BioResources

Revolutionizing Corrugated Board Production and Optimization with Artificial Intelligence

2024-01-27T13:35:00+00:00

In the field of corrugated board production and packaging optimization, the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has initiated a paradigm shift. This paper presents a brief analysis of AI's role in revolutionizing both the production of corrugated board and the design of corrugated packaging. It explores the integration of AI in the homogenization process of complex corrugated board structures into single-layer, shallow shell-based computational models, aiming to improve and accelerate load-bearing calculations. This work presents also how AI's predictive and analytical capabilities are pivotal in achieving efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness in the corrugated board industry.

Cellulose Fibers as a Trendsetter for the Circular Economy that We Urgently Need

2024-01-23T01:25:46+00:00

Picking up a discarded can or bottle and placing it in a recycling bin may seem like a very small step to take in the direction of making a better world. The scope of benefits that might accrue, by combining many such steps, and making careful plans, was highlighted in a recent Waste to Advanced Resources Matter (WARM) workshop hosted at this university. As shown during the discussions at the workshop, those who are deeply involved with issues of waste management, climate change issues, and care for our planet already know the “broad brush” answers regarding what needs to be done. Now is the time for action in implementing efficient and widespread recovery of valuable materials and energy from what we presently throw away.

High-strength Engineered Biomaterials Study and Development Needs in China

2024-01-06T09:00:14+00:00

Engineered biomaterials play a crucial role in the construction industry. The study and development of engineered biomaterials with high-strength are necessary to fulfill the construction requirements for medium and high-rise buildings and long-span bridges. Further promoting the localization of high-strength engineered biomaterials is crucial in terms of reducing CO₂ emissions, effectively utilizing land resources, and taking into account the unique structure of forest resources in China. The goal of this modification is to satisfy the rising demand for eco-friendly living spaces.

The Role of Open Science in Our Research

2024-02-02T15:33:46+00:00

This editorial considers Open Science, what it is, what are its potential benefits, what are the pillars of engagement upon which it rests, and what are some of the main challenges facing its further adoption by research communities. At its core, Open Science involves sharing not only the contents of a traditional research article, but also of any source data and methodologies upon which the reported findings are based. Though some extra work may be required, usually without anyone providing additional resources to do that work, continuous developments in digital technology are making Open Science easier to implement. While not all data is suitable to be shared, Open Science practices are widely supported within the wider research community and funding organizations.

Noise as a Physical Risk Factor in Furniture Industry Machines

2023-11-18T20:42:46+00:00

This study aimed to determine the risk level of noise, which is an important physical risk, in small and medium-sized furniture industry enterprises. The noise levels of the circular sawing machines, edge banding machines, and mitre cutting machines, which are among the main processing machines of the sector, were measured. The study was carried out in 32 furniture businesses. The possible risks of noise on the operators of the machines in question and other employees were evaluated. Noise level measurements were made with the help of TESTO 815 measuring device. Dunnett’s T3 test was used to detect differences in noise levels for machine operators and other employees. It was determined that the edge banding machine does not pose an occupational health and safety risk in terms of noise risk factors. However, the mitre cutting machine and the circular sawing machine pose a risk for the machine operator in active production by creating noise above the established exposure limit value. The mitre cutting machine carries the same risk for the machine operator when it is in operation but in passive production. The results revealed the need for personal protective equipment for machine operators for mitre cutting and circular sawing machine.

Culture of Trichoderma sp. with Biochar to Produce High-activity Cellulase in a Laboratory

2023-12-17T02:52:33+00:00

Biochar (BC) was used in Trichoderma sp. culture to produce high-activity cellulase on a laboratory scale. The biochar was added into the flask before being applied to the fermenter to identify the enhancement effect and to determine the best amount of addition and the most suitable incubation period. Cellulase production was performed with a working volume of 4 L, and enzymatic hydrolysis was conducted to evaluate the saccharification ability of the enzyme. During incubation, the activities of three enzymes (Endoglucanase (EG), β-glucosidase (BGL), and cellobiohydrolase (CBH)) were measured for three days, and the cellulase activity was determined using a filter paper unit (FPU). In flask scale, EG, BGL, and CBH activities were increased by 1.4, 2.1, and 1.8 folds, respectively, and the incubation period was shortened by adding BC. In the fermenter scale, EG, BGL, and CBH activities were noticeably enhanced by 12.1, 5.8, and 7.2 folds, respectively, and FPU was 42.1 (9.8 folds). Additionally, the conversion rates of cellulose and steam exploded softwood and hardwood were 109.4%, 75.4%, and 87.3%, which were similar to a commercial enzyme (Cellic CTecⅡ). This study demonstrated that biochar could be used to produce high-activity cellulase in a shorter period and suggests a novel method for effective cellulase production.

The Study of Children’s Preferences for the Design Elements of Learning Desks Based on AHP-QCA

2023-12-20T22:44:30+00:00

Children’s study tables are an integral part of a child’s learning life. Consumers are often attracted to their styling when deciding on the use and purchase of a children’s study desk. This study focused on consumption preference for the styling of children’s study desks and delved into the factors that influence these preferences. An important aspect of this research is to understand how different shapes of children's desks influence consumer preferences through morphological analysis. The study breaks down these desks into six different parts based on morphological analysis: backplane, bookshelves, desktop, cabinet, drawer, and table legs. Through a hierarchical analysis (AHP) and pairwise comparisons, the study created a hierarchy of preferred morphological elements. The hierarchy ranked the importance of each element in influencing consumption preference, revealing the order of preference from backsplash to table legs. In addition, by integrating personal interviews and employing Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), this study provides insights into the most preferred components – backplane and bookshelves. This integrated approach revealed a preference for desks with curved backsplashes and multi-tiered functional shelves, which was ultimately validated by successfully combining weighted rankings of specific component styles.

Gendang Melayu Sarawak (GMS) – Sarawak Malay Drum, the Dying and Forgotten Tradition

2024-01-21T05:02:40+00:00

This work was conducted using the Picoscope signal extraction procedure, which revealed significant insights regarding the belian wood and its application in Gendang Melayu Sarawak (GMS) production. The amplitude of belian wood GMS signal remains constant, allowing it to sustain its timbre for a longer duration compared to durian wood GMS using the same procedure. Considering that the dimensions of the big belian (BB) and big durian (BD) GMS are almost the same, both GMS yield almost the same note, i.e. G1# (51.9 Hz). Considering that the dimensions of both the small belian (SB) and small durian (SD) GMS are almost the same, both GMS yield almost similar note, i.e. F3 (174 Hz) and E3 (164 Hz). Although both BB and BD showed consistent harmonics, BD only displays 2 harmonics. The SB and SD both display consistent harmonics. Both BB and BD showed pleasing tonal qualities. These occurred due to the closeness of the principal overtones to the consonant interval.

Synthesis of Iso-amyl Ester Rosin and Its Evaluation as an Alternative to Paraffin in Medium Density Fiberboard Production

2024-01-27T19:36:11+00:00

Iso-amyl ester rosin was synthesized and investigated for its potential utilization in medium density fiberboard (MDF) production. The isoamyl alcohol, the main starting material for the synthesis of isoamyl ester rosin, was obtained through the fractional distillation of fusel oil, a byproduct of bioethanol production. The optimum condition for the iso-amyl ester rosin synthesis was determined as: rosin (165 mmol), isoamyl alcohol (413 mmol), P-TSA/rosin 1.5% (w/w), and commercial additive/rosin 0.15% (w/w). The esterification reaction was followed by FT-IR and mass analysis. For MDF production, a water-repellent material, commercial paraffin (1.5% w/w relative to the dry fiber weight), iso-amyl ester rosin (1.5% and 2.0%; w/w), and unmodified rosin (1.5% and 2.0% w/w) were separately used. In addition, fresh wood fibers, 10% w/w urea formaldehyde (UF) adhesive (relative to the total dry fiber weight), and a 25% aqueous solution of ammonium chloride (as the hardening agent for the UF adhesive, at 0.5% w/w based on the solid adhesive content) were used. MDFs underwent various physical and mechanical tests. Isoamyl ester rosin showed promising results based on the analysis. The results showed that the isoamyl ester rosin can be considered as an alternative to paraffin in sustainable and environmentally friendly MDF production.

Assessment of the Ability for Early Detection of Newly Hatched Larvae of Hylotrupes bajulus L. Using the Acoustic Emission Method in Scots Pine Wood

2023-12-08T15:47:50+00:00

The acoustic emission analysis method was used to determine the activity of very young Hylotrupes bajulus larvae in their long-term development. In the laboratory conditions the simulated scenario of a fresh, intense infestation inside the construction wood was evaluated. The sounds generated by the insects during their feeding on the wooden samples were processed by the measurement system, which was able to detect and count the larva-originated sound pulses and calculate related energy. So far, no one has examined possibilities of detecting infant larvae of Hylotrupes bajulus L. This work is a continuation of research on the influence of the insect mass on its AE-based detection. The experiments performed with multiple wood samples analyzed through the period of one year have shown dependency between the mass of the larva and the intensity of the sound generated by them. The moment of the earliest possible detection of infestation in the wooden structure was evaluated. In the appropriate conditions (large number of young larvae inside the wood and optimal temperature) the insects reach the mass of tens of mg, which makes them detectable using the AE method.

Impact of Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Treating Dry Rot in Potato Tubers

2024-02-03T17:32:23+00:00

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) crops have experienced a 22% reduction due to attacks from microbial pathogens and pests. Dry rot disease occurred from risks in El-Minya governorate, Egypt, where potato is the major cultivated crop. Potato cultivar ‘Cara’ samples were collected from the markets of six regions in El-Minya for isolation. They were also tested for the application of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) for disease management. The ability of Exserohilum rostratum to synthesize ZnONPs was documented via UV-visible, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectrum, and transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Spherical shape and crystallite small size (51.0 ± 3.0 nm) were attributed to the created ZnONPs. The ZnONPs were applied in the bio-control of the causative agent (Fusarium nygamai) of dry rot disease and large economic loss of potato cv. ‘Cara’ productivity. The mycosynthesized ZnONPs by E. rostratum at 100 μg/ mL (3 mM) showed antifungal activity against F. nygamai with higher reducing value of mycelium growth diameter 2.0 ± 0.14 cm compared to Revanol 50%, traditional product with a diameter of 3.85 ± 0.10 cm. Overall, ZnONPs are an excellent agent that can be applied to repress the most common fungal disease of potato.

Modeling of the Thermoforming Process of Paperboard Composites for Packaging

2023-12-17T02:11:54+00:00

The quest to reduce global plastic consumption has led to the emergence of biodegradable fiber-based composites as a promising sustainable replacement to conventional plastics in the food packaging industry. As the packaging sector is shifting more towards fiber-centric materials, thermoforming techniques for the 3D forming of the fiber-based materials, especially using complex mold designs, should be thoroughly researched to replace the conventional plastics in the industry. Finite element analysis of the deformation behavior of the paperboard during the thermoforming process and the factors that trigger the fracture of the composite layers were studied in the present work. The results show that 90° fiber orientation, 0.3 mm sheet thicknesses, and specific mold geometries can result in better forming results, thereby maximizing the potential of fiber-based materials in thermoforming.

Effects of Silver Nanoparticles on Germination and Seedling Characteristics of Oriental Beech (Fagus orientalis) Seeds

2024-01-03T18:18:17+00:00

Nowadays, the applications of nanotechnology are increasing in various fields such as information technology, energy, the medical sector, and agriculture. Nanotechnology has proved its ability to solve problems in agriculture and related industries. Establishing the impact of nanoparticles on various ecosystems has become a primary research topic, but studies on forest ecosystems and trees are quite limited. This study examined the effects of silver nanoparticles on the germination parameters of oriental beech seeds and established their toxic threshold values. Silver nanoparticles were applied at concentrations of 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 mg/L to oriental beech (Fagus orientalis) seeds collected from 10 different populations in order to identify the germination rate, germination percentage, seedling height, root collar diameter, plumula length, radicle thickness, and radicle length parameters. The results revealed that silver nanoparticles have a negative effect on germination and seedling parameters of oriental beech seeds, and that this effect is clearly seen in the germination rate at 20 mg/L levels and in seedling characters starting from 60 mg/L dose, causing a decrease of 13% in germination rate, 24% in germination percentage, 40% in plumula length, and 30% in radicle length. The Kahramanmaras-Andirin population was found to be the most affected by nanoparticles, while the Bursa-Inegol and Ordu-Akkus populations were the least affected.

Preparation of Antibacterial and Strong Regenerated Cellulose Film via Crosslinking with Polymeric Quaternary Ammonium Salt Containing Epoxy/ZnO

2023-12-20T22:31:45+00:00

Particulate matter (PM), usually formed as aerosols suspended in atmosphere, is becoming a carrier of viruses and bacteria, accelerating the spread of respiratory diseases. Hence, air filtration devices are widely utilized for removing PM. In this study, a regenerated cellulose (RC) film was prepared with the properties of good mechanical strength, antibacterial, and highly efficient filtration (EF) properties, through cellulose dissolution and further crosslinking with P(AGE-DMDAAC)/ZnO. Results exhibited that the Young's modulus of the composite membrane was nearly 4.3 GPa. Additionally, the antibacterial performance against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, was up to 99.89% and 99.67%, respectively. Meanwhile, RC composite filter exhibited a high PM 2.5 capture efficiency (over 99.91%). This study introduces an interesting approach to produce antibacterial films with the characteristics of notably good mechanical performance and high fine particle EF that can be utilized in a high humidity environment.

Sustainable Thermoplastic Road Marking Paint Production from Natural Modified Rosins

2024-01-27T17:48:08+00:00

Modified natural rosins were evaluated as binders in the production of thermoplastic road marking paints (TRMPs). Pine rosin (GR), wood rosin (WR), and tall oil rosin (TOR) were used. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI-ToF-MS), and gel permeation chromatography-high pressure liquid chromatography (GPC-HPLC) were performed on natural and modified rosins. Acid number (mg KOH/g) ASTM D 465 – 05 and softening point, (°C) ASTM E 28 - 99 standard tests were applied to the samples. For the optimum synthesis condition, the pentaerythritol/rosin mol/mol ratio is 1/1, with the levels of Irganox 1425/rosin w/w, 0.5%, and TBM-6/rosin w/w, 1.0%. Gel permeation chromatography-high pressure analysis revealed that the esterification reaction yield was over 90% for each of the three natural rosins. Moreover, chromaticity coordinates (x,y), gloss factor (β), softening point (°C), and UVB aging test were applied to TRMPs. Modified natural rosins showed better results in the production of TRMPs. This is an important development and crucial step for sustainable TRMP production.

Effect of Alkaline Pretreatment on the Characteristics of Barley Straw and Modeling of Methane Production via Codigestion of Pretreated Straw with Sewage Sludge

2024-01-21T14:32:36+00:00

Straw pretreatment enhances the cellulose accessibility and increases the methane yield from anaerobic digestion. This study investigated the effects of alkali pretreatments with different chemical agents (NaOH, KOH, and Na₂CO₃) on the physicochemical and thermal characteristics of barley straw, as well as methane production from codigestion with sewage sludge. Artificial neural network modeling with a feedforward neural network (FFNN) and slime mold optimization (SMO) techniques were used to predict methane production. NaOH pretreatment was shown to be the best pretreatment for removing hemicellulose and lignin and for increasing the cellulose accessibility. Moreover, there was a 2.57-fold higher level of methane production compared to that from codigestion with untreated straw. The removal ratios for the total solids, volatile solids, and chemical oxygen demand reached 59.3, 67.2, and 73.4%, respectively. The modeling results showed that the FFNN-SMO method can be an effective tool for simulating the methane generation process, since training, validating, and testing produced very high correlation coefficients. The FFNN-SMO accurately predicted the amount of methane produced, with an R² of 0.998 and a 3.1x10^-5 root mean square error (RMSE).

