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Acid-base and electrochemical behavior in the systems H3Cit – Am – H2O (H3Cit – citric acid; Am – monoethanolamine and polyethylene polyamine) and their structural characteristics features establishment is an urgent task. The pH and conductometric study of protolytic equilibria in the systems HOC3H4(COOH)3 – NH2CH2CH2OH – H2O and HOC3H4(COOH)3 – NH2(CH2CH2NH)kH – H2O was carried out with the total content of citrate forms (citric acid, dihydrogen citrate, hydrogen citrate and citrate anions, cation-molecular complexes and ionic associates) 1.0 M in the temperature range 293 – 313 K. Intermolecular interactions in these systems were estimated in comparison with sodium citrate – citric acid – water solutions at 298 K. The order of components adding affects resulting solutions pH values in contrast to the specific electrical conductivity and density. With the same total citrates content according to the specific electrical conductivity values the studied systems can be arranged in such series: HOC3H4(COONa)3 – HOC3H4(COOH)3 – H2O > NH2CH2CH2OH – HOC3H4(COOH)3 – H2O > NH2(CH2CH2NH)kH – HOC3H4(COOH)3 – H2O. This is because of the mobility of cations and the additional formation of cation-molecular complexes and ionic associates due to H-bonding in the monoethanolamine and polyethylene polyamine systems. According to densitometry, the organic amine (monoethanolamine or polyethylene polyamine) introduction into an citric acid aqueous solution in contrast to sodium citrate results the structuring of the system. The breaks positions on the densitometric curves correspond to the breaks on the conductometric curves; the studied solutions specific electrical conductivity values correlate with their density. The investigated solutions cation-molecular compositions and ionic strengths were calculated. The cation-molecular complexes and ionic associates concentration and thermodynamic formation constants estimation was carried out. The obtained results can be useful to evalu

Doping of a Mott insulator gives rise to a wide variety of exotic emergent states, from high-temperature superconductivity to charge, spin, and orbital orders. The physics underpinning their evolution is, however, poorly understood. A major challenge is the chemical complexity associated with traditional routes to doping. Here, we study the Mott insulating CrO2 layer of the delafossite PdCrO2, where an intrinsic polar catastrophe provides a clean route to doping of the surface. From scanning tunnelling microscopy and angle-resolved photoemission, we find that the surface stays insulating accompanied by a short-range ordered state. From density functional theory, we demonstrate how the formation of charge disproportionation results in an insulating ground state of the surface that is disparate from the hidden Mott insulator in the bulk. We demonstrate that voltage pulses induce local modifications to this state which relax over tens of minutes, pointing to a glassy nature of the charge order.

Understanding species population trends is key for assessing their conservation status and proposing measures to ensure their future persistence amid recent biodiversity loss. However, studies are reporting contrasting biodiversity trends over time. These discrepancies can be partly attributed to biases in global datasets, which might not capture the representativeness of local processes. Here, we aimed to address this gap of knowledge by complementing data included in the Living Planet Database (LPD), one of the largest repositories of population time-series, with locally sourced data from the Iberian Peninsula. The study aim: (i) to assess the state of wildlife Iberian vertebrates using population time-series across taxonomic groups and (ii) to determine differences between locally sourced data and LPD (evaluating also the differences between data sources). To supplement LPD, we conducted a review, analysing over 6000 peer-reviewed manuscripts and grey literature documents. We obtained 999 population time-series for 294 vertebrate species compiled in an Iberian Vertebrate (IbeV) database, two times the number of populations as the LPD includes. Our results indicate contrasting population trends across taxonomic groups, with freshwater amphibians and bony fishes showing steep declines. Moreover, the LPD shows a positive trend and IbeV indicates no net change over time. Threatened species did not exhibit net changes in population trends, while non-threatened species showed positive trends. We showed that local databases can provide distinct population trends compared to global databases. This approach highlights the need to bridge the gap between global and local datasets, to support context-specific management and conservation programmes.

Producción Científica, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación /AEI/10.13039/501100011033/ FEDER (PID2022-137104NA-I00), Junta de Castilla y León (VA100G19)

General interest in the deployment of molten salt reactors (MSRs) is growing, while the available data on uranium-containing fuel salt candidates remains scarce. Thermophysical data are one of the key parameters for reactor design and understanding reactor operability. Hence, filling in the gap of the missing data is crucial to allow for the advancement of MSRs. This study provides novel data for two eutectic compositions within the NaF-KF-UF4 ternary system which serve as potential fuel candidates for MSRs. Experimental measurements include their melting point, density, fusion enthalpy, and vapor pressure. Additionally, their boiling point was extrapolated from the vapor pressure data, which were, at the same time, used to determine the enthalpy of vaporization. The obtained thermodynamic values were compared with available data from the literature but also with results from thermochemical equilibrium calculations using the JRCMSD database, finding a good correlation, which thus contributed to database validation. Preliminary thoughts on fluoride salt reactor operability based on the obtained results are discussed in this study.

We sought to demonstrate how eel mortality, growth, and biomass production were related to initial stocking density of glass eels, 18 months after stocking. Glass eels with a mean body mass of 0.29 g were caught in three coastal streams of Denmark, and subsequently stocked at four densities (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 individuals m−2) in eight shallow, 200 m2, open ponds. Recapture after 18 months ranged from 13% to 84% and was negatively correlated with stocking density. Likewise, growth (length and body mass) and body condition were negatively correlated with stocking density. The theoretical maximum biomass per stocked glass eel was 7.3 g at a density of 0.005 eels per m−2 (one glass eel per pond), and the minimum was at a density of 3 glass eel m−2 (600 glass eels per pond). The optimum eel biomass was 3.9 g m−2 at a stocking density of ≈1 glass eel m−2, which probably represented the present production capacity (food) of these ponds.

Este trabajo bibliográfico consiste en revisar dos investigaciones que se han llevado a cabo en el campo de la construcción donde se ha usado la piedra pómez como agregado en la producción de concreto. El objetivo es analizar los diseños de mezclas con otros agregados y aditivos, para identificar la composición más idónea, así como las ventajas y deficiencias. También conocer si los resultados fueron positivos, así como los fallos durante el proceso. De esta manera, demostrar que la piedra pómez es una alternativa común en la fabricación de concreto., This bibliographic research consists of reviewing two investigations that have been carried out in the construction field where pumice stone has been used as an aggregate in the production of concrete. The objective is to analyze the designs of mixtures with other aggregates and additives, to identify the most suitable composition, as well as the advantages and deficiencies. Also know if the results were positive, as well as the failures during the process. In this way, demonstrate that pumice is a common alternative in concrete manufacturing.

