bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerobic composting and vermicomposting of durian shell and citrus peel wastes
Authors: Mahathaninwong Narissara , Wandee Sirinthrar , Totwaree Namfon , Romyen Pensiri
Published: February 2022

Aerobic composting and vermicomposting processes were compared in the co-composting of durian shells and citrus peels. For decomposers, the microorganism catalyst from the Land Development Department, i.e., the LDD1 catalyst, and earthworms were used. The moisture contents of the durian shells and citrus peels were 84.6% and 77.3%, respectively, and the pH of the shells and peels were relatively low, as these are sources of potassium. The experiments utilized four different reactors: durian shells (100%) in reactor 1; durian shells and citrus peels (50% to 50% ratio) in reactors 2 through 4; with the LDD1 catalysts in reactor 3 and the earthworms in reactor 4. The temperature, pH, moisture content, electrical conductivity, NaCl, organic matter, organic carbon, C to N ratio, nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), germination index, and size of the compost were analyzed according to the standards of the Land Development department (2013). Throughout the composting process, the pH tended to increase, although citrus peels, with a low pH of 3.95, were used as a raw material. At the end of the composting process, reactor 4, which used earthworms as decomposers, passed the standard criteria, yielding a germination index of 90%.
Effects of combined membrane-covered systems on aerobic composting of strawberry vine and chicken manure
Authors: Li Ruirong , Cao Jie , Cai Liang , Wang Pengjun , Qu Haoli , Chen Mingjiang , Fu Jingjing , Chen Yongsheng
Published: February 2022

A combination of semipermeable membrane-covered composting systems and greenhouses was used to investigate the effects of different insulation systems on the aerobic fermentation of mixed raw materials and changes in the characteristics of fermentation feedstock. The combination of semipermeable membrane-covered and greenhouse systems increased the peak temperature by 6.53 °C, the average fermentation temperature by 28.2%, and extended the duration of the effective high-temperature stage of fermentation (temperature ≥ 50 °C) by 14 days. The decomposition percentage of solid organic matter in the enhanced group was 11.8% higher than that in the normal group, and the fermentation cycle was shortened by 5 days. The duplication provided by using both the semipermeable membrane-covered and greenhouse systems was conducive to the harmless treatment of raw materials, promoted the maturity and efficiency of composting, and reduced the content of biologically toxic substances. This study provides a theoretical basis for improving the efficiency of aerobic fermentation and the safe treatment of solid waste.
Wood classification study based on thermal physical parameters with intelligent method of artificial neural networks
Authors: Cao Shubo , Zhou Shiyu , Liu Jiying , Liu Xiaoping , Zhou Yucheng
Published: February 2022

In this study, 65 kinds of wood samples were classified by using artificial neural networks based on the measured value of wood thermal physical parameters. First, the thermal conductivities and the thermal diffusion coefficients of the wood samples were measured. The transient temperature rise curve of wood samples during the test process was recorded, and the characteristic values of the transient temperature rise curve were extracted by logarithmic curve fitting. The emissivity spectrum representing the thermal physical properties of wood surface was measured, and the characteristic spectral data were selected according to the principal component analysis. An artificial neural network model was established based on the extracted feature values and characteristic spectral data to classify the wood species. The experimental results showed that the comprehensive correct classification rate of the proposed wood classification method was 99.85%. In addition, the proposed wood classification method was compared with a wood classification method based on laser induced breakdown spectrum and near infrared spectrum, which indicates the feasibility of wood classification based on the values of wood thermal physical properties.
Biochar increases rice yield by improving root morphological and root physiological functions in heavily saline-sodic paddy soil of Northeast China
Authors: Li Xiang , Yao Tianxu , Huang Xiaoxuan , Li Xuebin , Li Pingyue , Du Shuang , Wang Wei , Miao Sihao , Wang Dan , Jin Feng , Shao Xiwen
Published: February 2022

Saline-sodic soil is one of the major threats to crop growth, production, and quality. Biochar amendment could alleviate the adverse impacts of saline-sodic stress in crops. However, the effect of biochar on root morphological, root physiological functions, and rice yield in saline-sodic paddy soil has not been studied. Here, the underlying mechanisms of positive effects in morphological characteristics and physiological functions of rice roots under heavily saline-sodic paddy soil amended with biochar were evaluated. The soil was amended with biochar at zero-biochar (CK), 15g kg-1 soil (T1), 30 g kg-1 soil (T2), or 45 g kg-1 soil (T3). Biochar addition significantly increased root length, root volume, root dry weight, and root-shoot ratio at all growth stages. The root absorption vigor and root oxidization capacity were enhanced and increased significantly by decreasing Na+/K+ ratio, MDA content, and increasing K+ concentration in rice root after biochar amendment. The root bleeding rate of biochar treatments at different growth stage were 11.01% to 67.73% greater than these of CK. The yield of rice was increased significantly under saline-sodic paddy soil after biochar amendment. It was concluded that biochar had positive effect on the morphological characteristics and physiological functions in rice roots in saline-sodic paddy soil.
Comparative study of single stage and two-stage pretreatments on corn stover: A kinetic assessment
Authors: Liu Chao , Zhang Rui , Yu Jingjie , Chang Jing , Zhang Wenjuan
Published: February 2022

