bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Four new species of Pselaphodes Westwood (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) from Thailand, Laos, and China
Authors: HUANG MENG-CHI , LI LI-ZHEN , YIN ZI-WEI
Published: September 2018

Four new species of Pselaphodes Westwood are described from southern Asia: P. femoralis sp. n. (China, Thailand), P. incisus sp. n. (China, Laos), P. suthepensis sp. n. (Thailand), and P. thailandicus sp. n. (Thailand), supported by illustrations of male habitus and major diagnostic characters. One of the new species (P. femoralis) exhibits considerable intraspecific variation in the aedeagal structure, but may be readily distinguished by a stable combination of unique male external features.
Synthesis of Lanthanide-Ion-Doped NaYF4 RGB Up-Conversion Nanoparticles for Anti-Counterfeiting Application
Authors: Gong Guo , Xie Shaowen , Song Ya , Tan Haihu , Xu Jianxiong , Zhang Changfan , Xu Lijian
Published: September 2018

Well-defined and mono-dispersed lanthanide-ion-doped NaYF4 up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) were synthesized via thermal decomposition using lanthanide oleate as the precursor. By rational selecting the dopant pairs of the doped lanthanide ions (Y3+, Yb3+,
Er3+ and Tm3+) with accurate molar ratios, three-primary-color (RGB) UCNPs which exhibited green (UCNPs-G), blue (UCNPs-B) and red (UCNPs-R) fluorescence, respectively, were prepared. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed that the three UCNPs were purely hexagonal-phase
NaYF4 crystals. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed that the synthesized UCNPs exhibited well-defined nanosphere morphology with uniform size distribution. The average diameters were 23.95±3.35 nm for UCNPs-G, 20.63±2.59 nm for UCNPs-B, and 19.24±2.37
nm for UCNPs-R, respectively. After surface modification employing polyacrylic acid (PAA) as modifier, the obtained UCNPs were converted to be hydrophilic, which can be used as fillers to construct luminescent polymer films and luminescent ink in anti-counterfeiting application.
A Facile Strategy to Fabricate Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron Decorated Graphene Oxide Composite for Dechloridation of Trichloroacetic Acid in Water
Authors: Zhang Huixuan , Zhang Xinyi , Guo Ruonan , Cheng Qingfeng , Cheng Xiuwen
Published: September 2018

In this study, nanoscale zero-valent iron decorated graphene oxide (NZVI/GO) composite was fabricated through a reduction process in the presence of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) solution. Subsequently, physicochemical properties of the NZVI/GO composites were characterized
by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption/desorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Raman spectra. Results indicated that Fe species existed
in the form of Fe0, which uniformly dispersed on the surface of GO. Furthermore, the performance of NZVI/GO was evaluated by the degradation of tichloroacetic acid (TCAA). TCAA can be rapidly degraded by NZVI/GO. This paper provides a promising strategy to synthesize versatile catalyst
which would be potentially applied in sewage treatment to degrade chlorinated organic compounds.
State of Osseointegrated Titanium Implant Surfaces in Topographical Aspect
Authors: Qi† Xingying , Shang Yuli , Sui Lei
Published: September 2018

Titanium is a primary metallic biomaterial widely used in dental implants because of its favorable mechanical properties and osseointegration capability. Currently, increasing interests have been taken in the interaction between titanium implant surface and surrounding bone tissue,
particularly in surface topographical aspect. There are currently several techniques developed to modify surface topographies in the world market of dental implant. In this review, state of titanium implant surfaces in topographical aspect is presented from relatively smooth surfaces to rougher
ones with microtopographies and/or nanotopographies. Each surface is summarized with basic elaborations, preparation methods, mechanisms for cellular responses and current availabilities. It has been demonstrated that rough surfaces evolving from micro- to nano-scale, especially hierarchical
micro-and nanotopographies, are favorable for faster and stronger osseointegration. Further experimental and clinical investigations will aid in the optimization of surface topography and clinical selection of suitable implants.
Facile Hydrothermal Preparation of Carboxymethyl Chitosan Functionalized Hydrotalcite Composite with Enhanced Adsorption Capacity for Cu(II) Ions
Authors: Chen Chaorong , Zeng Hongyan , Sun Yunxin , Xu Sheng , Du Jinze , Xiao Gaofei , Shen Jiachao
Published: September 2018

In order to enhance the adsorption capacity of hydrotalcite material for heavy metal ions, the LDH/CMC composite was prepared by a simple hydrothermal method. The XRD pattern showed that the presence of CMC has no obvious influence on the crystal structure of hydrotalcites. The FT-IR
and UV-vis DRS analyses showed that the CMC functionalized surface has been obtained. The SEM and BET/BJH showed that the morphologies, textural and surface chemical properties of LDH were affected remarkably after the introduction of CMC. The weight percentage of CMC in the LDH/CMC composite
was estimated to be about 17.4%. The adsorption experiments showed the LDH/CMC composite exhibited high efficiency in the Cu(II) removal at pH > 6.5, affording Cu(II) removal rates of 92.3%. The results demonstrated that the LDH/CMC composite was a suitable adsorbent for Cu(II)-contaminated
wastewater treatment.
Numerical Simulation of Casting Filling Process of Composites Reinforced with Nano SiC Based on Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics
Authors: Niu Xiaofeng , Song Zhenliang , Fang Zhao , Hu Lei , Wang Hongxia , Zhao Jingyu , Bo Yanqiang
Published: September 2018

