Gravity Values Research Articles

DEVELOPMENT OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS FOR TRICYCLE BRAKE PADS

Coconut fiber and rice dust are locally sourced, developed, and evaluated as agro-waste materials to replace carcinogenic asbestos fibers in brake pad production. The process involves crushing, grinding, and sieving coconut fiber into a powder, mixing it with steel dust, carbon black, and epoxy resin, filling a mould, adding hardener, and pressing and curing samples at 250 °C. The produce is tested for mechanical properties, with optimal brake pad properties achieved using a 100μm sieve grade, enhancing interfacial bonding between resin and coconut shell particles. The hardness, compressive strength, ash content, specific gravity, wear rate, and water absorption values were found to be 258, 113 N/mm2, 40%, 1.91, 3.23 mg/m, and 0.63%. The study found that coconut shell has qualities similar to those needed for brake pad material and asbestos replacement in brake pad production. Coconut shell, with its 100μm particle size, has the potential to replace asbestos-based brake pad manufacturing, reducing harmful components and environmental impact.

Degradative Quality and Emission Implications of Repeatedly Heated Cooking Oil in Indoor Environment

The study examined the effects of heating the same batch of oil for multiple frying cycles on the pollutants that are released into the air and the degradation of the oil’s quality. Principal component analysis under the physicochemical metrics framework was used to study singular and interaction effects of three oil brands, frying duration and temperature. Physicochemical parameters showed that peanut oil has high unsaponifiable matters, the refractive index and kinetic viscosity prior to frying. Specific gravity and acid value were significantly lower for soya bean oil after frying with values 0.42 ± 0.02 and 0.20 ± 0.01 in order. The values of 4.09 ± 0.04 meqO2/kg and 114.96 ± 0.23 mgKOH/g obtained for peroxide value and saponification value respectively were significant for olive oil during post frying analysis. The emission values were in the ranges 98.17 ± 0.15 (x103)-573.20 ± 0.20 (x103),11.0 mg/m3 at 60 °C-34.0 mg/m3 at 140 °C, 0.051 mg/m3 at 60 °C-0.088 mg/m3 release at 140 °C, 59.0 μg/m3 at 80 °C-72.0 μg/m3 at 120 °C, and 0.057 mg/m3 at 60 °C-0.078 mg/m3 at 140 °C respectively for PAH, CO, NO2, SPM, SO2. Temperature had a significant impact on the rates of emissions when combined with time. The inherent patterns and trends within the data matrix suggest that oil brand quality was the most significant factor influencing the clustering of observations. Therefore, heating cooking oils to moderate temperatures and using a large volume of the oil could result in minimal rates of evaporation and pollutants emission

Quality of complete feed wafer supplemented with different plant protein sources for small ruminants

<p class="MDPI17abstract"><strong><span lang="IN">Objective:</span></strong><span lang="IN"> This study aimed to assess the quality of complete feed wafers with different plant protein sources for a feed of small ruminants.</span></p><p class="MDPI17abstract"><strong><span lang="IN">Methods:</span></strong><span lang="EN">The research was conducted in May-September 2022. The research method used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 4 replications. </span><span lang="IN">The method used in this study was Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 4 treatments, namely R0 = Wafer with an animal protein source (Fish meal) (Control), R1 = Wafers with protein source <em>Sesbania grandiflora</em>, R2 = Wafers with protein source <em>Gliricidia sepium</em>. R3=Wafer with protein source <em>Leucaena leucocephala</em>.</span><span lang="EN">The research variables consisted of physical quality (moisture content, wafer density, specific gravity, water absorption) and nutritional quality (dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and nitrogen free extracts). Data analysis according to the Analysis of Variance procedure using SPSS version 21.</span></p><p class="MDPI17abstract"><strong><span lang="IN">Results:</span></strong><span lang="EN">The results showed that the use of plant protein sources had no significant effect (P>0.05) on water content and wafer density but had a significant effect (P<0.05) on specific gravity and water absorption capacity. The use of plant protein sources can increase the value of water content, wafer density, and specific gravity and reduce water absorption capacity. Meanwhile, the crude protein (CP) content of the wafer had no significant effect (P>0.05) and produced the same value as using fish meal. Other nutritional variables had a significant effect (P<0.05) such as DM, OM, EE and NFE which increased and CF decreased on the use of plant protein sources in making feed wafers compared to the use of fish meal.</span></p><p><strong><span lang="IN">Conclusions:</span></strong><span lang="IN"> It was concluded that the use of legumes <em>Sesbania grandiflora</em>, <em>Gliricidia sepium</em></span><em><span lang="EN-US">,</span></em><span lang="IN"> and <em>Leucaena leucocephala</em> as a source of vegetable protein in wafers could replace fish meal. The three types of legumes </span><span lang="EN-US">had</span><span lang="IN"> the same effect on the physical and nutritional quality of the resulting product</span><span lang="EN-US">.</span></p>

