Feed Rate Research Articles

Influence of Cr + Si content variation on cutting behavior of TiAlCrSiN HPPMS coatings

As high power pulse magnetron sputtering (HPPMS) technology is becoming popular in cutting tool industry, the development of nanocomposite coating systems such as TiAlCrSiN with this technology presents a new research avenue. Here, the combined effect of Cr and Si contents on properties and cutting behavior of high Al content TiAlCrSiN HPPMS coatings needs further investigation. For this purpose, three HPPMS coatings with Al/Ti ratio x = 1.4–1.5 and varying Cr + Si content, namely (Ti28Al40Cr16Si16)N, (Ti30Al43Cr17Si10)N and (Ti36Al54Cr5Si5)N, were deposited on cemented carbide substrates. In addition to basic characterization, the fracture behavior of the coatings was characterized by scratch tests. The cutting behavior of the coated inserts was exemplarily investigated during dry cutting of normalized medium carbon steel C45 with cutting speed vc = 80 m/min, feed rate f = 0.12 mm and cutting depth ap = 0.8 mm. The tool damage over the cutting time of tc = 35–40 min, as per the tool condition, was observed using light microscopy. Moreover, the damage mechanisms were analyzed in detail at the end of the cutting test using scanning electron microscopy. All coatings showed comparable indentation hardness HIT and indentation modulus EIT. However, an increased Cr + Si content amplified the brittle fracture of the coating under sliding load of scratch test. Moreover, the workpiece material C45 showed a higher adhesion tendency to cutting insert with high Cr + Si content TiAlCrSiN coatings during cutting tests. The tool wear and built-up edge formation increased due to the combined effect of workpiece adhesions and amplified brittle fracture of the coating at considered cutting speed. On the other hand, the inserts with low Cr + Si content coating exhibited better cutting performance and reduced built-up edge formation based on the improved fracture behavior of the coating and lower adhesion tendency of workpiece material to the corresponding coated insert.

Optimizing microbioreactor cultivation strategies for Trichoderma reesei: from batch to fed-batch operations.

Filamentous fungi have long been recognized for their exceptional enzyme production capabilities. Among these, Trichoderma reesei has emerged as a key producer of various industrially relevant enzymes and is particularly known for the production of cellulases. Despite the availability of advanced gene editing techniques for T.reesei, the cultivation and characterization of resulting strain libraries remain challenging, necessitating well-defined and controlled conditions with higher throughput. Small-scale cultivation devices are popular for screening bacterial strain libraries. However, their current use for filamentous fungi is limited due to their complex morphology. This study addresses this research gap through the development of a batch cultivation protocol using a microbioreactor for cellulase-producing T.reesei strains (wild type, RutC30 and RutC30 TR3158) with offline cellulase activity analysis. Additionally, the feasibility of a microscale fed-batch cultivation workflow is explored, crucial for mimicking industrial cellulase production conditions. A batch cultivation protocol was developed and validated using the BioLector microbioreactor, a Round Well Plate, adapted medium and a shaking frequency of 1000rpm. A strong correlation between scattered light intensity and cell dry weight underscores the reliability of this method in reflecting fungal biomass formation, even in the context of complex fungal morphology. Building on the batch results, a fed-batch strategy was established for T.reesei RutC30. Starting with a glucose concentration of 2.5gl in the batch phase, we introduced a dual-purpose lactose feed to induce cellulase production and prevent carbon catabolite repression. Investigating lactose feeding rates from 0.3 to 0.75g(lh) , the lowest rate of 0.3g(lh) revealed a threefold increase in cellobiohydrolase and a fivefold increase in -glucosidase activity compared to batch processes using the same type and amount of carbon sources. We successfully established a robust microbioreactor batch cultivation protocol for T.reesei wild type, RutC30 and RutC30 TR3158, overcoming challenges associated with complex fungal morphologies. The study highlights the effectiveness of microbioreactor workflows in optimizing cellulase production with T.reesei, providing a valuable tool for simultaneous assessment of critical bioprocess parameters and facilitating efficient strain screening. The findings underscore the potential of microscale fed-batch strategies for enhancing enzyme production capabilities, revealing insights for future industrial applications in biotechnology.

