bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semantic category theory cognition and conceptual reference
Authors: St Quinton John G.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Identifying the fundamental characteristics of meaning and deriving an automated meaning‐analysis procedure for machine intelligence.

Design/methodology/approach

Semantic category theory (SCT) is an original testable scientific theory, based on readily available data: not assumptions or axioms. SCT can therefore be refuted by irreconcilable data: not opinion.

Findings

Human language involves four totally independent semantic categories (SC), each of which has its own distinctive form of “Truth”. Any sentence that assigns the characteristics of one SC to another SC involves what is termed here “Semantic Intertwine”. Semantic intertwine often lies at the core of semantic ambiguity, sophistry and paradox: problems that have plagued human reason since antiquity.

Research limitations/implications

SCT is applicable to any endeavour involving human language. Research applications are therefore somewhat extensive. For example, identifying metaphors posing as science, or natural language processing/translation, or solving disparate paradox types, as illustrated by worked examples from: The Liar Group, Sorites Inductive, Russell's Set Theoretic and Zeno's Paradoxes.

Practical implications

To interact successfully with human language, behaviour, and belief systems, as well as their own environment, intelligent machines will need to resolve the semantic component/intertwines of any sentence. Semantic category analysis (SCA), derived from SCT, and also described here, can be used to analyse any sentence or argument, however complex.

Originality/value

Both SCT and SCA are original. Whilst “category error” is an intuitive notion, the observably precise nature, number and modes of interaction of such categories have never previously been presented. With SCT/SCA the rigorous analysis of any argument, whether foisted, valid, or obfuscating, is now possible: by man or machine.
Bipolar logic and probabilistic interpretation
Authors: Oussalah Mourad
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The paper aims to answer the question “can the bipolar Negative‐Neutral‐Positive logic be extended and motivated in some probabilistic framework?”

Design/methodology/approach

Using the context of cognitive map interpretation of the conjunction and disjunction connectives in bipolar logic, three probabilistic causal reasoning have been put forward. The first one is based on the infinitesimal representation of material implication while the second one relies on the qualitative representation developed by Suppes and Cartwright. In both cases special conditions for transitivity of inference and multiple inputs scenarios are examined. The third developed approach implicitly omits the cognitive interpretation and rather relies on the idea that the causal independence structure can be substituted by some functional that combines independent inputs in such a way to force the output to be in full agreement with results expected through the conjunctive and disjunctive connectives.

Findings

The paper reports several theoretical findings regarding the different conditions ensuring the agreement and equivalence between the bipolar logic connectives and their probabilistic counterparts for each proposal. The paper also provides useful insights to link the finding to probabilistic argumentation system where pro and con arguments are considered simultaneously.

Originality/value

The paper offers theoretical basis for researchers investigating different categories of logics and contribute to the discussion linking logic to probability.
Cooperative clans
Authors: Griffiths Nathan
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To provide a mechanism for agents to form, maintain, and reason within medium‐term coalitions, called clans, based upon the notions of trust and motivation.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is based upon the notions of trust (representing an agent's assessment of another's honesty and reliability) and motivations (which represent an agent's high‐level goals). The paper describes the motivational factors that can lead to clan formation, a mechanism for agents to form a clan or join an existing clan, and subsequently how clan membership influences behaviour (in particular though sharing information and acting on behalf of other members). Finally, describes the conditions under which agents leave a clan.

Findings

The proposed mechanism shows how agents can form medium‐term clans with trusted agents based on motivations that are essentially self‐interested. It is shown how this mechanism can be used to reduce missed opportunities for cooperation, improve scalability, reduce the failure rate and allow sharing of trust information (i.e. establish a notion of reputation).

Originality/value

Proposes a new approach to coalition formation based on the notions of trust and motivation, which allows self‐interested agents to form medium‐term coalitions (called clans) to increase their own (motivational) returns.
Intelligent agents and distributed models for cooperative task support
Authors: Patel R. , Mitchell R.J. , Warwick K.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To describe some research done, as part of an EPSRC funded project, to assist engineers working together on collaborative tasks.

Design/methodology/approach

Distributed finite state modelling and agent techniques are used successfully in a new hybrid self‐organising decision making system applied to collaborative work support. For the particular application, analysis of the tasks involved has been performed and these tasks are modelled. The system then employs a novel generic agent model, where task and domain knowledge are isolated from the support system, which provides relevant information to the engineers.

Findings

The method is applied in the despatch of transmission commands within the control room of The National Grid Company Plc (NGC) – tasks are completed significantly faster when the system is utilised.

Research limitations/implications

The paper describes a generic approach and it would be interesting to investigate how well it works in other applications.

Practical implications

Although only one application has been studied, the methodology could equally be applied to a general class of cooperative work environments.

