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1 – 10 of 417Hongtao Mao, Bo Zhu and Tian'an Wang
The aim of this paper is to examine the effect of organizational environment on engineering project cost management.
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to examine the effect of organizational environment on engineering project cost management.
Design/methodology/approach
Taking China Railway Engineering Corporation 2nd Bureau (CREC 2nd Bureau for short) as an example, the authors conduct lots of semi‐structured interviews in its group corporation, company limited, two subsidiaries and two project departments, and finally collect textual data which include 30 paragraphs and more than 120,000 words. The authors then encode those interview data step by step for further analysis under the research paradigm of grounded theory.
Findings
Based on these encoded data, the paper builds concept, basic categories, main categories, which could be the factors affecting the engineering project cost management, the evidence chain and the complete story clue among these categories. Then finally constructs a theoretical framework called “3S” for short, which is comprised of the organizational structure supporting system, the control procedure supporting system and the social relation supporting system.
Research limitations/implications
Because of the insufficient importance placed on engineering project cost management by academics and few theoretical papers, this paper provides a new method for exploring the engineering project cost management and a theoretical reference for further research.
Practical implications
In this paper, the authors discuss the action mechanism of organizational environment in the engineering project cost management and provide for Chinese construction enterprises more explicit guidance on their cost management practice.
Originality/value
There is little research on determinants of engineering project cost by Chinese scholars, which is mainly shown as normative research. There is no perfect theoretical framework on the determinants of engineering project cost management, which is not beneficial to the knowledge of engineering project cost management and is not comprehensive and in depth enough for academics and practitioners. This paper conducts a field study in CREC 2nd Bureau based on grounded theory. At last, “3S” theoretical framework is established. This paper is embodied in using reality as the accordance, scientifically carding and spreading the theory and translating the practical experience into theory, so that it is beneficial for the engineering project cost management.
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Liping Zhang, Anli Tian, Chunxia Wang, Fushun Bai and Shaohai Fu
The purpose of this study is to prepare nanoscale copolymer-silicon dioxide (SiO2) dispersion for formulating textile printing white ink.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to prepare nanoscale copolymer-silicon dioxide (SiO2) dispersion for formulating textile printing white ink.
Design/methodology/approach
Nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 dispersion was prepared via miniemulsion polymerization. The miniemulsion formulation was optimized for preparing stable SiO2/O/W miniemulsion and nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 dispersion. The nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 was investigated by transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal gravity (DTG) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The performance of white inks from this colorant was further investigated.
Findings
Nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 had a core-shell structure with about 45 nm encapsulated copolymer layer when it was synthesized under optimal miniemulsion formulation 60 per cent mass ratio of styrene (St) to KH570-SiO2, 5.0 per cent hexadecane to St and 2.0 per cent concentration of DNS-86. The nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 white ink had high thermal and centrifugal stability with high purity and color fastness.
Research limitations/implications
The miniemulsion polymerization conditions required a careful control before favorable results could be achieved.
Practical implications
The nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 dispersion and white ink prepared by this method showed excellent stability. This research could accelerate the textiles inkjet printing application.
Originality/value
The reactive stabilizer DNS-86 is innovatively introduced into the miniemulsion polymerization to improve the stability of the nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 dispersion. The white ink was formulated from nanoscale copolymer-SiO2 to improve the fastness of the printed fabrics.
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Christiana Agbo, Collins Acheampong, Liping Zhang, Min Li and Shai Shao Fu
This study aims to evaluate the use of polyoxyethylene lauryl ether (PLE) as a dispersant in the preparation of novel pigment dispersion with enhanced dispersion ability, which…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the use of polyoxyethylene lauryl ether (PLE) as a dispersant in the preparation of novel pigment dispersion with enhanced dispersion ability, which can find application in the printing industry.
Design/methodology/approach
To obtain a good dispersion, PLE was used as a dispersant in pigments dispersion. The colloidal and rheological properties of the PLE-based dispersion, such as particle distribution, zeta potentials and apparent viscosity were evaluated.
Findings
The particle sizes of the pigment dispersions were within the range of 150 to 200 nm. The measurement of zeta potentials varied between −24 to −32 mV, revealing a strong surface charge interaction between pigments and PLE. Subsequently, its stability to high-speed centrifuge and freeze-thaw treatment was carefully investigated. To demonstrate the coverage of pigment particles by PLE, thermogravimetric analysis was carried out. Moreover, X-ray diffraction was used to disclose the combined impacts of PLE and ultrasonic power on the crystal structures of the pigments. Finally, the coloring performance and leveling properties of pigment dispersions on cotton substrates were evaluated by measuring their K/S values (color strength), rub and color fastness properties, which possessed good results.
