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A new compression refining technology has been tested in various conditions with a model Eucalyptus bleached kraft pulp. Its performances were also compared with those obtained with traditional LC refining of the same pulp. Compression refining of the Eucalyptus pulp led to a much better °SR/strength compromise than conventional LC refining. High strength properties can also be achieved by compression refining, in a similar range, or depending on the conditions, even better than LC refining. The higher the strength requested, the largest the advantages of this technology: for a given resistance, up to 40°SR difference with LC refined pulp can be obtained. The lower °SR is due to less cellulosic fines release which also results in papers combining a high strength and a high permeability which cannot be obtained with traditional LC refining. Indeed, with LC refining, a high strength is generally associated to a low permeability. The upscaling of this technology seems possible since large production devices are already on the market for other applications than paper/pulp. With this new pulp behaviour, papermakers will have to learn to think differently as paper strength and °SR can now be decorrelated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Walnut oils are of important academic and economic value, and are becoming one of the most important woody oils. Accurate and moderate refining techniques are required to produce high‐quality walnut oils. In this work, walnut oils obtained from cold processing were refined in three typical techniques, mainly chemical refining, water degumming, and molecular distillation. Physicochemical properties (acid value and peroxide value [POV]), minor components (tocopherol, polyphenols, and phytosterol), oxidative stability indices, and volatile compounds were analyzed to find out the appropriate refining method for the cold‐pressed walnut oils. Quality indices of all the refined oils from the three different refining methods met the requirements of the national standard, of which the POV of chemically refined oil (0.241 g/100 g) was higher than crude oil (0.058 g/100 g). Water degumming was most suitable for retaining of bioactive compounds, for example, the tocopherol was 259.40 mg/kg, the polyphenols was 44.54 mg GAE/kg, and the phytosterol was 987.32 mg/kg, but oxidation stability of the obtained oil (3.09 h) was lower than that of molecular distilled oil (4.18 h). Initial physicochemical properties especially the POV had a significant impact on oxidation stability. There is a trade‐off between the retention of nutrients and extending shelf life, indicating appropriate refining techniques should be developed; that is, water degumming is suggested to be involved in producing high‐quality cold‐pressed walnut oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Crude fats and oils may have high free fatty acid (FFA) content depending on raw material quality and processing conditions. Their refining is always a challenge due to refining loss and the formation of some process contaminants such as 3‐monochloropropane‐1,2‐diol esters (3‐MCPDE), and glycidyl esters (GE). In this study, crude hazelnut oil having 12.10% FFA was degummed, bleached, and pre‐deacidified by a molecular distillation (MD) unit before neutralisation and deodorisation. Changes in FFA, diglyceride(DG), 3‐MCPDE, GE, and tocopherol contents were monitored. Almost no changes were detected in FFA and DG contents during degumming and bleaching while the latter resulted in the 3‐MCPDE formation and GE reduction. Some tocopherol losses were also observed after these steps. On the other hand, a huge amount of FFA was distilled (from 12.10% to 1.71%) by the MD process performed at 200 °C, 0.25 mbar, as well as with a 53.6% loss of tocopherol. The samples were then subjected to deodorisation before (MD‐PHY) and after neutralisation (MD‐CHE) at 230 °C under 2 mbar absolute pressure for 2, 4, and 8 h. While some 3‐MCPDE and GE formations were detected during MD‐CHE, there were almost no formations in these contaminants after MD‐PHY. When the bleached oil having 12.10% FFA was also directly deodorised at given conditions, no formations but some reductions in 3‐MCPDE and GE contents of the oils were determined, possibly because of esterification of FFA with DGs that are an important precursor of these contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates the modification of fiber morphology and the strength property development of paper from Enset fiber as a function of soda pulping conditions and refining energy. Soda pulping was conducted at pulping temperatures between 160 and 180 °C. The NaOH charge was 16, 20, and 24% based on the initial raw material. The beating of pulp was conducted using a Jokro mill. The refining of pulp was conducted in a laboratory refiner at different refining intensities. The mild Jokro mill beating was not effective on Enset fiber pulp. On the other hand, the laboratory refiner effectively refined the pulp. The fiber morphology was altered in the way of improving the paper formation and strength. The beating degree of the pulp was increased to about 49 °SR. The tensile index was enhanced to around 80 Nm/g using a refining energy input of 250 kwh/t. From the results, it can be concluded that Enset fiber pulp is suitable for packaging papers due to its high strength level. On the other hand, Enset fiber can be a potential raw material for specialty papers like filter paper and tea bags because of its high porosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercial kitchen towels (basis weight 39 to 56 g/m²) made of virgin and recycled fiber, produced by Through-Air-Drying (TAD), and conventional Yankee cylinder drying (with creping) were analyzed. The properties of these commercial tissue products were compared to those of handsheets made from them. Laboratory tissue handsheets were also prepared from northern bleached softwood kraft (NBSK), eucalyptus, bamboo, and straw pulp. Fibers were refined with up to 5000 revolutions of a PFI mill. Commercial kitchen towels (kitchen tissue) absorbed 9 to 14 g water per 1 g of fiber, with higher absorption by virgin fibers, and when using TAD. The tensile index (dry) was 3 to 14 Nm/g. Laboratory tissue handsheets made of commercial samples absorbed less water, but the tensile index (dry) was higher in most cases. Higher beating levels (tested at NBSK, eucalyptus, bamboo, straw pulp) increased tensile index. Curl, bulk, softness, absorption capacity, and suction lift were reduced with refining. Best values for absorption capacity (almost 8 g/g), bulk (almost 5 cm³/g), and softness were observed in laboratory bamboo tissue sheets made of non-refined fibers. After refining (2000 revolutions), the tensile index of such tissue sheets made of bamboo increased from 10 to 30 Nm/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to select an appropriate deacidification process and improve the quality of walnut oil, low-temperature cold-pressed crude walnut oil was used as raw material. Deacidified walnut oil was prepared using three deacidification processes: chemical deacidification (CD), adsorption deacidification (AD), and molecular distillation deacidification (MDD). The physicochemical properties, nutritional components, and in vitro antioxidant activities of the resulting deacidified walnut oils were comparatively analyzed. The results indicate that the fatty acid content in walnut oil exhibits fluctuating changes during the three different deacidification processes. The MDD shows a higher deacidification rate, reaching 94.06%, which is superior to the other two methods. Additionally, the AD retains more total phenols and tocopherols, with retention rates of 95.79% and 74.62%, respectively; whereas MDD is more effective at retaining phytosterols, achieving a retention rate of 98.09%. All these methods displayed positive impacts on the in vitro antioxidant capacity and oil stability of walnut oil, with ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) content and oxidative stability time were significantly reduced.whencompared to the untreated crude oil Among them, AD had the greatest impact on oxidative stability index (OSI), with its decreasing from 2.06 ​h to 0.82 ​h. Overall, compared to CD or MDD, the AD has best application prospects in preserving nutritional components.

