bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Current Density on Anodised Titanium in Mixture of β-Glycerophosphate (β-GP) and Calcium Acetate (CA)
Authors: Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi , Lee Te Chuan , Idris Maizlinda Izwana , Sorrell Charles C.
Published: February 2015

Anodic oxidation is an electrochemical method for the production of ceramic films on a metallic substrate. It had been widely used to deposit the ceramic coatings on the metals surface. In this study, the surface morphology and crystallinity of titanium foil was modified by anodising in mixture of β-glycerophosphate disodium salt pentahydrate (β-GP) and calcium acetate monohydrate (CA). The experiments were carried out at high voltage (350 V), different anodising time (1, 3, 5 and 10 min) and current density (10 and 20 mA.cm-2) at room temperature. Anodised titanium was characterised by using glancing angle X-ray diffraction (GAXRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and focused ion beam (FIB) milling. The result of the experiment show that colour, porosity, crystallinity and thickness of the titanium films depended strongly on the current density. More porous surface and large amount of anatase was produced at higher current density. FIB results indicated that the thickness of oxide layer increased as increasing of current density.
A Study of Pb (Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 Ceramic Properties via High Energy Ball Mill
Authors: Sharif Shafiza Afzan , Juliewatty J.M. , Yusoff W.A.W.
Published: February 2015

Pb (Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3, (PZT) powder has been synthesized using high energy ball milling technique. The synthesized powders were characterized using XRD, SEM, Density, Porosity and Impedance Analyzer. XRD patterns show that the perovskite phase of PZT can be formed from the mixture of starting material after milling for 40 h. The grain sizes of the powder have been estimated to be 1-3 μm. The relationship between the microstructure of the PZT samples and sintering temperature has been discussed. Dense PZT (> 95 % theoretical density) with excellent dielectric properties was obtained when the pellet are sintered at higher temperature with shorter soaking time. The results show that the sample sintered at 1100 °C /1 h yields a clearly uniform grain size with the highest dielectric constant.
Effects of Sintering Temperature on the Properties of Stainless Steel Foam
Authors: Mat Noor Fazimah , Mad Rosip N.I. , Jamaludin Khairur Rijal , Ahmad Sufizar
Published: February 2015

Foam replication method is capable of producing foams with a highly porous structure with adjustable pore dimension, shape and size. In this work, this method has been used to prepare stainless steel 316L foam and sintered at 1200°C, 1250°C and 1300°C in a vacuum furnace. The microstructure and elemental analysis of the sample were examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X–Ray (EDX), while the mechanical properties of the samples was determined by using compression test. It was found that the average pore size was in the range of 330µm-350µm. The yield strength and elastic modulus are in the range of 58-66 GPa and 0.46-0.50GPa respectively.
High Resolution X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Study of the Interaction of Copper Ion with Chitosan Thin Film
Authors: Yap Wing Fen , Mat Yunus W. Mahmood , Talib Zainal Abdib , Nor Azah Yusof
Published: February 2015

In this study, high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has been used to study the chemical interaction between copper ion and chitosan thin film. The chitosan solution was synthesized by homogeneous reaction of medium molecular weight chitosan in aqueous acetic acid with glutaraldehyde as crosslinking agent. Then the solution was deposited on glass cover slip by spin coater to form a thin film. The functional group and chemical binding of crosslinked chitosan thin film has been confirmed by XPS. XPS revealed that copper ion adsorbed to the crosslinked chitosan thin film and the functional groups involved in the adsorption mechanisms of copper ion on the thin film were determined.
Physico-Chemical Study of Nano and Bulk Ru/FTO Heterogeneous Catalyst for Synthesis of 1,2-Propanediol
Authors: Samad Wan Zurina , Wan Isahak Wan Nor Roslam , Nordin Norazzizi , Liew Kin Hong , Zubairi Saiful Irwan , Yarmo Mohd Ambar , Yusop Muhammad Rahimi
Published: February 2015

A selective hydrogenolysis of glycerol has been attempted using an active nanosize and bulk size of Ru/FTO catalyst. The two approaches gives 1,2-propanediol as a main product. The higher conversion and selectivity was obtained at 99% and 94% for the bulky size of the catalyst, while nanosize catalyst give 89% of glycerol conversion and 97% 1,2-PDO selectivity. The Ru/FTO (7.5%) of metal loading, 150°C, 20 bar hydrogen pressure, and 8h was observed as an optimized reaction condition.
In Situ Powder X-Ray Diffraction Study on Hydrous Ferrous Sulfate Minerals
Authors: Jani Musfiroh , Hodson Mark E. , Chippindale Ann M.
Published: February 2015

This study presents the experiments on the in-situ powder XRD on pure hydrous ferrous sulfate (FeSO4.nH2O) mineral. The progress of this mineral was monitored at different relative humidities and temperatures. The phase transformation from melanterite (FeSO4.7H2O) to rozenite (FeSO4.4H2O) and the phase transformation of rozenite (FeSO4.4H2O) to szomolnokite (FeSO4.H2O) were obtained.
Banana Peel as Green Corrosion Inhibitor for Stainless Steel 304
Authors: Ismail Azzura , M. Tajuddin M. Aminuddin
Published: February 2015

