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Reticulated ceramic filters play an important role in the reduction of non-metallic inclusions in molten steel, which can improve the quality of steel products. In this work, periclase-magnesium aluminate spinel ceramic filters with Al 2 O 3 and TiO 2 functional coatings were fabricated by using microporous MgO powder, respectively. The effects of the functional coatings on their microstructure, properties and purification capacity on molten steel were studied. The filter with Al 2 O 3 functional coating exhibited the best mechanical properties owing to the good rheological properties of the coating slurry, as well as the formation of in-situ spinel layer connection between the Al 2 O 3 functional coating and the microporous MgO layer of the filter substrate. Compared with the filters without functional coating or with TiO 2 functional coating, the filter with Al 2 O 3 functional coating made more Al 2 O 3 inclusions deposit on the filter surface by physical adsorption due to the same chemical composition between the functional coating and inclusions, which significantly improved the adsorption capacity of filter for Al 2 O 3 inclusions in molten steel. Overall, the filter with Al 2 O 3 functional coating had the highest cold compressive strength of 1.4 MPa, a residual retention of cold compressive strength after thermal shock of 65.71 % and an efficiency of 36.56 % in reducing the total oxygen content of the steel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mimicking nature is an effective strategy for designing high performance materials. However, artificially constructing biomimetic materials with complex hierarchical structures remains a great challenge. Herein, a biomimetic, anisotropic, robust, thermoconductive, and high temperature-resistant porous SiC ceramic is reported to be used as a high temperature filter. The unidirectional pore channel structure of poplar wood is accurately inherited in biomorphic SiC ceramic by an in-situ carbothermal reduction reaction between wood-derived carbon precursors and SiO vapor generated from SiO particles. Due to the anisotropic architecture with vertically aligned and densely interconnected pore channels, the light-weight and high purity biomorphic SiC ceramic exhibits an excellent flexural strength of 41.63 MPa at ∼78.6% porosity, a high thermal conductivity of 10.50 W m−1 K−1 with ∼77.6% porosity, an anisotropic thermal conductivity factor of 5.79, and good thermal stability at ∼900 °C. Meanwhile, it demonstrates a high gas permeability (k 1 = 11.83 × 10−12 m2, k 2 = 1.86 × 10−6 m) with ∼81.9% porosity and a good filtration efficiency of 89.81% for PM > 2.5 μm under an extremely low pressure drop (0.69 kPa). These results indicate that this approach could open a new avenue for the design and preparation of high performance porous ceramics suitable as filters in high temperature environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research results presented in the article constitute the next stage of a planned series of experiments on the process of refining steel from a dispersive non-metallic phase by its filtration method. The paper presents the results of experiments carried out using an innovative design of multi-hole ceramic filters, the filter holes of which have an elliptical shape. Analyses of the macro and microstructure and purity of the steel before and after the filtration process reflect the course of the research and confirm that this can be an effective and cheap method of its refining from non-metallic inclusions. The results presented are the first of their kind in the world and confirm that the shape of the filter holes of multi-hole ceramic filters may have a significant impact on the efficiency of the steel filtration process. The non-metallic phase identified at the ceramic filter-steel interface corresponds to the reaction products of the deoxidation of aluminum steel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Size-based particle filtration has become indispensable in numerous biomedical and environmental applications. In this study, bioinspired by the filter-feeding mechanism (lobe filtration) of manta rays, we designed a U-shaped biomimetic gill rake filter that combined lobe filtration and Dean flow to filter monodisperse suspensions, bi-disperse suspensions and yeast cells. Compared with other equipment using the inertial focusing technology, our equipment can perform high-throughput (up to 8 mL min-1) and high-efficiency filtration of particles (maximum filtration efficiencies of 96.08% and 97.14% for 10 and 15 µm monodisperse suspensions at the optimum flow rate of 6 mL min-1). The complex velocity field of the micro-fluidic flow within the filter is numerically simulated, and in combination with experiments, a threshold for the flow rate is identified. When the inlet flow rate exceeds the threshold value, the efficiency of particle filtration is increased rapidly. Afterwards, by analysing the filtration mechanism, we develop three novel filtration processes. The equilibrium positions of the particles and yeast cells in the main channel are close to the outer wall at high flow rate, which diminishes the likelihood of particles and yeast cells entering the side channel. This configuration establishes a self-cleaning mechanism, ensuring prolonged and efficient operation of the filter with high-throughput processing. Furthermore, the influence of the filter lobe angle and channel width on the filtration efficiency and outlet flow rate ratio are explored, and an optimisation plan is prepared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coffee beverages are renowned for their complex chemical composition and sensory attributes. The Koar® filter holder, developed in Brazil, is an extraction method which utilizes percolation and is available in acrylic, stainless steel, ceramic, and porcelain variations. Thus, this study aimed to investigate how the manufacturing materials of Koar® filter holders impact the sensory profile of coffee beverages, as perceived by consumers. A group of 100 consumers were used, and the methods of check all that apply (CATA), and acceptance testing were applied. The results revealed significant variations in eight sensory attributes assessed by consumers. The beverages prepared with ceramic and porcelain filter holders exhibited similar sensory profiles, contrasting with those produced using acrylic and stainless steel. These sensory findings emphasize the impact of the Koar® filter holder material on the coffee beverage's sensory attributes and underscore the importance of understanding the specific perceptions and needs of the target audience. Practical applications: Considering the importance of the studies with consumers, this research presents findings that are very important for industries in the equipment production segment for the coffee beverage extraction process. Based on the results presented in this study, industries can develop products with specific materials that can enhance the sensorial attributes of the coffee beverage according to consumer preference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work discusses ceramic filter materials used as substrates to study biological objects by electron microscopy. The composition, structure, pore sizes, and morphology of ceramic substrates made of foamed silicate prior to and following the application of inverse silicon oxide opals were evaluated by x-ray diffraction analysis and SEM method. Adescription of the use of the obtained filtering substrates in an experiment with biological objects is given. The substrates seem promising for electron microscopy, since they can be used for sample preparation of biological objects with the use of metal spraying or ionic liquid. This technique, together with the filtering porous material and the technical capabilities of the microscope, preserves the physical characteristics of biological objects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online monitoring and real-time feedback on inclusions in molten metal are essential for metal quality control. However, existing methods for detecting aluminum melt inclusions face