Blend Proportion Research Articles

Blending Strategies of Coals from Diverse Origins for Efficient Coke Making

ABSTRACT Blending of coals for coke making is a very important process for the steel industry globally. The importance of coal blend for coke making in India lies in its impact on the quality and efficiency of coke production. The coal blend composition affects crucial factors such as coke strength, reactivity, ash content, and gas generation during the coking process. This ensures optimal performance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compliance in the steelmaking process and is critical for the sustainability of the steel industry in India. Globally, attempts have been made to prepare suitable blends for coke making and several models have been developed. This also depends on requirement of desired types of cokes and availability of domestic and imported coals for different countries. Presently, in most cases, the Indian coke and steel industry uses 80–85% imported coals and 15–20% domestic coals for blending. Here, six coals from different domestic local mines and three imported coals have been tried in different blend proportions, to show the feasible options to use domestic coals in higher proportions and use lesser proportions of imported coals. In this study, two case studies are presented, demonstrating the blending of indigenous and imported coals in various proportions based on weighted average. Imported coals from Australia, New Zealand and domestic coals from domestic mines i.e. Dugda 1, Kathara, Kargali, Argada Sirka, Jamadoba and Bhujudih mines in Damodar Valley basin were used. The proximate analysis, petrographic studies and properties of these coal blends, including caking index, swelling index, fluidity, plasticity, CRI, CSR, M40 & M10 values have been discussed. The strategies of these blends depended on reactive macerals, inerts, coal rank, mineral matters and other critical parameters. The findings of the paper indicate that, given the constraints of the Indian coke industry, the cokes produced using the blending strategy outlined in the study have achieved optimal values. On meticulous blending, high proportion of domestic inferior coals can be blended up to 38% to prepare suitable coke, while about 50% of imported coal can be blended with domestic coals. This suggests, through a carefully designed blend strategy, the Indian steel industry may address the challenges of coking coal scarcity and reduce reliance on costly coal imports.

Nutritional and anti-nutritional evaluation of injera made from Sorghum, Rice, Teff, and Flaxseed flours using D-optimal mixture design

Injera, a fermented staple food traditionally made from Teff flour, is a key part of the Ethiopian diet, with nearly all Ethiopians eating it at least once daily. Compositing various grain-based, and oilseed flours with Teff flour improves the nutritional content, and cost-effectiveness of the produced Injera. In Ethiopia, very limited studies were conducted to investigate the use of sorghum, rice, and teff flour blends combined with flaxseed flour in Injera preparation. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the anti-nutritional factors, microbiological characteristics, and ideal blending proportions of sorghum, rice, teff, and flaxseed flours to create a superior quality Injera via D-optimal design. One-way and two-way ANOVA, alongside Tukey’s pairwise comparison method, was employed to assess mean differences. The aim was to enhance the nutritional quality of Injera compared to a control sample made from 100% sorghum flour. The optimal nutritional profile was achieved with a blend comprising 50% sorghum, 20% rice, 30% teff, and supplemented with 3% flaxseed flour. This blend resulted in Injera containing 3.02% fiber, 9.30% protein, 83.16% carbohydrate, 393.24 kcal/100 g energy, 13.99 mg/100 g iron, 4.06 mg/100 g calcium, and 3.78 mg/100 g zinc. The optimization process identified this blend as optimal for improving the nutritional quality of Injera. The findings underscore that blending teff with sorghum, rice, and flaxseed flour enhances the nutritive value of Injera.

Dynamic mechanism of biodiesel-ethanol-graphene droplets during micro-explosion and puffing: droplet evaporation, distribution and velocity characteristics

Adding graphene to biodiesel and ethanol blends can significantly improve the combustion efficiency, which can significantly reduce pollutant emissions when applied to alternative engine fuels. The study of the droplet dynamic properties of biodiesel-ethanol-graphene blends can help to aid in a deeper understanding of the properties of the fuel, which in turn can provide a theoretical basis for the application of the fuel. In this paper, a modified tube furnace experimental platform was used to investigate the evaporation, micro-explosion, and dynamic properties of parent and child droplets of biodiesel-ethanol-graphene. The micro-explosion and dynamics mechanisms of the parent droplets and child droplets of the blended fuel were further investigated in terms of graphene content, ambient temperature and biodiesel/ethanol blend proportion. During the research, three modes of bubble growth in droplet were proposed, the number and velocity of child droplets and the intensity of micro-explosion were found to have a positive correlation trend. It is found that BD50E50(1%G) droplets show high micro-explosion effect and evaporation rate, and can be considered as a sustainable alternative fuel for airlines or oil companies. The movement law of mixed droplets is analyzed, and the internal conditions and external characterization parameters of micro-explosion are summarized.