Corrosion is commonly known as rust, an undesirable phenomena which destroys the luster and beauty of objects and cause shorter of life span. The objective for this research is to study the effect of using green inhibitor with seawater (NaCl) to the corrosion resistance of stainless steel 304. The green inhibitor was extracted from banana peel added with seawater (3.5% NaCl). The concentration of green inhibitor added was 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%. The test was conducted using the 3-electrode potentiostat to understand the behaviour of corrosion attack on stainless steel 304 at room temperature under static conditions. The results elucidate that green inhibitor has significant effect to the breakdown of passive film of stainless steel 304 in seawater. The forms of corrosion attack were viewed by using optical microscope. In conclusion, banana peel can be use as green inhibitor to increase corrosion resistance of stainless steel 304 and at the same time the abundant waste from local small industries can be recycled.
Structural Change of Cathode with Pore Former Addition in SOFC
Authors: Abd Mutalib Muhazri , Othman Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan , Aziz Madzlan , A Rahman Mukhlis , Jaafar Juhana , Fauzi Ismail Ahmad
Published: February 2015

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have been considered as a promising electricity-generation technology because of the relatively high efficiency in the conversion of chemical energy to electrical power. The cathode performance of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) depends substantially on its surface area, porosity and microstructure, and therefore the processing method used is very important in determining cathode performance. By optimizing the structural characteristic of the layer, the cathode performance during fuel cell performance can be fully maximized. Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) pore former was introduced in the processing method of cathode layer. The cathode layer was brush painted and sintered at 1200°C for 5 hours. TGA analysis is used to specify the sintering curve for the cathode layer. In addition, three point bending test is used to investigate the change in bending force with the addition of pore former. Characterization via FESEM allows inspection over the induced pore geometry and distribution along the layer. The study can produce a comprehensive structural analysis on the pore former addition in the precursor solution of the cathode layer for SOFC application.
The Effect of Ligands on CdSe Nanoparticle Films Deposited by EPD
Authors: Ishak Mohamad Nizam , Yaacob K.A. , Mohd Noor Ahmad Fauzi
Published: February 2015

Nanoparticle from group II-IV semiconductor nanoparticles is widely studied for solar cells. The ability to modify the surface of nanoparticle is significant to successful use in various applications. In this research, mercaptoundecionic acid (MUA) and trioctyl phosphine oxide (TOPO) were used as ligand for cadmium selenide (CdSe) nanoparticles. The wavelength shift to a shorter value observed due to decreasing size of CdSe nanoparticle after ligand exchange from TOPO to MUA. The electrophoretic deposition methods (EPD) have being employed to deposite CdSe nanoparticles films on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO). The deposition voltages used are between 100 - 400 V for 15 minutes. From SEM results show the formation layer of CdSe nanoparticles capped with MUA is strong and porous as compared to CdSe nanoparticle capped with TOPO. MUA capped CdSe shows better cell efficiency compared to TOPO capped CdSe which is 0.1735 %.
Silica Extraction from Rice Husk by Warm Water Pretreatment
Authors: Hassan Nur Syakilla , Haji Badri Khairiah , Lim Li Shen
Published: February 2015

Rice husk (RH) has high content of silica. In this study, the extraction of silica from rice husk while maintaining the organics was carried out by warm water pre-treatment followed by alkaline hydrolysis.  RH powder was treated with water at 50oC and 100oC prior to treatment with 1 M of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) aqueous solution at 50oC.  The filtrate from the alkaline hydrolysis was then further reacted with 1 M of hydrochloric acid (HCl) for silica extraction. The samples obtained after each stage of the treatments were carefully characterized and their chemical compositions were determined. The morphology of the untreated and treated RH powder was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Estimation on the silica content was made by Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). The functional group present in untreated and treated RH were determined by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The percentage of silica extracted from ΔH2O/NaOH-RH filtrate was higher (18.9%) than from H2O/NaOH-RH filtrate (12.6%). FTIR spectroscopy data indicated the disappearance of siloxane group when RH was treated with hot water and warm water followed by alkaline hydrolysis. The selected extraction method has successfully recovered silica at high yield but at the same time maintaining the organic compounds in the rice husk.
Formation and Characterization of PbxCd1-xS Interlayer for PbS/CdS/ZnS Quantum Dots Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Quah Ai Li , Yaacob Khatijah Aisha
Published: February 2015

PbxCd1-xS quantum dots (QDs) was successfully deposited on TiO2 mesoporous film as TiO2 mesoporous photoanode using successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method for quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs). Quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) were prepared by sandwiching the TiO2 mesoporous photoanode with Cu2S counter electrode. Single layer of PbxCd1-xS, PbS and CdS and multilayer of PbS/CdS/ZnS as well as multilayer PbS/PbxCd1-xS/CdS/ZnS were prepared for characterizations. The characterizations including X-ray Diffraction Spectroscopy (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), UV-visible spectrophotometer and Current-density voltage (J-V) measurement were carried out to study the effects of number of SILAR cycles of PbxCd1-xS interlayer for molar fraction, x of 0.2 in QDSSCs. PbxCd1-xS interlayer with four SILAR cycles is incorporated between PbS and CdS layer will increase the efficiency in QDSSCS.
X-Ray Diffraction Patterns of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Fibers with Varying Crystallinity
Authors: Ahmad Kuthi Fatin Afifah , Haji Badri Khairiah , Mohmad Azman Azlin
Published: February 2015

