Effect Of Particle Size Research Articles

Ash fouling characteristic analysis and prediction for pillow plate heat exchanger in waste heat recovery based on attentive-feature decision algorithm

Ash fouling on heat exchanger surfaces in waste heat recovery and utilization is an inevitable result of solid fuel combustion and particle deposition, affecting the efficiency, availability and operating cost of an energy utilization system. Fouling prediction plays a critical role in reasonable design and efficient operation of heat exchangers. However, credible monitoring and accurate prognostic towards fouling condition always remain a challenge, largely due to the complex flue gas component and abominable service environment of heat exchangers. In this paper, a novel ash fouling prediction method combined with Effective Particle Size Filtering and Multistep Attentive-Feature Decision algorithm (EF-MAFD) for Pillow Plate Heat Exchanger (PPHE) is proposed. First, a numerical fouling model with Discrete Phase Model (DPM) combined particle deposition and removal model is developed. Validation work is conducted on Nusselt number, pressure drop coefficient and normal restitution coefficient with existing experimental data. The effect of geometrical configuration of PPHE and condition on the fouling characteristic is then evaluated with this model. Next, the EF-MAFD ash fouling prediction model is established, in which the initial particle size distribution is transformed into an effective diameter innovatively and two indicators evaluating the fouling state, namely critical fouling resistance and critical fouling time are defined and predicted. The results indicate that fouling mainly occurs downstream of the welding spots and shows an asymptotic growing trend over time. PPHE with smaller diameter of welding spot, channel height and pitch ratio possess anti-fouling potential. In comparison to existing methods, the newly developed EF-MAFD method has the capacity to deal effectively with the complex particle distribution and provides the most satisfying prediction ability with coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.93 and mean absolute prediction error (MAPE) of 7.8 %. The proposed method could be utilized as a reliable tool to support fouling condition-based maintenance and design for various types of heat exchangers operating in fly ash conditions.

Transformation of hexagonal boron nitride nanocomposite underfill in microelectronics packaging

AbstractIn recent years, hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) has gained attention for its potential applications in thermal management and high‐temperature uses. To evaluate the environmental impact of employing h‐BN nanocomposites in microelectronics packaging for thermal management, a comprehensive assessment was conducted. This assessment is particularly significant due to the nature of nanoparticles and the importance of mitigating potential environmental toxicity. Electronic waste incineration, compared to e‐waste recycling, carries a higher environmental burden. Building on previous research, this project explores the feasibility of h‐BN nanocomposites in microelectronic packaging for thermal management. The study focuses on the physiochemical transformations of h‐BN nanocomposite underfills during incineration, considering the influence of particle size and concentration on these transformations. Various analytical techniques, including SEM, XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, and TEM, were employed to identify and characterize the particles throughout their life cycle. By delving into physiochemical transformations and investigating the effects of particle size and concentration, this research enhances our understanding of h‐BN nanocomposites, aiding informed decision‐making for environmentally sustainable use in microelectronics packaging.Highlights h‐BN nanoparticles remained inert throughout their life cycle. Underfill characterization showed minimal physiochemical changes in h‐BN. h‐BN is a promising thermal transfer candidate in microelectronics.

Effect of steam cooking and particle size on the nutritional composition, phytochemicals and antioxidant activities of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) powder.

In this study raw and steamed Pleurotus ostreatus were dried and ground and fractionated by sieving into four granulometric classes (< 200µm, 200-250µm, 250-355µm and > 355µm) and unsieved powders. The combined steam cooking and sieving improved the content of total polyphenols (+ 59.45%), flavonoids (+ 76.47%), condensed tannins (+ 68.75%) and trace elements (+ 45.51% Fe, + 63.63% Cu, + 62.42% Mn, + 121.11% Zn, and + 53.52% Se) as well as in-vitro and in-vivo antioxidant activities in the finest fraction < 200µm compared to the raw powder. It was found that the intake at a dose of 250mg/kg body weight of the finest fractions of raw and steamed powders by the stressed rats had more of a hepatoprotective effect marked by a reduction in the level of transaminases ALAT and ASAT. This work opens a new approach for valuing edible mushrooms in the development of new food products with high antioxidant value.

Size and Surface Properties of Functionalized Organosilica Particles Impact Cell-Particle Interactions Including Mitochondrial Activity.