Family groups in the ancient cultures of China, Korea, and Japan have toiled for generations in an effort to out-compete their neighbors in the pursuit of handmade paper products having better strength performance, in addition to flatness, uniform appearance, and other desirable attributes. Study of the history of the papermaking craft reveals a remarkable ability of ancient peoples to discover advantageous ways to prepare the cellulosic pulp, to improve its brightness, and to form uniform and strong paper sheets. But though the ancients knew how to “beat” the pulp to improve its bonding ability, there is no evidence of any of them having attempted to greatly “over-beat” some of the fiber, thus making nanocellulose, for potential addition to the fiber mixture. Why not? In this editorial, it is proposed that the ancients may have discovered that adding very highly fibrillated cellulose material to paper was not a good idea.

Commercial kitchen towels (basis weight 39 to 56 g/m²) made of virgin and recycled fiber, produced by Through-Air-Drying (TAD), and conventional Yankee cylinder drying (with creping) were analyzed. The properties of these commercial tissue products were compared to those of handsheets made from them. Laboratory tissue handsheets were also prepared from northern bleached softwood kraft (NBSK), eucalyptus, bamboo, and straw pulp. Fibers were refined with up to 5000 revolutions of a PFI mill. Commercial kitchen towels (kitchen tissue) absorbed 9 to 14 g water per 1 g of fiber, with higher absorption by virgin fibers, and when using TAD. The tensile index (dry) was 3 to 14 Nm/g. Laboratory tissue handsheets made of commercial samples absorbed less water, but the tensile index (dry) was higher in most cases. Higher beating levels (tested at NBSK, eucalyptus, bamboo, straw pulp) increased tensile index. Curl, bulk, softness, absorption capacity, and suction lift were reduced with refining. Best values for absorption capacity (almost 8 g/g), bulk (almost 5 cm³/g), and softness were observed in laboratory bamboo tissue sheets made of non-refined fibers. After refining (2000 revolutions), the tensile index of such tissue sheets made of bamboo increased from 10 to 30 Nm/g.

叶片过滤机是精炼车间脱色工段中非常关键的设备，设备前端后续的工艺阀门很多，有很多操作步骤和时间节点控制阀门的开启和关闭，操作复杂烦琐。为简化人工手动操作的烦琐性及为更多单机系统控制提供技术参考，以立式叶片过滤机为例，采用PLC和触摸屏的方式构建自动控制系统，控制叶片过滤机的单机运行和切换控制。自动控制系统的CPU采用西门子S7-1214C DC/DC/Rly，HMI采用西门子KTP1200触摸屏，并采用西门子TIA PORTAL V18软件进行PLC硬件组态及编程和上位机KTP1200的监控和控制界面的制作，自动控制系统的设计包括两台过滤机的单独控制和切换控制，可根据不同的产量设定切换的时间参数。此系统运行稳定可靠，是独立的控制系统，可以单独应用于生产，还具有以太网通信功能，可以实现与其他控制系统的数据交换。The vane filter is a very critical equipment in the decolorization section of the refining workshop, there are many process valves at the front end and follow-up of the equipment, there are many operation steps and time nodes to control the opening and closing of the valve, and the operation is complex and cumbersome. In order to simplify the tediousness of manual operation and provide technical reference for the control of more stand-alone systems, taking the vertical vane filter as an example, PLC and touch screen were used to build an automatic control system to control the stand-alone operation and switching control of the vane filter. The CPU of automatic control system adopted Siemens 1200 series S7-1214C DC/DC/Rly, HMI adopted Siemens lean series touch screen KTP1200, and Siemens TIA PORTAL V18 software was used for hardware configuration and programming, and the production of monitoring and control interface of host computer KTP1200. The design of the automatic control system includes separate control and switching control of the two sets of filters, and the time parameter of switching can be set according to different outputs. This system operates stably and reliably, and is an independent control system, which can be applied to production alone, also the system has Ethernet communication function, therefore can realize data exchange with other control systems.

