Journal of Sustainable Materials Processing and Management
Journal of Sustainable Materials Processing and Management (JSMPM) is an international peer-reviewed scholarly journal. It is published by Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia in June and December every year. JSMPM welcomes manuscript submissions on sustainable materials, including materials characterization, synthesis, optimization, management, and policy. JSMPM aims to publish original and significant research on sustainable materials. The journal is transdisciplinary in nature and integrates aspects of processing and management for sustainable materials. JSMPM is an open-access journal with no article processing charges. More info
Leaching Kinetics of Crucial Metals from Bismutite Ore: Parameter Determination
This study investigated the leaching kinetics of the crucial metals-aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), and zirconium (Zr) from bismutite ore using sulfuric acid (H2SO4) as the lixiviant. The influences of acid concentration (0.1–3 mol/L), leaching time (5–120 min), and temperature (28–80 °C) on metal extraction efficiency were systematically evaluated. The results demonstrated that increased acid concentrations and higher temperatures significantly enhanced metal recovery. The optimal leaching conditions were 2.5 mol/L H2SO4, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 100 g/L, and a temperature of 80 °C for 120 minutes, yielding leaching efficiencies of 99.82% for Al, 85.4% for Fe, and 99.2% for Zr. Kinetic modelling via the shrinking core model indicated that the process is chemically controlled, with activation energies of 31.06, 38.02, and 42.79 kJ/mol for Al, Fe, and Zr, respectively. The enriched leachate produced under these conditions is suitable for the subsequent selective recovery of target metals. This work supports sustainable metallurgical practices by promoting efficient, multi-element extraction from complex ores.
Crucial metals; sulfuric acid; bismutite ore; process optimization; leaching kinetics.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Sustainable Materials Processing and Management https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Influence of Temperature on the Rheological Properties of Composite Suspensions Based on Pyrocarbon
The disposal of used automobile tires is a significant environmental challenge. In industrialized countries, the average annual number of discarded tires per person is approximately one. One of the most common methods of tire recycling is pyrolysis. The solid residue of this process is pyrocarbon. Due to its high dispersity, the presence of numerous submicron carbon particles, and significantly greater porosity compared to coal, pyrocarbon is a promising additive for the production of composite slurry fuel. Such fuel systems are influenced by various external factors, particularly temperature, which alters their properties. It has been established that increasing the temperature from 10°C to 20°C leads to a sharp decrease in the effective viscosity of the medium. Further temperature increases result in a less pronounced reduction in viscosity. In the range of 40–50°C, a slight acceleration in the rate of change of rheological characteristics is observed in the studied composite suspensions. At shear stress levels up to 20 Pa, the viscosity of the suspension decreases sharply due to the intensive breakdown of structural bonds. At 30–60 Pa, the system behaves as a Newtonian fluid with constant viscosity, indicating complete destruction of the structural network. It has been shown that as the temperature rises from 20°C to 40°C, the degree of thixotropy increases, reflecting the system’s strong ability to recover through enhanced particle interactions. However, at 50°C, thermal degradation of spatial structures occurs. The established performance characteristics of the obtained suspensions make them suitable for use as liquid fuel in fuel-fired boilers.
apparent viscosity, composite fuel, pyrocarbon, temperature dependence, shear rate, rheological properties
Eco-Friendly Optimization of Fatigue Strength in Sand-Cast Aluminium Alloys Using Waste Metal Chips as Mold Additives
This study investigates the enhancement of fatigue strength in aluminium alloy castings obtained from scrap engine blocks, through grain refinement achieved by incorporating metal chips into sand molds during sand casting. The materials used included a scrap engine block (aluminum alloy), molding sand, and chips from cast iron and brass, all of which were procured and characterized. Using a Taguchi design of experiment, alloys were cast with varying proportions of particle sizes and amounts of brass and cast iron chips. XRF analysis identified aluminium (76.61%), silicon (17.49%), and magnesium (1.28%) as the primary elements in the scrap aluminium alloy, while brown sand predominantly contained silicon (89.51%) and phosphorus (7.41%). The cast iron was mainly composed of iron (88.3%), carbon (3.7%), and silicon (2.3%). Fatigue testing results indicated a 24.78% increase in strength compared to the as-cast alloy, with Taguchi optimization yielding a further improvement of 28.30%. The optimal configuration found included brass/cast iron metal chips at level 2, a chip content of 40 %wt (level 4), and a chip particle size of 100 µm (level 1), resulting in a fatigue strength of 70.58 MPa. SEM and optical micrographs of the optimal sample showcased a finer grain structure. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed a 3.01% reduction in mass loss and a 33.11% increase in decomposition onset temperature compared to the control, indicating enhanced thermal stability. Furthermore, using foundry sand mixed with metal chips yielded improvements in green compressive strength of 20.33%, dry compressive strength of 22.73%, and compactability of 4.55%. Overall, this study confirms that integrating metal chips into sand molds significantly enhances both the fatigue strength of aluminium alloy castings and the quality of the molds, presenting promising implications for the recycling and utilization of scrap materials in casting processes.
