Analysis Of Particle Distribution Research Articles

Fully convolutional networks-based particle distribution analysis at multiphase interfaces

The intricate interplay between droplet dynamics and particle characteristics has led to the extensive use of particle-laden droplets in diverse applications, spanning industrial engineering and scientific research. Accurate particle distribution analysis at multiphase interfaces is crucial for understanding the complex behaviors of these soft matters, for example, liquid marbles (LMs). However, traditional image analysis methods for particle-laden interfaces often rely on manual processing, which is both time-consuming and susceptible to human error. In this study, we present a pixel-level image recognition technique based on fully convolutional networks (FCNs) to automatically analyze the interfacial particle distribution of LMs exhibiting clear core-shell structures. The FCNs-based method enables efficient and accurate segmentation of target particles on sessile LMs, utilizing experimental data obtained from an in-situ optical imaging device. This approach significantly expedites the analysis of particle distribution, including proportion, concentration, and cluster centers. We assess the performance of the proposed method using image data of monolayer LMs encapsulated by dispersed polystyrene microspheres, demonstrating its superiority over traditional techniques in terms of accuracy and generalization. This investigation aims to offer novel insights into determining pertinent particulate characteristics within similar solid-liquid hybrid microsystems.

Preparation and in Vitro Evaluation of Solid-Lipid Nanoparticles (from Dika Wax) for Enhanced Delivery of Nevirapine in HIV/Aids Management

The preparation and assessment of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of nevirapine with improved oral delivery for better management of HIV/AIDS was the aim of this research. Eight batches of SLNs of nevirapine were produced from Dika wax and evaluated for particle charges and distribution of the sizes of particles using Zeta sizer, surface shape with Cryo-Transmission Electron Microspcope (Cryo-TEM), chemical interaction between drug and excipients with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope (FTIR). Loading capacity, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release properties were determined. Release profiles were compared with ƒ2 statistic, one-way ANOVA and students’t-test. From the results obtained, Cryo-TEM revealed that the SLNs were round to oval in shape with smooth external surface. Zeta sizer particle sizes and distribution analysis indicated quality results for Nevirapine SLN Batches 15 and 18. The zeta potential results were: -16.83 ± 0.404 mV for Batch 1, -44.30 ± 0.624 mV for Batch 15 and -40.03 ± 2.65 mV for Batch 18. Batches 15 and 18 SLNs had loading capacities of 6.71% and 9.82% respectively and encapsulation efficiencies of 49.35% and 70.19% respectively. In vitro dissolution showed 102% release for batch 18 and 87.5% release for Batch 15 with a dissolution efficiency of 65% for Batch 15 and 83% for Batch 18 SLNs. ƒ2 statistic, ANOVA and students’ t-test revealed Batch 15 SLNs are similar to Batch 18 SLN. In conclusion, Batches 15 and 18 SLNs have good properties for enhancing the delivery of nevirapine as extended release dosage forms for better management of HIV/AIDS.

Comparative analysis of charged particle distributions in [formula omitted] collisions at [formula omitted] using Monte Carlo models and fitting functions

We conducted a detailed analysis of charged particle transverse momentum distributions using multiple Monte Carlo models – Pythia, HIJING, and QGSJET – compared against experimental data from the ATLAS detector in pp collisions at s=0.9TeV. Pythia emerged as the best among the models under study in representing most of the distributions due to its comprehensive modeling of parton showers, multiparton interactions, and underlying event dynamics, while QGSJET showed good results with the data in some of the distributions only. HIJING, however, was only able to replicate reduced phase-space distributions only.To further explore the collision medium and to extract important information about collective properties, we used the Tsallis-Pareto (TP) type function and the modified Hagedorn (MH) function. The Tsallis function enabled determination of the effective temperature (Teff) and the non-extensivity parameter (n1) while the MH function provided the kinetic freeze-out temperature (T0), transverse flow velocity (<βT>), and a secondary non-extensivity parameter (n2). Our investigation revealed changes in the effective freeze-out parameters based on event conditions. The Teff and <βT> derived from the TP and MH functions respectively exhibited higher values with a tighter pT cut of >500MeV compared to a more inclusive pT cut of >100MeV. Interestingly, the values of the non-extensivity parameters—n1 for the Tsallis function and n2 for the MH function were almost identical across both the experimental data and all three Monte Carlo models. These findings offer invaluable perspectives on the dynamics of charged particles in pp collisions at s=0.9TeV.