Development and Performance Evaluation of Sunflower Straw Cellulose Ether Ecological Sand-fixing Material

2023-11-27T22:14:00+00:00

Sunflowers are widely cultivated as a cash crop in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. However, due to the lack of efficient resource utilization techniques, most of the sunflower stalks are discarded. In the Hetao irrigation area, the problem of desertification has prompted the limited use of sunflower straw to construct physical sand barriers for windbreaks and sand stabilization. In response to this, this study focuses on synthesizing a cellulose ether sand-fixing material using sunflower straw, the primary agricultural waste in Denkou County, Hetao irrigation district. This material enhances the effective adhesion between sand grains, reduces porosity among loose sand grains, and inhibits sand grain movement. The findings from this study conclusively demonstrate that the sand-fixing materials under investigation meet international standards for mechanical properties. They effectively transform loose, unconnected sand grains into a state with strong adhesion properties.

Comparative Production Performance and Rumen Bacterial Diversity of Fattening Beef Cattle Supplemented with Different Levels Concentrated Feed

2023-12-16T20:21:39+00:00

The production performance and rumen bacterial diversity were compared for different silage-based diets supplemented with common concentrate or bio-concentrate to develop an alternative of common concentrate for fatten cattle feeding. The daily gain of fattening cattle was increased by 0. 99 kg and 1.04 kg, respectively, when fed with single corn silage or mixed silage-based diet supplemented with bio-concentrate. There was no significant difference in water loss rate and cooked meat rate among groups (P>0.05), but the tenderness of beef in the bio-concentrate group was significantly higher than that in the common concentrate group (P<0.05). There were no adverse effects on beef quality and blood biochemical indexes in each group. Compared with the normal concentrate group, the OTU number and α-diversity index of rumen microorganisms of fattening cattle fed with mixed silage as the basic diet supplemented with bio-concentrate increased significantly. At generic level, the relative abundances of Prevotella, Porphyromonadaceae (unclassified), and Succiniclasticum were increased by adding bio-concentrate in the diets based on mixed silage and single sorghum silage. Relative abundances of Bacteroidetes (unclassified), Ruminococcaceae (unclassified), and Firmicutes (unclassified) decreased. In conclusion, the bio-concentrate might be a better choice than common concentrate for beef cattle breeding.

Robust Pretreatment in Combination with Ultrasound-Assisted Surfactant to Improve the Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Eucalyptus pellita

2024-01-27T20:05:37+00:00

Alkaline pretreatment stands out as a valuable strategy in biomass conversion to overcome the recalcitrance of biomass by removing lignin and a part of hemicellulose. This enhances enzyme accessibility and promotes saccharification. However, increasing the alkaline concentration to enhance the delignification and improve glucose yield together presents inherent limitations. In this experiment the amount of delignification and glucose yield resulting from surfactant associated with sonication during mild alkaline pretreatment of Eucalyptus pellita was investigated. Also, the effect of various factors (sonication temperature and surfactant immersion time) on delignification and glucose yield were examined. The results demonstrated that surfactant associated with sonication pretreatment could overcome the limitation of alkaline pretreatment and could increase the amount of delignification alongside enzymatic hydrolysis glucose yield of Eucalyptus pellita wood by around 90%. The findings indicated that surfactant-assisted with sonication during mild alkaline pretreatment of Eucalyptus pellita (i.e., hardwood) could be recommended as a supporting pretreatment method for the production of monomeric sugars.

Role of Blank Moisturisation in Press Forming of Paperboard

2024-01-21T03:22:19+00:00

To investigate the influence of blank moisture on the forming of paperboard, press forming experiments were performed with fixed blank setup and sliding blank setup to produce paperboard trays. The trays were rated by their forming height. Different moisturisation procedures were established to achieve one or double-sided surface moisturisation or homogenous moisture distributions in the blanks. Additionally, basic influences of moisture to paper-to-metal friction and tensile properties of the paperboard were measured. Surface moisturisation increased the paper-to metal friction and therefore limited the achievable forming heights in sliding blank press forming. The elongation at break of paperboard increased with increased sample moisture content. In the fixed blank press forming test this increase was not apparent in the data.

Design Optimization and Performance Evaluation of Corn Straw Crushing and Rubbing Filament Machine

2024-01-27T17:15:47+00:00

China produces a large amount of corn straw after the harvest of staple grains every year. Fodder application of corn straw can reduce the waste of straw resources. Such usage also can guarantee the supply of high-quality coarse fodder for livestock and help the development of husbandry and the increase of production and income of farmers and herdsmen in China. Based on the requirements of livestock for straw feed consumption, the corn straw treatment process engineering was studied, and the overall structure, transmission scheme, and main working components of the corn straw crushing and rubbing filament machine were designed. The equipment was developed with three-dimensional modeling and solid design. Key components were verified through finite element analysis. Finally, a prototype was produced for testing. The experimental results showed that when the moisture content of corn straw was tested to be 20%, the percentage of filamentous straw of the equipment was 97.2%, and the calibrated unit power productivity could reach 82.8 kg/(kW · h). Through experiments, all indicators of the equipment met the relevant technical standards of the straw crushing and rubbing filament machine, providing theoretical basis and technical support for the design of the straw crushing and rubbing filament machine.

Optimization of Deep Eutectic-like Solvent-based Ultrasound-assisted Extraction of Polysaccharides from Leonurus Residues

2024-02-12T02:48:21+00:00

Effects of the different types of deep eutectic-like solvents (DESs), molar ratio, water content, extraction temperature, extraction time, and ratio of liquid to solid were studied relative to the yield of Leonurus residue crude polysaccharide (LRCP). Extraction amounts of LRCP were determined. The extraction process parameters were optimized by response surface methodology, and an optimal extraction process was achieved. The results showed that DESs comprising choline chloride and ethylene glycol (CCEG) were suitable for the extraction. The optimum extraction process was as follows: water content, 27%; extraction temperature, 62 °C; and extraction time, 48 min. With the abovementioned parameters, the predicted extraction yield of LRCP was 14.1%. It was found that with these optimal extraction conditions, a 52.9% higher extraction yield could be achieved compared with hot water extraction. Therefore, a type of DES was found to be an excellent extraction solvent alternative for the extraction of polysaccharides and has a practical value.

Shear Resistance for Lateral Force of Light-frame Wall Sheathed with Structural Particleboard (PB)

2024-02-03T20:15:26+00:00

The shear resistance of a structural particleboard (PB) wall was evaluated as a means to utilize recycled wood and low-grade logs for long periods. The wall was composed of spruce-pine-fir (SPF) lumber, nails, and structural PB, which was developed by improving the water resistance of default PB. Structural PB has a higher density than OSB, which is a commonly used covering material for light wooden structural walls, so a longer end distance for nailing at edge of sheathing is needed for structural PB. In this study, it was confirmed that structural PB walls sufficiently resisted lateral load when the end distance was 15 mm. In this case, the shear strength, shear modulus, and ductility of the structural PB wall for lateral cyclic load were confirmed as 9.2 kN/m, 2.0 kN/mm, and 6.2, respectively. When compared to the design value, the shear strength value was higher than that of the OSB wall and the plywood wall. The shear modulus was lower than that of OSB walls, but higher than plywood walls. Based on the above results, it was considered that structural PB light-frame wall could be used in residential load-bearing applications.

Supercritical Water Gasification of Oily Sludge and Its Life Cycle Assessment

2024-02-11T21:09:35+00:00

A supercritical water gasification strategy was employed to investigate the effects of different conditions on hydrogen-rich gas production from oily sludge, based on the Aspen Plus platform. Meanwhile, the entire process was assessed with a life cycle assessment (LCA) method. The results indicated that the gas yield was decreased by increasing the sludge concentration. The yield of hydrogen-rich gas (H₂ and CH₄) was improved with increasing temperature. Higher temperatures were more favorable to gas production. Excessive addition of oxidants could reduce the CH₄ yield, thereby lowering the energy efficiency of the process. The LCA analysis found that, in comparison to the stages of raw material transportation, heat recovery, and wastewater treatment, the effect of more CO₂ produced in cooling and separation stage on global warming potential (GWP) was more obvious. The corresponding process can be improved to mitigate the environmental effect of the whole gasification.

Influence of Densification on Structural Performance and Failure Mode of Cross-laminated Timber under Bending Load

2024-02-17T16:13:30+00:00

The effect of densification of the laminas was studied relative to the shear performance of cross-laminated timber (CLT) specimens submitted to the bending test. The three-layered CLT panels were fabricated using loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.). A compression ratio (CR) of 50% was used to densify the lumber using the thermomechanical densification technique. The process included plasticizing the lumbers by soaking them in boiling water for 10 minutes and then hot-pressing to the target thickness at 140 °C. Four groups were made, i.e., a control sample with all three layers non-densified, only mid-layer densified, all layers densified, and all layers planed to the same thickness of densified layers. Specimens were tested in short-span bending with a span-to-depth ratio of eight. For specimens having densified mid-layer, the failure mode changed from rolling shear to tensile failure of the outer layer, and the maximum shear stress was increased by 34%. Densification of the mid-layer at CR of 16% was sufficient to change the failure mode from rolling shear in mid-layer to tensile in outer layer. In the case of all-layer-densified specimens, the maximum rolling shear strength was increased by 129% compared to the control.

Mechanical Properties of Epoxy Composites Reinforced with Areca catechu Fibers Containing Silicon Carbide

2024-01-03T14:45:32+00:00

The physical and chemical attributes of Areca catechu fiber (ACF) were explored. ACF is attractive because of its high cellulose content at 63.2 wt%. The mechanical properties were evaluated for Areca catechu fiber-reinforced epoxy composites, in which silicon carbide (SiC) was used as filler. The studied properties included water absorption, flexural strength, impact strength, tensile strength, and hardness properties. The tensile and flexural properties improved when the filler content increased from 40 to 50 wt%, but further increment in the filler content reduced the strength values. The addition of SiC adversely affected the bending and flexural properties of the composites at 40 and 50 wt% filler content, but it positively affected the properties at 60 wt% filler content. The hardness of the composites increased with the addition of 10% silicon carbide. From the results of this study, it is recommended that the ratio of silicon carbide in the composite should not exceed 10 wt% due to agglomeration. The composites containing 10 wt% SiC can be used for outdoor applications such as decking, railing, garden fencing, cladding, and siding applications.

Nanoparticles Enhanced Ligninolytic Enzymes Activity of Rotten Wood Fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium

2024-02-11T23:08:19+00:00

White-rot fungi are vital microorganisms that can decay lignocellulosic biomass. This study investigated the ability of white-rot fungus found on rotten wood to produce ligninolytic enzymes and their enhancement using nanoparticles (NPs). Phanerochaete chrysosporium was isolated from decayed wood. Its ability to produce ligninolytic enzymes, namely CMCase, FPase, Laccase, and MnPase, was recorded. The enzymes’ productivity was enhanced via utilization of the surfactant polysorbate 80 with optimum concentration 0.20 mL/L for maximum CMCase (201.33 ± 2.31 U/mL) and FPase (66.33 ± 0.58 U/mL), whereas the corresponding value was 0.15 mL/L for laccase and MnPase production. Mn₂O₃NPs and CuONPs enhanced the enzymes’ productivity but with different levels according to their concentrations, where the maximum productivity of CMCase (220.67 ± 2.31 U/mL) and (FPase 74.63 ± 3.51 U/mL) were at 50 ppm, but MnPase (0.52 ± 0.01 U/mL) and laccase (2.88 ± 0.01U/mL) were at 25 ppm and 75 ppm of CuONPs, respectively. Mn₂O₃NPs at 75 ppm enhanced the productivity of CMCase (219.33 ± 1.15 U/mL) and FPase (74.63 ± 3.51U/mL); but at 25 ppm and 75 ppm enhanced the productivity of laccase (2.40 ± 0.04U/mL) and MnPase (0.73 ± 0.03 U/mL), respectively. Thus, NPs were found to play a vital role in improving the productivity of ligninolytic enzymes.

Research on Color Matching Model for Wood Panel Furniture Based on a Back Propagation Neural Network

2024-01-27T19:10:30+00:00

The wood furniture manufacturing industry continues in the direction of customized furniture. The analysis of color collocation is important for developing customized furniture. This study summarizes the common color collocation application area for porch cabinets. After selecting the appropriate color model, C # language was used to simulate a real scene setting experimental system in the Unity graphics engine. Colors were generated randomly in the corresponding area, and subjects evaluated the harmony. Then, the Python language was used to build the BP neural network model. The BP neural network models were trained using the Hue, Saturation, value (HSV) of the depicted colors and their corresponding scores. Finally, the evaluation model of color collocation and harmony was obtained. The model can be used to improve the prediction of color matching in customized furniture, which will promote enterprise productivity and industry development.

Understanding the Limits of a Screening Operation. Part 1: Characterization of Screen Plugging

2024-02-17T17:09:02+00:00

Pressure screening is a critical step in the production of high-quality paper. In efforts to meet sustainable market demands, mill operators are forced to push the limits of screening operation to the point where plugging becomes a recurrent issue. This two-part study provides insights into the limits of screening operations. In the first part, some published imaging data was analyzed to delve into the plugging mechanisms. The observed hysteresis and intermittency were measured by image processing techniques, which revealed that an intermittent behavior of plug-and-release events is intensified as permanent, stable plugs start to form. The intermittency was characterized as changes in the distribution of open area fluctuation peaks. Thus, the kurtosis of the fluctuation peak distribution is proposed as a metric for a plugging soft-sensor. In part 2 of this investigation, the limits of screening operation were characterized by performing a series of screening trials. The utility of the soft-sensor metric for plugging was assessed with the pressure fluctuation data.

Carbon Dots Prepared from Waste Wood and Residual Adhesive and Their Use as Catalysts for Hydrogen Production

2024-02-03T23:16:34+00:00

Large quantities of waste wood with residual resin adhesives are not recycled efficiently. To address this issue, waste wood with residual resin adhesives was synthesized into carbon dots (CDs) via a facile hydrothermal self-assembly method to enhance the H₂ evolution performance of graphite C₃N₄ (g-C₃N₄), a metal-free photocatalyst. Among all samples, the most significant enhanced sample was MCN-UF-3.5, which has an H₂ evolution of 22.1 mmol·g^-1·h^-1, which is 3.91 times that of unmodified g-C₃N₄. The band gap and recombination of photogenerated charges were both improved by the doping of CDs. Meanwhile, the DFT calculation showed that adding CDs, especially with the -NH₂ group, can significantly deform the structure and destroy the symmetry. This consequence implies an enhancement in the activity of the hydrogen evolution reaction, confirming the feasibility of the modification.

Glucose Conversion Process to Methyl Lactate Catalyzed by SnCl4-based Homogeneous Catalysis

2023-12-02T18:44:07+00:00

Biomass is a renewable alternative to fossil fuels and a valuable source of chemicals. In this study, a facile and efficient method was established to improve the selectivity of methyl lactate (MLA) for the homogeneous Lewis acid catalyzed chemical conversion of glucose and methanol. The effects of catalyst dosage, reaction temperature, and reaction time were systematically investigated, with an emphasis on the variation trends of MLA and other by-products. Through process optimization, the best catalyst molar ratio was 0.075 to 0.1, the reaction temperature was 170 to 180 °C, and the reaction time was 3 h. Under these conditions, the conversion of glucose in methanol exceeded 98%, and the yield of MLA was greater than 40%.

The Impact of Lignin Content on the Biodegradation of Virgin Paper Pulps in Soil and Marine Environment

2024-01-21T18:13:22+00:00

Paper pulp is a lignocellulosic fibrous material used in the industrial production of paper and board products. In addition to cellulose and hemicellulose, paper pulp contains 1 to 20% lignin, depending on the raw materials and pulping process used. Lignin is a heterogenous aromatic polymer that is hydrophobic and more resistant to microbial degradation compared to the easily biodegradable cellulose and hemicellulose. In this study, the biodegradation of paper pulps containing varying amounts of lignin was examined in soil and marine environments using ISO testing methods. Lignin significantly reduced the mineralization of paper pulps to CO₂in both environmental conditions, and a strong inverse correlation between lignin content and the mineralization to CO₂ was observed. A similar impact was observed with natural materials containing lignin, such as birch sawdust. Since the calculation of biodegradability in most ISO and EN standards is based solely on the concept of mineralization to CO₂, materials containing lignin can receive poor values in these tests. The implications of this for standardized requirements of biodegradability and possible options to overcome testing deficiencies are discussed.