Originality/value

One key part of the work is the novel generic agent model that enables the task and domain knowledge, which are application specific, to be isolated from the support system, and hence allows the method to be applied in other domains.
Landscape classification and problem specific reasoning for genetic algorithms
Authors: Mac Giolla Bhríde F. , McGinnity T.M. , McDaid L.J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper addresses issues dealing with genetic algorithm (GA) convergence and the implications of the No Free Lunch Theorem which states that no single algorithm outperforms all others for all possible problem landscapes. In view of this, the authors propose that it is necessary for a GA to have the ability to classify the problem landscape before effective parameter adaptation may occur.

Design/methodology/approach

The new hybrid intelligent system for landscape classification is proposed. This system facilitates intelligent operator selection and parameter tuning during run time in order to achieve maximum convergence. This work introduces two adaptive crossover techniques, the runtime adaptation of crossover probability and the participation level of multiple crossover operators in order to refine the quality of the search and to regulate the trade‐off between local and global search respectively. In addition, a Rule‐Based reasoning system (RS) is presented which can be utilised to analyse the problem landscape and provide a supervisory element to a GA. This RS is capable of instigating change by utilising the analysis in order to counteract premature convergence, for various classes of problems.

Findings

Results are presented which show that the application of this Rule‐Based system and the adaptive crossover techniques proposed in this paper significantly improve performance for a suite of relatively complex test problems.

Originality/value

This work demonstrates the effectiveness of landscape classification and consequent rule‐based reasoning for GAs, particularly for problems with a difficult path to the optimal. Moreover, both adaptive crossover techniques proposed present improved performance over the traditional static parameter GA.
Business cybernetics: a provocative suggestion
Authors: Potocan Vojko , Mulej Matjaz , Kajzer Stefan
Published: January 2007

Purpose

There is a field needing both cybernetics and systems theory: business as one way to viability – “business cybernetics” might have to emerge. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

A first draft of business cybernetics (BC) notion is presented. Discusses the definition of business systems (BSs) and their need for requisite holism, our understanding of cybernetics, our understanding of the (general) systems theory and systems thinking, differences between some versions of systems theories and cybernetics, and add our draft cybernetics of BSs, finishing with BC as a case of interdependence between business practice, systems theories and cybernetics and resulting conclusions.

Findings

It was not found, although quite some literature was studied and quite some practical experience in business, both as employees and as consulting instructors was collected. It is clear that cybernetics and (general) systems theory were created at about the same time by two different groups of scientists. They both dealt with complex rather than complicated entities/features/processes and they both tried to stress relations between parts of reality, which used to be considered separately and one‐sidedly rather than (requisitely) holistically.

Research limitations/implications

Later on, their “war against a too narrow specialisation” did not end in their general victory, but rather in application of their fruitful findings inside many specialised disciplines of science and practice. This is good, but not good enough, uncovered topics remain. Business is one of them.

Originality/value

Links both cybernetics and systems to an emerging “business cybernetics” in an innovative approach.
Systemic philosophy and the philosophy of social science
Authors: Johannessen Jon‐Arild , Olaisen Johan
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To discuss systemic thinking in relation to the naturalistic position in the philosophy of social science. To develop the theme in two parts: Part I: systemic thinking and the naturalistic position; and Part II: the systemic position.

Design/methodology/approach

A cybernetic approach is taken, and a discussion on what is the foundation for the philosophy of social science for systemic thinking and the systemic position is developed.

Findings

The findings of Part I have been given. Part II analyses the systemic position and considers the classical controversy in social science between methodological individualism and methodological collectivism (holism). The pre‐condition on which the systemic position is based is given. The ideal requirements set up by the systemic position are presented under the headings: espistemology/methodology; ontology; axiology; and the ethical position.

Practical implications

Provided assistance to social scientists who study social systems from the systemic or cybernetic viewpoint and give a practical analysis of the systemic position. Provides researchers and others working in this field with an investigation of the role and conduct of social scientists.

Originality/value

It positioned systemic thinking in relation to the philosophy of social science.
To performance evaluation of distributed parallel algorithms
Authors: Hanuliak Juraj , Hanuliak Ivan
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To address the problems of high performance computing by using the networks of workstations (NOW) and to discuss the complex performance evaluation of centralised and distributed parallel algorithms.

Design/methodology/approach

Defines the role of performance and performance evaluation methods using a theoretical approach. Presents concrete parallel algorithms and tabulates the results of their performance.

Findings

Sees that a network of workstations based on powerful personal computers belongs in the future and as very cheap, flexible and perspective asynchronous parallel systems. Argues that this trend will produce dynamic growth in the parallel architectures based on the networks of workstations.

Research limitations/implication

We would like to continue these experiments in order to derive more precise and general formulae for typical used parallel algorithms from linear algebra and other application oriented parallel algorithms.

