bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression Of Natural Convection And Radiation Heat Losses In Solar Cavity Receivers: A Novel Approach
Authors: Bello-Ochende T.
Published: December 2019

The concentrating solar power technology has great potential to be used for energy production and it is a promising alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based energy technologies, such as coal power plants, due to the abundance of solar energy as an energy resource, as well as its minimal impact on the environment. The parabolic dish receiver assembly is one such promising concentrating solar power technology. It usually consists of a reflector in the form of a dish with a downward-facing receiver at the focus of the dish. A cavity receiver is used to maximise the absorption of the concentrated flux. However, the receiver is subjected to environmental variations, as well as changes in receiver inclination angle, which lead to heat losses that affect the overall receiver’s performance. The need for the commercialisation of economically viable parabolic dish systems necessitates further in-depth investigation into cavity receiver designs. As the cavity receiver plays a critical role in transferring solar heat to the engine, any heat loss from the cavity receiver can significantly reduce the efficiency and, consequently, the system’s cost effectiveness. It is therefore essential to assess and effectively minimise heat loss in the cavity receiver to improve the thermal performance of the system, which can contribute to the commercialisation of this type of technology. This novel approach of suppressing natural convection heat loss in a cavity receiver was investigated. The proposed model has not been observed in literature. A cavity receiver with plate fins attached to the inner aperture surface was investigated as a possible low-cost means of suppressing natural convection heat loss in a cavity receiver. Employing air as the working fluid, laminar natural convection heat transfer from the cavity receiver with plate fins attached to the inner aperture surface was investigated for a range of Rayleigh numbers, inclination angles, and fin heights and thicknesses
A Review on Some Effects of the Electrolytic Deposited Zinc Oxide Multilayered Composite Coatings on Mild Steel
Authors: Abioye O. P , Gaiya G. P , Fayomi O. S. I , Loto C. A , Musa A. J
Published: December 2019

Corrosion is a major problem in engineering because of its adverse effects involving the deterioration of materials as well as the destruction of such materials. Corrosion of mild steel causes excessive damage in terms of material loss and reduced efficiency. This imposes attention from researchers worldwide for novel literature review. This study presents a review on the effects that zinc oxide multilayered composite coatings have on the mechanical properties of mild steels. These mechanical properties include hardness, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, impact strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength. It was reported by various researchers that coating with multilayered composite of zinc oxide gave a better result as compared to coating with Zinc alone. From the literature studied, it was noticed that more work is still required to identify and use more natural products as constituents of these multilayered composite.
Distribution of Antibiotic Residues in Non-medicated Poultry Feeds by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-array Detection
Authors: Oyedeji A.O. , Msagati T.A.M. , Williams A.B. , Benson N.U.
Published: December 2019

This paper reports on the determination and distribution of antibiotic drugs in poultry feeds mainly the layers and growers mash obtained from Ogun state in Nigeria. Pulverized feed samples were initially treated with phosphate buffer adjusted to pH 7 and the analytes extracted in an SPE cartridge with ammonium hydroxide and methanol. The extract reconstituted in phosphate buffer was determined with high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC–DAD). The analytical column was an XTerra MS C18 column, (4.6 mm x 100 mm, 3.5 µm) with mobile phases consisting of ultrapure water and acetonitrile mixed with 0.1% HCOOH in gradient elution mode. Data acquisition was achieved with AgilentChemStation Version B.040.01 SP1 while the analytes were completely separated under 10 minutes with good resolution and symmetric peaks. The high correlation coefficient (R2) values (> 0.998, excluding sulfadimethoxine) indicate a good correlation between analyte concentration and peak areas. Limit of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ) was between 5.37 and 55.42 ng/g, and 17.91 and 184.74 ng/g, respectively. All the drugs exhibited high mean concentration values in the two feed types, and there was no significant difference between their means (p < 0.05). The results clearly showed that feed millers fortify their feeds with antibiotics mainly sulfonamides in varying amounts without declaring same, thus compromising security of poultry birds and human consumers.
Investigating the Microstructural Evolution and Characterization of Additive Manufactured Zn-Sn-Ti/Ti-6Al-4V Composite.
Authors: Fatoba O.S. , Akinlabi S. A. , Akinlabi E. T. , Naidoo L. C.
Published: December 2019