Effect of ultrasonic treatment on the oral processing characteristics of Mianning ham.

In this paper, the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the oral processing characteristics of Mianning ham was investigated. A sensory evaluation team of 10 evaluators with food professional background was involved in food mastication and dough collection. Oral processing analysis of ultrasonically treated hams was performed using particle distribution analysis, Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS), electronic nose, and dynamic dominant sensory attribute testing. The results showed that compared with the control group, the chewing time and the number of chewing times of the ultrasonically treated hams during oral processing were significantly increased, the salivary content in the ham eating dough was significantly reduced, the types and contents of flavor substances were significantly increased, and the ultrasonic treatment significantly reduced the dominant organoleptic attributes such as saltiness and sourness of the Mianning hams. This paper takes Mianning ham bolus as the research object, analyzes the influence of ultrasonic treatment on the flavor perception of Mianning ham, and provides a theoretical basis for the optimization of ham back-end processing technology.

Enhanced drug delivery and wound healing potential of berberine-loaded chitosan-alginate nanocomposite gel: characterization and in vivo assessment.

Berberine-encapsulated polyelectrolyte nanocomposite (BR-PolyET-NC) gel was developed as a long-acting improved wound healing therapy. BR-PolyET-NC was developed using an ionic gelation/complexation method and thereafter loaded into Carbopol gel. Formulation was optimized using Design-Expert® software implementing a three-level, three-factor Box Behnken design (BBD). The concentrations of polymers, namely, chitosan and alginate, and calcium chloride were investigated based on particle size and %EE. Moreover, formulation characterized in vitro for biopharmaceutical performances and their wound healing potency was evaluated in vivo in adult BALB/c mice. The particle distribution analysis showed a nanocomposite size of 71 ± 3.5 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.45, ζ-potential of +22 mV, BR entrapment of 91 ± 1.6%, and loading efficiency of 12.5 ± 0.91%. Percentage drug release was recorded as 89.50 ± 6.9% with pH 6.8, thereby simulating the wound microenvironment. The in vitro investigation of the nanocomposite gel revealed uniform consistency, well spreadability, and extrudability, which are ideal for topical wound use. The analytical estimation executed using FT-IR, DSC, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicated successful formulation with no drug excipients and without the amorphous state. The colony count of microbes was greatly reduced in the BR-PolyET-NC treated group on the 15th day from up to 6 CFU compared to 20 CFU observed in the BR gel treated group. The numbers of monocytes and lymphocytes counts were significantly reduced following healing progression, which reached to a peak level and vanished on the 15th day. The observed experimental characterization and in vivo study indicated the effectiveness of the developed BR-PolyET-NC gel toward wound closure and healing process, and it was found that >99% of the wound closed by 15th day, stimulated via various anti-inflammatory and angiogenic factors.

Optimization of photoluminescence of Eu3+ doped YVO4 nanoparticles by green microwave synthesis

A detailed investigation of the europium-doped yttrium orthovanadate (YVO4:Eu3+) phosphorus prepared by fast and facile microwave synthesis was undertaken. The phase purity, morphology, particle distribution analysis, and photoluminescence were all thoroughly examined. The photoluminescence (PL) properties of the as-synthesized YVO4:Eu3+ nanostructures depend greatly on the synthesis parameters. The PL intensity of the nanomaterials increased when the Eu concentration, holding time, and amount of water used in the prepared phosphors were adjusted. The optimal europium doping concentration was 7 mol% for temperature holding times of 60 min, and 5 ml of water was used as the solvent. The emission intensity of Eu3+-doped YVO4 phosphors can be rationally modified by simply changing the pH of the solution or by employing different solvents. The phosphors studied were produced as nanoparticles with a very intense emission spectrum, making them good candidates for fluorescent lamps and light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

An Investigation on Filler Particle Size and Its Distribution in Glass-Epoxy Hybrid Composites Using Image Processing

Analysis of filler particle size and distribution plays a vital role in achieving a good balance of polymer composites’ electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Such assessments help understand the relationship between microstructure and the physical nature of polymer composites reinforced with fillers. In this investigation, glass epoxy composites with different nano and micro-sized fillers, namely SiO <sub xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</sub> , Al <sub xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</sub> O <sub xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">3</sub> , MoS <sub xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</sub> , graphite and cenosphere, are fabricated by hand-lay technique with bagging. Particle analysis is carried out by employing image processing techniques using ImageJ. To understand the nature of hybrid filler size distribution, a comprehensive assessment of the micro and nanofiller particle distribution and the average shortest and longest separation distance between the nano and micron particles is estimated. From the particle size distribution analysis, it is observed that the micron particles are more evenly distributed than nanoparticles. The average distance between micron and nanofiller particles is observed depending on the type of filler used. The microparticles tend to surround the nanoparticles, which is desirable for decreasing the free space distances between the filler particles. Also, statistical analysis is carried out to study the experimental and estimated micron and nanofiller particle sizes used in the composites.

