Statistical Analysis of the Effect of Mineral Admixtures on the Strength of the Interfacial Transition Zone

Microscopic evidence indicates that the thickness of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between the aggregate and the cement paste is modified when mineral admixtures partially replace portland cement. Unfortunately, there is limited information on the significance of these microscopic modifications to the mechanical properties of the ITZ. This research reports experimental results on the shear and tensile strength of the ITZ as affected by the addition of the following mineral admixtures: silica fume, fly ash, and natural pozzolan. Statistical analysis was used to identify the significant parameters affecting the tensile and shear strength of the ITZ. Experimental results indicate that not only does the incorporation of silica fume and fly ash increase the strength of the ITZ, these mineral admixtures have a greater influence on the strength increase of the ITZ than in the strength increase of the cement paste.     

A simple sonochemical approach for synthesis and characterization of Zn2SiO4 nanostructures

Zn₂SiO₄ nanoparticles have been successfully prepared via a simple sonochemical method, for the first time. The effect of various parameters including ultrasonic power, ultrasonic irradiation time and different surfactants were investigated to reach optimum condition. The as-prepared nanostructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmittance electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX). The photocatalytic activity of Zn₂SiO₄ nano and bulk structures were compared by degradation of anionic dye methyl orange in aqueous solution under UV-light irradiation. Moreover, the cyclic voltammetry analysis of Zn₂SiO₄ nano and bulk structures were investigated.     

Synthesis of NaP zeolite at room temperature and short crystallization time by sonochemical method

NaP zeolite nano crystals were synthesized by sonochemical method at room temperature with crystallization time of 3 h. For comparison, to insure the effect of sonochemical method, the hydrothermal method at conventional synthesis condition, with same initial sol composition was studied. NaP zeolites are directly formed by ultrasonic treatment without the application of autogenous pressure and also hydrothermal treatment. The effect of ultrasonic energy and irradiation time showed that with increasing sonication energy, the crystallinity of the powders decreased but phase purity remain unchanged. The synthesized powders were characterized by XRD, IR, DTA TGA, FESEM, and TEM analysis. FESEM images revealed that 50 nm zeolite crystals were formed at room temperature by using sonochemical method. However, agglomerated particles having cactus/cabbage like structure was obtained by sonochemical method followed by hydrothermal treatment. In sonochemical process, formation of cavitation and the collapsing of bubbles produced huge energy which is sufficient for crystallization of zeolite compared to that supplied by hydrothermal process for conventional synthesis. With increasing irradiation energy and time, the crystallinity of the synthesized zeolite samples increased slightly.     

Sonochemical procedures; the main synthetic method for synthesis of coinage metal ion supramolecular polymer nano structures

During the last two decades, supramolecular polymers have received great attention and the number of their synthesized compounds is still growing. Although people have long been interested in their crystalline network form it was only until 2005 that the first examples of nano- or microscale coordination polymers particles be demonstrated. This review tries to give an overview of all nano supramolecular compounds which were reported from coinage metal ions, their attributed synthetic procedures and to investigate the relation between the dimensions of coinage metal ions (Cu, Ag and Au) coordination and supramolecular polymers with their nano-structural morphologies and dimensions. Eleven compounds (from twenty compounds) with nano-structure morphology were prepared by sonochemical process and Ag(I) coordination and supramolecular polymer nano-structures can be easily prepared by sonochemical procedures.     

一维棒状纳米纤维素及光谱性质

采用稀酸预处理纤维素浆粕,结合高压均质的物理方法,制备出一维棒状纳米纤维素.通过傅里叶红外光谱(FTIR),X射线衍射(XRD),热重分析(TGA),原子力显微镜(AFM)和透射电镜(TEM)等方法对纳米纤维素光谱性能和形貌结构进行了表征.结果表明,制得的纳米纤维素与纤维素浆粕具有相同的红外特征官能闭,但分子内氢键缔合作用被部分破坏.纳米纤维素与纤维素浆粕同属于纤维素I的晶形类型,结品度从59%提高至70%,仍保持结晶区与无定形区共存的状态.纳米纤维素的分解温度为330℃,热稳定性低于纤维素浆粕,失重温度从292℃持续至500℃,有两个明显失重阶段.纳米纤维素长度为数百纳米,宽度为数十纳米的棒状形态,易产生团聚现象.     

Direct ultrasonic-assisted synthesis of sphere-like nanocrystals of spinel Co3O4 and Mn3O4

A simple sonochemical method was developed to synthesize uniform sphere-like or cubic Co(3)O(4) and Mn(3)O(4) nanocrystals by using acetate salts and sodium hydroxide or tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) as precursors. Influence of some parameters such as time of reaction, alkali salts, and power of the ultrasound and the molar ratio of the starting materials on the size, morphology and degree of crystallinity of the products was studied. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), FTIR spectroscopy, Thermal gravimetry analysis and differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA) were used to characterize the nanocrystals.     