Understanding of the interactions between macrophages and multifunctional nanoparticles is important for development of novel macrophage-based immunotherapies. Here, we investigated the effects of fluorescent thiol-organosilica particle size and surface properties on cell-particle interactions, including mitochondrial activity, using the mouse macrophage cell line J774A.1. Three different sizes of thiol-organosilica particles (150, 400, and 680 nm in diameter) containing fluorescein (OS/F150, OS/F400, and OS/F680) and particles surface functionalized with polyethylenimine (PEI) (OS/F150PEI, OS/F400PEI, and OS/F680PEI) were prepared. Flow cytometric analysis, time-lapse imaging, and single-cell analysis of particle uptake and mitochondrial activity of J774A.1 cells demonstrated variations in uptake and kinetics depending on the particle size and surface as well as on each individual cell. Cells treated with OS/F150 and OS/F150PEI showed higher uptake and mitochondrial activity than those treated with other particles. The interaction between endosomes and mitochondria was observed using 3D fluorescent imaging and was characterized by the involvement of iron transport into mitochondria by iron-containing proteins adsorbed on the particle surface. Scanning electron microscopy of the cells treated with the particles revealed alterations in cell membrane morphology, depending on particle size and surface. We performed correlative light and electron microscopy combined with time-lapse and 3D imaging to develop an integrated correlation analysis of particle uptake, mitochondrial activity, and cell membrane morphology in single macrophages. These cell-specific characteristics of macrophages against functional particles and their evaluation methods are crucial for understanding the immunological functions of individual macrophages and developing novel immunotherapies.

Effect of SiC fillers on the microstructure, adhesive strength and corrosion resistance of polycarbosilane-derived coating on steel

Polycarbosilane-derived (PCS-derived) coating containing SiC fillers with enhanced adhesive strength and corrosion resistance were fabricated on Q235 steel by a simple method of dip coating. The effects of content and particle size of SiC fillers on the phase composition, surface morphology, adhesive strength and corrosion resistance of PCS-derived coatings were studied. Addition of SiC fillers could reduce the microcrack width on the coating surface. The microcrack width decreases with the decrease in particle size of SiC fillers. Addition of 2.5 wt% SiC fillers with particle size of 30 nm could make the coating surface crack-free. Different from particle size, the effect of filler content on the microcracks has a moderate value which is corresponding to lower microcrack width. In addition to the microcracks, SiC filler content and particle size have significant effects on the adhesive strength between coatings and substrates. The higher adhesive strength is 319.1 MPa for coatings fabricated with a particle size of 500 nm and a content of 10 wt%. SiC fillers can improve the corrosion resistance of the PCS-derived coatings. In comparison with particle size of filler, filler content has a greater effect on the corrosion resistance of the coatings. The corrosion mechanism was analyzed. Appropriate content of fillers reduce the microcrack width and further improve the corrosion resistance of the coatings.

Effect of Photoaging on Adsorption of Cu(Ⅱ) by Polystyrene Microplastics with Different Particle Sizes

In order to evaluate the effect of aging and particle size on the adsorption of heavy metals by microplastics, the adsorption behavior of Cu(Ⅱ) by three different particle sizes of polystyrene (PS; 1, 50, and 100 μm) under UV irradiation was systematically studied. The results demonstrated that UV aging significantly changed the surface morphology and physicochemical properties of PS, and 1 μm PS had the strongest aging degree. The adsorption kinetics of PS on Cu(Ⅱ) conformed to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, and the Freundlich model was more suitable for the experimental data of isothermal adsorption of Cu(Ⅱ) by PS. These results indicated that the adsorption of Cu(Ⅱ) by PS occurred on the non-uniform surface of PS, and the adsorption behavior was multilayer adsorption. Parameter "n" of the Freundlich model was less than 1, indicating that the adsorption behavior of PS on Cu(Ⅱ) was a higher intensity physical adsorption behavior. The order of theoretical maximum adsorption capacity of different particle sizes PS for Cu(Ⅱ) was as follows:1 μm &gt; 50 μm &gt; 100 μm, indicating that the size of PS was an important influence factor for the adsorption capacity of PS to pollutants. For the same particle size PS, aging enhanced its adsorption capacity for Cu(Ⅱ). The results on the adsorption of Cu(Ⅱ) by PS under different environmental conditions indicated that the adsorption capacity of PS for Cu (II) increased with the increase in pH, whereas an increase in salinity had the opposite effect. Surface complexation and electrical adsorption were the main mechanisms of adsorption of Cu(Ⅱ) by PS. This study provides an important scientific basis for understanding the adsorption behavior of microplastics to heavy metals in the environment.

