bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase Behavior and Ternary Diagram Construction for Membrane Forming Polycarbonate Solutions
Authors: Idris Alamin , Man Zakaria , Maulud Adulhalim Shah , Gilassi Sina
Published: September 2014

Cloud points at different polymer concentrations were obtained by the simple titration method and compared with the numerically calculated theoretical binodal curves for Polycarbonate/Dimethylacetamide/Water (PC/DMAc/Water) and Polycarbonate/N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone/Water (PC/NMP/Water). The interaction parameters for solvent polymer and nonsolvent polymer were obtained from Hansen's solubility parameters. The cloud points determined were found to be in close agreement with the theoretical binodal curve calculated. Coagulation values for different solvents such as Dichloromethane (DCM), Dimethylacetamide (DMAc), N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and Tetrahydrofuran (THF) were also determined and the results were plotted in a ternary diagram to realize the effect of interaction parameters on the coagulation values. The higher the mutual affinity of solvent to polymer (low χ23), the faster is the liquid-liquid demixing rate to occur. For DCM solvent, fastest demixing rate was exhibited and lowest for the THF.
Gas Permeability Study of Amine-Polymer Blend Membranes to Separate Carbondioxide from Natural Gas
Authors: Mushtaq Asim , Mukhtar Hilmi , Shariff Azmi Muhammad
Published: September 2014

The confinement and storage of carbon dioxide has been acknowledged as a prospective solution towards the greenhouse gas effect which in turn cause climate change. Proficient separation technologies are required for removal of carbon dioxide from natural gas streams to allow this solution to be extensively feasible. An emerging technology is the membrane gas separation, which is more dense, energy efficient and possibly more economical than older technologies, such as solvent absorption. Amine has a natural affinity for both carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide, allowing it to be a very effective removal process. In this context blending of glassy polymer that is polysulfone and amines, which are diethanol amine, methyl diethanol amine, mono ethanol amine in dimethyl acetamide solvent, flat sheet membranes were developed with desirable properties. Gas permeability study of PSU with amines, blend membranes were evaluated using pure gas CO2 and CH4 at different feed pressures.
Heat Transfer with Chemical Reaction in Wall Heated Packed Bed Reactor
Authors: Subbarao Duvvuri , Abd Elghafoor Hassan Reem Hassan , Ramasamy Marappagounder
Published: September 2014

Information on wall heat transfer to packed bed reactors operating with exothermic or endothermic reactions is scarce. Overall wall heat transfer coefficients in a packed bed reactor in presence of an endothermic reaction are measured and observed to be smaller than the expected in the absence of reaction. This observation is in contrast with the reported observations with exothermic reactions in packed beds. A model equation based on energy balance is presented to explain the observations.
Mathematical Modeling of the Radial Crossflow Hollow Fiber Membrane Module for Multi-Component Gas Separation
Authors: Lock Serene Sow Mun , Lau Kok Keong , Azmi Mohd Shariff
Published: September 2014

A “Multi-component Progressive Cell Balance” approach has been applied to characterize the gas separation of the radial crossflow hollow fiber membrane module. The mathematical model is an indispensable tool to evaluate the separation performance of membrane material towards different components. The approach is required to be implemented since there is scarcely available mathematical model to characterize the two dimensional radial crossflow. In addition, the currently available mathematical model is confined to the ideal binary system, which constraints its applicability in real membrane separation process with many components. The significance of the developed multi-component mathematical model as compared to the model adapting the ideal binary simulation condition is demonstrated in this study.
pH Dependence on Biosorption of Pb (II) by P. amaryllifolius Roxb
Authors: Abdullah Mohd Zamri , Sufian Suriati , Abdul Hamid Farah Hanim
Published: September 2014

Solution pH plays an important criterion in the biosorption system in ensuring optimum uptake of heavy metal by a biomass is achieved at the highest performance. In this study, the biosorption of lead (II) ions by the non-living biomass of P. Amaryllifolius Roxb is performed at various pH from acidic to alkaline conditions. Results show that the optimum pH for the removal of lead (II) ions from wastewater occurs at pH 5, whereby the sorption activity occurs through monolayer process as it follows the Langmuir isotherm. High removal percentage of the metal ions at various concentrations further emphasize on the viability of P. amaryllifolius Roxbto be utilized as a green resources in the wastewater treatment.
Recent Advancements on Superabsorbent Polymers to Produce Controlled Release Urea (Short Review)
Authors: Azeem Babar , Ku Shaari Ku Zilati , Man Zakaria , Subbarao Duvvuri
Published: September 2014

Controlled release urea (CRU) is produced to avoid nitrogen losses caused by volatilization, leaching and denitrification. Superabsorbent polymer materials have recently caught the attention of research circles to be used as coating materials to produce CRU. This review portrays recent advancements on the use of superabsorbent polymer materials to produce CRU with special focus on release experiments.
Hybrid Model for Biopolymerization Process (ε-Caprolactone to Polycaprolactone)
Authors: Senthil Senthil Kumar , Ahmad Z.
Published: September 2014

