bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of CNTs Concentration on the Microstructure and Electrochemical Properties of Ni-P-MWNTs Composite Coating
Authors: Tian Miao Miao , Sun Wan Chang , Shi Qin , Wang Ying , Yang Qing Hao
Published: December 2014

Ni-P-multi-walled carbon nanotubes (Ni-P-MWNTs) composite coating was successfully co-deposited on 45 steel substrate by electroless plating. The microscopic morphology of Ni-P-MWNTs composite coating was observed by SEM. The influences of CNTs concentration in plating bath on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of the composite coating were investigated. The results indicated that the deposited composite coating shows dispersed CNTs and continuous Ni-P matrix, and there are no pores and cracks and other defects at the interface between the substrate and composite coating, and the thickness of the composite coating is about 50 μm. The Ni-P-MWNTs composite coating with 0.3g/L CNTs in bath displayed the best corrosion resistance, the corrosion potential of the composite coating is-0.372V.
Preparation and Tribological Behavior of Ni-P-B4C Electroless Coatings
Authors: Wang Ying , Sun Wan Chang , Cai Hui , Yang Qing Hao , Zhang Ju Mei
Published: December 2014

In this research, micro-hardness and wear resistance of two types of electroless coatings were investigated including Ni-P and Ni-P-B4C composite coatings. Dispersible B4C particles and electroless Ni-P alloy were codeposited on carbon steel by electroless plating and then heat treated at 200, 400 and 600 °C for 1 h, respectively. The cross-section morphology and microstructure of the composite coatings were characterized. Meanwhile, the micro-hardness and tribological behavior of composite coatings were evaluated. The results showed that the Ni-P-B4C composite coating presents better wear resistance in comparison with that of Ni-P coating. The Ni-P-B4C composite coating with heat treated at 400 °C exhibits high micro-hardness and good wear resistance, which the highest hardness is 1200 HV, the minimum wear weight loss is 0.12 mg and the lowest friction coefficient is 0.2054.
Preparation and Characterization of Tourmaline/ZnO Composite Thin Films by a Facile Wet-Chemical Route
Authors: Guo Yun , Zhang Qing Huang , Wang Li Rong , Lu Wen Zhao , Wang Lin Jun
Published: December 2014

A series of tourmaline/ZnO composite thin films were prepared by the facile route of low-temperature wet chemical method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman Spectroscopy analyses showed the hybrid spectroscopic characters of tourmaline and ZnO. With adding the different amount of tourmaline powder, ZnO tended to exhibit the different peak intensity of X-ray diffraction and Raman vibration. ZnO deposited into bending nanosheets and intersected to upstanding nanostucture on the surface of tourmaline particles in SEM images. The optical adsorption properities obtained by the UV-Vis spectra indicated that the addition of tourmaline had enhanced the maximum absorption strength, and had shifted the absorption wavelength and the absorption range of ZnO crystals.
Three-Dimensionally Porous Polystyrene Films Fabricated via an Ultrasound Assisted Template Method
Authors: Zhang Jin Chao , Li Guang Fen , Xue Meng Meng , Geng Hong Zhang
Published: December 2014

Here a novel technique was employed to fabricated three-dimensionally porous polystyrene (PS) films via ultrasound assisted template method. In contrast to spin-coated thin film, different morphologies appeared on the films prepared by casting PS/toluene solution on glass substrates. By varying either systematic parameters or intrinsic parameters, surface structures changed from two-dimension flat pores to three-dimension sponge pores. The influences of ultrasonic intensity, frequency, irradiation time, film thickness and toluene content in water bath on surface morphologies were extensively studied. Scanning electron microscopy and white-light confocal microscopy showed that PS casted films with thickness of 200μm have a higher porosity and lower surface roughness within micrometer range. The contact angle measurement indicated slight changes of surface hydrophilicity with toluene content in water bath. Suitable toluene content favored multilayer formation of PS film and led to monodisperse pore distribution analyzed by ImageJ.
ZnO Thin Film Prepared by Two-Step Electrodeposition Method for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Zou Xiao Ping , Zhao Chuan , Wei Cui Liu
Published: December 2014

Mesoporous ZnO thin film is an important part of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) due to it determines the amount of adsorbed dyes. However, small specific surface area of ZnO thin film prepared by ordinary methods restricts the increase of conversion efficiency of DSSCs. In this work we adopted two-step electrodeposition method to fabricate ZnO thin film, which increase the roughness and dyes adsorption. ZnO nanosheets with many adsorbing nanoparticles were observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). It is noteworthy that DSSC based on two-step electrodeposition method exhibit more outstanding photoelectric performance than those based on one-step electrodeposition method, which demonstrates that two-step electrodeposition method is in favor of increasing specific surface area and adding dyes adsorption, which eventually contributes to improvement the conversion efficiency of DSSCs.
Synthesis and Optical Property of β-In2S3 Nanorods
Authors: Liu Guo Dong , Wang Yu Guang , Zhang Jing , Tian Yuan
Published: December 2014

A kind of convenience route to prepare In2S3nanorods was introduced. In the pyridine solvothermal system, In (acac)3was used as the indium source, lauryl mercaptan as the sulfur source. The formation mechanism of the nanorods was proposed and photoluminescence property was also detected.
Study of Friction and Wear Behavior of Ni-P-β-SiC Composition Coating on Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Yi Da Wei
Published: December 2014

