Weight Ratio Research Articles

Response of broilers to supplementation of Salvia officinalis L. essential oil in hot ambient conditions.

Heat stress has various detrimental effects on poultry production. The aim of the study was to alleviate the effects of heat stress in broiler production. For this purpose, 288 one-day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were obtained from a commercial hatchery and randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups; CON: corn-soybean meal based commercial diet, SEO100: CON with 100mg/kg Sage essential oil (SEO) and SEO200: CON with 200mg/kg SEO with 96 birds in each group (4 replicates each) in a completely randomized design under hot ambient temperatures for 42 days. No differences were observed in the body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio at 42 days of age among groups. However, there was a significant increase in 21-day body weight in SEO200 chicks compared to CON. Furthermore, the addition of SEO significantly decreased the mortality rate under heat stress conditions. The total oxidant status value was lower in broiler chickens in which SEO was added to their diets. While the total antioxidant status value was higher in SEO100 chicks, it did not show a linear increase. Additionally, the results demonstrated that the addition of SEO to broiler diets under heat stress did not have a significant effect on inspected meat quality traits, with the exception of the b*(yellowness) value of breast muscle. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that 200mg/kg SEO can be added to diets for the welfare of broiler chickens under heat stress conditions for struggling with oxidants and increasing viability. Further research is needed to investigate the antioxidant activity and meat quality of different levels of SEO in hot ambient conditions.

Monotropein alleviates acute pulmonary embolism in rats by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway

Objective This study examines the therapeutic potential of monotropein (Mon) in a rat model of acute pulmonary embolism (APE), aiming to elucidate its mechanistic role and provide new insights for APE treatment. Methods: Thirty Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 6 per group): sham, Mon (40 mg/kg), APE, APE + 20 mg/kg Mon, and APE + 40 mg/kg Mon. APE was induced via autologous thrombus infusion in all groups except sham and Mon-only groups. We assessed blood gas parameters, lung wet/dry weight (W/D) ratio, and oxidative stress markers. Additionally, excised lung tissues underwent evaluation for serum inflammatory factors via ELISA, apoptotic cells via TUNEL assay, and protein expression via Western blot. Results: Compared to the sham group, APE-induced rats exhibited significantly elevated blood oxygen levels and increased pro-inflammatory factors, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-8. Mon treatment effectively mitigated these APE-induced changes, reducing blood oxygen concentration and downregulating IL-1β and TNF-α levels. Furthermore, Mon demonstrated anti-apoptotic effects by decreasing cleaved caspase-3 and Bax protein levels while upregulating Bcl-2 expression. Mon also suppressed nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation by inhibiting the phosphorylation levels of p65/RelA and IκBα proteins, while the total protein level of IκBα was increased with Mon treatment. Conclusion: Mon effectively ameliorated lung tissue injury in APE rats by inhibiting apoptosis, attenuating inflammatory responses, and alleviating oxidative stress. These beneficial effects appear to be mediated through modulation of the NF-κB pathway, suggesting Mon as a promising therapeutic candidate for APE treatment.

Effects of Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Essential Oil Supplementation on Growth Performance of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Fed a High-Inclusion Soybean Meal Diet.

Soybean meal (SBM) has become a common dietary replacement for fish meal (FM) in aquafeed. However, at high inclusions, SBM has been shown to have negative impacts presenting as reduced feed intake and intestinal inflammation. Medicinal plant extracts, namely essential oils, have been used to promote growth performance and immune response. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of oregano (Origanum vulgare) essential oil (OEO) inclusion on utilization of a high-inclusion SBM diet using zebrafish as a model. Five diets were used in this study: reference-FM-based diet, control-55.7% inclusion SBM diet, and three experimental SBM-based diets OEO1, OEO2, and OEO3 that were supplemented with 1%, 2%, or 3% of oregano oil, respectively. The FM group had overall better growth performance when compared with the other treatment groups; however, the OEO3 mean weight and feed conversion ratio were not significantly different from the FM group (p > 0.05) and were significantly improved compared with the SBM group (p < 0.05). Similarly, OEO2 total length was not significantly different from FM (p > 0.05) but significantly higher than the SBM group (p < 0.05). Expression of inflammation-related genes did not significantly differ between the OEO groups and the SBM-only group. However, the OEO2 and OEO3 groups displayed improved growth performance compared with the SBM group, suggesting that inclusion of OEO at or above 2% inclusion may help to alleviate common symptoms induced by a high-inclusion SBM diet.

Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Behavior of CFRP-AA7075-T6 Composite and Finite Element Analysis for Automotive Wheel Rim Application

Lightweight with high strength material is the new requirement of the modern world and composite materials are the best option as the solution. Owing to high strength to weight ratio and corrosion resistant of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) compared to aluminum (AA7075-T6), they are well suited to fulfill the demand of modern needs. The present work investigates the mechanical behavior of CFRP-AA7075-T6 composite material experimentally. Finite element analysis (FEA) has also been conducted for the evaluation of stress, strain, and deformation for the application as automobile wheel rims. CFRP-AA7075-T6 shows superior to AA7075-T6 in terms of flexural strength. Impact test reveal that the prepared composite absorbed 11% more energy than AA7075-T6. The strength-to-weight ratio of the prepared composite is 73% higher than that of AA7075-T6. FEA of automobile wheel rim models of prepared composite gives better results than the AA7075-T6 sample. CFRP-AA7075-T6 composite exhibits the lower deformation and equivalent elastic strain of 18.11% and 17.26% respectively than AA7075-T6 at same load level.

Investigation of various winglets using computational fluid dynamics for subsonic aircraft

Abstract The tiny, upturned, or downturned extensions at the tips of an aircraft’s wings are designated as winglets. By minimizing drag and improving fuel efficiency, they are introduced to increase the aircraft’s aerodynamic efficiency. Winglets are now a day’s employed in the commercial aircraft to minimise the induced effect caused by wing tip vortices produced at low subsonic speeds. In this article, we have selected NACA 2412, from which we have created a swept back wing with a 20-degree sweep angle that has eight distinct winglet configurations. SolidWorks 2023 is used for design work, and ANSYS 19.2 is used for analysis. The analysis is carried out by changing the angle of attack (AOA) from -6 degrees to 20 degrees with an incremental step of 2 degrees. Here, we have used the k-epsilon turbulence model to capture the turbulence and 100 m/s velocity is maintained throughout the analysis. From this analysis, a potential solution of aerodynamic co-efficient (lift, drag, cl, cd and cl/cd) are being observed. Blended winglet with cant angle 35 degrees produces high lift-to-drag ratio compared with another winglet configuration. The insights gained from the study are plotted in various graphs such as cl vs alpha, cd v/s alpha and cl/cd v/s alpha and the CFD results show a considerable improvement in aircraft’s performance after using winglets. Aluminium alloy’s high strength to weight ratio, robust corrosion resistance, enhanced conductivity, and outstanding ductility qualities will make it easier for us to manufacture winglets in the future.

Prediction of tool wear and surface finish using ANFIS modelling during turning of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) composites

Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP) are widely used in various industries due to their high strength to weight ratio, corrosion resistance, durability, and excellent thermo-mechanical properties. The machining of CFRP composites has always been a challenge for the manufacturers. In this study, CNC turning operation with coated carbide tool is used to machine a specific CFRP and the relationship between the cutting parameters (Speed, Feed, Depth of Cut) and response parameters (Vibration, Surface Finish, Cutting Force and Tool Wear) are investigated. An adaptive-network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model with two multi-input–single-output (MISO) system has been developed to predict the tool wear and surface finish. Speed, feed, depth of cut, vibration and cutting force have been used as input parameters and tool wear and surface finish have been used as output parameters. Three sets of cutting parameter have been used to gather the data points for continuous turning of CFRP composite. The model merged fuzzy inference modeling with artificial neural network learning abilities, and a set of rules is constructed directly from experimental data. This model is capable of predicting the cutting tool wear and surface finish during turning of CFRP composite. The predicted tool wear and surface finish data are compared to the experimental results. The predicted data agreed well with the actual experimental data with 98.96 % accuracy for tool wear and 99.61 % accuracy for surface finish.