The actual casting filling process can be deemed as the coupled flow of air, molten metal and solid-phase particles (such as slag) inside the cavity, which may cause air entrapment, slag inclusion and other casting defects, and affect the quality of casting. Through computation simulation
of the casting filling process on the basis of smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method, it can not only precisely track the motion trajectories of air, molten metal and slag particles, but also precisely predict air entrapment, slag inclusion and other casting defects. This paper established
a mathematical model of gas–liquid–solid three-phase flow for the SPH-based casting filling process. The model eliminated the instability of gas–liquid interface pressure by introducing the corrected gas–liquid two-phase momentum equation, and maintained a clear interface
between air and molten metal by introducing the surface tension model. In addition, it introduced the motion model of rigid body to deal with the coupled flow process of slag, air and molten metal. The mathematical model established in this paper was used to calculate the bubble floating and
the flowing process of the gas–liquid two-phase during mold filling through the bottom side of the injection cavity and of the gas–liquid–solid three-phase flow during mold filling for casting of plate (the plate was composite reinforced with nano SiC, and the viscosity of
the composite melt was calculated from the viscosity formula of the composite melt). The calculated results were compared with the experimental results to verify the accuracy and validity of the mathematical model established.
Selective Adsorption of Uranium (VI) by Calix[6]arene-Modified Magnetic Graphene Oxide
Authors: Lu Wei , Li Le , Ding Dexin , Dai Zhongran , Tang Shuangyang , Cao Chen , Liu Ling , Chen d Tuo
Published: September 2018

Magnetic graphene oxide/calix[6]arene (MGO-C6) composites were prepared and then characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction and Thermo gravimetric analyzer, the adsorption of U(VI) by MGO-C6 from aqueous solution was investigated
as a function of pH, contact time, initial U(VI) concentration and adsorbent dosage. The maximum adsorption rate of MGO-C6 can reach up to 93.21%, which was highly efficient for the removal of U(VI) under the condition of 1 mg/L initial uranium concentration. In addition, the selective adsorption
experiment showed that MGO-C6 had an overall preference for U(VI). Adsorption process of MGO-C6 fitted well with the pseudo-second-order kinetic kinetics and the Langmuir isotherm model. The thermodynamic parameters illustrated that the adsorption process was endothermic and spontaneous. This
work demonstrated that MGO-C6 was a promising adsorbent for removal of U(VI) from low concentration uranium-containing wastewater.
Effects of TiO2 Nanofluid on the Surface State of Brass
Authors: Wu Kai , Ge Hong-Hua , Wang Feng , Sha Jun-Yi , Wang Le-Tian , Wan Chuan , Zhao Yu-Zeng , Meng Xin-Jing
Published: September 2018

The surface states of brass in simulated cooling water (SCW) containing or free of sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS) and TiO2 nanofluid were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy spectrum analysis (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The concentrations
of Cu and Zn ions in the solution after brass immersion were analyzed using a plasma emission spectrometer. The relationship between the surface states and corrosion resistance of brass was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results showed that the brass surface
was mainly covered with zinc compound Zn5(OH)6(CO3)2 as corrosion product in SCW. In SCW containing SDBS, a large amount of SDBS was adsorbed on the brass surface. In TiO2 nanofluid, the brass surface was relatively bare and mainly contained
cuprous oxide. There was no obvious adhesion of SDBS aggregates and no accumulation of zinc compound on brass surface in TiO2 nanofluid. TiO2 nanoparticles inhibit the adsorption of SDBS on brass surface. Solution analysis results showed that the concentrations of Cu
and Zn ions in TiO2 nanofluid was obviously higher than that in SCW and SCW containing SDBS, indicating that most of corrosion products of brass dissolved into the nanofluid. The EIS results illustrated the brass electrode had a larger reaction resistance in SCW containing SDBS,
indicating the good protective performance of the adsorbed SDBS film on brass surface. The reaction resistance of the brass electrode was the smallest in TiO2 nanofluid, which illustrated that TiO2 nanoparticles in solution promoted the corrosion of brass.
A Multi-Frequencies Micro-Electromagnetic Vibration Energy Harvester with Nonlinearity for Expanding the Frequency Band
Authors: Lei Yiming , Chen Xiaojuan , Wen Zhiyu
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we proposed a multi-frequencies electromagnetic vibration energy harvester (EVEH) with a wider operating frequency band. The EVEH contains three different vibration picking-up systems with different natural frequencies. A broadened bandwidth was obtained by combining
the structural nonlinearity of the vibration picking-up systems with the multi-frequencies, while the vibration energy harvest was increased by adopting two induction coils in the EVEH system. At an acceleration of 1.5g and frequencies of 45.6, 75 and 146.5 Hz, the peak–peak voltages
of the prototype were 336, 270 and 39.8 mV, respectively. The corresponding bandwidths were 10.1, 7.8 and 4.2 Hz, respectively.
Laser Structuring of Underwater Bubble-Repellent Surface
Authors: Yang Shuai , Yin Kai , Dong Xinran , He Jun , Duan Ji-An
Published: September 2018

