Box-Behnken Design Of Response Surface Methodology Research Articles

Maximizing waste cooking oil biodiesel production employing novel Brotia costula derived catalyst through statistical and machine learning optimization techniques

The limitations of homogeneous catalysts associated with biodiesel production such as non-reusability, emulsification, and saponification have led to the increased cost of biodiesel synthesis. To overcome these limitations, the current work aims to investigate the applicability and effectiveness of green catalyst made from Brotia costula shells (BCS) for waste cooking oil biodiesel production. The catalyst was synthesized by calcinating BCS at 800℃−1000℃ for 4 h. Catalyst characterization showed that BC900 (BCS calcined at 900℃) contained 98.15 CaO wt% and exhibited the smallest grain size of 39.23 nm with the highest specific surface area of 14.28 m2/g and highest catalytic activity. Optimization of biodiesel synthesis was carried out using response surface methodology - Box-Behnken design (RSM-BBD), artificial neural network (ANN) coupled with genetic algorithm (GA), and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) coupled with GA. Maximum experimental biodiesel yield of 97.78±0.59 % at optimum conditions of methanol: WCO molar ratio 9.73: 1, reaction time 2.12 h, catalyst dose wt% 7.59 and reaction temperature 69.3°C was obtained with ANFIS-GA optimization model. The prediction accuracy of the ANFIS model (R2 = 0.988) was better than those of the RSM-BBD (R2 = 0.982) and ANN (R2 = 0.955) models. The synthesized catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity up to four cycles of reusability (yield > 88 %). It is environment-friendly, inexpensive, renewable, and performs on par with catalysts synthesized from other mollusk shells. Using this catalyst for biodiesel production will contribute to the biorefinery's ability to explore sustainable raw materials and may lower overall biodiesel cost.

Efficient mercury ion abatement through highly porous cellulose nanofibrils combined with microporous organic polymer enhancements

Pristine microporous organic polymer (p-MOP), owing to the presence of heteroatoms, has emerged as a significant platform for sensing and adsorption of heavy metal ions. The present work is a novel approach for developing highly porous hybrid architectures with trimesic acid and phenylene diamine-based p-MOP embedded over rice straw-derived cellulose nanofibers (ACNFs/MOP) for the sensing and remediation of mercury ions in the aqueous medium. The ACNFs/MOP were successfully characterized by various techniques, such as FTIR spectroscopy, BET surface area analysis, X-ray diffraction, XPS, HR-TEM, and TGA. The hybrid exhibited excellent porosity and crystallinity. The ACNFs/MOP hybrid was highly selective for Hg(II) ions, displaying substantial enhancement in fluorescence intensity with an LOD of 3.927 nM while also facilitating simultaneous adsorption. The adsorption showed a strong fit with pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm models with an excellent adsorption capacity of 416.18 mg g−1, attributed to electrostatic interactions, coordination surface complexation, and metal-π interactions, as confirmed by XPS studies. Thermodynamic studies indicated an endothermic adsorption process. Box-Behnken Design-Response Surface methodology with Design Expert Software-13 was applied to model the process parameters. The hybrids were 97 % efficient even after five cycles of reusability, exhibiting their excellent potential for removing perilous Hg(II) ions from wastewater.

Ultrasonic-Assisted Water-Rich Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for Sustainable Polyphenol Extraction from Seaweed: A Case Study on Cultivated Saccharina latissima.