The effects of two-stage pretreatment consisting of tepid water (first stage) and FeCl3 (second stage) pretreatments on hemicellulose hydrolysis were investigated. A kinetic comparison between the single stage (FeCl3-only pretreatment) and the two-stage pretreatment was evaluated. Compared with single stage pretreatment, the two-stage pretreatment decreased the activation energy Ea of hemicellulose hydrolysis by 38.3% and decreased the optimal reaction time by 34.8%. Besides, the xylose content increased by 14.9% and the catalyst dosage decreased by 31.9% in the two-stage pretreatment. This study provided an efficient pretreatment process for hemicellulose hydrolysis.
Hysteretic performance of angle steel connections in a timber-concrete composite system
Authors: Xie Lan , He Guojing , Wang Xiaodong (Alice) , Tang Xiao , Crocetti Roberto
Published: February 2022

Timber–concrete composite systems are widely used in Europe, North America, and Australasia, primarily due to their good mechanical performance in terms of statics, dynamics, and seismic response. In addition, the concrete slab provides excellent protection to the timber, making such systems suitable for outdoor application. The seismic performance of timber–concrete composites is normally governed by their ductility and energy dissipation capacity. However, few design codes address the ductility and energy dissipation capacity of timber–concrete composite systems, owing to a lack of reliable performance data. Therefore, further research on the hysteretic performance of timber–concrete composite systems is necessary. In this study, six timber–concrete composite specimens with an angle steel connection of the same size were investigated using reversed cyclic tests. The corresponding failure modes were observed, and the salient features of the connection, i.e., the stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation, were computed from the test results. The force mechanism of the timber–concrete composite specimens under reversed cyclic load was analyzed. Equations were presented to calculate the yield force and negative force in the same load step. A comparison of the test results and the theoretical results indicated good agreement.
Enhancement of saccharification of corn stover by cellulolytic enzyme produced from biomass-degrading bacteria
Authors: Wu Yanwen , Shrestha Sarita , Guo Haipeng , Zhang Jinchi , Wang Haisong , Qin Wensheng
Published: February 2022

Enzymatic saccharification of corn stover can be enhanced by partially replacing commercial enzymes with bacterial crude enzyme extracts. Thus, in this study, three bacteria (Bacillus sp. A0, Bacillus sp. CH20S1, and Exiguobacterium sp. AS2B) were cultured in a media with corn stover as the substrate to produce crude enzyme extract and saccharify corn stover. The cultural conditions were monitored and optimized to maximize CMCase and xylanase activity in the crude enzyme extracts. After 72 h of hydrolysis of corn stover with diluted crude enzymes (DCE) from the three strains, reducing sugars ranging from 48.2 to 71.7 mg g-1 were released from non-pretreated and pretreated corn stover. Furthermore, the maximum reducing sugars of 316 and 321 mg g-1 were observed when 12 and 4 FPU g-1 of commercial cellulase were added to the DCE of the CH20S1 strain, respectively. It was shown that an effective combination of bacterial DCE with commercial enzymes could achieve higher saccharification of lignocellulosic biomass, which might be cost-efficient compared to their single-use. Overall, this study aims to show the enhanced enzymatic saccharification of corn stover.
Volatile organic compounds and dominant bacterial community during aerobic composting of vegetable waste and cow manure co-complexing
Authors: Qu Haoli , Cao Jie , Wang Pengjun , Li Ruirong , Qi Zicheng , Fu Jingjing , Chen Yongsheng , Chen Mingjiang
Published: February 2022

Vegetable waste was aerobically composed using a trough-type system, and the resulting emitted volatile organic compounds were investigated. In addition, the succession pattern of microorganisms was analyzed. Aerobic fermentation was conducted using a tomato stalk-cow dung mix (a water content of 65% and a carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of 25:1). The emitted volatile organic compounds comprised of 58 kinds of compounds, including 2 sulfur-containing compounds, 3 alcohols, 3 esters, 3 aldehydes, 3 ketones, 6 halogenated hydrocarbons, 18 aromatic hydrocarbons, 17 alkanes, and 3 alkenes. The primary volatile organic compounds produced were methyl sulfide, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and acetaldehyde. Clustering and principal coordinate analysis suggested that the community succession changed throughout the composting process in the odor-producing habitat. High-throughput sequencing revealed that the bacterial community was comprised of Firmicutes, Chloroflexi, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria, whereas the dominant flora included Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Mucoromycota. These findings could aid in the mitigation of volatile organic compounds and odors during vegetable waste composting as well as contribute to the development of deodorizing bacteria.
Bending strength and stiffness of three-ply bolt-laminated mixed oak and hardwood industrial mats
Authors: Snow Dusty , Shmulsky Rubin , Bobadilha Gabrielly S. , Lopes Dercilio Junior Verly
Published: February 2022

