Composition Of Raw Materials Research Articles

Comparative analysis of biologically active substances in leaves and fruits of European dewberry (Rubus caesius L.)

Introduction. In recent years, the attention of researchers has increasingly been attracted by representatives of the genus Rubus, among which the European dewberry (Rubus caesius L.), as one of the most frequently encountered species. There are a number of studies on the chemical composition and pharmacological activity of raw materials of European dewberry. For example, its fruits, leaves, and shoots are rich in compounds of a phenolic nature, have antitumor, antioxidant, and antidiarrheal activity. Consideration of European dewberry as a producing plant of medicinal plant raw materials is relevant. Objective. The study of the composition and content of some groups of biologically active substances (BAS) in the leaves and fruits of European dewberry. Material and methods. The objects of the study were dried leaves and fruits of European dewberry harvested in the Moscow region and the Republic of Bashkortostan in the summer of 2023. The analysis of BAS was carried out according to the methods set out in the Russian State Pharmacopoeia. BAS was detected by qualitative reactions and thin-layer chromatography (TLC). The quantitative determination of BAS was carried out by titrimetry and spectrophotometry (SPM) methods. Results and discussion. During the work, hydrolyzable tannins (10.01 and 5.6%, respectively), organic acids (1.44 and 3.12%, respectively), ascorbic acid (0.068 and 0.11%, respectively) were found in the leaves and fruits of the European dewberry. The amount of anthocyanins in terms of cyanidin-3-5-diglycoside was determined in the fruits of the European dewberry, the value of which was 0.98%. The content of flavonoids in terms of rutin in the leaves of European dewberry was 0.72%. Conclusion. A comparative analysis of BAS in the leaves and fruits of the European dewberry was carried out. The studied objects are promising sources of substances of primary and secondary metabolism.

Evaluating the Effects of Fermentation, Sprouting and Roasting on the Chemical Composition of Local Raw Materials for Complementary Food Formulation

Evaluating the Effects of Fermentation, Sprouting and Roasting on the Chemical Composition of Local Raw Materials for Complementary Food Formulation

Rheological properties of pharmaceutical substrates produced with Celugel.

Hydrogels, containing a large amount of water and exhibiting high biocompatibility, can improve the rheological properties of formulations and adhere well to the application site. In Poland, only 1 hydrogel substrate is currently approved for pharmaceutical compounding: Celugel, based on hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC). The aim of this study was to investigate how the variation in the raw material composition of Celugel-based hydrogels affects their osmotic pressure values and selected rheological properties. Ten gel formulations were prepared using a commercial Celugel as the base, with varying percentages of added water, alongside a consistent 5 wt% addition of sucrose. The research methods employed include osmotic pressure, dynamic viscosity, pH measurement, and surface tension using the du Noüy ring tensiometer. The composition of the formulation has a significant impact on the osmotic pressure. Nearly all of the hydrogels exhibited hyperosmotic characteristics relative to living tissues, with measured osmotic pressure values ranging from 160 mOsm/kg H2O to 1,480 mOsm/kg H2O. As anticipated, the viscosity of the formulations increased proportionally with the growing concentration of Celugel ranging from 2.19 mPa·s to 562.87 mPa·s. The composition of Celugel significantly influences its rheological properties and osmotic pressure values, with the concentration of the gelling agent being the most impactful factor. The results suggest that Celugel is suitable for use in formulations intended for nasal administration.

