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1 – 10 of 17Ahmed Atta, Nehal Ali, Mohamed Taman and Emad Etman
This study aims to investigate the use of CdO nanoparticles with recycled aggregates (RAs) and its effect on the structural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) slab elements.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the use of CdO nanoparticles with recycled aggregates (RAs) and its effect on the structural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) slab elements.
Design/methodology/approach
The study has been conducted through three phases: in the first phase, the structure of lab-synthesized CdO nanoparticles was investigated and then cement was partially replaced by CdO nanoparticles to estimate the optimum dose. The second phase focused on the properties of the RA collected from demolition wastes. In the third phase, RC slabs with different concrete mixes using RA and CdO nanoparticles were experimentally tested.
Findings
The results indicated good effect of using CdO nanoparticles with RA to improve the RC slab specimens’ behavior compared with the control specimen.
Originality/value
In present times, nanoparticles have a promising importance in the construction field. The influence of nanoparticles on the compressive strength of the concrete has been investigated by many researchers, but using it with RA is considered a new topic.
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The purpose of this study is to use polybenzoxazine (Pbz) functionalized ZrO2 nanoparticles to synthesize polyurethane (PU)-PbZ/ZrO2 nanocomposite. The results derived from the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to use polybenzoxazine (Pbz) functionalized ZrO2 nanoparticles to synthesize polyurethane (PU)-PbZ/ZrO2 nanocomposite. The results derived from the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and polarization studies indicated the superior anticorrosive activity of PU-Pbz/ZrO2 nanocomposite coatings compared to those of plain PU coatings. The decreased corrosion current was detected on the scratch of the PU-Pbz/ZrO2 nanocomposite-coated mild steel surface by scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) compared to other studied coatings. The superior anticorrosive and mechanical properties of the proposed nanocomposite coatings provide a new horizon in the development of high-performance anticorrosive coatings for various industries.
Design/methodology/approach
The Pbz functionalized ZrO2 nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in terms of the structural, morphological and thermal properties of these coatings. A different formulation of coatings such as PU, PU-Pbz, PU-ZrO2 and PU-Pbz/ZrO2 were prepared and investigated for their corrosion protection performance on mild steel in natural seawater by electrochemical techniques. The surface morphological studies were done by SEM/EDX and XRD analysis.
Findings
The superior anticorrosive property of the proposed nanocomposite coatings provides a new horizon in the development of high-performance anticorrosive coatings for various industries. Addition of Pbz wrapped ZrO2 nanoparticles into the PU coating resulted in the blockage of charge transfer at the metal/electrolyte interface, which reduced the dissolution of mild steel. It was revealed from the SEM/EDX analysis that the formation of the corrosion products at the metal/electrolyte interface behaved as the passive layer which reduced the dissolution of steel.
Originality/value
The inclusion of polybenzoxazine functionalized ZrO2 nanoparticles to the polyurethane coating reinforces the barrier and mechanical properties of PU-Pbz/ZrO2 nanocomposite, which is due to the synergistic effect of ZrO2 and Pbz.
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Ehab Alshamaileh, Mazen Al-Sulaibi, Ahmad Al-Khawaldeh, Mansour H. Almatarneh, Dina El-Sabawi and Aiman Al-Rawajfeh
The current status of nanotechnology research and development in Jordan is analyzed. In recent years, Jordanian institutions demonstrated considerable interest in the development…
Abstract
Purpose
The current status of nanotechnology research and development in Jordan is analyzed. In recent years, Jordanian institutions demonstrated considerable interest in the development and production of nanotechnology. Here the purpose of this paper is to provide detailed information about the status of nanotechnology in Jordan in terms of several factors that influence selectivity in nanotechnology and the number of published peer-reviewed research articles.
Design/methodology/approach
Several factors that influence selectivity in nanotechnology and the number of published peer-reviewed research articles were analyzed. A detailed analysis of the collected data reveals that the number of publications, citations, and patents is highly dependent on the amount of research fund.
Findings
The development in nanotechnology is associated with presence and accessibility of sensitive laboratory equipment. The nanotechnology research output in Jordan is still lower than it should be due to the lack of necessary laboratory infrastructure. This is due to the insufficient funds allocated to scientific research, the restrictive access to available instruments and the bureaucracy of some governmental departments. Compared to some developed countries, Jordan is noticeably behind in developing a nanotechnology system of research and industry. It will take time as well as technical and financial resources in order to achieve an advanced level in the field of nanotechnology in Jordan. Nevertheless, many Jordanian researchers are doing their best and are producing some good research articles.
Research limitations/implications
The many applications to the same approach.
Practical implications
Time and publications’ resources.
Social implications
Peer cooperation.
Originality/value
First comprehensive review ever. A base for researchers and decision makers.