PENGARUH POLIMER PC DENGAN ADDITIF TWEEN-80 TERHADAP KARAKTERISTIK POLIMER DAN RECOVERY FACTOR PADA MINYAK 39 °API DI BATUAN SANDSTONE

Background: The increasing demand for petroleum and the depletion of oil reserves in oil fields require the development of more efficient oil recovery techniques to enhance oil production. One method that can be employed is Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), where chemical injection becomes a viable approach. One chemical injection method that can be used is polymer injection. One suitable polymer for this purpose is cellulose polymer (PC). Cellulose polymer (PC) is the most abundant polymer in nature, a renewable material that is degradable, biocompatible, cost-effective, and non-toxic. Cellulose can be derived from plants and certain types of bacteria.Objective: This research aims to investigate the influence of temperature variations on cellulose polymer (PC) with Tween-80 additive on the Recovery Factor.Methodology: Laboratory experiments were conducted using the core flooding technique with a core holder, applying the slug method with various °API variations on light crude oil with an API gravity value of 39. Sandstone rock samples were used in the experiments, prepared by saturating with brine and oil.Result: The laboratory results showed a recovery percentage of 7.89% at a temperature of 60 °C and 17.86% at a temperature of 80 °C. The highest increase in oil recovery was observed at a temperature of 80 °C, with a recovery factor of 17.86%. In conclusion:, based on the conducted core flooding experiments, the best recovery factor was found in polymer injection using PC with Tween-80 additive at a temperature of 80 °C.

AGGREGATE POTENTIAL OF KHAIRABAD LIMESTONE, KALABAGH-MIANWALI, PAKISTAN

Quality of aggregate material reflects the physical, chemical and mineralogical properties of source rock. Limestone is main source of crushed rock aggregate, which is largely used by construction industry. There are few geological formations in Kohat-Potwar province which qualify the specific criteria for utilization as aggregate in building material. Khairabad Limestone exposed in Kalabagh area in Western Salt Range contains colossal quantity of minable aggregates. That’s why, we quantitatively examined this limestone of Paleocene age through several physical, chemical, mineralogical, engineering and mechanical tests to evaluate its aptness as aggregate material. AASHTO, ASTM, BS and NHA designated engineering tests including Los Angles Value (26.59%), Aggregate Impact Value (13.91%), Aggregate Crushing Value (12.84), soundness value (1.84%), coating and stripping of bitumen (96.4%), specific gravity (2.7), water absorption (0.83%), unit weight (1.65 g/cm3), total (elongation + flakiness) index (22.78%), and petrographic analysis (ASR & ACR) revealed that it is highly feasible aggregate resource with suitable properties. Investigated reserve is vast and thick enough to provide aggregate material to nearby local construction as well as national megaprojects. It would be a good contribution to the rising demand of construction materials in the country.

Preparation of herbal hair oil exploring the therapeutic benefits of herbs and its evaluation

