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Ink-paper historical documents, which are an important part of cultural heritage, can be damaged by various materials on the outside and the inside of the paper. Cotton fiber sheets treated with iron gall ink and then treated with stabilization materials were studied. Nanosized Mg(OH)2 was used as a deacidification material and potassium bromide, tetrabutylammonium bromide, or propyl gallate as antioxidant materials were investigated as a stabilization system for iron gall ink-damaged paper. All samples were artificially aged in the air for 150 h at 65 °C in a UV/moisture chamber or 500 h at 90 °C. The pH and alkaline reserve (AR) measurements, monitoring of color change, and scanning electron microscopy analysis data confirm that the aging effect is more destructive to the iron gall inked paper. The experiment results show that using alkaline materials with antioxidants, such as nano-Mg(OH)2 and propyl gallate, positively affects color changes of ink-damaged paper. Treatment with a stabilization system such as nanosized Mg(OH)2, a binder hydroxypropyl cellulose (Klucel), and an antioxidant as propyl gallate is a suitable method for iron gall ink damaged paper stabilization and preservation, according to the study results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices are emerging as promising options for on-the-spot detection of chemical contaminants in water. The coupling of these devices with digital imaging technology has attracted immense interest in developing portable sensor applications. However, the potential of digital techniques still remains to be fully explored. In this work, we integrate digital imaging with microfluidic paper-based analytical devices to develop a portable colorimetric assay for iron. The experimental conditions are optimised using image analysis and the effects of imaging equipment and colorimetric analysis methods on the readout of devices are studied using numerical, graphical and statistical techniques. The experimental results are obtained for the estimation of iron contamination in water samples using a colorimetric assay based on iron (III)-thiocyanate reaction. The digital image acquisition approach using smartphone as imaging equipment is adopted for on-the-spot colorimetric data collection. Image processing techniques are employed to estimate the iron concentration in water from digital images. Greyscale colour intensity obtained from a digital image is identified as a readout of the analytical device and employed for quantitative assessment. The limit of detection for iron is estimated to be 0.26 ppm. The microfluidic approach offers good recovery and repeatability with relative standard deviation of 1.4%. The maximum percentage difference for intensities between the image analysis methods is 4.94% and that between the imaging equipment is 9.96%. The gradients of regression lines for pairwise equipment and method outputs with zero intercept range from 0.9931 to 1.0162 with high values of coefficients of determination. The correlation coefficient values for various paired comparisons (>0.99) suggest strong agreement. Statistical test results suggest no significant differences between methods and between imaging equipment (significance level 0.05). The findings suggest the efficacy of digital imaging and colorimetric analysis for paper-based analytical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is an essential mineral critical for various applications in many industries like plastic, rubber, paint, and paper manufacturing. However, salable CaCO3 products need to meet specific requirements. For the paint and paper manufacturing industries, the whiteness index (WI) of CaCO3 is an important property because it strongly influences the final color of paper and paint products. In this study, the effects of retention time and pulp density on the WI after attrition-scrubbing of calcite tailings were investigated. To increase the whiteness index, an attrition scrubber was used to remove impurities on the CaCO3 surface with different pulp densities—40, 45, 50, 55, 60, and 70% solids—and retention time—10, 15, 20, and 25 min—as process variables. The results of laboratory-scale experiments found that the attrition-scrubbing process improved the whiteness index of CaCO3 tailings and reduced its iron content. The optimum condition was at the pulp density of 55% solids, which was used in the pilot-scale experiments. The results of the pilot-scale tests were consistent with the laboratory-scale, indicating that the attrition-scrubbing process can be used to improve the quality of CaCO3 tailings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron gall inks have a destructive effect on paper supports due to their acidic and transition metal-containing nature. For the chemical stabilization of paper-based objects, conservation studies include both antioxidant and deacidification treatments. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments, accelerated ageing experiments are performed and changes during ageing are measured. Historical manuscripts may contain colored papers and since only natural dyes and pigments were available until the development of modern chemistry in the nineteenth century, the palette was limited. Organic dyes mainly consisted of colourants obtained from plants and insects. In this study, colored papers of manuscripts from the fifteenth century which belong to the collections of Millet Library, İstanbul were analyzed via high-performance liquid chromatography. According to the results, model papers were dyed with Rheum ribes L. (rhubarb), and then an iron gall ink, prepared according to a historical recipe, was applied to them. Due to acid and transition metal content, a stabilization treatment including alkali and an antioxidant was applied on a set of samples and after 12 days of accelerated ageing, changes in pH, degree of polymerization, and optical properties of the samples were monitored. A viscometer, a useful tool to monitor the efficiency of a treatment, was employed for the determination of degree of polymerization values. Data obtained from viscometric measurements were used to evaluate the degradation rate constants of the samples. Comparison of rate constants showed that treatment had a beneficial effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we argue that the EU suffers from autoimmunity: a self-harming protection strategy. Drawing on Derrida's political understanding of autoimmunity, we contend that the root of this malfunction lies in the EU's own b/ordering and othering policies, which are intended to immunise the foundational ethos of the EU. For this purpose, we dissect the EU border regime into three linked b/ordering mechanisms: the pre-borders of paper documents that regulate from afar the mobility of the people from visa-obliged countries; the actual land borders often consisting of iron gates and fences regulating mobility on the spot; and the post-border in the form of waiting/detention camps that segregate and enclose the undocumented migrants after entry. We make clear how this discriminatory b/ordering and othering regime has led to a recurrent drawing of ever less porous, inhumane and deadlier borders. Such thanatopolitics finds itself at odds with the humanist values that the EU is supposed to uphold, particularly cross-border solidarity, openness, non-discrimination and human rights. We argue that the EU b/ordering regime has turned fear of the non-EUropean into an increasingly unquestioned – even 'commonsensical' – anxiety that has become politically profitable to exploit by extreme nationalistic and EUrosceptic parties. The core of the EU's autoimmunity that we want to expose lies within this irony: in its attempt to protect what it considers meaningful, the EU has unleashed