Qualitative and Quantitative Anatomical Characteristics and Radial Variation of Major Cell Components in Paulownia tomentosa Wood Grown in Korea

2024-02-18T02:05:50+00:00

Qualitative and quantitative anatomical characteristics and radial variations of the major cell components in Paulownia tomentosa wood were examined using optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction to aid in wood identification and as quality indices. The vessel arrangement on the transverse surface was either ring-porous or semi-ring-porous. Most vessels had solitary pores, while some vessels had multiple radial pores. The axial parenchyma was generally confluent and partially of aliform type. Tyloses with high frequency in the vessel lumen and multiseriate rays (2 to 5 cells) were typical. The vessel diameter of earlywood and latewood was approximately 240 and 107 μm, respectively, with a range of 165 to 289 μm in earlywood and 55 to 149 μm in latewood. Ray height and fiber length were approximately 178 and 740 μm, respectively. The vessel diameter in both earlywood and latewood and the fiber length increased gradually with an increasing number of growth rings. Ray height was constant from the pith to the middle section and decreased toward the bark. The anatomical characteristics and radial variation of major components of P. tomentosa can be used as wood identification keys and quality indices.

Effects of Different Acidification-resisting Strategies on Anaerobic Digestion of Kitchen Waste: Methanogenic Properties and Microbial Community Shift

2024-02-17T15:18:56+00:00

Anaerobic digestion (AD) has been widely used as a promising technology for the treatment of kitchen waste (KW). The effects of several acidification-resisting methods were compared, which included the supplementation of trace elements (TEs) and zero-valent iron (ZVI) / powdered activated carbon (PAC), and the application of the sludge domesticated by acetic acid (HAc) and KW as inoculum. The results showed that the supplementation of TEs and ZVI/PAC at total solid (TS) content of 6% and optimal addition doses resulted in an increase in methane yield to 346 and 366 mL/g VS, respectively. In addition, the methane yields of 327 and 241 mL/g VS were obtained by applying the sludge domesticated with KW and HAc as inoculum, while the methane yield of the control was only 89.2 mL/g VS, representing a relative increase of 288%, 311%, 267%, and 170%. The acidification could be alleviated by applying these methods, and also the methanogenic profile was improved. Furthermore, microbial community analysis revealed that the enrichment of Methanosarcina, which enhanced the substrate utilization capacity and subsequently increased methane production, was achieved through the addition of TEs and ZVI/PAC, along with the application of sludge domesticated by KW.

Estimation of Pruning Wastes and Biochar Production Potential of Turkey

2023-12-21T03:38:32+00:00

In agriculture-producing countries, pruning waste is obtained from fruit-bearing trees during the fruit-growing process. The present study aims to determine the potential of biochar of pruning wastes, obtained as a result of agricultural activities that have economic value. To the best of the author’s knowledge, no study has been conducted in Turkey to make a regional estimation of the biochar potential of pruning wastes. Biochar produced from waste provides the advantage of use in various fields, such as soil remediation and water and wastewater treatment. In this study, data on the number of trees bearing fruit (almond, apple, apricot, cherry, peach, pear, plum, and sour cherry) from the Turkish Statistical Institute were used based on the equations specified. First, the amount of pruning waste, then the usable pruning waste, and finally their biochar potential were calculated. It was estimated that the apple tree had the highest total biochar potential (41.5 thousand tons/year). Regarding the regions, the highest biochar potential was in the Central Anatolia Region for the apple tree (19.3 thousand tons), followed by the Eastern Anatolia Region for the apricot tree (13.6 thousand tons). The total biochar potential of pruning wastes from fruit-bearing trees in Turkey was estimated at 175 thousand tons for the year 2021.

Elucidating the Challenges to Bumiputera Entrepreneurs’ Participation in the Domestic Furniture and Wood Products Market in Malaysia

2024-02-17T16:03:13+00:00

The limited market share and growth of Bumiputera entrepreneurs in domestic furniture and wood product industry in Malaysia remains a long-standing challenge. Therefore, a study to examine the market factors that contribute to the failure to thrive among Bumiputera entrepreneurs, registered with the Malaysian Timber Industry Board, was conducted. The results revealed that most of the respondents were micro- and small-sized enterprises, with sales focused on the domestic and contract markets. They were mostly producing sofa and kitchen cabinets, made to order, and sold in domestic markets within the vicinity. The respondents also indicated that the major challenges that impeded their ability to penetrate and capture market share include the limited production volume, lack of product diversity, limited government contract, and inter-ethnicity business collaboration. The Chi-square and Pearson Product Moment Correlation tests found that the significant challenges were only the limited production volume due to small company size, lack of product diversity, and the limited inter-ethnicity business collaboration among Bumiputera entrepreneurs. Therefore, policymakers should take heed that despite the many years of targeted and affirmative assistance to expand the domestic market share of Bumiputera entrepreneurs, the results remain poor, and inevitably, a new approach to Bumiputera entrepreneurs’ development must be adopted.

Performance of Laminated Veneer Lumber Panels from Fast-Growing Species with Different Layering Arrangements

2023-11-27T22:34:16+00:00

This study investigated the effect of various layer arrangements and their impact on the properties of laminated veneer lumber (LVL). Seven different layer arrangements (CCCCCCC, DDDDDDD, PPPPPPP, CDDDDDC, CPPPPPC, CDDCDDC, CPPCPPC, CDCDCDC, CPCPCPC, CCDDDCC, CCPPPCC, CCDCDCC, and CCPCPCC) were used in the manufacturing of the LVL, with each arrangement represented by a combination of the three wood species: hornbeam (C), paulownia (P), and poplar (D). The veneers were bonded with a polyurethane adhesive and pressed under 1 MPa pressure. The physical and mechanical properties of the laminated veneer lumber, including modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, block shear, delamination, and swelling, were measured under both dry and cyclic conditions (boil and dry). The modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity of the LVLs increased when the proportion of hornbeam in the lamination increased. In the cyclic boil-dry condition, the laminated veneer lumbers with the configurations CPCPCPC and CDCDCDC showed the best structural performance. Furthermore, the study found that when one or two upper layers of poplar and paulownia were replaced with hornbeam layers, cracks were observed in the laminated veneer lumber samples. However, when the layers of poplar and paulownia were replaced with hornbeam alternately, no cracks were observed after saturating the laminated veneer lumber with water. The utilization of an alternating arrangement of poplar and paulownia layers with hornbeam in LVL can be used as an effective and cost-efficient approach for enhancing and reinforcing the LVL performance.

Effects of Bleaching Treatment on the Properties of Bio-polyurethane Films from Liquefied Bamboo

2024-01-27T16:49:20+00:00

Malaysian bamboo residues were subjected to a liquefaction process. Bleaching of the liquefied product was carried out to reduce its coloration. Polyurethane (PU) films were then manufactured as a coating material by reacting the -OH groups in the bamboo material with isocyanate (-NCO). The study’s objective was to investigate the effects of bleaching on the properties of resulting polyurethane films and to elucidate its behavior as affected by the NCO/OH ratios. Bamboo residues, in powder form, were liquefied with polyethylene glycol (PEG 400) and glycerol (Gly) as reactive co-solvent, and sulphuric acid as catalyst. The obtained liquefied bamboo was then bleached with hydrogen peroxide. Bleached and unbleached liquefied bamboo were used to produce PU film by reacting isocyanate at NCO/OH ratios of 1.6, 1.8, 2.0, and 2.2. The results revealed that the NCO/OH ratios improved the mechanical performance of the PU films. Bleaching treatment slightly reduced the thermal stability and mechanical strength of the PU films. However, bleached PU films displayed lower water absorption and lower biodegradation than unbleached PU films. Nevertheless, the performance of the bleached PU films was still acceptable, indicating that the bleaching treatment using hydrogen peroxide is feasible to obtain semi-transparent film.

Macroscopic and Microscopic Diagnosis of Three Entandrophragma Species Traded in Türkiye

2024-01-04T00:50:08+00:00

The anatomical characteristics are highlighted for Entandrophragma cylindricum, Entandrophragma utile, and Entandrophragma angolense. Wood samples, which were previously obtained from commercial timber industries in the Marmara region of Türkiye and used as course materials, were used. Qualitative and quantitative anatomical characteristics were determined. Qualitatively, characters such as distinct growth rings, diffuse-porous wood, deposits in vessel elements, simple perforation plates, alternate intervessel pits, heterogeneous ray type, and septate fibres, were common to all species. The quantitative evaluation showed that there were differences between species. Entandrophragma species differ in some wood characteristics such as the tangential diameter of the vessel, ray height, ray width, and fibre lumen diameter. E. utile had higher values of the mean tangential vessel diameter (180 μm) and fiber lumen diameter (18.4 μm) than the other two species. It is possible to say that the anatomical features of E. cylindricum differ from that of other species and that it will be easier to diagnose among other species. E. cylindricum had the lowest values of the mean tangential vessel diameter (147 μm) and ray height (361 μm). Distinctive characters for E. utile and E. angolense are tangential vessel diameter, vessel length, ray height, ray width, and all fibre dimensions.

Low-temperature and Low-concentration Sodium Hydroxide Pretreatment for Enhanced Enzyme Hydrolysis Rate from Quercus variabilis Blume

2024-02-11T23:28:01+00:00

A surface response design was employed to develop a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) pretreatment method for Quercus variabilis Blume using low NaOH concentration at low temperature. Nevertheless, the persistent issues associated with alkaline pretreatment of lignocellulose, namely high-water consumption and wastewater generation, remain prevalent in this pretreatment process. To address these challenges, this study aimed to conduct enzymatic hydrolysis of NaOH-treated Q. variabilis Blume without the intermediary washing steps. The results revealed that, following pretreatment and solid-liquid separation, NaOH-treated Q. variabilis Blume could be directly subjected to cellulase-mediated hydrolysis with pH adjustment, eliminating the need for washing steps. The maximum enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency reached 95.9% under specific conditions (1.2% NaOH, 8.9 °C, 32.1 h). This approach offers a promising avenue to enhance the enzyme hydrolysis rate of NaOH-treated lignocellulose. Notably, the low-temperature and low-concentration NaOH treatment effectively removed a substantial portion of lignin and hemicelluloses, resulting in a higher crystallinity index of the cellulose-rich residue compared to substrates treated solely with steam explosion. The integration of direct pretreatment and alkaline treatment emerges as an environmentally friendly and economically viable method for producing glucose and high-purity lignin. The obtained lignin can be further transformed into high-value products within the biorefinery framework.

Influence of Washing with Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) Surfactant on Different Properties of Ramie Fibres

2024-02-17T15:32:10+00:00

Green composite materials are a means of reducing reliance on synthetic and especially single-use plastics (SUP) and raising public awareness of the need for urgent action to protect the planet. Natural (lignocellulosic) fibres are increasingly utilized as the reinforcement in polymer matrix composites, in search for increased renewability and sustainability. This work concerns the effect of washing ramie (Boehmeria nivea) fibres using sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) surfactant. The SLS-treated ramie fibres were examined for their morphological, physical, thermal, structural, and mechanical properties by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and tensile testing. SLS treated ramie fibres density and crystallinity index values were 1.23 g/cc and 84.5%, respectively, with a very high cellulose content of 81.3%, because hemicellulose and loose particles were dissolved. SEM images depicted the relevant changes, with no significant damage on treated fibre surfaces. With some assistance from the treatment, fibres initiated their degradation only above 250 °C, culminating at 327 °C, which appears suitable for the manufacturing of composites with the most common matrices.

Mechanical Properties of Glulam Moment-Resisting Joints Reinforced by Inclined Self-Tapping Screws

2024-01-04T02:19:45+00:00

Self-tapping screws (STS) are an effective fastener to enhance wooden moment-resisting joints. However, the effects of the arrangement and insertion angle of STS on the mechanical properties of wooden joints are less studied. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of these two factors on the mechanical properties of wooden joints by conducting cyclic loading tests using glulam moment-resisting joints reinforced by STS with different arrangements (round and square) and insertion angles (45° and 90°). The failure modes, bearing performances, and energy dissipation capacities were considered. The results showed that the insertion angle affected the bearing and energy dissipation capacity of the joints significantly, while the effect of arrangement was slight. The anti-rotation bending moments of the joints reinforced by inclined STS were higher by 31.7% and 13.5% when the arrangement of STS was circular and rectangular respectively compared with the joints reinforced by vertical STS under compression state, and were lower by 17.5 % and 22.9 % under tensile state. The restoring force characteristics of the joints were similar when the insertion angle of STS was the same. Furthermore, the joints had optimal ductility and stiffness when the arrangement was rectangular, and the insertion angle was 45°.

Consumer Behavior Based on the SOR Model: How do Short Video Advertisements Affect Furniture Consumers’ Purchase Intentions?

2024-02-12T03:10:17+00:00

Short video advertisements are a novel and influential medium for promoting furniture products, but their effects on consumers’ purchase intentions remain underexplored. This study applies the extended stimulus-organism-response (SOR) framework, a psychological theory that elucidates how stimuli (short video ads), organisms (consumers), and responses (purchase intentions) are interrelated. This study quantitatively examines these relationships using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results reveal that the Flow experience and Telepresence experience significantly affect purchase intentions, indicating that consumers who experience high levels of engagement and immersion while viewing short furniture-related video ads are more likely to exhibit buying behavior. This study also identifies three critical antecedents of the Telepresence experience: social influence, perceived entertainment value, and perceived interactivity. These factors may enhance the effectiveness of short-form video advertising by increasing consumer interaction and engagement. Moreover, convenience conditions, perceived entertainment value, and media richness significantly influence consumers’ flow experience. This suggests that these factors should be considered when designing short video advertisements to optimize consumers’ flow experience and thus increase purchase intentions. This study provides empirical evidence for the SOR framework, investigates the impact of short video advertisements on furniture consumers’ purchase intention, and offers practical implications and recommendations for marketing practitioners.

Effect of Selective Enhancement on the Bending Performance of Fused Deposition Methods 3D-Printed PLA Models

2024-02-18T01:29:08+00:00

The top and bottom shells of fused deposition 3D-printed PLA models are exposed to the highest stresses. To improve the bending performance of PLA models under three-point bending conditions, the models were strengthened by a selective enhancement method. Several sets of PLA models were fabricated using FDM technology, and three-point bending experiments were conducted to compare the bending strength of PLA models when the layer height, top/bottom shell thickness, and extrusion rate were varied. The bending strength of the PLA models increased as the layer height of the top/bottom shell decreased, the thickness increased, and the extrusion rate increased. The average bending strength of the PLA models after selective enhancement was 84.4 MPa, and the average bending modulus of elasticity was 0.816 GPa, which were higher than the average bending strength of 68.6 MPa and the average bending modulus of elasticity of 0.736 GPa of the conventional groups. These results indicated that the selective enhancement method improved the bending performance of 3D-printed PLA models, and it also provided a reference for the improvement of the mechanical properties of the 3D-printed models with cellulose composite reinforced materials.

Development and Characterization of Nanocellulose/ Carbonized Waste Rubber Nanocomposites

2024-02-24T18:45:53+00:00

Recycling is one of the most popular research topics today. In this study, in addition to the evaluation of waste tires, which are frequently encountered in the industry and difficult to dispose of, a green biomaterial, nanocellulose-based new generation nanocomposite was produced and characterized for the first time. Carbonized waste rubber, obtained by pyrolysis of tire wastes, was reinforced with nanocellulose at levels of 0.10%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% by weight. The prepared nanocellulose-based nanocomposites were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), morphological properties by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal properties by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical thermal (DMTA). In addition, the percentage of gel contents of the produced nanocomposites were determined. Thermal analyses revealed that the sample containing 1% carbonized waste rubber showed the highest thermal stability and at 750 °C the ash yield increased up to 25% compared to nanocellulose. The fabricated nanocomposites had about 10 times higher storage modulus compared to pure NC. All results show that the green nanocellulose-based nanocomposites can be used for future applications in industry.

