Design Of Response Surface Methodology Research Articles

Removal of Amoxicillin From Wastewater Onto Activated Carbon: Optimization of Analytical Parameters by Response Surface Methodology.

Antibiotics are widely used in veterinary and human medicine, but these compounds, when released into the aquatic environment, present potential risks to living organisms. In the present study, the activated carbon (AC) used for their removals is characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy, BET analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to determine the physicochemical characteristics. Response surface methodology (RSM) and Box-Behnken statistical design (BBD) were used to optimize important parameters including pH (2-12), temperature (20-45°C), and AC dose (0.05-0.20g). The experimental data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and fitted to second-order polynomial using multiple regression analysis. The optimal conditions for maximum elimination of Amoxicillin (Amox) are (Dose: 0.124g, pH 5.03 and 45°C) by applying the desirability function (df). A confirmation experiment was carried out to evaluate the accuracy of the optimization model and maximum removal efficiency (R = 89.999%) was obtained under the optimized conditions. Several error analysis equations were used to measure goodness of fit. Pareto analysis suggests the importance of the relative order of factors: pH > Temperature > AC dose in optimized situations. The equilibrium adsorption data of Amox on Activated Carbone were analyzed by Freundlich, Elovich, Temkin and Langmuir models. The latter gave the best correlation with qmax capacities of 142.85mg/g (R2 = 0.999) at 25°C is removed from solution. The adsorption process is dominated by chemisorption and the kinetic model obeys a pseudo-second order model (R2 = 0.999).

Green extraction of agar from Hypnea pannosa seaweed: A comparative study of different techniques and optimization using response surface methodology

This study aimed to evaluate the optimal method for extracting agar from Hypnea pannosa seaweed and assess its purity and yield. Agar is a hydrocolloid found in red seaweeds and used in various industries such as food, cosmetics, and medicine. Three different extraction methods were employed for this study, namely ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and ultrasound microwave-assisted extraction (UMAE), each using varying power levels and extraction times. A central composite Response surface methodology (RSM) design was used to compare these methods. Results showed that UAE had the highest extraction yield at 32.99 %, followed by MAE, UMAE, and conventional methods at 27.04 %, 26.19 %, and 12 %, respectively. Various techniques were used to evaluate agar quality, including spectral analysis (FT-IR), gel strength, viscosity, 3,6 anhydrous L galactose (AG), and sulfate content. Samples treated with ultrasound had higher-quality agar than those treated with other methods, with significantly better gel strength, 3,6 AG content, viscosity, and lower sulfate content. Gel strength was 485.50 ± 4.27 g cm−2, 3,6 AG content was 62.89 ± 2.89 %, viscosity was 48.32 ± 0.03 centipoises and sulfate content was 1.32 ± 0.02 % in UAE. FT-IR analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups in the fingerprint region of identification for polysaccharides in UAE agar. UAE (30 min, 60 % amplitude) was identified as the most viable green extraction technology, offering superior extraction yield and agar quality compared to the other treatments. Using green extraction techniques in obtaining agar has significant implications for the sustainable production of natural products. This research also highlights the potential application of agar in the skincare or pharmaceutical industry, paving the way for developing eco-friendly products. Overall, this study suggests that UAE is an efficient method for extracting agar from H. pannosa and has novel applications in nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals. Novelty impact statementThe current study presents a comprehensive investigation of the green extraction of agar from Hypnea pannosa seaweed using different techniques, along with optimization through response surface methodology. The novelty of this research lies in its focus on sustainable and eco-friendly extraction methods, which are increasingly gaining importance in the current global scenario. The comparative study on the different techniques used for the extraction of agar provides a critical evaluation of the advantages and limitations of each method. The use of response surface methodology in the optimization process is a noteworthy feature, as it allows for the identification of optimal extraction conditions with greater accuracy and reliability. The findings of this study significantly contribute to the development of sustainable practices in the seaweed industry, and its academic value is undeniable.