This case study introduces a green, 1 h single-step method using water-rich natural deep eutectic solvent (WRNADES) for ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of polyphenols fromSaccharina latissima, a commercially cultivated brown seaweed. The extraction efficiency was evaluated using a selective quantitative NMR method (s-qNMR) and the traditional nonselective colorimetric total phenolic content assay (TPC). Initial 6 h extractions in traditional solvents (methanol, ethanol, acetone, and ethyl acetate) showed a 40-60% increase in polyphenolic yields in 50% aqueous solutions measured by the TPC method. Six different water-rich (50%) NADES (WRNADES) combinations were tested (choline chloride/betaine with lactic acid, citric acid, and 1,3-butanediol), with betaine and 1,3-butanediol (1:1) proving most effective. Parameters for the WRNADES were optimized using Box-Behnken design response surface methodology, resulting in a 1:20 w/w biomass to solvent ratio and a 1 h extraction time at 50 °C. The WRNADES extraction process was refined into a scalable, single-step procedure and compared with traditional solvent extractions (6 h, 50% aqueous methanol and acetone). A final XAD-7 polyphenol recovery step was included in all extractions. The optimized WRNADES extraction yielded 15.97 mg GAE/g of the dry weight recovered polyphenolic extract (s-qNMR), exceeding the 6 h 50% aqueous methanol (12.4 mg GAE/g) and acetone (11.4 mg GAE/g) extractions. Thus, the UAE-WRNADES method presented in this case study provides a cost-effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly alternative for the extraction of phenolic compounds from seaweed. It promotes the development of environmentally friendly production processes within the seaweed biorefinery.

Optimization In-vitro Evaluation and Scratch Wound Healing Assay of Hexacosane Topical Gel for Wound Healing.

The compounds hexocosane, a sterol hydrocarbon identified in the dichloromethane extract and isolated from marine sponges of the genus Agelas. Hexocosane possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, they promote cell proliferation and angiogenesis, facilitating tissue regeneration and repair. This multifaceted approach makes this secondary metabolite a promising candidate for developing advanced wound care therapies that effectively address both infection control and wound healing. On the basis of viscosity, in-vitro release, and skin retention, optimal gel formulations were developed with hexocosane (1%) to achieve the best results. A response surface methodology Box-Behnken design was applied on three factors and three levels [carbopol 940 (1, 1.25 and 1.5%), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) (1,1.5 and 1.2%), and propylene glycol (0–1–1.5% and 1–2%, respectively] using three factors and three levels. In order to assess the spreadability and viscosity, a glass slide and a Brookfield viscometer were used. An assay was conducted to determine how topical gel affects wound healing. The optimization study of the gel formulation, involving variations in adhesive polymer (Carbopol 940), release retarding polymer (HPMC K4M), and penetration enhancer (Surfactant), has identified three noteworthy formulations (F4, F8 & F14). Each formulation is characterized by specific attributes such as viscosity, in-vitro drug release, and skin retention. All samples were found to elicit significant wound healing efficacy as evidenced from the representative photomicrographs. The maximum efficacy was elicited by formulation (F4) with 100 mg drug at the time duration of 36 hours.

Sustainable Biodiesel Production via Biogenic Catalyzed Transesterification of Baobab Oil Methyl Ester and Optimization Process

Biomass diesel is one of the sustainable and renewable sources of energy envisaged to hold a prominent position in the world energy infrastructure. In this study, biodiesel was production from baobab seed oil by transesterification using biogenic heterogeneous catalyst, derived from mixed wastes of white chicken eggshells and banana fruit peels. The production process was analyzed and statistically analyzed using Box-Behnken Design-Response Surface Methodology (BBD-RSM). The influential transesterification reaction parameters investigated with their ranges include reaction time (40–80 min), molar ratio of oil to methanol (1:9–1:15) and catalyst weight (3–5 wt%). The nano-catalyst (CaO-BFP-850 NPs) was prepared by calcination at high temperature of 850 °C for 4 h, and its properties were found to contain majorly the basic elements of Ca and K when investigated with analytical instruments such as SEM, EDS, DSC-TGA, FT-IR, and XRD. The regeneration test of the CaO-BFP-850 NPs conducted showed it could be reused for more than four cycles with less catalytic efficiency reduction. The ideal conditions instituted by BBD-RSM was 75 min of reaction time, 12.8:1 molar ratio of oil to methanol, and 4.08 wt% CaO-BFP-850 at 65 °C and 650 rpm constant temperature and agitation speed respectively, with the validated biodiesel yield of 96.70 wt%. The assessment of the quality of the biodiesel produced showed compliance with the standard specifications of ASTM D6751, EN 14241, and SANS 833.

