Mixing Temperature Research Articles

A Three-Dimensional Optimization Framework for Asphalt Mixture Design: Balancing Skeleton Stability, Segregation Control, and Mechanical Strength

The composition design of asphalt mixtures plays a pivotal role in determining pavement performance and durability. To improve skeleton stability, paving uniformity, and mechanical strength, this research proposes a three-dimensional optimization framework for asphalt mixture design, focusing on aggregate gradation and optimum asphalt content. A skeleton-dense and anti-segregation gradation optimization method was developed by integrating a previously established skeleton-dense model with a segregation tendency prediction approach. In parallel, a mechanically driven method for determining optimum asphalt content was proposed by introducing the maximum migration shear stress as a performance-based alternative to the conventional Marshall stability parameter. Research results show that asphalt mixtures designed and compacted with the optimized gradation exhibit significantly enhanced high-temperature stability, while maintaining satisfactory low-temperature cracking resistance and moisture susceptibility. Field validation was conducted through the construction of a trial pavement section using the optimized gradation under recommended mixing and compaction temperatures. The resulting pavement demonstrated excellent compaction, strong resistance to segregation, and a highly stable spatial structure. These findings confirm the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in enhancing the high-temperature deformation resistance and overall structural integrity of asphalt mixtures.

Lab-scale optimization of biogas production from pine needles co-digested with cow dung: influence of varying mixing ratio, pretreatment and temperature regime

Utilization of pine needles (Pinus roxburghii) for bioenergy production offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels while simultaneously mitigating the risk of forest fires. Pretreatment is essential for enhancing biogas production from pine needles due to their complex lignocellulosic structure and high lignin content. This study assesses the effects of different pretreatment methods – steam explosion, alkali treatment, Trichoderma reesei inoculation, and a combined physicochemical approach – on biogas production under two temperature regimes. Co-digestion with cow dung was explored, with varying pine needle (PN)-to-cow dung (CD) ratios. Among all pretreatments, the physicochemical approach yielded the highest methane content (65.66%) and maximum cumulative biogas yield (2465 ± 0.55 mL/g-volatile solids) over 8 weeks under mesophilic conditions, which was 19.37% higher than that observed under psychrophilic conditions. Co-digestion notably enhanced biogas production, with the optimal substrate mixture identified at a 1:3 PN/CD ratio. Key parameters, including temperature, pH, total alkalinity, and the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, were systemically monitored to evaluate their impact on digestion efficiency. The resulting digestate demonstrates potential as a nutrient-enriched organic fertilizer, reinforcing the viability of a sustainable waste-to-energy approach using pine needles. This study concludes that co-digested pine needles, if physicochemically pretreated, exhibit potential for higher biogas yield and better quality digestate.

Effect of Encapsulation on the Viability of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei During InVitro Gastrointestinal Digestion and Storage Conditions.

Probiotic microorganisms are vital for gut health, but their viability is compromised by environmental stressors such as gastric acidity, bile salts, temperature, and oxygen. Encapsulation is a promising strategy to enhance probiotic stability and targeted release. In this study, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei were encapsulated using an emulsion method with carob flour, a natural material with prebiotic potential. Encapsulation conditions were optimized using the Box-Behnken Design, considering mixing temperature, mixing time, and carob flour amount. The encapsulation efficiencies were 79.51% ± 0.36% for L. rhamnosus and 74.98% ± 0.20% for L. paracasei. Encapsulation induced significant compositional and structural changes, as confirmed by physicochemical, FTIR, and SEM analysis. Encapsulated probiotics exhibited higher viability than free bacteria during invitro gastrointestinal digestion and under refrigerated and frozen storage. Encapsulation with carob flour is a promising approach to enhance probiotic stability and bioavailability in functional food applications.

Design of an innovative fuel‐efficient stove for reducing air pollution and enhancing sustainability

Abstract PurposeThis study presents a fuel‐efficient stove designed to reduce harmful emissions, thereby improving indoor air quality in rural households. Traditional stoves are a significant source of household air pollution (HAP), which is linked to respiratory and other health issues. The innovative design of this stove minimizes emissions and maximizes thermal efficiency, directly addressing the challenge of reducing indoor air pollution.Design/Methodology/ApproachThe improved stove operates using solid biomass fuel, with an innovative design aimed at enhancing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. Wood is used as the primary fuel, while superheated steam is introduced into the combustion zone to aid in particulate matter reduction. The stove utilizes a solar‐powered fan to regulate airflow, improving combustion conditions. Unlike natural buoyancy‐driven draft through a chimney, the fan assists in controlling the airflow dynamics by either enhancing the air intake or supporting the exhaust process, depending on operating conditions.FindingsSuperheated steam aids in improving the combustion efficiency of the primary fuel by promoting better mixing and flame temperature, thereby leading to more complete combustion and reduced emissions. Additionally, the presence of steam contributes to better heat transfer within the stove, causes an improvement in overall thermal efficiency.

