bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlocal structural effects of water on DNA homology recognition
Authors: Haimov Ehud , Hedley Jonathan G , Kornyshev Alexei A
Published: June 2024

The mechanism behind mutual recognition of homologous DNA sequences prior to genetic recombination is one of the remaining puzzles in molecular biology. Leading models of homology recognition, based on classical electrostatics, neglect the short-range nonlocal screening effects arising from structured water around DNA, and hence may only provide insight for relatively large separations between interacting DNAs. We elucidate the role of the effects of the nonlocal dielectric response of water on DNA–DNA interaction and show that these can dramatically enhance the driving force for recognition.
Whale sound signal denoising based on SVMD and improved wavelet thresholding
Authors: Zhang Yuyan , Bai Yunsha , Wen Yintang , Luo Xiaoyuan
Published: June 2024

Cetaceans have formed a set of sonar systems that rely on acoustic waves for communication, positioning, and environmental recognition in their long-term evolution. This sonar system is characterized by strong anti-interference ability, high localization accuracy, and strong recognition ability. Effective denoising of cetacean sound is the first link in the process of applying cetacean signal analysis. For the problem of effective denoising of whale sound signals in complex underwater environments, a new denoising method based on successive variational mode decomposition (SVMD) and improved wavelet thresholding is proposed. Firstly, the noisy high-frequency intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) obtained by SVMD decomposition are sieved by the correlation coefficient method; then, these high-frequency components are subjected to improved wavelet thresholding for noise reduction; finally, the signal is reconstructed with the low-frequency IMFs. The simulation results show that the denoising method works well, and the signal-to-noise ratio is high and the root-mean-square error is low, which effectively preserves the important information of the original signal.
Few-shot learning fault diagnosis of rolling bearings based on siamese network
Authors: Zheng Xiaoyang , Feng Zhixia , Lei Zijian , Chen Lei
Published: June 2024

This paper focuses on the fault diagnosis problem in the scenario of scarce bearing samples, facing two main challenges: complex noise background and variations in operating conditions. While deep learning-based fault diagnosis methods have achieved significant progress, they heavily rely on large amounts of samples. This paper proposes a few-shot learning fault diagnosis method based on siamese networks (SN), which classify samples based on the similarity between pairs rather than end-to-end classification. Tested on two bearing datasets, the proposed method outperforms SVM, DCNN, WDCNN, and CNN-BiGRU. The influence of factors such as parameter regularization, noise, and load variation on the proposed method is also discussed. Experimental results demonstrate that double parameter regularization contributes more to the model’s generalization ability, maintaining good stability and generalization even under noise interference or load variation.
Real-time plasma equilibrium reconstruction and shape control for the MAST Upgrade tokamak
Authors: Anand H. , Wehner W. , Eldon D. , Welander A. , Xing Z. , Lvovskiy A. , Barr J. , Cho E. , Sammuli B. , Humphreys D. , Eidietis N. , Leonard A. , Kochan M. , Vincent C. , McArdle G. , Cunningham G. , Thornton A. , Harrison J. , Soukhanovskii V. , Lovell J.
Published: June 2024

Real-time magnetic control has been developed to deliver precise control of multiple plasma shape parameters for advanced divertor configurations, including double-null, Super-X, X-point target and X-divertor for the first time on the MAST Upgrade (MAST-U) spherical tokamak. Successful real-time magnetic equilibrium control of different plasma shape variables has been accomplished in the 2022–2023 MAST-U experimental campaign for the advanced MAST-U divertor configurations. Application of the MAST-U boundary reconstruction algorithm, LEMUR, is described and compared with off-line equilibrium reconstruction and diagnostic measurements. The process of design and verification of the axisymmetric magnetic control schemes using a suite of control analysis tools (known collectively as TokSys) is also described.
The impact of monsoon on the landfalling tropical cyclone persistent precipitation in South China
Authors: He Lunkai , Li Qinglan , Wu Liguang , Ge Xuyang , Liu Chunxia , Li Guangxin , Zhang Jiali
Published: June 2024