Ni-P-β-SiC was prepared using different granularity β-SiC and rolling electroless plating technology. The test results show that β-SiC particles in composite coating are uniform, and the thickness and hardness of composite coating are 17~25μm and 520~620HV, respectively. At the same time, the friction and wear behavior of Ni-P-β-SiC composition coating have been studied. The results show that the wear weight loss decrease and the friction coefficient increase with the increase of β-SiC granularity.
The Preparation and Characterization of Zeolite LTA Membrane with Microwave-Assisted Method
Authors: Long Li Xia , Du Hui Ling , An Qun Li , Shi Xiang , Liu Jun
Published: December 2014

A facial method to prepare zeolite LTA membrane via microwave-assisted heating method was reported. The A-type zeolite seeds were prepared by hydrothermal method from a precursor solution composed of A2O3:SiO2:Na2O:H2O with molar ratio of 1:5:40:1000. The optimized process parameters for synthesizing the zeolite seeds are reaction for 10 min, microwave power of 135 W, and the ratio of H2O/Na2O is 25. Zeolite LTA membrane was prepared via secondary growth method by microwave heating on the silicane and zeolite seed modified ceramic supports. The prepared zeolite seeds and membrane were characterized with X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the size of the zeolite seeds are in the range of 100-400 nm with regular cubic morphology, and the zeolite membrane have homogeneous thickness of 1.5 μm and perfect morphology without defects and pinholes. The easy operation and controllable process make the zeolite membrane by this method properly have wide application for the gas sensor and devices.
Factors Affecting Optical Anisotropy Performance of Liquid Crystal Polymer with Photosensitive Group
Authors: Yang Jiao , Zhang Wei Min , Cao Jin , Pu Jia Ling
Published: December 2014

A copolymer liquid crystal with a coumarin side group is synthesized and investigated. Under different exposure energy, the thin film of copolymer is irradiated by linearly polarized ultraviolet light (LPUV). Moreover, through changing exposure temperature and annealing temperature to investigate its photoreaction properties and reorientation performance. It is made clear that the value of optical anisotropy appears maximum with the increase of exposure energy. However, with the exposure temperature increasing, the Photo-Fries rearrangement tend to be occurred and the degree of the cyclo-addition reaction is reduced. Finally, dealing the exposed film with the liquid crystal temperature, the optical anisotropy of the film has cyclical change, but the maximum anisotropy remains nearly unchanged.
High Response and Selectivity Methanol Gas Sensor Using Molecular Imprinting Technique
Authors: Zhu Qin , Zhang Yu Min , Zhang Jin , Zhu Zhong Qi , Liu Qing Ju
Published: December 2014

A new gas sensor with high response and selectivity was fabricated by using molecularly imprinted powders (MIPs) which provide special recognition sites to methanol. The MIPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), respectively. The gas sensing properties of MIPs to methanol were investigated. The experimental results indicate that the sensors based on the MIPs show excellent gas sensing properties to methanol vapor, and the properties of the sensor with x=6:10 (x= methyl acrylic acid: LaFeO3, molar ratio) are the best. At the optimal operating temperature of 130°C, the response of the sensor (x=6:10) to 1 ppm methanol is 21, and the response and recovery times are 57 s and 67 s, respectively.
Stimuli Responsive Electrospun Fibres: Functions and Applications
Authors: Zhou Ying Xue , Wang Gang , Fan Xiao Dong , Wang Xi , Kong Jie
Published: December 2014

Stimuli responsive electrospun fibers are obtained considerable attention as excellent functions and properties. An overview is given on recent advances made in the development from component to structure of electrospun fiber and applications in the aspects of physical and chemical stimuli. The specific features for these electrospun fibers are highlighted and applications are discussed as regeneration medical engineering and drug-releasing implants materials. Furthermore, the development of multi-component and multi-stimuli functions electrospun fiber is proposed in the future perspective
Preparation of Chromium Nitride Nanopowders Using High Pressure Gas-Solid Reaction Bed
Authors: Li Xiao Qi , Wang Kai Ming , Gao Shou Shan , Huan Wei Liang , Jia Hong Bao
Published: December 2014

Chromium nitride (CrN) nanopowders were successfully synthesized in high pressure gas-solid reaction bed with chromium hydroxide as a precursor. A special liquid-phase precipitation method was used to prepare the powders of chromium hydroxide.The aminolysis of chromium hydroxide was carried out for 2-4 hours at temperatures from 650°C to 850°C and at pressures up to 0.8MPa. The effect of the reaction pressure on the grain size and crystalline morphology of CrN powders were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The results indicate that high purity CrN powders with grain size of 40-60 nm can be obtained through the aminolysis at temperature of 650°C and pressure of 0.6MPa for 2 hours.
Structure Refinement and Dielectric Properties of Bismuth-Based Pyrochlores Containing Titanium
Authors: Zhang Bing Jie , Du Hui Ling , Zhao Cen
Published: December 2014

Bismuth-based pyrochlore dielectrics with the formula (Bi1.5Zn0.5)(Ti1.5M0.5)O7 (M = Nb, Ta and Sb) have been synthesized to investigate the influence of M between the dielectric properties and crystal structure. The XRD patterns show that all of the three samples give single phase. The refined data by GSAS program and the bond valence theory were used to analyze the differences in dielectric properties with occupation of different ions in B site. The dielectric constant of BZTS is the smallest in the BZTM, which is due to the polarizability and the contribution of BO6octahedra which has weak correlation when Sb placed into the center of the octahedra would also result in small αε. When it comes to the moderate temperature range, oxygen vacancies migration was thermally activated as the carriers mechanism, and the different activation energies is related to the association and the disassociation of massive complex defects. The Rietveld refinement data pointed that with the respectively change of B ions, more oxygen vacancies and free oxygen ions are provided by structural defects to participate in the conduction which can lead to the σ increase gradually.
Preparation of Silver Nanoparticles in Water-Alcohol Mediea
Authors: Gao Xiao Ning , Tian Dong Bo , Wang Jun Long , Hou Jie , He Yong Jun , Liang Yao Dong
Published: December 2014

