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With the advancement of tunnel construction, the load-bearing capacity of shield tunnel segments is diminishing, while issues of deformation and fissuring are becoming more conspicuous, posing direct threats to structural integrity and functionality. Steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) is considered a prevalent material, endowed with high strength, excellent crack control, fracture toughness, and remarkable economic advantages. This paper surveys the state-of-the-art research on SFRC, systematically encapsulating key aspects regarding its composition, attributes, methods of segment reinforcement, constitutive models for SFRC segments, and performance enhancements of SFRC segments. By optimizing steel fiber content, aggregate preparation, and selection of chemical admixtures, the mechanical performance of SFRC can be augmented, among which the aspect ratio (l/d) and volume fraction (Vf) of steel fibers exert the most significant influence. Compared with conventional reinforcing materials, SFRC possesses benefits of low cost, uncomplicated fabrication, and superior durability. As a heterogeneous multiphase composite, SFRC exhibits high strength, stiffness, and excellent crack resistance, which can amplify the load-bearing capacity and deformation resistance of the segments, defer damage inception, and thereby enhance the safety and durability of tunnel-lining segments. This study assists in redressing the deficiencies of current shield tunnel segment reinforcement technologies and further facilitates the extensive employment of SFRC in tunnel segment strengthening and restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In New Zealand, the construction sector is responsible for a large proportion of waste sent to landfill. The plastic profile of construction waste is varied and complex in comparison to other waste types (e.g. timber, concrete, metals, plasterboard). Therefore, the diversion of plastics from landfills is less straightforward, and there are less obvious benefits to recycling this low-density, low-value waste stream. Plastic waste generated by construction activities has not been well-characterised, which has affected opportunities for waste reduction, reuse and recycling. To fill this knowledge gap, this study characterised the plastic waste generated from a residential construction site. This was used to identify opportunities to address the full waste hierarchy through reduction, reuse and recycling and ultimately enable more sustainable plastic waste management. Methods: Plastic waste generated from a construction site in Auckland, New Zealand (construction of eight terraced houses) was separated during the project into several categories (pipes, soft plastics, other plastics and hazardous waste). This was followed by in-depth auditing which further sorted waste types by main composition, followed by analysis for polymer type using fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The research was phased to determine the plastic waste generated across each of the main construction stages. Once the main polymer types had been identified, local waste providers were contacted to establish opportunities for reuse or recycling. Results: The total mass of plastics generated from all construction stages was 725 kg, 66.4% (by wt.) of which was recycled. Soft plastics, predominantly low-density polyethylene, were the most common plastic type; this was followed by pipes and expanded polystyrene. Plastic packaging, primarily soft plastics and polystyrene, accounted for 60% of total plastics and were mostly generated in the final stages of construction (i.e. fittings and fit-out). This characterisation of construction plastic waste can be used to demonstrate the feasibility of sustainable plastic waste management in Auckland and to identify construction plastic waste sources on an international scale. More studies on a variety of construction types (e.g. detached residential, apartment blocks, commercial) are required to address the full breadth of plastic materials used and to drive a more circular economy for this potential resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The self-healing mechanism of styrene–butadiene-styrene modified asphalt (SBSMA) differs significantly from pure asphalt due to the combined effects of the base asphalt, polymer, and cross-linking network. This study investigates the self-healing performance of SBSMAs using fatigue-healing-fatigue (FHF) tests and microstructural characterisation, and examines the impact of weathering on healing efficiency. Results show that SBSMA self-healing ability increases linearly with the saturated and aromatic fractions of the base asphalt. The promoting effect of modifiers on self-healing capabilities follows the order: linear 20/80 > radial 30/70 > linear 40/60 > linear 30/70. The healing index (HI) of the base asphalt correlates with the molecular chain structure index (MMHC); however, this correlation is weaker for SBSMA. Aging reduces the self-healing efficiency of pure asphalt exponentially, while SBSMA initially increases and then declines, followed by an exponential decline during prolonged aging. Activation energy for healing in various SBSMA formulations was calculated, enabling the development of a predictive atlas for healing capabilities based on material composition and weathering conditions, with accuracy exceeding 85%. This study facilitates the design of durable pavement materials, improves pavement life predictions, and guide timely maintenance and repairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reusing industrial waste materials is vital for environmental conservation and sustainability, with concrete playing a significant role in recycling efforts and air purification. This paper proposes an efficient hybrid technique for developing LWSCC incorporating waste-expanded polystyrene (EPS). The proposed hybrid method is the joint execution of the war strategy optimisation (WSO) and tree hierarchical deep convolutional neural network (THDCNN). It is commonly referred to as the WSO-THDCNN approach. The primary aim is to enhance the hardening properties of LWSCC while minimising errors in material composition. WSO optimises the concrete mix by maximising the use of recycled EPS waste, while