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This study investigated the role of mobile applications as aids in solving systems of linear equations with two variables through the graphical method. The use of mobile applications was examined in a group of primary and lower school students to evaluate their effectiveness in learning mathematics and improving their skills in solving systems of linear equations. The main goal of this scientific paper is to investigate and evaluate the role of mobile applications as aids in solving systems of linear equations, involving students in the research process. The research method included a mixed-methods design including quantitative analysis of mobile application results and qualitative analysis of students' experiences and opinions. Data collection was conducted through individual interviews and classroom observations. The results show that the use of these technological tools has a positive impact on the involvement of students, increasing the interest and efficiency of learning. The findings also highlight challenges and suggestions for improving the use of mobile applications in the mathematics teaching context. This study contributes to the understanding of the use of mobile technology for the development of mathematical skills at the lower secondary school level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unit distributions, exhibiting inherent symmetrical properties, have been extensively studied across various fields. A significant challenge in these studies, particularly evident in parameter estimations, is the existence and uniqueness of estimators. Often, it is challenging to demonstrate the existence of a unique estimator. The major issue with maximum likelihood and other estimator-finding methods that use iterative methods is that they need an initial value to reach the solution. This dependency on initial values can lead to local extremes that fail to represent the global extremities, highlighting a lack of symmetry in solution robustness. This study applies a very simple, and unique, estimation method for unit Weibull and unit Burr XII distributions that both attain the global maximum value. Therefore, we can conclude that the findings from the obtained propositions demonstrate that both the maximum likelihood and graphical methods are symmetrically similar. In addition, three real-world data applications are made to show that the method works efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress and deformation analysis of a cavity in an infinite/finite medium is a fundamental applied mechanics problem of interest in multiple physics and engineering disciplines. This paper develops a complete semianalytical solution for the cylindrical cavity expansion in nonassociated Mohr–Coulomb materials, by using the graphical approach and Lagrangian formulation of the cavity boundary value problem (through tracing the responses of a single material point at the cavity wall). The novelty of the new solution framework lies not only in the relaxation of the stringent intermediacy assumption for the vertical stress as usually adopted in the previous analyses, but also in the comprehensive consideration of nonhydrostatic initial stress conditions via arbitrary values of K0 (the coefficient of earth pressure at rest defined as the ratio between the horizontal and vertical initial stresses). The essence of the so-called graphical method, i.e., the unique geometrical analysis and tracking of the deviatoric stress trajectory, is fulfilled by leveraging the deformation requirement that during cavity expansion the progressive development of the radial and tangential strains must maintain to be compressive and tensile, respectively. With the incorporation of the radial equilibrium condition, the problem is formulated to solve a single first-order differential equation for the internal cavity pressure with respect to a pivotal auxiliary variable, for all the distinct scenarios of K0 being covered. Some selected results are presented for the calculated cavity pressure-expansion curve and limit cavity pressure through an example analysis. The definitive semianalytical solution proposed will be not only substantially advancing the current state of knowledge on the fundamental cavity expansion theory, but also able to serve as a unique benchmark for truly verifying the correctness and capability of the classical cornered Mohr–Coulomb constitutive model built in commercial finite element programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-point incremental forming (SPIF) has emerged as a cost-effective and rapid manufacturing method, especially suitable for small-batch production due to its minimal reliance on molds, swift production, and affordability. Nonetheless, SPIF's effectiveness is closely tied to the specific characteristics of the employed sheet materials and the intricacies of the desired shapes. Immediate experimentation with SPIF often leads to numerous product defects. Therefore, the pre-emptive use of numerical simulations to predict these defects is of paramount importance. In this study, we focus on the critical role of the forming limit curve (FLC) in SPIF simulations, specifically in anticipating product fractures. To facilitate this, we first construct the forming limit curve for Al1050 sheet material, leveraging the modified maximum force criterion (MMFC). This criterion, well-established in the field, derives FLCs based on the theory of hardening laws in sheet metal yield curves. In conjunction with the MMFC, we introduce a graphical approach that simplifies the prediction of forming limit curves at fracture (FLCF). Within the context of the SPIF method, FLCF is established through both uniaxial tensile deformation (U.T) and simultaneous uniform tensile deformation in bi-axial tensile (B.T). Subsequently, the FLCF predictions are applied in simulations and experiments focused on forming truncated cone parts. Notably, a substantial deviation in fracture height, amounting to 15.97%, is observed between simulated and experimental samples. To enhance FLCF prediction accuracy in SPIF, we propose a novel method based on simulations of truncated cone parts with variable tool radii. A FLCF is then constructed by determining major/minor strains in simulated samples. To ascertain the validity of this enhanced FLCF model, our study includes simulations and tests of truncated cone samples with varying wall angles, revealing a substantial alignment in fracture height between corresponding samples. This research contributes to the advancement of SPIF by enhancing our ability to predict and mitigate product defects, ultimately expanding the applicability of SPIF in diverse industrial contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The armature reaction of the hybrid excitation starter generator (HESG) under load conditions will affect the distribution of the main magnetic field and the output performance. However, using the conventional field-circuit combination method to study the armature reaction has the problem of low accuracy and inaccurate influencing factors. Therefore, this paper proposed a graphical method to analyze the armature reaction and a new type of HESG with a combined-pole permanent magnet (PM) rotor and claw-pole electromagnetic rotor. The analytical formula of the voltage regulation rate under the armature reaction was derived using the graphical method. The main influencing parameters of the armature reaction magnetic field (ARMF) were analyzed, and the overall output performance was analyzed using finite element software. On this basis, comparison analyses before and after optimization and the prototype test were carried out. The results show that the direct-axis armature reaction reactance, quadrature-axis armature reaction reactance, and voltage regulation rate of the optimized HESG were significantly reduced, the output voltage range of the whole machine was wide, and the voltage regulation performance was good. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through data mining, this paper completes collecting and mining information in the database using artificial intelligence. Secondly, the graphical method is analyzed, image normalization calculation is carried out to complete the technical support for green concept packaging design, and a green concept product packaging design system based on artificial intelligence technology is constructed. Finally, the ease of use experiment and user satisfaction test confirmed it. The user satisfaction test showed a satisfaction rate of 95% for response time and 97% for material recycling. The fact that other test options are above 90% indicates that the green concept product packaging design based on artificial intelligence technology is feasible.