Modelling the material removal obtained using a pneumatically configurable polishing tool subjected to a reciprocating linear feed

A nanofinishing technique - Pneumatically Configurable Polishing (PCP) process can be used for producing surface roughness of the order of a few nanometers on surfaces. It is a deterministic polishing process which employs pneumatic pressure for precise control of finishing forces across the polishing spot. The material removal rate is an important characteristic for determining the final surface generated after polishing. The material removal mechanism of PCP process typically exhibits multidisciplinary complexity due to simultaneous contribution of various process parameters. A mathematical model has been proposed in this study to achieve an in-depth understanding of the process physics. The model is developed using the fundamental tenets of contact behaviour between the tool and workpiece, and study of the microscopic material removal caused by a single abrasive particle. The polishing tool undergoes a reciprocating linear feed to polish a linear strip of the work surface. Various process parameters such as feed rate, tool rotational speed, working gap, mean diameter of abrasive particles, slurry concentration etc have been incorporated in the model as per the physics of the process. In order to validate the model, finishing experiments and MATLAB simulations have been conducted under similar polishing conditions to estimate the prediction error. The material depth removal rate in the PC polishing of die steel was found to range between 39 nm/min and 257 nm/min. The error between the experimental and predicted values of material removal rate was found within a range of 2.7 %–15.9 %. The repeatability of final surface roughness values and MRR obtained is ±0.007 μm and ±10 nm/min respectively. The developed model helps to make the PCP process more predictable and provides valuable insights into the various parameters which predominantly affect the material removal. The simulation of the gradual evolution of the surface profile has been obtained using the developed model.

Optimization of spray drying for lulo (Solanum quitoense Lam.) pulp using response surface methodology

Lulo (Solanum quitoense Lam.) is an exotic fruit with high potential in international markets due to its intense aromatic characteristics and its content of nutritional and bioactive compounds. However, it is highly perishable, which backslashes its potential for international exportation. Despite the drying processes affect the nutritional and sensory characteristics, fruit powders obtained by spray drying are promising products for the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. This work was conducted aiming to optimize the spray-drying process of lulo pulp. A Box-Behnken design with response surface methodology was used, in which the factors evaluated were inlet air temperature (160 - 220 °C), maltodextrin concentration (15-35%), and whey protein concentration (WPC) (1-5% w/w). The feed rate and air velocity were kept constant at 4 mL/min and 9 m/s, respectively. The optimization resulted in an inlet air temperature of 205.6 °C, 35% maltodextrin, and 1.96% WPC. Under these conditions, the mathematical model estimated a powder yield of 62.8%, a moisture content of 2.3 %, a bulk density of 0.49 g/mL, a solubility of 91.9 %, and an ascorbic acid content of 120.8 mg/100 g powder. The optimal process conditions and the mixture of encapsulants (MD and WPC) allow for obtaining lulo powder with adequate yield and quality characteristics.

Larval trophic ecology of small pelagic fishes: a review of recent advances and pathways to fill remaining knowledge gaps

Early life stages constitute a bottleneck for most fish populations, particularly for small pelagic fish (SPF), for which the interannual variability in recruitment strength is very high, and recruits frequently constitute the bulk of the population biomass. Finding the right prey (in terms of size and quality) during these early stages is critical for recruitment success. In this work, we synthesize the available literature on the trophic ecology of the early life stages of SPF, particularly clupeiforms. Works published during the last decade (2013-2022, 37 papers) were compared to those published previously (1920-2012, 107 papers). Gut content analysis of field-caught larvae is still the most commonly used technique (44%), while the use of biomarkers (e.g. stable isotopes and fatty acid composition), molecular tools (e.g. metabarcoding) and multitrophic approaches has increased in the last decade. Significant new knowledge was gained recently, such as that on larval feeding rates and behavior through laboratory experiments for species kept in culture (e.g. Atlantic herring, Pacific and Atlantic sardines), but some old challenges remain, such as the high vacuity rates of field-caught larvae. Lastly, we provide recommendations for future studies, such as the use of complementary techniques, the importance of studying ontogenetic shifts, the use of metabarcoding for analyzing the diet of early larvae that depend on microplankton, and the identification of prey with high taxonomic resolution. Such studies are essential to better understand larval growth and survival at sea, and thus to better understand and predict SPF population dynamics.