Antimicrobial Effect of Response Surface Optimized Pyocyanin Produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is notable for its natural bluish-green pigment production, known as pyocyanin. Researchers have credited pyocyanin as an antimicrobial agent, in addition to its other biomedical applications. This study focused on isolating Pseudomonas aeruginosa from the local environment with the ability to synthesize pyocyanin and optimize its cultural conditions for improved yield. A total of thirty-one experimental combinations of process variables using the Central Composite Design (CCD) of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was ran to find the best conditions for the organism to make pigments. Of the fermentation media evaluated, nutrient broth supplemented with maltose was the best fermentation medium for the organism’s pyocyanin production. A regression model described the interaction between the test variables and the pyocyanin yield with an R2 value of 87.52%, indicating that the model had a satisfactory fitness level. The determined optimal conditions include a maltose concentration of 18 g/L, a pH of 6.8, an inoculum size of 2.3 mL, and an agitation speed of 120 rpm. The optimized condition resulted in a 4.12-fold increase in pyocyanin yield compared to an unoptimized condition. Pyocyanin exhibits high antimicrobial activity compared to the conventional antibiotics assessed against E. coli and Candida albicans. Our study’s findings suggest that statistical models can improve pyocyanin synthesis by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, this pigment has the potential to replace conventional antibiotics in the treatment of microbial infections

Synthesis and characterization of a novel TiO2@chitosan/alginate nanocomposite sponge for highly efficient removal of As(V) ions from aqueous solutions: Adsorption isotherm, kinetics, experiment and adsorption mechanism optimization using Box-Behnken design

This research uses a novel TiO2@CSC.Alg composite sponge was created by encasing TiO2 nanoparticles in the natural polymers alginate and chitosan, resulting in a nanocomposite that is both ecologically friendly and biocompatible. Using the generated nanocomposite as a new environmentally friendly adsorbent, As(V) heavy metal ions were effectively removed from aqueous media. The following techniques were used to analyse the physicochemical properties of the obtained materials: pHZPC, FTIR, XRD, BET, SEM, and XPS. Utilizing nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, the TiO2@CSC.Alg composite sponge's textural properties were identified. This revealed a BET surface area of 168.42 m2/g and a total pore volume of 1.18 cc/g, indicating its porous nature and potential for high adsorption capacity. Examine the effects of temperature, pH, dose, and beginning concentration on adsorption. The adsorption characteristics were determined based on equilibrium and adsorption kinetics measurements. The adsorption process was both pseudo-second-order (PSOE) and Langmuir isothermally fit. Chemisorption was the adsorption method since the adsorption energy was 25.45 kJ·mol−1. An endothermic and spontaneous adsorption process was indicated by more metal being absorbed as the temperature increased. The optimal conditions for adsorption were optimized via Box-Behnken design software to be pH of 5 in the solution, a dosage of 0.02 g of the TiO2@CSC.Alg composite sponge per 25 mL, and an arsenate (As(V)) solution the adsorption capacity was 202.27 mg/g are ideal for efficient adsorption. These parameters are critical in achieving the maximum adsorption capacity of the composite sponge for arsenate, which could be beneficial for water purification applications. Utilizing Design-Expert software's response surface methodology (RSM) and Box-Behnken design (BBD), the adsorption process was optimized with the fewest planned tests. After six successive cycles of adsorption and desorption, the adsorbent stability was confirmed by the adsorbent reusability test without any noticeable decrease in removal efficacy. Additionally, it displayed good efficiency, the same XRD and XPS data before and after reuse, and no change in chemical composition.

Production and evaluation of the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of fruit jam from star fruit, hog plum and black plum

Tropical fruits such as black plum, star fruit, and hog plum are excellent sources of phytochemicals which are essential for human health but the back drop of these fruits is their perishability, leading to tones of postharvest losses. To address these concerns, these fruits could be utilized in jam processing to further extend their shelf lives. This research work on production and quality evaluation of mixed-fruit jam produced from star fruit, hog plum, and black plum using mixture experimental design of response surface methodology was undertaken to improve the utilization of these underutilized fruits in jam processing. The produced mixed fruit jams were assessed for physicochemical and antioxidant properties using standard methods. Statistical analysis and optimization of mixture variables were carried out using Design-Expert software version 6.0.8 while means were separated using ANOVA and significance accepted for p≤0.05 using Duncan ranged multivariate test using the IBM SPSS Statistics software version 22. Result of analysis for physicochemical properties showed that pH of the fruit jams ranged from 3.41 to 4.46, titratable acidity 0.33 to 0.48 %, total solids 44.35 to 75.07 %, while the range of 53.22–74.65°Brix was recorded for total sugar and 19.94 to 25.64 mPas for viscosity. Antioxidant properties of the fruit jams ranged from 310.34 to 471.57 mg/ml for DPPH and ranged from 526.64 to 650.26 mmol.AAE/g for FRAP. The result of mixture variable optimization showed that optimal responses, jam should be produced from fruit combination comprising 8.43 %-star fruit, 91.57 % black plum and 0 % hog plum with 60 % desirability or experimental run comprising 5.08 %-star fruit, 90.39 % hog plum and 4.53 % black plum with 58 % desirability