Crane mats provide safe, stable, and flat work surfaces for heavy equipment and provide environmental protection. In this manuscript, two types of three-ply mats from two geographic regions were evaluated for stiffness and strength. Mats were sourced from the Southern USA and Midwestern USA in both solid configurations where the boards in all plies are touching and waffle configurations where gaps of approximately 1.8 inches were left between boards. Both types were mechanically fastened with regularly scheduled 3/8th inch diameter carriage bolts. The mats consisted of 1.5-inch-thick mixed oak and hardwood lumber oriented in a similar manner to plywood to form 4.5-inch-thick panels, each of which is 8 ft x 14 ft. Mats were prepped for testing by being ripped into strips 24 ± 4 inches wide. In this manner, 28 test specimens were developed from 7 parent mats. Mats were subjected to three-point bending tests. In both types of mats, the Southern-sourced specimens were statistically stronger and stiffer than those from the Midwest. Modulus of rupture (MOR) results showed that solid mats from the South were stiffer compared to waffle configurations produced in either location. The regression analysis indicated that modulus of elasticity could potentially estimate MOR.
Presence of tyloses in 6 Korean oak species for production of liquor barrels and correlation of retention of large vessel lumen
Authors: Kim Min Ji , Chang Yoon Seong , Kang Jin Teak , Lee Joo won , Eom Chang Deuk
Published: February 2022

This study was conducted to devise ways of promoting the use of deciduous trees that have increased in number with climate change. For six oak species commonly utilized to produce liquor barrels, normal wood and tension wood were classified by part. Then, both large vessel lumen area and tyloses were quantitatively assessed. The findings showed that in both normal and tension woods, large vessel lumen area was largest in sapwood, followed by heartwood and juvenile wood. Tyloses were found in both normal and tension woods of all the six species, but the number of tyloses varied according to species. It was heart wood that contained the highest amount in both normal and tension woods. It was also revealed that the number of tyloses decreased with the growing area of large vessel lumen. This study will provide fundamental data to decide oak tree species for the production of liquor barrels.
Influence of disturbances in the operating conditions on the refrigeration performance of a regenerative solar absorption refrigeration system with a biomass assisted combustion device
Authors: Bi Dongmei , Huang Fupeng , Zhang Kaizhen , Sun Haiquan , Li Yongjun , Liu Shanjian , Yin Xiulian
Published: February 2022

To reduce the fluctuation of the heat source water temperature and ambient temperature caused by variations in solar radiation, a solar absorption refrigeration system with a supplementary biomass combustion device for the office area of a factory was designed. A numerical model of the solar energy absorption refrigeration system based on the Aspen Plus software was developed. In particular, the effects of the heat source water temperature, condenser temperature, evaporation temperature, and dilute solution flow rate on the cooling capacity, coefficient of performance, unit equipment duty, and generator temperature during actual operation were investigated. The heat load of each piece of equipment in the unit were found to increase correspondingly with the increase of the heat source temperature when the evaporating temperature and condensing temperature are constant. The coefficient of performance of the unit decreased as the condensing temperature increased keeping the temperature of the heat source constant. The results demonstrated that the flow rate of the dilute solution has effects on the occurrence temperature, cooling capacity, and the unit performance coefficient.
A comparative study of the effects of pulp fractionation, refining, and microfibrillated cellulose addition on tissue paper properties
Authors: Viguié Jérémie , Kumar Saurabh , Carré Bruno
Published: February 2022

Environmental and economic concerns are driving tissue paper manufacturers to improve understanding of the relationships between fibres, the networks they form, the forming process, and the final tissue paper properties. This work investigated how pulp fractionation, refining, or addition of microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) affect the compromise between absorbency and strength of 33 ± 2 g/m² model papers made of bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp. The results showed that the compromise of properties was better when fibres were refined than when MFC was added. The absorbency capacity of 2%wt MFC-paper was almost 20% lower than the capacity of the refined paper at the same dry strength. The calculated additional storage capacity due to water-induced deformations of the fibre network was 40% lower in the same range of bulk. By forming a high viscosity gel at inter-fibre contacts, MFC could limit the occurrence of major fibre and network deformation mechanisms when water was imbibing the paper.
Application of maltodextrin-based adhesive on particleboard made from Salacca frond
Authors: Dewi Greitta Kusuma , Widyorini Ragil , Lukmandaru Ganis
Published: February 2022

Maltodextrin is a potential natural adhesive for particleboard because it is reactive and freely soluble in water. However, maltodextrin has a low water resistance and a high melting point that hinder its development as a particleboard adhesive. An addition of ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (ADP) as a catalyst of maltodextrin was expected to overcome its weaknesses. The optimal pressing temperature was expected to be affected due to the addition of catalysts. This research aimed to investigate the effect of maltodextrin/ADP ratios and pressing temperatures on particleboard properties made from Salacca frond. The maltodextrin/ADP ratios used in this research were 100/0, 90/10, and 80/20 wt%, and the pressing temperatures were set at 200 and 220 °C. The combination of an increased ADP ratio in maltodextrin and an increased pressing temperature improved the particleboard properties. The water resistance was also significantly improved by addition of ADP and increased pressing temperature. Thermal analyses showed that the onset temperature of weight reduction of maltodextrin added particles was lowered by addition of ADP. The results suggested that a maltodextrin/ADP mixture could be a promising particleboard binder.
Comparative effect of selected anti-mildew agents on bamboo bundles
Authors: Wu Zhenzeng , Aladejana John Tosin , Huang Daobang , Gong Xinhuai , Liu Shuqiong , Wang Xiaodong (Alice) , Xie Yongqun
Published: February 2022

