Critical Material Research Articles

Quality-by-design driven approach in the formulation of an anti-ulcer and gastro-protective oral suspension

Objective This work aims to present a Quality-by-Design (QbD) step-by-step methodology to formulate anti-ulcer and gastro-protective oral suspensions. Methods Sucralfate was used as a drug model. The Quality Target Product Profile was established early during preformulation. Viscosity, resuspendability, pH, and density were assessed through the screening of several suspension platforms based on different prototype compositions. A compatibility study between the active pharmaceutical ingredient and the excipients was performed by thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy. An Ishikawa fishbone diagram and Failure Mode and Effect Analysis were employed to identify the Critical Material Attributes (CMAs), Critical Process Parameters (CPPs), and Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs). CMAs’ and CPPs’ impact on identified CQAs was further assessed through a 22 full factorial experimental design at normal conditions after manufacture and one month at super-accelerated stress conditions. Results: The lead prototype exhibited no physicochemical incompatibilities. The risk assessment tools revealed that the concentration of the wetting agent and the total concentration of thickening agents represented critical factors for the quality profile of the preparation in terms of viscosity. The optimized formulation comprising 1.125 w/v% total concentration of Natrosol 250 HX and Avicel RC 591 exhibited an enhanced performance according to the established profile. Conclusions The analytical and physicochemical tests showed the robustness and compliance of the final preparation with the quality profile. The proposed step-by-step methodology based on QbD, Design of Experiments, and Quality Risk Management presented in our research holds practical implications for local industries and formulation scientists involved in the development of oral suspensions.

Olaparib Process Development Employing Quality by Design (QbD) Principles.

This study focuses on multivariate experimental design and statistical analysis to optimize the process of Olaparib 1. Quality by design (QbD) methodology was adopted for optimization of the Olaparib process consisting of three reaction steps: (1) amidation, (2) deprotection, and (3) acylation. Every chemical conversion was studied in isolation, employing risk assessment to identify key material attributes and key process parameters that may have the potential to impact the reaction. Thereafter, the screening design of experiment (DoE) was employed to scrutinize the factors that significantly impacted yield. Moving forward, the scrutinized factors which were found to impact the responses, the set of critical material attributes (CMAs) and critical process parameters (CPPs), were considered for optimization by applying I-Optimal design to define design space arriving at a robust setting wherein the predefined targets were supposedly optimal. To our delight, we got 95, 91, and 75% yield with more than 99% purity in amidation, deprotection, and acetylation, respectively, which enabled us to systematically identify design space to meet the desired quality target of the product consistently. More importantly, to distinguish the CMAs and CPPs, these elements ought to be monitored to have control of the quality parameter throughout the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) value chain until commercial manufacturing followed by marketing. Eventually, we have developed a greener process in comparison to precedented one for Olaparib 1.

استكشاف تعدد استخدامات الألمنيوم في الهندسة الميكانيكية

Aluminum, known for its lightweight, high strength, and excellent corrosion resistance, is a critical material in mechanical engineering. Its unique properties make it indispensable in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, construction, and packaging. This research paper explores the fundamental properties of aluminum that contribute to its widespread use. It discusses the metal's high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, and significant ductility and malleability. These characteristics allow aluminum to be formed into complex shapes and structures, essential for advanced engineering applications. In the aerospace industry, aluminum alloys are extensively used in manufacturing aircraft frames and components, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and performance. In the automotive sector, aluminum's lightweight nature helps reduce vehicle weight, enhancing fuel efficiency and lowering emissions. The construction industry benefits from aluminum's strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for building durable infrastructure. Additionally, aluminum's high thermal conductivity makes it suitable for heat exchangers in HVAC systems, automotive radiators, and electronic cooling systems. Recent advancements in aluminum technology have further expanded its applications. The development of aluminum-lithium alloys offers higher strength and lower density than traditional aluminum alloys, making them particularly suitable for aerospace applications. Recycling advancements have made aluminum production more sustainable, reducing environmental impact and energy consumption. Research into nanostructured aluminum shows promise for creating materials with enhanced properties, such as increased strength and improved resistance to wear and corrosion. Additive manufacturing with aluminum alloys allows for the creation of complex and lightweight components, previously challenging to produce with traditional methods. In conclusion, aluminum's versatile properties make it an essential material in mechanical engineering. Its applications across various industries demonstrate its critical role in advancing technology and improving performance. Ongoing research and technological advancements continue to enhance aluminum's capabilities, ensuring its significance in the field of mechanical engineering.