INVESTIGATION OF PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF BITUMEN MODIFIED WITH WASTE ENGINE AND INDUSTRIAL OILS

The modification of bitumen with waste oils encourages the transition5 to sustainable production and consumption strategies by increasing resource efficiency and reducing environmental impacts. In this study, bitumen was modified with waste engine oil (WEO) and waste industrial oil (WIO) at the rate of 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, and 4% by weight to increase resource efficiency and contribute to sustainable transportation. Physical tests (penetration, softening point, penetration index, rotational viscometer) were applied to the oil modified bitumens, and the chemical composition of the bitumen as a result of the modification was examined using FTIR, SEM, and EDS analyses. Results indicate that modified bitumens exhibit superior performance in cold climate regions. The modification of 4% WIO and WEO into bitumen reduced the mixing temperature by 3.5% and 5%, respectively, and the compaction temperature by 5% and 10%, respectively. The findings of the study indicate that WIO and WEO can be used in bitumen modification to improve its performance. This study contributes to sustainable production practices by not only utilizing waste materials in a sustainable manner but also reducing the environmental impacts of industrial processes.

Effect of Alloy 2 Composition on the Microstructure of Al-Si Alloy Prepared by Controlled Diffusion Solidification with Simultaneous Mixing

Taking pure Al as Alloy 1, the effect of Si content in Al-Si alloy (Alloy 2) on microstructures of Al-Si alloy castings prepared by controlled diffusion solidification with simultaneous mixing was investigated mainly by using theoretical simulation and calculation. The results indicate that at a given superheat, the Si content in the Al-Si alloy essentially affects the liquidus temperature, and thus, its mixing temperature and the temperature difference with pure Al melt, causing the variation of temperature field of the resulted mixture besides the solute field. As a result, both the supercooling degree and width of supercooling zone in the pure Al pockets are altered, and consequently the nucleation rate and the size and morphology of primary α-Al grains are varied. At the same liquidus and mixing temperatures (also the same temperature difference with the pure Al melt), the nucleation rates at using hypoeutectic Al-Si alloys are higher than those at using hypereutecitc ones due to the larger supercooling degree and width of supercooling zone of the former condition than the latter condition. Subsequent experiment results on microstructure observation of the CDS castings verify these results, and further confirm that an ideal nondendritic microstructure can be achieved only when the nucleation rate is up to a critical value (corresponding to 30% of solidified mesh number in the simulation).

Experimental investigation and machine learning modeling of the effects of hybridization mixing ratio, nanoparticle type, and temperature on the thermophysical properties of Fe3O4/TiO2, Fe3O4/MgO, and Fe3O4/ZnO-DI water hybrid ferrofluids

Abstract This study experimentally investigates the influence of hybridization mixing ratio (HMR), nanoparticle size, and temperature on the stability, thermal conductivity, viscosity, and thermoelectric conductivity of $${\text{Fe}}_{3}{\text{O}}_{4}/$$ Fe 3 O 4 / Ti $${\text{O}}_{2}$$ O 2 -DIW, $${\text{Fe}}_{3}{\text{O}}_{4}/$$ Fe 3 O 4 / MgO-DIW, and $${\text{Fe}}_{3}{\text{O}}_{4}/$$ Fe 3 O 4 / ZnO-DIW magnetic hybrid ferrofluids (MHFs). A two-step preparation technique was used to synthesize 0.3% volume concentration of the MHFs at HMRs of 80:20, 60:40, and 40:60, respectively. The study’s result revealed that the thermal and electrical conductivity of the MHF was proportional to the temperature of the MHF. Also, the viscosity and thermoelectric conductivity (TEC) of the MHF was inversely related to the MHF’s temperature. The (80:20) ratio consistently stands out for superior stability and thermal conductivity. An exceptional electrical conductivity of 4.23 mS/cm was displayed by the $${\text{Fe}}_{3}{\text{O}}_{4}/$$ Fe 3 O 4 / Ti $${\text{O}}_{2}(18\text{ nm})$$ O 2 ( 18 nm ) -DIW at 50 °C. The best thermal conductivity–viscosity balance was observed for the $${\text{Fe}}_{3}{\text{O}}_{4}/$$ Fe 3 O 4 / ZnO-DIW with HMR of 80:20 at 50 °C as it has the highest thermal conductivity enhancement of 31.28% and the least viscosity. These findings guide MHF customization, emphasizing stability and thermophysical performance balance. $${\text{Fe}}_{3}{\text{O}}_{4}/$$ Fe 3 O 4 / ZnO-DI also had the best TEC value, making it most suitable for cooling PEM fuel cells. Linear regression analysis was used to generate the thermal conductivity correlations for the MHFs, while feature importance analysis highlights temperature as the most significant variable influencing their thermal conductivity.