challenges, including interference, prolonged processing times, and latency. This paper presents the design and development of an online monitoring system for molten metal inclusions. Initially, the system facilitates real-time adjustment of signal acquisition parameters through a multiplexer. Subsequently, it employs a detection algorithm capable of swiftly extracting pulse peaks, with this task integrated into our proprietary host computer software to ensure timely detection and data visualization. Ultimately, we developed a monitoring device integrated with this online monitoring system, enabling the online monitoring of the aluminum alloy filtration process. Our findings indicate that the system can accurately measure the size and concentration of inclusions during the filtration process in real time, offering enhanced detection speed and stability compared to the industrial LiMCA CM (liquid metal cleanliness analyzer continuous monitoring) standard. Furthermore, our evaluation of the filtration process demonstrates that the effectiveness of filtration significantly improves with the increase in inclusion sizes, and the synergistic effect of combining CFF (ceramic foam filter) and MCF (metallics cartridge filter) filtration methods exceeds the performance of the CFF method alone. This system thus provides valuable technical support for optimizing filtration processes and controlling inclusion quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical modifications of proteins induced by ambient ozone (O 3) and nitrogen oxides (NO x) are of public health concerns due to their potential to trigger respiratory diseases. The laboratory and environmental exposure systems have been widely used to investigate their relevant mechanism in the atmosphere. Using bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model protein, we evaluated the two systems and aimed to reduce the uncertainties of both the reactants and products in the corresponding kinetic study. In the laboratory simulation system, the generated gaseous pollutants showed negligible losses. Ten layers of BSA were coated on the flow tube with protein extraction recovery of 87.4%. For environmental exposure experiment, quartz fiber filter was selected as the upper filter with low gaseous O 3 (8.0%) and NO 2 (1.7%) losses, and cellulose acetate filter was appropriate for the lower filter with protein extraction efficiency of 95.2%. The protein degradation process was observed without the exposure to atmospheric oxidants and contributed to the loss of protein monomer mass fractions, while environmental factors (e.g., molecular oxygen and ultraviolet) may cause greater protein monomer losses. Based on the evaluation, the study exemplarily applied the two systems to protein modification and both showed that O 3 promotes the protein oligomerization and nitration, while increased temperature can accelerate the oligomerization and increased relative humidity can inhibit the nitration in the environmental exposure samples. The developed laboratory and environmental systems are suitable for studying protein modifications formed under different atmospheric conditions. A combination of the two will further reveal the actual mechanism of protein modifications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a laboratory evaluation of the volatility and organic compositions of ultrafine particles (UFPs) generated from unused jet engine lubrication oil. The particle generation method was based on the evaporation of jet engine lubrication oil droplets in a heated quartz tube followed by the nucleation of oil vapors by cooling. Our experiments were not aimed at strictly simulating the particle formation processes in jet engines but exploring the possibility of generating UFPs having chemical properties similar to those of UFPs observed in the real atmosphere. The particle volatility was estimated by measuring the particle number concentrations upstream and downstream of a heated stainless-steel evaporation tube. The organic compositions of the UFPs were measured by thermal desorption – gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis of size-segregated aerosol samples collected on quartz fiber filters. The volatility and compositions of the UFPs varied significantly with the particle generation (quartz tube) temperature (TPG). We show that the evaporation of the jet engine lubrication oil droplets at TPG = 250 °C and subsequent nucleation by rapid cooling could form UFPs having volatility similar to that of the particles observed at Narita International Airport and composed of nearly intact forms of jet engine lubrication oil. Our results suggest that it is possible to generate UFPs that can consistently explain the chemical properties of the UFPs observed in the real atmosphere by the evaporation and nucleation of jet engine lubrication oil droplets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In present work, the novel Al2O3-C ceramic filter fabricated by using microporous corundum-spinel powder instead of dense Al2O3 powder and reinforced by SiC whiskers is proposed. The effects of Si powder content (0, 3, 6, and 9 wt. %) on the microstructures and mechanical properties of the filters were studied. After replacing the α-Al2O3 micro-powder with microporous corundum-spinel powder, the in situ spinel whiskers were formed inside the filter skeleton under the reducing atmosphere. The rough surface structure of the microporous powder increased the interface contact area with the small-sized carbon particles, resulting in a compact interface bonding in the filter skeleton and a higher cold compressive strength of the filter. When the Si powder content increased to 6-9 wt. %, the in-situ SiC whiskers were formed not only between the microporous powder, but also inside the pores near the surface of it by vapor-solid reaction mechanism in the filter skeleton. The SiC whiskers synergized with the microporous powder to form a more compact interface structure, thus remarkably enhancing their cold compressive strength and thermal shock resistance. Overall, the mechanical properties of the filters were significantly improved by the addition of 9 wt. % Si powder. The filter skeleton had an apparent porosity of 36.2% and a bulk density of 1.93 g/cm³. The filter also exhibited a high cold compressive strength of 1.59 MPa and a superior thermal shock resistance. It has the potential for better purification efficiency on molten steel in the future due to a rougher skeleton surface structure compared to existing Al2O3-C filters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous ceramic filters with high porosity and high filtration are in urgent need of high-temperature gas filtration. Here a lightweight and low thermal conductivity mullite fiber porous ceramic filter was prepared through vacuum filtration method using solution blow spun mullite fiber as the matrix material and silica sol as the high-temperature binder. Mullite fiber porous ceramic with a mass ratio of 10:1 has uniform pore structure, low density (0.58 g cm−3), high porosity (78.11%), high compressive strength (1.79 MPa), as well as low thermal conductivity (0.095 W m−1 K−1) at a sintering temperature of 1300 ℃. When the air flow is 6 L min−1, the pressure drop is 180 Pa, the filtration efficiency of PM 2.5 and PM 10–2.5 is 98.85% and 99.61%, respectively, and the filtration quality factor is 0.025 Pa−1. The mullite fiber porous ceramic filter have outstanding quality factor, which has broad application prospects in high-temperature gas filtration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tunable filters are vital not only for dynamic display but also in the miniaturized spectral imaging system. Yet, the present tunable devices possess low optical throughput, bulky volume, slow response, or complex configuration. In this paper, the study proposed and experimentally demonstrated a compact tunable filter module based on metagratings combined with liquid crystals (LC). By the synergetic effect between the birefringent LC and the dichroic metagratings, the module possesses distinct transmissive features by electrically tuning the LC material, resulting from the polarization interference effect. A simple