bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cleaner Production Associated with Financial and Environmental Benefits: A Case Study on Automotive Industry
Authors: Neto Geraldo C. Oliveira , Souza Silvio M. , Baptista Elesandro A.
Published: December 2013

The Cleaner Production implementation has been expanding significantly in Brazil and there is a strong tendency that companies start to care about environmental issues, such as: input reduction, production process less aggressive to the environment, among other factors inherent to manufacturing process. This paper presents a case study conducted in a company that operates in the field of automotive industry, more specifically in the manufacture of gears for transmissions and diesel engines. The main aims of this research are analyze a machining line focusing on Cleaner Production indicators and evaluate the environmental and economic benefits using the method Material Intensity Factor. The results showed that the company had both environmental benefits and financial gains due to the reduction of raw materials by means of replaced or eliminated material from the production process. The relevant aspect of this study is the possibility of financial gain associated with environmental gains and benefits by means of incremental changes in the production system.
Parametric Study of Powder Mixed Electrical Discharge Machining and Mathematical Modeling of SiSiC Using Copper Electrode
Authors: Aliyu Abdul Azeez , Hamidon Musa , Rohani Jafri M.
Published: December 2013

In recent years, the need for Silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic arises due to several industrial applications. However, the cost of machining such components is very high. Electrical discharge machining (EDM) serves as the most viable machining technique. In this study, optimum setting of sinking-EDM parameters and mathematical model of siliconized silicon carbide (SiSiC) using aluminum powder mixed dielectric fluid has been developed. Analysis of variance shows that, material removal rate (MRR) increases with high discharge current and low servo voltage, whereas tool wear ratio (TWR) and surface roughness (Ra) decreases with low current and pulse-on time. The effects of design parameters on the machining characteristics were investigated using fractional factorial (resolution V) technique. Confirmatory test was then carried out to validate the models developed.
Effects of Friction Modifier Additives on HDD Substrate Defects and Surface Topography during CMP
Authors: Sideq Salleh , Izman S.
Published: December 2013

This study investigates the effects of Friction Modifier Additives (FMA) added into the polishing slurry on Aluminium Nickel Phosphorous plated (Al-NiP) Hard-Disk Drive (HDD) substrates surface topography and surface defects during Chemical Mechanical Polishing (CMP) process. It is confirmed that addition of Friction Modifier Additives into the slurry reduces the overall coefficient of friction (CoF) during CMP process. By increasing the FMA concentration in the polishing slurry, the substrate surface topography such as waviness and surface roughness were improved significantly. It also lowered the defects counts especially scratch and sub-micron damage as revealed under Optical Surface Analyser (OSA) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) analysis.
Effect of Manufacturing Process on Free Vibration of Foam-Core Sandwich Plate
Authors: Abdi Behzad , Azwan Syed , Amran Ayob , Rahman Roslan Abdul , Yazid Yahya Mohd
Published: December 2013

In this paper, the effect of the manufacturing process on free vibration modes of foam-core sandwich plate were experimentally identified from frequency response tests. Three types of foam-core sandwich plate that fabricated by using hand lay-up, vacuum bagging and vacuum infusion process were tested and compared. The responses were made at selected locations on the plate surface by attaching a single-axis accelerometer to measure out-of-plane response. Resonant frequencies, relative damping ratios and mode shapes were established for the lowest 3 out-of-plane modes found in the frequency range of 0-900 Hz. The results show that the vibration characteristics were affected by the fabrication process of the sandwich structure.
Design and Fabrication of Customised Scaffold for Femur Bone Using 3D Printing
Authors: Iraimudi V. , Begum S. Rashia , Arumaikkannu G. , Narayanan R.
Published: December 2013

Additive Manufacturing is a promising field for making three dimensional scaffolds in which parts are fabricated directly from the 3D CAD model. This paper presents, the patients CT scan data of femur bone in DICOM format is exported into MIMICS software to stack 2D scan data into 3D model. Four layers of femur bone were selected for creation of customised femur bone scaffold. Unit cell designs such as double bend curve, S bend curve, U bend curve and steps were designed using SOLIDWORKS software. Basic primitives namely square, hexagon and octagon primitives of pore size 0.6mm, 0.7 mm and 0.8 mm diameter and inter distance 0.7mm, 0.8mm and 0.9 mm are used to design the scaffold structures. In 3matic software, patterns were developed by using the above four unit cells. Then, the four layers of bone and patterns were imported into 3matic to create customised bone scaffolds. The porosities of customised femur bone scaffold were determined using the MIMICS software. It was found that the customised femur bone scaffolds for the unit cell design of U bend curve with square primitives of pore size 0.8mm diameter and inter distance 0.7mm gives higher porosity of 56.58 % compared to other scaffolds. The models were then fabricated using 3D printing technique.
The Influence of Braiding Angle Variation in Braided-Twisted Fiber Scaffold Based Poly L-Lactic Acid for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Application
Authors: Mardina Zahrina , Fitriana N. , Siswanto R. , Oktavina O. , Zahra N. , Widiyanti Prihartini , Rudyarjo D. , Indarto E. , Langenati R.
Published: December 2013