The investigation focused on studying how the reinforcement powders and titanium alloy substrate were influenced by the volumetric energy which was absorbed. The only processing parameters which were varied was the laser intensity and the scanning speed, which were employed to design the direct laser metal deposition (DLMD) single- and multi-tracks. Laser surface modification techniques has unique benefits and properties compared to other conventional techniques. These techniques have process factors that affect directly the microstructure of materials which in turn influence the materials properties. The results revealed dense microstructure in the fabricated coatings in terms of the microstructural evolution, the sizes of the different grains, the structure of the phases formed and the orientation. The modified surface layer of the additively manufactured coating had improved and had a fine microstructure. Optimizing the DLMD processing conditions resulted in a crack-free surface layer but still promoted a few population of gas defects. The micro-hardness measured in the 5Zn-10Sn-Ti coating at 900 W and scan speed of 1.0 m/min was approximated to be 637 HV at all processing conditions employed, and with respect to the hardness of the substrate, there was a 51.33% increase from 310 HV. But increase of 57.2% was noted at 900 W, 1.0 m/min for 5Zn-10Sn-Ti coating. There was enhancement in the results of the micro-hardness tests conducted and this was due to the resulting microstructural evolution. Homogeneous and dense microstructures was accountable for the micro-hardness performance measured.
Investigation of Household Refrigerator System with Varied Capillary Tube Length
Authors: Madyira D. M. , Marangwanda G.T. , Ekundayo F.M. , Babarinde T. O. , Akinlabi S.A.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, the performance of R600a was investigated in a household refrigerator originally designed to work with R134a using varied capillary tube length (1.0, 1.15, 1.30 and 1.45 m). The refrigerator was instrumented with four thermocouples at the inlet and outlet of the major components. Also, two pressure gauges were connected to the compressor to measure the suction and discharge of the compressor. The experimental results were used to evaluate the performance of the system. The results showed that at optimal capillary tube length the COP and cooling capacity of R600a in the system increased with 45% and 4.2% respectively and the power consumption reduced with 25% using 1.30 m varied capillary tube length compared to R134a. Conclusively, R600a can serve as a retrofit in the household refrigerator systems originally designed to work with R134a refrigerant.
Characterization of Medical Wastes from selected Hospitals in Umuahia, Nigeria
Authors: Ugwu E. I. , Ekeleme A.C. , Okolie S. T. A. , Ibe O. P. , Chieke C. F. , Ibearugbulem H. O. , Omeje M. , Ede A N , Awoyera P.O , Ugwu E.C.
Published: December 2019

Medical wastes are classified as special types of wastes owing to their non-biodegradability. Inadequate medical waste management has been identified as a problem that needs urgent attention in developing countries, especially Nigeria. This study was aimed at estimating the status of medical waste management in Umuahia, southeast Nigeria and making recommendations, which will go a long way in curbing the menace of environmental pollution. The medical facilities studied include Government hospitals, private hospitals and primary health centres/maternity; categories A, B, C respectively. A descriptive study was carried out between February to July 2016, and it involved the use of personal interviews, on-site investigations as well as questionnaires, which were administered to health workers as respondents using multistage sampling. Inventory of medical wastes was taken daily, and the data analysis was carried out with the aid of statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). Results showed that the total quantity of medical wastes generated was found to be 59.811 kg/ward/day, 32.53 kg / ward/day and 31.53 kg/ward/day for categories A, B and C medical facilities respectively. Results also showed that category C lack training on handling while 75% and 50% of A and B respectively conducted training on handling waste. The percentage of adequate knowledge of waste segregation obtained from category A, B and C are 85.7%, 33.3% and 0% respectively. The findings further showed that 57.1% and 28.6% of large and medium hospitals respectively use colour-code for disposal while small hospitals do not. The results obtained indicated low compliance with medical waste management standards. Thus, recommendations are made for pre-service training of health professionals as well as waste handlers, in order to ensure adequate compliance with environmental laws and policies.
Determination of a sustainable concrete floor and ramp for automotive lube bay shed in Nigeria
Authors: Fakehinde Olutola , Ozuor Onyisi , Bamidele Oyeleye , Oluyori Adeoye , Ibrahim Amoo , Aikhuele Daniel , Sunday Isaac Fayomi Ojo
Published: December 2019

Structural construction of concrete floors and ramps by unskillful personnel that allows undesirable substances that affect the quality of concrete, inappropriate concrete mix that determines the right blend for compressive strength, workability, durability, and chemical resistance have been identified as the reason for collapse of structures. The results show that most failures can be attributed to poor design and workmanship that could have been avoided by careful attention to the factors that makes a quality installation. This project is out to select concrete grade based on functional strength specification and material availability, not only on mix ratio, and in tandem with the technological manufacture or repair of automobiles, and for practical experience. The selection of functional concrete grade results to better mass concreting, compaction, curing and process optimization.
The use of rice husk ash as admixture in producing self-compacting concrete
Authors: Olowofoyeku Adeoye , Ofuyatan Olatokunbo , Adekunle Ajao
Published: December 2019