Crystallinity of oil palm fiber from empty fruit bunch (EFB) with and without tretaments was studied by analyzing the X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. In this paper, we focused on the effect of acid hydrolysis onto EFB on the crystallinity of the extracted cellulose. The reaction was carried out by soaking EFB in 1% (v/v) aqueous sulfuric acid (H2SO4) at different temperatures of 120, 130 and 140°C for 1 h. The XRD patterns significantly showed changes in the 2θ peaks before and after the treatment. These changes were described in term of polymorphs type present, reflection and allomorphs of the samples. XRD peak high and XRD deconvolution methods were used to calculate and compare the percentage of crystallinity of untreated EFB (UT-EFB) and acid hydrolyzed samples (AH-EFB). Based on the calculation, increment of about 1.3 times and 1.5 times were achieved by using WAXS and XRD deconvolution methods respectively. This is due to the removal of amorphous part contributed by lignin, hemicellulose and cellulose. Fourier Transform infrared (FTIR) spectra showed the presence of similar peaks in AH-EFB and commercial microcrystalline cellulose (C-MCC) at 1427, 1315, 895 and 1022 cm-1. The micrographic features showed the acid hydrolysis had successfully took place and separated the EFB microfibrils bundles.
Magnesium Doped Hydroxyapatite through Mechanochemical Synthesis
Authors: Abu Bakar Sharifah Adzila Syed , Subramaniam Ramesh T. , Sopyan Iis , Abdul Shukor Mohd Hamdi
Published: February 2015

The mechanochemical synthesis method was employed to synthesis hydroxyapatite (HA) and magnesium (Mg) doped hydroxyapatite (HA) powders. The effects of Mg2+ into the synthesized HA powder properties were investigated. Characterization of the synthesized HA (Mg-free HA) and Mg–doped HA at various concentrations (1% - 9% MgHA) were accomplished through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analyses. The nano size powder of HA and Mg-doped HA were successfully synthesized through the present method and the influenced of Mg2+ in the HA was also indicated by the different peaks intensity and the crystal sizes obtained.
The Anatase Formation on Anodised Titanium in Sulphuric Acid
Authors: Saleh Saleh S. , Sorrell Charles C. , Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi
Published: February 2015

Anodic oxidation is used to evaluate the effects of pure titanium in a sulphuric acid electrolyte in order to evaluate the relationship between the TiO2 anatase crystalline phase formation and anodisation parameters. Multiple characterisation techniques were used and found that the thickness showed significant increase in TiO2 at 70V, FESEM observed significant porosity at the arcing voltage commencement (100V). XRD analysis observed anatase peak threshold at 70V, However Raman Microscopy showed anatase significance formation between 20V-30V. We conclude that anatase presents at low voltage 20-30V while rutile peaks increase initially (100V and 150V) and the amount and /or crystallinity of anatase are/is influenced by the applied voltage.
Preliminary Studies of the Effects of Polyethylene Glycol/Hydroxyapatite Powder-Binder System for 3D Printing Application
Authors: Ng Kei Hoa , Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi
Published: February 2015

The role of binder in powder system has gained its importance lately in 3D printing (3DP) applications. This research aims to investigate the effect of powder system developed from incorporation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) onto hydroxyapatite (HAP) powder for 3D printing application. Simple spray method was used to incorporate mixture of PEG into HAP powder. Raw commercial HAP powder was determined by using particle size analyser. The morphology and crystallinity of raw HAP powder and powder mixture were characterised by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffractive (XRD) analysis. Mean particle size of raw HAP was found to be 4.77 μm which is suitable for 3D printing and in good agreement with SEM micrographs. Based on the SEM micrographs, the powder mixture was found in agglomerated and small particle form. Small amount of PEG (2 wt. % to 7 wt. %) incorporation onto HAP powder exhibited absence of new phases on XRD analysis, demonstrating good chemical compatibility. Based on this study, it can be concluded that incorporating PEG onto HAP powder is able to maintain the initial characteristic of HAP and can work together as powder system.
Improvement on Mechanical and Dynamic Properties of Palm Fiber/PLA Composites by Fiber Treatment
Authors: Mohamed Hatta Mohamed Nasrul , Kenji Nagata
Published: February 2015

In this work, palm fiber reinforced polylactic acid composites were fabricated by hot-compress. The palm fibers were treated by γ-aminopropyl trimethoxysilane (APS) and coated with polylactic acid (PLA) in varied percentage (5%, 10% and 15%). The treatment reaction was analyzed by FTIR and the effect of fiber treatment on the flexural and dynamic mechanical properties of oil palm empty fruit bunch/polylactic acid (OPEFB/PL) composites were examined. The flexural properties of composites were increased with increasing of fiber coating and improved by introduction of APS. It was also observed that the APS treated fibers had improved the dynamic mechanical properties of the composites respectively.
Effect of Excitation Wavelength on the Blue Emitting Sr2MgSi2O7 Phosphor
Authors: Chang C.H. , Pung Swee Yong , Ahmad Fauzi M.N. , Kasim Shah Rizal
Published: February 2015

Long afterglow blue emission silicate (SMS) phosphor doped with Eu2+ and Ce3+ was synthesized via traditional solid-state reaction in the weak reducing atmosphere. X-ray diffractometer (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscope were employed to characterize its crystal phases, surface morphology and elements composition. The photoluminescence (PL) properties were characterized by PL Spectrophotometer. It was found that the excitation wavelength played a significant role in photoluminescence emission intensity.
Characterization of WC-Co Coatings Corrosion Product by Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Zakiah Kamdi , Voisey K.T.
Published: February 2015

In cermet coating such as WC-based coating, the coexisting of ceramic and metal results in micro-galvanic corrosion due to different corrosion potential of each element. In this study, WC-17wt%Co was used. The corrosion behaviour of the coating was evaluated by potentiodynamic test in two different electrolyte which are 0.5 M sulphuric acid and 3% by weight alkaline drilling fluid. This coating shows higher corrosion potential in acid electrolyte compares to in alkaline electrolyte. Clear passivation is seen for both cases. Raman shift is able to detect WO3 and WO3H2O as a corrosion product after corrosion test. Keywords: corrosion, WC, Raman shift
Synthesis of β-Tricalcalcium Phosphate Block by Wet Milling Method of Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate Dihydrate and Calcium Carbonate
Authors: Ahmad Nurazreena , Lau Kung Shiuh
Published: February 2015

