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1 – 10 of over 1000Puneet Vatsa, Hongyun Zheng and Wanglin Ma
We analyzed the effects of different combinations of organic soil amendments (OSAs) and chemical fertilizers on agrifood production, focusing on banana yields in China, the…
Abstract
Purpose
We analyzed the effects of different combinations of organic soil amendments (OSAs) and chemical fertilizers on agrifood production, focusing on banana yields in China, the second-largest producer of bananas globally.
Design/methodology/approach
We computed these combinations by dividing the expenditures on OSAs by those on chemical fertilizers and called them OSA-CF ratios. First, we classified farmers based on quintiles of expenditures on chemical fertilizers. Then, we studied the association between OSA-CF ratios and banana yields for each quintile. We also considered an alternate specification in which farmers were grouped along the OSA-CF ratio continuum. The first group comprised farmers not using OSAs. Their OSA-CF ratio was zero. Farmers applying low, medium, and high OSA-CF ratios constituted groups two, three, and four; the groups were delineated based on the OSA-CF ratio tertiles, and the associations between tertiles of OSA-CF ratios and banana yields for each quintile were analyzed. The data used in this study were collected by surveying 616 households in three major banana-producing provinces (Guangdong, Hainan, and Yunnan) of China. Standard linear regressions and the two-stage predictor substitution method were employed to complete the analysis.
Findings
There were variations in the effects of OSA-CF ratios on banana yields obtained by farmers iifferent quintiles. For the first and second quintiles, low, medium, and high OSA-CF ratios improved banana yields relative to not using OSAs. For farmers in the first quintile using only chemical fertilizers, applying a low OSA-CF ratio was associated with an improvement of 792 kg/mu in banana yields. For their counterparts in the second quintile, the same transition was associated with a gain of 534 kg/mu. For the fifth quintile, comprising farmers spending 320 yuan/mu or more on chemical fertilizers, applying a high OSA-CF ratio instead of using only chemical fertilizers was associated with a 401 kg/mu decline in banana yields. Even so, for this group, no differences were observed between the yields of farmers not applying OSAs and those using low and medium OSA-CF ratios.
Practical implications
Banana farmers in southern China, using only chemical fertilizers, can improve yields by combining them with OSAs if their chemical fertilizer expenditures are less than 66.67 yuan/mu. Those using only chemical fertilizers and spending between 68 yuan/mu and 300 yuan/mu on them can maintain yields by applying OSAs in conjunction with chemical fertilizers. However, yields may decline for farmers using only chemical fertilizers and spending 320 yuan/mu or more on them if they incorporate OSAs such that the OSA-CF ratio reaches 0.78 or higher. Overall, combining OSAs with chemical fertilizers can improve yields while attenuating the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers on the environment. Policymakers should inform farmers of these benefits and accelerate the transition to sustainable agriculture through educational and awareness programs.
Originality/value
Farmers apply OSAs such as organic fertilizers and farmyard manure to adjust and remedy soil nutrition to improve farm productivity. However, little is known about how combining OSAs with chemical fertilizers affects banana yields. This study provided the first attempt to explore the associations between OSA-CF ratios and banana yields using cross-sectional data on farming households.
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Ernest Mbamalu Ezeh, Ezeamaku U Luvia and Onukwuli O D
Gourd fibres (GF) are a natural biodegradable fibre material with excellent mechanical properties and high tensile strength. The use of natural fibres in composite materials has…
Abstract
Purpose
Gourd fibres (GF) are a natural biodegradable fibre material with excellent mechanical properties and high tensile strength. The use of natural fibres in composite materials has gained popularity in recent years due to their various advantages, including renewability, low cost, low density and biodegradability. Gourd fibre is one such natural fibre that has been identified as a potential reinforcement material for composites. However, it has low surface energy and hydrophobic nature, which makes it difficult to bond with matrix materials such as polyester. To overcome this problem, chemically adapted gourd fibre has been proposed as a solution. Chemical treatment is one of the most widely used methods to improve the properties of natural fibres. This research evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of incorporating chemically adapted gourd fibre into polyester composites for industrial fabrication. The purpose of this study is to examine the application of chemically modified GF in the production of polyester composite engineering materials.
Design/methodology/approach
This work aims to evaluate the effectiveness of chemically adapted gourd fibre in improving the adhesion of gourd fibre with polyester resin in composite fabrication by varying the GF from 5 to 20 wt.%. The study involves the preparation of chemically treated gourd fibre through surface modification using sodium hydroxide (NaOH), permanganate (KMnO4) and acetic acid (CH3COOH) coupling agents. The mechanical properties of the modified fibre and composites were investigated. It was then characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to determine the changes in surface morphology and functional groups.