Experimental and numerical investigation of bimodal particle distributions for enhanced thermal conductivity in particle based concentrating solar power applications

Ceramic-based solid particles have recently attracted substantial interest as a thermal transport medium in high-temperature energy storage and thermal energy conversion systems due to their ability to operate at high temperatures (>1000 °C). This is especially useful in the concentrating solar power (CSP) industry where solid particles are utilized as heat transfer and energy storage media. Thermal conductivity of particles in CSP is critically important to the overall heat transfer that occurs within a heat exchanger. A low-cost and effective method to increase the thermal conductivity of a particle bed is by reducing its porosity by employing 2 differently sized particles. This is done in this work by examining several large particle volume fractions for the binary particle mixture of HSP 16/30–40/70. The thermal conductivity can be increased further by applying a load to the particles. At lower temperatures (20 to 300 °C), previous work has demonstrated a binary particle distribution has superior thermal conductivity. In this paper, the thermal conductivities of binary particle distributions under pressure loading are explored at ambient temperatures revealing enhanced thermal conductivity. Furthermore, high temperature (from 300 to 700 °C) analysis of binary particle distributions are also explored with results being that monodispersed distributions yield higher thermal conductivities due to enhanced surface radiation in larger particles. A bimodal distribution increases packed bed thermal conductivity only up to around ∼ 375 °C at which monodisperse distributions with larger particles yield the highest thermal conductivities. These results are compared to existing models (such as the widely used ZBS model) to demonstrate that the current models don’t adequately predict the impact of porosity on thermal conductivity, particularly at higher temperatures where radiation becomes the dominant heat transfer mechanism.

Engineered Nano-carrier systems for the oral targeted delivery of follicle stimulating Hormone: Development, characterization, and, assessment of in vitro and in vivo performance and targetability

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is widely used for the treatment of female infertility, where the level of FSH is suboptimal due to which arrest in follicular development and anovulation takes place. Currently, only parenteral formulations are available for FSH in the market. Due to the drawbacks of parenteral administration and the high market shares of FSH, there is a need for easily accessible oral formulation. Therefore, enteric coated capsules filled with FSH loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) or liposomes were prepared. Preliminary studies such as circular dichroism, SDS-PAGE, FTIR and ELISA were conducted to analyze FSH. Prepared formulations were optimized with respect to the size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency using the design of experiments. Optimized formulations were subjected to particle counts and distribution analysis, TEM analysis, in vitro drug release, dissolution of enteric coated capsules, cell line studies, everted sac rat's intestinal uptake study, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and stability studies. In the case of liposomes, RGD conjugation was done by carbodiimide chemistry and conjugation was confirmed by FTIR, 1HNMR and Raman spectroscopy. The prepared formulations were discrete and spherical. The release of FSH from enteric coated capsules was slow and sustained. The increased permeability of nano-formulations was observed in Caco-2 monoculture as well as in Caco-2 and Raji-B co-culture models. NLCs and liposomes showed an improvement in oral bioavailability and efficacy of FSH in rats. This may be due to mainly chylomicron-assisted lymphatic uptake of NLCs; whereas, in the case of liposomes, RGD-based targeting of β1 integrins of M cells on Peyer's patches may be the main reason for the better effect by FSH. FSH was found to be stable chemically and conformationally. Overall, the study reveals the successful development and evaluation of FSH loaded NLCs and liposomes.