Interactions between landfalling tropical cyclones (TCs) and monsoons in South China significantly influence precipitation duration, leading to severe disasters. Previous studies have primarily been individual cases, lacking systematic large-scale statistical analysis of the monsoon and landfalling tropical cyclone persistent precipitation (LTCPP) relationship. This study quantitatively investigated the relationship between monsoonal wind intensity before TCs landfall and post-landfall persistent precipitation induced by TCs in South China, employing the ERA5 reanalysis data and the best track data of 147 TCs from 1979 to 2018. The LTCPP was characterized by the frequency of persistent precipitation events during 0–72 h after TC landfall within a 500 km radius from the TC center. TCs were subdivided into weak and strong LTCPP groups based on the category-specific median of Frequency of 24 h Landfalling Tropical Cyclone Persistent Precipitation (FLTCPP24): 2705 h for TS, 6007 h for STS, and 6419 h for TY. A South China Tropical Cyclone Precipitation Monsoon Index (SCTCPM) was proposed to quantify monsoonal wind intensity derived from zonal winds at 850 hPa over two regions located in the Indian Ocean and Northwestern Pacific Ocean, within 5 d before TC landfall. The results reveal that SCTCPM < 9 m s−1 yields a 72% probability of weak LTCPP occurrence, which increases to 77% when SCTCPM < 6 m s−1. Conversely, SCTCPM > 18 m s−1 corresponds to an 80% probability of strong LTCPP. SCTCPM is an effective indicator for monsoonal wind that impacts LTCPP. Enhanced monsoonal winds, quantified by higher SCTCPM, result in post-landfall changes in horizontal wind speed, moisture transport, convective activity and upward motion, ultimately increasing LTCPP. This study deepens our understanding of the monsoon-TC relationship, emphasizing the crucial role of monsoonal wind in LTCPP in South China and offering valuable insights for disaster preparedness and risk mitigation.
Group theoretical classification of SIC-POVMs
Authors: Samuel S B , Gedik Z
Published: June 2024

The Symmetric Informationally Complete Positive Operator-Valued Measures (SIC-POVMs) are known to exist in all dimensions

⩽

151 and many larger dimensions as high as

39

604

. All known solutions with the exception of the Hoggar solutions are covariant with respect to the Weyl-Heisenberg group and in the case of dimension 3, it has been proven that all SIC-POVMs are Weyl-Heisenberg group covariant. In this work, we explore this by SIC-POVMs in dimensions 4–7 without the assumption of group covariance. We introduce two functions with which SIC-POVM Gram matrices can be generated without the group covariance constraint, and analytically show that the SIC-POVM Gram matrices exist on critical points of the surfaces defined by the two functions on a subspace of Hermitian matrices. In dimensions 4–7, all known SIC-POVM Gram matrices lie in disjoint continuous sets of solution. Thus, we define an equivalent class that relates Gram matrices based on the trivial symmetries of the two functions. In dimensions 4–7, we generated

{
1.7
×

10
6

,
1.1
×

10
5

,
169
,
50
}

Gram matrices, respectively. For each of the Gram matrices, we generate the symmetry group of their respective disjoint sets. In all cases, the symmetry group was isomorphic to a subgroup of the Clifford group containing the Weyl-Heisenberg group matrices and the order-3 unitaries. In dimensions 4–6, All constructed solutions belonged to a single equivalence class of Gram matrices whereas in dimension 7, we find two distinct families of SIC-POVMs. In dimensions 4 and 5, the absence of new classes of SIC-POVM strongly suggests that the functions do not have a non-trivial symmetry. Furthermore, in all the dimensions tested, the only equivalence classes found correspond to the distinct stabilizers of fiducial vectors of each dimension.
Mechanism analysis and application of multi-dimensional single potential well stochastic resonance system
Authors: Xiao Qiumei , Yu Wenxin , Liu Meiting
Published: June 2024

Currently, the focus of stochastic resonance (SR) research is primarily on bistable systems, and classical bistable SR systems have the problems of low dimension, inconvenient parameter adjustment, and high threshold for SR effects. In this paper, based on the classic bistable system, a class of multi-dimensional single potential well SR systems without transition threshold is proposed and applied to signal processing. Firstly, the mechanism of double potential well SR and single potential well SR is studied. On this basis, a kind of multi-dimensional single potential well SR system is defined and its theoretical conditions are analyzed. Then a specific four-dimensional single potential well SR system is constructed, and the dynamics of the system is analyzed. The gain range and the approximate relationship between the system input and the four-dimensional output are derived. Finally, the four-dimensional single potential well SR system is applied to the processing of various signals. The experimental results show that the constructed system has good noise reduction and feature amplification effects on noisy signals through the advantages of multi-dimensional output, and can be used to highlight the fault feature frequency in bearing fault signals.
Semi-Rigid Behaviour of Multi-Storey Stainless Steel Structural Frames using Continuum Damage Mechanics
Authors: Deshpande A A , Dawari B M
Published: June 2024

The present study deals with the semi-rigid behaviour of stainless steel structural frames due to the effect of initial voids present in the microscopic structure of stainless steel. Non-Linear Finite Element analysis of stainless steel beam-column double web-angle connections is carried out considering the effect of damage on the material behaviour. The non-linear analysis becomes useful for finding out the moment carrying capacity of a joint. Using the results of the stiffness analysis, multi-storied stainless steel structural frames are analyzed and the redistribution of moments of these joints is studied using a commercial software package. The joints are provided with the secant stiffness which is obtained from the moment-rotation curves considering the effect of ductile damage.
Active Vibration Control of Frame Structure by using Piezoelectric Actuation.
Authors: Biswas Ankan , Hazra Abhishek , Roy Goutam , Pohit Goutam
Published: June 2024