Nutrient-rich raw bamboo materials can be infected by mildew when exposed to water or high humid environments. This not only affects the appearance of bamboo products, but it also contributes to respiratory diseases. Herein, four anti-mildew agents, i.e., boric acid, copper sulphate, alumina phosphate sol, and alumina silicate sol, were used to evaluate their anti-mildew performances. The results showed that the adequate anti-mold concentrations of boron and copper were 2% and 0.7%, respectively. The optimum mass ratio of aluminum phosphate sol and silicone aluminum sol were 1 to 1 (2% phosphoric acid addition) and 10 to 1 (aluminum salt addition was 1.5%). There were significant differences in the prevention and treatment effects of different mold inhibitors on mold and discoloration bacteria. The efficacies order of the anti-mildew property was as follows: copper sulphate > alumina silicate sol > boric acid > alumina phosphate sol. In addition, the order for stain fungi resistance was: boric acid > alumina phosphate sol > alumina silicate sol > copper sulphate. The selected anti-mildew agents showed promising application requirements as an active ingredient in bamboo preservative systems.
Measurement of the elastic constants of carbon fiber board based on modal analysis
Authors: Shen Zhaoyu , He Yuhang , Sayed Usama , Wang Jun , Zhou Yuhao , Wang Zheng
Published: February 2022

As a strategic new material with excellent performance, carbon fiber has attracted much attention in the wood structure industry. In this paper, the test modal and computational modal analysis methods are used to study the mode shape and modal parameters of carbon fiber board, calculate the elastic constants, i.e., the elastic modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson’s ratio, and analyze the coupling of the results. The conclusions show that the numerical results of the mode shape and elastic constants of the carbon fiber board obtained via the computational modal and test modal analysis are highly coupled. The first-order bending and first-order torsional modes of the carbon fiber board obtained via the two analysis methods are consistent, and the frequency error rate is less than 5%. The error rates of the elastic modulus and shear modulus are 0.7% and 7.8%, respectively. In addition, the research is conducive to strengthening the work of finite element computational modal analysis, and better promoting the application of non-destructive testing and quality grading of carbon fiber board. The above-mentioned optimization design work for improving the dynamic characteristics of carbon fiber board, and further research on the detection and optimization of the performance when the carbon fiber material is combined with wood, also has engineering application value for promoting the faster development of the wood structure market.
Effect of water molecules at different temperatures on properties of cellulose based on molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Wang Wei , Ma Wang , Wu Mingshuai , Sun Liyue
Published: February 2022

Six hybrid models of cellulose amorphous region and water molecules were established by using a molecular dynamics software to simulate changes of cellulose and water molecules during bamboo hydrothermal treatment. The results indicated that in the range of hydrothermal treatment temperature of bamboo from 150 to 240 °C, the diffusion coefficient of water molecules increased with the increase of temperature, conducive to the processing efficiency of hydrothermal treatment. The mean square displacement (MSD) of the bamboo cellulose chain increased with the increase of temperature, not conducive to the thermal stability of cellulose. The energy change of the system predicts that a higher hydrothermal treatment temperature will result in faster material aging degradation. The comprehensive analysis of mechanical parameters showed that when the hydrothermal treatment temperature did not exceed 180 °C, bamboo cellulose had better plasticity and toughness.
Analysis of electric signals from micro-solid oxide fuel cell sensors detecting methane biogas
Authors: Ninwijit Thitirat , Palamnit Arkom , Luengchavanon Montri , Marthosa Sutida , Osman Nafisah , Chowdhury Md Shahariar , Niyomwas Sutham
Published: February 2022

Micro-solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) sensors prepared via depositing a thin film BYCF (10 wt% [Ba0.95FeY0.05O2.8] + 90 wt% [Co2O3]) – GDC20 (Gd0.20Ce0.80O1.95) cathode and NiO-GDC20 (Gd0.20Ce0.80O1.95) anode on a GDC20 electrolyte layer were operated at 800 °C. The structure, which receives only biogas, was formed into 15-mm pellets with only one side for detecting methane (CH4). The detection of 40% to 99.99% CH4 provided a high level of accuracy compared with 10% to 30% CH4. The biogas (60% CH4) from the Oil Palm Industry and Rubber Cooperative Fund, Thailand, increased remarkably at voltage levels of 20 to 21 mV. The electrical signal from the micro-SOFC sensor corresponded to the quantity of CH4, with the chemical reaction of the dry reforming activities (NiO and Co3O4) highly catalyzed and transformed from CH4 to H2, thus generating electrons. It was concluded that the micro-SOFC sensor is suitable for detecting methane measurements at intermediate temperatures, with the ceramic structure offering low degradation compared with metal sensors.
The fabrication and performance of plantable bio-pots from thick sheets of oil palm trunk
Authors: Choowang Rattana , Thitithanakul Suraphon , Luengchavanon Montri
Published: February 2022