Microstructure of starch complexes coated with arabinoxylans and β-glucans: Effect on gelatinization and digestion properties

Research has shown that the presence of a complete cell wall structure in the grain endosperm reduces the digestibility of grains (starch) in the human body. In this study, composite structures of diverse contents of arabinoxylan (AX) and β-glucan (BG) in combination with wheat starch were constructed to simulate the grid structure formed by the combination of starch granules wrapped within cell walls in the starch endosperm. The gel properties following gelatinization and aging of the complexes were analyzed using rheology, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray scanning, and infrared spectroscopy. Based on this, the differences in the in vitro digestion process of starch complexes were investigated, and the digestion mechanism was explored to offer a theoretical basis for the development of starch-based foods with a low glycemic index. The synergistic effect of AX and BG was found to promote the entanglement and aggregation of molecules, AX and BG inhibits the gelatinization of starch. AX/BG (10 % blend proportion) significantly inhibited starch digestion in the starch complexes, with the lowest hydrolysis rate (76.7 %), which may be because AX and BG wrap the starch particles effectively.

Evaluation of the reactivity of co-combustion of wheat straw and waste rubber thermolysis char

The co-combustion of wheat straw (WS) and waste rubber thermolysis char (WRTC) was examined with the perspective of utilizing WRTC as a high-calorific value fuel addition to agricultural biomass. The study investigated the effect of different proportions of WS-WRTC blends (10/15/25/49 wt% WRTC) and a maximum of 4 wt% binders, including potato starch and calcium oxide, on the reactivity of co-combustion and the distribution of products during the process. Thermogravimetric analysis with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (TGA-FTIR) analyses was employed at a temperature range of 25–1000 °C with a heating rate of 10 °C/min. The kinetics of co-combustion were analyzed using the Fraser-Suzuki (FS) deconvolution method and a model-based kinetic modeling. The results indicate that a 10% addition of WRTC char reduces the intensity and rate of combustion and prolongs the combustion time. It was observed that the optimal addition to the blend is 25% WRCT, and it resulting in a reduction in activation energy and combustion indexes. However, it remains with no significant impact on process stability and efficiency. Kinetics of the decomposition of the WRTC25 mixture modeled by the deconvolution method indicates a 5-step reaction course, which is a combination of the characteristic combustion stages of both fuels. The main denoted functional group observed in the FTIR absorption spectra were C=O, C-O, O-H, and C-H related to the release of CO2, CO, H2O, CH4, aromatic compounds, and hydrocarbons.

A sustainable recycling process and its life cycle assessment for valorising post-consumer textile materials for thermal insulation applications.

The textile industry along with construction, electronics and plastic generate huge amounts of waste posing challenges to the adoption of the circular economy. This research presents a sustainable and low-cost recycling technology for conversion of post-consumer textile (denim) wastes to useful insulation materials. To accomplish the objective, nonwoven materials were produced using varying proportions of post-consumer recycled denim (r-denim) fibre and hollow polyester (PET) fibre using different punch densities in the needle punching process. Kowalski, Cornell and Vining mixture design, a special type of design of experiments, was adopted to develop the samples. Developed nonwoven materials were characterised for thermal resistance and tensile properties. The results show that nonwoven materials containing the minimum proportion (20%) of r-denim fibres exhibited the highest thermal resistance (0.131 W-1m2K). However, by adjusting the process parameter of the nonwovens, that is, the punch density, the same thermal resistance (0.131 W-1m2K) is also achieved even with 39% r-denim fibres. Additionally, the nonwovens produced from this blend proportion (r-denim:PET = 39:61) demonstrate a reasonable strength of 2.43 cN/tex. Environmental benefits of the developed r-denim/PET nonwovens have been evaluated by the life cycle assessment approach. Results show that the use of ~40% r-denim fibre has reduced the environmental burden significantly. Therefore, the nonwoven materials produced from post-consumer textile wastes hold tremendous potential as an alternative to synthetic fibres in thermal insulation applications. This recycling approach has immense potential to contribute to the efficient utilisation of post-consumer textile waste materials paving the way for environmental sustainability.

