Performance Test Research Articles

Soil nematode community profiling using reference-free mito-metagenomics

Nematodes are ubiquitous and diverse components of soil ecosystems worldwide. The 18S-based metabarcoding is known to have low species-level resolution and introduce bias in PCR. The mito-metagenomics (MMG) approach involves directly sequencing pooled samples, yields numerous mitochondrial reads that can be assembled into full or partial mitogenomes. This method circumvents the challenges associated with PCR-based metabarcoding and hold significant promise in biodiversity and phylogeny study. However, a reference database is typically required to extract mito-reads/contigs and provide taxonomic or phylogenetic context, thereby limiting its applicability. In this study, we introduced a novel reference-free pipeline for MMG assembly and diversity estimation. This pipeline has been integrated into a snakemake workflow, enabling the generation of output that is readily useable for phylogeny reconstruction in a single run. The performance tests have indicated that this new approach surpasses reference-based methods in soil nematode community profiling. We demonstrated that assembly quality improves with increasing sequencing depth, recommending an average of 1–2 Gb per species to achieve acceptable MMG assembly. Our pipeline presents an opportunity to create high-resolution phylogenies and assess diversity for poorly understood taxa, including neglected microscopic eukaryotes.

Tribological properties of graphene oxide reinforced aramid paper-based composites

Self-lubricating paper-based composites can provide technological solutions such as low friction and extended service life for the aerospace airframe kinematic mechanical components. To improve the tribological properties of aramid short fibers, this study chemically combined graphene oxide (GO) with aramid nanofibers (ANF) through intermolecular forces, creating a self-lubricating GO-reinforced aramid paper-based composite GO/ANF. Mechanical performance tests have shown that the introduction of GO can significantly improve the fracture strength, Young's modulus, and toughness of paper-based composites. The frictional performance test results show that compared with ANF, the GO/ANF paper-based composites can maintain the lowest coefficient of friction (COF) and wear under high load and high sliding rate conditions. When the amount of GO added is 1 wt%, the COF and volume wear rate of GO/ANF paper-based composites are reduced by 23 % and 89 %, respectively. Mechanism analysis indicates that synergistic effects and friction transfer films are important factors contributing to the excellent performance of paper-based composites. This GO/ANF paper-based composite has good application prospects as a good anti-wear liner material in self-lubricating sliding bearing.

Design and Performance Test of an Implementable Rectenna Encapsulated in a Human Tissue Bio-Case Model

Design and Performance Test of an Implementable Rectenna Encapsulated in a Human Tissue Bio-Case Model

B-254 Analytical and Clinical Performance Evaluation of Plasma pTau217 in a Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory

Abstract Background Blood-based biomarkers provide an accessible and cost-effective tool for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Among these biomarkers, phosphorylated tau 217 (pTau217) shows promise for both AD diagnosis and differential diagnosis, as well as for facilitating access to emerging disease-modifying therapies. The ALZpath SIMOA pTau-217 v2 assay is a digital immunoassay designed for quantifying pTau-217 in human EDTA plasma samples. This study assesses the analytical performance of plasma pTau217 assays as a Laboratory Developed Test (LDT) appropriate for diagnostic application. Methods In this analytical study, we evaluate accuracy, precision, detection limits, linearity, and analyte stability. Plasma pTau217 levels were measured using the ALZpath pTau217 v2 assay on a single Quanterix HD-X SIMOA Analyzer platform at BC Neuroimmunology Lab. Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. As a clinical testing laboratory, our validation procedures are in accordance with CAP and CLIA requirements, with a primary focus on adhering to CLSI guidelines for both analytical and clinical performance testing. To determine a reference range and cut-off, samples of Amyloid PET-confirmed cases (n=263) and healthy subjects between the ages of 55 and 95, with a roughly equal ratio of males to females (n=219), were tested. Results The ALZpath pTau217 assay demonstrates an analytical measurement range of 0.0046 - 3.4056 ng/L, with a limit of blank (LoB) of 0.0019 ng/L, a limit of detection (LoD) of 0.0046 ng/L, and a limit of quantification (LoQ) of 0.03 ng/L. Linearity spans from 0.06 to 1.75 ng/L, with repeatability showing intra-laboratory precision above LoQ ≤ 20% CV. Stability is maintained at 4⁰C for ≤ 1 week, at room temperature for ≤ 72 hrs, at -20⁰C for ≤ 2 weeks, and at -70⁰C for ≤ 3 weeks, with freeze/thaw cycles tolerated up to 6 times. Moreover, interference is not detected at the maximum concentrations tested for albumin, unconjugated bilirubin, biotin, hemoglobin, creatinine, and heterophilic antibodies. The reference range was determined using the 95% reference interval, resulting in 0.398 ng/L. ROC analysis yielded an AUC of 0.932 with a Youden index of 0.338 ng/L. At the Youden index, sensitivity was 90.0% with a specificity of 85.6%. Specificity reached 95.5% at the upper cut point of 0.471 ng/L, while sensitivity was 94.8% at the lower cut point of 0.242 ng/L. Conclusions The outstanding analytical performance of pTau217 supports its adoption as a reliable screening and diagnostic tool in clinical practice, aiding clinicians in the accurate diagnosis of AD.

