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The purpose of the present study to investigate the properties of edible films derived from amylose fraction of sago starch. Amylose plays an important role in many fields, one of them is in the food application. Amylose that fractionated from sago starch was prepared as the main material for the edible film. The obtained amylose was produced using butanol solvent in the fractionation process. Then each of the edible films was characterized by its thickness, morphology and contact angle. The resulted edible film from amylose has a thickness of 0.23 mm. The obtained thickness was in accordance with one of the requirements for the materials to be an edible film. The morphology characterized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) resulted in a smooth surface without pores or cracks. Then the measurement of hydrophobicity displayed a contact angle of 48.2°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the photocatalytic responses of thin film Cu2O are reported terms of photocurrent and photodegradation performance. Cu2O was synthesised using an electrodeposition technique with different deposition times. The morphological and elemental analysis of Cu2O growth were performed using a field-emission scanning electron microscope and an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer, respectively. The photoelectrochemical response, which were determined using a linear sweep voltammetry technique, showed that the onset of the initial current photocurrent was at a lower potential and the photocurrent density of the deposit was higher with longer deposition times. A high photocurrent of 15.3 mA.cm−2 at a potential of 0.794 V was obtained from Cu2O prepared with 120 minutes of deposition. The catalytic impact of Cu2O on methylene blue photodegradation was highest, with degradation of 42.73%, at a deposition time of 120 minutes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) was synthesized by a precipitation method using zinc from waste zinc-carbon battery as a source. ZnO in microparticle dimension was formed after dissolving Zn source in concentrated nitric acid followed by neutralization of NaOH before drying the precipitate at 105oC. Similarly, ZnO nanoparticles have been prepared succeeding the procedure of ZnO microparticles however in neutralization step, it was combined NaOH and capping agent of 0.5% w/v amylum before annealing stage of the precursor at 400oC. The structure and composition of ZnO microparticles and ZnO nanoparticles were studied using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The morphology of ZnO observed by SEM exhibited ZnO microparticles in irregular shape such flakes while ZnO nanoparticles were in spherical shape with the particle size was 80-100 nm. The FT-IR spectra indicated the Zn-O bond vibration in ZnO nanoparticles indicating the blue shift features due to thermal effects as compared to Zn-O bond vibration in ZnO microparticles. Furthermore, the XRD peaks revealed ZnO nanoparticles are highly crystalline and having the hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure while ZnO microparticles are lowly crystalline and having characteristic peaks of the precursor. The effect of particle size caused significant differences on ZnO characterizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructure is one of the emerging materials because of its excellent properties. It offers various interesting applications from photocatalyst, optoelectronics, antibacterial agent, cosmetics and sensors. The synthesis of this material is being explored to optimize the structure in regards to its possible applications. One of the simple methods to prepare the ZnO nanostructure is sol-gel. Optimizing the synthesis parameters enables to produce the nanostructure material with different characteristics. The effect of pH solution during the fabrication process on the morphological of ZnO nanostructures and their antibacterial activity was studied. The synthesis was conducted using zinc acetate as a precursor at 60 ℃ for 5 h and two different pH, pH 7 and 9. The characterization was conducted by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to check the formation of ZnO nanostructure, while UV-Vis spectroscopy was used to observe the antibacterial activity. The results show that ZnO nanostructures were formed at both two different pH solutions, pH 7 and 9, having wire-like and rod-like structures, respectively. Both nanostructures demonstrate their capability in inhibiting bacterial growth. The ZnO nanostructure synthesized at pH 7 had greater antibacterial activity than the ZnO synthesized at pH 9. These results confirm that pH solution during synthesis ZnO nanostructure affects the ZnO's structure and antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Encapsulation of paracetamol (PCM) onto poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) polymer matrix by anti-solvent displacement method was investigated using a glass capillary microfluidics. Five (5) independent parameters involved PCL concentration (A), microfluidics orifice size (B), flow rate ratios (C), surfactant concentration (D) and paracetamol percentage loading (E) were investigated. The responses were percentage of encapsulation efficiency (Y1), % drug loading (Y2) and particle mean size, Zave (Y3). The variables were screened with the aid of a 25-full factorial design. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized to examine the optimized conditions for Ace-loaded PCL nanoparticles (NPs) formulation. The physicochemical properties of PCM-PCL NPs were evaluated using particle size analyser, field emission gun scanning electron microscope (FEG-SEM), differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffractometry. The optimum formulation was successfully attained at 5.96 mg.ml−1 of PCL (A), 60 µm orifice size (B), Qaq/Qor (C) of 10, 0.1 (% w/w) PVP surfactant (D) and 20 % (w/w) of paracetamol loading (E). The PCM-PCL NPs were produced at 268 nm mean size with 49.25 % encapsulation efficiency and 6.96 % of drug loading, which statistically in agreement to the predicted results. A spherical shape of PCM-PCL NPs were well acquired from FEG-SEM images [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption of Methylene Blue using biomass or bioproduct of industries has received major attention by the researcher and industries. In this study, wood chips treated using deep eutectic solvents (DES) was used for adsorption of methylene blue. The surface and pores of this wood chips were analyzed by using scanning electron microscope (SEM). One Factor At a Time (OFAT) method was carried out to study the effect of contact time and biomass dosage on adsorption efficiency. Evaluation of pretreated wood chips biosorption, isotherms and kinetics were also studied.. Wood chips treated with DES changes the surface area and the pores of wood chips and improved the adsorption process efficiency. Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second show correlation coefficient of R2, 0.9591 and 0.9999 respectively. Wood chips treated using deep eutectic solvents demonstrate a great potential as a cheap biosorbent for the removal of methylene blue by looking at the isotherm and kinetic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose is one of the renewable natural resource materials that can be found in Indonesia. Cellulose can be synthesized from various parts of plants, such as pine trees. Pinewood waste is also known for its high amount of cellulose content. Thus, cellulose can be isolated from its pinewood waste. The necessary process in isolation is the removal of lignin and hemicellulose by extraction method using some solvents and heating. The bleaching method is carried out with hydrogen peroxide solution. This resulted in white bright cellulose with a yield of 58.40%. Cellulose result was obtained in the form of microcrystalline and further characterized by some instrumentation similar as x-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The crystallinity index of cellulose resulted from the isolation process is 55.20%, with morphological surface in the form of multisized agglomerated long fibers with an average particle size 125 µm. FTIR spectra showed some peaks at specific wavenumber indicating a typical function group of cellulose. Therefore, it can be concluded that pinewood waste can be used as a high-value cellulose material, with an easy and environmentally friendly method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pure iron sample was treated using gas nitriding at 1000 °C for 1 hour. The morphology and phase analysis of the nitride layer was characterized by scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. The thickness of the nitride layer and average grain size were derived from the scanning electron microscope micrograph. The crystallite size was determined by X-ray diffraction using the Williamson-Hall method. The micrograph from the scanning electron microscope showed a nitride layer, a diffusion zone, and a narrow gap between them. The thickness of the nitride layer was 8.1 ± 0.5 µm with a visible gap in the diffusion zone of 1.5 ± 0.5 µm. The grain size in the diffusion zone increased, and some interstitial to the iron lattice and/or precipitate at the grain boundary were observed. The phase analysis of the nitride layer showed a single phase ε-Fe2N with a crystallite size number of 549 Å. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a bio-ceramics were prepared, which is hydroxyapatite from natural sources. It was obtained by calcination the bovine bone at a temperature of (750 ° C) for three hours, after which the milling and sifting operations were performed to obtain the hydroxyapatite nano composite, as the results of the Atomic Force Microscopy Technique showed that the average grain size is (60.4nm). It has been identified by the technique of X-ray diffraction. The results of the X-ray fluorescence technique found that the molar ratio of calcium to phosphorous (Ca: P=1.67), which is compatible with normal proportions in bones and teeth. Powder technology was used to prepare a bio-ceramic compound consisting of hydroxyapatite that was mixed with Titanium and nanostructured zirconia according to different weight ratios using an Ultrasonic Cleaner. Sintering of the prepared solid phase samples (1350 ° C) was performed for 3 hours. We found through the results of the physical examinations that the highest value of the bulk density is (2.949 g/cm3), which is consistent with the normal density in adult bones of approximately (2,982 g / cm3). Also, the apparent porosity ratio is directly proportional to the water absorption rate, which in turn increases with the increase in the added proportions of Titanium and Zirconia. The diagonal shrinkage and volume decrease with increasing the proportion of Titanium and Zirconia added to hydroxyapatite. Mechanical tests also showed good properties, as the compressive strength was highest when the ratios of titanium and zirconia were 20% and it was equal to (122.84 MPa). Also, samples prepared from hydroxyapatite alone showed the highest value of Vickers microstructure and was equal to (413.1MPa).The samples prepared with a scanning electron microscope technique were also photographed to study the surface topography and its internal structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyzed the surface structure, crystallinity and other physical properties of the low-pressure dry air plasma treated silk fiber. From the scanning electron microscope study showed the slim grooves after plasma treatment. So, plasma radiation hit on the surface of the silk fiber and get some micro range morphology changes occurred. And crystalline ratio also decreased which was useful to enrich the wettability properties of the silk fiber. From the weight loss analysis, it was concluded that some micro portion of silk fiber was etched by plasma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of hybrid composite stacking sequences on tensile, flexural, inter laminar shear strength (ILSS) and impact strength has been examined. Laminated hybrid composite plates are processed at room temperature by hand lay-up technique. The greatest mechanical properties for the S5 laminate composites were obtained in [C/B/C/B/C] stacking sequences, with flexural, tensile, and ILSS values of 448, 148 and 25 MPa, respectively. The strong interface interaction between the fibres and the matrix in this configuration accounts for the increase in mechanical properties. In contrast, S2 laminates in [C/G/C/G/C] stacking sequences had the highest impact strength (43.70 kJ/mm2) as compared to other laminates, owing to carbon fabrics high rigidity and strength. After the strain and flexural tests, the fracture surface of the composite laminates was analysed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research work, Ni doped CuO nano structured fibres have been manufactured using self-assembled method called innovative spin coater. The prepared nano structures were exposed to various high temperatures like 400 °C, 500 °C and 600 °C and then slowly cooled to room temperature (annealing process). The structural analysis of Ni doped CuO nano fibres have been studied through Field Emmison Scanning Electron Microscope (FE - SEM), elemental composition investigation of the Ni doped nano fibres were examined using Energy Dispersive X- ray spectroscopy (EDS). The degree of crystalline nature existent in the nickel dopped copper oxide nano fibres have been inspected with help of X-ray Diffraction spectrum (XRD). The optical sensitivity of the prepared nanostructures such as absorption, reflectance and transmittance have been explored through UV- Vis spectrum. The attained XRD results of the synthesized copper oxide nano fibres disclose the existence of perfect nano crystalline segment with monoclinic crystal phase. The FE - SEM micro photographs reveal that each developed nickel with CuO nano fibre clearly shows the spherical nano scale crystallites and are completely free from defects and contaminations. The nickel dopped copper oxide nano fibres were annealed at 600 °C temperature evidently divulges the formation of spherical moulded nano structures as equated with nano structures annealed at 400 °C temperature. The forbidden energy band gap value of nickel doped copper oxide nano fibres was found to be about 2. 7 eV. The obtained structural and optical analysis of nickel doped copper oxide nano fibres have been clearly showing that the developed nano structures may have abundant applications in the various gas sensing field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, nanocomposites' high-velocity impact behavior for lightweight defense applications was studied using aluminum alloy (AA) 7075 reinforced with 1.5 weight percent (wt%) nanoclay nanoparticle. The nanocomposite was manufactured using a stir casting manufacturing technique with equivalently distributed nanomaterial inside the AA7075 material, and both the matrix and nanocomposite material underwent a T6 surface treatment. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (X-RD) analysis have been used to examine the produced materials. Finally, the high-velocity impact characteristics of the AA7075 and nanocomposite material was simulated using the fusion software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminium alloys play a major role in synthesizing parts for the aerospace, automobile, and defence sectors because of their ease of production and modification. The addition of hard-ceramic particles to the aluminium matrix will improve the strength-to-weight ratio. Aluminium 7075 alloy is chosen as a workpiece because of its high strength and low weight. Metal matrix composites, particularly aluminium alloy matrix composites, are suitable choices for industrial applications because of their favourable technical features. In this work, the Aluminium 7075 metal matrix was strengthened with Graphite and Bagasse ash. It was formulated by the stir casting method. The reinforcement was added in three compositions. The machining characteristics are studied by testing its properties such as the microstructure of the specimen and properties of wear. The properties of these specimens are compared with the three compositions that we have produced and the best is chosen among them. The microstructure is analysed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to its unique weldability and flexibility to be extruded, polymer composites are frequently utilised in welding, extrusions, forging, and casting. By integrating hard-ceramic particles into the aluminium matrix, the strength- to-weight ratio will be enhanced. Because of its high strength and low weight, aluminium 6061 alloy is used as workpiece material. Because of their favourable technical features, metal matrix composites, particularly aluminium alloy matrix composites, are good choices for industrial applications. The metal matrix of Aluminum 6061 was strengthened with Ash and SiC in this project. The stir casting procedure helped to create it. Three different mixes of reinforcement were used. Testing such as the tensile test, hardness test, impact test and microstructure examination are used to investigate mechanical qualities. These specimens' qualities are compared to the three compositions we've created, and the best of them is picked. Scanning Electron Microscope is used to examine the microstructure (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The damping behaviour of nanocomposites for SCARA robot arm applications was investigated in this study utilizing an aluminium alloy (AA) 5083 reinforced with varying compositions like 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 weight percent (wt%) of Al2SiO5 nanomaterial. The nanocomposite was developed by stir casting manufacturing method with uniformly dispersed nanomaterial within the matrix material, as well as both the matrix and nanocomposite materials. The developed materials were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDS) analysis. Finally, the produced material's damping behaviour was studied with the help of roving hammer method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigate the effect of Al2O3 and MgO addition on the critical temperature of the (Bi, Pb)2Sr2Ca2Cu3O10+ (Bi, Pb)-2223 superconductors. The (Bi, Pb)-2223/ Al2O3 and (Bi, Pb)-2223/MgO composite were synthesized using a sol-gel method. BPSCCO with nominal composition was sintered at 840°C for 60 hours Phase investigation and Morphology observation were carried out by using an X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), respectively. Critical onset temperature (Tc-onset), and critical offset temperature (Tc-offset) used the four-point probe technique. SEM image showed that the BPSCCO superconductor's morphological characteristics seem to dominate the microstructure for all samples. The best result was found in the (Bi, Pb)-2223 with addition 1% MgO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyhydroxy butyrate (PHB) is a biocompatible and biodegradable thermoplastic polymer. It is accumulated as granules in the cytoplasm of some kinds of bacteria that called PHB-producing bacteria. PHB is a polyester and used in bone implant materials. This study intended at the isolation, production, and identification of the PHB from PHB-producing bacteria isolated from animal manure. Additionally, to identify the extracted PHB using physical and chemical methods and investigate its surface features and porosity using scanning electron microscopy. Animal manure samples were collected from animal farms in AL-Muthanna province for isolation of PHB-producing bacteria. The isolated bacteria were identified using morphological and biochemical tests. Later on, the bacteria were cultured in special media for the production of PHB. The isolated PHP was identified using physical and biochemical tests. Moreover, the surface properties and porosity were investigated using a scanning electron microscope. In this study, a pure culture of PHB-producing bacteria was identified from animal manure. The identified bacteria were recognized as Bacillus spp. according to colony morphology, Gram stain, and biochemical tests. The extracted PHB was revealed typical physical and chemical features of the standard commercial PHB. Under scanning electron microscopy, the PHB surface revealed well distribute pores ranged in size from 0.2 to 20 µm and extended deeply in the depth of the structure. In conclusion, this study approved the production and identification of PHB from PHB- producing bacteria isolated from animal manure. The characterization of the PHB was compatible with standard commercial PHB. The authors recommend doing more other studies to use the animal waste manure to produce biological value polymer such as PHB from waste material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of plant extract inhibitors is the best alternative because it does not contain heavy metals and is nontoxic, environmently friendly, biodegradable, easy to obtain, inexpensive and available in large quantities. In this study, pomelo leaves were extracted in ethanolic media and characterized by using Gas chromatography - Mass spectroscopy GC-MS and Fourier transform infrared Spectroscopy FTIR. Results showed that extract contain large numbers of organic compounds. The ability of pomelo leaves extract (PLE) to act as corrosion inhibitor for carbon steel alloys in an acidic environment was investigated through potentiostatic polarization and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. Results obtained revealed that PLE can inhibite the corrosion of carbon steel in 0.5 M HCl solution. The corrosion inhibition efficiency of PLE increases with increasing PLE concentration and decreases with increasing temperature.Tafel plots showed that PLE behave as mixed type inhibitor Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) showed a formation of protective film on the surface of the carbon steel. Adsorption of PLE molecules on the carbon steel surface in the presence of hydrochloric acid obayed Langmuir isotherm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study is to prepare and characterize the green synthesis of CdO nanoparticles using Curcuma longa plant. Using X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, UV-Visible spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope SEM analysis, the thorough characterization of CdO nanoparticles was carried out, demonstrating that the prepared CdO nanoparticles were polymorphic. The findings of antibacterial activity have shown that efficacy against Gram-positive inhibition (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative activity against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative activity (salmonella and P. aeruginosa). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The PVA-PMMA-PAAM-Ag films with different content of Ag pure (0, 0.02, 0.04 wt.%) were prepared by the solution casting method and with a thickness of 60 µm. The structure of the composite (PVA-PMMA-PAAM-Ag) was examined via scanning electron microscope to examine the surface morphology of the samples, while FT-IR was used to determine the active groups. To study the optical properties and record the absorption spectrum employing a visible ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The absorption spectra were recorded in the wavelength range 200-1100 nm. The transmittance decreased with the increase of Ag content in the composite film, while the conductivity increased. The energy gap decreased from 4.35 eV for PVA-PMMA-PAAM film to 3.95 eV for PVA-PMMA-PAAM-0.04wt.%Ag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although copper is one of the most suitable engineering materials for different thermal applications, it suffers from a problem of softening at high temperatures. Copper has been reinforced with carbide with excellent qualities of WC tungsten carbide with different volumetric strengthening ratios (0,1.5,3,4.5,6) %. As the samples were pressed at (5) tons for a time of one minute, the powdery samples were prepared after being mixed and milled for a two-hour period. Then, the prepared samples appeared at 950°C and for a time of only two hours. Various tests were performed on the samples for the purpose of studying their structural and mechanical properties. They are also included examination of the scanning electron microscope SEM, X-ray spectroscopy EDS, true porosity, Brinell hardness, and wear rate calculation. The results were encouraging and gave the best values after sintering at a 6% WC enhancement ratio; when the lowest porosity was 13.31%, the highest hardness was 260.127HBN, and the lowest wear rate was 1.28*10-6 g/cm. The results of a scanning electron microscope at the highest percentage of reinforcement was 6% WC of tungsten carbide with a homogeneous and cohesive surface, which gave good mechanical and structural properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four metal oxides nanoparticles such nickel, copper, magnesium and zinc oxides were synthesized in this study using different methods. Structural characterizations of the prepared oxides were done using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. These nanoparticles oxides were mixed with the product water resulted from residues of the production units of Al-Samawah refinery with different percentage ratio (0.02, 0.04, 0.06, and 0.08) gm per 100 ml to detect the effect of mixing on the electrical conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved salts, and pH at different reaction times. Many different effects occur on the physical properties of the product water as a result to adding these ratios of metal oxides nanoparticles which enhancing the water to use in environmental applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Friction stir spot welding is a newly developed spot welding method used for various applications. It can join a variety of materials and remarkably dissimilar materials. However, joining different materials or alloys utilizing conventional spot welds was prone to multiple problems. The present study has employed to join dissimilar aluminum alloys of AA5052 to AA6061-T6 by friction stir spot welding. The combinations of selected dissimilar materials were widely applied for automotive and transportation applications where lightweight structures are in demand. In order to control the heat conduction and thereby grain coarsening, AA 6061-T6 has been kept as a base sheet on the backing plate during joining. The joint was analyzed to observe the formed material mixing at the interface. The hardness distribution across the dissimilar welds obtained from the upper and lower sheets and the minimum hardness was measured in the HAZ. The fracture surface was analyzed through a scanning electron microscope. The joint strength was evaluated by tensile testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composites of aluminium alloy have strength comparable to conventional metals. Copperas an alloying element results in improved strength of aluminium. Silicon carbide and graphite also yield better strength when reinforced to aluminium alloys. Graphite has additional advantage due to its solid lubricant characteristic. Effect of silicon carbide and graphite on tensile strength and hardness are studied by varying reinforcement of silicon carbide the percentage of which is based on design of experiments. Tensile strength along with hardnesshas increased with 0 – 8 % SiC reinforcement. These values are further improved upon additionof graphite as secondary reinforcement in the hybrid composites. This can be attributed to uniform distribution of reinforcements as reveled by Scanning Electron Microscope images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of X-ray spectral microanalysis of heavy tungsten pseudoalloys based on particles of the W-Ni-Fe alloy dispersed by electric erosion, obtained in kerosene. Consolidation of the obtained electroerosive powders was carried out by the method of spark plasma sintering using the SPS 25-10 spark plasma sintering system. Using an EDAX energy-dispersive X-ray analyzer built into a Quanta 600 FEG scanning electron microscope, characteristic X-ray spectra were obtained at various points on the sample surface and along a cross-section. As a result of the study, it was found that in heavy tungsten alloys from particles of the W-Ni-Fe 95 alloy dispersed by electric erosion, a part of carbon is present in a carbon-containing liquid (lighting kerosene), and all other elements are distributed over the volume relatively evenly. It is shown that the main elements in heavy tungsten alloys from particles of the WNiFe alloy dispersed by electric erosion are W, Ni and Fe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The degradation of dyestuffs by the photocatalysis method is fascinating because it is simple and reduces the quantity of new waste generated during the process. The purpose of this study is to use a Zn-Fe3O4/WO3 composite to photocatalyst the degradation of methylene blue as a model organic pollutant. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to examine the catalyst's properties. The XRD investigation confirmed the presence of a composite structure of Zn-Fe3O4/WO3. The morphological particles of Zn-Fe3O4/WO3 are non-uniform and tend to agglomerate, as evidenced by the SEM image. The optimal conditions of the photocatalytic process were 50 mL methylene blue (10 ppm), 0.2 g weight of Zn-Fe3O4/WO3 catalyst, and a contact time of 30 minutes, which resulted in an 81.38 % degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish oil are currently high in demand due to its wide range of therapeutic benefits. High content of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) derived from various sources of marine life in fish oil are essential in human mental developments and metabolism. Swamp Eel Fish, scientifically known as Monopterus Albus is a freshwater fish that highly in demands across South-East Asia and can easily be found in Malaysia. This paper presents the study on the extraction of fish oil from the Monopterus Albus eel fish using microwave assisted extraction (MAE) process with ethanol as a solvent. The yield, acid value and free fatty acid (FFA) content of the Monopterus Albus eel fish oil were studied at different solvent concentrations (0 % v/v-100 % v/v) and solid-to-solvent ratios (0.04 g/ml-0.13 g/ml) with constant time, temperature and power of 30 min, 60 °C and 800 W, respectively. Concentrated Monopterus Albus fish oil was analyzed using 785 DMP Titrino Metrom and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results showed that the oil yield increases with the increases of solvent concentration and solid-to-solvent ratios with the highest yield of 14.60 % at 100 % v/v and 0.13 g/ml, respectively. Acid values and free fatty acid content recorded was 2.19 mg KOH/g and 1.14 %. Morphology of the before and after extraction process displayed significant structural changes on the surfaces of the sample indicated effectiveness of microwave-assisted extraction in extracting fish oil. The findings from this study suggested the best operating conditions to extracts fish oil from the Monopterus Albus eel fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, hydroxyapatite was prepared from natural biological structures, namely cow bones, by calcination to 750 °C for three hours. Then a ceramic compound was prepared for use in medical applications, in the field of prosthetic orthopedics and dentistry. The Nano ceramic complex consists of hydroxyapatite as the base material, with titania and zirconia nanoparticles. The samples were prepared according to the following weight ratios (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 %wt.). Samples were prepared using manual mixing and ultrasound technology for the purpose of obtaining a highly homogeneous ceramic compound. The thermal reaction was performed by sintering the models with phase Solid at 1350 °C for three hours, Through the results of X-ray diffraction, it was found that the prepared compound is the hexagonal phase hydroxyapatite, with the chemical symbol (Ca10(Po4)6(OH2), and that the average crystal size is 49.69 nm, and the results of the scanning electron microscope for samples of the HTZ system showed that the component particles It has a spherical shape close to the size, homogeneous and does not contain large clusters. Through the results of the energy dispersive X-ray spectrum (EDS) analysis, which was performed on the HTZ system samples before and after the heat treatment, that the dominant elements in all samples are (Ca, P, O, Ti, Zr) The numerical value also showed the molar ratio of calcium to phosphorus (Ca/P>1.5) for all the prepared samples, which indicates that the compounds are stable and there are no foreign phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The particle matter (PM) and poisoning gases represent the major pollutants of the air in petroleum refineries. The purification of air from all these dangerous contaminants required a special air filtration system. In this investigation, three types of acrylic nanofibers were synthesized using an electrospinning technique. Three concentrations of acrylic polymers were used in the nanofiber preparation process (i.e., 10, 15, and 20 wt %). The preparation conditions for the electrospinning system were selected to be 25 °C, 20 KV, and 20 cm for operating temperature, applied voltage, and distance between needle and target, respectively. The morphological and structural properties of nanofibers were evaluated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results indicated that the prepared nanofibers at concentration of 15 wt% have the ability to remove all contaminants of particulate matters (PM10 and PM2.5) due to their structural distribution framework. Moreover, it was noted that the concentration of acrylic polymer plays an important key to determine the nanofiber quality. Additionally, the electrospinning system can be used for a high air quality application with simple operation, and low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminium hybrid composites are new generations of metal matrix composites (thermal conductivity and ductility) that have the potential to satisfy the recent demands of advanced engineering applications. Aluminium 6082 has a wide application in the field of military, marine and aerospace industries. Due to its corrosion resistant properties and significant tensile strength, this alloy proved itself as an excellent alloy for marine ships and other applications. But due to its low hardness and wear resistance values, it's applications in marine are limited. Hence a process is needed to increase its hardness and wear resistance. In the present study, AL –MMC has been fabricated by mixing the 5-10% ZrSiO4 (very strong, malleable, ductile) and 5% TiC (improving conductivity, corrosion resistance property) reinforcement into the Al6082 aluminium alloy matrix. Stir casting method has been adopted for the fabrication of MMC. Three prepared casted MMC has been characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The physical property (density) and mechanical properties (hardness test, tensile test, wear test) and impact test and flexural test have been measured for fabricated MMC. The wear resistance, refractoriness and hardness property of the fabricated MMC tend to be improved with the increase in the ZrSiO4 and Tic reinforcement percentage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As per our investigation, the reinforcement of Mg has not been studied yet over the AA 2014 alloy so that it can be used for aerospace structural, vehicle and marine applications with good strength and light weight. The present work focuses on increasing the strength of AA 2014 aluminium alloy for purposeful use with its different weight proportion. So, the fabrication and characterization of AA 2014/Mg AMMC's was done using a suitable casting process. Various tests like hardness and impact tests were conducted to study the mechanical properties of obtained metal matrix composite. And for the analysis of micro-structural properties, X-ray diffraction and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) were conducted on the prepared samples of AMMC's. The impact strength value obtained via the Izod impact test is 17J for 2% Mg and 21J for 4% Mg reinforcement and the hardness values are 95.68 BHN for 2% Mg and 71.58 BHN for 4% Mg reinforcement. After all the tests, it can be predicted that the aluminium AA 2014 alloy with magnesium has good toughness, ductility along with the desirable strength and having sustainable applications in the field of material engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to enhance the effect of activated carbon modified anionic surfactant due to the lack of functional group in order to extract specific pollutant. The characteristic of the adsorbent, activated carbon and modified activated carbon was analysed. The adsorbents were used for the removal of methylene blue, cationic dye from aqueous solution. For characterisation of the activated carbon and SLS-AC, Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) were used. The effect of the parameters such as contact time and temperature for adsorption using activated carbon and SLS-AC were investigated to estimate the effect of adsorption performance. The