The objective is to solve the college physics problem of a block sliding down a movable smooth wedge without friction anywhere using a spatial-numeric perspective. The drawing method used the sum of the normal force and weight of the block to find the wedge acceleration. The drawing method results are equivalent to the algebra method results within drawing accuracy. The result of a geometric construction with regular drawing uncertainly was shown for the case without any horizontal applied force. For the case of a given horizontal applied force, an additional numeric graphing method was shown with additional drawing uncertainty in the result. The geometric construction without graphing resuted in solving the horizontal applied force case via scaling in the concept of modified gravity experienced by the block on the wedge’s slant edge, assuming a pre-requisite knowledge of algebra and trigonometry. The presented spatial numeric method and results imply a Physics First pedagogy of using the spatial numeric abilities, with the inclusion of the pre-projectile problem, pre-traffic-light problem, and post-collision problem in a one-semester syllabus.

Unit distributions, exhibiting inherent symmetrical properties, have been extensively studied across various fields. A significant challenge in these studies, particularly evident in parameter estimations, is the existence and uniqueness of estimators. Often, it is challenging to demonstrate the existence of a unique estimator. The major issue with maximum likelihood and other estimator-finding methods that use iterative methods is that they need an initial value to reach the solution. This dependency on initial values can lead to local extremes that fail to represent the global extremities, highlighting a lack of symmetry in solution robustness. This study applies a very simple, and unique, estimation method for unit Weibull and unit Burr XII distributions that both attain the global maximum value. Therefore, we can conclude that the findings from the obtained propositions demonstrate that both the maximum likelihood and graphical methods are symmetrically similar. In addition, three real-world data applications are made to show that the method works efficiently.