Effects of Polyethylene Microplastics on Soil Nutrients and Enzyme Activities

The threat of microplastic pollution in soil ecosystems has caused widespread concern. In order to clarify the effect of polyethylene microplastics on soil properties, a 4-month soil incubation experiment was conducted in this study to investigate the effect of different mass fraction (1 %, 2.5 %, and 5 %) and particle sizes (30 mesh and 100 mesh) of polyethylene microplastics on soil chemical properties, nutrient contents, and enzyme activities. The results showed that:① When the particle size was 100 mesh, microplastics at the mass concentrations of the 2.5 % and 5 % treatments significantly reduced soil pH, and the exposure of polyethylene microplastics had no significant effect on soil conductivity. ② Compared to that in CK, the addition of microplastics reduced soil available potassium, available phosphorus, and nitrate nitrogen to varying degrees. The addition of 100 mesh microplastics significantly increased soil organic matter and ammonium nitrogen. ③ When the particle size was 100 mesh, compared to that in CK, treatments of all concentrations significantly increased soil catalase activity and alkaline phosphatase, showing an increasing but not significant trend, and the 5 % concentration treatment significantly decreased soil sucrase activity. ④ Changes in soil properties were influenced by the addition of microplastics of different concentrations and sizes, with higher concentrations and smaller particle sizes having more significant effects. In conclusion, the effects of microplastics on soil properties were not as pronounced as expected, and future research should focus on the mechanisms involved in the different effects.

Performance evaluation of calcined eggshell waste (Sorbent) for biogas upgrading: Adsorption isotherms, adsorption kinetics, and fixed bed studies

The use of non-renewable energy resources such as fossil fuels accelerates climate change and environmental degradation necessitating a shift to renewable energy sources. Biogas is a renewable energy resource with great potential. However, its application is limited by the presence of contaminants such as carbon dioxide, which reduces its energy value, and density. Upgrading biogas using locally available materials solves waste management and energy sustainability challenges. In the present study, calcined eggshell waste was employed as an adsorbent for carbon dioxide. The effect of calcination temperature, adsorbent mass and adsorbent particle size was evaluated. The experimental data was fitted to adsorption isotherms, adsorption kinetic models, and breakthrough curves. Eggshells with a particle size of 280 μm, calcined at 850 °C, and mass of 75 g showed the best performance in removing carbon dioxide from biogas. It was noted that data from the experiment fitted Langmuir isotherm with RL 0.00216 while its R2 was 0.97 and Freundlich n = 0.6 while R2 = 0.97. Regarding adsorption kinetics, the intra-particle diffusion model shows good conformity with kid of 34, C of 98, and R2 of 0.977. Breakthrough analysis proved that Yoon Nelson's Model fitted well with the experimental data with an R2 of 0.989. Thus, calcined eggshell waste is a good sorbent for biogas upgrading that can solve the twin challenges of waste disposal and management and energy sustainability.

Release profile of amino acids encapsulated in solid lipid particles during in vitro oro-gastrointestinal digestion

Some amino acids are known to mediate immune responses through gut microbiota metabolism in both humans and monogastric animals. However, through the diet, most free amino acids are absorbed in the small intestine and only a small quantity reaches the microbiota-rich colon. To enhance microbial metabolism of amino acids and their potential health benefits, encapsulation strategies are developed for their protection and delivery to the colon. So far, the main encapsulation systems for amino acids are based on solid lipid particles, but their fate within the digestive tract has never been fully clarified.In this study, we investigated the release of various amino acids (branched-chain amino acid mixture, or lysine, or tryptophan) loaded in solid lipid particles during in vitro oro-gastrointestinal digestion mimicking the piglet. The loaded solid lipid particles were fully characterized for their composition, thermal behavior, molecular structure, crystalline state, surface morphology, and particle size distribution. Moreover, we investigated the effect of particle size by sieving solid lipid particles into two non-overlapping size fractions.We found that amino acid release was high during the gastric phase of digestion, mainly controlled by physical parameters, namely particle size and crystalline state including surface morphology. Large particle size and/or smooth ordered particle indeed led to slower and lower release. Although lipid hydrolysis was significant during the intestinal phase of digestion, the impact of the crystalline state and surface morphology was also observed in the absence of enzymes, pointing to a dominant water/solute diffusion mechanism through these porous solid lipid particles.