nanoimprinting method, which is suitable for the mass production of nanostructures is adopted for low‐cost fabrication. These unique features endow the present tunable filter module with low cost, high optical throughput, and compact volume. As a proof of concept, a multispectral imager is built with this filter based on a commercial microscope. Experimental results show the system response is five times higher in optical throughput across the whole visible region than the traditional liquid crystal tunable filter and the signal‐to‐noise ratio can be improved by 7 dB. Considering the feasibility of nanoimprinting, this module paves the way for spectral imaging in low‐light conditions and on‐site scenarios such as tongue diagnosis and food quality inspection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mg(Ti 1– x Hf x)O 3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.1) microwave dielectric ceramics were synthesized by solid-state reaction method. The effects of Hf substitution for the Ti-site on the phase composition, structure, and microwave dielectric properties of MgTiO 3 ceramic were systematically investigated. The study demonstrated that Hf substitution significantly improved the quality factor of MgTiO 3 ceramic. A single phase was confirmed at x = 0.002 and 0.005 by XRD and SEM, while secondary phases were observed at x ≥ 0.02. The Rietveld refinement of XRD data implied that the distortion of [Ti(Hf)O 6 ] octahedron started with alleviation and then gradually deteriorated with an increase in Hf content. Raman spectra displayed that the frequencies of the vibrational modes were high when there was low distortion in [Ti(Hf)O 6 ] octahedron, manifesting that the low distortion weakened the effect of non-harmonic vibration. The quality factor of the samples with x ≤ 0.05 was far higher than that of undoped MgTiO 3 , which may be related to low distortion in [Ti(Hf)O 6 ] octahedron and high relative density. Notably, the excellent microwave dielectric properties of Q × f ∼336,829 GHz, ε r ∼17.2 and τ f ∼ - 49.7 ppm/°C were achieved for the Mg(Ti 0.995 Hf 0.005)O 3 ceramic. The greatly improved quality factor of MgTiO 3 -based microwave ceramics through Hf substitution makes it a suitable candidate material for ceramic filters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A liquid crystal is used as an electro-optical device with the advantages of low voltage driving, low power consumption, and thin flatness by utilizing its refractive index anisotropy (birefringence). In this research, a liquid crystal tunable filter (LCTF) with control of a main peak wavelength λ0 and a full-width Δλ at half maximum is developed. The device contains two stacking liquid crystal layers with different wavelength dependences of birefringence Δn with their optical axes perpendicular to each other and controlling the light wavenumbers in a complementary manner (S-ECB). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical photonic crystal channel drop filters (CDFs) are widely used due to the sensitivity of individual wavelength among the group of channels in optical communication networks. However, most of the existing filtering scheme still suffer from low transmission efficiency. Here, we propose an eight-channel CDFs with narrow bandwidth and high transmission based on a dual positive hexagonal nested array which is sandwiched between two parallel line defect waveguides. The circular dielectric rods with different radius are arranged in the ring resonant cavity to diminish light leakage and, therefore, increase drop efficiency and quality factor Q. The results show that the drop efficiency and Q factor of the nested cavity CDF can achieve 99% and 5033, and the average values of the cascaded eight-channel CDFs are found up to 92.73%, 3217, respectively, and the channel crosstalk is between − 61.92 and − 14.90 dB. The proposed CDFs offer highly selective spectrum filtering capabilities, showing great potential in high-precision optical sensing and optical communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed an endoscopic hyperspectral imaging (eHSI) system and evaluated its performance in analyzing tissues within tissue phantoms and orthotopic mouse pancreatic tumor models. Our custom-built eHSI system incorporated a liquid crystal tunable filter. To assess its tissue discrimination capabilities, we acquired images of tissue phantoms, distinguishing between fat and muscle regions. The system underwent supervised training using labeled samples, and this classification model was then applied to other tissue phantom images for evaluation. In the tissue phantom experiment, the eHSI effectively differentiated muscle from fat and background tissues. The precision scores regarding fat tissue classification were 98.3% for the support vector machine, 97.7% for the neural network, and 96.0% with a light gradient-boosting machine algorithm, respectively. Furthermore, we applied the eHSI system to identify tumors within an orthotopic mouse pancreatic tumor model. The F-score of each pancreatic tumor-bearing model reached 73.1% for the KPC tumor model and 63.1% for the Pan02 tumor models. The refined imaging conditions and optimization of the fine-tuning of classification algorithms enhance the versatility and diagnostic efficacy of eHSI in biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peculiarities of sintering of foamy ceramic filters based on submicron aluminum oxide powders with additions of titanium oxide and manganese dioxide nanopowders are considered. The processes of removal of polymeric and binder paraffin material during sintering have been studied. The physical and mechanical properties of the obtained porous permeable filters with a foamy structure were analyzed in details. At a sintering temperature in an air atmosphere of 1350 °C, sufficiently high physical and mechanical properties were obtained, which made it possible to use the developed filters as catalyst carriers for vehicle exhaust gases. Bench comparative tests have shown that ceramic filters with a foamed structure are promising catalysts for afterburning car exhaust gases instead of ceramic honeycomb blocks of catalyst carriers. The developed technology allows reducing the sintering temperature of porous foam ceramic filters to 1350 °C and replacing expensive high-temperature ceramic heaters with cheaper nickel-chromium ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refractories have a significant impact on the cleanliness of molten steel, especially when utilized as ceramic filters. To explore the feasibility of applying rare‐earth oxides in ceramic filters, the interactions between CeO2/CeAlO3 functional refractories and steels with different Al contents are explored, and compared with the microporous magnesia refractory. In the test of CeO2 refractory, the total oxygen (T.O) content significantly increases, while the dissolved Al content obviously decreases in 38CrMoAl steel (0.876 wt% [Al]). Furthermore, the T.O contents in 38CrMoAl and X70 steel (0.040 wt% [Al]) in the test of CeAlO3 refractory are 22.9% and 70.9% of that in the test of microporous magnesia refractory, respectively. Meanwhile, the loss of dissolved Al in steel caused by the interaction between CeAlO3 refractory and steel is relatively small. Therefore, CeAlO3 is relatively stable after contact with molten steel and promising to be applicated in the ceramic filter for improving the cleanliness of molten steel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the novel Al 2 O 3 -based ceramic filter prepared by replacing dense Al 2 O 3 raw material with microporous corundum-spinel raw material is proposed and enhanced. The effects of nano-Al 2 O 3 powder content (0, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 wt%) on the rheological properties of the slurries, microstructures, pore characteristics and mechanical properties of the filters were investigated. When the nano-Al 2 O 3 powder content increased from 0 to 5 wt%, the rheological properties of the slurries were optimized, resulting in a larger thickness diameter and uniform distribution of the filter skeleton. The nano-Al 2 O 3 powder with a high reactivity accelerated the diffusion mass