Sustainability-driven application of waste steel and tyre rubber fibres as reinforcement in concrete: An optimization study using response surface methodology

Innovative use of waste materials has proven to be effective for improving concrete’s technical properties while eliminating the threat of environmental pollution. There is paucity of research regarding the combined use of Waste Steel Fibres (WSFs) and Waste Tire Rubber Fibres (WTRFs) in concrete. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the influence of WSFs and WTRFs as reinforcement in concrete and determine their optimal fractions for enhancing the concrete strength properties using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). WSFs of 0.3-1.5% with a 0.6% increment and WTRFs of 0.3-1.5% with a 0.6% increment by concrete volume as reinforcement in concrete with water-to-cement ratio (W/C) of 0.25–0.65 with 0.2 increment were designed using the Box-Behnken Design of RSM. A total of fourteen (14) concrete mixes with a design strength of 25 N/mm2 were prepared. The fresh and hardened properties (slump, density, water absorption, 7- and 28-day compressive and split tensile strengths) of concrete were determined using standard procedures. The RSM was used to evaluate the interaction between the concrete variables and identify their optimum combination which gave the peak values of responses. Furthermore, the characteristics and sustainability of the concrete under optimum variables were compared with that of the conventional concrete. The outcomes revealed that the inclusion of WSFs and WTRFs yielded concretes with maximum slump, density, water absorption and 28-day compressive and split tensile strengths of 25 mm, 2633 kg/m3, 5%, 41 N/mm2 and 4.54 N/mm2, respectively. The optimization technique showed the optimal variables combination which yielded the peak response values of WSFs (1.40%), WTRFs (0.66%) and W/C (0.54). The nominal variance with the absolute percent error of less than (9%) between the actual experimental verified results and predicted results for all the responses validates the predictability of the model. The split tensile strength and compressive strength increased by 28.33% and 48.85%, respectively at the optimum setpoint of variable with respect to the reference concrete. In addition, the WSFs and WTRFs-reinforced concrete exhibited lower embodied CO2 emission but the embodied energy and cost are slightly higher relative to conventional concrete. Nevertheless, the embodied energy of the concrete was significantly lesser than that of concrete that used individual fibers for reinforcement. Thus, the enhancement of concrete strength properties with the prospect for sustainable fibre-reinforced concrete production through the use of waste steel and tyre rubber fibres is feasible.

Efficient removal of Eosin Yellow dye using solvothermal synthesised Ni/Al layered double hydroxide and layered double oxide: insights into adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics

ABSTRACT The accumulation of organic pollutants in the environment is swelling steadily and raising the alarm for their redressal. Layered double hydroxides (LDH) and layered double oxides (LDO) are gaining prominence for their potential to address this challenge. This work includes an eco-friendly facile solvothermal synthesis of Ni/Al LDH and their calcination to Ni/Al LDO. The prepared nanomaterials were characterised by XRD, FE-SEM, HR-TEM, FT-IR, BET and TGA techniques, which confirm the highly porous structure of synthesised nanomaterials with a high specific area of 109.94 m2g−1 and 188.94 m2g−1 for Ni/Al LDH and Ni/Al LDO, respectively. A systematic study was conducted to explore the adsorptive potential of these materials towards the removal of organic dye Eosin Yellow (EY). The adsorptive efficiency was found to be 95% and 99% for Ni/Al LDH and Ni/Al LDO, respectively, under the optimised conditions of pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, dye concentration and temperature on adsorptive removal of EY dye, which was analysed by BBD-RSM (Box-Behnken Design Response surface methodology). The adsorption data fits best with the Freundlich isotherm model and pseudo-second-order kinetics. The thermodynamic study confirms the exothermic adsorptive process. The durability and reusability of the synthesised adsorbents were ascertained by their retention of the adsorptive efficiency even after five adsorption-desorption cycles which were as high as 91% and 85% for Ni/Al LDH and Ni/Al LDO, respectively. The mechanism of adsorption involves electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding between the surface of adsorbent and adsorbate as well as intercalation of dye molecules.