A very attractive and accepted approach to the modeling problem is building a hybrid model, where certain amounts of both phenomenological and empirical information are used. In this paper the mechanistic model is created by using the mathematical equations which are represented in the MatlabTM Simulink environment so as to achieve a control over the bio-polymerization process. This mechanistic model was connected to a Feedforward Neural Network (FANN) model to complete the hybrid model of the process to predict the molecular weight distribution. The hybrid model in the Simulink environment was validated by comparing the results of the hybrid model with that of the experimental results carried out in a bioreactor.
Adsorption of Azo Dye Orange II by Supported TiO2: A Review
Authors: Riaz Nadia , Bustam Mohammad Azmi , Kait Chong Fai , Man Zakaria B. , Khan Muhammad Saqib , Azmi Mohd Shariff , Shimekit Biruh , Ullah Sami , Elkhalifah Ali E.I.
Published: September 2014

The supported TiO2 photocatalyst has been reported for the photodegradation of different organic pollutants. These supported TiO2 photocatalysts include metal and non metal doped TiO2 photocatalysts. The photodegradation can be explained in terms of adsorption. The adsorption of the dye is an significant and obvious parameter in the photodegradation process. The photodegradation is directly related to the adsorbed quantities of the pollutant onto the surface of adsorbant. Adsorption of Orange II, an azo dye has been reported using different adsorbents like fly ash, activated carbon and porous titanium dioxide. This review presents a comparison of maximum adsorption capacities (Qm; mg.g–1) and Langmuir adsorption constant (Kads; L.mg–1) for the adsorbents reported in previous studies.
Palm Bio-Oil Upgrading Research-Towards Effective Utilization of Waste
Authors: Salleh Noor Azean Mat , Abdullah Bawadi , Kamil Ruzaimah Nik Mohamad
Published: September 2014

Biomass utilization has arouse great attention and interest in recent years as it offers a net zero carbon footprint and security of the feedstocks. Current utilization process of biomass can be classified into biochemical and thermochemical conversion process. Pyrolysis process seems to be the promising conversion process in securing chemical feedstock as pyrolysis oil can be futher upgraded for chemical extraction. This paper reviews the most abundance biomass in Malaysia which is palm waste and discusses the its utilization by prolysis process. Upgrading research of pyrolysis oil also been discussed as to promotes the effective utilization of waste and securing alternative energy source.
Removal of Phosphate and Fluoride from Industrial Wastewater – A Short Review
Authors: Zulfiqar Muhammad , Omar Abdul Aziz , Chowdhury Sujan
Published: September 2014

Industries producing fertilizers, aluminium, steel, bricks, glass, and semiconductor discharge several thousand tons of phosphate and fluoride per year into the open atmosphere in the form of wastewater which cause many environmental issues as well as loss of drinking water. The objective of this review is to select the suitable method for the removal of phosphate and fluoride from industrial wastewater which is highly hazardous and acidic in nature. So that treated water can be reused for agricultural and industrial purposes. Industries discharge several thousand tons of phosphate and fluoride per year in the form of wastewater which cause many environmental issues and loss of drinking water. This review is provided with aimed a precise and accurate knowledge for the removal of phosphate and fluoride from industrial wastewater. A lot of technologies are available for the treatment of industrial wastewater treatment including chemical precipitation, crystallization, ion exchange, adsorption, reverse osmosis and nanofiltration methods. The selection of most suitable treatment technology is based on retention time, principle of operation, applications, chemicals and maintenance cost.
Screen-Printed Carbon Electrodes for the Detection of Boldenone
Authors: Kaur Rameeta , Khan Aamir Amanat Ali , Dennis John Ojur , Abdullah Mohd Azmuddin
Published: September 2014

Boldenone (androsta-1,4-dien-17-ol-3-one), an androgenic anabolic steroid (AAS), is intensively used for growth promoting purposes in animals for meat production and as a performance enhancer in athletics. Its use is prohibited either in animals intended for human consumption or directly for humans, as most of the anabolic steroids are completely metabolized. The current method of detection, such as the mass spectrometry coupled with gas chromatography or liquid chromatography are sensitive, highly specific and are popular methods of detection. However, these have some intrinsic drawbacks such as the requirements of complicated and expensive instrumentation, time consuming and production of narrow detection limits. Boldenone and its metabolites in urine samples of animal matrices can be detected by means of electrochemical methods using tunable and chemically-modified screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs).
Study on Mechanical Properties of Zirconia-Alumina Based Ceramics
Authors: Markandan Kalaimani , Chin Jit Kai , Tan Michelle T.T.
Published: September 2014

This paper describes the characterisations of ceramic composites consisting of different compositions of alumina and zirconia. The material characterisations were performed from the aspects of densification, hardness and fracture toughness. The surface morphology and elemental composition of the composite were studied using SEM and EDX respectively. As for physical properties, the highest attainable hardness and fracture toughness were 11.35 GPa and 3.41 MPa m0.5 respectively for ceramic composite consisted of 80 wt % Zr and 20 wt% Al. Sintering at 1150oC assisted in the densification of ceramics.
Recent Advances of Using Ionic Liquid in Lignocellulosic Biomass Degradation
Authors: Financie Revie , Moniruzzaman Muhammad , Uemura Yoshimitsu , Osman Norridah
Published: September 2014