Characterization of Cichorium intybus L. Extract in Preventing Oxidative DNA Base Damage Using Gas Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS/MS)

Free radicals are unstable and are known for electron deficiency. This state renders DNA, proteins, and various biomolecules susceptible to detrimental interactions, leading to damage. However, this process can be regulated by antioxidants produced naturally on-site or externally through food or herbal supplements. In recent years, interest in characterizing alternative, natural and safe antioxidants obtained from plant sources has been increasing. Within this context, Cichorium intybus L. has garnered attention for its notable antioxidant content. In our previous study, we determined optimum conditions for ultrasound-assisted extraction of antioxidants from Cichorium intybus L. using central composite design-response surface methodology. In this study, the quantitative determination of phenolics in the extract prepared under optimal conditions was undertaken employing high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The study’s primary goal is to investigate the impact of the extract derived from Cichorium intybus on the formation of products resulting from oxidative damage to DNA bases by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS). For this purpose, different volumes of extract were added to the DNA + Fenton medium. When 25 µL of extract were added, 239.98 ± 5.81 ng of damaged product/mg DNA was present. 233.12 ± 5.63 ng of damaged product/mg DNA were obtained for 50 µL of extract and 165.76 ± 4.58 ng of damaged product/mg DNA for 100 µL. This study shows that Cichorium intybus has potential therapeutic effects on supporting antioxidant defenses and reducing oxidative DNA damage.

Immobilised Inulinase from Aspergillus niger for Fructose Syrup Production: An Optimisation Model.

Fructose is a carbohydrate with essential applications in the food industry, mainly due to its high sweetness and low cost. The present investigation focused on optimising fructose production from commercial inulin using the enzymatic immobilisation method and applying the response surface methodology in a 12-run central composite design. The independent variables evaluated were the pH (-) and temperature (°C). The substrate consisted of a commercial inulin solution at a concentration of 1 g/L, while the catalyst consisted of the enzyme inulinase from Aspergillus niger (EC 232-802-3), immobilised in 2% m/v sodium alginate. A stirred vessel reactor was used for 90 min at 120 rpm, and quantification of reducing sugars was determined using DNS colorimetric and UV-Vis spectrophotometric methods at a 540 nm wavelength. After applying the response surface methodology, it was determined that the catalytic activity using the immobilisation method allows for a maximum total productivity of 16.4 mg/h under pH and temperature of 3.9 and 37 °C, respectively, with an efficiency of 96.4%. The immobilised enzymes' reusability and stability compared to free enzymes were evaluated, obtaining activity up to the fifth reuse cycle and showing significant advantages over the free catalyst.

Ciprofloxacin Removal via Acid-Modified Red Mud: Optimizing the Process, Analyzing the Adsorption Features, and Exploring the Underlying Mechanism.

In this study, RM (red mud) was acidified with sulfuric acid, and the acidified ARM (acidified red mud) was utilized as an innovative adsorption material for treating antibiotic-containing wastewater. The adsorption conditions, kinetics, isotherms, thermodynamics, and mechanism of ARM for CIP (ciprofloxacin) were investigated. The characterization of the ARM involved techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and NH3-TPD analysis. Adsorption studies employed a response surface methodology (RSM) for the experimental design. The results showed that ARM can absorb CIP effectively. The RSM optimal experiment indicated that the most significant model terms influencing adsorption capacity were solution pH, CIP initial concentration, and ARM dosage, under which the predicted maximum adsorption capacity achieved 7.30 mg/g. The adsorption kinetics adhered to a pseudo-second-order model, while equilibrium data fitted the Langmuir-Freundlich isotherm, yielding maximum capacity values of 7.35 mg/g. The adsorption process occurred spontaneously and absorbed heat, evidenced by ΔGθ values between -83.05 and -91.50 kJ/mol, ΔSθ at 281.6 J/mol/K, and ΔHθ at 0.86 kJ/mol. Analysis using attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) indicated a complex reaction between the Al-O in the ARM and the ester group -COO in CIP. The C=O bond in CIP was likely to undergo a slight electrostatic interaction or be bound to the internal spherical surface of the ARM. The findings indicate that ARM is a promising and efficient adsorbent for CIP removal from wastewater.

Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of phenols from Crocus sativus by-products using sunflower oil as a sustainable solvent alternative

In the last decade, there's been a rising emphasis on eco-friendly solvents in industry and academia due to environmental concerns. Vegetable oils are now recognized as a practical, non-toxic option for extracting phytochemicals from herbs. This study presents a novel, green, and user-friendly method for extracting phenolic content from Crocus sativus L. waste using ultrasound. It replaces conventional organic solvents with sustainable sunflower oil, making the process eco-friendly and cost-effective. The effects of temperature (18–52 °C), ultrasonic time (5–55 min), and solid-solvent ratio (5–31 g/100 mL) were assessed by applying response surface methodology (RSM) and Central composite design. The combined impact of solid-solvent ratio, temperature, and ultrasonic time led to heightened phenolic content and antioxidant activity in the enriched oil. However, when these variables were at their maximum levels, there was a decline in these attributes. The specific conditions found to be ideal were a solid-to-liquid ratio of 26 g/100 mL, a temperature of 45 °C, and a duration of 45 min. The optimum extraction condition yielded the expected highest phenolic content (317.15 mg/ Kg), and antioxidant activity (89.34%). The enriched oil with flower saffron enabled the utilization of renewable natural ingredients, ensuring the production of a healthy extract or product. Also, enriched oils find diverse applications in areas such as food, aquaculture, and cosmetics.

Optimization of Ethylene Glycol Production Process from Bio Mass (Corn Cob) Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

This study focuses on the increasing global demand for Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) and its production from corncob through Catalytic Hydrogenation. The process was optimized using Design of Experiment (DOE) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Physiochemical properties of the produced MEG were found to align with ASTM standards. Physiochemical properties of the produced Monoethylene glycol (MEG) was determined to have the following; density 2.19g/cm3, specific gravity 1.077 at 20 oC, flash point 116.20 oC and viscosity 12.32mm2/s at 40 oC, this values is in agreement with the ASTM standard values for monoethylene glycol. The study utilized a central composite design (CCD) with 21 runs to assess the impact of key parameters on biomass hydrogenation, revealing a quadratic model, also Analysis of variance (ANOVA) shows a high coefficient of determination (R2) of >0.9932. Four parameters (mass ratio of binary catalyst, hydrogen pressure, temperature and mass ratio of catalyst to feedstock) were varied with two center points to determine the effects of process parameters and eventually to get optimum monoethylene glycol (MEG) yield. The optimized conditions yielded a MEG yield of 70.2wt.%, demonstrating the potential of corncob as a viable source for MEG production. This finding proved that corncob can be utilized to produce monoethylene glycol (MEG) which could be potentially used in many way.

Analyzing the effect of polydopamine cross-linked serine protease on anti-shrinkage finishing of wool using response surface methodology design

The polydopamine-cross-linked serine protease anti-felting process of wool fibers was optimized by response surface methodology to prepare wool fabrics with a low tendency to shrink and high strength. The effects of dopamine substrate concentration, serine protease substrate concentration, and reaction time on the physical properties and surface color of wool were investigated. The experimental data were fitted and analyzed by the polynomial regression model, and the predicted area shrinkage and breaking strength response of wool fabric were obtained. The results were analyzed by variance analysis to determine the important parameters for optimization. Wool fabrics were prepared under the conditions of dopamine substrate concentration of 0.834 g/l, serine protease substrate concentration of 2.5 g/l, and reaction world of 127 min. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the surface of wool fibers was covered with a large amount of polydopamine and some edge scales were passivated. After 20 cycles of washing, the shrinkage area of wool fabric is from 1.49–7.25%, with good durability. In addition, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis results showed that the behavior of polydopamine-coated fibers prevented the excessive hydrolysis of scales by serine protease, and the crystallization index and solubility in alkaline solution increased.

