bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and Optimization of Heavy Metals Biosorption by Fish Scales
Authors: Zayadi Nabilah , Othman Norzila
Published: September 2013

The pollution of water with heavy metals has been a great concern due to their toxic nature and adverse effect. Various techniques were employed to remove heavy metal namely physical, chemical, and biological treatment. Biosorption is one of the biological treatment that has emerged as a new technology for the removal and recovery of metal ions from aqueous solutions which is more environmental friendly. Biosorption using Tilapia fish scale was studied with the intention to remove zinc, plumbum, and ferum ions from synthetic wastewater. The optimum adsorption capacities of fish scale was investigated under several condition namely, pH, biosorbent dosage, initial heavy metals concentration, and contact time while final concentration was obtained by using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass (ICP-MS). The results revealed that 92.3% of zinc, 89.33% of plumbum, and 64.2% of ferum able to be sequestered under best adsorption conditions. The maximum percentage removals were observed at pH 6, 5.5, 4.5 and dosage 0.02 g, 0.001 g, 0.8 g at concentration 10 ppb, 0.3 ppb, 300 ppb for zinc, plumbum, and ferum ions, respectively. Maximum removal achieved at 3 hours contact time for ferum and zinc while 2 hours for plumbum. The results indicate that Tilapia fish scale is a promising method in removing ferum, zinc, and plumbum ions from aqueous solution.
Cucumis melo Rind as Biosorbent to Remove Fe(II) and Mn(II) from Synthetic Groundwater Solution
Authors: Othman Norzila , Asharuddin Syazwani Mohd
Published: September 2013

Cucumis melo rind was evaluated as a new biosorbent for the removal of Fe (II) and Mn (II) from synthetic groundwater solution. The maximum sorption capacity of Fe (II) and Mn (II) was found to be 4.98 mg/g and 1.37 mg/g respectively. Sorption was most efficient at pH 7 and 6.5 for Fe (II) and Mn (II) respectively. The biosorption of both metals increased as the quantity of biosorbent increased. The increase in initial metal concentration was associated with steep increase in biosorption at lower concentrations and progressively reaching towards plateau at higher metal concentration. FTIR demonstrated that hydroxyl and carboxyl groups were involved in the biosorption of the metal ions. The study points to the potential of new use of Cucumis melo rind as an effective sorbent for the removal of Fe (II) and Mn (II) from aqueous solution.
Fabrication of Cu-SiCp Composites via the Electroless Copper Coating Process for the Electronic Packaging Applications
Authors: Azmi K. , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Mohd Salleh M.A.A.
Published: September 2013

Silicon carbide reinforced copper matrix (Cu-SiCp) composites are highly rated as thermal management materials due to their high thermal conductivity and low thermal expansion properties. However, the Cu-SiCp composites fabricated via the conventional powder metallurgy methods have substandard properties due to the weak bonding between the copper matrix and the SiCp reinforcement. In order to strengthen the bonding, the SiCp were coated with copper via electroless coating process. Based on the experimental results, a continuous copper deposition on the SiCp was obtained. The Cu-Coated layer improved the green strength of the composites thus allowed a high volume fraction of SiCp to be incorporated into the copper matrix. However, the increase in the volume fraction of SiCp has a significant effect on the apparent porosity of the Cu-SiCp composites. Nevertheless, the porosity of the Cu-Coated Cu-SiCp composites remained significantly lower than those of non-Coated Cu-SiCp composites especially at high volume fraction of SiCp.
Preparation and Characterization of Polypropylene Biocomposites Reinforced Palm Fruitlet Fiber
Authors: Safwan M. Muhammad , Sakhti S.K. , Ong Hui Lin , Hazizan Md Akil , Anis Sofiah M.K. , Toh G.Y.
Published: September 2013

Polypropylene (PP) biocomposite containing 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25wt% of sodium hydroxide treated palm fruitlet fiber (TPFF) were prepared using Z-blade at 180°C at 50rpm. The composite was introduced with 3wt % of maleated anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MAH) as compatibilizer. The composites were characterized by performing tensile test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Results indicated that, the present of PP-g-MAH improved the tensile strength as the increasing of treated filler content. The improvement properties of the composite were attributed to better interfacial adhesion between the PFF and PP matrix in the presence of the PP-g-MAH. As for the overall results,5wt% TPFF/PP/PP-g-MAH composite shows the highest value tensile strength, 20wt% TPFF/PP/PP-g-MA composite exhibits the highest in Youngs modulus. While from the observation through SEM, the smooth surface fractured of 5wt% TPFF/PP/PP-g-MA which indicated as high rigidity compare to the other ratios.
Effect of Carbon Nanotubes on Properties of Graphite/Carbon Black/Polypropylene Nanocomposites
Authors: Selamat Mohd Zulkefli , Ahmad Mohd Shakir , bin Daud Mohd Ahadlin , Ahmad N.
Published: September 2013