THDCNN predicts the material behaviour and structural characteristics. The method is implemented on the MATLAB platform, yielding superior outcomes compared to existing systems such as the Deep Neural Network (DNN) the Firefly Optimization Algorithm-Radial Basis Function Neural Network (FOA-RBFNN) and the Support Vector Machine (SVM). The accuracy of the existing methods is recorded at 0.780, 0.990 and 0.850, whereas the proposed technique achieves an impressive accuracy of 0.995. Furthermore, it displays a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 3.549 and an Average Relative Error (ARE) of 5.43, demonstrating its effectiveness and reliability in improving LWSCC properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Voimakan deposit of dolomite-type nephrite has been investigated to elucidate the features of its formation. Twelve nephrite samples and five host rock samples have been studied using a binocular stereomicroscope, gemological flashlight, and polarizing petrographic microscope. The contents of macro- and microcomponents and the oxygen isotope composition have been determined. Nephrite is light-salad, salad, gray-salad, and brown (honey). It forms separations in calcite‒tremolite skarn bodies at the contact of dolomite marble and amphibolite transformed into epidote‒tremolite skarn. The δ18O value is from ‒18.5 to ‒18.8‰ for nephrite, ‒17.4‰ for calcite–tremolite skarn, from ‒4.4 to +2.6‰ for epidote–tremolite scarn, and 26.1‰ for dolomite. Nephrite meets the requirements for gemstone raw materials. Diopsidite with nephrite lenses and interlayers can be used for carving multicolored products or inlays. The dolomite type of nephrite is confirmed by the Mg to Fe ratio; low Cr, Ni, and Co contents; high F content and Sr to Ba ratio; and shape of the rare-earth element distribution. The rare-earth element spectrum of nephrite is mainly inherent of initial dolomites, but has signs of the influence of skarning of the main rocks. The source of anomalously isotopically light oxygen in nephrite is a pore fluid, probably of meteoric origin, depleted in 18O due to decarbonation of dolomite. Granite only provides regional heating, which activates the pore fluid. Both the metasomatic and metamorphic processes have been involved in the nephrite formation and transformation. The formation of nephrite is associated with the formation of calcite–tremolite and epidote–tremolite skarns. The tectonic stresses caused crushing of the rocks, which facilitated penetration of the fluid and ensured the formation of a cryptocrystalline tangled fibrous structure of nephrite. Further regressive metamorphism has led to the development of chlorite and talc, which have worsened the quality of nephrite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the comprehensive green transformation of infrastructure construction, utilizing bulk waste tailings materials, such as iron tailing, in cement-based materials commonly used in the infrastructure sector holds significant practical importance. However, there are differences in the range of iron tailings content used in previous studies, and the research results are quite scattered. There has not yet been a recommendation for a reasonable material ratio, which severely restricts the resource utilization of iron tailings in cement-based materials. To effectively guide the design and performance optimization of cement-based materials using iron tailing, recent advances related to iron tailing cement-based materials have been reviewed systematically. The previous studies on the composition design of iron tailing in cement-based materials were summarized, and the effect of iron tailing and cement on the mechanical properties and durability of various cement-based materials were highlighted. The results show that the recommended content of iron tailing sand in concrete is 25–50%. Under this content, the mechanical properties of iron tailing sand concrete increase the most, and it has better drying shrinkage performance and carbonation resistance. For cement stabilized base materials, the recommended content of iron tailing sand is 11–20%. Under this content, its mechanical properties increase significantly, and it also has excellent drying shrinkage and temperature shrinkage performance. The increase in the content of iron tailing stones reduces the mechanical properties of cement stabilized materials. Cement stabilized iron tailing stones can be applied to the roadbase by adjusting the cement content and the content of iron tailing stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important task of modern production development is to provide the mineral and raw materials sector of the economy with resources included in the list of strategic raw materials, including flake graphite. In addition to natural raw materials, the source of its obtaining can be metallurgical production wastes not involved in processing. Development of metallurgical dust beneficiation technology will solve the problem of obtaining high-purity flake graphite with a crystal structure close to ideal and in demand in the production of high-tech materials. It will allow creating a renewable raw material base of graphite and utilising metallurgical production wastes. The research included the study of dust beneficiation by coarseness, magnetic and flotation methods, the influence of dust disintegration processes on beneficiation indicators. Based on the established technological properties of the components of dusts, magnetic, flotation and gravity beneficiation methods can be applied for their separation in different sequence. It is shown that dusts from different sites have different enrichability by these methods, and it should be taken into account when developing a complex technology of their processing. The degree of beneficiation increases in a row of dusts from the blast furnace shop (BF) – electric steel smelting shop (ESS) – oxygen-converter shop (OCS). The method of grinding has a significant influence on the separation indicators – at dry grinding in a centrifugal-impact mill with subsequent pneumatic classification the quality of graphite concentrates increases by 22.7 % of carbon for BF dust and by 13.48 % of carbon for ESS dust. OCS dust beneficiation indicators are high at coarse grinding with steel medium – mass fraction of carbon 96.1 %.