Este trabajo bibliográfico consiste en revisar dos investigaciones que se han llevado a cabo en el campo de la construcción donde se ha usado la piedra pómez como agregado en la producción de concreto. El objetivo es analizar los diseños de mezclas con otros agregados y aditivos, para identificar la composición más idónea, así como las ventajas y deficiencias. También conocer si los resultados fueron positivos, así como los fallos durante el proceso. De esta manera, demostrar que la piedra pómez es una alternativa común en la fabricación de concreto., This bibliographic research consists of reviewing two investigations that have been carried out in the construction field where pumice stone has been used as an aggregate in the production of concrete. The objective is to analyze the designs of mixtures with other aggregates and additives, to identify the most suitable composition, as well as the advantages and deficiencies. Also know if the results were positive, as well as the failures during the process. In this way, demonstrate that pumice is a common alternative in concrete manufacturing.

Sex allocation theory predicts that mothers should bias investment in offspring toward the sex that yields higher fitness returns; one such bias may be a skewed offspring sex ratio. Sex allocation is well-studied in birds with cooperative breeding systems, with theory on local resource enhancement and production of helpers at the nest, but little theoretical or empirical work has focused on birds with brood parasitic breeding systems. Wood ducks (Aix sponsa) are a conspecific brood parasite, and rates of parasitism appear to increase with density. Because female wood ducks show high natal philopatry and nest sites are often limiting, local resource competition (LRC) theory predicts that females should overproduce male offspring-the dispersing sex-when competition (density) is high. However, the unique features of conspecific brood parasitism generate alternative predictions from other sex allocation theory, which we develop and test here. We experimentally manipulated nesting density of female wood ducks in 4 populations from 2013 to 2016, and analyzed the resulting sex allocation of >2000 ducklings. In contrast to predictions we did not find overproduction of male offspring by females in high-density populations, females in better condition, or parasitic females; modest support for LRC was found in overproduction of only female parasitic offspring with higher nest box availability. The lack of evidence for sex ratio biases, as expected for LRC and some aspects of brood parasitism, could reflect conflicting selection pressures from nest competition and brood parasitism, or that mechanisms of adaptive sex ratio bias are not possible.

Producción Científica, The research examines the evolution of urbanisation and population density in China between 2000 and 2020, with three key objectives. Firstly, it analyses how state policies have influenced the configuration of the real estate market and urban sprawl in the country. Secondly, it studies the variation of population density through annual census data, focusing on how policies have affected demographic distribution. Thirdly, it investigates the impact of national policies on population density in relation to community policies. The inquiry employs data from over 5000 urban entities to assess the influence on the spatial distribution of population. Historically, the relationship with Chinese community policies is manifested in the promotion of a balanced regional development attempt, the reform of the hukou system to facilitate mobility and rural–urban integration, and, more recently, the implementation of strategies for sustainable urbanisation. These policies are designed to enhance the living standards and urban infrastructure in Chinese cities by addressing the challenges of urban concentration while promoting more inclusive and balanced development across the country. However, the outcomes of these policies are yet to be determined. The chapter comprises the following sections. Section 6.1 outlines the methodology employed in the research, which culminates in an examination of urban development policies in China and their impact at the national level (Sect. 6.2). The research then proceeds to examine the impact of state interventions on urbanisation patterns (Sect. 6.3), before summarising the key findings on the challenges China faces in density distribution for the creation of effective community policies (Sect. 6.4). The implications of these issues are discussed in Sect. 6.5, which leads to a final section that highlights the main lessons learned and provides recommendations for future policies (Sect. 6.6)

The Bulla-Deniz field which is characterised by deep wells has not been fully explored despite its commissioning since 1975. Consequently, the intersection of the Productive Series (PS) deposits has been drilled to the top of the Kirmaky group. The deposits of the sub-Kirmaky and Gala formations have not been exposed in the field area. The Bulla-Deniz field is located in the northern portion of the oil-gas region of the Baku archipelago, which is part of the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. The structure was investigated through a comprehensive geophysical exploration program which included mapping, structure-search and logging datas. The Bulla-Deniz structure is described in these materials as an asymmetric brachyanticline, extending in a northwest-southeast direction. Its dimensions are given as 27×9 km along the roof of the VII horizon and up to 1400 m high. The Bulla-Deniz fold is further complicated by the presence of longitudinal and transverse tectonic faults, which divide it into a number of tectonic blocks. The northeastern wing is divided into six tectonic blocks by six transverse faults. Two transverse fractures are noted in the southwestern wing, which divides the wing into 3 blocks (A, B and C blocks). In the geological cross-section of the Bulla-Deniz field, the sediments of the PS, Agcagil and Quaternary periods were identified in wells. The presence of Miocene sediments, as evidenced by excavations in the cross-section of neighboring deposits, is beyond doubt. The Miocene sediments have not been subjected to drilling studies. In consideration of the area’s geological tectonic structure, it can be postulated that the sediments underlying the PS may start at with the Pont floor, which is estimated to be 150 to 200 m thick. The intersection of the PS sediments was exposed by drilling wells to the top of the Kirmaky formation. The Sub-Kirmaky and Gala formations were not subjected to field investigation. In accordance with the classification system

In maize cultivation under the conditions of climate change, various cultivation measures are being implemented to mitigate the consequences. The study aimed to observe yield variability at different sowing densities. The trial was designed as a three-factorial experiment in which the relationship between genotype, sowing density and water regime on the grain yield of maize was observed. In the trial, four hybrids of maturity group FAO400 (H1-H4) were observed, sown at seven sowing densities (G1-G7; 40,000-98,000) under natural water regime and irrigation conditions. The yield varied between the different hybrids depending on the density and type of irrigation. Hybrid H4 had the highest average yield. This hybrid obtained the highest yield in the density of G6, 12.61 t/ha, and in terms of type of water regime, in irrigation, 11.54 t/ha. When analyzing the distribution of the frequency of maize grain yields as a function of density, the hybrids in the trials with densities G1, G6 and G7 showed the greatest difference between the minimum and maximum yield values at 7 t/ha, the lowest was G5, 4 t/ha. Crop density was significant for most hybrids and resulted in a linear increase in yield to density. Since there are different production areas for maize cultivation, the production technique should be adapted to the specific conditions of the climate, soil and other factors of the external environment to make the best use of the potential of the location and genotype.