Precipitation is the most critical element of the hydrological cycle that might influence the frequency of floods or drought. Therefore, for drought and flood forecasting, knowing the precipitation pattern and its trend is mandatory. The research aims to estimate the monthly, seasonal, and annual precipitation trend using statistical (Mann Kendall test & Sen's Slope estimator) and graphical (Innovative Trend Analysis method) for the Hanumangarh district of N-E Rajasthan. The mean monthly precipitation data were gathered from the India-WRIS from 1901 to 2022 (122 years). Seasonal and annual precipitation trend variations were examined by statistical methods and compared with the graphical method. The study results conclude that precipitation trends showed variability for the SW monsoon season from the graphical to the statistical method. For the SW monsoon season, the decreasing trend was seen using statistical methods. In contrast, the graphical method revealed an increasing trend. During the annual precipitation, increasing trends were seen using statistical and graphical methods. It is found that the ITA method is more efficient in finding trends because it does not assume any assumptions like that of the MK test. This study will help water resources engineers and local people with sustainable management, planning, and development of water resources in the Hanumangarh district. HIGHLIGHTS Trends in seasonal and annual precipitation time series are assessed using both statistical and graphical methods and then results are compared.; The results of the statistical method are well-matched with the graphical method.; The ITA method is easier to apply for finding trends.; The ITA method is more accurate because it does not consider any assumptions.;

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Ellipsometrically obtained spectral dependences of ordinary αxy and extra-ordinary αz extinction/attenuation coefficients within the spectral range λ = 300…980 nm of uniaxially anisotropic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films were analyzed. We considered the capabilities and specific features of the graphical representation technique for determining the contribution of Rayleigh scattering and Urbach absorption to light attenuation in the spectral range beyond fundamental absorption. It has been shown that the graphical approach enables to estimate these contributions qualitatively, semi-quantitatively or quantitatively, depending on the situation. The conclusions made using the analysis of graphical representation are confirmed by numerical solution of the inverse problem via simulation of the αxy (λ), αz (λ) experimental dependences within the framework of a best-fit procedure. Being based on both of these approaches, we have ascertained that, in the as-prepared PTFE films, the so-called anomalous light scattering (ALS) with the spectral dependence of scattering coefficient αs ≈ as λ–p (p > 4) takes place. Transformation of scattering from ALS to the Rayleigh one with p ≅ 4 due to annealing is accompanied by an increase of Urbach (subband) absorption. Both of these factors cause narrowing the dynamic range of extinction coefficient values. Both scattering and absorption coefficients are higher for the component of light polarized along the normal to the substrate as compared to the component polarized in parallel to it. The relationship between observed behavior of the scattering and absorption coefficients and the film structure has been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bayesian approach is applied to estimation of the Weibull-power law process (WPLP) parameters as an alternative to the maximum likelihood (ML) method in the case when the number of events is small. For the process model considered we propose to apply the independent Jeffreys prior distribution and we argue that this is a useful choice. Comparisons were also made between the accuracy of the estimators obtained and those obtained by using other priors—informative and weakly informative. The investigations show that the Bayesian approach in many cases of a fairly broad collection of WPLP models can lead to the Bayes estimators that are more accurate than the corresponding ML ones, when the number of events is small. The problem of fitting the WPLP models, based on ML and Bayes estimators, to some real data is also considered. It is shown that the TTT-concept, used in the reliability theory, is not fully useful for the WPLP models, and it may be so for some other trend-renewal processes. In order to assess the accuracy of the fitting to the real data considered, two other graphical methods are introduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main reasons for the decline of urban historic areas in China is the co-existence of multiple property rights. It also deeply affects conservation and regeneration practice. This paper aims to propose a graphical method that illustrates the association between property rights, space, and resident behavior. Based on typological maps and justified graphs, a three-step method was proposed to visualize the relationships between these three elements. The final graph and quantitative data were used to observe the evolution of the courtyard building from a diachronic perspective, as well as to compare the residential behavior in different types from a synchronic perspective. The results show that following the subdivision of property rights, the building layout become more diverse due to various illegal additions, while the residential behavior within different building types tends to be consistent. Moreover, the study observed the traditional Chinese courtyard buildings’ adaptability. The findings contribute to understand the evolution of Chinese urban historic areas and internal motivation, and provide guidance for the conservation and regeneration practice.

