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Article
Publication date: 1 November 2021

Yi Liu, Guangyao Qiu, Tao Li, Ang Yan, Yongfeng Liu, Rongjun Qu and Changmei Sun

To treat water pollution, especially the contamination resulted from organic dyes has aroused significant attention around the world, this study aims to prepare the metal organic…

Abstract

Purpose

To treat water pollution, especially the contamination resulted from organic dyes has aroused significant attention around the world, this study aims to prepare the metal organic framework (MOF) materials hybridizing with poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) (PPTA) by means of a facile refluxing method and to systematically investigate adsorption performance for anionic dye Congo red as target molecule from aqueous solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The MOF materials hybridized by PPTA were fabricated by virtue of a facile refluxing method, characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared and pore structure.

Findings

The results showed that pseudo-second-order kinetic model could better describe the adsorption process for all the four materials, whereas Elovich model also fitted the process for the hybrid materials with PPTA. Adsorption isotherm analyses indicated that Langmuir isotherm could be used to describe the adsorption process. Introduction of appropriate amount of PPTA could enhance the adsorption affinity of the MOF materials for Congo red, and the maximum adsorption capacity could reach as high as 1,053.41 mg/g while that of the MOF material without PPTA was 666.67 mg/g, indicating introduction of PPTA could change the microenvironment of the MOF materials and increase the adsorption sites, leading to high adsorption efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

The microstructure of MOF hybridized materials in detail is the further and future investigation.

Practical implications

This study will provide a method to prepare MOF materials with high efficiency to treat anionic dyes like Congo red from aqueous solution.

Originality/value

Owing to the special characteristics of PPTA and similar to carbon tube, PPTA was introduced into MOF material to increased corresponding water stability. Because of aromatic ring and amide group on the surface of PPTA, the adsorption efficiency of the hybridized MOF material with appropriate amount of PPTA was greatly enhanced.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 52 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 November 2021

Fanhua Wu, Yuyu Zhang, Tao Li, Yongfeng Liu, Yi Liu, Zhiang Yuan and Rongjun Qu

The purpose of this study was to prepare carboxylated attapulgite (APT-COOH) and then be used as one of the ligands to prepare metal organic framework (MOF) hybrid materials to…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to prepare carboxylated attapulgite (APT-COOH) and then be used as one of the ligands to prepare metal organic framework (MOF) hybrid materials to reduce the cost of MOF materials and improve the dispersed condition of APT. And then the materials were used to enrich anionic dye Congo red from aqueous solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The MOF hybrid materials were designed by means of facile reflux method rather than hydrothermal method, characterized by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer and pore structure. The dispersed degree of APT-COOH in the MOF materials was validated according to adsorption efficiency for Congo red.

Findings

Due to introduction of APT-COOH, the microenvironment of the MOF materials changed, leading to different adsorption behaviors. Compared to the MOF material without APT-COOH, the adsorption capacities of the hybridized MOF materials with different amounts of APT-COOH introduced increased by 4.58% and 15.55%, respectively, as the initial concentration of Congo red solution of 300 mg/L. Meantime, hybridized MOF materials were suitable to remove Congo red with low concentration, while the MOF material without APT-COOH was appropriate to enrich Congo red with high concentration.

Research limitations/implications

The microstructure of MOF hybrid materials in detail is the further and future investigation.

Practical implications

This study will provide a method to reduce the cost of MOF materials and a theoretical support to treat anionic dyes from aqueous solution.

Originality/value

APT-COOH was prepared and used as one of the ligands to synthesize MOF material to improve the dispersed degree of APT-COOH and reduce the cost of the MOF materials. The adsorption efficiency was greatly enhanced with low concentration of Congo red solution, and the results indicated that hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interaction, and p-p conjugation were involved in the adsorption process. The prepared MOFs materials exhibited excellent adsorption efficiency, which made the present materials highly promising and potentially useful in practical application as adsorbents to enrich anionic dyes such as Congo red from aqueous solution.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 51 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 August 2022

TamilSalvi Mari, Jin Liew and Veronica Ng

The study aims to explore factors affecting stilt construction and the possibilities of using innovative materials and construction methods to re-establish the traditional stilt…

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to explore factors affecting stilt construction and the possibilities of using innovative materials and construction methods to re-establish the traditional stilt structures.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a qualitative research method using an in-depth interview with selected architects to document experience and insights of the architects on the challenges and possibilities of using innovative materials and construction methods to re-establish the traditional stilt structures. Purposive sampling was used to determine the respondents for the study. Architects with experience designing stilt houses in architects' architectural practice were selected to take in the study.