Optimization and Dissolution Kinetics of a Nigerian Monazite Ore Using H2SO4
This study presents the optimization and kinetic evaluation of thorium recovery from monazite ore sourced from Plateau State, Nigeria with the use of sulphuric acid as a leaching agent. The objective was to ascertain the optimal conditions for thorium recovery and to understand the kinetics involved in the process. A central composite design (CCD) under response surface methodology (RSM) was utilized to evaluate the effects of the following process parameters – acid concentration, reaction temperature and leaching time on thorium extraction. The results showed that the leaching efficiency was significantly impacted by the acid concentration, reaction temperature and the leaching time. The kinetic studies showed that the leaching process followed a shrinking core model with diffusion as the rate controlling step. These findings demonstrate the viability of thorium recovery with sulphuric acid from Nigerian monazite and provide a good basis to scale up the process for nuclear fuel material development.
Monazite, thorium, Central Composite Design, Dissolution kinetics, sulphuric acid
A Review on Metal Oxide Nanoparticles: Bridging Chemical Synthesis Strategies to Emerging Applications
Metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) exhibit size-dependent properties that drive advances in catalysis, energy storage, sensing, remediation, and biomedicine. Chemical synthesis routes allow precise control over structure, composition, and crystallinity, typically yielding 5–100 nm particles. Sol-gel offers molecular-level mixing and uniformity; hydrothermal/solvothermal methods operate at 100–250 °C and 1–10 MPa; thermal decomposition yields highly crystalline oxides at 300–750 °C; and microwave-assisted synthesis achieves uniform nanoparticles within minutes. Unlike prior reviews that focus separately on methods or applications, this article uniquely bridges synthesis strategies with application-driven property requirements, mapping how reaction conditions govern morphology, defect states, and surface reactivity. Representative case studies highlight enhanced catalytic activity from high surface areas, improved Li-ion battery cycling stability, ppm-level gas sensing, pollutant degradation via photocatalysis, and targeted drug delivery using functionalized oxides. Finally, we critically assess challenges in scalability, reproducibility, and biocompatibility, and outline future directions in hybrid architectures and continuous-flow synthesis.
Synthesis and Characterization of Al-SiO2 Composites
The paper presents studies aimed at producing aluminum matrix composites reinforced with amorphous silica particles. The possibility of producing composites of the Al-SiO2 (5 wt. %) system using intensive mixing casting and semi-solid metal casting methods has been established. Semi-solid metal casting followed by squeeze casting demonstrated the highest efficiency. The potential of using magnesium as a surface-active additive to remove oxygen from the surface of the dispersed particles and improve the mechanical properties of the composite material during heat treatment has been demonstrated. It has been found that the resulting composites exhibit a uniform distribution of dispersed silica particles throughout the metal volume. Furthermore, they possess hardness, corrosion resistance, and specific gravity values that exceed those of the original aluminum alloy. Composites produced using the developed technique may find application in various transportation engineering fields, as well as in aviation and aerospace industries.
Aluminum, сomposite materials, aluminum matrix composites, silicon dioxide, amorphous microsilica, stir casting, semi-solid metal casting, squeeze casting
Electrosynthesis of Ni-Rich Cathode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries
This study develops an electrosynthesis method for LiNi₀.₈₉Co₀.₀₈Al₀.₀₃O₂ (NCA) cathode materials, utilizing water oxidation to generate hydroxide ions for precursor precipitation. Systematic characterization reveals calcination temperature critically governs morphology and performance: 600°C yields porous particles with residual hydroxides, 800°C produces dense, well-crystallized structures with optimal porosity, while 950°C causes over-sintering and Al segregation. EDX shows temperature-dependent elemental distribution, with 800°C achieving ideal Ni/Co/Al integration. XRD confirms layered phase formation, and TG/DTA tracks thermal decomposition. Optimal conditions (1.5 A, 1 M concentration, 800°C calcination) yield NCA cathodes with enhanced structural stability and electrochemical activity. The work demonstrates electrosynthesis as a sustainable, controllable route for high-performance NCA production.
Extraction, Recovery, and Sintering of Manganese from Spessartine-Pyrolusite-Almandine: A Comprehensive Review
Manganese, a crucial industrial metal, plays an essential role in steel production, battery manufacturing, and various chemical processes, necessitating efficient and sustainable methods for its extraction and processing. The review explores the sintering of manganese extracted from these minerals, an essential step in producing high-purity manganese products for industrial use. Technological advancements and ecological considerations are emphasized throughout the review, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and green technologies in manganese extraction and processing. Economic analyses of the different extraction and recovery methods are provided, assessing their viability and scalability in global market demand. This underscores the importance of integrated approaches to manganese processing, combining traditional methods with innovative technologies to meet industrial needs while minimizing environmental impact. Future research directions and emerging technologies are identified, offering a roadmap for advancing the field of manganese extraction, recovery, and sintering.