In the production of refined sunflower oil, waxes are removed during the winterization stage, and wax crystals are separated through filtration assisted by filtration aids. Commonly used filtration aids in oil refining include perlite and diatomaceous earth. After winterization, a significant amount of filter cake remains as a by-product and is treated as waste. Today, natural cellulose fibers are being promoted as filtration aids. Their advantages are numerous, both in the production process and from an environmental perspective. However, their only disadvantage is their higher cost. Therefore, in this study, 57 filtration cycles during the industrial sunflower oil winterization step using cellulose-based filtration aids were monitored. Different process parameters, including the pressure differential on the filter, the flow rate of filtered oil, constant pressure period, the quantity of filtered oil, filtration time, the quantity of pre-coating and dosing filtration aids, the volume of filtered oil, the concentration of dosing filtration aid, as well as the mass of separated waxes, were observed. Additionally, artificial neural networks were applied to predict process parameters, optimize the process, and, above all, determine the dosage of filtration aids, which will make the process more economical. The optimal filtration process is performed at a pressure differential of 3.3 bar, lasting a total of 39 h, with 32 h at constant pressure, resulting in 322,503 kg of filtered oil and 90.41 kg of waxes. The optimal quantity of cellulose-based filtration aids employed for pre-coat was 80 kg, and for dosing, 375 kg, with an optimal concentration of 0.12% w/w. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ladle refining of iron-carbon melts is an essential component of the modern technology used in the production of iron and steel, ensuring the high quality of metal products. However, in the context of mini- and micro-factories using technological units of a limited volume, it is often unfeasible to implement modern, highly efficient refining, deoxidation-alloying, and heating schemes that are commonly used by ladle furnaces and degassers. In addition, the issue of the widespread use of various production wastes for the production of cast iron and steel in order to recycle them and reduce the consumption of conventional charge materials is relevant. Therefore, a new method of submerged arc reduction of elements useful for metallurgy from industrial waste and secondary materials directly into an iron-carbon melt for its deoxidation-alloying (refining), homogenization, and heating by a submerged electric arc is proposed. This technology eliminates the use of expensive reagents, ferroalloys, and alloying elements. Based on the conducted research, a scheme of the processes of submerged arc reduction of elements was established, the design of submerged arc furnace assemblies and their composition were proposed, and the high efficiency of the new method of ladle refining in comparison with conventional analogs was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zeolites are crystalline aluminosilicates with open-framework structures and have been widely used in refinery processes. One of the significant utilization processes is cracking heavy feedstocks into lighter fractions, which can be used as a feedstock for subsequent processes such as petrochemical applications. This work aimed to study the effect of the zeolite's different Si/Al ratios on heavy crude cracking under different salt content conditions. The feedstock used for this study is a heavy hydrocarbon fraction contains a large amount of metal and salt. Two synthesized prototype catalysts were prepared and characterized by different physical–chemical methods (SEM–EDX, XRD, N2 physisorption, TPD and TGA). Later the catalysts were mixed with the crudes in a 500 ml autoclave and the catalytic activities were performed in a batch reactor at a temperature of 380–450 °C, 150 rpm, and nitrogen pressure of 10 MPa. The reaction's outlet gases were analysed directly in online Gas Chromatography (GC). The results showed a wide range of impacts on catalyst performance and a noticeable increase in C2 and C3 yield for the desalted crude. Moreover, a higher C3 was produced for both catalysts at 430–450 °C due to the catalyst's large pore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A semi‐preparative liquid chromatographic system (LC‐Prep) has been used to isolate and collect the main oxidation products generated from β‐sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol, which represent the main sterols detected in vegetable oils. In less than 50 min, 15 different phytosterol oxidation products (POPs) were separated with a satisfactory resolution (R >1) and collected. From each pure phytosterol standard the 5,6α‐epoxy (α‐E), 5,6β‐epoxy (β‐E), 7‐keto (7‐K), 7α‐hydroxy (7α‐H), and 7β‐hydroxy (7β‐H) isomers were obtained. The purity of POPs was >90%. Then, the obtained pure POPs were used to validate an HPLC‐Orbitrap‐HRMS analytical method. The LOD and LOQ determined in medium chain triacylglycerols were >0.012 and >0.039 ng/mL, respectively; whereas the recoveries ranged between 82% and 98%. The suitability of the analytical method was evaluated on palm oil (PO), palm olein (POL), and high oleic sunflower oil (HOSO) during the whole refining processing (crude oil, neutralization and degumming, bleaching and deodorization) and under storage conditions (45°C, 16 days). In the refining steps, the total POPs content significantly increased (p < 0.05) by 29%, 20%, and 13% in PO, POL, and HOSO, respectively. The highest amount was found in HOSO (15.046 mg/kg), followed by POL (1.067 mg/kg) and PO (0.538 mg/kg). Under storage conditions, the content of POPs did not significantly (p > 0.05) change and was lower than 8.965 mg/kg. The developed semi‐preparative liquid chromatographic system coupled to the LC‐Orbitrap‐HRMS method demonstrated to be a useful and valid tool for a robust, precise, accurate, and sensitive determination of POPs in refined and stored vegetable oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrocracking is a vital process in the refining industry that converts heavy crude oil into high-value products such as gasoline, jet fuel and diesel. The optimization of hydrocracking units is crucial for improving the efficiency and profitability of these units. Optimization techniques have emerged as a powerful tool in process engineering to address conflicting objectives such as maximizing product yield while minimizing energy consumption. A refinery in Africa started commercial