End-use Properties Research Articles

Monitoring a batch crystallization process by acoustic emission

Crystallization is regarded as an important unit operation for separation and purification, as well as the production of solid particles with specified end-use properties. However, it is still difficult to control or to optimize the crystallization process due to the complexity of the coupled phenomena taking place simultaneously in the liquid and solid phases. In order to overcome such drawback, different analytical technologies have been implemented in the literature for monitoring (in situ, at best) the key crystallization parameters, e.g. solute concentration and crystal size distribution, which in turn enhances the comprehension about this operation. In our work, a multi-probe monitoring system composed of acoustic emission, ATR-FTIR and imaging probes was applied to the crystallization of a model system (an aqueous solution of adipic acid) in a semi-batch crystallizer. The crystallization was carried out under two different feed rates and under vacuum or atmospheric pressure. The goal was to demonstrate the usefulness of the multi-probe system for monitoring the crystallization process and to study the influence of the process (stirring rotation speed, cooling speed, etc.) on the acoustic emission. As a matter of fact, the multi-probe system tracked information about the dissolved adipic acid in the liquid phase with the ATR-FTIR spectrometry, while the crystal size, shape and number were monitored with the help of the imaging probe (with image treatment methods). The acoustic emission probes were used to detect the beginning of crystallization and the phenomena of crystal growth and agglomeration

Developments in scale-up procedures for industrial dryers

The aim of dryer scale-up is to increase batch size, or throughput of a continuous process, while maintaining final moisture content, product quality, end-use properties, safety and reliability. This article reviews and updates previously published material on scale-up processes of dryers in general and individual dryer types, particularly material from a Drying Technology special issue on scale-up in 1994. This is adapted to give a basic generic theory for scale-up, applying this to various dryers and noting specific exceptions. It is demonstrated that simplifying assumptions can often be reliably made for scale-up which reduce the level of complexity for modeling compared to equipment design and performance calculations. For example, prediction of drying rate and drying time in spray and flash dryers needs a kinetic model, but for scale-up a heat balance and scaling calculation usually suffices. Approximations such as a one-third power law for drying time are often effective. It is shown that there is some theoretical basis for empirical scale-up rules that have been used by dryer manufacturers. Scale-down is also important, selecting the most appropriate conditions for small-scale tests that will correspond to the desired performance at commercial scale. The individual concepts are not new, but they have not previously been unified into a simply stated general basis for scale-up.

Genome wide association mapping of end-use gluten properties in bread wheat landraces (Triticum aestivum L.)

Numerous studies have aimed to dissect the genetic basis of wheat end-use quality, yet the consideration of gluten aggregation properties in this context has been limited despite its important role in determining the processing quality. This study has addressed the evaluation of the end-use quality of a collection of 189 Spanish bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) landraces. For phenotyping, we utilized the GlutoPeak methodology to assess gluten aggregation traits, the SDS-sedimentation test to measure gluten strength and NIR for grain protein content. In addition to previous genotyping data with numerous DArT-seq markers distributed across the entire wheat genome, we developed ten KASP-based molecular markers designed for GLU-1 loci, which encode high molecular weight glutenins (HMW-GS). The reliability of these markers was thoroughly assessed. Our genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) focused on gluten properties and protein content, revealed 89 marker-trait-associated loci (MTAs). These loci were further grouped into 50 MTA-QTLs across various chromosomes based on linkage disequilibrium. While some MTA-QTLs overlapped with regions identified in other studies, others represented novel genomic regions. Inside these regions, we identified several candidate genes with gluten quality-related annotated functions or grain-specific expression patterns, which represent potential targets for marker development and future wheat end-use quality improvement.