Physical and Long-Term Mechanical Properties of Walnut Shell Ash Blended Cement
Walnut shell ash (WSA) is a new supplementary cementitious material (SCM) for cement. Tests for water of consistency, setting time, pozzolanicity, free lime content, flexural and compressive strength were conducted. Results demonstrated that the cement pastes incorporating up to 25 wt. % WSA possesses suitable and satisfactory setting times, physical, pozzolanic activity and mechanical properties. The addition of WSA increased the w/c ratio and setting times. The total porosity gradually decreased with the increase of WSA content while the bulk density increased. The strength improvements were due to of formation of fibrous CSH gel, high hydration level, low porosity, high density and pozzolanic reactions of WSA with the resulting free lime from the hydration process. The free lime contents of the OPC (W0) increased with the curing times, while with WSA the free lime content decreased due to the pozzolanic activity of WSA. Any further increase of WSA content more than 25 wt. %, all properties adversely effected. So, the optimum content of WSA is 25 wt. %.
Use of Tyre Pyrolysis Products as Recycled Raw Materials for the Production of Composite Suspension Fuel
Composite suspension fuel (CSF) is a viable alternative not only to solid coal but also to fuel oil and diesel fuel. The issue with combined systems is the low stability and heterogeneity of the distribution of solid particles, which causes an increase in the viscosity of dispersed systems. Studies have shown that it is possible to use pyrocarbon, which is made from used car tyres, as a fuel for boats. Systems based on pyrocarbon without additives have high viscosity values. To regulate the rheological properties and stabilize the CSF, additives such as dispersants, plasticisers, and stabilisers are used. Research has been done into how dispersants affect the properties of composite suspension fuel (CSF). They used additives like carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), sodium lignosulfonate (LSTNa), naphthalene formaldehyde (NF), the condensation product of β-naphthalene sulfonic acid and formaldehyde (C-3), and humic acids. Studies of the flow of CSF based on pyrocarbon are in line with studies of the surface of pyrocarbon using electrokinetic methods. It is estimated that the surface of unmodified pyrocarbon has a positive charge at a pH of 2-10. The addition of reagents causes a change in the surface charge of the pyrocarbon and surface recharging. The best results have been obtained in CSF formulations with additives containing a sulfur group, such as C-3, NF, and LSTNa in a mass concentration of 2%. The resulting suspensions have an apparent viscosity of no more than 0.8 Pa·s, which makes it possible to use the obtained CSF as a liquid fuel suspension with a solid phase concentration of up to 60% by mass.
Conventional Friction Stir Welding and Bobbin Friction Stir Welding for Joining Space Grade Aluminium Alloy 6061-T6 by an Industry-compatible Way: A Comparative Study
Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a modern solid-state joining process. It joins materials without allowing them to melt, with minimal change in their properties. There are multiple types of FSW based on the method of implementation. In the current study, the two most common techniques of FSW, known as Conventional Friction Stir Welding (CFSW) and Bobbin Friction Stir Welding (BFSW), are employed to fabricate butt joints of space-grade aluminum alloy 6061-T6 by utilizing the conventional milling machine, in-house development of FSW tool and heat treating the high temperature steel (H-13) using low cost steel foil method. Two different types of tools were manufactured, heat treated and FSW was performed. The comparison of the properties attained by the butt joints are presented in this study. Two welds were successful out of four successful experiments performed, which were found to contain an average tensile strength of 128 MPa along with 65-97% of average base metal hardness. It was also concluded that BFSW is more reliable for longer joints.
Pyrolyzed Soybean Hulls as a Potential Conductive Filler in High-Density Polyethylene / Carbon–Black Composites
Electrically conductive polymer composites have a variety of applications in electronics and packaging. Current research focuses on environmentally friendly alternatives to carbon-based fillers, such as Carbon Black (CB), and other inorganic fillers. Biochar, i.e., pyrolyzed biomass, has emerged with great potential due to its high carbon content and thermal stability. This study investigates the feasibility of PSBH as a conductive filler in HDPE/CB composites to determine its effectiveness in enhancing electrical properties. HDPE/PSBH composites were prepared through melt mixing, and their electrical conductivity was analyzed using a four-point probe method. The influence of filler composition, dispersion, and processing parameters on conductivity was evaluated. Results indicate that while PSBH alone has limited conductivity, its combination with CB improves composite performance, offering a potential pathway toward partially bio-based conductive materials. The findings contribute to the development of sustainable polymer composites by integrating agricultural waste-derived carbon materials.