Rainfall is an important part of the hydrological cycle, as well as its variability, and is relevant to drought and floods. Long-term changes in hydrological processes are referred to as climate change for an area. Urbanization, population growth, and economic growth are all having negative effects on the environment. The study of trends in the long term is essential from climatic change and socioeconomic perspectives. Examining the temporal variations in rainfall is crucial because changes in rainfall patterns and distribution can have a significant impact on the amount of water available in a watershed. The objective of the study is to assess the long-term (1902–2021) temporal trends in seasonal (winter, pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon) and annual rainfall for the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan state using the innovative trend analysis (ITA) technique. Due to its ability to provide results in graphical form, the ITA approach is a very useful tool for detecting patterns in rainfall time series data. This technique is also used to detect trends as ‘low,’ ‘medium,’ and ‘high,’ which should be considered in future studies on floods ‘high’ and drought ‘low’, respectively. Based on the above study, it is observed that no trend is detected for the annual season, a positive trend is detected in the winter season and a negative trend is detected for pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons in some regimes respectively. The ITA of the S-W monsoon also specifies that in the low regime the nature of the trend is increasing and in the high regime nature of the trend is decreasing. This research will serve as a scientific foundation for assessing and mitigating the effect of climate change on the environment to reduce the risk of weather patterns. HIGHLIGHTS The innovative trend analysis (ITA) method is used in the study.; To apply the ITA approach to examine the annual and seasonal patterns of various precipitation intensities in Rajsamand.; To discuss the patterns of seasonal and annual rainfall variability across the region.; ITA method is a very useful tool for detecting patterns in rainfall time series.; ITA method is both simple and effective.;

Single-point incremental forming (SPIF) has emerged as a cost-effective and rapid manufacturing method, especially suitable for small-batch production due to its minimal reliance on molds, swift production, and affordability. Nonetheless, SPIF’s effectiveness is closely tied to the specific characteristics of the employed sheet materials and the intricacies of the desired shapes. Immediate experimentation with SPIF often leads to numerous product defects. Therefore, the pre-emptive use of numerical simulations to predict these defects is of paramount importance. In this study, we focus on the critical role of the forming limit curve (FLC) in SPIF simulations, specifically in anticipating product fractures. To facilitate this, we first construct the forming limit curve for Al1050 sheet material, leveraging the modified maximum force criterion (MMFC). This criterion, well-established in the field, derives FLCs based on the theory of hardening laws in sheet metal yield curves. In conjunction with the MMFC, we introduce a graphical approach that simplifies the prediction of forming limit curves at fracture (FLCF). Within the context of the SPIF method, FLCF is established through both uniaxial tensile deformation (U.T) and simultaneous uniform tensile deformation in bi-axial tensile (B.T). Subsequently, the FLCF predictions are applied in simulations and experiments focused on forming truncated cone parts. Notably, a substantial deviation in fracture height, amounting to 15.97%, is observed between simulated and experimental samples. To enhance FLCF prediction accuracy in SPIF, we propose a novel method based on simulations of truncated cone parts with variable tool radii. A FLCF is then constructed by determining major/minor strains in simulated samples. To ascertain the validity of this enhanced FLCF model, our study includes simulations and tests of truncated cone samples with varying wall angles, revealing a substantial alignment in fracture height between corresponding samples. This research contributes to the advancement of SPIF by enhancing our ability to predict and mitigate product defects, ultimately expanding the applicability of SPIF in diverse industrial contexts.

The armature reaction of the hybrid excitation starter generator (HESG) under load conditions will affect the distribution of the main magnetic field and the output performance. However, using the conventional field-circuit combination method to study the armature reaction has the problem of low accuracy and inaccurate influencing factors. Therefore, this paper proposed a graphical method to analyze the armature reaction and a new type of HESG with a combined-pole permanent magnet (PM) rotor and claw-pole electromagnetic rotor. The analytical formula of the voltage regulation rate under the armature reaction was derived using the graphical method. The main influencing parameters of the armature reaction magnetic field (ARMF) were analyzed, and the overall output performance was analyzed using finite element software. On this basis, comparison analyses before and after optimization and the prototype test were carried out. The results show that the direct-axis armature reaction reactance, quadrature-axis armature reaction reactance, and voltage regulation rate of the optimized HESG were significantly reduced, the output voltage range of the whole machine was wide, and the voltage regulation performance was good.