Admixtures are incorporated into concrete in today’s world in order to achieve variety of goals. This research study the use of rice husk ash as an admixture in producing self-compacting concrete. The rice husk ash is varied in different percentages (5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30%) as partial replacement for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) to know if it improves the properties of fresh and hardened properties of the self-compacting concrete. The superplasticizer used was conplast SP 430 and the water cement ratio 0.35 was kept constant throughout all mix. Rice husk ash is a good super-pozzolan which is used to make special concrete mixes, in which the slump Flow, T50cm slump, V-funnel and the L-box test was used to test for the workability of the fresh concrete mix and the compressive strength of each mix was tested to know the specific strength of each self-compacting mix with varying percentage of rice husk ash at 7, 14 and 28 days of curing.
Wastage amidst shortage: Strategies for the mitigation of standby electricity in residential sector in Nigeria
Authors: Olatunji Obafemi O. , Akinlabi Stephen A. , Madushele N. , Adedeji Paul A. , Ishola Felix , Ayo Olayinka O.
Published: December 2019

Due to rising population and the increasing rate of urbanization, residential electricity usage accounts for a large chunk of Nigeria’s electricity consumption. However, little attention is paid to electricity conservation in the country. In response to this, several studies are been tailored to ensure a rapid reduction in energy consumption through various alternatives including energy efficient technologies given the current state of inadequate electricity supply in the country. On this note, this article discusses the significance of standby electricity in Nigeria. The electricity generation and consumption patterns were briefly discussed while the current electricity saving behaviour and practices among the urban dwellers were detailed with a case study analysed. Based on the case study, it was discovered that the mean standby load across the 30 households were estimated at 60 W ranging from 34-144 W. Also, standby consumption accounts for 13-44% of the annual electricity consumption across the households. Finally, the strategies for electricity saving and sustainable consumption, most especially the mitigation of standby electricity were highlighted.
Techno-Economic Study of Final Year Projects: A Case Study of Mechanical Engineering Department in one of The Top Universities in Africa
Authors: Bolu C. A , Bassey E. E , Abioye A. A , Azeta J
Published: December 2019

The Africa Union Agenda and United Nation Sustainable Development Goals array a focal scope on various issues for the flourishing of the planet and all life therein. These aspirations and goals mirror the ambitions of Africans for flourishing and prosperity, for a continent of free nationals and extended horizons, for solidarity and integration coupled with freedom from conflict and enhanced human security. Although the timeline for achievement of these goals and aspirations grows shorter; there have been reports that the undergraduates’ final year projects in most of Africa’s universities are not proffering relevant solutions to different national problems. This paper studies completed final year projects of undergraduates in the Department of Mechanical Engineering in one of the top-rated universities in Africa, over the period of seven sessions. The projects over these periods were classified using some parameters such as United Nation Development Agenda, Africa Union Agenda and Scopus Classification System for projects. A database of the classified projects was designed and developed; which was subsequently analyzed utilising the Statistical Analysis Software to determine different prescribed parameters. Based on the results, the field of Corrosion in the Department had the highest number of projects during this period.
Review of the Development of Biodegradable Plastic from Synthetic Polymers and Selected Synthesized Nanoparticle Starches
Authors: Abioye A. A , Fasanmi O. O , Rotimi D. O , Abioye O. P , Obuekwe C. C , Afolalu S. A , Okokpujie I. P
Published: December 2019

Plastics which are made from polyethylene, due to their remarkable physical properties are among the most widely used materials in the world today with applications ranging from agriculture to food packaging and domestic uses. However, their remarkable properties are counteracted by the fact that they are not biodegradable and result in water and land pollution which are on a steady increase annually, amongst other forms of pollution. This has consequently resulted in the development of plastics which are biodegradable and at the same time are able to compete with the generic LDPE-based plastics in terms of strength and durability. This review focuses on the various results and progressions made towards developing a biodegradable plastic from a synthetic base polymer such as Low-Density Polyethylene, Polycaprolactone or Polylactic Acid by dispersing synthesized selected nanoparticle starches into the matrix of the polymer.
Spatial Design and Aural Experience in Music Schools in Lagos State
Authors: Orimoloye M.T , Oluwatayo A.A
Published: December 2019

Sound has the ability to affect people psychologically, physiologically, behaviourally and cognitively, either negatively or positively, at all times and in all places. Architecture plays a key role in shaping sound, and in defining a certain soundscape. Architectural discourse is often dominated by visual design while the aural architecture becomes a result of the visual decisions, despite that all five senses are important to the experience of a space. Designing our soundscapes, both inside and out, is essential to creating environments which are conducive to their intended function, and do not negatively affecting inhabitants. The aim of this paper is to investigate the relationship between design strategies commonly adopted in existing music schools in Lagos State and the aural architecture it creates. In order to do this, this study has used existing literature, information from case studies and also data from the users of the existing music schools to identify the current design strategies in the music schools and how they affect the aural experience of the users. Findings show that the design strategies adopted had significant relationships with the aural architecture of the spaces, the most prominent design strategy adopted was the rectangular geometry and very little aural architecture strategies were adopted. With this understanding a tuned aural architecture design is proposed, exploring material and design manipulations, which help to create a more beneficial and enriching environment.
A model for efficient consumption of electricity in residential buildings
Authors: Olatunji Obafemi O. , Olayinka Ayo O , Akinlabi Stephen A. , Ishola Felix , Madushele N. , Adedeji Paul A.
Published: December 2019