an autoimmune disorder that has turned the EU into its own most formidable threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper the most recent advances in lithium iron phosphate batteries recycling are presented. After discharging operations and safe dismantling and pretreatments, the recovery of materials from the active materials is mainly performed via hydrometallurgical processes. Moreover, a significant number of works are currently being focused on direct regeneration processes. Both approaches are currently applied only at laboratory scale. The main challenges to be faced when dealing with upscaling these technologies (for example mechanic vs manual dismantling, valuable elements recovery strategy vs all-components recovery strategy) are here presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a recent article published in JSOT, S.L. Richter suggested that Urdeuteronomium can be dated by the economic features in the text. She restored, supposedly by archaeological means, three "economies" of "ancient Israel" that fit three chronological phases of the Iron Age; and concluded that "the economy assumed in Urdeuteronomium is best suited to the late Iron I/Iron IIA era and/or to a rural and isolated sector of the Iron IIB era" (Richter 2017: 50). Berge et al. (2019) have criticized some issues with this article. In this paper I discuss other aspects, mainly archaeological and economic, which show that Richter's conclusion is not valid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper discusses heritage structures built of welded tuff masonry and timber frames. Such timber-masonry composite structures were built in Japan around the early 20th century. Timber frames are composed of studs and girts. The studs are coupled by penetrating girts via nuki joints. The studs are connected to masonry walls by means of L-shaped wrought iron pegs. In this paper, a warehouse is considered as the case study. Pull-out and shear tests were conducted to examine the performance of joints between a masonry wall and stud. A focus was given to the contribution of iron pegs. A microtremor test was performed on the case study. Based on these experimental activities, seismic analysis was carried out by numerical approach. Attention was paid to the discretisation of joint behaviour between masonry walls and timber studs. The paper introduces structurally a unique heritage building and discusses its seismic behaviour, focusing on joint behaviour derived from iron pegs and nuki joints. Findings are taken advantage of for the seismic analysis of historical composite structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe availability of nutrients in the soil is a dynamic process that can fluctuate between states of deficiency and excess, causing significant stress on plants. In response to this stress, plants have evolved several physiological strategies to adapt and cope with these fluctuations. These strategies are aimed at improving the efficiency of nutrient uptake and utilization while minimizing the negative impact of nutrient stress. In this paper we explore the important roles and regulation of nutrient transporters in plant adaptation, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and sulfur transporters. The paper discusses the mechanisms through which plants utilize these transporters to adapt to nutrient deficiencies and optimize nutrient uptake and utilization. The paper presents a comprehensive review of current understanding in these areas, highlighting their importance for plant growth and development, as well as their potential applications in agriculture. Additionally, the paper identifies research gaps and suggests future directions for research. In this review, we contribute to understanding the complex mechanisms that underpin plant adaptation and nutrition, and provides valuable insights for improving crop production and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rail pad damping is a critical parameter to evaluate its vibration reduction capacity, which has essential research significance. The mesh–type high damping rail pad (MTHDRP) is proposed for the first time in this paper, and the differences in damping performance between MTHDRP and traditional rail pads (PTRP and GRP) are compared and studied. It is concluded that the MTHDRP has the highest damping coefficient than any other rail pads. The dynamics model calculation has discovered that the increase of the rail pad damping coefficient can not only effectively decrease the vibration acceleration, wheel–rail force, and derailment coefficient, but also is beneficial for both vehicle safety and stability and track structure protection. The field test shows that the acceleration of the rail, clip, iron pad, and track bed in the MTHDRP laying section is significantly lower than that in the PTRP laying section, and the rail surface roughness improves significantly after the rail pad is replaced with the MTHDRP for half a year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for crops and is applied to agricultural soil to bring or keep the soil at a certain target soil P status in view of an optimal crop yield. Environmental objectives, however, are rarely considered in current P fertilizer recommendations. In this review paper, we argue that current P fertilizer recommendations must be revised in order to balance crop yield, water quality and the use of finite P resources. This revision requires insights into the total pool of reversibly bound P and the capacity of the soil to bind P. Current soil P tests (SPTs) used in routine agronomic soil testing do not provide these insights. We identify the oxalate extraction method as a high-potential agri-environmental SPT as it measures the total pool of reversibly bound P acting as a reserve for plant-available P while it also quantifies the maximum soil P sorption capacity from the simultaneous measurement of amorphous iron- and aluminium-(hydr)oxides. From these results, the Phosphorus Saturation Degree (PSD) can be calculated. We show that those insights are pivotal for the combined assessment of crop response, the risk of P losses to the water system and the judicious use of finite P reserves. In practice, agronomic target P levels should be lowered in soils with a low P sorption capacity to decrease the risk of P leaching. Agronomic target levels should also be lowered in soils with a high P sorption capacity to ensure a judicious use of finite P reserves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mining sector is facing an immediate challenge to reduce its carbon emissions. The movement of material with mining truck fleets is a critical factor in reducing emissions. As the industry gradually replaces diesel trucks with more environmentally friendly transportation systems, it is important to analyse new solutions. This paper presents a new type of mining truck fleet called the Battery Trolley system, which is a combination of advanced technologies, including a battery-electric drivetrain, autonomy, trolley assist, and energy recovery systems. Depending on the site-specific differences and technology adoptions, decision-makers have three Battery Trolley system configurations to choose from: dynamic charging, stationary charging, and dual trolley Battery Trolley systems, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages. One of the challenges of using Battery Trolley systems is their capacity and productivity. This study uses open-accessible project parameters and databases, with engineering assumptions, to create a mining scenario for both the dynamic charging and stationary charging perspectives. The study provides an equation to evaluate the Battery Trolley system's mining productivity. Results show an incremental analysis of the Battery Trolley productivity as the trolley power increases