Practical implications

Describes how the use of NOW can provide a cheaper alternative to traditionally used massively parallel multiprocessors or supercomputers and shows the advantages of unifying the two disciplines that are involved.

Originality/value

Produces a new approach and exploits the parallel processing capability of NOW. Gives the concrete practical examples of the method that has been developed using experimental measuring.
Non‐defining leadership
Authors: Rowe James
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue that leadership cannot and should not be “defined” but rather considered as a process. The paper goes on to refute the notion that leadership can be defined or fully understood in management terms or associations. The paper then attempts to synthesise the construct of leadership as a system of processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper compares and contrasts management and leadership to three organisational processes; time, culture and change in order to non‐define or synthesise a system of leadership.

Findings

Leadership might be more usefully understood as a process of individual and organisational engagement with time, culture and change that differ from management's relationships with these processes. That through these engagements leadership creates organisation whilst management maintains it.

Research limitations/implications

The paper does not explore other systemic constructs that might be equally fruitful such as leadership and management in relation to entropy and negentropy.

Practical implications

The paper is attempting to demonstrate that organisations may need to create leadership in tandem with management rather than find individual leaders “defined” as able to lead.

Originality/value

The paper attempts to consider leadership as a process of interrelationships rather than a separate definable behaviour or competence.
Learning sets and topologies
Authors: Alam Choudhury Masudul , Zaman S.I.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This is an exploratory analytical paper. It aims to show how systemic learning is explained formally by evolutionary sets and topologies of ordinal values of knowledge‐flows, the knowledge‐induced socio‐scientific variables and the relational mappings in terms of knowledge‐flows and their induced socio‐scientific variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Mathematical theory of sets and topology is used to study the evolutionary impact of learning on social problems, whereby the impact can be transmitted into sets and topology for measurement.

Findings

The properties are of interaction, integration and creative evolution of the knowledge‐flows and their knowledge‐induced socio‐scientific variables and relations that are realized by circular causation interrelations. Such systemic learning emanating by circular causation relations is defined by measurable mappings over sets and topologies.

Research limitations/implications

The cybernetic nature of the paper points toward potential machine interface with cognitive measurement of learning values that are causally linked with social interaction.

Originality/value

This paper contributes a revolutionary way of measuring consciousness and learning parameters in the framework of evolutionary understanding of unity of knowledge in social systems. Evolutionary equilibrium implications of such learning are formalized by means of the method of sets and topology.
Ambiguous grammars and the chemical transactions of life
Authors: Massad E. , Rocha A.F.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This second part of a companion paper seeks to extend the theory proposed to apply the hierarchy of fuzzy formal language to cope with the three major phenomenon of life: replication, control and shuffling of genetic information.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to cope with the proposal, three new classes of FFG are proposed: replicating grammars: to formalize properties and consequences of DNA duplication; self‐controlled grammars: to provide the tools to control the grammar ambiguity and to improve adaptability, and recombinant grammars: to formalize properties and consequences of the sexual reproduction to life evolution. Considering all these facts, FFG are proposed as the key instrument to formalize the basic properties of the chemical transactions supporting life.

Findings

The formalism of the model provides a new way to analyze and interpret the findings of the different genome sequencing projects.

Originality/value

The theoretical framework developed here provides a new perspective of understanding the code of life and evolution.
Pansystems research: an internet‐like academic framework
Authors: Wu Xuemou
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an academic programme of pansystems research with a lot of new concepts, principles, methods. Universal consideration of philosophy‐mathematics‐technology is set forth with mega‐combination. The emphasis on the transfield internet‐like investigations is developed. Many theory‐methods of pansystems get further concise optimization.

Design/methodology/approach

The concrete contents of the paper include: historical megawave, philosophical stratagems, meta‐mathematics, meta‐methodology, technological realistic principles, unification and differentiation of encyclopedic branches, systems science, information theory, cybernetics, biosystems, generalized vitality, computer and IT, thinking science, logic, OR, AI, PR, DM, modernization of yinyang analysis combining dialectics, sociology, economics, meta‐relativity, generalized quantification and scale theory, general process of birth‐growth‐ageing‐disease‐death, the inheritance and development of 300 scholars' researches, etc.

Findings

All of the topics concerned with are reduced to the actualizations of PVOR – pansystems variational OR: V−d(xy)=*0*/PRR′P′/0**, which is an integrated synthesis of 20‐PanStemCells of PanConcepts and PanMethod, and embodies a specific pansystems summarization for the core of the true and the good. Furthermore, the formula “Pansystems Researches=*(PVOR/0**/Pan54787721/Everything)+*0*=*Pan–netlike connections of thoughts and methods” is expanded with concrete applications.