Pretreatment is a very important step for cellulose conversion process. The effectiveness of the lignocellulosic pretreatment process is one of the key factors to a successful conversion of the original low-cost material into biofuels or biomaterials. The best pretreatment method depends on the type of lignocellulosic materials, and its affected by degree of cellulose polymerization and degree of acetylation of hemicelluloses of the lignocellulosic materials are the main factors. Therefore, it is desirable to find and develop the best pretreatment process, which is also friendly for the environment, effective and efficient for lignocellulosic material conversion of cellulose with minimal structural alteration. In this current review, pretreatment of lignocellulosic material using ILs is discussed in order to describe the state of the art of ILs as a pretreatment methodology for cellulose and lignin separation. Review of ILs assisted by other processes is also discussed here and perspectives regarding this topic are given as well.
Chemical Pretreatment Comparison for Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch: A Review
Authors: Tsabitah Sumayyah , Omar Abdul Aziz , Ismail Lukman
Published: September 2014

Lignocellulosic waste such as oil palm empty fruit bunch are becoming attractive research areas as it can be converted into biofuel or cellulose fiber. Pretreatment of lignocellulosic due to its complex structure is needed to enhance its digestibility during conversion to the required product.Lignin content and distribution is responsible for recalcitrance of lignocellulosic material, therefore delignification process can improve the rate and extent of enzymatic hydrolysis. Pretreatment of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (OPEFB) that mainly aim for delignification can be classified as biological, physical, chemical, and physical-chemical pretreatment. Most common chemical pretreatment of OPEFB are alkaline pretreatment, dilute acid pretreatment, and organosolv delignification. High efficiency of delignification can be achieved by combining several methods.
Application of Experimental Statistical Method in Optimizing Preparation Variables for Cu-Ni/TiO2 Photocatalyst
Authors: Bashiri Robabeh , Mohamed Norani Muti , Kait Chong Fai , Sufian Suriati
Published: September 2014

Cu-Ni/TiO2 was prepared using sol–hydrothermal method. Response surface Method (RSM) including central composite design (CCD) was applied to study the single and combined effects of three primary preparation parameters like water to alkoxide molar ratio (A), acid to alkoxide molar ratio (B), and Cu content (C) on the growth of Cu-Ni doped TiO2 particle size. The particle size range of the photocatalysts was 13−25 nm. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a second–order polynomial regression model to fit the experimental data in CCD. A comparison between predicted and experimental values has depicted a good agreement amongst them with high coefficient of determination value (R2= 0.98). The 3-D response surface and the contour plots imply a synergistic effect of parameter A, an antagonistic effect of parameter B, and significant interaction between them on the growth of particle sizes more than parameter C and its interactions with other variables. The smaller average sizes of Cu-Ni doped TiO2 particles with higher surface area are helpful to increase the light adsorptive property in hydrogen production studies.
Starch Based Soil Conditioner and Slow Release System
Authors: Man Zakaria , Sarwono Ariyanti , Bustam Mohammad Azmi , Azizli Khairun Azizi
Published: September 2014

Tapioca starch film modified with urea and borate was prepared and studied for possible application as soil conditioner and slow release fertilizer. To reduce the hydrophilicity and reinforce the film, lignin was added into the starch-urea-borate system. The presence of lignin reduces the swelling capacity. The lignin modified film remains intact and shows good reswelling capability in water. The water retention of soil was improved by addition of film in sandy soil. The release of entrapped urea in soil was also studied. This study shows that the lignin modified starch film can act as soil conditioner as well as slow release system.
Adsorption of Chlorate from Chlor-Alkali Plant Purged Brine Stream
Authors: Lakshmanan Shyam , Murugesan Thanapalan
Published: September 2014

Coal based activated carbon was found to be able to adsorb chlorate from brine solutions. The removal of chlorate by the activated carbon is enhanced at higher chlorate concentrations, lower temperatures and lower pH. Presence of chlorine in the brine reduces the adsorption of chlorate and is suspected to compete for the same active sites. Chlorate is best removed from de-chlorinated brine.
Degradation Kinetic of Oxytetracycline Antibiotic inside UV Reactor in the Presence of H2O2
Authors: Rahmah Anisa Ur , Harimurti Sabtanti , Omar Abdul Aziz , Murugesan Thanabalan
Published: September 2014

– Oxytetracycline (OTC), a widely used of veterinary antibiotic, was degraded inside a UV/H2O2 system. Kinetic study was conducted at 30°C of temperature and pH 6.37, as suggested by the previous optimization experiment. About 250, 375 and 500 ppm initial OTC concentration were used for the kinetic studies, at H2O2 concentration of 0.116 M. The experimental data were plotted against the pseudo zero-th, first and second order of kinetic. Based on regression coefficient value, the data was well fitted with the pseudo first order of kinetic. The calculated value of kobs was 0.181 min-1.
Optimization of Pectin Extraction from Nephrolepis biserrata Leaves Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Pagarra Halifah , Rahman Roshanida Abd , Md. Illias Rosli , Ramli Nor Azah
Published: September 2014

