Particle Size Distribution Analysis Research Articles

Capping Agents Enable Well-Dispersed and Colloidally Stable Metallic Magnesium Nanoparticles.

Mg nanoparticles are an emerging plasmonic material due to Mg's abundance and ability to sustain size- and shape-dependent localized surface plasmon resonances across a broad range of wavelengths from the ultraviolet to the near infrared. However, Mg nanoparticles are colloidally unstable due to their tendency to aggregate and sediment. Nanoparticle aggregation can be inhibited by the addition of capping agents that impart surface charges or steric repulsion. Here, we report that the common capping agents poly(vinyl) pyrrolidone (PVP), polyethylene glycol (PEG), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) interact differently and have varied effects on the aggregation and colloidal stability of Mg nanoparticles. Nanoparticles synthesized in the presence of PVP showed improvements in colloidal stability and reduced aggregation, as observed by electron microscopy and optical spectroscopy. The binding of PVP was confirmed through infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The influence of PVP on the reduction of di-n-butyl magnesium was evaluated through analysis of particle size distribution and Mg yield as a function of reaction time, reducing agent, and temperature. Furthermore, the presence of PVP drastically changes the growth pattern of metallic Mg structures obtained from the reduction of the Grignard reagents butylmagnesium chloride and phenylmagnesium chloride by lithium naphthalenide: large polycrystalline aggregates and well-separated faceted nanoparticles grow without and with PVP, respectively. This study provides new synthetic routes that generate colloidally stable and well-dispersed Mg nanoparticles for plasmonic and other applications.

Advanced analytical techniques for assessing and detecting microplastic pollution in water and wastewater systems

AbstractThe current study focuses on the sources and formations of microplastics (MPs) in receiving environments, addressing various analytical methods used for the detection and characterization of MPs in water and wastewater, including particle size distribution analysis, FTIR, Raman, SEM‐EDS, thermo analytical methods (Pyro GC‐MS, TGA‐MS, TED‐GC‐MS, TGA‐SPE/TDS‐GC‐MS) and combine techniques (Tagging method, Liquid chromatography, SEM dispersive X‐ray spectrometer). The study fills a gap in the literature by evaluating the advantages and limitations of advanced analytical methods, in addition to commonly used methods like FTIR, Raman, and SEM, providing a perspective on other significant analytical approaches. By examining and comparing different analytical methods used to identify and detect MPs in water and wastewater environments, the research guides scientists in making informed choices when selecting a specific method. A better understanding of these methods will inform future research and facilitate more effective management of potential environmental impacts and human health risks. This study also contributes significantly to preserving water resources, human health, and establishing a sustainable environment by encouraging the generation of actionable information to assess the potential risks of MPs in water and wastewater sources and to develop strategies for reducing their presence.

Comparative Evaluation of Titanium Feedstock Powder Derived from Recycled Battlefield Scrap vs. Virgin Powder for Cold Spray Processing.

Gas-atomization is extensively used to produce metallic feedstock powders for additive manufacturing processes, including gas dynamic cold spray processing. This work explores the potential utility of on-demand recycled titanium scrap feedstock powder as a viable substitute for virgin powder sources. Three recycled titanium powders were atomized from different battlefield scrap sources using a mobile foundry developed by MolyWorks Materials Corporation. Recycled titanium alloy powders were compared against virgin Ti-6Al-4V powder to verify there were no significant variations between the recycled and virgin materials. Powder characterization methods included chemical analysis, particle size distribution analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Karl Fischer (KF) titration moisture content analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) phase analysis, microparticle compression testing (MCT), and nanoindentation. Results indicate that recycled titanium powder provides a viable alternative to virgin titanium alloy powders without compromising mechanical capabilities, microstructural features, or ASTM-specified composition and impurity standards. The results of this work will be used to aid future research efforts that will focus on optimizing cold spray parameters to maximize coating density, mechanical strength, and hardness of recycled titanium feedstock powders. "Cold spray" presents opportunities to enhance the sustainability of titanium component production through the utilization of recycled feedstock powder, mitigating issues of long lead times and high waste associated with the use of conventional virgin feedstock.