from 8 MW to 32 MW in various Battery Trolley configurations. The study compares the Battery Trolley productivity for several open-pit mining applications, including copper, iron, and overburden waste. The results indicate that: (i) trolley power limitations significantly affect the capacity of Battery Trolley systems; (ii) a stationary charging option can achieve higher capacity and productivity than dynamic charging; (iii) Battery Trolley productivity varies in different applications under the given simulation assumptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The average grade of iron ore is low in China, and it is significant for the effective utilization of iron ore to obtain grades. In the paper, the high-precision model was constructed based on the spectrum of hematite and the multiple hidden layers extreme learning machine with random values and dense connection, which took the output of all previous layers as the input of each hidden layer. It has achieved high precision during the detection of the total iron content for hematite, which meets the requirements for the construction and development of new green and intelligent mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallurgy is the art and science of working metals, separating them from other substances and removing impurities. This paper is concerned with the Black metallurgists on whose art and science the intensive industries; military bases; and maritime networks of British enslaver colonialism in eighteenth-century Jamaica depended. To engage with these metallurgists on their own terms, the paper brings together oral histories and material culture with archives, newspapers, and published works. By focusing on the practices and priorities of Jamaica's Black metallurgists, the significance and reach of their work begins to be uncovered. Between 1783 and 1784 financier turned ironmaster, Henry Cort, patented a process of rendering scrap metal into valuable bar iron. For this 'discovery', economic and industrial histories have lauded him as one of the revolutionary makers of the modern world. This paper shows how the myth of Henry Cort must be revised with the practices and purposes of Black metallurgists in Jamaica, who developed one of the most important innovations of the industrial revolution for their own reasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mid-century net zero target creates a challenge for reducing the emissions of emissions-intensive, trade-exposed sectors with high cost mitigation options. These sectors include aluminium, cement, chemicals, iron and steel, lime, pulp and paper and petroleum refining. Available studies agree that decarbonization of these sectors is possible by mid-century if more ambitious policies are implemented soon. Existing carbon pricing policies have had limited impact on the emissions of these sectors because their marginal abatement costs almost always exceed the tax rate or allowance price. But emissions trading systems with free allowance allocations to emissions-intensive, trade-exposed sectors have minimized the adverse economic impacts and associated leakage. Internationally coordinated policies are unlikely, so implementing more ambitious policies creates a risk of leakage. This paper presents policy packages a country can implement to accelerate emission reduction by these sectors with minimal risk of leakage. To comply with international trade law the policy packages differ for producers whose goods compete with imports in the domestic market and producers whose goods are exported. Carbon pricing is a critical component of each package due its ability to minimize the risk of adverse economic impacts on domestic industry, support innovation and generate revenue. The revenue can be used to assist groups adversely impacted by the domestic price and production changes due to carbon pricing and to build public support for the policies. A country with a mid-century net zero GHG emission target likely will need to implement more ambitious mitigation policies soon for emission-intensive sectors such as aluminium, cement, chemicals, iron and steel, lime, pulp and paper and petroleum refining. More ambitious mitigation policies are likely to vary by country and be implemented at different times, creating a risk of leakage due to industrial production shifts to other jurisdictions. More ambitious mitigation policy packages, compatible with international trade law, that a country can implement to reduce emissions from these sectors with minimal risk of leakage are available but differ for producers whose goods compete with imports in the domestic market and those whose goods are exported. Carbon pricing is a critical component of each package due its ability to minimize the risk of adverse economic impacts on domestic producers, support innovation and generate revenue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banded iron formations (BIFs) are widespread over the world (3.81 Ga to 1.80 Ga) as the Algoma and Superior types. The paper provides new isotope (Nd-Sr, U-Pb) data on associated noble-metal mineralization in Algoma-type BIFs of the Fennoscandian Shield. U-Pb dating of accessory zircon applied to estimate the formation time of noble-metal-bearing skarn and related rocks in the Olenegorsk and Kirovogorsk BIFs, NW Fennoscandian Shield show that they occurred in the interval between the formation of basalt protolith (2.81 Ga amphibolites) and metamorphism in BIFs (2.75 Ga) to the formation of gold-bearing iron-rich skarn with native Au, Ag, Bi and tellurides (2.65 Ga) and low-temperature quartz-zeolite veins with redeposited Au (2.55 Ga). REE distribution in zircons and corresponding rocks indicated an important role of redox reactions in Fe and REE redistribution affected by reducing fluids on haematite-quartz protolith of BIFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sintering is often the final step during Metal Injection Molding (MIM) and does in an observable way contribute to influencing both the characteristics and performance of final products. In this research paper, the influence of sintering parameters on dimensional stability and mechanical properties of parts having three different shapes is presented and adequately discussed. A CI 90 feedstock having 90 weight percent of Carbonyl Iron powder was prepared by mixing the carbonyl iron powder with an organic binder. The GSGR75 feedstock has 75 weight percent of powder of grinding sludge and graphite. The green samples were subject to thermal debinding at 750°C. The brown samples were sintered at the temperatures of 1100°C, 1200°C, and 1300°C for 60 minutes and in atmospheres of vacuum, argon, and nitrogen. The sintering characteristics of the parts that were produced from the use of the grinding sludge powder (GSGR) were found to be inferior to those produced from the use of the carbonyl iron (CI) powder. This is essentially because of the limited degree of reduction coupled with the presence and distribution of a sizable number of pores. The sintering parameters did exert an influence on the properties of the as-sintered end-product. Distinct empirical relations were developed and verified for the purpose of predicting properties of the sintered product based on the sintering parameters used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Naxiguole Banded Iron Formation (BIF), located in the Eastern Kunlun Orogenic Belt, Northwest China, is hosted by the Jinshuikou Group and has a Fe of 75 Mt at a grade of 15–28.83 wt.