A central composite design was employed to optimize the extraction of pectin from Nephrolepis biserrata leaves. The independent variables were pH (1.5 to 2.5), extraction time (60 to 120 minutes) and temperature (60oC to 100oC). The combined effect of these variables on yields of pectin was investigated. The results showed that the yield of extracted pectin ranged from 3.76% to 8.50% (w/w, based on dry weight of Nephrolepis biserrata leaves). The optimum condition for the yield of pectin extraction was predicted at pH (1.5), extraction time (76.25 minutes) and temperature (100oC). Under the optimum condition, the actual pectin yield was 8.18%, which was below the predicted extraction condition of 8.316 %. The characteristics were 47.52% galacturonic acid and 83.71% degree of esterification. Keyword: Nephrolepis biserrata leaves, Extraction, Pectin, RSM, Characterization.
Synthesis and Dehumidification Performance of Calcium Chloride Derived from the Waste Shells of Anadara granosa
Authors: Abdullah Mohd Zamri , Yusup Suzana , Mohd Bukhari Nur Ainda
Published: September 2014

The waste shell of Anadaragranosa or blood cockle is utilized as an alternative source for calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in the synthesis of calcium chloride (CaCl2) as a dehumidifier. In this paper, the synthesis of CaCl2 from the waste shell was investigated at various concentrations of HCl reactant and the shells’ particle sizes to determine the optimum yield. The synthesized CaCl2 was further tested on its capacity in adsorbing moisture and compared with the commercially-available dehumidifier. It was found that concentration of HCl at 5 M produced the highest yield, while the particle size of 0.5 mm took the shortest period in producing CaCl2 from the waste shells of Anadaragranosa. Investigating the performance as dehumidifier in a controlled environment, synthesized CaCl2 showed similar capacity in sorbing moisture as the commercially-available dehumidifier, proving the high potential of the waste shells of Anadaragranosa to serve as a green alternative for CaCO3 in producing CaCl2.
The Effect of KOH Concentration on Setting Time and Compressive Strength of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer
Authors: Rahmiati Tia , Azizli Khairun Azizi , Man Zakaria , Ismail Lukman , Nuruddin Mohd Fadhil
Published: September 2014

Geopolymer is produced from the alkali activation of materials rich in Si and Al such as fly ash. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with high concentration is normally used in geopolymerization. Limited research has been done with low concentration of alkali activator. This study confirms that KOH with low concentration affect the setting time and compressive strength of geopolymer in order to have good mechanical properties. Optimum result was observed at 4.5 M KOH. This result can be further developed to produce geopolymer with low alkaline activator for coating applications.
Serration Optimum Design of Gear Plunge Shaving Cutter
Authors: Chang Shinn Liang , Doan Khac Hiep , Nguyen Duy Hoang
Published: September 2014

Plunge shaving cutter has many advantages compared with other types of shaving cutter. Without transverse motion, the shaved work gear profile is primarily affected by serration arrangement. It causes more difficult to design the cutter than others. In this study, by modeling the meshing of shaving cutter and work gear, the shaving process is simulated by Solidworks API to get the shaved work gear profile. Based on this simulation method, optimum serration design for shaving cutter is carried out to find the best serration parameters.
Numerical Simulation Study on Airflow Structural Characteristics and Vortex Evolution in Human Mouth-Throat Model
Authors: Sun Dong , Li Fu Sheng , Xu Xin Xi , Zhao Xiu Guo , Tan Shu Lin
Published: September 2014

Large eddy simulation was used to simulate the airflow movement and vortex evolution in human mouth-throat model in the conditions of the low intensive respiratory patterns, and the airflow structural characteristic and vortex evolution in mouth-throat model was discussed. The results show that two velocity growth points generated in pharyngeal and laryngeal region; the airflow separates in region near the pharynx and the separation zone appears near the anterior wall of pharynx; A turbulence jet appears in the glottal region and the airflow; the jets formatting in pharynx and laryngeal lead to two vorticity growth regions; flat vortex appeared in the throat; a curved vortex like the trachea wall appeared in the anterior wall of trachea, and nearly symmetric reverse vortex pairs appeared in the trachea.
Simulation Analysis of Designing a New Technique KER Warhead
Authors: Ning Hui Jun , Wang Hao , Zhang Cheng , Ruan Wen Jun
Published: September 2014

The major technique of an air-defense warhead is to improve the damage after effect. Therefore, a new Kinetic Energy Rod (KER) warhead named profiled rod warhead is proposed in this paper. The detonation process is simulated by ANSYS/LS-DYNA, and the deployment velocity and initial flight attitude of rod are achieved. Rigid body dynamics equations of rod, which accounts for the influence of air resistance, are set up to predict the flight trajectory of long-distance. The results show that profiled rods are conducted to determine a higher penetrability compared with traditional cylindrical rods, and the profiled rods may provide a better penetration angle that still maintains a significant penetrability against projectiles when the rods move off long-distance range.
Temperature Distribution of Hot Air Flow in Heating Zone for Drying Application
Authors: Srisiriwat Nawadee , Wutthithanyawat Chananchai
Published: September 2014