Stable and uniformly dispersive silver nanoparticles were prepared though reducing silver nitrate with polyvinylpyrrolidone. The effects of preparing conditions on the stability of silver nanoparticles were investigated. The results showed that the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band of the silver nanoparticles was about 403nm. The silver nanoparticles remained stable for more than one month. Water, alkali solution and glucose could accelerate the reaction. The stability of the silver nanoparticles was increased by adding glucose.
Research on the Molten Nitrate Salt Thermal Properties Based on Solar Thermal Utilization
Authors: Yang Yang , Liu Xiang Chun , Feng Xue Li , Zhou Kai Xuan , Zuo Chen Guang
Published: December 2014

The thermal physical properties, thermal stability and corrosion resistance of the ternary nitrate salts 55%NaNO3-35% KNO3-10% LiNO3 have been studied by the thermal analysis TG-DSC, weight method and so on. The results show that the melting point of mixed molten salt is 380 °C and the maximum operating temperature is 750 °C. Compared with the binary system, this molten salt system has a higher operating temperature upper limit and a wider operating temperature range of 400 ~ 750 °C, which could meet the temperature requirement of solar power generation and be a solar high-temperature heat transfer and thermal storage medium material of better comprehensive performance.
The Study of Carbon Materials Prepared by Zhaotong Anthracite under Ultra-High Temperature
Authors: Yang Jia Qing , Lu Shu He , Hua Xiao Hu , Wang Xiao Gang , Niu Li Bin , Fan Zi Min , Wang Jia Bo
Published: December 2014

In this paper, reporting a new way to directly prepare quality of carbon materials such as artificial graphite, like-graphitization carburant and senior carbonaceous reductant et al ,which is prepared from anthracite under ultra-high temperature without any other additional process and catalyst. The chemical composition of carbon materials was analysed ; the electrical resistivity was tested; the composition of phase and the graphitization degree was tested by XRD; the microstructure was characterized by SEM and the degree of crystallization and crystal defect was characterized by the Raman diffraction spectrum. At the same time, the graphitization method was discussed during ultra-high temperature. The results show that good carburant and carbonaceous reductant can be prepared by anthracite which was graphitization under ultra-high temperature ;The microstructure of carbon materials which was prepared by anthracite that was graphitization during ultra-high temperature is more ordered than that of raw anthracite, its graphitization degree also increase significantly; When the ultra-high graphitization temperature is above 2600 °C, carbon materials which is like to pure graphite have a small amount of structural defects and distortion; the high quality carbon materials prepared by graphitization method under ultra-high temperature ,it is a simple process with low cost and high added value, and its prospects of application is broad.
Phase Transformation of Coal at High Temperature
Authors: Hua Xiao Hu , Wang Xiao Gang , Yang Jia Qing , Lu Shu He , Deng Li Rong , Niu Li Bin , Fan Zi Min , Wang Jia Bo
Published: December 2014

Anthracite and bitumite were processed respectively at 1400°C,1700°C, 2000°C, 2200°C, 2400°C and 2600°C,and their chemical composition,resistivity,microstructure, phase composition,and the internal migration of molecular functional group were tested and characterized. The results indicate that moisture, ash and volatile in coal have gradually shifted and lost with the elevation of heat treatment temperature, while the higher temperature, the quicker and completer phase change. Heat treatment can make the coal transform from approximately insulative phase to conductive phase,. Furthermore, as the temperature increases, the conductive phase transformation effect is better. The higher the heat treatment temperature of coal, the more amorphous carbon transforming into crystalline carbon completely, but the less types of phases .
New Preparation Method and Characterization of Nanosilver
Authors: Liu Xin , Wei Chang Ping , Dong Li Dan , Zhao Sheng Nan , Li Jing , Wang Feng Ming
Published: December 2014

There are many kinds of preparation methods of silver nanoparticles ,such as chemical method, physical method plant reduction method and microbial enzyme and so on. The most common method is to use chemical method for reduction. But this method needs to add some chemicals that will produce environmental pollutants. The production consumption will be increased. High quality nanometer silver needing low cost and according with environment protection needs was prepared by using homogeneous precipitation that contains no auxiliary reagent and high temperature pyrolysis in this paper. Experimental results that this method is very effective.
Electrochemical Properties Test of Vanadium Electrolyte Containing V (III) and V (IV) Ion
Authors: Liu Wei Zao , Luo Dong Mei , Li Dan , Meng Xiao Ling , Zeng Fan Bo
Published: December 2014

The electrochemical behavior of vanadium solution containing V (III) and V (IV) ion each 50% was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and chronopotentiometry with different working electrodes, temperatures, H2SO4concentrations and vanadium ion concentrations. Cyclic voltammetry analysis indicated that V(IV)/V(V) redox reaction at graphite electrode showed good electrochemical activity and reversibility while V(III)/V(II) redox reaction showed bad electrochemical activity and reversibility on Pt, glassy-carbon and graphite electrode. The cathodic peak current density of V(III)/V(II) couples increased first then remained almost unchanged as temperature raised and approached a maximum at 60°C. With H2SO4concentration elevated, the electrolyte became viscous and diffusion step was the controlling step. The electrochemical activity of electrolyte increased with ascending vanadium concentration, so did the reversibility of V(IV)/V(V) couples. However, no matter what vanadium concentration was, the reversibility of V(III)/V(II) couples stayed poor. Stirring in solution benefited to the anodic peak current density of V(IV)/V(V) couples whereas it did not to the cathodic peak current density of V(III)/V(II) couples. The diffusion coefficients of V(III),V(IV) were calculated as 1.17×10-5,0.919×10-5cm2·s-1, respectively. Chronopotentiometry test indicated that solution as anolyte showed good charging performance while solution as catholyte showed poor charging performance.
Synthesis and Properties of Carbon and Yttrium Co-Doped TiO2 Photocatalyst
Authors: Liu Jian Mei , Zhou Xing Hua , Zhu Zhong Qi , Zhang Jin , Liu Qing Ju
Published: December 2014