% Fe. In this paper, we use integrated petrological, geochemical, and geochronological data to limit the age and origin of the Naxiguole BIF. Country rocks mainly comprise marble, felsic paragneiss, plagioclase amphibolite schist, and biotite plagioclase gneiss. The features of sedimentary structure (blastopsammitic texture and blastobedding structure) and trace elements (e.g. La, Ni, Zr) from the country rock indicate that their protoliths are sedimentary rock. The 141 detrital zircons from the Jinshuikou Group yield a minimum age of 908 Ma, which can be considered the upper limit for the Naxiguole BIF. According to the age (602 Ma) of the mafic rocks intruding into the Jinshuikou Group, it is reasonable to assume that the formation age of BIF can be limited at 908–602 Ma (i.e. Neoproterozoic). The high contents of Al2O3 + TiO2 (3–6 wt.%), ΣREE (36–135 ppm) for BIF samples suggest that terrestrial clastic material contributed to BIF formation. The BIF samples show seawater-like features, such as depletion in LREEs, positive Y anomaly and high Y/Ho ratios (30.7–57.5, average = 42.5), implying that the Naxiguole BIF precipitated from seawater. The positive Eu/Eu*PAAS anomalies (average 1.52) suggest the influence of high-T hydrothermal fluids. Based on positive Eu anomalies and high terrestrial clastic components and no obvious Ce anomalies, the Naxiguole BIF was formed in an anoxic or suboxic sedimentary basin within active continental island arc, and is similar to Superior-type BIFs worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the physiology of the caloric stimulation of the vestibular end organ was a seminal discovery in the history of neurotology. Robert Barany has been traditionally credited with this (1906). However, well before Barany, three scientists observed, qualified and quantified a similar phenomenon with different explanations. They were Charles Edouard Brown Sequard (1858), A Bornhardt (1876) and Benno Baginsky (1881). Articles with key words containing 'caloric test' and the 'vestibular system' were searched and studied from a historical perspective in scientific research repositories and journals on the history of medicine. Contemporaneous articles of the three scientists were analysed and inferences drawn. Charles Edouard Brown Sequard noticed the caloric effect on the ear causing giddiness in 1853, A Bornhardt observed nystagmus on application of ice cold water/hot iron rod to the semicircular canals in 1876 and Benno Baginsky in 1881 identified the correct pressure/temperature on the external/middle ear to elicit a caloric response. They also stumbled across key observations of vestibular physiology which were later confirmed in the 20th century. This paper resurrects the works of these three forgotten pioneers and their contributions to our understanding of the physiology of the vestibular system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops, and then applies, a holistic framework that supports industrial policy decision-making at the global value chain (GVC) level, with the aim of stimulating sustainable development in developing countries. Notwithstanding the importance of economic growth for development, industrial policy decision-makers are also concerned about social and environmental objectives when setting industrial policies. We develop a framework that allows for a trade-off between economic growth, social objectives, and environmental goals. We do so by building on the established product space literature, and its extensions, and applying it to the value chain level using the input-output product space approach. By including emerging environmental and green metrics, we manage to identify Pareto-optimal industry targets, taking the economic, environmental, and social objectives simultaneously into account. At the same time, expected required government investment is minimized. Finally, we apply our new framework to the specific case of iron and steel in the Southern African Customs Union, and draw lessons for future work from this example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to develop an equivalent circuit model (ECM) for Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries as they have a flat voltage profile and dominant hysteresis behavior compared to other lithium-ion chemistries. Hence, it is challenging to deduce an accurate model to predict the performance of the battery. The model introduces a hysteresis correction factor (HCF) calculated from the capacity test and the R and C parameters for charging and discharging through pulse current test. The state of charge is calculated through Coulomb counting, and over the entire range, the terminal voltage of the model coincides with the experimental voltage. The estimated maximum deviation in the voltage for the existing 2RC model is 45 mV during discharging with a constant C-rate, and for the proposed model, the maximum deviation in the voltage is found to be 30 and 20 mV during discharging and charging, respectively. Further, to increase the accuracy in the estimated voltage, a 3RC model with HCF is found to be the most suitable for LFP batteries. This model reduces the deviation to 10 and 12 mV during discharging and charging, respectively. The performance of the model in MATLAB Simulink is validated with the experimental results through the Dynamic Stress Test (DST) and the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule (UDDS). This model reduces the root mean square error (RMSE) in the estimated voltage by 60% under UDDS compared to other existing models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfade testing (MFT) was used to examine standardized wool samples dyed with 14 natural historic dyes, each prepared with five different mordants, to determine whether the lightfastness and colourimetric properties of these dyes vary as a function of the mordant. The addition of mordants changed the original colour of the dyes as well as potential patterns corresponding to ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb* such that the variation of lightfastness ranges from 0.25–0.70 units of Blue Wool Equivalence (BWE). Disregarding the effect of mordants, MFT showed that all dyes have lightfastness equivalent to BW3, indicating that they belong in the category of 'high sensitivity to light'. All dye-mordant combinations vary in lightfastness, such that even the least lightfast dye will have a mordant combination that is more lightfast than the most lightfast dye combined with a mordant that renders it less lightfast. The effect of mordants varies by dye: while one dye may demonstrate a difference in lightfastness of 0.56 units of BWE between the least and most lightfast mordant combination, another may show little or no difference (as low as 0.07 units of BWE). Overall, alum based mordants tend to produce the least lightfast combinations, followed by tin and iron, with copper and chromium producing the most lightfast combinations. This paper shows that there are no simplistic patterns of lightfastness between mordant-dye combinations with these 14 natural dyes. Identifying both dye and mordant is useful to better estimate the lightfastness of a dyed textile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the inspection of a derelict riveted wrought iron swivel bridge, designed by Brunel in 1849, by a team of volunteers that is hoping now to restore the bridge to working order. This inspection, dimensional survey and limited ground investigation supplemented some original drawings, recorded the existing condition and produced 'as found' drawings and a condition report of the bridge. Wrought iron ties were found to have been used to 'prestress' the main edge beams to reduce cantilever deflections. The paper also describes some of challenges for the restoration of this bridge including: repairs to the ironwork; possible local strengthening; providing enhanced corrosion resistance for the iron within the closed sections; and, ensuring that the structure works as designed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the Circular Economy Promotion Law of People's Republic of China came into force in 2009, the