A Holistic Needs Analysis for Developing Critical Reading Material to Enhance EFL Reading Proficiency

This study delves into the development of critical reading material for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) reading classes through a comprehensive need analysis. Employing the Four D model encompassing defining, designing, developing, and disseminating, the research process unfolded in distinct phases. The initial phase involved a preliminary investigation at the English Language Education Department of Muhammadiyah Purworejo University to discern students' challenges within real-time learning contexts. Subsequently, a prototype of the needs analysis was formulated based on the findings from the preliminary study. Validation of this needs analysis occurred through consultation with two experts and field testing to ascertain the questionnaire's efficacy. The validation process revealed a high feasibility rate (85%) in assessing students' needs. Additionally, a preliminary field test involving 30 students from the English Language Education Department at Muhammadiyah Purworejo University was conducted to evaluate the questionnaire's practicality. The outcomes of the needs analysis served as a foundational framework for the development of critical reading materials, subsequently utilized in EFL reading classes.

Removal and Recovery of Europium with a New Functionalized Mesoporous Silica-Based Adsorbent

The discharge of acid mine drainage (AMD), characterized by a high concentration of rare earth elements (REEs), poses a significant threat to the health of ecosystems surrounding water sources. The global market demand for REEs has experienced a notable surge in the past decade. Consequently, recovering REEs from waste streams like AMD not only benefits the environment but also offers financial advantages. Europium (Eu), the rarest among REEs, constitutes only 0.1% w/w in monazite and bastnaesite ores. Eu is extensively used in the production of phosphors, alloys, and additives, and is a critical raw material for developing smart devices, ranging from high-resolution color screens to circuitry. Traditional adsorbents typically exhibit limited selectivity towards REE recovery. Mesoporous silica materials, such as SBA15 (Santa Barbara Amorphous-15), provide excellent tunability and modification capabilities, making them an attractive and cost-effective alternative. This research focused on two key aspects: (i) evaluating the dynamic adsorption column performance of granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA to preferentially recover Eu, and (ii) employing mathematical modeling to optimize the dynamic adsorption column’s operating conditions for real-world applications with a minimal number of experimental runs. Granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA was chosen as the adsorbent due to its high adsorptive capacity and selectivity in capturing Eu. The study revealed that granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA exhibited 57.47 mg/g adsorption capacity and an 81% selectivity towards Eu. Furthermore, SBA15–NH–PMIDA demonstrated preferential adsorption toward Eu in complex multi-component solutions, such as AMD. The linear driven force approximation model (LDFAM) provided an acceptable simulation (R2 > 0.91) under varying operational conditions. This validates the use of the model as a tool to effectively simulate and optimize column experiments that used granulated SBA15–NH–PMIDA to recover Eu.

Genetic Clustering Algorithm Based on the Division and Combination of Layer Series of Development

Petroleum is a critical industrial material. In the process of oilfield development, the Fisher’s optimal segmentation method is often used to solve the problem of division and combination of layer series of development. However, when encountering the problem of long samples, this method has particularly obvious drawbacks due to the high storage requirements of the calculation process. Therefore, in practical work, the Fisher’s optimal binary segmentation method is generally used instead. Although it avoids storage problems, it is prone to falling into local optima. On the basis of analyzing the shortcomings of Fisher’s optimal segmentation and optimal binary segmentation algorithms, this paper processes a genetic clustering algorithm. This algorithm overcomes the problem of Fisher’s optimal binary segmentation algorithm easily falling into local optima and solves the problem of high storage capacity requirements in the calculation process of Fisher’s optimal segmentation algorithm. Taking the data of 17 subzones in S-2 8-11 sand groups of the Shahejie Formation of the Lower Tertiary in the Dongxin area as an example, this algorithm is applied to divide and combine layer series of development. The experimental results show that the algorithm’s partitioning results are reasonable and can optimize the selection of development layers and provide decision support for the production of oil and gas resources.