The oil palm trunk contains great nutrients for plant growth, and its supporting cells are mostly parallel to the centerline. This study investigated the fabrication of a plantable bio-pot from 5 mm thick sheets of oil palm trunk. The effects of the three zones in the trunk (outer, middle, and inner) and the pressing mold temperature in the range from 160 °C to 200 °C on characteristics of a bio-pot were evaluated. The results demonstrated that the outer zone of an oil palm trunk with 200 °C molding temperature had the highest ultimate compression load, and the pot shape appeared stable after soaking in water for 24 h, showing 105% water absorption. The changes to oil palm trunk chemistry caused by elevated temperature contributed to the mechanical properties and improved durability. The oil palm trunk plantable bio-pots facilitated germination of chili and eggplant seeds. The leaf number, leaf greenness, plant height, and total dry biomass had no significant difference between using the oil palm trunk bio-pot and a plastic pot for a seedling of either of these plants.
The use of gluconic acid as an additive in magnetic paper
Authors: Rezanezhad Shaghayegh , Nazarnezhad Nouroeddin , Resalati Hossein , Zabihzadeh Seyed Majid
Published: February 2022

As magnetic fillers, e.g., nanomagnetite, reduce the mechanical strength of produced magnetic papers, additives should be used. In this study, nanomagnetic papers were produced through an in-situ method by synthesizing magnetic cellulose fibers with kraft fibers and iron salts in a nitrogen atmosphere. Then, gluconic acid was added to improve the mechanical strength. The properties of nanomagnetic papers were investigated via different methods. The nanomagnetite particle size ranged from 1 to 84 nm. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated the deposited nanomagnetite particles on the surface of the fibers. The saturation magnetization of the nanomagnetic papers treated with 0%, 1%, 2%, or 3% gluconic acid (per dry weight of the pulp) was 7.54, 5.64, 4.81, and 0.55 emu/g, respectively. The nanomagnetite particles loaded on the fibers decreased as the gluconic acid content was increased. The nanomagnetic papers exhibited superparamagnetic behavior. Elevation of the gluconic acid content caused an increased tensile and burst index, as well as a reduced tear index. It also led to augmented brightness and diminished opacity.
Analysis of the factors limiting the performance of small-to-medium scale sawmills in the copperbelt of Zambia
Authors: Mandiringana Mary , Matakala Mutinta , Mwanabute Ngoy Patrick , Ngoma Justine , Ncube Elisha
Published: February 2022

Small-to-medium scale softwood sawmills in the Copperbelt of Zambia are operating below 50% capacity. The timber supply is uncertain as demand continues to increase in tandem with economic activities and population growth. This study identified the financial, i.e., access to finance and operating costs, and non-financial, i.e., raw material, transport, skilled labor, and sawn timber recovery, as the limiting factors affecting performance. The authors benchmarked various financial ratios, i.e., gross profit margin, net profit margin, return on investment, return on capital employed, and working capital turnover, of the small-scale sawmills compiled from survey data with the average industry ratios. Raw material is the most limiting factor affecting profitability/success of small-scale sawmills. A Cobb-Douglas model demonstrated that sawn timber recovery depends on operator skills, particularly in non-automatic machinery, which are common. Strategies currently employed are value addition, multiple sourcing, equipment acquisition and modernization, and labor cost reduction. Measures proposed to enhance profitability are credit guarantee schemes, collaboration, tax reduction, lesser-used timber utilization, and timber auction floor.
A two-variable model for predicting the effects of moisture content and density on the mechanical properties of Phyllostachys edulis bamboo
Authors: Liu Pengcheng , Zhou Qishi , Tian Jiefu
Published: February 2022

Phyllostachys edulis bamboo is one of the most valuable bamboo species in the world. It has the following advantages: high strength, light weight, and green, renewable character. In addition, it has a broad application prospect under the background of developing green buildings all over the world. The moisture content and density are the key factors affecting the mechanical properties of bamboos. However, there is no two-variable model of the mechanical properties with respect to the moisture content and density of P. edulis bamboo. In this paper, analysis of the compression parallel to the grain, bending, tensile parallel to the grain, and shear parallel to the grain of P. edulis bamboo were performed. The relationship between the mechanical properties and the moisture content and density was fitted by a two-variable model. The results show that the two-variable model has good fitting effect. As such, the two-variable model can be used to predict the mechanical properties of P. edulis bamboo according to its moisture content and density.
Laminated wood composite design with improved acoustic properties
Authors: Özyurt Hamit , Özdemir Ferhat
Published: February 2022

Next-generation laminated wood composites were produced using waste poplar (Populus deltoides) veneer and polyvinyl acetate adhesive. Four experimental groups and one control group were created. Ten-layer laminated wood veneer samples were reinforced with natural rubber (Group A), linoleum (Group B), felt (Group C), and elastomeric sponge (Group D); these materials were used in the fifth adhesive layer (middle layer). The sound absorption coefficients of the control and experimental groups were tested via the impedance tube method, according to ASTM standard E1050 (2006). Attention was paid to the acoustic behavior at low frequencies (63 Hz to 250 Hz), mid frequencies (250 Hz to 2000 Hz), and high frequencies (2000 Hz to 6300 Hz). It was determined that the sound absorption coefficient of the experimental groups considerably increased. It can be suggested that the experimental groups be used as sound absorbing acoustic panels and the control group as sound reflective acoustic panels.
A comparison of alkaline and organosolv lignin extraction methods from coconut husks as an alternative material for green applications
Authors: Latif Nur Hanis Abd , Brosse Nicolas , Ziegler-Devin Isabelle , Chrusiel Laurent , Hashim Rokiah , Hussin M. Hazwan
Published: February 2022