Innovative free radical induced synthesis of WO3-doped diethyl malonate grafted chitosan encapsulated with phosphorylated alginate matrix for UO22+ adsorption: Parameters optimisation through response surface methodology

The current research involves the development of a novel core–shell based hybrid material in which tungsten oxide (WO3) served as a solid core while diethyl malonate grafted chitosan intercalated in phosphorylated alginate as a shell. The prepared composites (DEM-g-CST) having different chemically modified chitosan to alginate mass ratio were lyophilized and thoroughly characterized through XRD, XPS, FTIR, SEM-EDS, and elemental mapping. The adsorptive potential of these acid base resistive DEM-g-CST materials was assessed in U(VI) competitive removal from aqueous solution. The free radical induced grafting of 1,3-dicarbonyl moiety over the CS linear chains increased the number of chelating groups. The 17 runs of adsorption tests were performed and then Box Behnken Design (BBD) was implemented to optimize the sorption capacity (qe) using the response surface methodology design layout. Among different composites DEM-g-CST-4 exhibited the superior sorption capacity (qm = 315 mg/g at 308 K and pH 4.5) and sorption data followed the Temkin and Langmuir model (R2 ≈ 0.997) while kinetic data was found in close agreement with pseudo-second-order rate model (R2 ≈ 0.996). Particularly, DEM-g-CST materials presented wide pH durability and mechanical resilience within alginate matrix. These features strongly suggest DEM-g-CST-4 to be an efficient contestant for uranium competitive recovery.

The impact of suspended particulate matters on metals removal from water using a three-combined-dimensional photo-electrocatalytic reactor (case study: Sefidrud dam)

The Sefidrud dam's water contamination poses a significant health risk to millions of people. A study aimed to investigate the impact of water impurities (mostly emerging as suspended matter particles) and redox potential on the removal of heavy metals like copper, zinc, cadmium, and arsenic through a photo-electrocatalytic process. A three-dimensional photo electrocatalytic reactor with microparticles of Ti/TiO2 was used for experiments. Central Composite Design (CCD) response surface methodology was employed for optimization. The results showed removal rates of 78 % for copper, 68 % for zinc, 57 % for cadmium, and 38 % for arsenic under optimal conditions. The removal rates increased to 94 %, 86 %, 65 %, and 52 % for copper, zinc, cadmium, and arsenic in response to increased dissolved oxygen. Redox potential was found to be a governing parameter during the photo electrocatalytic removal of zinc. Furthermore, microparticles improved the removal percentage of copper and arsenic in acidic environments. Finally, chemical fractional analysis revealed that the presence of suspended matter particles (SPMs) has a detrimental impact on the performance of PEC systems. This was attributed to the desorption of metals from exchangeable and Fe-Mn bounds of SPMs during the PEC process.

Characterization of Cellulosic Pulps Isolated from Two Widespread Agricultural Wastes: Cotton and Sunflower Stalks.

Globally, huge amounts of cotton and sunflower stalks are generated annually. These wastes are being underutilized since they are mostly burned in the fields. So, in this work, we proposed a three-step method consisting of acid pre-treatment, alkaline hydrolysis, and bleaching for the extraction of cellulose pulps. These pulps were characterized to assess their morpho-structural and thermal properties. The design of experiments and response surface methodology were used for the optimization of the acid pre-treatment in order to achieve maximum removal of non-cellulosic compounds and obtain pulps enriched in cellulose. For cotton stalks, optimal conditions were identified as a reaction time of 190 min, a reaction temperature of 96.2 °C, and an acid (nitric acid) concentration of 6.3%. For sunflower stalks, the optimized time, temperature, and acid concentration were 130 min, 73.8 °C, and 8.7%, respectively. The pulps obtained after bleaching contained more than 90% cellulose. However, special care must be taken during the process, especially in the acid pre-treatment, as it causes the solubilization of a great amount of material. The characterization revealed that the extraction process led to cellulose pulps with around 69-70% crystallinity and thermal stability in the range of 340-350 °C, ready to be used for their conversion into derivatives for industrial applications.