SMALL-PIECE SEMI-DRY-COMPACTED CONCRETE PRODUCTS BASED ON WASTE FROM ENERGY GENERATING ENTERPRISES

The article investigates the fly ash from Burshtyn TPP for its use as a component of binding raw material compositions for the production of small-piece concrete products. Based on the integrated characteristics of chemical and phase composition, it was found that the ash is ultra-acidic, is an amorphous substance and is characterized by low hydraulic activity. Calcium-containing additives (slag cement and/or hydrated lime) and an alkaline aggregate (soda solution) were used to activate the ash glass. The charges compositions using ash at the level of 75–90 wt. %, in which the type and amount of activator and the type of aggregate (alkaline solution or water) were subject to variation in order to optimize the technological parameters of the materials. For materials formed at a pressing pressure of 25 kgf/cm2 and hardened under steaming conditions, a positive effect of cement, alkaline aggregate and combined hardening activator on the properties of materials, their appearance and geometric dimensions was established. Such materials have a low level of mechanical properties; only certain charge compositions allow for a mechanical strength grade of M50 to M75. In order to improve the final mechanical strength of materials, the influence of pressing pressure, moulding moisture and hydrothermal treatment methods (steaming or parboiling) on the properties of materials of individual compositions was investigated. It has been determined that increasing the pressure up to 300 kgf/cm2 and autoclave treatment of semi-finished products can significantly improve the level of mechanical properties. The rational compositions of binder compositions with a high degree of fly ash use (75 and 77 wt. %) were determined, on the basis of which water-resistant samples of asphalt concrete grades M 125 and M200 in terms of mechanical strength and grade F25 in terms of frost resistance were obtained by semi-dry pressing. The materials are recommended for the manufacture of products for the construction of sidewalk elements, as well as wall small-piece concrete products.

The impact of calcination atmosphere on Cr(Ⅵ) conversion in correction raw materials for high iron red mud

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to investigate a new approach for reducing the production of harmful Cr(VI) heavy metals in the collaborative disposal of Red mud by cement enterprises. The study examined the effects of different ratios on the conversion rate of Cr(VI) in clinker under various calcination temperatures and atmospheres, and analyzed the raw material composition, clinker composition, and Cr(VI) content using XRD and XPS. The results indicate that the conversion rate of Cr(VI) is positively correlated with the concentration of oxygen, with the highest conversion rate of 93.4% achieved at 15% oxygen concentration. XPS analysis revealed that the peak intensity of Cr(VI) in clinker calcined under 4% O2 atmosphere was significantly higher than that of the sample calcined under 4000 mg/kg CO atmosphere. The study also found that the concentration of CO can reduce the conversion rate of Cr(VI) at high calcination temperatures, while at low calcination temperatures, the change in CO concentration has little effect on the conversion rate of Cr(VI). The specific objectives include examining the effects of different ratios, calcination temperatures, and atmospheres on the conversion rate of Cr(VI) in clinker. Additionally, when the ratio is the same as the calcination atmosphere, increasing the calcination temperature leads to an increase in the conversion rate of Cr(VI). The obtained results suggest a new approach for reducing the production of Cr(VI) in the collaborative disposal of Red mud by cement enterprises, which could have practical applications in engineering environmental protection.

Quantitative determination of tannins by titrimetry and spectrophotometry in raw materials of some representatives of the genus Rumex of three growing seasons

Introduction. Study of the chemical composition of medicinal plant raw materials and comparative analysis of the dynamics of accumulation of biologically active substances in related medicinal plants is necessary for the creation of highly effective and safe drugs. Similar metabolome to the officinal representative of the genus Rumex (hereinafter referred to as R.) – R. confertus – the metabolome of species widely distributed in Russia: R. crispus, R. obtusifolius, R. aquaticus, which determines the perspectivity of studying these species. Scientific and practical interest is represented by the study of the group of biologically active substances possessing antibacterial activity – tannins at different phenological stages of plant development.Aim. Quantitative determination of tannins by permanganatometry and spectrophotometry methods in underground organs of R. confertus, R. crispus, R. obtusifolius, R. aquaticus, harvested in different phases of vegetation: regrowth, flowering and withering periods.Materials and methods. Aqueous extracts from underground organs of the studied Rumex species were analyzed. Extractions and solutions obtained during the study were analyzed by permanganatometry, spectrophotometry and HPLC. The compounds from the group of tannins were identified by the wavelength of absorption maximum.Results and discussion. The quantitative content of tannins was evaluated by permanganatometry, spectrophotometry and HPLC.Conclusion. Tannins were detected and quantified in extracts from underground organs of R. confertus, R. crispus, R. obtusifolius, R. aquaticus and the dependence between their quantitative content and vegetation phase was analyzed.

