https://www.scientific.net/AST Latest Results for Advances in Science and Technology en-us https://www.scientific.net https://www.scientific.net/Image/JournalCover/14 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.-5 Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br /> <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.3 10.4028/p-ZP57jw Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Porntip Khownarumit, Kanmanee Choosang, Rungtiva P. Poo-Arporn <br />Pineapple and sugarcane monocultures are prevalent in Thailand, where growers often misuse pesticides and fertilizers during post-harvest soil preparation. The presence of herbicide residues poses a threat to the natural ecosystem and local communities. Diuron, a common herbicide, is frequently detected on pineapple farms. Although qualitative and quantitative tests are conducted to identify diuron, extracting it from contaminated soil remains a challenging and time-consuming process. This study employs electrochemistry to explore molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). Polypyrrole films are synthesized on a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE), using diuron as a template for creating MIPs. The findings identified optimal conditions for the synthesis of polypyrrole coatings o the working electrode, with adjustments made to the supply voltage and synthesis time for enhanced results. Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) was utilized to characterize the physical surface of the electrode, while voltammetry was used to assess the dynamic behavior and performance of the electrochemical sensors. The sensor exhibited a linear sweep voltammetric current response ranging from 0.05 to 0.4 mM (R²=0.9746), with a detection limit of 0.05 mM and a sensitivity of 2.0441×10⁻⁶ A/mM for diuron. In comparison to other insecticides and inorganic salts, the MIPs demonstrated superior selectivity and electrochemical characteristics. The developed sensor effectively detected diuron in groundwater samples. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.9 10.4028/p-N5qlPF Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Miriam Cadenas, S. Valdueza-Felip, Fernando B. Naranjo, Ana M. Diez-Pascual <br />Aluminum nitride (AlN) is a semiconductor material with interesting properties for optoelectronic applications. In the present research, layers of amorphous AlN were deposited by reactive sputtering at low temperature (RT and 100 °C) on sapphire and ITO-glass. The surface morphology of the films was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The Young’s modulus and hardness of the thin films were measured by nanoindentation using a Berkovich nanoindenter operating with continuous stiffness measurement (CSM) technique. The influence of temperature, nature of the substrate and radiofrequency power applied to the Al target (PAl) on the nanomechanical properties has been assessed. Numerous pop-in events were found in the films deposited onto ITO-glass, while very few were observed for those grown onto sapphire, corroborating the influence of the substrate on the mechanical performance of the films. Both E and H increase with increasing PAl, ascribed to the increase in film thickness, and with increasing the modulus of the substrate, while decrease with increasing temperature. Results obtained herein corroborate that the mechanical properties of these films can be tailored by modifying the substrate nature and the deposition parameters, which is interesting from an application point of view. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.15 10.4028/p-ZuucE0 Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Nguyen Thi Nguyet, Shao Fu Chang, Pin Hsi Chen, Chien Chon Chen <br />Th optimizes experimental process and parameters of three-dimensional anodic aluminum oxide (3D AAO) on 5N (99.999%) and 6061 aluminum alloy (AA6061) tubes were study by anodization. The purpose of research is to make a uniform, stable nanostructures, and high-quality 3D AAO for applications in biomedical, semiconductors, and energy. For the high-quality 3D AAO, the controlling parameters including an electrolyte composition, temperature, voltage, current density, and anodic time, film thickness, pore size, and uniformity. In this study, the electrolyte composition for 5 N Al of 3D AAO was used 3 wt.% oxalic acid (C2H2O4) solution and for AA6061 was used mix acids (5 vol.% H2SO4 + 6 vol.% C2H6O2 + 2.4 wt.% C2H2O4) solution as electrolytes. The AAO film can be controlled between 15 and 75µm. And the pore size can be controlled between 40 and 100 nm through pore expansion process using 5 wt.% phosphoric acid (H3PO4) solution. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.23 10.4028/p-TncP0F Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Cheewita Suwanchawalit, Soontorn Suvokhiaw <br />In this study, CaAl-LDHs and magnetic-CaAl-LDHs were prepared through a straightforward co-precipitation method utilizing calcined eggshell as a sustainable calcium source. Physicochemical characterization via XRD, SEM, and FTIR revealed the microstructural properties of the synthesized materials. Results indicated that the Ca2+/Al3+ molar ratio was critical for optimizing methyl orange adsorption. The magnetite-incorporated variant demonstrated enhanced separability, while kinetic studies confirmed pseudo-second-order adsorption behavior for both adsorbents. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.31 10.4028/p-45GqhQ Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Charlimagne M. Montealegre, John Vince S. Manlangit, Calvin Luis A. Masiglat, Enrico Fernando C. Taleon <br />The development of chitosan hydrogels for open wound treatment shows promise due to their antibacterial properties, moisture retention, antibiotic loading and release capabilities, and potential for cross-linking modifications. This study investigates the effect of citric acid cross-linking on the sorption behavior of doxycycline in pH-gelated chitosan hydrogels by modeling sorption isotherms and evaluating antibacterial activity through measurements of zones of inhibition. Chitosan hydrogels were prepared via pH-induced gelation using 1.0 % v/v acetic acid and 2.5 M sodium hydroxide. Citric acid cross-linking was facilitated by adding citric acid at concentrations of 0%, 1%, 3%, and 6% (w/v). Results showed that the Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm best described the sorption for 0%, 3%, and 6% citric acid gels, attributed to microporous structures and energy heterogeneity of the adsorption sites, while the Toth isotherm fit the 1% gel. Citric acid concentration did not significantly affect the antibacterial efficacy of the hydrogels, suggesting that cross-linking can improve mechanical properties without negating the antibacterial activity of doxycycline. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.39 10.4028/p-Vf0QH0 Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Wei Dong Wang, Wei An Huang, Yi Zhuo Ge, Rui Yu Bai <br />With the ongoing development and depletion of conventional shallow oil and gas resources, hydrocarbon extraction has progressively shifted toward deep unconventional reservoirs. However, strong heterogeneity and complex geological conditions in ultra‑deep unconventional formations pose significant challenges to efficient resource recovery. To address the imbalance between energy supply and demand and to support national energy security and sustainable development, imbibition‑type polymer fracturing fluid systems have emerged as an effective approach for developing unconventional tight oil reservoirs. Based on an analysis of fracturing technical requirements and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) mechanisms, and in line with oilfield development goals of cost reduction, efficiency improvement, safety, and environmental protection, this study synthesized an enhanced‑imbibition amphiphilic polymer thickener for fracturing fluids. This thickener not only meets the technical demands of fracturing operations but also utilizes its degraded solution to achieve imbibition displacement within the reservoir, thereby improving oil recovery. Using acryloyl chloride (AC), stearyl alcohol polyoxypropylene ether (SPO), and 1,3‑propanesultone as raw materials, a polymerizable amphiphilic sulfonated monomer-octadecyl polyoxypropylene sulfonate-was synthesized. This monomer exhibits both solubilizing and surface‑tension‑reducing capabilities. Subsequently, the monomer was copolymerized with acrylic acid (AA) and acrylamide (AM) to produce a hydrophobically associating polyacrylamide modified with amphiphilic functional groups, which serves as the thickener for the fracturing fluid system. Under high‑salinity conditions (20000 mg/L), the fluid viscosity remains above 55 mPa·s. After shearing at 90°C and 170 s-1 for 90 minutes, the retained viscosity exceeds 45 mPa·s. Following gel breaking with ammonium persulfate, the broken gel achieves an imbibition efficiency of 34.5%. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.45 10.4028/p-L3rMwI Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Rui Yv Bai, Wei An Huang, Wei Dong Wang, Yi Zhuo Ge <br />A novel Mannich-based quaternary ammonium salt (PMQ) corrosion inhibitor was synthesized via Mannich reaction followed by quaternization. Its corrosion inhibition performance for N80 steel in 15 wt% HCl at 303 K was evaluated using electrochemical methods. The addition of 1 wt% PMQ achieved an inhibition efficiency of 98.6%. The adsorption of PMQ onto the metal surface followed a mixed physisorption–chemisorption mechanism. Characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), contact angle measurements, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum chemical calculations demonstrated that PMQ forms a hydrophobic film through electrostatic adsorption via its quaternary ammonium group and π-electron conjugation from the proline ring. This film effectively blocks the penetration of H⁺ and Cl⁻ ions, forming a dense protective layer that suppresses the diffusion of corrosive species and mitigates acid-induced corrosion. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.53 10.4028/p-T5BXzQ Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Yi Zhuo Ge, Wei An Huang, Wei Dong Wang, Rui Yu Bai <br />Conventional squeeze treatment scale inhibitors often suffer from short effective duration and require frequent reapplication. To address this limitation, this study focuses on developing long-lasting antiscaling nanoparticles with enhanced formation retention capacity. EDTMPS-Ca/Zn composite nanoparticles were synthesized via hydrothermal method by introducing ZnCl₂, and compared with zinc-free EDTMPS-Ca nanoparticles. A combination of FTIR, TGA, XRD, and SEM analyses was used to systematically characterize the material. This inhibition leads to the formation of an amorphous structure with a smaller particle size, a more uniform distribution, and enhanced thermal stability. Core flooding experiments confirm a significantly lower flowback concentration for the zinc-containing nanoparticles, revealing their stronger retention capability within the formation. The improvement is attributed to the combined effects of reduced particle size, increased specific surface area, and optimized surface charge induced by zinc ions. These factors collectively enhance the adsorption capacity. This work provides an effective metal-ion doping strategy for fabricating high-performance nanoscale materials for prolonged scale inhibition. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.61 10.4028/p-wOdrG6 Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Artem Chystiakov, Osama A.Q. Ziada, Sheikh Ali Ahmed, Janka Kovacikova <br />In this research, the wood-based polymer composite DuraSense® 3D S51 Flex K, composed of 50% wood fibers and 50% polymer, was studied for the manufacture of products using large-scale additive manufacturing technology. Experimental specimens were produced to determine composite properties and the influence of printing strategy on these properties. The study involved creating test samples in four different printing orientations relative to the horizontal axis: 0°, 30°, 45°, and 90°, that is using different printing strategies, which affected the mechanical properties of the products. All sample types were tested for density, tensile strength, flexural strength, and underwent microscopic investigation. The test results demonstrated sufficient mechanical properties and durability of the obtained products, and enabled evaluation of the relationship between printing strategy and the strength characteristics of the products. It was found that the mechanical properties of products obtained by 3D printing are lower than those of the raw materials (granulate for additive manufacturing) as declared by the manufacturer. This is explained by structural changes, specifically the formation of micropores and the reduction of interlayer bonds during large-scale additive manufacturing. Considering the determined strength and durability indicators, as well as the advantages of additive manufacturing technology, the use of wood-based polymer composites is recommended for the production of various products using 3D printing. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.69 10.4028/p-WnX0an Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Ivan Goran Kovačić, Maja Dundović, Željko Vrcan, Kristina Marković <br />Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a widely adopted additive manufacturing (AM) technique known for its accessibility and versatility. However, FDM parts exhibit anisotropy and layer-dependent variability in mechanical properties, complicating material behavior prediction. In this study, the effect of the following key FDM parameters, build orientation, printer setup, and layer deposition time on the mechanical performance of PLA specimens, will be examined. Standard ISO 527 tensile tests were performed, and the values of Young’s modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and interlayer bonding strength (IBS) were obtained. The analysis has shown that increased layer laying times result in increased cooling between layers, which in turn reduces IBS and interlayer adhesion. A finite element (FEA) numerical model that accurately represents the anisotropic and nonlinear response of printed parts has been developed based on microstructural analysis. The findings are expected to enable predictive modelling and optimization of FDM process parameters and provide practical guidelines for improved interlayer bonding and overall print reliability. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.75 10.4028/p-EEwie2 Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Chin Kuei Lin, Shie Chen Yang, Wen Ko Liang, Wei You Hong, Yi Siang Wang <br />In this study, 17-4PH precipitation-hardening stainless steel specimens were fabricated via FDM metal 3D printing followed by debinding and sintering. The effects of printing pattern (cubic, linear, and grid) and infill density (90% and 100%) on mechanical performance and porosity were systematically investigated. Experimental results indicate that printing parameters have a significant influence on mechanical performance, with different properties exhibiting varying sensitivities to process conditions. Hardness is strongly affected by printing pattern and infill density; the cubic lattice path combined with 90% infill density achieved the highest hardness of 52.52 HRB, suggesting enhanced densification and internal structural uniformity after sintering. Tensile test results show that the grid printing pattern with 90% infill density provides superior mechanical performance, yielding a maximum tensile load of 1895.33 kgf and an elongation of 6.07 mm, indicating improved ductility. Yield strength and Poisson’s ratio analysis further reveal a maximum yield strength of 228.825 kgf and a Poisson’s ratio of 0.697 under the same conditions. Porosity analysis demonstrates that the linear printing pattern at 100% infill density produces the lowest porosity of 30.80%. Although higher infill density effectively reduces porosity, the overall mechanical behavior of FDM-printed and sintered 17-4PH specimens exhibits characteristics typical of brittle materials. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing FDM process parameters in metal additive manufacturing. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.83 10.4028/p-Lj9VlX Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Shao Feng Luo, Weite Wu, Chi Ming Lin <br />This study investigates the synthesis of low-melting-point calcium aluminate fluxes via the electrofusion of recycled aluminum dross and CaO, aiming to develop a sustainable alternative to CaF2 in secondary steel refining. Seven flux formulations with a target CaO/Al2O3 ratio of 0.92 and varying additions of B2O3 (0–5 wt.%) and MgO (0–3 wt.%) were characterized using XRD and DTA. The results indicate that the synergistic effect of B2O3 and MgO promotes the formation of the C12A7 phase, effectively lowering the melting point by up to 167°C compared to additive-free formulations. When integrated into CaO/Al2O3-based desulfurizers, the optimal flux (3 wt.% B2O3 and 3 wt.% MgO) demonstrated superior fluxing kinetics and achieved a desulfurization efficiency of 52–55% within 20 minutes, which is highly comparable to the performance of conventional 10 wt.% CaF2-bearing agents (57%). This research provides a dual solution for high-value aluminum dross recycling and the development of eco-friendly, fluoride-free steel refining agents. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.89 10.4028/p-Z0ygrt Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Shigeru Nagasawa, Susumu Hayashihara <br />A 0.035mm thickness copper foil stacked on adhesives was cut off using a WC wedge keen knife when changing the apex angle of the knife and the cutting velocity. When changing the velocity, the sinking state and the detaching of adhesives affected the bending and wedging state of the copper foil, while the apex angle of the knife affected geometrically and plastically the bending angle and the cutting line force in the cutting process. The residual warpage was affected by the cutting velocity. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.97 10.4028/p-2NtFxm Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Irfan Aditya Dharma, Paryana Puspaputra, Gagas Arya Amrizal <br />Upper Backer Press is one of the key production processes in piano manufacturing at PT. XYZ Indonesia. In the current configuration, the pressing process uses pneumatic pressure that acts directly on the upper surface of the sideboard. Surface defects, known as “uki” were observed on the sideboard after pressing due to an uneven distribution of contact pressure. To address the problem, a modified mechanical jig has been proposed, and a finite element simulation has been conducted to predict the contact distribution for each jig configuration. The results indicate that the optimized design of the modified jig distributes contact pressure uniformly. The modified design reduces defects and improves the quality of the piano sideboard. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.105 10.4028/p-PK63ps Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): John Vincent Espina, Benjie Daga-Ang, Neowel G. Obsuna, Liregine S. Cayme <br />Bending copper tubing is a common operation in building mechanical installations, particularly in heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) and refrigeration systems, where accurate pipe alignment is required to ensure proper system performance. Conventional manual bending methods are widely used in field applications; however, they often require significant physical effort and may produce inconsistent bending angles, leading to installation errors, material damage, and reduced work efficiency. To address these limitations, a motorized copper-tube bending system was developed to improve bending accuracy, reduce manual workload, and enhance productivity during mechanical installation work. This study evaluates the performance of the developed motorized bending system in comparison with the conventional manual bending method. Experimental testing was conducted using standard copper tubes commonly used in building mechanical installations. The evaluation focused on bending angle accuracy, time efficiency, and operational consistency. Multiple trials were performed for both manual and motorized bending, and the results were analyzed using statistical methods to determine the significance of the observed differences. The results showed that the motorized bending system provided more consistent bending angles and reduced the required bending time compared to manual operation. The motorized device also minimized physical effort and improved repeatability during successive bending tasks. Statistical analysis confirmed that the motorized bending system's performance is significantly better in terms of accuracy and efficiency under the tested conditions. The findings of this study indicate that the developed motorized copper-tube bending system can be effectively used in building mechanical installations to improve work quality and productivity. However, the study is limited to a single tube size and short-term testing conditions; further evaluation across different tube diameters and long-term operation is recommended for future research. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.113 10.4028/p-d7IFSU Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Choosak Pornsing, Teeraphat Inta, Shunichi Ohmori <br />Aluminum melting furnaces in automotive wheel manufacturing consume substantial amounts of energy, contributing significantly to the overall carbon footprint. This study introduces a novel AI-based optimization framework that dynamically controls furnace operations, leveraging real-time process data to reduce energy consumption without compromising material quality. Experimental deployment in a production environment demonstrated energy savings of up to 18.5%, confirming the potential of AI in sustainable industrial metallurgy. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.121 10.4028/p-y2QPcn Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Zhong Yu Ge, Ke Dong Zhou, Hai Yue Ren, Shi Kai Li <br />Rifled barrels exhibit highly complex internal geometries and inevitably undergo wear and erosion damage under high-temperature, high-pressure, and severe friction conditions during service. Accurate and efficient finite element modeling of rifled barrels with different damage states is therefore essential for investigating projectile engraving behavior and interior ballistic performance. In this study, an automated parametric finite element modeling method for rifled barrels and damaged barrels is developed in a Python environment. By directly generating node and element data and exporting standard INP files, the proposed method eliminates geometric inaccuracies and topological inconsistencies. A graphical user interface is further developed and packaged as a standalone executable, allowing user-oriented visual parameter input and rapid generation of both intact and damaged barrel finite element models. Using the generated models, barrel-projectile coupled finite element simulations are conducted to investigate the effects of different barrel damage periods on projectile engraving resistance, in-bore motion, and muzzle exit characteristics. The results show that bore damage significantly degrades the centering capability of the rifling, resulting in increased projectile center-of-mass displacement and nutation angle during interior ballistics. The proposed parametric modeling framework provides an efficient and robust tool for interior ballistic analysis and damage sensitivity assessment of rifled barrels. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.131 10.4028/p-4sAbYA Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Masaru Aniya <br />Since the thermal expansion affects seriously the thermodynamic properties of the materials, a firm understanding and description of the thermal expansion phenomena are of primordial importance in any field of materials science. In the present study, an analytical model for the thermal expansion coefficient is developed based on a parametrized form of the interatomic potential and a modified Debye model for the distribution of atomic oscillations. In the model, it is hypothesized that the effect of anharmonicity can be incorporated through a variation of the Debye temperature. The deduced analytical expression indicates that the thermal expansion coefficient consists of a Debye-like component plus additional terms. The functional form of the derived expressions seems to grasp the gross trend of experimental observations. In view of this character, the derived analytical expression is promising, because it could be applied and extended to analyze the thermal expansion coefficient of different materials. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.139 10.4028/p-8x7Pgj Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Celso Luiz Sydrey A. Jada-Ong, Joe Sannie D. Formon, Taipan U. Boddie, Jay T. Cabuñas, Meryl Mae C. Rodriguez <br />Concrete, a widely used building material, faces challenges due to high demand, strain on resources, and environmental impact. As a result, the construction sector is shifting towards renewable resources and creative use of recycled materials. Construction and demolition waste, including concrete, wood, asphalt, and metals, contributes significantly to waste production. Using construction and demolition waste as aggregate in concrete production could be a potential solution to mitigate environmental impact and resource scarcity. This research aimed to provide an alternative approach for construction by experimenting with recycled coarse aggregates from concrete road pieces to determine high-performing mix proportion for concrete. The goal was to create a durable and cost-effective structure with comparable compressive strength, flexural strength, and water absorption to natural concrete. The study conducted tests on concrete cylinders and beams with different percentages (50%, 75%, and 100%) of recycled concrete road debris as coarse aggregate. The results demonstrated that mixtures with 50% and 75% of concrete road debris exhibited comparable strength and durability to conventional concrete. However, a mix with 100% concrete road debris showed a significant decrease in performance and was not recommended. This research underscored the possibility of utilizing recycled concrete road debris as a partial replacement for natural aggregates. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.145 10.4028/p-4kOL0t Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Don Luigi R. Alesna, John Ray S. Apale, Nicole G. Espiritu, Lisa S. Guieb, Michael G. Calamba, Marites B. Tabanao <br />The increasing volume of solid waste and the environmental impacts of cement production have prompted the exploration of sustainable alternatives in construction materials. This study investigates the feasibility of incorporating paper and pulverized shell wastes as additives in cement-based, non-load-bearing brick production. Specifically, the research evaluates the effects of varying shell-to-cement replacement levels (5%, 10%, and 15%) while main-taining a constant 1:1:3 ratio of cement, sand, and paper pulp. A total of 27 brick specimens were fabricated, with three samples per mixture design tested at curing periods of 14, 21, and 28 days. Compressive strength testing was conducted in accordance with ASTM C90 standards. Statistical analysis, including two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD post hoc test, was employed to determine significant differences among mixture proportions and curing du-rations. Results indicate that curing time and shell percentage significantly influenced compressive strength. The highest average compressive strength of 1,993 psi was achieved at 28 days with 10% pulverized shell replacement. This value approaches the minimum requirement for load-bearing masonry units, indicating borderline load-bearing performance. Furthermore, cost analysis revealed that bricks incorporating paper and shell wastes demonstrated notable cost savings compared to conventional cement bricks. Overall, the findings suggest that the integration of paper and shell wastes in brick production presents a viable and cost-effective approach to reducing cement consumption while promoting waste valorization and sustainable construction practices. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.153 10.4028/p-7Ebbji Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Ireneo G. Mateo, Naiomie D.C. Paulino, Francis Joshua B. Solana, Juan Carlo R. Buenaventura, Lord Jerome T. Caylao <br />The rapid growth of the e-commerce sector has led to a surge in Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) waste, specifically in the form of post-consumer Air Bubble Film (ABF). This research investigates the valorization of ABF as a reinforcing agent within a Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) matrix to develop sustainable sheet piles for flood mitigation. Polymer blends were fabricated at PVC to ABF ratios of 90:10, 80:20, and 50:50, utilizing a 15% weight constant of Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) to enhance interfacial compatibility. Mechanical characterization, conducted via a minimum of five trials per ratio to ensure statistical reproducibility, revealed a critical trade-off: while increasing ABF content resulted in a marginal decline in tensile strength, it significantly enhanced flexural performance. The 50:50 ratio was identified as the optimal blend, achieving a mean Flexural Strength and a Modulus of Elasticity of 2,966.40 MPa, which meets and exceeds commercial PVC benchmarks. Structural feasibility was further validated through theoretical modeling of a U-type profile, which yielded a Section Modulus (Z) of 3.33×105 mm³. Albeit serviceability analysis identified a deflection gap against the L/180 limit, the composite is confirmed as a viable material for secondary containment barriers. Environmental analysis indicates that the 50:50 blend diverts approximately 6.35 kg of ABF per meter, offering a high-volume solution for plastic waste reduction in civil engineering applications. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.161 10.4028/p-47ioGH Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Leonard Mariano Agustin, Bon Ryan P. Aniban <br />The use of Recycled Coarse Aggregate (RCA) in concrete has gained attention due to its sustainability benefits; however, its impact on carbonation depth (CD) and the potential for corrosion of steel reinforcement remains a concern. RCA’s increased porosity and water absorption can make concrete more susceptible to carbonation, which accelerates corrosion. This study aims to evaluate the effect of RCA on carbonation depth and compressive strength in concrete exposed to varying carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations (1%, 5.5%, and 10%) and carbonation periods (28, 56, and 84 days). Concrete mixes with 0%, 25%, and 50% RCA replacement were prepared with a 1:1.23:2.17 cement-to-sand-to-aggregate ratio and a 0.44 water-cement ratio. The results of the compressive strength tests showed that the control mix (0% RCA) had the highest strength at 25.231 MPa, while the 25% and 50% RCA mixes showed reduced compressive strengths of 22.721 MPa and 22.441 MPa, respectively. For carbonation depth, higher RCA content, CO2 concentration, and longer exposure times resulted in deeper carbonation. The deepest carbonation depth of 13.54 mm was observed in the 50% RCA mix exposed to 10% CO2 for 84 days. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) model developed to predict carbonation depth showed a good fit, with an Adjusted R² of 79.98% and a Predicted R² of 74.83%, indicating reliable predictive capabilities. This study highlights the importance of managing RCA content and environmental conditions to optimize concrete durability. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200 https://www.scientific.net/AST.180.169 10.4028/p-NNw2uS Publication date: 20 July 2026 <br />Source: Advances in Science and Technology Vol. 180 <br />Author(s): Louigi T. Advincula, Eric T. Aranas, Rocellie Rianne M. Castillo, Andrea Nicole M. Lucero, Jon Arnel S. Telan <br />Corrosion is one of the factors that affects a material's workability, particularly when water is present. In this study, integral waterproofing admixtures were incorporated into reinforced concrete to reduce the rate of corrosion in steel bars. The study looks at the relationship between different percentages of waterproofing admixture, reinforced concrete workability, compressive strength, reinforcement corrosion level, water permeability, and crack width. These parameters aided in determining the effectiveness of the waterproofing admixture. The methodology for the study includes a variety of tests, including slump test, compressive strength test, impressed voltage test, and rapid chloride permeability test. All concrete samples with waterproofing passed slump tests, with compressive strengths ranging from 24-29 MPa, meeting or exceeding the target strength of 28 MPa. Chloride ion penetration exhibited a nonlinear trend, with reduced penetration observed at the highest and lowest admixture levels, most likely due to increased compaction. Corrosion resistance improved with increasing admixture levels, as samples with the highest percentages lost the least mass. The waterproofing addition also prevented cracking, which increased the concrete lifespan and reduced maintenance expenses. Linear regression indicated that increasing waterproofing content improves compressive strength, reduces water permeability, and enhances overall performance, making it sustainable and resilient. <br /> <br /> Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0200 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 08:17:46 +0200