Anterior Cruciatum Ligament (ACL) injury may cause other tissue injuries and degenerative joint diseases, rendering major surgery compulsory. The ACL substitutions from patients other tissue (autograft), from cadaver (allograft), or from other species (xenograft) still cause problems like donor morbidity, reduction of mechanical strength in cryopreservation period, and the risk of transgenic infection. Tissue engineering approach is the proposed solution. For this, synthetic ligament scaffold is needed. Electrospinning is a method to produce porous scaffolds made of polymers. In this study, filaments were produced from electrospinning poly l-lactic acid. The filaments were then twisted with 60o angle to the horizontal to make a yarn. Subsequently, the yarns were braided with the variation of braiding angle 40o, 60o and 80o. The characterization on the scaffold includes degradation rate, porosity, tensile strength, and cytotoxicity. It was found that larger braiding angle gave higher degradation rate, bigger pore size, and lower mechanical strength. For cytotoxicity, in terms of pore size and percentage of living cell, scaffold with braiding angle of 80o also showed the optimum result.
Empirical Determination of Roughness Parameters Using Wiper Tool Inserts in Finish Turning of AISI 4140
Authors: Geier Martin , Souza André J.
Published: December 2013

The surface finishing resulting from metal cutting processes is associated with the surface texture and integrity. Texture can be quantified by roughness parameters as Roughness Average (Ra), Total Roughness (Rt), Maximum Surface Depth (Ry) and Surface Depth (Rz) which are directly related to cutting magnitudes and tool characteristics. This work assesses empirically the roughness generated by wiper cutting tools in dry finishing turning operations of AISI 4140 steel. By keeping a constant cutting speed and using depths of cut greater than 2/3 of the cutting tool radius (rε), four feed rates (f) are used with three rε, both combined in a way to ascertain the equations which allows the evaluation of Ra, Rt, Ry and Rz values. In order to determine the equations for roughness prediction a multiple linear regression method in function of f and rε is applied, showing good agreement with experimental results. Also, achieved results allows to prove the effectiveness of wiper tools to generate excellent surface finish without grinding operations and consequently showing that its use can increase significantly the material removal rate without compromising the surface roughness in high feed rate operations.
Cutting Force and Temperature Variation in Bone Drilling - A Review
Authors: Ginta Turnad Lenggo , Ari-Wahjoedi Bambang
Published: December 2013

Orthopaedic surgery procedure widely utilizes bone drilling in the work for correcting bone fracture and attaching prosthetics. Clean and accurately positioned holes are desired during bone drilling without damaging the surrounding tissues. However, bone temperature rises during drilling. It is always required to keep the temperature during drilling below 47 °C to avoid thermal osteonecrosis (bone cell death), which might lead to a loose of bone-implant interface. Drill design, drill parameters, and coolant delivery were believed to contribute to heat generation. As complex anisotropic biological tissues, determining the bone temperature during drilling is another issue. Complex mechanical and thermological properties are also other problems to be investigated due to the sensitivity to testing and specimen preparation.
Effect of Higher Peak Current and Pulse Duration on EWR of Copper Electrode when Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) of Inconel 718
Authors: Ahmad S. , Lajis Mohd Amri
Published: December 2013

In this work, the electrode wear rate (EWR) and electrode surface characteristic of copper electrode when EDM of Nickel Based Super Alloy, Inconel 718 at higher peak current and pulse duration were analyzed. Experiments were conducted using Inconel 718 as a work piece and copper as an electrode with a kerosene dielectric under different peak currents and pulse durations. Peak current, Ip within a range of 20A to 40A and pulse duration (or pulse on-time), ton within a range of 200μs to 400μs are selected as the main parameters. In this study, EWR were measured using digital weight balance (accuracy 0.01mg) and by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), the surface texture of the electrode in order to evaluate the material deposited on the electrode surface. The results have shown that machining at a lowest peak current of 20A and highest pulse duration of 400μs yields the lowest electrode wear rate (EWR) of -0.01mm3/min. The pulse duration is significantly affecting the EWR. It also revealed that, the deposited of carbon and work piece material is occurred on the electrode surface for all machining conditions.
Investigation of Process Performances and Cut Surface Characteristics in the Wire-EDMing of Silicon
Authors: Punturat J. , Tangwarodomnukun Viboon , Dumkum Chaiya
Published: December 2013

Wire-EDMing process has been more accepted for cutting and slicing silicon wafer as it can provide a cut with less crack and chipping due to low effect of mechanical stresses. In order to provide a deep analysis of the process, the wire-EDMing performances and cut surface characteristics of p-type (100) monocrystalline silicon wafer have been experimentally investigated in this study. The results have shown that wide kerf width, high material removal rate, large electrode wear and rough cut surface can be obtained under the condition of high open voltage and rough cutting mode. Some micrographs of cut surface morphology have been also reported and discussed, where many craters and small holes can be apparently seen on the machined surface.
Oil Spills Hazard and Sustainable Mitigation Approach: A Review
Authors: Idris Jamaliah , Ahmad Z. , Eyu G.D. , Chukwuekezie Christian S.
Published: December 2013

