bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of organophosphorus pesticide on the corrosion of carbon steel in polluted freshwaters
Authors: Jiang Li , Mao Xuhui , Yu Jianfei , Lin An , Gan Fuxing 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to study the corrosion behavior and corrosion mechanism of carbon steel in polluted freshwaters with organophosphorus pesticide (OP).Design/methodology/approachThe weight‐loss method, electrochemical measurements and surface analysis technique were used to study the corrosion of carbon steel in polluted freshwaters with OP.FindingsGeneral corrosion occurred when carbon steels were exposed to test solutions (freshwaters with and without OP). The presence of OP in test solutions can accelerate the corrosion rate of carbon steel.Originality/valueThe aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of a single OP (diethyl phosphite) on the corrosion of carbon steel. Until now, there was little research to report on this aspect. It was found that the presence of diethyl phosphite at low concentrations could accelerate the corrosion rate of carbon steel in freshwaters. This research not only can offer theoretical guidelines for the prevention of pipelines and facilities from corroding, but also can provide reference for suitable material selection.
The effect of test conditions on the sensitivity and resolution of SRET signal response
Authors: Dzib‐Pérez L. , González‐Sánchez J. , Malo J.M. , Rodríguez F.J. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to study and analyse the advantages and limitations of the scanning reference electrode technique (SRET) to detect and assess localised electrochemical activity based on an evaluation of the influence of the principal test parameters on the sensitivity and resolution of the technique.Design/methodology/approachMeasurements of Ohmic potential gradients induced by ionic flux close to a point current source (PCS) were carried out using a scanning reference electrode technique (SRET) instrument, which comprised a vertical rotating working electrode and a scanning probe formed by a pair of platinum electrodes of approximately 200 μm of diameter. Ionic flux was induced by anodic polarisation applied to a gold micro‐disc electrode, which acted as the PCS. Measurements were conducted in electrolytes of ten different conductivities, using different scanning probe tips to sample surface distance and different working electrode rotation rates. The range of conductivities used included most of the possible electrolytes to which metallic materials can be in contact under real service conditions.FindingsThe SRET signal sensed from a polarised PCS showed a strong dependence on the rotation rate of the working electrode for electrolytes of low conductivity but a minimal effect on electrolytes with conductivities higher than 50 mS/cm.Originality/valueThis work presents the effect of wide variations on the electrochemical and operational conditions on the sensitivity and resolution of SRET signal response and discusses the limitations of the technique to assess localised electrochemical activity due to the effect of high conductivity electrolytes, large separation distance between the SRET scanning probe and developing dissolution and scanning rate of a the localised site.
Corrosion and scaling at Cerro Prieto geothermal field
Authors: Valdez Benjamin , Schorr Michael , Quintero Margarito , Carrillo Monica , Zlatev Roumen , Stoytcheva Margarita , de Dios Ocampo Juan 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe aim of this work is to study the corrosion and scaling factors, mechanisms and processes affecting the materials, equipment and installations of the Cerro Prieto geothermal field (GTF).Design/methodology/approachThe physicochemical characteristics of the geothermal well and fluids were analysed, recorded and related to the corrosion and scaling phenomena.FindingsThe high temperature and salinity of the steam‐brine mixture and the presence of hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide impart a severe level of corrosivity.Originality/valueCorrosion and scaling control assure an efficient production regime, provide for the durability of the GTF engineering materials and equipment and contribute to environmental quality.
Morphological characterization of AA5083‐H321 aluminum alloy corrosion in NaCl solution under hydrodynamic conditions
Authors: Jafarzadeh K. , Shahrabi T. , Hadavi S.M.M. , Hosseini M.G. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe paper aims to focus on the recognition of corrosion product morphologies of AA5083‐H321 corroding aluminum‐magnesium alloys used in the manufacture of aluminum high speed boats and submarines during flow induced corrosion in seawater.Design/methodology/approachAll experiments were conducted in a 3.5 percent NaCl solution as the simulated marine environment. Hydrodynamic conditions were created by an rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) system. Morphological characterization of the surface was undertaken using SEM and EDAX techniques. Cyclic polarization tests were used to determine the electrochemical behavior of the alloy.FindingsThe results obtained reveal that the pit density on the sample surface increased with increasing the rotation speed. The enhanced flow condition also enhanced the tendency for intermetallic particles, including submicron size Al(Mg,Mn) inclusions, to promote pitting corrosion of the alloy. An interesting result was that crystallographic pitting occurred at rotation speeds greater than 5 m/s.Practical implicationsIn the selection of corrosion control methods for high speed aluminum‐hulled boats, control of erosion corrosion was determined to be more important than any other form of corrosion.Originality/valueProvides information about the contribution of mechanical and electrochemical corrosion phenomena in corrosion of high speed aluminum boats under hydrodynamic conditions. Characterization of new intermetallic particles in aluminum‐magnesium alloys that can promote pitting during flow induced corrosion in marine environments. Provides new information about the origin of crystallographic pitting attack on aluminum.