Optimization of Microbial Fuel Cell Operational Parameters for the Treatment of Brewery Sludge

AbstractThis study investigates the potential of a salt bridge‐mediated microbial fuel cell (MFC) for power generation and wastewater sludge treatment in breweries. Unlike traditional “one‐parameter‐at‐a‐time” methodologies, this study uses a three‐variable Box–Behnken design response surface methodology to optimize critical MFC operational parameters. The effects of parameters such as solution pH, salt bridge molarity, and temperature were studied in the range of 4 to 10, 1 to 5 M, and 20 to 45 g L−1. The optimum operating parameters were found to be solution pH of 5.853, salt bridge molarity of 3.343 M, and temperature of 32.5 °C for chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand removal efficiencies of 92.485 % and 88.51 %, respectively. Temperature was found to be the most significant factor affecting the reactor's performance.

Green diesel synthesis from palm fatty acid distillate using a nickel phosphide catalyst: Optimization by box behnken design

The persistent global energy crisis is propelling significant innovations, including the use of palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) as a renewable resource for producing green diesel (GD). Therefore, this study aimed to intensify GD synthesis from PFAD by optimizing the process using a Response Surface Methodology-Box Behnken Design (RSM-BBD). Optimization was achieved with a nickel phosphide catalyst supported by natural zeolite through hydrodeoxygenation method. RSM-BBD was used to design the process, considering time (1−3 h), temperature (300–350 °C), catalyst concentration (5–15 %), and pressure (20–60 bar). The results showed that the optimum conditions consisted of 11 % catalyst concentration, 3 h of reaction time, 342 °C temperature, and 29 bar pressure, leading to a 96.35 % GD yield. All conversion parameters, except pressure, significantly influenced GD yield. The quality of the synthesized GD showed high quality and compliance with Indonesian as well as European diesel fuel standards.

Green, environmentally friendly synthesis of MnO Nanoparticles for corrosion inhibition in mild steel

<p>This study uses green, environmentally friendly methods to synthesize manganese oxide nanoparticles (MnO-NPs) that can be applied on mild steel as a safe and eco-friendly material with corrosion inhibition attributes. Mukia madaraspatana leaf extract is effective in the green synthesis of Mno-NPs. Several critical parameters can influence the corrosion rate and inhibition efficiency of the MnO-NPs, including the dose of nanoparticles in parts per million (PPM), acid concentration, temperature, and exposure time. Response Surface Methodology-Box Behnken Design (RSM-BBD) was employed to optimize these parameters. An optimal dosage of 550 parts per million (ppm) of nanoparticles, an acid concentration of 0.9 M, a temperature of 37°C, and an exposure time of 3.2 hours resulted in an inhibition efficiency of 92.5%. It reduced the corrosion rate to 0.652 (mm/Y) in an independent validation run. These findings demonstrate that the environmentally friendly synthesized MnO-NPs have great potential as an anti-corrosive agent for mild steel.</p>

Removal of methylene blue and Congo red from the wastewater in a jet loop reactor using ozone and activated carbon

The textile industry consumes a large amount of fresh water, resulting in colored effluent due to the incomplete fixation of certain dyes. Traditional textile wastewater treatment such as coagulation-flocculation, membrane filtration, thermal separation and electrochemical processes are expensive and pose significant environmental challenges. To address these issues an alternative technique for decolorizing textile effluent using a modified sparged loop reactor was proposed in this study. The jet loop reactor basically a multiphase reactor was utilized to treat textile wastewater with ozone. In this study, the textile wastewater containing water-soluble basic dyes such as Methylene blue and Congo red was simulated at a concentration of 50 ppm and the color removal efficiency of the reactor was analyzed. The effect of process parameters such as effluent flow rate (0.2– 0.4 Liter/min), sparger openings (2−4), adsorbent weight (0.5 – 1.5 g) and ozone dosage time (10–30 min) on the decolorization efficiency of the reactor were examined and optimized using Response Surface Methodology. In this study, a maximum color removal of 93 % and 85 % for Congo red dye and Methylene blue dye simulated wastewater was achieved. A correlation was developed using Response Surface Methodology-Box Behnken Design and the developed model was successfully interpreted with experimental values. Based on our results, we believe that it is possible to replace the energy-intensive thermal separation process with jet loop sparged reactor to treat the textile effluent. As a sustainable process, loop reactor may result in a huge reduction of freshwater consumption.