The Compostability of Denim Fabrics Dyed with Various Indigos

2024-02-11T05:18:02+00:00

Denim fabric samples representing current indigo dye sources and fabric structures were biodegraded in feedstock including food waste, manure, and animal bedding, which are typically composted at the Cornell Farm Services Composting Facility and processed under laboratory conditions for 77 days. Indigo types including dry denim, pre-reduced, and natural did not inhibit degradation as compared to undyed 100% cotton fabric. Additionally, fabrics tested as received from the mill and those tested post scouring degraded effectively. As expected, denim containing 24% polyester and 2% spandex retained overall fabric structure despite degradation of the cotton portion of the yarns.

In Vitro and Molecular Docking Evaluation of Target Proteins of Lipase and Protease for the Degradation of Aflatoxins

2024-03-03T03:15:42+00:00

The consumption of food contaminated with aflatoxins causes severe harmful health effects, which can lead to death, in both humans and livestock. Therefore, the degradation of aflatoxins, particularly by biological methods, is considered a feasible technology for remediation of aflatoxin-contaminated products. In vitro, aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, and G2 were degraded by 25 U/mL of lipase with reduction percentages of 57.5, 71.7, 80.1, and 83.8%. This reduction increased to 81.3, 82.8, 86.9, and 90.7% via 200 U/mL of lipase, respectively. Protease was less effective than lipase in the degradation of aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, and G2 with reduction levels of 35.8, 54.9, 66.5, and 70.2%, respectively, at 25 U/mL of protease. This investigation offers new concepts for the quick screening of aflatoxin-degrading enzymes and offers a theoretical basis for the degradation of aflatoxins. Interactions between aflatoxin B1 (considered as a ligand) and proteins that were taken as receptors (Structure of Lipase PDB ID: 1DT3 and Protease PDB ID: 2PRO) were elucidated. The molecular modeling results of utilized compound showed a notable binding score and best Root Mean Square (RMS) define value, indicating efficient binding mode and appropriate interactions with amino acids of selected proteins.

Effect of Surfactant on Pseudo-Lignin Formation

2024-02-12T02:14:09+00:00

In this study, a nonionic surfactant (JFC-M) was used as an additive for hydrothermal pretreatment of crushed poplar wood. The pseudo-lignin extracted from holocellulose after hydrothermal pretreatment was characterized, and the composition of liquid and solid fractions obtained after pretreatment at different experimental conditions was analyzed. The results showed that the addition of JFC-M surfactant accelerated the dissolution of biomass cellulose and effectively inhibited the production of pseudo-lignin in hydrothermal processes, under the same hydrothermal pretreatment conditions. The pseudo-lignin yield for the control group was 14.2% (no JFC surfactant added), whereas when the JFC-M concentration was 2%, the pseudo-lignin yield was 9.8%.

Effects of Heavy Metal Contamination on Fungal Diversity in Pinus brutia Shoots

2024-03-02T18:54:52+00:00

The effects of heavy metal pollution have become a significant global issue in recent years. The primary objective of the present study was to compare the heavy metal concentrations in Pinus brutia shoots grown in an organized industrial zone (OIZ) and a forested area (Adalar) and to examine how these heavy metals affect fungal microbiota. The results achieved here showed that Ni and V concentrations were lower than the detectable limits in both the Adalar and the OIZ region, whereas Se and Cu concentrations were lower than the detectable limits in the shoots collected from the Adalar. Concentrations determined in samples collected from the OIZ were approximately 6 times higher for Cr and 16 times higher for Zn in comparison to the samples collected from the Adalar. Metagenomic analysis revealed that the most common fungal genera were Aureobasidium, Gibberella, Hazslinszkyomyces, Alternaria, Cladosporium, Buckleyzyma, Lasiodiplodia, and Hormonema for the OIZ area and Hormonema, Aureobasidium, Alternaria, Cladosporium, Arthrinium, Fonsecazyma, and Truncatella for the Adalar region. In the future, this study may serve as a reference for the development of innovative strategies for the remediation of heavy metal pollution for a sustainable and clean environment using biological sources.

Cation-Mediated Acid-Base Pairs for Mild Oxidative Cleavage of Lignocellulosic β-1,4-Glycosidic Bonds

2024-02-24T21:03:43+00:00

Solar-driven lignocellulosic biomass photoreforming holds significant promise for the production of value-added chemicals and fuels. The cleavage of the β-1,4-glycosidic bond is crucial for the effective conversion of lignocellulosic biomass. Polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) with acid-base pairs (M-C sites) is developed through heteroatomic carbon incorporation and cation insertion. It can be used for the gentle oxidation of cellobiose to monosaccharides, bypassing the formation of organic acids such as gluconic acid and glucaric acid. A series of different alkaline/alkaline-earth cation for regulation of acid-base pairs exhibited a negative correlation between β-1,4-glycosidic bond cleavage and cation radii. In particular, the introduction of short-radius cations (such as Li) into PCN enabled the formation of acid-base (M-C) pairs characterized by strong acidity. It also enhanced electron delocalization around M-C sites, potentially promoting the generation of reactive radicals in the reaction. Electron paramagnetic resonance analysis confirmed the presence of •OH radicals. The mild oxidative species, are the primary reactive radicals responsible for β-1,4-glycosidic bond cleavage in cellobiose. This study provides insightful evidence for the rational regulation of acid-base sites in facilitating β-1,4-glycosidic bond cleavage. It sheds light on the oxidative cleavage mechanisms integral to lignocellulosic biomass photoreforming, offering insights for advancing sustainable biomass conversion technologies.

Enhanced Dimensional Stability of Straw-based Biocomposites Modified with UV Light-cured Coatings

2024-02-24T19:59:12+00:00

This study demonstrated an effective method to enhance the dimensional stability of straw-based biocomposites with modified lignosulfonate as a binder. The ultraviolet (UV) light-curable nanosol was prepared by adding 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (MEMO) as sol–gel precursor into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution. The MEMO/PVA coatings were generated using 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-1-one (Darocur 1173) as radical photo-initiator and chitosan (CS) as additive, on straw-based biocomposites via UV-curing process. The effects of the crucial steps, such as the UV-curing process, hydrolysis time, Darocur 1173 dosage, and CS dosage on the dimensional stability of straw-based biocomposites, were evaluated. The optimum preparation parameters, obtained using the Box–Behnken design, were 31.9 min hydrolysis time, 4.5% Darocur 1173 dosage, and 2.7% CS dosage. Moisture resistance of minimum TS of CS-MEMO/PVA-coated straw-based biocomposites resulted in ~23.1% reduction in dimensional stability without significant decline in the mechanical properties when compared with those without UV curing. Moreover, the glossy spherical particles underwent arrangement in a fish-scale shape with scales closely linked with each other and no agglomeration occurred in CS-MEMO/PVA hybrid film. The CS promoted the cross-linking of MEMO/PVA coating on the biocomposite surface. The resulting biocomposites can be directly applied to public humid-environment applications such as bath furniture and bathroom partitions.

Colour and Furniture Brand Identity: Exploring the Strategic Value of Brand’s Iconic Colour

2024-03-10T02:12:08+00:00

This research explores the intersection of colour marketing and brand identity, focusing on the role of iconic colour in furniture branding. A comprehensive framework for crafting a furniture brand’s iconic colour was developed, and structural equation modeling was used to analyze data from three offline experiments with a total sample size of 111 subjects. The findings highlight the crucial influence of iconic colour on brand identity, revealing that both the referential meaning of hue and gender significantly impact brand perception. Contrary to conventional beliefs, variations in saturation and value are not solely detrimental; they can also enrich brand identity. The iconic colour serves as a cornerstone for ensuring consistency across internal and external brand dimensions, solidifying the brand's core identifiers, and resonating with consumers’ minds. This research underscores the pivotal role of iconic colour in forging a coherent and distinct brand identity, offering valuable insights for marketers and brand strategists in the furniture industry and beyond.

Allowable Bending Properties of Machine-Graded Korean Yellow Poplar Lumber

2024-03-02T22:45:01+00:00

This study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of using yellow poplar as a structural member by determining allowable bending properties. Full-size lumber was classified by machine grading and the knot diameter ratio on the wide surface of lumber. The majority of machine grades of yellow poplar lumber with a cross-section of 38 × 89 mm² were E8, E9, and E10. It was confirmed that the size of the knot diameter ratio tended to be smaller for higher machine grades. In the lowest grade, E8, of most machine grades, the allowable bending strength was lower than the corresponding design value in Korean standards. Application of 0.5 knot diameter ratio to the E8 grade lumber increased the bending strength to 3 MPa of the allowable value to suit the design value. All the allowable modulus of elasticities values of the majority of machine grades were higher than the design values. From the results of this study, it was expected that Korean yellow poplar could be utilized for structural bending members.

Performance Evaluation of 3D-Printed ABS and Carbon Fiber-reinforced ABS Polymeric Spur Gears

2024-01-21T17:56:57+00:00

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) polymer and carbon fiber reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (CF/ABS) spur gears were 3D-printed using fusion deposition modeling (FDM) with different fillet radii of 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 mm. The performance of the fabricated gears was studied with the effect of fillet radius on varying load and speed conditions. The thermal properties of the gears were also investigated. The results indicated that 3D-printed CF/ABS spur gear exhibited better performance than the pure ABS. The 3D-printed CF/ABS gear with fillet radius of 0.25 mm recorded the highest wear and thermal stresses. However, the optimum performance was exhibited by the gear sample with highest fillet radius of 0.75 mm. Repeated gear tooth loading during service caused an increase in gear temperature due to the hysteresis and friction. Using optical microscopy, the tooth structures of both 3D-printed ABS and CF/ABS spur gears were analyzed before and after loading conditions to establish their failure mechanism. Evidently, various applications of the FDM 3D-printed spur gears depend on their different performances under loads and operating speeds. The methods and findings of this work can be regarded as helpful for future related work related to cellulosic reinforcing particles in a polymer matrix.

Industrial Hemp Hurd Processing for Microcrystalline Cellulose Production and its Usage as a Filler in Paper

2024-02-11T23:51:13+00:00

This article substantiates the possibilities of replacing commercial wood with raw materials made from industrial hemp hurd (hemp-woody core) for the production of unbleached and bleached paper pulps. A comparative analysis of the mechanical characteristics of sheets of paper prepared in the Rapid-Köthen apparatus and obtained from pulp obtained from commercial wood and hemp-woody core (HWC) was undertaken. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mechanical refining of a pulp on the production of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) from HWC. It was shown that an increase in the pulp refining degree from 15 °SR to 83 °SR led to a decrease in the degree of polymerisation of MCC from 272 to 75, the hydrochloric acid concentration from 73 to 45.63 g/L, and the hydrolysis time from 120 min to 60 min. With the addition of 5% MCC obtained from hemp-woody core, the mechanical properties of laboratory paper sheets from HWC were improved until they met ISO 12625-4-2017 (2017) requirements for NS-2. The results obtained support using hemp-woody core for the production of MCC.

Effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens on Volatile Components and Nutrient Element Contents of Mentha piperita L. Grown under Salt Stress

2024-03-09T16:30:57+00:00

Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (Ba) was applied to Mentha piperita L. (peppermint) seedlings grown at various salt levels (0, 50, 75, and 100 mM) for 42 days (six weeks). The study was conducted in a total of eight groups, with 24 seedlings per group. At the end of the study, the seedlings were analyzed for plant nutrient elements and volatile compound contents. The negative effect of salt was observed in almost all parameters. When all groups were evaluated for plant nutrient elements, Ba had a positive effect on Zn, Mn, Cu, and Na values compared to the control, but it did not show any effect on B, Fe, K, P, Mg, and Ca. In volatile compounds, limonene was detected as the major component in all groups. As a result of the evaluation based on limonene, the highest rate was found in the control, and the lowest rate was found in 100 mM NaCl. The salt-dependent inhibition between the groups with the highest and lowest limonene was 73%. While the negative effects of salt were observed in almost all parameters, the promoter effects of Ba were not as pronounced.

Effects of Cellulose Micro and Nanocrystals on the Mechanical, Thermal, Morphological, and Structural Properties of Rigid Polyurethanes

2024-01-27T16:16:31+00:00

Effects of adding microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were evaluated relative to the mechanical, thermal, morphological, and structural properties of rigid polyurethanes (rPUs). The composites were prepared with the blending of polyols/isocyanates and the cellulosic fillers at 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% loadings. Scanning electron microscopic images showed that the samples had micro-scaled porosity, with cell sizes ranging from 250 to 800 nm. The fillers improved the mechanical strengths and modulus of neat rPUs due to the presence of the nano-sized cells in rPUs matrix. The addition of both fillers generally did not provide a positive effect on the thermal properties, and the weight loss generally increased while the loading rate of the fillers was increased from 0.25% to 1%. The samples had two small crystalline peaks at 18° and 19° according to the X-ray diffraction analysis. From the results, it can be said that the presence of both fillers generally improved all properties of the neat rPUs, and the effects of CNC on the properties were higher than MCC due to both lower particle size and the higher crystallinity of CNC.

Properties of Oriented Strand Boards Made from Two Indonesian Bamboo Species at Different Pressure Levels and Strand Lengths

2023-11-04T12:57:48+00:00

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of bamboo species, specific pressure, and strand length on the properties of oriented strand boards (OSBs). Laboratory scale OSBs were made from two Indonesian bamboo species [tali (Gigantochloa apus) and andong (Gigantochloa pseudoarundinacea)] with three different strand lengths (75, 100, and 150 mm). For each bamboo species and strand length, OSBs were fabricated by bonding bamboo strands with 7% phenol formaldehyde resin and 0.5% wax emulsion based on their oven-dry weight. The layer structure of the face, core, and back of the three-layer cross-oriented board were 25%, 50%, and 25%, respectively. A specific pressure of 25 or 30 kg/cm² was applied for 6 min at 160 °C. The targeted OSB density was 0.75 g/cm³. The results showed that OSBs from andong bamboo had better dimensional stability and bending strength than those from tali bamboo. The bending strength of bamboo-based OSBs increased with increased bamboo strand length. A strong interaction was found between bamboo species, specific pressure, and strand length on the mechanical properties of OSBs. The properties of all bamboo-based OSBs produced in this study conform with the requirements of the Japanese Industrial Standard JIS A 5908 (2015) and British Standard BS EN 300 (2006).

From Waste to Watts: Investigating Teak Biomass Waste for Bioenergy

2024-03-03T01:21:51+00:00

The appropriate use of forest biomass can support the transition to a society with clean and renewable energy. In this context, the research aimed to evaluate the waste biomass from Tectona grandis L.f. for energy purposes. Seven teak wood waste types were used, accessible from the harvesting stage to wood processing. Physical attributes (moisture and basic density) and proximate analysis (volatile materials, ashes, and fixed carbon content) were evaluated, which were used to estimate the energy attributes (higher, lower, and net heating value and energy density). It was found that most waste components had moisture content averages below 30% and did not differentiate statistically. For the basic density, values varied between 366 and 519 kg.m^-3. Proximate analysis and energetic attributes of the teak wastes support its feasibility for bioenergy use, focused on trimmings and thin logs. It was concluded that teak waste has the potential for energy purposes if its specific characteristics are considered and appropriate ways of use and conversion are chosen.