Originality/value

Provides information on pansystems research.
A pansystems approach to measure
Authors: Guo Dinghe , Zhou Xiaolu , Pan Jinghong , Guo Zhangbo
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To develop an overview of generalized scales based on pansystems‐relative quantification.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a discussion paper exploring the key issues surrounding generalized measures.

Findings

The concrete contents of the study include generalized measure views, dimension theory, concepts, logic, theories, Einstein's relativity, quality‐quantity‐degree, methodology of physics, theorems in pansystems mathematics and physics explained within the framework of pan‐scale transformations.

Originality/value

Provides an overview of generalized scales based on pansystems‐relative quantification.
Exchange reactions of poly‐2‐(N‐phthalimido)ethyl acrylate with hydroxy and amino compounds
Authors: Khalil A.A.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To determine the optimal general condition for the synthesis and polymerisation of 2‐(N‐phthalimido)ethyl acrylate (NPEA), as well as the exchange reactions of poly‐NPEA with aminated and hydroxylated compounds as a model compound.

Design/methodology/approach

Preparation of 2‐(N‐phthalimido)ethyl acrylate by the reaction ofN‐(2‐hydroxyethyl) phthalimide with acrylic acid and polymerisation of the resulting monomer. The exchange reactions of the resulting polymer with amines and hydroxy compounds were carried out. The structure of the resulting compounds were characterised.

Findings

NPEA was prepared by the reaction ofN‐(hydroxyethyl)phthalimide with acrylic acid. The monomer prepared was easily polymerised. The reactions of the resulting polymer with amines and hydroxy compounds were studied. In all cases, the exchange reactions were almost practically quantitative, which was confirmed by elemental analysis, IR and1HNMR spectroscopy. Also, it was clear that poly‐NPEA showed a good behaviour as a model compound for a long active polymeric‐drug.

Research limitations/implications

The new monomer described in the present investigation may be useful for the preparation of polymeric‐drug adducts. Also, similar monomeric phthalimides may be synthesised starting from a number of other hydroxy or amino acids, thus providing wider possibilities for the synthesis of pharmacologically active polymers.

Practical implications

The method for preparation of monomer is simple and the exchange reactions provide a simple and practical solution to prepare some classes of macromolecular drugs.

Originality/value

The method of preparation of polymers was novel and may be useful for preparation of polymeric‐drug adducts.
Enhancement of the dimensional stability of natural wood by impregnates
Authors: Fadl N.A. , Basta A.H.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To investigate the effects of acetylation process as a chemical treatment method to improve the dimensional stability of wood, or as a pre‐treatment step to enhance the dimensional stability of wood by impregnates.

Design/methodology/approach

Esterification of two species of wood were carried out by vapour and liquid phase acetylation processes. With the vapour phase acetylation process, wood with different acetyl contents were obtained by changing the length of time of treatment. With the liquid phase acetylation, different acetyl content were obtained by changing the acetylating mixture or by activating wood with acetic acid for different periods of time and at different temperatures prior to the acetylation processes. The acetyl content and the conditions of impregnation improving the dimensional stability were modelled and optimised. The success of acetylation process for improving the affinity of wood towards the impregnation was also demonstrated.

Findings

Vapour phase acetylation process was preferable over liquid phase acetylation for improving both water resistance and dimensional stability of wood species examined. Liquid acetylating of wood, as a pre‐treatment step enhanced the effect of impregnates, especially the linseed oil to improve relevant wood properties. The greater improvement was obtained at 3 h impregnation time and 190°C curing temperature for 1 h.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the success in improving the affinity of wood species to novolac by pre‐acetylation, increasing the curing time and curing temperature led to deterioration of the water resistance and dimensional stability.

Practical implications

Pre‐acetylation of the wood provided a practical solution to rendering the natural wood greater water resistance property using commercial impregnates.

Originality/value

The method for acetylation of wood prior to impregnation was novel and could be used for inhibiting wood against moisture absorption during storage.
Preparation and utilisation of quaternised pyrodextrins in paper making
Authors: El‐Sayed E.S.A. , Hesham M.F. , El‐Saied H.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of different levels of quaternised pyrodextrin as wet‐end and filler retention aid additives in papermaking.

Design/methodology/approach

The pulp furnishes used in this study were a mixture of bleached rice straw pulp with bleached sulphite softwood pulp at a ratio of 60:40. The beaten pulps (never dried) were treated with different grades of modified starch (Pyrodextrins). The results obtained were compared with those of several commercial polymers, such as Accostrength®86, cationic starch and polyacrylamide.

Findings

The results obtained from this study showed that addition of 0.3 percent of British Gum (BG) (Degree of Substitution at 0.058) grade pyrodextrin to the pulp slurry, especially in case of kaolin as paper filler gave the most significant improvement in paper properties as well as filler retention. The results obtained also showed that the filler retention and paper properties were better/higher for all pyrodextrins studied than those obtained from both Accostrength®86 and polyacrylamide.