High chemical corrosion, low manufacturing cost and light of total mass of bipolar plate in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) lead most of the PEMFCs researchers over the world attracted their interest to replace pure graphite or metal based bipolar plate with conductive polymer composites (CPCs) bipolar plate. CPCs is fabricate from the mixed of conductive fillers such as and Graphite (G) andCarbon Black (CB) had been incorporated in Polypropylene (PP) matrix for fabrication of electrical conductive polymer composite plate. Most researchers reported only at high loading of fillers (more than 90 wt.%), are gave electrical conductivity above 100 S/cm, which is target from Department of Energy (USA). Higher loading of fillers cause change in rheological properties and increase the difficulties in polymer processing. Thus will decreasing the electrical and mechanical properties of CPCs as bipolar plate. Therefore, in this study carbon nanotubes (CNTs) which have 1000 time electrical conductivity than copper wire are introduced into G/CB/PP composite to compensate above problems. But the main problems of CNTs, at high loading it tend to agglomerate and thus will affect the properties of CPCs. So that, small amount of CNTs which is 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 wt.% will be added into G/CB/PP composite. But weight percentage of CB and PP has been fixed which is 25 wt.% and 20 wt.% respectively and the weight percentage of G will various from 55 wt.% to 54.2 wt.% according to CNTs loading. The result shows that the G/CB/CNTs/PP composite with 0.2 wt% CNTs has the higher electrical conductivity 295.78 S/cm.
Effect of Compatibilizer on Mechanical Properties and Water Absorption Behaviour of Coconut Fiber Filled Polypropylene Composite
Authors: Sabri M. , Mukhtar A. , Shahril K. , Rohana A. Siti , Salmah Husseinsyah
Published: September 2013

Compatibilizer is used to improve mechanical properties and water absorption behaviour of polypropylene/coconut fiber (PP/CF) composites by promoting strong adhesion between CF filler and PP Matrix. Maleic Anhydride Grafted Polypropylene (MAPP) treated and untreated composites were prepared in formulation of 10 wt%, 20 wt%, 30 wt%, and 40 wt%. The mechanical tensile test indicates that composite with 10 wt% has the optimum value of tensile strength, and the MAPP treated composite shows the tensile strength was increased. The modulus of elasticity was increased while the elongation at break was decreased by increasing of filler loading. Meanwhile, the swelling test discerned that the increase of filler loading increased the water absorption of composites and the presence of MAPP reduced the equilibrium water absorption percentage.
Short Review of Ultrafiltration of Polymer Membrane as a Self-Cleaning and Antifouling in the Wastewater System
Authors: Mohamad Siti Hawa , Idris Maizlinda Izwana , Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: September 2013

This paper focuses on ultrafiltration polymer membrane for wastewater systems as a self-cleaning and antifouling. Fouling is one of the most important problems in almost all membrane processes. In this review, membrane antifouling and self-cleaning properties can be improved by using titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles and UV radiation on membrane structure and surface. Coating TiO2 particles on membrane surface is an advanced method to minimize membrane fouling. Hence, these properties can be improved the membrane performance.
Design and Fabrication of PDMS Microchamber for Fast Reaction Assays in Biosensing Application
Authors: Adam Tijjani , Hashim U. , Al-Mufti M. Wesam
Published: September 2013

A simple design of a microchamber for use in reacting assays with limited sample availability has been proposed, analyzed using COMSOL 3.5 Multiphysics simulation and fabricated using soft-lithography technique . The design is based on differential pressure drop flow using capillary effect concept which has facilitated a number of interesting flow phenomena in micro-domains. For an average pressure drop of about 100/m in the setup, flow rates of bout 0.5 to 0.8 μl/s were obtained. The component a microchamber, three designs were tested (50, 70, 90 microns in width) to give a continuous open circuit flow. The system was designed and fabricated for continuous flow across sensing element where there is a requirement for low residence time due to fast reaction/diffusion rates.Also in this paper, is a sensitive and selective, also rapid, reliable, cost-effective, and suitable for in situ analysis polymer biosensor for new bio molecular approach for cancer and cancer related diseases detection at the early stage is demonstrated.
Effect of Zeta Potential of Stanum Oxide (SnO2) on Electrophoretic Deposition (EPD) on Porous Alumina
Authors: Ab. Aziz Siti Alwani Binti , Amirnordin Shahrin Hisham , Rahman Hamimah Abdul , Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi , Taib Hariati
Published: September 2013

Zeta potential analysis of stanum oxide (SnO2) aqueous suspensions (pH7 to pH11) was performed prior to the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of SnO2. Deposition of SnO2 on porous alumina was obtained by applying the EPD technique carried out by applying voltage of 18V for duration of four minutes. It was found that the depositions SnO2 suspended at pH 7 to pH 11 were successful. The relation between the SnO2 deposition with SnO2 pH and zeta potential values was established in which increased value of pH causes decreased value of zeta potential and decreased SnO2 deposition through EPD technique.
Response of Functionality Graded Hydroxyapatite/F-75 in Saline Solution 0.9% NaCl
Authors: Llah Noorazimah Ab , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Ahmad Zaidi Nur Hidayah
Published: September 2013

Functionally graded hydroxyapatite (HAP) /F-75 was fabricated using powder metallurgy technique. Samples fabricated were tested inside 0.9% NaCl to check their bioactivity reaction. After immersed, samples were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and mass change. Result showed that mass gain decreased as the percentage of HAP in the intermediate layer increased. Mass gain obtained after immersion test because of the passive layer formation on the F-75 surface. Dissolution of HAP was occurred as the FTIR analysis detected the existence of phosphate, and hydroxide ions bands inside the solution. The dissolution process is the part of the mechanism of apatite formation. The apatite layer formation is important to encourage the formation of new bone.
Effect of Compaction Pressure on Microstructure and Properties of Copper-Based Composite Prepared by Mechanical Alloying and Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Yusoff Mahani , Hussain Zuhailawati
Published: September 2013

