Hamid Hamidi , Mayappan Ramani
Published: December 2012

Due to environmental concerns, lead-free solders were introduced in replacing the lead-based solders in microelectronics devices technology. Although there are many lead-free solder available, the Sn-Ag-Cu is considered the best choice. But the solder has its draw backs in terms of melting temperature and intermetallic formations. To improve the solder, a fourth element Zn was added into the solder. The new composite solders were synthesized via powder metallurgy route. This research studies the effect of 0.1wt% Zn addition on the hardness and intermetallic formation on Cu substrate. For the hardness results, the micro Vickers values were reported. For intermetallic, the solders were melted at 250°C and aged at 150°C until 400 hours. The microhardness value for Zn based composites solder shows higher micro Vickers hardness compared to un-doped counterparts. The phases formed and its growth was studied under SEM and by energy dispensive x-ray (EDX). The SEM results show the presence of Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn intermetallics and the Cu5Zn8 intermetallic was not detected. The addition of 0.1wt% Zn has retarded the growth of the Cu3Sn intermetallic but not the total intermetallic thickness.
P-Incorporated TiO2 Nanotubes for Methyl Orange Degradation
Authors: Saharuddin Khairul Arifah , Sreekantan Srimala
Published: December 2012

Highly ordered TiO2 nanotubes were successfully prepared via a facile anodization method in ethylene glycol and water mixture electrolyte (99 vol% EG + 5 wt% NH4F). The as-anodized TiO2 nanotubes were crystallized by annealing at 400 °C for 4 hours in argon atmosphere. A series of phosphorus incorporation with different phosphorus content have been prepared by soaking TiO2 nanotubes samples in H3PO4. The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanotubes and P-incorporated TiO2 nanotubes were evaluated by the photodegradation of methyl orange. It was found that the photocatalytic activity of P-incorporated TiO2 nanotubes was 34% higher than TiO2 nanotubes.
Thermal, Electrical and Physical Properties of Recycled Copper Filled Epoxy Composites
Authors: Pargi Mohamd Nur Fuadi , Teh Pei Leng , Husseinsyah Salmah , Yeoh Cheow Keat
Published: December 2012

The effect of recycled copper filled epoxy composites on thermal, electrical and physical properties were investigated. The recycled copper was collected as a waste from the milling machine. The recycled copper filled epoxy composite was mixed using mechanical stirrer. The effect of volume fraction of recycled copper of the epoxy composites were studied based on the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), electrical conductivity hardness and density. Incorporation of recycled copper has decreased the CTE of the composites. The electrical conductivity, hardness and density of the composites increased with increasing of volume fraction and filler loading.
X-Ray and Morphological Characterization of Al-O Thin Films Used for Vertically Aligned Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Growth
Authors: Azam Mohd Asyadi , Abd Rashid Mohd Warikh , Isomura Kazuki , Fujiwara Akihiko , Shimoda Tatsuya
Published: December 2012

Al oxide (Al-O) films used as catalyst-support layer for vertical growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were characterized by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission, and scanning electron microscopies (TEM and SEM). EB-deposited Al films (20 nm) were thermally-oxidized at 400 o C (10 min, static air) to produce the surface structure of Al-O. The Al-O was found amorphous and after the incorporation with Co catalyst, the grown CNTs were twisted together before vertically grown. The prepared Al-O surface is an electron-acceptor-dominated (oxygen-rich) surface where the formation of active catalyst could be enhanced to promote the vertically aligned CNT growth.
Compositional and Structural Characterization of Heterostructure InGaN-Based Light-Emitting Diode by High Resolution X-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Ali Ahmad Hadi , Abu Bakar Ahmad Shuhaimi , Zainuriah Hassan , Yusof Yushamdan
Published: December 2012

This paper focuses on the compositional and structural characterization of InGaN-based light-emitting diode (LED) using high resolution x-ray diffraction (HRXRD) system. The LED was epitaxially grown on Si (111) substrate that comprises of In0.11Ga0.89N multi-quantum-well (MQW) active layer. Phase analysis 2θ-scan proved the composition of GaN (0002) and (0004) at 34.63o and 72.98o, respectively. Rocking curve φ-scan showed six significant peaks of the hexagonal GaN structures with consistent angular gaps of ~60o. From x-ray rocking curve (XRC) ω-scan, screw and mix dislocation density is found as 2.85 × 109 cm-2, while pure edge dislocation density is found as 2.23 × 1011 cm-2.
Structural and Microstructure Relationship with Fracture Toughness of CeO2 Addition into Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) Ceramic Composites
Authors: Rejab Nik Akmar , Azhar Ahmad Zahirani Ahmad , Ratnam Manimaran , Ahmad Zainal Arifin
Published: December 2012