Findings

Study revealed that generally architects are keen on using stilt structures. Building materials and costs associated with designing and constructing stilt structures were identified as the key challenges. However, architects suggest using recycled building materials as possible solutions to encourage the construction of stilt structures in Malaysia. The architects also preferred to use hybridized recycled materials for stilt structures as hybridized materials have improved structural properties and functions. Additionally, the study identified “psychological hesitation” or “accessibility” as a factor affecting the construction of stilt buildings.

Research limitations/implications

Throughout this study, some limitations have been dealt with. The first is the limitation of sample size. Contemporary stilt architecture is not very common in Malaysia today, and not many architects have experience in designing stilt houses. Although the method of purposive sampling was used, a larger sample size could have generated a more diverse result. The second limitation is the dearth of research on contemporary stilt houses in Malaysia. As stilt construction is uncommon in Malaysia and the existing material focuses primarily on traditional Malay houses, this has been one of the major challenges. Finally, most of the literature on stilt construction is from Southeast Asia, limited or insufficient studies and literature on local stilt construction would have a greater benefit to the study.

Practical implications

The outcomes from this study would benefit the scholars who have an interest in exploring stilts construction in contemporary architecture as well as innovative construction materials and construction methods. As the study brings forth the challenges and possibilities of restoring the traditional stilt constructions, the study can be used as a reference by designers to garner a deeper understanding of the traditional stilt construction and encourage designers to focus on possible innovations for stilt construction from the aspects of materials and methods in ensuring the traditional element is present in future design and construction.

Originality/value

The study is a response to an obvious dearth body of knowledge in stilt construction in the Malaysian context. The study identifies the key challenges and possible and practical solutions. The findings of this study represent a scholastic effort that can be used as a reference by academics and scholars.

Details

Archnet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research, vol. 17 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-6862

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 September 2024

Muhammad Faisal, Iftikhar Ahmad, Qazi Zan-Ul-Abadin, Irfan Anjum Badruddin and Mohamed Hussien

This study aims to explore entropy evaluation in the bi-directional flow of Casson hybrid nanofluids within a stagnated domain, a topic of significant importance for optimizing…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore entropy evaluation in the bi-directional flow of Casson hybrid nanofluids within a stagnated domain, a topic of significant importance for optimizing thermal systems. The aim is to investigate the behavior of unsteady, magnetized and laminar flow using a parametric model based on the thermo-physical properties of alumina and copper nanoparticles.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses boundary layer approximations and the Keller-box method to solve the derived ordinary differential equations, ensuring numerical accuracy through convergence and stability analysis. A comparison benchmark has been used to authenticate the accuracy of the numerical outcomes.

Findings

Results indicate that increasing the Casson fluid parameter (ranging from 0.1 to 1.0) reduces velocity, the Bejan number decreases with higher bidirectional flow parameter (ranging from 0.1 to 0.9) and the Nusselt number increases with higher nanoparticle concentrations (ranging from 1% to 4%).

Research limitations/implications

This study has limitations, including the assumption of laminar flow and the neglect of possible turbulent effects, which could be significant in practical applications.

Practical implications

The findings offer insights for optimizing thermal management systems, particularly in industries where precise control of heat transfer is crucial. The Keller-box simulation method proves to be effective in accurately predicting the behavior of such complex systems, and the entropy evaluation aids in assessing thermodynamic irreversibilities, which can enhance the efficiency of engineering designs.