The temperature distribution of hot air flow in heating zone of a rectangular duct has been investigated for drying application. The experimental set-up consists of a heater and a fan to generate the hot air flow in the range of temperature from 40 to 100°C and the range of air velocity between 1.20 and 1.57 m/s. An increase of the heater power supply increases the hot air temperature in the heating zone while an increase of air velocity forced by fan decreases the initial temperature at the same power supply provided to generate the hot air flow. The temperature distribution shows that the hot air temperature after transferring through air duct decreases with an increase of the length of the rectangular duct. These results are very important for the air flow temperature and velocity control strategy to apply for heating zone design in the drying process.
Sun Intensity and Angle on Efficiency of Solar Cell System
Authors: Huang Bo Wun , Tseng Jung Ge , Hsiao Der Ren
Published: September 2014

Sun intensity and angle on efficiency of solar cell System is considered to study. Solar energy is a clean, non-polluting and renewable resource; it uses the photovoltaic effect to convert sunlight into a free and available energy source. However, solar energy output is highly affected by the temperature and intensity of sunlight. As the temperature of the solar module rises, energy output will decrease, if the intensity of sunlight is stronger, there will be more output energy. With adequate heat sink and proper ventilation, a module’s temperature will be decreased, and also increase output energy. This study uses 10 kilowatt grid-connected photovoltaic system and a solar tracker to measure the direction of the sun, to find out the relationship between solar intensity and angle effects on energy output.
Study on the Judgment of Cell Detachment Using Image Processing
Authors: Chung Jui Yung , Huang Yu I , Ay Chyung
Published: September 2014

This study combines image processing and enzyme to conduct the research and develope a detection system for adhesive cells detachment. First, a PCI video capture card is used to capture the microscope images into the computer, a program is edited to detect cell morphology and determine the detachment status of the cells, and then cell morphology was compared by detection data (roundness and centroid locating), in order to establish rules to detect the cell suspensions.
This experiment will find the boundary sensitivity parameter, “fudgeFactor”, and the rules for the detection of cell suspension. The multiple displacement difference compliance rate (90%) is greater than displacement difference compliance rate (70%), and compared with the roundness detection, then cell detachment can be accurately measured.
A New Brake-by-Wire System Based on Direct-Drive Electro-Hydraulic Brake Unit
Authors: Gong Xiao Xiang , Chang Si Qin , Jiang Li Chen , Li Xiao Pan
Published: September 2014

A new brake-by-wire system based on direct-drive electro-hydraulic brake unit for flexibly modulating brake force is designed to improve braking performance and ride comfort. The structure of the brake unit and the composition of the system are discussed in detail. The simulation and experiment are completed to verify the brake unit is fast responsible and reliable after studying the unit model. At last, a vehicle model based on Matlab/Simulink and AMESim is established to verify that this new system is of fast response and is able to control brake force on every wheel independently and continuously.
Internal Model Control Design for Autothermal Reforming System
Authors: Wutthithanyawat Chananchai , Srisiriwat Nawadee
Published: September 2014

This paper focuses on the control system design for a process of autothermal reforming (ATR) of ethanol. The targeted application is within an on-board fuel processor of ATR operating at the adiabatic reaction temperature for hydrogen production. An internal model control (IMC) method is designed for controlling the adiabatic reaction temperature of ATR reactor by manipulating the input air flow rate. Two strategies of controller design with and without the feed temperature control of the preheater unit are proposed in order to determine the suitable controller system as the surrounding temperature is a major disturbance for cold weather. Theoretical analysis demonstrates that IMC strategy can achieve desired performance. Two loops of control system of the ATR process combined with the feed temperature control can compensate the surrounding temperature better than without the feed temperature control.
Gait Characteristics for a Lower Limb Exoskeleton Implementing the Precedence Walking Assistance Mechanism
Authors: Cha Do Wan , Kim Kab Il , Kim Kyung Soo , Lee Bum Joo , Kim Soo Hyun
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we analyse human gait patterns, including knee and hip joint torques and muscle activities, during step initiation phase and continuous walking phase. Additionally, we present a lower limb exoskeleton called the Unmanned Technology Research Centre Exoskeleton (UTRCEXO) implementing a precedence walking assistance mechanism based on the gait characteristics. The operator equipped with the Unmanned Technology Research Centre Exoskeleton (UTRCEXO) walks with a 15 kg load at 3.3 km/h step velocity.
LiFePO4 - Activated Carbon Composite Electrode as Symmetrical Electrochemical Capacitor in Mild Aqueous Electrolyte
Authors: Ho M.Y. , Khiew Poi Sim , Isa D. , Tan T.K. , Chiu W.S. , Chia C.H.
Published: September 2014

In this study, a symmetric electrochemical capacitor has been fabricated by adopting the lithiated compound (LiFePO4)-activated carbon (AC) composite as the core electrode materials. The electrochemical performances of the prepared supercapacitor were studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV) in 1.0 M Na2SO3 solution. Experimental results reveal that the maximum specific capacitance of 112.41 F/g is obtained in 40 wt % LiFePO4 loading on AC electrode in comparison to that of pure AC electrode (76.24 F/g) in 1 M Na2SO3. The enhanced capacitive performance of the 40 wt % LiFeO4 –AC composite electrode is believed attributed to the contribution of synergistic effect of electric double layer capacitance (EDLC) on the surface of AC as well as pseudocapacitance via intercalation/extraction of Na+, SO32-and Li+ ions in LiFePO4 lattices. The composite electrodes can sustain a stable capacitive performance at least 1000 cycles with only ~5 % specific capacitance loss after 1000 cycles. Based on the findings above, 40 wt % LiFeO4 –AC composite electrodes which utilise low cost materials and environmental friendly electrolyte is worth being investigated in more details.
An Effective Inventory Allocation Policy in Two-Echelon Distribution Network
Authors: Tsai Chi Yang , Tekanene Paul Peter , Li Kuei Feng
Published: September 2014

