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Juan Sebastian Gomez Bonilla, Maximilian Alexander Dechet, Jochen Schmidt, Wolfgang Peukert and Andreas Bück
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of different heating approaches during thermal rounding of polymer powders on powder bulk properties such as particle size…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of different heating approaches during thermal rounding of polymer powders on powder bulk properties such as particle size, shape and flowability, as well as on the yield of process.
Design/methodology/approach
This study focuses on the rounding of commercial high-density polyethylene polymer particles in two different downer reactor designs using heated walls (indirect heating) and preheated carrier gas (direct heating). Powder bulk properties of the product obtained from both designs are characterized and compared.
Findings
Particle rounding with direct heating leads to a considerable increase in process yield and a reduction in powder agglomeration compared to the design with indirect heating. This subsequently leads to higher powder flowability. In terms of shape, indirect heating yields not only particles with higher sphericity but also entails substantial agglomeration of the rounded particles.
Originality/value
Shape modification via thermal rounding is the decisive step for the success of a top-down process chain for selective laser sintering powders with excellent flowability, starting with polymer particles from comminution. This report provides new information on the influence of the heating mode (direct/indirect) on the performance of the rounding process and particle properties.
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The purpose of this paper is to investigate technologies improving image quality and understanding in life‐science microscopy.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate technologies improving image quality and understanding in life‐science microscopy.
Design/methodology/approach
The new technique of high‐content analysis is described, along with the equipment available from various manufacturers. Advances in fluorescence imaging and confocal microscopy are then addressed. The paper concludes by reporting a powerful 3D visualisation package, and equipment for networked viewing of high‐resolution microscopy images.
Findings
High‐content analysis has developed rapidly in the last four or five years, due largely to improvements in the software interface. Automation and powerful software acquire and manage vast quantities of data, allowing scientists experiment afresh on archived images. Improvements in laser scanning techniques and the emergence of microLED arrays assist microscopy imaging of live cells, whilst techniques giving high‐spectral discrimination improve image understanding.
Originality/value
The paper describes how image‐processing technologies are assisting the work of cell biologists. Stresses the importance of software and hardware design to user uptake, which is relevant for all engineers.
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Examines some of the recent technical developments that are leading to a wider use of powerful methods in medical microscopy.
Abstract
Purpose
Examines some of the recent technical developments that are leading to a wider use of powerful methods in medical microscopy.
Design/methodology/approach
Reviews some of the microscopic techniques relevant to medicine, then looks at hardware developments in microscopes, filters and cameras.
Findings
Highly sophisticated techniques such as time‐resolved fluorescence measurements are now incorporated in turnkey instruments, using picosecond diode lasers for accurate measurement of fluorescent lifetimes. Advances in optical fibre coating technology in the telecoms field have led to improved filters for fluorescence microscopy, and imaging allows the detection of non‐visible wavelengths and very low light levels. Many microscopes are modular, so that users can upgrade to further capabilities at will. Automatic medical diagnosis software is coming onto the market.
Originality/value
Highlights the hardware and software developments that are enabling powerful microscopic methodologies to enter into general use.
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