Evaluating the Impact of Using HEFA Fuel on the Particulate Matter Emissions from a Turbine Engine

The dynamically growing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry and the implemented European policy create the need for conducting research on the actual benefits of using alternative fuels in aviation. The aim of this research was to assess the impact of HEFA (hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids) fuel on the particulate matter emission indicators of an aircraft engine. This article presents the results of the measurements of particle emissions from a jet engine fueled by a blend of aviation kerosene and HEFA fuel (with HEFA content at 5%, 20%, and 30% by volume). A positive effect of HEFA on both the number and mass indices of particles was observed. The use of SAF fuel led to a reduction in the particulate number index by 90% and the particulate mass index by 75%. The Particle Number Emission Index (EIN) for an engine fueled with Jet A-1 exhibited values ranging from 5.23 × 1016 to 1.33 × 1017 particles per kilogram. The use of HEFA fuel (30% content) allowed for a reduction in the EIN to the range of 2.83 × 1015 to 1.04 × 1016 particles per kilogram. A detailed analysis of particle size distribution (PSD) for both the number and volume of particles was conducted. It was noted that neither the fuel composition nor the engine operating parameters significantly affected the shape of the PSD, but the use of HEFA fuel distinctly reduced the values of the number-based PSD. It was observed that the volume-based PSD had a bimodal shape, indicating a significant contribution of particles larger than 100 nm, forming the so-called soot mode. Our findings suggest that even a small amount of HEFA fuel yields satisfactory results in reducing particulate matter emissions.

An investigation to enhance the performance of molten carbonate-direct coal/carbon fuel cells through improvements in anode layouts and the compositions of carbonate electrolyte

Two anode configurations are systematically tested in composite electrolytes of molten carbonate with Cs2CO3 at various temperatures using different carbon fuels, including bituminous coal, bituminous coal char, carbon black, and graphite powder. The results of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy show that electrolytes composed of (Li-K)2CO3 62:38 doped with 20 wt% Cs2CO3 and utilizing graphite powder as a fuel exhibit reduced ohmic and charge transfer resistance. This can be attributed to the decreased surface tension, which enhances the gas solubility of the reactants within the electrolytic matrix. The analysis of particle size distribution through laser diffraction reveals that the graphite specimen has the smallest mean particle size, resulting in an enhanced rate of electrochemical oxidation. The ultimate and proximate analysis indicates that graphite powder has a lower moisture and ash ratio along with a significantly higher fixed carbon content compared to other carbon fuels. Therefore, the obtained V-j &P-j curves in Anode 1 illustrate that graphite powder yields the highest current density and power density of 903 mA/cm2 and 172 mW/cm2, respectively, at an operating temperature of 680 °C under the laboratory conditions. These values surpass those reported in the existing literature. In contrast, Anode 2 exhibits low performance, due to ash particles regime-controlled at the lower part of the chamber during the coal pyrolysis. Based on results, we suggest that graphite powder is the promising fuel candidate for MC-DCFC to achieve the higher performance.

Mechanistic and experimental study of VxCy nitridation in N2 atmosphere to prepare high-quality vanadium nitride