Background: Herbal cosmetics, particularly herbal hair oils, have gained popularity due to their perceived efficacy and minimal adverse effects. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate herbal hair oils for promoting hair growth. Methodology: Various herbal extracts, including Coconut, Curry leaves, Amla, Fenugreek, and Onion, were prepared and incorporated into virgin Coconut oil. Phytochemical screening, total flavonoid content, organoleptic evaluation, chemical analysis (acid value, saponification value, specific gravity), stability studies, antioxidant assay (DPPH), antimicrobial assay, sensitivity studies, and in-vivo hair growth activity were conducted. Results: Organoleptic evaluation revealed characteristic odors and colors across formulations. Chemical analysis showed acceptable values for acid value (0.68 - 1.86 mg KOH/g), saponification value (117.87 - 224.27 mg KOH/g), and specific gravity (0.865 - 0.933 g/cm^3). Stability studies over 45 days demonstrated consistent physicochemical properties. The DPPH assay indicated dose-dependent antioxidant activity, with inhibition ranging from 13.8% to 66.5%. Antimicrobial assay showed inhibition zones ranging from 6 mm to 20 mm against Staphylococcus aureus. Sensitivity studies exhibited no adverse reactions. In-vivo hair growth activity demonstrated significant improvements compared to controls. Discussion: The formulated herbal hair oils exhibited promising physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, antimicrobial efficacy, safety, and hair growth promotion in animal models. These findings suggest their potential as natural remedies for hair care. Conclusion: Herbal hair oils formulated in this study show significant potential for promoting hair growth and addressing hair-related concerns. Whereas, formulation F3 shown significant efficacy across multiple parameters among the formulations. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to validate their efficacy and safety for human use.

Experimental Study on Workability of Natural Aggregate Concrete Incorporated with Crumb Rubber

This study investigated the effect of crumb rubber on the workability of fresh concrete. Crumb rubber was used to replace fine aggregate at 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 25%. Physical properties (particle size gradation, specific gravity, bulk density and aggregate impact value) of the aggregates: sharp sand, Bida natural stone and crumb rubber were determined. Furthermore, the sharp sand and Bida natural stone used for this research were characterized as normal weight aggregates while the crumb rubber was characterized as a light weight aggregate. Workability of the concrete in its fresh state was extensively studied. Generally, the workability of fresh concrete reduced as the crumb rubber increased from 0% to 25%. The reduction in slump values was adduced to the absorbent nature of the crumb rubber. Hence, the research recommended a water-to-cement ratio of 0.55 – 0.60 for use in the production of concrete containing crumb rubber. It was concluded that crumb rubber can be used to produce low workability concrete for use in mass concrete foundations, lightly reinforced concrete elements and roads.

TWO-CHANNEL BALLISTIC TRANSFORMER GRAVIMETER

The two-channel ballistic transformer gravimeter for measuring the doubled value of the acceleration of gravity contains a gravimeter that uses a fixed glass tube made of a dielectric material, a magnetized test body in the form of a layer, a computer and an inductance winding, which is characterized by the fact that the fixed tube is made of a dielectric material, the inductance winding acts as a primary excitation winding connected to the power source, which additionally contains two identical sections of the secondary output winding, connected in series-opposite, to create two measurement channels, an electromagnet consisting of an armature made of magnetic material, an additional winding connected through a switch to an additional power source. To provide free vertical movement in two opposite directions along the OZ axis of the magnetized test body, it is proposed to use the proposed electromagnet consisting of an armature made of a soft magnetic material, an additional winding connected through a switch to an additional power source. The winding of the electromagnet is connected to the power source by a switch to create an electromagnetic flux of attraction to the test body, which, thanks to this, will rise to the uppermost position. At the next moment, the electromagnet switch is turned off, and the test body falls down under the action of the acceleration of gravity. The doubled output signal of the acceleration of gravity, which is removed from the secondary winding, is free from the effects of interference: external electromagnetic flows, inertial vertical acceleration, instrumental errors caused by changes in temperature, humidity, vibrations, pressure, the moment of dry friction forces, non-identity of the parameters of two identical sections of the secondary output winding and other factors - is submitted to the computer. The output of the computer is proportional to twice the acceleration of gravity value. Increased accuracy and reliability of measurements of the doubled value of the acceleration of gravity and increased efficiency of the search for minerals have been ensured

Territorial Accessibility of Regional Systems of Secondary Vocational Education

The article discusses the development of the infrastructure of regional systems of secondary vocational education, as well as the territorial accessibility of professional educational organizations (VET) for young people. As part of the study, the authors consider compliance with state guarantees for the implementation of the right of young people to vocational education in terms of providing budgetary places in educational organizations of the open-ended educational system and places in hostels, as well as the permissible value of the specific gravity of the number of buildings of state public educational institutions adapted for training people with disabilities and disabled people. The basis for the study was the Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation for the period until 2025, approved by order of the Government of the Russian Federation of February 13, 2019 N 207-r and the Development Strategy for the system of training workers and the formation of applied qualifications in the Russian Federation for the period until 2030. As a result of the study, the authors identified regions at risk for the availability of secondary vocational education. Calculations were carried out taking into account the demographic forecast and migration of young people. The article was written on the basis of the RANEPA state assignment research programme.