In this research, we look at the distribution in a two-echelon divergent system that considers periodic review in determining the optimal order-up-to level and rationing parameters to maintain customer service level target. We consider three policies that can provide assistance to inventory managers/planners for quick and effective in determining a rationing parameter that is flexible and effective with the dynamic nature of the demand during the rationing process. Performance comparisons between these policies are given for various problems including the application in real operational/planning setting, and least deviation from the intended objective amongst them suggests otherwise a better policy to adopt.
System Dynamics of Electric Cars (EC) Usage and Support Infrastructure in Malaysia
Authors: Lim Sze Wei , Chen Khin Fai , Yap Eng Hwa
Published: September 2014

Using system dynamics, this paper investigates the feasibility of implementing an integrated infrastructure for Electric Cars (EC) in Malaysia by understanding the intrinsic relationships, compounded effects and dynamics of policies, public knowledge, technology maturity, private investment and network of support infrastructure required upon its deployment in Malaysia. All key enablers are assumed to have a feedback relationship with the demand and the scale of overall EC sold. From the results, it can be concluded that governmental subsidies, environmental policies and effective marketing strategies are needed to support the EC market along technological advancements such as improvement in the EC's battery life.
The Alternatives of Ballast Water System
Authors: Elkady Hesham , Han Duan Feng , Gao Liang Gao
Published: September 2014

To eliminate the introduction of invasive marine species and the disadvantages of ballast water (BW) treatment systems a new concept in ship design was developed to be alternative of ballast water system. Non-Ballast ships were rarely mentioned in China even they were studied widely worldwide. In this paper, the different types of non-ballast water ship were reviewed, to be classified in order to facilitate the study of such types of vessels and serve as a base for the development.
Study of Air-Flow and Temperature Distribution in a Small-Scale Dryer for Grains Drying
Authors: Chai Almon , Kho Stefan , Ung Ha How
Published: September 2014

This paper describes the work performed on a small-scale dryer designed to allow agricultural product to be dried by farmers via usage of slanted plates for grains transportation. This work involves the prototype design, computational simulation using Comsol Multiphysics and study of the results. The computational simulation results are plotted in temperature contour-plots based on the prototype modelling and boundary conditions. The results illustrate the difference in opening and closing of grains inlet and also effects of the temperature distribution within the dryer. Air-flow relative humidity is also introduced to allow observation of the drying air-flow on the grains. The simulation results are shown and elaborated here. From the results, it is evident the grains can be dried as the injected heated air-flow is projected onto the plates. It can also be concluded here that farmers may need to close the grains inlet of the dryer to prevent heat loss and non-uniform distribution of heat.
Hybrid Photovoltaic-Diesel Energy System Optimization (Case Study of Electric Power Supply for Buildings under the Weather Conditions of Montenegro)
Authors: Radovic Goran , Murgul Vera , Vatin Nikolay , Aronova Ekaterina
Published: September 2014

The article deals with the concept of solar photovoltaic systems use in power supply systems. An analysis of local solar resources potential has been carried out, and optimal orientation points of radiant heat absorbing photovoltaic panels have been chosen to achieve maximum energy performance. Simulation of electric power systems having different configurations has been implemented using the software program Homer. It has been stated that a combination of solar and diesel energy systems is considered to be an optimal solution under the weather conditions of Montenegro. The systems working together make it possible to reduce maintenance costs significantly and adjust capacity generation schedule with due account for energy consumption features to a maximum extent. This allows generating electric power at less cost and results in a more reliable and continuous power supply without failures for a consumer chosen.
The Implementation of an Artificially Intelligent Personal Assistant for a Personal Computer
Authors: Hsieh Chun Hsiang , Buehrer Daniel J.
Published: September 2014

This research describes the design of an Artificially Intelligent Personal Assistant (AIPA) system that uses concepts from the artificial neural networks, a triple-based knowledge representation that is used for both an ontology and its binary relationships, fast access via hash functions, and Class Algebra as the theoretical basis. The purpose of the research and implementation is to make it more convenient for people to use Chinese to communicate with computers. Through artificial intelligent natural language technology, not only are the users able to colloquially to communicate with AIPA, but the system can also identify the users’ commands to bridge the Google search engine. Therefore, users can efficiently search for information or execute programs by using AIPA.
Investigation of Machining Parameters for Burr Minimization in CNC Turning of Brass Using RSM and GA
Authors: Ravikumar R. , Hafeez M. Mohamed Abdul
Published: September 2014