Bubbles in aqueous media are pervasive and unavoidable. However, underwater gas bubbles adhesion to the metal pipework can sometimes seriously damage the surface and reduce the useful life of devices. Herein, we report a simple way to fabricate underwater bubble-repellent surface by
one-step femtosecond laser direct writing technology. The as-prepared surface exhibits superhydrophilicity in air and superaerophobicity in water, and the bubble contact angles reach 159±2.5° in water. The surface presents ultralow bubble adhesion, and the rolling angle of the bubble
is small. The potential mechanism is also discussed. This method offers an easy route to prepare underwater superaerophobic surfaces with ultralow bubble adhesion, and it has potential applications in underwater bubble-repelling facilities.
Recent Progress on Neuromorphic Synapse Electronics: From Emerging Materials, Devices, to Neural Networks
Authors: Zhao Yuhang , Jiang Jie
Published: September 2018

To realize intelligent functions in electronic devices like a human brain, it is important to develop the electronic devices that can imitate biological neurons and synapses (synaptic electronics). In this paper, we review the critical learning mechanisms for synaptic plasticity. Different
electronic devices were developed to mimic biological synapses, such as atomic switch, phase change memory, ferroelectric memory, and electric-double-layer transistors. More importantly, several groups have realized the artificial neuromorphic network using multi-gate transistor architecture.
The leap from synapse to neuron to neural network, thus, has been systematically realized using thin films and nanomaterials. The emerging synaptic electronics can have a broader applications and brighter future in the next-generation intelligent nano-electronics.
The Lag Coefficients of Some Meteorological Thermometers*
Authors: Knowles Middleton W. E. , Edwards H. W. , Johnson H.
Published: September 2018

The lag coefficients of a number of instruments used in meteorology for the measurement of temperature have been determined. The dependence of the lag coefficient on ventilation is discussed, and a practical application is suggested.
Study on the Aging Rules of Rigid Polyurethane Foams at Indoor Storage and Different Hygrothermal Conditions
Authors: Liu Yuan-Jun , Zhai Wen , He Chuan-Lan , Deng Jian-Guo , Ji Ke-Jian , Zhang Yin-Sheng , Sun Si-Xiu
Published: September 2018

The aging rules of rigid polyurethane foam (PUR) at indoor storage and different hygrothermal conditions have been studied. Four parameters, which are mass, dimension, compressive strength and compressive modulus were tested. At indoor storage, mass, dimension and compressive strength vary slowly with an increase in aging time, while compressive modulus decreases quickly. PUR is sensitive to relative humidity (RH) verified by accelerated hygrothermal aging, and hydrolysis of ester group is the main reason resulting in the decrease of compressive properties. The filling with fire retardant and glass beads had some effect on hygrothermal aging properties of PUR. The addition of fire retardant increased compressive strength with aging time in the total trend, but it made dimension stability worse. The addition of glass beads slightly improved hygrothermal aging properties.
Control of the Structure and Morphology for Production of Novel LDPE Acoustical Foams
Authors: Ahmed M.Y. Serry , Park C. B. , Atalla N.
Published: September 2018

This paper discusses the control of the foaming process for production of variable microcellular structures and morphologies for novel acoustical foams under investigation. For that purpose, the foaming process was controlled for production of foam samples with various microcellular structures. Crosslinked LDPE was used as a base material for the produced foams. Very high open-cell content (ranging between 43 – 95%), high microcellular cell densities (9×108– 1.6×109cells/cm3) and desired expansion ratios (3 – 9 folds) were successfully obtained. While the material is overly porous, it is noted that the unfoamed skins on the outer surfaces of the samples have prevented sound waves from penetrating the samples. Manual skin removal resulted in slight improvement in sound absorption testing. However, in order to get more reliable data, skinless samples need to be produced.
Layered and Cellular Morphologies in Atactic/Syndiotactic Polystyrene Blends
Authors: Liao Xia , Nawaby A. Victoria , Handa Y. Paul
Published: September 2018

This paper demonstrates for the first time that by blending a polymer with its isomer and subsequently conditioning the mixture with CO2 gas a layered and cellular morphology can be obtained. Previous reports in the literature on generating layered and cellular morphologies use a stacking method forcing layers of polymers together followed by foaming the material. In this study we present single-phase blends of atactic polystyrene (PS) with its isomer syndiotactic polystyrene (sPS) and their fluid phase behavior with CO2. Equilibrium solubility and diffusion coefficients of the gas in the PS/sPS blends in the ratios 75/25, 50/50 and 25/75 wt% was determined at 0 and 35 °C; and the role of CO2 solubility on the types of morphologies generated was investigated. With a decrease in temperature and hence an increase in gas solubility as well as changes in blend composition, foams with various morphological characteristics were obtained. In particular the 50/50 wt% PS/sPS blend conditioned with CO2 at 0 °C and 3.4 MPa resulted in an intriguing morphology with alternating layers containing small and large cells within a given layer respectively.
Review of Test Methods for Measuring Water Vapour Transfer Properties of Fabrics
Authors: Huang Jianhua
Published: September 2018