This work extends the boundaries of a new technology for the complex processing of dust obtained from melting scrap metal in electric arc furnaces at a factory in Kazakhstan by extracting zinc and lead into commercial products. Comprehensive studies of the elemental and phase compositions of dust conducted using a JED-2300 scanning electron microscope showed high contents of zinc (more than 30%), lead (approximately 5%), and iron. A considerable part of the iron in the dust (up to 35%) is represented as magnetite. Because of the lack of rational processing technology, a large amount of dust has accumulated on the plant territory, which requires a solution for its disposal with complex extraction of precious metals. The general concept of the technology under development is based on an approach that ensures the disposal of multicomponent ferrous metallurgy dust to obtain a wide range of commodity products with high added value. At the same time, the high content of iron present as magnetite demonstrates the effectiveness of isolating iron as an iron-containing commercial product at the beginning of the technological scheme. This paper shows the fundamental possibility of separating iron from dust from the scrap metal melting in electric arc furnaces by magnetic separation. According to comprehensive studies, including the study of the material composition of the initial dust and magnetic separation products, magnetic dust separation produced an iron-containing product with a high (up to 68%) iron content. The residual minimum limit of the iron content in the nonmagnetic fraction in the form of magnetite has been established as 0.58%. Further processing of such material will considerably simplify the technology, reduce material costs, and improve product quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coalification process significantly influences the composition of coal material and the development of pore size, ultimately affecting the adsorption capacity of coal seams and the extraction of coalbed methane. This project aimed to assess the pore structure and gas adsorption capacity of coal samples from nine key sedimentary basins in China. The N 2 test results revealed that during the initial stage of coalification, micropore, transition pore, and mesopore dominate in order of magnitude. In the subsequent coalification stages, the development of mesopore is most significant during the second jump, while the transition pore becomes more prominent in the third jump. Additionally, the findings from nuclear magnetic resonance tests indicate that the proportion of adsorbed pore demonstrates a decreasing-then-increasing trend throughout the coalification process. The first and second coalification jumps primarily contribute to the development of adsorption pore and seepage pore, whereas the third jump mainly focuses on adsorption pore development. The gas adsorption capacity is influenced by various factors such as pore structure, material composition, and chemical structure. During the first coalification jump, gas adsorption mainly occurs in the adsorption pore. In the second jump, medium gas adsorption capacity is achieved due to the combined effects of enhanced adsorption pore development and reduced moisture and ash content. Finally, the third coalification jump exhibits highly developed adsorption pores, the lowest moisture and ash levels, and a sufficient aromatic structure in the chemical composition, resulting in high adsorption capacity. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the variations in coalbed methane enrichment across different basins in China, with coalification playing a crucial controlling role. • Three key stages in coal pore evolution identified. • Pore size distribution during coal thermal evolution in key basins studied. • Gas adsorption capacity of coal during coalification jumps studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the detailed material composition of the various industrial and consumer products is essential for implementing efficient recycling practices and policies, conducting material flow analyses, and facilitating a transition toward a circular economy. However, existing data sources are limited in their product and material coverage. Currently, no source or methodology allows such data to be obtained in a relatively uniform, updated, and accessible manner across a diverse range of products. This work presents an approach that allows estimating the material composition of thousands of products using available life cycle inventory (LCI) databases. Methodologically, this is implemented by splitting the physical flows that describe supply chains in LCI databases into "incorporated" and "not incorporated" fractions using an incorporation parameter. Building primarily on existing matrix‐based life cycle assessment calculations, this approach can be used to calculate the material content of products. A generally applicable mathematical model, as well as a ready‐to‐use software, is presented for future practitioners. To demonstrate the robustness of the proposed method, a case study involving three metals and plastic in three consumer goods has been conducted based on the ecoinvent database. Our method delivered accurate material content estimates (i.e., weight fractions of materials in products) with an average relative error of 26% and an absolute error of 1.1% (between our estimates and existing values). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to determine the mix proportion of binder, heavyweight aggregates, water-to-binder ratio, and additives to develop self-compacting concrete with a bulk density higher than 2600 kg m−3. It also aims to evaluate the engineering properties, pore structure, and microstructure of established heavyweight self-compacting concrete. Barite (BA), magnetite (MAG) or their mix (MIX) were used as fillers, while binder was composed of Portland cement, blast furnace slag, metakaolin, and limestone at a ratio of 65:15:5:15. Based on text results of V-funnel, S-Cone diameter and S-Cone time, the proportion mix and binder: filler: binder to cement ration was optimized as follows: 1) BA 1: 3.5: 0.42, 2) MAG 1: 4: 0.42, and 3) MIX 1: 3.75: 0.42 with maximal aggregate size not exceeding 2 mm. Not only the bulk density was influenced by aggregate, but also, the mechanical properties, shrinkage, dynamic modulus of elasticity pore structure, and microstructure were also found to be dependent on fillers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 16 different types of PET trays from LWP and SP's samples were characterised. • Composition of PET tray as packaging objects, polymers, contaminants was determined. • Mechanical and chemical recyclability assessment of PET trays was implemented. • A few less common PET trays are suitable to obtain rPET through mechanical process. • For the most common PET trays the more appropriate recycling is depolymerisation. The compositions of Dutch lightweight packaging waste (LWP) and sorted products named "PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) trays" have been determined on object level. Additionally, the PET trays from both waste types were sorted in 16 categories representing their packaging use and material build-up. The material composition of at least 10 representative trays from each category was determined with chemical and thermal analysis, based on which the average material composition per category was established. Based on this data the average material composition of sorted PET tray products was approximated. The recyclability of the various categories of PET trays was assessed based on their material build-up. The most ubiquitous PET trays in Dutch LWP and sorted products were only found to be suitable to produce opaque recycled PET with mechanical recycling processes. Whereas only some more uncommon PET trays can be used to produce transparent recycled PET with mechanical recycling processes. Depolymerisation is deemed to be a more appropriate recycling process that will allow the production of transparent food-grade recycled PET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The material composition significantly influences the oil absorption and quality characteristics of fried food products. The oil absorption of restructured potato chips is highly dependent on the structural properties of the restructured potato‐based dough produced prior to frying. In this study, three types of starch were added to modify the structure of restructured potato‐based dough, allowing the production of potato chips with less oil absorption. RESULTS: Distinct differences were observed among the three types of starch in terms of amylose content, chain length distribution, swelling power, solubility, crystalline structure and pasting properties. The addition of wheat starch, corn starch and tapioca starch changed the rheological properties, water distribution and strength of the restructured dough. Importantly, adding wheat starch and corn starch significantly lowered the oil content of potato chips by 7.94% and 13.06%, respectively. The reduction in oil absorption by potato chips was attributed to the increased strength of the starchy gel network of the dough, a slower rate of water evaporation and a limitation of dough expansion during frying. CONCLUSION: Adding wheat starch or corn starch to restructured potato‐based dough resulted in a decrease in the oil absorption of potato chips by creating a stronger starchy gel network in the dough. This study could guide the development of suitable material compositions, which are important for producing fried food products with lower oil content. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fields such as industrial engineering and healthcare, additive manufacturing technology is a focal point for researchers. Wear represents a significant challenge for additive manufacturing technology, increasingly emerging as a research hotspot in recent years. This review categorizes and summarizes wear issues in additive manufacturing technology, providing a comprehensive overview of wear mechanisms, materials, and the effects of additive manufacturing processes on wear. Research indicates that different wear mechanisms result in varying wear characteristics. The inherent properties of the materials significantly influence wear during the manufacturing process. Modifying material compositions and optimizing microstructures can enhance the wear properties of additive manufacturing products. Additionally, the study of additive manufacturing technology in repair and maintenance is a current and anticipated research hotspot for the coming decades. In the research of additive manufacturing processes, the effective regulation of process parameters and their post-processing play a positive role in enhancing the wear characteristics of products produced via additive manufacturing. Lastly, the challenges and recent advancements concerning wear issues in the field of additive manufacturing technology research are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new industrial genetic ("aphanitic") type of phosphorite deposits has been identified. In terms of the genetic, tectonic, facies, and geochemical features, this type differs fundamentally from the known micrograined, granular, nodular, shelly, and pebbly phosphorite deposits. They are the first industrial accumulations of phosphorus matter in the history of our planet. Conditions for their accumulation existed only in the Ediacaran period, when mass phosphatization of sediments with the formation of phosphate nodules as ribbon-shaped layers took place under the influence of early diagenetic processes. Phosphates were accumulated in basins with synsedimentary block structure inherited from paleorift structures and seismically active tectonic environment. The multidirectional displacement of blocks generated a complex seafloor relief and facies heterogeneous complex of sediments ranging from reefogenic-stromatolitic sediments in the uplifting areas to pelitic sediments in the dipping areas. The latter areas were marked by a massive input of sedimentary material significantly enriched in the planktonic organic matter. Transformation of organophosphorus compounds during the sulfate reduction promoted the phosphatization of