Research limitations/implications

Using quaternised pyrodextrins as wet‐end additives and filler retention aids improved all mechanical properties of treated paper, except the brightness which decreased very slightly.

Practical implications

The grade of pyrodextrins used in this work could be used to improve the physical and strength properties of paper sheets.

Originality/value

Different types of pyrodextrin namely, Dexy‐84 (D‐84), Dexy‐86 (D‐86) and British Gum (BG) could be used as paper wet‐end additives and filler retention aids in paper making processing.
Toughened epoxy modified with phenol‐nonyl phenol based polymer
Authors: Behera D. , Kar S. , Banthia A.K.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To evaluate the efficiency of modifying epoxy resin using phenol‐nonyl phenol based polymer (PNPF) for toughness improvement and optimise the results of such a modification.

Design/methodology/approach

For effective toughening, various compositions were made by incorporating PNPF at different concentrations. The impact and adhesive strengths of the unmodified and modified epoxy networks were characterised.

Findings

The modification of epoxy resin using PNPF showed significant enhancement of impact and adhesive strengths over the unmodified one. The modification caused the formation of a chemical linkage between PNPF and resin which led not only to a phase separation, but also to formation of intrinsically strong chemical bonds across the PNPF phase/resin matrix interphase, which was the main cause of the improved impact and adhesive strengths. The optimum results were obtained at 10 phr (parts per 100 parts of epoxy resin) of modifier.

Research limitations/implications

The modifier, PNPF, used in the present context was synthesised from phenol, nonyl phenol and formalin using oxalic acid as catalyst.

Practical implications

The developed method provided a simple and practical solution to improving the toughness of a cured epoxy.

Originality/value

The method for enhancing toughness of a cured epoxy was novel and could find numerous applications in the surface coating and adhesive.
The improvement of dyeability of flax fibre by microwave treatment
Authors: Sun H. , Lin L. , Jiang X. , Bai X.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To develop a method based on urea/microwave treatment for improving the dyeability of the flax fibre.

Design/methodology/approach

The treatment was carried out under a variety of conditions in terms of the power of the microwave, the time of microwave treatment and the use of urea in the treatment solution. The physical chemical properties of the treated flax fibres were characterised using a variety of techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffractometry, spectrophotometric measurement and tensile measurement.

Findings

It was found that the treated flax fibres had significantly improved dyeability. The causes to the improvement of the dyeability of the flax fibre were found to be the increased absorption of dye on the fibre and the increased reaction probability between the dye and the fibre. The procedure for optimum modification appeared to be soaking the flax fabrics in 10 per cent urea solution; treating the fabrics with microwave at 350 W for 2.5 minutes; and treating the fabrics with microwave at 700 W for one minute.

Practical implications

The treatment method developed addressed a problem of great concern in textile coloration, i.e. poor dyeability of flax fibre. The method developed provided a practical and effective solution to such a problem.

Originality/value

The method of treatment of flax fibre, involving soaking in urea and baking in microwave, for the improvement of dyeability was novel. The method could be adapted for use in industrial scale flax dyeing with satisfactory levels of exhaustion and fixation.
Corrosion inhibition of steel in hydrochloric acid solution by new bipyrazole derivatives
Authors: Bouklah M. , Hammouti B. , Benkaddour M. , Attayibat A. , Radi S.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To study the effect of inhibition of new bipyrazole derivatives on the corrosion of steel in HCl media at various temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, novel corrosion inhibitors, namely bipyrazoles were synthesised and tested as corrosion inhibitors for steel in 1 M HCl. The degree of corrosion was measured using various techniques including weight loss measurements, potentiodynamic polarisation, linear polarisation resistance (Rp) and impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

Findings

It was found that 1,5,5′‐trimethyl‐1H,2′H‐3,3′‐bipyrazole (P1) gave the best inhibition effect. The inhibition efficiency increased with the concentration of P1 to attain 79 per cent at 10−3 M. Good agreement between the various methods explored was observed. Polarisation measurements also showed that P1 acted essentially as a cathodic inhibitor. The cathodic curves indicated that the reduction of proton at the steel surface was an activating mechanism. P1 adsorbed on the steel surface according to Frumkin adsorption model.

Research limitations/implications

The synthesis route offers the possibility of other pyrazolic compounds to be tested in the future.

Practical implications

The inhibitory efficiency of P1 increased with the increase of both the concentration and the temperature (in the 298‐353 K range). As such, P1 can be used in chemical cleaning and pickling processes.