Design and Experiment of Compound Transplanter for Sweet Potato Seedling Belt

To address the issues of high labor intensity, excessive manpower requirements, low planting spacing qualification rates, low planting depth qualification rates, and low operational efficiency associated with sweet potato transplanting, a sweet potato seedling belt transplanter has been designed. This machine can perform multiple processes: precision tillage and ridge shaping, orderly seedling feeding from rolls, the efficient separation of seedlings from the belt, flexible gripping and shaping, precise soil covering and the mechanism of exposing seedling tips. A three-factor, three-level orthogonal test was carried out using the forward speed of the machine, the pitch of the screw belt and the rotational speed of the screw as the influencing factors of the performance test, and the qualified rate of planting spacing and the qualified rate of planting depth as the evaluation indexes. The test results indicated that the significance order of the factors affecting the qualification rate for planting spacing with the optimal combination of factors was as follows: a forward speed of 0.3 m·s−1, a ribbon spacing of 60 mm, and a screw speed of 160 rpm. Field trials confirmed that under optimal conditions, the average qualification rate for planting spacing was 90.37%, meeting relevant technical standards and agronomic requirements.

The Usefulness of the Regression-Based Normed SKT Short Cognitive Performance Test in Detecting Cognitive Impairment in a Community Sample.

Background: The SKT is a short cognitive performance test designed to assess impairments in memory and cognitive abilities such as attention and speed of information processing. In 2019, new regression-based norms for the English version of the SKT were calculated. This study has two aims: to establish valid cut-offs for distinguishing between no cognitive impairment, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia (1) and to cross-validate the new norms for detecting MCI and dementia in a community sample of older adults with clinical diagnoses (2). Methods: The validation sample included 143 older adults (mean age = 87.7, SD = 3.55) from the Sydney Memory and Aging Study (MAS Study). Participants were classified as having normal cognition, MCI, or dementia solely based on a consensus diagnosis; in addition, three tests (SKT, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination III (ACE-III)) to measure cognitive impairment were applied. Sensitivity and specificity for all three tests, as well as bivariate correlations, were calculated. Results: The sensitivity of the SKT for the differentiation of cognitive impairment (MCI or dementia) from normal cognition was 80.6%. The convergence between the SKT and the consensus diagnoses was 70.3% for all three diagnostic groups. All correlations between the three tests and the consensus diagnosis were significant (p < 0.01). Conclusions: In sum, it can be stated that the SKT is a valid tool for detecting early stages of cognitive impairment, performing very well in discriminating between no cognitive impairment and cognitive impairment (MCI or dementia).