transfer rate of ions and increased the sintering driving force, thus promoting the development and growth of the spinel grains. It also led to the formation of more spinel neck connections between the microporous corundum-spinel particles, which enhanced the cold compressive strength and thermal shock resistance of the filters, while the pore size slightly increased due to the spinel volume expansion between the particles. When the nano-Al 2 O 3 powder content further reached 7.5 wt%, the yield stress of the slurry increased markedly due to the agglomeration phenomenon, leading to an uneven distribution of the filter skeleton and a lower cold compressive strength of the filter. Overall, the mechanical properties of the novel Al 2 O 3 -based ceramic filters were greatly enhanced by the addition of 5 wt% nano-Al 2 O 3 powder. The filter skeleton had a bulk density of 2.19 g/cm3 and an apparent porosity of 41.8%. The novel Al 2 O 3 -based ceramic filter also exhibited a high cold compressive strength of 2.37 MPa and an excellent thermal shock resistance. It contained a rougher surface structure compared to existing filters and has the potential for better purification efficiency on molten metal in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling particulate matter (PM) emissions to the atmosphere in industrial processes is critical for a safe and healthy environment. Because of its high strength and thermal stability, silicon carbide (SiC) is among the best materials for producing hot gas filters to be coupled to sugarcane bagasse-fired boilers in Brazil and India. In this study, we evaluated the performance of asymmetric SiC-based filters of different features for removing fine PM with particle sizes ranging from 90 to 3000 nm. The collection efficiency of the asymmetric filter made of SiC/mullite support with no pore former, porosity of 31–33 %, and permeability of (0.17–0.30) × 10−11 m2 with a coating thickness of 109–138 μm, effective pore size of 19–26 μm, and effective collector diameter of 64–86 μm was higher than 99 % for PM with size greater than 0.60 μm. The SiC formulation with mullite and pore former also presented promising performance. The resulting pressure drop remained within the range reported for commercial hot gas filters. Over 99 % of the mass of soot and fly ash particles generated during sugarcane bagasse combustion exceeds the MPPS range found for filters, which was between 0.16 and 0.36 μm. Therefore, the SiC asymmetric filters presenting mullite in their formulation are anticipated to meet current international emission standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • ACs with different DAP loadings were evaluated for adsorptive removal of FA. • Adsorption experiments were conducted in a batch reactor using portable air purifiers. • The 30%-DAP/AC demonstrated a maximum 88.3% FA removal efficiency. • AC only achieved 24% FA removal efficiency, a much weaker performance. • FA adsorption onto DAP/AC involved covalent and non-covalent interactions. It is of significant practical interest to develop high-performance air purifier (AP) for removing carcinogenic volatile organic compounds present ubiquitously in indoor air (e.g., formaldehyde (FA)). In this regard, a portable AP system was designed by loading honeycomb ceramic filters with diaminopropane (DAP)-appended activated carbon (AC). The maximum removal efficiencies (REs) of AP loaded with 10, 20, 30, and 50 %-DAP/AC were 26.2, 28, 88.3, and 89.4 %, respectively, against 5 ppm FA (at 160 L min−1). Hence, the 30 % DAP unit was used mainly in this work. The removal efficiency of 30 %-DAP/AC (160 L min−1), when tested against 2 ppm FA, decreased from 90.3 to 73.2 % with an increase in relative humidity from 0 to 60 %. The performance of the AP unit, when assessed kinetically in terms of the clean air delivery rate (CADR), reached as high as 10.2 L min−1 at the flow rate of 160 L min−1. Isotherm analysis further demonstrated the complex multilayered adsorption behavior of FA. Based on the density functional theory (DFT) simulation, the superiority of DAP/AC for FA adsorption can be attributed to the synergy of covalent (chemisorption) and non-covalent (pore filling and film diffusion) interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling particulate matter (PM) emissions to the atmosphere in industrial processes is critical for a safe and healthy environment. Because of its high strength and thermal stability, silicon carbide (SiC) is among the best materials for producing hot gas filters to be coupled to sugarcane bagasse-fired boilers in Brazil and India. In this study, we evaluated the performance of asymmetric SiC-based filters of different features for removing fine PM with particle sizes ranging from 90 to 3000 nm. The collection efficiency of the asymmetric filter made of SiC/mullite support with no pore former, porosity of 31–33 %, and permeability of (0.17–0.30) × 10−11 m2 with a coating thickness of 109–138 μm, effective pore size of 19–26 μm, and effective collector diameter of 64–86 μm was higher than 99 % for PM with size greater than 0.60 μm. The SiC formulation with mullite and pore former also presented promising performance. The resulting pressure drop remained within the range reported for commercial hot gas filters. Over 99 % of the mass of soot and fly ash particles generated during sugarcane bagasse combustion exceeds the MPPS range found for filters, which was between 0.16 and 0.36 μm. Therefore, the SiC asymmetric filters presenting mullite in their formulation are anticipated to meet current international emission standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study extracted nanocellulose crystals from South African waste corncobs via liquid hot water pretreatment and alkali treatment. The pretreatment process was designed and optimized using Central Composite Design (CCD) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM), respectively setting temperature (150-200 °C), time (10-60 min), and solid loading rate (3-10% w/w) as input variables. After pretreatment, the residue was treated with sodium hydroxide (2%wt) at 90 °C for 90 min. The extracted nanocellulose crystal was filtered, washed with deionized water, and dried in an oven. The characterization of the nanocellulose crystal was carried out based on standard procedures. The positive correlations between the input variables were observed, whereby a rise in the pretreatment conditions improved the nanocellulose crystal yield. Hence, the study obtained an optimum yield of 55.5% at 200 °C, 10% w/w, and 60 min. The surface morphology showed a more porous and rougher surface, and the crystallinity analysis indicated that run 7 had the most crystalline nanocellulose crystal with a crystallinity index of 57.3%. The study revealed that nanocellulose crystals could be extracted from corncobs via liquid hot water pretreatment and alkali treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years increased research efforts and environmental improvements have been directed towards the preventive conservation of the monumental, unvarnished oil paintings on canvas (1909–1916) by Edvard Munch (1863–1944) housed in the University of Oslo Aula. Surface soiling of the paintings has been a documented issue since their display, and the modern-day effect of air-borne particulates and gases on the painting surfaces remains hitherto undocumented. For the first time in the Aula, this study has measured the in-situ time-dependent mass deposit of air pollution onto vertical surfaces over the period of one year (2021–2022). Concomitant measurements of the concentrations of ozone (O3) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were also taken, to complement periodic data from 2020. The mass deposit was measured through incremental weight changes of Teflon membrane filters, and quartz filters for analysis of elemental/organic carbon (EC/OC), whilst the gaseous pollutants were measured using passive gas samplers. Indoor-to-outdoor ratios (I/O) for O3 were noted to be higher than those suggested by earlier data, whereas NO2 I/O ratios were found to be lower, indicating a stronger oxidising atmosphere in the Aula. Just over half of the deposited