surface area for the activated carbon was 572.537 mg2/g while for the SLS-AC was respectively reduced to 221.732 mg2/g. The addition of SLS surfactant has exhibited higher adsorption percentage of dye removal due to the presence of the functional group on the surface area activated carbon. Besides, the effect of contact time for SLS-AC can achieve maximum percentage 48.9% after 15 minutes contact time with initial dye 0.1 M concentration. Figure 5, 84.4% MB was removed at 50°C, which was higher than the activated carbon 81.1 % removal. According to the results, SLS-AC has shown the characteristic for applications in the removal of organic compounds in wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and commercial pristine multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was used as hybrid filler reinforced with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was successfully prepared and characterized the properties. The addition of the hybrid filler into the reinforcement of the nanocomposites intended to improve their performances and mechanical properties. There were three different weight percent of hybrid filler were used which are 1.6 w.t%, 1.1 w.t% and 2.6 w.t% of CNC/CNT. In addition, the hybrid filler was enhanced with 5 w.t% of PVA. The PVA/CNC/CNT nanocomposite films was characterized by stability of the hybrid nanofiller, Attenuated Total Reflection- Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The morphology and size of the cellulose nanocrystals were characterized by using SEM. The most significant concentration of hybrid nanofiller added into the PVA polymer matrix was 2.6 wt. % of CNT / CNC / PVA which the particles embedded on thin films. These improvements in the composite by the addition of nano-sized particles create higher surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferum-nickel-chromium (Fe-Ni-Cr) alloy is a family of Ni-based alloy which is generally utilized in elevated temperature applications with excellent oxidation resistance properties. In this study, Fe-33Ni-19Cr alloy underwent a heat treatment procedure at 1000°C and 1100°C for 3 hours soaking time, and then rapidly cooled by water quench. The heat- treated alloys were then subjected to a cyclic oxidation test at 900°C for 150 cycles in air. The oxidized alloys were characterized in terms of weight change per surface area as a function of cycles and oxide scale behavior in plan and cross- sectional view using a scanning electron microscope outfitted with an energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer. It was found that the low heat treatment temperature, which is 1000°C, produced fine grain structure. Whereas, heat-treated alloy at 1100°C produced coarse grain structure. On the other hand, cyclic oxidation of both heat-treated oxidized alloys recorded a weight gain pattern. Various oxide phases were formed on the oxidized alloys surface, namely Cr-rich and Cr-Mn rich oxides. The surface morphology analysis exhibited an uninterrupted oxide layer established on the oxidized alloys surface, with fine grain heat-treated alloy forming a uniform oxide layer. However, oxide exfoliation has been recorded on coarse grain heat-treated alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-based Fe-Ni-Cr alloy is an important engineering material for a variety of applications especially at high temperature conditions. However, during service, this alloy experienced an oxide exfoliation that may reduce the material lifetime and its potential applications. To enhance the protective properties of this alloy at high temperature application, the modification on the alloy surface was done to introduce the subsurface region of refined grain that will induce diffusion. This project is to study the effect of different surface preparation on the isothermal oxidation behavior of Fe-Ni-Cr alloy. Different grit of SiC papers were used during grinding processes, namely P180, P600 and P1000 in order to achieve different surface roughness of the samples. The ground samples were exposed to oxidizing temperature at 700°C in air for 150 hours. The isothermally oxidized alloys were analyzed using kinetics of oxidation and scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer. Oxides layers were formed on the alloy surface which act as a protective layer at the isothermal temperature condition. As a result, all samples exhibited a weight gain pattern, following a parabolic rate law showing diffusion-controlled oxide growth mechanism. P180 sample recorded the lowest parabolic rate constant, showing the lowest oxidation rate. In addition, P180 sample also displayed a uniform and incessant oxide layer without evidence of oxide exfoliation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of mechanical treatment of powder on the structure and phase composition of hard alloys has been studied. It is shown that the average size of agglomerated particles measured by scanning electron microscope decreased from 350 to 15 µm within up to 300 s of mechanical activation. In samples mechanically treated for more than 100 s, the detected peaks belonged to the carbide phase Co3W3C. The lattice parameter of the WC-phase correlates well with the literature data. The minimum porosity of the sintered sample was 7.8 ± 1% that corresponds to that of the sample subjected to mechanical pre-treatment for 30 s. It is shown that hardness depends on the grain size, porosity and second carbide content. Thus, mechanical activation can effectively improve physical and mechanical properties and inhibit grain growth, but in this case, mechanical treatment should be performed in the time interval of 60–100 s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid metals have remarkable heat transport capabilities and are, thus, promising heat transfer fluids in thermal receivers in solar thermal electricity systems with high heat loads, such as central receiver systems. For thermal energy storage, a dual-media storage system with solid filler material is proposed. This configuration increases the storage capacity and decreases the storage material costs compared with a direct two-tank system. It also improves the storage performance, when comparing with a single-tank thermocline system without filler. Theoretical results show that the discharge efficiencies are highest for the largest storage heights and higher for heavy metals (lead and lead-bismuth eutectic) compared with sodium, both due to the decreased axial heat conduction and thus, minimized degradation of the thermocline. At the Karlsruhe Liquid Metal Laboratory (KALLA) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) a lab-scale prototype of a dual-media storage system with filler material and lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE) as the heat transfer fluid is currently taken into operation. The first results without filler material show a good agreement between the theoretical model and the experimental results. In parallel, the compatibility of filler material candidates with LBE is investigated by storing the material in stagnant LBE for several weeks at 500°C and afterwards examining the filler material with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results indicate that ceramics are the most promising candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pb(II)-ion imprinted polymer (IIP) was prepared by bulk polymerization of themetal complex of Pb (II) and gallic acid as a ligand, EGDMA as a crosslinker, AIBN as an initiator in ethanol as a