Influence of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on thermal behaviour and mechanical properties of pineapple leaf fibre-based natural rubber composites

Replacing synthetic fibres with natural fibres as reinforcement fillers in natural rubber (NR) tends to yield eco-friendly bio-composites. This study investigated the tensile and hardness properties, and the thermal behaviour of pineapple leaf fibre (PALF)-reinforced NR composites with and without the addition of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). The fibre content was varied at 0, 10, 20, and 30 parts per hundred rubber (phr) and the MWCNT content was fixed at 10 phr. The surface morphology of the tensile-fractured specimens was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to identify the rubber-matrix adhesion and tear mechanisms of the fibres in the NR matrix. The results revealed that including the PALF and MWCNT allowed the NR composites to exhibit excellent stretching stress at low elongations. Additionally, the composites displayed enhanced stiffness, further increasing the hardness of the composite, ranging from 46.8 to 62.8 Shore A. However, PALF reduces the thermal stability of the composite, where the initial degradation temperature increases. From the thermogravimetric analysis, the residues remaining in the NR composites ranged from 6 to 13% at various fibre loadings. Therefore, this study provides valuable insights into the tensile and hardness properties and the thermal behaviour of PALF-reinforced NR composites to improve end-use properties.

Role of processing procedures and molecular weight and their link to quasistatic and fatigue properties of polyamide 6

To expand the scientific base for the usage of the fused layer modelling (FLM) process for the production of polyamide 6 (PA 6) parts, in this work the influence of processing (injection moulding, compression moulding and FLM) and molecular weight on the end-use properties of PA 6 is elucidated. Besides its viscosity, the molecular weight of PA 6 also influences crystallinity and crystallization temperature. The mechanical properties of the fabricated specimens were studied in detail, also in the fatigue range, and analysed focusing on the fusion of interfaces in compression moulding and fused layer modelling. The analysis reveals, that the molecular mobility in the melt (i.e. viscosity and diffusion coefficient) as well as the amount and orientation of interfaces (as determined by the processing procedure) strongly influences the end-use properties. In the case of FLM printed parts, mechanical failure due to quasistatic and fatigue loading essentially depends on the quality of fusion of adjacent layers, which is strongly determined by molecular weight and processing temperature. Generally, a lower viscosity of PA 6 favours fusion of adjacent layers.

Effect of drought stress on grain quality of wheat and its mitigation through arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi

Aim: Grain quality is an important aspect to ensure food and nutritional security of the ever-increasing population of the world, and maintaining wheat grain quality under stressful conditions is decisive for end-use functional properties. Therefore, this study was carried out to evaluate the potential of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in improving grain quality under stress condition. Methodology: The present study was conducted on two wheat varieties viz. Drought tolerance (WH 1105) and drought sensitive (WH 1025) under drought stress condition. This experiment was conducted in CRD factorial design and drought stress was imposed by withholding irrigation before jointing (40-45 days) and heading (80-85 days) stages. Results: Drought stress imposed at either jointing or heading stage deteriorated all quality traits except for crude protein content and gluten content. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inoculation played a significant role in enhancing the ash, moisture, crude protein, gluten, total sugar and and β-carotene contents in both varieties, however, the interactive effects were found non-significant. Crude protein, which defines nutritional properties increased by 14.6 and 15.9% in WH 1025 grains and 13.9 and 14.9% in WH 1105 grains of AMF untreated and treated plants at heading stage. In both wheat varieties, sedimentation value and grain hardiness were observed higher at heading stage as compared to the jointing stage, irrespective of AMF inoculation. Interpretation: AMF inoculation played a significant role in improving quality traits by enhancing water relations and nutrient uptake under drought conditions. Key words: Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, Drought, Grain quality, Wheat

Identifying QTL for grain protein content independent from grain yield-related traits in durum wheat

Grain protein content (GPC) is a crucial quality trait determining the nutritional, rheological, and end-use properties characteristics of wheat. Breeding programs for GPC were hindered by complex genetic control, the strong influence of environmental factors, and the negative correlation between GPC and grain yield. To identify stable quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with increased GPC without decreasing grain yield, a recombinant inbred lines population of durum wheat was genotyped with a 25K SNP array and evaluated for GPC and yield-related traits in four field trials. Six QTL for GPC were identified on chromosomes 1B, 2B (two loci), 4B, 5A, and 6A, consistently expressed across environments, four of which had antagonistic effects on grain yield per spike (GYS). Two QTL (QGpc.mgb-5A and QGpc/TKW.mgb-2B.2) on 2B and 5A chromosomes were independent of GYS variations and could be used in marker-assisted selection (MAS) for GPC improvement. Identifying and utilizing beneficial QTL/genes for wheat improvement requires careful consideration of the inverse relationship between GPC and yield-related traits, and phenotypic data collected across multiple environments. MAS or genomic selection techniques can effectively target favorable alleles for GPC enhancement while minimizing the impact on grain yield.