production in 2019. Using Aspen HYSYS V.14, Industrial hydrocracking unit was simulated and survey was done to find opportunities for optimization. In this paper, it presents case studies on the optimization of an industrial hydrocracking unit using Aspen HYSYS. it begins with a brief overview of the hydrocracking process and its typical outputs then introduces some techniques of energy optimization. The case study description and methodology, including the specific objectives and simulation setup, are presented. it discusses the results and analysis of the optimization process, including the impact on the unit's performance and trade-offs between different optimization objectives. The case studies handled in the paper are optimization of reactor effluent air cooler (REAC) with saving of 5.4 MMKcal/hr of its duty, optimization of fractionator feed heater duty with saving of 12.75 MMKcal/hr of its duty and optimization of unit's downtime required for catalyst change over with saving of 5 days downtime. Finally, it explores the implementation and implications of the results for industrial practice and the potential benefits and challenges of applying optimization in hydrocracking unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of refined used lubricating oils (RULO) is an opportunity for use for the industrial sector, improving the environment. The objective of the research was to evaluate different RULO/diesel mixtures from the AT80 and AT40C1 treatments. The experiment consisted of applying different proportions of RULO, forming five different mixtures between ALUR/diesel. The mixes were 85/15, 70/30, 55/45, 40/60 and 30/70. The results showed that the best mixtures were M4 and M5 of the AT80 treatment, with average density of 0.80 g/cm3, viscosity of 5.83 cP, electrical stability of 1694.33 V, flash point of 95°C and 96.67% oil. With these results, a new alternative and use is created, reducing diesel and economic costs for the oil industry that prepares oil-based drilling fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Corn oil is a major agricultural commodity, and it is a staple in kitchens worldwide. This comprehensive review aims to provide a holistic understanding of corn oil processing, composition, nutritional benefits, properties, and market dynamics. The processing of corn oil poses challenges in achieving optimal extraction efficiency while addressing environmental concerns. Currently, hexane‐extracted corn oil dominates the market, with cold‐pressed corn oil being a niche product. Ongoing efforts within the industry focus on exploring alternative, environmentally friendly extraction methods such as critical CO2 and enzymatic‐assisted extraction. Corn oil is recognized for its rich composition in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, tocopherol content, and potential antioxidant benefits. However, its high omega‐6 fatty acid content, while contributing to its stability, has raised discussions about its potential impact on inflammatory responses when consumed excessively. Due to its high smoke point, corn oil is suitable for high‐temperature cooking without compromising its neutral taste. Yet, its oxidation stability is lower compared to other commercial oils. Relying on oleic‐rich varieties or incorporating antioxidants could help enhance its stability and mitigate potential oxidative concerns. In the future, advancements in processing technologies promise to elevate the nutritional profile of corn oil, aligning it with the evolving preferences of health‐conscious consumers and addressing sustainability concerns. Practical Applications. This review provides crucial insights into the processing, nutritional profile, and market dynamics of corn oil, benefiting researchers and industry professionals. By understanding the challenges and advancements in extraction methods, researchers can develop more sustainable and efficient processes. The detailed analysis of corn oil's composition and functionality provides practical solutions for improving product shelf‐life and quality. This comprehensive review supports the optimization of corn oil production and utilization and aids in positioning corn oil as a competitive and versatile option in the global vegetable oil market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper summarizes the results of numerous works performed by the employees of the Pobuzky Ferronickel Plant, the Department of Electrometallurgy of the USU of Science and Technology (Dnipro), RPC "Technosplavy" under the leadership of Mykhailo Hasyk, academician of NASU. A technology of low iron recovery has been implemented at the plant, which allows producing high-percentage black ferronickel, containing 30-50 % Ni, and almost hundredth fractions of carbon and silicon, directly in electric furnaces. The thermodynamic features of out-of-furnace ladle desulfurization of ferronickel with soda are considered. A complex technology has been developed and implemented, which involves mixing black ferronickel with a reduced silicon and carbon content (up to 0.01 %) and a high nickel content (over 50 %) produced in one furnace with an alloy from another furnace with a low nickel concentration (10-17 %) and a high concentration of silicon and carbon, which are so necessary for desulfurization with soda in a ladle. The developed and proposed technological schemes for the enrichment of electric furnace slags using the "wet" technology and refining slags using the "dry" technology make it possible to recycle about 1,200 tons of nickel per year, or to extract 31.6 % and 94.65 % of nickel from the slags, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avocado oil stability at frying temperatures has been scarcely studied. In this work, the performance of virgin (VAO), minimally refined (MRAO) and refined (RAO) avocado oils was evaluated in deep-frying and thermoxidation experiments in comparison with sunflower (SO), high-oleic sunflower (HOSO), and virgin olive (VOO) oils. Polar compounds, polymers and tocopherols were determined. For all oils, no significant differences in polymers levels were found after 10h thermoxidation and 9 discontinuous deep-frying operation. The most stable oils were HOSO, VAO, VOO and MRAO, all showing less than 20% polar compounds after 9 frying operations. Besides the stability conferred by the predominant monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid), the better frying performance shown by these four oils was attributed to the high content of tocopherols and DMPS in HOSO, and the presence of protective minor compounds in virgin oils (VAO and VOO) and MRAO.