Effect of Heat Treatment on Color Change and The Physical Properties of Sembilang Bamboo (Dendrocalamus giganteus Munro)

Timber as a raw material for making furniture is still lacking. One alternative to overcome this problem is bamboo. The potential for bamboo in Indonesia is quite large. Sembilang bamboo is a species of bamboo that has not been widely used. Research related to the effect of heat treatment on color change and the physical properties of bamboo needs to be carried out to determine color change and the dimensional stability of bamboo. This research was carried out by giving heat at 180°C for various durations (control, 3 hours, and 6 hours). The color change, moisture content, absorption, and specific gravity of heat-treated sembilang bamboo were researched. The results showed that the color of sembilang bamboo after heat treatment became darker than the control. The moisture content and absorption values of sembilang bamboo with heat treatment at 180°C for 6 hours were higher than the control and 3 hours. The specific gravity value of the bamboo control was higher than 3 hours and 6 hours for sembilang bamboo. Heat treatment at 180°C for 6 hours had an adverse effect on the physical properties of sembilang bamboo. Heat-treated sembilang bamboo at 180°C for 3 hours was recommended in this research

Detection of Solar-like Oscillations in Subgiant and Red Giant Stars Using 2 minute Cadence TESS Data

Based on all 2 minute cadence TESS light curves from Sector 1 to 60, we provide a catalog of 8651 solar-like oscillators, including frequency at maximum power ( νmax , with its median precision σ = 5.39%), large frequency separation (Δν, σ = 6.22%), and seismically derived masses, radii, and surface gravity values. In this sample, we have detected 2173 new oscillators and added 4373 new Δν measurements. Our seismic parameters are consistent with those from Kepler, K2, and previous TESS data. The median fractional residual in νmax is 1.63%, with a scatter of 14.75%, and in Δν it is 0.11%, with a scatter of 10.76%. We have detected 476 solar-like oscillators with νmax exceeding the Nyquist frequency of Kepler long-cadence data during the evolutionary phases of subgiants and the base of the red giant branch, which provide a valuable resource for understanding angular momentum transport.

Optimization of Pyrolysis Process Parameters for Fuel Oil Production from the Thermal Recycling of Waste Polypropylene Grocery Bags Using the Box–Behnken Design

The impact of dumping plastic waste is realized in different ecosystems of the planet. Several methods have been adopted to dispose of these wastes for energy recovery. This study, for the first time, proposed the Box–Behnken design technique to optimize the pyrolysis process parameters for fuel oil production from waste polypropylene (PP) grocery bags using a semibatch-type pyrolytic reactor. The semibatch-type pyrolytic reactor was developed and employed to produce fuel oil from waste PP grocery bags. The effect of different process parameters on fuel oil production was comprehensively analyzed using the response surface methodology (RSM) with the conjunction of the Box–Behnken design (BBD). The BBD facilitates the prediction of the response variables with respect to changes in the input variables by developing a response model. The BBD was used to optimize the process parameters, such as the reaction temperature (400–550 °C), nitrogen flow rate (5–20 mL min−1), and substrate feed rate (0.25–1.5 kg h−1), and their effect on the responses were observed. The optimum response yields of the fuel oil (89.34 %), solid residue (2.74%), and gas yield (7.92%) were obtained with an optimized temperature (481 °C), a nitrogen flow rate (13 mL min−1), and a feed rate (0.61 kg h−1). The quadratic model obtained for the fuel oil response denotes the greater R2 value (0.99). The specific gravity and calorific value of the fuel oil were found to be 0.787 and 45.42 MJ kg−1, respectively. The fuel oil had higher research octane number (RON) (100.0 min) and motor octane number (MON) (85.1 min) values. These characteristics of the fuel oil were matched with conventional petroleum fuels. Further, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) were used to analyze the fuel oil, and the results revealed that the fuel oil was enriched with different hydrocarbons, namely, alkane (paraffins) and alkene (olefins), in the carbon range of C4–C20. These results, and also the fractional distillation of the fuel oil, show the presence of petroleum-range hydrocarbons in the waste PP fuel oil.