Synthesis of β-TCP block by wet milling method of calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate (CaHPO42H2O) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) was evaluated. Uniaxially pressed block at 5, 10 and 15 MPa of mixture CaHPO42H2O and CaCO3 were sintered at 1000°C, 1050°C and 1100°C. XRD analysis revealed that single phase β-TCP was obtained at all press pressure and sintering temperature. The crystallinity and crystallite size of the obtained β-TCP increased with increasing press pressure and sintering temperature.
Image Reconstruction of Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) on a Bubble Column Using Expectation Maximization and Exact Inversion Algorithms: Comparison Study by Means of Numerical Phantom
Authors: Mohd Razali Azhani , Abdullah Jaafar
Published: February 2015

Expectation Maximization Algorithm and the Exact Inversion Formula are two mathematical methods that have been developed for various computational applications, such as in medical imaging, nuclear industries, econometric and sociological studies, as well as chemical engineering industries. These image reconstruction methods are usually used to create the SPECT scan images. However, most of the improvement and development of the images are made by using a medical phantom, such as the human brain phantom. Here, in this paper the reconstruction of images by both algorithms are made by using a numerical phantom of laboratory scale bubble columns due to its wide application in the chemical reaction engineering studies. The results for both algorithms are compared, evaluated and discussed.
A Novelty of Synthetic Hydroxyapatite from Cockle Shell and Characterization
Authors: Mustaffa Rusnah , Mohd Yusof Mohd Reusmaazran , Abdullah Yusof
Published: February 2015

In Malaysia recently, it was found that cockle shell (Anadara granosa) is a potential source of biomaterial for bone repair. It is the most abundant sea species cultured in Malaysia. A possible advantage of using cockle shell as a biomaterial is that they may act as an antilog of calcium carbonate. Malaysian Nuclear Agency took this challenge to develop synthetic bone graft from natural cockle shell. To date, the artificial bone graft substitutes developed from hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) a bio ceramic is similar to the mineral constituent of human bone. The structure and the composition of hydroxyapatite (HA) are similar to the mineral phase of bone and, its bioactivity and biocompatibility makes it a preferred bone graft.
Effect of Mixing Condition on the Mechanical Properties of Magnesium Based Composites
Authors: Wan Muhammad Wan Nur Azrina , Mutoh Yoshiharu
Published: February 2015

The effects of mixing conditions, i.e; mixing speed and mixing duration on the mechanical properties of the magnesium based composites were investigated. The hardness, tensile strength and microstructure of composites were studied. It was found that increase of the mixing speed and prolong the mixing time can improved the distribution of SiC particle and mechanical properties of magnesium based composites.
Higher Photocatalytic Activity of P-Incorporated TiO2 Nanotube Arrays
Authors: Saharuddin Khairul Arifah , Sreekantan Srimala
Published: February 2015

TiO2 nanotubes arrays were prepared by anodization of Ti in EG containing H3PO4 and NH4F electrolyte. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and photoluminescence spectra (PL). The as-anodized TiO2 nanotubes were annealed in inert (argon), reducing (nitrogen), or oxidizing (oxygen) atmosphere at 400 °C for 4 hr. XRD analysis revealed that the TiO2 nanotubes were anatase after annealing. In this study, the TiO2 nanotubes annealed in argon exhibited the highest degradation rate of methyl orange (MO) solution under ultraviolet irradiation among the samples. The degradation rate was approximately 98% after 5h, which may be ascribed to the large amount of oxygen vacancies and defects (phosphorus) within the Ar - TiO2 sample that simultaneously increased the degradation rate of MO.
Recycled Glass Potential as Porous Ceramic Determine by Spectroscopy Analysis
Authors: Hamidon Ainorhayat , Badarulzaman Nur Azam , Muhamad Nor Mohd Al Amin
Published: February 2015

Recycled glass from domestic waste also known as soda lime silica glass due to its main mineral composition is sodium oxide, calcium oxide and silica. The recycled glass was subjected to XRF in order to identify its chemical composition. Porous ceramic was made up of recycled glass powder added with ball clay and feldspar using ratio 90:5:5. Paper fiber was added as much as 5 wt% to act as foaming agent in the ceramic. Reaction of the ceramic body after sintering at three different temperatures in half an hour soaking time was studied using XRD spectroscopy.
Effect of Rice Husk Firing Temperature on Synthesis of Silica (SiO2)
Authors: Ismail N.A.A. , Azmi M. Azham , Ahmad Sufizar , Taib Hariati
Published: February 2015

This paper presents the synthesis of silica (SiO2) from rice husk at different firing temperatures. Due to the environmental awareness and to reduce air pollution, agricultural wastes specifically rice husk is used to produce SiO2. Silica was prepared by washing with clean water without any chemical treatment. The rice husk was fired at 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 and 1200°C. In order to determine the effect of firing rice husk at different temperature, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses were conducted. Crystalline silica were obtained at 1100°C and 1200°C firing temperature. At 900°C and 1000°C firing temperature, silica was observed to be in a transitional phase of amorphous into crystalline or it called as semi crystalline. However, at 700°C and 800°C silica remains to be in amorphous phases.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on Biphasic Calcium Phosphate (BCP) Biocomposite
Authors: Kasim Shah Rizal , Muhamad Nor Firdaus , Ramakrishan Sivakumar
Published: February 2015