Investigation of Deposition Parameters for Near-Beta Alloy Ti-55511 Fabricated by Directed Energy Deposition

The directed energy deposition (DED) parameters were determined for near-β alloy Ti-55511 by employing statistical design of experiments (DOEs) methods. Parameters resulting in fully dense freeform deposits were identified using two sequential DOEs. Single laser tracks were printed with several laser power, traverse rate, and powder feed rate settings in an initial DOE to identify promising build parameters. The capture efficiency and effective deposition rate were used to characterize and rank the single track deposits. The best parameters were then used to print a solid cube with various X–Y and Z overlaps (different hatch spacing, HS, and layer thickness, ZS) in a second DOE. Suitable deposition parameters were selected based on the cube density and microstructure and were used to fabricate larger tensile samples for mechanical testing. Multiple parameter sets were found to provide dense Ti-55511 deposits with acceptable mechanical properties and the parametric models showed statistical significance.

Evaluation of Formulated Jatropha Oil as Cooling and Lubricating Cutting Fluids in Turning of AISI 1525 Steel Employing Taguchi-TOPSIS Technique

This study examined the impact of cutting parameters and fluids on machining performance metrics, such as machine vibration rate and sound level, when turning AISI 1525 steel using tungsten carbide tools. Jatropha oil was used in two forms, minimum quantity lubrication and emulsion. Jatropha MQL was applied directly to the cutting region without any additives or water. Jatropha emulsion was formulated based on 44 full factorial techniques. Jatropha emulsion was formulated by mixing water, biocide, anticorrosive agent, antifoam agent, and emulsifier. The pH of the emulsified sample was used to determine the best formulation through optimization. Jatropha emulsion and Jatropha MQL were compared with their mineral oil equivalent during machining under Taguchi L9 orthogonal array settings. The hardness of the workpiece was determined at every 5 mm diameter. Additionally, the microstructure of the workpiece was examined at 5 mm, 35 mm, and 70 mm diameters of the shaft. Multi-response optimization was performed using TOPSIS to determine optimal cutting parameters to minimize machine vibration rate and machine sound level. Results showed that jatropha MQL and jatropha emulsion reduced machine vibration rate drastically as compared to mineral oil counterparts. Jatropha MQL surpassed jatropha emulsion, mineral emulsion, and mineral MQL by 75.8%, 81.2%, and 90.5%, respectively. In terms of sound intensity, Jatropha oil MQL performed significantly better than other cooling and lubricating fluids based on general process parameter results. The hardness of the material increases as the diameter increases and it varies between 70.2 HBR and 150.4 HBR. Microstructural analysis showed the presence of pearlites and ferrites on the selected shaft diameters. Findings showed that the lowest machine vibration and machine sound values were achieved with experimental trial 1 such as spindle speed (355 rev/min), feed rate (0.10 mm/rev), and depth of cut (0.75 mm) in all cases of machining fluid. The optimal solutions of spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut were 355 rev/min, 0.10 mm/rev, and 0.75 mm; 355 rev/min, 0.15 mm/rev, and 1.00 mm for machine sound and machine vibrations, respectively.

Mechanical Properties of the AlCu4Mg1 Alloy Joint Manufactured by Underwater Friction Stir Welding.

The manuscript presents the results of butt joining of 3-millimeter-thick AlCu4Mg1 alloy sheets using the FSW (friction stir welding) and UWFSW (underwater friction stir welding) methods. The aim of the research is to verify the influence of the water environment on the FSW friction welding process. The article checked three sets of joint parameters. The parameters differed in tool rotation speed and feed rate. The same sets of parameters were used for the FSW and UWFSW fusion techniques. With the supplied devices, metallographic sections are cross-sectioned, and the power supplies are subjected to a light microscope. Microhardness tests and the influence of the heat-affected zone were carried out. A monotonic test was performed. A monotonic test is available, extended with a visual correlation test. The obtained cracked fracture surfaces were examined using a scanning microscope. An analysis of the microfractographic cracking process was carried out. The obtained results did not show any improvement in the strength properties of the obtained joints made using the UWFSW technique when using a scanning microscope.