Active vibration control involves applying force actively in a way that is opposite and equivalent to the forces that are present due to vibration. Often vibration causes large displacements to structures which lead to catastrophic failure. Therefore the research in the control of the large displacements of the structure due to vibration is an essential part of mechanics. In the present work a plane frame structure is modeled in ABAQUS CAE to perform linear finite element analysis (FEA). The mesh convergence study is performed to obtain the suitable meshing type and the approximate global size. The frame is vibrated by applying a sinusoidal cyclic load and the maximum displacements in addition to the response in terms of displacement-time are obtained. At the next step the lateral elements of the frame are bonded with piezoelectric strips and the piezoelectric strips are actuated by applying external voltage. The effect of simultaneous application of voltage on piezoelectric strip and the external sinusoidal dynamic force is deliberated in terms of the maximum displacement, deformed shape of the frame and the displacement-time response. The results obtained with and without the applications of piezoelectric actuation are carefully compared. The comparison shows a considerable reduction in maximum displacements as well as better stability of the structure.
Seismic response of base-isolated buildings under near-field and far-field earthquakes considering SSI
Authors: Ghosh S K , Das D
Published: June 2024

A numerical analysis is conducted to study the seismic response of a base-isolated building frame considering soil-structure interaction (SSI) under the influence of far-field and near-field earthquakes. A twenty-story building frame with lead rubber bearing as the base isolation (BI) system and a set of seven earthquake records was chosen for the study. The effect of SSI is incorporated by taking into account four distinct soil types: very soft, soft, medium, and dense. Further, four different combinations of bases (i.e., fixed base with/without SSI and BI with/without SSI) are considered to study, and the seismic responses of the building with these combinations are compared. The study focuses on roof acceleration and base-isolation layer displacement as the key response parameters. The numerical results indicate that the seismic responses of base-isolated buildings considering SSI are considerably higher under the effect of near-field earthquakes. In addition, the inclusion of SSI in base-isolated building reduces its effectiveness in terms of roof acceleration reduction in softer soil conditions under both near-field and far-field ground motions; however, the BI system works efficiently in building in terms of isolator displacement, especially in softer soil conditions under near-field earthquakes.
Service life prediction of Prestressed Concrete Road Bridge using structural audit data and comparison of life 365 software and mathematical model
Authors: Kole P P , Dawari B M
Published: June 2024

The Modern transport infrastructure necessarily utilizes pre-stressed concrete (PSC) girder bridges, which provide both efficient and secure passage for vehicles. But as they pass on their service life, these bridges experience a variety of environmental, traffic, and load-induced stresses that can endanger their structural integrity. To maintain the long-term safety and operation of PSC bridges, it is crucial to undertake periodic structural checks. For this work, a PSC Bridge with an average span length of 20 m has been chosen. This bridge’s fundamental structural element is I-section PSC girder. The bridge was built in compliance with the IRC 6 loading specifications. To ascertain the state of the road bridge, several non-destructive tests are carried out, including destructive testing, non-destructive testing, and visual inspection. The required strength and serviceability checks are carried out using the model created from the audit data using the MIDAS software. Wind and seismic analyses are carried out and comparison of results for current condition and initial condition is done. Bridge service life prediction is a critical component of infrastructure management, seeking to determine how long a bridge will continue to work and be structurally sound before requiring substantial repairs or replacement. It entails a thorough evaluation of the design, construction quality, materials, surrounding environment, maintenance procedures, and traffic loads.
Opening In Oriented Corrugated Web Steel Beams
Authors: Almohamady Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Among various range of structural steel products, the I-section beams are the most frequently used shape in steel works. This paper receives a light on two intentions: the first one is the flexure behaviour of corrugated web beams subjected to uniform or point load, while the second one is the effect of web openings on the load capacity of steel beams with corrugated webs. Trapezoidal corrugated steel webs in the cross-sectional plane (i.e., horizontal) and oriented in in-plan direction were investigated arithmetically using a Finite Element (FE) technique. In the finite element analysis, 3D models were studied using ANSYS software and a non-linear analysis was performed through thirty models of simply supported beams. Results show that using corrugated web does not have significant effect on the beam resistance to bending but increases the beam resistance to shear.
Limit State Interaction Charts for RC Square Columns subjected to combined axial loads and Biaxial Bending
Authors: Kumar Himanshu , Kumar Kuldeep
Published: June 2024