Vanadium nitride (VN) serves as a versatile material in various applications such as electrodes, ceramics, catalysts, and alloy components owing to its robust electrical performance, favorable stability, and high hardness. However, conventional VN synthesis methods require long soaking times and high temperatures. This study investigates a method wherein VxCy powder was soaked in an N2 atmosphere for a shorter period of time at a lower temperature to produce high-quality VN particles. The mechanism underlying this process was investigated via thermodynamic analyses, ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations, and experimental studies. Thermodynamic analysis validates the thermodynamic feasibility of the reactions between VxCy and N2 to produce VN, while the atomic-level interactions between VxCy, N2, and surplus C atoms were comprehensively elucidated. By analyzing the two systems, it was discovered that the surplus C promoted the combination of N2 molecules with V atoms to form V–N in shorter AIMD simulation durations. Surplus C increased the chance of N2 molecules and V atoms to contact, similar to a catalytic effect, by activating N2 molecules to decompose and further reacted with V atoms to form VN. According to the experimental results, high-quality VN particles were formed at a heating temperature of 1323 K and soaking period of 90 min. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS), particle size distribution analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the final product. The O and N contents were measured by an O/N analyzer at 0.11% and 17.4%, respectively. Accordingly, a C/S analyzer measured the C content at 3.92%. These analyses indicate that high-quality VN can be obtained by the VxCy nitridation in N2 atmosphere.

Effects of pH and salt concentration on freeze-thaw fractionation of soymilk protein.

The two major storage proteins of soymilk are the globulins 7S and 11S. Freeze-thaw fractionation is a simple method for separating these proteins in raw soymilk. In this study, we assessed the freeze-thaw fractionation ability of raw soymilk under various pH (4.3-11.6) conditions and added salt (sodium chloride) concentrations (0.00-0.67 mol L-1). We successfully achieved fractionation within a pH range of 5.8-6.7 and when the salt concentration was 0.22 mol L-1 or lower. Analysis of particle size distribution and microscopic examination of soymilk revealed no direct correlation between particle size and freeze-thaw fractionation ability. Interestingly, it was confirmed that the ranges of zeta potential values associated with successful freeze-thaw fractionation in raw soymilk remained consistent across different pH and salt concentration conditions. These ranges were between -23 and -28 mV at pH levels ranging from 5.8 to 6.7 and between -18 and -29 mV at added salt concentrations ranging from 0 to 0.22 mol L-1. The pH and salt concentration in raw soymilk markedly influence the freeze-thaw fractionation process. We confirmed that the range of zeta potential values where fractionation was possible remained consistent under various pH and salt concentration conditions. These findings suggest that the zeta potential value might serve as an indicator for evaluating the freeze-thaw fractionation ability of raw soymilk. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Thermal Plasma Spheroidization and Characterization of Stainless Steel Powders Using Direct Current Plasma Technology

The production of spherical powders has recently registered a boost due to the need to fabricate new printing materials for Additive Manufacturing applications, from polymers and resins to metals and ceramics. Among these materials, stainless steels powders play a leading role, since they are widely used in industry and everyday life; indeed, micron-sized spherical stainless steel powders have specific characteristics and are considered as one of the best candidates for Additive Manufacturing systems and for application in a wide range of sectors. In this paper, stainless steel 316 L powders were used to explore and identify the best process parameters of a thermal plasma process able to produce spherical powders for Additive Manufacturing applications. X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Particle Size Distribution and Flowability analysis were performed to characterize reagents and products. Powders with a high circularity (>0.8) and improved flowability (<30 s/50 g) were successfully obtained. The collected results were compared with data available from the literature to identify the potential use of the spherical produced powders.

Palm Oil Fuel Ash and Fly Ash for a Partial Replacement of Cement in High-Quality, Environmentally Friendly Mortar as a Solution to Industrial Waste

This study explores the effects of incorporating palm oil fuel ash (POFA) and fly ash (FA) as partial cement substitutes on the mechanical properties and characteristics of high-quality mortar, specifically Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC). ECC mortar was fabricated by milling POFA waste and FA through a top-down method utilizing a ball mill. The resulting material was subjected to tests for slump flow, water absorption, compressive strength, and characterized through XRF, FTIR, SEM/EDX, and XRD analyses. FTIR analysis verified the existence of Si-O and Al-O groups within the composite made of POFA-FA ECC. XRF analysis of FA and POFA showed cementitious properties, with SiO2+Al2O3+Fe2O3 exceeding 50% and CaO surpassing 10%. SEM and XRD results indicated minimal cavity formation, suggesting a high compressive strength in the mortar. Particle size distribution analysis revealed prevalent particles in the 1.5×10−1 to 2.0×10−1 μm range. The compressive strength test after 28 days, incorporating 15% FA and 10% POFA, yielded the highest strength at 59.30 MPa. The water absorption values ranged from 1.25% to 2.67%, indicating that POFA-FA assists in the cement hydration process and also serves as a filler. As a result, the material’s density is very high, leading to fewer voids formed, thus reducing the trapped water, which significantly affects the mortar’s strength.