Research limitations/implications
The dispersant used is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and strong bases. More so, modification to improve its dispersion properties can be studied.
Practical implications
The use of PLE as a dispersant could be readily used in pigment dispersion processes and other suitable applications. PLE could also be used as a co-surfactant in synergy with other surfactants or dispersants in the dispersion process.
Originality/value
The use of PLE in pigment dispersion as well as investigating its coloring properties on cotton fabric is novel and can find various applications in the dying, printing and coating industry.
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James Olabode Bamidele Rotimi, Chamil Dilhan Erik Ramanayaka, Oluwole Alfred Olatunji and Funmilayo Ebun Rotimi
The demand for construction-related occupations has increased consistently over many years in New Zealand (NZ). This has necessitated recourse to migrant workers to address…
Abstract
Purpose
The demand for construction-related occupations has increased consistently over many years in New Zealand (NZ). This has necessitated recourse to migrant workers to address capacity and capability requirements. Migrant construction workers hail from various backgrounds with a complex set of their needs being met through employment in NZ. Research on understanding the satisfaction levels of this category of construction workers is scarce. With recent insinuations about migrant exploitations, research investigations into this knowledge area are significant. In this study, the authors sought to establish the moderating effect of migrants' demography on the determinants of job satisfaction in NZ's construction sector.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were obtained from migrant construction workers of Chinese extraction through a structured questionnaire survey. From 200 questionnaires administered, 108 samples were completed by migrant construction workers involved in major projects in Auckland city, NZ. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics to establish the moderating effects of their demography on job satisfaction.
Findings
Results from this study support the internal validity and reliability of these personal characteristics as moderators of job satisfaction for migrant construction workers. These results suggest the relevance of personal characteristics of Chinese migrants in any improvement initiatives being developed for this group of construction workers.
Research limitations/implications
The findings from this study contribute to the discourse on the relevance of construction migrants as a strategic alternative to addressing skill shortages within the NZ construction sector. They also provide evidence that contributes to an improved understanding of the migrant workforce to meet their aspirations and enhance their general well-being.
Originality/value
Although the study is ethnic-specific, the conclusions show the relevance of personal characteristics in the experiences of construction migrant workers. The study is representative of the catchment of temporary migrant workers in the construction industry in NZ. The study provides insights for organisations employing migrants about putting in place appropriate measures to enhance their satisfaction levels. Finally, this study's findings may contribute to policy initiatives on the optimal categories of migrants engaged on construction activities to derive the maximum benefits for NZ.
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Xia Sun, Jianben Xu, Caili Yu and Faai Zhang
The purpose of this paper is to synthesize a polyacrylate-based dispersant with a determined target molecular weight for oily systems and to determine the optimal dispersant level…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to synthesize a polyacrylate-based dispersant with a determined target molecular weight for oily systems and to determine the optimal dispersant level and monomer ratio of the dispersant.
Design/methodology/approach
The dispersant was synthesized by conventional radical polymerization using methacrylic acid, butyl acrylate and dimethylamino ethyl methacrylate as the monomer. It was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic hydrogen spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography and thermogravimetric analysis. The dispersant was used to disperse TiO2, and the performance of the dispersant was evaluated by measuring the viscosity, particle size and dispersive force of the slurry.
Findings
The dispersant exhibited high thermal stability and was successfully anchored to the surface of the TiO2 pigment. When used to disperse a TiO2 slurry, it effectively made the TiO2 slurry more fluid, indicating its strong viscosity-reducing properties. The viscosity, particle sizes and dispersion capabilities of the TiO2 slurry were found to vary depending on the contents and monomer ratios of the dispersant.
Research limitations/implications
P(MAA-BA-DM) dispersant increases the wettability of TiO2 only in oily solvents but not in aqueous solvents.
Practical implications
P(MAA-BA-DM) dispersant makes it easier to disperse TiO2 pigments in oily solvents, increasing the amount of pigment in the solvent and making the preparation of highly pigmented pastes easier.
