bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Polymer Modified Bitumens—Comparison of Conventional Methods and Dynamic Mechanical Analyses
Authors: Lu X , Isacsson U 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
Rheological properties of styrene-butadiene-styrene polymer (SBS) modified bitumens were studied using conventional test methods (penetration, softening point, kinematic viscosity and Fraass breaking point) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The study indicated that SBS modification improved the viscoelastic properties of bitumens, which can be demonstrated using DMA but not conventional methods. Significantly improved properties of binders included increased dynamic mechanical moduli and decreased phase angle at high temperatures, as well as reduced complex modulus and increased phase angle at low temperatures. SBS modification also caused reductions in glass transition temperature, Fraass breaking point, and temperature susceptibility. The degree of improvement was observed to be influenced by bitumen source/grade and polymer content/structure. Comparison showed that certain relationships exist between parameters obtained using conventional methods and DMA, such as between penetration and complex modulus, kinematic viscosity and complex viscosity, and Fraass breaking point and glass transition temperature. However, the main conclusion of the study is that conventional test parameters such as penetration and softening point are not suitable for characterization of rheological properties of SBS modified bitumens.
Measurement of the Fracture Energy of Interfaces in Composites Through Sandwich-Type Chevron-Notched Specimens
Authors: Shaw LL 
Published: February 2009

AbstractA sandwich-type chevron-notched specimen with a phase angle of loading near zero has been proposed to measure the fracture energy of interfaces arising mainly from chemical bonding. With the specimen configuration of this kind, the advantages from both sandwich test specimens and chevron-notched specimens can be combined to provide an easy and accurate test for the measurement of the interfacial fracture energy. The validity of the specimen has been analyzed in terms of the mechanics of sandwich-type specimens and chevron-notched specimens, and demonstrated using the Al2O3/Nb bimaterial system. The results show that for a phase angle of loading around −7° the Al2O3/Nb interface has a fracture energy of 9.3 ± 0.2 J/m2 that changes to 16.8 ± 1.1 J/m2 when Nb is preoxidized before the formation of the Al2O3/Nb interface.
A Test Method to Determine the Relative Humidity Dependence of the Air Permeability of Woven Textile Fabrics
Authors: Gibson PW , Elsaiid AE , Kendrick CE , Rivin D , Charmchi M 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
This paper describes a test method used to determine the relative humidity dependence of the air permeability of hygroscopic woven textile fabrics. Changes in fabric structure as hygroscopic fibers swell at high humidities can have a large influence on the measured air permeability of materials such as cotton, wool, silk, and nylon fabrics. The method is sensitive enough to show sorption hysteresis effects in the relative humidity versus air permeability curve. The instrumentation also permits dynamic measurements during a step change in relative humidity. Typical results are shown for seven fabrics, covering a range of fiber hygroscopic properties and air permeabilities.
Fatigue and Creep Crack Growth in Fine Sand Asphalt Materials
Authors: Kleemans CP , Zuidema J , Krans RL , Molenaar JMM , Tolman F 
Published: February 2009

AbstractFatigue and creep crack growth experiments in sand asphalt specimens have been performed in four-point beading and center cracked tensile setups. Specimen thickness, frequency, and R values were varied. Most of the tests were constant load experiments, but a constant ΔK experiment was also performed.It was found that Paris law matches the results. Specimen thickness does not affect the results. Results of tests at different frequencies can be reduced to a single scatter band by plotting da/dt(= f · da/dN) instead of da/dN versus ΔK. Different R values can be brought together by a parabolic crack closure relation. It is concluded that the dominant cause of crack growth in this type of asphalt, under the investigated circumstances, is creep.
Regression Analysis as an Aid in Making Oboe Reeds
Authors: Ceasar-Spall K , Spall JC 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
Professional oboe players almost always have to make their own reeds, which involves a time-consuming process often fraught with wasted effort and discarded results. About one fourth of the total time spent on a reed involves getting it to a stage where it can be tried out on the oboe. Regression analysis was used to aid in making predictions about the ultimate quality of a finished reed based on data available at the initial try-out. The inputs to the regression model consist of several different characteristics of the cane used in making the reeds, and an assessment of the reed in its early stages through this initial try-out on the oboe. The goal to be able to decide whether or not to continue to work on the reed past this stage, based on the predictions of the regression. Thus far, the outcomes predicted by the regression have coincided reasonably closely with the actual outcomes in trials. Several regression models were tried, ranging from pure linear to curvilinear models that include interaction terms and/or squared terms. A particular curvilinear model was deemed the most appropriate.