Studi Pengaruh Titik Penambahan Sodium Isobutyl Xanthate (SIBX) dan Kecepatan Impeller pada Performa Flotasi Mineral Tembaga

Evaluation of the use of the SIBX addition point and energy consumption in a flotation machine is an optimization effort to increase recovery in a valuable mineral separation process. The purpose of this study was to maximize the use of reagents and energy consumption in flotation machines by looking for the effect of the SIBX addition point and impeller speed variations on copper recovery. In the experiments, the authors vary the impeller speed and the SIBX addition points. The impeller speed is varied into five different speeds. While the SIBX addition point into four different points. From the variation of the experiment, the test must be done within 20 flotation kinetics. Those tests were performed for 8 minutes and will generate 4 concentrates and tailings. From this information, a graph of the relationship between recovery and time is obtained, and it can be seen that the point of adding SIBX and impeller speed is to produce optimal recovery values. From the available tailings and feed, an analysis of particle size and distribution is also carried out to check the effectiveness of changing the impeller speed pattern to provide kinetic energy for particles of various sizes to collide with air bubbles and increase the probability of collection of valuable minerals, so that high recovery is obtained in various areas. particle size. Of all the speed variations used in the impeller, the best kinetic recovery comes from the addition of SBX in the 0 min, 2 min, and 4 min. While the worst comes from the addition in the 6 min. Copper kinetic recovery is only affected by the nature and amount of hydrophobic particles but is not affected by impeller speed. Copper recovery at each end of the experiment showed the same value which is an average of about 94%.

Assessment Effect of Nanometer-Sized Al2O3 Fillers in Polylactide on Fracture Probability of Filament and 3D Printed Samples by FDM

In this paper, a mathematical model for the description of the failure probability of filament and fused deposition modeling (FDM)-printed products is considered. The model is based on the results of tensile tests of filament samples made of polyacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactide (PLA), and composite PLA filled with alumina (Al2O3) as well after FDM-printed products of "spatula" type. The application of probabilistic methods of fracture analysis revealed that the main contribution to the reduction of fracture probability is made by the elastic and plastic stages of the fracture curve under static loading. Particle distribution analysis of Al2O3 combined with fracture probability analysis shows that particle size distributions on the order of 10-5 and 10-6 mm decrease the fracture probability of the sample, whereas uniform particle size distributions on the order of 10-1 and 10-2 mm do not change the distribution probability. The paper shows that uneven distribution of Al2O3 fillers in composite samples made using FDM printing technology leads to brittle fracture of the samples.

Synthesis of coatings on simulated body fluid in presence of Ag nanoparticles on NiTi archwires

In this study, coatings were synthesized on simulated body fluid (SBF) in the presence of silver nanoparticles on the surface of nickel-titanium archwires. The coatings were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray energy dispersive analysis (EDS), fast Fourier transform (FFT), force spectral density (PSD) analysis, surface geometry analysis and particle distribution analysis. The results show the efficiency of the electrostatic interaction of the SBF substrate and Ag nanoparticles in the formation of the coatings. The Ag nanoparticles in the coatings had diameters of approximately 50–150 nm. The pH and temperature conditions within the solution were optimized using a static technique. The functionality of the coatings and their relationship with the dominant wavelength in the force spectral density (PSD) and fast Fourier transform (FFT) analyses; were analyzed. This method opens up a new route for the synthesis of coatings in various body fluids using other biocompatible materials.

A clean dispersant for nano-silica to enhance the performance of cement mortars

Nanoparticles can be used to enhance the performance of concretes. However, dispersants (surfactants) are commonly needed to overcome the aggregation/agglomeration of nanoparticles. Existing dispersants are mainly petroleum-based products. Their manufacturing and incorporation into concretes can have a harmful impact on the environment. To address this issue, this study proposes using an edible, plant-based product, tannic acid (TA), as a clean dispersant for colloidal nano-silica (CNS) in concretes. This can be done by simply mixing CNS particles with a TA solution. The produced CNS suspension can then be used as the mixing water to make cement mortars. Experimental studies suggest that a layer of TA is coated onto the silica nanoparticle, producing a TA-SiO2 biohybrid nanoparticle. Particle distribution analysis shows that this TA layer on the CNS is around 4.35 nm. The TA coating not only prevents the aggregation/agglomeration of nanoparticles but also delays the pozzolanic reaction between the nano-silica and calcium hydroxide (CH) in the concrete, making them available for filling nanopores in the hydrated cement paste. As a result, the microstructure of the produced cement paste is densified, as confirmed by mercury intrusion porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and nanoindentation testing. Particularly, capillary pores smaller than 50 nm are significantly reduced by the new biohybrid nanoparticles. This leads to 37% improvement in the compressive strength at 28d of the cement mortar with the TA dispersed CNS over that of the mortar made without using TA to disperse CNS.