mass on the quartz filters was found to be OC, with no EC detected. Surprisingly, an overall decrease in the mass deposit from three to twelve months was measured on the Teflon membrane filters. It was hypothesised, based on models reported in the literature, that the source of the OC on the filters was mainly gaseous, semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), which were present in an adsorption/desorption equilibrium that was dependent on possible SVOC emission episodes, relative humidity levels, gaseous oxidative reactions and the particulate matter deposit. A simple mathematical model is proposed to rationalise the observed mass deposits on the filters, together with a discussion of uncertainties affecting the measurements. The hypothesis preliminarily indicates the possible and previously unconsidered role of SVOCs on the initial film formation of soiling layers on the Aula paintings, and could bear implications for their monitoring in the preventive care of unvarnished oil paintings on canvas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Machine learning using the ANN approach is presented in this paper to design 101 channels of optical DEMUX in the range of 1300–1400 nm. This work is used to envisage the optical parameters of silicon grating structure such as the thickness of SiO and Si which are the decisive factors to allow the desired signal through the structure to realize optical DEMUX. This is accomplished by training an ANN model with a few pre-defined optical DEMUX parameters which are obtained beforehand by the plane wave expansion method. Here, the ANN model is implemented in the Tensor Flow framework of Google Colaboratory Network (Colab) which consists of five hidden layers of ReLU activation besides the input and output linear activation nodes. Besides this, the optical parameters collected from the ANN model are used to simulate through the PWE method for validation by observing the reflectance characteristics curve and found that most of the values are satisfied to realize the optical VLSI DEMUX. The outcomes of the present work could be beneficial in the field of optical VLSI systems pertaining to the optical interconnect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-cost ceramic water filters are a very effective point-of-use technology for removing bacteria and protozoa from drinking water. The filters are made from locally sourced clay and a porogen materials such as sawdust. It is recommended that the sawdust be sieved to 30-sieve (600 μm) to make reliable filters. However, the size distribution of sawdust is usually broad and can extend below 100 μm. This study divided 30-sieve sawdust into four narrower size distributions and made filter disks for measurement of hydraulic conductivity and bulk density. Additionally, the microstructure of the materials was examined in three dimensions by micro-CT. The results showed that, independent of sawdust particle size, the void volume fraction in the filter increased linearly with the weight fraction of sawdust. In contrast, the permeability coefficient increased non-linearly as the fraction of sawdust increased. The magnitude of the permeability was higher for the larger sawdust particles when the sawdust fraction was 10 wt% or higher. Three-dimensional imaging of the pore structure in the filters suggested that the non-linear increase in permeability with increasing weight fraction of sawdust may be associated with increased interaction of the cavities created by the sawdust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swine confinement buildings represent workplaces with high biological air pollution. It is suspected that individual components of inhalable air are causatives of chronic respiratory disease that are regularly detected among workers. In order to understand the relationship between exposure and stress, it is necessary to study the components of bioaerosols in more detail. For this purpose, bioaerosols from pig barns were collected on quartz filters and analysed via a combinatorial approach of 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and metaproteomics. The study reveals the presence of peptides from pigs, their feed and microorganisms. The proportion of fungal peptides detected is considered to be underrepresented compared to bacterial peptides. In addition, the metaproteomic workflow enabled functional predictions about the discovered peptides. Housekeeping proteins were found in particular, but also evidence for the presence of bacterial virulence factors (e.g., serralysin‐like metalloprotease) as well as plant (e.g., chitinase) and fungal allergens (e.g., alt a10). Metaproteomic analyses can thus be used to identify factors that may be relevant to the health of pig farmers. Accordingly, such studies could be used in the future to assess the adverse health potential of an occupationally relevant bioaerosol and help consider defined protective strategies for workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new approach in the development of calcium aluminate (CA) coatings for ceramic foam filters for steel melt filtration is presented. This approach is based on applying an environmentally friendly binder system based on lactose and tannin. The use of such a binder was previously demonstrated for the matrix of carbon-bonded alumina filters. In this research, the influence of the total solid content, the binder content, and the centrifugation speed on the coated ceramic foam filters' final properties was studied. All of the prepared coating slips were analyzed in terms of their rheology. The most promising slips were applied on carbon-bonded alumina filters, which were prepared using a lactose- and tannin-based binder system. For the selected coating slips, three different centrifugation speeds (600, 1000, and 1400 rpm) were used to optimize the coating layer thickness and the overall amount of the coating material applied to the filter. The coated and thermally treated filters were tested in terms of their cold crushing strength. Furthermore, the microstructure of the filters and mainly the coating layer thickness were studied. It was observed that both the centrifugation speed and the total solid content in the coating slip have a major impact on the filter properties. The most promising results were obtained for a coating containing 72.5 wt% of total solids applied at 1000 rpm centrifugation speed. This batch of coated samples showed a cold crushing strength of more than double the value obtained for the uncoated reference, while having a uniform coating layer with the thickness of ∼177 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, to develop ceramic foam filters (CFFs) with high porosity and strength, porous β-SiAlON ceramic foam was prepared using Si, α-Al 2 O 3 , and AlN via foam impregnation. Experiments were performed to investigate the effects of the slurry solid content, impregnation times, and sintering temperature on the sample properties. The best green bodies were obtained at a slurry solid content of ∼70 wt%, and the sample subjected to two impregnation times effectively filled the defects. The sintering temperature was found to affect the phase composition, microstructure, sintering behavior, mechanical properties, and oxidation resistance of β-SiAlON ceramic foams. Granular β-SiAlON started to develop at 1550 °C and was almost completely developed at 1600 °C. After sintering at 1650 °C, the porosity remained as high as 85.93% and the compressive strength reached 1.57 MPa. In a nonisothermal oxidation experiment, the maximum oxidation weight gain rate was 14.1% and the sample strength still reached 1.54 MPa at 1600 °C. A high sintering temperature promoted the development of material phases and liquefaction of grains, while the oxidized surface generated an amorphous layer with a high melting point, effectively preventing oxygen diffusion. Therefore, β-SiAlON can be employed to develop CFFs with high strength and excellent oxidation resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonlinear ultrasonic non-destructive testing (NDT) is a widely used method for detecting micro-damages in various materials and structures due to its high sensitivity and