Designing columns undergoing biaxial bending is a cumbersome process. Researchers tried to give approximate methods to simplify the biaxial design. But still, the exact relation between the resultant eccentricity and the angle of the neutral axis is not known. Consequently, a trial and error method has to be used in deciding the angle and depth of the neutral axis for columns subjected to biaxial bending. Indian standard code for design IS 456 (2000) uses a method replicated from Bresler’s approximate design method which gives conservative results at very low axial load levels and a little unsafe results at higher axial load levels. To simplify the problem of biaxial design weber produced charts for columns bending along a diagonal. Similarly, equilibrium equations can be used to generate Interaction equations for moment acting at an angle of 45° and an interpolation procedure can be developed based on the limit state method to design columns. The generation of design charts for biaxial case thus becomes a topic of research. This paper presents a simplified Interpolation method for designing R.C. square section columns subjected to combined axial compression and biaxial bending complying with the limit state method. A computer-based approach was used to generate design charts with an arrangement of 20 bars symmetrically reinforced with Fe415 and Fe500 and for d’/D ratios of 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20. Necessary equations for preparing interaction charts were derived by modifying existing uniaxial equations. The derived equations were used to prepare an Excel sheet to get the coordinates of interaction curves. MATLAB code was used to generate smooth curves for each case of p/fck. The Comparison Charts indicated that the axial load capacity predicted by the interaction charts is in excellent agreement with the theoretical axial load capacity.
Scope of Unconventional Grid in Tall Building: A Way Forward
Authors: Sharma Niharika , Patel Dr. V.R
Published: June 2024

Due to structural efficiency and architectural aesthetic potential diagrid structures are commonly used for today’s tall buildings an extension to this, new grids can be studied and checked. Early tall building designs from the late 19th century understood the value of diagonal bracing member for mitigating lateral stresses. The application of diagrid was common practice for complex structures. In extension to diagrid study, the unconventional grid can also be used. In this study Unconventional geometry for tall buildings has been adopted, it is imperative to find an appropriate structural system for improved overall performance. Understanding various structural systems and using various codal provisions, an attempt has been made to consider the Unconventional grid as the outer grid for tall buildings. Two cases have been considered here, The first is a square-shaped building with an Unconventional grid including peripheral columns and the Second case is a Conventional grid with peripheral columns for the same shape. Modelling for Unconventional geometry is done on Rhino 3D using Grasshopper as a plugin, which was imported on SAP2000 and steel is used as the building material. Analysis has been carried out for both Lateral Loads i.e., Earthquake and Wind Loads as per codal provisions. The results suggest the potential use of unconventional grids in tall buildings. To measure how effectively one can use Unconventional geometry and overcome the flaws of conventional methods, this study can also be a milestone for upcoming infrastructure development.
Optimizing Energy Efficiency to Design IGBC Green Schools in Composite Climate
Authors: Satpal Dr. , Kalpana Ar. , Kumar Bhumik
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the quality of educational infrastructure and its impact on child development have been subjects of extensive discussion. This paper presents research aimed at conserving energy and improving energy efficiency through passive design strategies in school buildings in Gurgaon, a region with a composite climate. The increasing reliance on conventional energy sources for heating and cooling buildings, along with associated cost and environmental concerns, underscores the need for energy conservation measures. This study explores how specific building design characteristics can reduce the demand for conventional energy by incorporating passive design strategies, such as considering wind direction, topography, vegetation, solar exposure, orientation, envelope size, and other factors during the initial design phase. The paper demonstrates the implementation of passive strategies, including thermal zoning, roof design, wall construction, and glass selection, using e-Quest 3.64 software. Additionally, the research optimizes various energy conservation measures to align with the requirements of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Green Schools standards. The findings indicate that a 12% energy savings compared to the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) 2017 can be achieved through these passive design strategies.
Experimental investigation of concrete incorporating untreated agricultural waste and calcium carbonate powder
Authors: Ahmed Farhan , yadav Prince , Bano Samreen
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the use of sustainable materials in construction has become an important research topic. One such method is partial replacement of traditional construction materials with readily available environmentally friendly materials. This paper discusses the feasibility of using calcium carbonate powder and untreated agricultural waste such as bagasse ash in the production of concrete. The substitution was weight-based, with untreated agricultural waste replacing the fine aggregate and calcium carbonate powder replacing the OPC-43 grade cement. Cement replacement ranges from 5% to 30%, while fine aggregate replacement ranges from 5% to 15%. The results showed that calcium carbonate and untreated agricultural waste that is bagasse ash can be used as partial replacements for cement and fine aggregate in concrete production, resulting in improved compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength, as well as a reduction in the environmental impact of concrete production. Furthermore, chemical analysis scanning electron microscopy was also carried out to determine the underlying crystal structure of the replacements.
An experimental investigation of Marble Powder as a Partial Replacement of cement and Waste Metal Scrap as Reinforcing Material on the Mechanical Characteristics of Concrete
Authors: Tiwari Anjani Kumar , Yadav Prince , Bano Samreen
Published: June 2024