Optimization of Execution Microscopic Extrusion Parameter Characterizations for Color Polycarbonate Grading: General Trend and Box–Behnken Designs

This research article concentrates on process conditions in addition to improving color selections in polymer compounders and developing more accurate simulation models. The feed rate (FR), temperature (T) and screw speed (SS) are three processing variables that the research investigates using general trends (GTs) and Box–Behnken design (BBD) response surface methodology. The identical set of processing settings was tweaked at three separate phases independently of one another. This study uses the experimental design to investigate process parameters’ optimization while holding all other parameters constant. This design was given the name GT. To develop this design and its statistical optimization, this study used the software of the design expert method. A regression model was run in this design, which displayed collective as well as individual effects of the parameters on color images. The values of tri-stimulus color with the best optimization had the smallest proper color variance (dE*). To obtain information on pigment characteristics, an SEM image analysis was conducted, which aids in improving future designs and overcoming manufacturing issues that affect color fluctuation properties and waste reduction for various chemical grades, both of which enhance environmentally friendly processes.

Using response surface methodology to optimize foam drying conditions related to drying rate and B-carotene concentration of orange-fleshed sweet potato powder

Response surface methodology and Box-Behnken design (3 factors and 3 levels) were performed to optimize the effects of different egg albumin contents (5-15%), xanthan gum (0.1-0.5%) and drying temperature (50-70oC). Drying rate and β-carotene content are indicators observed through 18 experimental runs and 6 repetitions at the center point. Finally, the physical properties such as color, water solubility index, water absorption index and rehydration ratio together with moisture content, water activity and microstructural of OFSP powder were analysed. The total polyphenol content (TPC), DPPH scavenging activity and β -carotene were analysed. Research results revealed that the optimal egg albumin concentration, xanthan gum concentration and drying temperature of 10.73%, 0.33% and 65.48oC, respectively as foam-mat drying parameters were recorded. From those optimal parameters, the optimal values of drying rate and β-carotene were determined to be 2.34 g water/g dry matter/min (maximize) and 51.82 µg/g (maximize), respectively. Foam-mat dried powder contained low moisture content and water activity, 4.15% and 0.343, respectively, along with water solubility index, water absorption index and rehydration ratio were respectively determined to be 45.87%, 2.36% and 3.97. The color of foam-mat dried OFSP powder was evaluated. According to the findings, the content of β-carotene (48.61±0.5 μg/g) and TPC (2.24±0.04 mgGAE/g) along with antioxidant activity (57.43±1.2%) of OFSP powder products were also determined. SEM analysis of OFSP powder particles at different magnifications showed that they have irregular surface morphology and flake-like structures, different from the structure of powder particles dried by convection drying method, the surface is quite smooth and the structure is intact.

Investigation and characterization of changes in potato peels by thermochemical acidic pre-treatment for extraction of various compounds

Potato peel waste (PPW) is an underutilized substrate which is produced in huge amounts by food processing industries. Using PPW a feedstock for production of useful compounds can overcome the problem of waste management as well as cost-effective. In present study, potential of PPW was investigated using chemical and thermochemical treatment processes. Three independent variables i.e., PPW concentration, dilute sulphuric acid concentration and liberation time were selected to optimize the production of fermentable sugars (TS and RS) and phenolic compounds (TP). These three process variables were selected in the range of 5–15 g w/v substrate, 0.8–1.2 v/v acid conc. and 4–6 h. Whole treatment process was optimized by using box-behnken design (BBD) of response surface methodology (RSM). Highest yield of total and reducing sugars and total phenolic compounds obtained after chemical treatment was 188.00, 144.42 and 43.68 mg/gds, respectively. The maximum yield of fermentable sugars attained by acid plus steam treatment were 720.00 and 660.62 mg/gds of TS and RS, respectively w.r.t 5% substrate conc. in 0.8% acid with residence time of 6 h. Results recorded that acid assisted autoclaved treatment could be an effective process for PPW deconstruction. Characterization of substrate before and after treatment was checked by SEM and FTIR. Spectras and micrographs confirmed the topographical variations in treated substrate. The present study was aimed to utilize biowaste and to determine cost-effective conditions for degradation of PWW into value added compounds.