directional capability. However, the extraction and modulation of extremely weak nonlinear ultrasonic signals is quite a challenge in practical applications. Therefore, this paper focuses on the second harmonic modulation signal method in nonlinear ultrasonic NDT and proposes the design of the phononic crystal filter (PC filter) to achieve this filtering function. Through finite element simulations, it is demonstrated that the filtering frequency of the filter is influenced by the structural configuration, material wave speed, and geometric characteristics. Then, the design method for cubic PC filters is established. Furthermore, a time-domain finite element method is introduced to verify the filtering ability of the filter and further validate the rationality of this design approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a comprehensive investigation of the ultraviolet-filtration properties of a quasi-one-dimensional photonic crystal using the transfer matrix method. The photonic crystal structure forms a periodic stack that exhibits photonic suppression regions. By tailoring the layer thicknesses, we have designed a photonic crystal filter that selectively transmits ultraviolet light while efficiently suppressing unwanted wavelengths. Moreover, we demonstrate that a similar effect can be achieved by introducing an interlayer air gap, which, in turn, makes it possible to adjust the system during operation. Through rigorous simulations, the transmission characteristics of the proposed photonic crystal filter have been analyzed. The simulation results demonstrate that the filter exhibits a high degree of ultraviolet light transmission within a specific wavelength range, while effectively suppressing other wavelengths in the visible and near-infrared regions. The ability to selectively transmit ultraviolet light can be utilized in various fields, such as solar energy harvesting, ultraviolet photodetection, and optical sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD), along with other neurodegenerative disorders, remains a challenge for clinicians, mainly because of the incomplete knowledge surrounding its etiology and inefficient therapeutic options. Considering the central role of amyloid beta (Aβ) in the onset and evolution of AD, Aβ-targeted therapies are among the most promising research directions. In the context of decreased Aβ elimination from the central nervous system in the AD patient, the authors propose a novel therapeutic approach based on the "Cerebrospinal Fluid Sink Therapeutic Strategy" presented in previous works. This article aims to demonstrate the laborious process of the development and testing of an effective nanoporous ceramic filter, which is the main component of an experimental device capable of filtrating Aβ from the cerebrospinal fluid in an AD mouse model. Methods: First, the authors present the main steps needed to create a functional filtrating nanoporous ceramic filter, which represents the central part of the experimental filtration device. This process included synthesis, functionalization, and quality control of the functionalization, which were performed via various spectroscopy methods and thermal analysis, selectivity measurements, and a biocompatibility assessment. Subsequently, the prototype was implanted in APP/PS1 mice for four weeks, then removed, and the nanoporous ceramic filter was tested for its filtration capacity and potential structural damages. Results: In applying the multi-step protocol, the authors developed a functional Aβ-selective filtration nanoporous ceramic filter that was used within the prototype. All animal models survived the implantation procedure and had no significant adverse effects during the 4-week trial period. Post-treatment analysis of the nanoporous ceramic filter showed significant protein loading, but no complete clogging of the pores. Conclusions: We demonstrated that a nanoporous ceramic filter-based system that filtrates Aβ from the cerebrospinal fluid is a feasible and safe treatment modality in the AD mouse model. The presented prototype has a functional lifespan of around four weeks, highlighting the need to develop advanced nanoporous ceramic filters with anti-biofouling properties to ensure the long-term action of this therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ceramic filter amended with iron (Fe) has proven to be a potential low‐cost method for arsenic (As) removal from groundwater. The presence of Fe, phosphate (P), and silicate (Si) significantly affects the As removal efficiency of the ceramic filter, which has not been passably investigated. The present research aimed to examine the effect of Fe, P, and (or) Si presence as single or in combination on As (III) removal from synthetics groundwater by a low‐cost iron amended ceramic filter (IACF). Laboratory‐scale filtration experiments at different compositions of Fe, P, Si, and As (III) were conducted by the IACF fabricated with a ceramic candle and iron netting box. Fe (II) in synthetic groundwater positively impacted As (III) removal. At a concentration of 2 mg/L of Fe (II), the As levels in the effluent decreased to less than the maximum contamination level (MCL) of 50 μg/L. Groundwater P concentration needed less than 3 mg/L or Si concentrations required less than 35 mg/L to effectively reduce As (III) to below the MCL at 5 mg/L of groundwater Fe (II). The cumulative effect of P and Si on As removal was found to be more significant than distinct contributions. The presence of 2 mg/L P and 35 mg/L or higher Si in the groundwater cumulatively reduced the As removal performance from 92% to 63%, and the MCL was not met. The negative impact of P and Si on As (III) removal followed the order of (P + Si) > P > Si. P competed with As for adsorption sites during the process, while Si inhibited the Fe release and floc formation, significantly reducing As removal performance. The study findings can potentially contribute to optimizing IACF as a low‐cost method for As removal from groundwater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, five sets of MgO-based ceramic filters were prepared using porous MgO powder and α-Al 2 O 3 micro-powder as raw materials. The effect of α-Al 2 O 3 content on the microstructures, mechanical properties and purification efficiency of MgO-based filters were investigated via SEM, EDS, and immersion test in molten steel, etc. The results indicate that the reactive sintering between α-Al 2 O 3 and MgO promoted the formation and growth of neck connections of magnesium aluminate spinel between grains, increased the density of the filter skeleton, and decreased the pore size inside the skeleton. The higher density and smaller pore size of the skeleton, as well as the neck connection of spinel and crack deflection effect caused by magnesium aluminate spinel, comprehensively improved the strength and thermal shock resistance of MgO-based ceramic filters. Furthermore, the results from the immersion test in molten steel revealed that an appropriate amount of high-temperature liquid phase, smaller pore size, and in-situ generated spinel were beneficial for the filters to adsorb dissolved aluminum, dissolved oxygen, alumina inclusions, and secondary spinel inclusions in the steel. The filter with 20 wt% α-Al 2 O 3 had the best overall performance with a compressive strength of 2.35 MPa, a compressive strength after thermal shock test of 1.91 MPa and an efficiency of 77.3% in reducing the total oxygen content of the steel. • In this work, MgO-based ceramic filters with excellent overall performance were successfully prepared and tested by steel immersion. • The mechanical properties and purification efficiency of MgO-based filters were improved via the introduction of α-Al 2 O 3. • The effects of α-Al 2 O 3 content on the microstructures and properties of MgO-based filters were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this contribution, the widely used non-ecological production process of ceramic foam filters was modified into an environmentally friendly procedure, in which no hazardous materials are involved. Firstly, a large number of carbon-bonded ceramic foam filters were prepared by this approach. In the next step, a