Assessment of heavy metal contamination and sediment characteristics in Ozomu lake, southern Nigeria: Implications for environmental health

This study investigates heavy metal concentrations and surface sediment characteristics in the Ozomu Lake, located in southern region of Nigeria. Sediment samples were systematically collected across three stations, over six months, spanning from March to August. This period encompasses the transition from the late dry season to the early wet season, offering valuable insights into the seasonal variations of heavy metal distribution and sediment properties. The concentrations of heavy metals in the sediment were determined using standard methods, along with the analysis of particle size distribution and organic content (% organic carbon and % organic matter). Essential findings reveal significant values. Iron (Fe) averaged 1194.86 mg/kg, zinc (Zn) 30.71 mg/kg, copper (Cu) 14.80 mg/kg, manganese (Mn) 17.43 mg/kg, lead (Pb) 1.17 mg/kg, and cadmium (Cd) 0.18 mg/kg. Enrichment factor (EF) assessments indicate notable enrichment in Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Cd. Key sediment properties include total organic carbon (%TOC) at 4.46%, total organic matter (%TOM) at 7.72%, and particle size distribution with clay at 8.99%, silt at 6.24%, and sand at 84.77%. Principal component analysis (PCA) uncovers intricate relationships among heavy metals, shedding light on their sources and distribution. Geo-accumulation indices (Igeo) reveal moderate pollution levels in Fe and Cd, suggesting potential ecological risks. Conversely, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Pb remain within unpolluted ranges. The study enhances our understanding of heavy metal contamination in Ozomu Lake, emphasizing the need for tailored management and conservation strategies. Future research should explore seasonal variations and specific pollution sources in the lake's catchment area. This study contributes valuable insights into Ozomu Lake's environmental dynamics and underscores the importance of sustainable management for its long-term health and ecological integrity.

Evaluation of in vitro dissolution profiles of modified-release metoprolol succinate tablets crushed using mortar and pestle technique

PurposeClinical practice guidelines advise against crushing modified-release dosage forms. Metoprolol succinate modified-release (MS-MR) tablets are commonly crushed in clinical practice to facilitate administration to patients with swallowing difficulties or using feeding tubes. To date, the effect of this practice remains unexplored. The in vitro effects of crushing commercially available MS-MR tablets were explored using a holistic approach. MethodsDissolution profiles of crushed versus whole MS-MR tablets were compared. Tablets were crushed to powder state using pragmatic method mimicking hospital practices. For standardization purposes, the same operator, duration (60 seconds), hand, and mortar-pestle apparatus were used. Dissolution studies were conducted per U.S. Pharmacopeia at pH 1.2, pH 4.5, and pH 6.8 with USP apparatus 2 (paddle) at rotation speed of 50 rpm at 37±0.5 °C in 500 mL dissolution media. Samples were withdrawn at predetermined time points. Percent drug dissolved was measured by validated UV–vis Spectrophotometry. Comprehensive analysis of the dissolution data was conducted using model-independent, model-dependent, and ANOVA-based approaches (SPSS v.23 at α=0.05). Similarity (f2) and difference (f1) factors were calculated to compare the dissolution profiles between crushed (CT) and whole tablets (WT). Goodness of fit (GOF) analysis examined the compliance between in vitro dissolution behaviors and several drug release models. Model selection was based on GOF plots, Akaike criteria and adjusted coefficient of determination (R2adj). Imaging and particle size distribution analysis were conducted to examine associated surface and morphologic changes. ResultsThe dissolution profiles were not similar at pH 4.5 (f2=45.43, f1=18.97) and pH 6.8 (f2=31.47, f1=32.94). CT best fitted with Higuchi (pH 1.2: R2adj=0.9990), Weibull (pH 4.5: R2adj=0.9884), and Korsmeyer-Peppas (pH 6.8: R2adj=0.9719). Contrastingly, WT best fitted with Hopfenberg (pH 1.2: R2adj=0.9986), logistic (pH 4.5: R2adj=0.9839) and first-order (pH 6.8: R2adj=0.9979) models. A significant difference in the dissolution profiles was found between CT and WT using multivariate analysis of variance per time points and between the tablet forms (p=0.004). This was confirmed by unparalleled dissolution profiles. Crushing resulted in variations in particle size and surface morphological changes to the micropellets. ConclusionCrushing practices change the dissolution profile of MS-MR tablets by deforming the surface morphology of embedded micropellets. Amounts of drug dissolved between CT and WT were not the same at the compared time points across gastrointestinal pH ranges. This suggests potential clinical impact on plasma-concentration profiles of critically ill patients using feeding tube.