In this study, copper-tungsten carbide composite was produced by mechanical alloying and powder metallurgy. The compaction pressures were varied from 100 to 600 MPa for observation on microstructure and properties of the composite. The result showed the microstructure was densified with the increased of compaction pressure. Within compaction pressure no fracturing was occurred. Increasing compaction pressure increased the density, hardness and electrical conductivity of the composite which related to the reduced of porosity area.
The Mechanical Properties of PET Fiber Reinforced Concrete from Recycled Bottle Wastes
Authors: Irwan J.M. , Asyraf R.M. , Othman Norzila , Koh Koh Heng , Annas Mahamad Mohd Khairil , Faisal S.K.
Published: September 2013

This research is carried out to investigate the performance of concrete containing Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottle waste as fiber. PET bottle waste was chosen because it is being thrown after single use and cause environmental problem. One way to recycle wasted PET bottles is grinded into irregular fiber. Then, it was incorporate with the concrete and test the performance of the concrete. The study was conducted using cylindrical mold of concrete to investigate the performance of the concrete in term of mechanical properties. A total of four batches of concrete were produced namely, normal concrete and concrete containing PET fiber of 0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% fraction volume. In this research, the mechanical properties that were measured are compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and modulus of elasticity (MOE) following British Standard method. The results revealed that the presence of PET fiber in concrete will increase the concrete performance. Nevertheless, the content of PET fiber was specified in a specific limit to avoid effect of concrete strength.
Microfluidic Photomask Design Using CAD Software for Application in Lab-On-Chip Biomedical Nanodiagnostics
Authors: Sharma Rao Balakrishnan , Hashim U.
Published: September 2013

Photomasks are used as stencil to print images on semiconductor material. This study represents design and specifications of photomask for microfluidic fabrication. For a precise pattern transfer, the photomask should meet with certain considerations such as critical dimension uniformity, resolution and alignment. This paper explains the design of microfluidics with three channels using AutoCAD software for lab-on-chip application. Total surface area of the device is 242.52mm2 in which the width and length is 12.00mm and 20.21mm respectively. The device was designed in particular size to meet its behavior as a disposable chip and increases the economic value when it is fabricated.
Structural Behaviour of Precast Lightweight Foamed Concrete Sandwich Panel (PLFP) with Double Shear Truss Connectors under Eccentric Load: Preliminary Result
Authors: Ahmad I. , Goh W.I. , Samsuddin S. , Mohamad N. , Rahman M.H.A. , Samad Abdul Aziz Abdul
Published: September 2013

Recent years in Malaysia, precast concrete sandwich panel gained its popularity in building industries due to its economic advantages, superior thermal and structural efficiency. This paper studied the structural behaviour of precast lightweight foamed concrete sandwich panel (PLFP) with double shear truss connectors under eccentric load. Preliminary results were analysed and studied to obtain the ultimate load carrying capacity, load-deflection profiles and strain distribution across the panel thickness at mid depth. The achieved ultimate load carrying capacity of PLFP due to eccentric load from the experimental work was compared with values calculated from classical formulas (if it is more than 1 comparison) developed by previous researchers. Preliminary results showed that, the use of double shear truss connectors in PLFP was able to improve its ultimate load carrying capacity to sustain eccentric load and achieve certain compositeness reaction in between the wythes.
Wear Resistance Characteristic of Vegetable Oil
Authors: Syahrullail Samion , Ani Farid Nasir , Golshokouh I.
Published: September 2013

The main source for lubricant oils is mineral oils, but the source of mineral oils are depleting from day to day and it is also a major cause for environmental pollution in the world. This aim of research is to introduce vegetable oil as an alternative source of lubricant oil in industrial applications. In this study, we measured the physical properties of Jatropha, palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) and empty fruit bunches. All experiment were done according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) condition, method B and with the use of four-ball tribotester, CCD camera, microscope and viscometer to obtain results. The test oils were measured of their coefficient of friction, wear, viscosity and flash temperature parameter. To evaluate the results, the same conditions were applied for all experiments with the use of engine and hydraulic mineral oil. The results showed that the anti-friction ability of Jatropha oil and PFAD was higher than the engine and hydraulic mineral oils.
Effects of Winding Angles in Biaxial Ultimate Elastic Wall Stress (UEWS) Tests of Glass Gibre Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) Composite Pipes
Authors: Majid M.S. Abdul , Afendi M. , Daud R. , Gibson A.G. , Hekman M.
Published: September 2013