Originality/value

The originality of this work is the synthesis of new inhibitors based on pyrazolic organic compounds.
Utilisation of maleic anhydride and epoxidised soyabean oil as compatibilisers for NBR/EPDM blends reinforced with modified and unmodified polypropylene fibres
Authors: El‐Sabbagh S.H. , Hussain A.I. , Abd El‐Ghaffar M.A.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To evaluate the performance of the compatibiliser of epoxidised soyabean oil‐free fatty acid prepared on the NBR/EPDM blends compared with maleic anhydride and also to explore the effect of loading the compatibiliser NBR/EPDM rubber blend with unmodified and modified polypropylene fibres on the mechanical properties of the blend.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve desirable rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of NBR/EPDM rubber blend, various compositions were made by incorporating different doses of the compatibiliser of epoxidised soyabean oil‐free fatty acid prepared and maleic anhydride to form NBR/EPDM blends. The effect of loading the compatibiliser rubber blend with unmodified and modified polypropylene fibres on the mechanical properties of the blend was investigated.

Findings

The incorporation of epoxidised soyabean oil‐free fatty acid or maleic anhydride into NBR/EPDM blend greatly enhanced their compatibility improved the rheological, as well as physical properties of rubber blends. The addition of NBR to EPDM improved the motor oil swelling resistance of EPDM. Blending of the two individual rubbers without a compatibiliser generally exhibited a non‐synergistic effect with respect to the physical properties. The strain energy, tensile strength, Young's modulus and strain at yield varied linearly with composition in the presence of compatibiliser, but deviated from linearity in the absence of compatibiliser. Reinforcement of the NBR/EPDM blend with modified polypropylene fibres enhanced the physical properties more significantly than with the unmodified ones.

Research limitations/implications

The compatibiliser of epoxidised soyabean oil was prepared by reacting in situ soyabean oil‐free fatty acid with per‐acetic acid.

Practical implications

The method developed provided a simple and practical solution to improving the rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of the NBR/EPDM rubber blend.

Originality/value

The method for enhancing rheological and physico‐mechanical properties of NBR/EPDM rubber blend loaded with modified polypropylene fibres was very important and showed a synergistic effect and could find numerous applications in the rubber and plastic industries.
Synthesis and characterisation of organotin phthalimide polymers
Authors: Khalil A.A.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To prepare and characterise organotin polymers via a new synthetic route by exchange reactions of poly‐N‐acryloyloxy‐ and poly‐N‐methacryloyloxy‐tetrabromophthalimide with hydroxy‐ and aminotri‐n‐butyltin benzoates.

Design/methodology/approach

Preparation of N‐acryloyloxytetrabromophthalimide (NATP) and N‐methacryloyloxytetrabromophthalimide (NMTP) by the reaction of N‐hydroxytetrabromo‐phthalimide with acryloyl or methacryloyl chloride. The exchange reactions of the resulting polymers with amino and hydroxytri‐n‐butyltin benzoate were carried out. The structure of the resulting compounds was characterised.

Findings

NATP and NMTP were prepared by the reaction of N‐hydroxy‐tetrabromophthalimide with acryloyl or methacryloyl chloride in the presence of TEA. The monomers prepared were easily polymerised. The exchange reactions of poly‐NATP and poly‐NMTP with amino and hydroxytri‐n‐butyltin benzoate were studied. The structure of the polymers and copolymers prepared was confirmed by tin analysis, IR and 1HNR spectroscopy.

Research limitations/implications

The new monomer described in the present investigation may be useful for the preparation of organotin polymers by a new synthetic route. Also, the organotin polymers prepared had good film properties and were suitable for film formation.

Practical implications

The method for the preparation of monomer is simple and the exchange reactions provide a simple and practical solution for preparation of some classes of organotin polymers and copolymers.

Originality/value

The method of preparation of organotin polymers was novel and may be useful for preparation of other organotin polymers and copolymers.
Photochromic properties of (E)‐dicyclopropylmethylene‐(2,5‐dimethyl‐3‐furylethylidene)‐succinic anhydride doped in epoxy polymer film
Authors: Bahajaj A.A. , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To evaluate the photochromic performance of photochromic compounds in polymer matrices.

Design/methodology/approach

The epoxy resin doped with photochromic fulgide were prepared and the effect of UV irradiation were studied using spectrophotometer. The reversible reaction was effected using white light. The effect of heat was also determined.

Findings

A film of fulgide 1‐E doped in epoxy polymer was irradiated with UV light (366 nm), the film turned pink. The later colour was switched back to the original colour when the film was irradiated with a white light. The photocoloration and photobleaching obeyed first order rate equations with rate constants being 4.19×10−3 s−1 and 2.86×10−2 s−1, respectively. It was found that the film showed a good fatigue resistance. Another film was preheated at 80°C for 1‐4 h. No change in the UV absorption spectra of the film was observed. Similarly, the photocoloration and photobleaching of the annealed film showed first order rate equations with rate constants being 8.77×10−3 s−1 and 4.02×10−2s−1, respectively. Interestingly, the photocoloration and photobleaching reactions of the annealed film were faster than those of the non‐annealed film.