High-temperature performance of clay-enhanced alkali-activated binders: A sustainable alternative to Portland cement

The cement industry's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions has led to exploring alternative processes and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). These include alkali-activated binders or geopolymers, promising cement alternatives due to their pozzolanic properties and superior strength and durability, especially at high temperatures. Using abundant raw materials such as clay further enhances the sustainability of geopolymers by reducing emissions associated with their production. Factors like raw material composition and activator type can affect binder properties, so careful material design is essential. This paper discusses experimental results on the mechanical behaviour of alkaline cements at high temperatures, testing two binders (FA=100 % fly ash and FB=70 % fly ash with 30 % clay) and two activators (WN and WK), selected from previous studies where residual strength after temperature exposure was excellent. Their performance was compared to two Portland types of cement (CEM I 52.5 N/SR and CEM I 42.5 R). Unlike cement pastes, the alkaline cements FA and FB retain and can even improve mechanical strength up to 600 °C. At this temperature, adding clay to the FB alkali cement promotes the formation of a viscous gel capable of filling cracks and voids in the geopolymer, thus increasing its high-temperature strength by 80 % compared to cement pastes.

Early properties and reaction mechanism of hybrid alkali-activated cements (HAACs)

Geopolymers have received extensive attention due to their greenhouse effect. However, the application of geopolymers has been restricted by their workability and manufacturing technique. Hybrid alkali-activated cements (HAACs), which are transition materials between cement and geopolymers, have gradually been developed. The chemical reactions of HAACs are complicated, and adjusting their performance is difficult. In this study, the competitive reactivities and phase contents of commonly used HAACs with different raw material compositions and curing conditions are examined. The reaction degrees of the clinker (RoC), C-(A)-S-H+N(C)-A-S-H gel and unreacted amorphous particle (UAP) contents were calculated. The experimental results indicated that the quantity and structure of the gel were optimized when the Si2O/Na2O and Na2O contents of HAAC-G3 were 1.5 and 4 %, respectively, and the cement: mineral admixture ratio was 1:4. Moreover, a large amount of N-A-S-H with a dense structure was produced by alkali reactions rather than cement hydration reactions in HAAC-G3; these reactions improved the macroscopic mechanical properties. Additionally, the effects of steam curing on the properties of the HAACs were slight because of the internal water competition reaction mechanism. This research clarified the influence of different coordination methods on the internal reaction mechanism of HAACs and could be used to promote the engineering application of HAACs. Moreover, HAACs play an important role in mitigating greenhouse effects worldwide.

Literature Review: Guava Leaves (Psidium Guajava) for Treating Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a significant health problem, especially in developing countries. Guava leaves (Psidium guajava) have long been used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea. This study aims to review the literature on the effectiveness of guava leaves in treating diarrhea by focusing on ten aspects: raw material name, raw material content, raw material composition, active substance content, efficacy claims, empirical data, raw material standardization, preclinical test, toxicity test, and clinical trial. The results of several studies show that guava leaves contain tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and essential oils that play a role in the antidiarrheal effect. Preclinical research shows a reduction in the frequency of bowel movements and an increase in stool consistency in animal models. Although empirical claims and preclinical trials support the use of guava leaves as a treatment for diarrhea, more research is still needed regarding the standardization of raw materials, toxicity tests, and clinical trials to ensure its overall efficacy and safety.