This paper presents an experimental investigation into the influence of winding angles in multiaxial ultimate elastic wall stress (UEWS) tests of glass-fibre reinforced epoxy (GRE) composite pipes. Currently, UEWS test is one of the alternative methods used to the 1000-hour test procedure detailed in ASTM D2992 for the detection of manufacturing changes and reconfirmation of the design basis of composite pipes. A stress-strain response was obtained for each winding angle and the results then compared with those computed through conventional laminate theory. Experimental data showed that the UEWS point varies for each winding angle, and the difference becomes even more pronounced, especially when the angles deviated from the ideal ±55°. It is also concluded that the UEWS stresses, which represent the onset of non-linearity were very much dependent on the transverse and shear stress responses, and these values were found to be consistent with the predicted values from the commonly used Tsai Wu failure criterion.
Tensile Properties LLDPE/Soya Spent Powder Blends: Oven Aging
Authors: Ting Sam Sung , Noriman N.Z. , Ragunathan S. , Ismail H.
Published: September 2013

Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)/soya spent powder blends with different blends ratio were prepared by using internal mixer. Soya spent powder was varied from 5 to 40 wt. The thermal degradability was assessed by subjecting the dumbbell sample to oven aging. Thermal aging was carried out for 5 weeks. The degradability was measured by the periodic change in tensile properties of the blend samples. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the blends reduced as increasing the aging time. The effect of degradation was obvious in higher soya spent powder blends.
Thermal Properties of Linear-Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)/Soya Spent Powder Blends with the Addition of Epoxidised Natural Rubber
Authors: Ting Sam Sung , Noriman N.Z. , Ragunathan S. , Lin O.H. , Ismail H.
Published: September 2013

Soya spent powder as an inexpensive and renewable source has been used as a filler for linear-low density polyethylene (LLDPE) in this study. Linear-low density polyethylene (LLDPE)/soya spent powder composites were prepared by using Haake internal mixer. The mixing time was 10 minutes at 150°C with rotor speed 50 rpm. Epoxidised natural rubber (ENR 50) has been used as a compatibilizer in the present study. The thermal properties of the LLDPE/soya spent powder composites with and without ENR were studied with a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The crystallinity of the LLDPE/soya spent powder composites decreased with increasing soya spent powder content. However, the addition of ENR 50 as a compatibilizer increased the crystallinity of the LLDPE/soya spent powder composites.
Thermal Properties of Sn-0.7Cu/re-Al Composite Lead-Free Solder
Authors: Mohd Salleh Mohd Arif Anuar , Somidin Flora , Noriman N.Z. , Ahmad Khairel Rafezi , Mayappan Ramani , Alui Noor Farhani Mohd
Published: September 2013

Composite approach in lead-free solder development was perceived as an expectation in finding new robust solder. Accordingly, Sn-0.7Cu/re-Al composite lead-free solder with varying amount of recycled-Aluminum (0, 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 wt.% re-Al) particulates produced from aluminum beverage cans were successfully fabricated via powder metallurgy techniques in this study. This paper focuses on the thermal properties focusing on the melting temperature of the new developed Sn-0.7Cu/re-Al lead-free composite solder. The melting temperature (Tm) of the new solders was determined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The melting temperature of the composite solders has showed comparable results with the monolithic solders of Sn-0.7Cu lead-free solder.
Metallurgical Failure Analysis of a Closed Recirculation System Water Cooling Pipe
Authors: Mohd Salleh Mohd Arif Anuar , Shamsudin Shaiful Rizam , Kamardin Azmi , Hassan Hafizan , Noor Noor Hamidi Mohd
Published: September 2013

Catastrophic failure is often associated with a large temperature rise. This situation may lead to a drastic deterioration in material strength where a cooling system is important for a smooth system plant operation to prevent catastrophic failure to its equipments, parts or processes. In this study, a part of a failed closed recirculation system water cooling pipe in a steel manufacturing plant in Malaysia has been investigated for detailed failure analysis. A steam leakage of a water cooling pipe with a closed recirculation system operation made of ASTM A106/A (Carbon Steel Pipes for high temp service) was detected. The aim of this study is to explore the evidence related to the water cooling pipe leakage and to investigate the cause of failure. Detailed investigation was carried out by visual inspection, optical microscopy and hardness testing. With the evidence obtained, due to presence of water scale and prolonged overheating, decarburization had occurred. During decarburization, it was found that carbon elements from inner surface tube had depleted through the outer tube surface. The accumulation of carbon elements on the outer tube surface appears to show significantly higher brittle zone in the outer tube and with the presence of tensile stress developed from operating thermal cycle which subsequently resulted in crack. It can be concluded that the water cooling pipe leakage was due to thermal fatigue.
Overview of Pathogenic Micro-Organisms Destruction in Contaminated Water by Oxide Photocatalysis
Authors: Azira N.M.N. , Idris Muhammad Asri , Halin Dewi Suriyani Che , Derman Mohd Nazree B. , Mohd Salleh Mohd Arif Anuar
Published: September 2013

The titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a semiconductor oxide photocatalys, which is chemically and biologically inert but exhibits excellent photolytic activity in the ultraviolet (UV) region. Progress in photocatalytic water disinfection requires understanding both concepts of TiO2 semiconductor as well the biochemistry of microorganisms. The advantage and disadvantage for current water purifications are discussed. Finally, the
photocatalytic reactions to water disinfection and detoxification using solar energy.
The Effects of Fly Ash and Polystyrene Bead Additions on Compressive Strength of Foamed Cement Composites
Authors: Mohd Noor Mazlee , Key Tan Pei , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Wahab Roshasmawi Abdul , Nadzri Nur Izzati Muhd , Abdullah Alida
Published: September 2013