There are studied the structure formation of the high-strength casting Cu-Al alloys. Providing high level of properties for such alloys is connected by maintaining the necessary Cu content and alloying special strengthening additives. The most effective additives are unfortunately toxic Cd or expensive Ag. It is proposed to remove such components from the composition of alloys. To provide the structure dispersion and an increasing of properties, other alloying and modifying components, in particular, Mn and Zr, should be used. There are developed the technological bases for obtaining master alloys Al-Mn and Al-Zr with applying the energy of electromagnetic fields and magnetodynamic equipment. Modes for adding made master alloys into experimental liquid high-strength casting Cu-Al alloy are worked. As result, it is provided the substantiate refining of the cast alloy structure. To provide further structural transformations and to increase the properties of the experimental alloy, as well as due to a change in its chemical composition, the modes of its heat treatment are clarified. The proposed mode is similar to T6 and includes two-stages' homogenization (annealing) under quenching in water and subsequent artificial ageing. The further development of research consists in determining the new alloying components for such alloys. These components should make a strengthening effect on the structure, promote properties' increasing, and, at the same time, are non-toxic and relatively cheap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, oil was extracted from black cumin (Nigella sativa) seed (BCS) by press, and oil was extracted from the obtained cake with a solvent. The changes in the quality of both crude oils obtained by pressing and by solvent were investigated during refining. Findings revealed that the p‐anisidin value (p‐AV) and fatty acid profile did not change significantly, but there were significant differences (p <.05) in the peroxide value (PV), reflective index, pigment contents, free fatty acid content (FFA%), and antioxidant activity (total phenol content (TPC), thymoquinone, and DPPH inhibition) of BCS oils obtained by the two different methods. PV and FFA decreased to less than 15 meqO2/kg and 0.3%, respectively, in the refined oil. The TPC (65%), thymoquinone (45–97%), carotenoids (86–89%), and chlorophyll (75–85%) were removed from BCS oil, but the DPPH value was raised by about 33%. The current study gives a clear picture of the changes during refining in BCS oil, which can be a useful guide in food applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing an environmentally friendly and more efficient pulping process is necessary to cope with the pollution issues created by the current pulp and paper mills. Although Organosolv pulping is considered environmentally friendly compared to kraft or soda pulping, the higher cost hindered the commercialization of the Organosolv process to pulp different raw materials. Therefore, this research aimed to explore the papermaking potential of three raw materials i.e., spruce, beech, and miscanthus, using Acetosolv pulping. This research also includes the determination of properties of the fibers influenced by refining and application potential that could arise for the fibers in terms of strength, barrier, and optical properties. Paper sheets showed excellent air barriers, which justifies their applications in the packaging sector. It was concluded that if the tensile index is the selection criteria, then even miscanthus (a nonwood material) Acetosolv pulp can replace the spruce softwood kraft pulp. Also, transparency and contact angle were found to be maximum for spruce which can facilitate its application as a substrate in green electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of platinum extraction from a low-concentration platinum-nitrate solution using sulfide precipitation and cementation methods are presented. The problem of the study was the question of the possibility of extracting platinu (IV) from nitrate mother liquors of refining of complex ionic and quantitative composition. During the work, it was found that the best result of platinum extraction of 99.9% was achieved with zinc cementation, and subsequent nitrate treatment of the cake makes it possible to obtain a platinum-palladium concentrate with a platinum content of at least 96.1%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avocado oil stability at frying temperatures has been scarcely studied. In this work, the performance of virgin (VAO), minimally refined (MRAO) and refined (RAO) avocado oils was evaluated in deep-frying and thermoxidation experiments in comparison with sunflower (SO), high-oleic sunflower (HOSO), and virgin olive (VOO) oils. Polar compounds, polymers and tocopherols were determined. For all oils, no significant differences in polymers levels were found after 10h thermoxidation and 9 discontinuous deepfrying operation. The most stable oils were HOSO, VAO, VOO and MRAO, all showing less than 20% polar compounds after 9 frying operations. Besides the stability conferred by the predominant monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid), the better frying performance shown by these four oils was attributed to the high content of tocopherols and DMPS in HOSO, and the presence of protective minor compounds in virgin oils (VAO and VOO) and MRAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper summarizes the results of numerous works performed by the employees of the Pobuzky Ferronickel Plant, the Department of Electrometallurgy of the USU of Science and Technology (Dnipro), RPC «Technosplavy» under the leadership of Mykhailo Hasyk, academician of NASU. A technology of low iron recovery has been implemented at the plant, which allows producing high-percentage black ferronickel, containing 30…50 % Ni, and almost hundredth fractions of carbon and silicon, directly in electric furnaces. The thermodynamic features of off-kiln ladle desulfurization of ferronickel with soda are considered. A complex technology has been developed and implemented, which involves mixing crude ferronickel produced in one furnace with a reduced silicon and carbon content (up to 0.01 %) and a high nickel content (over 50 %) with an alloy from another furnace with a low nickel concentration (10…17 %) and a high concentration of silicon and carbon, which are so necessary for desulfurization with soda in a ladle. The developed and proposed technological schemes for the enrichment of electric furnace slags using the «wet» technology and refining slags using the «dry» technology make it possible to recycle about 1,200 tons of nickel per year, or to extract 31.6 % and 94.65 % of nickel from the slags, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of refined used lubricating oils (RULO) is an opportunity for use for the industrial sector, improving the environment. The objective of the research was to evaluate different RULO/diesel mixtures from the AT80 and AT40C1 treatments. The experiment consisted of applying different proportions of RULO, forming five different mixtures between ALUR/diesel. The mixes were 85/15, 70/30, 55/45, 40/60 and 30/70. The results showed that the best mixtures were M4 and M5 of the AT80 treatment, with average density of 0.80 g/cm3, viscosity of 5.83 cP, electrical stability of 1694.33 V, flash point of 95°C and 96.67% oil. With these results, a new alternative and use is created, reducing diesel and economic costs for the oil industry that prepares oil-based drilling fluids.