Research limitations/implications

The epoxy resin doped photochromic fulgides described in the present paper was prepared and studied. The principle of study established can be applied to any type of resin or to any type of photochromic compounds.

Practical implications

The photochromic materials developed can be used for different applications, such as coatings and holography.

Originality/value

The method developed may be used to enhance the performance of photochromic materials.
The effect of starting materials and preparation process on the properties of magnesium ferrite pigment
Authors: Abdel‐Mohsen F.F. , Emira H.S.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To prepare of fine particle size magnesium ferrite pigments by sol‐gel method.

Design/methodology/approach

Different magnesium ferrite pigments with stoichiometric ratios were prepared by sol‐gel and dispersion methods. The characterisation of magnesium ferrite pigments were based on X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope, particle size distribution, thermal and magnetometric analyses.

Findings

The type of polymer and the starting inorganic materials (oxides or salts) have a significant effect on the properties of the magnesium ferrite pigments prepared.

Research limitations/implications

The magnesium ferrite pigments, prepared and used in the work reported here were synthesised from magnesium and iron oxides, oxalates and chlorides. Urea formaldehyde resin and acrylic polymer were used as the dispersing media. Various other materials, e.g. carboxymethyl cellulose, ethoxy methyl cellulose, polyvinylalcohol and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate and polyacrylamide can also be used to achieve similar effect.

Practical implications

The sol‐gel method provided a fine particle size and different particle shapes. Therefore, the method of preparation could be used to produce fibres, films and monoliths.

Originality/value

The magnesium ferrite pigments prepared could be use in numerous paints for steel protection.
Inhibition of acid corrosion of mild steel by Telfaria occidentalis extract
Authors: Oguzie E.E.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To investigate the efficacy of Telfaria occidentalis extract as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 2 M HCl and 1 M H2SO4 solutions, respectively, and to assess the effect of temperature and halide additives on the inhibition efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

Corrosion rate was monitored by careful volumetric measurement of the evolved hydrogen gas at fixed time intervals. Inhibition efficiency was determined by comparing the corrosion rates in the absence and presence of additive. Attempts were made to elucidate the inhibition mechanism from the trend of inhibition efficiency with temperature. The adsorption mode of inhibiting species in the extract was assessed by considering the influence of both acid and halide ions on inhibition efficiency.

Findings

Telfaria occidentalis extract inhibited mild steel corrosion in 2 M HCl and 1 M H2SO4 solutions. Inhibition efficiency increased with extract concentration but decreased with rise in temperature. Synergistic effects increased the efficiency of the extract in the presence of halide additives in the order KCl<KBr<KI. Protonated species in the extract composition played a vital role in the inhibiting action.

Originality/value

This paper provides new information on the inhibiting characteristics of Telfaria occidentalis extract under the specified conditions. This environmentally friendly inhibitor could find possible applications in metal surface anodising and surface coatings.
Corrosion inhibition of mild steel by Datura metel in acidic medium
Authors: Sethuraman M.G. , Bothi Raja P.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To evaluate the corrosion inhibition potential of Datura metel in acid medium on mild steel (MS) with a view to develop green corrosion inhibitors.

Design/methodology/approach

Acid extract of the D. metel was studied for its corrosion inhibitive effect by electrochemical and weight loss methods. Using weight loss measurement data, an attempt has been made to probe the mechanism of inhibitive action by fitting adsorption isotherms.

Findings

D. metel has been found to show significant corrosion inhibitive effect in acid medium on MS. Inhibition is through adsorption of the phytoconstituents on MS following Tempkin and Langmuir adsorption isotherms. The results of A.C. impedance and polarisation studies correlate well with the weight loss studies.

Originality/value

The plant has been investigated for the first time for its corrosion inhibitive effect. The effect has been studied by proven methods. This green inhibitor can find use in the inhibition of corrosion in industries where MS is used as a material of choice for the fabrication of machinery.
Heavy metal ions removal by chelating resin
Authors: Abd El‐Moniem N.M. , El‐Sourougy M.R. , Shaaban D.A.F.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Preparation of chelating resin to be used in the removal of heavy metal ions from solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Chelating resin based on poly (glycidyl‐methacrylate‐co‐N, N‐methylene‐bis‐acrylamide) containing ethylenediamine was synthesised and used in removal of heavy metals from solutions.

Findings

The optimal pH values for adsorption of different metal ions occur in the range 4.0‐10.0 depending on the metal ion used. The adsorption of metal ions increases with increasing treatment duration to reach to the equilibrium state. Also, the adsorption of metal ions depends on the degree of cross linking of the chelating resin, and a higher degree of cross linking results in a lower degree of metal ion adsorption. The chelating resin was highly effective for the collection of metal ions by batch and column methods. The metal ions adsorbed could be eluted with 2M HNO3 except Co2+ and the resin could be reused.