CNC turning is one among the metal cutting process in which quality of the finished product depends mainly upon the machining parameters such as feed, speed, depth of cut, type of coolant used, types of inserts used etc. Similarly the work piece material plays an important role in metal cutting process. This study involves in indentifying the optimized parameters in CNC turning of Brass. To identify and measure the formation of burrs in the turned samples, are examined under scanning electron microscope (SEM). The optimization techniques used in this study are Response surface methodology, and Genetic algorithm. Several comparisons were made between cutting parameters with surface roughness. These optimization techniques are very helpful in indentifying the optimized control factors with high level of accuracy.
Comparison of Various Spatial Discretization Schemes in Numerical Simulation for Ship Airwakes
Authors: He Shao Hua , Liu Dong Yue , Tan Da Li
Published: September 2014

For numerical simulation of ship airwake by CFD, based on the use of an unstructured grid, the k-ε turbulence model and SIMPLE algorithm, the characteristic features of complex fluid flows eg recirculation zones and strong vortex fields in the aircarft operating region of a generic 3D frigate model was presented. The accuracy of the predication was checked by performing calculations on different grid sizes and comparing with wind-tunnel flow visualization data. A comparison of several typical spatial discretization schemes was performed. y+ values were also tested. The general features of the flow predicted in this paper compare reasonably well with experimental data. However, CFD simulation produced a higher velocity in the vicinity of vortex zone when compared to experimental data. Obvious differences exist between results by first-order upwind scheme (power law scheme) and second-order upwind scheme (QUICK scheme, third-order MUSCL scheme). Second-order upwind scheme (QUICK scheme, third-order MUSCL scheme) are recommended for the CFD simulation of ship airwakes with a modest increase in computational cost. y+ values from o (10) to o (1000) can all be accepted for the CFD simulation of ships (e.g., SFS1 ) with Reynolds number 108 or more.
Spectral Sensing of Asbestos According to Concentration in Various Asbestos Containing Materials
Authors: Ahn Ho Sang , Jung Byung Kwon , Joo Jin Chul , Park Jae Ro
Published: September 2014

Asbestos in various building materials were measured by spectral sensor to examine the shift in reflectance wavelength according to asbestos concentration in different materials. Asbestos glove, asbestos soil, asbestos fiber insulation board, slate and bamlite panel were tested under several experimental conditions to alter reflectance intensity at each wavelength to find the optimum condition to detect asbestos selectively from other particulate matters. Chrysotile was found to have specific wavelength range regardless of concentration and type of materials as detected under blue color filter and dyed with refractive index liquid.
Mechanism-Based Numerical Approach to Ductile Fracture in an 2024–T3 Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Jiang Wei , Li Ya Zhi , Shu Yi Xiu , Kikuchi Masanori
Published: September 2014

Ductile fracture of 2024-T3 aluminum alloy has been investigated under tensile and shear loading conditions. In order to predict rupture, a void–based meso–damage constitutive relationship which can deal with both tensile and shear problems is developed and implemented in commercial software ABAQUS. The tensile and shear fracture behaviors including the load–displacement response and crack propagation path, of 2024–T3 aluminum alloy are analyzed using the proposed approach and compared with experimental data. It is shown that the proposed approach can be used to predict the failure of ductile materials under complex loading conditions.
Lift Investigation of Airfoil with Flaps
Authors: Frolov Vladimir A. , Dong Wen Ming
Published: September 2014

In the paper a lift calculation of a two-dimensional airfoil with a plain flap and Krueger flap is investigated. Numerical-analytical method (NAM) is used to predict the flow field around this combination. In order to calculate the complex velocity in the flow field, the complex variable function theory is employed. NAM based on the joint application of conformal mapping and the discrete vortex method (DVM). The paper presents a brief description of the NAM and some results of the lift calculations of the airfoil with the plain flap and Kruger flap. Comparison of the calculation results with the theoretical data of other authors showed a good agreement.
Modeling of the Mechanical Properties of Carbon-Black Reinforced Rubber Blends by Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Fernandez-Martinez R. , Hernandez R. , Ibarretxe J. , Jimbert Pello , Iturrondobeitia M. , Guraya-Díez T.
Published: September 2014

Mastering the relationship between the final mechanical properties of carbon black reinforced rubber blends and their composition is a key advantage for an efficient design of the composition of the blend. In this work, some models to predict three relevant physical attributes of rubber blends — modulus at 100% deformation, Shore A hardness, and tensile strength — are built by machine learning methods and subsequently evaluated. Linear regression, artificial neural networks, support vector machine, and regression trees are used to generate the models. The number of used samples and the values for the input variables is determined by a Taguchi design of experiments, and prior to the modeling the uncertainty of the experimental data was analyzed.
Loading RDF/OWL File into Oracle NoSQL Database Using a Bulk Loading and Parallelization Techniques
Authors: Khamis Khamis Abdul Latif , Zhong Luo , Song Hua Zhu
Published: September 2014