Model assessment of energy recovery potential from textile wastewater by high-rate membrane activated sludge process - Benchmarking against sewage

The study evaluated the energy recovery potential of denim processing wastewater when treated by a membrane activated sludge, (MAS), implementing a specific model derived for this configuration. Emphasis was also placed upon particle size distribution (PSD) analysis. The results were benchmarked against sewage. They revealed an energy conservation rate of around 50 % for denim wastewater for super-fast operation at sludge age (θX) 1.0–2.0 d, declining to 40 % for high-rate operation at sludge age 3.0–4.0 d. The corresponding rates were higher for sewage, indicating that energy conservation was not a function of wastewater strength, but depended more on the PSD of COD. The results revealed that MAS was the best option for energy conservation, which was optimized when it was operated at super-fast mode (θX < 2.0 d). They also showed that the conventional activated sludge (AS) system with gravity settling had inherent drawbacks, because stability of operation necessary to ensure energy conservation and effluent quality at this operation range cannot be maintained. PSD analysis should be recognized and implemented as a new and indispensable tool for wastewater characterization.

Development of silica - cenosphere aerogel composites for thermal insulation applications

Novel aerogel composites were prepared by sol-gel process and dried by adding 5 to 15 weight percentage of cenosphere to silica aerogel prepared by subcritical drying process. Silica-cenosphere aerogels were calcined at 1200ºC, as α-cristobalite phase was formed in silica aerogel at 1200°C. At temperatures less than 1200°C only amorphous silica was found in silica aerogel. Microstructural analysis showed spherical shape in different sizes with micro pores in surface of cenosphere and popcorn-like structure in silica-cenosphere aerogels. Effect of cenosphere addition in silica aerogel was studied by FT-IR. The particle size and distribution of prepared aerogels and cenosphere were analysed by particle size distribution analyser. The average particle size of silica aerogel was found to reduce by increased addition of cenosphere. The nitrogen adsorption studies of cenosphere and silicacenosphere aerogels indicated type II isotherm which represents macroporous/nonporous unrestricted monolayer – multilayer adsorption. The powder flow behaviour of the cenosphere and prepared aerogels were found to be strongly dependent on the particle size and distribution. The compressive strength and thermal conductivity of all the samples were found to be dependent on the porosity and bulk density. Among all the samples, lower density and higher porosity was observed in SC15. The silica aerogel recorded the highest strength value and was reduced by the addition of cenosphere except for SC5. The thermal conductivity was also found to be lowered for silica-cenosphere aerogels than pure silica aerogel and was found suitable for thermal insulation application that do not require strength.

Utilization of iron fillings solid waste for optimum biodiesel production.