Flotation specificity of coal gasification fine slag based on release analysis

Coal gasification fine slag is a solid waste of difficult-to-separate nature . In this study, the residual carbon was enriched from fine slag by conventional flotation. The optimal flotation results in the concentrates yield of 59.01%, the concentrates ash content of 37.64%, and the flotation perfect index of 41.12%, respectively. Under the identical conditions, step release flotation exhibits abnormal results, i.e., the lowest ash content is concentrates 3 (C 3 ) corresponding to 29.21%. The particle distribution analysis of concentrates 1 (C 1 ) to concentrates 5 (C 5 ) and tailings (T) shows that particles of the highest carbon content transfer to C 3 , while dominated by ash are enriched in T. Additionally , the particle structure characteristics (with SEM , BET surface area, BJH pore volume/average pore width, FHH fractal characteristics) demonstrate that the particles differ in pore's volume, average width, and interior smoothness. This concludes that it is the larger pore volume, the wider average pore width, and the smoother pore interior that contributes to the greater amount of diesel adsorption and therefore easier release of carbon-content particles in flotation. Such regularities of particle transfer in flotation and release mechanism manifest the flotation specificities of gasification fine slag, which may provide a scientific reference for effectively enriching residual carbon in coal gasification fine slag. • Conventional flotation upgrades coal gasification fine slag with η as 41.12%. • Concentrates 3 (C 3 ) abnormally contains the lowest ash content of 29.21%. • Analysis of particle distribution reveals regularities of particle transfer. • Particle structure study learned the release mechanisms of particles. • Flotation specificities of coal gasification fine slag were clarified.

Analysis of TRWP Particle Distribution in Urban and Suburban Landscapes, Connecting Real Road Measurements with Particle Distribution Simulation

This article deals with methods and measurements related to environmental pollution and analysis of particle distribution in urban and suburban landscapes. Therefore, an already-invented sampling method for tyre road wear particles (TRWP) was used to capture online emission factors from the road. The collected particles were analysed according to their size distribution, for use as an input for particle distribution simulations. The simulation model was a main traffic intersection, because of the high vehicle dynamic related to the high density of start–stop manoeuvres. To compare the simulation results (particle mass (PM) and particle number (PN)) with real-world emissions, measuring points were defined and analysed over a measuring time of 8 h during the day. Afterwards, the collected particles were analysed in terms of particle shape, appearance and chemical composition, to identify the distribution and their place of origin. As a result of the investigation, the appearance of the particles showed a good correlation to the vehicle dynamics, even though there were a lot of background influences, e.g., resuspension of dust. Air humidity also showed a great influence on the recorded particle measurements. In areas of high vehicle dynamics, such as heavy braking or accelerating, more tyre and brake particles could be found.

Non-protein coding RNA sequences mediate specific colorimetric detection of Staphylococcus aureus on unmodified gold nanoparticles

Nonprotein coding RNA (npcRNA) is a transcribed gene sequence that is not able to translate into protein, yet it executes a specific function in modulation and regulation mechanisms. As npcRNA is highly resistant to the mutation, the Sau-02 npcRNA gene and its probe oligonucleotide, which are specifically present in Staphylococcus aureus and in methicillin-resistant S. aureus only, used to develop a highly specific and sensitive colorimetric assay on unmodified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Hybridization between the npcRNA Sau-02 gene sequences was detected through noncrosslinking AuNP aggregation in salt solution in the presence of probe-target gene sequences. AuNPs of 10 and 15 nm in sizes with monovalent ion salt (NaCl) solution were optimized as the ideal tool for investigating the stability of AuNPs upon the addition of gene sequences. The state dispersed and aggregated forms of 10 nm AuNPs with the presented colorimetric assay were justified through field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The particle distribution of two different AuNP states was evaluated through particle distribution analysis. The lowest detection amount of S. aureus npcRNA from the colorimetric assay performed was 6 pg/µL, as the color of AuNPs turned blue with the presence of probe oligonucleotides and target gene sequences.

Lateritic soil geopolymer composites for ceramics and engineering construction applications

AbstractCharacterization of an Amazonian, laterite‐doped, kaolinitic soil (LK) or “lateritic soil” and laterite‐doped metakaolin (LMK) calcined at two distinct rates, as well as granite‐marble (GM) particulate industrial wastes was performed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry, and particle size and distribution analysis. In addition, an LMK geopolymer (GP) and a lateritic metakaolin‐based GP reinforced with granite‐marble composite (LMKGP‐GM) were tested for water resistance and for mechanical strength. XRD and XRF were used to investigate the composition of the composite materials, while XRD confirmed the formation of GP. Just as in the case of highly reactive commercial metakaolin used in construction, according to this study, lateritic soil‐based metakaolin presented similar characteristics. Therefore, it could be used in the development of more sustainable ceramics and construction materials, including the use of GM waste as a reinforcing phase/aggregate.