TiO2photocatalysts doped with different element of C and Y were synthesized by sol-gel process using glucose, yttrium nitrate and tetrabuty ltitanate as precursors. Samples characterized by XRD, XPS, TEM, PL and UV-Vis methods. The photocatalytic activity of samples was investigated by photocatalytic degradation of methylene-blue (MB) under the irradiation of fluorescent lamp. The results indicate that C ion and Y ion are incorporated into the lattice of TiO2, and C doping accelerate phase transition from anatase to rutile phase, but Y doping inhabits the phase transition. It was also found that both C and Y doping can broaden the absorption spectrum to visible light region and inhibit the recombination of the photo-generated electron and hole pairs. The synergy effect of co-doped C and Y ions provides C-Y-TiO2sample better photocatalytic activity than that of the single-doped samples and P25 under fluorescent lamp. The photocatalytic activity of the sample with C, Y co-doped is the best under the irradiation of fluorescent light. It is 94.23% within 3 hours and significantly higher than that of Degussa P25 (44.72%) under the same experimental conditions.
Effects of Cu Contamination on the Electrical Properties of Multicrystalline Silicon Purified by Directional Solidification Route
Authors: Li Jiao , Chen Xiu Hua , Ma Wen Hui , Zhang Cong , Wei Kui Xian
Published: December 2014

The multicrystalline silicon wafers purified by directional solidification route were used to introduce copper impurities. The resistivity and minority carrier lifetime of multicrystalline silicon wafers were investigated by four-point probe resistivity tester and μ-PCD, respectively. Annealing temperature, atmosphere and cooling rate were researched. It was found that copper contaminants have a greater impact on the electrical properties of multicrystalline silicon. Research results showed that copper impurities tend to exist at defect sites at high temperature, and high annealing temperature, argon atmosphere and slow cooling conditions make more impact on the electrical properties of multicrystalline silicon than low annealing temperature, air atmosphere and fast cooling.
Preparation and Properties of La and Fe Co-Doping TiO2 Photocatalyst
Authors: He Jiao Jiao , Du Hui Ling , Liu Jun , Shi Xiang , Yao Miao
Published: December 2014

Using butyl titanate as titanium source, lanthanum nitrate as a source of lanthanum, iron nitrate as an iron source, the titanium dioxide powder of lanthanum/iron single-doped and co-doped were synthesized by the sol-gel combustion method. The doped TiO2 powders were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and infrared spectroscopy (IR), and the photocatalytic activity was studied with methyl blue, methylene chloride and formaldehyde as the source of pollution. The results show that we obtain TiO2 anatase when the heat treatment temperature was 450 °C. When the amount of doped Lanthanum and iron were 0.5%, the grain size of the powder was significantly reduced and the degradation efficiency for organic pollutions was highly improved compared with pure TiO2.
Influence of Nd Doping on the Magnetic Properties of Nd2Fe14B/α-Fe Nanocomposite Magnets
Authors: Fan Xiao Dong , Tian Na , You Cai Yin
Published: December 2014

Soft magnetic alloys Fe95Nd5and Fe89.5Nd10.5were made by the mechanically ball milling to investigate the influence of Nd doping on the magnetic properties of Nd2Fe14B/α-Fe nanocomposite magnets. The coercivity was enhanced with increasing Nd of the pre-alloyed Nd-Fe soft powders. The further discussions on Nd2Fe14B/α-Fe nanocomposite were also carried out through directly mixing the pure Nd as the interface improving agent. Compared with Nd-Fe pre-alloys, the direct addition of Nd was more favorable to reinforce the coercivity of nanocomposite magnets and the squareness of demagnetization curve, thereby increasing the maximum magnetic energy product.
Visible-Light-Induced Photocatalytic Activity of Boron-Doped BiVO4
Authors: Li Dan , Shan Lian Wei , Wang Gui Lin , Dong Li Min , Li Wei , Han Zhi Dong
Published: December 2014

Boron-BiVO4 samples were synthesized by sol-gel method. They were characterized by UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction. Photocatalytic activity of the obtained BiVO4 samples was investigated through degrading methylene blue (MB). The results reveal that boron-BiVO4 catalysts have monoclinic scheelite structure. The BiVO4 and Co-BiVO4 photocatalysts were responsive to visible light. Co-BiVO4 photocatalyst showed higher photocatalytic activity than pure BiVO4, resulting in the significantly improved efficiency of degradation of MB.
Research of Citric Acid Modified Adsorption of Cr (VI) Properties of Activated Carbons
Authors: Wang Chen Li , Gu Jin Chuan , Wei Chun Mei , Bao Li Fang , Wang Rui , Zhong Sheng
Published: December 2014