In today’s metropolitan contexts, there is an obvious and pressing need for effective land use and ecological design solutions. Architects must devise novel solutions to the issues of rising population concentrations and space limits. One such solution is vertical architecture. This master’s thesis explores the concept of archetypal stacking in urban settings. The works of MVRDV serve as the foundation for the design concept of a vertical metropolis. The research begins with an in-depth look at the theoretical basis of the design strategies of the Dutch architects MVRDV. The analysis includes four different projects, based on the stacking method. The goal is to comprehend contemporary architectural principles and to develop an advanced design methodology. The projects of MVRDV are fragmented into a range of different diagrams, which symbolize the build-up of each project. The evaluations of the many MVRDV projects reveal a variety of case studies investigating the possibilities of stacking and densification within urban space. In addition, the study focuses on social activities in densely populated areas. The goal is to establish a paradigm of densification that promotes social behaviour in a vertical metropolis. The out-turn will be a vertical city design based on MVRDV’s study on stacking projects. The archetypal stacking and promotion, Michel Devos, Masterarbeit Universität Innsbruck 2024

The wood-based panel industry in Europe, which is dominated by the use of Norway spruce, will face new challenges due to environmental changes and the bark-beetle calamity, which started a new era of forestry. To explore the possibility of replacing spruce with other wood species, juvenile wood of nine underutilized wood species (Scots pine, European larch, poplar, willow, alder, birch, European beech, English oak and hornbeam) were used to make randomly oriented strand boards (OSBs). Single-layer OSBs were produced with 3% pMDI resin and 0.5% wax. Standard physical and mechanical properties were measured. The bending strength (MOR) values showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the values for, on the one hand, spruce (34.6 MPa) and, on the other, larch (25.9 MPa), poplar (25.2 MPa), willow (27.8 MPa), alder (34.3 MPa) or birch (27.1 MPa). A similar trend was found for the boards modulus of elasticity (MOE). The highest MOE values of 5,185 MPa and 4,472 MPa were found for spruce and alder, respectively. There was no significant difference between spruce and other wood species in internal bond strength. Boards made from high-density wood species showed better physical performance, whereas those made from low-density wood species (except pine) gave better mechanical properties. Strand-generalized characteristics, such as the slenderness ratio and specific surface, were analyzed for all investigated physical and mechanical properties. European larch, poplar, willow, and alder are potential wood species for manufacturing OSBs in future without mixing species, as they can replace spruce in the wood-based panel industry., info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Adequate soil compaction is important for the stability and safety of structures and transportation infrastructure. Thus, methods utilized to obtain properties that control the quality of compaction in the field are essential to ensure proper construction. The most common method to measure these properties in the field is the Nuclear Density Gauge. Moisture content and density results are obtained using the Nuclear Density Gauge in one to four minutes. However, this method requires specialized training and strict storage requirements in addition to licensing and certification, due to the radioactive nature of the device. A photogrammetry-based method to determine total density and total unit weight soil properties by volume estimation combined with separate soil weight measurements is presented herein. This method includes a photogrammetric analysis, using the Photomodeler software, on photographs obtained from an uncalibrated regular mobile phone camera. To validate this method, the images were obtained of a circular excavation dug in compacted soil. The image acquisition process took less than five minutes. The Photomodeler processing time took approximately 15 minutes to develop a three-dimensional model and volume of the excavated hole. The results obtained with this analysis method were compared with in-situ results obtained from the Troxler nuclear density gauge, sand cone, and the Humboldt electrical density gauge. Based on the obtained results, the photogrammetric method is capable of providing similar results to the nuclear density gauge and the sand cone (within four pcf for total unit weight).

This thesis offers a place-based analysis and account of the relational agency of landscape architecture in the context of a government proposal to replace a set of stairs with an escalator in a historic neighbourhood in Hong Kong. Specifically, it investigates landscape architectural practices of design activism and community engagement in their reciprocal relations to: processes of urban (re)development and heritage-making; conflicting and contested senses of place; student learning and empowerment; and community response and activism. The study is based on a critically reflexive re-examination of materials produced for, with, and by my students, research assistants, and colleagues, as well as local community members while I was living and teaching in Hong Kong from 2011-19. Other methods include analysis of government documents, print and online media, and archival materials, as well as participant observation and site visits. Using the theoretical and methodological approach of place studies and actor network theory, the thesis traces the human and non-human actors that assembled (and reassembled) into networks to: propose and raise awareness about the escalator; define, interpret, and give meaning to the Pound Lane stairs and their neighbourhood; and contribute to the response to the proposed escalator. It argues that the networks of mediators associated through these successive processes of translation contributed to the transformation of the escalator from an inevitable matter of fact, into a matter of concern, able to be actively responded to through the enrollment and mobilization of other human and non-human actors. It also argues that the functionalist and (re) development-based approach by the government focused on efficiency and accessibility and did not adequately take into account local sense(s) of place. This research contributes a case study of place-based cultural landscape activism in dense, complex, and contested urban environments with multiple

With the sustainable potential of the city as a starting point, this thesis examines brownfield redevelopment in an existing urban context. The Nørrebro neighborhood of Copenhagen serves as a case. The focus is on learning from and reinterpreting existing urban structure, hierarchy, density and scale. Legislation allowing car free development at the chosen site, Vingelodden, also prompts exploration. Copenhagen and the site are analysed and found to hold both qualities and challenges. Plot ratios in new developments are substantially higher than in the old city, with the higher density being reached with novel and often problematic typologies. The proposal explores whether comparable plot ratios can be reached using proven vernacular urban typologies. While conditions for soft traffic and public transit are good, the car system takes up an unproportional amount of space, inviting further design experiments. The proposal adopts the best aspects of Nørrebro: the closed block structure, urban scale and architectural motifs. Existing buildings are also reused, serving as new public functions and historical reminders. The density goal is met, mainly at the expense of green space. This is offset by introducing an underpass under a rail line, connecting the site directly to a large park. This also benefits Nørrebro at large and presents a missing link in a city-wide network of greenspace. Public transport and soft traffic is prioritized, while the car system is subdued. Parking is kept at a minimum and substituted by car sharing. In lieu of street parking, extended ground floors increase density and function as privacy-buffer-zones. In all, the proposal aims to be an extension of Nørrebro, building on, reinterpreting and improving the neighborhood, while steering it towards sustainability.

Dielectric profiling systems (DPS) use ground penetrating radar to continuously assess asphalt compaction, generating a heat map of the entire pavement area. The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) first started using a three-antenna pushcart DPS in 2020. Since then, NYSDOT each year conducted several shadow projects across the State, facilitated by a special provision placed in contracts. "This technology has a lot of promise," says Brendan Rock, NYSDOT Materials Engineering Bureau. "Density profiling has potential to improve both the QC and QA operations for asphalt paving, so developing a program that makes use of that potential is a win-win." NYSDOT designates levels of service for its roadways, with different specifications and acceptance testing requirements depending on the series. The series differentiates projects based on factors including tonnage of asphalt, control of access to the roadway, and location. Acceptance of a 50 series asphalt paving project is generally based on four cores per day. A 60 series project acceptance is based on daily nuclear gauge measurements and cores taken every third day. NYSDOT sees the potential of DPS to reduce or eliminate coring for acceptance of pavement density. NYSDOT anticipates a new series of evaluation using DPS results as a primary metric of acceptance for density.