Originality/value

These findings provide valuable insights into the thermal management of hybrid nanofluid systems, marking a novel contribution to the field.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2024

Masoud Parsi, Vahid Baradaran and Amir Hossein Hosseinian

The purpose of this study is to develop an integrated model for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems, where some of the prominent features of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop an integrated model for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems, where some of the prominent features of offshore projects and their environmental-degrading effects have been embraced as well. The durations of activities are uncertain in this model. The developed formulation is tri-objective that seeks to minimize the expected time, total cost and CO2 emission of all projects.

Design/methodology/approach

A new version of the multiobjective multiagent optimization (MOMAO) algorithm has been proposed to solve the amalgamated model. To empower the MOMAO, various procedures of this algorithm have been modified based on the multiattribute utility theory (MAUT) technique. Along with the MOMAO, this study has employed four other meta-heuristic methodologies to solve the model as well.

Findings

The outputs of the MOMAO have been put to test against four other optimizers in terms of convergence, diversity, uniformity and computation times. The results of the Mean Ideal Distance (MID) metric have revealed that the MOMAO has strongly prevailed its rival optimizers. In terms of diversity of the acquired solutions, the MOMAO has ranked the first among all employed optimizers since this algorithm has offered the best solutions in 56.66 and 63.33% of the test problems regarding the diversification metric and hyper-volume metrics. Regarding the uniformity of results, which is measured through the spacing metric (SP), the MOMAO has presented the best SP values in more than 96% of the test problems. The MOMAO has needed more computation times in comparison to its rivals.

Practical implications

A real case study comprising two concurrent offshore projects has been offered. The proposed formulation and the MOMAO have been implemented for this case study, and their effectiveness has been appraised.

Originality/value

Very few studies have focused on presenting an integrated formulation for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems. The model embraces some of the characteristics of the offshore projects which have not been adequately studied in the literature. Limited capacities of the offshore platforms and cargo vessels have been embedded in the proposed model. The offshore platforms have spatial limitations in storing the required materials. The vessels are also capacitated and they also have limited shipment capacities. Some of the required materials need to be transported from the base to the offshore platform via a fleet of cargo vessels. The workforces and equipment can become idle on the offshore platform due to material shortage. Various offshore-related costs have been integrated as a minimization objective function in the model. The cargo vessels release CO2 detrimental emissions to the environment which are sought to be minimized in the developed formulation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the MOMAO has not been sufficiently employed as a solution methodology for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 July 2024

Xinran Yang, Junhui Du, Hongshuo Chen, Chuanjin Cui, Haibin Liu and Xuechao Zhang

Field-effect transistor (FET) has excellent electronic properties and inherent signal amplification, and with the development of nanomaterials technology, FET biosensors with…

Abstract

Purpose

Field-effect transistor (FET) has excellent electronic properties and inherent signal amplification, and with the development of nanomaterials technology, FET biosensors with nanomaterials as channels play an important role in the field of heavy metal ion detection. This paper aims to review the research progress of silicon nanowire, graphene and carbon nanotube field-effect tube biosensors for heavy metal ion detection, so as to provide technical support and practical experience for the application and promotion of FET.

Design/methodology/approach

The article introduces the structure and principle of three kinds of FET with three kinds of nanomaterials, namely, silicon nanowires, graphene and carbon nanotubes, as the channels, and lists examples of the detection of common heavy metal ions by the three kinds of FET sensors in recent years. The article focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of the three sensors, puts forward measures to improve the performance of the FET and looks forward to its future development direction.

Findings

Compared with conventional instrumental analytical methods, FETs prepared using nanomaterials as channels have the advantages of fast response speed, high sensitivity and good selectivity, among which the diversified processing methods of graphene, the multi-heavy metal ions detection of silicon nanowires and the very low detection limit and wider detection range of carbon nanotubes have made them one of the most promising detection tools in the field of heavy metal ions detection. Of course, through in-depth analysis, this type of sensor has certain limitations, such as high cost and strict process requirements, which are yet to be solved.