The present report aims to fabricate biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) biocomposite in order to study the effects of sintering temperature on the sintered BCP biocomposite characteristics (phase’s formation, porosity and hardness properties). These effects were quantified using design of experiment (DOE) to develop mathematical models. BCP biocomposite pellets (60 wt% HA) were fabricated using mixing, pressing and sintered at two different temperatures (1100°C and 1250°C). The experiment was run by following the run order suggested by DOE software (Minitab 16) through randomization stage. Results show that sintering temperature will affect the formation of α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) and the porosity of the samples. The formation of α-TCP phases will reduce the hardness value of BCP biocomposite.
Characterization of Binary Mg-Mn Alloy Synthesized through Mechanical Alloying: Effects of Milling Speed
Authors: Salleh Emee Marina , Ramakrishan Sivakumar , Hussain Zuhailawati
Published: February 2015

In this work, the effect of the milling speed on the properties of biodegradable Mg-1Mn alloy prepared by mechanical alloying was investigated. The magnesium-based alloy was prepared in solid state route using a high energy planetary mill. A mixture of pure magnesium and manganese powder was mechanically alloyed for 5 hours in argon atmosphere. Milling process was performed at various rotational speeds in order to investigate milling speed effect (i.e., 100, 200, 300 and 400 rpm) on phase formation and bulk properties. The as-milled powder was uniaxially compacted by cold pressing under 400 MPa at room temperature and sintered in argon atmosphere at 500 °C for an hour. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that a single α-Mg phase was formed in magnesium matrix after sintering process. An increase in milling speed up to 300 rpm resulted in an increase in density and hardness of the binary alloy. The changes of bulk properties of the Mg-Mn alloys were correlated to the formation of solid solution phase and a reduction of porosity which led to an increasing in densification.
Performance of Rutile as an Antibacterial Material in Ceramic Tiles
Authors: Mohamad Hasmaliza , Mokhtar Ahmad Kamil Fakhruddin
Published: February 2015

The study was focused on the performance of rutile addition in the glaze for antibacterial application. Rutile powder in micro size (<5µm) (at different composition 5 wt%, 7 wt%, 9 wt%, 10 wt% and 15 wt%) were added in the glaze. Glazing was performed by dipping method for 10 seconds. Glazed tile was then sintered at 1200°C for 1 hour. Characterizations used to observe the properties of produced tiles were physical observation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Optimum sample was undergone an antibacterial test towards E.coli.
Quantitative X-Ray Diffraction Analysis of Anhydrous and Hydrated Portland Cement – Part 1: Manual Methods
Authors: Nguyen Duong D. , Devlin Liam , Koshy Pramod , Sorrell Charles C.
Published: February 2015

Portland cement is one of most important construction and building materials and its properties depend strongly on the mineralogical composition. Consequently, accurate analysis of the mineralogical composition of anhydrous Portland cement is crucial for both product quality control and optimisation of performance following initial hydration. In the latter sense, analysis of the mineralogical composition of hydrated Portland cement paste is critical to understand (1) the mechanism and kinetics of hydration of unmodified pastes and those modified with additives and (2) the resultant properties of cement pastes, mortars, and concretes. Such analyses typically are undertaken by quantitative X-ray diffraction (XRD).The present work reviews current practices in quantitative XRD analysis of anhydrous and hydrated Portland cement. To this end, Part 1 of this two-part work briefly mentions the point-counting method and the Bogue calculation method. The more commonly applied internal standard method and reference intensity ratio (RIR) method are discussed in more detail.
Quantitative X-Ray Diffraction Analysis of Anhydrous and Hydrated Portland Cement - Part 2: Computer-Based Methods
Authors: Nguyen Duong D. , Devlin Liam , Koshy Pramod , Sorrell Charles C.
Published: February 2015

The present work reviews current practices in quantitative XRD analysis of anhydrous and hydrated Portland cement. While Part 1 of this two-part work reviews the conventional internal standard method and the reference intensity ratio (RIR) method, Part 2 reviews the more commonly used computer-based methods, which include the Rietveld method (with or without internal standard) and the G-factor method (with external standard). Further, some critical general aspects of the experimental procedures that affect the accuracy of the analysis are discussed.
Crystal Structure Optimization and Semi-Empirical Quantum Chemical Calculations of Fused Bicyclic Heterocycles
Authors: Jotani Mukesh M.
Published: February 2015

The crystal structures of two fused pyridine derivatives viz Ethyl 3-amino-6-phenyl-4-tolylfuro[2,3-b]pyridine-2-carboxylate (I) and Ethyl 3-amino-6-phenyl-4-tolylthieno[2,3-b] pyridine-2-carboxylate (II) were optimized by semi-empirical methods using MOPAC2009 program. The geometries optimized for both the structures from Austin Model 1 (AM1) and Parametrization Model 6 (PM6) describe the conformational discrepancy and crystal packing effects. The parametric molecular electrostatic potential (PMEP) calculated by AM1 semi-empirical method describe the involvement of nitrogen and oxygen atoms in the crystal packing interactions in both the structures. The frontier molecular orbitals highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) indicate the intramolecular charge transfer interactions. The HOMED indices computed for the phenyl rings in the structures describe the p-electron delocalization. The linear regression analysis shows good correlation between experimental and theoretical structures.
Temperature-Programmed and X-Ray Diffractometry Studies of WO3 Reduction by Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Salleh Fairous , Samsuri Alinda , Tengku Saharuddin Tengku Shafazila , Othaman Rizafizah , Mohamed Hisham Mohamed Wahab , Yarmo Mohd Ambar
Published: February 2015