The water vapour transport characteristics of fabrics, made from polymeric materials, are critical determinant of wear comfort. There are six standard test methods available for measuring water vapour transport properties of fabrics. Due to various construction mechanisms, test conditions, measurement variables and units adopted by different methods, the test results are not directly comparable, though good correlations were observed among some test methods only for a certain type of fabrics. However, these test methods cannot be employed to describe the ability of fabrics to transport moisture vapour under dynamic conditions, which is frequently experienced by people. There is a great need for future research on the techniques to accurately and precisely characterize the dynamic water vapour transport of layered fabrics in terms of overall thermal parameters.
Crosslinking of Polyolefin Foam. III. Increasing Low-Density Polyethylene Foam Production Efficiency by Incorporation of Polyfunctional Monomers
Authors: Sipaut C.S. , Sims G.L.A. , Mohamad Ibrahim M.N.
Published: September 2018

The effect of introducing polyfunctional monomers into dicumyl peroxide (DCP) crosslinking systems for low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is considered. Effects are characterised as a function of relative concentrations in solid, melt and foamed states. The monomers selected were diallyl phthalate (DALP), trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA) and triallyl cyanurate (TAC). It is shown that TAC promotes network formation more efficiently than TMPTMA and DALP allowing a considerable reduction in DCP concentration to attain a specific gel content. A TAC concentration of approximately 0.5% was most cost-effective. Crosslinking promotion efficiency was shown to be in the order TAC > DALP > TMPTMA. Polyfunctional monomers containing allyl groups appeared to be significantly more effective than methacrylates and the efficiency improved with increasing functionality. Compression moulding of LDPE foams of similar density showed that the cycle time could be reduced using a DCP/TAC system compared with DCP alone.
Compression Moulding of Polypropylene Foams and Their Properties
Authors: Mechraoui A. , Barzegari M.R. , Riedl B. , Rodrigue D.
Published: September 2018

Compression moulding was used to produce polypropylene foams using azodicarbonamide as a chemical blowing agent. The morphology of the foams is reported in terms of cell size, cell density, and skin thickness using 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3% of blowing agent. The resulting foams were characterized mechanically in terms of tensile and flexural moduli and comparison with mechanical models was made to predict foam performance. In general, mechanical properties, cell density, skin thickness and foam density decreased, while cell size increased with increasing amount of blowing agent. It was also found that simple mechanical models based solely on foam density and skin thickness were not able to correctly predict all the experimental data. For better prediction, foam density profile must be used.
How listening to music and engagement with other media provide a sense of belonging: An exploratory study of social surrogacy
Authors: Schäfer Katharina , Eerola Tuomas
Published: September 2018

The social surrogacy hypothesis holds that people resort to temporary substitutes, so-called social surrogates, if direct social interaction is not possible. In this exploratory study, we investigate social motives for listening to music in comparison to watching TV and reading fiction. Thirty statements about possible social reasons for the engagement with media were compiled. After 374 participants had rated their agreement with those statements, they were reduced to seven categories: Company, Shared experiences, Understanding others, Reminiscence, Isolation, Group identity, and Culture. The results propose that music is used as temporary substitute for social interaction alongside TV programs and fiction, but that it acts differently. Music listening might act as a social surrogate by evoking memories of relationship partners or through identification processes. There are overlapping motives between the domains, but the elicitation of nostalgia appears to be unique to music listening. The results motivate further investigation into the effects of music listening on socio-emotional well-being.
Quantitative Evaluation of MD/HD Vehicle Electrification using Statistical Data
Authors: Gao Zhiming , Lin Zhenhong , Davis Stacy Cagle , Birky Alicia K.
Published: September 2018

This paper presents a wide-ranging analysis of Class 3-8 commercial vehicle electrification by means of developing a framework tool which uses a quantitative method of estimating electric vehicle energy consumption and appropriate charging considerations. The Fleet DNA composite statistics on real-world driving behavior is used to evaluate feasible or market-ready battery electric vehicle (BEV) technologies in medium- and heavy-duty (MD/HD) applications. In the paper, ten representative Class 3-8 commercial vehicle electrifications have been evaluated as a function of various service coverages, including applications in port drayage tractors, refuse trucks, delivery trucks, buses, and bucket trucks. The results indicate significant energy savings and fuel cost savings across all MD/HD vehicle electrifications. The majority of MD BEVs, with the exception of Class 3 bucket trucks, achieve better than a 5-year payback with 50–75% service coverage. For HD BEVs, with the exception of the Class 8 port drayage tractors, the 90% service coverage results in a 10-year or longer payback time, while the 50% service coverage yields a 7–8 year payback. Class 8 port drayage tractors should achieve payback in no more than a 3.5 years with 50–75% service coverage. Thus, the analysis indicates a highly feasible potential for Class 3-6 MD vehicles to be electrified, and feasible opportunities for electrification in Class 7-8 HD short-distance applications.
Network-Wide Vehicle Trajectory Prediction in Urban Traffic Networks using Deep Learning
Authors: Choi Seongjin , Yeo Hwasoo , Kim Jiwon
Published: September 2018