Biodiesel production from spent vegetable oil with Al2O3 and Fe2O3-biobased heterogenous nanocatalysts: Comparative and optimization studies

A waste-to-wealth approach was adopted in this study to establish an efficient, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable process for producing biodiesel from Spent Vegetable Oil (SVO). This involved the synthesis and calcination at 800 °C of aluminum and iron oxide snail shell-based catalysts (F2O3-SS and Al2O3-SS) using the wet-impregnation method. The catalysts were characterized using FTIR, XRD, and SEM-EDS, and then used in the transesterification of SVO to produce biodiesel. Optimization was performed using three-factor Box-Behnken Design (BBD): reaction time, catalyst concentration, and temperature. After extensive physicochemical study, FTIR and GC–MS analyses were further carried out on the produced biodiesel. The XRD results showed crystalline composites with an average lattice parameter of 8.5583 Å (Fe2O3-SS) and 7.4813 Å (Al2O3-SS). EDX and FTIR confirmed surface modifications with the formation of metal oxide (Me-O) at 543 cm−1 (Al-O) and 613 cm−1 (Fe-O). SEM micrographs show flower-like and spherical-shaped nanocomposites of F2O3-SS (162 nm) and Al2O3-SS (660 nm), respectively. Under optimal transesterification conditions of 120 min, 1.0 wt%, and 90 °C, biodiesel yields of 94.23 ± 0.50 and 91.94 ± 0.21 % were recorded for both Al2O3-SS and F2O3-SS, respectively. FTIR analysis corroborated the biodiesel production, with a distinctive C-O-C ester stretch at 1021 cm−1 for both catalysts. The produced biodiesel recorded a low moisture content and specific gravity values of 0.03 % and 0.8011 kg/m3 for Al2O3-SS, 0.02 % and 0.8042 kg/m3 for Fe2O3-SS. GC–MS analysis shows hexadecanoic acid, 15-methyl-, methyl ester as the predominant component, constituting 29.87 % and 25.34 % for Al2O3-SS and F2O3-SS, respectively. Furthermore, activation energy (Ea) values of 50.42 and a pre-exponential factor (A) of 2.2 × 105 were recorded for Al2O3-SS while 45.94 kJ/mol and 6.2 × 104 were recorded for Ea and A, respectively for Fe2O3-SS. The outcomes of this research reveal the efficacy of utilizing aluminum and iron oxide snail shell-based nanocatalysts for biodiesel production from spent vegetable oil. However, future studies should focus on evaluating their long-term stability, assessing their environmental impact, and identifying potential applications in large-scale biodiesel production.

Processing and re-interpretation of gravity bouguer map of a selected area in the W-NW of Iraq

Geophysical data interpretation is crucial in characterizing the subsurface structure. The Bouguer gravity map analysis of the W-NW region of Iraq serves as the basis for the current geophysical research. The Bouguer gravity data were processed using the Power Spectrum Analysis method. Four depth slices have been acquired after the PSA process, which are: 390 m, 1300 m, 3040 m, and 12600 m depth. The gravity anomaly depth maps show that shallow-depth anomalies are mainly related to the sedimentary cover layers and structures, while the gravity anomaly of the deeper depth slice of 12600 m is more presented to the basement rocks and mantle uplift. The 2D modeling technique was used for the quantitative interpretation of a selected Gravity profile along the study area. The model section of the gravity profile illustrated the relatively high density of subsurface basement rocks and/or upward mantle process which causes the effect of positive gravity values. Furthermore, several faults are indicated in the sedimentary sections by potential gravity methods such as several grabens, half grabens, and horst structures which are identified in Bouguer depth maps by relatively high and low gravity values, these structures were also affected by the basement rock uplift and/or Mantle upwards.

Product design evaluation based on improved CRITIC and Comprehensive Cloud-TOPSIS – Applied to automotive styling design evaluation