Interannual variations of mixed layer temperature and salinity in the South Indian Ocean salinity maxima region

Interannual variations of mixed layer temperature and salinity in the South Indian Ocean salinity maxima region

Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Exploring Natural Zeolite Addition to Pure Asbuton B 50/30 Mixture – Insights from SEM-EDX and FTIR Chemical Characterization

This study introduces a novel approach to leverage Asbuton analytical properties by exploring its compatibility with a warm mixture of LTBA (thin layer asphalt concrete), supplemented with natural zeolite additives to lower the mixing temperature. The research focuses on assessing the characteristics of pure Asbuton B 50/30 and Marshall features, ensuring compliance with specifications. Various levels of natural zeolite additions to the warm mixture are tested at an optimum asphalt content of 5.95%. Results indicate that incorporating 1.5% natural zeolite yields properties meeting specification requirements: stability = 1179.564 kg; VIM = 4.252 %; VMA = 17.076 %; flow = 2,870 mm; VFA = 75.099%; and MQ = 410.998 kg/mm. Moreover, the mixing and compaction temperature with natural zeolite addition aligns with specifications at 145 ℃. SEM-EDX analysis reveals carbon compounds (C) as the primary component of Asbuton B 50/30, constituting 43.44% of its composition, while its porous nature renders it with fragile morphological characteristics. The incorporation of natural zeolite effectively reduces the mixing temperature of the Asbuton mixture, showcasing promising avenues for enhanced efficiency.

Study on the performance of tunnel warm-mix flame retardant asphalt based on macro and micro perspectives

ABSTRACT To enhance tunnel fire safety while reducing asphalt mixing temperatures as an alternative to conventional hot-mix technologies, this study developed a novel warm-mix flame retardant composite (DATE) through a water bath rolling adsorption method. The composite synergistically combines zeolite as a warm-mix agent with a decabromodiphenyl ethane-based flame retardant (DAT). A comprehensive investigation was conducted employing thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), standardised asphalt performance tests, pyrolysis analysis, limiting oxygen index testing, and molecular dynamics simulations. The results show that, compared to zeolite and DAT, the DATE exhibited a wider operating temperature range. Notably, DATE modified asphalt showed improved high-temperature shear resistance. The synergistic effect of the components in DATE raised the pyrolysis temperature of asphalt, and slowed the rate of thermal decomposition, effectively providing flame retardant properties of asphalt. Taking into account both economic and flame retardant performance factors, the optimal dosage was found to be 7% by asphalt mass. At 140°C, the solubility parameter difference between DATE and asphalt was minimised to 0.53 (J/cm3)1/2, indicating the best compatibility. The optimal mixing temperature for asphalt with a 7% DATE content is 140°C. This innovative warm-mix flame retardant improves safety in tunnel construction and operation.

Structural Transformations within the Solvate Ionic Liquid [Li(Triglyme)][NTf2]: Implications for Self-Diffusion, Viscosity, and Ionic Conductivity.