The great negative impact of oil spill to the environment and living things over the years have necessitated the need for much study on improving and developing of sustainable natural absorbents in recent time. This paper reviews the adverse effect of oil spill, controls measures and proposes future recommendations for the usage of some agricultural products with promising oil absorbent potency.
Manufacturing Process of Blended Delta-Shaped Wing Model
Authors: Mat Shabudin , Ishak I. Shah , Zakaria Khidzir , Khan Z. Ajis
Published: December 2013

Aerodynamicists have long acknowledged the blended wing body (BWB) aircraft design could produce great aerodynamic advantages due to the integration of the delta wing structure with the thick center body. Therefore the wind tunnel test campaign is crucial to gain information of the flow field that governs the delta-shaped wing which has frequently baffled the aerodynamicists. In such, the wind tunnel test required acceptable quality of delta-shaped wing model for results validity. Consequently, the manufacturing process as well as the selection of the appropriate machinery tools, must be wisely designed and performed. The modular 3D concept in associating with CAD/CAM technology was utilised in the process. Finally, the actual flow cycle of manufactures blended BWB aircraft model was sucessfully established. The objective of this paper is to highlight those complexity manufacturing process and techniques involved in order to produce a good blended delta-shaped wind tunnel model.
Increasing Capacity and Suppress the Crosstalk by Using Hybrid Optical OFDM/WDM System
Authors: Aldhaibani A.O. , Aljunid S.A. , Fadhil Hilal A. , Anuar M.S.
Published: December 2013

Hybrid optical OFDM/WDM system is proposed to provide longer reach and larger capacity comparing with existing PON systems in order to meet the ever increasing bandwidth demand and data rate of next generation optical access networks. In this paper, two channels using different modulation at 10 Gb/s are used for downstream link. OFDM signals occupy different portions of the available signal spectrum for signal transmissions by using WDM. As a result, the system has good performance based on SNR with 50 km distance and QAM modulation delivers better performance compared with PSK.
Fatigue Crack Initiation and Growth of Aluminum Alloy with Stress Ratio Effects
Authors: Idrus Haftirman , Afendi M. , Chun Hoe Wong
Published: December 2013

Fatigue crack initiation and growth of aluminum alloys with stress ratio were investigated due to it was widely used in aircraft production parts. Various types of aluminium alloy have been selected (6063-T6, 7075-T6, and 2024-T351). Compact design standard based on ASTM standard E647-11 was used for specimen. Cyclic loading experiment was conducted using Instron 8801 Hydraulic Server Machine with da/dN software for setup and parameter setting. Investigations on crack propagation and fracture surface were done by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to obtain the image of the specimen surface. Further analysis was done on the image to study on the crack initiation and propagation. Various stress ratio effects were set for the compact specimens having thickness 12.7 mm. Relationship between crack growth rate and the stress intensity factor range were further identified with the stress ratio effects. The gradients of crack growth rate increase while the stress ratio, R increase. Higher R-ratio results in higher value range of minimum load applied. Paris law and Modified Forman law were used as comparison with the experimental data for validation purposes and to provide the level of precision.
Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Produced from Iron Mill Scale
Authors: Ruhiyuddin Mohd Zaki , Murizam D. , Ahmad Khairel Rafezi
Published: December 2013

In this project, iron mill scale has been used to produce iron powder that can be used within the Powder Metallurgy process. To achieve this objective, the iron mill scale needs to be refined. This involve the work of grinding the iron mill scale to an effective particle size, which is 300μm. Latter, the grounded iron mill scale will undergo the magnetic separation process. The purpose of this process is to remove any non-magnetic material. Than the following process is to fully oxidize and reduce the iron mill scale to form pure iron powder. From this step an optimum value for maximum heating temperature, heating rate and heating cycle was determined. Than in order to determine whether the oxidation and the reduction process have completely achieved their objective, the iron oxide and the iron powder that have been produced from both process, was characterized using X-Ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD) and X-Ray Florescent Analysis (XRF) technique. From the oxidation process, it is obvious that sample C gave higher oxidation percentage, which is 11.22%. While Reduction 2 shows the desirable result, which is 29.51% of reduction, involving a low cost compared to other reduction process.
On the Structure of Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Acitei Dragos Cristian , Sandhu Andrei Victor , Abdullah Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri , Vizureanu Petrică , Abdullah Alida
Published: December 2013

The paper presents the obtaining of shape memory alloys, base copper and a diffractometer and microscopic study on some samples. The study was made on CuZnAl samples, obtained by classic casting and educated. The shape memory alloys properties recommend their use for applications in domains as follows electric contacts, robotics, and aeronautics. When choosing the type of alloy used for the manufacture of the component parts of different industrial applications, it must be taken into account fatigue resistance, resistance to shocks and resistance to corrosion. Shape memory alloys are a unique group of alloys with the ability to remember a form even after quite severe plastic deformations. At low temperatures, shape memory alloys can be deformed apparently like other metallic alloys, but this deformation can recover with a relatively modest increase in temperature.
Halal Based Sourced EM for Turbidity Reducing in Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Zarina Z. , Diyana Yaacob Noorulnajwa , Al Bakri A.M. Mustafa , Ruzaidi C.M.
Published: December 2013