This paper proposes a deep learning approach to learning and predicting network-wide vehicle movement patterns in urban networks. Inspired by recent success in predicting sequence data using recurrent neural networks (RNN), specifically in language modeling that predicts the next words in a sentence given previous words, this research aims to apply RNN to predict the next locations in a vehicle’s trajectory, given previous locations, by viewing a vehicle trajectory as a sentence and a set of locations in a network as vocabulary in human language. To extract a finite set of “locations,” this study partitions the network into “cells,” which represent subregions, and expresses each vehicle trajectory as a sequence of cells. Using large amounts of Bluetooth vehicle trajectory data collected in Brisbane, Australia, this study trains an RNN model to predict cell sequences. It tests the model’s performance by computing the probability of correctly predicting the next [Formula: see text] consecutive cells. Compared with a base-case model that relies on a simple transition matrix, the proposed RNN model shows substantially better prediction results. Network-level aggregate measures such as total cell visit count and intercell flow are also tested, and the RNN model is observed to be capable of replicating real-world traffic patterns.
Effects of Medical Transport on Outcomes in Children Requiring Intensive Care
Authors: Kawaguchi Atsushi , Saunders L. Duncan , Yasui Yutaka , DeCaen Allan
Published: September 2018

Background and Objectives:

The need to centralize patients for specialty care in the setting of regionalization may delay access to specialist services and compromise outcomes, particularly in a large geographic area. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of interhospital transferring of children requiring intensive care in a Canadian regionalization model.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort design with a matched pair analysis was adopted to compare the outcomes in children younger than 17 years admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a Canadian children’s hospital by a specialized transport team (pediatric critical care transported [PCCT] group) and those children admitted directly to PICU from its pediatric emergency department (PED group). The outcomes of interest included mortality 72 hours from initial contact with the critical care team (ie, either PICU transport team or intrahospital PICU team).

Results:

In total, 680 (27%) transports met our inclusion criteria, whereas 866 (7%) cases of 11 570 total PICU admissions were admitted directly from the emergency department. A total of 493 pairs were formed for the matched analyses. Odds of mortality within 72 hours in the PCCT group were significantly higher than in the PED group (odds ratio [OR]: 2.18, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-4.45; P = .032). When excluding cases who had at least one episode of cardiac arrest before involvement of the pediatric critical care (PCC) transport team, the OR dropped to 1.66 (95% CI: 0.77-3.46).

Conclusions:

Children transported from nonpediatric hospitals had a higher 72-hour mortality when compared to those children admitted directly to a children’s hospital PICU from its own PED in a Canadian regionalized health-care model.
Theorization and industry-based research project development: Bridging the industry–academia research gap
Authors: Shams S.M. Riad , Thrassou Alkis
Published: September 2018

Sustainably bridging the industry–academia research gap is an ongoing concern within the wider effort to successfully unlock the full potential of both sectors. In this context, the authors present a research perspective on and an explicit articulation of the manner in which academic research could focus on theorization. They discuss how this focus could be instrumental in developing industry-based academic research projects. ‘Theorization’, in this context, refers to the contribution to existing theories and/or the development of a new theory, aiming to nurture the theorization process, in a way that could substantially contribute to industry’s needs and help to bridge the industry–academia research gap.
Phase Morphology and Dynamic Mecahnical Properties of Model Polyblock Copolymers Prepared from Reactive Oligomers
Authors: Busko N.A. , Grishchenko V.K. , Shtompel V.I. , Babkina N.V. , Rosovitsky V.F. , Privalko V.P.
Published: September 2018

Two polyblock copolymer (BCP) series of the type (P/S)n (where P is the oligomeric azoinitiator and S is the styrene block) synthesized by sequential (series A) and simultaneous (series B) photo-initiated polymerization were characterized by small-angle X-ray scattering and by dynamic mechanical analysis. The molar mass characteristics of the BCP were little affected by methods of synthesis, whereas their morphologies and mechanical behaviour in the bulk state were widely different. Reasonably sharp SAXS peaks and distinct log E′ falls concomitant to the glass-rubber transitions for the microphases of each chain component for samples of series B were regarded as evidence of a well-ordered, three-dimensional lattice of isolated S domains within a continuous P matrix. In contrast, the absence of well-defined SAXS peaks in the same range of scattering vectors combined with nearly two-fold smaller log E′ falls at T gP for samples of series A suggested the existence of two co-continuous, randomly interpenetrated microphases of S and P blocks with a broad distribution of microheterogeneities by size.
Tensile Behaviour of Functionally Graded Braided Carbon Fibre/Epoxy Composite Material
Authors: Huang Zheng-Ming , Wang Qiongan , Ramakrishna S.
Published: September 2018

The primary objective of this research work was to investigate experimentally the tensile behaviour of Functionally Graded Materials (FGM) made from tubular braided composites and to find out the relationship between the tensile property of the FGM and that of the corresponding non-FGM. Composites were made using tubular braided carbon fibre fabrics and an epoxy resin. The FGM specimens had varying braiding angles and the non-FGM specimens had constant braiding angles. The effect of braiding angle on the composite properties was established from the test results for the non-FGM specimens. It was shown that both the tensile strength and modulus decreased as the braiding angle increased. The tensile behaviour of the FGM specimens was demonstrated to be related to that of the non-FGM specimens. The tensile modulus of an FGM specimen could be estimated from the tensile moduli of a series of non-FGM specimens. The tensile strength of an FGM specimen was a function of its largest braiding angle, and was higher than that of a non-FGM specimen with a braiding angle equal to this largest braiding angle.
Cross-Linked Polyamides
Authors: Patel H.S. , Patel V.C.
Published: September 2018