Solvate ionic liquids (SILs) are a promising new class of electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries. Prominent SIL candidates are equimolar mixtures of lithium salts with weakly interacting anions and glyme. In particular, the equimolar mixture of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ([Li][NTf2]) and triglyme (G3) is of great interest. It has been suggested that this mixture exhibits a behavior similar to ionic liquids due to the formation of stable 1:1 complexes of [Li]+ with G3 molecules. We use up to multimicrosecond molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to better understand the structure and dynamics of the mixtures for varying mixing ratios and temperatures and to characterize the typical coordination patterns of the [Li]+ complexes. We find that at low [Li][NTf2] content, each [Li]+ cation is, on average, coordinated by two G3 molecules. For nearly equimolar mixtures, the complex changes to a one-fold G3-coordinated cation plus one additional anion. For higher than equimolar salt concentrations, cations are increasingly surrounded by their counterions, forming lithium bridges between adjacent anions. We observe that the structure primarily depends on the mixture composition, while it is remarkably temperature-insensitive. The latter suggests that cluster equilibria in the SIL are subject to only small entropy differences, retaining the SIL-like structural features up to more than 200 °C. We demonstrate that the structural changes have a major impact on the transport properties of the system. For the investigated temperatures, the self-diffusion coefficients of all components decrease by several orders of magnitude with increasing [Li][NTf2] content, while the viscosity strongly increases. For mole fractions between 0.4 and 0.5, both [Li]+ and G3 move concertedly and exhibit similar self-diffusion coefficients, indicating the formation of stable 1:1 complexes. We conclude that these mixtures can be categorized as highly temperature-stable SILs with possible implications for battery technology.

A State-of-the-Practice Review on the Challenges of Asphalt Binder and a Roadmap Towards Sustainable Alternatives-A Call to Action.

Increasing traffic loads, extreme climatic conditions, and environmental regulations highlight the need to re-evaluate the use of existing asphalt binders in pavement construction. This paper examines the limitations of conventional and modified asphalt binders by incorporating a comprehensive literature review that focuses on performance, environmental impact, and economic issues. Studies show that binder grade selection, mixing and compaction temperatures, and ageing affect pavement performance and may reduce pavement service life by 10% to 30%. Although modifiers such as polymers and nanomaterials can improve rutting and moisture damage resistance by up to 50%, they have limited effects on fatigue and thermal cracking resistance. Moreover, these modifiers can affect the asphalt mixture production process due to source variability, leading to complex mixing methods, increased cost, and higher emissions. Additionally, high-temperature asphalt mixture production increases air pollution by 250%, causing health risks. Furthermore, asphalt binder and mixture production account for over 50% of the total pavement costs, and the rising asphalt binder prices place a burden on highway budgets. This review highlights the critical research gaps including source variability, testing and mixing methods, and environmental impact of modifiers and provides a future roadmap for developing cost-effective and sustainable alternatives and their practical implementation.

Correlation Studies on Sensorial and Textural Characteristics of Mohanthal During Optimization of Sugar Syrup Concentration

ABSTRACT Traditionally, Halwais used their experience to determine the concentration of sugar syrup, which plays a critical role in the body and texture of Indian sweets such as Mohanthal. However, variations in sugar syrup concentration can significantly alter the final product’s quality. This study aimed to optimize the sugar syrup concentration and ghee-besan mixture temperature and to establish correlations between the sensory, textural, and color attributes of Mohanthal. Preliminary trials determined the optimal roasting temperature and the use of freshly milled besan. Three sugar syrup concentrations (70, 75, and 80°Brix) and three mixture temperatures (75, 100, and 125°C) were evaluated. Significant effects (p < 0.05) of syrup strength, mixing temperature, and their interaction were observed on hardness, cohesiveness, springiness, gumminess, chewiness, color indices (browning and whiteness), and moisture content. The highest sensory acceptance was achieved using 75°Brix sugar syrup added at 100°C. Using powdered sugar instead of syrup resulted in a less desirable product with poor texture and sensory quality. The findings provide a scientific basis for standardizing Mohanthal production, enabling industrial-scale manufacturing with consistent quality. Future research is recommended to focus on shelf-life extension, packaging technologies, and adaptation of optimized processes for large-scale production.

Wind-driven coastal upwelling causes synoptic-to-intraseasonal variations in tidal temperature variability near a strong shelf front in the northern South China Sea in summer