The wood-based panel industry in Europe, which is dominated by the use of Norway spruce, will face new challenges due to environmental changes and the bark-beetle calamity, which started a new era of forestry. To explore the possibility of replacing spruce with other wood species, juvenile wood of nine underutilized wood species (Scots pine, European larch, poplar, willow, alder, birch, European beech, English oak and hornbeam) were used to make randomly oriented strand boards (OSBs). Single-layer OSBs were produced with 3% pMDI resin and 0.5% wax. Standard physical and mechanical properties were measured. The bending strength (MOR) values showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the values for, on the one hand, spruce (34.6 MPa) and, on the other, larch (25.9 MPa), poplar (25.2 MPa), willow (27.8 MPa), alder (34.3 MPa) or birch (27.1 MPa). A similar trend was found for the boards modulus of elasticity (MOE). The highest MOE values of 5,185 MPa and 4,472 MPa were found for spruce and alder, respectively. There was no significant difference between spruce and other wood species in internal bond strength. Boards made from high-density wood species showed better physical performance, whereas those made from low-density wood species (except pine) gave better mechanical properties. Strand-generalized characteristics, such as the slenderness ratio and specific surface, were analyzed for all investigated physical and mechanical properties. European larch, poplar, willow, and alder are potential wood species for manufacturing OSBs in future without mixing species, as they can replace spruce in the wood-based panel industry., info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Nogal (Juglans neotropica Diels), is a native species highly appreciated in the forestry sector, due to its color and easy workability, which is why it is used for furniture, crafts, decorative coatings, among others. The objective of the research was: Determine the technological properties of Juglans neotropica Diels wood, from the province of Carchi, Ecuador. The study was carried out at the Yuyucocha Campus of the Universidad Técnica del Norte, in the city of Ibarra. The methodology presents a quantitative approach with a positivist paradigm and a descriptive and field type of research; In addition, a non-experimental design was used based on the description of organoleptic, macro-anatomical, micro-anatomical characteristics and workability properties of the wood; Through simple convenience sampling, 7 walnut trees were selected in the cantons of San Pedro de Huaca and Tulcán in the province of Carchi, and 49 specimens were extracted for physical properties and 105 for workability tests; For the research tests, the methodology described in the COPANT, NTE-INEN and ASTM standards was used. As a result, a moisture content of 78.92%, basic density of 0.42 gr/cm3, volumetric contraction of 14.16% and a Tangential/Radial ratio of 0.80% were obtained. In conclusion, “Juglans neotropica Diels” behaves well in the face of transformation processes, being classified as a wood intended for fine and decorative furniture work., El Nogal (Juglans neotropica Diels), es una especie nativa muy apreciada en el sector forestal, debido a su coloración y fácil trabajabilidad, por lo que es utilizada para mueblería, artesanías, revestimientos decorativos, entre otros. El objetivo de la investigación fue: Determinar las propiedades tecnológicas de la madera de Juglans neotropica Diels, procedentes de la provincia del Carchi, Ecuador. El estudio se realizó en el Campus Yuyucocha de la Universidad Técnica del Norte, en la ciudad de Ibarra. La metodología presenta un enfoque cuantitativo con paradigma positivista y tipo de investigación descriptiva y de campo; además se empleó un diseño no experimental fundamentado en la descripción de características organolépticas, macro anatómicas, micro anatómicas y propiedades de trabajabilidad de la madera; través de un muestreo simple por conveniencia se seleccionó 7 árboles de Nogal en los cantones San Pedro de Huaca y Tulcán de la provincia del Carchi, y se extrajo 49 probetas para propiedades físicas y 105 para ensayos de trabajabilidad; para los ensayos de la investigación se utilizó la metodología descrita en las normas COPANT, NTE-INEN y ASTM. Como resultado se obtuvo un contenido de humedad del 78,92%, densidad básica de 0,42 gr/ ,contracción volumétrica de 14,16% y una relación Tangencial/Radial del 0,80%. En conclusión “Juglans neotropica Diels” frente a los procesos de trasformación tiene buen comportamiento, catalogándose como una madera destinada para realizar trabajos de mueblería fina y decorativa.

The thermodynamic properties of four binary mixtures of deep eutectic solvent (DES), i.e., ChCl/Gly (choline chloride + glycerol at a molar ratio of 1:2) and ChCl/EG (choline chloride + ethylene glycol at a molar ratio of 1:2) with two common co-solvents, i.e., dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and isopropanol (IPA), were studied. Density and viscosity were determined at temperatures from 288.15 to 323.15 K, while measuring the enthalpy of mixing was performed at 308.15 and 318.15 K. The volumetric properties (i.e., excess molar volume and excess partial molar volume) and excess viscosities (i.e., viscosity deviation and logarithmic excess viscosity) were further calculated to investigate the effects of temperature, types of co-solvent and DES, and their contents on the non-ideal behavior of these systems, where the influence of treating the DES as a mixture of two components or a pseudo-component was discussed. The results of volumetric properties indicate that the combined influence of packing effects and H-bonding interactions between the DES and co-solvents led to the contraction of mixture volume, and the results of excess viscosities show H-bonding interactions play an important role in their variations. The results of enthalpy of mixing show that the mixing of DES with IPA is endothermic, while the mixing of DES with DMSO is exothermic. Furthermore, the nonrandom two-liquid (NRTL) model and Gibbs-Helmholtz equation were combined to represent the experimental results of the enthalpy of mixing, and the total average relative deviation (ARD) of all studied systems is 5.43%., Validerad;2024;Nivå 2;2024-03-28 (hanlid);Funder: State Key Laboratory of Material-Oriented Chemical Engineering in China; National Natural Science Foundation of China (22011530112);Full text license: CC BY 4.0