Development of a Road Roughness Profile Delineation Procedure
Authors: Divinsky M , Nesichi S , Livneh M 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
There are several approaches to delineation of statistically homogeneous units for pavement response variables in a selected property, and one of them, the cumulative difference approach, is presented in the AASHTO Guide for Design of Pavement Structures (1993). This method is a relatively powerful analytical one, when the nature of the measurements involves delineating homogeneous units with different mean value levels. However, there are other cases when the delineation procedure should be applied for data with different levels of scatter characteristics, such as with standard deviation or range. This modified cumulative difference approach is fully described in this paper with application to delineating statistically homogeneous units along a road profile of roughness measurements. The suggested approach provides an advantage in delineating scattered characteristics and shows a high level of efficiency as evidenced by practical applications. The results presented are expected to serve as a basis for enhancing quality control criteria in the construction, as well as in the maintenance stages. Another goal is to serve any advanced pavement management system (PMS).
Effective Vulnerability Assessment of Tamper-Indicating Seals
Authors: Johnston RG 
Published: February 2009

AbstractSecurity seals are widely used to detect tampering or unauthorized entry. In the author's view, existing standards for vulnerability assessment of security seals are incomplete. This paper discusses the critical attributes of effective vulnerability assessment. These include: a clear understanding of what seal vulnerability assessment is and why it is undertaken; use of appropriate assessment personnel; assessment at the earliest possible stage of seal development; analysis conducted with the proper emphasis and context; rejection of findings of zero vulnerabilities; avoidance of the term “tamper-proof”, characterization of the degree of defeat; and thorough reporting of findings.
Evaluation of Elastic Stress Intensity Using J-Integral Specimen Geometries
Authors: Joyce JA , Smudz R 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
The development of a “Common Test Method” for fracture mechanics toughness evaluations requires changes in the test specimens used for evaluation of the elastic critical stress intensity factor KIc. The present method. ASTM E 399, does not allow the use of side grooves and load-line crack opening displacement measurements as is common and necessary for J-integral and CTOD elastic-plastic fracture methods like ASTM E 813. E 1152, and E 1290. This paper presents experimental data on two materials that demonstrate that the J-integral type specimen can be used to evaluate KIc in an accurate fashion and that hence a true “Common Method” is possible.
The basic conclusions are that if the secant offset slope is varied to correspond to 2% crack growth, the KQ values measured from specimens with a/W ratios between 0.55 and 0.7 are indistinguishable from standard results. Side grooves do not affect the results as long as an effective specimen thickness is used for the KQ evaluation, and the J-type load-line cutouts appear to have no effect on the measured KQ results.
Using Microwave Measurements to Detect Moisture in Asphaltic Concrete
Authors: Al-Qadi IL 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
An experimental technique based upon dielectric properties was developed to measure the volumetric moisture content in hot-mix asphalt concrete. The dielectric properties were calculated from the measured reflection coefficients and phase angles. The measurements were obtained over a band of frequencies in the microwave range of 12.4 to 18.0 GHz. The test program included different aggregate types, aggregate gradations, asphalt types, asphalt contents, air void contents, specimen thickness, and surface smoothness. Microwave reflection measurements were obtained for the hot-mix asphalt concrete specimens and their components in a sweep mode over the above frequency band. These measurements were analyzed, and the magnitude of the dielectric constant and the loss factor were calculated. The dielectric properties for these mixes were obtained at the dry state and at two levels of moisture content. The dielectric properties were correlated to the mix characteristics. Regression models were developed to predict the volumetric moisture content of hotmix asphalt concrete. A model developed from a theoretical approach was found to give the best correlation.
Load-Slip Behavior of Nailed Joints in Seven Amazonian Hardwoods
Authors: Pellicane PJ , Sá Ribeiro RA 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
Two hundred ninety-two nailed joints in seven species of Amazonian hardwoods were tested to evaluate their load-slip (P-Δ) behavior when subjected to lateral loading. The seven species commonly used in Brazilian light-frame construction had a range of specific gravities from 0.36 to 0.85 (based on an oven-dry volume) Four sizes of common wire nails were used to construct joints with main and side members of the same species.
From these tests, embedding strength values associated with a 5% offset load were obtained from the experimental (P-Δ) curves and equations derived from the European Yield Theory. The results suggest that the behavior of nailed joints made with tropical hardwoods is similar to that found in temperate zone species. Wood moisture content, in the range studied, did not meaningfully affect joint P-Δ behavior. In addition, embedding strength was influenced by the specific gravity of the connected material. However, no species effect was observable between species of similar specific gravity. Finally, an effect of nail diameter on embedding strength was seen; however, the lack of homogeneity of test materials precluded the accurate prediction of this effect.
Since the embedding strength data demonstrated some degree of positive skewness, three commonly used statistical distributions (log-normal, three-parameter Weibull, and Johnson's SB) were evaluated to quantify the variability of this parameter. All three distributions were excellent descriptors of behavior. Therefore any of these mathematical models would be a rational choice for representing embedding strength.