concept of circular economy (CE) has gained a rising attention from governments and researchers. Policy makers, companies and researchers have started to establish different sets of principles and strategies for adoption. This paper introduces the CE within China's economy background and reviews the drivers to adopt and facilitate its CE. It integrates several current CE practices in China and conducts an analysis on the recycling rate from the government official reports that show China has made some progress in recycling industrial tangible waste and major renewable resources such as iron and steel with remaining challenges and barriers. Further analysis suggests that China requires a more systematic approach to promote CE by individuals, organizations and the nation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an ex-ante Benefit-Cost analysis of proposed fortification of extruder rice with iron under the social safety net in India. The benefits of iron fortification are estimated in terms of economic gains from increases in current work productivity among adults and future productivity from improvements in learning among school-going children. The base case scenario indicates a benefit cost ratio of 8.2, with 69 percent coming from improved learning in school and the remainder through enhanced work productivity. Benefit-cost ratios are also presented for a range of alternative assumptions, all of these resulting in ratios greater than 1. Nevertheless, despite decades of fortification at scale, a principal conclusion of this study is that future benefit cost models would gain confidence if more evidence is generated on the relationship of improved biomarkers for iron and changes in measures of cognition and labour productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Russian-Ukrainian scientist, G. V. Samsonov left an enormous legacy in materials science, even though a large portion of his and his group's work remained hidden behind the Iron Curtain. One of his crowning theoretical contributions that received but a slight tidbit of resonance in the west was the configurational model of the solid state based on the statistical weight of atoms with stable configuration (SWASC). Only a handful of papers employing this model were published in the western journals since the model was developed, in 1965. Here, the configurational model was tested for its ability to explain the effects of divalent transition elements on solubility of hydroxyapatite when they acted as dopants in it. It is shown that the SWASC values for half-filled d orbitals of transition elements in the ± 5 pm range of ionic radii centered around iron do correlate monotonously with the solubility change induced by the dopant ions relative to the solubility of stoichiometric hydroxyapatite synthesized and analyzed under the same conditions when the solubility values are extrapolated to identical atomic ratios between the dopant ions and the constitutive calcium ions. The effect of SWASC, however, competes with that of the dopant concentration, producing a complex plexus of mutually antagonistic effects. With this work, it is hoped that the interest in the work of G. V. Samsonov and the generation of his Soviet and Yugoslavian scientific contemporaries gets revived and their legacy in the west popularized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a morphometric analysis conducted on the arrowheads from the battlefield of Las Navas de Tolosa (1212), a battle between the Almohads troops and the Iberian Christian kingdoms. It took place near Santa Elena (Jaén), in the southern Iberian Peninsula. Our objective is to bring new data on the operational chains of these iron artefacts at the beginning of the thirteenth century. The results allow us to delve into the specialisation of blacksmiths, to approach production techniques, and to quantify the process of standardisation according to the measurement systems within medieval Christian and Andalusian societies. In short, this research addresses new and relevant approaches to the field of weaponry and medieval metallurgy, transcending traditional typologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to investigate the bonding mechanism during laser transmission welding of polycarbonate sheets using an electrolytic iron powder (EIP) absorber. The experiments are performed at different scan speeds and laser powers. The mechanical strength is determined by the lap shear test. The influence of line energy, interface temperature, and absorptivity on weld strength is discussed. The weld characteristics, bond morphology, and elemental distribution at the cross-section and fracture interface of the welded samples are analyzed. The results show that the maximum breaking strength of 1180 N is obtained at the 400 mm/min scan speed and 100 W laser power. The iron particles are observed mechanically interlocked at the lowest line energy with partial chemical bonding. However, the chain diffusion and chemical bonding have been increased with line energy. Thermal degradation and burning of the polycarbonate at the interface restrict the bonding and reduces the weld strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we describe a dynamic-model as a strategy to teach DNA transcription and translation in an active way. This activity aims to provide learning beyond memorisation through the simulation of molecular processes, stimulating the elaboration of questions and hypotheses by students. The dynamic consists of four steps, starting with different problem situations which provide a context and encouragement to start the activity. The next steps connect these problems with DNA transcription and translation, requiring the active participation of students to simulate these processes through a construction of a model based on an iron board and representations of cellular structures, enzymes and genetic sequences fixed in magnets. An implementation experience of this dynamic, applied to 21 undergraduate veterinary students at a public university in the city of Curitiba, Paraná State, Brazil, is also described. Data from pre and post-questionnaires suggest knowledge about DNA transcription and translation was improved and some previous mistakes were clarified. Among the positive aspects that were cited by the students, the words visualisation and playful were more frequent, which reflect the didactic aspects of the dynamic. Some points of attention are discussed throughout the paper, as well as educational implications associated with the material and its potential to promote active learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the desulphurization of iron ore concentrate using reverse flotation was investigated. In this paper first, behavior of the flotation of both pure – pyrite and iron oxides-pyrite with xanthate has been examined based on micro-flotation results and zeta-potential measurements. Then, an effort has been made to investigate the effect of pH, chemical reagent dosages, impeller speed, pulp density, flotation time and conditioning time parameters on desulphurization of actual iron ore concentrate using lab-scale mechanical flotation cell. Results of zeta-potential measurements displayed that iso-electric points (IEP) for pure and iron oxides-pyrite were around pH 7 and 8, respectively. Based on the micro-flotation results, the recoveries were highly dependent on pH. Both pyrite types showed high recoveries at pH 4.75 to 8, but in the flotation of iron oxides-pyrite, partial depression was found in the pH range of 6–7. The presence of iron ions in solution considerably depressed iron oxide-pyrite flotation in the pH range of 2.5–3. Recovery of both pyrites decreased dramatically when going from pH 10, due to the formation of iron hydroxides and the instability of dixanthogen. According to the data obtained