Consumer Perception of Palm Sugar Products in Rokan Hulu District, Indonesia: A Prospective Analysis Approach

The demand for palm sugar has been consistently increasing each year, particularly due to the growing public awareness of health benefits. Palm sugar is considered a safer sweetener option due to its low glycemic index and absence of side effects. The primary objective of this research is to analyze consumer perceptions regarding the attributes of palm sugar. This analysis is crucial in assessing consumer satisfaction and loyalty toward palm sugar consumption. Consequently, the findings will contribute to enhancing the marketing mix strategies for palm sugar. The survey method was employed to conduct this research, with a sample size of 30 consumer respondents selected through random sampling. Additionally, an opinion poll was conducted with key individuals to gather insights on the development of palm sugar products. The collected data were then analyzed using a prospective analysis approach. The research results indicate that specific attributes significantly influence consumer perceptions when purchasing palm sugar. Consumer perceptions in purchasing palm sugar are based on details of the marketing mix attributes which are the determining attributes, namely: taste, quality, palm sugar color, texture, popularity of craftsmen, and price. The marketing development implications of this research are improvements to three attribute components, namely raw material composition information, product standards, hygiene, partnerships, and technology. This serves as a consideration for craftsmen to improve consumer perceptions of palm sugar. Keywords: marketing of palm sugar, perception, prospective

Light-weight high strength porous thermal insulation materials based on dolomite-granite waste

The first choice for the treatment of solid waste is its industrial utilization. Therefore, in the present study, dolomite tailings and granite waste are used as the basic raw materials, along with silicon carbide as a high-temperature foaming agent, to prepare a light-weight, high-closed porosity thermal insulation material. The effects of (i) the chemical compositions of the main raw materials and (ii) the relationship between the sintering process and the properties, microstructure and crystalline phase of the samples are systematically investigated. At the same time, the formation mechanism of high closed porosity of the thermal insulation material is analyzed. The results showed that when sintering temperature, time, and heating rate are 1200 °C, 30 min, and 3 °C/min, respectly, the sample density, compressive strength, true porosity, and closed porosity are 0.7 g/cm3, 6.62 MPa, 74.21%, and 66.36%, respectively. In addition, due to the high closed porosity, relative to traditional inorganic thermal insulation materials, the water absorption and thermal conductivity are significantly reduced to as little as 1.5%, and 0.30 W/(m·K), respectly. This research not only realizes the recovery and utilization of granite waste and dolomite tailings, but also provides a new prospect for energy saving and consumption reduction in the construction industry.

КЕРАМИКАЛЫҚ ЖОЛ ТӨСЕНІШТЕРДІ ӨНДІРУДЕГІ КЕРАМИКАЛЫҚ МАССА КОМПОЗИЦИЯСЫН ЖЕТІЛДІРУ

The article presents the results of a study of the chemical and mineralogical composition of the raw material components in the ceramic mass and provides techniques for the technology of laying ceramic material by vibropressing using talc rock in the mass and methods for determining the composition of clay raw materials. Formulations for the production of ceramic road surfaces, taking into account the factors of preference for mixtures to improve the properties of the finished product as a molding, drying and ceramic material, have been studied in two different components. It was found that the introduction of talc into the ceramic composition has an effect on the formation of high-temperature augite and amphibole phases and the intensification of the formation of minerals in clay, on the formation of high-temperature phases - sanidine, ackermanite elements. This process leads to an increase in the physical and mechanical properties of the resulting samples.The main patterns of formation of the structure and phase of ceramic compositions by firing in the temperature range 1000оC-1100оC were studied by isothermal control.In this pattern, sintering processes with solid and solid liquid-phase syntheses were carried out to ensure the phase - mineral composition, the study clarified the production of high-strength and frost-resistant ceramic pavement. In order to be used in the improvement of the city territory (sidewalks, alleys, park areas, playgrounds, etc.), the possibility of obtaining ceramic road surfaces that meet environmental and operational requirements has been proven. It has been established that one of the priority properties of ceramic road surfaces is a significant abundance of their porosity (25-30%), which allows you to quickly absorb moisture from precipitation (rain, sleet, etc.) and filter water through the body into the ground.Such properties of ceramic paving stones prevent the accumulation of moisture on the surface of the roadway and create comfortable conditions during pedestrian movement, reducing the likelihood of ice formation on the surface of the paving stones in the cold season.