Cross linked polyimides containing a s-triazine ring have been synthesized via the Diels-Alder intermolecular polymerization of 2,4,6-tris(2-furanyl methyl imino)-1,3,5-triazine with various bis(maleimide) compounds, followed by the aromatization of the corresponding Diels-Alder products. All the poly(imino- s-triazine imide)s were characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR spectral studies and thermogravimetry. Glass fibre reinforced composites were prepared via an in-situ Diels-Alder intermolecular reaction between 2,4,6-tris(2-furanyl methyl imino)-1,3,5-triazine and various bis(maleimide) compounds without evolution of by-products. The resulting composites were characterized by mechanical properties.
Fabrication and Mechanical Properties of PE/PE Interface-less Composites using Micro-braiding
Authors: Yuji Higuchi , Asami Nakai , Hiroyuki Hamada
Published: September 2018

An interface-less PE/PE composite has been fabricated using a micro-braiding technique. With braided fabrics, additional non-braiding yarns can be inserted, within the intertwining yarns (this type is called the middle-end fibre) and at the centre of the micro-braided yarn (this type is called the axial fibre). The effect of moulding conditions on the tensile properties was examined, followed by the effect of the diameter of the reinforcement fibre bundles, which we have called the impregnation distance.

Middle-end fibres are more effective in improving the tensile strength than axial fibres because the permeation of the matrix resin into the reinforcement fibre of the middle-end fibre is easier than that of the axial fibre, although the modulus of middle-end fibre was lower than that of axial fibre because the reinforcement fibre bundles of the middle-end fibres were slightly wavy compared to that of the axial structure.
Plasma Treatments of Melt-Extruded Blend Sheets of Recycled PET/Poly(ε-caprolactone)
Authors: Hirotsu Toshihiro , Qi Kun , Nakayama Kazuo
Published: September 2018

Melt-extruded sheets of blends of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (R-PET) with poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) were exposed to plasmas of different reactivity; non-oxidative Ar and N2, and oxidative O2. Mass loss by etching and morphology changes to the surfaces were investigated with regard to the discharge power effects as well as the plasma gas source reactivity. The sheets of PCL and PCL-rich blends were more susceptible to the oxidative plasmas, although still resistant to non-oxidative plasmas. Generation of microstructures was observed on wavy or granular forms of morphology of the original sheets after the plasma treatments, according to the SPM observations.
Effects of Derivatization on Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica) Fibres
Authors: d'Almeida A.L.F.S. , Barreto D.W. , Calado V. , d'Almeida J.R.M.
Published: September 2018

A derivatization treatment aimed to reduce the hydrophilic behaviour of sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica) fibres is described. The effect of the treatment on the chemical composition, surface morphology and thermal stability of the fibres was analysed. FT-IR results show that the polarity of the fibres was reduced, although the acetylation reaction did not go to completion. SEM analysis showed that the surface roughness of the fibres was increased by the treatment due to the removal of the outer surface layer of the fibres, and the thermal analysis showed variations in the fibre thermal behaviour caused by the chemical treatment. In particular, a significant reduction in weight loss was noted in temperatures lower than 100 °C, indicating that the fibres became more hydrophobic after treatment.
Preparation and Physical Properties of Hollow Polyester Filaments with High Breathability, Water Absorption and Release Rates
Authors: Tsen Wen-Chin , Shu Yao-Chi , Hsiao Keven
Published: September 2018

This paper reports the preparation of hollow polyester filaments with high water absorption and release rates, and the study of their physical properties using differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, density gradient, gel permeation chromatography, rheometry and statistical regression analysis.

Four readily soluble poly(ethylene glycol)-modified cationic dyeable poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PEG-CDPET) polymers were prepared, with 3 mol % of the sodium salt of dimethyl 5-sulfo-isophthalate (SIPM). The poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) contents were 3 and 6 wt% and the number-average molecular weights ([Formula: see text]) of the PEG were 600 and 8000 (g/mol).

Blends of regular PET and PEG-CDPET were spun into hollow filaments. These hollow filaments were then drawn and treated with aqueous sodium hydroxide. The crystallinity of the PEG-CDPET polymers declined as the PEG content increased, given a fixed SIPM content. Furthermore, the crystallinity of the PEG-CDPET polymers declined as the [Formula: see text] of the PEG increased for the same SIPM and PEG contents. The SIPM and PEG segments did not change the original PET unit cell. The sodium sulphonate (–SO3Na) functional groups and the PEG molecules were only on the crystal surface and in the amorphous regions. Obviously, the rate constants for alkaline hydrolysis were in the order: PEG-CDPET polymer<<CDPET polymer<regular PET polymer. The water-absorption and release and the heat retention properties of alkali treated PET/PEG-CDPET polyblend hollow filaments were better than those of the regular PET filaments. The porous nature of the large filaments (from 0.02-1 μm in diameter) was observed after alkali treatment of the PET/PEG-CDPET polyblend hollow filaments. Additionally, the hollowness of the PET/PEG-CDPET polyblend filaments was observed to increase from 40 to 42% after alkali treatment.
Electrospinning and Characterisation of Poly(vinyl alcohol) Blend Submicron Fibres in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Lee Hyun Woo , Karim Mohammad Rezaul , Park Jae Hyeung , Bae Do Gyu , Oh Weontae , Cheong In Woo , Yeum Jeong Hyun
Published: September 2018