Effect of Chemical Pre-treatment on Screen Printed Fabric Performance Properties

Printing is the process of transferring a specific pattern or design onto the surface of textile fabric. In the printing process, screen printing is one of the fundamental printing methods on textiles and is widely used worldwide. However, screen-printed fabrics have specific properties like fastness, water absorbency, and whiteness index that increase the end-use properties of the printed fabrics. There are several factors that affect the technical characteristics of printed fabrics. This research focuses on an experimental approach to ascertain and confirm the pre-treatment process as one of the most important factors in pigment dye screen-printed fabrics. The main raw material used in this research was 100% cotton fabric with a plain weave structure. The experimental method used in this research involved the pre-treatment (singeing, scouring, and bleaching) process with different recipes and four samples. Screen-printed fabric after printing was tested for its technical properties using standard test methods. The results of a one-way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) were analysed using MINITAB and Microsoft (MS) Excel software. The results indicate superior fabric technical properties like color fastness to rubbing and washing, coupled with improved water absorbency and excellent whiteness index values of samples printed after bleaching with Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2). In this research, we conclude that printed fabric after bleaching with H2O2 has the best color fastness, and bleaching with NaOCl is the next one. However, printed fabric has a low fastness property after scouring and singeing.

Effect of Filler Content and Particle Sizes on the Mechanical and End-Use Properties of Eggshell Powder Filled Epoxy Polymer Composite

Effect of Filler Content and Particle Sizes on the Mechanical and End-Use Properties of Eggshell Powder Filled Epoxy Polymer Composite

Assessment of Physicochemical, Functional, Rheological and end-use properties of Tribulus terrestris

ABSTRACT Plants are excellent food and medicinal resources because of their unique composition. Researchers have discovered that thousands of plants can help in achieving the desired health status through advanced research. This research article reveals the nutritional composition and significance of Tribulus terrestris. In addition, it also analyzed the physio-chemical evolution of nutraceutical products from Tribulus terrestris. From the proximate analysis, it was found that T. terrestris is rich in fiber and fat 24.28 ± 0.93% and 14.49 ± 1.42%, respectively. The rheological properties of the product were observed. The results reveal that water activity, stability of product, and dough development time increased 59.0 ± 0.06%, 15.0 ± 0.06 min, and 4.3 ± 0.07 min, respectively, by increasing the powder percentage. The functional behavior of the samples was examined, and significant results were depicted. Bulk density and oil absorption increased by increasing the percentage of powder 83.86 ± 1.36% and 69.16 ± 3.61%. The results of emulsifying stability were recorded as non-significant. Results regarding color analysis showed non-significant behavior of supplemented biscuits. The textural behavior of the product increased from 1.47 Nm−2 to 2.27 Nm−2. Results regarding the spread factor increased from 3.01 ± 0.04 to 3.83 ± 0.01 from T1 to T4. The sensory results indicated that T1 (2% Tribulus powder), T2 (3% Tribulus powder), T3 (4% Tribulus powder), and T4 (5% Tribulus powder) were acceptable after the control group. Thus, Tribulus terrestris can be used as a nutraceutical and functional ingredient in baked goods.