Development of micro dust reinforced composite for building applications

Recycling and reuse of textile waste is a proficient solution in preventing waste going into landfill and causing pollution. This paper reports the use of microdust generated from fibers in textile spinning mills to fabricate composites using compression molding for prospective applications in the building sector. Ten composite samples of 6 mm and 10 mm were developed by changing the microdust-resin blend proportions ranging resin content of 30%–10%. The tensile, flexural and compression properties, fire retardancy, water absorption and the insulation properties of the composites were determined. The results showed that the 6 mm thick composite board with 70% microdust had the most desired mechanical properties with tensile strength of 6.41 MPa, compressive strength of 3.6 MPa, and flexural strength of 10.2 MPa. These properties are superior compared to commercially available false ceiling board made of gypsum material of similar density and thickness. The thermal insulation value was 0.117 m2 K/W which is equivalent to the commercial sample (0.102 m2 K/W) used in similar applications in the building industry. The sample with 80% microdust (10 mm thick) achieved the highest thermal resistance (0.1879 m2 K/W) which is about 50 % higher than a commercial sample of the same thickness. This study shows that the composite panels overall are comparable to the commercially available panel used in the building industry and provides cost effective and sustainable alternatives for thermal barrier panels while overcoming the issue of landing filling of microdust from the spinning mills.

Investigation of biodiesel and its blends fueled diesel engine: An evaluation of the comprehensive performance of diesel engines

The carbon-neutral era and the increasing demand for energy worldwide are imperative for researching alternative energy. At the same time, biodiesel is considered one of the most prospective alternative energy due to its renewable nature and similar properties to diesel. A comparative study of the effects of different proportions of biodiesel-diesel blends (BD10, BD20, BD40, BD60, BD100) on emissions, vibration, lubricant ferrography, and tribological performance of cylinder liner-piston ring (CL-PR) of a direct injection diesel engine (ZS195) was carried out with a baseline of petroleum diesel. The results of the study demonstrated that the appropriate proportion (less than 20 %) of biodiesel significantly improves the comprehensive performance of diesel engines, primarily by combustion optimization and vibration shock reduction. The BD20 fuel blend achieves the best comprehensive diesel engine performance. The higher percentage of biodiesel results in enhanced vibration and severe degradation of CL-PR performance caused by the dilution of the lubricant and erosion of the components by the biodiesel. The study illuminates the mechanism and intrinsic connection of the effects of biodiesel on diesel engine performance. These results will facilitate the understanding of the effects of biodiesel-diesel blends on diesel engine performance and contribute to carbon neutrality in the transportation sector.

An Encompassing of two Biofuel – Diesel Blend’s in D.I. Diesel Engine for Reduced Air Pollution Emission

<p>The study explores the usage of Diesel Fuel (DF) blends in conjunction with two biofuels, eucalyptus and turpentine oil, in diesel engines to address the reduction of air pollutants such as Carbon Monoxide (CO), Nitrogen Oxides (NOX), Unburned Hydrocarbons (UBHC), and smoke density. Results indicate that while the use of Eucalyptus Oil Fuel (EOF 40) marginally increases brake-specific energy consumption by 1.03%, Turpentine Oil Fuel (TOF 40) decrease it by 3.05% compared to conventional DF. Furthermore, the Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) of TOF 40 blend surpasses that of EOF 40 blends by 4.91%. The analysis of Heat Release Rate (HRR) indicates a higher trend for higher proportions of EOF blend compared to TOF and base DF. TOF blends have lesser atmospheric pollution as compared to EOF blends. Notably, the employment of TOF 40 blend results in a reduction of atmospheric pollutants such as Smoke Density, NOX, CO and UBHC were 12.98%, 17.83%, 25.6% and 15.51%, respectively, in comparison with DF.</p>

A comprehensive study on engineering and sustainability characteristics with emphasizing on 3R's approach in building construction