Thermal Reaction Characteristics of Nano/Micron-Sized Aluminum Mixtures in Carbon Dioxide

Thermal reaction characteristics of nano/micron-sized aluminum mixtures in a carbon dioxide atmosphere were investigated by thermogravimetry that aimed to examine the interactions between nanosized aluminum powder and micron-sized aluminum powder. Thermal reaction characteristics of nano/micron-sized aluminum mixtures at different ratios were studied. The synergistic effect mechanism was discussed by comparing experiment result and theoretical calculation. The morphologies and compositions of products were obtained by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction technologies. Results indicated that there were three weight gain stages for nano/micron-sized aluminum mixtures at different ratios. Although the temperature range of synergistic effect of nano/micron-sized aluminum mixtures with various ratios had somewhat differences, there was a significant synergistic effect from about 900 to 1040°C. The products analyses indicated that the products morphologies of nano/micron-sized aluminum particles showed molten and stuck together, and products contained aluminum and α-Al₂O₃.     

Nanoclay and Cu Nanoparticles Loaded Polyethylene Nanocomposites for Natural Gas Transfer Applications

High density polyethylene nanocomposites loaded with a reinforcing filler (Cloisite 20A as a modified nanoclay) and an electrically conductive filler (Cu nanoparticles) were prepared by a melt blending method. The morphological, mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of the prepared nanocomposites were investigated to evaluate their performances as appropriate materials for production of reinforced conductive polymeric pipes to be used in natural gas distribution and transportation pipelines. A random and uniform dispersion of both nanoparticles in the polyethylene matrix, with a nanoclay intercalated morphology, was observed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. The results revealed ca. 117, 13 and 21% increases in the Young’s modulus, tensile strength and yield stress of the polyethylene matrix by adding 3 wt.% of Cloisite 20A into it. For the similar conditions, however, more than a 71% decrease was observed for the elongation at break. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the melting points of the nanocomposites were increased by incorporating both fillers and the crystallinity of polyethylene chains was decreased by incorporating Cloisite 20A and then slightly increased by adding Cu nanoparticles. Moreover, the results revealed the creation of conductivity inside the non-conductive polyethylene matrix due to the presence of the conductive Cu nanoparticles.     

Increase of the reactivity of densified silica fume by sonication treatment

Five silica fumes from different manufacturers were subjected to ultrasonic treatment in order to decrease particle agglomeration and improve particle dispersion. The effectiveness of the sonication was observed as a reduction in particle size distribution of sonicated silica fume (SSF) compared to non-sonicated silica fume. SSF was added to Portland cement, and then the hydrated paste was analysed by thermogravimetric analyses (TGA/DTG) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX). The results were compared with those of control pastes made with untreated densified silica fume (DSF), as well as a reference cement paste of ordinary Portland cement (OPC). A maximum grade of de-agglomeration by the sonication was obtained, with a high volume of particles of diameter less than 1 μm. Images obtained by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of the SSF showed sintered particles that could not be fragmented by the treatment. Micro-structural characterisation results showed an increase in the reactivity of the silica fume after the treatment.     

Sonosynthesis of nano TiO2 on wool using titanium isopropoxide or butoxide in acidic media producing multifunctional fabric

This study presents a novel idea to prepare nanocrystalline structure of TiO₂ under ambient pressure at 60–65 °C using in situ sonochemical synthesis by hydrolysis of either titanium isopropoxide or titanium butoxide in an acidic aqueous solution. The nano titanium dioxide coated wool fabrics possess significant antibacterial/antifungal activity and self-cleaning property by discoloring Methylene blue stain under sunlight irradiation. This process has no negative effect on cytotoxicity and tensile strength of the sonotreated fabric even reduces alkaline solubility and photoyellowing and improves hydrophilicity. More titanium isopropoxide or titanium butoxide as a precursor led to higher photocatalytic activities of the treated fabrics. Also introducing more ethanol improved the adsorption of TiO₂ on the wool fabric surface leading to enhanced photocatalytic activity. EDS and XRD patterns, SEM images, X-ray mapping confirmed the presence of nano TiO₂ particles on the fabric surface. The role of both solvent and precursor concentrations on the various properties of the fabric was investigated and the optimized conditions were obtained using response surface methodology.     