Citric acid modification of activated carbon to examine citric acid concentration, temperature and time modified adsorption properties of activated carbon. The results demonstrate that with the extension of temperature and treatment time, the adsorption properties of modified activated carbon were then decreased overall trend. Better process for citric acid modified activated carbon: citric acid concentration of 50%, modified temperature is 30°C, modified time is 5h. Lagergren adsorption rate equation with primary and secondary adsorption rate equation and the average absolute deviation from the rate on the adsorption properties of these factors affects the processing; secondary adsorption kinetics model was found to better describe the various factors affecting the adsorption process under conditions.
Study on the Formaldehyde Adsorption Kinetics of Dry Waters
Authors: Wang Jun Long , Hou Jie , Jiang Ting , He Yong Jun , Liang Yao Dong
Published: December 2014

Dry waters with an average diameter of 82 μm were prepared by a high speed mixed route. The formaldehyde absorption kinetics of dry waters was investigated by simulating indoor formaldehyde pollution in glass chamber. The results showed that pseudo-second order model could be used to simulate the adsorption process; the adsorption rate was highest in the initial 60 minutes; when the adsorption lasted for 180 minutes, the adsorption reached equilibrium.
Effect on Catalytic Ability of Solid Super Acid SO42-/ZrO2-TiO2-SiO2-Al2O3 Modified by Y, La and Chitosan
Authors: Xing Xuan , Bahati Gu Li , Chen Hui Ying , Li Hua
Published: December 2014

In the present study, catalyst of SO42-/ZrO2-TiO2-SiO2-Al2O3 has been prepared by sol-gel method and doped by Y, La and Chitosan, respectively. The catalytic ability of modified catalysts for the synthesis of hexyl butyrate has been tested. It has been shown that the catalytic ability has been improved obviously after modification. Under the best experimental conditions, with Y doping 1%, La doped 1.5% and Chitosan doped 4%, the catalytic ability has been improved from 76.7% to 90.7%, 92.1% and 93.9%. Characterized by XRD, SEM and IR, it has been found that the grain sizes of catalysts are smaller which due to higher specific surface andimprove the catalytic ability. With abundant amino groups at the surface, the Chitosan doping improves the capacity of SO42- for catalysts.
A Lifetime of Metallic Nanoparticles in Heat Exchange Liquids
Authors: Stoulil Jan , Pfeifer Tomáš , Michalcová Alena , Marek Ivo
Published: December 2014

This work is focused on lifetime prediction of metallic nanoparticles in heat exchange nanofluids. Copper, nickel and iron nanoparticles were studied in 40 wt.% aqueous solution of potassium formate and propylene glycol. Materials were observed by means of mass loss exposure tests, linear polarization resistance and potentiodynamic measurements. Potassium formate solution is not suitable bearing liquid for metallic nanoparticles. Propylyne glycol seems promising, however additional corrosion prevention needs to be applied.
Non-Destructive Technique for Evaluation of Degradation on Solar Cells
Authors: Halama Maroš , Tkáč Ján , Monbaliu Ornella , Zhu Ying
Published: December 2014

Corrosion is one of the most decisive factors determining the lifetime of materials, especially of the surface layers. Monitoring corrosion rate and mapping the overall corrosion on the surface of solar cells become very important step in preventing failures in long-term atmospheric exposure. Electrochemical noise technique in no contact to the substrate setup (ENA NOCS) as non-destructive technique was used to monitor potential and current and finally calculation of noise resistance ratio Rn was determined. The technique is already successfully executed on zinc and zinc alloy coatings [1] and organic coatings [2]. In this paper, the reliability of the corrosion monitoring system in adapting the technique to measure potential and current fluctuations on silicon based photovoltaic solar cells was verified. Tests were performed and finally compared on monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon using different approaches (placement of sensor, intensity of light etc.) Graphical abstract: Non-destructive corrosion monitoring on solar cells
Corrosion Protection of Infrastructure of Power Industry
Authors: Kreislova Katerina , Geiplova Hana , Mindos Lubomir , Novakova Radka
Published: December 2014

SVUOM specialists have participated in many activities concerning corrosion failure analysis or testing the materials/coatings for corrosion protection in power industry (e.g. temporary protection of various parts of power plants, long-term corrosion behaviour of weathering steels and mild steel with hot dip galvanised coating (HDG) and paint coatings of poles, reconstruction of parts of nuclear plants, etc.). There are many materials and corrosion protective coatings used for infrastructure of power industry – the SVUOM main interest is focused to distribution network.
Influence of Anodic Oxidation on the Polarization Resistance of Ti6Al4V Alloy after Shot Peening
Authors: Pastorek Filip , Hadzima Branislav , Fintová Stanislava , Mhaede Mansour
Published: December 2014

Ti6Al4V titanium alloy is widely used for industrial and medical applications. Several techniques of surface treatment are used to improve their mechanical, fatigue or corrosion properties like shot peening or anodic oxidation. The effect of these techniques combination on corrosion resistance of the base material was examined in this study. For this purpose, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests were performed in 0.1M NaCl solution. Shot peening was carried out using ceramic balls Z850 (Φ 850 μm) at the Almen intensity of 0.13 mmA. Anodic oxidation process was performed on ground and shot peened surface in 7% H2SO4 acid solution at constant used voltage of 65 V. Significant improvement of corrosion resistance by the surface treatment of Ti6Al4V alloy by shot peening with following anodic oxidation was observed however the improvement was lower when compared to surface treated only by anodic oxidation.
The Corrosion Properties of EN AW 7075 Aluminium Alloy in Power Industry
Authors: Lacková Petra , Halama Maroš , Dragošek Lukáš , Cervová Jana , Buršák Marián , Dúl Gabriel
Published: December 2014