Effective Microorganism (EM) technology was found as the credible solution to solve many environmental problems including wastewater issues. The EM which is in the form of EM mud ball was tested to be effectively used for waste treatment that comes from the factories, resident area, and also agriculture sector. Furthermore, the polluted rivers can also being applied with this product in order to improve the water quality. Until today, the halal issues caused by the ingredients of EM still are not clearly mentioned by the manufacturer and becomes a concerns to most of the Islamic country like Malaysia. As the solution, halal based source are suggested in utilization of Effective Microorganism (EM). The result of the experiment shows that EM mud ball has the potential to solve the problem regarding treating the wastewater as it positively reducing the level of turbidity.Keywords:Effective microorganism (EM), Halal based sourced, turbidity, waste treatment
Effect of Beta Tricalcium Phosphate (β-TCP) on Properties of Mg-Zn Composites
Authors: Buyong Siti Aishah , Jamaludin Shamsul Baharin , Abdul Malek Rohaya
Published: December 2013

In this work, Mg and Zn powder were used to prepare the Mg-Zn/β-TCP composites with different β-TCP composition by using powder metallurgy technique. The composite were mixed using ball mill and compacted at 500 MPa. The composites sintered at 450 °C in tube furnace for two hours. The effects of properties on Mg-Zn with different composition of β-TCP were studied. The results on the effect of β-TCP composition were analyzed in terms of density and microstructural analysis.
Effect of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch-Grafted-Poly(Acrylic Acid-co-Acrylamide) Hydrogel Preparations on Plant Growth Performance
Authors: Rabat Nurul Ekmi , Hashim Shahrir , Majid Rohah A.
Published: December 2013

Two series of oil palm empty fruit bunch-grafted-poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide) [OPEFB-g-P(AA-co-AA slow release fertilizer hydrogels (SRFHs) were prepared via two different techniques namely double dryings of hydrogel (T1) andin situintercalated urea (T2). Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy spectra showed-OH of OPEFB successfully grafted within P(AA-co-AAm) in T1 and T2. Water retention test of red okra plant (abelmoschus escule)and plant growth of rose balsam plant(impatiens balsamina)had showed that no biuret production has occurred in T2 and is more convenient in term of economic production as it requires only one drying process.
Investigation on Impact Resistance Foamed Concrete Reinforced by Polypropylene Fibre
Authors: Ahmad Mujahid Ahmad Zaidi , Hadipramana Josef , Samad Abdul Aziz Abdul , Mohamad Noridah
Published: December 2013

Foamed Concrete (FC) needs high strength to prevent dynamic loading, thus it is important to enhance the ductility. Usage the Polypropylene Fibre (PF) examined its contribution in strength of FC on impact resistance. Microstructures were observed that air voids in matrix of FC produce micro-porous that reduce interfacial bonding into matrix and generate micro-crack that may propagation crack growth. Presence of PF in admixture results fibrillation and reduces micro-cracks. Tensile test was investigated that PF delays crack growth in matrix. In this investigation impact test were conducted using an instrumented drop-weight impact tower. When impactor hits the target surface in free surface condition causes compressive plastic wave transform to be tensile wave. It was affected by tensile strength therefore local effect has not found spalling in crater field. In addition influence of porous in matrix FC has ability to absorb the energy and it was not found distal crack around surface area. Penetration depth results showed FC with PF subjected to impact loading was lower than without FC. Presence of PF increases FC strength and local effect results there was not impression of fragments around distal surface due to brittle crushing.
Anodic Oxidation of Titanium in Mixture of β-Glycerophosphate (β-GP) and Calcium Acetate (CA)
Authors: Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi , Koshy Pramod , Sorrell Charles Christopher
Published: December 2013

Anodic oxidation is an electrochemical method for the production of a ceramic film on a metallic substrate. It involves the use of an electrical bias at relatively low currents while the substrate is immersed in a weak organic acid bath. The films produced are usually dense and stable, with variable microstructural features. In the present work, ceramic films of the anatase and rutile polymorphs of TiO2were formed on high-purity Ti foil (50 μm) using mixtures of β-glycerophosphate disodium salt pentahydrate (β-GP) and calcium acetate monohydrate (CA) solutions. The experiments were carried out at varying voltages (150-350 V), times (1-10 min), and current density (10 mA.cm-2) at room temperature. The ceramic films were characterised using digital photography, glancing angle X-ray diffraction (GAXRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The thicknesses of the films on Ti were measured using focused ion beam (FIB) milling. The colour, microstructures, and thicknesses of the films were seen to be strongly dependent on the applied voltage. At bias <200 V, single-phase anatase was observed to form on Ti, while at higher bias (250 V), rutile formed due to the arcing process.
Landfill Leachate Treatment Using SSF-FWS Constructed Wetland Planted with Limnocharis flava and Eihhornia crassipes under Different Hydraulic Loading Rate
Authors: Kamarudzaman Ain Nihla , Gana Alice Dandun Anak , Jalil Mohd Faizal Ab , Aziz Roslaili Abdul
Published: December 2013