Comparison study on SMC and grain-oriented laminated steel core for small-size axial flux permanent-magnet synchronous machines

Abstract This study aims to compare the soft magnetic composite (SMC) and grain-oriented (GO) steel stator axial flux permanent-magnet synchronous machine (AFPMSM) in terms of performance and iron losses. Stator cores are manufactured using both materials to perform experimental performance tests. The produced machines are designed for pump propulsion systems in left ventricular assist devices as an application area. The machines are modeled with several analytical equations, and iron losses and performance tests are carried out with AFPMSMs, finite element methods, and experimental setups. Our findings show that the torque density is higher in the GO steel stator AFPMSMs that can produce 15.07 percent more torque. GO steel material experimentally has 20.33 percent less iron loss as SMC material since the loss value per kilogram for SMC material is higher than that for GO steel. In addition, the saturation value of the SMC material is lower than that of the GO material according to the magnetic flux density value.&amp;#xD;

Efficient transformation of 1,2-propanediol to acetic acid with hydroxyapatite supported Pt/CoO nanoparticle catalysts in mild, base-free conditions

In this study, the selective oxidation of 1,2-propanediol (1,2-PDO) derived from biomass into high-value C2–C3 carboxylic acids was explored under base-free conditions, thus providing a sustainable alternative to fossil resources. This was achieved by promoting the oxidation of 1,2-PDO to acetic acid using hydroxyapatite (HAP)-supported bimetallic Pt − CoO nanoparticles under base-free conditions. The catalysts were thoroughly characterized using different techniques. Our findings indicate that the synergistic interaction between Pt and CoO significantly enhances the catalyst’s performance, promoting the C–C cleavage. Optimal results were obtained with a 4 % Pt1Co1/HAP catalyst, achieving a selectivity of 99.2 % for acetic acid at a 1,2-PDO conversion rate of 62 %. Optimal experimental conditions were confirmed through response surface methodology (RSM) modeling. Using in-situ infrared spectroscopy, along with comprehensive catalyst characterization and performance testing, a detailed catalytic reaction pathway for the oxidation of 1,2-PDO to acetic acid is proposed.

Upper-Extremity physical performance tests in older adults: Reference values, reliability and measurement error

BackgroundPhysical performance tests are reliable tools to assess aspects related to strength, power, and mobility. Unfortunately, few studies were performed with older adults. The main goal of this study was to describe reference values for the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST) and Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (UQYBT) in older adults and to determine differences based on sex. Reliability and measurement error were also established. MethodsTest-retest design with a sample of 103 older adults. The CKCUEST (number of touches, normalized score, and power) and the UQYBT (reach in the medial, superolateral, and inferolateral direction, total excursion, and the composite score) were performed. The scores on both tests were adjusted using an analysis of covariance model. Reliability was determined using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient and error measurement through Standard Error of Measurement, Smallest Detectable Change, and Bland and Altman Plots. ResultsNormative values were provided. Males presented higher scores than females only in the medial reach of the UQYBT in the dominant limb (p < 0.001). Good reliability was found for the CKCUEST, while good to excellent reliability was found for the UQYBT; with the exception of the superolateral reach in the dominant limb. Absence of systematic error was presented. ConclusionNormative data were provided and differences according to sex were found only in the UQYBT. Results demonstrated good to excellent reliability, except the superolateral reach in the dominant limb. Clinically acceptable absolute reliability values were found.

Relationship Between Single-Leg Vertical Jump and Drop Jump Performance, and Return to Sports After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Hamstring Graft.

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), asymmetry is likely to persist in single-leg (SL) vertical jump and drop jump performance than in SL hop distance. However, its relationship with the return to sport (RTS) remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the association between vertical jump performance after primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autograft and RTS at a pre-injury competitive level. Cross-sectional study. Patients who underwent primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autograft were recruited for this study. Participants who returned to pre-injury competition after ACLR were recruited at least eight months postoperatively. Knee condition was assessed, including joint laxity, range of motion, muscle strength, and knee pain intensity during sports activities. Performance variables were also assessed, including SL hop distance, jump height in SL vertical jump, and reactive strength index (RSI; jump height/contact time) in SL drop jump. Participants were asked to subjectively report whether they had returned to the same level of competition as pre-injury and their perceived sport performance intensity. Those who answered "Yes" to the dichotomous question and had a postoperative subjective athletic performance of > 80% were categorized into the Yes-RTS group. The primary outcome was the ability to achieve RTS at the preinjury level. Sixty-five patients (female, 35; male, 30) at 13.0 (13.0) [median (interquartile)] months after ACLR participated in this study. Thirty-nine (60%) were assigned to the Yes-RTS group. Regarding knee conditions, the No-RTS group had a significantly higher knee pain intensity, as assessed using a numerical rating scale (p<0.001, effect size -0.45). In the performance tests, the No-RTS group exhibited a significantly lower limb symmetry index of RSI during the SL drop jump compared to the Yes-RTS group (p=0.002, effect size 0.81). Patients unable to achieve RTS after primary ACLR using hamstring grafts are more likely to exhibit asymmetric performance during the SL drop jump test, suggesting the significance of assessing jump symmetry when evaluating post-ACLR rehabilitation success. 3c.