To conduct the study, the researchers incorporated marble powder into the cement at varying proportions: 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight of the cement. This led to the creation of concrete with a M35-grade classification. After the concrete samples were given 7, 14, and 28 days to cure, several tests were performed to evaluate their flexural strength, compression strength, and split tensile strength. The experimental investigations demonstrated that the mechanical properties of the concrete specimens exhibited an initial enhancement when the cement weight was substituted with marble powder up to a 10% replacement, after which they began to decline. However, the inclusion of metal scrap in addition to marble powder showed positive effects on the strength properties. This finding indicates that the incorporation of both marble powder and metal scrap in concrete can effectively improve its mechanical strength. Furthermore, the researchers examined the microstructural properties of marble powder through the utilization of advanced methodologies such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX)). The research findings indicated that the most optimum combination for attaining the maximum mechanical strength, in comparison to traditional concrete, involved incorporating 0.75% metal scrap and replacing 10% of the cement with marble powder. Beyond this proportion, a substantial reduction in strength was seen. The results also showed that incorporating a certain amount of marble powder with metal scrap led to improved interlocking of the aggregates, resulting in increased durability compared to traditional cement concrete.
Strengthening of the Structural Element by Using Armour – A Review of a Blast Protective Material
Authors: Saha S , Karmakar S
Published: June 2024

Reinforced concrete (RC) is one of the most versatile materials used worldwide due to its strength, mouldability, excellent design life and low maintenance cost. The RC structure sustains several types of load during its service period. Unpredictable loads, such as blast loads, may come to the structure intentionally or accidentally. It is necessary to assess the behaviour of the structural element and its strengthening techniques. Structural elements may strengthen using Aramid fibre, CFRP, GFRP, etc. In the case of blast loading, armour is used as an external strengthening and gives better protection than other strengthening techniques. Armour is a protective material to protect any structural element from the sudden impact of load. Based on the composition, armours are broadly categorised as ceramic-based (Glass-ceramic), metal and alloy-based (steel) and composite ceramic (Fibre reinforced polymer with metal). Composite ceramic is lightweight and cost-effective compared with other armour materials. This study has discussed a detailed review of armour, and available experimental and numerical modelling data have been compared to evaluate its performance. It shows that numerical simulation can predict more accurately. Several types of armour damage have been observed, from which the critical parameters are maximum central deflection and plastic deformation of the armour sheet. Plastic deformation of the armour sheet increases when sheet thickness reduces. However, it performed better in bending when the thickness of the plate increased.
Influence of Recycled Asphalt and Rejuvenated Recycled Asphalt on Mechanical Performance and Chemical Makeup of Asphalt Binder
Authors: Gowda Sachin , Kumar Pramod , Niranjan A S , Gupta Aakash , Kavitha G
Published: June 2024

This study aims to clarify the relation between the mechanical behaviour of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) binder, using DSR (dynamic shear rheometer) parameters like phase angle and complex modulus, and other physical parameters like penetration, softening point, viscosity, and chemical characteristics. The study looked at virgin viscosity grade VG40, RAP binder, and various VG40 + RAP + rejuvenators binder combinations. The functional groups were evaluated using infrared spectroscopy with a Fourier transform (FTIR). With an increase in RAP percentage, the aging parameters ICO, ISO, and ICC were also found to be increased; they fell with the addition of a rejuvenator. Whereas ICH increased when the rejuvenator was added and decreased when the RAP proportion increased. There was no discernible trend for CH/OH with and without a rejuvenator. The index parameters ISO, ICO, ICH, & ICC were closely related to the mechanical behaviour of the blend. This study contributes to a better advance of the link between both the physical and chemical characteristics of RAP-rejuvenated binders. It may be helpful to consider how mixing applies to different mechanical and chemical factors while designing RAP-rejuvenated mixtures.
Analysis of Rutting Behaviour of Recycled Asphalt Binder and Rejuvenated Recycled Asphalt Binder by Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) Test
Authors: Gowda Sachin , Niranjan A S , Gupta Aakash , Kavitha G
Published: June 2024