This paper reviews various applications of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and proposes electricity-saving power switch enhancement model to control the operation of electrical appliances in residential buildings using radio frequency identification (RFID) system. Estimation was made on the consumption of electricity in a private apartment in Pretoria, Gauteng Province, South Africa and compared with when the RFID card-reader system is deployed. The percentage energy saving in a year was calculated to be approximately 29 %. The possible energy savings for a period of 30years is estimated and the return on investment (ROI) determined. The authors concluded by making a case for a state policy on RFID energy efficiency technology.
Assessment of Biophilic Design Patterns on Skill Development, In Minna, Niger State
Authors: Akande Q. O , Aduwo E. B
Published: December 2019

As an interactive sustainable alternative to existing sustainable design practices, biophilic design struggles to promote the possibility of merging the built and natural environment. The study is aimed at assessing the extent to which biophilic design patterns influences skill development in order to suggest interactive sustainable alternatives. The study adopted a mixed method of research. Qualitative data were obtained via the review of relevant literature while quantitative data were obtained via the use of a structured questionnaire administered to 32 respondents in the study population. The respondents were selected from the users of purpose-built skill acquisition and development spaces in Minna, Niger state, to determine the level of satisfaction with the implementation of these patterns and considerations in skill acquisition and development space. The quantitative data was analysed with the use of statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) and the results presented descriptively with the use of tables. The findings suggest that most users were satisfied with patterns from nature in space patterns and natural analogue patterns relating to direct and indirect connection with natural systems.
Influence of Processing Parameters on the Microhardness Property of Laser Cladded Titanium Powder
Authors: Aladesanmi V.I. , Fatoba S.O. , Akinlabi E.T.
Published: December 2019

Laser cladding techniques of additive manufacturing has been globally embraced in the most efficient means of maintenance of steel rail. Nano-composite of titanium has been used as covering layer. The processing parameters of the laser power was varied between 1.0 kW and 2.0 kW while the scanning speed, powder and gas flow rate were kept at constant. Design expert 11 software environment was used to analyze the results derived with a full factorial experiment design guide. The microhardness profiling was performed at a load of 500 g and at a dwelling time of 15 s with the microhardness indenter 20 μm distance was maintained between indentations. An almost uniform weight of Titanium powder was cladded at different variation of processing parameters. A predictive microhardness equation was generated and termss runs intercept of an orthogonal shape. The model terms were found to be significant with logical relationships. It was found that the microhardness increases as the laser power increased.
Experimental Performance of the Energetic Characteristics of a Domestic Refrigerator with Al2O3 Nanolubricant and LPG Refrigerant
Authors: Onakade M. A. , Adelekan D. S. , Ohunakin O. S. , Atiba O. E. , Gill J. , Atayero A. A.
Published: December 2019

This paper studies the experimental performance of the energetic characteristics of a slightly modified domestic refrigerator infused with nano-lubricant containing different concentrations of Al2O3 (at 0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 g/L) with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) charge of 40g. Parameters investigated were power consumption, cooling capacity, coefficient of performance (COP), discharge temperature, volumetric refrigerating capacity (VRC) and pressure ratio. The findings showed that when the nano-based lubricants were compared with pure oil, the power at 0.6g/L concentration, gave the best performance of 67.01W, at different time over 180 minutes’ periods. The discharge pressure of the system when compared to pure-oil at 0.6g/L concentrations exhibited acceptable value of 616. 33kPa. For the cabinet temperature, it was seen that the 0.6g/L had the lowest recorded temperature of -8.7°C after 180 minutes. With the coefficient of performance, the 0.2g/L concentration had the highest average performance of 2.239 at 180 minutes. The highest average performance of 174.225 kW over 180 minutes was found as the refrigerating capacity at 02.g/L concentration. The nano-lubricant can be concluded to work safely in the refrigerator but better optimization in nano-application will still be needed for better results.
Electrochemical evaluation of the corrosion inhibition effect of essential oil extracts on mild steel in acidic environments
Authors: Loto Roland T. , Olukeye Tiwa , Okorie Eugene
Published: December 2019

The corrosion inhibition property of the combined admixture of neem leaf and basil oil extracts (NB) on mild steel in in 1M H2SO4 and HCl solution was studied with weight loss measurement, potentiodynamic polarization and optical microscopy analysis. Results shows NB performed effectively at all concentration studied in HCl solution with average inhibition efficiency above 94% and 91% (weight loss and polarization test) whereas the compound performed poorly in H2SO4 solution at all concentrations (excluding highest concentration, 2.5%) with average inhibition efficiency of 17% and 31%. At 2.5% concentration in H2SO4, the inhibition efficiency is 98.34% and 85.36%. NB exhibited mixed type inhibition property from the polarization plots. This observation was further confirmed from optical characterization of the steel surfaces where the morphology of the inhibited steel was relatively smooth while the non-inhibited morphology was badly corroded with visible corrosion pits.
Universal Design Of Selected Secondary Schools In Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria: Students’ Perception Of Accessibility Provisions In Meeting Their Needs
Authors: Sholanke A. B , Opoko A. P , Akpan O. S , Adigun T. F
Published: December 2019