from batch flotation tests, the maximum recovery of total sulfur was achieved when the operational parameters were set to the PAX dosage 200 gr/t, MIBC dosage 150 gr/t, CuSo4 75 gr/t, impeller speed 1500 rpm, pH 7.5, flotation time 7 min and pulp density 30%. With these optimum parameters, final concentrate with the grade of 69.48% Fe and 0.1% S was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refinery wastes generated in conventional crude oil refining processes, or in accidental situations, are complex substrates for treatment and disposal. Petroleum desulphurisation catalysts can also be hazardous refinery waste. They contain various metals, such as cobalt, molybdenum, nickel and tungsten. In this paper, three petroleum refiner's spent desulphurisation catalysts were investigated. These catalysts were not suitable for recycling and, therefore, were classified as hazardous waste. They were chemically characterised, including phase composition and their effect on a consortium of microorganisms used in the process of bioremediation. Catalysts contained up to 2.26 g kg−1 of total petroleum hydrocarbons, up to 56.7 g kg−1 of iron, 18.6 g kg−1 of molybdenum, and less than 0.1 mg kg−1 each of cobalt and nickel. These obtained results show that bioremediation of such waste is possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scholars who study the Northern Kingdom of Israel repeatedly refer to it as a centralised state or kingdom and often take a neo-evolutionary approach in their assessments of its character. This paper argues for a different approach, one in which the agency of northern Israelite actors/taxpayers and their intricate kinship-based networks are highlighted. It applies collective action theory, which states that rational social actors cooperate with rulers, and the patrimonial household model, which states that social order is viewed as the extension of the ruler's (and god's) household, to an analysis of administration and cult in northern Israel during the Iron II. It argues that the Omrides benefited from taxpayer cooperation and a reliance on complex kin-based systems. The same can be said for the Nimshides who, it is suggested, were operating within an even less centralised system than their predecessors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently exploited iron ores have high-manganese content. Conventional leaching of manganese takes about 2 h at 80 ̊C followed by precipitation. Thus, it consumes high energy and a relatively long-time. In this paper, the mechanochemical method was investigated for reducing manganese in iron ore at a shorter time and at room temperature. The number and size of balls were studied during the milling process in the presence of sulfuric and/or oxalic acid either as a single acid or as a mixture. The higher the ball's number and size the higher the iron and manganese dissolution. The sulfuric-oxalic acid mixture is better than the usage of single acid for reducing the manganese at about 10 min. The iron concentrate, containing 54% Fe and 2.9% Mn from a feed containing 57% Fe and 7.5% Mn, is obtained using 15 balls of size 3.3 cm and 2%:4% sulfuric to oxalic ratio and dosage. Moreover, the mechanochemical is advantageous over conventional leaching as it continuously cleans the surface, creates new surfaces, controls iron dissolution, is conducted at room temperature and shorter time (about 10% of the time needed for the leaching process), and direct production of iron concentrate without subsequent processes like precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new Fe(II) complex, [FeCl2(BBP)]·(IPA)2 (BBP = 1,3-bis(1H-benzimidazole-2-yl)propane, IPA = isopropanol), was synthesized and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy. The crystal analysis showed that the Fe(II) complex is mononuclear, and its Fe(II) center is four coordinate in a slightly distorted tetrahedron. The electrocatalytic activity towards HER and the electrochemical sensing performance to H2O2 of the Fe(II) complex was investigated by fabricating a composite electrode (a carbon paste electrode doped with the Fe(II) complex, Fe-CPE for short). Electrochemical studies have shown that the Fe-CPE only required a low overpotential of −0.481 V to drive the current density of 10 mA cm−2 with a smaller Tafel slope of 0.142 V dec−1 for HER in 0.5 M H2SO4 at 298 K. Additionally, Fe-CPE serves as a H2O2 sensor with superior electrocatalytic activity and a low detection limit of 0.36 μM (S/N = 3) in a linear range from 5.0 × 10−7 to 4.0 × 10−3 M in 0.5 M NaOH at −0.7 V. The above studies prove that the Fe(II) complex can be used as an effective bi-functional molecular electrocatalyst for HER and H2O2 sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Administration of intravenous iron is pivotal in the management of iron-deficiency anemia patients. In the past, parenteral iron was administrated as a ferric hydroxide complex that caused severe toxic reactions. The introduction of compounds containing iron in a core surrounded by a carbohydrate shell has circumvented this problem. Intravenous iron complexes, such as iron sucrose and iron carboxymaltose, consist of a polynuclear Fe (III)-oxyhydroxide/oxide core that is coated with a specific carbohydrate molecule. The carbohydrate shell stabilizes the insoluble iron core particles in colloidal suspension form and slows down the release of iron. Moreover, the carbohydrate shell chemistry differences influence the stability of the complex and iron release rate. In particular, this paper discusses the preparation method, physicochemical properties, and characteristics of iron sucrose, ferric derisomaltose, iron carboxymaltose, and ferumoxytol. These products differ in their physicochemical and clinical properties such as molecular weight distribution, particle size, zeta potential, free, and labile iron content, stability and release of iron in serum, and maximum tolerated dose. The first-generation of intravenous iron formulations were replaced with new intravenous iron dextran–free formulations, due to an elevated risk of anaphylactic reactions. Comparatively, the third-generation intravenous iron formulations, such as ferric derisomaltose, iron carboxymaltose, and ferumoxytol, allow higher doses of iron due to high complex stability and safety than the second generation formulations like iron sucrose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a casting improvement process to enable the casting of Al-Cu alloy cylinder heads to achieve the required quality. The hot tearing defects generated in the fire face of the cylinder head during casting were simulated using MAGMA software. The simulation results show that the large wall thickness transition difference in the fire face of the cylinder head is the reason for the large temperature and stress gradient during solidification. Therefore, the first solution was optimised by forming the fire face as a whole into a flat plate, but the fire face centre area stress is still too high. The second optimisation option optimises the cold iron structure of the fire face, the probability of cracking in the fire face is reduced to 17%. These results have important reference significance for the optimisation of the Al-Cu alloy cylinder head hot tearing problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, batch experiments were performed to study the effect of Puromet MTS9570 resin on the removal process of iron from wet process phosphoric acid (WPPA). Various parameters such as effect of initial iron concentration, effect of resin amount of addition, effect of phosphoric acid redox potential, effect of stirring time and effect of temperature were investigated to determine the optimum conditions required for iron removal. The numerical results obtained support the experimental data on removal of iron value where 12.0 g Puromet MTS9570 resin could remove 70.0% of already present iron with very small negative effect on the H3PO4 concentration. The adsorption isotherms were studied to evaluate the maximum sorption capacity of Puromet MTS9570 resin. The experimental results were found to fit with Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.9927), the experimental data fitted well with Langmuir than Freundlich. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper summarises an evaluation of the application of artificial intelligence to hyperspectral drill-core scans for more effective mineral exploration. The dataset used was based on publicly available core scans and related geochemical analysis from Australia. Prior to unification, a detailed quality assessment of the geochemical data was undertaken. Special focus was paid to gold, silver, copper, iron, uranium, nickel, lead, tin, antimony, arsenic and bismuth contents. The dataset was labelled with defined ore grades related to economic cutoff values. The impact on predictions of different setups is related to the amounts of data used for learning, data design and implementation of the geological domains. Based on 1-metre bins, the results from more than 700 km of drill cores were used and analysed with the potential for geological exploration in different scenarios discussed. The results indicate the enormous potential of the use of hyperspectral scans in combination with artificial intelligence for the development of exploration scenarios and to provide support for exploration geologists and target detection. The application of predictors on scanned drill cores from Australia also indicates mineralised zones that have not been analysed chemically for all metals above economic cutoffs. This result shows the enormous potential of the approach for strategic exploration but also mining operations. Prediction of geochemical concentrations for gold, copper and iron based on a neural network in drill cores is possible. Using mineral abundances from hyperspectral core scans as learning records, and existing elemental geochemical analyses as labels, the predictions are given with an accuracy of better than 80–90%. The trained artificial intelligence system has for the first time enabled direct estimation of metal grades from hyperspectral scans. It also shows potential for applications to analyse airborne hyperspectral data for direct mapping of metal grades. Finally, it may pave the way for better plant management by the usage of hyperspectral data for direct grade estimations in operational mining and ore sorting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent, non-apoptotic mode of cell death characterized by excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). It plays an important role in the occurrence, development and treatment of various cancers, but little is known regarding the role of ferroptosis in hematologic malignancies. This review elaborates the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis and the treatment opportunities for targeting ferroptosis in hematologic malignancies. A systematic literature review through PubMed was conducted to summarize the published evidence on the therapeutic potential of targeting ferroptosis in hematological malignant tumors. Literature sources published in English were searched, using the terms ferroptosis, leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, lymphoma and multiple myeloma. More and more small molecules have been found to induce ferroptosis in hematologic malignancies through targeted iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation, and some ferroptosis inducers have been proved to have synergistic effect with other chemotherapeutic drugs. This paper discusses the significance of ferroptosis in hematologic malignancies and provides a new way for the treatment of hematologic malignancies, and more experimental studies should be conducted in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, cyclone separator is proposed for the first time to separate particles according to density, and it is applied to the recovery of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) from spent lithium battery materials for the first time. The effect of the flow field on the motion of injected particles in a cyclone separator is studied by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). It is found that there is a classification phenomenon caused by the difference in the particle densities and the separation process is simulated accordingly. The results show that 60% LiFePO4 in the original feed can be separated after 7 separations, and the mass purity is 91%, with 7% Al and 2% Fe under instantaneous surface injection conditions. Compared with the original feed, LFP is effectively recycled. After 15 separations, the efficiency increases to 76%. Under simulated continuous injection conditions, the separation efficiency of LFP is 61.22% after 20 simulated separations, and the mass purities of the separated products are 92.53% LFP, 6.92% Al, 0.44% Fe and 0.11% Cu. Compared with the traditional method, the new method has advantages of low energy consumption, low cost, theoretically no pollution, and great development potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polluted water continues to be a major problem globally since it deteriorates human health after consumption and impedes sustainable development. Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) has been used to tackle the problem, but certain significant disadvantages of the nZVI limit its efficiency. Owing to the demerits of nZVI, various materials have been employed to support the nZVI to ensure efficient decontamination. There is rising interest in using attapulgite as a support for nZVI. The use of attapulgite supported nanoscale zero-valent iron (A-nZVI) to decontaminate wastewater/groundwater has proven to be highly efficient as compared to unsupported nZVI. This paper presents an overview of the syntheses, performance, application and limitations of using A-nZVI to treat wastewater/remediate groundwater. A-nZVI has been extensively employed on laboratory scale, thus making it difficult to simulate its removal efficiency on a large scale. However, its high removal efficiency under the appropriate operational conditions make it ideal to be used on an industrial level. This review is important because it identifies gaps in literature with respect to A-nZVI that need to be filled to improve ZVI-based technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sponge iron (SI) is widely used in water treatment. As effluents from wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) require advanced treatment methodology, three forms of constructed wetlands (CWs): wetlands with sponge iron (SI), copper sulfate modified sponge iron (Cu/SI), and sponge iron coupled with solid carbon sources (C/SI), have been investigated in this paper for the removal effects of organic matter and nutrients in WWTP effluents, and the corresponding mechanisms have been analyzed. The results showed the effect of baffled subsurface-flow constructed wetland (BSFCW) with SI dosing to purify the WWTP effluents after the stable operation. The water flow of this BSFCW is the repeated combination of upward flow and downward flow, which can provide a longer treatment pathway and microbial exposure time. The average removal rates of total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) were 27.80%, 30.17%, and 44.83%, and the average removal rates of chemical oxygen demand (COD) were 19.96%, 23.73%, and 18.38%. The average removal rates of total phosphorus (TP) were 85.94%, 82.14%, and 83.95%. Cu/SI improved the dissolution of iron, C/SI improved denitrification, and a winter indoor temperature retention measure was adopted to increase the effectiveness of wetland treatment during the winter months. After comprehensively analyzing X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and two-dimensional numerical simulation diagrams, a plausible conjecture that microbes use electrons from SI for autotrophic denitrification is presented. Moreover, the stress effect of wetlands dosed with SI on plants decreased stepwise along the course since C/SI used on wetlands had less impact on plant stress. 