The study assesses the mechanical efficiency, long-lasting characteristics, microstructure, and sustainability of sustainable concrete (SC) samples through several optimization methods, emphasizing the significance of the 3Rs (recycle, reuse, reduce) approach in the construction sector. The study uses advanced techniques like the Taguchi method, grey relational analysis (GRA), analysis of variance (ANOVA), and signal-noise ratio (SNR) to optimize parameters affecting the performance of SC. In this study, the properties of SC are assessed by considering various parameters. These parameters include the use of 10 %, 20 %, and 30 % of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) as a replacement for fly ash (FA). Additionally, six different binder contents ranging from 300 kg/m3 to 600 kg/m3 are examined. The study also investigates three different molarities of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) (8 M, 12 M, and 16 M), three different ratios of alkaline activators (AA) (1.5, 2.0, and 2.5), three different AA to-binder ratios (0.30, 0.35, and 0.40), and curing temperature (CT) of 30 °C, 60 °C, and 90 °C. The study includes fresh properties such as fresh density (FD) and slump, mechanical properties such as tensile strength (TS), flexural strength (FS), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and compressive strength (CS), and durability studies such as dry density (DD), impact strength, water absorption (WA), and sorptivity. The blended proportions were obtained using the Taguchi method. The study shows that GGBFS accelerates geopolymerization in FA-based concrete, reducing setting time and early-age CS. FA is crucial for setting time, workability, and CS enhancement. GGBFS increases the densities of fresh and hardened concrete, with a highly correlated increase, allowing accurate hardened density prediction with a coefficient of 0.9057. The CS of the cube SC surpassed 40 MPa, irrespective of variables such as the AA ratio, CT, and NaOH molarity. The trail mix with a binder concentration of 600 kg/m3, 30 % GGBFS content, 12 M NaOH molarity, 1.5 AA ratio, 0.35 AA to binder ratio, and 90 °C CT exhibited the greatest strength. Mixtures containing 10 % GGBFS can attain a CS above 30 MPa after 28 days, making them suitable for structural purposes. The T18 mix exhibited a compact Calcium (alumino) silicate hydrate (C-A-S-H) and N-A-S-H gel, whereas the T3 mix displayed a varied and permeable structure. The study used GRA, ANOVA, and SNR methods to analyze properties varying by six variables, finding GGBFS content as the most influencing parameter. The study found that the SC had a lower sustainability score than the OPC mix, but had better energy efficiency.

Transitioning to a Hydrogen Economy: Exploring the Viability of Adapting Natural Gas Pipelines for Hydrogen Transport through a Case Study on Compression vs. Looping

The growing importance of hydrogen as an energy carrier in a future decarbonised energy system has led to a surge in its production plans. However, the development of infrastructure for hydrogen delivery, particularly in the hard-to-abate sectors, remains a significant challenge. While constructing new pipelines entails substantial investment, repurposing existing pipelines offers a cost-effective approach to jump-starting hydrogen networks. Many European countries and, more recently, other regions are exploring the possibility of utilising their current pipeline infrastructure for hydrogen transport. Despite the recent efforts to enhance the understanding of pipeline compatibility and integrity for hydrogen transportation, including issues such as embrittlement, blend ratios, safety concerns, compressor optimisation, and corrosion in distribution networks, there has been limited or no focus on pipeline expansion options to address the low-energy density of hydrogen blends and associated costs. This study, therefore, aims to explore expansion options for existing natural gas high-pressure pipelines through additional compression or looping. It seeks to analyse the corresponding cost implications to achieve an affordable and sustainable hydrogen economy by investigating the utilisation of existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure for hydrogen transportation as a cost-saving measure. It explores two expansion strategies, namely pipeline looping (also known as pipeline reinforcement) and compression, for repurposing a segment of a 342 km × 36 inch existing pipeline, from the Escravos–Lagos gas pipeline system (ELPS) in Nigeria, for hydrogen transport. Employing the Promax® process simulator tool, the study assesses compliance with the API RP 14E and ASME B31.12 standards for hydrogen and hydrogen–methane blends. Both expansion strategies demonstrate acceptable velocity and pressure drop characteristics for hydrogen blends of up to 40%. Additionally, the increase in hydrogen content leads to heightened compression power requirements until approximately 80% hydrogen in the blends for compression and a corresponding extension in looping length until around 80% hydrogen in the blend for looping. Moreover, the compression option is more economically viable for all investigated proportions of hydrogen blends for the PS1–PS5 segment of the Escravos–Lagos gas pipeline case study. The percentage price differentials between the two expansion strategies reach as high as 495% for a 20% hydrogen proportion in the blend. This study offers valuable insights into the technical and economic implications of repurposing existing natural gas infrastructure for hydrogen transportation.