Due to its environmental and economic advantages, recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) is increasingly used in pavement construction. However, incorporating RAP into asphalt mixtures poses several challenges, primarily related to altering the rheological properties of the resulting asphalt binder. The small oscillatory shear test provides valuable insights into the viscoelastic characteristics of asphalt binders, which are crucial for determining whether the modified binders are suitable for pavement construction. RAP-modified asphalt binders' rheological properties significantly impact pavement structures' performance, including resistance to rutting, fatigue life, and crack resistance. Various rheological parameters of bitumen, such as complex modulus, phase angle, rate of recovery, and fatigue life, are utilized to predict the performance of modified bitumen. In our study, we employed a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) to conduct performance grading (PG) tests and multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR) tests on VG40 virgin asphalt and RAP-modified binder at dosages of 35% and 50% for both RTFO-aged and unaged conditions at 60°C. A commercially available rejuvenator was used to address the stiffness of RAP-modified binders. We calculated MSCR parameters, including percentage recovery, non-recoverable creep compliance, and their percentage difference at stress levels of 0.1 kPa and 3.2 kPa, respectively. The results indicate a better recovery rate for RAP-modified and aged binders, suggesting improved resistance to rutting and enhanced performance under design traffic loading (ESAL). This study underscores the impact of rejuvenator oil on RAP-modified binders as pavement materials and explores the potential for using higher RAP dosages.
Removal of phenol from aqueous solution using montmorillonite-Fe3O4-humic acid (MFH) nanocomposite
Authors: Rodrigues Aaron , Meera V , Vinod P
Published: June 2024

Phenol is a highly toxic pollutant commonly found in industrial wastewater. Its removal is crucial to protect the environment and human health. Various methods are available for phenol removal, but adsorption is the most widely used and effective approach. Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NP) have emerged as a promising adsorbent due to their cost-effectiveness, high surface area, and exceptional adsorption capabilities. However, its small size can lead to issues such as oxidation, aggregation, and difficulty in separation. This study introduces a new approach for phenol removal using a montmorillonite-Fe3O4-humic acid (MFH) nanocomposite. The synthesis of the MFH nanocomposite involved dispersing Fe3O4 nanoparticles onto montmorillonite clay and coating the surface with humic acid to enhance stability and adsorption efficiency. The prepared MFH nanocomposite was thoroughly characterized to find the morphology, composition and functional group. FTIR spectroscopy revealed the presence of Fe-O, O-Si and C=O vibrations which confirmed the successful formation of the nanocomposite. The average crystal size of the synthesized nanoparticles is obtained from XRD analysis as 10.99 nm. The Fe3O4: montmorillonite ratio was found to influence the adsorption performance, with a Fe3O4:montmorillonite ratio of 1:4 exhibiting the highest removal efficiency. Batch experiments were performed to assess the phenol removal effectiveness of the MFH nanocomposite. At optimum operating conditions of pH 4 and contact time 150 minutes, the phenol removal efficiency was found to decrease from 98% to 87% when the concentration of phenol in influent increased from 10 to 100 mg/L. The adsorption kinetics of phenol on MFH followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, indicating a chemisorption process with strong correlation and agreement between experimental and predicted results. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models both provided suitable descriptions of the adsorption behaviour. The maximum adsorption capacity (qm) was determined to be 11.14 mg/g. The presence of carbonyl groups(C=O), Hydroxyl groups (-OH) and silanol groups (Si-O) in MFH offers a significant advantage for enhancing the removal efficiency of phenol. The phenol sorption capacity of MFH nanocomposites was found to be significantly greater compared to that of magnetite. The results showed that the developed MFH nanocomposite offers a promising solution for the efficient removal of phenol from wastewater.
A Comparative Study of the Applications and Prospects of Self-healing Concrete / Biocrete and Self-Sensing Concrete
Authors: Sharma Shashikant Nishant , Prajapati Raghav , Jaiswal Anuj , Dehalwar Kavita
Published: June 2024

Background: Due to advances in biotechnology and the material sciences in the last decade, we have developed some smart and innovative materials that can be developed further to benefit humanity. One of them is the self-healing concrete which could be hyper-porous - holding water like a sponge and which can be used for making our building eco-friendly by using the green walls and green roofs concept. This self-healing concrete composed of 90% recycled material. On the other hand, there is self-sensing concrete (pressure-sensitive or piezoresistive concrete) which has been developed by mixing functional fillers like-carbon fibres, carbon nanotubes, nickel powder, steel fibres, etc. into concrete to enhance its capacity to sense stress, strain, cracking or damage and even improving mechanical properties which can be used further for converting the footfalls into electricity and developing self-sensing building to act as a warning system for the residents in event of any natural or man-made calamities.

Methods: We have used the systematic literature study to find the latest developments in the field of material science regarding these two materials under discussion. This will focus more on the recent research and wider applications by encouraging more research and adaptation. Findings: This research paper will delve into depth to find more interesting aspects of the new innovative materials and study the comparatively different aspects like applicability, uses, manufacturing process, cost of construction, time of setting, environmental benefits and economic benefits that humanity can gain by adopting this in construction of buildings. Results: This research will help policymakers to look for more comprehensive uses in future. Conclusions: The findings of the research paper will help in the adoption and further research in the field of biocrete and self-sensing concrete which can be applied in the field of construction and other allied fields for the future.
Effect of aggregate gradation variation on mechanical properties of bitumen concrete.
Authors: Nazir Ubaid , Singh Sandeep
Published: June 2024