One of the main reasons for the decline of urban historic areas in China is the co-existence of multiple property rights. It also deeply affects conservation and regeneration practice. This paper aims to propose a graphical method that illustrates the association between property rights, space, and resident behavior. Based on typological maps and justified graphs, a three-step method was proposed to visualize the relationships between these three elements. The final graph and quantitative data were used to observe the evolution of the courtyard building from a diachronic perspective, as well as to compare the residential behavior in different types from a synchronic perspective. The results show that following the subdivision of property rights, the building layout become more diverse due to various illegal additions, while the residential behavior within different building types tends to be consistent. Moreover, the study observed the traditional Chinese courtyard buildings' adaptability. The findings contribute to understand the evolution of Chinese urban historic areas and internal motivation, and provide guidance for the conservation and regeneration practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents timber lamella structures applied to the circular cylinder surface when all lamellae axes intersect at the nodes. To achieve the uniformity of all elements in this structure, the geometry of the structure must be carefully designed. The main methods for the research are graphical and numerical methods for geometric design and a prototype construction for a specific geometric pattern. The methods are discussed for their ease of replication, as well as the possibility of reinterpretation on other surfaces, while the prototype design and construction give insight into the process from design to execution. The combination of these methods allows for a thorough analysis of the geometry for lamella structures. The analysis shows that geometrical design must begin from the whole to the lamella, and that the number of element types in the structure depends on the disposition of the elements and the angle of the pattern. The discussion shows the advantages and limitations of the proposed methods, while the conclusions give the guidelines for the implementation of lamella structures into new design projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a method for finite element (FE) simulation of a deep drawing process of a cold-rolled carbon steel (SPCC) sheet material based on the graphical method. First, uniaxial tensile specimens were prepared and experimental tests were conducted to determine the flow stress curves. The calculation of the fracture points at special strain modes (plane strain, uniaxial tensile strain, and biaxial tensile strain) was presented using the modified maximum force criterion (MMFC). After that, the graphical method was adopted for the estimation of the forming limit curve (FLC) based on several hardening laws. FE models for a deep drawing process of the SPCC sheet were then built using the calculated FLCs. Using FE simulations, the fracture heights of cylinder cups formed by the deep drawing process were finally determined and compared with those from experiments. The results showed a good agreement between simulated and measured fracture height with a maximum of 3.6 % deviation. Additionally, simulations and corresponding experiments were performed to investigate the effects of the blank holder force, punch corner radius, and drawing ratio on the fracture height of cylinder cups.

This study presents an improvement of the graphical method for plotting the shear and moment diagrams for the structural members under linearly varying loads (triangular and trapezoidal loads). Based on the parabolic nature of the shear function, when the loading varies linearly, and on the relations among load, shear, and moment, a mathematical equation is developed to locate the zero-shear point, while a geometric technique is presented to calculate the parabolic shear area. Five comprehensive examples of beams loaded with linearly varying loads are selected to illustrate the steps of the solution for the proposed techniques. The results demonstrated the applicability of the presented method, and gave exact diagrams compared with the basic graphical method. It is concluded that the proposed improved method is generally more convenient, less time-consuming, and has less computational efforts because it does not require sectioning, solving equilibrium equations, and quadratic formulas compared with the basic graphical method.

The article proposes a refined method for calculating the width of the conductors of printed circuit boards on a metal base for the onboard devices of spacecraft, depending on the current flowing. The constructed refined mathematical model of the process of conductive heat exchange between the conductors and the metal base is described. The results of calculations of various, most common, locations of layers of printed circuit boards are presented. An analysis was carried out and a refined methodology was developed based on the results obtained. It allows you to easily (without complicate calculations) calculate the necessary values of the width of conductors. This technique is based on graphical methods, but allows you to perform technical calculations with sufficient accuracy. Accuracy is achieved by using special formulas that simplify the determination of the value of a physical quantity on a logarithmic scale. The disadvantages of the proposed method are indicated.