Nogal (Juglans neotropica Diels), is a native species highly appreciated in the forestry sector, due to its color and easy workability, which is why it is used for furniture, crafts, decorative coatings, among others. The objective of the research was: Determine the technological properties of Juglans neotropica Diels wood, from the province of Carchi, Ecuador. The study was carried out at the Yuyucocha Campus of the Universidad Técnica del Norte, in the city of Ibarra. The methodology presents a quantitative approach with a positivist paradigm and a descriptive and field type of research; In addition, a non-experimental design was used based on the description of organoleptic, macro-anatomical, micro-anatomical characteristics and workability properties of the wood; Through simple convenience sampling, 7 walnut trees were selected in the cantons of San Pedro de Huaca and Tulcán in the province of Carchi, and 49 specimens were extracted for physical properties and 105 for workability tests; For the research tests, the methodology described in the COPANT, NTE-INEN and ASTM standards was used. As a result, a moisture content of 78.92%, basic density of 0.42 gr/cm3, volumetric contraction of 14.16% and a Tangential/Radial ratio of 0.80% were obtained. In conclusion, “Juglans neotropica Diels” behaves well in the face of transformation processes, being classified as a wood intended for fine and decorative furniture work., El Nogal (Juglans neotropica Diels), es una especie nativa muy apreciada en el sector forestal, debido a su coloración y fácil trabajabilidad, por lo que es utilizada para mueblería, artesanías, revestimientos decorativos, entre otros. El objetivo de la investigación fue: Determinar las propiedades tecnológicas de la madera de Juglans neotropica Diels, procedentes de la provincia del Carchi, Ecuador. El estudio se realizó en el Campus Yuyucocha de la Universidad Técnica del Norte, en la ciudad de Ibarra. La metodología presenta un enfoque cuantitativo con paradigma positivista y tipo de investigación descriptiva y de campo; además se empleó un diseño no experimental fundamentado en la descripción de características organolépticas, macro anatómicas, micro anatómicas y propiedades de trabajabilidad de la madera; través de un muestreo simple por conveniencia se seleccionó 7 árboles de Nogal en los cantones San Pedro de Huaca y Tulcán de la provincia del Carchi, y se extrajo 49 probetas para propiedades físicas y 105 para ensayos de trabajabilidad; para los ensayos de la investigación se utilizó la metodología descrita en las normas COPANT, NTE-INEN y ASTM. Como resultado se obtuvo un contenido de humedad del 78,92%, densidad básica de 0,42 gr/ ,contracción volumétrica de 14,16% y una relación Tangencial/Radial del 0,80%. En conclusión “Juglans neotropica Diels” frente a los procesos de trasformación tiene buen comportamiento, catalogándose como una madera destinada para realizar trabajos de mueblería fina y decorativa.

Sulfur oxides are emitted as one of the products in the process of combusting solid fossil fuels in thermal power plants, especially the Kolubara and Kostolac lignites in the Republic of Serbia. In order to reduce the emission level of the indirect Greenhouse gases (GHG) from stationary sources, it is inevitable to implement flue gas desulfurization (FGD) technology. In addition to the classic limestone process, technological procedures based on the physical or chemical absorption of sulfur oxides in the solvent and its thermal regeneration are becoming increasingly common. In order to properly design and optimize the process, it is significant to precisely determine the thermophysical properties of pure components and their mixtures. The paper presents the results of determining the density and viscosity of two binary mixtures, N,N-Dimethylaniline (N,N-DMA) + Tetra Ethylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether (TEGDME) and N,N-Dimethylaniline (N,N-DMA) + N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). Measurements were made using a densitometer Anton Paar DMA 5000 and Stabinger viscometer Anton Paar SVM 3000/G2, at atmospheric pressure. The obtained experimental results are presented as a function of temperature and N,N-DMA mole fraction. N,N-DMA belongs to the group of amines, and it has been used as a sorbent for purification of flue gases in processes with thermal regeneration (CANSOLV, Sulphidine and ASARCO processes). The other two organic solvents are TEGDME and NMP. Special attention was paid to NMP due to its low cost and low viscosity, with its favorable properties, making it competitive as a solvent for FGD. TEGDME is a polar solvent, but it is not selective to SO2 and other gaseous components, so NMP has been suggested as an alternative solution. A regenerative process for SO2 removal, with TEGDME, has already found commercial application (Solinox process). NMP is already industrially used as a solvent in Lurgi's Purisol process, due to its nature for selective desulfurization of flue g, Oksidi sumpora emituju se kao jedan od proizvoda u procesu sagorevanja čvrstih fosilnih goriva u termoelektranama, posebno kolubarskog i kostolačkog lignita u Republici Srbiji. Da bi se smanjio nivo emisije indirektnih gasova staklene bašte (GHG) iz stacionarnih izvora, neizbežna je primena tehnologije odsumporavanja dimnih gasova (FGD). Pored klasičnog krečnjačkog postupka, sve su češć i tehnološki postupci zasnovani na fizičkoj ili hemijskoj apsorpciji sumpornih oksida u rastvaraču i njegovoj termičkoj regeneraciji. Da bi se pravilno dizajnirao i optimizovao proces, važno je precizno odrediti termofizička svojstva čistih komponenti i njihovih smeša. U radu su prikazani rezultati određivanja gustine i viskoziteta dve binarne smeše, N,N-dimetilanilin (N,N-DMA) + tetra etilen glikol dimetil etar (TEGDME) i N,N-dimetilanilin (N,N-DMA) + N-metil-2-pirolidon (NMP). Merenja su vršena pomoću gustinomera Anton Paar DMA 5000 i Stabinger viskozimetra Anton Paar SVM 3000/G2, na atmosferskom pritisku. Dobijeni eksperimentalni rezultati su prikazani kao funkcija temperature i molskog udela N,N-DMA. N,N-DMA pripada grupi amina, a korišć en je kao sorbent za prečišć avanje dimnih gasova u procesima sa termičkom regeneracijom (CANSOLV, Sulphidine i ASARCO procesi). Druga dva organska rastvarača su TEGDME i NMP. Posebna pažnja je posveć ena NMP-u zbog niske cene i niskog viskoziteta, sa svojim povoljnim svojstvima, što ga čini konkurentnim kao rastvarač za FGD. TEGDME je polarni rastvarač, ali nije selektivan ka SO2 i druge gasovite komponente, pa je NMP predložen kao alternativno rešenje. Regenerativni proces za uklanjanje SO2, sa TEGDME, već je našao komercijalnu primenu (Solinox proces). NMP se već industrijski koristi kao rastvarač u Lurgi's Purisol procesu, zbog svoje prirode za selektivno odsumporavanje dimnih gasova.