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Ibrahim A. Amar, Sarah S. Kanah, Hibah A. Hijaz, Mabroukah A. Abdulqadir, Shamsi A. Shamsi, Ihssin A. Abdalsamed and Mohammed A. Samba
The purpose of this research is to assess the removal of oil spills from the seawater surface as well as the antibacterial activity of ZnFe2O4-cetyltrimethylammonium bromide…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this research is to assess the removal of oil spills from the seawater surface as well as the antibacterial activity of ZnFe2O4-cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB, cationic surfactant) magnetic nanoparticles (ZFO-CTAB MNPs).
Design/methodology/approach
A CTAB-assisted sol–gel method was used to synthesize ZFO-CTAB MNPs. X-ray powder diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used for ZFO-CTAB MNPs characterization. Also, the magnetic force and apparent density of ZFO-CTAB MNPs were determined. The oil spill cleanup was investigated by using the gravimetric oil removal (GOR) technique, which used ZFO-CTAB MNPs as oil absorbent material and four oil samples (crude, diesel, gasoline and used oil) as oil spill models. The antibacterial activity of ZFO-CTAB MNPs against Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) was investigated by using the optical density method.
Findings
The results revealed that, when the amount of ZFO-CTAB was 0.01 g, gasoline oil had the highest GOR (51.80 ± 0.88 g/g) and crude oil had the lowest (11.29 ± 0.82 g/g). Furthermore, for Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ZFO-CTAB MNPs inhibited bacterial growth with a higher percentage (94.24%–95.63%).
Originality/value
The applications of ZFO-CTAB MNPs in the cleanup of oil spills from aqueous solutions, as well as their antibacterial activity. The results showed that ZFO-CTAB MNPs are a promising material for removing oil spills from bodies of water as well as an antibacterial agent against Gram-negative bacterial strains.
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Saira Faisal, Shenela Naqvi, Muhammad Ali and Long Lin
Among various metal oxide nano particles, MgO NPs and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) in particular are gaining increasing attention due to their multifunctional characteristics, low cost…
Abstract
Purpose
Among various metal oxide nano particles, MgO NPs and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) in particular are gaining increasing attention due to their multifunctional characteristics, low cost and compatibility with textile materials. Each type of nanoparticle excels over others in certain properties. As such, it is often crucial to carry out comparative studies of NPs to identify the one showing higher efficiency/output for particular applications of textile products.
Design/methodology/approach
In the investigation reported in this paper, ZnO NPs and MgO NPs were synthesised via sol-gel technique and characterised. For comparative analysis, the synthesised NPs were evaluated for multiple properties using standard procedures before and after being applied on cotton fabrics by a dip-pad-dry-cure method.
Findings
XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed the successful synthesis of ZnO and MgO NPs. Homogeneous formation of desired NPs and their dense and uniform deposition on the cotton fibre surface were observed using SEM. ZnO NPs and MgO NPs coatings on cotton were observed to significantly enhance self-cleaning/stain removal properties achieving Grade 5 and Grade 4 categories, respectively. In terms of ultraviolet (UV) protection, ZnO or MgO NP coated fabrics showed UPF values of greater than 50, i.e. excellent in blocking UV rays. MgO NPs exhibited 20% cleaning efficiency in treating reactive dye wastewater against ZnO NPs which were 4% efficient in the same treatment, so MgO was more suitable for such type of treatments at low cost. Both NPs were able to impart multifunctionality to cotton fabrics as per requirement of the end products. However, ZnO NPs were better for stain removal from the fabrics while MgO NPs were appropriate for UV blocking.
Originality/value
It was therefore clear that multifunctional textile products could be developed by employing a single type of cost effective and efficient nano particles.
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Susan Samadi, Ghasem Asadi Cordshooli, Mohammad Yousefi, Khadijeh Kalateh and SeyedAmirabbas Zakaria
This paper aims to introduce constructed CeO2/TiO2 core/shell nanoparticle as sensitive substance organic compounds.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to introduce constructed CeO2/TiO2 core/shell nanoparticle as sensitive substance organic compounds.
Design/methodology/approach
The CeO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by hydrothermal treatment. Then CeO2/TiO2 core/shell was fabricated by sol–gel method preparation of TiO2 in the presence of ceria nanoparticles and applied as the sensitive material to make a sensor.
Findings
Formation of the nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The synthesized sensor exhibited not only good sensitivity to volatile organic compounds at room temperature but also logarithm of sensitivity versus concentrations was linear.
Research limitations/implications
The sensor shows acceptable sensitivity to volatile organic compound at room temperature.
Practical implications
Experimental data revealed satisfactory reproducibility and short response and recovery times.
Originality/value
A radical mechanism for gas sensor reaction in two pathways was considered and activation energies were calculated by density functional theory (DFT) method to describe different sensitivities of tested volatile gases. The experimental results were consistent with the calculations.
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The aim of this study is to investigate the humidity-sensing of polyaniline–zinc oxide (PANI–ZnO) nanocomposites. Humidity sensor has wide applications in drug industries, food…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to investigate the humidity-sensing of polyaniline–zinc oxide (PANI–ZnO) nanocomposites. Humidity sensor has wide applications in drug industries, food industries and domestic purpose to regulate the humidity level.