Originality/value
A dispersant containing suitable carboxyl and tertiary amine groups was initially synthesized to disperse TiO2 in an oily system. The findings are anticipated to be used in the formulation of pigment concentrates, industrial coatings and other solvent-based coatings.
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Xiaokun Zhou, Suming Xie, Maosheng He, Tingting Fu and Qifeng Yu
This study aims to reduce the weight of the door, improve the operating efficiency and ensure the safety of vehicle operation.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to reduce the weight of the door, improve the operating efficiency and ensure the safety of vehicle operation.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on traditional aluminium alloy doors, a new type of honeycomb composite material was developed. Tests were conducted to determine the honeycomb compression resistance, honeycomb and skin shear performance, plate bending, thermal conductivity and environmental protection. Eight doors were developed based on the full-side open structure, and static strength and stiffness analyses were performed simultaneously. To solve door vibration problems, modal analysis and test were carried out.
Findings
The test results showed that the weight of the door was reduced by more than 40% whilst ensuring the strength and stiffness of the vehicle. The first–sixth-order test mode of the door was increased by more than 14% compared with existing aluminium alloy doors.
Originality/value
A new type of honeycomb composite material was used in this study. The test results showed that the weight of the door was reduced by more than 40% whilst ensuring the strength and stiffness of the vehicle. The 1st-to-6th order test mode of the door was increased by more than 14% compared with the existing aluminium alloy door.
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Saira Faisal, Aurelio Tronci, Muhammad Ali, Long Lin and Ningtao Mao
The purpose of this study is to identify the most influential factors affecting the printing properties and print quality of digitally printed silk fabrics in terms of colour…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to identify the most influential factors affecting the printing properties and print quality of digitally printed silk fabrics in terms of colour strength and fixation percentage.
Design/methodology/approach
In this study, five factors (concentration of thickener, concentration of urea, concentration of alkali, pH of pretreatment liquor and steaming duration) were investigated using a blocked 25−1 fractional factorial experiment. The type of thickeners [polyacrylic acid and polyacrylamide (PAM)] were considered as a block.
Findings
Linear models were obtained and statistically tested using both analysis of variance and coefficient of determination (R2), and they were found to be accurate at 90 per cent confidence level. It was revealed that concentration of alkali, concentrations of urea and pH of the pretreatment liquor had an increasing effect on colour strength, whereas concentration of thickener and steaming duration showed decreasing effect on colour strength of digitally printed silk fabrics. Furthermore, concentration of alkali, concentrations of urea had increasing effect on dye fixation percentage, whereas steaming duration showed decreasing effect on dye fixation percentage of digitally printed silk fabrics. In addition, PAM thickener based pretreatment recipe exhibited better printing properties for the digitally printing of silk fabrics.
Originality/value
The main influences and significant two-factor interactions were discussed in detail to gain a better understanding of the printing properties of digitally printed silk fabrics. The findings of this study are useful for further optimisation of pre- and post-treatment processes for digital printing of silk fabrics.
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Saira Faisal, Muhammad Ali, Sheraz Hussain Siddique and Long Lin
Pretreatment of fabric with a number of chemicals and auxiliaries is a prerequisite for inkjet printing. Owing to the rapidly increasing use of inkjet printing for textile…
Abstract
Purpose
Pretreatment of fabric with a number of chemicals and auxiliaries is a prerequisite for inkjet printing. Owing to the rapidly increasing use of inkjet printing for textile fabrics, the study of the effects of process variables on various characteristics of the resulting print has drawn considerable interest recently. The purpose of this paper is to study the effects of different variables associated with the inkjet printing process on the quality of the resulting print. Specifically, the effects of chemicals and auxiliaries used in the pretreatment of the fabric prior to printing and factors such as steaming time were studies.
Design/methodology/approach
In the present study, which forms a part of a larger study by the authors, the influence of the nature of thickener, the amounts of thickener, urea and alkali, pH of the pretreatment liquor and the duration of steaming on ink penetration into the printed fabrics and the ink spreading across the fabrics was studied. The nature of ink penetration and ink spreading are known to have pronounced effects on the quality and, in turn, the overall appearance of the resulting print. A set of experiments based on a blocked 25–1 fractional factorial design with four centre points were conducted to evaluate the role of the aforementioned five variables. Ink penetration was quantified on the basis of the principles of Kebulka-Munk theory while ink spreading was analysed by image analysis.