The effect of CeO2 addition in zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) was examined. The CeO2 addition in weight percent (wt %) was varied from 0 wt% to 15 wt%. The fabricated samples were sintered at a temperature of 1600°C. The sintered samples were characterized their properties such as fracture toughness and phase determination. X-ray diffraction patterns confirm the constituent phases present in the samples were alumina and zirconia. Fracture toughness for each sample in the range of 5.878.38 MPam1/2 respectively. It was observed that the addition of ceria increased the fracture toughness of the zirconia toughened alumina ceramic composites.
Study on Effect Recyclability of Ru/Bentonite-TiO2 Catalysts in Glycerol Hydrogenolysis Reaction Using X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS)
Authors: Hamzah Noraini , Nordin Nor Asikin Mohamad , Wan Isahak Wan Nor Roslam , Kassim Mohamad Bin , Yarmo Mohd Ambar
Published: December 2012

Recyclability effect on catalytic performance of Ru supported on the mixture of bentonite-TiO2 for the hydrogenolysis of glycerol was investigated under reaction condition of 150°C, 2.0 MPa hydrogen pressure and 7 h reaction time. Interestingly, the recovered Ru/bentonite-TiO2 catalyst was found to be active in the repeated runs. The conversion of glycerol increased in the four successive reactions as follows: 61.3%, 65.6%, 68.1% and 75.3%. This suggested that a sort of metal activation affect such as in situ reduction occurred during the repeated reaction. In order to confirm in situ reduction had occurred during the repeated reaction, XPS analysis of used catalyst after each reaction were carried out to study the chemical state of Ru 3d species. Narrow scan of peak Ru 3d revealed that intensity of Ru 3d5/2 peak at BE 280.0 eV which is corresponding to Ru0 species increased until three cycle reaction. This result confirmed that in situ reduction had occurred during the repeated reaction and this made the activities of the catalyst increased upon recycling due to the availability of more metallic Ru on the surface of the catalyst. This study also shows that conversion of glycerol increased linearly with the percentage atomic ratio of Ru metal active site available on the surface of catalyst.
Phase Formation of α-Cordierite Using Different Sintering Profile
Authors: Norfadhilah I. , Mohamad Hasmaliza , Ahmad Zainal Arifin
Published: December 2012

ndialite or α-cordierite was synthesized by glass crystallization method. Effect of different sintering profile; single stage sintering (1s) and two stages sintering (2s) on phase formation was determined via x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis using rietvield method of HighScore Plus software. It has been found that 1s produce 85 % of α-cordierite with 15 % anorthite as secondary phase while, α-cordierite appeared about 68.6 % with 24.3 % anorthite and 7.1 % forsterite as secondary phase using 2s sintering profile.
Effect of Ball-Milling Parameter on the Synthesis of MWCNT/Alumina Hybrid Compound
Authors: Nosbi Norlin , Hazizan Md Akil
Published: December 2012

The effects of ball-milling parameter on the structures and properties of the synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)/alumina hybrid compound via methane decomposition process using Ni-Alumina catalyst were researched. The structural evaluation of particles compound was investigated by particle size analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR spectrometer and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicated that with 300rpm 15h, the microstructure of the hybrid compound is greatly refined, and methane decomposition process distributed uniformly, thus increasing the efficiency of the carbon nanotubes growth process.
Structural and Optical Properties of In0.27Ga0.73N/Si (111) Film Grown Using PA-MBE Technique
Authors: Abud Saleh H. , Zainuriah Hassan , Yam Fong Kwong , Ghazai Alaa J.
Published: December 2012

In this paper, InGaN/GaN/AlN/Si (111) structure was grown using a plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PA-MBE) technique. The structural and optical properties of grown film have been characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), high resolution X-ray diffraction (HR-XRD) and photoluminescence (PL). Indium-mole fraction has been computed to be 0.27 using XRD data and Vegards law with high grain size and low tensile strain. Room-temperature photoluminescence revealed an intense peak at 534 nm (2.3 eV) related to our sample In0.27Ga0.73N.
Synthesis and Characterization of MWCNT/Dolomite Hybrid Compound as Potential Composite Fillers
Authors: Mohd Saleh Siti Shuhadah , Hazizan Md Akil , Abdul Kudus Muhammad Helmi
Published: December 2012

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes/dolomite (MWCNT/dolomite) hybrid compound was synthesized using the Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) technique. The catalyst was prepared via the co-precipitation method. The process involves the drying of the precipitate followed by calcination at 900°C.Upon completion of calcinations process, the reduction process was carried under H2 at 400°C and growth in a CH4/N2 gas mixture at 800°C for 30 minutes The reduction process was carried out under H2 and growth in a CH4/N2 gas mixture at 800°C for 30 minutes. The morphological assessment using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) showed that the CNT was successfully grown on dolomite particle. High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope (HRTEM) micrograph further confirmed the presence of MWCNT with varied length and geometry on dolomite surfaces, supported the formation of MWCNT on the dolomites particle.
The Effects of Superheating Treatment on Distribution of Eutectic Silicon Particles in A357-Continuous Stainless Steel Composite
Authors: Mohd Noor Mazlee , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin
Published: December 2012