Optimizing friction stir welding of AA7075 and AA8090 aluminum alloys: a desirability-driven investigation into mechanical and microstructural enhancement

This research explores the multifaceted analysis of a friction-welded joint, employing Central Composite Design of Response Surface Methodology. The study integrates microstructural investigations and fracture analyses to explain the effect of process parameters on mechanical properties. The optimum settings for Friction Stir Welding of AA7075 and AA8090 were determined by assessing desirability indices. These settings comprised a tool rotation speed of 1927.7 rpm, a tool travel speed of 35 mm min−1, and a tool tilt angle of 0.9°. This specific combination yielded a noteworthy combined desirability index of 0.79, considering both Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and Tensile Elongation (TE). Microstructural examinations revealed distinct characteristics in the Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ), Thermo-Mechanically Affected Zone (TMAZ), and Nugget Zone (NZ). Notably, fine grain structure in the NZ was attributed to the stirring effect created by the tool pin. Fracture analyses indicated ductile fractures, with dimple size variation correlating to tensile strength. Lower dimple density in low-strength joints suggested insufficient material mixing during welding. The maximum tensile strength sample exhibited a high dimple density. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the welding process’s influence on microstructure and fracture characteristics, providing valuable insights for optimizing mechanical properties in friction-welded joints.

Modelling and optimization of fabrication parameters for multi-walled carbon nanotubes-filled GFRP composites using RSM and Rao-1 algorithm

This study presents an optimized approach for fabricating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) filled glass fibre reinforced polymers (GFRP) composites using hybrid optimization approach. The experimental runs performed as per Box-Behnken design of response surface methodology (RSM) by considering three fabrication parameters: MWCNT loading, sonication time (ST), and oven curing temperature (OCT), and the output response, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) is noted. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is employed to ascertain the significance of the effects that each factor has on UTS and found fabrication variables, OCT, and combined effects of ST and OCT are most significant. Other variables, direct effects of MWCNT loading, interaction effects of all three combinations have influence on UTS. Mathematical modeling is postulated using RSM from which contour plots are drawn to illustrate both direct and interactive effects and reveal fabrication parameters have detrimental effects on UTS. The mathematical equation of UTS is then solved by Rao-1 optimization algorithm and obtained condition is: 1.0% of MWCNT loading, 97.5 min of sonication time, and 76 °C of oven curing temperature and corresponding UTS of 624 MPa. SEM analysis has also been performed to verify the distribution of MWCNTs in the GFRP and observed uniform dispersion of MWCNTs in the developed composite. A confirmatory test validates the predicted optimal fabrication condition derived from the RSM combined with Rao-1 algorithm, ensuring that the methodology has ability to enhance the UTS of MWCNTs-embedded GFRP composites.

Multi-objective optimization of glass/carbon hybrid composites for small wind turbine blades using extreme mixture design response surface methodology

Small wind turbines (SWTs) are a prominent renewable energy technology for decentralized power generation. Blade material and its profile are vital parameters for the aerodynamic performance of SWTs. Traditionally E-glass fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) are the widely accepted material for developing SWT blades. However, its application is limited by moderate tensile and fatigue properties. Alternatively, other FRC materials such as carbon, basalt and natural fiber composites are proposed as future materials for SWT blades. However, individual materials are observed to satisfy the requirements partially. Therefore, the hybridization of these materials, particularly Glass/Carbon composites is foreseen as a prospective solution for developing cost-competitive and high-strength SWT blades. There are various studies performed to obtain optimized glass/carbon hybrid composites. However, overall material properties required for SWT blades such as low cost, lightweight, moderate flexural strength and higher tensile and fatigue strengths have not been considered simultaneously during the optimization process. This work presents multi-objective optimization of Glass/Carbon hybrid composites using extreme mixture design response surface methodology (RSM) for SWT applications. The weight percentages of glass and carbon fibers are optimized to achieve desired material properties for SWT blades. The experiments are planned using extreme mixture design RSM and the regression models for desired material properties are developed with a 95% confidence level. RSM-based desirability function is employed to perform multi-objective optimization. Maximum composite desirability of 93.5% is achieved with optimal proportions of 37.9% and 27.1% for glass and carbon fibers respectively. An adequate tensile, flexural and fatigue strengths of 486.02, 435.41 and 316.27 MPa respectively are obtained for optimized glass/carbon hybrid composite at an optimum cost of 2228.76 Rs Kg−1 and density of 3.39 g cm−3. The regression models and optimization results are validated through a confirmation experiment with an error of less than 6.1%.