Kinetic analysis of thermal and thermo-oxidative degradation of polyethylene (nano)composites

Thermal properties and degradation of polyethylene LDPE (nano)composites were investigated by isoconversional thermogravimetric analysis in air and nitrogen atmosphere by applying the Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose method. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites containing 3 wt.% nanofiller Cloisite 20A and 4, 6, and 8 wt.% of natural zeolite were prepared using extrusion/injection moulding. The parameters of thermal stability of the samples were determined i.e. onset temperature of the degradation (T₉₀), which exhibit initial mass loss (10 mass %) and maximum loss rate temperature (T_max). Also, activation energy (E_a) of samples was calculated and interpreted in terms of thermal degradation mechanisms. Under nitrogen, the thermal degradation of LDPE (nano)composites follows a random scission pathway but it was retarded and slowed by the presence of the fillers. The results show that thermo-oxidative degradation of studied (nano)composites is induced at lower temperatures and appears as much more complex and multi-stage process.     

Macro-defect free cements: a future oriented polymer composite materials for construction industries

Abstract

An overview of Macro-defect free cements (MDFCs) formed by the interaction between polymer and cement hydration phases at very low w/c ratios is presented. As strength is a basic demand of every construction to make more durable infrastructure. Therefore, these materials have received a lot of attention due to their very high flexural and tensile strength properties. The effect of various constituents materials such as alumina content of cement, molecular weight and degree of hydrolysis of polymers on MDFCs along with their hardened properties by using different instrumentation techniques such as- X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), Thermal studies, Hydration studies etc. have been studied by various researches and some of them are discussed in the presented review article. Therefore, this review describes the parameters, which influences the properties of MDFCs, enhances their properties and also provide a foot print for future scope after analysing all the necessary parameters. These materials can be used as a best future oriented construction materials in comparison to other conventional materials by improving their desired properties.     

A critical review on the sonochemical degradation of organic pollutants in urine,seawater, and mineral water

Substances such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes, synthetic and natural hormones, plasticizers, and industrial chemicals enter the environment daily. Many of them are a matter of growing concern worldwide. The use of ultrasound to eliminate these compounds arises as an interesting alternative for treating mineral water, seawater, and urine. Thereby, this work presents a systematic and critical review of the literature on the elimination of organic contaminants in these particular matrices, using ultrasound-based processes. The degradation efficiency of the sonochemical systems, the influence of the nature of the pollutant (volatile, hydrophobic, or hydrophilic character), matrix effects (enhancement or detrimental ability compared to pure water), and the role of the contaminant concentration were considered. The combinations of ultrasound with other degradation processes, to overcome the intrinsic limitations of the sonochemical process, were considered. Also, energy consumptions and energy costs associated with pollutants degradation in the target matrices were estimated. Moreover, the gaps that should be developed in future works, on the sonodegradation of organic contaminants in mineral water, seawater, and urine, were discussed.     

Ultrasound assisted synthesis of {[Cu2(BDC)2(dabco)].2DMF.2H2O} nanostructures in the presence of modulator; new precursor to prepare nano copper oxides

As a new precursor to prepare nano copper oxide, nanostructures of porous metal organic framework (MOF) {[Cu₂(BDC)₂(dabco)].2DMF.2H₂O} (1) have been synthesized in the presence of acetic acid as a modulator via sonochemical method. Different concentrations of metal ion, organic linkers, modulator reagent and also different sonication times were held to improve the quality of nanostructures. Ultrasound irradiation helps nucleation step of the oriented attachment of modulation method and nanoparticles with a few nanorods has been prepared. As prepared MOF was calcinated at 500 °C to prepare nano CuO and Cu₂O. Compound 1, CuO and Cu₂O nanostructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD).     

Effect of alkali ions on the strength development of cement paste by Mössbauer spectrometry

Two clinker raw mixtures (83 wt% limestone +12 wt% clay +5 wt% α-Fe₂O₃) were fired at 1150°C for three hours in open furnace, each with 100 wt%-in addition-of an alkali carbonate (Na₂CO₃ and K₂CO₃) respectively. Each produced cliker was mixed with 5 wt% natural gypsum to produce portland cement, then with 25 wt% tap water. Compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse test, X-ray diffraction and Mossbauer effect measurements were carried out each at different times of hydration (21, 28 and 45 days). The effect of alkali ions on the strength development of cement pastes is discussed, the accuracy of Mössbauer, spectrometer in determining the cement strength is demonstrated.     