This India boasts one of the world’s largest road networks, predominantly comprised of macadamized pavement-based highways featuring a thin bituminous layer. Aggregate materials make up over 90% of the hot mixed asphalt (HMA) used in these roadways. Bituminous Asphalt (BA) is commonly used as the top layer to distribute loads and protect weaker foundational surfaces from water damage, meeting strict MORTH classification standards. This study focused on Bituminous Concrete (BC) with grading II. Three aggregate gradation ranges (upper, middle, lower) were employed using the Marshall Method of mix design to evaluate the bituminous mixes. Marshall Stability values were compared among the different gradations. The mixes with median particle size distribution exhibited higher Marshall Stability values than others. Moreover, as particle size decreased, the optimal binding material content increased for each grading standard. Notably, BC II mixes within the middle limit range achieved the highest TSR% (94.70), while upper and lower limits recorded values of 88.11% and 92.78%, respectively. This research demonstrates the importance of aggregate gradation in BC II bituminous mixes for road construction. Median particle size distribution enhances stability, and as granularity decreases, binding material content should be adjusted accordingly. BC II mixes in the middle gradation range exhibited superior resistance to moisture-induced damage, underlining the significance of appropriate grading in road design.
Traffic Congestion at Urban Road - Review
Authors: Thakre Yashaswi K , Pawade Prashant Y
Published: June 2024

One of the most obvious, ubiquitous, and urgent transportation issues that most cities throughout the world, including those in India, deal with on a daily basis is traffic congestion. All forms of mobility, particularly the roadways, are impacted, as well as all socioeconomic classes. Some of the main reasons of congestion are rapid population expansion, increased urbanization, bad public transportation systems, inadequate/unplanned transportation infrastructure, and an increase in the number of personnel vehicles. The results from research based on clogged roads are reviewed in this article. Numerous metrics to gauge traffic congestion have been considered. These matrices were divided into three categories: level of service, speed, and travel time. Additionally, methods for gathering data on congestion used in various researches have been reviewed. According to the study’s conclusions, major factors in reducing congestion include better traffic management and control, better public transportation, increased investment for transportation infrastructure, the use of contemporary technology, and a general alignment of transportation and land-use policy.
Increasing the Bearing Strength of Base Layer (WBM Roads) by Using Plastic Cells and Analysis Through Staad Pro
Authors: Bandaru Mary Devika , Bokka Durga vara prasad , Kyle Suseela , Sarma V V S , Rohith P
Published: June 2024

Water-Bound Macadam (WBM) roads often grapple with limited traffic capacity and a shortened lifespan due to their inherent structural weaknesses, particularly when subjected to mixed traffic conditions. In response to these challenges, this research introduces a novel solution by incorporating plastic cells made from recycled PET bottles into the road’s foundational base course during construction. This innovative addition serves as a transformative enhancement, significantly bolstering the road’s strength and extending its longevity. To ensure the road’s structural integrity under load-bearing conditions, the study employs a dual approach, connecting two plastic cells through both plastic strips and rivet joints. Remarkably, our investigation underscores the superior robustness of the riveted connection method over its strip counterpart. Soil testing, conducted in accordance with IRC 28-1967 standards, provides a comprehensive comparison between specimens containing plastic cells and traditionally constructed roads, facilitating a straightforward assessment of their respective properties. This research adheres to established methodologies, tests, and requirements to fortify the durability of water-bound macadam (WBM) roads through the incorporation of plastic cells into the base course. Rigorous structural analyses conducted using Staad Pro ensure these innovations can withstand diverse loads, further substantiating their efficacy. Our overarching goal is to bolster the region’s infrastructure by enhancing road strength and load-bearing capacity through the integration of thoroughly tested materials, surpassing the performance of conventional roads. This study represents a significant stride towards achieving enduring and resilient road construction practices.
Influence of Flyash Filler on Cold Bitumen Emulsion Mix Properties
Authors: Prasad Deepak , Suman Sanjeev Kumar , Singh Bhupendra
Published: June 2024