The paper presents research focused on the behaviour of wood-cement composites with a modified matrix. This matrix has an impact on the stabilization of the spruce wood content. Silicate matrix based on Portland and blended cement was modified by finely ground thermal power plant slag (TPPS) and limestone (LS). Four types of wood-cement composite were subjected to water immersion tests for 28 days. During water immersion, both swelling in thickness and mass changes were analysed. The amount of sugars and pH in leachate were determined after 7 day intervals. Mechanical properties and microstructures were analysed before and after water immersion. Different behaviour with regard to spruce chips stabilization was proved in dependence of wood-cement matrix modification. Differences in thickness, swelling and sugar leach indirectly indicate the influence of the wood-cement composites matrix composition on the stabilization of spruce chips contained in this matrix. Boards with the matrix modified with thermal power plant slag showed the highest thickness swelling (%) and sugar leaching (0,042 %). Therefore, in the presence of thermal power plant slag modified matrix, spruce chips are more susceptible to sugar leach. The results of strength characteristics confirmed that sugars leached during hydration and after longer contact of wood-cement composites with water have no negative influence in their final properties in the case of all materials tested (reference and modified)., El artículo presenta una investigación centrada en el comportamiento de compuestos de madera-cemento con matriz modificada. Esta matriz influye en la estabilización del contenido de madera de abeto. La matriz de silicato a base de cemento Portland y una mezcla de cemento se modificó mediante escoria de central térmica (TPPS) y piedra caliza (LS) finamente molidas. Se sometieron cuatro tipos de compuestos de madera y cemento a pruebas de inmersión en agua durante 28 días. Durante la inmersión en agua, se analizaron tanto el hinchamiento en espesor como los cambios de masa. La cantidad de azúcares y el pH del lixiviado se determinaron después de intervalos de 7 días. Se analizaron las propiedades mecánicas y las microestructuras antes y después de la inmersión en agua. Se demostró un comportamiento diferente con respecto a la estabilización de las astillas de abeto en función de la modificación de la matriz madera-cemento. Las diferencias en espesor, hinchamiento y lixiviación de azúcar indican indirectamente la influencia de la composición de la matriz de los compuestos de madera y cemento en la estabilización de las virutas de abeto contenidas en esta matriz. Los tableros con la matriz modificada con escoria de central térmica presentaron el mayor hinchamiento de espesor (%) y lixiviación de azúcar (0,042 %). Por lo tanto, en presencia de una matriz modificada de escoria de central térmica, las astillas de abeto son más susceptibles a la lixiviación del azúcar. Los resultados de las características de resistencia confirmaron que los azúcares lixiviados durante la hidratación y después de un contacto prolongado de los compuestos de madera y cemento con agua no tienen influencia negativa en sus propiedades finales en el caso de todos los materiales probados (de referencia y modificados)

The wood-based panel industry in Europe, which is dominated by the use of Norway spruce, will face new challenges due to environmental changes and the bark-beetle calamity, which started a new era of forestry. To explore the possibility of replacing spruce with other wood species, juvenile wood of nine underutilized wood species (Scots pine, European larch, poplar, willow, alder, birch, European beech, English oak and hornbeam) were used to make randomly oriented strand boards (OSBs). Single-layer OSBs were produced with 3% pMDI resin and 0.5% wax. Standard physical and mechanical properties were measured. The bending strength (MOR) values showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the values for, on the one hand, spruce (34.6 MPa) and, on the other, larch (25.9 MPa), poplar (25.2 MPa), willow (27.8 MPa), alder (34.3 MPa) or birch (27.1 MPa). A similar trend was found for the boards modulus of elasticity (MOE). The highest MOE values of 5,185 MPa and 4,472 MPa were found for spruce and alder, respectively. There was no significant difference between spruce and other wood species in internal bond strength. Boards made from high-density wood species showed better physical performance, whereas those made from low-density wood species (except pine) gave better mechanical properties. Strand-generalized characteristics, such as the slenderness ratio and specific surface, were analyzed for all investigated physical and mechanical properties. European larch, poplar, willow, and alder are potential wood species for manufacturing OSBs in future without mixing species, as they can replace spruce in the wood-based panel industry.

A variety of scattering-based, microscopy-based, and mobility-based methods are frequently used to probe the size distributions of colloidal nanoparticles with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) often considered to be the "gold standard". Charge detection mass spectrometry (CDMS) is an alternative method for nanoparticle characterization that can rapidly measure the mass and charge of individual nanoparticle ions with high accuracy. Two low polydispersity, ∼100 nm diameter nanoparticle size standards with different compositions (polymethyl methacrylate/polystyrene copolymer and 100% polystyrene) were characterized using both TEM and CDMS to explore the merits and complementary aspects of both methods. Mass and diameter distributions are rapidly obtained from CDMS measurements of thousands of individual ions of known spherical shape, requiring less time than TEM sample preparation and image analysis. TEM image-to-image variations resulted in a ∼1-2 nm range in the determined mean diameters whereas the CDMS mass precision of ∼1% in these experiments leads to a diameter uncertainty of just 0.3 nm. For the 100% polystyrene nanoparticles with known density, the CDMS and TEM particle diameter distributions were in excellent agreement. For the copolymer nanoparticles with unknown density, the diameter from TEM measurements combined with the mass from CDMS measurements enabled an accurate measurement of nanoparticle density. Differing extents of charging for the two nanoparticle standards measured by CDMS show that charging is sensitive to nanoparticle surface properties. A mixture of the two samples was separated based on their different extents of charging despite having overlapping mass distributions centered at 341.5 and 331.0 MDa.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) resulting from head impacts are a major public health concern, which prompted our research to investigate the complex relationship between the material properties of brain tissue and the severity of TBI. The goal of this research is to investigate how variations in brain and skull density influence the vulnerability of brain tissue to traumatic injury, thereby enhancing our understanding of injury mechanism. To achieve this goal, we employed a well-validated finite element head model (FEHM). The current investigation was divided into two phases: in the first one, three distinct brain viscoelastic materials that had been utilized in prior studies were analyzed. The review of the properties of these three materials has been meticulous, encompassing both the spectrum of mechanical properties and the behaviors that are relevant to the way in which brain tissue reacts to traumatic loading conditions. In the second phase, the material properties of both the brain and skull tissue, alongside the impact conditions, were held constant. After this step, the focus was directed towards the variation of density in the brain and skull, which was consistent with the results obtained from previous experimental investigations, in order to determine the precise impact of these variations in density. This approach allowed a more profound comprehension of the impacts that density had on the simulation results. In the first phase, Material No. 2 exhibited the highest maximum first principal strain value in the frontal region (emax=15.41% ), indicating lower stiffness to instantaneous deformation. This characteristic suggests that Material No. 2 may deform more extensively upon impact, potentially increasing the risk of injury due to its viscoelastic behavior. In contrast, Material No. 1, with a lower maximum first principal strain in the frontal region (emax=7.87%), displayed greater stiffness to instantaneous deformation, potentially reducing the risk of, Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)

Innovative Density Profiling of Asphalt Pavement - Interchange Configurations: Planning-Level Analysis Tool Identifies Expected Safety Performance - Alternative Uses of the Right-of-Way - The New George Washington Memorial Parkway Byway - Speed Safety Cameras.