1. Treatment of sequencing batch biofilm reactor reaction effluent indoors in low temperature using a combination of three wetland fillers, sponge iron + gravel, copper sulfate modified sponge iron + gravel, and sponge iron coupled carbon source + gravel. 2. The use of the baffled subsurface-flow constructed wetland, combined with the distribution simulation diagram, especially the distribution simulation diagram of iron, gives an explanation to the degradation mechanism of the pollutants and the transformation of iron into wetlands. 3. An conjecture of electron transport during microbial autotrophic denitrification involving iron is presented, plausibly explaining the variation in treatment effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the adhesive strength values of electrodeposited nickel, zinc, and iron coatings on copper substrates at various deposition parameters, including laser-assisted stimulation of the deposition process. One of the factors determined to be responsible for the adhesive strength of metal films with a metal substrate is the formation of a diffusion zone at the 'coating-substrate' interface. It is shown that an increase in adhesive strength is achieved due to the expansion of the diffusion zone and the formation of solid solutions. The decrease in adhesive strength at high overpotentials is associated with the release of hydrogen and the formation of intermediate phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the use of iron in the Late Bronze Age and the earliest Iron Age (c. 1100–300 BC) in south-eastern Sweden, with a focus on the final Bronze Age and Pre-Roman Iron Age I. The aim is to study how early iron was used, valued and perceived, particularly in relation to pre-existing bronze and gold. Choosing iron for certain object types, such as dress attributes and arm rings, and in key symbols, notably the spiral, suggests an appreciation for its metallic shine and colour in contrast to bronze. This silvery lustre was in some cases exploited intentionally, and may sometimes have been associated with the moon in a celestial mythology. The lunar connection might have been accentuated by the origin of iron from bodies of water, which were surrounded by strong beliefs and were often the focus of sacrificial depositions in this period. The qualities sought after in iron during the Bronze Age–Iron Age transition were in some ways different from those appreciated later in Iron Age and historical times. It is necessary to further consider early iron in its contemporary setting without comparison to the 'successful' adaptation in the late Pre-Roman Iron Age onwards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The recent excavations at Ḥorvat Tevet and the finding of ca. 260 Late Iron IIA cylindrical holemouth jars provided an unparalleled opportunity to study these relatively unknown vessels. This article offers a comprehensive analysis of cylindrical holemouth jars and includes a study of typology and morphology, alongside the analysis of provenance and distribution patterns. By shedding new light on these vessels, this paper provides the opportunity to understand and illustrate the economy of early monarchic Israel in a new and innovative way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is entitled to investigate microstructure of ARMCO Fe after constrained groove pressing and further after merging of both constrained groove pressing and cold rolling processes. Optical microscopic studies revealed increased number of equiaxed grains as a function of constrained groove pressing cycles. Such grain morphology was later transformed into a complete elongated grain structure due to plain strain compression during different percentage cold rolling reductions. Cold rolling not only increased strain progressively in the constrained groove pressed samples, but also had a pronounced influence in bringing in ultrafine grained structures (less than ~1 µm) in the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper considers a way of iron nitrides production in monolithic specimens. The relevance for iron nitrides production is conditioned by the promise in using phase Fe16N2 (α"-phase) as a hard-magnetic material due to the high value of the saturation magnetization (2.3 T at 4.2 K). By means of X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and magnetic parameter measurements, the study analyzes the structure and magnetic properties of metal alloy based on iron, obtained as a result of interaction between iron and boron nitride powders after their mixing, pressing, and heat treatment at 1550°C in the atmosphere of nitrogen. The heat treatment results in metal fragments exudation from the ceramic part of the briquette. The microstructure of the fragments is composed of primary deposited iron, eutectic colonies of Fe – iron boride type, and incorporation of iron nitrides. The obtained metal fragments are characterized by high coercivity (0.50 kOe). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals pose a serious threat and damage to ecological health when released into the environment. n-HFP is usually used to remediate soils contaminated with heavy metals, but its ability to solidify heavy metals is limited. FA has good ability to trap heavy metals due to its abundant oxygen-containing functional groups. However, the solubility of FA in water limits its application in the field of heavy metal removal. In this paper, n-HFP@FA was prepared by co-precipitation method. Through FT-IR and BET analysis, the oxygen-containing functional groups and specific surface area of n-HFP@FA increased due to the addition of FA. The adsorption behaviour of n-HFP@FA on Pb, Cd, and Cu followed the pseudo-second-order and Langmuir isotherm models. In addition, the maximum adsorption capacities of n-HFP@FA for Pb, Cd, and Cu were 371.1, 190.5, and 129.75 mg/g, respectively. As shown by FT-IR and XPS analysis, the main mechanisms of Pb, Cd and Cu removal by n-HFP@FA are: complexation, electrostatic and precipitation. The n-HFP@FA showed high removal rates of Pb, Cd, and Cu in soil leachates of different pH. In the soil remediation experiments, the BCR method and Pearson correlation analysis showed that the acid-soluble, reducible and oxidizable fractions of Pb, Cd, and Cu in the soil were effectively converted into a more stable residual fraction. This study opens up a prospect for the application of n-HFP@FA composites in the remediation of contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effects of nano-zero valent iron (nZVI) on anaerobic digestion of sulphate wastewater with different SO 4 2 − /COD ratios, including the COD removal rate, methane yield, intermediate products and the change of microbial community structure, were investigated. The results showed that nZVI could effectively enhance the treatment efficiency and methane yield. Compared with the control group without nZVI, the methane yield increased from 348.6833 to 1007.05 mL CH4/gCODremoval with 4 g nZVI loading at SO 4 2 − /COD = 0.1. nZVI could make electron flow from sulphate reduction to methane production, which increased methane yield even at high sulphate concentration. The microbial community analysis showed that adding nZVI could increase the abundance of acetoclastic methanogens, which accelerated hydrolysis acidification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]