An engineering applicable method for multiaxial fatigue under proportional and non-proportional loads based on the octahedral plane projection

Present multiaxial fatigue models have achieved satisfactory performance in predicting multiaxial fatigue life of different loading paths; however, many of them require critical plane calculations and additional material constants. In this study, a novel multiaxial fatigue life prediction model based on octahedral shear strain energy is proposed. In the proposed model, the maximum octahedral shear strain energy serves as the damage parameter without requiring any additional material parameters. All material constants in this model can be derived from material strength constants and uniaxial fatigue constants, greatly simplifying the life prediction process. Moreover, based on the actual physical phenomenon of non-proportional additional hardening, the multiaxial non-proportional correction factor is incorporated into the plastic stage of the life equation, aligning more closely with fundamental principles in physics. Then, by utilizing the experimental data from the literature for four materials, a comparison is made between the prediction results of the novel model and those of four commonly employed models. The findings demonstrate that the new model exhibits superior simplicity and accuracy. Subsequently, through life prediction outcomes for DZ411 material across various paths, the stability and precision of the octahedral energy model are substantiated, rendering it suitable for practical engineering applications.

Leaching of liquation-feeding furnace dross as a first step for germanium recovery

ObjectiveGermanium, an important component of electronics, is considered by many global economies as a critical raw material. Therefore, investigating its potential new sources is crucial for prospective technology development. This paper presents the investigation results on the leaching of liquation-feeding furnace dross using sulfuric and oxalic acid solutions.ResultsThe dross contained mostly zinc (68.0% wt.) but also elevated germanium concentration (0.68% wt.). The influence of temperature, time, initial acid concentration, and liquid-to-solid phase ratio (L:S) was examined. It was found that germanium availability via leaching is limited—maximum leaching yields using aqueous solutions of sulfuric and oxalic acids were 60% (80 °C, 2 h, 15% wt. H2SO4, L:S 25:1) and 57% (80 °C, 3 h, 12.5% wt. H2C2O4, L:S 10:1), respectively.

Stability Analysis of Planetary Rotor with Variable Speed Self Rotation and Uniform Eccentric Revolution in the Rubber Tapping Machinery

Natural rubber is a critical material that is essential to industry and transportation. In order to reduce the cost of rubber tapping and improve the efficiency and profitability of rubber production, the 4GXJ-2 portable electric rubber cutter and automatic rubber tapping robot have been developed. In their vibration tool holder, the planetary rotor with variable speed self rotation and uniform eccentric revolution is the most important transmission component, and its instability will cause irregular vibration of the tapping tool, thereby reducing the accuracy of vibration cutting and increasing noise. Base on the ANCF (Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation) 3D-beam element and 3D REF (3D Ring on Elastic Foundation), a novel eccentric 3D REF model of a planetary rotor is proposed. By introducing multiple coordinate systems, the coupled motion of uniform eccentric revolution, variable speed self rotation and flexible deformation is decomposed and the influences of these motions on the centrifugal force and Coriolis force are more clearly derived. The model is degraded and validated by comparing with other examples of a rotating circular ring model and uniformly eccentrically revolving annular plate. According to the Floquet theory and Runge−Kutta method, the unstable region of revolution speed of a planetary rotor in rubber tapping machinery is predicted as [817 rad/s, 909 rad/s], [1017 rad/s, 1095 rad/s] and [1263 rad/s,1312 rad/s]. Compared with the rubber-tapping experiment of rubber tapping machinery, the validity of the proposed model is further verified. This model provides important design references for the speed settings of those rubber tapping machines.

Coherent photoexcitation of entangled triplet pair states.

