Birla Institute of Technology and Science

About: Birla Institute of Technology and Science is a education organization based out in Pilāni, Rajasthan, India. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Computer science & Population. The organization has 8897 authors who have published 13947 publications receiving 170008 citations.

Practical implementation of piezo‐impedance sensors in monitoring of excavation support structures

Abstract: SUMMARY In the last decade, electromechanical impedance (EMI)-based monitoring technique using piezoceramic (PZT) sensors have been successfully implemented in health monitoring of lab-sized engineering structures. However, its implementation in real life application, such as monitoring underground support structures, has not been done before. In general, the EMI technique utilizes the unique EMI signature where any changes in the signature during the period of monitoring indicate possible damage in the host structure. This paper presents a part of monitoring results of the soil excavation carried out for the construction of new mass road transport (MRT) station in the southern part of Singapore using a PZT-based EMI technique. The MRT site consists of typical clayed soil of varying properties along the depth of excavation. To prevent the soil collapse during excavation, temporary support structures were laid with suitable monitoring systems. The paper presents the results obtained from the PZT sensors and the comparisons with conventional measurement devices. However, there were no damages reported in the structure, and hence the PZT sensors, which were initially aimed to capture possible damages, were used later to capture load variations on the struts due to the surrounding soil. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cosmetics Potential of Herbal Extracts

Abstract: Cosmetology, the science of alteration of appearance, has been practiced since primordial times. In India, the concept of using herbs for beautification finds its origin in traditional medicine literature like Ayurveda. The cosmetic preparations were used for the purpose of worship and sensual enjoyment. Moreover, since centuries, the herbal extracts, as a whole or part thereof, have been used for various ailments of the skin, hair and for overall appearance. The market research shows upward trend in the herbal trade with the herbal cosmetic industry playing a major role in fuelling this worldwide demand for herbals. The recent interest of consumers in herbal cosmetics has been stimulated by the decline of faith in modern cosmetics, the belief that plant remedies were natural and thereby superior to man-made synthetic cosmetics, and the reference to successful historical use by different cultures. These reasons have contributed to the increased acceptance as well as manufacture of herbal cosmetics. Many herbs have been scientifically evaluated for their cosmetic potential. Some traditional plants like Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn., Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Mimosa tenuiflora Benth., Aloe vera Linn., etc. need special mention. The great void remains though for a systematic, thorough review of scientific data that provides a basis for the use of specific herbs and their efficacy as cosmetics. Similarly, there is a lack of scientific review of phytochemicals that are used in cosmetic preparations. This review attempts to fill-up this gap and emphasizes the need for safety evaluation of herbal cosmetics.