thin coating consisting of graphene-doped, carbon-bonded calcium aluminate was applied over these filters. Reference samples as well as coated samples were analyzed in detail with a focus on the phase composition, microstructural analysis, and mechanical as well as thermal properties. The results confirmed that the application of the developed coating improved the cold crushing strength of the ceramic foam filters. In addition, by application of graphene nanoadditives, it is also possible to vary the surface microroughness which will subsequently enable improved efficiency of inclusions elimination from metal melts during the filtration process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-cost, long-term measures of air pollution concentrations are often needed for epidemiological studies and policy analyses of household air pollution. The Washington passive sampler (WPS), an ultra-low-cost method for measuring the long-term average levels of light-absorbing carbon (LAC) air pollution, uses digital images to measure the changes in the reflectance of a passively exposed paper filter. A prior publication on WPS reported high precision and reproducibility. Here, we deployed three methods to each of 10 households in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia: one PurpleAir for PM2.5; two ultrasonic personal aerosol samplers (UPAS) with quartz filters for the thermal-optical analysis of elemental carbon (EC); and two WPS for LAC. We compared multiple rounds of 4-week-average measurements. The analyses calibrating the LAC to the elemental carbon measurement suggest that 1 µg of EC/m3 corresponds to 62 PI/month (R2 = 0.83). The EC-LAC calibration curve indicates an accuracy (root-mean-square error) of 3.1 µg of EC/m3, or ~21% of the average elemental carbon concentration. The RMSE values observed here for the WPS are comparable to the reported accuracy levels for other methods, including reference methods. Based on the precision and accuracy results shown here, as well as the increased simplicity of deployment, the WPS may merit further consideration for studying air quality in homes that use solid fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand of high-quality casting is driving the use of ceramic foam filters in casting processes. The primary purpose of using a filter in a casting process is to remove impurities from the molten metal and to stabilize the flow of molten metal by slowing the flow rate. However, only a few studies have been conducted on the specific effects of ceramic foam filters on fluid flow during the casting process. In this study, a water model equipment is used to study the effect of ceramic foam filters on fluid flow, and commercial filters from three domestic and foreign companies are used. The reliability of the data obtained from the water model experiment is verified by an actual casting experiment. Finally, with the verified water model experimental data, the filter is modeled, and a computational fluid simulation is conducted to study the effect of the installation location of the filter on the casting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the indoor environmental quality in the university laboratories which are used for different purposes. Within this aim, thermal comfort parameters (temperature, relative humidity, air speed, lighting), carbon dioxide (CO2) were monitored and respirable particles (PM4, smaller than 4 µm) were collected on the quartz filter in five laboratories for 8 hours. The mass concentration of the dust collected on filter were determined, after that the filters were decomposed, and elemental analysis were performed for Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Ni, Mn and Pb elements using by Graphite Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. It was determined that the 8-hour average PM4 concentrations varied between 57.0-186.3 µg/m3, the highest average PM4 concentration was observed in Lab C where pyrolyze and solid waste combustion activities were performed. It was observed that the average 8-hour CO2 concentrations varied between 484-666 ppm and during the laboratory lesson, CO2 concentration raised to 2000 ppm in Lab B and exceeded the limit value of 1000 ppm. The 8-hour average temperature, relative humidity, lighting, and air velocity in all laboratories changed between 22.0-24.0 0C, 21.8-41.2%, 156-415 Lux and 0.05-0.10 m/s, respectively. We observed that lighting level in the laboratories did not comply with the standard (500-750 Lux). Opening of windows or door might be prevent increasing of CO2 during laboratory lesson with high occupancy. The lighting system in all laboratories should be improved. We also recommend that using of hood exhaust fan system to increase ventilation rates and filtration of particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceramic filters with gradient hole density structures will be an attractive candidate for high-temperature alloy melt filtration because it combines good mechanical properties with filtration requirements. This paper focuses on the structural design, mechanical properties and printed forming mechanism of the new pattern Al 2 O 3 filters with gradient hole density structures (Al 2 O 3 -GHDS). Al 2 O 3 -GHDS filters were designed based on a topologically optimized lattice and then fabricated by stereolithography (SLA) printing technology using our developed Al 2 O 3 paste system. It was found that GHDS filters exhibited the resultant performances combining wide hole sizes and excellent structural stability, and their compressive strength, energy absorption value and bending strength were 4.7 MPa, 77.7 kJ/m3 and 6.7 MPa, respectively, which far exceeded the mechanical properties of the traditional ceramic foam filters. The thermal shock resistance of GHDS filters can reach 2.2 MPa, which was nearly five times the traditional ceramic foam filters. The GHDS ceramic filter finally can exhibit the hole diameter largely ranging from 0.76 mm to 5.35 mm, which covered the hole sizes from 10ppi to 40ppi uniform hole density structure (UHDS). Furthermore, the inner holes of our built GHDS ceramic filters also had the good connectivity without plugging phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper foundries have started using ceramic foam filters to increase copper melt purity and improve cast quality. For the selection of filter materials, the interaction between the copper melt and the filter materials is a significant criterion. This study aims to determine interactions and wetting behavior between commercially available filter materials and pure copper melt using sessile drop technique. SEM/EDX analysis revealed no interactions between Cu and the filter materials, ZrO 2 , Al 2 O 3 –ZrO 2 , Al 2 O 3 –P, and Al 2 O 3 –Si. Although Cu and SiC showed no visible reaction, a kind of Cu infiltration into the SiC substrate was observed. The wetting behavior was different for the different substrate materials characterized by the increasing contact angle from Cu/ZrO 2 , Cu/SiC, Cu/Al 2 O 3 –ZrO 2 , Cu/Al 2 O 3 –P to Cu/Al 2 O 3 –Si. [Display omitted] • Copper melt filtration can help improve melt purity. • Interactions between copper melt & filter materials can be determined using sessile drop test and SEM/EDX Analysis. • The test atmosphere has a large influence on the copper/filter material interaction. • The copper/tested industrial filter materials have contact angles >100°. • Copper infiltration was observed in the SiC substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate the use of a low-cost liquid-crystal-based wavelength-tunable filter and CMOS video camera to add hyperspectral imaging capabilities to a probe station equipped with a simple optical microscope. The resultant setup is used to rapidly resolve the spectral and spatial variations in electroluminescence typically observed for InxGa1−xN/GaN light-emitting diodes. Applying standard statistical analyses of variation within the multivariate datasets, such as moments and principal components, we observe inhomogeneities on a spectral scale significantly smaller than the bandwidth of the tunable filter. The resultant tool offers an alternative to scanning beam luminescence techniques