Fractal Analysis of Particle Distribution and Scale Effect in a Soil–Rock Mixture

A soil–rock mixture (SRM) is a type of heterogeneous geomaterial, and the particle distribution of SRM can be described by fractal theory. At present, it is difficult to quantify the fractal dimension of a particle size distribution and understand the scale effect in SRMs. In this study, the fractal theory and discrete element method (DEM) were introduced to solve this problem. First, the particle gradation of SRM was dealt with by using fractal theory. The fractal structure of particle distribution was studied, and a method of calculation of the fractal dimension is presented in this paper. Second, based on the fractal dimension and relative threshold, the particle gradations of SRMs at different scales were predicted. Third, numerical direct shear tests of SRM at different scales were simulated by using the DEM. The scale effects of shear displacement, shear zone, and shear strength parameters were revealed. Last, taking the maximum particle size of 60 mm as the standard value, the piece-wise functional relationship between shear strength parameters and particle size was established. The results are as follows: for SRM in a representative engineering area, by plotting the relationship between particle cumulative mass percentage and particle size, we can judge whether the SRM has a fractal structure; in Southwest China, the frequency of the fractal dimension of the SRM is in the normal distribution, and the median fractal dimension is 2.62; the particle gradations of SRMs at different scales calculated by fractal dimension and relative threshold can expand the study scope of particle size analysis; when the particle size is less than 70 mm, the strength parameters show a parabolic trend with the particle size increases, and if not, a nearly linear trend is found. The proposed method can describe the fractal characteristics of SRM in a representative engineering area and provides a quantitative estimation of shear strength parameters of SRM at different scales.

Effect of zinc (Zn) on the microstructure and corrosion behaviour of magnesium (Mg)

In this study, Mg-Zn alloys were prepared by using powder metallurgy technique where magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) were regarded as the starting materials. The effect of Zn towards the microstructure and corrosion behaviour of Mg was studied. The microstructure observation, intermetallic particle distribution, density and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were measured and studied. Besides, the corrosion behaviour of Mg-Zn alloys was observed from hydrogen evolution test and potentiodynamic polarization test. The results showed that due to the same crystal structure of Mg and Zn which was hexagonal close packed (HCP) structure, MgZn2 was formed and complete solid solubility was achieved. The presence of α-Mg and MgZn2 phases was confirmed from the XRD result. The density of the Mg-Zn alloys was increased as the Zn content increased. From the results, Mg-30Zn has the highest value of density compared to Mg-10Zn and Mg-20Zn due to the Zn particles which filled in the gap between the Mg particles. The corrosion test for Mg-Zn alloys showed that Zn addition does improve the corrosion resistance of Mg alloys.

Preparation of innovative eco-efficient composite bricks based on zeolite-poor rock and Hen's eggshell

The growing demand for building materials, as well as environmental concerns associated with energy consumption and natural resource depletion, prompted an urgent search for sustainable alternatives for clay, including natural and waste materials. This research investigates the potential utilization of zeolite-poor rock and eggshells to produce energy-saving ceramic bricks using the uniaxial dry pressing technique. The study examined the effect of composition, microstructure and sintering temperature on the physicomechanical properties of the composite ceramic bricks. Eggshell powder (ESP) was used to partially substitute zeolite-poor rock. The substitution percentages were 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% by wt% of zeolite-poor rock. Mineralogical composition, phase identification, microstructural feature, chemical constituents, thermal analysis and particle size distribution were investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, differential thermal analysis and laser particle distribution analyzer. Moreover, the technical characteristics of the sintered composite ceramic bricks were evaluated. The findings revealed that the inclusion of 20% eggshell to the samples sintered at 950 °C generated composite bricks with the lowest density (1.4 g/cm3) and thermal conductivity of 0.27 W/mk, while the compressive strength was 10.5 MPa, demonstrating the manufacturing of energy-efficient zeolite-based ceramic bricks. All samples showed compressive strengths greater than the minimum specified by the standards for load-bearing ceramic bricks. The use of zeolite-poor rock and eggshell waste to produce composite ceramic bricks is a promising and cost-effective alternative for sustainable development while saving energy, reducing pollution and deterioration of the environment.