To tackle the challenge of achieving more reasonably calculation of evaluation indicator weights and a more scientifically rigorous scoring system for ranking in product design evaluation, a novel evaluation model that leverages improved CRITIC (Criteria Improved Criteria Importance) and CC-TOPSIS (Comprehensive Cloud-Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) is proposed. Firstly, the process commences with the collection of qualitative product evaluations from respondents through questionnaires, presented in the form of fuzzy confidence intervals. Subsequently, these evaluations are transformed into generalized trapezoidal fuzzy numbers, and their center of gravity values are calculated. Secondly, after the weight for each evaluation indicator is calculated employing an enhanced CRITIC approach, a weight cloud model utilizing the backward cloud methodology is constructed. Subsequently, the scoring cloud model is generated as a backward cloud, followed by the application of an enhanced synthesis operator to amalgamate the weight cloud model with the scoring cloud model, culminating in the formation of a comprehensive cloud model. Finally, the product design schemes are ranked using the Cloud-TOPSIS method, and a cloud chart analysis provides insights into optimization directions. The utilization of this methodology in assessing automotive styling design serves as a compelling showcase of its practicality and efficiency, in addition to, the method's resilience is further bolstered through a sensitivity analysis of the evaluation indicators. This method adeptly computes the weights of evaluation indicators, while also addressing the inherent variability in weight values and incorporates the benefits of Cloud Model and TOPSIS in the evaluation of product design alternatives, ultimately elevating the rationality and the scientific underpinnings of the product design evaluation process.

A Assessment of stone ash as a lightweight concrete constituent material with the addition of bestmittel additives

Technological advances in the field of building construction have developed very rapidly, so we need a construction technology that can reduce exploitation of nature. Utilization of stone ash is one of the new material alternatives in concrete mixtures with the addition of the bestmittel additive to accelerate drying in concrete. The purpose of this study is to determine the aggregate characteristics, specific gravity and compressive strength of concrete. The method used is laboratory experimental research with variations in stone ash samples of 5%, 10% and 15% to the weight of sand with the addition of 0.6% bestmittell additive to the weight of cement. The results showed that stone ash and bestmittell additives affect the characteristics of the concrete. The value of specific gravity increases with increasing percentage of stone ash, namely 1898.77 kg/m3 in normal concrete, 1911.35 kg/m3 of 5% stone ash concrete, 1922.34 kg/m3 of 10% stone ash concrete and 1927.06 kg/m3 m3 on 10% stone ash concrete. The compressive strength value of characteristic for the compositions AB 5%, AB 10% and AB 15% are 10.08 Mpa, 10.35 Mpa and 10.88 Mpa respectively, an increase compared to normal AB 0% concrete, namely 9.03 Mpa at 28 days.

Gemological and Chemical Characterization of Gem-Quality Titanite from Morocco

Titanite is a widespread accessory mineral in igneous, metamorphic, and hydrothermal rocks, but few comply with gem-grade requirements. Previous studies on Moroccan titanite focused on elementary composition and U-Pb dating. In this study, two gem-grade titanites (MA-1 and MA-2) from the Moroccan Central High Atlas were investigated through gemological and chemical studies, including infrared spectrum, Raman spectrum, SEM-EDS, and LA-ICP-MS. Two titanite samples are yellow, transparent–translucent with a greasy luster, 3.5 and 2.5 mm long. MA-1 and MA-2 have similar gemological properties, the refractive index (RI) is beyond the range of the refractometer (>1.78), the specific gravity (SG) values fall in the range of 3.52~3.54 and both are inert to short-wave and long-wave UV radiation. The spectral characteristics have high consistency with the RRUFF database. The major elements’ composition shows a negative correlation between Al, Fe, V, and Ti, suggesting the titanites underwent substitutions such as (Al, Fe3+) + (F, OH) ↔ Ti + O. The titanite samples, characterized by a low abundance of REE (802~4088 ppm) and enriched in LREE, exhibit positive Eu (δEu: 1.53~7.79) and Ce (δCe: 1.08~1.33) anomalies, indicating their formation in a hydrothermal environment with low oxygen fugacity. The 238U/206Pb and 207Pb/206Pb ratios of the titanites yield lower intercept ages of 152.6 ± 2.2 and 151.4 ± 5.3 Ma (1s), consistent with their weighted average 206Pb/238U ages of 152.3 ± 2.0 and 150.7 ± 3.2 Ma (1s) respectively. The results of U-Pb dating are matched with the second main magmatic activities in the High Atlas intracontinental belt of Morocco during the Mesozoic to Cenozoic period. Moreover, the two titanite samples have almost no radiational damage. All the results show that the titanite from High Atlas, Morocco, has the potential to be a reference material for LA-ICP-MS U–Pb dating, but further experiments are needed to be sure.