Improvement of Electrical and Thermal Properties of Carbon Nanotube Sheets by Adding Silver Nanowire and Mxene for an Electromagnetic-Interference-Shielding Property Study.

Hybrid carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets were fabricated by mixing CNTs with silver nanowires (AgNWs) and MXene to study their electromagnetic-interference (EMI)-shielding properties. CNT/AgNW and CNT/MXene hybrid sheets were produced by ultrasonic homogenization and vacuum filtration, resulting in free-standing CNT sheets. Three different weight ratios of AgNW and MXene were added to the CNT dispersions to produce hybrid CNT sheets. Microstructure characterization was performed using scanning electron microscopy, and the Wiedemann-Franz law was used to characterize transport properties. The resulting hybrid sheets exhibited improved electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and EMI-shielding effectiveness compared to pristine CNT sheets. X-band EMI-shielding effectiveness improved by over 200%, while electrical conductivity improved by more than 1500% in the hybrid sheets due to a higher charge-carrier density and synergistic effects between nanomaterials. The addition of AgNW to CNT sheets resulted in a large improvement in electrical conductivity and EMI shielding; however, this may also result in increased weight and sample thickness. Similarly, the addition of MXene to CNT sheets may result in an increase in weight due to the presence of the denser MXene flakes.

Efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells in preventing peripheral nerve adhesion and promoting nerve regeneration: A laboratory investigation in a rat model

BackgroundNeurolysis alone or administration of anti-adhesion products after neurolysis is performed to treat peripheral nerve adhesion; however, the recovery of nerve function is poor. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) for peripheral nerve adhesion in a rat model. MethodsAs a nerve adhesion procedure, the neural bed was coagulated, and the epineurium of the sciatic nerve was sutured to the coagulated neural bed using nylon. Neurolysis was performed 6 weeks after the nerve adhesion procedure, and saline (control group) or ADSCs (ADSC group) were administered around the nerve where neurolysis was performed. Evaluations were performed 6 weeks after the administration. ResultsThe wet weight ratio of the tibialis anterior muscle and nerve conduction velocity, which are indicators of nerve regeneration, were significantly better, while tensile strength, which is an indicator of the severity of nerve adhesion, was significantly lower in the ADSC group than in the control group. In the nerve, the expression of interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-β in the nerve was significantly higher and that of tumor necrosis factor-α was significantly lower in the ADSC group than in the control group. Furthermore, significantly fewer M1 macrophages and significantly more M2 macrophages were observed in the ADSC group than in the control group. In the perineural scar, significantly fewer perineural collagen fibers and significantly more vascularization were observed in the ADSC group than in the control group. ConclusionsADSCs prevented peripheral nerve adhesion by reducing perineural scarring and enhancing vascularization. Additionally, ADSCs promoted nerve regeneration by decreasing inflammatory cytokine levels and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, as ADSCs regulated macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 macrophages. These findings hold promise for using ADSCs to treat nerve adhesion.

Optimized Drop-Casted Polyaniline Thin Films for High-Sensitivity Electrochemical and Optical pH Sensors

Conducting polymers used in chemical sensors are attractive because of their ability to confer reversible properties controlled by the doping/de-doping process. Polyaniline (PANI) is one of the most prominent materials used due to its ease of synthesis, tailored properties, and higher stability. Here, PANI thin films deposited by the drop-casting method on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates were used in electrochemical and optical sensors for pH measurement. The response of the devices was correlated with the deposition parameters; namely, the volume of deposition solution dropped on the substrate and the concentration of the solution, which was determined by the weight ratio of polymer to solvent. The characterisation of the samples aimed to determine the structure–property relationship of the films and showed that the chemical properties, oxidation states, and protonation level are similar for all samples, as concluded from the cyclic voltammetry and UV–VIS spectroscopic analysis. The sensing performance of the PANI film is correlated with its relative physical properties, thickness, and surface roughness. The highest electrochemical sensitivity obtained was 127.3 ± 6.2 mV/pH, twice the Nernst limit—the highest pH sensitivity reported to our knowledge—from the thicker and rougher sample. The highest optical sensitivity, 0.45 ± 0.05 1/pH, was obtained from a less rough sample, which is desirable as it reduces light scattering and sample oxidation. The results presented demonstrate the importance of understanding the structure–property relationship of materials for optimised sensors and their potential applications where high-sensitivity pH measurement is required.