Numerical optimization and experimental investigation of renewable diethyl ether-fueled off-road CI engines for sustainable transportation

Cleaner energy generation on light-duty off-road diesel engines is one of the objectives of this study, which utilizes renewable diethyl ether (DEE) as a replacement for diesel to minimize the reliance on fossil diesel fuel. In an air-cooled single-cylinder diesel engine, various DEE mixes of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25% were attempted and evaluated under varying loads (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) in an effort to enhance the performance and emission characteristics of agriculture diesel engines and lower the environmental effect of harmful emissions. The injection pressure was optimized using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and performance and emission outcomes were optimized through response surface methodology (RSM) techniques. The experimental results found that brake thermal efficiency and specific fuel consumption were enhanced for a higher proportion of DEE blends under increasing loads. In addition, increasing the engine load decreased CO emissions while increasing carbon dioxide (CO2), hydrocarbon (HC), and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. Reduced CO, NOx, and HC emissions and increased CO2 were realized in the blended fuel samples compared to those of pure diesel fuel at increasing DEE percentages. In summary, the utilization of a 15% DEE blend and the optimization of the injection pressure to 210 bar resulted in a notable improvement of 10% in thermal efficiency and a decrease in emissions by 5% when compared to other parameters.

Performance and Exhaust Emissions from Diesel Engines with Different Blending Ratios of Biofuels

Fossil fuel extraction and utilization are associated with several environmental issues. This study examined how altering the blending proportions of mixed diesel/biodiesel/n-butanol fuels impacts combustion. Additionally, it delved into the functioning of diesel engines when utilizing these blended fuels as well as conventional diesel. A three-dimensional fluid dynamics simulation was constructed and corroborated against test outcomes obtained at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% loads. The findings indicated that the n-butanol addition enhanced the indicated thermal efficiency. At a 100% load, D70B30 (70% diesel + 30% biodiesel), D70B25BU5 (70% diesel + 25% biodiesel + 5%N-butanol), D70B20BU10, and D70B10BU20 exhibited 4.76%, 5.75%, 6.79%, and 8.71% higher indicated thermal efficiency values than D100 (100% diesel), respectively. The introduction of butanol enhanced the combustion environment within the combustion chamber. Compared with pure diesel, all blended fuels reduced hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions across various loads. The blended fuels showed significant reductions in hydrocarbon emissions of 1%, 4%, 6%, and 15% compared with that of diesel under the 25% load, respectively.

Synergistic effects of essential oils and phenolic extracts on antimicrobial activities using blends of Artemisia campestris, Artemisia herba alba, and Citrus aurantium.

This study explores the synergistic antibacterial effects of essential oils (EOs) and phenolic extracts from three plants against foodborne pathogenic bacteria. The present work aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of the binary and the ternary combinations of extracts using different blend proportions of the following plant extracts: Artemisia campestris (AC), Artemisia herba alba (AHA), and Citrus aurantium (CA). The antimicrobial activities of EOs and phenolic extracts were determined and evaluated against five strains. For the EOs, the results of the DIZ showed the existence of synergism for different combinations of binary blends, such as AC/AHA or AHA/CA against Escherichia coli, and AC/CA against Enterobacter faecalis. In addition, ternary blends of AC:AHA:CA at a ratio of 1/6:2/3:1/6 exhibited a synergy effect, as measured by the CI, against E. coli. On the other hand, for the phenolic extracts, synergistic effects were noticed for binary blends of AC/CA at different ratios against E. coli, E. faecalis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Similarly, ternary blends of phenolic extracts presented synergy against E. coli, E. faecalis, P. aeruginosa strains, and even C. albicans. In this case, the blending ratios were crucial determining factors for maximizing the synergy effect. The study established that the proportion of a single drug could play an essential role in determining the bioefficacy of a drug combination treatment. Therefore, the results showed the importance of studying the modulation of antibacterial activities based on the proportions of extracts in the mixture and finding the range of proportions (as determined by SLMD) that have a synergistic/additive/antagonistic effect with no or low side effects, which can be used in a food preservation system.