A laboratory-scale study was conducted using a combination of SSF and FWS constructed wetland planted with Limnocharis flava and Eichhornia crassipes to treat landfill leachate. The effects of hydraulic loading rate (HLR) on pollutant removal in landfill leachate as well as the difference in performance between the planted and control system were investigated. The HLR in the system was varied at 0.39 m/d and 0.55 m/d. The results showed that the SSF-FWS constructed wetland was successful in reducing the pH value, TSS and turbidity. The removal efficiency of TSS and turbidity were achieved 98.32% and 97.43%, respectively at 0.39 m/d HLR. The study concluded that different HLR and the presence of wetland plants have given significant effects on the constructed wetland performance.
Methylene Blue Dye Adsorption to Durian Shell Activated Carbon
Authors: Latib Erny Haslina Abd , Mustfha Melissa Suraya , Sufian Suriati , Ku Shaari Ku Zilati
Published: December 2013

A low cost adsorbent for waste water treatment can be achieved by producing an activated carbon from agriculture waste. In this research work, the activated carbons were prepared from durian shell using the physical and chemical activation at different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide followed by carbonization at high temperature under the flow of nitrogen gas. The produced activated carbon was characterized to obtain the physical and chemical properties. The adsorption of methylene blue dye has been studied in this experiment and the results showed that the efficiency of dye removal was increased for the treated durian shell as compare to the untreated one. It is found that 99% of methylene blue has been removed using durian shell activated carbon (DShAC) that treated at the conditions 0.6M H2O2at 700°C for 30 minutes.
High Yield Synthesis of Kojic Ester Using Dual Enzymes System and their Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Mat Radzi Salina , Abd Rahman Nurul Jannah , Mohd Noor Hanina , Basri Mahiran
Published: December 2013

Enzymatic synthesis of kojic ester, a bio-based whitening agent, was successfully carried out via esterification reaction between oleic acid and kojic acid. Commercial immobilized lipases of Novozym 435 and Lipozyme RM IM were used in combination as biocatalyst in the reaction system. Various reaction parameters were chosen to optimize the reaction in order to obtain a high yield of kojic ester including the best ratio of lipases, reaction time and reaction temperature. The optimum conditions for the synthesis of kojic ester was achieved at reaction time of 12 hours, temperature of 60 οC and equal ratio of lipases to produce more than 70 % yield. Antimicrobial tests of synthesized kojic ester towards several types of bacteria via Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) analyses were also examined. The results obtained suggested that kojic ester exhibits a good bactericidal effect towards all bacteria tested such as Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium.
The Effect of Cement Replacement Materials to the Hydration of Petroleum Sludge in OPC
Authors: Zain Asna Mohd , Md Ghazaly Shaaban , Hilmi Mahmud
Published: December 2013

The effect of cement replacement materials on hydration of solidified waste in ordinary Portland cement has been investigated based on initial setting time. Five cement replacement materials namely, rice husk ash, condensed silica fume, activated carbon, fly ash and meta kaolin were selected for solidified organic waste in the cement. The initial setting time was conducted with incorporation of 5 to 15 percent cement replacement materials at water to cement ratio of 0.45. The initial set of cement involves mainly the development of ettringite fibers and portlandite. Additions of CSF, FA and AC have delayed the initial setting time. The governing factors contributed to the delayed in setting time are the cement replacement materials, particle size and composition, which significantly retard development of ettringite fibers. 5 % MK and RHA tend to accelerate the setting with 138 and 150 minutes, accordingly as these binders have larger particle size.
Load versus Displacement Validation between Ruaumoko Hysteresis Program and Experimental Work on CFRP Retrofitted Precast Beam-Column Exterior Joint
Authors: Abd Ghani Kay Dora , Hamid Nor Hayati , Jaafar Muhd Salmizi
Published: December 2013

This paper presented the load versus displacement curve for experimental work and validated with modeling results. A full-scale specimen which representing retrofitted precast RC beam-column exterior joint with corbels was tested in the laboratory under reversible lateral cyclic loading until ±1.75% interstorey drift. The specimen was rehabilitated by using Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) wrapping method. Modeling work was carried out using Ruaumoko Hysteres Program. A curve representing load versus displacement for beam-column exterior joint is generated using Pampanin Reinforced Concrete Beam-Column Joint Hysteresis rule with reloading slip factor. The modeling result was compared with the load versus displacement curve obtained from experimental work. It was found that the hysteresis loops exhibited good agreement between experimental and modeling results. The effective stiffness, displacement ductility and equivalent viscous damping for the specimen were also discussed and compared.
Experimental Investigation of Flax FRP Tube Confined Coconut Fibre Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Yan Li Bo , Chouw Nawawi , Jayaraman Krishnan
Published: December 2013

The compressive and flexural performance of flax fibre reinforced polymer (FFRP) confined coconut fibre reinforced concrete (CFRC) structures were investigated. The mass content of coconut fibre considered was 1% of cement. Eighteen cylinders were tested under uniaxial compression and 12 beams were tested under four-point bending. Test results show that in compression, both FFRP tube and FFRP wrapping confinements enhance the axial compressive strength and ultimate strain of concrete significantly, e.g. the ultimate strength of 4-layer FFRP tube confined CFRC is 94% larger than that of the unconfined CFRC. In flexure, the FFRP tube increases the lateral load bearing capacity and the deflection several times larger than the unconfined concrete columns, e.g. the ultimate lateral load of 4-layer FFRP confined PC and CFRC are 1066% and 946% larger than the corresponding unconfined PC and CFRC specimens. In flexure, coir inclusion can affect the failure mode of the FFRP-CFRC composite structure significantly.
A Review on Ductile Self-Compacting Concrete
Authors: Nuruddin Muhd Fadhil , Chang Kok Yung , Azmee Norzaireen Mohd , Shafiq Nasir
Published: December 2013