The functional properties of organic semiconductors are defined by the interplay between optically bright and dark states. Organic devices require rapid conversion between these bright and dark manifolds for maximum efficiency, and one way to achieve this is through multiexciton generation (S1→1TT). The dark state 1TT is typically generated from bright S1 after optical excitation; however, the mechanistic details are hotly debated. Here we report a 1TT generation pathway in which it can be coherently photoexcited, without any involvement of bright S1. Using <10-fs transient absorption spectroscopy and pumping sub-resonantly, 1TT is directly generated from the ground state. Applying this method to a range of pentacene dimers and thin films of various aggregation types, we determine the critical material properties that enable this forbidden pathway. Through a strikingly simple technique, this result opens the door for new mechanistic insights into 1TT and other dark states in organic materials.

Revealling pore microstructure impacts on the compressive strength of porous proppant based on finite and discrete element method

Ceramic spheres, typically with a particle diameter of less than 0.8 mm, are frequently utilized as a critical proppant material in hydraulic fracturing for petroleum and natural gas extraction. Porous ceramic spheres with artificial inherent pores are an important type of lightweight proppant, enabling their transport to distant fracture extremities and enhancing fracture conductivity. However, the focus frequently gravitates towards the low-density advantage, often overlooking the pore geometry impacts on compressive strength by traditional strength evaluation. This paper numerically bypasses such limitations by using a combined finite and discrete element method (FDEM) considering experimental results. The mesh size of the model undergoes validation, followed by the calibration of cohesive element parameters via the single particle compression test. The stimulation elucidates that proppants with a smaller pore size (40 µm) manifest crack propagation evolution at a more rapid pace in comparison to their larger-pore counterparts, though the influence of pore diameter on overall strength is subtle. The inception of pores not only alters the trajectory of crack progression but also, with an increase in porosity, leads to a discernible decline in proppant compressive strength. Intriguingly, upon crossing a porosity threshold of 10 %, the decrement in strength becomes more gradual. A denser congregation of pores accelerates crack propagation, undermining proppant robustness, suggesting that under analogous conditions, hollow proppants might not match the strength of their porous counterparts. This exploration elucidates the underlying mechanisms of proppant failure from a microstructural perspective, furnishing pivotal insights that may guide future refinements in the architectural design of porous proppant.

Toward Sustainable Biomanufacturing: A Feasibility Index for Silicon Carbide Production from Rice Waste

Silicon carbide, known for its distinct chemical and physical properties, is increasingly recognized as a critical material in sectors such as energy, space, and defense. Traditional production methods like the Acheson process are energy-intensive and costly, both in terms of investment and maintenance. Additionally, the concentrated nature of its manufacturing can lead to supply bottlenecks, hindering technological progress in key areas. To address these issues, this paper proposes a circular economy approach to silicon carbide production, leveraging the ecological challenge of rice waste disposal to create a new source of silica materials. It includes an evaluation of the economic and technological feasibility of this method and introduces a multidimensional composite index to identify potential early adopters for large-scale implementation. This innovative approach not only reduces reliance on critical minerals but also offers a solution to managing agricultural waste.

Alkali Extraction of Arsenic from Groundwater Treatment Sludge: An Essential Initial Step for Arsenic Recovery.

Arsenic (As)-bearing Fe(III) precipitate groundwater treatment sludge has traditionally been viewed by the water sector as a disposal issue rather than a resource opportunity, partly due to assumptions of the low value of As. However, As has now been classified as a Critical Raw Material (CRM) in many regions, providing new incentives to recover As and other useful components of the sludge, such as phosphate (P) and the reactive hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) sorbent. Here, we investigate alkali extraction to separate As from a variety of field and synthetic As-bearing HFO sludges, which is a critical first step to enable sludge upcycling. We found that As extraction was most effective using NaOH, with the As extraction efficiency increasing up to >99% with increasing NaOH concentrations (0.01, 0.1, and 1 M). Extraction with Na2CO3 and Ca(OH)2 was ineffective (<5%). Extraction time (hour, day, week) played a secondary role in As release but tended to be important at lower NaOH concentrations. Little difference in As extraction efficiency was observed for several key variables, including sludge aging time (50 days) and cosorbed oxyanions (e.g., Si, P). However, the presence of ∼10 mass% calcite decreased As release from field and synthetic sludges considerably (<70% As extracted). Concomitant with As release, alkali extraction promoted crystallization of poorly ordered HFO and decreased particle specific surface area, with structural modifications increasing with NaOH concentration and extraction time. Taken together, these results provide essential information to inform and optimize the design of resource recovery methods for As-bearing treatment sludge.