Investigation of the chemical and biological composition of the medicinal plant juzgun leucocladum-for further production of an antibacterial veterinary drug

Juzgun (лат. Calligonum) is a genus of perennial deciduous branching shrubs from the Buckwheat family (лат. Polygonaceae). According to some data, up to 158 plants are included in the genus, but since the genus is poorly studied, the definition of the species included in it is considered inaccurate. Moreover, some scientists claim that it is impossible because of multiple morphological differences that do not have geographical certainty. Tannins, citric and phenolic carboxylic acids, alkaloids, leucoanthocyanidins, flavonoids were found in the chemical composition of plants from the genus Juzgun. Plants from the genus Juzgun can potentially serve as a source of medicinal raw materials. Scientists have found phenolcarbonic acids in them, which have a choleretic effect, acting as a hypotensive agent. Antitumor effect is endowed not only with the leucoanthocyanidins present in the representatives of the genus, but also a number of flavonoids.We have investigated the chemical composition and identification of biologically active compounds in the vegetable raw materials of the Juzgun leucocladum. Physico-chemical studies have been carried out. The elemental composition of raw materials has been determined.The morphology of the raw materials was investigated, and the amino acid composition of the raw materials was also determined. The first samples of a veterinary drug based on Juzgun plant raw materials and phytosorbents for veterinary purposes were obtained and sent for clinical research.

Change in the qualitative composition of non-metallic mineral raw materials as a result of blasting operations

Purpose. The research purpose is to study the change in the qualitative composition of granite before and after blasting operations to determine its compliance with the criteria of marketable products. Methods. X-ray phase and X-ray structural research methods are used to study changes in the mineral composition of granites before and after blasting operations. To separate magnetic and non-magnetic fractions of the selected granite samples, a three-roller RST magnetic separator is used. X-ray phase research is conducted using a DRON-3 diffractometer. Additionally, an analysis of the unit cell dimensions of the quartz crystal lattice was conducted, and the dislocation density along the corresponding crystallographic planes was studied. Findings. It has been determined that after blasting operations, granite mass is redistributed from coarse fractions of 1-20 mm to small fractions of 0-1 mm with an increase in the latter by 4.2%. It has been found that the biotite content decrea-ses naturally and consistently, and the quartz content increases correspondingly in products in the following series: magnetic separator drum (90%, 2%) → lower roller (72%, 14%) → upper roller (55%, 31%) → non-magnetic product (48%, 34%) before blasting operations. Therefore, despite significant differences in the magnetic favorability of these two mineral phases, they are present in all magnetic separation products (with the exception of quartz in the non-magnetic product): magnetic separator drum → lower roller → upper roller. Originality. It has been established that along the crystallographic directions 101 and 211, the maximum gradient of dislocation density increase in the quartz crystal lattice in granite samples before blasting operations is observed during the transition from the lower roller product to the upper roller product, amounting to 1.55·1010 and 6.63·1010 cm-2, respectively. After blasting operations, in granite samples along the same directions, the maximum gradient of dislocation density increase is observed between the upper roller product and the non-magnetic product, amounting to 3.01·1010 and 4.67·1010cm-2. As a result of the thermodynamic impact of blasting operations, the weighted average dislocation density value along crystallographic planes 101 and 211 in the quartz crystal lattice increases by 47.21 and 25.72%, respectively. Practical implications. Understanding the quality characteristics of marketable products after blasting operations will contribute to optimizing the stages of further processing of non-metallic mineral raw materials (two-, three- or four-stage crushing) and expanding the scope of granite applications. This increases its competitiveness in the building materials market by reducing the costs for additional processing with a reduction in the labor intensity of the process.