Investigation of the effect of different amino‐acid derivatives on the inhibition of NST‐44 carbon steel corrosion in cassava fluid
Authors: Alagbe M. , Umoru L.E. , Afonja A.A. , Olorunniwo O.E. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to present the report of an investigation on the effect of some amino acid based inhibitors on the corrosion characteristics of NST‐44 carbon steel in cassava fluid.Design/methodology/approachThe corrosion rates of the exposed steel were obtained using the weight loss immersion method. The amino‐acid inhibitors investigated included leucine, alanine, methionine and glutamic acid. The corroded surfaces of the specimens were characterized using the optical microscopic techniques.FindingsIt was observed that alanine showed the highest inhibitive potential on the NST‐44 carbon steel in the cassava fluid with an average efficiency of about 50 per cent while glutamic acid had the lowest with less than 30 per cent. Leucine and methionine, however, showed considerable benefit, with inhibition efficiencies of about 46 and 45 per cent, respectively.Originality/valueThe results of this work are expected to improve the corrosion resistance of steel that is often used as construction material for the cassava processing industry in Nigeria.
Integrated information and logistics management, quality management and firm performance of pork processing industry in China
Authors: Han Jiqin , Trienekens Jacques H. , Omta S.W.F. (Onno) 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper seeks to discuss the interactions amongst integrated information technology (IT), integrated logistics management, quality management practices and firm performance of pork processors in China.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual framework was developed by examining the relationship between pork processors and their customers. A stratified random sample of 229 pork processors in eastern China provided data for empirical testing with partial least squares analysis.FindingsResults revealed that integrated IT and integrated logistics management improved the quality management practices of the pork processors. The application of IT also facilitated integrated logistics management. While quality management practices had significant impact on firm performance, the findings indicated neither integrated IT nor integrated logistics management was significantly related to firm performance. However, integrated IT had an indirect impact on firm performance through quality management practices.Practical implicationsThis study sheds light on the critical role of integrated information and logistics management in pork quality management. For business managers, a high level of firm performance greatly depends on quality management practices. The issue of improving IT and logistics management remains a challenging task for managers in the pork processing sector in mainland China.Originality/valueQuantitative empirical study of the effects of integrated IT and logistics management on firm performance of the agrifood supply chain in China fills an important gap in research.
Which way forward for China's vegetable exports?
Authors: Xue Liu , Revell Brian J. 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine patterns of recent changes in China's international export trade in vegetable products between 2001 and 2005 following China's membership of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and to measure consequent changes in its export competitiveness. It also aims to consider infrastructural issues in relation to supply chain and food safety issues which may affect China's future potential export growth in vegetables.Design/methodology/approachThe comparative advantage of China's vegetable sector is measured through an export specialisation index. A trade‐shares accounting framework is used to identify the sources of change in China's aggregate market shares. An import demand function for China's vegetable exports is estimated.FindingsThe paper finds that China has a comparative advantage in vegetable production and exporting. Although there have been negative structural changes in vegetable imports in many of China's major overseas markets, particularly East Asia, China's export share of those markets and its overall world market share has increased since WTO membership. China's export growth rate has exceeded the global average for most vegetable categories. Penetration of SE Asian markets has been price driven, but there is little evidence that China's WTO membership has enabled greater penetration into EU markets for its vegetable exports.Originality/valueThere have been many studies of the potential impact of China's WTO membership on world trade in agri‐food products, but none examining its actual impact in the labour intensive vegetable sector. Although the methodologies applied are well established, their empirical application in the context of China's vegetable export sector in this article are original, and present a context against which to view China's future vegetable export prospects.