Tidal variability and coastal upwelling are some of the most important processes in global shelf seas. With observations and high-resolution numerical simulation, we investigate the synoptic-to-intraseasonal variations in tidal temperature variability to the east of the Leizhou Peninsula and Qiongzhou Strait in the northern South China Sea and clarify the underlying dynamics. The results indicate that tidal temperature variability is most significant in a narrow meridional band in shallow waters (&amp;lt; 40 m) to the east of the Leizhou Peninsula and Qiongzhou Strait in the summer when there are strong thermal fronts located on the sea floor slope. The summer mean diurnal standard deviation of hourly temperature can reach up to 0.93°C. Tidal temperature variability in summer exhibits no spring-neap cycles but strong synoptic-to-intraseasonal variations, with the diurnal standard deviation of hourly temperature varying significantly from 0°C to 2.36°C. Further analyses indicate that synoptic-to-intraseasonal variations in tidal temperature variability in the summer are predominantly caused by wind-driven coastal upwelling. When southerly winds are weak, coastal upwelling is weak and leads to the offshore thermal front being located far away from the Leizhou Peninsula. Waters between the offshore thermal front and the Leizhou Peninsula/Qiongzhou Strait are mixed well and experience insignificant tidal temperature variability. When southerly winds are strong, coastal upwelling is strong and results in the offshore thermal front moving westward close to the Leizhou Peninsula. This facilitates the formation of the nearshore thermal front in combination with the complex topography and tidal currents. Tidal current-induced swinging of the nearshore thermal front then generates significant tidal temperature variability. The above results highlight the importance of coastal upwelling/downwelling in modulating tidal temperature variability near ocean thermal fronts in the shelf seas.

Comparison of hot and warm asphalt mixture workability with different types of filler

The study aims to determine the impacts of using the WAM pavement by adding the Sasol wax Sasobit to asphalt pengrade 40-50 widely used in paving. The amount of Sasobit added (1% to 3%) by weight of asphalt. Physical and rheological tests have been used to determine the optimum content of Sasobit that will enhance the local asphalt to withstand the high temperatures in summer in Iraq. The results showed that the optimum content is 3% by weight of asphalt. This percentage was used to produce a WAM mix with different fillers of hydrated lime, limestone, and cement. Asphalt mixtures with hydrated lime for HMA and WAM have lower torque values and are more workable than other types of fillers while mixtures with limestone filler have a high torque and less workable than others. Sasobit additive reduces the mixing temperature by about 12-15 °C and compaction by about 13 °C.

Identification, classification and selection of warm mix additives based on workability, chemical and performance characteristics

ABSTRACT Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) technology enhances pavement sustainability by reducing energy consumption and emissions during the production of asphalt mixture. This study aimed to identify, classify and select suitable WMA additives based on the performance requirements for specific locations. Two base binders (VG30 and PMB40) and eight WMA additives were evaluated. Initially, the identification of WMA additives was carried out using workability approach by studying their reduction in mixing and compaction temperature. It was found that the workability approach was able to quantify the mixing and compaction temperatures for WMA modified binders. About 20°C and 17–22°C reduction in mixing and compaction temperatures, respectively, were obtained with the addition of different WMA additives. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) has been employed for more precise classification of WMA additives based on functional groups. FTIR classified chemical additives into Amine–Silane and Amine-based additives whereas organic additives were classified as wax-type and Amine-based organic additives. The engineering relevance was demonstrated through performance evaluation of critical distresses such as rutting, fatigue cracking, low temperature cracking and moisture damage. A ranking framework was developed to guide the selection of WMA additives offering a systematic and practical tool for constructing durable asphalt pavements under diverse environmental and traffic conditions.

Effects of waste plastic addition via dry method and pre-mixing temperature on the mechanical performance of asphalt concrete

Incorporating waste plastic (WP) into asphalt concrete (AC) offers an alternative strategy to increase recycling rates. The absence of a standardised procedure has led to varied mixing methods and roles of WP in AC. Polypropylene (PP) is the most generated type of WP in the United States. This study explores mixing procedures to incorporate PP on AC and its effects on AC mechanical performance. Four mixtures were studied: AC1 and AC2 (references) and AC1-PP-MM1 and AC1-PP-MM2 with 1% PP considering two mixing methods. Hamburg Wheel tracking test and indirect tensile asphalt cracking test were conducted to assess mechanical responses. Statistical analysis showed no significant effect of PP addition on AC's cracking resistance of the studied mixes. Moreover, higher mixing temperatures facilitated PP melting, improving aggregate coating and enhancing resistance to rutting and moisture damage. Thus, incorporating WPs into asphalt mixtures can offer a technical solution while reducing landfill disposal.