for high-throughput hyperspectral analysis of optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the fluid flow characteristics of conventional Ceramic Foam Filters (CFFs) of grades 30 and 50, a 2D macro-scale geometry was generated by converting pixel grid images of the filters into vector format images. The flow behaviour through the filter channels was then numerically modelled using the Stocks equation within the Creeping Flow interface of COMSOL Multiphysics®. Through modelling, the average interstitial velocity was estimated and found to be higher than the corresponding value obtained from the Dupuit–Forchheimer equation. The discrepancy obtained suggested that the flow behaviour within the filter channels differed from that based on the simplified assumptions of the equation. The porosity and permeability of the CFFs were evaluated during the post-processing stage using surface integration and user-defined equations. The experimentally determined porosity closely matched the values obtained from the simulation model, demonstrating the reliability of the numerical approach. However, the permeability values from the simulation of CFFs of grades 30 and 50 were higher than those obtained experimentally. This discrepancy can be attributed to the larger channels in the generated geometrical pattern compared to the original CFF structure. The present findings highlight the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in developing a representative macro-scale geometry for CFFs and in simulating fluid flow behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focusses on a short-term characterisation of atmospheric aerosols from three locations in southeast of Poland with different land use characteristics, population density and sources of pollution (Katowice: urban-industrial; Strzyżowice near Lublin: rural; Kielce: urban). Twenty-four hour PM2.5 and PM10 samples were collected on the quartz filter and their chemical compositions were monitored and measured using OCEC thermo-optical analysis and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDS). The highest concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were measured at the urban-industrial area in Katowice (29.6 µg ∙ m−3 and 31.0 µg ∙ m−3, respectively), whereas the highest organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC) levels were observed at the Kielce urban site (23.3 ± 4.2 µg and 3.6 ± 0.3 µg, respectively). The lowest values were obtained at the rural site for PM2.5 (10.4 ± 2.7 µg ∙ m−3) and PM10 (11.8 ± 2.7 µg ∙ m−3) and for OC (17.8 ± 1.6 µg) and EC (1.0 ± 0.1 µg). SEM-EDS analysis of samples from Kielce allows identification of internal chemical mixtures of carbon, silicon, calcium, chlorine, sodium and aluminium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The single crystalline diethyl 3,3 ′ -[(2,4-dichlorophenyl)methylidene]bis(1H-indole-2-carboxylate) (D32DMBC) samples are fully grown-up in a proper and in a successful manner by the prevailing slowly evaporating methodology. The lattice cell frameworks by XRD modus operandi also corroborated that the D32DMBC crystal system is monoclinic in nature. The structural properties by a conceptual way authenticate the elucidation and also the proper vindication for bond parameters. The nano influx is 3.2768 micron and the film-coated influx of 2.9977 microns as a mid-value between the macro as well as the nano assessment is suitable for electronic filters by D32DMBC crystals, and also used for tribological-coated utility as well as in frequency multipliers. Diabetes mellitus is the repetitive disease in the way of life and sustaining approach of D32DMBC — organic crystals are properly, accurately experimented by the use of the software pertaining to the D32DMBC by docking effect. The affinity inhibitory activity of A74DME and exploratory molecule of D32DMBC are −8.1 kJ/mole and −8.4 kJ/mole correspondingly. The computational effect of Hirshfeld portrays the internal/external fields as well as the electron higher/lower profile in the shape index proviso for optical utility identification and proper electronic utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of technological parameters on the characteristics of filtering acid-resistant ceramics is investigated. A technology has been developed for producing large-sized products from ceramic electric-grade material of subgroup 110 by aqueous casting into gypsum molds. The water filtration rate was 0.02 – 0.03 ml/(cm2·h), the percentage of pores greater than 1 µm was 8 – 10%, and the average pore size was 0.04 – 0.06 µm. The variation in the pore structure of ceramic samples made of nanostructured aluminum hydroxide has been studied. The potential for their use to create ultraporous coatings is shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1060 aluminum alloy has been used in high-volume commercial applications and correspondingly the mass of its downgraded recycling after contamination is huge, which is primarily due to the gradual accumulation of impurity elements such as Fe and Si. The separation of excess Fe is considered to be a key step towards the same-level recycling of aluminum alloy scrap with extremely economic and environmental benefits. A supergravity-induced technology was employed to purify the contaminating elements from molten aluminum scraps through Al 2 O 3 CFF (Al 2 O 3 ceramic foam filter). During the filtration process, the premature precipitation of Fe-rich phases and Si particles in the molten aluminum scraps were intercepted near the inner wall of Al 2 O 3 CFF. Resultantly, the removal rate of Fe and Si reached 83.98 % and 49.67 %, respectively, at T = 690 ℃ and G= 30 via Al 2 O 3 CFF of P = 80 ppi with H= 40 mm. A continuously supergravity-induced separation on industrial scale was further performed and the removal rate of Fe and Si were 83.5 % and 48.3 %, respectively. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the results of two years of experimental tests on an innovative dual bubbling fluidized bed gasifier are reported. These are related to the activities of the BLAZE project (Horizon 2020) for the integration of steam biomass gasification and solid oxide fuel cell. Several tests were carried out on the pilot-scale reactor at various operating conditions, and in this work the results are reported in terms of dry gas composition and yield, organic and inorganic contaminants (tar, particulate matter, H 2 S). The compact design of the gasifier (a single reactor with two concentric chambers and in-situ hot gas cleaning and conditioning) reduces the heat losses and produces close to nitrogen-free syngas. Preliminary tests using a filter candle filled with conventional catalyst, installed in the freeboard of the gasifier, show that the tar content dropped to about 2 g/Nm3, and the H 2 concentration increased up to 41% vol,dry. • Experimental study on an innovative pilot scale dual bubbling fluidized bed gasifier. • The results obtained demonstrate the reliability of the innovative gasifier. • Highest operating temperature with LPG/Biomass ratio of 20% as energy input. • Preliminary test with ceramic filter candle filled with catalyst in the freeboard. • Tar of 2 g/Nm3 and H 2 concentration of 40 % vol,dry obtained in test long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a new architecture of 1 × 2 , 1 × 4 , 1 × 8 and 1 × 1 6 optical filter/power splitters operating around 1.55 μ m, based on a CPs 2D photonic crystal ring resonator for Modern Passive Optical Network (PON). This type of functionality, filtering/power splitting is introduced in this work for the first-time according literature. The designed device consists of a square array of GaAs dielectric rods immersed in air. The structure is designed and successfully simulated by the finite element method using the software COMSOL Multiphysics. From the results obtained, we note that the beam is evenly distributed for all output ports with total efficient transmissions of about 99.6%, 98.8%, 97.1% and 96.8% and low insertion losses of about 0.017, 0.052, 0.128, and −0.14 dB for the 1 × 2 , 1 × 4 , 1 × 8 , and 1 × 1 6 filter power splitter successively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]