Physical and monetary characterization of global nickel flow network

Nickel is a critical material to industrial applications and future low-carbon societies, due to its essential role in the steel industry and batteries. This study employs a combination of material flow analysis and complex network analysis to delve into the global nickel resource - its production, trade, and usage patterns, as well as their associated impacts. Results reveal an uneven global nickel trade distribution in 2021, necessitating an expansive trade network involving 232 countries and regions. Most trade activity was seen in intermediate nickel products, especially from Indonesia to China. Key commodities traded included ferronickel, nickel metal, stainless steel, and engineering products. Twenty core countries, including China, the U.S., and Indonesia, emerged as key nodes, dominating 74% of global nickel trade value, indicating concentrated production and trade activities. Developed countries typically occupied high value-added links in the industry chain. In terms of unit price of nickel, China benefited most per unit exported, while Australia incurred the highest import cost. Drawing on these findings, the study proposes several policy recommendations to enhance the sustainability of the nickel supply.

Preparation of high-density green body based on binder jetting 3D printing using spheroidized SiC powder

Silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic stands as a critical material in the realm of high-performance engineering ceramics. However, Crafting SiC ceramics with intricate structures and superior mechanical properties presents notable challenges in shaping, sintering, and processing. Binder jetting (BJ) additive manufacturing has the outstanding advantages of high forming efficiency and no thermal deformation, especially suitable for printing complex structure SiC components.; however, BJ printed green bodies often exhibit low density, resulting in high residual silicon content and diminished strength of the final components. In this work, we introduce a novel strategy to fabricate high-strength SiC components with complex geometries by improving the density of printed SiC green bodies. This method involves modifying the morphology of SiC powder through the molten salt method to increase the density of BJ 3D printed green bodies from 1.24 ± 0.13 g/cm³ to 2.01 ± 0.03 g/cm³, followed by a reactive melt infiltration process. The resulting RB-SiC ceramics display exceptional flexural strength, averaging 280.60 ± 33.05 MPa, and an elastic modulus of 294.67 ± 4.90 GPa. These values represent some of the highest for flexural strength and elastic modulus reported among 3D-printed SiC composites. With its robust mechanical performance and streamlined fabrication process, this strategy holds substantial promise for the production of structural SiC ceramics.

Improving electrochemical performance of silicon anode through building “soft-hard” double-layer coating

Silicon is believed to be a critical anode material for approaching the roadmap of lithium-ion batteries due to its high specific capacity. But this aim has been hindered by the quick capacity fading of its electrodes during repeated charge–discharge cycles. In this work, a “soft-hard” double-layer coating has been proposed and carried out on ball-milled silicon particles. It is composed of inside conductive pathway and outside elastic coating, which is achieved by decomposing a conductive graphite layer on the silicon surface and further coating it with a polymer layer. The incorporation of the second elastic coating on the inside carbon coating enables silicon particles strongly interacted with binders, thereby making the electrodes displaying an obviously improved cycling stability. As-obtained double-coated silicon anodes deliver a reversible capacity of 2280 mAh g−1 at the voltage of 0.05–2 V, and maintains over 1763 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles. The double-layer coating does not crack after the repeated cycling, critical for the robust performance of the electrodes. In addition, as-obtained silicon particles are mixed with commercial graphite to make actual anodes for lithium-ion batteries. A capacity of 714 mAh g−1 has been achieved based on the total mass of the electrodes containing 10 wt.% double-coated silicon particles. Compared with traditional carbon coating or polymeric coating, the double-coating electrodes display a much better performance. Therefore, the double-coating strategy can give inspiration for better design and synthesis of silicon anodes, as well as other battery materials.