Originality/value

This paper elaborates on the detection principle and classification of field-effect tube, investigates and researches the application status of three kinds of FET biosensors in the detection of common heavy metal ions. By comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each of the three sensors in practical applications, the paper focuses on the feasibility of improvement measures, looks forward to the development trend in the field of heavy metal detection and ultimately promotes the application of field-effect tube development technology to continue to progress, so that its performance continues to improve and the application field is constantly expanding.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 44 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 August 2021

Eric Weflen and Matthew Charles Frank

This study presents a method for fabricating multi-material objects using a hybrid additive and subtractive approach. By hybridizing the material composition in addition to the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study presents a method for fabricating multi-material objects using a hybrid additive and subtractive approach. By hybridizing the material composition in addition to the fabrication process, functional requirements can be met more effectively than through homogenous material parts produced using a single manufacturing process. Development of multi-material objects consisting of dissimilar materials that have been hampered by a lack of a structural interface compatible with in-envelope hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing.

Design/methodology/approach

This research presents a novel method for producing multi-material components through in-envelope hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing. This study attempts to address the absence of a metal-polymer interface by integrating polymer additive manufacturing into a five-axis mill. The ability of the polymer additive system to reproduce overhang geometries is assessed with different levels of cooling. The relationship between structural performance, cooling and material flow rate is evaluated for the deposited carbon fiber reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.

Findings

A mechanically interlocking root structure is developed to form an interface between a machined aluminum region and a polymer region of an object. The tensile strength of the metal-polymer object is measured and found to be on the same order of magnitude as the bulk three-dimensional printed polymer.

Originality/value

By targeting the material properties to the local functional requirements within a part and taking advantage of both additive and subtractive manufacturing processes, this study will enable broader design options and optimization of performance metrics.

Article
Publication date: 23 July 2024

Bruno Lot Tanko, Jack Thomas Oakley, Zainab Jagun and Upeksha Madanayake

Sustainable and resilient infrastructure projects aim to reduce flooding impacts and improve community adaptability. For instance, flood-resistant stilts elevate structures…

Abstract

Purpose

Sustainable and resilient infrastructure projects aim to reduce flooding impacts and improve community adaptability. For instance, flood-resistant stilts elevate structures, mitigating flood damage. Comprehensive consideration is crucial when adding elements to housing projects, incurring costs for all involved parties. This study aims to assess the viability of concrete stilts for cost-effective flood mitigation in Malaysian terrace housing.

Design/methodology/approach

The study evaluates cost implications through a comparative 5D building information modeling (BIM) cost analysis of stilted and conventional (standard) housing models. This assesses the percentage increase in total cost. Furthermore, a survey of construction professionals was undertaken. The study used online convenience and stratified sampling techniques. Out of the 222 emails that were sent, 27 construction professionals located in Johor, Sabah and Selangor within Malaysia participated in the research survey. Their perspectives on stilt housing prospects and factors for costing such structures were analyzed through a descriptive analysis using SPSS.

Findings

The case study models revealed that the incorporation of stilts could lead to a 21.64% increase in the overall cost per unit. This cost increase was primarily attributed to the additional reinforcement required. However, the survey findings highlighted that a majority of construction professionals perceived the cost increment to fall within the range of 10%–20%. Consequently, it becomes imperative to meticulously consider cost factors such as foundational requirements, staircases, and the extended construction duration to effectively curtail expenditures. The prospect of heightened costs potentially posing a threat to profit margins and discouraging developers necessitates careful financial management. Notwithstanding these challenges, the survey's insights underscored that professionals in the construction industry indeed recognize the potential of stilt technology in the realm of flood mitigation and management, particularly within housing projects.

Practical implications

This research has significant practical implications. It provides a precise financial contrast between housing categories using 5D BIM and incorporates construction experts’ viewpoints on raised housing. Enhanced design considerations for raised housing can make it economically viable, offering a cost-effective, nature-based approach to flood mitigation. This approach can bring substantial benefits to residents by reducing flood-related damages and enhancing community resilience.