In this study, we compared nanometer-scale (nm) silica (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3) with conventional micrometer-scale (μm) adsorbents (SiO2 and Al2O3) to determine their utility in refining crude fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). Unlike their μm counterparts, hydrated SiO2 and Al2O3 nm-adsorbents did not retain water after utilization in FAME refining. However, hydrated adsorbents significantly improved performance of μm-scale SiO2 and Al2O3 adsorbents for FAME refining. Structurally, the μm-adsorbents are porous multi-layered structures, with FAME adhering to the surface or entrained between layers. Meanwhile, nm-adsorbents were aggregated. As such, FAME loss associated with nm-SiO2 adsorbent was 50.5 % higher than μm-SiO2 adsorbent. In addition, the electrical charge density of the adsorbents influenced their performance in FAME refining. Finally, conventional separation methods (e.g., gravitational setting) were impractical for separating spent nm-adsorbents from FAME; although, the use of an electrostatic field enhanced the removal of nm-adsorbents from solution. Altogether, this study examines the application of nm-adsorbents, compared to μm-adsorbents, and highlights potential increased efficiency in refining biodiesel, such as potentially reducing the need for extensive wet washing processes. Although new separation technologies may be required in recovering spent nm-adsorbents, their application could enhance the sustainability and cost efficiency of biodiesel production.

This article substantiates the possibilities of replacing commercial wood with raw materials made from industrial hemp hurd (hemp-woody core) for the production of unbleached and bleached paper pulps. A comparative analysis of the mechanical characteristics of sheets of paper prepared in the Rapid-Köthen apparatus and obtained from pulp obtained from commercial wood and hemp-woody core (HWC) was undertaken. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mechanical refining of a pulp on the production of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) from HWC. It was shown that an increase in the pulp refining degree from 15 °SR to 83 °SR led to a decrease in the degree of polymerisation of MCC from 272 to 75, the hydrochloric acid concentration from 73 to 45.63 g/L, and the hydrolysis time from 120 min to 60 min. With the addition of 5% MCC obtained from hemp-woody core, the mechanical properties of laboratory paper sheets from HWC were improved until they met ISO 12625-4-2017 (2017) requirements for NS-2. The results obtained support using hemp-woody core for the production of MCC.

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

This paper evaluates the modification of fiber morphology and the strength property development of paper from Enset fiber as a function of soda pulping conditions and refining energy. Soda pulping was conducted at pulping temperatures between 160 and 180 °C. The NaOH charge was 16, 20, and 24% based on the initial raw material. The beating of pulp was conducted using a Jokro mill. The refining of pulp was conducted in a laboratory refiner at different refining intensities. The mild Jokro mill beating was not effective on Enset fiber pulp. On the other hand, the laboratory refiner effectively refined the pulp. The fiber morphology was altered in the way of improving the paper formation and strength. The beating degree of the pulp was increased to about 49 °SR. The tensile index was enhanced to around 80 Nm/g using a refining energy input of 250 kwh/t. From the results, it can be concluded that Enset fiber pulp is suitable for packaging papers due to its high strength level. On the other hand, Enset fiber can be a potential raw material for specialty papers like filter paper and tea bags because of its high porosity.

Pretreatment of pulp is a critical step in the fibrillation process to improve the quality and efficiency for cellulose nanofibril (CNF) production. This work employed a straightforward and entirely aqueous methacrylation and subsequent grafting-through polymerization technique to modify bleached softwood kraft pulp (BSKP). Specifically, methacrylate groups, poly(acrylamide) (PAM), and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were chemically affixed to the surface of BSKP fibers, which was confirmed using FTIR spectroscopy. Bench-scale experiments were scaled up to pilot scale to prepare the modified BSKP samples, these were subjected to fibrillation using a Supermasscolloider (SMC), and the net cumulative energy (NCE) expended was monitored during the fibrillation process. Notably, the modified BSKP samples exhibited a substantial reduction in NCE, with the methacrylate modified BSKP sample achieving a 68% reduction in NCE expenditure to attain 90% fines as compared to the fibrillation of unmodified BSKP and producing methacrylate modified cellulose nanofibrils (Met-CNFs). Furthermore, we delved into the impact of polymeric surface modifications, both pre-and post-fibrillation, on fiber and fibril behavior, including the water retention value (WRV), hard-to-remove water (HR-Water), and rheological behavior. The attached polymer's hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity influenced the physical properties of the CNFs. Additionally, we executed a post-grafting polymerization process on the produced Met-CNFs. This additional step allowed us to modify nanofibril surfaces, yielding increased surface functionalization and producing modified CNFs that could be used for composite applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Copyright of Journal of Al-Anbar University for Islamic Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The low environmental impact NH4OH–KOH pulping process was used to extract pulp from banana pseudostem waste (BNW). The extracted BNW pulp was then single-stage bleached using a mixture of NaOH and H2O2 to increase brightness of the pulp. The Valley beater was further used to refine the obtained pulp (at a speed of 500 and 700 rpm) which resulted in fiber delamination, fibrillation, cutting, shortening as well as creation of fines leading to considerable higher total surface area for fiber–fiber bonding as revealed by SEM. XRD patterns of the bleached and refined BNW pulps indicated unchanged cellulose I structure with a minor increase in the crystallinity index (79–82%). The Canadian Standard Freeness (CSF) of the refined BNW pulps was sharply decreased, suggesting a much greater swelling ability of fibers from internal fibrillation after refining. Still, it was found that only a speed of 700 rpm in refining could dominate positive effects on the pulp fiber characteristics and enhance overall mechanical properties of the pulp sheets, exhibiting the highest tensile index of 76.66 Nm/g and tear index of 10.89 mNm2/g. In addition, the molded sheet prepared with BNW pulp refined at 700 rpm, having smoother surface and denser structure (reduced porosity), showed a visible increase in surface water resistance (as confirmed by dynamic contact angle measurement). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delays and cost overruns in turnkey projects can lead to significant economic losses, disputes and even project abandonment. These facts negatively impact the environmental, social and governance (ESG) policies of companies involved in the project. In this paper, a bibliographic review was conducted to identify the leading causes of delays and cost overruns in turnkey industrial projects in the refining, gas and conventional electricity generation (RGE) sector and propose good practices to avoid or mitigate them. We identified 893 causes of delays and cost overruns and 147 mitigation measures. The causes and mitigation measures were grouped into eight categories based on the execution phases of an RGE project. A critical analysis was carried out to avoid duplication, and the result was evaluated by experts in turnkey project management, reducing the causes and mitigation measures to a final set of 103 and 49, respectively. The construction category showed the most significant influence on project delays and cost overruns, and this, together with the preliminary phase and project management categories, contributed to 60% of the identified causes. The findings of this study can help project managers improve the profitability of turnkey industrial projects, promoting innovation and sustainability within companies and society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the refining stage of electric arc furnace (EAF) operation, molten steel is stirred to facilitate gas/steel/slag reactions and the removal of impurities, which determines the quality of the steel. The stirring process can be driven by the injection of oxygen, which is carried out by burners operating in lance mode. In this study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) platform is used to simulate the liquid steel flow dynamics in an industrial-scale scrap-based EAF. The CFD platform simulates the three-dimensional, transient, non-reacting flow of the liquid steel bath stirred by oxygen injection to analyze the mixing process. In particular, the CFD study simulates liquid steel flow in an industrial-scale EAF with three asymmetric coherent jets, which impacts the liquid steel mixing under different injection conditions. The liquid steel mixing is quantified by defining two variables: the mixing time and the standard deviation of the flow velocity. The results indicate that the mixing rate of the bath is determined by flow dynamics near the injection cavities and that the formation of very low-velocity regions or 'dead zones' at the center of the furnace and the balcony regions prevents flow mixing. This study includes a baseline case, where oxygen is injected at 1000 SCFM in all the burners. Two sets of cases are also included: The first set considers cases where oxygen is injected at a reduced and at an increased uniform flow rate, 750 and 1250 SCFM, respectively. The second set considers cases with non-uniform injection rates in each burner, which keep the same total flow rate of the baseline case, 3000 SCFM. Comparison between the two sets of simulations against the baseline case shows that by increasing the uniform flow rate from 1000 to 1250 SCFM, the mixing time is reduced by 10.9%. Moreover, all the non-uniform injection cases reduce the mixing time obtained in the baseline case. However, the reduction in mixing times in these cases is accompanied by an increase in the standard deviations of the flow field. Among the non-uniform injection cases, the largest reduction in mixing time compared to the baseline case is 10.2%, which is obtained when the largest flow rates are assigned to coherent jets located opposite each other across the furnace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of forced convection on the microstructure, macrostructure and macrosegregation of impurities in cylindrical ingots obtained by directional solidification of metallurgical grade silicon were examined. Two experiments were carried out, one without and another with the forced convection induced by a disk at the melt top rotating at 120 rpm during solidification. In the two resulting ingots, two regions exist: (1) a lower region extending from the bottom of the ingot up to 8 mm (without rotation) or 75 mm (with rotation) of columnar grains with straight boundaries, aligned in the heat extraction direction and free from intermetallic particles (except SiC); (2) an upper region of columnar grains with serrated boundaries and intermetallic particles. The lower region, which increases from 8 to 75 mm with disk rotation, is purified and displays concentrations of metallic impurities (except Al) below the recommended limits for solar grade silicon feedstock. The macro/microstructures suggest that the lower region solidified with a planar solid–liquid interface, which changed to cellular/dendritic in the upper region. A mathematical model indicates that, although forced convection increases the growth velocity and decreases the temperature gradient in the liquid, which are detrimental to the stability of a planar solid–liquid interface, convection also decreases the concentration gradient in the liquid, increasing stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental-production melting of low-grade nickel scrap was conducted to obtain nickel ingots of not lower than NP2 grade, which are furtheron used to produce semi-finished products in the form of hot- and cold-formed seamless pipes, including capillary, thin-walled and particularly thick-walled pipes, rings, squares, hexagons, etc. It is shown that during electron beam melting a significant removal of impurity elements from the nickel scrap occurred, and metal quality began to correspond to nickel grade not lower than NP2. In order to further study the produced ingot quality, comprehensive research work was performed on manufacturing semi-finished products in the form of elongated soft rods of 40 mm diameter and wire of 3 mm diameter. It was determined that mechanical properties of semi-finished products from EBM nickel fully meet the standard requirements. It is shown that electron beam melting is an efficient method of producing nickel ingots from secondary raw materials, as it allows ensuring a high level of the produced material quality, and the semi-finished product quality fully meets the standard requirements by chemical composition, structure and mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood is an abundant biomaterial and widely used in construction and furniture. Timber processing produces large amounts of residues and byproducts, which are of low value. In this study, we proposed a new strategy for the recycle of wood residues to prepare a wood porous molding material. A hydrated thermochemical grinding process followed by high-temperature and high-pressure refining was developed to convert wood powder into high-viscosity suspension. Lignocellulosic raw materials, including pine wood, beech wood, and bamboo, were compared with different grinding time. A porous material without the addition of synthetic adhesive was obtained with a density in the range of 0.28–0.67 g/cm3. The porous molding material was characterized based on fiber morphology, volume, and porosity and mechanical performance. Pores of different sizes were distributed in the samples randomly after curing and drying. The wood's own bindings were released through the hydrated thermochemical grinding process. The porous sample made from bamboo with a grinding time of 6 h showed a high Young's modulus (681.1 MPa), compactness (166.8 N/Sec), and hardness (517.6 N). Woody materials were more readily made into moldings since most of the cellulose crystal structure remained intact. The wood porous moldings are fully composed of lignocellulosic components and easy to recycle. This porous green material has great potential to be applied to insulation, ceiling, cabinet, and packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calophyllum seeds produce high-yielding non-edible oils, so Calophyllum plants have great potential as a source of biofuels. To meet biofuel quality standards, crude Calophyllum oil must first be refined. This study investigated the temperature and time optimization in refining crude Calophyllum oil extracted using a binary solvent, i.e., n-hexane and methanol. The experiment was performed in a central composite design using independent variables temperature (70-90°C) and time (10-30 minutes) with 11 runs, and the optimization was performed in response surface method. The best model for optimizing oil yield was the second-order polynomial model, with optimal oil yield (44.62%) obtained at a temperature of 81.4°C and a time of 19.9 minutes. When the oil yield was optimized with the acid value of the oil as the boundary condition, the optimum oil yield and acid values were 44.44% and 2.43 mg KOH/g, obtained at a temperature and time of 83.4°C and 19.7 minutes. Model validation at this optimum purification condition resulted in the actual oil yield (46.40%) conformed passably to its prediction. In addition, the purified oil obtained from this model validation had good characteristics and matched the predicted results.