A Review on Quality by Design

The recent advancement in pharmaceutical quality, known as "quality by design" or "QbD," is crucial. Every regulatory authority for pharmaceutical products has placed a high priority on quality. In terms of services, goods, and procedures, quality means client satisfaction. All pharmaceutical items can be made with higher quality by using QbD. This essay discusses the use of Quality by Design (QbD) in the pharmaceutical industry and how it may be used to guarantee the accuracy of pharmaceutical analyses. It's critical to recognise your desired product performance report within this notion of being throughout product design and growth. the quality target product profile (QTPP), the target product profile (TPP), and the identification of essential quality attributes (CQA). Understanding the effects of critical process parameters (CPP), critical material attributes (CAM), and raw material.

Effects of void geometry on two-dimensional monolithic porous phononic crystals

Phononic crystals are renowned for their distinctive wave propagation characteristics, notably bandgaps that offer precise control over vibration phenomena, positioning them as a critical material in advanced vibro-elastic engineering and design. We investigate how pore shapes influence the bandgap in continuum two-dimensional phononic crystals made from a single material. Using the square lattice and unit cells with fourfold symmetry, our numerical analyses reveal that the normalized gap size is highly dependent on the minimum ligament width in the structure. Additionally, we find that fine geometric features represented by higher-order Fourier coefficients decrease the gap size. This study offers insight into the design of phononic crystals and vibro-elastic metamaterials for precise wave control through void patterning.

Implementing Character Education Values in Lampung Regional Songs for Critical Reading Learning Materials in Junior High School: Critical Discourse Analysis

This study focuses on implementing character education values through the lyrics of regional songs from Lampung as learning material for critical reading in middle schools. Four regional songs from Lampung were selected for analysis, focusing on values such as caution, consistency, courage, and integrity. The method used in this research is critical discourse analysis, identifying how character values are contained in the lyrics and how they can be integrated into the critical reading curriculum in middle schools. The results of this study indicate that the lyrics of Lampung's regional songs contain various character values relevant to character education in schools. In addition, this study also shows the potential for integrating regional songs as innovative teaching material to develop students' critical reading skills. This research can serve as a reference for policy-making in character education and developing critical reading teaching material. Keywords: Character Education, Lampung Regional Songs, Critical Reading, Critical Discourse Analysis, Middle Schools

QbD Assisted Development of a Compartment and Sequential Drug Delivery System for Periodontotherapy.

Periodontitis, the burgeoning disease, is at an alarming stage. Although this has triggered dedicated research in this area, as the disease itself demands a multi-component therapy, there is an unmet need for a compartment and sequential drug delivery system to ameliorate disease symptoms completely. The hypothesized work consists of multitherapeutic agents such as an antibiotic, a COX-II inhibitor, an MMP inhibitor, and a bone regenerating agent in an insitu gel. However, for the development of the system, as mentioned above, a thorough investigation at each stage is necessary; therefore, the quality-by-design approach was adopted. Furthermore, the current work is a pursuit of studying the quality by design aspects for the fabrication of a compartment system, i.e., in-situ gel for periodontal delivery. The proposed system in-situ gel consists of antibiotic and nano-encapsulating microcapsules. Furthermore, the microcapsules contain a COX-II inhibitor and nanoparticles of MMP inhibitor and bone regenerating agent for complete amelioration of periodontitis. To develop the system as per the QbD approach, the first initial trials and runs were conducted, which helped to decide the quality target product profile (QTPP). However, based on QTPP, critical quality attributes (CQA), critical process parameters (CPP), and critical material attributes (CMAs) were decided for each stage product, i.e., in-situ gel, microcapsules, and nanoparticles. To assess the influence of CPPs and CMAs on CQAs, Pareto charts were constructed, and various risks, along with possible failure modes were studied. In conclusion, the above work will serve as a well-designed scientific mouthpiece for developing a compartment system for periodontotherapy.