sediments and the formation of aphanitic phosphorites, which differ from other ore types by anomalously high concentrations of As, Sr, and Ba and by anomalously low contents of U and REE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flowability of the photoresist affects the flatness of the color resistance layer during the fabrication process of liquid crystal displays. Color photoresists with poor flowability will increase the usage of photoresists, leading to an increase in panel costs. In this paper, the factors affecting flowability were analyzed in the directions of material and manufacturing and the results were then validated through experiments. Finally, strategies to adjust the flowability of photoresists from aspects of material composition and manufacturing process are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionIn New Zealand, the construction sector is responsible for a large proportion of waste sent to landfill. The plastic profile of construction waste is varied and complex in comparison to other waste types (e.g. timber, concrete, metals, plasterboard). Therefore, the diversion of plastics from landfills is less straightforward, and there are less obvious benefits to recycling this low-density, low-value waste stream. Plastic waste generated by construction activities has not been well-characterised, which has affected opportunities for waste reduction, reuse and recycling. To fill this knowledge gap, this study characterised the plastic waste generated from a residential construction site. This was used to identify opportunities to address the full waste hierarchy through reduction, reuse and recycling and ultimately enable more sustainable plastic waste management.MethodsPlastic waste generated from a construction site in Auckland, New Zealand (construction of eight terraced houses) was separated during the project into several categories (pipes, soft plastics, other plastics and hazardous waste). This was followed by in-depth auditing which further sorted waste types by main composition, followed by analysis for polymer type using fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The research was phased to determine the plastic waste generated across each of the main construction stages. Once the main polymer types had been identified, local waste providers were contacted to establish opportunities for reuse or recycling.ResultsThe total mass of plastics generated from all construction stages was 725 kg, 66.4% (by wt.) of which was recycled. Soft plastics, predominantly low-density polyethylene, were the most common plastic type; this was followed by pipes and expanded polystyrene. Plastic packaging, primarily soft plastics and polystyrene, accounted for 60% of total plastics and were mostly generated in the final stages of construction (i.e. fittings and fit-out). This characterisation of construction plastic waste can be used to demonstrate the feasibility of sustainable plastic waste management in Auckland and to identify construction plastic waste sources on an international scale. More studies on a variety of construction types (e.g. detached residential, apartment blocks, commercial) are required to address the full breadth of plastic materials used and to drive a more circular economy for this potential resource.

Objective: Explored the composition and content of phenolic compounds in tartary buckwheat wine lees, and study their antioxidant activity. Methods: Phenolic compounds in tartary buckwheat wine lees were analyzed by HPLC and LC-MS. And evaluating its antioxidant activity. Results: 7 phenolic compounds were identified from tartary buckwheat wine lees, including 5 flavonoids, with the highest content of rutin of （9.350±0.050） mg/g, followed by quercetin, isoquercetin, kaempferol-3-o-rutoside and kaempferol of two phenolic compounds. At 0.5 mg/mL, the scavenging rates of hydroxyl free radical, ABTS+ and DPPH free radical reached （73.29±0.09）%, （96.21±0.25）% and （82.55±0.68）%, respectively, with FRAP value of （2.49±0.09） mmol/L. Conclusion: The fermented tartary buckwheat lees are rich in phenolic compounds, and the lees extracts has certain antioxidant activity. In addition, at low concentration, the tartary buckwheat wine lees also showes good scavenging effects on hydroxyl radical and ABTS+ radical.

Summary: This paper summarizes the literature available on the behavior of concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) columns to evaluate the effect of geometrical properties such as shape of cross‐section, diameter‐to‐thickness ratio, and length‐to‐diameter ratio of CFST columns under axial loading. Then, the impact of different material composition for core concrete and encasing material is concluded for columns under axial loading. The performance of CFST is evaluated in terms of failure modes, ductility, stiffness, and axial compressive strength. For encasing tube, carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum are studied while for core, various concretes such as Normal (NSC) and high strength concrete (HSC), light weight concrete (LWC), recycled aggregate concrete (RAC), expansive concrete (EC), rubber crumb concrete(RuCC), and steel slag concrete (SSC) are covered for review in this paper. Material limitations as provided by various codes for design of composite structures is also mentioned for both tube and core concrete. Failure modes of concrete‐filled tubular(CFT) columns are most affected by geometric properties columns while materials used for concrete and encasing tube do not cause much difference. Though, ductility, axial compressive strength, and stiffness are affected by both geometric and material properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of decentralized wastewater treatment technologies is a reasonable solution for rural areas. As a decentralized treatment technology, the multi-soil-layering (MSL) system has recently drawn an increasing amount of attention owing to its merits, such as a high hydraulic load rate, small land area occupation, low probability of clogging, low investment, and low operation cost. This review summarizes the progress in MSL systems in the past