Multivariate modelling of AA6082-T6 drilling performance using RSM, ANN and response optimization

The AA6082-T6 was experimentally studied in the present research with respect to the drilling performance. Drill diameter, cutting speed and feed rate were examined, using a full factorial design. Mathematical modelling of the process was carried out using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) as well as the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) techniques. The output results in terms of cutting force, torque and surface roughness, revealed high levels of correlation between the experimental and the predicted data. Specifically, the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) values using RSM compared to the ones of the experiments, were equal to 2.14%, 3.49% and 6.16% for Fz, Mz and Ra respectively. The equivalent MAPE between the ANN and the experiments were found to be 2.19%, 1.82% and 2.85% accordingly. Moreover, the most significant terms were revealed, being the interaction D × f for the thrust force and the torque with contribution percentages equal to approximately 44% and 42% respectively, and the term D2 for the surface roughness with 51%. The evaluation of the machining parameters, identified their significance, enabling the selection of the optimal cutting parameters, which were obtained by the desirability function, taking into account the importance of the generated surface quality and the reduction of cost. The solutions given by this approach, pointed out the Ø9 tool, coupled with Vc = 50 m/min and f = 0.15mm/rev as a well-balanced combination, whereas the Ø9.9 tool used under the same conditions, yielded the best possible surface quality (appr. 0.2 μm).

Optimization of Milling Process Parameters for Fe45 Laser-Clad Molded Parts Based on the Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II

The milling process parameters of laser-clad molded parts have an essential influence on improving the surface quality of the coating. Generally speaking, optimizing a single property often leads to a reduction in another property. In this paper, we systematically investigated a milling process parameter optimization method for Fe45 laser-clad molded parts, and designed L9 (33) sets of orthogonal experiments by taking the spindle speed, feed rate, and cutting depth as input variables, and taking the milling force and material removal rate as optimization indices. The significance ranking of the milling process was analyzed by using the extreme difference method. Then, the multi-objective optimization of the milling process was realized by using the NSGA-II algorithm with the empirical index model as the objective function. The optimum milling parameters obtained were N = 2000 r/min, V = 120.0266 mm/min, and P = 0.45 mm. Finally, the reliability of the optimization results of the algorithm was proved by comparing and verifying the optimal results obtained from the algorithm with the optimal process obtained from the extreme difference analysis. The results provide a theoretical basis for the selection of milling parameters and parameter optimization of laser fusion-coated Fe45 alloys.

Investigation of the effect of ball-burnishing treatment applied to Al 7075-T6 alloy on mechanical and crystallographic properties

ABSTRACT In this study, the mechanical, microstructural, and crystallographic effects of ball-burnishing applied to Al 7075-T6 alloy at 0.15–0.30 mm penetration depth, 0.15–0.30–0.60 mm/rev changing feed rates and 100–200 rpm range were investigated. After the ball-burnishing processes were carried out in different parameters, surface roughness measurements were applied to determine the surface qualities, and hardness and impact energy tests were applied to characterise the mechanical properties. Dislocation density and texture coefficient values were calculated by determining the crystallographic properties using X-ray diffraction. It has been determined that the ball-burnishing process directly affects the surface roughness, depending on the increasing rotational speed and feed rate. As a result of microstructural investigations, the average grain size decreased with increasing amount of deformation on the sample surface. At 200 rpm ball-burnishing parameter, the surface hardness of the sample increased by approximately 41% compared to the initial state and was measured as 265 HV2. It was determined that the ball-burnishing process did not positively affect the impact of the toughness of the alloy. The reason for this is that the roughness and scratches on the surface caused by the ball-burnishing process have a notch effect, increasing the crack formation and propagation speed.

Interactions between the calanoid copepod Acartia hongi and the bloom-forming dinoflagellates Karenia bicuneiformis and K. selliformis