Research limitations/implications

The different factors affecting the metal ions (Cu2+, Co2+, Cd2+, Zn2+, Pb2+ and Hg2+) loading in resin such as pH, contact time and cross linking density were studied.

Practical implications

The practical applicability of the chelating resin for final stage of waste water treatment is recommended for use as a polishing agent.

Originality/value

The resins prepared were used successfully in removing heavy metals from water.
Application of natural materials in marine paint formulations
Authors: Tadros A.B.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Trials to develop environmentally friendly marine paints based on natural materials as replacement for copper and tin compounds for fouling and marine corrosion control.

Design/methodology/approach

Green algae, tubeworms in dead powder form and garlic were used as natural anti‐fouling components in the paints developed. Electrochemical technique was employed for testing the potential of both tubeworms and garlic in terms of inhibition of steel corrosion in seawater. Marine paint formulations containing each of the three selected natural materials were applied onto PVC and un‐primed steel surface, which were immersed in natural seawater for the assessment of their anti‐fouling and anti‐corrosion properties. The results of visual assessment and seawater analysis were also used for such an evaluation.

Findings

Tubeworms act as mixed type inhibitor while garlic affects the potential cathodic process of steel in seawater. Tubeworms‐based paint, with 25 per cent in the dry paint film, could protect steel surface from marine corrosion up to 7 months. The paints containing algae and garlic, and the corresponding algae/garlic free paints, resisted slime film formation. Steel and PVC coated surfaces with paint containing algae showed the best anti‐fouling potential within the prepared series.

Research limitations\implications

The investigation only involved the application of the dead form of green algae and tubeworms as effective pigments in the developed paints. It is recommended that further research should focus on extracting and identifying the active components in each organism against fouling and marine corrosion.

Practical implications

The paint formulations developed (containing 25 per cent by weight tubeworms in the paint film) could be used to protect un‐primed steel surface against fouling and marine corrosion for a reasonably long duration.

Originality/value

The application of one paint formulation on un‐primed steel surface for its protection from both fouling and marine corrosion is novel. The electrochemical studies of steel in natural seawater in presence of tubeworms and garlic are original.
Novel use of glycols in polyester coating compositions
Authors: Shenoy M.A. , Sabnis A. , D'Melo D.J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To study the effect of addition of free diols and triols in the coating formulation on coating properties.

Design/methodology/approach

Polyester resins were synthesised from maleic anhydride, dimerised fatty acid, neopentyl glycol and tris (2‐hydroxyethyl) isocyanurate (THEIC). Then, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, trimethylol propane and THEIC were added as reactive components to the coating formulation. These coatings were then analysed for various coating properties and compared with those obtained with the base resins.

Findings

The coatings obtained with the addition of these reactive components were found to have improved properties compared with those of the base resins except in cases where the reactive component itself contributed to a reduction in performance, e.g. reduced alkali resistance with the addition of THEIC.

Research limitations/implications

The addition of the free diols and triols required a corresponding increase in the amount of the curing agent to be added.

Practical implications

This process would allow for the tailoring of coatings to suit requirements to a certain extent without modifying the base resin. The addition of low molecular weight components in the coating formulation, which is then incorporated in coatings, could reduce the solvent requirement.

Originality/value

Although polyesters are an established polymeric system in coatings, the use of reactive diluents has not been investigated with the exception of unsaturated polyesters, whose curing chemistry is fundamentally different from that of polyesters focused on in this paper.
Adsorption and corrosion inhibitive properties of Azadirachta indica in acid solutions
Authors: Oguzie E.E.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To assess the protective effect and adsorption behaviour of Azadirachta indica extract in controlling mild steel corrosion in 1 M H2SO4 and 2 M HCl.

Design/methodology/approach

The inhibitive effect of the plant extract was monitored using the gas‐volumetric technique. The inhibition mechanism was inferred by curve fitting of the experimental data to known adsorption isotherms and the trend of inhibition efficiency with temperature.

Findings

Azadirachta indica extract effectively inhibited steel corrosion in the acid media studied by virtue of adsorption. The inhibitor adsorption characteristics were approximated by Langmuir isotherm. The extract functioned as a mixed inhibitor, depending on its concentration. The prime effect at lower concentration was mitigation of the cathodic reaction by physical adsorption of protonated species in the extract and at higher concentration the anodic reaction was inhibited by chemisorption of molecular species.

Originality/value

This paper provides novel information on the effectiveness of Azadirachta indica extract as a green corrosion inhibitor for steel in highly acidic environments as well as possible mechanisms of the inhibitive action.