Ductile self-compacting concrete (DSCC) also known as ultra-high-performance fiber reinforced concrete with a steel like compressive strength of up to 250 MPa and remarkable increase in durability compared to high-strength concrete can be considered as the most successful recent innovation in concrete construction. The achievement of DSCC has been made possible by the introduction of materials such as superplasticizers, microsilica and steel fibers. Incorporation of steel fibers in the mix made it feasible to design sustainable filigree, lightweight concrete constructions without any additional steel reinforcement. The purpose of this paper is to review the needs of DSCC and the factors influencing the workability of DSCC as well as the effect of the inclusion of steel fibers. Various studies concluded that the inclusion of steel fibers will increase the mechanical and durability properties but reduce the workability.
Experimental Analysis of Interlocking Load Bearing Wall Brickool System
Authors: Osman S.A. , Mohamed Zawawi Samba , Sulaiman A.R. , Ismail M. Fikri
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the results of investigation on structural behavior of the load bearing walls of interlocking bricks system called Brickcool. The model of Brickcool load bearing walls with and without reinforcement were tested in the laboratory until they failed. Both models were prepared with the same dimension of 1.3 m height, 1.0 m wide and 125 mm width. The influence of reinforcement on the deflection and strain of the load bearing walls were examined. Physical and mechanical tests of the individual brick were also been carried out. Results of this study proved that the model of load bearing wall with reinforcement have higher failure load with lower displacement at the top of the wall. The presence of reinforcement in strengthening the wall panel also increase the compression and tension strain compared to the wall panel without reinforcement. The physical and mechanical test results also found that the bricks have satisfied the minimum requirement values set by the British and American Standards.
Preparation and Characterization of Activated Carbon Made from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch
Authors: Abdul Rani Noor Hidayu , Mohamad Nor Fadilah , Matali Sharmeela , Kadir Sharifah Aishah Syed A.
Published: December 2013

This paper explains preparation of activated carbon from empty fruit bunch (EFB) using steam activation under optimum conditions; activation temperature of 765°C and activation time of 77min and analyzes their physical and chemical properties using proximate and ultimate analysis, fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis, x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, nitrogen adsorption-desorption analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Results show activated carbon EFB consists of 68.32 wt% carbon, 3.12 wt% hydrogen, 2.12 wt% nitrogen and 26.44 wt% oxygen content. FT-IR spectroscopy result indicate that raw EFB was successfully converted to carbon after activation process and was proven by spectra of commercial activated carbon. The XRD study confirms the presence of some crystalline (graphite) phase around peaks 26oand 43o. Characterization by using BET and SEM analysis showed that activated carbon produced from EFB has good properties with high surface area (720.0 m2/g) and well developed pores.
Green Lightweight Concrete Made from Natural Para Rubber Product
Authors: Raksritong Duangden , Tonnayopas Danupon , Taweepreda Wirach , Masniyom Manoon
Published: December 2013

Para Rubber Seed Shell (PRSS) as a coarse aggregate and coated by vulcanization and mixing epoxy natural rubber (ENR) was investigated. Natural rubber latex (60% DRC) was applied in two stages. Firstly stage, synthetic natural latex (ENR-35) solution was coated on the first layer of PRSS. After that, PRSS was coated by vulcanization in second layer. Then, pre-wetting was performed before mixing or casting the concrete for 5 days. Finally, CPRSS (Coated Para Rubber Seed Shell) was produced. The CPRSS aggregate was cast as self consolidation concrete (SCC) with different ratios of ordinary Portland cement: sand: CPRSS for 0.8-1: 0.6-0.85: 0.04-0.12 by weight, respectively and constant water/binder ratio at 0.45 throughtout this study. The ENR-35 was also used about 5% of the water content. However, the concrete was wrapped with polyvinyl sheet to prevent moisture loss during setting and curing in ambient temperature (29°C, 84%RH) for 28 days. The fresh concrete to slump test, harden concrete with bulk density and compressive strength of whole formulations was carried out to determine. The test result A8 indicted that the most ingredient suitable mixture of SCC involed cement: sand: CPRSS of 1:0.94:0.046. The SCC contained the slump as 120 mm, bulk density about 1916 kg/m3 and compressive strength was 37 MPa. Its was met specification of structural lightweight concrete. This beneficiation of SCC is also product as the green innovation building in terms of construction materials and resources, leaving minimal environmental impact, and having energy saving and eco-friendly materials.
Immediate Deflection of Pretensioned Inverted T-Beam with Circular Web Openings Strengthened with GFRP Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Mohammed Bashar S. , Cheng Hock Tian
Published: December 2013