In the present study, superheating treatment has been applied on A357 reinforced with 0.5 wt.% (Composite 1) and 1.0 wt.% (Composite 2) continuous stainless steel composite. In Composite 1, the microstructure displayed poor bonding between matrix and reinforcement interface. Poor bonding associated with large voids also can be seen in Composite 1. The results also showed that coarser eutectic silicon (Si) particles were less intensified around the matrix-reinforcement interface. From energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) elemental mapping, it was clearly shown that the distribution of eutectic Si particles were less concentrated at poor bonding regions associated with large voids. Meanwhile in Composite 2, the microstructure displayed good bonding combined with more concentrated finer eutectic Si particles around the matrix-reinforcement interface. From EDS elemental mapping, it was clearly showed more concentrated of eutectic Si particles were distributed at the good bonding area. The superheating treatment prior to casting has influenced the microstructure and tends to produce finer, rounded and preferred oriented α-Al dendritic structures.
Crystallization of Potassium Calcium Silicate from Modified Industrial EAF Slag
Authors: Lateef Kolawole Bankole , Abdul Hamid S.A. Rezan Sheikh , Nurulakmal Mohd Sharif
Published: December 2012

Potassium Calcium Silicate (K2CaSiO4) is a mineral that has been of high interest in the field of applied mineralogy. Crystallization of K2CaSiO4 from high chromium EAF slag was studied and the slag samples were characterized using XRF, XRD, SEM/EDX, FTIR and TG/DTA. The distinct mineral phases in the EAF slag were neutralized and formed with a grain boundary by air cooling and dispersed phases by water cooling. The EDX revealed that both the grain boundary and matrix phases are composed of potassium, calcium and silicon. The addition of K2CO3 to EAF slag not only imparts the needed potassium but also reduced the heavy metal present in the slag as revealed by the XRF analysis. Using thermodynamic modeling, it is deduced that the percentage of potassium silicate formed during simulation process (when) increases as the basicity of EAF slag decrease.
Improving the Strength Properties of Afari and Mfensi Clays by Chemical Stabilization
Authors: Amoanyi Robert , Kwawukume P.S. , Momade Francis W.Y.
Published: December 2012

Physical and chemical studies were conducted on Afari and Mfensi clays in Atwima Nwabiagya District in Ashanti Region of Ghana, with the view of improving their strength properties by chemical stabilization with cocoa pod ash (CPA) and lime as chemical stabilizers. The idea was to produce stabilized clay brick without firing as an improved building material for the rural housing in areas where the materials exist and beyond. The results revealed an improvement in both dry and wet compressive strengths with the additions of 10% to 15% lime and CPA. The maximum dry compressive strength of 2.07N/mm2 and 5.85N/mm2 and wet compressive strength of 0.91N/mm2 and 2.67N/mm2 respectively were recorded for Afari and Mfensi clays. The water absorption also reduced from 100% to 27.59% and 17.78% respectively for Afari and Mfensi clays. Although there were decreases in wet compressive strength on soaking the specimens in water, the stabilized bricks did not disintegrate after 28 days of soaking. Moreover, the stabilized clay bricks showed good durability behaviour and did not disintegrate when exposed in the open air for two years.
MnOx/Ni(OH)2 Nanocomposite Materials for High-Performance Electrochemical Capacitor Application
Authors: Wang Zan , Wang Xin , Zhao Yun Xiao , Zhao Cui Mei , Zheng Wei Tao
Published: December 2012

Nanostructured MnOx/Ni (OH)2 composites have been electrodeposited on Ni foam for synthesis of a binder-free electrode for electrochemical capacitors with high specific capacitance and stable electrochemical properties. The microstructure, morphology and chemical composition were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge measurements were applied to investigate the electrochemical capacitance of the electrode active materials. The results indicated that MnOx acted as a template for growth of Ni (OH)2 with an inter-connected 3D porous network nanostructure. A maximum capacitance value of 2334 F/g at current density of 5 A/g in 1 M KOH electrolyte was achieved, much higher than that of pure Ni (OH)2 and MnOx (992 and 179 F/g, respectively). Moreover, in the charge/discharge process at even larger current density of 20 A/g, the electrode could maintain 82.8 % of the initial specific capacitance after 500 cycles, higher than that of pure Ni (OH)2 (only 46.6% remains). The enhanced capacitance performance was attributed to the synergic effect between the respective single oxides.
New Strategy for Controlled Release of Nitric Oxide
Authors: Seabra Amedea B. , Marcato Priscyla D. , de Paula Larissa B. , Durán Nelson
Published: December 2012

Nitric oxide (NO) is involved in several physiological processes, such as the control of vascular tone, the inhibition of platelet aggregation, smooth muscle cell replication, immune response and neuronal communication. Several pathologies have been associated to dysfunctions in the endogenous NO production. Thus, there is a great interest in the development of NO-releasing drugs and in matrices which are able to stabilize and release NO locally in different tissues. In this scenario, the preparation of NO-releasing nanomaterials, such as dendrimers, liposomes, metallic, silica, and polymeric nanoparticles, zeolites and metal organic frameworks, is a promising strategy for delivering NO in diverse applications, as discussed in this work.