Stochastic Modelling and Simulation of Free Radical Polymerization of Styrene in Microchannels using a Hybrid Gillespie Algorithm

Most recently, the production of polystyrene by Free Radical Polymerization (FRP) via microchannels has been a subject of core interest due to the efficiency of a micro-or milli-reactor brings. In addition, especially in pilot experimentations, a micro or milli-reactor has been known widely to be efficient in monitoring the microstructural end-use features or properties of the polymer as the chain propagates and ultimately terminates. However, the limitations posed by using micro or milli-reactors in process intensification such as clogging of pores can be a bottleneck when tracking the common phenomena associated with FRP such as cage, gel, and glass effects. In this work, the simulation of the synthesis of polystyrene in FRP via microchannels is computed using a robust and time-efficient hybrid Gillespie Algorithm (GA) or Hybrid Stochastic Simulation Algorithm (HSSA). The obtained results of the end-use properties of polystyrene such as Monomer conversion, Polydispersity Index, Number-Average Molar Mass and Weight Average Molar Mass were compared to experimental data. The simulation results agree well with the experimental results reported in this work. Hence, stochastic simulations prove to be an effective tool in making decisions in the context of process intensification of chain growth polymerization reactions even at a large scale.

Numerical prediction of long-term stability of liquid formulations determined by visual observation and static multiple light scattering

The demonstration of long-term stability is a key step when developing liquid formulation because it has a major impact on product shelf life, transport, and end-use properties. Long-term stability is often determined visually as the result is indisputable. However, this method is not compatible with product development cycle which requires rapid development and large screening of formulations. Static multiple light scattering (SMLS) technique has been widely used to detect instabilities at an early stage compared to visual observation. In this study, we developed a numerical predictive algorithm to evaluate the stability time determined by naked eye and measured by SMLS. This predictive algorithm was built on the analysis of several tens of liquid formulations with carefully controlled properties using a camera setup and the SMLS technique. The camera setup mimicked the human vision by recording images of the sample at a given frequency. Edge detection with criteria on contrast and size of instability zone was applied to a sequence of images to evaluate the stability objectively. The stability was also evaluated using SMLS measurements by imposing a monotone and minimal transmission or backscattered intensity evolution. In parallel, a numerical model was built to simulate the time and space resolved SMLS profiles. The predictive algorithm was developed by correlating the simulations of time and space resolved SMLS profiles to the stability time measured experimentally with the camera setup and the SMLS technique. Using the experimental results obtained with the camera setup and with the SMLS technique, this predictive algorithm was tested on non-controlled emulsions and solid dispersions proving its applicability to more realistic systems. This algorithm is a major step toward the rapid screening of long-term stability of liquid formulations.

Exploration of Various Issues Associated with Sustainable use of Sanitary Napkins

Sanitary napkins are layered designs, as they need to satisfy different end-use properties simultaneously. The most common issues with current napkins include leakage, odor, and the need for frequent change. To address these problems, a comprehensive survey was conducted among 500 women residing in two selected villages within the study area. The survey covered women's expectations of sanitary napkins, their perceptions of these products, performance characteristics, and the challenges encountered with existing sanitary napkins. In the initial segments of the overview, the expectations from sanitary napkins, perception of sanitary napkins, performance characteristics and the problems in current sanitary napkins were addressed. The findings indicated that women prioritize absorption properties such as leak-proofing and dryness, as well as an odorless and soft surface. The most desirable functional characteristic was antibacterial activity. There were notable differences in the expectations, selection factors, and issues reported by women across different age groups. The collected data was used to design a cost-effective sanitary napkin made up of more than 80% biodegradable materials, promoting sustainability in the production of sanitary napkins.

Employment of Imidazolium and Ammonium-Based Ionic Liquids to Enhance the Dyeability of Cotton Fibers with Reactive Dyestuff

