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In order to investigate the possible influence of metallic environment on the alpha decay process, we have measured the Sm activities in the hosts of metal samarium and SmO . The Sm half-life was found to be (1.06±0.01)×10 y in metal samarium and (1.07±0.01)×10 y in SmO , respectively. No significant change has been observed within the experimental uncertainty. The absolute half-life presented here is consistent with the recommended value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a coupled heat and stress model, an artificial intelligence optimisation program was developed to optimise the process parameters in the continuous casting of steel. The program can be used to identify the key factors for the cracks of the strand and obtain the optimum process parameters of continuous casting. The optimisation program contains two models, one is the thermomechanical model developed using the finite difference method, and the other is the optimisation model developed using the subproblem approximation method. The whole program works by automatic iteration between the two models. This study has taken the stress constraint in the solidified shell into consideration when studying the metallurgical constraints. The application of the achieved optimum parameters would make it possible to run the caster at maximum productivity, with minimum cost and fewer defects. After manufacturing verification of this optimisation project, the incidence of cracks has reduced from 8% to 2%, and water consumption in the secondary cooling zone has been decreased by 25%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]