Argan kernels, fruits regurgitated by goats, are 30% cheaper than the regular kernels used to prepare food argan oil. The use of such argan kernels as a cosmetic ingredient, after refining, is thus economically attractive. The oxidative stability of argan oil prepared from sub-quality kernels is not known. In the present paper, the physicochemical quality, oxidative stability indices, and bioactive compounds of refined argan oil (RAO) obtained from sub-quality kernels and virgin argan oil (VAO) were compared and evaluated over a period of storage of 12 weeks at 60 °C. Quality parameters consisted of free fatty acids (FFAs), peroxide value (PV), p-anisidine value (p-AV), UV extinction coefficients (K232 and K270), total oxidation, iodine and saponification values, induction time, fatty acid composition, and tocopherol content. Our outcomes reveal that the combined effects of refining and storage generally resulted in high values of the routinely measured quality indices, including FFA, p-AV, K270, K232, and PV. Likewise, refining reduced the levels of individual tocopherols and unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs) but increased saturated fatty acids (SFAs). Similar trends were observed under storage with decreased levels of tocopherols and high SFA for both RAO and VAO. Storage also resulted in an increased level of USFAs in the case of RAO but not in VAO. The obtained results show that RAO was more sensitive to oxidation than VAO. At room temperature, RAO had a shorter induction time of six months, implying that RAO will have a shorter shelf life compared to VAR. Thus, such instability means that the refining process for argan oil must be carried out with great care, and this oil needs to be protected once refined.

ABSTRACT The article analyzes Pemex’s investment policy for the period 1980-2019, based on the management of other oil companies. The central question is whether in the last four decades, it has been convenient for Pemex to be specialized in oil extraction, while other companies focused on the comprehensive development of the supply chain. The answer is negative. The sale of crude oil and the abandonment of refining made Mexico a net importer of fuels, a trend, which, today, is seeking to be reversed, in an environment of a high fiscal burden and high indebtedness of the company.

Bio-damaged wood was studied as a potential raw material for the production of hydrolytic degradation cellulose products. Conditions for obtaining fine-dispersed microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) based on hydrolytic treatment of cellulose from bio-damaged wood were determined. A comparative analysis of the quantitative values of the degree of polymerization of default commercial cellulose and cellulose from damaged wood was performed. The objective of the work was to study the possibilities of obtaining MCC from bio-damaged wood possessing quantitative characteristics close to those obtained from the commercial wood, reducing the concentration of inorganic acid during the hydrolytic degradation. The experimental analysis showed that with an increase in the pulp refining degree from 15 °SR to 75 °SR, the time for the hydrolysis process decreased from 150 to 90 min, the temperature of chemical treatment decreased from 100 °C to 80 °C, and acid concentration by 0.5 N. The polymerisation degree of microcrystalline cellulose, regardless of the type of raw material, also decreased with an increase in the refining degree.

In the production of refined sunflower oil, waxes are removed during the winterization stage, and wax crystals are separated through filtration assisted by filtration aids. Commonly used filtration aids in oil refining include perlite and diatomaceous earth. After winterization, a significant amount of filter cake remains as a by-product and is treated as waste. Today, natural cellulose fibers are being promoted as filtration aids. Their advantages are numerous, both in the production process and from an environmental perspective. However, their only disadvantage is their higher cost. Therefore, in this study, 57 filtration cycles during the industrial sunflower oil winterization step using cellulose-based filtration aids were monitored. Different process parameters, including the pressure differential on the filter, the flow rate of filtered oil, constant pressure period, the quantity of filtered oil, filtration time, the quantity of pre-coating and dosing filtration aids, the volume of filtered oil, the concentration of dosing filtration aid, as well as the mass of separated waxes, were observed. Additionally, artificial neural networks were applied to predict process parameters, optimize the process, and, above all, determine the dosage of filtration aids, which will make the process more economical. The optimal filtration process is performed at a pressure differential of 3.3 bar, lasting a total of 39 h, with 32 h at constant pressure, resulting in 322,503 kg of filtered oil and 90.41 kg of waxes. The optimal quantity of cellulose-based filtration aids employed for pre-coat was 80 kg, and for dosing, 375 kg, with an optimal concentration of 0.12% w/w.