A building or environment is usually expected to be designed to meet the accessibility and usability needs of its potential user, which include both able-bodied persons and physically challenged. Universal design (UD) is a development strategy for planning and developing buildings and environments to be easily comprehended, accessible and usable to the highest degree possible by all individuals regardless of their age, size, ability or inability. It is however observed that the physically challenged are often sidelined with inadequate or inappropriate accessibility provisions in public environments, including schools in Nigeria. To this end, the study examined the effectiveness of accessibility provisions in meeting users’ needs in selected secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, with a view to making contributions on how to improve access to use such environments for users, irrespective of their mobility status in conformity with the ambition of UD ideology. The study was conducted in other to identify areas for further improvements based on users’ perception, towards enhancing social inclusion in academic environments in Nigeria. The study was designed as a cross sectional survey research that spans across three selected secondary schools in the study area. The study employed quantitative research methods, using structured questionnaire to gather data from a sample size of 136 students across the three secondary schools. The data was analysed with the 2016 version of Microsoft Excel software. Descriptive approach with the use of tables was used to present the findings. The result indicates that the only accessibility provisions considered not effective in meeting users’ needs are ramps. Among the key recommendations of the study is for locations where ramps are necessary, but not provided for in the schools, to be retrofitted with accessible ramps for the benefit of physically challenged users, towards improving social inclusion in the schools. The outcome of the study will be useful for providing direction to building professionals and policy makers towards making adequate and appropriate provisions for accessibility components that are effective for encouraging social inclusion in the development of educational environments.
Effect of Superplasticizer on Workability and Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete
Authors: Olowofoyeku A.M. , Ofuyatan O.M. , Oluwafemi J. , Ajao A. , David O.
Published: December 2019

From recent issues of stability, particle suspension, particle segregation, flow characteristics and cohesiveness in concrete, Superplasticizer has played an important role in this part. This research examined the effect of superplasticizer on workability and properties of self-compacting concrete (SCC). Three types of superplasticizers Conplast SP 561, Conplast SP 430 and Conplast SP 264 at different percentages (0, 10, 20 and 30%) with the same water cement ratio of 0.3, with M30 grade of concrete. The workability slump, v-funnel and l-box the test carried out on fresh concrete. Compressive strength test was carried out on the hardened concrete. All mix were satisfactory but the mix with conplast SP 430 had better workability and strength.
Insurance Receivables and Economic Growth: The Case of Nigeria
Authors: Nwani A.T. , Omankhanlen A. E.
Published: December 2019

The study was undertaken to establish the impact of insurance receivables on economic growth using life premium, non-life premium and insurance investment as the proxy for insurance receivables. The insurance industry is one which has strived in the face of economic crisis and is still striving to grow, with so many claims to settle, the insurance industry tends to invest their premium from life and non-life insurance policies so to offset claims, gain income and also contribute to the economy. This study hence conducted a research to know the extent to which these premiums and investment have impacted on the Nigerian economic growth. The study used the panel data between the periods of 2008-2017 among six insurance companies. The panel OLS was used to analyze the data and the hausman test was used to adopt the random effect result used to interpret the data. The result of the study showed that the life premium was positively insignificant to economic growth; the non-life premium was negatively insignificant to economic growth while the insurance investment was positively insignificant. This insinuates that the insurance industry has very little impact on the Nigerian economic growth. Further studies should be carried out by increasing the number of years for the data, the number of insurance companies and more variables can be added.
Design of a fluorescent tube antenna with defined copper wire coupling specifications
Authors: Alalade A M , Ndujiuba C , Adewale A A , Ekong E E , Etta M N
Published: December 2019

In this paper, the performance of a fluorescent tube antenna is analyzed with respect to the dimensions of copper wire utilized in RF coupling. The fluorescent tube antenna in the study is implemented using a 58.5cm long fluorescent tube with a diameter of 2.7cm and four different copper wires with provided dimensions, wound at specific chosen lengths. RF signals are generated and output power measured using a Handheld RF Signal generator and Spectrum Analyzer respectively. The performance index used to evaluate the improved functionality of the design presented is the Received Signal Strength (RSS) and the gain. A peak RSS value of -34 dBm is obtained using a 1mm thick copper wire wound at 50cm of the fluorescent tube length and the gain of the antenna is 14.37 dBi derived with the Friis Transmission Equation. Research findings are presented and compared to previous similarly conducted studies, and seen to perform favorably better.
Synthesis of biomedical Ti-25Ni-15Si-10HA alloy by mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering
Authors: Bains P. S. , Mohal S. , Gill J. , Ohunakin O.S. , Adelekan D.S.
Published: December 2019