Rheological performance evaluation of activated carbon powder modified asphalt based on TOPSIS method

In this study activated carbon powder (ACP) was incorporated into asphalt to substitute a portion of the conventional filler (mineral powder, MP). The dynamic modulus at elevated temperatures, temperature-dependent viscosity sensitivity, low-temperature creep, and the interaction between asphalt and ACP were examined through dynamic shear rheometer testing, viscosity testing, and bending beam rheometer testing. Moreover, statistical methodologies such as the entropy weight method (EWM) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) were employed to optimize the proportion of ACP by evaluating the comprehensive rheological behavior of asphalt mastic (including high temperature performance, low temperature performance, flowability, and asphalt-ACP interaction). The findings demonstrate that ACP can enhance the resistance of asphalt mastic to high-temperature deformation to a certain degree. The ratio of creep rate to stiffness (m/S) decreases with the addition of ACP, indicating that ACP may exacerbate the occurrence of low-temperature thermal cracking in asphalt mastic. The interaction ability of asphalt mastic is significantly enhanced when a portion of the filler is replaced with ACP. The loss factor shows significant impact on the comprehensive evaluation. According to TOPSIS analysis, asphalt mastic with a blending proportion of 40% ACP and 60% MP performs better in terms of comprehensive rheological properties.

Physicochemical and sensory attributes of scones made from wheat–taro (Colocasia esculenta)–lentils (Lens culinaris) composite flour

AbstractThe effect of blend proportion on the functional properties of wheat–taro–lentil composite flour and the physicochemical and sensory quality of scones was studied. The water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC) and bulk density (BD) significantly (p < .05) increased whereas the swelling index (SWI) decreased with increase in the proportion of lentil flour. Batter viscosity significantly (p < .05) decreased from 1972 to 1968 cP with increase in the proportion of lentil flour. The crude protein content increased from 5.81% to 9.83% and the ash content decreased from 4.61% to 2.29% with increase in the lentil proportion. Specific volume, volume and height decreased with increase in the proportion of lentil. The baking loss increased from 5.36% to 13.56% with increase in taro flour proportion. The L*, a* and b* colour values and sensory attributes were also significantly affected by the blend proportions. Based on the results, lentils can be incorporated up to 30% and taro up to 10% for a protein‐enhanced and acceptable product.

Experimental investigation of fuel injection timing effects on a CRDI diesel engine running on hydrogen-enriched waste plastic oil

In response to fossil fuel concerns and the imperative of effective plastic waste management, this study investigates the impact of hydrogen-plastic oil (WPO) blends on a CRDI diesel engine. Six combinations (WPO10, WPO20, WPO30, WPO10 + H2, WPO20 + H2, WPO30 + H2) are examined across varying loads and fuel injection timings. Notably, WPO10 + H₂ (H2 energy share i.e., 8 lpm) exhibits a 15.1 % increase in brake thermal efficiency, an 11.2 % fuel consumption reduction, improved peak cylinder pressure (66 bar), and maximum heat release rate (40.16 J/°CA) compared to diesel. It also shows reduced emissions of CO, HC, CO2, and smoke opacity—34.8 %, 15.1 %, 10.7 %, and 28.5 %, respectively, relative to diesel. Elevated nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are observed across all blends. This study underscores the environmental benefits of blending waste plastic oil with diesel, promoting recycling, reducing reliance on traditional diesel, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting sustainability. Advanced fuel injection timing at higher loads slightly mitigates NOx emissions, while increasing the blend proportion leads to prolonged ignition delays, reduced thermal efficiency, and heightened emissions.