The study in this paper aimed on the corrosion properties of aluminium alloys used in the power industry. The corrosion characteristics were evaluated in the initial and state after severe plastic deformation of aluminium alloy AlZnMgCu. Due to the frequent interaction of fatigue failure accompanied corrosive failure (e.g. aircraft wings, turbine blades etc.) fatigue characteristics of selected alloy were evaluated. Standard corrosion characteristics such as corrosion potential, polarization resistance, corrosion rate and the corrosion products were evaluated for both states of an alloy in distilled water and SARS during exposition reaching 263 520 minutes.
BLEVE - Cases, Causes, Consequences and Prevention
Authors: Skřínská Mária , Skřínský Jan , Dolníček Petr , Lukešová Petra , Přichystalová Radka , Serafínová Christina
Published: December 2014

Corrosion is typical of the damage that occurs in ageing pressure vessels and pipelines used in industrial processes as a result of reactive products inside or harsh environmental conditions on the outside. Motivation for this article is to summarize cases, causes, consequences, and prevention in terms of models for the prediction of explosion pressure from BLEVEs. The contribution deals with real scenarios of accidents associated with transport and storage pressurized facilities with corrosive flammable chemicals. While the LPG, propane, and butane BLEVEs are well described in the literature, the information about corrosive and toxic flammable substances are rather scarce. The study presents the results of hazardous zone calculation for the event of ammonia corrosive non-flammable chemical releases. For calculations of the BLEVE overpressure, AICHE ́s Prugh ́s and Baker ́s models together with Effects 9.0.8. Rupture of vessels model were used for this study.
Numerical Analysis of TiO2/Cu2ZnSnS4  Nanostructured PV Using SCAPS-1D
Authors: Mebadi Ashkan , Houshmand Mohammad , Zandi M. Hossein , Gorji Nima E.
Published: December 2014

A nanostructured solar cells consist of a nonporous n-type TiO2 nanoparticles and a p-type semiconductor Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin film has been numerically simulated using SCAPS-1D tool. The performed theoretically analysis is compared with the experimental reported data. The band diagram, IV characteristics and quantum efficiency of this structure is considered. The benefit of both TiO2 and CZTS material leads to more than 10% conversion efficiency which is promising between the nanoparticle-based heterojunbctions proposed for PV applications.
Synthesis and Characterization of Layered Double Hydroxide-3-(4-Methoxyphenyl) Propionate Nanocomposite
Authors: Muda Zuhailimuna , Hashim Norhayati , Yusri Nur Hidayah , Md Isa Illyas , Kamari Azlan , Mohamed Azmi , Mohd Ali Noorshida
Published: December 2014

Zn/Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) intercalated by an anionic phenoxyherbicide guest, 3-(4-methoxypheny) propionate (MPP) were prepared by ion-exchange method. Power XRD and FTIR shows that the MPP phenoxyherbicide were successfully intercalated into the LDH interlayer. The basal spacing for Zn/Al layered double hydroxide-3-(4-methoxyphenyl) propionate nanocomposite (LDH-MPP) was 18.7 Å - 20.5 Å for 0.015 M, 0.025 M, and 0.050 M of MPP, respectively. Thermal analysis shows that the thermal stability of MPP was improved by the intercalation into the LDH interlayer. The results were also supported by elemental analysis and the surface morphology of this nanocomposite.
Determinants of foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasekara SD
Published: December 2014

Sri Lanka is moving towards achieving a per capita income of US$ 4,000 by 2016 and it has to maintain a growth rate around 8 per cent per year to realise the expected target. However, internal investment capability of the country is limited due to low domestic savings. Therefore, Sri Lanka has to rely on external finance such as foreign Direct Investment to achieve expected prosperity. This paper investigates the determinants of Foreign Direct Investment in Sri Lanka and evaluates the attractiveness of India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Pakistan for foreign direct investment during the period of 1975-2012. Fully modified least squares (FM-OLS) regression model was fitted to estimate the determinants of foreign direct investment. Attractiveness of the selected countries for foreign direct investment was evaluated using an index. Empirical results revealed that GDP growth rate, inflation, infrastructure quality, lending interest rate, labour force, exchange rate, and corporate income tax were significant determinants of FDI in Sri Lanka during the period of 1975 -2012. Main feature of the variables which are determinants of FDI is that they are directly associated with the cost of production of the investors. Therefore, it can be interpreted that the main motive of the foreign investors in Sri Lanka is to reduce the cost of production by improving the efficiency of operations. FDI index suggests that India and Bangladesh were more attractive for FDI inflows over Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Market seeking investors are keen on the potential large market size of India and Bangladesh over Sri Lanka. Therefore, the motive of the investors is important in evaluating determinants of foreign direct investments in a country. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jur.v2i1-2.7849 J. Univ. Ruhuna 2014 2:4-13
Effects of contaminated harbour sediment on the growth and histopathology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): A long-term study
Authors: Gunawickrama SHNP , Hettiarachchi DD , Gunawickrama KBS
Published: December 2014