Improving radio frequency heating uniformity in peanuts: Effects of packaging geometry, electrode gap, particle size and interlayer displacement process

This study aimed to assess the impact of various processing parameters including electrode gap, packaging geometry, and particle size on the heating efficiency of radio frequency (RF) processing for peanut thermal decontamination. In addition, interlayer displacements were presented to evaluate the effect of the mixing on heating uniformity.Experimental studies were carried out using 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) containers (square, rectangular, and cylindrical) to place the peanut samples with particle sizes ranging from 0.71 to 2.00 mm at 100–140 mm electrode gaps. Temperature changes within the samples were monitored using fiber optic sensors and surface temperature distributions were determined with an infrared camera. Heating uniformity index (λ) was then calculated to assess the effects of RF processing conditions on RF heating uniformity.Results showed that the cylindrical container exhibited a more consistent and uniform heating profile (λ = 0.12) with 1.58 °C min−1 heating rate compared to other containers, and a single interlayer displacement between top and bottom layers further improved temperature distribution uniformity. Smaller particle sizes also led to faster heating rates from 1.71 to 1.55 °C min−1 with more uniform heating due to the reduced porosity within the particles with increased thermal conduction and electromagnetic energy absorption. This study presented valuable insights for developing an effective RF process as an alternative to conventional thermal treatments for decontamination of low-moisture, high-fat particulate foods. Industrial significanceThis research presented an innovative approach applying RF heating for a possible decontamination process for peanut samples. The research tackled the growing worldwide consumer demand for food products to satisfy food safety regulations while peanuts were selected to demonstrate the process effect due to the recent food safety issues in peanut butter considering that a pre-process for decontamination would lead to a decrease in the resulting safety issues.

A CFD numerical simulation of particle deposition characteristics in automobile tailpipe: power abatement pathways

The study of the movement of pollutants through ducts facilitates the assessment and control of ambient air quality problems (AQ). Among other things, understanding the deposition and distribution of particulate matter in elbows is important for practical engineering applications. In this study, the turbulent flow field and particle deposition in a 90° bend is investigated using RANS simulation. The RNG k-ε turbulence model was employed to calculate the airflow flow field and the discrete phase model (DPM) was used to simulate the particle phase motion. Where for the discrete phase, the Discrete Random Wander (DRW) model was considered and the deposition of particles with sizes of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, and 40 μm in the flow field was investigated separately. Grid-independent validation of the models used in the simulations was performed. The effects of inlet velocity, particle size, and direction of gravity on the flow field and particle deposition in the elbow were considered. The results show that the flow field in the bend is strongly influenced by the above parameters. Among them, the turbulent disturbance in the bend section is the most intense, with high turbulent energy value, and it is also the region with the largest energy loss. The inlet velocity is negatively correlated with the deposition rate, and the particle size is positively correlated with the deposition rate.

Effects of particle size and particle concentration of poly (ethylene‐co‐methacrylic acid) on properties of epoxy resin

AbstractSelf‐healing polymers have been developed to improve durability and reduce costs associated with maintenance during service. The addition of thermoplastics to thermosets to produce mendable polymers appears as a promising self‐healing technique. In this study, poly (ethylene‐co‐methacrylic acid) (EMAA) was added to epoxy resin and the effects of EMAA addition on epoxy properties were evaluated. Specimens with two different contents of thermoplastic and particles sizes were manufactured. A two‐level full factorial experimental design was used to evaluate the effect of particle size and particle content on properties of epoxy modified with addition of EMAA. Tensile tests and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) were used and the evaluated responses were tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and glass transition temperature (Tg). X‐ray computed tomography (XCT) was used to investigate particle size and concentration after manufacturing. It was found that the particle concentration has greater effects on stress–strain behavior of epoxy while Tg was not significantly affected by neither of the analyzed entrance variables.

Agricultural waste-based modified biochars differentially affected the soil properties, growth, and nutrient accumulation by maize (Zea mays L.) plants