In this study, the effect of ionic liquids on the dyeing of cotton fabrics with reactive dyestuffs was investigated. For this purpose, 100% cotton fabrics were treated with imidazolium (1-ethyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium ethyl sulfate- E) and ammonium (methyl-tri-n-butylammonium methyl sulfate- B) based ionic liquids with three different concentrations. To assess the effect of the treatments, the cotton fabrics were characterized by FT-IR, SEM and DSC. After this treatment, the cotton fibers were dyed with 1.0% o.w.f reactive dye. The K/S values were determined to evaluate the effect of ionic liquids on the dyeability of cotton fabrics and fastness analyses to washing, water and rubbing were conducted to examine the end-use properties of dyed fabrics. The results revealed that ionic liquids settled on the fabric surface and after each ionic liquid modification, the increasing intensity was observed with increasing ionic liquid concentrations at broad bands according to the FT-IR analysis. It was determined that the K/S value of the modified cotton fabric increased with increment in the concentration of ionic liquid E, especially. Considering the overall results, it is possible to state that ionic liquids which are implemented in this study are efficient in enhancing the dyeability of the cotton fabrics.

Characterization of α-gliadin alleles of Japanese wheat cultivars in relation to flour dough extensibility and celiac disease epitopes

Alpha-gliadins are major seed storage proteins of wheat and are involved in dough extensibility, which is related to the end-use properties of flour. However, α-gliadin causes gluten-related diseases such as celiac disease (CD). To characterize the α-gliadin allele types of Japanese cultivars, PCR markers that detect the presence of each α-gliadin gene in Chinese Spring wheat were used to determine allele-types. We surveyed 95 accessions of the Japanese wheat core collection (JWC) and 22 commercial cultivars and found 2, 10, and 4 allele types at the loci Gli-A2, Gli-B2, and Gli-D2, respectively. According to the allele-type frequency, the α-gliadin alleles of JWC showed diversities comparable to those of foreign cultivars. Allele diversities were compared within four populations of JWC, classified by genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms. The degree of diversity of alleles reflected the population structures, except for high diversity of the allele-types at Gli-B2 in the classical varieties. The frequencies of alleles related to end-use were higher in newer varieties than in classical varieties and landraces. Allele types that dramatically decreased and increased CD epitopes were not found in JWC, suggesting that selection(s) of α-gliadin genes was not linked to CD epitopes in Japanese cultivars.

The end-use quality of wheat can be enhanced by optimal water management without incurring yield loss.

In China, water-saving irrigation is playing important roles in ensuring food security, and improving wheat quality. A barrel experiment was conducted with three winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes and two irrigation pattens to examine the effects of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) on wheat grain yield, water-use efficiency (WUE), and grain quality. In order to accurately control the soil water content, wheat was planted in the iron barrels set under a rainproof shelter, and the soil water content in the iron barrel was controlled by gravity method. The mechanisms whereby water management influences the end-use functional properties of wheat grain were also investigated. The results revealed that RDI improved the end-use functional properties of wheat and WUE, without significant yield loss (less than 3%). Moderate water deficit (60% to 65% field capacity) before jointing and during the late grain-filling stage combined with a slight water deficit (65% to 70% field capacity) from jointing to booting increased grain quality and WUE. The observed non-significant reduction in wheat yield associated with RDI may be attributed to higher rate of photosynthesis during the early stage of grain development and higher rate of transfer of carbohydrates from vegetative organs to grains during the later stage. By triggering an earlier rapid transfer of nitrogen deposited in vegetative organs, RDI enhances grain nitrogen content, which in turn could enhance dough elasticity, given the positive correlation between grain nitrogen content and dough midline peak value. Our results also indicate that the effects of RDI on grain quality are genotype dependent. Therefore, the grain end-use quality of some specific wheat genotypes may be enhanced without incurring yield loss by an optimal water management.

Strengthening Interfacial Adhesion and Foamability of Immiscible Polymer Blends via Rationally Designed Reactive Macromolecular Compatibilizers.