ПРИНЦИПЫ, ОСОБЕННОСТИ, ПОДХОДЫ, ПРИМЕНЯЕМЫЕ В ОРГАНИЗАЦИИ ПИТАНИЯ ПРИ ПОСТКОВИДНОМ СИНДРОМЕ

The results of analytical studies related to the characteristics of the physiological status of the population in conditions of post-COVID syndrome are presented. Recommendations have been developed on the nutrient composition of raw materials and diets, taking into account physiological changes in the human body during post-Covid syndrome.

Changes in the biological and nutritional value of pea and bean grains as a result of their bioactivation

The relevance of the study is due to the need to improve the technology for processing peas and beans of domestic selection into plant-based drinks and their use in technologies for alternative products of complex raw materials for healthy, functional and specialized nutrition of various population groups. The purpose of the work is to study the influence of the developed technological modes of bioactivation on the nutritional and biological value, functional and technological properties of the protein-carbohydrate complex of pea and bean grains. The work examines the results of studies of changes occurring in pea grains bred at the Bashkir Research Institute of Agriculture and beans bred at the Omsk State Agrarian University during their bioactivation using the Smart Sprouter "Rosinka" installation, in particular the biochemical composition and inhibitory activity of grain of the studied varieties, a protein complex and amino acid composition, protein digestibility in vitro, functional and technological properties of the protein-carbohydrate complex of grain. The research has been carried out using generally accepted, modern instrumental methods for analyzing the properties of raw materials and finished products. It has been established that the use of the developed technological parameters of bioactivation leads to modification of the functional and technological properties of the structure-forming nutrients of grain, intensive accumulation of all amino acids, with the exception of threonine, make it possible to increase the protein content in pea grain by 15.32 % and beans by 14.96 %, relative to the initial values increase the degree of compliance of pea and bean grain protein with the FAO/WHO reference protein by 4.48 and 17.53 %, reduce the activity of grain protease inhibitors by 19.76 and 26.12 %, increase the digestibility of grain protein by 7.77 and 5.85 %. The research results prove the feasibility of using bioactivated pea and bean grains for the production of alternative products with a complex raw material composition, including plant-based drinks and products in the "dairy alternatives" segment.

Interactions with free radicals for infusions obtained from plant mixtures in different weight ratio of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) herbs and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) flowers using EPR method

Introduction: Antioxidants protect against free radicals. The aim of this work is to determine the influence of the composition of the plant raw material on magnitude and kinetics of interactions with free radicals of infusions obtained from a mixture of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) herbs and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) flowers. The composition of a complex plant raw material with strong antioxidative properties was searched. Material and methods: The infusions were prepared from the mixtures of C. scolymus herbs and T. officinale flowers with weight ratio of the ingredients: 1:1, 2:1, and 1:2. Antioxidant properties were examined by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and the model DPPH free radicals. Results and discussion: EPR spectra of DPPH free radicals decrease as a result of interactions with the examined plant infusions. The decrease of the EPR spectra was strongest and the weakest for infusions of complex plant raw material with the ratio of ingredients 2:1 and 1:1, respectively. Conclusions: All tested infusions of a mixture of artichoke (C. scolymus) herbs and dandelion (T. officinale) flowers, with ingredient weight ratios of 1:1, 2:1 and 1:2, quench free radicals. The character of kinetics of free radical interactions for the tested infusions are similar. An infusion of complex plant raw material with a 2:1 weight ratio of ingredients has the strongest effect on eliminating free radicals. An infusion with a 1:1 weight ratio of ingredients has the weakest ability to quench free radicals.