The effects of both additions of fly ash and polystyrene (PS) beads were studied on compressive strength of foamed cement composites. The increasing amount of fly ash addition up to 6 wt. % has been found to increase the compressive strength of the foamed cement composites. It was found that fly ash has a potential as sand replacement materials in cement composites. The addition of 0.1 wt.% PS beads produced higher values of compressive strength after 14 days and 28 curing days respectively.
Short Review: Ceramic Foam Fabrication Techniques for Wastewater Treatment Application
Authors: Ahmad Sufizar , Latif Marziana Abdoll , Taib Hariati , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: September 2013

Ceramic foam is a class of highly porous materials that are used for wide range of technological applications, specifically as absorbents and membrane for wastewater treatment process. Among the potential materials include silicon carbide (SiC), alumina (Al2O3), zirconia (ZrO2), titania (TiO2), and silica (SiO2). The review clarifies on the broad types of ceramic foam, and the common techniques of foam fabrication, such as polymeric sponge method, starch consolidation, direct foaming, and gel-casting of foam. The parameters of each fabrication techniques will be discussed crucial based on the new research findings in the field of ceramic foam.
Effect of Aging Time towards Intermetallic Compound (IMC) Growth Kinetics Formation for Sn-0.7Cu-Si3N4 Composite Solder on Copper Substrate
Authors: Najib S.I. , Mohd Salleh Mohd Arif Anuar , Saud Norainiza
Published: September 2013

The effect of excessive intermetallic growth to the reliability of solder joints become major problem in electronic assemblies industry. In this investigation, we used Sn-0.7Cu/1.0-Si3N4 composite solder to analyze its interfacial joint on Cu substrate. Various isothermal of aging times were carried in this study by using 24hrs, 240hrs, 480hrs, 600hrs and 720hrs at 150°C of aging temperature. The Cu-Sn IMC thickness was increase with increasing aging time and the diffusion coefficient of this composite solder is 1.16x10-16m2/s.
Corrosion Performance of Reinforcement Bar in Geopolymer Concrete Compare with its Performance in Ordinary Portland Cement Concrete: A Short Review
Authors: Farhana Z.F. , Kamarudin H. , Rahmat Azmi , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Norainiza S.
Published: September 2013

Since decades ago, corrosion is the crucial factors for million dollars loss in construction industry. Corrosion of reinforcement bar in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) concrete is mainly due to chloride and acid attack and also due to carbonation process. The degradation of geopolymer (GP) concrete is still widely studied and the mechanisms of degradation are still not conclusive. However, reinforcement bar in GP concrete is reported having lower corrosion rate than in OPC concrete. The fly ash geopolymer has high alkalinity which provides the passivity of the reinforcement bar. The superior properties of GP have encouraged researchers to do further investigation on its performance. This review paper will focus on corrosion performance of reinforcement bar in GP compared to OPC.
Zn-Sn Based High Temperature Solder - A Short Review
Authors: Musa Sayyidah Amnah , Mohd Salleh Mohd Arif Anuar , Saud Norainiza
Published: September 2013

The developments of lead-free solders have become a major concern to the researchers in electronic industry to replace the lead-containing materials. The concern is not just for low temperature solders but also for high temperature solders. The lead and lead-based compound are highly toxic which is dangerous to human health and environment. The highly suitable lead-free solder candidates for replacing high Pb high temperature solder are Au-Sn, Al-Zn, Zn-Sn, Sn-Sb, and Bi-Ag solders. However, Zn-Sn based solder has highly recommended as the best candidates in replacing high lead high temperature solder. This paper provides a short review of recent research on Zn-Sn based lead free high temperature solders with different additional alloying elements. The new novel alloy of Zn-Sn based for high temperature solder applications will be proposed in this paper.
Corrosion Behavior of Al-Cu-Ni-Y Alloys
Authors: Derman Mohd Nazree B. , Jeffry M.R. , Kumar R.
Published: September 2013

Al based alloy has been widely used in various industries. This research paper aims at the investigation onto the effect of the percentage of Cu and Ni alloying elements in the corrosion behavior of Al-Cu-Ni alloys. The alloys were characterized by microstructural, physical properties, electrochemical, and phase analysis. Microstructure observation shows the alloys have transformed to dendritic structure. The addition of Ni reveals columnar twinned dendritic to the longitudinal direction of cast ingots. While the addition of Cu increases the density of the sample. The Vickers micro-hardness test shows that sample Al86-Ni5-Cu3-Y6 reached the optimum hardness value 51.36 HV. Tafel Plot performed shows that Al86-Ni5-Cu3-Y6 has the highest Polarization Resistance, Rp, 2 031.82 kΩ and lowest corrosion rate, 0.00380 mm per year. Alloy with high Rp value is highly resistant to corrosion.
Designing Microchannels Separator Mask for Lithography Process
Authors: Ariffin Shahrul A.B. , Hashim U. , Adam Tijjani
Published: September 2013