Energy integration in petrochemical and refining industries is an effective concept to minimize dependence on heating and cooling utilities through networks of exchanger equipment. Pinch Analysis is very popular and successful technique to optimize heat recovery between heat sources and sinks. Yet, design of networks of exchangers is challenging and requires careful attention to energy consumption and exchanger areas. This work presents a graphical methodology to design exchanger networks taking into account both heat loads and transfer areas of exchanger units in one single information. A new parameter is introduced for design that is the ratio between the heat load and the exchanger area, and is determined in kW/m2. It is defined as an energy-area parameter expressing how much heat the exchanger would transfer per every meter square of area. Such parameter will be valuable key in design to screen matches of exchangers providing that both the heat and area are considered. The higher the value of the parameter, the better the performance of the exchanger, i.e. maximum heat transfer rate for minimum exchanger area. The design methodology embedding the energy-area parameter guarantees HEN designs with energy targets and minimum areas. A case is studied for the production of 100,000 t/y of dimethyl ether. An optimum network is generated by applying the new parameter with less exchanger areas and hot utility of 25% and 30%, respectively compared with an automated design by Aspen Energy Analyzer®. Also, substantial savings of about 47% in the total cost of the network are earned.

This study presents a method for finite element (FE) simulation of a deep drawing process of a cold-rolled carbon steel (SPCC) sheet material based on the graphical method. First, uniaxial tensile specimens were prepared and experimental tests were conducted to determine the flow stress curves. The calculation of the fracture points at special strain modes (plane strain, uniaxial tensile strain, and biaxial tensile strain) was presented using the modified maximum force criterion (MMFC). After that, the graphical method was adopted for the estimation of the forming limit curve (FLC) based on several hardening laws. FE models for a deep drawing process of the SPCC sheet were then built using the calculated FLCs. Using FE simulations, the fracture heights of cylinder cups formed by the deep drawing process were finally determined and compared with those from experiments. The results showed a good agreement between simulated and measured fracture height with a maximum of 3.6 % deviation. Additionally, simulations and corresponding experiments were performed to investigate the effects of the blank holder force, punch corner radius, and drawing ratio on the fracture height of cylinder cups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents timber lamella structures applied to the circular cylinder surface when all lamellae axes intersect at the nodes. To achieve the uniformity of all elements in this structure, the geometry of the structure must be carefully designed. The main methods for the research are graphical and numerical methods for geometric design and a prototype construction for a specific geometric pattern. The methods are discussed for their ease of replication, as well as the possibility of reinterpretation on other surfaces, while the prototype design and construction give insight into the process from design to execution. The combination of these methods allows for a thorough analysis of the geometry for lamella structures. The analysis shows that geometrical design must begin from the whole to the lamella, and that the number of element types in the structure depends on the disposition of the elements and the angle of the pattern. The discussion shows the advantages and limitations of the proposed methods, while the conclusions give the guidelines for the implementation of lamella structures into new design projects.

At gauged watersheds, the time of concentration can be estimated using rainfall-runoff data; however, at ungauged watersheds, empirical methods are used instead. Large errors in the application of empirical methods may cause inaccurate modeling of floods and unreliable structure design. In this paper, methods for calculating the time of concentration (Tc) were compared to identify the best equation for estimating Tc in ungauged watersheds of an arid region. The graphical method, based on measured data, was compared to 15 empirical methods to determine which empirical method returned the best results. The graphical method was applied to 33 rainfall-runoff events in four rural sub-watersheds located in the central parts of Hormozgan province, Iran. A ranking-based procedure was used to select the best performing empirical methods. To minimize bias and improve accuracy, the best performing empirical methods were modified by adjusting their formulas. According to the study, three empirical methods: (1) Williams, (2) Pilgrim and Mac Dermott, and (3) Arizona DOT, performed the best in the study areas. The results also showed that the modified Williams and Arizona DOT’s formulas were able to estimate the time of concentration in ungauged watersheds with an error lower than 1%.