The urgent need for a web opening in the pretensioned inverted T-beams after the construction for essential services causes local cracking around the opening which leads to decrease in stiffness and load carrying capacity. Therefore, strengthening the vicinity of the opening is essential to restore the loss in load carrying capacity of the beam using GFRP. To study the deflection of pretentioned inverted T-beam with web opening, three-dimensional finite element beam models are developed before and after GFRP strengthening using the finite element analysis (FEA). Modeling methodology and nonlinear analysis approach in ANSYS are presented. The results obtained from the FEA beam model are compared with the test data in terms of load-deflection curve. It has been concluded that FEA models are good representations for GFRP strengthened beams with web openings in terms of the number of elements, structural details, and, especially, reasonably accurate results in general.
Different Concentration of Al(NO3)3 in ZrO2/Al2O3 Double Layer Coating Steel Prepared by Electrolytic Method
Authors: Salleh Siti Hawa Mohamed , Nazree Derman Mohd , Omar Mohd Zaidi , Malek Rohaya Abdul
Published: December 2013

Stainless steels, such as 440C steel are commonly used for engineering applications. The high carbon contents of this steel have significantly been attributed to low corrosion resistance properties. Surface modification such as electrolytic double layer coating with ZrO2/Al2O3 was carried out to control the performance. Samples were deposited in ZrO(NO3)2 and Al (NO3)3 aqueous solution respectively. Potentiodynamic examination (Tafel Extrapolation test) was conducted to measure the corrosion resistance of coated steel. The results showed improvements in hardness properties and corrosion rate as the Al2O3 concentration had been increased.
Protective CuO Coating Synthesis via Electrodeposition of Copper on AISI 430 Ferritic Steel for SOFC Interconnect Applications
Authors: Setiawan Asep Ridwan , Ramelan Aditianto , Antonius Aswin
Published: December 2013

In this work, electrodeposition of copper on AISI 430 steels substrate with relatively low current density followed by oxidation of Cu to form protective and conductive oxide layer is examined. Result shows that the activation by Ni strike plating on AISI 430 steels substrate prior to electroplating improves the coating ability of copper. Phase identification by XRD on the oxidized sample confirms that as coated Cu layer was transformed into CuO. The growth of CuO scales was relatively low and effectively prevents Cr outward diffusion from the ferritic steels.
General Lifetime Damage Model for Glass Fibre Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) Composite Pipes under Multiaxial Loading
Authors: Majid Mohd Shukry Abdul , Afendi M. , Daud R. , Amin N.A.M. , Mohamad Azizul , Cheng E.M. , Gibson A.G. , Hekman M.
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the modelling of a general lifetime performance for glass fibre reinforced epoxy (GRE) composite pipes similar to the well-known Tsai-Hill interactive failure criterion. Tsai Hill criterion is based on the Von Misses distortional energy criterion which was modified to satisfy the orthotropic nature of GRE composite pipes. The effects of stress developed in each ply from ultimate elastic wall stress (UEWS) test were expressed in a single quadratic term of axial and hoop stress through laminate theory. The term then solved to produce limits with respect to axial and hoop stress, which represented in a graphical form of failure envelope. The modelled envelop shows a good agreement with experimental data from the multiaxial UEWS test of ±55° GRE composite pipes. This indicates that such model can be used to predict the long-term performance of GRE pipes under combine loadings.
Effects of Drilling Generated Heat on Damage Factor in GFRP
Authors: Woo Tze Keong , Ahmad Faiz , Sharif Safian , Maoinser Mohd Azuwan
Published: December 2013

Drilling generated heat is considered to have significant effect on the product. In this study, woven glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites were fabricated using Vacuum Resin Infusion technique. The composites were drilled using HSS twist drill bit at various drilling parameters. The temperature during drill was measured using infra red thermometer. The damage factor of drilled holes was measured using 3D non-contact surface measurement and correlates it with temperature. Results showed that low feed rate recorded maximum temperature and high fede rate showed lower heat generated during drilling. Damage factor measured at lower feed rate was high and low at high feed rate. This was considered due to evaporation of resin matrix.
The Effect of Lemongrass as Lost Circulation Material (LCM) to the Filtrate and Filter Cake Formation
Authors: Ghazali Nurul Aimi , Mohd T.A.T. , Alias Nur Hashimah , Azizi A. , Harun A.A.
Published: December 2013

Lost circulation is one of the most troublesome encountered in drilling due to uncontrolled flow of mud into the formation that likely to be caused of unsuccessful filter cake. The lost circulation material (LCM) is the additives that added to the drilling fluid to control loss of mud to the formation. In this research, the lemongrass was used as LCM. The objectives of this experiment are to investigate the effect of lemongrass as LCM to the filtrate and filter cake thickness and to determine the effective size of lemongrass as LCM. The experiments were conducted to measure the filtrate and filter cake thickness with different size and different based of drilling fluid. Low Pressure Low Temperature (LPLT) filter press is for water based mud (WBM) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) filter press is for oil based mud (OBM) were used to perform the filtration process under static condition and constant filtration time which is 30 minutes. Both WBM and OBM are prepared four samples with three difference sizes of LCM and native mud. The sizes of lemongrass are 150 microns, 250 microns and 500 microns. After each experiment, the filtrate volume and filter cake thickness were determined to represent. The result shows that lemongrass able to perform a good LCM in both WBM and OBM based on filtrate volume and filter cake thickness. For WBM, the mud with LCM is lower filtrate volume than native mud which is less than 6.0 ml and for OBM, the mud with LCM is lower filtrate volume than native mud which is less than 5.0 ml. Both WBM and OBM show the thickness of filter cake obtained was in the range of 2 to 25 mm. The result also shows that the effective size of LCM is 150 micron due to less filtrate volume and filter cake thickness compare to other size of LCM which is 250 microns and 500 microns. The findings revealed that then lemongrass with the size of 150 microns is the suitable material to be used as LCM to replace conventional LCM.
Properties of Natural Rubber/Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer/Recycled Latex Catheter (NR/EPDM/rLC) Ternary Blends: Cure Characteristics and Hardness
Authors: Hakim I. Lokman , Noriman N.Z. , Sam S.T. , Musa L. , Hamzah R.
Published: December 2013