Recently microfluidic has drawn attention from fellow research because of their unique properties and behavior in biotechnology, biomedical, micro and nanotechnology. Microfluidic is a combination from several components that consists from Microhannel, micromixer, microchamber, concentrator, separation and valve but component of microfluidic will be conduct in simulation is microfluidic separation and microchannel. This paper will elaborate more about design of microchannel separator by using COMSOL Multiphysics 3.5 software and base on the result from the COMSOL Multiphysics 3.5, we can create a detail design in the autoCAD software and lastly, as the result for this paper is an actual fabrication mask will be reveal for further fabrication process.
The Effect of Sintering on the Properties of Powder Metallurgy (PM) F-75 Alloy
Authors: Che Daud Zuraidawani , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin
Published: September 2013

F-75 (Co-Cr-Mo) alloy are widely used in the production of medical implants because of their excellent strength properties, hardness and also one of the biocompatible materials that very suitable in human body environment. In this research, the effect of sintering in terms of sintering temperature and sintering time has been studied by focusing on the microstructure, physical and mechanical properties of F-75 alloy. The samples were prepared by blending the starting material at 160 rpm for 30 minutes, uniaxially pressing at 500 MPa and sintering in an argon atmosphere at two sintering temperatures (1300°C and 1350°C) for four sintering times (60, 90, 120 and 150 minutes). The results show that the grains and bulk density increased with the increasing of sintering temperature and sintering times. However, opposite results were obtained for apparent porosity, hardness and compressive strength
Machining Performance of Reinforced Alumina Insert in End Milling of AISI 1018 Steel
Authors: Nor Hakim H.M. , Ikhwan Zaini R.M. , Ahmad Z.A. , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Bakir Azman A. , Mazlan M.
Published: September 2013

The main goal of this work is to investigate the performance of zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) and ZTA reinforced with magnesium oxide (MgO) used as cutting insert in end milling of AISI 1018 steel with hardness of 27 HRC. Performances of the cutting insert were compared according to tool life and surface finish of workpiece. Insert flank wear that indicates tool life was studied carefully using Optical 3D Surface Metrology while surface roughness values were evaluated using Surftest Sufrcom 130A. The cutting inserts failed to exhibit good performance in end milling operation. However, wear condition and magnitude of the ZTA reinforced with MgO insert was slightly better than ZTA insert. Addition of MgO may increase wear resistance.
The Effect of Different Alkaline Treatment Condition on Flexural Properties of Kenaf Bast-Unsaturated Polyester Composite
Authors: Rozyanty A.R. , Nur Firdaus M.Y. , Mohd Salleh M.A.A. , Musa L.
Published: September 2013

The biocomposites were prepared by using kenaf bast fiber mat as reinforcing materials at different percentage. The kenaf bast fiber was treated with alkaline at different sodium hydroxide (NaOH) percentage. From the results obtained, surface morphology of the treated kenaf bast fiber shows less impurity than untreated kenaf bast fiber. As for composites prepared from alkaline treated kenaf bast fiber, it showed higher mechanical properties as compared to those prepared from untreated kenaf bast fiber. The percentage of kenaf fiber in composites also plays a crucial role in determining the composite properties.
Characterizations on the Effect of Processing of Polymers Blend with Petroleum Coke (Part I)
Authors: Bakar Sharifah Shahnaz Syed , Khanna Rita , Veena Sahajwalla , Kamarudin Hussin , Noimam N.Z. , Ting Sam Sung
Published: September 2013

Global demand for plastics has grown significantly over the past decades, and will continue to expand with rising income levels in emerging economies; a number of approaches have been used to recycle polymer waste. While chemical recycling is one of the key methods used as it recovers and reuses the polymer in high-end product; new avenues for waste recycling need to be developed. In-depth interfacial behaviour investigation was carried out to study interactions between polymers and petroleum coke (PC). Polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS) polymers are three major polymers that abundantly found in waste streams were chosen and their properties and the effect of petroleum coke presence on the degradation process of polymer have been characterized. The polymer was mixed and homogenized prior pyrolysis up to 600C. The residues yield after pyrolysis was collected and analyzed.
Organic Dye Degradation with TiO2 Catalyst/AAO Template in the Presence of H2O2
Authors: Araoyinbo Alaba O. , Derman Mohd Nazree B. , Rahmat Azmi , Rafezi Ahmad Khairel
Published: September 2013

In this study, anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) fabricated from phosphoric acid electrolyte at ambient temperature was used as the porous template, while a sol gel procedure was used for the preparation of the TiO2 sol with the addition of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 g of polyethylene glycol (PEG). The addition of PEG to the TiO2 sol prevents surface cracks and improves the adhesion of the sol to the template to produce different surface morphologies which were visible under the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Although, complete degradation of the methyl orange (MO) dye was not achieved initially with the TiO2 coated template, until an oxidizer in the form of H2O2 with different concentrations of 0.029M, 0.088M, and 0.147M were added during the photocatalysis process to shorten the degradation time and to ensure complete mineralization of the MO dye.
Electrochemical Measurement of PBS Using Cyclic Voltammetry and AAO Fabricated at Ambient Temperature and Low Potential
Authors: Araoyinbo Alaba O. , Derman Mohd Nazree B. , Rahmat Azmi , Rafezi Ahmad Khairel
Published: September 2013