Processing and loading large RDF/OWL data files often involves the transfer of large amounts of data from source operational systems to the target data store. It requires a proper loading techniques and more expressive methods to ensure the RDF/OWL data files are correctly loaded into the database, or the loading process will end up finishing all memory space which resulted in performance deterioration in the entire application. The Bulk loading is one of the predominant scientific techniques and with fastest loading method to load large amounts of data into the database; however, this study has found out that the bulk loading alone, cannot handle triples files containing object values with more than 4000 bytes. To solve these tidy problems, we propose to implement bulk loading techniques concurrently with parallelization methods to load RDF/OWL data file into the database. To accomplish this goal, the Oracle NOSQL database is chosen as the backend persistent storage for the RDF/OWL data files. In addition, loading model and techniques are provided to utilize the loading process, and finally algorithms, methods and parallelization techniques are given with the aim of increasing loading performance of RDF/OWL within the Oracle NOSQL database.
Research on the Key Technologies of Highly Reliable Embedded IDE Based on R80515
Authors: Han Xue , Suo Xiang Feng , Zheng Bao Min
Published: September 2014

The paper researched on the call of the highly reliable compiler in the process of IDE design, the call and the dynamic display of the data of R80515 simulator, and the data communication of the complier window and the compiler error message display window, and designs the frame of IDE.
The College Enrollment Plan: An Application of Fuzzy Clustering Analysis Method
Authors: Gui Mei , Huang Yue Lin
Published: September 2014

Fuzzy clustering analysis method is one of the most widely used fuzzy mathematics method, applied in various fields of social life. In this paper, it researches the method of fuzzy clustering analysis and its application in college enrollment plan based on the fuzzy set theory, we choose a university admissions situation as statistical indicators 30 provinces (cities) in the country in 2011, similarity matrix is established by the method of maximum minimum, the direct clustering method is used for clustering analysis. On the basis of detailed analysis, the results show that fuzzy clustering analysis method for the college enrollment plan makes scientific and rational analysis, and has very good guidance, strong practicability.
AG-Index: Adjacent Edge Hash Index for Graph Databases
Authors: Wang Hui Hui , Peng Yun , Huang He Jiao
Published: September 2014

Many queries have been proposed to retrieve graphs. Among others, subgraph query is a fundamental one: given a graph database and a query graph, find the graphs in the database containing the query graph. Most existing works follow the filtering-and-verification framework, where a core task is to reduce the number of candidate graphs. This paper follows the framework and we propose a novel index, namely AG-Index. It indexes adjacent edge pairs of data graphs and can significantly reduce the number of candidate graphs. Our experiments show that our AG-Index outperforms several existing techniques on real-life datasets and synthetic datasets.
Research and Design of a Massive Offline Data Analysis System Based on Hadoop
Authors: Pan Sen , Zhu Li Peng , Hu Bin , Yang Pei
Published: September 2014

According to the rapid growth of the scale of the data at present, the traditional model of data analysis based on stand-alone can't meet to the storage and processing of massive data. With the rise of big data technology, integrating the traditional method of data analysis with big data platform to improve the efficiency of data analysis has become a research direction. This paper analyzes the integration of offline data processing and the Hadoop HDFS, MapReduce, designs a large offline data analysis system platform based on Hadoop, and introduces the core function module.
Research on Data Mining Optimization and Security Based on MapReduce
Authors: Xia Hui
Published: September 2014

The paper addressed the issues of limited resource for data optimization for efficiency, reliability, scalability and security of data in distributed, cluster systems with huge datasets. The study’s experimental results predicted that the MapReduce tool developed improved data optimization. The system exhibits undesired speedup with smaller datasets, but reasonable speedup is achieved with a larger enough datasets that complements the number of computing nodes reducing the execution time by 30% as compared to normal data mining and processing. The MapReduce tool is able to handle data growth trendily, especially with larger number of computing nodes. Scaleup gracefully grows as data and number of computing nodes increases. Security of data is guaranteed at all computing nodes since data is replicated at various nodes on the cluster system hence reliable. Our implementation of the MapReduce runs on distributed cluster computing environment of a national education web portal and is highly scalable.
A Novel over Writable and Restoring Solution of Filesystem for NAND Flash
Authors: Li Xia Run , Zheng Jia Chun , Huang Na Na , Lei Hong
Published: September 2014

The existing solutions to do factory reset in embedded system have its shortage or couldn’t apply into NAND flash. In addition, since embedded system play more and more complex work in industry, users may damage the embedded device just do typo configure at embedded system. This paper suggests a new way to solve the reminded in existing solutions. And also our performance result shows the reliable of this solution and gives a suggestion that which upper filesystem should be used in our solution.
Data Provenance Tracing for Transformation Diagram Based on Wivern
Authors: Dai Chao Fan , Zhang Xiao Yu , Zhao Yan Peng
Published: September 2014

This Paper introduces the complete process of data provenance tracing for transformation diagram based on Wivern: at first, we construct the candidate weak derivation-sets using continued-tracing weak inverse attribute mapping, then verify them according the type and property of transformation and attribute mapping.
The Design of Data Input Module in Virtual Welding System
Authors: Sun Peng Jiao , Huang Bo , Wang Xiao Man
Published: September 2014

By using inverse grating technology, improving the design of data input module in virtual welding system. We analyzed and accomplished the method of data input, taking into account the weldment needs to make a dynamic changes in the welding process, we design the static and dynamic data input modules. Through running some instances of the program, we have proved that, with the corresponding improvement of the inverse grating technology, the design of data input module in the virtual welding system has achieved good result.