Effect of Chitosan and Cationic Polyacrylamide on Optical and Mechanical Properties of Paper Made from Chemi-Mechanical Pulps

2023-12-02T20:22:27+00:00

The influences of nano-chitosan and cationic polyacrylamide (cPAM) on the optical and mechanical properties of paper made from chemi-mechanical pulp (CMP) were investigated. Bleached chemi-mechanical pulp (CMP) was selected as the control sample. The cPAM was considered at four levels (0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75%), while chitosan was added to the CMP suspension at three levels (0%, 1%, and 2%). Paper test specimens were prepared according to TAPPI standards with a basis weight of 60 g/m², and their optical and mechanical properties were measured. The results indicated that the opacity, greenness, tear strength, burst strength, and Gurley seconds were increased, whereas brightness, water absorption, and a* factor were decreased by increasing the amount of cPAM. Adding chitosan to CMP increased the a* factor, tear strength, breaking length, burst strength, Gurley seconds, water absorption, and greenness in the resulting paper. When polyacrylamide and nano-chitosan were added simultaneously to CMP, the brightness, water absorption, and greenness of the resulting paper decreased, but opacity, burst strength, tear strength, and air resistance had an appropriate increase. In all treatments, the best results were found at 1% chitosan and 0.5% cPAM due to favorable optical and mechanical properties.

Seismic Performance of Light Wood Shear Wall Infilled Timber Frame Structures with Openings

2024-03-16T16:49:39+00:00

To study the seismic performance of wood frame structures filled with light wood shear walls, three full-size single-layer single span wooden frame structures with infill walls were designed and manufactured. The beams and columns were connected by mortise-tenon joints, and quasi-static tests were conducted on the specimens under reversed cyclic load. The failure modes and load-displacement hysteresis performance of structures with door opening infill wall, window opening infill wall, and solid infill wall were investigated. The seismic performance was analyzed using indicators such as strength, ductility, and equivalent viscous damping ratio. The failure modes of light wood frame filling walls were the tearing of sheathing panel and the failure of nail connections. The filled wall with the opening initially exhibited inclined cracks at the corner of the opening, and then they extended to the periphery. Compared with the solid filled wall, the positive and negative bearing capacity of the structure with door opening decreased, and that of the structure with window opening decreased also. Because the specimens with opening in the filled wall were more conducive to the deformation of the structure when the bearing capacity was not significantly reduced, the ductility of the specimen with door opening was the highest.

Determination of Volatile Components of Citrus Flowers and Leaves Growing in Hatay, Türkiye

2024-01-13T15:36:34+00:00

Species belonging to the genus Citrus are produced and traded in large amounts around the world. In addition to the consumption of citrus fruits as food due to their high vitamin C content, their use in many areas has become widespread with the development of the plant-based products industry. In this study, the amount and structure of volatile components of leaves and flowers of 5 different citrus species (Citrus aurantium, Citrus limon, Citrus paradisi, Citrus reticulata, and Citrus sinensis) were determined using the solid phase micro extraction. Monoterpene hydrocarbons and their oxygenated derivatives were identified as the most abundant chemical component groups. Limonene was the dominant compound in Citrus limon flowers (36.5%), leaves (22.5%) and Citrus paradisi flowers (22.4%). Linalool, and sabinene were the other major components. Linalool was determined at 50.5% in flowers and 73.3% in leaves of Citrus aurantium. Moreover, sabinene had a high amount in Citrus sinensis flowers (19.7%), leaves (24.7%), and in Citrus paradisi (27.4%) leaves. Apart from these dominant components, γ-terpinene (13.9%) and p-cymene (25.4%) were detected in Citrus reticulata flowers and leaves in an important amount. It was seen that the leaves and flowers of Citrus species gathered from Hatay province were an important source of limonene and linalool compounds.

One-Pot Synthesis of 2,5-Diformylfuran from Fructose using a Bifunctional Catalyst Derived from Phosphomolybdic Acid and Chitosan

2024-03-03T01:50:29+00:00

The catalytic conversion of biomass into high-value chemicals, such as furan derivatives, from 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) holds significant importance. In this study, a bifunctional catalyst prepared from phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) and chitosan was developed for the one-pot synthesis of 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF) from fructose. This approach offered the advantage of bypassing the solvent consumption and cost associated with HMF separation and purification for DFF production. The catalytic activity of the prepared catalyst primarily originated from the loaded PMA. Under optimized reaction conditions, the catalyst achieved a DFF yield of approximately 60% after a 6-h reaction at 150 °C or a 1-h reaction at 170 °C. Moreover, the catalyst exhibited good stability and reusability. These results highlight the potential of the bifunctional catalyst for efficient and cost-effective conversion of fructose into DFF, enabling practical applications in the production of valuable chemicals from bioresources.

Analysis of Strength, Durability, Stability, and Fatigue Parameters of Furniture Doors and Drawers Using Engineering Design Method

2024-03-03T00:45:24+00:00

Mechanical behavior properties were investigated for cabinet-type cabinet doors in kitchen furniture and drawer bottoms and joints used as storage areas under load in accordance with relevant standards (BS EN 16122). In the first stage, values physical and mechanical for particle board (PB) and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) were determined. According to the test results in the second stage, it was determined that the doors assembled using a torque of 1.3 N/m in the door tests were less deformed than those assembled with 0.63 N/m. According to the finite element analysis and real test results carried out in the final stage, it has been determined that the vertical loading analysis applied on the doors coincides with the real experiments by 85%, horizontal loading by 84%, and slam shut by 50%. The doors didn’t pass the final stage durability test in real experiments, and the analysis results revealed that the deformation areas were the same as for real experiment. In the drawers; strength 85%, displacement 84%, and slam shut 94% overlap are represented. The drawers completed the durability test in real experiments, and in the analysis, it was determined that the deformation that occurred under high stresses was in the same areas.

Understanding the Limits of Screening Operation. Part 2: Characterizing the Operational Window

2024-03-16T05:32:07+00:00

The limits of the pulp screening operation can be defined as the maximum throughput before the apertures start to plug permanently. This two-part article sought insights into the limits of screening operation. In part two, the operational window of the screen was characterized by performing a series of screening trials with different pulp furnishes, where the plugging point was conventionally measured with the pressure signal. The limits of operation, given by a slot velocity and rotor speed contour, showed a robust linear relationship at the point of plugging, which depended on the ratio of the fibre length to aperture size. For size ratios less than 1.5, the screen did not plug under the conditions tested. In addition, the plugging detection tool was conceptualized in part one based on the kurtosis of the distribution of fluctuation peaks, and it was employed here. Effectively, deviations from the Gaussian distribution of the pressure fluctuation peaks signal the onset of screen plugging. Thus, the utility of this tool was confirmed for detecting plugs using readily available pressure fluctuation data in pilot-scale screening operations.

Species-Specific Prediction Model of Wood Moisture Content Based on Electromagnetic Wave Propagation Time

2024-01-04T05:55:01+00:00

Laboratory and field experiments were performed to examine the feasibility of using Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) to monitor moisture content (MC) of wood and standing trees. The TDR was used to detect the electromagnetic wave propagation time of four tree species (Betula platyphylla, Tilia tuan, Picea asperata, and Fraxinus mandshurica) at different MCs. During the TDR test, effects of probe insertion depths on MC predictive accuracy were considered. The best results were obtained at an insertion depth of 8 cm. At the selective 8 cm insertion depth, a species-specific MC prediction model (0.94 ≤ R² ≤ 0.98), a generalized model for the four species (R² = 0.65), and a hybrid model for the species with similar densities (0.80 ≤ R² ≤ 0.96) were constructed, respectively. Overall, the species-specific MC prediction model showed good predictive ability for both tree and wood disc samples, including that TDR can be used to detect wood and standing tree MC. If possible, the hybrid model can be used for species with similar density.

Mechanical Characterization and Strain Analysis Applied to the Heat Treatment of Wood Materials, by Means of Digital Image Correlation

2024-02-03T18:38:18+00:00

Digital image correlation (DIC) was used to examine the strain distribution of heat-treated beech and Uludag fir woods in mechanical testing. It also evaluated the effects of the heat treatment process on the properties of the wood samples. The physical (mass/density loss, dimensional stability, color change, and surface roughness), mechanical (flexure test and compressive strength), morphological, thermal, and structural properties of the heat-treated wood were examined. It was determined that the heat treatment parameters can be optimized using the DIC method. The test results showed that although heat treatment can provide improved physical and thermal properties, it caused micro-crack formations and collapses in the wood cells. As a consequence, the mechanical properties of the heat-treated wood materials decreased with the heat treatment process. There were slight differences in the curves of the samples according to Fourier infrared and X-ray diffraction analyses. Morphological characterization showed that the heat treatment triggered large cracks in the cell wall and lumens and the morphological structure of heat-treated wood was affected at large percentages.

Stress-strain Constitutive Models Along the Grain of Original Bamboo Based on Classification

2024-02-24T18:04:54+00:00

To establish the constitutive model of original bamboo, the tensile and compressive tests along the grain of original bamboo were investigated. The original bamboo was graded according to the elastic modulus, and a stress-strain constitutive model of original bamboo was proposed. The results of the study show that the tensile failure mode of original bamboo along the grain is brittle failure, and the compression along the grain is ductile failure. The bamboo was divided into three grades I, II, and III, and the proportion of II and II was more than 80%. A linear constitutive model was used for tension along the grain of original bamboo, a "three-fold" model was used for simplified constitutive model for compression along the grain, and the Sargin model was used for accurate constitutive model. The classification method proposed in this paper can result in the efficient utilization of bamboo resources, and the proposed constitutive model can promote the analysis and engineering application of original bamboo architecture.

Influence of the Depth of Friction-welded Dowels on the Strength of Rotary Welded Joints

2023-10-21T15:37:59+00:00

One of the important factors in rotary welding is the depth of welding of the dowel as well as the direction of welding of the dowel. In the studied interval (welding depth of 15 to 30 mm), the pull-out force increased when welding the dowel parallel to the wood grain and perpendicular to the wood grain. The strength of the welded joint increased from 15 to 20 mm, and then it continuously decreased towards a welding depth of 30 mm. The reason for this is that the tip of the dowel is intensively worn, and with a welding depth of 20 mm, it is approximately equal to the diameter of the hole. Therefore, by increasing the welding depth, the pull-out force increases slightly (due to the friction between the dowel and the hole wall), and the strength of the joint decreases. The highest joint strength was achieved at a welding depth of 20 mm for specimens welded parallel to the grain (PV) and specimens welded perpendicular to the grain (RTV). In welded joints where the dowels are loaded only by tensile force, it is recommended to use a welding depth of 30 mm.

Effect of Wood Surface Finish on Wood Species Classification Using Spectral Reflectance

2024-03-09T17:27:50+00:00

Wood species can be classified by spectral reflectance. It is unclear whether finish coated on the wood surface affects the accuracy of wood species classification. This paper focused on this issue, using the spectral reflectance of 8 different kinds of finish for wood species classification. The spectral reflectance of wood surface coated with finish was modified by the transfer model in order to reduce the effect of finish on classification accuracy. The experimental results show that it is not feasible to use the spectral reflectance of wood samples coated with finish directly to classify wood species; the best classification accuracy using the eight finishes was 30%. After correcting the spectrum of wood samples coated with finishes with the direct standardization (DS) transfer model, the classification accuracy of the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum was close to that of the original spectrum without finish. However, the visible/near-infrared (VIS/NIR) spectrum did not achieve a good classification effect after correction with the DS transfer model.

Bonding Properties of Selected Alien Invasive Wood Species

2024-03-10T01:09:49+00:00

Invasive alien plant species pose a significant challenge to European ecosystems. They displace native vegetation, damage agricultural land, and annually cost the European economy billions of euros. Many of them are removed daily and mainly burned, although some of them produce lignocellulosic material that could be used in place of native wood species. In this study, the bonding properties of selected invasive wood species in Slovenia were tested using standard methods. Wood lamellas were produced according to the SIST EN 205 standard from Ailanthus altissima, Aesculus hippocastanum, Robinia pseudoacacia, Gleditsia triacanthos and Acer negundo and glued with polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) and one-component polyurethane (PU) adhesive. The results showed that selected wood species can be bonded well with both adhesives (bond shear strengths from 7.2 to 15.1 N/mm²), although there were large variations due to the heterogeneity of the wood material. The differences in the shear strength of the bonds were mainly due to the different densities of the wood (479 to 702 kg/m³) species and the high variability in material properties (for example porosity from 0.54 to 0.68 and shear strength in tangential direction from 11.2 to 21.1 N/mm²), which are related to the anatomical characteristics of the individual wood species.

Evaluation of Print Mottle of Double Coated Paper by Octave Band Filtering Technique

2024-03-16T03:46:27+00:00

The effects of the pre-coating color formulation, dwell time, and coat weights of pre- and top- coating layers on print mottle of double-coated paper were investigated using an octave band filtering image processing technique. To investigate the effect of pre-coating color formulations, six types of coating colors were used. Mottle index and coefficient of variance (COV) of double-coated paper increased as the size of pre-coating pigment particles decreased, which was attributed to the reduction in relative pore size of the pre-coating layer. Decreasing the dwell time decreased transfer time from the coating head to dryer of a Maiyoh coater. As the transfer time to dryer decreased, the mottle index and COV increased because of uneven distribution of latex within the coating layer. Pre-coat weight was found to have a greater impact on print mottle than the top-coat weight.

Crash-worthiness Analysis of Hollow Hybrid Structural Tube by Aluminum with Basalt-Bamboo Hybrid Fiber Laminates by Roll Wrapping Method

2024-03-16T17:31:51+00:00

Hollow hybrid structural tubes were evaluated using commercial-grade Diamond Micro Expanded Mesh (DMEM) thin mesh of aluminum (Al) as structural reinforcement. Axial, transverse (flexural), and radial compression tests were performed on four different layered hybrid structures using bamboo (Bm) and basalt (B). With a maximum force of 34.7 kN, compressive ultimate strength of 238 MPa, and strain of 12.6%, AlBmB (with layers labeled from inside to outside) was the best performer in the axial compression test. AlBmB’s adaptability was demonstrated by the flexural test, showing a maximum bending force of 4.7 kN, a flexural strength of 97.7 MPa, and a decreased deflection of 13.2 mm. Radial compression test results underscored the superior energy absorption characteristics of AlBmB. The varying material interfaces in the hybrid tubes yielded distinctive performances. AlBmB, incorporating bamboo and basalt layers, stood out with superior energy absorption and crush force characteristics, indicating enhanced crashworthiness. The other hybrids AlBm, AlB, and BmB also exhibited commendable performances, emphasizing the adaptability of different material combinations. The meticulous selection of DMEM and innovative roll wrapping method for fabrication reliably influenced the tubes’ mechanical properties. The study contributes to advancing the design of lightweight, durable, and high-strength components.

Reuse of Wooden Utility Poles Through the Combination of New and Old Elements

2024-02-12T03:22:04+00:00

Wooden utility poles are crucial in supporting overhead telecommunication lines in Portugal. Maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Aiton) is the most common wood species used for this purpose. The durability of the poles is typically determined by the deterioration observed in their ground line. Aiming to reduce the use of new sound wooden poles, reducing the economic costs involved, and the environmental impacts, the reuse of those old wooden poles by removing the degraded part is one possible solution. This study aimed to develop and validate solutions with composed poles, specifically for the connections between the wood members, so that it is possible to more efficiently incorporate used parts into the remanufactured poles. Two types of connections were used: members joined by a cylindrical steel tube, and members joined by finger joints. The static bending moduli of elastic and rupture were tested. The mechanical properties of the reused wooden utility poles showed to be in line with the values of new sound wooden poles made of different wood species. Finally, both proposed solutions proved to be practical for use in the production of reused utility poles, which are mostly made from old timber poles.

Effect of Climate and Wood Type on Elastic Modulus of Heat-treated Wood and its Optimization by the Taguchi Method

2024-03-16T13:59:15+00:00

Wood, as the oldest building material, provides some of the basic needs of human beings, including shelter and protection. Wood is used in exterior cladding, carrier systems, joinery, ceiling-floor coverings, windows, doors, and furniture production. When wooden material is exposed to external weather conditions, due to its hygroscopic structure, its physical and mechanical properties deteriorate from exposure to moisture, temperature, and biological organisms. The bending modulus of elasticity of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), oak (Quercus petraea L.), and chestnut (Castanea sativa M.) wood that was tannin-impregnated and heat-treated at 160 °C, was investigated using Taguchi L9 (3³). The sequence was optimized. After heat treatment, the carrier elements were subjected to artificial climate conditions. In the optimization of the data obtained, it was understood that the highest impact factor was the tree type. In contrast, the climate on the elastic modulus was the lowest impact factor. In Taguchi analysis, a mathematical prediction model was created using actual and predicted data using the S/N ratio's biggest-best equation. The R² of the model can be predicted with an accuracy rate of 98.6%.