Usability Of Capillary Or Venous Lactate And Advantages Of Venous PO2 During Performance Test

Usability Of Capillary Or Venous Lactate And Advantages Of Venous PO2 During Performance Test

Preparation and performance study of sludge biomass bamboo charcoal

Abstract The purpose of this study is to explore a new low-cost and high-efficiency biochar adsorption material. The residual sludge as solid waste and fresh bamboo with fast growth and high yield were used as raw materials, modified by the KOH chemical activation method, and pyrolyzed in a tubular furnace with nitrogen atmosphere to obtain sludge biomass bamboo charcoal. In the performance test, the H2S gas adsorption experiment in a fixed bed reactor and the heavy metal adsorption experiment in soil were designed. Using different proportions of biochar, the preparation process of biochar was optimized by adjusting the raw material ratio and activation conditions. The results showed that when dealing with H2S gas, the appropriate amount of sludge can improve the adsorption effect, while the increase of bamboo component will reduce the adsorption rate. In the soil Cr(VI) restoration experiment, it was found that the best restoration effect was achieved after adding 10% biochar and applying it for 28 days, and the restoration rate reached 63.5%.

Water-soluble polysaccharides extracted from Enteromorpha prolifera/PVA composite film functionalized as ε-polylysine with improved mechanical and antibacterial properties

The issue of environmental protection has received sustained and widespread attention. In order to reduce environmental pollution related to traditional plastics, it is an incessant demand to design novel environment-friendly food packaging materials with excellent performance. Sulfated polysaccharide extracted from the “green tide” marine pollution Enteromorpha prolifera (SPE) has been innovatively transformed into a film-forming material for better utilization. The insufficient mechanical properties and limited functionalities, however, hinder its wide application. In this study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was blended to enhance its mechanical properties and ε-polylysine (ε-PL) was incorporated to endow it with antimicrobial performance. A novel and biodegradable film composed of SPE, PVA, and ε-PL was fabricated by casting method. We further determined the physicochemical properties of composited films. Mechanical performance test revealed the tensile strength of SPE-PVA-PL films increased from 5.56 MPa to 6.65 MPa and the E% increased from 128.8 % to 246.9 % compared with that of SPE-PVA films. Antimicrobial tests showed the excellent antibacterial activity of SPE-PVA-PL films against representative microbial species, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The results of this study suggested that the SPE-based composite film has the potential to be used as a potential food packaging and wound dressing materials.

RANCANG BANGUN TRANSMIS MESIN PERONTOK 3600 RPM BERBASIS MOTOR BENSIN

A rice threshing machine is the process of separating rice from its stems, so that reducing rice agricultural yields is very strategic in supporting rice production. Modification of the tool which previously used a slamming system, resulted in the yield of grain containing quite high levels of grain. The aim of this research is to design the transmission rotation to make the belt pulley and shaft more effective. The rice threshing machine transmission system consists of a pulley and belt with various belt sizes. The appearance of the pulley for calculations is adjusted to a pulley size of 10 inches = 25.4cm. Then the belt that connects the 10 inch/25.4cm pulley and the 9.74cm A58 belt is the belt that connects the pulley and the shaft. Based on the results of transmission performance testing with power and planning moment of 5.8164 kW and pulley planning moment of 1573.65 kg.mm from type A, the calculation of driver pulley rotation = 3 inches (d1) and motor rotation = 3600 rpm (n1) can be used rpm of the drive pulley when it is not loaded and when working, namely the rpm of the drive pulley when it is not loaded is 1080 rpm. Furthermore, the pulley rpm when working is 9.75\ rpm\ and\ The design power of the shaft is 4.92\ for the shear stress that occurs on the shaft of 0.838 kg/mm which is smaller than the allowable shear stress with a value of 5.16 kg/mm. so that the power and moment of planning the shaft with a diameter that can be used safely.