Originality/value

One of the notable aspects of this research is its originality. It uses a dual quantitative methodology involving modeling and survey techniques to address its objectives effectively. This approach contributes significantly to the relatively limited body of research focused on stilt housing and the application of 5D BIM. By combining these methodologies, the study explores a relatively uncharted area, making a valuable contribution to the field.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 April 2024

Muhammad Mujtaba Asad and Aisha Malik

In today’s world, empowering individuals, promoting social cohesion and advancing economic development all hinge on access to high-quality education, prioritizing diversity…

Abstract

Purpose

In today’s world, empowering individuals, promoting social cohesion and advancing economic development all hinge on access to high-quality education, prioritizing diversity, inclusion and equality. Rethinking current educational strategies using cyber-physical learning assets is necessary to accommodate the learning inclusivity and equity and escalating demands of a globalized world. There is a pressing demand for evidence to support the efficacy of collaborative learning in transforming curriculum and fostering learner inclusion. However, it is recognized as a pedagogical technique within the quality education domain. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by investigating how hybridized cybergogy paradigms facilitate collaborative learning, focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion, to improve educational quality in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative approach with an exploratory design guided by an interpretive philosophical perspective. The data was gathered from 60 prospective teachers from the public sector university of Sindh, Pakistan. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants. They were then analyzed using theme analysis to understand their views on the potential of hybridized cybergogy paradigms for collaborative learning to improve the quality of education provided at institutions.

Findings

The study results confirm that learners benefit from increased access to learning resources, improved critical thinking and problem-solving skills and a more diverse and inclusive classroom working together in a collaborative hybridized cybergogy setting. By fostering SDG 4 (Quality Education) and the 21st-century skills necessary for global marketplace engagement and competing in progressive environments, this creative method equips learners with the capabilities to face modern global challenges.

Practical implications

The study offers valuable practical suggestions to stakeholders in higher education, including faculty, policymakers and teacher education programs, for integrating hybridized cybergogy and collaborative learning to align curricula with sustainable development goals. Additionally, it bridges a significant gap in the existing literature, which will aid future researchers interested in exploring this area.

Originality/value

This study stands out as it explores an underexamined area while providing novel educational insights.

Details

Interactive Technology and Smart Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-5659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 June 2024

Chiranjeevi Pachappareddy, Chinmaya Prasad Padhy and Srinivas Pendyala

This study aims to investigate the mechanical, thermal and water absorption (WA) properties of kenaf fiber (KF) composites hybridized with powdered Acacia concinna pods (ACP).

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the mechanical, thermal and water absorption (WA) properties of kenaf fiber (KF) composites hybridized with powdered Acacia concinna pods (ACP).

Design/methodology/approach

Kenaf fiber reinforced epoxy polymer hybrid composite was fabricated using several weight percentages of ACP powder as filler (0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8%), both with and without chemically altering the fiber mat. 6 Wt.% NaOH was used in distilled water to treat KF mat chemically. The hand layup technique is used to produce ASTM-compliant KF hybrid laminates. Tensile, flexural and IZOD impact strengths were tested on the generated hybrid composites and their thermal and WA characteristics. Scanning electron microscope fractography revealed that fiber pulling-out, debonding and cracking were the main ways composites fractured.

Findings

The investigation findings reveal that the tensile, flexural and impact strengths increased when ACP fillers were added up to 4, 6 and 8 Wt.%, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates that the hybrid composite is thermally stable up to 215°C. WA experiments reveal that KF mat composites treated with 0 Wt.% ACP filler had less WA than those not treated with ACP filler. The treated KF with 4% filler hybrid composite demonstrated improved interfacial bonding between the reinforcement and matrix compared to other combinations.

Originality/value

Although filler made of A. concinna is inexpensive, lightweight, renewable, totally or partially recyclable and biodegradable, its potential application in hybridizing composites is yet to be investigated. Hybridizing the KF mat with ACP filler in an epoxy matrix produced novel hybrid composites. Evaluations have been conducted on the effects of ACP filler on the mechanical, thermal and WA characteristics of composites.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

1 – 10 of 897