Findings
FTIR characterization showed that NaOH treatment caused cellulose depolymerization and caused a significant increase in the hydroxyl and carboxyl groups, showing improved surface functional groups; KMnO4 treatment oxidized the fibre surface and caused the formation of surface oxide groups; and acetic acid treatment induced changes that primarily affected the ester and hydroxyl groups. SEM study showed that NaOH treatment changed the surface morphology of the gourd fibre, introduced voids and reduced hydrophilic tendencies. The tensile strength of the modified gourd fibres increased progressively as the concentration of the modification chemicals increased compared to the untreated fibres.
Originality/value
This work presents the designed composite with density, mechanical properties and microstructure, showing remarkable improvements in the engineering properties. An 181.5% improvement in tensile strength and a 56.63% increase in flexural strength were got over that of the unreinforced polyester. The findings from this work will contribute to the understanding of the potential of chemically adapted gourd fibre as a reinforcement material for composites and provide insights into the development of sustainable composite materials.
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Ensuring high water quality is crucial for safeguarding public health, as contaminated water can pose significant risks to consumers’ well-being. This study aims to evaluate the…
Abstract
Purpose
Ensuring high water quality is crucial for safeguarding public health, as contaminated water can pose significant risks to consumers’ well-being. This study aims to evaluate the microbiological and chemical quality of bottled water brands commonly consumed in Dodoma, Tanzania.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 36 samples from 12 brands were collected between January and March 2023 and analyzed for microbiological and general water quality parameters.
Findings
Microbial analysis found that 42% of brands tested positive for coliform bacteria, while opportunistic pathogens Aeromonas hydrophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were detected in 25% and 17% of samples, respectively. For chemical composition, 42% of brands exceeded the World Health Organization guideline value of 1.5 mg/L for fluoride. However, no other parameters exceeded national drinking water standards. Statistical analysis revealed significantly higher measured fluoride levels compared to values declared on product labels (paired t-test, p = 0.003). A moderate positive correlation between fluoride and conductivity (r = 0.52, p = 0.045) indicated possible geological influences on water chemistry.
Research limitations/implications
To enhance the study’s comprehensiveness, exploring temporal and spatial variations among water brands, including samples from typically clean environments such as supermarkets, could have been beneficial in identifying underlying factors. Additionally, investigating the entire manufacturing process, from production to end-user, could have provided insights into unforeseen deviations in quality. Furthermore, the use of pour plating techniques at 37°C for microbial analysis, while suitable for resource-limited settings, may not have fully captured coliform diversity compared to membrane filtration and differential temperature incubation as per standard methods. This could partly explain the detection of heterotrophs without higher coliform counts in some samples.
Practical implications
This study provides baseline data on the bacteriological and inorganic chemical quality of bottled water in Dodoma. Detectable microbial contaminants and significant exceedances of fluoride guidelines in some products raise public health concerns.
Originality/value
While existing studies focus on bottled water quality at production facilities, this research highlights the overlooked risks at retail points, where consumers are directly affected.
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Aizhan Doshibekova, Indira Jurinskaya, Salikh Tashpulatov, Raushan Zhilisbayeva, Lazzat Sarttarova, Rustam Akbarov and Marzhan Kalmakhanova
This paper aims to study the possibility of electroplating copper coatings on chemically and chemical-galvanically nickel-plated acrylic fibers, to be further processed into yarn…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to study the possibility of electroplating copper coatings on chemically and chemical-galvanically nickel-plated acrylic fibers, to be further processed into yarn, fabrics, knitwear and nonwoven materials.
Design/methodology/approach
Electrically conductive fibers with different copper contents have been obtained, and the effect of electrolyte pH, its composition, current strength at the first and second cathodes, as well as the metallization time on the electrophysical, physical and mechanical properties of copper-containing fibers, has been studied.
Findings
The studies have shown that with an increase in the copper content, the electrical conductivity, the uniformity of the coating and the uniformity of the electrophysical properties (for chemical-galvanically nickel-plated fiber) increase. In the case of copper plating of chemically nickel-plated fiber, the coefficient of variation in electrical resistance increases with increasing plating time, even though the copper content increases, and the coefficient of variation in copper content and electrical resistance decreases. The physical and mechanical properties of copper-containing fibers differ slightly from the original (subjected to copper plating) and industrial Nitron fibers. With copper plating, the strength of the fiber practically does not decrease, and the elongation decreases somewhat, compared with the mass-produced Nitron fiber.