Assessment of chitosan-PVA hydrogels infused with marine collagen peptides for potential wound healing applications

Ideal wound dressings should show enhanced moisture management at the wound site, antibacterial and physical barrier, and mechanical robustness. Additionally, it should be easy to apply to the wound and be biocompatible and non-toxic. In this study, a linker-free freeze-thaw procedure was used to create an array of chitosan/PVA hydrogels blended with commercially available marine collagen peptides. Marine collagen peptides (CP) are easily available as by-products of the marine food industry and are an inexpensive and novel source of biomaterial in this field. The different weight ratios of chitosan, PVA, and CP influenced the hydrogel properties such as swelling, gel content, evaporation, and mechanical properties. Furthermore, SEM and ATR-FTIR were used to characterize the hydrogels generated under ideal conditions. After 24 h, the optimum hydrogel (chitosan:PVA:CP ratio of 1:5:1) showed a water absorption capacity of up to 900 %, a gel content of 80 %, and a 40 % evaporation rate. The physical interactions between marine collagen peptide and gel-forming components were validated by ATR-FTIR spectra, and the hydrogel kept a sufficient porous structure for potential wound dressing application. To test the mechanical integrity of the hydrogels, compression testing was carried out showing a compressive modulus of up to ∼40 kPa. The addition of marine collagen peptide in the chitosan/PVA hydrogel increased its wettability, antimicrobial capabilities, and hemostatic properties. Furthermore, the hydrogel preparation procedure is simple and does not use toxic chemicals, serving as a model for developing safe and effective hydrogel wound dressing.

Influence of gamma-irradiation on the physical properties of epoxy/polyaniline composites and application as gamma dosimeter

Abstract The epoxy/pani samples doped with a specified weight ratio of polyaniline pani ware prepare by casting method. Using different doses of gamma rays (0, 2, and 4 kGy) were used to irradiated the prepared samples. Irradiated and non-irradiated samples were imaged using a FE-scanning electron microscope and were found to have regular morphology, and irradiation had obvious effect on this morphology at 4 kGy. When studying the crystal structure of the samples, it was found the samples have a polycrystalline structure, and this structure tends to improve after irradiation, this was verified using X-ray diffraction. Likewise, D.C electrical conductivity increased with increasing gamma radiation doses. Also study the effect of irradiation with gamma rays on optical properties and demonstrate the clear effect of these rays on optical properties. It was also found that the optical energy gap with (indirect allowed transition) was decreases after the irradiation process. Together, these results indicate the possibility of using these samples in the manufacture of gamma dosimeters.

A 3D in vitro model of biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffold combined with human osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and endothelial cells as a platform to mimic the oral microenvironment for tissue regeneration

Objectives: This study aimed to develop an innovative 3D in vitro model based on the biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffold combined with human osteoblasts (hOBs), osteoclasts (hOCs), and endothelial cells to evaluate its effects on bone and vascular cells behavior. Methods: To this end, an optimized mixture of hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) with a weight ratio of 30/70 was employed to develop a BCP scaffold using the computer-aided design (CAD) approach. The BCP scaffold was combined with primary cultures of hOBs, hOCs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Results: Morphometric analyses using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray micro-computed tomography, along with biomechanical testing, revealed that BCP scaffold exhibited a regular 3D structure with large interconnected internal pores (700 µm) and high mechanical strength. In terms of biological behavior, after 14 days of tri-culture with hOBs, hMCs and HUVECs, SEM, immunofluorescence, and histological analyses showed that all cell types were viable and adhered well to the entire surface of the scaffold. Interestingly, SEM and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses also revealed on the BCP scaffold the presence of mineralized matrix crystals of Ca, P, O and C within a tissue-like cell layer produced by the interaction of the three cell types. Conclusions: Data confirmed the high performance of the BCP scaffold through biomechanical studies. Notably, for the first time, this study demonstrated the feasibility of combining BCP scaffold with hOBs, hOCs, and HUVEC, which remained viable and maintained their native phenotypes, creating also tissue-like cell layer. Clinical significanceAlthough further investigation is needed, these results underscore the potential to develop a 3D in vitro model that mimics the oral microenvironment, which could be valuable for BTE approaches in in vivo studies.