Design/methodology/approach
PANI–ZnO composites were prepared by in situ polymerization method, and further humidity response was tested by using a two-probe sensor setup.
Findings
PANI-ZnO composites surface were modified by using camphor sulphonic acid. DC conductivity is due to the hopping of polorans. Thermal coefficient value varies from 1.7 to 2.3. The 30 weight per cent composite shows high sensitivity among other composites.
Research limitations/implications
These composites can be used only at room temperature or moderate temperature, i.e. below 280°C.
Practical implications
The composites are prepared in tetrapod shape that has a large surface area and more stability. Therefore, these materials would be the replacement for conventional materials.
Social implications
These sensors have many applications in food and drug preservation, domestic purposes, etc.
Originality/value
This work is original, and not being considered for publication elsewhere. In this work, the charge transport properties were evaluated based on the resistivity change when samples were exposed to humidity.
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– This paper aims to provide a detailed review of gas sensor research which exploits the properties of nanomaterials and nanostructures.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to provide a detailed review of gas sensor research which exploits the properties of nanomaterials and nanostructures.
Design/methodology/approach
Following an introduction, this paper discusses developments in gas sensors based on carbon nanotubes, titanium dioxide nanotubes, graphene, nanocrystalline diamond and a range of metal oxide nanomaterials. It concludes with a discussion of this research and its commercial potential and a list of references to the research considered in the main text.
Findings
Gas sensors based on a multitude of nanomaterials are the subject of a global research effort which has generated an extensive literature. Prototype devices have been developed which respond to numerous important gases at concentrations which correspond well with industrial requirements. Other critical performance characteristics have been studied extensively and the results suggest commercial prospects for these technologies.
Originality/value
This paper provides details of the highly topical field of nanomaterial-based gas sensor research.
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Rachid Aharrouch, Karima El Kihel, Mohamed Madani, Nabil Hachem, Amer Lafhal and Mohammed El Bouziani
The purpose of this paper is to study the magnetic properties and the hysteresis behavior of a ferrimagnetic cubic Ising nanowire with mixed spins S = 3/2 and S = 5/2 in which the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to study the magnetic properties and the hysteresis behavior of a ferrimagnetic cubic Ising nanowire with mixed spins S = 3/2 and S = 5/2 in which the atoms are placed alternately.
Design/methodology/approach
In order to investigate the effects of the exchange interactions and crystal field on the magnetic properties and hysteresis behavior of the nanowire, we have used the Monte Carlo simulation. More precisely, we have plotted the thermal variations of the sublattice and total magnetizations for different values of the Hamiltonian parameters, and we have presented the corresponding phase diagrams. In addition, the influence of an external magnetic field is examined by plotting the variations of hysteresis loops with the change of temperature and crystal field.
Findings
All phase transition found in this study are of second-order and the critical temperatures increase linearly with the increase of the exchange interactions. The compensation temperatures appear only for some domains of crystal field D and exchange interaction JB of the sublattice (B). Moreover, when studying the hysteresis behavior, the system can show one or double hysteresis loops.
Originality/value
The authors consider that this research is consistent with the scientific axis of the journal which benefits a great esteem in our country and in the world. In addition, the results are of technological interest.
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This paper aims to investigate the reusability of metal/metal oxide-coupled ZnO nanorods (ZnO NRs) to degrade rhodamine B (RhB).
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the reusability of metal/metal oxide-coupled ZnO nanorods (ZnO NRs) to degrade rhodamine B (RhB).
Design/methodology/approach
ZnO NRs particles were synthesized by precipitation method and used to remove various types of metal ions such as Cu2+, Ag+, Mn2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Cd2+ and Cr2+ ions under UV illumination. The metal/metal oxide-coupled ZnO NRs were characterized by scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance. The photodegradation of RhB dye by these metal/metal oxide-coupled ZnO NRs under UV exposure was assessed.
Findings
The metal/metal oxide-coupled ZnO NRs were successfully reused to remove RhB dye in which more than >90% of RhB dye was degraded under UV exposure. Furthermore, the coupling of Ag, CuO, MnO2, Cd and Ni particles onto the surface of ZnO NRs even enhanced the degradation of dye. The dominant reactive species involved in the degradation of RhB dye were •OH- and •O2−-free radicals.
Research limitations/implications
The coupling of metal/metal oxide onto the surface of ZnO NRs after metal ions removal could affect the photocatalytic performance of ZnO NRs in the degradation of organic pollutants in subsequent stage.
Practical implications
A good reusability performance of metal/metal oxide-coupled ZnO NRs make ZnO NRs become a desirable photocatalyst material for the treatment of wastewater, which consists of both heavy metal ions and organic dyes.
Originality/value
Metal/metal oxide coupling onto the surface of ZnO NRs particles improved subsequent UV-assisted photocatalytic degradation of RhB dye.
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