Anodic aluminium oxide fabricated at ambient temperature and low potential in phosphoric acid electrolyte was used as the working electrode for the electrochemical measurement of phosphate buffer saline under different pH conditions using the cyclic voltammetry tool. We investigate the reversibility of the electrochemical reaction as a redox reaction from the cyclic graphs that were obtained. We observed that the ratio of the peak current passed at both the reduction and oxidation when measured was very close to unity in all the pH but except one which produced a none reversible reaction with a non cyclic graph. The peak potential for both reduction and oxidation reactions using phosphate buffer saline as the analyte under different pH of 3, 5, 7, and 9 was also obtained.
Ferroelectric and Relaxor Ferroelectric to Paralectric Transition Based on Lead Magnesium Niobate (PMN) Materials
Authors: Osman Rozana Aina Maulat , Idris Mohd Sobri , Zahid Jamal Zul Azhar , Taking Sanna , Sabki Syarifah Norfaezah , Poopalan Prabakaran , Norizan Mohd Natashah , Mohamad Ili Salwani
Published: September 2013

First ferroelectric materials were found in Rochelle salt was in a perovskite structure. Lead Magnesium Niobate (PMN) is a perovskites with a formula of PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3 (PMN) and are typical representatives for most of all ferroelectrics materials with relaxor characteristic. It posses high dielectric permittivity which nearly ~ 20,000[ with a broad dielectric permittivity characteristic, known as relaxor ferroelectric below room temperature. Some of the researcher might think that the transition from relaxor ferroelectric to paraelectric is similar to the characteristic as observed from ferroelectric to paraelectric, but it is not necessary. The puzzling is how do we categorise them. How is the domain structure look like typically in ceramic materials.
Alteration of Solution Treatment Condition to the Precipitation Behavior A319 Alloy
Authors: Murizam Darus , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Mohd Salleh Mohd Arif Anuar , Pa Faizul Che , Ruhiyuddin M.Z.
Published: September 2013

The development of precipitate during ageing treatment of A319 alloy contributed significantly to the alloy strengthening mechanism. Two solution treatment temperatures which were set at 510°C and 525°C were subjected onto the different groups of A319 alloy samples and followed by artificial ageing process at 180°C. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to observe the over-aged samples from both solution treatment temperatures. The observation shows that Mg2Si precipitates was only appeared at the higher solution treatment condition, while the Al2Cu precipitate developed in both solution treatment temperatures.
Effect of Silver Ions on the Structural and Antibacterial Properties of Bone Replacement Material
Authors: Iqbal Nida , Kadir Mohammed Rafiq Abdul , Mahmood Nasrul Humaimi Bin , Moses Micheal , Salim Mashitah Binti Mad , Malek Nik Ahmad Nazim Nik
Published: September 2013

Antibacterial materials based on calcium phosphates have wide range of biomedical applications in the prevention of microbial infections. The synthesis of inorganic mineral component of bone i.e. hydroxyapatite was done with the addition of silver (Ag) (5-15 wt %) as antibacterial agent. The wet precipitation synthesis was carried out using diammonium hydrogen phosphate and calcium nitrate as P and Ca precursors. The presence and effect of silver addition on the structure was studied using Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) techniques. The antibacterial properties of all samples were evaluated using Disc Diffusion Technique (DDT) against S. aureus, B. subtilis, P. aeruginosa and E. coli. Antibacterial activities of samples were found to vary depending on the bacterial species and Ag loading percentage. The antibacterial assay suggested that the addition of Ag ions within hydroxyapatite can be effectively provided the required level of antibacterial activity against bacteria.
Preparation of Colossal Magnetoresistance Ploycrystalline via Sol-Gel Technique: A Short Review
Authors: Zaki Ruhiyuddin Mohd , Chik Abdullah , Rafezi Ahmad Khairel
Published: September 2013

This paper presents a short review of research work on the development of synthesizing the colossal magnetoresistance materials through sol-gel method. Although there are a lot number of methods available, sol-gel method has been widely used and some excellent work has been reported. Two different manganite systems, which are LSMO and PSMO, that have been prepared through sol-gel method was choose for the discussion purpose. It was found that both systems were successfully prepared via the sol-gel method. Both systems showing better magnetoresistance properties compare to sample prepared through solid state reaction. X-ray diffraction technique was used to study the structural characteristic. Atomic force microscope and field emission scanning electron microscope were used in order to investigate surface morphology. Resistivity as a function of temperature was measured by a standard four-probe method.
Formation of Gold Nanoparticles Film on Silicon Wafer by Self-Assembled Method
Authors: Yaacob Khatijah A. , Gyn Gooi Wyn
Published: September 2013

The gold nanoparticles film has been successfully formed on the silicon wafer by self-assembled method. The gold colliods were prepared by chemical reduction method where sodium citrate (act as the reducing, capping and stabilizing agent) were added into the boiling 50ml of 0.01% tetrachloroauria acid (HAuCl4) solution in reflux system. Different particle size of gold colloids (AuNPs_1 and AuNPs_2) were produced by altering the amount of sodium citrate. The as-prepared gold colloids were characterized by UV - Vis spectrometry, Malvern particle size analyzer, zeta potential and XRD. Self-assembled method of Au nanoparticles were first start with the cleaning of silicon wafers using standard RCA cleaning, and followed by the piranha treatment to producing an OH-terminated surface. Then, the wafers were functionalized with organosilane molecule by immersing the silicon wafer in 10mM of surfactant in methanolic solution to produce self-assemble monolayers (SAMs) on silicon wafer surface. These layers were used to immobilize the gold nanoparticles from as-prepared gold colloid and result of the gold nanoparticles film on silicon wafer. Effect of surfactant ((3-aminopropyl) trimethoxysilane (APTMS) and (3-mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (MPTMS)), effect of particle size of gold colloid (AuNPs_1 and AuNPs_2) and the effect of deposition time (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2 hours) to the surface morphology such as surface coverage, inter-particle distance were studied in this work. The surface morphology of gold nanoparticles films were characterized by FESEM and AFM.
Effect of Space Holder and Compaction Pressure on the Porosity of Sintered Copper
Authors: Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Yi Chong Xin , Abdullah Alida , Hussin Kamarudin
Published: September 2013