Chemical absorption method plays an important role in the process of CO 2 separation. One major problem for chemical absorption is huge energy consumption, which is affected by the performance of absorbents. Developing a type of absorbent with high absorption capacity and low regenerative energy consumption is a research topic that attracts attention. The combination of two or more amines is one way to develop new solvents. However, the change of amine liquid ratio can cause a series of complex nonlinear changes in absorption capacity, absorption heat, the heat of vaporisation and sensible heat. It is of interest to visualise the amine solution mixing ratio optimisation to help reduce the energy consumption and increase the absorption capacity. Derivative analysis of standardised vs variables diagram (DSVD), a kind of graphical method based on maximum benefit and minimum consumption, is proposed to determine the optimal mixing ratio of binary amine solution. This novel approach helps to visualise what kind of amines are not suitable for compounding, what kind of amines have the best compounding ratio, and how to determine the optimal compounding ratio. The optimal mixing ratio of the Methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) - Piperazine (PZ) system and MDEA - Monoethanolamine (MEA) were optimised by this method. The optimal ratio of MDEA - PZ and MDEA - MEA are 0.6 (PZ: MDEA = 0.6:0.4, wt.%) and 0.8 (MEA: MDEA = 0.8:0.2, wt.%). • Derivative analysis of standardised vs variables diagram (DSVD) is proposed. • A new method to determine the optimal mixing ratio of binary amine solution. • Multi-objective graphic solution based on benefit and consumption. • The mixing ratio of MDEA + MEA system and MDEA + PZ system was optimised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several international institutions have defined background or baseline levels to assess heavy metal concentrations on marine sediments in order to use these values as a reference for sediment quality indices. This criterion for marine sediment quality is applied to evaluate the potential risk of pollutants in aquatic ecosystems. However, those values were established using samples collected in large areas which present specific geochemical conditions. Then there may be a lack of accuracy in the results when using these parameters in other areas. In this context, 15 sediment cores (8 cm diameter; 2 m length) were recovered along the 400 km Asturian coastline, which is an area with representative lithological conditions for the Bay of Biscay, to determine more precise baseline levels for marine sediments from the Bay of Biscay. An evaluation of statistical and empirical methods was done to determine which method delivers the best results. Statistical methods such as mean±2SD and median±2* Median Absolut Deviation (MAD) are strongly influenced by outliers and data distributions which make these approaches less robust. Graphic techniques such as Cumulative Distribution Function (CDF) avoid the problems that asymmetrical data distributions may cause but introduce a certain level of subjectivity in the results due to the baseline values obtained depending on the researcher's experience. Finally, the Probability Curve (CP) method solves issues which may occur when using other techniques and allows one to establish baseline levels based on different percentiles. Regarding the features of the data analysed in this study, the baselines obtained via the CP method with the 95th percentile appear to be the most accurate for the Bay of Biscay. A wide variation has been found between the new baseline values and other international and national levels. Disparity between those levels and the baselines obtained in this study can be generated by granulometric and geological factors. The notable increase in Hg baseline values with respect to OSPAR Background Concentration values (BCs) (0.05 μg g−1 and 0.6 μg g−1 respectively) and the huge different with CEDEX levels and new threshold levels (0.35 μg g−1 and 1.2 μg g−1 respectively) emphasised the relevance of defining specific baselines and threshold levels, as the ones obtained in this study, not only to obtain more precise criteria for marine sediment quality to be used in environmental assessments, but also to propose new threshold levels for the evaluation of dredged material before dumping into ocean sites. • 95th percentile on Probability Curve method determine the most accurate baselines. • Regional geological diversity causes baselines very different from OSPAR. • Natural Hg concentrations were twelve times higher than the OSPAR level. • Recalculated Hg Spanish sediment management level was 3 times the actual value. • Specific baselines and threshold levels are needed to get accurate assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At gauged watersheds, the time of concentration can be estimated using rainfall-runoff data; however, at ungauged watersheds, empirical methods are used instead. Large errors in the application of empirical methods may cause inaccurate modeling of floods and unreliable structure design. In this paper, methods for calculating the time of concentration (Tc) were compared to identify the best equation for estimating Tc in ungauged watersheds of an arid region. The graphical method, based on measured data, was compared to 15 empirical methods to determine which empirical method returned the best results. The graphical method was applied to 33 rainfall-runoff events in four rural sub-watersheds located in the central parts of Hormozgan province, Iran. A ranking-based procedure was used to select the best performing empirical methods. To minimize bias and improve accuracy, the best performing empirical methods were modified by adjusting their formulas. According to the study, three empirical methods: (1) Williams, (2) Pilgrim and Mac Dermott, and (3) Arizona DOT, performed the best in the study areas. The results also showed that the modified Williams and Arizona DOT's formulas were able to estimate the time of concentration in ungauged watersheds with an error lower than 1%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]