Accurate compressive strength prediction using machine learning algorithms and optimization techniques

Numerous components' complex interrelationships and interconnectedness present a formidable obstacle in developing mix designs for high-performance concrete (HPC) formulation. The effectiveness of machine learning (ML) algorithms in resolving this paradox has been illustrated. However, they are classified as opaque black-box models due to the lack of a discernible correlation between blend ratios and compressive durability. The present study proposes a semi-empirical methodology that integrates various techniques, including non-dimensionalization and optimization, to overcome this constraint. The methodology exhibits a noteworthy level of accuracy when forecasting compressive strength (CS) across a spectrum of divergent datasets, thus evincing its extensive and all-encompassing efficacy. Moreover, the precise relationship that semi-empirical equations convey is of great significance to practitioners and researchers in this field, especially with respect to their predictive abilities. The determination of CS in concrete is a critical facet of the design of HPC. An exhaustive comprehension of the intricate interplay between manifold factors is requisite to attain an ideal blend proportion. The study’s findings indicate that RF can accurately predict CS. Moreover, the combination of optimization algorithms significantly enhances the model’s effectiveness. Among the three Optimization Algorithms under consideration, the COA optimizer has exhibited superior performance in augmenting the accuracy and precision of the RF prediction model for CS. As a result, RFCO obtained the more suitable value of R2 and RMSE obtained 0.998 and 0.88, alternatively.

Multi-objective optimization of one-part alkali-activated mortar mixes using Taguchi-Grey relational analysis

In the context of the contemporary emphasis on sustainability within the realm of construction, there is a notable surge in attention towards one-part alkali-activated (OP-AA) materials. This is primarily attributed to their enhanced performance and reduced carbon emissions as compared to conventional OPC-based concrete. In the present investigation, Taguchi and Taguchi- Grey relational analysis (GRA) methodologies were employed to execute the experimental design, involving three input parameters, each considered at three levels, to generate an L9 orthogonal array. An attempt was made to assess the impact of different parameters, such as ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) to fly ash (FA) ratio - (S/F), water-to-binder ratio - (W/B), and percentage of Na2O - (N), on the slump flow, setting time, and compressive strength characteristics and hence to optimize the proportions of the OP-AA mortar blends. The results revealed that optimum parameter levels for multi-objective optimization corresponded to S/F = 1, W/B = 0.45, and N = 5%. For these parameter levels specified, the corresponding values of slump flow, initial setting time, final setting time, and 28 days compressive strength were 208 mm, 285.4 min, 990.4 min, and 36.52 MPa, respectively. In addition, to gain insights into their mineral composition, morphology, and chemical bond characteristics, microstructural characterization such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were also conducted on selected OP-AA mortar mixes. The microstructural examination unveiled the predominant formation of hydration products, such as C/N -A-S-H gels, in OP-AA mortar blends, resembling those found in conventional alkali-activated materials (AAMs). During the validation phase, an assessment was conducted by comparing the actual experimental results with the predicted values obtained through regression equations. The outcome of this comparison revealed that the proposed optimum mix parameter levels demonstrated the effectiveness of both the Taguchi and Taguchi-GRA approaches.

Studies on sugarcane bagasse/jute fibers reinforced bio-composites for functional thermal insulation materials

The efficient use of fibers derived from natural sources is the main goal of this research project. However, the priority on natural fibers falls short of meeting the necessary strength requirements. The goal of this work is to empirically analyze composite materials made with sugarcane bagasse and jute natural fibers as reinforcement, and PVA as the matrix. The goal is to examine the various mechanical and thermal insulating properties of Bagasse fiber/jute fiber composites to determine their application in technical domains. To carry out this investigation, a series of five hybrid composites were developed, each containing 65% polyvinyl acetate and varying the blend proportion of bagasse fiber and jute fiber: 100% /0%, 70%/30%, 50%/50%, 30%/70%, and 0%/100%. Compression molding was used as the fabrication technique. These composites’ resulting mechanical characteristics followed a critical analysis by ASTM standards. Through SEM analysis, the fiber shape, internal fracture forms, and binding properties were investigated. The results of the study showed that the tensile strength of composites made of bagasse and jute fibers is 265.80 MPa, which is close to the strength (270.10 MPa) displayed by composites made of synthetic fibers. Significantly, compared to the other configurations, the composites made up of 70% jute and 30% bagasse fibers exhibit a higher thermal insulation coefficient. Furthermore, compared to the other samples, these 70/30 composites had better impact resistance and flexural strength.