Highway agencies are demonstrating significant interest in enhancing the quality assurance of asphalt pavement compaction by initiating the Transportation Pooled Fund project TPF-5(443). This pooled fund explores a nondestructive testing technology known as the density-profiling system (DPS). Currently, compaction assessment relies on field coring, which is invasive and time-consuming, or nuclear gauges, which offer spot evaluations of paving surfaces. However, the DPS uses air-coupled, ground-penetrating radar to provide continuous measurements for compaction assessment, which promises quicker data acquisition and broader coverage of paving surfaces. DPS technology holds great potential for advancing the current practice of compaction assessment for hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavements. In collaboration with the Transportation Pooled Fund Program project TPF-5(443), the FHWA’s Nondestructive Evaluation Program independently evaluates and validates DPS technology. This study examines the impact of temperature and moisture on DPS measurements. Furthermore, this study conducts an analytical investigation to understand the scanning boundary of DPS measurements. The analytical results demonstrated that DPS measurements are sensitive to a thin layer beneath the pavement surface. The report also documents how the edge effect affects measurements when DPS is used on laboratory HMA samples. The findings confirm the presence of measurement errors attributed to the edge effect. Consequently, the study proposes practical solutions to effectively mitigate these errors. Additionally, this study evaluates various models to correlate dielectric measurements obtained by DPS to the density information of laboratory HMA samples and finds that the linear regression fits the laboratory data well. Lastly, this report shares experiences and lessons learned from a field implementation of DPS for a paving project in Greenbelt, MD.

The negative effects of external trade on urban life have long been a subject of discussion, especially regarding its impact on central urban environments. Studies indicate that urban life decreases when retail moves out of city centers, leading to less activity and fewer spontaneous encounters in the city center. At the same time, sustainability issues and the creation of vibrant urban environments are highly prioritized by municipalities. The purpose of this thesis is to identify factors that can improve urban life in Borlänge city center and propose concrete improvements. Through a combination of site analysis, visual analysis, and literature review, a comprehensive urban analysis has been conducted. The work includes various field studies to understand both the strengths and weaknesses that characterize Borlänge city center. The results of the analysis have formed the basis for recommendations aimed at increasing the attractiveness and functionality of the city center. Suggestions include strengthening routes with high potential for urban life, overcoming physical and social barriers, reducing the dominance of car traffic, and integrating more green areas and meeting places. Through these measures, we strive to create a more inviting and sustainable urban environment that promotes social interaction and activity in Borlänge city center. This work demonstrates how the physical environment can be transformed to revive urban life and enhance the attractiveness of the city center, with the goal of creating a sustainable and lively city where people enjoy spending time., Externhandelns negativa effekter på stadslivet har länge varit ett ämne för diskussion, särskilt med avseende på hur den påverkar centrala stadsmiljöer. Studier visar att stadslivet minskar när detaljhandeln flyttar ut från stadskärnorna, vilket leder till mindre aktivitet och färre spontana möten i stadens centrum. Samtidigt är hållbarhetsfrågor och skapandet av levande stadsmiljöer högt prioriterade av kommunerna. Syftet med detta examensarbete är att identifiera faktorer som kan förbättra stadslivet i Borlänge centrum och föreslå konkreta förbättringar. Genom en kombination av platsanalyser, visuella analyser och litteraturstudier har en omfattande stadsanalys genomförts. Arbetet inkluderar olika fältstudier för att förstå både de styrkor och svagheter som karaktäriserar Borlänge centrum. Resultaten av analysen har legat till grund för rekommendationer som syftar till att öka attraktiviteten och funktionaliteten i stadskärnan. Förslagen inkluderar att stärka stråk med hög potential för stadslivet, övervinna fysiska och sociala barriärer, minska biltrafikens dominans, och integrera fler grönområden och mötesplatser. Genom dessa åtgärder strävar vi efter att skapa en mer inbjudande och hållbar stadsmiljö som främjar social interaktion och aktivitet i Borlänge centrum. Detta arbete visar hur den fysiska miljön kan omformas för att återuppliva stadslivet och stärka stadskärnans attraktivitet, med målet att skapa en hållbar och livfull stad där människor trivs och gärna vistas.

Beech wood, renowned for its diverse applications spanning construction, flooring, furniture, veneer, and plywood, holds a paramount position among industrial wood species. Nevertheless, the myriad of beech species worldwide, coupled with the dynamic impact of climate change, have produced structural variations within beech trees. Extensive research has scrutinized the physical and mechanical attributes of beech wood species across the globe. Findings reveal distinguishable mechanical strength, yet increased density leads to notable rates of shrinkage and swelling, somewhat constraining its utility in select domains. Identifying research gaps can create new efforts aimed at exploiting the potential of these wood resources. This paper outperforms a mere exploration of beech wood properties over the past two decades; it delves into the ramifications of climatic fluctuations, temperature shifts, wind dynamics, and soil composition. Given the lack of a comprehensive compendium documenting the full range of physical, mechanical, and microscopic attributes of the Fagus genus, this paper aims to compile information that integrates this multifaceted information.

In this communication, we have measured the densities and ultrasonic velocities for the binary mixtures of (Ortho Methoxy Aniline + Benzene) and (N-Methyl Aniline + Benzene) over the entire volume fraction range 0.1-1 at303K- 318K and at ambient pressure. The experimentally obtained data were used to evaluate different derived parameters such as adiabatic compressibility, Intermolecular free length, acoustic impedance, molar volume, molar sound velocity, molar compressibility, relative association, excess volume, and excess adiabatic compressibility. The outcome of all derived parameters is well explained by intermolecular interaction studies present in the non-aqueous binary organic liquid mixture. Moreover, the densities and ultrasonic velocities of the binary mixtures were used to compare different correlating relations. The negative values of the excess volume and excess adiabatic compressibility with volume fraction and temperature confirm the presence of strong interaction through dipole-dipole and dipole-induced dipole interactions in the studied systems., Full text license: CC BY 4.0

Increasing environmental awareness and the carbon-storing capability of wood have amplified its relevance as a building material. The demand for high-quality wood species necessitates exploring alternative, underutilized wood sources due to limited forest areas and premium wood volume. Consequently, the veneer-based industry is considering lower-value hardwood species like grey alder (Alnus Incania), black alder (Alnus glutinosa), and aspen (Populus tremula) as substitutes for high-quality birch (Betula pendula). Initially less appealing due to their lower density and mechanical properties, these species show promise through densification, which enhances their density, strength, and hardness. This study aims to enhance plywood screw withdrawal capacity and surface hardness by densifying low-density wood species and using them in plywood face-veneer layers, or in all layers. The relationship between the wood density, surface hardness, and screw withdrawal capacity of plywood made of low-value species like aspen and black alder is examined. Experimental work with a pilot-scale veneer and plywood production line demonstrates improved surface hardness (65% and 93% for aspen and black alder, respectively) and screw withdrawal capacity (16% and 35% for aspen and black alder, respectively) in densified face veneer plywood. This research highlights the potential of densified low-value wood species to meet construction requirements, expanding their practical applications., Validerad;2024;Nivå 2;2024-07-24 (signyg);Funder: Estonian Research Council (PRG2213); Environmental Investment Center (RE.4.08.22-0012);Fulltext license: CC BY