Development, Optimization, and Characterization of Polymeric Micelles to Improve Dasatinib Oral Bioavailability: Hep G2 Cell Cytotoxicity and In Vivo Pharmacokinetics for Targeted Liver Cancer Therapy

The efficacy of dasatinib (DAS) in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is hindered by its poor bioavailability, limiting its clinical potential. In this study, we explored the use of TPGS-Soluplus micelles as an innovative drug delivery platform to enhance DAS solubility, stability, and therapeutic impact. A series of TPGS-Soluplus copolymers were synthesized, varying the D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) forms (1000, 2000, and 3500) and adjusting the TPGS to Soluplus weight ratios (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3). Our goal was to identify the optimal formulation with the highest entrapment efficiency, smallest particle size, and enhanced drug loading. The TPGS1000-Soluplus copolymer, with a DAS-to-polymer ratio of 1:30 and a TPGS ratio of 1:2, demonstrated superior performance, achieving an entrapment efficiency of 64.479 ± 1.45% and drug loading of 5.05 ± 1.01%. The DAS-loaded micelles (DAS-PMs) exhibited a notably small particle size of 64.479 ± 1.45 nm and demonstrated controlled release kinetics, with 85.60 ± 5.4% of the drug released over 72 hours.Cellular uptake studies using Hep G2 cells revealed significantly enhanced absorption of DAS-PMs compared to free DAS, reflected in lower IC50 values in MTT assays at 24 and 48 hours. Pharmacokinetic analysis further highlighted the benefits of the DAS-PMs, with an AUC0-∞ 2.16 times higher and mean residual time (MRT) 1.3 times longer than free DAS, a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.01). These findings suggest that TPGS-Soluplus micelles offer a promising strategy for improving the bioavailability and efficacy of DAS in HCC treatment, presenting a potential new therapeutic avenue for patients with limited options. This innovative formulation could significantly enhance DAS delivery, potentially leading to improved clinical outcomes in liver cancer therapy.

Enhanced thermal performance and stability of non-gallium liquid metal composites

This paper presents a study on the thermal performance and stability of non-gallium liquid metal (BiPbInSnCd alloy with melting point 47 °C) composite. It has been found that incorporating copper particles and copper foam into the non-gallium liquid metal can help to enhance the overall thermal conductivity, and achieved longer lifetime than gallium-based liquid metal composite. We have demonstrated that the average thermal conductivity of non-gallium liquid metal composite with filler weight ratio of 44.4 % can reach as high as 28.9 W·m−1·K−1. The improvement mechanism and the impact of preparation methods on the thermal performance have been also investigated.

Effects of water-unextractable arabinoxylan from wheat processing wastewater on the quality characteristics of multigrain bread

The water-unextractable arabinoxylan (WUAX) was extracted from the wheat processing wastewater to replace the flour in the bread formula and improve the quality characteristics of the multigrain bread. We investigated the effects of WUAX substitution concentration (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 g/100 g high gluten flour weight) on multigrain bread texture, microstructure, color difference variation, relative crystallinity, moisture distribution, and sensory evaluation. Within the specified range, the bread hardness increased by 4.0 N, a negative effect on the bound water in bread and significant changes in the color difference were observed. The optimal substitution level was 7.5%, increasing the crude fiber content by 33% (dry weight ratio) and reducing the starch content by 10%, maintaining the specific volume and hardness similar to the control group. The scanning electron microscopy X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements showed that WUAX affected the aggregation of protein and starch, and reduced the relative crystallinity of bread, retarding bread staling. The WUAX replacing flour (7.5% replacement level) also provided good sensory evaluation. Overall, WUAX boosts bread's dietary fiber content while lowering its starch proportion. Although WUAX had negatively impact on bread texture, a 7.5% substitution level could minimize these effects. This study offered insights for the dietary applications of WUAX from wheat processing wastewater.