Copepods are a major component of metazooplankton and important prey for fish and invertebrates such as crabs, shrimps, and flatworms. Certain bloom-forming dinoflagellates can kill copepods, but there is little research on the interactions between copepods and the bloom-forming dinoflagellates Karenia bicuneiformis and K. selliformis. In this study, the survival and ingestion rates of the calanoid copepod Acartia hongi feeding on K. bicuneiformis and K. selliformis were determined as a function of prey concentration. On day 2, the survival of A. hongi incubated with K. bicuneiformis was 90–100% at all the tested prey concentrations, while that with K. selliformis was 0–20% at ≥ 582 ng C mL−1. Compared to other harmful dinoflagellates from the literature, K. bicuneiformis caused low mortality of Acartia; however, K. selliformis caused almost the highest mortality at similar dinoflagellate concentrations. With increasing mean prey concentration, the ingestion rates of A. hongi feeding on K. bicuneiformis increased on day 1, but those on K. selliformis did not increase. Acartia hongi stopped feeding on K. bicuneiformis at mean prey concentrations of ≥ 341 ng C mL−1 and K. selliformis at all prey concentrations on day 2. At the prey concentration of 1000 ng C mL−1, the ingestion rate of A. hongi feeding on K. bicuneiformis was moderate among the rates of Acartia spp. feeding on harmful dinoflagellates; however, that on K. selliformis was the lowest. These results indicate that K. bicuneiformis and K. selliformis differentially affect the survival and ingestion rates of A. hongi.

Establishment of a Feeding Rate Prediction Model for Combine Harvesters

Feeding rates serve as a vital indicator for adjusting the working parameters of the combine harvester. A non-invasive diagnostic approach to predicting the feed rates of combine harvesters by collecting vibration signals of the inclined conveyor was introduced in this study. To establish a feed rate prediction model, the correlation between feeding rates and vibration signal characteristics was investigated. Vibration signal characteristics in both the time domain and frequency domain were also analyzed in detail. The RMS (root mean square) value and the total RMS value of the one-third octave extracted from the vibration signal were utilized to establish a feed rate prediction model, and field tests were conducted to verify the model performance. The experimental results indicated that the relative errors of the established model range from 3.1% to 4.9% when harvesting rice. With the developed feed rate prediction system, the control system of the combine harvester can acquire feed rate information in real time, and the working parameters can be adjusted in advance, thereby, it can be expected to greatly enhance the working performance of the combine harvesters.

Biomechanical Finite Element Simulation of Cochlear Implant Surgical Robot Drilling Through Direct Cochlear Access

AbstractRobotic drilling through direct cochlear access for cochlear implantation (CI) is currently a prominent area in the field of CI surgery. However, the safety of drilling remains an issue due to the limited space within the facial recess. Estimation and control of drilling force are critical to prevent drill‐bit breakthrough, excessive heat generation, and mechanical damage to the facial nerve. The bone drilling process presents a favorable application scenario for finite element (FE) analysis. In this study, a 3D FE model of temporal bone drilling is established for the first time to predict the drilling force. The self‐developed CI surgical robot validates these findings through experimental drilling. The experimental results show that the drilling process can be divided into three stages, and the corresponding force curve can be divided into six zones. The overall trend of temporal bone drilling is two force peaks and one trough in the middle. The drilling force is positively correlated with the feed rate. The FE results found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. Numerical simulation can be utilized as an invaluable tool for assisting in predicting the position of drilling tools and optimizing drilling parameters in the future.

Multilevel modeling analysis of bottle feeding and its determinants among children 0-23 months in East Africa: evidence from recent DHS data (2015-2022).

Despite breastfeeding recommendations, the prevalence and length of breast milk feeding in developing nations is rapidly decreasing, with bottle feeding taking its place. This reduces the effectiveness of breastfeeding and is associated with diarrheal disease mortality and morbidity. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, distribution, and determinants of bottle feeding among under-two-year-old children in the region. The ten East African countries' Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) recent data from 2015 to 2022 was used. The data were weighted using sample weights for probability sampling and nonresponse. The study used 43,150 weighted children. A multi-level logistic regression model was used, and P - values of ≤ 0.2 and < 0.05 were used to declare candidate variables in the binary, and multivariable to declare significant variables, respectively. The prevalence of bottle feeding among children under-two-years-old in East Africa was 10.08% (95% CI 9.79, 10.36), ranging from 4.04% (95% CI 3.56, 4.53) in Tanzania to 33.40% (95% CI 32.72, 34.08) in Kenya. High antenatal care communities (AOR 1.22; 95% CI 1.11, 1.35), mothers aged 25-34 years (AOR 1.17; 95% CI 1.06, 1.28), high wealth index communities (AOR 1.12; 95% CI 1.02,1.25), women who had at least one types mass media exposure (AOR 1.64; 95% CI 1.53, 1.77), women from communities with high level mass media exposure (AOR 1.36; 95% CI 1.23, 1.52), given first birth after teenage years (AOR 1.17; 95% CI 1.09, 1.26), having more than one health visit in the year (AOR 1.37; 95% CI 1.27,1.47), multiple children (AOR 1.46; 95% CI 1.22, 1.75) were associated with higher rates of bottle feeding. Whereas a primary education (AOR 0.51; 95% CI 0.47, 0.54), having 3-5 living children (AOR 0.86; 95% CI 0.79, 0.95), a rural setting (AOR 0.53; 95% CI 0.49, 0.58), and a long distance from health facilities (AOR 0.84; 95% CI, 0.78, 0.91) were associated with lower rates of bottle feeding. The overall prevalence of bottle feeding was moderate in East African countries. Improving the availability and accessibility of health facilities to mothers, utilizing maternal healthcare, and media exposure will contribute to a significant decrease in the inappropriate bottle feeding of children in East Africa.