Geometric and operational optimization of 20-kHz probe-type sonoreactor for enhancing sonochemical activity

The use of a 20-kHz probe-type sonicator irradiating downward in a 500 mL vessel was optimized for the enhancement of the sonochemical activity in terms of the geometric and operational factors. These factors included the probe immersion depth (the vertical position of the probe), input power, height of the liquid from the bottom, horizontal position of the probe, and thickness of bottom plate The sonochemical oxidation reactions were investigated both quantitatively and qualitatively using calorimetry, KI dosimetry, and luminol (Sonochemiluminescence, SCL) techniques. The sonochemical activity was very positively affected by the vertical boundaries. The highest sonochemical activity was obtained when the probe was placed close to the bottom of the vessel (immersion depth of 60 mm), with a high input power (input power of 75%), and optimal liquid height condition (liquid height of 70 mm). The SCL image analysis showed that the cavitational activity zone gradually expanded around the probe body and changed into a circular shape as the experimental conditions were optimized, and consequently the sonochemical activity increased. The formation of a large bright circular-shaped activity zone could be attributed to the strong reflections of the ultrasound firstly, at the vessel bottom and secondly, at the liquid surface. On the other hand, the cavitational activity zone and the sonochemical activity were negatively affected by the horizontal boundaries when the probe was placed close to the side wall of the vessel. In addition, it was found that the sonochemical activity was also significantly affected by the thickness of the support plate owing to the reflection and transmission of the ultrasound at the boundary between the liquid and the solid media.     

Fabrication of nanosized Pt on rutile TiO2 using a standing wave sonochemical reactor (SWSR) – observation of an enhanced catalytic oxidation of CO

Fine particles of rutile TiO₂ supporting nanosized particles of Pt were prepared by a simultaneous in situ sonochemical reduction and deposition method using a standing wave sonochemical reactor (SWSR). The mean diameter of sonochemically obtained Pt particles are of 2 nm. Following this sonochemical technique, rutile TiO₂ was also deposited with different weight percentages of Pt. Catalytic function of the prepared composite catalysts were tested by the oxidation of CO to CO₂. From the catalytic activity results, it has been found out that the catalysts prepared by the sonochemical method exhibited higher catalytic activity for CO oxidation, probably attributed to the higher Pt particle distribution achieved under sonication. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS), and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) were employed to characterize the resulting material.     

Theoretical and experimental investigation on enhanced thermal behaviour in chunk-shaped nano ZnO

Thermal properties of chunk-shaped ZnO nanostructures are studied for diffusivity, conductivity, and effusivity by photoacoustics (PA) and simulation methods. Thermal conductivity of nano ZnO was determined from simulation in the temperature range of 100–1000 K. Thermal conductivity of ZnO nanostructures at room temperature is approximately 52 and 128 times lower than that of bulk ZnO for PA and simulation, respectively. For simulation, Tersoff potential is used for the interatomic interaction. The velocity autocorrelation function and Green–Kubo relation are used to compute the thermal conductivity.     

Ultrasonic degradation of acetaminophen in water: Effect of sonochemical parameters and water matrix

This paper deals about the sonochemical water treatment of acetaminophen (ACP, N-acetyl-p-aminophenol or paracetamol), one of the most popular pharmaceutical compounds found in natural and drinking waters. Effect of ultrasonic power (20–60 W), initial ACP concentration (33–1323 μmol L⁻¹) and pH (3–12) were evaluated. High ultrasonic powers and, low and natural acidic pH values favored the efficiency of the treatment. Effect of initial substrate concentration showed that the Langmuir-type kinetic model fit well the ACP sonochemical degradation. The influence of organic compounds in the water matrix, at concentrations 10-fold higher than ACP, was also evaluated. The results indicated that only organic compounds having a higher value of the Henry’s law constant than the substrate decrease the efficiency of the treatment. On the other hand, ACP degradation in mineral natural water showed to be strongly dependent of the initial substrate concentration. A positive matrix effect was observed at low ACP concentrations (1.65 μmol L⁻¹), which was attributed to the presence of bicarbonate ion in solution. However, at relative high ACP concentrations a detrimental effect of matrix components was noticed. Finally, the results indicated that ultrasonic action is able to transform ACP in aliphatic organic compounds that could be subsequently eliminated in a biological system.     

Effects of ultrasonic frequency and liquid height on sonochemical efficiency of large-scale sonochemical reactors

The sonochemical efficiency of a cylindrical sonochemical reactor has been investigated as a function of frequency and liquid height. The irradiation frequencies were 45, 129, 231 and 490 kHz. The liquid height was varied from 10 to 700 mm. The sonochemical efficiency of the cylindrical reactor was evaluated by potassium iodide (KI) dosimetry and calorimetry. In our study, the sonochemical efficiency depended on the frequency and liquid height; further, the plots of sonochemical efficiency against liquid height exhibit one or two peaks for each frequency. The sonochemical efficiency up to the first peak increased monotonically with the logarithm of the frequency, and the liquid height for the first peak was inversely proportional to the frequency. From these results, the optimum frequency for a sonochemical reactor can be determined if the liquid height is specified for scale-up of the sonochemical reactor.