Chinese gatekeeper perceptions of genetically modified food
Authors: Knight John G. , Gao Hongzhi 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate perceptions of food distribution gatekeepers in China regarding likely acceptance of genetically modified (GM) foods by Chinese consumers. It also aims to consider policy implications for food exporting countries.Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory approach using in‐depth interviews was adopted. Key informants of a sample of 20 companies in five main commercial centres in the People's Republic of China and in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region were interviewed. In addition, two interviews were conducted with a key government official and a professor at a leading agricultural university in order to provide details of Chinese Government policy.FindingsAccording to gatekeepers, Chinese consumers currently have ambiguous views of GM food products. It is concluded that Chinese consumers are likely to accept GM foods provided there are consumer benefits, a price advantage, and credible governmental information concerning safety of GM foods.Research limitations/implicationsChinese Government policy is to take advantage of a window of opportunity provided by markets such as Japan and Europe, which presently prefer to import non‐GM food; at the same time China is developing full potential to grow GM crops just as soon as external market conditions change. Current barriers to export of GM food products to China are likely to be short‐term.Originality/valueThis paper provides an insight into how gatekeepers in the food distribution channel in China view GM foods, and how they believe Chinese consumers will react to the introduction of such foods.
Service quality in Hong Kong: wet markets vs supermarkets
Authors: Bougoure Ursula , Lee Bernard 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine consumer perceptions of service quality in wet markets and supermarkets in Hong Kong.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire was developed and distributed via a convenience sample to consumers in shopping malls in Causeway Bay, Mong Kok and Tsuen Wan.FindingsThe study finds that supermarkets outperformed wet markets across all aspects of service quality as measured by SERVQUAL‐P.Research limitations/implicationsImplications suggest that wet market vendors are not providing the level of service quality demanded by their customers. In particular, findings suggest that wet market vendors need to improve the visual attractiveness of their stalls, work on making them look more professional and start using more modern equipment.Practical implicationsWet market vendors in conjunction with government representatives need to develop standards of service quality for wet markets across Hong Kong. This is imperative if the wet market model is to survive in what is a highly competitive food retailing industry. Without action, it appears that the supermarketization of the Hong Kong food retailing industry will continue unabated.Originality/valueThis paper adds to a small but growing research stream examining service quality in the food retailing industry in Hong Kong. It provides empirical results that guide suggested actions for change.
Succession planning – or smart talent management?
Authors: Hills Angela 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to identify what succession planning actually is and the pro's and con's of buying in, or building talent in the organization. The paper is informed by BlessingWhite's 2008 global survey into employee engagement.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examines the advantages and disadvantages of buying in and building talent to ensure the right people are in the right places at the right time within an organization. It describes five strategies for ensuring succession planning works.FindingsThe five key strategies are: aligning succession planning with business strategy, assessing leadership potential using the 3Cs, involve the talent in the planning, mixing development: experience/coaching/training, and casting a wider net for succession.Research limitations/implicationsThe research quoted is the global BlessingWhite survey – The State of Engagement 2008.Practical implicationsThe paper details changes to succession planning strategy.Originality/valueThis paper gives new research data and an approach to succession planning. It is of value to senior HR professionals and executive teams in companies concerned about effective succession planning and talent management.
Performance evaluation in a matrix organization: a case study (part 3)
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Nadeau David , Cyr Michael 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to examine and ultimately suggest the most effective method with which to evaluate employees operating within a matrix organization. The authors will demonstrate the tools, corporate participation and acceptance levels required in order to ensure employee and manager “buy in” and implementation.Design/methodology/approachThis article consists of a comprehensive review of literature demonstrating functional areas within a matrix organization as well as employee evaluation methods within various organizations. It is presented in three sections: defining a matrix organization; demonstrating effective evaluation methods and strategies; and finally how the two should work together. Critical incidents are interspersed throughout the article in order to demonstrate how the research compares to the methods employed by a leading aviation engineering firm.FindingsIneffective evaluation methods within matrix organizations can lead to lower employee morale as well as an ambiguous understanding of employee roles within such an organization. Employee and management buy in and support of an evaluation system and its goals are crucial to the success of the program. The multi‐rater system appeared to be most effective.Practical implicationsSeveral tools exist to help employers effectively evaluate their employees in a constructive and effective manner. Among them are clear job description and corporate structure, followed by a review of performance by both functional and project managers. Additionally, peer evaluations can prove to be constructive and contribute positively to the development of the employee. This article can be a practical aid for managers in a matrix organization that need to successfully and constructively evaluate employees, but are having difficulty doing so in an effective method.Originality/valueGiven the limited research with respect to evaluations within a matrix structure, this paper demonstrates an understanding of a subject that has not been adequately explored. The article demonstrated in “real time” the critical synthesis for PA and the matrix organization – an absence noted in the literature.
