Advanced Materials Research Vol. 1182

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of Niax^TM Silicone L-5440, a silicon-based surfactant, on the foaming behaviors of rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) filled with aluminium hydroxide (ATH). The aim is to understand the effect of the surfactant on the compression strength, morphology, and flammability of the foam. Various concentrations of the surfactant, ranging from 0.5 to 3 pphp, were incorporated into the RPUF/ATH blend. Five key parameters were examined, including density, closed-cell content, structural characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), compressive strength, and UL-94 rating. The results revealed that adding the silicon surfactant significantly influenced the foam properties. Foam formulations with lower surfactant concentrations resulted in denser foam with a higher percentage of closed cells (86.24%). The morphology of the foams exhibited variation in average pore sizes, initially decreasing and subsequently increasing with increasing surfactant concentration. Notably, the compressive strength of the foam increased when the surfactant concentration reached 1 pphp. Moreover, the inclusion of the surfactant improved the flammability characteristics, as evidenced by a UL-94 rating of V-1 without dripping.

Abstract: The magnetic properties of magnetite nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄ NPs) are being investigated. Fe₃O₄ NPs were prepared using the co-precipitation method and oven dried. The magnetic properties are influenced by the electron environments of the Fe³⁺ ions within the iron oxide structure. XPS spectra of Fe³⁺ (2p_3/2) and (2p_1/2) show peaks around 706.45 eV and 720.76 eV, respectively. Furthermore, magnetite NPs dried at 60 °C exhibited the largest hysteresis loop at 50K and less at 300K. In addition, the values of Ms and Mr indicate ferromagnetic behavior in Fe₃O₄ NPs. The result of this material shows high Ms (~38.638 emu/g) at 50K with Hc of 3.094K (near ferromagnetism) and ~33.843 emu/g at 300K with Hc of 0.000K (superparamagnetic). However, these magnetic properties are utilized for biomaterial applications such as separating biomolecules or coating core shells for nanoparticles, which presents an option for future biomedical technology.

Abstract: The raw materials of stainless steel production are mainly derived from nickel laterite ore. The production of stainless steel is carried out using the pyrometallurgical method. The Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace (RKEF) process is widely used to produce ferronickel or nickel matte. The feed for the RKEF smelter originates from saprolite ores and is usually divided into soft saprolite and rocky saprolite. Soft saprolite generally has a higher Ni-grade than rocky saprolite. The potential for increased nickel grade in rocky saprolite can be carried out by screening the bulk ores to minimize gangue materials. In this study, a total of 22 samples of saprolite ore were taken from five different mining fronts and then screened to produce a series of fractions with the size of -2", +2"-4", +4"-6", +6"-8", + 8”. Results of chemical analysis using the XRF method show that enrichment of Ni was found in the -2” fractions, and Ni grade tends to decrease with the larger fraction sizes. Lizardite is the principal nickel-hosted mineral in saprolite ores with the highest composition in the cumulative fraction -2”. Gangue minerals, mainly olivine, significantly affect the enrichment of Ni, especially in the coarser fraction. The higher olivine composition indicates a lower Ni content. The (+6-8)" and (+8)" fractions should be removed to obtain the optimum Ni grade and recovery.

Abstract: Iron tailings are the main component of industrial solid waste. The long-term storage and landfill of iron tailings have caused great pressure on the environment. In this paper, Anshan type high-silicon iron tailings and fly ash were used as the main raw materials to prepare geopolymer. The activity of raw materials was determined by XRD, and geopolymer was prepared by high temperature water culture. The effect of iron tailings content, liquid-solid ratio and curing temperature on geopolymer mechanics was studied. The optimal ratio was determined by regression equation analysis with compressive strength as index. The reaction process of geopolymer was studied through microscopic analysis (XRD, SEM, FTIR), and the changes before and after the reaction of geopolymer were compared to prove the reaction degree of geopolymer, and representative specimens were selected to verify the strength changes under different ratios. The durability of the prepared polymers was tested, and the relevant parameters were determined. The gelling material with good freezing resistance and chemical corrosion resistance was successfully prepared, and the industrial waste was transformed into treasure.

Abstract: This paper presents the results of an experimental study on hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete pipes (HFRCP). The mechanical behavior of HFRCP, including load capacity, failure mode, and energy dissipation capacity, was evaluated through diametral compression tests. The results were compared with those obtained for reinforced concrete pipes (RCP) using traditional steel cage reinforcement and steel fiber-reinforced concrete pipes (SFRCP). A total of 26 pipes with a 600 mm internal diameter were tested, including 4 RCP, 14 HFRCP, and 8 SFRCP pipes. For the hybrid fiber reinforcement, macro steel fibers (SF) and macro polypropylene fibers (PPF) were used, combined at two different doses: 20-0.5 kg/m³ and 20-1.0 kg/m³ of SF and PPF, respectively. The results indicated that HFRCP achieved a load capacity equivalent to RCP and greater than SFRCP for the fiber dosages utilized. Additionally, HFRCP exhibited a ductile failure mode without concrete detachment or diametral crushing.

Abstract: A construction building's structural integrity, material quality, workmanship, and conformity to design specifications were all assessed qualitatively. Potential problems like cracks, corrosion, or subpar construction techniques were found during the examination through visual inspections, material testing, and documentation analysis. Guidelines for upkeep, fixes, or structural improvements were offered to guarantee the building's longevity, security, and adherence to rules. The evaluation sought to improve the building's durability, functionality, and occupant safety while correcting any flaws to preserve structural integrity.

Abstract: Environmental pollution in the construction industry is mostly caused by the manufacture of Portland cement, which releases pollutants like CO2. In this study, geopolymer bricks constructed with fly ash, GGBS, and quarry dust as fine aggregates have undergone experimental work. An activator used in the mixture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) is also used. For each combination, the molarity of sodium hydroxide was kept constant at 1M, while the ratios of sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide solution varied between 0.25, 0.5, and 1. Brick samples of 230 mm by 110 mm by 70 mm are collected. Tests on the test specimens were performed on the brick qualities, including efflorescence, water absorption, and compressive strength.

Abstract: In this experiment cement was exchanged with varying amounts of rice husk ash and silica powder sf such as 10%,15% and 20% to examine the features of the resulting concrete according to research M30 grade demonstrates great compressive and split tensile strength and performs best in 15% transfer the effects of substituting 15% of cement with RHA and SF on the overall properties of concrete are demonstrated in detail which contributes to a better understanding and development of building practices.

Abstract: This research project focuses on the experimental investigation of using zeolite as a partial replacement for cement in M25 grade concrete. Zeolite, a naturally occurring mineral with pozzolanic properties, has gained attention as a sustainable alternative to cement in concrete production. The study aims to assess the effects of incorporating zeolite on the properties of M25 concrete, such as compressive strength, durability, and workability. Through a series of laboratory tests and analysis, the project intends to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing zeolite in reducing cement content while maintaining the required performance standards of M25 concrete. The findings of this research could contribute to promoting eco-friendly practices in the construction industry by reducing the environmental impact of cement production.