Preparation of (AgO) By Green Synthesis and Its Potential Use in Medical Fields
Since the increased drug efficacy and lower toxicity in nano-mediated drug delivery model have led to various applications in current science, the ecologically friendly synthesis regarding nanoparticles (NPs) by the green route from plant extracts has gained favour. In the presented work, we looked into the biosynthesis regarding silver oxide nanoparticles (AgO NPs) from AgO NPs leaves that are both stable and reasonably priced. The approach used for preparing AgNPs using green synthesis is demonstrated in this work to be straightforward and affordable. This was accomplished by combining an aqueous solution of silver nitrate with an olive extract, and visual spectroscopy as well as colour change were employed to demonstrate the preparation of AgNPs. Through using UV spectroscopy, the nature regarding the synthesized AgNPs was determined to be 2.5 mM. According to the research, silver nitrate aqueous extract is a good material for making AgNPs, and by modifying the factors influencing this study, more AgNPs in smaller sizes could be produced. After that, it was established that the extracted silver oxide had antibacterial characteristics, allowing it to be employed in a variety of pharmaceutical preparations for treating infections brought on by both negative and positive bacteria. As it was demonstrated to have a bactericidal effect on bacteria like the ones we utilized in this research-namely, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pneumoniae, and Escherichia.
Olive leaves, green synthesis, silver oxide, bacterial species, silver nanoparticles, XRD examination
Study of the Bioleaching and Dissolution Kinetics of Zinc from a Zinc Secondary Source Using Indigenous Acidothiobacillus Ferrooxidans
The increasing global demand for zinc has led to rapid depletion of its primary sources. Bioleaching, a sustainable and eco-friendly technology, offers a promising solution for metal recovery from secondary source. This study investigates the bioleaching of zinc from a secondary source, being a zinc-rich dumpsite, using indigenous acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans. The effects of pH, temperature, inoculum percentage and agitation speed on zinc dissolution were assessed. The results showed that optimal bioleaching conditions were pH 2.5, temperature 30°C, 20% inoculum and agitation speed 150 rpm with a maximum bioleaching of 75.5%. The dissolution kinetics using the shrinking-core model followed a mixed control; the reaction kinetics followed a first-order model, with an activation energy requirement (Ea) of 468.261 J/mol. The indigenous A. ferrooxidans strain demonstrated high performance and metal tolerance. This study highlights the potential of bioleaching for zinc recovery from secondary waste, contributing to economy sustainability and reduced environmental pollution.
Bioleaching, Municipal, Acidothiobacillus ferroxidans, Dissolution, Recovery.
Passivation Layer Reduction of Chalcopyrite for Sustainable Extraction of Copper Using Additives Assisted Bioleaching: A Mini Review
Nowadays, rich copper ore grades have been exploited and thus mining companies have been increasing their interest to liberate or extract copper from low grade copper ores, mainly from chalcopyrite. However, chalcopyrite ore is the future source of copper, its extraction is hindered due to the formation of passivation film, which consequently inhibiting the leaching efficiency of copper. This review paper sheds light on and critically assesses the recent advancements in passivation film reduction strategies to enhance the recovery rate of copper from chalcopyrite using a synergetic effect of bioleaching and external additives. The microorganisms used in bioleaching enhance the surface property of chalcopyrite due to their unique capabilities of biofilm formation, which enhances adhesion properties. Addition of external additives during the bioleaching improve the microbial activities the ore by providing an active surface for microbial attachment, which boosts dissolution of the chalcopyrite and consequently reduces the formation of passivation film. According to their optimum temperature, microorganisms used in bioleaching classify as mesophilic, moderate thermophilic and extremely thermophilic microorganisms. Mesophilic microorganisms are dominated in bioleaching. This review paper aims as a compiled reference material for future studies towards high recovery of copper from chalcopyrite by modifying the surface property of the ore. Recognizing the rapid advancement and importance of bioleaching in the extractive metallurgy industry (mainly in the extraction of copper from low grade copper sulphide ores), this review paper serves for practitioners as a crucial and technically advanced source for future researches in chalcopyrite bioleaching, techniques for passivation layer reduction of chalcopyrite and current advancements in bioleaching.