Effects of alkaline (kraft and soda) and organosolv pulping were evaluated relative to the structural properties of lignin isolated from coconut husk (CH) biomass. The various types of functional groups within the isolated lignin samples were characterized and compared using a variety of complementary analyses including Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). All isolated CH lignin samples contained a significant quantity of non-condensed guaiacyl-type (G) and syringyl-type (S) units but a lesser amount of p-hydroxyphenyl (H) units, as demonstrated and supported by previous research. The alkaline CH lignin produced lignin with higher molecular weight (Mw SL: 959 g mol-1 > Mw KL: 769 g mol-1) than the organosolv lignin (Mw OL: 606 g mol-1) sample, resulting in smaller fragments and a higher degree of solubility in water or other solvents. Because of significant differences in the physicochemical characteristics of the various lignin polymers, their properties and structure were improved with respect to alternative approaches in lignin-based applications.
Toilet paper perforation efficiency
Authors: Vieira Joana C. , Vieira André C. , Mendes António de O. , Carta Ana M. , Fiadeiro Paulo T. , Costa Ana P.
Published: February 2022

Today, the toilet paper market offers product types with varying number of plies, providing better mechanical strength and liquid absorption. Several tissue paper perforation systems exist, and the best commonly applied is a top-cutting mechanism that includes an oblique blade, a combined oblique blade, or a simple spiral blade. The perforation efficiency must be high to have an easy sheet separation from the roll of the toilet paper, which does not always occur. Hence, consumer satisfaction can depend on the perforation performance. To study this, a laboratory perforation system was used to perforate different commercial toilet papers (in brands and number of plies) and evaluate their perforation efficiency. A finite element method (FEM) was used to simulate the curve of the progression of perforation efficiency as a function of the cut distance. The main findings were a stabilization of the perforation efficiency from a cut distance of 6 mm and a 15% increase in the cut distance for the laboratory blade to match the industrial perforation efficiency. The FEM analysis confirmed the behavior of the evolution of perforation efficiency with the increase of the cut distance.
Sea buckthorn leaf L-quebrachitol extract for improved glucose and lipid metabolism in insulin resistant hepG2 cells
Authors: Mu Yihan , Tao Cui , Yuan Weiqiong , Lv ZhaoLin
Published: February 2022

L-quebrachitol is a natural monomethyl ether derivative of inositol, and it is abundant in sea buckthorn leaves. In this study, the potential efficacy on hepatic glucose, lipid metabolism disorder, and damaged pathway in vitro of sea buckthorn leaf L-quebrachitol extract (SQE) and L-quebrachitol standard (QS) was evaluated. The SQE and QS exhibited good inhibitory activity on α-amylase, and the kinetic study revealed that their type of enzyme inhibition was competitive inhibition in each case. Both QS and SQE increased the glucose consumption and decreased the contents of total triglyceride (TG) and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) in HepG2 cells displaying insulin resistance (IR). In addition, QS and SQE attenuated the expression levels of G6Pase and enhanced the expression of PPARα. These findings suggested that QS and SQE contributed to the modulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, and they might be a promising functional food additives and pharmaceuticals against Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Bioactivities of six plant essential oils against some isolated microbes from an archaeological limestone statue at the Saqqara excavation
Authors: Geweely Neveen S. , Afifi Hala A. M. , AbdelRahim Shehata A. , Kamh Gamal M. I. , Soliman Mona M. , AbdelSattar Mohamed , Ali Hayssam M. , Akrami Mohammad , Salem Mohamed Z. M.
Published: February 2022

The effect of microbial activity on the deterioration of archaeological stone items is a worldwide issue, and conserving them with low-toxicity, ecologically benign and naturally biocides is a difficult undertaking. Molecular identification of the microbial communities from a deteriorated archaeological object (Ptahshepses stone statue) located from the Saqqara excavation, Giza, Egypt was recorded. Six essential oils (EOs) (black cumin, clove, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, and thyme) were tested for antimicrobial activity against six degrading fungal and bacterial species. Alternaria alternate, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Cladosporium halotolerans, Penicillium crustosum, and Trichoderma viride and three bacterial species, Pseudomonas protegens, P. putida, and Serratia odorifera, were isolated. Of the most effective EOs, thyme showed the highest inhibition percentage (143.4%) against Serratia odorifera, followed by P. putida (135%), and Pseudomonas protegens (131.5%). Lemongrass and clove EOs had minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.5 µL/mL to 2 µL/mL for all isolated deteriorated fungal and bacterial species, while the lowest efficiency EOs were lavender, geranium and black cumin. It can be concluded that thyme and lemongrass EOs have a potential use for protecting the Ptahshepses stone statue from microbial deterioration.
Impact of continuous drying method on drying quality of southern pine sawn timber
Authors: Kumar Chandan , Faircloth Adam , Leggate William , Redman Adam
Published: February 2022