decade, focusing on the directions of efforts for system optimization, the latest applications of MSL systems to various wastewater treatments, and the integration of MSL with other technologies. The great application potential of MSL systems is illustrated, and future research directions regarding better application of MSL systems are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The material composition of magnetic fractions in fly ash and slag from lignite-based thermal power plants is studied. The production of high-quality iron concentrate by magnetic separation is hindered by the high content of Ca, Mg, and Mn oxides in spinels of magnetite type (up to 13% altogether). The magnetic fraction includes a considerable proportion of glassy phase (up to 15%), containing 15–45% Fe2O3. The probable limiting iron content in the final product is 59–60% (84.4–85.8% Fe2O3). The magnetic fraction of the fly ash and slag may be recommended as the iron-bearing component of ore–carbon briquets. Coal based on incompletely burned lignite concentrate without additional treatment is not sufficiently reactive for use as the carbon component of such briquets. It is shown here for the first time that, with appropriate treatment, both components may be used together in ore–carbon briquets suitable for the blast furnace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) seeded on calcium phosphate (CaP) bioceramics are extensively explored in bone tissue engineering and have recently shown effective clinical outcomes. In previous pre-clinical studies, hMSCs-CaP-mediated bone formation was preceded by osteoclastogenesis at the implantation site. The current study evaluates to what extent phase composition of CaPs affects the osteoclast response and ultimately influence bone formation. To this end, four different CaP bioceramics were used, hydroxyapatite (HA), β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and two biphasic composites of HA/β-TCP ratios of 60/40 and 20/80 respectively, for in vitro osteoclast differentiation and correlation with in vivo osteoclastogenesis and bone formation. All ceramics allowed osteoclast formation in vitro from mouse and human precursors, except for pure HA, which significantly impaired their maturation. Ectopic implantation alongside hMSCs in subcutis sites of nude mice revealed new bone formation at 8 weeks in all conditions with relative amounts for β-TCP > biphasic CaPs > HA. Surprisingly, while hMSCs were essential for osteoinduction, their survival did not correlate with bone formation. By contrast, the degree of early osteoclastogenesis (2 weeks) seemed to define the extent of subsequent bone formation. Together, our findings suggest that the osteoclastic response could be used as a predictive marker in hMSC-CaP-based bone regeneration and strengthens the need to understand the underlying mechanisms for future biomaterial development. The combination of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and calcium phosphate (CaP) materials has demonstrated its safety and efficacy for bone regeneration in clinical trials, despite our insufficient understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms. Osteoclasts were previously suggested as key mediators between the early inflammatory phase following biomaterial implantation and the subsequent bone formation. Here we compared the affinity of osteoclasts for various CaP materials with different ratios of hydroxyapatite to β-tricalcium phosphate. We found that osteoclast formation, both in vitro and at early stages in vivo, correlates with bone formation when the materials were implanted alongside MSCs in mice. Surprisingly, MSC survival did not correlate with bone formation, suggesting that the number or phenotype of osteoclasts formed was more important. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fields such as industrial engineering and healthcare, additive manufacturing technology is a focal point for researchers. Wear represents a significant challenge for additive manufacturing technology, increasingly emerging as a research hotspot in recent years. This review categorizes and summarizes wear issues in additive manufacturing technology, providing a comprehensive overview of wear mechanisms, materials, and the effects of additive manufacturing processes on wear. Research indicates that different wear mechanisms result in varying wear characteristics. The inherent properties of the materials significantly influence wear during the manufacturing process. Modifying material compositions and optimizing microstructures can enhance the wear properties of additive manufacturing products. Additionally, the study of additive manufacturing technology in repair and maintenance is a current and anticipated research hotspot for the coming decades. In the research of additive manufacturing processes, the effective regulation of process parameters and their post-processing play a positive role in enhancing the wear characteristics of products produced via additive manufacturing. Lastly, the challenges and recent advancements concerning wear issues in the field of additive manufacturing technology research are summarized.

Two hundred and sixteen (216) Yoruba ceramic (pottery) objects in Ita Yemoo Museum collection, Ile-Ife, Nigeria were examined; a sample size of twenty–four (24) pottery objects, ten per cent (10%) of the pottery selected using systematic random sampling to determine their material contents ('chemical fingerprints'). Qualitative, descriptive and evaluative data were collected for analysis. Material compositional information was assessed with the use of Proton-induced X-Ray Emission (PIXE) technique; PIXE result returned twenty-three (23) elements that are used as chemical fingerprints for the selected pottery objects. Major, minor and trace elements discovered were expressed in parts per million (ppm). The study concluded that the data similarities, differences, and correlation provided enhanced provenance data generation useful in taxonomic and provenance determination of potteries with the possibility of generating a database to identify Yoruba ceramic objects generally.