Application of Cold bituminous emulsion mix (CBEM) for the construction and maintenance of bituminous roads can offer several benefits toward environment and economic aspects over conventional hot mix asphalt due to its production at ambient temperature. However, its application is limited due to its lower early strength, which further affects its durability. To address these issues, many researchers have suggested to use fillers to improve the characteristics of CBEM. The present study utilized flyash as partial replacement of conventional filler, stone dust (SD) to modify the CBEM. This study is mainly aimed to examine the effect of flyash as a filler on the strength characteristics and moisture susceptibility of CBEM. The CBEM prepared by 100% SD as filler was considered as the control CBEM. The flyash modified CBEM was prepared by replacing SD with flyash at 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% of the total weight of the filler. For further improvement curing was applied by keeping prepared specimens in oven at 40 °C for 1, 3 and 7 days before performing any tests. The Marshall stability and indirect tensile strength (ITS) were evaluated to analyze the strength characteristics of CBEM. The moisture susceptibility of CBEM was analyzed by evaluating retained stability and tensile strength ratio (TSR) tests. The results of these tests were compared to the control CBEM sample, and it was found that the inclusion of flyash improved the characteristics of CBEM. In addition, these properties were found to be further improved by increasing curing intervals. Based on the results, it was observed that 60 % flyash replacement meet the requirements after three days of curing.
A Traffic Volume Study for Efficient Roundabout Planning
Authors: Varhokar Anuj A , Wadhai P. J.
Published: June 2024

Roundabouts are intersections of two or more roads with one-way circulating streets that give oncoming traffic priority. Traffic signs control the approaching traffic, which is only allowed to turn left onto the circulating headway. Upon approaching the yield line, the driver must only decide whether there is enough room for them to enter the gap in the moving traffic. The vehicles then effortlessly turn left and leave the circulating route to travel to their final destination. Signal-controlled intersections cause traffic to build up on both sides of the road, whereas roundabout-controlled intersections allow for a smooth flow of vehicles per hour. Due to stops and collisions, traffic signals cause traffic to build up on either side of the signal, causing basic wear and tear. Additionally, fuel is wasted while waiting for the light to turn green. In this paper, the planning of roundabouts will be briefly discussed at Teenbatti junction using the traffic volume study as per IRC recommendations and suggest the necessary measures that needed to be taken immediately to avoid the issue of queuing at Walkeshwar Road due to turning movement of vehicles from Malabar hill to Grant road. The main objective of the study is to address the issue of traffic congestion and queuing at Teenbatti junction by introducing roundabout. It has been concluded that the installation of roundabout and the measures discussed to counteract the various traffic related issues minimizes the traffic congestion as it avails free flow in circular motion to leave the rotary.
Prediction of Soil Compression Index using SVM and kNN
Authors: Akshaya R , Premalatha K
Published: June 2024

Soil is used both as a building material and as the surface on which construction is carried out hence this demonstrates how important soil is as a material. Therefore, it is vital to evaluate the soil’s characteristics, such as its strength and settlement, before any construction is built on the soil. The most crucial factor that must be established in order to compute soil settlement is compression index, which can be obtained through a laboratory oedometer consolidation test. Numerous empirical correlations were created because the oedometer test is challenging and takes time for determining this parameter. With the development of technology, it has become much simpler to forecast the compression index parameter using a variety of other easy-to-find soil parameters. In this study, the prediction of the compression index has been attempted utilizing machine learning methods such as support vector machines and k-nearest neighbors. In order to forecast the output parameter, compression index, machine learning models use soil index qualities including liquid limit, plasticity index, natural moisture content, and void ratio as the input parameter. There are 359 total data used for analysis from data acquired from various studies. Typically, machine learning models divide the data into training and testing datasets in order to train the model and forecast its performance. As a result, different ratios of data splitting are also utilized when developing the machine learning model. Using measures like mean square error, mean absolute error and correlation coefficient, the model’s performance is assessed. Additionally, this paper also examines the impact of the model-creating parameters.
Air quality assessment using spatial interpolation techniques for Kanpur city, India.
Authors: Yadav Varun , Ganguly Rajiv
Published: June 2024

Air pollution is a significant concern for urban areas, particularly in industrial cities like Kanpur located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The proposed study aims to present the findings of an assessment conducted to determine ambient air pollution during summer season for Kanpur City using the Geospatial techniques. In this context, two spatial interpolation techniques namely Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) and Kriging were used for the analysis. The pollutant selected for the assessment was particulate matter (PM10) since it is responsible for the poor air quality in the city. Monitored Data for the pollutant were collected from different monitoring stations located across the city. Since, these monitoring locations are located at far apart distances, they fail to provide any spatial representation of the monitored pollutants, and it is in this context that spatial interpolation techniques were used for representing the air quality over the entire city. The study period selected varies from March to May 2017, representing the summer season and when dispersion characteristics of air pollutants are high. The selected interpolation techniques were used to generate spatial distribution maps of air pollution concentrations. The study aims that by using these spatial interpolation techniques a comprehensive and accurate representation of the ambient air pollution existing within the Kanpur city perimeter will be represented. Further, the suitability of the two spatial interpolation techniques used will be discussed in greater details. The maps generated through these analyses provide crucial insights into the spatial distribution and potential hotspots of air pollution within Kanpur during the summer season. The findings of this study will have significant implications for urban planning, environmental management and public health in Kanpur. It was inferred from the study that the concentration of PM was significantly higher in areas with heavy traffic and industrial activities.