Tungsten (VI) oxide (WO3) reduction by carbon monoxide were examined using temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) and X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD) studies. Results show that WO3 start to reduce at 20% (CO in N2) at temperature 900 °C and the intermediate phases WO2.9 and WO2.83 were observed. The WO3 was reduced and transformed the completely to the WO2.72. As comparison, reduction by using 10% (H2 in N2), WO3 was reduced completely toWO2. The WO3 is a stable oxide because the reduction agent used to promote the reduction was not sufficient enough to reduce to zero metal tungsten.
Anodic Oxidation of Titanium for Biomedical Application
Authors: Selimin Mohamad Ali , Mohd Idru Noor Haafiza , Abdullah Hasan Zuhudi
Published: February 2015

Anodic oxidation (AO) is a chemical method which used to produce a bioactive layer (oxide) of titanium (Ti). The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of anodic oxidation upon Ti foil in acetic acid (C2H4O2). The anodic oxidation was performed by varying the applied voltage (10 – 200 V) and concentration of the electrolyte (0.5, 1.5 and 3.0 M of C2H4O2). After anodic oxidation, the Ti specimens were soaked in simulated body fluid (SBF) to observe the precipitation of hydroxyapatite (HAP). The Ti sample was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) after anodic oxidation and SBF. The precipitation of apatite after soaked in SBF was observed using SEM. From this study, the applied voltage range from 100 to 200 V at low and high concentration of acetic acid resulting in the porous surface of anatase. The arcing process occurred during the oxidation process which lead to the formation of anatase and sites for HAP growth (nucleation site). The SBF result shows that the anodised Ti is suitable to be applied in biomedical especially as implant.
Effect of Nanostructured Oxide Coatings on Tensile Properties of Cast Pure Magnesium
Authors: Hu Jonathan , Nie Xueyuan
Published: February 2015

In this work, nanostructured magnesium oxides were formed by PEO process on cast pure magnesium and the tensile properties of thin (5.8 μm) and thick (11.2 μm) coated samples were evaluated. The results obtained by uniaxial tensile testing show that the thin PEO coating had very little effect on the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation of the cast pure magnesium, while its yield strength was somewhat decreased. For the thick coated sample, both the yield strength and UTS decreased considerably, but the variation of the elongation was moderate, compared to the uncoated sample. The microstructures characterized by SEM revealed that the high porosity content and the large size of pores in the thick PEO coating should be responsible for the significant reduction in the properties of cast pure magnesium. The relationship between the tensile properties and microstructure of the PEO coated samples suggests that the thin PEO coating should be selected to protect the pure magnesium for biodegradable applications.
The Microstructure Evolution of a Nickel-Base Single Crystal Superalloy after Long-Term Aging
Authors: Jia Yu Xian
Published: February 2015

Microstructure evolution of a nickel-base single crystal superalloy during thermal exposure at 982°C was investigated. The SEM studies revealed that the size of γ' phase increased and some of which linked together with the elongation of the exposure time. There is acicular phase precipitation after the long-term ageing treatment. The TCP phase is not increased by the increment of ageing time after reaching a certain amount. There are skeleton shape carbides precipitate after 100h and 300h. The amount of precipitated carbides decreases by the elongation of ageing time.
Creation of Submicroporous and Nanoporous Structures in Metallic Materials by Laser Thermocycling as Eutectic Is Reached
Authors: Murzin Serguei P. , Igolkin Alexander A. , Musaakhunova Luiza F.
Published: February 2015

The possibilities of forming submicroporous and nanoporous structures in metallic materials by laser thermocycling as eutecticis reached were determined. With the implementation of the selected modes of laser treatment on L62 brass samples with a thickness of 50 µm leads to the formation of wrinkled relief, which indicates an increment of alloy volume in this area, that is, a porosity increment in the metallic material. Submicroporous and nanoporous structures are formed in the copper-zinc L62 alloy sample, which appear on the surface of the sample. Nanopores have a shape similar to equiaxial. Submicropores are formed as a result of nanopores merger. A relief is formed on the surface consisting of depressions having a shape similar to that of a hemisphere and a linear structure, oriented along the direction of rolling process.
Fracture Toughness and Hardness of Ti(C0.7N0.3)-19Mo2C-xNbC-24Ni
Authors: Hosokawa Hiroyuki , Katou Kiyotaka , Shimojima Koji , Furushima Ryoichi , Matsumoto Akihiro
Published: February 2015

The fracture toughness and hardness of Ti (C0.7N0.3)-19Mo2C-xNbC-24Ni cermets (x = 0, 5, 20) were studied. Fracture toughness of 5 NbC was the largest, and it of 20 NbC was the lowest. The microstructures of all the cermets consisted of Ti (C,N) and solid soluted Ti (C,N) hard phase, and Ni binder phase. The solid soluted Ti (C,N) surrounded Ti (C,N), namely, core-rim structures were observed in 0NbC and 5NbC. On the other hand, the isolated Ti (C,N) and solid soluted Ti (C,N) were observed in 20NbC, as a result of the phase separation between Ti (C,N) core and solid soluted Ti (C,N).
Morphology of Cobalt Oxalate Powders Prepared with Pulsed Electromagnetic Field
Authors: Peng Shu Jing , Du Hui Ling , Tang Li Dan
Published: February 2015