This study explores the innovative application of iron filings solid waste, a byproduct from mechanical workshops, as a heterogeneous catalyst in the production of biodiesel from waste cooking oil. Focusing on sustainability and waste valorization, the research presents a dual-benefit approach: addressing the environmental issue of solid waste disposal while contributing to the renewable energy sector. Particle size distribution analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Thermal analysis (TG-DTA), and FTIR analysis were used to characterize the iron filings. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to guide a series of experiments that were conducted to identify the optimum transesterification settings. Important factors that greatly affect the production of biodiesel are identified by the study, including catalyst loading, reaction time, methanol-to-oil ratio, reaction temperature, and stirring rate. The catalyst proved to be successful as evidenced by the 96.4% biodiesel conversion efficiency attained under ideal conditions. The iron filings catalyst's reusability was evaluated, demonstrating its potential for numerous applications without noticeably decreasing activity. This work offers a road towards more environmentally friendly and sustainable chemical processes in energy production by making a strong argument for using industrial solid waste as a catalyst in the biodiesel manufacturing process.

Synthesis and characterization of gold nano particles using barleria cristata for antimicrobial and anticancer applications

A nano revolution is necessary for the integration of nanoscience and medicine. Drug delivery, electronics, biological sciences, optics, and catalysis are among the fields in which metal nanoparticles find application. The objective of this work is to extract leaves from Barleria cristata in order to produce ecologically friendly gold nanoparticles (Au NP) for pharmacological studies. Several human pathogens were used to assess the biological mechanism and antibacterial properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in relation to their potential as a cancer treatment. An aqueous extract with a natural pH of 7.4 was obtained by reacting with 1 mM chloroauric acid (HAuCl4.3H2O), and it was then kept at room temperature. The colour changed from pale yellow to pink right away, indicating the reduction of Au3+ ions to Au 0. Using a UV-Visible spectrophotometer, the synthesised AuNPs were seen. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), field emission transmission electron microscopy (FE-TEM), and particle size distribution and zeta potential analysis are a few examples of analytical techniques. The disc diffusion method was used to confirm the extract's antibacterial properties in vitro on a few human illnesses. The MTT test was used to confirm the extract's anticancer properties on Hela carcinoma cell lines, revealing IC50 values of 50 μg/mL.

Investigating the room- and cryo-milling impact in lignocellulosic biomass and its consequence over pyrolysis and oxidative treatments

The lignocellulosic biomass recalcitrance is the uppermost factor for the utilization of this renewable resource. The development of new pre-treatments, addressed to enhance performance in lignocellulosic biomass conversion into biofuels, fine chemicals, and as potential sources of building blocks for materials, must be focus in two main areas: effectiveness (cost-effective and chemical effective) and green chemistry. In this research, a set of different biomass sources (farmer, harvested wild trees and secondary products) were studied to evaluate the high efficiency of the non-liquid nitrogen (LN) and LN-treated biomass samples’ planetary ball milling performance. The samples have been characterized by particle size distribution, thermogravimetric, FT-IR, statistical chemometric and chemical oxidation analysis. The results have shown a high level on the rupture of the crystallinity and depolymerization degrees of the cellulose and the lignin, for both, non-LN and LN-treated samples. The thermogravimetric analysis showed a clear diminishing in temperature degradation, and a larger amount of biomass degraded at lower temperature, as well as, a high chemical oxidation degree than not milled samples. Finally, the LN-treated samples even exhibited a lower degradation temperature, a larger amount of biomass degraded at lower temperature and a higher oxidation degree, than those non-LN milled.

Enrichment of mineral raw materials: Selection of local clay minerals for the purpose of obtaining adsorbents for purification of petroleum products

Geotechnologies and subsoil use play a key role in the rational development of the mineral resource complex, requiring innovative approaches to the enrichment of mineral raw materials. This article discusses a promising direction in the beneficiation of mineral raw materials, focused on obtaining adsorbents from local clay minerals for the effective purification of petroleum products and environmental protection. The article presents a study on the potential of local clay minerals to create effective adsorbents using a mechanochemical activator. The study includes a review of the chemical and mineralogical composition of clays collected in the region, as well as their particle size distribution and differential thermal analysis.