Preparation and characterisation of IPMC brakes modified with composite electrodes performance

Ionic Polymer Metal Composite (IPMC) can be used as flexible actuators and sensors in the fields of bionic machinery and medical devices. However, IPMC still suffer from poor actuation performance and high cost of electrode preparation in practical applications. Optimisation of electrodes and use of novel assembly processes are expected to solve these problems. In this paper, low-dimensional nanocarbon materials were used to modify the Nafion membrane. Appropriate amounts of carbon nanotubes and carbon black were weighed and dispersed in chitosan and acetic acid to form a stable electrolyte. A new IPMC was prepared by bonding carbon nanotube and carbon black films on the Nafion membrane using the hot pressing method. Scanning electron microscope images showed that the hybrid films composed of carbon nanotubes and carbon black were successfully hot pressed onto the surface of the Nafion membrane and the hybrid electrode layer composed of carbon nanotubes and carbon black was more homogeneous and densely packed. The results of driving performance tests show that the hybrid electrode-modified IPMC has excellent driving performance, with a maximum output displacement of 9.2 mm and a maximum output force of 9.9 mN at a voltage of 5.0 V. These results are 1.07 and 1.14 times higher than those of the carbon nanotube IPMC and 1.74 and 1.70 times higher than those of the carbon black IPMC under the same conditions, respectively.

Efficient stabilizing agent-free synthesis of gold nanoparticles via square-wave pulse deposition for enhanced catalytic performance in ethanol electrooxidation

The pressing environmental concerns and the depletion of fossil fuel reserves necessitate a transition toward sustainable energy sources. Ethanol, a renewable biomass-derived fuel, is a promising alternative due to its availability and high energy density. This study investigates the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) via a square-wave pulse deposition technique, aiming to enhance catalytic activity for ethanol electrooxidation. By varying pulse durations, we were able to exert precise control over AuNP size and distribution without stabilizing agents. Characterization using field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques confirmed the formation of clustered nanoparticles of metallic gold phase. Electrochemical characteristics analyses revealed that AuNPs synthesized with a 900 ms pulse duration exhibited the lowest charge transfer resistance and the highest electrochemically active surface area. The electrocatalytic performance test of these AuNPs demonstrated an anodic current density of 2.5 mA cm-2 and a Tafel slope of 78 mV dec-1, indicating superior catalytic performance and reaction kinetics. Additionally, the AuNPs showed high resistance to poisoning, as evidenced by a low jb/jf ratio of 0.28 and stable chronoamperometric response. These findings underscore the potential of this synthesis method for producing high-performance electrocatalysts utilized in exploiting ethanol's potential as an environmentally friendly energy carrier.

Exploring correlations between Conners' Continuous Performance Test and subjective measures of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in a paediatric clinical sample.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a childhood-onset neurodevelopmental condition characterised by inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. The ADHD symptoms are often evaluated and quantified using various assessment tools, such as the Conners' Continuous Performance Test II (CCPT-II), ADHD Rating Scale (ADHD-RS), Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL), Clinical Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) and Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGIS). This study sought to compare CCPT-II with parent- and clinician-rated rating scales (ADHD-RS, CBCL, CGAS and CGIS) in measuring the core ADHD symptoms within the paediatric ADHD population. The data, gathered from a large-scale randomised controlled trial involving 172 children aged 6-12 years with ADHD, was pooled, and a Pearson correlation analysis was conducted. No significant correlations were observed between CCPT-II and ADHD-RS, as well as the various subscales of CBCL, CGAS and CGIS. While CCPT-II may offer insights into ADHD symptomatology, its relationship with parent- and clinician-rated rating scales such as ADHD-RS, CBCL, CGAS and CGIS appears limited. Further research is warranted to elucidate the nuances of these assessment tools and their roles in evaluating ADHD.