Biochar (BC) is an organic compound formed by the pyrolysis of organic wastes. Application of BCs as soil amendments has many benefits including carbon sequestration, enhanced soil fertility and sustainable agriculture production. In the present study, we acidified the different BCs prepared from rice straw, rice husk, wheat straw, cotton stalk, poultry manure, sugarcane press mud and vegetable waste; following which, we applied them in a series of pot experiments. Comparisons were made between acidified and non- acidified BCs for their effects on seed germination, soil properties (EC, pH) nutrient contents (P, K, Na) and organic matter. The treatments comprised of a control, and all above-described BCs (acidified as well as non-acidified) applied to soil at the rate of 1% (w/w). The maize crop was selected as a test crop. The results showed that acidified poultry manure BC significantly improved germination percentage, shoot length, and biomass of maize seedlings as compared to other BCs and their respective control plants. However, acidified BCs caused a significant decrease in nutrient contents (P, K, Na) of soil,maize seedlings, and the soil organic matter contents as compared to non- acidified BCs. But when compared with control treatments, all BCs treatments (acidified and non-acidified) delivered higher levels of nutrients and organic matter contents. It was concluded that none of the BCs (acidified and non-acidified) had caused negative effect on soil conditions and growth of maize. In addition, the acidification of BC prior to its application to alkaline soils might had altered soil chemistry and delivered better maize growth. Moving forward, more research is needed to understand the long-term effects of modified BCs on nutrient dynamics in different soils. In addition, the possible effects of BC application timings, application rates, particle size, and crop species have to be evaluated systemtically.

The Hyperglycemic Effect of Different Particle Sizes of Composite Flour from Maize, Wheat and African Breadfruit on Adult Diabetic Albino Rats

The Hyperglycemic Effect of Different Particle Sizes of Composite Flour from Maize, Wheat and African Breadfruit on Adult Diabetic Albino Rats

Effects of particle size on toxicity, bioaccumulation, and translocation of zinc oxide nanoparticles to bok choy (Brassica chinensis L.) in garden soil

The indiscriminate use of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in daily life can lead to their release into soil environment. These ZnO NPs can be taken up by crops and translocated to their edible part, potentially causing risks to the ecosystem and human health. In this study, we conducted pot experiments to determine phytotoxicity, bioaccumulation and translocation depending on the size (10 – 30 nm, 80 – 200 nm and 300 nm diameter) and concentration (0, 100, 500 and 1000 mg Zn/kg) of ZnO NPs and Zn ion (Zn2+) in bok choy, a leafy green vegetable crop. After 14 days of exposure, our results showed that large-sized ZnO NPs (i.e., 300 nm) at the highest concentration exhibited greater phytotoxicity, including obstruction of leaf and root weight (42.5 % and 33.8 %, respectively) and reduction of chlorophyll a and b content (50.2 % and 85.2 %, respectively), as well as changes in the activities of oxidative stress responses compared to those of small-sized ZnO NPs, although their translocation ability was relatively lower than that of smaller ones. The translocation factor (TF) values decreased as the size of ZnO NPs increased, with TF values of 0.68 for 10 – 30 nm, 0.55 for 80 – 200 nm, and 0.27 for 300 nm ZnO NPs, all at the highest exposure concentration. Both the results of micro X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF) spectrometer and bio-transmission electron microscopy (bio-TEM) showed that the Zn elements were mainly localized at the edges of leaves exposed to small-sized ZnO NPs. However, the Zn elements upon exposure to large-sized ZnO NP were primarily observed in the primary veins of leaves in the μ-XRF data, indicating a limitation in their ability to translocate from roots to leaves. This study not only advances our comprehension of the environmental impact of nanotechnology but also holds considerable implications for the future of sustainable agriculture and food safety.

Investigation into the ignition sensitivity and detonation kinetics of Al/RDX energetic dust

Given the prevalence of Al/RDX energetic dust in industrial production, this study investigates their ignition safety and explosion hazards using Hartmann tubes and 20 L spherical explosion containers. The minimum ignition energy (MIE) increases from 20 mJ to 55 mJ as RDX content increases, indicating that adding RDX enlarges the effective particle size of the dust, thereby reducing its ignition sensitivity. A logistic regression model was used to develop a fitting equation for ignition probability, correlating dust concentration and ignition energy. The flame propagation velocity and explosion pressure of the energetic dust initially increase and then decrease with increasing RDX content. Optimal combustion characteristics were observed at 20 % RDX, with the maximum flame propagation velocity of 101 m s−1. However, the peak flame temperature decreases with increasing RDX content. The maximum explosion pressure and maximum explosion index at 1.77 MPa and 186.99 MPa m s−1 respectively, at 40 % RDX content. These findings highlight that 20 % RDX content yields the best combustion characteristics, while 40 % RDX content offers the maximum explosive potential, providing valuable insights for enhancing safety measures in industrial applications involving energetic dusts.