Foams made of immiscible polymer blends have attracted great interest in both academia and industry, because of the integration of desirable properties of different polymers in a hybrid foam. However, the foamability and end-use properties are hampered because of the poor interfacial strength within the immiscible blends. Furthermore, few investigations have been carried out on the mechanisms by which interfacial strength and structure affect the foamability of polymer blends. In this work, two different reactive interfacial compatibilizers, i.e., poly(styrene-co-glycidyl methacrylate)-graft-poly(l-lactide) and poly(styrene-co-glycidyl methacry-late)-graft-poly(d-lactide), abbreviated as SG-g-PLLA and SG-g-PDLA, respectively, were designed and synthesized through reactive melt blending and subsequently applied to strengthen the interfacial strength and foamability of immiscible poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/poly(l-lactide) (PLLA) blends. Both compatibilizers could remarkably enhance the interfacial strength and foamability of the PBAT/PLLA blends, as evidenced by the significantly elongated dispersed phase in the resulting cocontinuous phase and more than 7000-fold increase in the cell density. Furthermore, the improved foamability was quantitively explained by the reduced gas diffusion and increased melt strength. Strikingly, the SG-g-PDLA introduced a stereocomplex crystal at the interface (i-SC), providing highly strengthened interfaces and nanoscale heterogeneous nucleation sites, which led to an energetically favorable cell nucleation. Moreover, foams with specifically laminated cell structures were fabricated by combining pressure-induced flow processing and i-SC strengthened interfaces. This work provides insight into the relationship between interfacial strength and formability of immiscible polymer blends and offers new possibilities for controlling cell morphologies and designing unique cell structures for polymer foams.

Reverse Engineering of Chemically Similar Bimodal High Density Polyethylenes: A Comprehensive Study Using Advanced Chromatographic Techniques

Back Cover: In article 2200149, Anthony Ndiripo, Albert Johannes van Reenen, and co-workers demonstrate the linking of mechanical properties of bimodal high-density polyethylene to molecular structure using tailored advanced separation techniques. Chemically similar resins with different end-use properties can be efficiently fractionated using tailored high-temperature twodimensional liquid chromatography.

Accumulation of Wheat Phenolic Acids under Different Nitrogen Rates and Growing Environments.

The health benefits of whole wheat grains are partially attributed to their phenolic acid composition, especially that of trans-ferulic acid (TFA), which is a powerful natural antioxidant. Breeders and producers are becoming interested in wheat with enhanced health-promoting effects. This study investigated the effects of different nitrogen (N) application rates (0, 42, 84, 126, and 168 N kg ha−1) on the phenolic acid composition of three wheat varieties in four locations for two years. The results indicate that the different N rates did not affect the TFA concentration but that they significantly affected the concentrations of para-coumaric acid, sinapic acid, and cis-ferulic acid in the wheat grains. A statistical analysis suggested that the wheat phenolic acid composition was predominantly determined by wheat variety, though there existed some interaction effect between the wheat variety and environments. The TFA concentration of the variety Jimai 22 was generally higher (with a mean value of 726.04 µg/g) but was easily affected by the environment, while the TFA concentration of the variety Zhongmai 578 (with a mean value of 618.01 µg/g) was more stable across the different environments. The results also suggest that it is possible to develop new wheat varieties with high yield potential, good end-use properties, and enhanced nutraceutical values.

Properties of clay/graphene/thermoplastic nanocomposites in relation to their composition: Synergetic effect of hybrid nanofillers and role of matrix

The structural, rheological, thermal and mechanical properties of composites, constituted of a polyamide 12 filled with commercial graphene nanoplatelets and organically modified nanoclays, were investigated. Different graphene/clay ratios were used in order to better understand the role played by each kind of filler in the improvement of the end-use properties of prepared composites. With this aim in view, the dispersion state of fillers in ternary nanocomposites was evaluated in comparison with those of graphene PA and clay PA binary composites. Measured rheological and mechanical properties of ternary systems were discussed in comparison with those calculated as the sum of the contributions of graphene and clay in the PA matrix, underlining the combined roles of both fillers in the improvement of composite properties. On the other hand, structural and end-use properties of the 5 wt% graphene 5 wt% clay PA material were compared with those obtained in the past for the composite constituted with a high viscous polyethylene/maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene matrix filled with same commercial graphene nanoplatelets (5 wt%) and similar organically modified montmorillonite fillers (5 wt%). This comparison aimed at understanding the role played by the matrix in the dispersion states of both clay and graphene fillers, and consequently in the end-use properties of composites.