Flexural Vibration Test Method for Determining the Dynamic Elastic Modulus of Full-Size Strawboards for Use in Transportation Framed Cases

2024-02-12T00:07:15+00:00

This paper proposes an improvement in the test method for determining the flexural dynamic modulus of elasticity of strawboard with two triangular prisms as supports, for quality control and classification. Free-plate modal and free-plate transient excitation methods were used to test the elastic modulus of 1/4-plate and whole-plate strawboards. The dynamic test results were verified with the four-point bending method and tensile method. The results show that the elastic moduli of strawboards is approximately 2 GPa. The dynamic test method proposed is efficient, simple, repeatable, and accurate. This method is more suitable for factory applications than existing dynamic testing methods. The framed cases produced by the strawboard all meet the performance requirements in GB/T 7284 (2016).

Climate-affected Multi-decadal Variations of Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds in Pinus tabuliformis Growth Rings

2024-03-23T15:11:51+00:00

Long-term dynamics of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in trees are rarely reported, despite environmental factors (such as climate change) influencing their growth and the subsequent chemical accumulation. For this, tree growth rings provide a promising biological proxy for the long-time variation and correlation with environmental changes. Therefore, tree rings from Pinus tabuliformis (two stem disks and 40 tree cores) were collected in the Taihang Mountain Macaque National Nature Reserve of China. These samples were divided into seven 5-year resolutions over the 34-year period 1985 to 2018. This enabled analysis of multi-decadal variations of compounds and their correlation with climate variability. A total of 292 BVOCs were detected; however, only 18 compounds were found together across all the 7 growth-periods. Temporal analyses showed decreasing trends for monoterpenes (0.026%/yr) and diterpenes (0.120%/yr), whereas alcohols and oxygenated monoterpenes showed increasing trends at 0.031%/yr and 0.042%/yr, respectively. Correlation analyses showed no obvious link to yearly precipitation, while seasonal temperature had a negative effect on monoterpenes and diterpenes but positive effects on alcohols and oxygenated monoterpenes (all P < 0.05). The present study showed that dendrochronology is a suitable method for re-establishing the biological effects from historical climate variability on key tree species.

Durability Ratings of Post-treated Wood-based Composites after 14 Years of Field Exposure

2024-03-02T21:48:14+00:00

Several commercial wood-based composites (softwood plywood [SWP], hardwood plywood [HWP], medium-density fiberboard [MDF], oriented strand board [OSB], and particleboard) [PB]) were post-treated with alkaline copper quat and copper azole at two different retention levels. The treated specimens were installed on concrete blocks covered with 5-sided PVC boxes simulating the crawl space conditions (protected above-ground) in Japanese houses in Southern Japan where decay and termite activity are high. The experimental variables are a comparison of treated versus untreated, preservative type and retention levels. During 14 years of exposure, the specimens were biannually visually rated. In general, termite damage became visible earlier and the harshness of attack was higher when compared to decay damage. The untreated and treated MDFs were the most resistant under the protected above ground conditions at the end of 14 years exposure. Particleboard durability performance followed the MDF rating during the same period. The untreated OSB, HWP, and SWP were the least resistant composite types. The treatments substantially increased the durability of the mentioned composite types by 317.6%, 80.5%, and 133% higher termite grading when correlated to their untreated controls, respectfully, yet they failed to maintain full protection. Based on statistical analysis, preservative types and retention levels did not significantly affect decay and termite ratings.

Research on the Influence Mechanism of Short Video Communication Effect of Furniture Brand: Based on ELM Model and Regression Analysis

2024-03-10T00:54:15+00:00

The elaboration likelihood model (ELM) and regression analysis were used to investigate the impact of furniture brands’ communication strategies on consumer behavior through short video platforms. The work examined a set of representative short videos, analyzing how key features—such as content theme, duration (16-60 seconds), graphics, subtitles, background music, and title style—affected communication effectiveness. The ELM model uncovered the correlation between these video characteristics and the Communication Effect Index (DCI), with statistical significance confirmed by regression. Findings indicated that live broadcasts, graphical presentations, subtitles/topics, upbeat music, and exclamatory titles significantly enhanced communication efficiency. Limitations, including time-period sampling bias, sample size, and item duplication in the ELM application, were also considered. Based on these findings, the research offers optimization suggestions and future directions for furniture enterprises in leveraging short video marketing.

Effect of Bacterial Nanocellulose and Plant-Containing Facial Serum on Hyperpigmentation in in-vitro Conditions

2024-03-16T02:53:44+00:00

This study investigated the effect of some herbal extracts, such as licorice root, white mulberry leaf, green tea leaf, and grape seed, with a combination of bacterial nanocellulose and some bioactive materials, such as ascorbic acid, niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, and alpha-arbutin, on treatment of hyperpigmentation. The effect of the prepared emulsions on hyperpigmentation was revealed by analyzing their tyrosinase inhibition properties, their ability to stop melanin production, or their properties of whitening the brown spot on the skin. In addition to the physicochemical properties of the 5 different emulsions obtained, tyrosinase, collagenase, and elastase enzyme activities, antioxidant properties, cytotoxicity, and microbiological analyzes were performed by cell-culture modelling. Finally, a dermocosmetic facial serum was designed that is compatible with skin pH, is homogeneously mixed, has good spreading properties, does not cause any microbiological growth, does not inhibit elastase activity while stimulating collagenase activity, reduces melanin production by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme, and does not have any toxic effects.

Effect of Process Parameters on Quality of Alfalfa Block

2024-03-30T04:48:55+00:00

To address the imbalance in the supply of grass resources caused by seasonality and regional factors, it is crucial to efficiently store and transport alfalfa. Exploring suitable grass feed processing techniques contributes to the stable transportation of grass blocks and long-term storage of nutritional components. The Central Composite Design response surface design was used to design experiments, with moisture content and compressive force as the test factors. Based on the experimental results, it was found that lower moisture content and a certain compressive force were beneficial for the stability, high density, and protein storage of alfalfa blocks. The microscopic examination of alfalfa particles revealed that a certain moisture content (15%) facilitates the formation of solid bridges between particles, leading to more stable alfalfa blocks. The final optimized process parameters were moisture content of 14.3% and compressive force of 34.8 kN. Under these conditions, the density of the molded alfalfa block was 1001 kg/m³, with R-CP at 96.96%, R-EE at 67.23%, and R-CF at 114.13%.

Production and Statistical Optimization of Invertase-Free Exoinulinase from Glutamicibacter arilaitensis using Goat Dung as Ideal Feedstock

2024-03-09T22:28:42+00:00

Inulinase is an inulin degrading enzyme that exhibits versatility in disparate bioresource and bioprocess industries. In this study, invertase-free exoinulinase was initially produced from Glutamicibacter arilaitensis strain ALA4 using diversified inexpensive substrates under solid state fermentation. Strain ALA4 revealed maximum production of inulinase using goat dung as quintessential feedstock. Inulinase activity of strain ALA4 was further optimized by one-factor-at-a-time method, followed by response surface methodology, which showed enhanced inulinase activity of 4678.34±34.67 U/g at 96 h using goat dung medium of pH 8.0 with 100% of moisture content. Furthermore, crude inulinase was not only thermo-alkali stable but also exhibited tolerance towards varied metal ions, organic solvents, surfactants, and inhibitors with satisfactory residual activities. Additionally, fructose produced due to the hydrolysis of inulin present in goat dung was analyzed by osazone and HPTLC tests which further confirmed exoinulinase nature of enzyme. In a nutshell, the study evidenced the first report on invertase-free exoinulinase production from G. arilaitensis using goat dung as proficient feedstock and demonstrated its quiescent applications in bioprocessing industries in future.

Mechanical, Morphological and Wear Resistance of Natural Fiber / Glass Fiber-based Polymer Composites

2024-03-23T16:20:15+00:00

Natural fibers along with glass fibers were used as the reinforcement of an epoxy matrix for the betterment of mechanical and wear applications. The combination of overall wt% up to 20 resulted in 23.8 MPa of tensile strength compared to 15.5 MPa for untreated fibers. The wt% of areca fiber (AF) (20 wt%)/glass fibers (GF) (20 wt%) with 5% alkali treatment yielded a maximum tensile strength up to 62.6% in comparison to untreated fiber at lowest percentage of 10 wt%. The increase in flexural strength with alkali treatment was observed from 20 to 50 wt% hybrid fiber incorporation. The alkali treated fibers, untreated fiber combinations achieved 33.8% and 26.8% improvement with impact properties. A decrease in the wear loss was shown with the increase in wt% of hybrid fiber incorporation from 20 to 40 wt%. The interfacial adhesion of fiber with matrix created a pressure absorbing zone that was positively influenced with applying higher loads. The frictional rate was highly increasing with increase in hybrid fiber wt% and also with higher loads applied. The SEM results for treated 20 wt% AF+20 wt% GF with hybrid fiber incorporation observed better results due to improved adhesion of fiber with matrix phase.

Enhancement on Physicomechanical Properties of Short-Rotation Teak Woods by Non-Biocide Chemical and Thermal Treatments

2024-02-24T20:33:24+00:00

Lactic acid (LA), citric acid (CA), and glycerol (G) are renewable and environmentally friendly chemicals that could improve the qualities of short-rotation teak (SRT) woods. This study investigated the effect of thermal and chemical modification using 20% aqueous solutions (w/w) of LA, CA, and G and their mixtures in the same composition on physical and mechanical properties of SRT teak wood. The impregnation process was initiated by vacuum process for 1 h and pressure (12.2 bar) for 2 h, followed by thermal (150 °C) treatment for 6 h on the SRT wood samples after being removed from the vacuum-pressure tube. Retention (R), weight percent gain (WPG), density (D), anti-swelling efficiency (ASE), leachability (WL), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and modulus of rupture (MOR) were measured. FTIR spectrometry and SEM analyses were performed. The wood impregnated with a mixture of 10% LA + 10% CA provided the highest ASE values of 50.1%, and the lowest leaching resistance of 1.54%. Based on wood strengths (MOE and MOR) and physical properties, as well as supported by FTIR and SEM analysis, the use of 10% LA + 10% CA is the most prospective as an impregnant formula for SRT wood modification of this research.

Evaluating Paper’s Optical Properties after Separate and Combined Use of Nanofibrillated Cellulose with Cationic Starch and Cationic Polyacrylamide

2023-12-02T21:18:12+00:00

Nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) and its combined usage with cationic starch and a cationic copolymer of acrylamide were studied in relation to the properties of paper. Independent pulp treatments using additives separately included 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% refined long fiber pulp, 3 and 6% NFC, 0.75 and 1.5% cationic starch and 0.07% and 0.15% cationic polyacrylamide and combined treatments. Handsheets were made of the above treatments, and finally their optical and microscopic properties were evaluated. Increasing the NFC content to 6% increased the brightness and yellowness of the white liner by 13% and 21%, respectively. The liner opacity was also reduced by 1%. Additionally, increasing NFC by 6% compared to imported long fibers, the brightness and yellowness of the white liner increased 5.44% and 6.3%, respectively. The liner opacity was also reduced by 1%. A 1.5% cationic starch addition to NFC increased the brightness of the white liner by 4.4%, its whiteness increased 1.5%, and its yellowness increased 2.1%. The opacity of the liner was also reduced by 7.1%. The use of NFC and cationic starch can improve the optical properties of the white liner, while imported long fibers may be problematic.

Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots Based on Quinoa Straw and their Application in Alkali Metal Ions Detection

2024-03-23T16:05:22+00:00

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with good water solubility and fluorescence properties were successfully synthesized from Chenopodium quinoa Willd. straw, a biomass by-product, by a one-step carbonization method. Structural characterization of the fabricated carbon quantum dots by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) demonstrated the presence of a large number of functional groups on the surface of the carbon quantum dots, which gives them good water solubility. The synthesized carbon quantum dots were characterized optically by ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), and other analytical tools. Results indicate the addition of alkali metal ions gave a different degree of promotion of fluorescence intensity (Li⁺＞Cs⁺＞K⁺＞Na⁺＞Rb⁺), and according to this feature carbon quantum dots can be used as a new means of alkali metal ion detection.

Deciphering the Therapeutic, Larvicidal, and Chemical Pollutant Degrading Properties of Leaves-mediated Silver Nanoparticles Obtained from Alpinia purpurata

2024-03-23T05:07:50+00:00

The aim of the study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Alpinia purpurata leaves and evaluate their cytotoxic, antimicrobial, antibiofilm, dye degradation, and larvicidal potentials. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, which confirmed AgNPs synthesis and revealed nanoparticle size (10 to 30 nm) and the presence of silver. Cytotoxicity tests showed IC₅₀ values of 4.59 ± 0.6 µg/mL in A549 cells and 3.48 ± 0.4 µg/mL in PA1 cells, inducing apoptosis and DNA fragmentation. Flow cytometry revealed cell cycle arrest at G0-G1 phase. AgNPs exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, with maximum inhibition zones against K. pneumoniae (23 ± 2 mm) and F. oxysporum (17 ± 2 mm), and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 12.5 ± 0.25 to 75 ± 2.5 µg/mL. They also reduced bacterial and fungal biomass and showed antibiofilm effects. Photocatalytic activity degraded methylene blue dye by 88.4 ± 1.4% in 60 minutes. Larvicidal activity resulted in 100% mortality of A. aegypti larvae after 48 hours exposure to AgNPs (10 mg/L), additionally reducing chemical oxygen demand (55.1 ± 2.1% to 63.8 ± 1.5%) and microbial load in wastewater (2.5 to 10 ppm).

Improved Design of Self-tapping Screw (STS) for Korean Larch and Red Pine Cross Laminated Timber (CLT)

2023-11-04T17:50:14+00:00

In this study, the finite element method (FEM) was used to determine the effect of the optimal angle of the thread and double thread application among self-tapping screw (STS) design information on the improvement of the withdrawal capacity of the connection. It was modeled by reflecting the design information of an Italian STS distributed in the domestic wooden building market, and the stress distribution of the connections was compared according to the change in the thread angle. A cross laminated timber (CLT) composed of five layers was modeled as a member. The STS modeling was centered on the threaded area, and two threaded angles were applied: 90° and 95°. Additionally, the stress changes were compared when double threads located in the middle of the thread pitch in the screw pitch were applied to improve the withdrawal capacity of the connection. The domestic STSs were manufactured using four materials and two shapes. The finite element analysis and strength performance tests of the STS types indicated that the material properties, angle of the screw thread, and shape of the screw thread affect the Korean CLT withdrawal capacity.

Wood Properties Influencing Surface Cracking and Moisture Dynamics of Untreated Norway Spruce Exposed Outdoors

2024-02-12T02:05:35+00:00

Untreated wood has excellent environmental benefits due to the lack of treatments; however, its durability needs to be great enough to provide a sufficient service life to not override the environmental benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate some wood properties of untreated, unfinished Norway spruce and their influence on moisture dynamics and crack development under natural exposure. Three field-trials were carried out, all under natural exposure during various exposure times. The specimens differed in their exposure direction (north/south), composition (heartwood/ sapwood), density, and thickness. Moisture measurements were carried out either by use of sensors or weighing the specimens, while the crack formation was measured using digital calipers. Generally, high-density spruce exhibited more rapid moisture fluctuations than low-density; this agreed well with the increased crack development observed in the field-trials. More cracks were observed for specimens containing sapwood rather than heartwood. This was likely caused by an increase in moisture uptake, generating greater moisture gradients. The results also showed that the crack tendency was greater in specimens within the high-density group placed facing south, which is likely due to an increase in moisture variation, and perhaps also faster UV-deterioration. No clear correlation between crack tendency and thickness was found.