Growth and histopathology of juvenile Oreochromis niloticus (L.) was studied upon continuous exposure to contaminated sediments from the maritime fisheries harbour of Galle, Sri Lanka. Sixteen week long experiment comprised of four duplicated groups of fish in freshwater (NC: negative control without sediment, C: control with unit-dose of pristine sediment, T1 with unit-dose of contaminated sediment, T2 with three unit-doses of contaminated sediment) with total renewal of water and sediment on each fourth day serially. Unit-dose of sub-lethal wet sediment was arbitrarily decided as 38ml through a series of tolerance tests. Total length and weight of fish were recorded (n=20x4 per group) initially and on completion of weeks 4, 10 and 16. Gill and liver histology was qualitatively examined using four sacrificed fish per group at termination. Results showed that harbour sediment in water significantly (p<0.05) decreased cumulative growth rates of T1 and T2 fish in terms of absolute growth rate (0.58-0.59 mm/day and 0.17g/day), relative growth rate (1.52-1.56% length gain day-1 and 0.73% weight gain day-1) and specific growth rate (0.89-0.91% day-1 in length, 2.60-2.61% day-1 in weight) as compared to C and NC groups. T1 and T2 juveniles developed toxicopathic signs in gill (lamellae-fusion, decreased inter-lamellar space) and in liver (extensive necrosis, hydropic vacuolation). Growth parameters remained similar between C and NC groups throughout the study with no histological alterations suggesting that sediment borne salinity had no differential effect across groups. This study shows that exposure to contaminated sediment from Galle fisheries harbour causes growth reduction and pathologic lesions in gills and liver of O. niloticus juveniles. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jur.v2i1-2.7850 J. Univ. Ruhuna 2014 2:14-23
An assessment of the effects of hospital wastes released to Nilwala river, Matara
Authors: Aththanyaka WKAMTS , Asanthi HB , Maithreepala RA
Published: December 2014

Wastewater from hospitals either treated or partially treated can alter water quality and biological diversity in adjacent water. This study focused to assess effects of hospital wastes discharged from the General Hospital Matara to the Nilwala River. Two sampling sites were located upstream of the entrance of wastewater while two sites were located downstream of the entrance of wastewater discharge and one site was selected at the entrance of the wastewater channel. Water, sediment and plankton samples were collected biweekly during February to April, 2012. Nitrate, phosphate, pH and Cu concentrations in water sampled from the hospital wastewater discharging canal were significantly (One-way ANOVA, p<0.05) different from the other sampling sites. However, Cu concentration in surface water did not exceed the EU limits of 0.0005-0.112mg/l for fisheries and aquatic life and similarly water pH did not exceed the maximum allowable limit (6-8.5) for fisheries and aquatic life in Sri Lanka. Mean concentration of Cu in sediment collected at the entrance of the wastewater channel was 0.75±0.05 mg/g dw. Although total coliform concentration (MPN/100ml) did not vary significantly among the sampling sites, it was relatively low (39.66±17.7) at the waste discharging canal due to the presence of disinfectants in hospital wastewater. Pediastrum simplex was the most abundant phytoplankton species at all the five sampling sites. Cladocera was the most abundant group of zooplankton in all the sites except at the entrance of wastewater discharging canal and Protozoa was the most abundant group present at the wastewater discharging canal. According to rotated matrix of Principle Component Analysis (PCA) water pH, PO4−3, NO3−, TDS, Salinity and Zooplankton abundance can be considered as important parameters at the study site of wastewater entrance (site 3). The toxicity (72h EC50) of hospital wastes on Pediastrum simplex was 0.08 Toxic Units (TU) and it was not an acute toxic effect on the alga when compared with hazard classification systems for wastes discharge into the aquatic environment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jur.v2i1-2.7852 J. Univ. Ruhuna 2014 2:33-39
Reviewers Vol.2
Authors: Yapa Kanthi KAS
Published: December 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jur.v2i1-2.7854 J. Univ. Ruhuna 2014 2:
A PRELIMINARY ANNOTATED CHECKLIST OF THE PAPILIONIDAE OF LAOS WITH NOTES ON TAXONOMY, PHENOLOGY, DISTRIBUTION AND VARIATION (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea)
Authors: Cotton A.M. , Racheli T.
Published: December 2014

63 Papilionid taxa of Laos are reported representing 60 biological species. Of these, the occurrence of Papilio elephenor is unproven, and that of Papilio krishna is refuted, leaving 58 species confirmed for Laos. Notes on their taxonomy, distribution, phenology and variation are given. The following synonymies or changes of status are herewith listed:
Graphium antiphates itamputi is regarded as a separate subspecies from pompilius stat. rev.
Papilio tamerlanus timur Ney, 1911 is a synonym of Papilio alebion mullah Alphéraky, 1897, syn. nov.
The following combinations are therefore proposed for the collective species: Graphium mullah mullah (Alphéraky, 1897) comb. nov. applies to the Sichuan population; Graphium mullah chungianus (Murayama, 1961) comb. nov., for the Taiwanese subspecies; and Graphium mullah kooichii (Morita, 1996) comb. nov. for the Lao subspecies.
The true type of Papilio arycles sphinx Fruhstorfer, 1899 is identified, and arycleoides Fruhstorfer, 1902 placed in synonymy, syn. nov.
Teinopalpus imperialis bhumipoli Nakano & Sukkit, 1985, T. i. gerritesi Nakano, 1995, T. i. gillesi Turlin, 1991, and T. i. hakkaorum Schäffler 2004 are shown to be synonyms of Teinopalpus imperialis imperatrix de Nicéville, 1899, syn. nov.
Atrophaneura varuna liziensis Zhao, 1997 is synonymized with A. varuna astorion (Westwood, 1842) syn. nov.
The names elegans Chou et al., 2000, pulcher Chou et al., 2000 and longimacula Wang & Niu, 2002 are sunk as synonyms of Papilio bianor bianor syn. nov.
Papilio bianor significans Fruhstorfer, 1902 is regarded as a valid subspecies (stat. rev.) and the ranges of Papilio bianor gladiator Fruhstorfer, [1902] and ganesa Doubleday, 1842 are clarified.
Papilio noblei de Nicéville, [1889] is shown to be monotypic, and haynei Tytler, 1926 is sunk as a synonym syn. nov.
Papilio hipponous siamensis Godfrey, 1916 is synonymized with pitmani Elwes & de Nicéville, [1887] syn. nov.
The taxon imitata Monastyrskii & Devyatkin, 2003 is considered conspecific with Papilio epycides and therefore the combination is Papilio epycides imitata stat. nov., comb. nov.
CINQUE NUOVE SPECIE DI TRECHUS DELL’ETIOPIA (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Authors: Magrini P. , Sciaky R.
Published: December 2014