The continuous drying of timber is attracting increasing international interest for softwood drying because of several reported advantages, e.g., improved energy efficiency and improved grade recovery. This study aimed to investigate the impact of continuous drying kiln technology on the quality of dried Queensland plantation-grown southern pine timber, compared to the current ultra-high temperature batch drying process adopted by many softwood processors. End matched boards were dried using continuous and high-temperature drying schedules. The moisture content and moisture gradient of each board was assessed in accordance with AS/NZS standard 1080.1 (2012), AS/NZS standard 2796.3 (1999), respectively, while the drying stress was assessed in accordance with AS/NZS standard 4787 (2001). The boards dried with continuous drying schedules resulted in slightly lower bow and spring values and similar cup and twist values compared to the high temperature dried boards. The moisture gradient and drying stress were significantly lower in boards using continuous drying kiln technology compared to the high temperature dried boards. This study will allow the Australian softwood industry to better understand the dried timber quality obtained using new continuous drying technology to make informed investment decisions.
Seed propagation, adaptation to cultivation conditions, determination of ornamental plant properties, and ex situ conservation of the endemic species Centaurea hermannii F. Hermann
Authors: Yücel Gül
Published: February 2022

This study focused on seed propagation and ex situ conservation of the endemic species Centaurea hermannii F. Hermann. Plant properties such as vegetation cycle, adaptation to the cultivation environment, morphological characteristics of the plants and seeds, and esthetic properties as an ornamental variety were investigated. The percentage of viability of the seeds, as well as the effects of different seed germination methods when applied to the germination speed, were also explored. C. hermannii specimens planted in soil adapted quickly under field conditions and flowered over a period of two months, with a bright-orange color and glossy blossoms. In addition, the plants displayed all the type-specific botanical and esthetic properties, as well as provided value as an ornamental plant. An ex situ conservation area was created with the plants collected. To determine the best germination conditions for C. hermannii seeds, various methods were explored. Among these, a combination of 200 ppm of GA3 treatment during a three-month storage period at 4 °C, followed by cold-wet stratification at 4 °C for three months, produced the best results in terms of mean percentage germination (70.5 %) and mean germination speed (3 days).
Poultry feathers and offal treatment by using beneficial microorganisms
Authors: Alvarez-Vera Manuel , Vázquez Jacinto , Fernández Daniel , Reinoso Rosalía
Published: February 2022

Poultry waste can be hydrolyzed using microorganisms to obtain useful amino acids for agriculture processes. This research treated poultry waste by applying beneficial microbial consortia. Microorganisms were obtained from Brassica oleracea (commonly known as cabbage) and Jungia rugosa (widely known as matico de puna) plants. Each sample was sent to the laboratory for gender, species, and concentration identification. Poultry waste (feathers, offal, blood) and a liquid solution made up of water, molasses, and microorganisms were placed inside plastic tanks. Four treatments were established (T1, T2, T3, and T4). T1 and T3 were composed of 80% water, 10% molasses, and 10% microorganisms; T2 and T4 were composed of 70% water, 20% molasses, and 10% microorganisms. The contents in each tank were periodically stirred for one month. Sixteen microorganisms were identified in each sample. In each treatment, nine essential and nine non-essential amino acids were found in different concentration levels. It is assumed that indigenous microbial consortia benefit the hydrolysis of poultry waste. Furthermore, the type and content of amino acids are related to the microbial activity of each consortium.
Preparation of nanocellulose from cotton fibers in deep eutectic solvent (DES) and its application in paper
Authors: Deng Xiaonan , Wan Lingzhong , Sun Hui , Li Changfeng , Liu Fangzhi , Yan Xiaoming , Liu Kun , Ye Sihong
Published: February 2022

The bond strength and stability of the intermolecular network structure of cellulose play a decisive role in the tensile strength and rupture resistance of paper. In this work, the surface morphology, the chemical composition, and the crystal structure of nanocellulose prepared from cotton fibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to prepare cotton fiber nanocellulose by green solvent deep-eutectic solvent pretreatment combined with the ultrasonic method. Nanocellulose of different morphology and structure was used as a papermaking additive to explore its effect on the strength performance of the paper. The results show that the burst resistance index of the paper handsheets could be increased by 6.1% and 9.8%. The burst resistance index improved as the added amount of the NFC was increased.
Rice husk hydrochars prepared with different post-treatment methods for the adsorption of dyes and antibiotics
Authors: Hagos Fana Mulugeta , Qian Hanxin , Di Jing , Shan Shengdao , Yang Ruiqin , Li Yin , Gai Xikun
Published: February 2022

Hydrochars produced via hydrothermal carbonization of rice husk were post-treated using three different acids and two bases. The post-treated hydrochars were characterized using different methods and evaluated for adsorption of dyes and antibiotics from aqueous solutions. The post-treated hydrochars had carbon and oxygen contents in the range of 37.4% to 44.7% and 29.9% to 38.6%, respectively, and their surfaces were rich in oxygen-containing functional groups and negative surface charges. Post-treatment remarkably influenced the physico-chemical properties of the hydrochars’ surfaces. All post-treated hydrochars could adsorb the model organics from aqueous solutions with the highest adsorption amount of 327, 353, 336, and 309 mg/g for Congo red, berberine hydrochloride, tetracycline, and acridine orange, respectively, at 0.3 mg/mL and 25 °C. The combined effects of functional groups, surface area, and negative surface charge of the hydrochars could assist in the adsorption of organics. The Langmuir-isotherm model provided a good fit for the adsorption of acridine orange, tetracycline, and berberine hydrochloride on the selected hydrochars, while the adsorption of Congo red generated linear isotherms indicating a partition-involved mechanism. The adsorption of the organics onto the hydrochars is a spontaneous and mainly physical adsorption process with a quite fast adsorption rate.
Eulerian-Lagrangian simulation of wood flour and wind distribution during the impulse-cyclone airflow drying process
Authors: Chen Feng , Liu Yinan , Ni Xiaohui , Xia Xinghua
Published: February 2022