Currently, the recycled rubber widely being used in rubber technology. Due to difficulty on reprocessing techniques, the vulcanized rubbers being a big problem in the recycled field. One of the main forms of discharge rubber is to apply as fuel to generate electricity and steam, this process is still in use but creates a new problem of air pollution and is also a low value to recovery process of the rubber waste [. Polymer compounds are being used extensively in numerous applications such as roofing and mulch product. A rubber blends can offer a better properties that gives high performance in application area that being used [.
Utilization of Treated Red Meranti Wood Dust as Polymer Foam Composite for Acoustic Study
Authors: Sa'adon Shafizah , Rus Anika Zafiah M.
Published: December 2013

A Red Meranti Wood Dust (RMD) act as a filler for polymer foam composite has been investigated and proved to have ability to absorb sound. In this study, treatment of wood dust with and without acid hydrolysis named as WDB and WDA respectively was use as filler. This study was developed to compare the ability of sound absorption based on treated filler and particle size of wood dust. By choosing the size of 355 μm, three different percentage has been selected which is 10%, 15% and 20% for both conditions. These samples has been tested by using Impedance Tube test according to ASTM E-1050 for sound absorption coefficient, α measurement and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for determine the porosity for each samples. 10% loaded of WDB as filler gives highest sound absorption coefficient of 0.999 at 4015.63 Hz. Meanwhile for 20% loaded of WDA gives 0.997 at 3228.13 Hz. When comparing the sound absorption coefficient for both sounds absorbing materials, WDB-polymer foam composite RMD showed higher value of sound absorption coefficient, α at higher frequency as compared to WDA-polymer foam composite.
Mixing Optimization of Sn-Cu-Si3N4 via Powder Metallurgy Route for Composite Solder Fabrication
Authors: Zan Hazizi Muhammad Hafiz , Mohd Salleh M.A.A. , Ahmad Zainal Ariffin
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to optimize the mixing process of a composite solder fabricated via powder metallurgy route, before details study were conducted in the next stage. Powder of Sn, Cu and Si3N4were carefully weighted, mixed and blended in a mechanical alloying machine. The speed of rotation for the jar was kept constant while the time of mixing was varied. Si3N4were added to the Sn-0.7Cu solder as reinforcement. Upon completion of mixing process, the mixed powders were later compacted into a thin disc. The compacted samples were then sintered in a horizontal tube furnace. Microstructural examinations by using SEM were conducted in order to analyze the distribution of Cu and Si3N4particles. With the assistance of ImageJ software, average particle distributions were calculated. Results showed that the best particle distributions were achieved when the mixed powder were blended for 6 hours.
Effect Maleic Anhydride Polypropylene on Properties of Calcium Carbonate Filled Polypropylene/Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer Composites
Authors: Salmah Husseinsyah , Rohana A. Siti , Kamarudin Hussin
Published: December 2013

Inorganic filler, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) was used as filler in the polypropylene (PP)/ ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) composites. The composites were compatibilized with Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) in order to improve the properties. The addition of CaCO3 at has increased the modulus of elasticity of composites but tensile strength and elongation at break of uncompatibilized composites decreased with increasing CaCO3. The result shows that the compatibilized composites higher tensile strength and Modulus of elasticity but lower elongation at break compared to uncompatibilized composites. At 10 wt% CaCO3 showed higher tensile strength of uncompatibiled and compatibilized composites. The morphology study from SEM analysis reveals that compatibilized composites show better interfacial adhesion between the filler and the matrix. The addition of MAPP has improved crystallinity of compatibilized composites.
Studies on Sodium Ion Conducting Gel Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Isa Khairul Bahiyah Md , Othman Lisani , Zainol Nurul Husna , Samin Siti Mariam , Chong Woon Gie , Osman Zurina , Arof Abdul Kariem Mohd
Published: December 2013

Sodium ion conducting gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) films consisting of polyvinylidenefluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene (PVdF-HFP) as a polymer host were prepared using the solution casting technique. Sodium trifluoromethane-sulfonate (NaCF3SO3) was used as an ionic salt and the mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) as the solvent plasticizer. The GPE films were found to be stable up to temperature of 145 °C as shown by TGA analysis. The AC impedance study show that the optimum conductivity of 2.50 x 10-3 S cm-1 at room temperature is achieved for the film containing 20 wt.% of NaCF3SO3 salt. The temperature dependence of conductivity obeys VTF relation in the temperature range of 303 K to 373 K.