Originality/value
The physical and mechanical properties of copper-containing fibers are quite high, which makes it possible to be successfully further processed into yarn, fabrics, knitwear and nonwoven materials.
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The manufacturing industry in Pakistan, like any other industry, promotes sustainability in its supply chain operations. Yet, the scenario is different in the chemical…
Abstract
Purpose
The manufacturing industry in Pakistan, like any other industry, promotes sustainability in its supply chain operations. Yet, the scenario is different in the chemical manufacturing sector, which lags in the development and implementation of sustainable development practices and policies to safeguard its long-term viability. Embracing sustainable practices not only fulfills manufacturing needs but also stands out from other companies. Hence, the purpose of this study is to explore the eco-friendly business practices that impact corporate innovation. Organizational size is considered a moderator in the relationship between green practices and corporate innovation.
Design/methodology/approach
The quantitative study was conducted to collect the data through convenience sampling techniques. In total, 138 responses were analyzed through the partial least squares method.
Findings
The findings reveal that the implementation of green practices increases corporate innovation. Thus, the impact varies based on different organizational sizes. The crux of the organizational strategy relies on the implementation of eco-friendly practices and holding the right size to survive.
Practical implications
The proposed study provides new grounds for the natural resource-based perspective theory and stakeholder theory. Chemical manufacturers can tailor their strategies that accommodate varying resources and capabilities, facilitating more effective implementation of green practices across different companies within the sector.
Originality/value
The paper provides new ground for the natural resource-based perspective theory. More specifically, this study was expected to help chemical manufacturers choose environmentally friendly practices that would help them meet corporate sustainability performance goals through innovation.
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S. Sridhar and M. Muthtamilselvan
This paper aims to present a study on stability analysis of Jeffrey fluids in the presence of emergent chemical gradients within microbial systems of anisotropic porous media.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to present a study on stability analysis of Jeffrey fluids in the presence of emergent chemical gradients within microbial systems of anisotropic porous media.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses an effective method that combines non-dimensionalization, normal mode analysis and linear stability analysis to examine the stability of Jeffrey fluids in the presence of emergent chemical gradients inside microbial systems in anisotropic porous media. The study focuses on determining critical values and understanding how temperature gradients, concentration gradients and chemical reactions influence the onset of bioconvection patterns. Mathematical transformations and analytical approaches are used to investigate the system’s complicated dynamics and the interaction of numerous characteristics that influence stability.
Findings
The analysis is performed using the Jeffrey-Darcy type and Boussinesq estimation. The process involves using non-dimensionalization, using the normal mode approach and conducting linear stability analysis to convert the field equations into ordinary differential equations. The conventional thermal Rayleigh Darcy number
Originality/value
The study’s novelty originated from its investigation of a novel and complicated system incorporating Jeffrey fluids, emergent chemical gradients and anisotropic porous media, as well as the use of mathematical and analytical approaches to explore the system’s stability and dynamics.
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Goh Choo Ta, Sharina Abdul Halim, Mohamad Mahathir Amir Sultan, Wan Daraputri Razali, Mazlin Mokhtar and Ibrahim Komoo
University research institutes were established in Malaysian Universities to facilitate research activities that do not fit into discipline-oriented departments, including the…
Abstract
Purpose
University research institutes were established in Malaysian Universities to facilitate research activities that do not fit into discipline-oriented departments, including the multi- and inter-disciplinary research that goes beyond the single-disciplinary boundary. This paper aims to report on a case study of one university research institute established in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), known as the institute for environment and development (LESTARI). LESTARI conducts multi-disciplinary research that emphasises research and capacity building on issues related to sustainable development. The aims of this paper are to examine the research evolution undergone at LESTARI, and to ascertain its contribution towards sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Design/methodology/approach
LESTARI was established two years after the Rio Conference held in 1992, with the aims of promoting sustainable development through research and capacity building. This paper uses a qualitative approach to evaluate the research evolution of LESTARI, and a quantitative analysis to ascertain LESTARI’s contribution to SDGs.
Findings
After almost 30 years of establishment, LESTARI has moved from multi-disciplinary research to inter-disciplinary research. Although the transition was based on respective research areas (e.g. chemicals management and geopark), the research maturity of LESTARI is shown in its transformation from conventional to translational research. LESTARI has proven its capability to conduct multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary research, and the research outputs are also contributing to the SDGs.
Practical implications
The LESTARI case study has shown that as long as a research institute has a firm and clear research direction, regardless of how it is evaluated and monitored (e.g. evaluated by SDGs), the research institute remains relevant in the context of its establishment.