Nella presente nota vengono descritte cinque nuove specie di Trechus, tutte raccolte in alta quota in Etiopia, e inquadrate nei gruppi di specie indicati da Jeannel. Tre provengono dal Massiccio del Simien (Provincia di Gondar): Trechus peynei n. sp. e Trechus loeffleri n. sp. (gruppo simienensis) e Trechus martelluccii n. sp. (gruppo sublaevis); due provengono dal Monte Batu (Mendebo, Provincia di Bale): Trechus batuensis n. sp. (gruppo bipartitus) e Trechus bastianinii n. sp., non inquadrabile al momento
in nessuno dei gruppi di specie indicati da Jeannel. Non descriviamo una sesta specie, sintopica con T. bastianinii n. sp., anche se sicuramente nuova, poichè abbiamo a disposizione solo due esemplari femmina. Tutte le nuove specie si differenziano chiaramente da tutte quelle finora descritte, per la diversità netta sia dell’edeago che della morfologia esterna, i cui caratteri e immagini descrittive sono riportati nel testo.
UN NUOVO DUVALIUS DEI MONTI MARTANI (UMBRIA) (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Authors: Magrini P. , DeGiovanni A.
Published: December 2014

Viene descritto Duvalius consortii n. sp. del Monte Martano in Umbria: anoftalmo, con habitus molto specializzato e quindi insolito per un endogeo. In base alla struttura dell’organo genitale maschile la nuova specie risulta non inquadrabile in nessuno dei gruppi di specie già noti (Magrini 1997, 1998). La forma dell’edeago, corto, tozzo e uncinato inferiormente all’apice è ben diversa da quella di tutti i Duvalius noti, mentre la lamella copulatrice si discosta nettamente da quella delle specie dell’Italia centro-meridionale, ricordando solo vagamente la forma di quella di alcuni gruppi alpini,
come Duvalius boldorii Jeannel, 1926, ma riteniamo che si tratti sicuramente solo di una convergenza evolutiva. Per questo taxon viene pertanto considerata una nuova linea filetica nella quale istituiamo un “gruppo consortii”.
SPATIAL VARIATIONS IN RARITY IN THE AEGEAN TENEBRIONID BEETLES (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Fattorini S.
Published: December 2014

Three measures of species rarity were calculated to investigate possible spatial patterns of variation in tenebrionid community rarity on the Aegean islands. For each species rarity was evaluated as geographic distribution (mean incidence of species on islands in the archipelago), ecological tolerance (total area of the islands occupied) and population density (number of decades of species’ records from 1870 to 2000). In addition, Kattan’s index of vulnerability was computed. These rarity and vulnerability measures were used to construct analogous indexes at community level. Plotting species richness on island coordinates, produced a map where richness decreased in the centre of the archipelago, reaching highest values on peripheral islands. Geographic rarity increased from the centre of the archipelago to periphery. By contrast, ecological tolerance and population density show the following pattern: islands located very close to the Anatolian mainland, as well as those that are clumped, host the most eurytopic and abundant species, while remote southern islands have ecologically specialized faunas with low population density. Vulnerability (i.e. the reverse of Kattan’s index applied to communities) decreased in remote islands, which are usually also the smallest. As a whole the tenebrionid beetles on the Aegean Islands constitute threatened faunal assemblages of great ‘rarity’ under several dimensions, and some islands are especially rich in rare species, deserving special attention in conservation efforts.
CATALOGUE OF THE STAPHYLINIDAE OF CYPRUS AND ASIA MINOR (Coleoptera) (*)
Authors: Bordoni Arnaldo
Published: December 2014

(*) 191° contribution to the knowledge of the Staphylinidae.

The catalogue includes all the species described and/or referred to Cyprus and Asia Minor until 2007 inclusive. The bibliography on the species description to that of 2001-2002 and the geonemical citations is generally available in Herman (2001) and Smetana (2002); that of the species described or mentioned in contributions appeared after 2002 can be found in the bibliography at the hend of this catalogue. Described species of Cyprus and/or Asia minor are accompanied by the following informations: type locality or list of the localitys mentioned in the description, institutions or collections where is preserved the type, whether is male or female or if you do not know the sex; if it has been designed the lectotype and the author of the designation, the distribution. Some synonymies are proposed which will be discussed elsewhere, and some general remarks on the genus Geostiba Thomson.
NEW RECORDS OF HELEOMYZIDAE FOR ITALIAN FAUNA (Diptera)
Authors: Lo Giudice Giuseppe , Rivosecchi Leo
Published: December 2014

Some faunistic records of Heleomyzidae for italian fauna are provided. Six of the species Oldenbergiella seticerca Papp, 1980, Orbellia myopiformis Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, Eccoptomera inermis Czerny, 1924, Neoleria flavicornis (Loew, 1862), Acantholeria vockerothi (Hackman, 1969), Gymnomus mariei (Séguy, 1934) and the genera Oldenbergiella and Orbellia are new for italian fauna.
IN RICORDO DI SANDRO RUFFO (26 agosto 1915 - 7 maggio 2010)
Authors: Vigna Taglianti Augusto
Published: December 2014

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