Why do banks continue to waste talent?
Authors: Dive Brian 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to respond to a claim in a recent McKinsey publication (24 July 2008) that European banks are short of talent. The paper argues that banks generally waste talent. They are not short of talent. It argues, based on the author's book The Accountable Leader, also published in July 2008, that accountability is the key to effective leadership and management of talent.Design/methodology/approachThe material is based on case study work done in a number of banks. The paper is therefore a blend of viewpoint, case study material and concepts. Although the initial focus is financial institutions, the theme is applied to other organizations. Supporting evidence of this viewpoint is provided from a 2007 Webcast for The Conference Board of New York. Case study material based on 40 years' experience in 70 countries, provides evidence of key concepts outlined: hierarchy heavy organizations, their misuse of grading systems and the reality of career dead ends as a result.FindingsThe paper demonstrates how the above problems lead to the stunted development of bonsai managers. This is a metaphor to illustrate the extent and reason for the waste of talent in banks for example, the root cause of which is their inability to accurately define accountability.Originality/valueThe paper sets out four pre‐requisites for effective leadership. It argues that most CEOs do not know how to establish the first – an accountable organization. It debunks the superficial but popular myth about the shortage of talent. The real problem is the shortage of organizations, which know how to manage talent. They have too many leaders, not too few!
Interpersonal influence in the workplace – part 3: some research findings – influencing behaviour and team role behaviour
Authors: Manning Tony , Pogson Graham , Morrison Zoë 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThis article aims to present some further research findings that explore the relationship between influencing behaviour and team role behaviour.Design/methodology/approachThe research is based upon data collected by the authors during training and development activities that they carried out and/or were involved in.FindingsThe main conclusion is specifically related to the revised model of team roles put forward by Manning et al. This was developed in response to perceived limitations in Belbin's original formulation of team role theory. It builds on and develops the idea that there is a significant social dimension to team roles.Originality/valueThe research is based upon data collected by the authors during training and development activities that they carried out and/or were involved in. Information collected comes from a work‐based sample of men and women, at all organizational levels, in a variety of mainly public sector organizations in the UK.
Competences of an effective director
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to share the findings of investigations into the competences that an effective director should have. It draws upon the findings of surveys of director development undertaken by the author and others and the author's experience of advising over 100 boards on director and board development.Design/methodology/approachThe surveys examined have mainly involved UK directors and unitary boards. The situation might be different in other countries. It would be helpful if more studies were undertaken of director and board development in other contexts and involving different board structures, e.g. two tier or management and supervisory boards.FindingsThe findings suggest it is possible to identify, categorize and prioritize the competences that directors require to be more effective in their roles. Trainers and developers interested in addressing directorial competence requirements need to understand the distinction between direction and management, and between deficiencies that require individual and collective action, the boardroom context and concerns directors may themselves have about the assessment of their competences. There are certain questions they need to ask to assess the development requirement.Practical implicationsThe competences of individual directors and those of the board as a whole should be periodically reviewed, particularly as the membership of a board changes and it faces new challenges. Trainers and developers can address this requirement by sensitively handling any concerns directors may have about the process used.Originality/valueThe paper highlights the nature of the competences required by a competent director and the challenge of assessing, categorizing, prioritizing and addressing competence deficiencies. The paper should be of value to those who support directors and boards and have an interest in improving the competence of directors and the effectiveness of boards.
The training methodology of project management office (PMO) personnel
Authors: Rozenes Shai , Vitner Gad 
Published: January 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to highlight the need of a methodological training framework for project management office personnel.Design/methodology/approachWorking closely with hi tech corporations whose main line of business is based on projects, the paper presents an integrative training approach supported by managerial commitment to improve training effectiveness.FindingsThe paper concentrates on qualifying the project management office personnel to facilitate the project's aims and objectives. The paper concludes with a high level prescription for developing a project management training methodology.Practical implicationsThe paper highlights the need to establish a well‐defined way for upgrading the project management office personnel performances.Originality/valueThe article will deepen the understanding of the need for project management training.