Findings
Detailed statistical analyses of the experimental data obtained show that different thickeners perform differently and can have a marked influence on ink penetration and ink spreading. In the case of polyacrylic acid-based thickener, changing the levels of the factors has a marked effect on ink penetration and in-turn on ink spreading. In the case of polyacrylamide (PAM)-based thickener, on the other hand, the effect of changing the levels of various factors on the ink penetration and ink spreading is considerably less pronounced. In addition, PAM treated samples exhibited better performance in terms of ink penetration and spreading.
Originality/value
This study provides useful information for textile printers and highlights the importance of selecting the right type of thickener to make the printing process and the quality of the resulting print more predictable and controllable.
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Funmilayo Ebun Rotimi, James Olabode Bamidele Rotimi, C.W. Chathurani Silva, Oluwole Alfred Olatunji and Chamil Erik D. Ramanayaka
Migrant construction workers, significant in many developed economies, face several challenges, which place them at a higher risk of job dissatisfaction compared to locals…
Abstract
Purpose
Migrant construction workers, significant in many developed economies, face several challenges, which place them at a higher risk of job dissatisfaction compared to locals. Therefore, this study investigates the determinants of job satisfaction amongst a specific group of migrant construction workers, who hold temporary work visas (TWVs) in New Zealand (NZ).
Design/methodology/approach
An explanatory research approach was used to investigate the determinants of job satisfaction identified through the literature review. Data were collected through a structured survey administered to 200 Chinese migrants on TWVs (short stays) working on selected major projects in the Auckland region. Data analysis involved T-test and structural equation modelling (SEM) of 102 valid questionnaire responses.
Findings
The study highlights the importance of providing opportunities for knowledge advancement and career progression for migrant construction workers to improve their job satisfaction. The results found that Chinese migrant construction workers are generally satisfied with their jobs and would extend their stay if job opportunities are provided. The results confirm that remuneration and opportunities for knowledge advancement and career progression lead to increased job satisfaction, while loneliness decreases job satisfaction. The opportunities for knowledge advancement and career progression triggered more satisfaction than remuneration.
Originality/value
The research result provides a useful knowledge base for understanding the determinants of job satisfaction amongst Chinese migrant construction workers with TWVs. These findings have implications for employment management practices within the construction industry and could enhance immigration information policies and other recruitment agencies' approaches to sourcing overseas workers for the NZ construction industry.
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Eddy S. Ng, Diana Rajendran and Wahed Waheduzzaman
Although skilled migrants have a high capacity for integration, many report experiences of exclusion which impacts their ability to contribute fully to the host country. This…
Abstract
Purpose
Although skilled migrants have a high capacity for integration, many report experiences of exclusion which impacts their ability to contribute fully to the host country. This experience of exclusion, which can diminish their self-efficacy at work, is especially acute for skilled migrants from non-English speaking backgrounds when functioning in a new or exclusionary environment. In this paper, we explore the relationship between workplace inclusion and self-efficacy and identify factors that contribute to perceived inclusion for skilled migrant workers.
Design/methodology/approach
Participants were recruited through social network groups representing migrant workers via LinkedIn. Through snowball sampling, participants were asked to recommend recent (3–5 years) skilled migrants to participate. A total of 210 skilled migrant workers to Australia completed the survey. Structural equation modelling (SEM) is used to test our model on the relationship between inclusion and self-efficacy.
Findings
Migrants' perceptions of inclusion at work are related to their self-efficacy at work. We also find that some dimensions of inclusion are more important than others in enhancing self-efficacy for skilled migrants. Meaningful exchanges with supervisors, a sense of belonging at work and workgroup cohesion (being accepted by co-workers) are more important than senior management support or getting involved in organizational social activities as determinants of perceived inclusion.
Social implications
Although skilled migrants are often assumed to be a self-select group of highly motivated, high achieving workers, many experience poor adjustment and feel excluded after arriving in the host country. Public policies have limited effects in promoting inclusion of skilled migrant workers in organizations. These policies may be supplemented with an inclusive organizational climate to improve migrant worker success. Organizations and employers are thus critical partners in fostering migrant workers' sense of inclusion and supporting the career outcomes of skilled migrant workers in the host country.
Originality/value
This study supports the link between perceived inclusion and self-efficacy among skilled migrant workers. It also sharpens the evidence of organizational-level factors that contribute to perceived inclusion for migrant workers.
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