The paper presents the results of studying the material composition of Early–Middle Permian terrigenous rocks of the Reshetnikovo Formation in the Laoeling–Grodekovo terrane of southwestern Primorye. Studies were carried out to reconstruct paleogeodynamic environments of the accumulation of rocks and to determine the tectonic type and composition of parent rocks in sources areas. It has been established that, in terms of mineral and geochemical parameters, sandstones of the Reshetnikovo Formation are petrogenic or "first cycle" rocks. They correspond to arkoses and, only partially, subarkoses and lithite arenites. They are characterized by a fairly high maturity of clastic material. Their appearance is related to the destruction of largely weathered parent rocks in sources areas. Paleogeodynamic interpretation of the obtained data indicates that sedimentation occurred in the Early–Middle Permian in basins of a passive continental margin (intra- and intercontinental rifts and aulacogens). Sedimentation processes were governed mainly by continental sources areas: cratons and uplifted basement blocks, which were projections of the crystalline basement framed by rift zones. Mainly felsic igneous and metamorphic rocks were eroded with the participation of ancient sedimentary rocks. The U–Pb isotopic dating of detrital zircons made it possible to establish the age and possible location of magmatic complexes, whose destruction produced rocks of the Reshetnikovo Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This paper explores the impact of fabric materials and compositions on moisture management in government clothings, particularly focusing on comfort, which is vital for uniforms of enforcement agencies and military in Malaysia. By choosing the right materials, protective clothing can enhance wearer satisfaction and protection. We evaluated nine fabric types for their moisture management performance, which involved transporting moisture (such as sweat) away from the body for quick evaporation in order to maintain wearer comfort. Among these fabrics, sample K06 (100% polyester) proved to be the most comfortable, excelling in efficient moisture transport without causing discomfort. In contrast, sample K02 (60% cotton, 40% polyester) was the least comfortable due to bottom coating that traps sweat. If coated fabrics were exluded, sample K05 (70% cotton, 30% nylon) was the least comfortable due to its thickness. The study also highlighted that 100% polyester fabrics outperformed 100% cotton fabrics in moisture management. Furthermore, lower mass per unit area and increasing cotton composition in cotton-nylon blends improve overall moisture management properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Uranium Geology is the property of Uranium Geology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this work is to determine the type of material in the given unknown fabric which was excavated from the various archeological sites in Israel using advanced material technology. The four fabrics that were obtained appeared as fragmentary and very degraded textiles. Therefore, we established the treatment method for these fabrics that would be most suitable to deal with the analysis and identification of the material they are made. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), energy dispersive x‐ray analysis (EDX), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) analysis were used to confirm the material in the fabric samples. Upon detailed analysis it was concluded that all the fabrics are composed either of the synthetic materials such as nylon 6, polyester, and polyacrylonitrile (PAN). The developed method and analysis present herein has the advantages of being rapid and effective for identification of the fabrics and can be applied to varieties of archeological fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The loose material in the mountain gullies is prone to form serious debris flow disasters under appropriate hydrodynamic conditions. The various compositions of these loose materials often lead to very large differences in the runout distances and the inundated areas. However, the mechanisms of the influence of material composition on the deposition characteristics of debris flow remain unclear, and studies are lacking on the influence of material composition on the deposition characteristics of runoff-generated debris flows. This study conducted experiments using different water discharges, flume slopes, and grain size distributions. The deposition processes of debris flows were observed, and their deposition patterns were explored. The effects of material composition on flow regimes, runout distances, inundated areas, and deposit geometries are revealed. The results showed that there are three types of debris flow, and their deposition patterns are different. The relationships of the Bagnold number and Friction number concerning the volume solid concentration were exponential. The mean mobility angle, a function of the upstream terrain slope, was established to assess the runout distance of debris flows with different flow regimes. Additionally, a criterion for identifying debris flow types was established by combining dimensionless runout distance and dimensionless slope. This study not only improved the observation of experimental phenomena in the deposition process of runoff-generated debris flows but also deepened the understanding of the mechanism of the influence of material composition on the deposition characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Uranium Geology is the property of Uranium Geology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The paper presents the results of experimental studies on the production of fine char powder from sunflower seed husks by a novel method of thermomechanical treatment with pulsed shock waves and supersonic jets of the mixture of ultra-superheated (above 2000 °C) steam and carbon dioxide, as well as the results of examination of the produced char powder in terms of its chemical, phase, and granulometric composition and structural, morphological, and texture characteristics. The objective of the research is to explore the possibility of using the resulting char powder as a sorption-active material for organic substances. It is shown that the obtained char particles and their agglomerates have an average size of 20–30 nm and 12–24 µm, respectively, have the shape of disks and ellipsoids, consist mainly of amorphous carbon (up to 56 wt%) and oxygen (up to 42 wt%), and have a specific surface area of 1.1–1.7 m2/g. It is concluded that such a char powder can be used as an absorbent for organic substances when dried and deagglomerated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geotechnical properties of municipal solid waste (MSW) are required to design and maintain a landfill structure. Several landfill failures occurring in recent times have led to the loss of revenue and people. This study aims to investigate the impact of material composition on the geotechnical properties of fresh synthetic municipal solid waste (SMSW), which imitates the real waste produced in India. The study aims to understand the contribution of each material, such as paper, plastic, and organic matter, on the shear behavior of SMSW, which is essential for designing landfills and ensuring their safety and performance. A modified proctor test and a large-scale direct shear test were used to determine the unit weight and shear strength of SMSW, respectively. The synthetic waste’s unit weight and shear strength were found to be consistent with values that had already been published. The shear strength parameters of SMSW include cohesion, which was determined to be at the lower bound of the envelope, and friction angle within the envelope. Lower unit weight, less fine soil-like material, and dry material are thought to be the causes of the observed variation in the behavior of actual waste in synthetic waste. The findings of this experiment demonstrated that as the proportion of paper increases, the cohesion (C) increases, and the friction angle (Φ) decreases. Cohesion and friction angle both decrease as the proportion of plastic increases. Cohesion and friction angle both increase with an increase in the organic percentage. These findings demonstrate that each material contributes differently to the shear behavior of SMSW. Hence, the material composition’s effect should be considered while designing a landfill for improved safety and reliability.