In this research approach, a β-phase titanium alloy was produced successfully employing mechanical alloying and consolidated with spark plasma sintering (SPS) process. Herein, Ni, Si and HA powders with varied weight percentage were used to fabricate the Ti alloy. The influence of HA addition on microstructure of the alloy was assessed using optical microscopy route and further amplified using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The elemental composition and phase of Ti-alloy was investigated using x-ray diffractometer. Vicker hardness (HV) tester was employed to estimate the micro hardness of the specimen surface. During the FESEM analysis, it was observed that within the sintering process, alloy exhibits complex reactions with HA, which leads to the progress of bioactive compounds (CaO, TiO2, Ca3 (PO4)2, Ti2Ni, CaTiO3 and CaTiSiO5) enhancing the bioactivity of the Ti alloy. The fabricated Ti alloy (Ti-25Ni-15Si-10HA) exhibited superior microhardness (∼458HV) at 900°C, comparative to the other alloys of the native category. Based upon the current investigation, Ti-25Ni-15Si-10HA alloy could find applications as bioimplants in dental and orthopedic areas.
Mitigating Biodiversity Destruction of Infrastructural Projects through Environmental Impacts Assessment
Authors: Ugwu E.I. , Ekeleme A.C. , Okolie S.T.A. , Ibe O.P. , Chieke C.F. , Ibearugbulem H.O. , Omeje M. , Awoyera P.O. , Ede A.N.
Published: December 2019

The geometric rate of biodiversity loss in developing countries like igeria has been identified as a problem of major concern. The loss in biodiversity in modern times is evident in the extinction of many plants and animal species. In developing countries like Nigeria, more attention is given to aesthetics, functionality as well as the cost of proposed projects than the Environmental Impacts of the projects. During construction and rehabilitation of infrastructural projects, biodiversity is destroyed. Thus, this study was aimed at exploring the various ways by which infrastructural projects affect biodiversity, with a view to proffering ways of its restoration. The negative effects of infrastructural projects on biodiversity can be reduced through Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). This will help in averting the detrimental effects on natural resources. In situations, where natural habitat loss is unavoidable, adequate mitigation measures such as provision of strict protection zones along the proposed projects should be adopted. In order to meet the Sustainable Development Goal, EIA should be carried out before projects that may have a negative impact on the environment are constructed.
Anti-mycobacterial and GC-MS Studies of Irvingia gabonensis Baill Ex. Lanen Stem Extracts
Authors: Olanrewaju I. O. , Mordi R. C. , Echeme J. O. , Owoeye T. F. , Ejilude O. , Aruwajoye A. O.
Published: December 2019

Irvingia gabonensis baill ex. lanen (Bush mango) is an ethno-medicinal plant that has been used for traditional therapeutic purposes. With the increasing rate of drug resistance to various diseases in the society today, there is the need for alternative sources of drugs for the treatment of such disease. The Bush mango plant presents a potential candidate for such drugs discovery. Extracts from the plant stem were derived by cold maceration separately in methanol (MeOH) and Dichloromethane (DCM) for a period of 7 days. Phyto-constituents were also identified in extracts of stems by using hyphenated mass spectrometer and chromatographic technique, the Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometer (GC/MS) while the functional group of such phyto-constituents were identified with the aid of Nicolet 5700 Fourier Transform– Infra-Red spectrometer. Anti-tubercular screening was performed on extracts against clinically isolated drug-susceptible strains (DS-MTB-1 - DS-MTB-5), drug resistant strains (DR-MTB-1, DR-MTB-2) and a standard tubercular strain, H37Rv. This was controlled with drug standards, rifampicin and levofloxacin. Extracts revealed the presence of phyto-constituents such as saponins, tannin, alkaloids and phenol. It was observed that both extracts recorded high % alkaloid content at 10.37±0.02. Also, identified by FTIR as the principal part of the extracts are hydrocarbon groups such as carboxylic acid (1042), while the presence of the volatile components such as 9-Oxabicyclo [6.1.0] nonane (C8H14O) and 1-Chlorobutatriene (C4H3C) were reported by GC-MS. Extracts exhibited significant anti-tubercular activity against all organisms. Therefore, this study promotes the use of Irvingia gabonensis baill ex. lanen for phytotherapeutics purposes.
A reliable strategy for slug flow attenuation in pipeline-riser systems
Authors: Ehinmowo Adegboyega B , Evwierhoma E.T , Aliyu Aliyu M. , Baba Yahaya D.
Published: December 2019