Optimization of Leaching Parameters and Kinetic Modelling for Leaching of Zinc from Zarara Hill Sulphide Ore in Different Acid Solutions
This research focused on optimization and kinetics of zinc dissolution from Zarara Hill sulphide ore using HNO3, HCl and H2SO4. A polymetallic sulphide ore collected from Zarara hill, Kaduna State, Nigeria, was used for this study. The result of elemental analysis of the powdered sulphide ore using ICP-OES technique indicate that the major elements detected are Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb and S while the minor elements include Co, Ni, Mo, and Cd. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to model, optimize and evaluate the effects and interactions of the influential parameters on the recovery of zinc using HNO3, HCl and H2SO4. From the output proposed by the Design-Expert software, the quadratic model was not aliased. In order to fit a good model, a test for significance of the regression model and individual model coefficients with lack of fit test was performed. The significant factors were ranked based on P-value (probability value) with 95% confidence level. The smaller ‘P’ values from the ANOVA generated for both HNO3, HCl and H2SO4 show more significant of the corresponding coefficients. All the R-squared values are close to one and each of the adjusted R-squared values are close to its corresponding R-square value. These confirm the adequacy of the developed model. Dissolution kinetics, studies shows that the order of reaction concerning H+ ion concentration for zinc dissolution using HCl, H2SO4 and HNO3 were 0.53, 0.58 and 0.54 respectively. And from Arrhenius plot the activation energy were calculated to be 24.3, 22.8 and 21.2 kJmol-1 for HCl, H2SO4 and HNO3 dissolutions respectively.
Adsorption Efficiency of UV-Irradiated Polyvinyl Alcohol-Alginate Adsorbent Beads for Chromium (VI) Removal
Due to the risk of chromium (Cr) contamination, industrial waste emissions have become a global concern, necessitating an effective adsorption approach. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) alginate beads are a promising material for overcoming this problem. The present work aims to investigate the effect of ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation on the preparation of PVA-alginate beads throughout a range of UV irradiation durations, as well as its Cr (VI) removal rate. In this work, a homogeneous gel made of PVA and sodium alginate (SA) was produced and then radiated to UVA light for varying periods of time (5-20 minutes). Subsequently, the PVA-alginate adsorbent beads were made by crosslinking with 6% boric acid and 2% calcium chloride. PVA-alginate adsorbent beads were fabricated easily after UVA irradiation because the viscosity of gel PVA-alginate was reduced. The Cr (VI) adsorption experiment employed 15 g of PVA-alginate adsorbent beads, 180 minutes of adsorption time, and 50 mg/L Cr (VI) initial concentration. The size analysis revealed that the average diameter of the adsorbent beads after Cr (VI) adsorption was approximately 4.00 mm. The UV-Vis results showed that sample A prepared by exposing the PVA-alginate adsorbent beads to UV light for 5 minutes has an optimum Cr (VI) removal rate of 71.63% after in contact for 180 minutes. This study's findings were critical for establishing a new knowledge of the production of PVA-alginate beads irradiated with UV light and moving forward to mitigate heavy metal pollution in waste water, therefore enhancing the quality of water and the environment.
Production of Biocompatible Bacterial Cellulose-Chitosan Composite from Nata de Coco (Acetobacter xylinum) and Squid Gladius (Sepioteuthis lessoniana)
The increasing demand of sustainable biocompatible composites of bacterial cellulose (BC) and chitosan (C) has grown much attention in the past years. In this study, a biocompatible bacterial cellulose–chitosan composite (BCC) was produced from Nata de Coco (NC) and Squid Gladius (SG) as the source of BC and C respectively. The effects of varying chitosan concentrations (2%, 5%, 8% w/v) on the composite’s physicochemical properties—including morphology, water holding capacity, and tensile strength—along with its biocompatibility in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF), were investigated. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed that the BCC composite exhibited a denser and more homogenized structure compared to the native BC pellicle. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed characteristic spectra for the pellicles between 2800 and 1200 cm⁻¹, with distinct bands for amide groups observed at 1613, 1550, and 1337 cm⁻¹, indicating the presence of chitosan. Among the composites, the BCC containing 8% w/v chitosan demonstrated the highest water holding capacity (581%), while the composite with 5% w/v chitosan exhibited superior tensile strength. SEM images of BCC samples subjected to the SBF process showed gradual hydroxyapatite (HaP) crystal formation, with a Ca-P ratio approaching 1.67 by the third day, as confirmed by X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), indicating promising biocompatibility. FTIR analysis also revealed typical absorption bands of HaP, including peaks at 3555 and 622 cm⁻¹ corresponding to the stretching and liberation modes of hydrogen-bonded ions, respectively. The findings of this study highlight the potential of producing biopolymers from biomass sources, paving the way for their application in wound dressing materials and other biomedical uses.
Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Sustainable Materials Processing and Management https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Understanding the Risk Factors and Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer: A Review of Vaccination and Drug Delivery Materials
Globally cervical cancer is a significant one of the major cause of death in women. One-third of the total new cases arises of this disease in women across the globe. It is generally spread by papillomavirus (HPV). It may happen due to having multiple sex partner relationship, uses of distinct contraceptives methods, smoking as well as dietary factors responsible for cervical cancer. Now a days, cervical cancer exposure has currently spread rapidly. So, this study aims to explore epidemiology, causes, diagnosis, current treatment method to overcome this disease affected individuals. Initially in cervical cancer affected individual, no symptom is appeared but as ever it affects any other organs of body, it can produce various symptoms like pelvic, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding as well as gynecological infection. So, it is necessary that at ages of 9 to 15 years individuals should be vaccinated. Currently, three HPV vaccines are approved for different cervical cancer targets, namely Gardasil, Cervarix, and Gardasil, which target HPV6, HPV11, HPV16, HPV 18 HPV31, HPV33, HPV45, HPV52, and HPV58 respectively. Especially HPV E6 and E7 genes showed a great potential for treating cervical cancer. Simultaneously radiotherapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy and distinct drug delivery method are helpful to destroy cancer cell in cervical cancer affected individuals.
Cervical cancer, Papillomavirus (HPV), Diagnosis, risk factor HPV, HPV vaccines, screening, treatment
Challenges and Opportunities of Artificial Intelligence on Composite Material Engineering
This paper explores the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in composite material engineering, addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating AI technologies into this field. Despite the significant advancements in AI, its application in composite material engineering faces hurdles such as data acquisition and preprocessing, model interpretability, and computational resource limitations. This paper outlines strategies to overcome these challenges, including enhancing data acquisition techniques, developing interpretable AI models, and investing in computational infrastructure. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary education, ethical governance, and regulatory frameworks to ensure the responsible use of AI. The implications of AI for the future of composite material engineering are profound, with the potential to revolutionize material design, optimization, and manufacturing processes, leading to breakthroughs in performance, efficiency, and sustainability. By fostering collaboration, strategic planning, and innovation, this paper aims to chart a path forward for leveraging AI to drive advancements in composite material engineering that benefit society and promote environmental sustainability.
Moringa Based Nanoparticles Coated Face-mask to Manage the Patients Suffering from Respiratory Disorder
Human exposure to various air pollutants and contagious agents mainly occurs through two ways, namely, inhalation and skin contact. COVID-19 compelled the extensive use of respiratory face-mask by public world-wide. The people suffering from respiratory disorder like asthma were claimed to face lots of complications during wearing of mask such as physical distress, dizziness, perceived shortness of air, and headache. But, masking has become a standard and as an effective barrier to curb the aerosol spreads. However, excessive use of single-use polymer-based face masks can pose a significant challenge to the environment. The aim of present work is to develop medicinal plant (Moringa) based, eco-friendly nanoparticles coated face-mask fabric to manage the complications of the person while wearing face-mask. Moringa loaded chitosan nanoparticles were developed and used in the coating of face-mask fabrics. Further, developed nanoparticles and coated fabrics characterized for various parameters. The percentage yield of the various nanoparticle formulations were found to be in the range of (31.71±2.36%–96.36±2.29%). The particle size, Zeta Potential and poly dispersity index (PI) of different formulations were in the range of (217.2±4.2nm-5712.5±12.2nm), (2.8±0.9mV-28.1±0.3mV) and (0.266±0.02mV-2.315±0.10 mV) respectively. Surface morphologyhave shown spherical, uniform and well dispersed particles as observed by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope and coated facemask has shown nanoparticles embedded in the matrix of fabric. The best optimized Moringa loaded chitosan nanoparticles (F1) coated face-mask has shown zone of inhibition about (25±1.5 mm) for antimicrobial effect against Streptococcus pneumoniae which indicates therapeutic efficacy of the respiratory face-mask.
Respiratory disorders; eco-friendly; medicinal plants; moringa; nanomaterials; face-mask
Property Improvement of Three-layer LDPE Shrink Film Using LDPE Recycled from Blown Film Production Waste
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the most used plastics especially in packaging applications. This research attempted to reduce the use of virgin LDPE and effectively recycle industrial LDPE waste by utilizing LDPE scraps from blown film production line (re-LDPE) for property improvement of three-layer LDPE shrink film prepared by blown film co-extrusion. While the skin layers consisted only of virgin LDPE, the middle layer was a blend of virgin LDPE and re-LDPE. The LDPE:re-LDPE ratios in wt% were varied from 100:0, 85:15, 70:30, 55:45, 40:60 to 0:100. It was found that several properties of all shrink films containing re-LDPE in their middle layers were better than those of the film solely made of virgin LDPE. Thermal analysis using DSC revealed an increase in % crystallinity of these films upon increasing re-LDPE content that consequently improved their tensile strengths in both machine and transverse directions despite a slight decrease in their shrink percentages but still within typical range for shrink film applications. In addition to the enhancement of heat-seal ability in both directions, lower gloss and haze values were also observed as re-LDPE content was increased. The results indicated that the film prepared using re-LDPE 100 wt% had highest tensile and seal strengths while the film prepared using re-LDPE 60 wt% exhibited lowest haze with similar gloss to the film prepared without re-LDPE.