Optimizing injection molding parameters to minimize and prediction potential for flashing defects

The injection molding process is a manufacturing process that can produce products in a short time in large quantities, in the injection molding process the factor of setting process parameters plays a significant role in product quality, so it requires special treatment. The purpose of this study is to find the optimal parameters in the injection moulding process of yogurth container lid with polypropylene material, so that the process can reduce the incidence of flashing defects that result in the emergence of initial waste in the industrial environment. The method used in this research is to create a Response Surface Methodology Box-Behnken Design (RSM - BBD) optimization model and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model approach in analyzing optimal parameters and predicting the appearance of flashing defects in a designed cycle. The results obtained from this research are the optimal parameters from the RSM and ANN model recommendations, namely the clamping force setting of 70 tons, holding time 0.1 seconds, and holding pressure. The ANN model provides the highest level of prediction accuracy with an R2 value of 100% and a prediction error rate of 7.9689E-09. In comparison, the RSM model obtains a prediction accuracy level with an R2 of 71% with an error rate of 0.24315.

Response surface methodology and artificial intelligence modeling for in vitro regeneration of Brazilian micro sword (Lilaeopsis brasiliensis)

In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize in vitro regeneration of the Brazilian micro sword (Lilaeopsis brasiliensis) aquatic plant, followed by data prediction and validation using machine learning algorithms. The basal salt, sucrose and Benzyaminopurine (BAP) concentrations were derived from Box-Behnken design of RSM. The response surface regression analysis revealed that 1.0 g/L MS + 0.1 mg/L BAP + 25 g/L sucrose was optimized for maximum regeneration (100%), shoot counts (63.2), and fresh weight (1.382 g). The RSM-based predicted scores were fairly similar to the actual scores, which were 100% regeneration, 63.39 shoot counts, and 1.44 g fresh weight. Pareto charts analysis illustrated the significance of MS for regeneration and fresh weight but remained insignificant. Conversely, MS × BAP was found to be the most crucial factor for the shoot counts, with MS coming in second and having a major influence. The analysis of the normal plot ascertained the negative impact of elevated MS concentration on shoot counts and enhanced shoot counts from the combination of MS × BAP. Results were further optimized by constructing contour and surface plots. The response optimizer tool demonstrated that maximum shoot counts of 63.26 and 1.454 g fresh weight can be taken from the combination of 1.0 g/L MS + 0.114 mg/L BAP + 23.94 g/L. Using three distinct performance criterias, the results of machine learning models showed that the multilayer perceptron (MLP) model performed better than the random forest (RF) model. Our findings suggest that the results may be utilized to optimize various input variables using RSM and verified via ML models.Key messageOptimization of in vitro whole plant regeneration of Brazilian sword wood using response surface methodologyData analysis through ANOVA, response surface regression anlaysis and machine learningGraphical presentation of data via Pareto charts, normal plots, contour plots and surface plots for optimizationBetter performance of ANN-based MLP model compared to decision tree based RF modelGraphical abstract

Simultaneous Extraction and Decaffeination Process Optimization of Green Coffee Bean-Based Beverages Using Response Surface Methodology

Simultaneous Extraction and Decaffeination Process Optimization of Green Coffee Bean-Based Beverages Using Response Surface Methodology

Hydrothermal carbonization of organic waste using faecal sludge as a water source: Response surface methodology-Box Behnken design