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (number-average degree of polymerisation 1700 (PVA-17) and 4000 (PVA-40)) blend submicron fibres were fabricated by the electrospinning method in an aqueous solution of 5–10% polymer concentration. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) were utilised to characterise the morphology and physical properties of the PVA fibres. The role of PVA blend mass ratio and concentration and of processing parameters such as applied voltage and capillary-to-collector distance in the production of ultrafine submicron PVA blend fibres was investigated. Uniform PVA fibres with an average submicron-scale diameter (250–600 nm) could be prepared from a 7.5% PVA-17/PVA-40 blend solution with various mass ratios. With a lower PVA blend concentration (5%), using different PVA-17/PVA-40 mass ratios, beads appeared in the fibre morphology, and homogeneity was also absent. At a higher PVA blend concentration (10%), larger-diameter (<700 nm) ribbon-like fibres were produced. Moreover, with a higher percentage of PVA-40 in the PVA blend fibres, superior crystallinity, thermal stability, and mechanical properties could be obtained by comparison with PVA-17.
Dynamic Mechanical Measurements of Epoxy Matrix-Silica Nanocomposites II
Authors: León Luis M. , Laza Manuel , Puchol Victoria , Torrens Francisco , Abad Concepción , Campos Agustín
Published: September 2018

The mechanical properties of epoxy-silica nanocomposites have been studied; the silica nanosphere fillers used were un-functionalised, functionalised with amine, with epoxy, or a mixture of both kinds. Dynamic mechanical analysis measurements revealed an increase in the shear storage modulus, for all samples with a filler content of 3–5%. Improvements were observed in the glassy and rubbery states, without affecting the glass transition temperature of the materials. Above these strengthening percentages, the mechanical properties began to deteriorate, but in all cases they remained superior to those of the pristine epoxy resin. For low strengthening percentages, samples reinforced with both nanospheres functionalised with amine and with epoxy showed better mechanical behaviour. As the strengthening percentage increased, materials reinforced with silica nanoballs functionalised with epoxy groups alone showed higher mechanical strength than the rest. To improve the mechanical properties of these systems, it was important to optimise both the percentage of added filler and the type of reinforcement. The parameter determining the flow stress was the cohesion of the solid state, which was represented by the storage modulus in shear.
Bonding Properties of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (Cfrp) Reinforcing Bar in High-Strength Concrete with Mineral Admixtures
Authors: Park Chan-Gi , Kim Jong-Ok , Park Seung-Ki , Jung Nam-Su , Won Jong-Pil
Published: September 2018

The effects of mineral admixtures and reinforcing fibres on the bonding strength of high-strength concrete to carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) reinforcing bars were evaluated. The mineral admixtures consisted of 5, 10 and 15% silica fume or metakaolin in cement. The reinforcing fibres were composed of steel, structural polyvinyl alcohol, or a polyolefin-based structural synthetic polymer. Interactions between the high-strength concrete and the CFRP reinforcing bar were determined by direct bonding tests. The compressive strength of the concrete composites depended on the content and characteristics of the admixture and reinforcing fibres. Bonding strength tests of the composites showed an increase in bonding strength with the strength of the concrete. The addition of reinforcing fibres inhibited crack formation and significantly improved the bonding behaviour and relative bonding strength. Both the absolute and relative bonding strengths were enhanced by adhesion forces induced by the mineral admixture.
The Investigation of Melamine Cyanurate-Encapsulating Magnesium Hydroxide Flame Retarded Polyamide-66
Authors: Liu Yuan , Wang Qi
Published: September 2018

Inorganic flame retardant, magnesium hydroxide (MH), was surface-modified through in-situ encapsulation of an organic nitrogen flame retardant, melamine cyanurate (MCA) by making use of the self-thickening effects during melamine-cyanurate self-assembly process. The obtained MH encapsulated by MCA (MCA-MH) was applied for the flame retardance of polyamide-66 (PA66). As compared to MH modified by silane coupling agent (MH-SC), MH-MCA had much better compatibility and dispersion in PA66 matrix due to replacing MH-PA66 interface by MCA-PA66, As a result, MCA-MH flame retarded PA66 showed obviously enhanced the flame retardancy and mechanical properties. Additionally, the relationship between the MCA/MH ratio and the flame retardancy, as well as the mechanical properties was investigated, and the corresponding synergistic effects between MCA and MH were researched.
An Experimental Apparatus for Measurement of Elongational Flow Properties for LDPE Melt and the Effect of Testing Conditions
Authors: Sitticharoen Watcharin , Intawong Naret , Sombatsompop Narongrit
Published: September 2018

An experimental rig was designed and constructed for melt strength measurement and was assembled at the end of a single screw extruder used for the production of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) melt. The experimental rig was coupled with a high speed data logging system and a personal computer for the real-time measurement of melt strength. The molten LDPE was extruded through a capillary die, forming a continuous filament before being pulled down by speed-adjustable mechanical rollers until the filament failed. A digital camera was used for measuring the actual extrudate size at failure point. The drawdown forces as a function of volumetric flow rate from the extruder, roller speed, die temperature and take-up style were of interest in this study. It was found that the experimental rig could be used for accurate measurement of the mechanical strength for the LDPE melt. The experimental results suggested that the melt strength of LDPE was dependent upon the volumetric flow rate through the die from the screw extruder, roller speed, and the take-up style. For ladder-step take-up, increasing roller speed resulted in non-linear increases in the drawdown forces, the drawdown force changes being associated with the molecular disentanglement and elastic resistances of the branched LDPE melt. The drawdown forces of the LDPE melt measured under the rapid speed take-up method were 40–60% greater than those tested under the ladder-step speed take-up method, depending on the volumetric flow rate used in the screw extruder. The tensile viscosity of the LDPE melt was found to decrease slightly with strain rate and die temperature in the testing conditions used in this work.
UV-cured Epoxy Methacrylate Composite Containing Fluorine and Siloxane
Authors: Tang Chunyi , Liu Weiqu
Published: September 2018