Effect of Nanofibrillated Cellulose on Alginate and Chitosan Film Properties as Potential Barrier Coatings for Paper Food Packaging

2024-03-09T22:04:10+00:00

This study aimed to test the utility of ammonium persulfate (APS) oxidised nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) as an additive for chitosan- and alginate-based biopolymer films that could eventually be used as paper coatings for food packaging applications. Sodium alginate and chitosan were used as the base for the films. Various concentrations of APS oxidised NFC ranging from 0% to 10% were used as a reinforcing agent, resulting in six combinations of either alginate-NFC or chitosan-NFC composite films. Biofilms were tested for their mechanical properties (tensile strength and strain), grease barrier properties, air permeability, water vapour permeability, and degradation in the soil. Overall, when using the ammonium persulfate oxidation pretreatment method, the best performance of the films was estimated with the addition of 2.5% NFC.

Environmental Kuznets Curve of Carbon Emissions from China’s Forest Products Industry and Decomposition of Factors Influencing Carbon Emissions

2023-11-11T16:07:42+00:00

Carbon emissions from China’s forest products industry were considered based on the data of 2001-2020. Then a carbon emissions Kuznets curve was constructed to judge the relationship between the economic development level and carbon emissions. The logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) was used to analyze the influencing factors of carbon emissions. The carbon emissions from China’s forest products industry showed a trend of rapid growth in the early stage and slow decline in the later stage, increasing from 19.46 million tonnes in 2001 to 54.18 million tonnes in 2020. Consumption of raw coal was the main reason for the increase in carbon emissions. There was an inverted-U relationship between the economic development level and carbon emissions, and the industry output value of CNY 3306.56 billion was the theoretical inflection point. The current economic development level of the industry was in the left-half part of the inverted “U” shape, indicating that carbon emissions from this industry will continue to increase with the increase of industrial output. Economic development was the key factor driving the increase of carbon emissions in the forest products industry, while the energy intensity was the key factor inhibiting the growth of carbon emissions.

Relationship between Mechanical Properties and Height-Diameter Ratio of Moso Bamboo

2024-03-30T19:18:52+00:00

Systematic tests of longitudinal compression, bending, longitudinal shear, and longitudinal tensile strength of bamboo were conducted to study the variation of mechanical properties and the height-diameter ratio of bamboo. The predictive relations of mechanical properties and height-diameter ratio were fitted by linear regression analysis. The results showed that the mechanical properties of longitudinal compression, bending, longitudinal shear, and longitudinal tensile strength of bamboo increased with the increase of the height-diameter ratio. In this paper, the method of deducing the relationship between mechanical properties and height-diameter ratio of bamboo through the linear fitting relationship between mechanical properties and height-diameter ratio was shown to have high applicability and accuracy for bamboo. This paper has a certain reference value for the evaluation of mechanical properties of bamboo and has a certain practical value for reducing the testing cost.

Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mycelium-based Fiberboards

2024-04-06T21:05:57+00:00

Mycelium-based fiberboards were evaluated as potential environmentally friendly substitutes for conventional wood-based composites. The goal of this study was to produce and test fiberboards out of yellow pine and poplar fiber mixtures without using any extra adhesive. Pleurotus ostreatus and Ganoderma lucidum fungi were used. The physical and mechanical characteristics of the fiberboards were tested under the influence of two different types of fungi and two different incubation periods. The key findings indicated that the mycelium-based fiberboards had higher water absorption and thickness swelling percentages compared to control boards produced with adhesives. The fiberboards produced from fibers inoculated with Ganoderma lucidum and incubated for 30 days had higher mechanical properties compared to other test fiberboards. This indicated the possibility of utilizing them in specific applications. Although the mycelium-based fiberboards did not fully meet all the EN 622-5 (2009) standard requirements for dry-condition use, the results highlighted their potential in sustainable material development. This study provided useful insights into the utilization of mycelium for the development of mycelium-based fiberboards.

Properties of Poplar Veneer Modified by Acid Red 3R Dye in Combination with Ammonium Dihydrogen Phosphate

2024-02-03T17:02:50+00:00

Ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (ADP) is a nitrogen-phosphorus-based inorganic flame retardant that is environmentally friendly and non-toxic. Wood treated with ADP has enhanced thermal stability and flame retardancy. Compounding ADP with Acid Red 3R dye further improves the decorative effect of the wood on the basis of excellent flame retardancy, resulting in a kind of dyeing and flame retardant multifunctionalized wood. Single-factor tests were designed to investigate the effects of flame retardant concentration, dye concentration, temperature, and time on three evaluation indexes: dye-uptake, color difference, and oxygen index, respectively. Through SEM and FTIR analysis, it was found that after the wood was simultaneously treated with flame retardant and dye, the two additives were aggregated in the grain pores of the cell wall by a simple physical combination. They did not undergo a chemical reaction. TG analysis showed that fire-retardant dyed wood had good thermal stability, which can delay the thermal degradation of wood and increase the residual charcoal rate of wood. XRD showed that the crystallinity of fire-retardant dyed wood increased compared to untreated wood. Through cone calorimetric test, it is found that flame retardant dyed veneer had excellent flame retardancy.

Quantifying and Predicting the Tensile Properties of Silicone Reinforced with Moringa oleifera Bark Fibers

2024-04-03T12:54:15+00:00

To obtain a better understanding of using Moringa oleifera bark (MOB) as a reinforcement in a silicone matrix, this study aimed to define the mechanical properties of this new material under uniaxial tension. Composite samples of 0 wt%, 4 wt%, 8 wt%, 12 wt%, and 16 wt% MOB powder were produced. The tensile properties were quantified mathematically using the neo-Hookean hyperelastic model. The collected data were employed to establish multiple inputs of an artificial neural network (ANN) to predict its material constant via MATLAB. The result showed that the material constant for the 16 wt% fiber content sample was 63.9% higher than pure silicone. This was supported by the tensile modulus testing, which indicated that the modulus increased as the fiber content increased. However, the elongation ratio (λ) of the MOB-silicone biocomposite decreased slightly compared to the pure silicone. Lastly, the prediction of the material constant using an ANN recorded a 2.03% percentage error, which showed that it was comparable to the mathematical modelling. Therefore, the inclusion of MOB fibers into silicone produced a stiffer material and gradually improved the composite. Furthermore, the network that had multiple inputs (weighting, load, and elongation) was more reliable to produce precise predictions.

Effects of Membrane Covers and Biochar on Compost Quality and Greenhouse Gas Reduction in Aerobic Composting

2024-02-03T13:35:52+00:00

The addition of biochar and the use of membrane coverings are two methods used in aerobic composting of agricultural waste. The effectiveness of each of these two methods on compost quality and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions was tested in the laboratory. The results showed that both methods increased the maximum composting temperature and extended the thermophilic period. The germination index of biochar-treated compost and membrane-covered compost reached 70% on the 18^th day, which was 12 days earlier than the corresponding value in the control group. The products from the biochar-treated compost had higher pH and lower electrical conductivity, compared with the product of the control group, indicating that these products are more suitable for acidic soils. In terms of greenhouse gas reduction, both methods were found to reduce the emissions of CH₄ and N₂O from composting. The addition of biochar had a better emission reduction effect on N₂O, whereas the membrane covering technique yielded a better effect on CH₄ emission reduction. The results of this study provide technical support for managed aerobic composting to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Comparison of the Effects of Two Biodegradable Coatings on the Characteristics of White-top Linerboard Used in Packaging Food Materials in Cold Environments

2023-12-16T19:32:40+00:00

Effects of two biodegradable coatings were compared relative to the characteristics of white-top linerboard. To coat the surface of the paperboard, nano-polyurethane was sprayed onto the surface using a nozzle. Subsequently, the samples were placed inside a refrigerator and freezer for a period of 2 and 4 months. In the second stage, nano-polyurethane was again sprayed onto the surface, using a nozzle, to improve the performance of the coating material. To further enhance the coating, the surfaces of the coated white-top linerboard were coated with a nanoclay using a laboratory coater. Subsequently, the samples were placed inside a refrigerator and freezer for a period of 2 and 4 months. The properties of the samples were measured thereafter. The results showed a reduction in water absorption of the samples after coating and freezing. This can be attributed to the penetration of the coating solution into the paper pores, resulting in a decrease in pore diameter and, consequently, a decrease in water permeability through the paper pores. In the coated and frozen samples, an increase in thickness and surface smoothness was observed, but most of the mechanical strength properties decreased. These changes were more pronounced in the dual-layer coatings.

Online Prediction of the Enzymatic Hydrolysis Efficiency of Crop Straw

2024-03-23T03:17:06+00:00

The extent of removal of lignin and hemicellulose are crucial indicators for evaluating the efficiency of enzymatic hydrolysis of crop straw. Numerous factors influence these two indices. Establishing a quantitative model that correlates these factors with hydrolysis efficiency is essential, as it can guide efficient hydrolysis. In this study, a predictive method for enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency in crop straw was proposed using Grey relational analysis (GRA), Kernel principal component analysis (KPCA), and a least squares support vector machine (LSSVM). The authors collected a dataset from actual production data and developed an efficiency predictive model using GRA for variable selection, KPCA for dimensionality reduction, and LSSVM for model training. This model allows for the direct estimation of the final enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency based on production condition variables, which can include enzyme amount, temperatures, pH, time, agitation, and straw dimensions. Extensive experimental testing validated the effectiveness of the proposed method, resulting in minimal errors, a high degree of fit, and exceptional performance. The methodology described in this study can serve as a foundation for optimising the design of efficient enzymatic hydrolysis production processes for crop straw. Additionally, it offers valuable soft measurements to support efficient control of the enzymatic hydrolysis process.

Industrial Byproducts as Adhesive Allies: Unraveling the Role of Proteins and Isocyanates in Polyurethane Wood Bonding

2024-04-06T20:12:04+00:00

Wooden structures are becoming increasingly popular in the construction world. However, these structures often rely on synthetic adhesives, raising concerns about the environmental risks associated with their chemical composition. In response to these concerns, this study aims to explore sustainable alternatives, particularly focusing on polyurethane adhesives that incorporate proteins from industrial byproducts. The investigation involved three protein sources: soybean meal, shrimp shells, and skim milk, modified under mild alkaline conditions to obtain protein concentrates. These concentrates were then incorporated into the adhesives at varying protein contents: 5%, 10%, and 15%. Additionally, two isocyanate systems were examined, one being petrochemical-based and the other a partially bio-based blend. Chemical, thermal, optical, and mechanical characterizations were conducted to evaluate the adhesive performance. This study demonstrates that the adhesives’ thermal properties remain unaffected by both the protein content and the isocyanate system. However, these factors influence the adhesive penetration into the wood substrate. Ultimately, the results suggest that higher protein content offers superior retention of mechanical strength in adhesives compared to the petrochemical reference when subjected to humid conditions. Overall, this research demonstrates the potential of proteins from industrial byproducts as sustainable adhesive allies, providing valuable insights into their interactions with different isocyanates.

Remediation of 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol from Aqueous Solution by Raw and Chemical Modified Date Palm Stone Biomass: Kinetics and Isotherms Studies

2024-03-23T13:57:55+00:00

Raw and citric acid chemically treated date palm stone agro-waste biomass (RDSB and CA-MDSB) powders were used to remove an important class of emerging industrial pollutants, i.e., 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (2,4,6-TCP) from aqueous solutions towards sustainable waste utilization to develop cost-effective technology for treating wastewater. The biomass characterization was performed by using different analytical techniques such as CHN elemental analysis, particle size, BET, FTIR, and SEM-EDX, TGA analysis. The FTIR spectral analysis revealed that the main chemical groups (N–C, O=C, H-O, H-C, and O–C) were involved in trapping 2,4,6-TCP. The highest adsorption was achieved with a contact time of 150 and 120 min, an initial concentration of 50-200 mg/L, and a biosorbent dosage ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 g/L RDSB and CA-MDSB, respectively. The experimental kinetic data of the adsorption process for both adsorbents (RDSB and CA-MDSB) fitted very well with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir equilibrium data. The 2,4,6-TCP maximum monolayer adsorption capacities were 53.7, and 123.8 mg/g for RDSB and CA-MDSB, respectively. The present research confirms that the date palm stone biomass could be used as an effective and low-cost biosorbent for the remediation of 2,4,6-TCP from an aqueous environment.

Investigation of Indoor Noise Pollution Level and Air Quality of Furniture Manufacturers

2024-02-03T12:59:31+00:00

Indoor air quality has become a more prominent concern since the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. Manufacturing industries have always been prone to occupational health risks, which depend on the dynamics of the production shop floors. The furniture industry is one of these sectors with a unique work environment. Although a typical furniture manufacturing facility involves physical, chemical, and noise pollution-producing elements, this industry has been studied relatively less for indoor air quality and noise-related risks. This study investigated nine furniture manufacturing organizations’ indoor air quality and noise pollution levels through comprehensive quantitative techniques. The results of the measurements were compared against reference values set by specific guidelines to explore the degree of occupational health risk associated with the World Health Organization's (WHO) suggested levels. Repetitive measurements from five pre-designated workstations were taken at each facility. The study’s results indicated that organization size and department were significant factors for PM 2.5 and HCHO parameters, while only department type was substantial for noise exposure levels. However, across all departments and organization sizes, LAeq noise levels were below the safety threshold of 85 dB(A). Most organizations presented a lack of proper use of personal protective equipment and poor ventilation across shop floors.

High-precision Discrimination of Maize Silage Based on Olfactory Visualization Technology Integrated with Chemometrics Analysis

2024-03-13T15:25:32+00:00

Rapid, reliable and non-destructive detection of the quality of maize silage is essential to high-efficiency animal husbandry and food safety. In this study, the colorimetric sensor array (CSA) integrated with chemometric methods is innovatively proposed for qualitative discrimination of maize silage. First, 12 color-sensitive dyes were selected to fabricate colorimetric sensor arrays to be used as artificial olfactory sensors for obtaining odor fingerprints of maize silage. Machine vision algorithms were utilized to extract the color features, and principal component analysis was applied to reduce the dimensionality of the obtained data. Finally, the PCA results were input variables to develop different qualitative discrimination models. These models involve support vector machines (SVM), extreme learning machine (ELM), and random forest (RF). The analysis results show the 100% correct identification rate for independent samples. The general results sufficiently reveal that olfactory visualization technology integrated with chemometrics analysis has promising applications for high-precision discrimination of maize silage.

Finite Element Explicit Dynamics Simulation of an Impact Cutting Mechanism Analysis of Populus tomentosa Branches

2024-04-06T17:32:39+00:00

The branch impact failure mechanism has gradually received attention from scholars, along with the application of impact cutting methods in plantation forest pruning. In this paper, the impact cutting failure mechanism of Populus tomentosa branches was mainly studied. The impact cutting process of branches was simulated by using Finite Element Method (FEM)-based explicit dynamics. The stress change and deformation characteristics in the branch failure process were studied. A theoretical model of branch impact cutting mechanism with branch diameter, cutting clearance, and branch angle as the main factors was proposed. The model describes the branch cutting damage process and the changing characteristics of cutting force. A branch failure state equation was proposed to describe the branch impact cutting failure patterns. The forest experiment was conducted to validate the branch impact cutting mechanism and the branch failure state equation. This work fills a vacancy of relevant theory and provides a theoretical basis for the future development of forestry and agricultural equipment using impact cutting.

Response of Corn Yield to Water Retaining Agents, Inhibitors, and Corn Stalks Addition in Semi-arid Cropland

2024-03-09T16:14:59+00:00

Drought, excessive use of nitrogen fertilizer, and decline in soil organic matter threaten corn production. This study investigated the potential of water retaining agents, inhibitors, and corn stalks in enhancing soil physicochemical properties to bolster corn yield in semi-arid farmlands. In our study, polyacrylamide addition increased the content of ammonium nitrogen (NH₄⁺-N) and nitrate nitrogen (NO₃^--N) in the seedling stage, exchangeable potassium (K) in the mature stage but decreased the content of available phosphorus (P) in the seedling stage. Potassium polyacrylate addition increased the content of NH₄⁺-N and decreased the content of available P in the seedling stage. The addition of inhibitors decreased the content of NH₄⁺-N and available P in the seedling stage, NO₃^--N and available P in the jointing stage, and NH₄⁺-N in the mature stage, respectively. Corn stalks returning could maintain soil moisture, decrease the content of NH₄⁺-N in the seedling stage and exchangeable K in the mature stage, and increase the content of available P and exchangeable K in the seedling stage. Combined application of inhibitors and corn stalks could increase soil organic carbon (SOC) and ensure corn yield, which was the best fertilization mode in semi-arid cropland.