A Retrospective Analysis of Polymer Selection Using Solvent Casting: Formulation and DoE Optimization of the Amorphous Solid Dispersion of Amoxicillin Trihydrate by a Spray Drying Method

Background. Amoxicillin trihydrate possesses poor solubility, compressibility, and flow behavior. Amorphous solid dispersion prepared by spray drying could solve all three problems at the same time. Objective. To prepare amorphous solid dispersion after screening of polymers by solvent casting method using a spray drying method. Methods. The solvent casting method was used to screen polymers, PVP/VA S-630, PVP K30, Soluplus, PEG 4000, HPMC AS, and HPMC HP55, in 1 : 1 and 2 : 3 ratios and followed by spray drying after polymer selection. Results. The dissolution performance of the formulation improved with time. The optimum feed rate and feed concentration were found to have an impact on the flow properties and particle size of spray-dried formulations, and they were selected as independent variables in a 32 full factorial statistical design. The ANOVA and regression analysis suggest that the developed regression model has a significant overall fit to the data and can explain a substantial proportion of the variability in the dissolution at 10 minutes. The optimized batch was selected based on the decisive factors of minimum and maximum values of response variables. Overall, the optimized batch demonstrated improved characteristics in terms of percentage yield (32.81%), dissolution at 10 min (49.70%), and angle of repose at 31.42°. Conclusion. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing formulation strategies for preserving the amorphous state of drugs and contributes to the development of stable pharmaceutical formulations.

Evaluation of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PBDD/Fs) and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs) outflows during the destruction of HBCD wastes in a hazardous waste incinerator

This paper presents an evaluation of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PBDD/Fs) and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs) outflows during the destruction of HBCD waste stockpiles in IZAYDAS Hazardous Waste Incinerator (HWI) in Kocaeli, Türkiye. HBCD wastes containing 100 % pure HBCD were in 25 kg packages with 63 % Br content were co-incinerated in a 3-day test burn with average feed rate of 26 kg/h. HBCD, PBDD/Fs and PCDD/Fs were measured in the outlet streams to quantify the amount of unintended POPs releases associated with the processing of HBCD waste and to observe the POP removal performance of air pollution control equipment (APCE) of the incinerator. Total mass outflow rate of HBCDs is calculated as 2.6 g/day, corresponding to destruction efficiency of 99.9996 %. Total toxicity of the brominated dioxins was measured as 0.00044 ng TEQ/Nm3 on average, while highly brominated congeners are dominant. PCDD/F concentrations in the outflow streams during HBCD test burns are produced similar congener distributions with those given in the previous studies, with the dominance of 7,8-chlorinated congeners. Mass flows in the outlet streams indicated that the efficiency of ESP and wet scrubbers for the removal of PCDD/Fs and HBCDs. Flue gas concentrations of PCDD/Fs, HBCDs and PBDD/Fs obtained in HBCD burn test indicated that burning HBCD wastes cause no significant emissions as operational parameters and total halogen content in the menu are kept within the incinerator limits.