To improve the particle transport computational fluid dynamics models of impulse-cyclone airflow drying systems, a Eulerian-Lagrangian discrete particle model (commercial code ANSYS Fluent 2019 R1) was extended to describe the temperature field, airflow velocity field, and particle distribution in the impulse and cyclone dryers. The results showed that the velocity of the airflow considerably changed after wood flour was added into the system, with an approximate velocity difference between the particles and airflow of 2 m/s. An increased feed rate led to a backflow area at the bottom of the cyclone dryer, which caused reflux and a long residence time of the wood flour in and near the cyclone dryer. By comparing the calculated temperature, velocity, and time curves with the measured temperature and velocity sensor values, the error between the simulated value and the experimental value was only approximately 15%. The current work verifies that the Eulerian-Lagrangian discrete particle model of the impulse-cyclone airflow drying process established via the computational fluid dynamics simulation method was effective. The conclusion provides a reliable theoretical basis for the technological design of impulse-cyclone airflow drying systems, thus providing a way to optimize the structure of impulse-cyclone airflow drying systems in the future.
Chemical, hygroscopic, and mechanical properties of various wood species heat treated via the ThermoWood® method
Authors: Aytin Ayhan , Çakıcıer Nevzat , Birtürk Turgay
Published: February 2022

Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dissipation spectrometry, dimensional stability, and compressive strength tests were conducted parallel to the fibers on various heat-treated trees, i.e., narrow-leaved ash (Fraxinus angustifolia Vahl), aspen (Populus tremula L.), Oriental spruce (Picea orientalis (L.) Link.), and Uludağ fir (Abies bornmüelleriana Mattf.), which grow naturally in forests in Turkey. Panels made from these trees were first heat treated via the ThermoWood® method, producing ThermoWood® panels. Then, FTIR, as well as energy dissipation spectrometry analysis, dimensional stability, and compressive strength tests were performed on test samples prepared from the panels. The FTIR data showed that the hemicelluloses were degraded in the ThermoWood® test samples and the proportion of cellulose increased. The energy dissipation spectrometry results showed that the amount of carbon increased, the amount of oxygen decreased, while the amount of hydrogen remained approximately the same in the ThermoWood® panels compared to the control samples. It was determined that the proportion of silicon increased in the narrow-leaved ash panels. In addition, among the physical properties, the amount of shrinkage and swelling decreased in all the tested ThermoWood® panels compared to the control samples, whereas the compressive strength values, which are considered a mechanical property, increased.
Preparation and properties of paint prepared with nanofibrillated cellulose and waterborne epoxy resin
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Xi , Pan Yanfei , Zhao Bingbing , Liang Zhanpeng
Published: February 2022

A new type of water-based paint was prepared with Salix nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC), epoxy resin (E-51), and emulsified curing agent as raw materials. The mechanical blending of coated films was characterized. The mechanical properties and friction and wear properties of the coated film were tested. Microstructure was studied by scanning electron and transmission electron microscopies, thermogravimetric analysis, and other methods. The results showed that when the amount of NFC was 1.0%, the overall performance of the coated film was improved. Herein, the flexibility was 1 mm, the adhesion was 0, the hardness was 4 H, the wear value was 15 mg/100 r, the impact resistance was 49 cm, and the gloss was 85 Gs. The friction and wear coefficient of the composite coated film after the addition of cellulose nanofibers was reduced to 0.171, which was 58.5% lower than that before the addition of cellulose nanofibers. The surface observation after abrasion indicated that the composite coated film mainly experienced abrasive wear.
Influence of Hollander beater refining on xylan extraction from hardwood paper pulp by cold caustic extraction and xylanase treatment
Authors: Ngene Gloria I. , Roux Jean-Claude , Lachenal Dominique
Published: February 2022

Cellulose fibers’ complex and compact structure hinders the quantitative extraction of residual hemicelluloses from the fiber wall. In this study, hardwood kraft paper pulp was subjected to refining with a Hollander beater at different refining loads (3, 4.5, and 5.5 kg) in order to assess the impact of refining load on xylan removal by cold caustic extraction. The refined pulp showed high water retention values and specific surface area, which increased accessibility and a correspondingly high degree of xylan removal. Coupling refining and cold caustic extraction (100 g/L soda) achieved over 50% more xylan removal than the unrefined pulp (3% against 7%, respectively). Furthermore, an improvement in xylan removal (79%) was achieved by implementing a one-pot simultaneous refining and cold caustic extraction treatment at half the time required for the sequential treatment and low soda concentration (60 g/L). Finally, the benefit of beating was also observed for xylanase treatment. Overall, the combined extractions made it possible to remove 85% of xylan from a conventional hardwood paper pulp giving rise to a high purity cellulose pulp with unimodal and narrow molecular mass distribution.