Development of a B4C/Al Cermet for Use as an Improved Structural Neutron Absorber
Authors: Beidler CJ , Hauth WE , Goel A 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
An aluminum and boron carbide cermet was evaluated for possible application as a neutron absorbing material where structural strength and rigidity will be required. The boron carbide/aluminum composite possessed unique continuous interconnected ceramic and metal phases. Traditional bocon containing neutron absorbing materials have relied upon dispersions of particles in metal or polymeric matrices. The dispersion of boron carbide particles placed restrictions on the B10 concentration, introduced areal inhomogeneities, and necessitated the use of cladding to achieve desired strength. Utilization of two continuous phases allowed for considerable strength properties without having to include cladding. Boron concentrations in excess of 60 v/o were obtained in the cermet, a level that only hot pressing could surpass. Also, the boron carbide particle distribution could be adjusted to optimize strength and/or improve homogeneity of B10 within the material.
A material with these characteristics will be ideal for demanding applications such as shipping casks and storage racks. The higher boron content provides for improved areal densities, thus reducing the shielding volume. Space can be conserved without sacrificing structural strength. This material can be fabricated in plates ranging in thickness from 0.076 to over 2.540 cm. Curved or complex shapes are also possible. The cost of this cermet can be expected to be much lower than hot-pressed boron carbide material.
The evaluation was made on the basis of physical performance of the boron carbide/aluminum cermet. Properties were measured over a range of loadings and particle distributions of the boron carbide. A semi-guided bend test was performed on 0.254 cm thick plates to measure the ability of the cermet to withstand deformation. The B10 density was measured by neutron attenuation methods.
High Effectiveness Shielding Materials and Optimal Shield Design
Authors: Greenspan E 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
A preliminary investigation of the effectiveness of new composite materials under development for shielding against neutrons and photons is reported upon. These materials are made from a proper mix of powders of tungsten, titanium or zirconium hydride and boron carbide, all bonded by hydrogenous materials such as polyethylene or silicone based materials. The investigation is carried out with the aid of the shield optimization code SWAN by considering a simplified 40-cm-thick spherical shield with CI-252 source at its center. The shielding ability of the new, so-called polynated and siliconated, materials is found to be highly superior to that of shielding materials in common use. The flexibility in tailoring the mix of inelastic scatterers, elastic scatterers, neutron absorbers, and photon attenuators to one's shielding needs, along with the information on material effectiveness functions which can be calculated with a code such as SWAN, are expected to enable improvements in future shield designs.
Properties of High-Density Concrete
Authors: Mukherjee PK 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
High-density concrete is used extensively in nuclear power plants for radiation shielding against biological hazards. Apart from the basic physical properties (i.e., compressive strength, density, and absorption), knowledge of thermal properties of such concrete is required to access its performance under service conditions. This paper describes investigative work carried out on a high-density concrete. Also, because aggregates are the most important and critical component of the high-density concrete, properties of the aggregates and the criteria for their use in concrete have been discussed. In addition, cores were obtained from a shielding wall of a 20-year-old nuclear plant and selective tests were carried out on the core samples for comparison. The mix proportions of the concrete from the wall were different from those of the laboratory-made concrete. Thermal properties, such as conductivity, diffusivity, specific heat, emissivity and coefficient of thermal expansion, were determined, and the values were compared with a normal-density dolomitic-limestone based concrete.
Shield Verification Testing at the Idaho Chemical Processing Plant — Fuel Processing Facility
Authors: Oswald AJ 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
A Shield Testing Program is being conducted at a new nuclear facility to verify that shield walls, doors, and windows meet the design criteria for radiation attenuation. A modified Teletherapy Unit is being utilized as a test unit. This unit has been successfully used for shield testing during the construction of two other major facilities. A collimated beam from a Co60 source is exposed on one side of the shield being tested, and the attenuated radiation is measured with a standard radiation detector. Detailed documentation is completed for each area tested. Detailed procedures are required for operation of the test unit. No significant personnel exposure has been recorded during any of the shield testing.
The Co60 test method is a known, proven technique that provides the required penetration and the capability to cover relatively large areas with a single exposure.
An Efficient Algorithm to Characterize Stress-Strain Data Using Piecewise Linear Curves
Authors: Vizzini AJ 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
An efficient algorithm to characterize experimental stress-strain data is preacated. The algorithm segments the curve into regions by locating regions with a maximum correlation coefficient. Thus the algorithm determines the initial region of the curve to be considered in determining the initial slope or, in the case of a stress versus strain curve, the initial modulus. The algorithm is of particular use in analyzing the elastic behavior of composites where nonlinear stress-strain, knees, damage, and other abnormalities may occur. The results of the algorithm are compared to linear regions determined from calculations of correlation coefficients involving all possible regions within a data file. In general, the algorithm provides the same linear regions as are determiend from the complete calulation of correlation coefficients and is at least one order of magnitude faster.