Selected anti-ageing properties of bee raw materials

Raw materials obtained from the natural environment: plant, mineral or animal origin, were used in ancient medicine, as well as throughout the centuries and in various geographical latitudes. Cosmetology is a relatively young field using therapeutic achievements of medicine, pharmacology, chemistry or phytotherapy. Numerous sources describe the composition and properties of raw materials produced by bees: honey, propolis (propolis), beeswax, royal jelly, bee pollen, bee venom and bee bread. Products of bee origin show a comprehensive effect of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer (cytotoxic - e.g. in the treatment of melanoma), estrogenic nature. Their physicochemical properties are used in the production of cosmetics, dermocosmetics and colour cosmetics. Raw materials produced by these insects are a very valuable and rich source of active substances with proven medicinal properties, used in both conventional and folk medicine and increasingly in cosmetics, and can be safely used in care, excluding people who have experienced a hypersensitivity reaction to bee products. In cosmetology, a holistic approach to care forces the search for the most optimal methods that affect the maintenance of the proper physiological state of the body, and thus delay the progressive aging process of the body. Professional, but also everyday anti-aging care, should be primarily focused on the use of products that have a beneficial effect on maintaining the function of the skin barrier, protect the skin from free radicals, stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and intercellular matrix - improving the elasticity and firmness of the skin, protect against the formation of pigment changes, strengthen the immune function of the skin and have a beneficial effect on the strengthening of the endothelium of the skin vessels and with the content of substances acting similarly to botulinum toxin. The cosmetics industry, in line with the current trend focused on ecology and a healthy lifestyle, is constantly expanding its offer with products containing natural raw materials, especially those of bee origin. The article presents a review of current literature published in the last decade (2014-2024) available in scientific databases.

Pengaruh Variasi Ukuran Partikel pada Pembuatan Bio-Briket dari Pelepah dan Tandan Buah Kosong Kelapa Sawit

Palm oil empty fruit bunches (EFB) and fronds are solid waste originating from palm oil processing which can be used as the main raw material for making briquettes. This is supported by its contents, namely lignin, hemicellulose and cellulose. The smaller the particle size, the greater the compressive strength of the briquette, but the burning rate will be slower because the cavity/pores of the briquette are smaller. This research aims to determine the effect of particle (mesh) size on the characteristics of briquettes which include water content, ash content, density, compressive strength and burning rate as well as to determine the best composition of a mixture of empty oil palm fruit bunches and fronds. The results of this research show that the best particle size is 70 mesh briquettes with a raw material composition of 46% EFB and 46% fronds (1:1) with 8% tapioca flour adhesive. Biobriquettes with small particle sizes have lower calorific value. The results of this research indicate that the manufacture of briquettes is in accordance with the Standard Characteristics of SNI No. 1/6235/2000.

Effect of the Phenological Stage on the Phenolic Composition, and Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten. Extracts.

Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten. is a plant from the Asteraceae family that is commonly used in traditional medicine. The purpose of this work was to investigate the antioxidant and antimicrobial characteristics of phenolic compounds found in ethanol and dry extracts of C. vulgare leaves, inflorescence, and roots during various phenological stages. Apigenin-7-O-glucoside and chlorogenic acid were identified in practically all C. vulgare extracts. Extracts from leaves collected at the end of the phenological dormancy period and in the first growing year had the highest antioxidant (cupric ion-reducing antioxidant capacity of 12,938 Trolox equivalents/g dry weight) and antimicrobial activity (against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, and Candida albicans) with MIC values of ethanol extract from 16.7 mg/mL to 8.35 mg/mL. These extracts included a high concentration of chlorogenic acid and apigenin-7-O-glucoside. Also, dry extracts from C. vulgare roots and inflorescences showed a higher antimicrobial effect compared to ethanolic extracts with MIC values from 5.57 mg/mL to 3 mg/mL. The study emphasizes the critical role of phenological stages and raw material composition in the accumulation of phenolic compounds and their biological activity in C. vulgare. The findings suggest that extracts from C. vulgare leaves, especially those collected at the end of the phonological dormancy period, are promising candidates for further research into bioactive compounds with potential medicinal applications. The strong antioxidant and antibacterial properties of these extracts highlight their potential for development into natural pharmaceutical products.