Preparation of polyelectrolyte based on bottle brush Polyethylene glycol‐Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) copolymers

AbstractThe increased demand for high energy‐density batteries led to using lithium metal (Li) anode. However, safety issues associated with Li anode encouraged the researchers to use less reactive and safer electrolytes with higher electrochemical stability. High ionic conductivity (σ), wider electrochemical stability window, and higher mechanical strength alongside the ability to self‐heal possible structural damages were at the center of focus for developing efficient solid electrolytes. In this regard, we developed a group of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) with high σ and electrochemical stability. In this regard, bottle brush polyethylene glycol (bbPEG) was synthesized using a chain transfer reaction. Polynipaam (PNIPAAM) blocks were also incorporated into the structure to prepare a block copolymer based on PNIPAM‐bbPEG‐PNIMAM represented by the ABA structure. The block copolymer was then blended with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with the block copolymer to PVDF weight ratio of 7:2% and 25% bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonamide (TFSI) salt was added and the final mixture was UV‐cured. The results indicated that the final SPE possessed high ionic conductivity with a relatively high lithium‐ion transference number () of 0.416 and the σ of 1.265 × 10−5 S/cm at 25°C.

Impact of lattice structure on compressive performance and strength to weight ratio in continuous stereolithography

Lattice structures have emerged as a creative solution in additive manufacturing to achieve lightweight structures. Lattices offer the capability to reduce material usage, production costs, and weight while maintaining the structural integrity of a part. Due to its rise in popularity and excellent properties, lattice structures have been used in many applications, including but not limited to aerospace, bioengineering, and acoustics. This study aimed to explore the performance of different types of lattices on 3D additive manufactured parts by varying the type of unit cell. The three unit cells that were compared are body-centered cubic (BCC), face-centered cubic (FCC), and Fluorite. The lattice’s strength-to-weight ratio of different lattice unit cells when subjected to compression forces was evaluated. BCC and FCC have had considerable research while Fluorite has had far less research. This study aims to contribute new knowledge on the less studied Fluorite unit cell. The selected lattice structures were printed using continuous stereolithography (CSLA). This 3D printing process utilizes a photopolymerization reaction to solidify liquid resin layer by layer. Through this study, Fluorite demonstrated the highest strength-to-weight ratio among the three lattice structures examined, averaging 19,377 Nm/kg over five samples. Its potential for applications requiring high strength requirements is highlighted by this finding. Alternatively, BCC lattice structures had the weakest strength-to-weight ratio but exhibited remarkable structural resilience to deformation. The BCC lattice structures showed a more significant deformation before failure. Fluorite lattice structures are more suitable for high-strength applications, while BCC lattice structures can be used where high strength is not a primary parameter. This research aimed to determine the optimal lattice unit cell to implement in future choices in additive manufacturing applications.

Fabrication and Application of ZIF-8 Derived In2O3-ZnO Nanocomposites for Ultra-Sensitive NO2 Sensing under UV Irradiation at Room Temperature

Nitrogen oxide (NO2) is common by-products of industrial production, posing significant health risks to workers. Therefore, real-time monitoring of NO2 is crucial. In this study, innovative In2O3-ZnO nano-materials were prepared by combining In2O3 with ZIF-8 via electrospinning, for detecting trace amounts of NO2 at room temperature (RT). Compared to pure In2O3, the In2O3-ZnO nano-materials (V2) with a 10% weight ratio of ZIF-8 exhibited a significantly higher response (389.99) and a faster response time (16.9s) to NO2 under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation at RT. The superior gas sensing performance of the V2 nano-materials is attributed to the formation of n-n heterojunctions, enhanced optical absorption, increased oxygen vacancy ratio, and excellent dispersion among the nano-materials. The results demonstrate that V2 nano-materials can detect NO2 at parts-per-billion (ppb) levels at RT, making them suitable for monitoring trace amounts of NO2 in open environments. Furthermore, a portable real-time NO2 monitoring device was constructed using V2 as the sensing material, an LM358-based amplifier circuit for data acquisition, an STM32F103C8T6 microcontroller as the main control unit, and a buzzer as an alarm device. Compared to devices using a helical Ni-Cr wire as an indirect heat source, this integrated NO2 detection device offers real-time alarms with lower energy consumption. This application not only enhances worker health and safety in industrial environments but also demonstrates higher energy efficiency in practical application.