Research of Chipper Knives with a Modified Cutting Edge for the Production of Dimensionally Uniform Wood Chips

2024-04-06T19:41:49+00:00

The paper is focused on the research of chipper knives with a straight and modified cutting edge in order to determine the energy consumption of the chipping process and the uniformity of the size of the fractions of the designed chipper knife for the production of dimensionally uniform chips. The research took place on two different tree species where the representative of the coniferous tree was the common spruce (Picea abies) and the deciduous tree was the winter oak (Quercus petraea). The research took place on a PTO-powered (power take off) disc chipping machine where it was not modified for research purposes. The results showed that a knife with a modified cutting edge is higher in terms of energy consumption than chipper knives with a straight cutting edge. From the evaluation of the sieve analysis for a chipper knife with a modified cutting edge, the energy chip of uniform granulometric composition is a homogeneous bulk material.

Cooperative Treatment and Resource Utilization of Municipal Solid Waste by Industrial Coke Ovens: Effects of Doping Ratio and Management

2024-02-11T04:13:11+00:00

For the collaborative treatment and resource utilization of an industrial coke oven on municipal solid waste (MSW), this study used MSW to prepare refuse-derived fuel (RDF). The influence of different mix ratio between RDF and coal on coking products was considered, and technical and economic analyses were conducted. The results showed that under the low mixture ratio (3%), the pyrolytic carbon obtained basically met the class III standard of metallurgical carbon. In the experiment of medium mixture ratio (25%, 30%, 35%), the product contained a certain amount of calorific value, lower than that of the metallurgical coke. It might be that the ash content increased, and such product can be used for civil coke or chemical coke. When the mixture ratio was 100%, the calorific value of pyrolysis carbon was 7.53 MJ/kg, representing 25.7% of the calorific value of ordinary coke. The gas production rate of the discharged gas was 0.35, and the calorific value is 14.0 MJ/kg, reaching 73.6% of the coke oven gas. Under the condition of no coal input, the MSW was converted into usable energy. The results demonstrated that coke oven pyrolysis with 100% RDF addition is the most feasible way to recycle resources and energy.

Parameter Identification Procedure for Hysteretic Shear-Resistant Properties of Beech Wood Dowels

2024-03-02T19:39:37+00:00

To evaluate the shear-resistant behavior of wooden dowels used in Blockhaus shear walls under cyclic load, 19 specimens under ten groups of conditions were prepared and tested. The failure modes, hysteresis curves, mechanical properties, stiffness degradations, and energy dissipation capacities of the specimens were studied. The test results showed that with the increase in the number of dowels, the initial stiffness and peak load of the specimens increased greatly. The diameter of the dowels had little influence on the mechanical properties of the specimens. Furthermore, the test findings demonstrated that the pretension load between the walls greatly enhanced the initial stiffness and energy dissipation capacity of specimens. A simplified finite element model was established in Opensees. Considering the effect of material variability, the parameters of single dowel shear spring and friction spring were identified by Genetic Algorithm with modified objective function in Matlab. The identified parameters were applied to the finite element model of the multi-dowel specimens. The simulation results were in good agreement with the test results, and the validity of the numerical model and parameter identification method was verified.

Two Step Synthesis and Application of Porous Carbon for Removal of Copper (II) from Wastewater: Statistical Optimization and Equilibrium Isotherm Analysis

2024-02-11T19:00:47+00:00

In this study, activated carbon (ACs) adsorbent was synthesized using the lignocellulosic waste (LCB) seed from Adansonia digitata L. (BSP) using two steps of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) followed by activation. The hydrothermally produced char of BSP was activated to produce porous activated carbon BSPAC, where K₂CO₃was used as a chemical activating agent. Box Behnken Design was used to optimize the input variables of pyrolysis temperature (A₁), residence time (B₁), and ratio (C₁) for the pyrolysis process. Removal percentage (β₁), percentage carbon yield (β₂), and fixed carbon (β₃) percentage were chosen as output responses. The analysis of variance was utilized to generate appropriate mathematical models with subsequent statistical analysis. Physiochemical characterizations were carried out for the hydrothermally carbonized sample (BSPC) and the optimized activated sample (BSPAC). Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin models were employed to estimate the isotherm model parameters. The results demonstrated that HTC with subsequent mild activation using K₂CO₃ can be considered as a greener route to obtain better-quality porous carbon having surface area of 599 m²/gm for removal of Cu(II) cations from wastewater.

Determining the Dynamic Properties of Spruce Wood Using the Taylor Anvil Test

2024-03-10T01:29:00+00:00

Spruce wood is one of the most widely used materials in the production of lightweight wood-based composites in central Europe. The quality, weight, and geometric parameters of wood chips have a significant impact on the resulting quality of the manufactured composite product. Numerical simulations are necessary for advanced optimization of the quality of composite components and the manufacturing process itself. These simulations require adequate input material data and a model to produce results applicable to the output of industrial practice. In this study, a material model for spruce wood was established using the Taylor anvil test (TAT). This, in contrast to the commonly used Hopkinson compression test, corresponds better to the actual loading process. A new measurement method for shock pulses was developed to implement TAT obtained data for a realistic material model. The method was compared with numerical simulations in Ansys LS DYNA. Based on the results, parameters for the Johnson-Cook equation were determined, which can be applied in the production of disintegrations and, consequently, in the dynamic loading of spruce composite materials.

Mechanical, Physical and Thermal Properties of Polylactic Acid Filament Composite Reinforced with Newly Isolated Cryptostegia grandiflora Fiber

2024-02-11T13:05:20+00:00

By leveraging the properties of natural or plant fibers and possibilities through three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, a composite filament was fabricated by incorporating newly isolated Cryptostegia grandiflora fiber (CGF), as a reinforcement with polylactic acid (PLA) by using a twin-screw extruder. The fabricated composite filament and pure PLA filament were 3D-printed, using fused deposition modeling (FDM). This study investigated the mechanical, physical, and thermal properties of the 3D-printed CGF reinforced composite filament samples. The mechanical properties of the samples fabricated with 10 wt% CGF were better than that of samples with pure PLA. In addition, impact, tensile, flexural strengths and hardness were increased by 35.6, 33.6, 14.1, and 1.7%, respectively, when compared with the sample with pure PLA. The fractured surface morphology of tensile samples showed a uniform distribution of CGF within the PLA. The addition of CGF improved the thermal stability of the 3D-printed CGF/PLA composite sample by 15%. Therefore, the printed structure could serve as an alternative material for various uses, considering contemporary concepts of sustainability, availability, environmental friendliness, and cost effectiveness.

Preparation of Fiber Raw Materials by Cooking Golden Bamboo Grass (Arundo donax) with Calcified Regenerated Alkali Solution

2024-04-06T15:24:28+00:00

The increasing consumption of paper products has led to a shortage of paper fiber raw materials. It is necessary to develop new plant materials to alleviate the shortage of fiber suitable for papermaking. In this study, the fast-growing plant golden bamboo grass (Arundo donax), which is cultivated and planted in Guangxi province of China, was used as a new material for pulping. The average pulp yield by cyclic-cooking method averaged 48.6%, being 4.1% greater than the pulp yield by the ordinary caustic soda method. Much of the increased yield was attributable to the reprecipitation of lignin onto the fibers. The paper properties of the pulp prepared by cycle-cooked method did not decrease significantly, compared with the pulp prepared by the usual single-cooked method. Therefore, the pulp met the requirements of national standards of many kinds of papers. However, the pulp was not suitable for bleaching, due to its high consumption of oxidizing agents to reach the required brightness. Therefore, this research demonstrates that the fast-growing plant, Arundo donax is a good raw material for pulp, and the innovative method of cycle-cooking method can significantly improve the pulp yield.

Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles via Biomass of Hypnea pannosa as a Green Mediator and their Biological Applications

2024-04-06T23:53:19+00:00

The biological manufacturing of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using renewable sources is safe, harmless, and compatible with the environment. The capacity of Hypnea pannosa to synthesize ZnO-NPs was investigated in this work. Ultraviolet visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and zeta potential analysis were employed to characterize the ZnO-NPs. The created ZnO-NPs showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Candida albicans, and Candida auris. ZnO-NPs showed an MIC of 12.5 µg/mL against S. aureus, E. faecalis, K. pneumoniae, C. albicans, and C. auris, but it had a 25 µg/mL against Acinetobacter baumannii. ZnO-NPs' ability to scavenge free radicals was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) technique with IC₅₀ of 36.2 µg/mL. Anti-inflammatory activity of ZnO-NPs compared to indomethacin at 1000 µg/mL was investigated, where the membrane's maximum stabilizer was 93.3%. ZnO-NPs demonstrated anticancer activity against PC3 and Caco2 cell lines with IC₅₀ of 174.3 μg/mL and 83.3 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, ZnO-NPs demonstrated a range of anti-biofilm activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, ZnO-NPs showed encouraging antiviral effect versus COX B4 as well as HSV1 with antiviral activities of 54.8% and 61.1%, respectively.

Characterisation of Rotary Friction Welding Process and Mechanism of Heat-Treated Scotch Pine

2024-03-16T18:39:23+00:00

Rotary friction welding of wood to heat-treated lumber from Scotch pine is feasible and the strength of the joint exceeds that of glued and hammered joints. This study investigated the rotary friction welding process parameters and its welding mechanism applicable to heat-treated Scotch pine. Untreated Scotch pine served as the control. The one-way test revealed the tenon/bore ratio of 1.5, rotational speed of 2000 to 3500 r/min, and feed rate of 15 to 20 mm/s as the ideal process parameters for heat-treated Scotch pine. Under the same conditions, heat-treated material had weld strength up to 63.2% higher than untreated material. The portion of the weld zone with better weld strength was larger in size, had a full surface, and was darker in color, according to ultra-depth-of-field microscopic examinations. The internal wood components melted and cooled after the welding was finished and re-polymerized to form a tightly wrapped structure, linking the dowel rods to the substrate, according to the results of scanning electron microscopy.

Detection of Protein Content in Alfalfa Using Visible/ Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Technology

2024-03-09T18:39:29+00:00

In this study, a quantitative model was developed using near-infrared spectroscopy to analyze protein content in dried purple alfalfa, employing preprocessing methods (SG, SNV, MSC, FD) and variable selection algorithms (CARS, IRIV) to optimize spectra. Models using ELM, PLSR, SVM, and LSTM were tested; the MSC-CARS-PLSR-SVM model achieved the highest accuracy, with a calibration determination coefficient (R²) of 0.9982 and root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.1088, and a prediction R² of 0.9645 with RMSE of 0.5230, offering a precise and reliable method for protein content prediction.

Are Biological Pretreatments of Lignocellulosic Residues a Real Option for Biofuels Production?

2023-12-09T20:43:28+00:00

The use of lignocellulosic residues as feedstocks for biofuels production represents an economic and ecofriendly option, since they are generated as byproducts or wastes from different industrial areas. Nevertheless, a pretreatment method aimed at eliminating the lignin content of these residues must be performed. This is required in order to increase cellulose bioavailability, which favors the production of reducing sugars through microbial or enzymatic attack. Some performed pretreatments can be classified as physical, chemical, and physicochemical methods. Although such methods are the most used pretreatments, they are expensive and generate or make use of harmful compounds. Biological methods, by the action of microorganisms or their enzymes for lignin content reduction, may be regarded as an alternative, being cheaper and more friendly to the environment than the aforementioned methods. However, until now, biological pretreatments have not shown the same yield as the previously mentioned methods in both sugar recovery and biofuel production. In that sense, the aim of this work is to review the efficiency of these methods, with the goal of clarifying their advantages and disadvantages for improvement of biofuel production.

Polyamidoamine Epichlorohydrin (PAAE) Wet-strength Agent: Generations, Application, Performance, and Recyclability in Paperboard and Linerboard

2024-01-27T15:03:20+00:00

Polyamidoamine epichlorohydrin (PAAE) is the preeminent permanent wet strength additive used in papermaking. Wet strength additives are used to improve paper resistance to a rupture force in wet environments. The invention of PAAE in 1957 was an innovation, as it improved paper properties by giving superior wet strength in humid or wet conditions. It was rapidly adopted by the industry. Despite PAAE’s long history, the mechanism of PAAE interaction with fiber has not been fully understood. Therefore, fundamental understanding of PAAE mechanism needs to be investigated to improve its utilization in making sustainable paper products. These areas include an understanding of repulping methods and optimal PAAE dosages for better cost and performance. This paper investigates different generations of PAAE, the application method, and its impact on paper recyclability. Three generations of PAAE are currently on the market with at least two newer iterations under development. Critical application parameters that need to be understood include determination of the bonding mechanism, optimal dosage, and retention parameters. The main drawback of PAAE application is it makes paper recycling difficult. Several repulping methods are proposed for better recyclability and sustainability in the papermaking process.

Merits of Bamboo Utilization in Earth Preservation, Water and Wastewater Treatment: A Mini Review

2024-02-17T20:06:30+00:00

This paper reviews the positive attributes and challenges of bamboo usage in carbon absorption, water, and wastewater purification. Bamboo can serve as a habitat for a variety of creatures and supports a diversified ecology. Bamboo roots can cast a fibrous net into the ground to prevent soil erosion and degradation. As the water passes through this woven mesh, the bamboo roots act as a filter, drawing toxins and other contaminants out of the water. Bamboo can treat wastewater effectively in free-water surface, horizontal flow, and vertical flow constructed wetlands. Bamboo charcoal has exceptional filtering properties for cleaner drinking water and better air quality. Additionally, bamboo can be used to form cellulose-based membranes. Bamboo is a renewable resource for creating paper, furniture, and building materials. Bamboo has various benefits. Thus, bamboo forests offer opportunities for rural communities to thrive economically.

Wild Edible Mushrooms as an Alternative for the Consumption of Antioxidants and Phenolic Compounds: An Overview

2024-02-24T17:20:38+00:00

Fungi are a diverse group, and they are essential for health, the economy, and food. Interest in these organisms has increased because of the importance and effect of their chemical components viz., phenolic compounds, which are considered an alternative source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that prevent cell damage and can help prevent or counteract certain diseases (cardiovascular, neurodegen-erative, cancer, etc.) because they can improve cell function (changes in enzyme activity, enzyme patterns, membrane fluidity, and responses to stimuli), among others. To date, no adverse side effects have been reported. The difference in production is due to several factors, such as the growth environment, nutrition, cell age, the part from where the phenolic compounds are obtained (pileus, stipe, or mycelium), the extraction method, etc. This article aims to provide an overview of wild edible mushrooms, to promote the study of their antioxidant capacity, and to better understand the nutraceutical potential of edible mushrooms consumed in different parts of the world.

Research Progress on Lignin-Based Carbon Electrode Materials in Rechargeable Batteries

2023-11-28T01:46:47+00:00

Lignin, with its carbon content of up to 60%, can be an ideal precursor for the preparation of carbon materials. Carbonaceous materials obtained from lignin can be transformed into porous and structural morphologies at different scales, providing a biomass approach to energy conversion and storage in batteries. Focusing on lignin-derived carbon materials, this paper summarizes the different morphologies and structures of lignin-based carbon obtained through different preparation methods, and the different electrochemical properties exhibited by these materials as electrode materials for rechargeable batteries (lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, lithium-sulphur batteries, etc.). In addition, the development prospects and challenges of lignin-based carbon materials in the field of rechargeable batteries are summarized, providing ideas for the next step in the design and development of high-performance lignin-based carbon-based electrode materials.