This dataset contains the material volumes, masses, and intensities for a total of 45 residential building cohorts in Finland from the 1940s to the 2010s. The specific building types included are one dwelling houses and blocks of flats. The data were drawn from representative case buildings and their derivatives. The data are primarily based on construction drawings, complemented by other documents such as bills of materials. The source material was mainly obtained from the archives of the building inspection authority of the city of Vantaa, Finland. Material volumes were derived from the construction drawings either directly from annotations or, when needed, by further measurements made based on the same material. For minor lacks of information in the original documents, documents of similar buildings and literature were consulted. A total of 26 buildings were inventoried directly. For each included combination of building type, construction decade, and bearing material these were the ones with the most common façade material. In addition, 19 buildings with the second most common façade material were formed based on these to represent the 45 cohorts. Material masses, and by extension intensities, were calculated based on the recorded volumes and typical densities of construction materials used in Finland. The material volumes, masses, and intensities per material and in total are presented as three spreadsheet tables, along with a description sheet, on three corresponding hierarchical levels of aggregation: per representative building, per vertical building level (foundations, basement, first storey, etc.), and per building part (floor, exterior walls, interior walls, etc.). Furthermore, they are distinguished between the building structure and complementary building components (windows and doors). The data can be used in academic, policy related, and practical investigations of the building stock, such as in evaluating the material consumption consequences of different spatial planning strategies on various levels or estimating the materials embedded in the built environment and their potential for capitalisation in the circular economy.

To further promote the development of research on direct-to-plant SBS-modified asphalt, this article analyzes the development of direct-to-plant SBS modifiers. Starting from the material composition and mechanism of action, common direct-to-plant SBS modifiers were analyzed and classified into four categories based on their mechanism of action, including the instant dissolution principle, intramolecular lubrication principle, non-granulation principle, and vulcanization principle. From the evaluation of the modification effect, the method of studying the performance of direct-to-plant SBS-modified asphalt is summarized, including fluorescence microscopy, AFM technology, and molecular dynamics simulation technology. From the perspective of practical application, the construction process of direct-to-plant SBS-modified asphalt was discussed, including the design stage, raw material preparation stage, mix design stage, and on-site construction stage. The results show that common direct-to-plant SBS modifiers are primarily SBS with a small particle size (less than 200 mesh) or specific model, supplemented by additives (EVA, naphthenic oil, sulfur, petroleum resin, etc.), which improve melting efficiency and lubricity or make it undergo vulcanization reaction, change the proportion of asphalt components, and improve stability. In the evaluation of the modification effect of direct-to-plant SBS-modified asphalt, the disparity of the direct-to-plant SBS modifier is determined by observing the particle residue after dry mixing. Macroscopic indexes of modified asphalt and modified asphalt mixture are used to determine the cross-linking effect of direct-to-plant SBS modifier and asphalt, and the modification mechanism and modification effect of wet SBS modifier are evaluated at the microscopic level. The development of direct-to-plant SBS-modified asphalt should combine the characteristics of direct-to-plant SBS modifiers and the attributes of field application, targeted research, and the development of high-performance direct-to-plant SBS modifiers and complete production technologies applicable to different regions, strengthen the improvement of modification effect evaluation, and form a complete theoretical system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of the Chinese Ceramic Society is the property of Bulletin of the Chinese Ceramic Society Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The geotechnical properties of municipal solid waste (MSW) are required to design and maintain a landfill structure. Several landfill failures occurring in recent times have led to the loss of revenue and people. This study aims to investigate the impact of material composition on the geotechnical properties of fresh synthetic municipal solid waste (SMSW), which imitates the real waste produced in India. The study aims to understand the contribution of each material, such as paper, plastic, and organic matter, on the shear behavior of SMSW, which is essential for designing landfills and ensuring their safety and performance. A modified proctor test and a large-scale direct shear test were used to determine the unit weight and shear strength of SMSW, respectively. The synthetic waste's unit weight and shear strength were found to be consistent with values that had already been published. The shear strength parameters of SMSW include cohesion, which was determined to be at the lower bound of the envelope, and friction angle within the envelope. Lower unit weight, less fine soil-like material, and dry material are thought to be the causes of the observed variation in the behavior of actual waste in synthetic waste. The findings of this experiment demonstrated that as the proportion of paper increases, the cohesion (C) increases, and the friction angle (Φ) decreases. Cohesion and friction angle both decrease as the proportion of plastic increases. Cohesion and friction angle both increase with an increase in the organic percentage. These findings demonstrate that each material contributes differently to the shear behavior of SMSW. Hence, the material composition's effect should be considered while designing a landfill for improved safety and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]