Oil and gas activities across the globe now take place deep offshore. To operate in this harsh environment, there are numerous challenges. These can be in the form of high cost of production, space constraints, operational and technological demands. The co-transportation of oil and gas in same pipeline is one of the operational and technological approaches adopted in the industry to meet the transportation of produced crude. This approach comes with its attendant flow assurance difficulties. Slugging is one of such problems which can constitute operational hitches resulting in production reduction and sometimes eventual plant shutdown. Existing attenuation techniques are limited in various ways. Therefore, seeking a reliable solution to this problem is highly desired.In this study, an experimental study of multiple techniques for slug attenuation was attempted. A passive device-the intermittent slug absorber, topside choking and topside separator were investigated. The results show that a combination of the methods proves to be more effective compared to individual techniques. A significant reduction in riser- base pressure of up to 39% was achieved. This is advantageous and translates to an increase in oil recovery. Thus, the proposed strategy helps to achieve system stability and improved production at a lower cost.
Experimental Study on the Use of Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and River Sand in Roof Tile Production
Authors: Bamigboye G. O. , Ngene B. U. , Ademola D. , Jolayemi J. K.
Published: December 2019

This study deals with the effects of using Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and river sand in roof tile production. This work is based on experimental study of roof tiles produced with river sand and recycled PET in varying proportion of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60% and 100% of PET combined with the corresponding fine aggregate percentage. The PET plastics used were derived from waste plastic bottles for soft drinks. The shredded plastic was subjected to heat and ensured that it does not lose it’s plasticity. The tests which were performed to evaluate the physical and mechanical performance of this material were sieve analysis, specific gravity, water absorption, density and compressive strength. The results show that recycled PET replacement gives better results for 40 and 50% of plastic composite tile than Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) at 28 days. In conclusion, the plastic composite tiles have both good strength and absorptive property for roof tiling.
Construction and Study a Regression Model of Construction Accuracy of Dynamic Characteristics of Magnetization
Authors: Lankin A , Lankin I , Grechikhin V
Published: December 2019

The purpose of the research is to build a regression model of the approximation error dynamic characteristic of magnetization, where we take the maximum total error as the dependent variable, the degree of the polynomial and the number of points as independent. This model will optimize, in terms of accuracy, the choice of the number of points of the dynamic characteristic of magnetization and the degree of approximating polynomial. This model was obtained using the software Statistica, which allows for factor experiments to obtain and further analyze the regression models of synergetic systems. Synergetic systems are complex open non-equilibrium self-organizing systems that are capable of responding to external influence by self-organizing structures.
Study of Sensing Unit of Bionic Robotic Arm Based on Regression Model in Software Package Statistica
Authors: Lankin A , Lankin I , Grechikhin V
Published: December 2019

Nowadays, more and more automation tools are used in production and in industry. An important development of this direction are the elements of bionics, which allow replacing human labor with robotic devices. Despite the fact that robots are used in many places, their functionality is limited to small flexibility. It is proposed to use a bionic robotic arm, imitating a human hand and allowing you to feel the force of compression. Such a robotic mechanism will allow replacing human labor in the places where a greater accuracy is required and ordinary robotic arms are not acceptable. This manipulator will allow one operator to control two machines at the same time (earlier, when all operations were performed manually, this was not possible), which significantly reduces costs. In the paper a scheme of such a bionic robotic arm was developed and studied.
The quality monitoring of outdoor lightning using IoT technologies
Authors: Bachurin A A , Jamous N , Slivnitsin P A
Published: December 2019

This paper discusses the various aspects of the instrumental quality monitoring of city outdoor lighting using IoT technologies on the example of the central area of Perm city, such as selection of the monitored parameter and its measurement methods, methods of processing measured data, the applicability of the results of measurements for various applications using Big Data.
Techniquesof Oil Well Equipment Diagnostics Using Dynamomemter Card
Authors: Shmidt I A
Published: December 2019

Currently, the most widely used equipment to oil extraction is a sucker rod pump. More than 70% of oil wells are equipped with this mechanism. The advantages a sucker rod pump are usage simplicity and high efficiency, but the main drawback is difficulties with diagnostics and repairing. So providing continuous operation of oil well equipment is the key issue in oil well maintain process. Nowadays, the most efficient method of oil well equipment diagnostics is building and an analysis of dynamometer card, namely dependency of load on rod string on polished rod displacement. This diagnostic method is widely used due to simplicity of its implementation, as well as clarity and easy interpretation of the results. If there are any problems in sucker rod pump operation, shape of dynamometer card changes. Moreover each specific fault in operation has unique characteristic shape of dynamometer card. In this article author proposes techniques overview of oil well equipment diagnostic using dynamometer card, the use of which is a big step in “Industry 4.0” model implementation in the oil production field.
A modern way of outdoor lighting maintenance
Authors: Slivnitsin P A , Bachurin A A
Published: December 2019

This paper considers the existing method of outdoor lighting maintenance, its disadvantages and advantages of well-known modern, but not used methods. Modern service methods using a new connector are introduced. The requirements for the connector are defined, its structural and parametric synthesis is made and for this an integrated digital model is developed. The economic justification for using the new service method is presented.
Designing the wiring harnesses of the carrier vehicle
Authors: Nizamov R , Fedorov E , Ferenets A
Published: December 2019