In this research, organic waste was subjected to hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) using faecal sludge as the water source. HTC is a sustainable method for converting organic waste into valuable hydrochar. However, the use of portable water as a reaction medium in HTC is environmentally unsustainable and increases operational costs. The aim of this study was to optimize HTC operating parameters such as residence time, temperature, and biomass to water (BTW) ratio for maximizing both higher heating value (HHV) and hydrochar yield and also to determine the effects of these operating parameters on the hydrochar properties. This study utilized a Box Behnken design within the response surface methodology to identify optimal HTC conditions. Temperature was varied between 180 and 250 °C, residence time between 30 min and 120 min, and BTW ratio between 1 and 10. Volatile matter percentage was reduced in the hydrochar compared to that of the feedstock. A progressive rise in carbon percentage and a decline in oxygen percentage were observed with increasing temperatures. Temperature and residence time were the most significant factors affecting HHV, on the other hand, temperature and BTW ratio were the most significant factors that affected hydrochar yield. Numerical optimization of the factors revealed that a maximum HHV of 28.409 MJ/kg was obtained at 250 °C, 116 min, and a 1:9 BTW ratio, while an ideal hydrochar yield of 57.491% was obtained at 242 °C, 95 min and a BTW ratio of 1:9. This study highlights the environmental sustainability of utilizing faecal sludge as a water source in HTC, presenting a promising possibility for transforming organic waste into valuable hydrochar while addressing concerns related to water use.

"UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS-chemometrics-network pharmacology" integrated strategy to discover quality markers of raw and stir-fried Fructus Tribuli and process optimization of stir-fried Fructus Tribuli.

Fructus Tribuli, the dried ripe fruit of Tribulus terrestris L., has various beneficial effects, including liver-calming and depression-relieving effects. Raw Fructus Tribuli (RFT) and stir-fried Fructus Tribuli (SFT) are included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 edition (Ch. P 2020). However, owing to the lack of specific regulations on SFT-processing parameters in Ch. P 2020, it is difficult to ensure the quality of commercially available SFT. The present study aimed to screen the quality markers (Q-markers) of RFT and SFT and optimize the processing technology of SFT based on the identified Q-markers. First, the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS) technology as well as multiple statistical analysis along with network pharmacology was used to comprehensively identify the Q-markers of RFT and SFT. Then, based on single-factor experiments, the Box-Behnken design (BBD) response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the processing technology of SFT and perform process validation. A total of 63 components were identified in RFT and SFT extracts. Terrestrosin D and Terrestrosin K were initially considered the Q-markers of RFT and SFT, respectively. The optimum processing technology conditions were 208°C, 14 min, and 60 r·min-1. Three batches of process validation were performed, and the mean composite score was 56.87, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) value of 1.13%. The content of steroidal saponin components in RFT was significantly different before and after stir-frying. Terrestrosin D and Terrestrosin K were validated as the Q-markers of RFT and SFT, respectively. The identification of Q-markers for RFT and SFT offered a clear index for optimizing the SFT-processing technology and provided a basis for the quality control of RFT and SFT decoction pieces.

Mix proportion and microscopic characterization of coal-based solid waste backfill material based on response surface methodology and multi-objective decision-making

The mix proportion of multi-source coal-based solid waste (CSW) for underground backfilling affects transportation and support performance of backfill materials, and even the backfilling cost. In this study, the optimal mix proportion of desulfurization gypsum (DG), furnace bottom slag (FBS) and gasification fine slag (GFS) is determined by the Response Surface Methodology–Box Behnken Design (RSM-BBD). Then the fluidity, bleeding rate, 3-day strength, 7-day strength and preparation cost are evaluation indicators, the optimal mix proportion of backfill materials is determined by the multi-objective decision-making method (MDM). Finally, the microstructure of the backfill material with optimal mix proportion was studied by TGA, MIP, SEM–EDS and XRD. The results show that the mix proportion of CSW with the optimal comprehensive index is coal gangue (CG): coal fly ash (CFA): DG: FBS: GFS = 1:1.5:0.2:0.1:0.1, the mass concentration is 78%, and ordinary Portland cement (OPC)/CSW = 7.5%. The weight loss phenomenon of the backfill material with the optimal mix proportion occurs continuously during the heating process, mainly due to the evaporation of crystal water, structural water and hydroxyl water. There are dense narrow-necked pores in the backfill material, and the pore connectivity is poor. There is no hydration reaction occurs between CSW particles, and the strength increase of the backfill material mainly depends on the hydration reaction of cement. In ettringite, part of Al2O3 is replaced by SiO2, and part of CaSO4 is replaced by CaCO3. This study provides a reference for the engineering application of underground backfilling with multi-source CSW.