The synthesis and characterization of methacryloxysiloxane (MAS) were described. UV-curable composites, bisphenol-Aepoxymethacrylate/2,2,3,4,4,4-hexafluorobutyl methacrylate (BEMA/HFMA) and BEMA/HFMA/MAS composite systems were built, and the preparation method is described. The effects of HFMA and MAS content on the surface properties, thermal behaviour and water resistance of the cured composite films were investigated by contact angle, TGA and DSC, water resistance ratio; the dispersion of the three components was observed by micromorphological examination, and the results are discussed.
A Kinetic Model of Alkali Catalyzed Phenol-furfural Novalac Resinification
Authors: Ahuja Sanjeev , Singh Daljit
Published: September 2018

In this paper, experimental studies were carried out on the preparation of phenol-furfural novalac resins in the presence of potassium carbonate catalyst with a wide range of furfural to phenol (F/P) mole ratios in the feed. A reaction scheme, applicable to alkali catalyzed phenol-furfural novalac resins, was postulated. A model was developed by the lumping of the different reactivities of the sites of phenol into their functionalities. The effects of the mole ratio of the reactants and the functionality of the phenol on the rate constant were examined.
Effect of Surface Modification of MWCNTs on Crystallization Behaviour and Mechanical Properties of LDPE/POE/MWCNTs Composites
Authors: Chen Zhiqiang , Chen Shuangjun , Zhang Jun
Published: September 2018

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) modified by concentrated sulfuric acid/nitric acid (H2SO4/HNO3) and silane coupling agent (γ-aminopropyltriethoxy silane, KH550) was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The effect of modified MWCNTs on crystallization behaviour and mechanical properties of low density polyethylene (LDPE)/polyolefin elastomer (POE)/MWCNTs composites were investigated. The results revealed that the crystallinity of composites increased with the addition of the raw MWCNTs and MWCNTs which were modified by H2SO4/HNO3 and KH550. The MWCNTs treated by H2SO4/HNO3 had a better dispersion in matrix than raw MWCNTs and it was beneficial to tensile strength. Further modification by KH550 on H2SO4/HNO3 treated MWCNTs could improve the dispersion of MWCNTs in matrix and interfacial adhesion between MWCNTs and matrix, leading to the tensile strength increased by 35.5 % compared to LDPE/POE composite with raw MWCNTs, and modulus at 100% of composites also increased.
The Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Ultra-High Molecular Polyethylene/Montmorillonite Clay (UHMWPE/MMT) Nanocomposites Using Gel and Pressure-Induced Flow Process (PIF)
Authors: Babiker Musa E. , Muhuo Yu
Published: September 2018

This paper examines hybrid organic-inorganic polymer nanocomposites incorporating organically modified montmorillonite (MMT) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). UHMWPE/MMT hybrid nanocomposites were prepared using gel and pressure-induced flow (PIF) processing methods at a gel concentration of 8 wt.% UHMWPE with various organoclay contents (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 pphr). The interlayer properties of the nanocomposites were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The thermal and mechanical interfacial properties of the nanocomposites were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and the use of a universal test machine (UTM). XRD and TWM indicated that the nanocomposites were formed upon dispersion of MMT in the polymer matrix. From the DSC, TGA and DMA results, we found that the thermal stability of the UHMWPE nanocomposites increased as the MMT content increased. The nanocomposites showed higher tensile strengths than those of pure UHMWPE gel sheet. These findings indicate that the interfacial and mechanical properties were improved by the addition of MMT and PIF processing.
Influence of Morphology on Mechanical Properties under the Combined Use of SEBS and EOr as Elastomer in PP/Elastomer/Filler Ternary Composites
Authors: Hikasa Shigeki , Nagata Kazuya , Nakamura Yoshinobu
Published: September 2018

The influences of combined elastomers on impact properties and morphology of polypropylene (PP)/elastomer/CaCO3 ternary composites were investigated. In the case that polystyrene- block-poly(ethylene-butene)- block-polystyrene triblock copolymer (SEBS) and poly(ethylene- co-octene) (EOR) were used as elastomers, a sea-island structure consisting of EOR dispersed phase and SEBS continuous phase was formed. The elastomer and the CaCO3 particles were separately dispersed in PP matrix. In the case that carboxylated SEBS (C-SEBS) and EOR were used, the C-SEBS particles were dispersed in the EOR particles. Almost all of the CaCO3 particles were dispersed in the PP matrix, although some of the CaCO3 particles were dispersed in the C-SEBS/EOR combined particles. Impact strength improved with an increase of incorporated CaCO3 particles. The effect of elastomer on the impact strength was SEBS ≥ SEBS/EOR > EOR = C-SEBS/EOR > C-SEBS. The morphology formed by elastomer and CaCO3 particles strongly affected the impact properties of the ternary composites.