The spindle or spherical cobalt oxalate powders were prepared by conventional precipitation in the presence of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF). The morphology and phase structure were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The aspect ratio and surface fractal dimension of cobalt oxalate aggregate were calculated using Image tool software and Differential Box Counting (DBC) algorithm. The results indicate that the products prepared from ammonium oxalate and cobalt chloride give rise to the formation of β-CoC2O4∙2H2O. With the increase of pulsed time, the morphology of cobalt oxalate sample varies periodically from rod-like to spheroidic. For the sample treated for 60 s, the degree of sphericity is the highest. The surface fractal dimension is 2.096 and the corresponding fractal form is tight type.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Structure Characterization of Two Hybrid Metal Phosphonates Materials
Authors: Sun Chang Feng , Pang Yan Yan , Zhao Ying , Yang Yu
Published: February 2015

Under hydrothermal conditions, two copper phosphonates, [Cu2(H2O)2(H2L)(bpy)2(H3L)2]·2H2O (1) and [Cu2(H2O)2(H2L)2(phen)2]·6H2O (2) (H4L = p-xylylenediphosphonic acid, bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine and phen = 1,10-phenanthroline), have been synthesized using diethyl p-xylylenediphosphonate (dixdp), in which p-xylylenediphosphonic acid (H4L) was generated via in situ hydrolysis. Complexe 1 forms a zero-dimensional (0D) bimetallic rings, while complex 2 features a 0D structure containing two kinds of partially deprotonated H3L- and H2L2- ligand.
Hexacarboxylate-Bridged Dicopper (II) Paddle-Wheel-Based 3-D Metal-Organic Framework: Synthesis, Structure
Authors: Sun Chang Feng , Pang Yan Yan , Zhao Ying , Yang Yu
Published: February 2015

Employed isophthalic acid and Quinoxaline as co-ligands, a new 3D metal-organic framework [{Cu2(IPT)2(QA)2}6]n ((H2IPT= isophthalic acid, QA = Quinoxaline) had been prepared under hydrothermal condition. The compound crystallizes in the Rhombohedral space group R-3c, with cell parameters, a = 30.099(4) Å, b = 30.099(4) Å, c = 18.190(4) Å, a= β = γ = 90˚, V = 14271(4) nm3 and Z = 12. This 3D complex based on rhomboid-shaped structural unit [{Cu2(IPT)2(QA)2}6] shows unusual USF-1 topology. On the basis of the results of TG/DTA analyses, the structure is thermally stable up to 300 °C.
Facile Synthesis and Photocatalytic Properities of Mini Nanoparticle CdS Quantum Dots/Boron and Nitrogen Co-Doped TiO2 Transparent Photocatalyst Emulsion
Authors: Wei Hai Ying , Zhang Hua Yan , Zhang Wen Ming , Wang Shu Ming , Xiao Jun Ying , Cui Tong , Bai Yun Ping , Niu Han Shuang , Li Tian Tian , Li Xiao Wei
Published: February 2015

CdS quantum dots/ Boron and Nitrogen co-doped TiO2 photocatalyst emulsions were synthesized by a complexation-controlled hydrolysis method at room temperature. Boron compounds and Nitrogen compounds were added to TiO2 precursor solution, and CdS quantum dots were attached to TiO2 particles surfaces by using chemical reaction. The hybird composite photocatalysts were characterized by XRD, UV-Vis. Their photocatalytic properties were evaluated through the degradation of acid red 3R dye. The results indicate that when TiO2 emulsion add to Boron ions, Nitrogen ions, and CdS quantum dots, the photocatalytic performance of the emulsion is the best.
Studies of Reaction Kinetics of Catalytic Hydrogenation of Isophthalonitrile for Meta-Xylenediamine Preparation
Authors: Li Yu Gang , Kong Ling Qi
Published: February 2015

With Raney nickel catalyst and aniline solvent, the reaction kinetics of catalytic hydrogenation of isophthalonitrile (IPN) for meta-xylenediamine (MXDA) preparation is studied in this paper. The experiment is conducted in a 1L büchiglas high-pressure hydrogenation reactor under the condition of the reaction temperature (100°C) and the reaction pressure (35 bar). The results shows that the kinetics equation proposed in this paper can be used to predict the response speed of IPN accurately.
Resin-Wood Particulate Composite Reinforced with Piassava Fibre
Authors: Christoforo André Luis , Rocco Lahr Francisco Antonio , de Campos Cristiane Inácio , Martines Morales Elen Aparecida , Barbosa Juliana Cortez , Hallak Panzera Túlio
Published: February 2015

These research objectives the development and evaluation of physical and mechanical properties of a hybrid composite manufactured epoxy resin reinforced by Eucalipto sp. wood sawdust and treated piassava fibers. The evaluated properties were modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) in static bending, water absorption after 24 hours, porosity and apparent density. Three factors with two levels was evaluated: thickness (3 mm and 4 mm), volumetric resin fraction (45% and 50%) and the use or not of laminate piassava fibers reinforcement, leading to a factorial design of 23 type. Were manufactured four panels, two with 50% and two with 55% of resin, using casting method. For the physical and mechanical properties obtained, the better conditions were the one that uses 50% of epoxy resin, 55% sawdust mass fraction and with the use of laminated piassava fibers reinforcement. The thickness was not statistically significant in obtaining the properties evaluated.
Structure and Properties of Melamine Formaldehyde/Polyvinyl Alcohol (MF-PVA) Composite Fiber by Electrospinning
Authors: Li Lu Lu , Kang Yong Qiang , Yang Yan Gong , Cong Ri Min , Jia Zhao
Published: February 2015