Social implications
The findings from this paper serve to set LESTARI as an example for other university research institutes, whether in Malaysia or in other countries.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this contribution is the first that discusses the transition from multi-disciplinary research to inter-disciplinary research, as well as the contribution to SDGs, among university research institutes in Malaysia.
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Tiprawee Tongtummachat, Attasak Jaree and Nattee Akkarawatkhoosith
This article presents our experience in implementing the assessment for learning process (AfL) to enhance the teaching–learning quality, which has faced numerous challenges…
Abstract
Purpose
This article presents our experience in implementing the assessment for learning process (AfL) to enhance the teaching–learning quality, which has faced numerous challenges impacting educational quality. The effectiveness of this technique is demonstrated through a case study conducted in a core course of chemical engineering.
Design/methodology/approach
The article shares insights into the systematic course design and planning processes that were discussed and developed through AfL practices. Significant emphasis is placed on implementing formative and summative student self-assessment surveys as simple yet effective methods to meet this purpose. Quantitative data were collected and analyzed over three consecutive academic years (2020–2022) using various statistical parameters such as percentage, interquartile range and the program’s numerical goal (%G).
Findings
The AfL process via formative and summative surveys could significantly and effectively improve teaching–learning quality. These findings assist educators in identifying appropriate teaching methods and recognizing areas of weakness and strength, thereby facilitating continuous improvement in the teaching–learning quality. Validation methods, including quizzes and numerical grades, were employed to practically verify the outcome obtained from the questionnaires.
Practical implications
The AfL techniques demonstrated in this study can be directly implemented or adapted for various educational fields to enhance the teaching–learning quality.
Originality/value
The practical implementation of AfL in an engineering context has hardly been reported, particularly in chemical engineering. This work represents the practical implementation of AfL to enhance engineering field education.
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Chigoziri N. Njoku, Temple Uzoma Maduoma, Wilfred Emori, Rita Emmanuel Odey, Beshel M. Unimke, Emmanuel Yakubu, Cyril C. Anorondu, Daniel I. Udunwa, Onyinyechi C. Njoku and Kechinyere B. Oyoh
Corrosion is a major concern for many industries that use metals as structural or functional materials, and the use of corrosion inhibitors is a widely accepted strategy to…
Abstract
Purpose
Corrosion is a major concern for many industries that use metals as structural or functional materials, and the use of corrosion inhibitors is a widely accepted strategy to protect metals from deterioration in corrosive environments. Moreover, the toxic nature, non-biodegradability and price of most conventional corrosion inhibitors have encouraged the application of greener and more sustainable options, with natural and synthetic drugs being major actors. Hence, this paper aims to stress the capability of natural and synthetic drugs as manageable and sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions to the problem of metal corrosion.
Design/methodology/approach
In this review, the recent developments in the use of natural and synthetic drugs as corrosion inhibitors are explored in detail to highlight the key advancements and drawbacks towards the advantageous utilization of drugs as corrosion inhibitors.
Findings
Corrosion is a critical issue in numerous modern applications, and conventional strategies of corrosion inhibition include the use of toxic and environmentally harmful chemicals. As greener alternatives, natural compounds like plant extracts, essential oils and biopolymers, as well as synthetic drugs, are highlighted in this review. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of these compounds, as well as their effectiveness in preventing corrosion, are discussed in the review.
Originality/value
This survey stresses on the most recent abilities of natural and synthetic drugs as viable and sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions to the problem of metal corrosion, thus expanding the general knowledge of green corrosion inhibitors.
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Tobignaré Florent Maré, Pam Zahonogo and Kimseyinga Savadogo
In a context where the promotion of a more sustainable agriculture is clearly aimed at, the paradoxical combination of sustainable agricultural practices (SAP) with chemical…
Abstract
Purpose
In a context where the promotion of a more sustainable agriculture is clearly aimed at, the paradoxical combination of sustainable agricultural practices (SAP) with chemical pesticides use instead of biological pest management techniques is recurrent in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries like Burkina Faso. Chemical pesticides are harmful to the environment and health. This paper aims to analyze the role of farmer education on the mode of adoption of SAP.
Design/methodology/approach
An endogenous treatment effect model is used with survey data on 1,898 rural households in Burkina Faso.
Findings
The results show a positive causal effect of farmer education on sustainable and chemical pesticide-free agriculture adoption.
Research limitations/implications
Formal education appears to be general. This research could be extended to consider the role of training or extension services. More detailed results, focusing on spatial effects, could reinforce those of the present research.
Originality/value
Unlike previous studies, this paper addresses for the first time the paradoxical behavior of combining SAP with chemical pesticides use. It shows that farmer education contributes to explain it and is therefore a determining factor for a more sustainable agriculture.
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