This article is about designing the wiring harnesses of lorry. To solve the problem of forming a configuration bundles the previously developed algorithm was used.
Alternative diagnostic parameter for vehicle lighting products
Authors: Piontkovskaia S , Nizamov R , Nizamova R , Ferenets A
Published: December 2019

The article is devoted to the justification of the use of the parameters of the transition thermal process in the technical diagnosis of vehicle lighting products.
Semi-natural simulation system of a sucker-rod pump
Authors: Solodkiy E M , Efimov N A , Dadenkov D A , Yudin R Y
Published: December 2019

This article describes the development of a semi-natural torque load simulation system on an induction motor shaft that simulates the operation of a sucker-rod pump (SRP). For semi-natural simulation, a laboratory bench with an induction motor (IM) and direct current motor located on the same shaft is used. The four-link mechanism kinematic scheme of a sucker-rod pump and the implementation of software modules for calculating load torque are presented. The main results of simulation tests are given.
Iterative Procedural Internet Search
Authors: Trusov A , Gashkov A
Published: December 2019

The present study investigates the problem of sorting search result by relevance. The new algorithm based on iterative procedural Internet search is developed. The aim of the study was to improve the existing algorithm. Results show that applying the improved algorithm approximately doubles Normalized Discounted Cumulative Gain at k and therefore greatly decrease average time to find relevant documents in search results list.
Isolation of inulin oligomer from white yam tuber (Dioscorea rotundata) for preparation of curcumin-inulin nanoparticles
Authors: Nurdila  , Imran  , Kadidae L.O. , Kadir L.A. , Ramadhan L.O.A.N.
Published: December 2019

Research on the isolation of inulin oligomers from white tuber yam (Dioscorea rotundata) for the manufacture of curcumin-inulin nanoparticles has been conducted. The purpose of this study is to find out the results of inulin isolation from white yam (Dioscorea rotundata) as an ingredient in making curcumin-inulin nanoparticles. Based on the results of the isolation, the rendement of inulin obtained was 10.2%. The solubility tests revealed that inulin had 89% solubility and for curcumin-inulin particles, either with 1:2 or 1:3 ratio had the same solubility, i.e., 92 g/mL. The functional groups of inulin were analyzed by FTIR spectrophotometer. The IR spectrum of inulin showed the availability of OH bonds, CH bending, C=C bonds, C-O-C bonds, and C-OH bonds. The IR spectra of curcumin-inulin of 1:2 and 1:3 ratio, on the other hand, indicated the existence of OH bonds, CH bending, carbonyl strain, C-O strain, C-O-C strain, CH3 bending, and H-C=O bond. The morphologies of inulin and curcumin-inulin particles were analyzed using SEM. The surface shape of inulin was semi-spherical, which are different from the morphology of curcumin-inulin particles spreading over a size range of 169-283 nm. With this particle size, the curcumin-inulin particles tend to form nanoparticles.
A novel plasma reduction for the preparation of AuPd bimetallic nanocatalyst and its application in selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols
Authors: Zhou Jun , Cao Xiaoqing , Zhang Yue , Chen Jing , Li Song
Published: December 2019

In this work, a low temperature plasma reduction technology is developed for the preparation of AuPd alloy nanocatalyst. The HAuCl4 and PdCl2 mixture as catalyst precursor was directly decomposed on MgO support by plasma to form AuPd nanoalloy. Results demonstrated that the final particles states of nanoalloys prepared by this technique including size, morphology, and chemical valence are highly dependent on temperature of plasma treatment. The catalytic performance of AuPd/MgO in the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols can be tailored by optimizing the synthesis parameter. A relative low temperature in plasma process prevents particles migration and helps to maintain the small size that favors high activity. The AuPd nanoparticles with diameter about 3.5 nm by optimizing the plasma treatment condition exhibit superior conversion and TOF compared to catalyst prepared by the traditional high temperature H2 reduction method. It is believed that the low temperature plasma technology has a unique advantage for the preparation of high-quality alloy nanocatalyst and could be extended for fabricating the other alloy nanocatalysts.
High-temperature corrosion resistance of nickel-base alloy 617 in supercritical carbon dioxide environment
Authors: Liang Zhiyuan , Gui Yong , Zhao Qinxin
Published: December 2019

Corrosion behavior of Inconel 617 in supercritical carbon dioxide at 650 °C and 15 MPa for 1000 h was investigated. X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission microscopy, and Raman spectrum were used to observe and analyze the corrosion products formed on Inconel 617. The results showed that the corrosion products formed on Inconel 617 were composed of a thick Cr2O3 layer, a thin Al2O3 layer and a carbon-penetrated zone from the interface between carbon dioxide and the oxide scale to the substrate. Carbon was deposited on the surface of the oxide scales, which was verified by Raman results. The oxidation of Inconel 617 suffered in supercritical carbon dioxide was more serious than the carburization of Inconel 617.