porogen. The effect of monomer methyl methacrylate (Pb-IIP-MMA) and 4-vinyl pyridine (Pb-IIP-4VP) which has different alkalinity was investigated due to IIPs performance. As a control, Non Imprinted Polymer (NIP) was synthesized using the same method as IIP without the use of templates. The synthesized polymers were characterized using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Leaching process by 1 M HN03 has no significant effect on IIP structure. Both Pb-IIP-MMA and Pb-IIP-4VP have the optimum adsorption of Pb (II) ion at pH 5 and 90 minutes contact time. The adsorption processes of Pb-IIP-MMA and Pb-IIP-4VP are in accordance with second-order pseudo kinetics with the values of R2=0.8904 and 0.8525 respectively. IIP corresponds to the Freundlich's adsorption isotherm with R2=0.8045 (Pb-IIP-MMA) and 0.8489 (Pb-IIP-4VP). The highest adsorption capacity of Pb (II) 5.92 mg/g was obtained by IIP-4VP. IIP-MMA and IIP-4VP have good selectivity against Cd (II) and Cr (III) interference ion compared to NIP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of cement replacement by oil shale grinded powder (OSGP) on the workability, mechanical properties, and durability of concrete. Four mixtures were prepared with OSGP ratios to cement of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%. OSGP was prepared by obtained oil shale from Wadi Al-Shallala at the north of Jordan, then grinded to fine particles and passed from 54 micro-meter sieve. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) tests for OSGP were conducted and the results were displayed. Workability, through slump test, was conducted for fresh concrete specimens after mixing. Compressive strength, flexural strength, and tensile strength were performed at the age of 28 days. The results showed a significant reduction in workability, compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strengths as oil shale increased in the concrete mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work represents modification of Zinc oxide nanoparticles by doping with Co nanoparticles to yield Co/ZnO. The produced Co/ZnO nanoparticles was examined by atomic force microscope(AFM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), BET specific surface area and X-rays diffraction techniqueXRD). From the obtained results, it was found that Co/ZnO nanoparticles was arranged homogeneously. ZnO NPs crystallinity has also been found to not be missing with the presence of cobalt nanoparticles. This material was applied as a photo cathode for dye sensitized solar cell (DSSCs). The efficiency of the DSSCs in the current study was as follows: (ri %) was 1.67 %, an Voc 350 mV, a short-circuit current density (Isc) 0.82 mA/cm2, and a fill factor (FF) 0.58. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of magnetite (Fe3O4) and graphene composite on the signal of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectra has been observed. In this research, magnetite (Fe3O4) has been successfully synthesized from natural sand and composited with graphene by a ultrasonic co-precipitation method. Formation of composite confirmed by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray transmission (EDX). The XRD pattern showed the crystalline structure of Fe3O4 was cubic structure, while the graphene structure was sharp hexagonal graphite. The crystalline size of Fe3O4 was estimated about 20 nm. In addition, the morphological image of the composite was observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Meanwhile, the performance of the composite as a biosensor has been carried out using SPR. Based on the SPR test that has been carried out, the composite sample produces a greater shift in the intensity of the plasmonic resonance compared to Fe3O4 and graphene, with the value of the shift respectively for graphene, Fe3O4, and composite samples of 20, 60, and 85 units r.u. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gelatine is the result of collagen hydrolysis that can be applied to products from various fields such as food, industry, and health. Gelatine derived from fish skin, such as Pangasius hypophthalmus (striped catfish) has been developing as an alternative raw material for substituting mammals gelatine based of the ethical and religious perspective. The collagen is the part of skin tissue which structurally affected by the age of animal which can be represented by the body size. Hypothetically, the body size and extraction method will influence the characteristics of gelatine. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of striped catfish body size and extraction on viscosity and gelatine microstructure and it's potential for pharmaceutical purposes. The skins from young and adult size striped catfishes were treated using different extraction based on combination of temperature -acid-base treatment times. Gelatine viscosity were measured with viscometer and it's microstructures were observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results found that the different body size (age) and extraction treatment influences the gelatine viscosity and microstructures. Based on viscosity and SEM analysis, the striped catfish from both body size were potentially pharmaceutical uses as halal material of capsule and microencapsulation for tablet preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main material of wood has a variety of mechanical properties for various purposes such as the construction of houses, household needs, furniture, panels, accessories, and others. It makes the demand for wood products increase as well as waste which also increased. The increase of the product can be offset by adequate supply, meanwhile, wood in the form of wood chips and sawdust or wood particles is underutilized so that it is necessary to optimize its existence. Creating a new product as a composite is a new development for many researchers. In this research, based composites were used from wood Lime powder (Dryobalanops Aromatica Gaertn) and Bangkirai wood (Shorea laevifolia Endert). The woods were analyzed by the 5% NaOH alkalization method. A mixture of sawdust, polyester, catalyst, was printed in the mold using the compression molding method. In this study, the mechanical properties applied to wood and wood composites are tensile strength, bending, and hardness. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was carried out to check the distribution of the matrix and filler. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our previous study, the effect of temperature for fabrication ZnO-SiO2 nanocomposite had been investigated. It was found that the optimum condition for the photocatalytic activity was obtained when the nanocomposite was synthesized at temperature of 400 °C. In the present study, the effect of SiO2 loading on the ZnO-SiO2 nanocomposite were investigated as well as the photocatalytic performance. ZnO-SiO2 nanocomposites have been synthesized by a combination liquid and gas-phase processes. Colloidal silica was prepared by sol-gel method, where water glass was used as a precursor. The water glass was diluted into demineralized water and passed it into activated cation resin using HCl 2 M to allow the exchange of H+ and Na+ ions. While, ZnO was obtained by decomposition of Zn(CH3COO)2.2H2O inside tubular spray reactor. The effect of SiO2 concentration ranging from 0 to 2 %wt was used. Characterization of ZnO-SiO2 nanocomposites was carried out by morphological analysis with scanning electron microscope (SEM), crystallinity analysis with X-ray diffraction (XRD), functional group analysis with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and photocatalytic test by evaluating the degradation rate of methylene blue (MB) under UV and sunlight irradiation. It was found that the best photocatalytic performance was attained when the concentration of SiO2 was equal to 1 % wt at temperature of 400°C. The degradation efficiency reached 95 % using this parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO2 is a pollutant gas resulting from the combustion of fossil fuel and organic matters. As the population increases, the consumption of fossil fuel also increases. As a consequence, the production of CO2 increases but the fossil fuel stocks decrease. CO2 gas causes some environmental and health problems. In this research, CO2 was converted into methanol, a renewable energy source, by using rGO/CuO composite material as photocatalyst under UV irradiation as a simulation of the sunlight. In this way, the two problems could be solved, the CO2 polution and the energy crisis. rGO was prepared by modified Hummer method and CuO was prepared by hydrothermal method. In this experiment, the composition of rGO in the composite was 2.5%. CO2 gas was flown for 5 min with a flow rate of 1 slpm. The UV irradiation time was varied 2, 2.5 and 3 hours. X-Ray Diffractometer and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were used to characterize the structure and morphology of material respectively. Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrophotometer (GC-MS) was used to quantify the resulted methanol. As a result, the highest methanol production was 1970.1 mmole/(hour gram catalyst) after irradiated by UV light for 2.5 hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan, a (1–4)-linked 2-amino-2-deoxy-D-glucopyranose is derived from chitin, one of the most abundant natural polysaccharides. Chitosan is well known for its nontoxicity, solubility in most acids, biocompatibilty and biodegradable properties. In addition, it has several unique properties: it is antimicrobial, inhibits the growth of a wide variety of fungi, yeasts, and bacteria, which can be beneficial for use in the field of biomedicine, textile, and paper production. It can also bind toxic metal ions, which can be beneficial for use in air cleaning and water purification applications. The protonation of the amino groups on the chitosan backbone inhibits the electrospinnability of pure chitosan. Recently, electrospinning of nanofibers based on chitosan has been widely researched and numerous nanofibers containing chitosan have been prepared by decreasing the number of the free amino groups of chitosan as the nanofibers have enormous possibilities for better utilization in various areas. In this study, 2-10% chitosan, in aqueous 50% acetic acid solution has been successfully electrospun. The effect of processing parameters and the concentration of the polymer solution on the morphology and diameter of electrospun were investigated. The morphology and diameter of electrospun fibers were observed by scanning electron microscope. The diameters of chitosan nanofibers ranged from 90 to 250 nm. The results showed that the fiber diameter increased when the solution concentration and flow rate were increased, whereas the fiber diameter decreased when the applied voltage and distance between tip to collector were increased. The optimum conditions were 2 % wt of chitosan concentration, 25 kV applied voltage, 0.2 mL/ hr solution flow rate, and 10 cm collector distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When choosing a grade of hard alloy for the production of button of roller-cone drill bits, they are guided by the nature of the loads experienced by a hard-alloy bit during drilling and the mechanism of its destruction. The mechanism of rock destruction when drilling with bits is based on the principle of crushing the rock with some slippage, i.e. with abrasion. Uniform abrasion of the teeth along the height is considered a normal mechanism for the wear of the teeth. Therefore, the alloy for the production of button is subject to increased requirements in terms of compressive strength, abrasion resistance and fracture toughness KIc (impact toughness). The influence of different modes of sintering of hard-alloy bits of drill bits on the physical and mechanical characteristics and microstructure of the alloy has been investigated. The relationship between exposure time and crack resistance, hardness and coercivity is shown. The photographs of the microstructure of the samples taken on a Jeol JSM-6390A scanning electron microscope are presented. The ways for further work to improve the quality and microstructure of the carbide cutting structure of drill bits at the production of JSC "Volgaburmash" are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Austenitic stainless steels are well known for their excellent corrosion resistance based on their high contents of chromium and nickel, which stimulate the formation of stable and passive oxide layers (Cr2O3) on the surface. Due to the limited hardness, wear, and corrosion properties of the austenitic stainless steel, for some applications, their surface needs to be treated. In this study, we choose the plasma carbonitriding technique to improve the surface properties of austenitic SS 316L steel. For this purpose, the experiment was carried out for various processing time such as 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, and 5 hours at 1.6 mbar, 903 V, 408 mA, and 508 °C. As a carbon and nitrogen source, we use a mixture of 3.05 % of CH4, 19.31 % of H2, and N2 balance. Surface properties of untreated and treated samples were characterized by their hardness, surface morphology, chemical composition, and corrosion resistance using microhardness tester, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and potentiodynamic, respectively. It has been found that the hardness increased by a factor of 1.94. From the measurement of profile depth hardness, it is found that the diffusion depth is around 129 µm, the surface of the polished (untreated) sample is very smooth, after being carbonitrided the surface becomes rough and grain boundary cavities were observed. The carbon content is 44.40 mass % and the nitrogen content is 22.45 mass %. From the corrosion test, it is found that all treated samples show the deteriorating corrosion resistance or drop in the corrosion properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphology and Structural Evaluation of Chromium Powder during Mechanical Milling. Chromium plays an important role in improving the high temp oxidation in ODS (Oxide Dispersion Strengthened) alloy due to corrosion resistance. The length of time during mechanical milling of chromium as a dispersion in ferritic steel matrix plays important role. In this study, we investigated the different milling times to understand the microstructure and properties of Chromium powders using Scanning Electron Microscope – Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The results show, as a function of milling time, severe plastic deformation (SPD), and fracture stage occur in the first stage of milling until 3 hours of milling. In 4 until 5 hours of milling, the SPD and cold welding occur. After 5 hours of milling, fracture stage occurs, the shape of particles became smaller and finer. The crystallite size and d-spacing also decrease drastically with milling time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]