Experimental investigation of the influence of deceleration on brake elements temperature in order to improve traffic safety

Correct determination of deceleration is very important from the aspect of the investigation of traffic accidents, because deceleration of the vehicle involved in the traffic accident is of key importance for the preparation of a quality finding and opinion of traffic expert. In this paper it was conducted the investigation how the change of the pressure affects the change of the temperature of the brake couple and how this change is later reflected in the deceleration of the vehicle and the braking distance. In order to find how the temperature influences the deceleration, it was conducted experimental investigation. The experimental investigation was conducted on the experimental test rig, which simulates the braking process for the quarter of the vehicle mass, and the experimental investigation was conducted for four different braking pressures: 2 MPa, 3 MPa, 4 MPa, and 5 MPa. The temperature of the brake couple was measured during the entire braking process. Also the difference between mean fully developed deceleration and average vehicle deceleration is shown. It was found that for the case when the braking pressure was 5 MPa, the maximum deceleration value was greater than the value of gravity of Earth which may impair the stability of the vehicle. When the braking pressure was 2 MPa, 3 MPa, and 4 MPa, the temperature increased, respectively, but in the last measurement, when the braking pressure was 5 MPa, it began to decrease. Braking distance decreased with the increment of the braking pressure. Also, with the braking pressure increment, the deceleration increased in all cases.

Zeytinyağı oleojelinin şortening ikame maddesi olarak kullanılmasının kekin kalite özellikleri üzerine etkisinin belirlenmesi

This study investigates the potential of using olive oil oleogel as a solid fat substitute in cake production. For this purpose, the shortening content in the cake formula was replaced with 25% (25% Oleogel-cake) and 50% (50% Oleogel-cake) of the oleogel. Only shortening was used as oil in the control sample (Control cake). The specific gravity values of the Control-cake, 25% Oleogel-cake, and 50% Oleogel-cake batters were 0.90 ±0.00, 0.98 ±0.00, and 1.06 ±0.01, respectively. All cake batters displayed shear thinning behaviour (n < 1, pseudoplastic) and conformed to the Herschel-Bulkley model (R2, 0.9975-0.9950). The apparent viscosity values of the cake batters containing oleogel were lower than those of the control cake. G′ values were higher than G′′ values in all cake batters, indicating that all samples had solid-like structures. The highest hardness value belonged to the Control-cake (403.92 ±14.84 g), while the lowest belonged to the 50% Oleogel-cake (303.11 ±12.10 g). As the amount of oleogel added to the cake formulation increased, the elasticity of the cakes increased. Differences between the samples regarding the sensory analysis parameters were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). The results show that using oleogel as a substitute for shortening in cake preparation has a promising future.

SIMULATION OF BOILER FEED PUMP USING CONTROLLER PROGRAM: A CASE STUDY OF SAPELE POWER BOILER FEED PUMP

The goal of this work is to automate the Sapele Power Plant Boiler Feed Pumps (BFPs) using CODESYS software to simulate BFP controlled by a proposed PLC system that was manually controlled. The boiler pressure, level, feed stream flow, and primary heat transport (PHT) pressure BFP were restored to their optimal levels within a few seconds after trip. This was possible for the standby program used for automation within 14 seconds when compared to the manual process that was in place. During the simulation, the BFP goes into standby mode after 14 seconds. The results obtained under automated condition shows the boiler pressure rises to 40.3 kg/cm-1s-2 and remained stable for 147 seconds as against 55.9 kg/cm-1s-2 in 25 seconds under unautomated conditions. The flow rate of the feed water shows a decrease of -0.172 m at 50 seconds. The boiler pressure rose further to 44 kg/cm-1s-2 at 175 seconds, which corresponds to a specific gravity value of 59.5 kg/cm3 at the same time. At 146 seconds, the feed water hits the trip setting of -2.85m owed to low specific gravity (SG) level when compared to the unautomated condition. Thus, a further increase reached fluctuation level of -10m at 200 seconds. The PHT was 88.5 kg/cm-1s-2 at 146 seconds contrary to the expected pressure of 105.6 kg/cm-1s-2 for unautomated state. This change after 146 seconds results from generator trip. The pressure increases to 90.2 kg/cm3 at approximately 148 seconds and subsequently decreases to 48 kg/cm3 consequently opening of the condenser steam discharge valve (CSDVs) and atmospheric steam discharge valve (ASDVs) during the simulation state.