Multidimensional Nova Simulations with an Extended Buffer and Lower Initial Mixing Temperatures

A classical nova is a thermonuclear runaway initiated on a white dwarf accreting solar-like material from its stellar companion. Once the white dwarf accretes enough mass, the pressure at the base of the accreted layer reaches a critical point, leading to the ignition of the hydrogen fuel at their interface. This paper presents a set of two-dimensional CO classical nova simulations with an extended buffer zone of a fixed low density and temperature between the top of the accreted layer and the upper boundary, allowing us to capture the thermonuclear outburst in the domain. Our domain reduces the role of the upper-outflow boundary condition that has affected previous simulations and allows us to explore the nucleosynthesis evolution in detail. We also study the effects of the initial temperature perturbation and buffer size to explore their sensitivity in our simulations. Finally, we start our simulations with a lower temperature at the base of the accreted layer ( 7×107K) than previous work, allowing us to capture mixing earlier in the evolution, reducing the effects of the mixing-length-theory assumptions. This allows for a more realistic description of convective transport in our models.

Evaluating water injection compatibility and scale-formation reduction in a middle east reservoir using direct pore-scale visualization and NaOH treatment

Water injection into a reservoir is a necessary process throughout the reservoir’s lifespan. However, it can lead to certain side effects, such as scale precipitation in production wells and surface facilities due to water incompatibility. This can result in damage to the well, reservoir, and ultimately a decline in production which happened in one of the west of Karoon’s reservoirs and caused the well lost. For solving this problem this case study was conducted with the brine of the reservoir in the reservoir temperature (120 °C) and different economical water samples for water injection. When water combines with the formation water, it can form sediments that cause incompatibility, leading to the precipitation of inorganic scale deposits in surface facilities, flow lines, wells, and even the reservoir itself. Therefore, it is crucial to design the injected water to minimize incompatibility. To address this issue, water compatibility tests should be conducted on the water samples to prevent scale precipitation and ensure successful water injection. In order to investigate this phenomenon, experiments were carried out in both dynamic and static phases. Water samples from the lagoon, mineral water, and synthetic water were mixed with formation water at different temperatures and mixing ratios in static tests. The results indicate that synthetic water (S) was generally incompatible with formation water in most experiments. While mineral water (M) showed compatibility in some mixing ratios and temperatures, lagoon water (L) demonstrated greater compatibility with formation water compared to M water. In cases where M water showed better compatibility, the difference in scale formation between L water and M water was negligible. Based on the availability and the results of this research, L water was chosen as the more compatible water among the three selected samples. Subsequently, tests were conducted using lagoon water and formation water. A glass micromodel with a designed pattern was utilized to observe scaling formation and distribution easily. Photos captured through fluorescent scanning, along with a MATLAB code developed to determine the percentage of reduced porosity, revealed that approximately half of the pores were plugged. To address this reduced porosity, a novel technology involving the use of NaOH in a static situation (jar test) was employed. The jar test was conducted at four different temperatures near the reservoir and well’s temperature (120 °C, 95 °C, 85 °C, and 75 °C) with two percent mixing of lagoon water in contact with the formation water of this case study. These tests were repeated under the same conditions but with the addition of NaOH to the mixing water. The results of this innovative technology showed promising outcomes, as the weight of scales was reduced, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed a transformation to more soluble scales both in dynamic and static tests.

The Restorative Effect of Urban Forest Vegetation Types and Slope Positions on Human Physical and Mental Health

The restorative effects of various environmental factors within urban forests on physical and mental health exhibit significant differences. Specifically, vegetation types and topographical slope positions are key elements contributing to the environmental heterogeneity of urban forests. However, there is a lack of studies that have concurrently examined the health restoration effects of both factors. This study conducted an empirical experiment on university students in urban forests during the autumn season, investigating the effects of different vegetation types and slope positions on physiological and psychological restoration, and identifying the key environmental factors contributing to these effects. The results show the following: (1) Urban forests with different vegetation types exhibit varying restorative effects, with coniferous forests offering greater physiological restoration benefits than coniferous–broadleaf mixed forests. (2) Slope position affects both physiological and psychological restoration. In coniferous forests, the restorative effects on physical and mental health are greater at the top and midslope positions compared to the bottom slope position; in coniferous–broadleaf mixed forests, the best physiological restoration effects occur at the midslope position. (3) The key environmental factors influencing physiological restoration in urban coniferous forests are panoramic green coverage and elevation. (4) In urban coniferous–broadleaf mixed forests, temperature, humidity, and wind speed are the key factors affecting physiological restoration. This study reveals the restorative differences in urban forests under different vegetation types and slope positions, identifies the key environmental factors influencing health restoration, and provides a theoretical basis for further research on the impact of urban forests on human health. Future urban forest layout and design should fully consider the characteristics of different slope positions, optimize microclimate regulation, and maximize their role in promoting public health.