Melamine formaldehyde (MF) resin and its derivatives are always considered to be an excellent flame retardant material, which has a wide application in the flame retardant fabric, thermal insulation and high temperature filter Materials etc. The melamine formaldehyde resin (MF) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) blend electrospinning were studied in this work. MF-PVA electrospun fiber membrane was successfully prepared, and the limit oxygen index (LOI), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectrum (IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) have been used to analyze and characterize the fiber. The results show that: The blending fiber is endowed with effective flame retardant property by the amino group and triazine ring group in MF/PVA fibers, and the LOI reaches 28~31. The MF and PVA blend fiber showed best uniformity when the blending solid content ratio of MF-PVA is 1:1. MF/ PVA blend fiber has certain crystallization capacity, which influences both the mechanical properties and flexibility of blending fiber.
Silicon Electrodeposition on Glassy Carbon, Silver, and Tungsten Substrates
Authors: Zhuk S.I. , Minchenko L.M. , Chemezov O.V. , Malkov V.B. , Grishenkova O.V. , Isaev V.A. , Zaikov Yu.P. , Qi Sh.
Published: February 2015

Increasing concerns on global warming and current environmental issues have directed research attention to the problems of energy saving, alternative energy sources, as well as to the improvement of the efficiency of existing chemical current sources. A particular focus is currently concentrated on solar energy use. High-purity silicon plates are employed as details in solar cells. Over the past ten years researchers have sought to create silicon nanomaterials able to significantly improve the efficiency of lithium-ion electrochemical batteries and photovoltaic cells. It is a common knowledge that the principle industrial method for producing high-purity silicon is based on vapor deposition; for example Siemens process [1]. However, it has a number of drawbacks in terms of power consumption, costly reagents, and sophisticated equipment. The development of a low-cost production process for solar and nanocrystalline silicon seems therefore an interesting research task. An alternative approach to the production of silicon is electrodeposition from molten salts containing silicon ions [2-7]. This method can be applied to obtain both coherent covers and Si-nanostructures, such as nanopowders and nanofibres.
Study on the Phenolic - Epoxy Resin System
Authors: Peng Yong Li , Zeng Li
Published: February 2015

By blending the different ratio of the low viscosity of bisphenol A type epoxy resin with low viscosity ammonia catalytic phenolic resin, the performance of the resin systems were investigated by the gel time, viscosity, mechanical properties, heat resistance, flame retardance. In addition, DSC was used to detect the thermal property, and FT-IR monitored the reactive process of phenolic-epoxy resin. When the phenolic resin was mixed with 5% epoxy resin, the results were as follow: the gel time of 121 s at 150°C, viscosity of 7760 mPa·s at 30°C, flexural strength of 83.3 MPa, impact strength of 6.9 kJ/m2, tensile strength of 20 MPa, heat deflection temperature of 148.5°C, oxygen index of 34.5% and the apparent cure activation energy of 94.2kJ/mol. The resin systems had higher service temperature, low viscosity, excellent mechanical properties and service characteristics, and it could meet the requirements of fast pultrusion process.
Preparation and Characterization of Modified Polylactic Acid-co-Polyethylene Glycol-co-Polylactic Acid Microcapsules Enclosing Cypermethrin
Authors: Xu Yong , Chen Wei Tao , Fan Teng Fei , Wu Xue Min , Gao Hai Xiang
Published: February 2015

Tri-block poly (lactide)-poly (ethylene glycol)-poly (lactide), diacrylated derivative and the cypermethrin-loaded microcapsule were prepared, respectively. The structure of the copolymer was characterized by 1HNMR, FTIR, TGA and DSC. The microcapsules were characterized by OM(optical microscope), SEM, FTIR, TGA and DSC. The encapsulation efficiency of the microcapsules is 91.3%. The microcapsules showed good dispersity and sustained release behavior in 50% ethylene glycol aqueous solution.
Study on Environmental-Friendly Waterborne Polyurethane Flame-Retardant Coating Polyester Fabric
Authors: Du Wenqin , Wang Ren
Published: February 2015

A flame-retardant polyester fabric was obtained by eco-friendly water-based polyurethane adhesive for coating, which was made of waterborne polyurethane and several flame retardants. It was found that the combination of Doher6206 and MCA is an effective flame retardant. The concentrations of the combination and polyurethane as well as the process conditions were optimized. The optimize result was gained while the cure temperature was 150°C, cure time was 3 min, coating width was 0.1mm and coating rate was 4.15 m/min. Because of the good performance in flame-retardant and eco-friendly, the flame-resistant polyester fabric has the potential to be used in the inner decoration of the car and the plane, curtain, and the inhibitor of baby car and so on.
Fermentation Production of Succinic Acid from Sucrose by Engineered Escherichia Coli JH208
Authors: Lu Chuan Dong , Xiong Yuan Yuan , Zhao Jin Fang , Wang Jin Hua
Published: February 2015

Currently, succinic acid produced from microbial fermentation has attracted great interests by many researchers, due to its low cost and friendly environmental benefits. Among various microbe, Escherichia coli species have been considered as suitable succinic acid-producing strains, which could utilized a wide range of substrate. In order to acquire sucrose-consumed strains, a genetically modified E.coli JH208 was constructed using the RED recombination system and the flipase recognition target (FRT) site-specific recombinant technology. In 48 h, the production of succinic acid from sucrose by JH208 is 48.46 g/L, the productivity is 1.01 g L-1 h-1, with a succinic acid yield of 0.83 g/g sucrose. The by-products were very low in the fermentation, acetic acid was 4.22 g/L, the ethanol concentration was less than 0.10 g/L, and formic acid and ethanol was not detected.