The effects of the addition of nanoparticles (NPs) of alumina (NA) and silica (NS) on the rheological properties of aqueous-based ceramic inks for material extrusion-based additive manufacturing (ME-AM) and sinterability of printed ceramic components were investigated. The inks were first designed using bimodal particle sizes of NPs with micro-alumina, and their solids fraction in printable inks was found to be dependent on the functionalization properties of NPs. NAs create a lubricating effect in the ink system and improve solids-loading in the ink. Meanwhile, NSs form silanol bonds in aqueous-based inks that increase viscosity and reduce solids-loading for a printable ME-AM ink. The inks containing NPs with higher solids-loading and optimized rheology were printed using ME-AM, and the printed components were sintered at 1400–1550 ºC. Adding NPs in the ink significantly improved the sinterability of printed shapes by enhancing sintering kinetics and filling-effects, with NS having a more significant effect than NA., Validerad;2024;Nivå 2;2024-06-28 (hanlid);Full text licence: CC BY

This study addresses the measurement of thermophysical properties in molten core materials (corium), which is crucial for modeling severe accidents in light water reactors. Due to the measurement challenges at temperatures above 3000 K, there is a significant lack of experimental data for corium. Focusing on a UO2-ZrO2 melt (atomic ratio U/Zr=0.456), density and viscosity measurements were conducted using aerodynamic levitation, a non-contact method chosen to avoid interactions between the samples and container walls. Samples were prepared using the pressing sintering method and levitated by argon gas above a conical converging-diverging nozzle. Density was measured using the cooling traces method under the axisymmetric ellipsoid hypothesis, while viscosity was measured by inducing damped oscillations which occurred when the levitated droplet was forced to oscillate around its resonant frequency through acoustic excitation, followed by the cessation of the acoustic excitation. The provided data and derived equations for the density and viscosity of the UO2-ZrO2 melt contribute to enriching the thermophysical property database for materials in nuclear reactors., QC 20240912

The Densest Subgraph Problem requires us to find, in a given graph, a subset of vertices whose induced subgraph maximizes a measure of density. The problem has received a great deal of attention in the algorithmic literature since the early 1970s, with many variants proposed and many applications built on top of this basic definition. Recent years have witnessed a revival of research interest in this problem with several important contributions, including some groundbreaking results, published in 2022 and 2023. This survey provides a deep overview of the fundamental results and an exhaustive coverage of the many variants proposed in the literature, with a special attention to the most recent results. The survey also presents a comprehensive overview of applications and discusses some interesting open problems for this evergreen research topic., QC 20240531

We consider a variant of the densest subgraph problem in networks with single or multiple edge attributes. For example, in a social network, the edge attributes may describe the type of relationship between users, such as friends, family, or acquaintances, or different types of communication. For conceptual simplicity, we view the attributes as edge colors. The new problem we address is to find a diverse densest subgraph that fulfills given requirements on the numbers of edges of specific colors. When searching for a dense social network community, our problem will enforce the requirement that the community is diverse according to criteria specified by the edge attributes. We show that the decision versions for finding exactly, at most, and at least h colored edges densest subgraph, where h is a vector of color requirements, are NP-complete, for already two colors. For the problem of finding a densest subgraph with at least h colored edges, we provide a linear-time constant-factor approximation algorithm when the input graph is sparse. On the way, we introduce the related at least h (non-colored) edges densest subgraph problem, show its hardness, and also provide a linear-time constant-factor approximation. In our experiments, we demonstrate the efficacy and efficiency of our new algorithms., Part of ISBN [9798400701719]QC 20240612

In this communication, we have measured the densities and ultrasonic velocities for the binary mixtures of (Ortho Methoxy Aniline + Benzene) and (N-Methyl Aniline + Benzene) over the entire volume fraction range 0.1-1 at303K- 318K and at ambient pressure. The experimentally obtained data were used to evaluate different derived parameters such as adiabatic compressibility, Intermolecular free length, acoustic impedance, molar volume, molar sound velocity, molar compressibility, relative association, excess volume, and excess adiabatic compressibility. The outcome of all derived parameters is well explained by intermolecular interaction studies present in the non-aqueous binary organic liquid mixture. Moreover, the densities and ultrasonic velocities of the binary mixtures were used to compare different correlating relations. The negative values of the excess volume and excess adiabatic compressibility with volume fraction and temperature confirm the presence of strong interaction through dipole-dipole and dipole-induced dipole interactions in the studied systems., Full text license: CC BY 4.0

Increasing environmental awareness and the carbon-storing capability of wood have amplified its relevance as a building material. The demand for high-quality wood species necessitates exploring alternative, underutilized wood sources due to limited forest areas and premium wood volume. Consequently, the veneer-based industry is considering lower-value hardwood species like grey alder (Alnus Incania), black alder (Alnus glutinosa), and aspen (Populus tremula) as substitutes for high-quality birch (Betula pendula). Initially less appealing due to their lower density and mechanical properties, these species show promise through densification, which enhances their density, strength, and hardness. This study aims to enhance plywood screw withdrawal capacity and surface hardness by densifying low-density wood species and using them in plywood face-veneer layers, or in all layers. The relationship between the wood density, surface hardness, and screw withdrawal capacity of plywood made of low-value species like aspen and black alder is examined. Experimental work with a pilot-scale veneer and plywood production line demonstrates improved surface hardness (65% and 93% for aspen and black alder, respectively) and screw withdrawal capacity (16% and 35% for aspen and black alder, respectively) in densified face veneer plywood. This research highlights the potential of densified low-value wood species to meet construction requirements, expanding their practical applications., Validerad;2024;Nivå 2;2024-07-24 (signyg);Funder: Estonian Research Council (PRG2213); Environmental Investment Center (RE.4.08.22-0012);Fulltext license: CC BY

The effects of the addition of nanoparticles (NPs) of alumina (NA) and silica (NS) on the rheological properties of aqueous-based ceramic inks for material extrusion-based additive manufacturing (ME-AM) and sinterability of printed ceramic components were investigated. The inks were first designed using bimodal particle sizes of NPs with micro-alumina, and their solids fraction in printable inks was found to be dependent on the functionalization properties of NPs. NAs create a lubricating effect in the ink system and improve solids-loading in the ink. Meanwhile, NSs form silanol bonds in aqueous-based inks that increase viscosity and reduce solids-loading for a printable ME-AM ink. The inks containing NPs with higher solids-loading and optimized rheology were printed using ME-AM, and the printed components were sintered at 1400–1550 ºC. Adding NPs in the ink significantly improved the sinterability of printed shapes by enhancing sintering kinetics and filling-effects, with NS having a more significant effect than NA., Validerad;2024;Nivå 2;2024-06-28 (hanlid);Full text licence: CC BY