Comparative Study of the Rosin-Rammler and Gates-Gaudin-Schuhmann Particle Size Distribution Models for Microwave-Assisted Crushing Analysis

Microwaves selectively heat dielectric minerals within the ore particles during a relatively brief exposure period, inducing thermal stresses that generate cracks, thereby diminishing the structural integrity of the ore particles. The immediate effect of employing this technique is an alteration in the particle size distribution (PSD) of the comminution product. In this research, two types of diamond-bearing kimberlite ore underwent microwave irradiation before the crushing process. The microwave experimentation was carried out utilizing a multi-variable power system with a maximum capacity of 15 kW, within a single-mode cavity structure. The exposure time was adjustable to vary the input microwave energy, which ranged from 6 kJ to 270 kJ. Three distinct narrow feed size classes were examined: -31.5 +16 mm, -16 +6.7 mm, and -31.5 +6.7 mm. Each sample weighed five hundred grams. Both the microwave-treated samples and the untreated samples (as-received) were subjected to crushing using a single-roll crusher. The PSD of the crushed product was determined through a standard sieving test and subsequently analyzed using empirical PSD models. These models are advantageous for enhancing the accuracy of PSD analysis by linearizing datasets that often exhibit skewness towards the distribution's tail end. Two widely recognized empirical PSD models, the Rosin-Rammler (RR) and Gates-Gaudin-Schuhmann (GGS) models, were employed to assess how microwave pre-treatment influences the PSD of the crushed product. Various comparative parameters derived from these models, such as the P50, distribution uniformity (DP), and critical fine sizes, were evaluated for both untreated crushed samples and the samples treated with microwaves. The findings indicated that crushed products treated with microwaves generally displayed improved alignment with both PSD models in comparison to the untreated samples. Notably, the GGS model exhibited marginally higher overall r-squared values compared to the RR model. Moreover, the microwave-treated samples showcased a slightly coarser and more uniform PSD when contrasted with the untreated counterparts. Among the various microwave energy inputs tested, the lowest input at the highest power level yielded the most substantial increments in P50 and DP. Simultaneously, it led to the most significant reduction in fractions corresponding to critical fine sizes.

Enhancing continuous-flow reactions via compression-molding of solid catalysts and dilutants in packed-bed systems.

In this study, we present an improved packed-bed system designed for continuous-flow reactions using platinum (Pt)-black powder and silica gel (SiO2). The Pt-leaching from the reaction column is suppressed via compression-molding of the Pt and SiO2. Scanning electron microscopy results and particle-size distribution analysis demonstrate that crushed and downsized SiO2 is effective in suppressing outflow. Furthermore, we successfully conducted a scaled-up experiment of the flow reaction using a large column, achieving excellent productivity.

Imcube: A static particle size analyzer for all shape types via advanced vision tools and integrated machinery

An integrated machinery to perform the analysis of particle size distribution through image processing formulations is presented. The product is comprehensive and flexible to many different industrial needs with a tailored hardware integration and design, which employs a set of sophisticated algorithms for the computational efficiency and accuracy. Compared to the traditional methods, the architecture is superior and provides significant impact as irregular and noncircular particles from a wide dimension spectrum can be analysed instantly, eliminating the need for significant manual effort with conventional trays with low accuracy. The reports are obtained through the built-in screen, mounted on the device, at customer specified detail level in addition to state-of-the-art presentations benefiting common statistics. The prediction performance, which is validated through industrial data, can further be developed for smaller particles, as a higher resolution camera implementation is necessary, with a heuristic algorithm to estimate the maximum likelihood of particle sizes when they overlap on the measurement tray.