The Use of Small Punch (Bulge) Tests to Estimate Fracture Stress in the Lower Shelf Regime
Authors: Joo Y-H , Hashida T , Takahashi H , Shimomura K 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
The small punch fracture stress σf(SP) and fracture toughness KIc of embrittled turbine rotor steels have been evaluated at temperatures corresponding to the lower shelf regime. The lower bound values of σf(SP), determined by statistically analyzing the data, are found to be relatively independent of test temperature range from −196 to −170°C for rotor M steel and from −196 to −150°C for rotor T steel. The relationship of σf(SP) to fractographic features was also investigated. The lower bound values of σf(SP) were found to be comparable with values of the microscopic fracture stress σ*f. This result indicates that small punch tests might be used successfully to measure σ*f of materials at lower shelf temperatures.
On the Intrinsic Character of the Stress-Strain Curve of a Prestressing Steel
Authors: Toribio J 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
This paper deals with the influence on the stress-strain curve of a prestressing steel of such mechanical variables as the gage length, the sample length, and the gripping conditions. An original experimental technique was developed, both to increase the gage length of the standard extensometer and to test large size wires, using different grips. The results show that, at least in a first approach, the stress-strain curve of a prestressing steel has an intrinsic character. Nevertheless, small variations in the yield strength and the flow step were noticed when the sample length changed. These differences may be attributed to the initial curvature of the wire supplied in rolls.
A Method for Estimation of the Radius of Elastic-Plastic Boundary Around Cold-Worked Holes
Authors: Arora PR , Dattaguru B , Subramánya Hande HS 
Published: February 2009

AbstractThe radius of an elastic-plastic boundary was measured by the strain gage method around the cold-worked region in L72-aluminum alloy. The relative radial expansion was varied from 2.5 to 6.5% during the cold-working process using mandrel and split sleeve. The existing theoretical studies in this area are reviewed. The experimental results are compared with existing experimental data of various investigators and with various theoretical formulations. A model is developed to predict the radius of elastic-plastic boundary, and the model is assessed by comparing with the present experiments.
Analysis of Elastic and Plastic Strains for Internally Pressurized Cylinders
Authors: Gasiak G 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
Methods of theoretical considerations and experiments on elastic and plastic strains in rotational internally pressurised shells with rigid bottoms are presented. The shells were treated as three-dimensional bodies, and the algorithms and programs for numerical analysis were worked out according to the finite-element method (FEM) and Prandtl-Reuss theory of plastic flow. The presented methods of experiments were used for measurements of elastic and plastic strains in thin-walled rotational shells. Loading in the shell was incrementally realized. With the applied methods of numerical calculations and experiments, it is possible to analyze the bulging process in the shell up to the loss of strain stability. Strain increments are not limited in any way. The paper shows the results obtained with the shell bulging. A good agreement between the results obtained with FEM and those from experiments can be observed. The presented analysis can be a basis for work on a method allowing the control of the wall thickness while forming tubular elements in industry.
Drop Heights Encountered in the United Parcel Service Small Parcel Environment in the United States
Authors: Singh SP , Voss T 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
Packaged goods move through varieous logistical networks each day all over the world. Packages moving through these various networks are exposed to dynamic forces such as drops, tosses, and kicks. This study investigated the effect of drops, tosses, and kicks encountered in the United Parcel Service (UPS) small parcel environment in the United States. The effect of the weight and volume of packages shipped was studied.
The results of this study showed the highest drop observed in the UPS environment in 35 roundtrips from Lansing, MI to Monterey, CA was 42.1 inches for the Small-size package. The size of the package had no significant effect on the drop heights. Lighter weight packages for the smaller size experienced higher drop heights. Weight in general also did not have a significant effect on the Medium and Larger size package drop heights. 95% of the drops occurred at 30 inches for the Small/Light package, 24 inches for the Small/Medium package, 18 inches for the Medium/Light package, 24 inches for the Medium/Medium packages, 26 inches for the Medium/Heavy package, and 18 inches for the Large/Medium and Large/Heavy packages.
Effects of Notch Length on the Ductile Fracture of a Center-Notched Low Carbon Steel Plate
Authors: Makabe C , Kaneshiro H 
Published: February 2009

AbstractDuctile fracture of a thin-notched specimen deformed to plastic collapse was investigated by observing crack growth on the specimen surface. A correlation between the ductile crack growth and the initial notch length was obtained. It was found that: (1) the crack growth rate, da/dε, for the strain increment depends on the crack length, a, and the nondimensionalized crack growth rate, (da/dε)/a, is faster for short notch lengths; (2) crack opening displacement, δ, measured in the vicinity of the crack tip was also dependent on the crack length and the notch length; (3) the crack opening rate, dδ/da, was inversely proportional to the crack length. Thus, the variation of crack opening displacement was found to have a good correlation with the crack growth rate.