Effect of Thermally Extracted Carrot Oil Using Biomass Solvent to Boost Consumer Goods: Box-Behnken Design Approach

Massive production of fast-moving consumer goods boosts the economy of any nation. Thus, the need to look into ways of accelerating and transforming carrot utilization into more commercialized usage in order to add value to the developmental strides of any nation where carrot is cultivated like Nigeria. This study concluded that the optimization of the carrot oil extracted from crushed carrot and coconut oil (biomass volume) via soxhlet equipment using Box-Behnken Design (BBD) of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) approach, generated an ideal optimal output of 18.58 wt% at SW of 60 g, BV of 200 ml and ET of 14mins. Although, three input elements which are sample weight (SW), biomass volume (BV), and extraction time (ET) were modelled to generate 17 setups by BBD, but standard order (Std) 8 from the 17 setups generated an ideal output of 18.58 wt%. Thus, the process optimization of the extraction process via BBD of RSM showed that both the coefficient of determination (R2) which is 0.9886, and the difference between adjusted R2 and predicted R2 which is less than 0.2 fall within an ideal range. Also, the elements considered for modeling are mutually significant with the quadratic model equation and the interactive effects of the independent parameters on the carrot oil output showed that an increase in the sample weight and time led to a corresponding increase in the carrot oil output, and this is corroborated by the perturbation plot. Additionally, the physiochemical valuables of the carrot oil generated showed that the free fatty acid and the acid value were very low signifying that the carrot oil is edible and can be used in the manufacturing process using the saponification method in making soap and moisturizing cream for the benefit of mankind.

Optimization of intumescent flame retardant system based on ammonium polyphosphate, double pentaerythritol, and zinc borate for thermoplastic polyurethane composite

AbstractThe widespread industrial applications of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) are partially limited by its flammability. The design of high‐performance intumescent flame retardants (IFR) is of great significance for enhancing flame retardant (FR) performance of TPU. In this work, an IFR system consisting of ammonium polyphosphate (APP), double pentaerythritol (DPER), and zinc borate (ZB) is proposed. The optimized experimental parameters with 15 wt.% additive amount of FR, APP‐DPER weight ratio of 2.28:1 and 15.56 wt.% ZB content are regulated based on Box–Behnken design‐response surface methodology (BBD‐RSM) to obtain TPU/FR composite with superior limiting oxygen index value of 30.2%. Noticeably, the design efficiency of TPU/FR composite is significantly improved by utilizing BBD‐RSM. Results of vertical burning test show that the optimized TPU/FR composite passes UL 94 V‐0 rating and peak heat release rate is dramatically reduced from 1355.88 (neat TPU) to 201.01 KW/m2 through cone calorimeter test. In addition, scanning electron microscopy accompanied with Raman spectroscopy are conducted to characterize the morphology and composition of residual char for further exploring the FR mechanism of IFR system in TPU. The as‐prepared TPU/FR composite has provided new potential application in engineering fields.

Valorisation of Napier grass through fibre extraction and coloration by natural dye from Rubia tinctorum

AbstractAgricultural biomass is a well‐known renewable resource with a strong possibility of recycling. The current work focuses on extracting, preparing and colouring Napier grass fibre (NGF) with a colourant extracted from Rubia tinctorum (RT) (which is generally known as madder). NGF that had been water‐retted was alkaline scoured and bleached using hydrogen peroxide to increase the material's whiteness index and water absorption capacity without degrading its breaking strength. After being mordanted with tannic acid, the bleached NGF was coloured with an aqueous extract of the colourant extracted from RT. The Box–Behnken response surface methodology design model was employed to optimise the dyeing concentration, temperature and time. The dyed fibre showed good colour strength (K/S) and adequate wash, rub and light fastness. Adopting the findings from the current study would increase the efficient utilisation of biomass for use in textiles, which is unnecessarily wasted.