Study on preparation and properties of GA/h-BN modified road petroleum asphalt based on ball milling method

ABSTRACT Graphene (GA), a two-dimensional nanomaterial, is noted for its exceptional mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. The integration of GA with road materials can potentially develop high-performance composite road materials. However, its application in road engineering is limited by complex preparation processes and high costs. This paper presents a GA/h-BN composite material developed through mechanical stripping using flake graphite and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN). A mathematical model was created employing uniform design methods and optimised through numerical analysis to identify the optimal process parameters. Microscopic techniques, including X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy, confirmed that the GA/h-BN product consists of approximately three layers, forming a ‘graphene-hexagonal boron nitride-graphene’ nanolayer structure. The composite was then used to modify matrix asphalt, with performance tests determining the optimal dosage. The results indicated that adding 0.3% GA/h-BN significantly improved the asphalt's high- and low-temperature performance, fatigue resistance and cracking resistance. Moreover, the evaluation of the physical properties of matrix asphalt modified solely with h-BN revealed that, despite h-BN comprising 70% of the mass fraction in the GA/h-BN modifier, it exerted a minimal impact on the performance of the asphalt. This study introduces a novel source of raw materials for the application of GA in road engineering.

Research on multi-source information fusion tool wear monitoring based on MKW-GPR model

To enhance intelligent manufacturing capabilities and achieve the goal of online real-time high-precision monitoring of tool wear with small sample data, this paper proposes a multi-source information fusion method for turning tool wear monitoring based on the multi-kernel weighted Gaussian process regression (MKW-GPR) model. Firstly, the framework and process of multi-source information fusion for turning tool wear monitoring are established, and the experimental platform is constructed. Secondly, a full-life cutting experiment of the turning tool is conducted. During the experiment, tool wear image data and multi-sensor signal data, including cutting force and vibration signals, are collected. Then, the experimental data were processed to construct a dataset with multi-source information fusion, leading to the establishment of the MKW-GPR model. Subsequently, the experimental dataset was employed to validate the effectiveness of the turning tool wear monitoring model. The results demonstrate that, in recognizing the wear state, the MKW-GPR model exhibited superior recognition performance compared to the single kernel function Gaussian process regression model. Furthermore, in predicting the wear value, the MKW-GPR model is better than the long short-term memory (LSTM), random forest (RF), and scalable end-to-end tree boosting (XGBoost) models. During the small sample size priori point data prediction performance test, the MKW-GPR model achieved the highest accuracy, with a maximum relative error of only 2.8 % in predicting tool life during the severe wear stage. These findings substantiate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed turning tool wear monitoring method.

Towards maximum cost-effectiveness: multi-objective design optimisation of insulating glass flat-plate collectors

A significant challenge in the advancement of solar thermal heating systems lies in the unexplored techno-economic potential of insulating glass flat-plate collectors. These collectors are constructed in accordance with the specifications of standard insulating glass units and have emerged over the past decade as a promising design concept for enhancing the cost-effectiveness of solar thermal systems. However, substantial findings regarding the techno-economic viability of their production are still pending. The aim of this paper is to optimise insulating glass collector designs for solar district heating applications by identifying key design parameters that maximise cost-effectiveness. This study employed a five-stage methodology. It included thermo-hydraulic collector modelling using MATLAB/Simscape and the CARNOT Toolbox. The model was validated against experimental performance tests. A Latin hypercube computational design with 250,000 samples was set up to train supervised machine learning metamodels and perform a multi-objective optimisation using an elitist genetic algorithm. The study identified the argon concentration, collector length, and width as critical parameters influencing efficiency. Larger, thinner collectors demonstrated superior performance due to reduced convective losses and increased aperture-to-surface ratios. The optimisation revealed that the insulating glass collectors could achieve a 7.7 percentage point increase in efficiency, a 19.4 % reduction in material cost, and a 14.5 % decrease in weight compared to market-available flat-plate collectors. However, the direct economic comparison was not considered strong in evidence due to a lack of economic data from technology providers. The most cost-effective designs featured an argon concentration of 99 %, sealing thickness of 31.2 mm, and a glazing thickness of 4.1 mm, and 4.5 mm, while collector length and width varied more significantly. The research findings indicate the techno-economic potential of insulating glass collectors, demonstrating their ability to outperform conventional flat-plate collectors in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Future studies should focus on producing and testing larger modules and incorporating production costs to fully realise their potential for solar district heating applications. This study provides valuable guidelines for IGU designers and producers aiming to develop cost-effective and efficient solar thermal collectors for district heating systems.