Nutritional profile and physicochemical analysis of two indigenous cultivars of black cumin (Nigella sativa) seeds and oil in Bangladesh

The black cumin (Nigella sativa) seed oil has a long history of use for food ingredients. The goal of this study is to figure out the nutritional and physicochemical properties of two indigenous black cumin cultivars (locally known as "Kali Jira" and "Kalonji") seed and oil. Additionally, the effects of extraction time and particle size on oil yield generation was investigated. The values of moisture content, crude protein content, crude fat, crude fiber, total ash, and carbohydrate of Kali Jira seed were 5.29%, 19.83%, 41.3%, 18.96%, 5.10%, and 9.52% whereas Kalonji had 5.43%, 19.95%, 40.3%, 14.28%, 4.35%, and 14.69%, respectively. In the Kali Jira and Kalonji types, the mineral analysis revealed significant potassium levels (829.11 mg/100 g, 746.27 mg/100 g), followed by phosphorus, calcium, sodium, iron and zinc. The minimum oil yield was 46.77% in the Kalonji variety compared to Kali Jira, which had 49.57% after the extraction time of 2 hrs for 1.4-2.5 mm particle size. On the other hand, a maximum oil yield of 91.08% and 94.77% was found in Kalonji seed and Kali Jira seed, respectively, following a 6-hour extraction time for 0.25-0.5 mm particle size. Characterization of extracted seed oil (iodine value, saponification value, and acid value) indicated the abundance of unsaturation in oil. FTIR analysis was used to investigate functional groups. According to the findings of this study, black cumin and extracted oil are rich in nutrients and can be used to treat lifestyle problems.

The role of chlorine promoters in mediating particle size effects in silver-catalyzed ethylene epoxidation

Measured chlorine coverages over Ag/α-Al2O3 catalysts with varying Ag weight loadings (1.3–35 wt%) and different Ag particle size distributions when parsed in terms of Cl coverages over particles of varying size constituted in the distribution reveal that Ag particles of size below ∼30 nm are covered in more than 1 monolayer (ML) of chlorine in presence of 3.5 ppm C2H5Cl. These assessments of Cl coverages were made possible by correlating the cumulative Cl coverage to the lognormal surface area distribution of 22 Ag/α-Al2O3 samples using a single exponential decay function. Fully chlorided small Ag particles exhibit low rates of epoxidation and only large Ag particles which exhibit sub-monolayer Cl coverages catalyze ethylene epoxidation with high ethylene oxide (EO) rates and selectivity. The Ag particle size dependence of Cl coverages plausibly explains why ≥ 100 nm Ag particles are typical in promoted Ag/α-Al2O3 ethylene epoxidation catalysts.

Effect of particle size on the rheology, baking characteristics, and microstructure of fava bean-fortified bread

Effects of substituting fava beans flour of three particle sizes (0.14 mm, 0.5 mm, and 1.0 mm) at 10, 20, 30 and 40% to wheat flour were determined on the rheological properties, baking characteristics, and microstructure of bread. Rheological properties of the dough produced from the flour blends showed that the 10, 20, and 30% substitution levels yielded considerably good viscoelastic properties and were used for the test baking. The baking characteristics, such as loaf volume, C-Cell analysis, and scorings, were evaluated to understand the implications of blend levels on the quality characteristics of the bread. The fava bean flour substitution level had more impact on the quality characteristics of bread than the particle size. Also, microstructural analyses using X-ray microcomputed tomography showed that increasing the concentration of fava bean flour had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the bread's microstructure. For all the quality characteristics examined, samples with 10% substitution levels, regardless of particle size, produced loaves closest to the bread made with wheat flour alone. The findings of this study contribute valuable knowledge to optimizing fava bean-fortified bread formulations, allowing for a good understanding of the trade-offs between particle size, substitution levels, and the final product quality.

Optimization of natural dye extraction from the root of Rumex abyssinicus plant using response surface methodology

In this study, Rumex abyssinicus (R. abyssinicus) roots were used for dye extraction via Soxhlet extraction. The effects of particle size, solid-to-liquid ratio and extraction time on dye yield were examined. The optimization of dye extraction wascarried out using response surface methodology coupled with the Box–Behnken approach. A maximum dye yield of 53 % was attained at an optimumparticle size of 0.355 mm, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 0.075 g/mL and an extraction time of 5 h. Functional group analysis using FTIR and a UV–vis spectrophotometer was performed to determine the characteristics of the extracted dye. The FTIR analysis results showed the presence of various functional groups in the extracted dye. Additionally, UV–vis spectrophotometer confirmed that the maximum absorbance peakwas detected at 281 nm, with an absorbance of 0.908. Overall, the results show that R. abyssinicus root is a potential source ofdye that has applications in various industries.