Hybrid CoFe2O4-CNTs-graphene: Synthesis and characterization for energy storage devices

Hybrid materials play a crucial role in a spectrum of energy storage devices. Among them CoFe2O4–CNT–graphene hybrid stands out as versatile magnetic materials with wide-ranging applications spanning electronics, magnetism, and sensor industries. In this study, we synthesized CoFe2O4–CNT–graphene hybrid utilizing ultrasonication method. This fabrication method resulted in the formation of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles, along with bamboo-like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanosheets which collectively establish an open three-dimensional structure. Thorough analyses were conducted on the synthesized nano-composites employing various characterization techniques such as XRD, FT-IR, Raman and FESEM. Further characterization through XPS confirmed the formation of spinel ferrites, detecting the presence of carbon sp2, C1s, carboxylates (O-C-OH), and sp3 carbon, indicating the presence of carbon‑carbon (CC) bonds and confirms the energy levels of Co2p1/2 and Co2p3/2 indicating the effective incorporation of CFO onto the CNT/graphene surface. Analysis of dielectric parameters revealed promising characteristics for high-frequency devices, attributed to low dielectric loss, high quality factor, short relaxation time, and diverse responses exhibited by these materials. The M–H loops of the composite samples displayed ferromagnetic hysteresis behavior due to the presence of ferrite in the matrices. The coercivity value shows a slight improvement in the hybrid samples, while saturation magnetization values decrease, indicating a 1:1 weight ratio of ferrite particles to the host matrix with the incorporation of nonmagnetic CNTs and graphene, and the Hc value increases with the addition of these carbon-based materials due to increased surface anisotropy energy. Upon evaluation of dielectric and magnetic properties the hybrid materials demonstrated an enhanced dielectric and magnetic properties which render these materials suitable for utilization across a spectrum of energy storage devices.

Properties of foam glass produced with the use of soot from a cement factory as a foaming agent: A Study Based on Taguchi Design of Experiments

Cellular glass is a lightweight, porous medium with excellent heat transfer resistance that can be used in a variety of industries. This study investigated the use of soot from cement plants as a new foaming agent for producing foam glass. The experiments were designed using the Taguchi Design of Experiments (DOE) method. By applying this approach, instead of creating and testing 27 different groups of samples, only 9 groups were produced. The properties of the remaining 18 sample groups were then predicted based on Taguchi analysis. Soot and silicon carbide were used simultaneously (at weight ratios of 2% and 3%) as foaming agents in the samples. Alumina was also used as a modifier with weight ratios of 4%, and 8%. Mechanical strength, water absorption, density, and thermal resistance were evaluated. The findings indicated a direct correlation between elevated soot content and increased water absorption (open porosity), coupled with a reduction in compressive strength and overall density of the foam glass. Electron microscopy observations revealed a wide range of crystallite morphologies in the resulting foam glass, which results in diverse properties in the material. The developed glass foams exhibit a density spanning from 125 to 700 kg/m3, with compressive strength varying between 1.2 and 6.7 MPa, and thermal conductivity in the range of 0.08–0.5 W/m·K. The samples with 3% soot, 0% alumina, and 3% SiC exhibited exceptional thermal insulation properties. In contrast, the samples containing 1% soot, 8% alumina, and 1% SiC demonstrated the highest compressive strength. Overall, this study found that soot from cement plants is a viable foaming agent for producing foam glass with desirable properties. The use of soot from cement plants can not only reduce the dispersion of pollution in the environment but also produce a wide range of foam glass with different properties at a lower cost.