Low density polyethylene, recycle, shrink film
Efficient Management of Pollution in Portland Cement Industries
There are a number of present situations as well as forthcoming challenges that have been identified, including global warming, climate change, environmental pollution, and the depletion of fossil fuel production. Among the many different types of industries, cement plants are among the most notable zones because they are responsible for emitting fifteen percent of the global pollutions into the surroundings. These pollutants have a negative impact on the health of humans, as well as on the flora and fauna. In the meantime, the utilization of cement-based materials in a variety of fields, including civil and construction engineering, medical field, and other areas, is unavoidable as a consequence of the ongoing increase in population and urbanization. The cement industry is among the most carbon dioxide emission-intensive companies and is classified as one of the largest producers of greenhouse gases. One ton of conventional Portland cement releases about 850 kg of carbon dioxide and 150 kg of other air pollutants when first discovered. Additionally, these pollutants are estimated to be 10% of the stationary admissible sources of CO2 emissions. To reduce CO2 emissions caused by energy consumption in the cement industry, the cement plants should change into a 2-stage process that, burning materials are pre-heated by exhausted high-temperature air and rRaw materials and clinker products are pre-heated or cooled by the exhausted hydrate process. Two difficult problems on the development of a 2-stage cement process include on the chain energy (exothermic and endothermic) of the process, the pre-heated effect and temperature should be favourable and the static optimization of pyramid physicochemical reactions should be favorable to guarantee the final product's strict quality. This paper describes the development of a novel method of pollution control for cement industry which minimize pollutants.
Adsorption of Heavy Metals from an Aqueous Solution Using Activated Carbon Prepared from Ripe and Unripe Plantain Peels
Heavy metals are poisonous and pollute water bodies, posing human health concerns. This research project focuses on removing heavy metals from water through adsorption using activated carbon prepared from ripe [RPP] and unripe plantain peels [UPP]. This research revealed that the removal efficiencies were higher for ripe plantain peels than the unripe peels in the three heavy metal simulated aqueous polluted samples. It was also concluded that the adsorption was favorable using the constants developed from the Isotherms, and the Freundlich isotherms fitted the experimental data better than the Langmuir isotherms. The Scanning Electron Microscope [SEM] and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy [FTIR] observations revealed the presence of heavy metals on the adsorbent. It was concluded that activated carbon prepared from ripe and unripe plantain peels is an effective, economical, environmentally friendly, and cheap natural adsorbent for removing heavy metals from polluted water.
Adsorption, heavy metals, activated carbon, Langmuir isotherm, Freundlich isotherm
Safely Managed Barbeque Use of Charcoal as Traditional Renewable Energy
While coal is a fossil fuel, traditional charcoal is an inherently renewable energy source. In addition to fuel, charcoal can also be used as a functional material such as adsorbents and catalysts. Charcoal is still used for heating in safe cooking situations, such as barbecues. However, in recent years in Japan, there have been many cases of barbecue fire accidents. This study is a case study in which the author experimented with charcoal (Made from Malaysian mangroves) barbecue using a safe method within an established facility. The author will examine the dangers of charcoal barbeques and the possibility of preventing accidents by comparing them with recent examples of fire accidents (flame transfer, flying flames, incomplete extinguishing, etc.) and their causes.
Sustainable Carbon Dots Production from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch for the Photodegradation of Methylene Blue
This paper presents a sustainable approach to produce carbon dots (CDs) using biomass waste as a precursor for the effective photocatalytic degradation of Methylene Blue (MB). CDs were successfully synthesized from Empty Fruit Bunch (EFB) through one-step hydrothermal treatment. The surface morphology, crystal structure, elemental composition analysis, functional groups, and optical absorption of the CDs were determined. Operating parameters influencing the photocatalytic degradation performance, including photocatalyst dosage, pH of MB, and dye concentration were carefully investigated. It has been found that CDs exhibited optimal MB degradation efficiency of 30.23% in 160 minutes using 20 mg/L CDs in a solution containing 10 mg/L of MB at pH 6. A higher pH of MB solution (pH 10) further enhanced the degradation efficiency to 68.5% within 160 minutes. The results showed that the degradation efficiency increases exponentially with time. The kinetic analysis revealed that the photocatalytic reaction followed the pseudo-first order with the highest rate constant of 1.5 x 10-3 min-1. This research demonstrates a simple and sustainable synthetic route for synthesizing CDs by using biomass waste as a natural precursor.