The effect of space-holder content on the porosity of sintered copper that was fabricated by powder metallurgy technique has been investigated. Carbamide was used as space-holder and the content selected was 10 wt. %, 20 wt. % and 30 wt. %. A roll mill was used to mix the copper powder and the carbamide particles with rotation speed of 160 rpm for 2 hours. The mixture was compacted by hand press at 200-350MPa and sintered under argon atmosphere at 800°C. True density of the sample was determined by a gas pycnometer. Bulk density was determined using mass and volume of the sample. Result shows that the sintered porous copper with 30 wt. % of space-holder produced the highest porosity and the lowest density. Microstructure of pores was analyzed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) which reveals the elongated pores interconnected to each other.
Sustainable Porous Materials for Gas Adsorption Applications; A Concise Review
Authors: Chan Wai Hoong , Mohd Noor Mazlee , Ahmad Zainal Arifin , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Mohd Ishak Mohd Azlan , Jusoh Muhammad Shahar
Published: September 2013

Many new sustainable porous materials were developed for gas adsorption applications. Common materials such as activated carbon, clay materials and metal organic framework (MOF) that utilized as potential porous adsorption materials were studied. The article was also discussed on the fabrication methods of porous materials. Adsorptions of flue gas using porous materials were reviewed. It was found that the adsorption properties of porous materials were highly dependent on surface area, selectivity and impregnation. Low cost porous adsorbents such as clay and fly ash were also reviewed as potential and cost effective materials to be used in industries.
Applied QFD with Wooden Material in Campus Furniture DFA Procedure
Authors: Yang Chi Ou , Teng Wei Hsien
Published: September 2013

With more and more universities expanding and redesigning their landscape spaces, therefore their outdoor furnitures shape, dimension, quality and usage are also changing and redesigning. One of the significant changes in the design process is the taking of users needs/concerns into account. This change is influenced by a community-based design concept found in public spaces design. In this paper, we propose a Design for Assembly Study (DFA) which is focus on examining the past practice of outdoor wooden Materual furniture design in campus spaces by using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) to fill in this missing link. The employment of different matrices to capture the relationship between the voice of customer (VOC) and subsequent design and quality characteristics compose an evaluation framework suitable to fill the gap in the assembly procedure of outdoor wooden frame furniture. The study also produces several insights applies on outdoor wooden furniture design in campus space. Keywords: Wooden Material, Outdoor furniture, Outdoor space, Design Evaluation Procedure
Investigations of Lead-Free Glasses for Post-Fired and Embedded Thick Film Resistors
Authors: Fu Shen Li , Hsi Chi Shiung , Kang Chun Yueh , Chen Hua Pin , Wang Siou Jyun
Published: September 2013

Lead-free thick film resistors (TFRs) were prepared by mixing of ruthenium oxide (RuO2) and CaO-B2O3-SiO2 based-glass. The resistors were post-fired on alumina and co-fired in LTCC substrates. Different metal oxides were added into the glass phase, such as Nb2O5, MnO2, MoO3, Fe2O3, TiO2. They were used as temperature coefficient of resistor (TCR) adjustment agents of the resistors. The microstructures variations and interactions at the interface between resistors and substrates were investigated. The additives made glass structure loose and conductivity of resistor decrease, the TCR values of the resistors moved toward negative direction. When 4wt% MnO2 was added into the glass, the thick-film resistors embedded in LTCC had conductivity of 2.46 (Ω-cm)-1, the temperature coefficient of resistor decreased to 12 ppm/°C. The conductivities of the resistors films were depended on the volume fractions of conductor-agglomeration (RuO2), microstructures, and TCR additives of the resistor layers
Critical Factors for the Construction Company to Select the Green Building Materials
Authors: Wu Kuei Yang , Wu Yen Yu , Tsai I Ting , Yung Shi Wen
Published: September 2013

Based on the demand of sustainable environment, the construction company must seek for new concept to express a house with functionality, comfort, wisdom, security and particularity to attract the consumers during the process of current architectural design. With the documentary analysis and expert interviews, the indicators are planned. Moreover, Fuzzy Delphi is used to filter the indicators; Analytic Network Process (ANP) is used to compare the relative importance among the indicators. Both are used to find out the reasons that impact the construction company to choose green building materials; and offer references for the company to select the materials in the future. From the result of this study, the health and environmental protection are considered by the construction company with first priority, then getting international certification, sustainable development and quality of building materials. Selling is not the first consideration. It shows that the consciousness of sustainable development is acknowledged by all the management levels in the construction company.