Cotton plants overexpressing the Bacillus thuringiensis Cry23Aa and Cry37Aa binary-like toxins exhibit high resistance to the cotton boll weevil (Anthonomus grandis)

The cotton boll weevil (CBW, Anthonomus grandis) stands as one of the most significant threats to cotton crops (Gossypium hirsutum). Despite substantial efforts, the development of a commercially viable transgenic cotton event for effective open-field control of CBW has remained elusive. This study describes a detailed characterization of the insecticidal toxins Cry23Aa and Cry37Aa against CBW. Our findings reveal that CBW larvae fed on artificial diets supplemented exclusively with Cry23Aa decreased larval survival by roughly by 69%, while supplementation with Cry37Aa alone displayed no statistical difference compared to the control. However, the combined provision of both toxins in the artificial diet led to mortality rates approaching 100% among CBW larvae (LC50 equal to 0.26 PPM). Additionally, we engineered transgenic cotton plants by introducing cry23Aa and cry37Aa genes under control of the flower bud-specific pGhFS4 and pGhFS1 promoters, respectively. Seven transgenic cotton events expressing high levels of Cry23Aa and Cry37Aa toxins in flower buds were selected for greenhouse bioassays, and the mortality rate of CBW larvae feeding on their T0 and T1 generations ranged from 75% to 100%. Our in silico analyses unveiled that Cry23Aa displays all the hallmark characteristics of β-pore-forming toxins (β-PFTs) that bind to sugar moieties in glycoproteins. Intriguingly, we also discovered a distinctive zinc-binding site within Cry23Aa, which appears to be involved in protein-protein interactions. Finally, we discuss the major structural features of Cry23Aa that likely play a role in the toxin’s mechanism of action. In view of the low LC50 for CBW larvae and the significant accumulation of these toxins in the flower buds of both T0 and T1 plants, we anticipate that through successive generations of these transgenic lines, cotton plants engineered to overexpress cry23Aa and cry37Aa hold promise for effectively managing CBW infestations in cotton crops.

Process parameter optimization for laser powder directed energy deposition of Inconel 738LC

Processing nickel-based superalloys is one of the major challenges in the additive manufacturing (AM) field. Nickel-based superalloys consist of several alloying elements, which make them prone to the formation of undesired phases and cracking due to the complex thermodynamics during the metal AM processes. In order to produce defect-free parts from nickel-based superalloys via metal AM processes, optimization of process parameters is required. In this study, the effect of laser powder directed energy deposition (LP-DED) process parameters on the geometrical properties and porosity ratio of Inconel 738 LC (low carbon) is investigated. Geometrical specifications, including the track height, width, and wetting angle are the major factors that indicate the quality of the final product. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) and response surface methodology (RSM) were developed in order to predict the geometrical specifications of single tracks from the key process parameters, namely laser power, scan speed, and powder feed rate. An optimum set of process parameters was obtained through multi-objective optimization by minimizing the porosity ratio, crack formation and maximizing the deposition rate. The results were verified and a good agreement with the experimental measurements was achieved. The produced bulk sample showed less than one percent porosity content, which indicates the effectiveness of single-track optimization prior to bulk sample production. The overall microstructure of the bulk sample showed a high content of MC carbides resulting from the abundance of alloying elements.

An Analysis of the Amount of Energy Used during the Milling of Aluminum 6061 with Higher Performance

Cutting down on energy usage while keeping the material removal rate (MRR) as high as possible is widely acknowledged to be one of the most important goals in the machining industry for a considerable amount of time. So that we can create a forecast model for side-milling machining that makes the most efficient use of the feasible amount of power, the response surface method was utilized. After that, this model was used to establish which parameters should be optimized for the machining process. The response surface approach was applied to investigate the effect that several distinct cutting elements, factors like radial slicing depth, feeding rate, and spindle rpm, all examples (RSM), had on the total power needed throughout the cutting process. The data indicate that the variable known as the feeding rate is the most important factor in the amount of energy consumed. Reduced power consumption is an unavoidable natural byproduct of accelerating cycle durations and increasing feed rates. A radial how deep the wound is in 0.3 millimetres, a feed rate of 6,000 millimetres per inch, and a spindle speed of 12,000 revolutions per minute can produce a minimum power usage of 82.38 kilowatts, as the optimization model indicates. Keywords: Material removal rate, Machining, Power consumption