Application of Taguchi Methods and Regression Analysis to Optimize Process Parameters and Reinforcements for Maximizing Composite’s Coefficient of Friction for Brake Disc Application: A Statistical Optimization Approach
for Al-CA-PB composites, with a focus on optimizing the coefficient of friction of the composite for brake disc production. The pumice, coal ash, and aluminum alloy were characterized using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The Taguchi method was employed to design the experimental runs and to identify optimal process parameters and reinforcements for maximizing the composite's coefficient of friction. At the same time, regression analysis was utilized to establish a robust mathematical model for predicting the composite's coefficient of friction based on the process variables. The XRF characterization results revealed that aluminum alloy contained Al, Si, and Mg as the major elements. The analysis also shows that the predominant constituents in coal ash were Si, Al, Fe, Ti, and Ca, whereas that of brown pumice particulates were Si, Fe, Al, Ca, K, and Ti. The XRD characterization analysis revealed that brown pumice and coal ash consist of SiO2, Fe2O3, and Al2O3 as the major phases, making them well-suited as reinforcement in metal matrixes. According to the thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses, the aluminum alloy, brown pumice, and coal ash have an onset temperature of 264.08, 724 °C, and 606.61°C, respectively, before deterioration. The optimal composite's coefficient of friction of 0.661 (experimental) was achieved at 2.5vol% of brown pumice, 10 vol% of coal ash, 400 rpm stirrer speed, 700 °C pouring temperature, and 15 minutes stirring duration. The developed mathematical model shows an excellent level of coefficient of friction prediction, with an R-squared value of 99.42%, 97.82%, and 76.40% for R-square, adjusted R-square, and predicted R-square, respectively.
Preparation and Characterization of Immobilized Valproic acid onto Tetraethyl Orthosilicate
This work aims to preparation and characterization of xerogel by co-gelation of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and 2-propylpentanoic acid (Valproic acid, VA). To characterize the resultant material, infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning and transmitting electron microscopes (SEM and TEM) were applied. In addition, the in vitro VA release and kinetic of released using the different mathematical models (zero-order, first-order and Higuchi) were carried out in a phosphate buffer pH 7.4 at37°C using HPLC. The FTIR, XRD results confirmed the successful preparation of the xerogel with an amorphous structure. However, TEM images revealed a spherical-like morphology with an average size of about 1910 d.nm compared to the pure TEOS 924 d.nm. The study also demonstrated controlled VA release after 4 h, showing that xerogel based on TEOS is a promising VA delivery technology with sustained release that followed the Higuchi kinetic throughout 24 h.
Xerogels, hybrid materials, TEOS, Valproic acid, in vitro drug release.
Computational Modelling and Comparative Analysis of a Schiff Base Ligand and Its Analog as Inhibitors Against Mild Steel Corrosion in 1M HCl
Schiff bases, alternative anticorrosive additive were synthesized, characterized and investigated for the inhibition of mild steel corrosion in 1M Hydrochloric acid at concentrations of 20 ppm, 40 ppm, 60 ppm, 80 ppm and 100 ppm using Weight Loss (WL) and Electrochemical methods. The novel Schiff base ligands obtained were characterized by Ultraviolet-visible and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The elemental analysis data for the Schiff base ligands were used to confirm the general formula of the Schiff bases. Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy provided evidence of formation of a complex surface film due to adsorption of the Schiff bases on the mild steel surface. highest inhibition efficiency was obtained at maximum concentration of 100 ppm within the first 2 h of exposure for both SBL1 and SBL2 with SBL2 possessing the higher inhibition efficiency (86.21%) than SBL1. PDP measurements showed that the Schiff bases acted as mixed type inhibitors. EIS measurement revealed that the corrosion process was controlled by charge transfer process. Inhibition efficiency values obtained from the different techniques were comparable. Quantum chemical parameters such as highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO), lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) and energy gap (ΔE) were obtained using Hartree-fock Density Functional Theory by Hamiltonian method. The results showed that SBL2 was more reactive than SBL1. In conclusion, the inhibition of mild steel corrosion was due to adsorption of active molecules leading to formation of a protective layer on surface of mild steel.
Wastewater Treatment of Food Industry Using Electrochemically Generated Ferrates
The article considers a complex technology for electrochemical wastewater treatment from a meat processing plant. The process of water treatment includes a sequential processing in graphite and iron anode-based electrochemical modules, and exposure in maturation and homogenization chamber. Ferrate generation has been evidenced in the iron anode-based module, and ferrates concurrently acting as mild oxidants, coagulants, and steel corrosion inhibitors. The electrochemical potential of ferrates ranges from 1.3 to 1.5 V in aqueous solutions for the pH values between 6 and 8. Provided an increase in ferrate concentration up to 20 mg/L in the solution, the corrosion rate for capacitive equipment and pipelines is reduced by twofold. An application of iron (III) hydroxide as a product of ferrate reduction lowers wastewater clarification by 1.5-2.0 times compared to the widely used ferric iron and aluminum salts. The research findings provide for the advancement of integrated water treatment solutions and highlight the importance of implementing efficient treatment processes to minimize the environmental impact of meat processing plants.