Showing papers in "Bioresources in 2022"
TL;DR: In this article , Ramie fiber yarns were treated with NaOH and 3-glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane to improve fiber-resin adhesion.
Abstract: Green composites based on ramie fiber yarn and cellulose acetate resin were prepared via hot pressing. The ramie fiber yarns were treated with NaOH and 3-glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane. The effect of surface treatment on the fiber adhesion to the resin surface and the mechanical properties of the green composites were studied. The chemical properties of the modified ramie fiber yarn were studied via Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The adhesion performance between the fiber and resin was evaluated. The tensile strength of the composites was measured through tensile testing. A single-fiber tensile experiment was used to determine the influence of the tensile strength of the single fibers after surface-treatment. The surface morphology changes were observed via scanning electron microscopy. The results showed fiber–resin adhesion was improved by the surface treatments. However, the surface treatments negatively affected the single-fiber mechanical properties, with the alkali treatment causing greater damage than the silane treatment.
9 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the sensation of softness as perceived by the human touch, techniques for measuring softness, the influence of fiber on softness and manufacturing techniques, and additives used for softness enhancement.
Abstract: The hygiene tissue industry has an extensive global market that is quickly growing. Market research has indicated that softness is one of consumers’ most highly desired properties. For certain hygiene tissue products (specifically bath tissue), this property can influence prices. A better understanding of the science of softness would allow companies to engineer soft tissue more economically and efficiently. Softness is a subjective perception related to physical aspects that make it challenging to express and measure. Human handfeel panel testing, which ranks the specimens through physical tests, has been recognized as the most reliable method to measure tissue softness. Much effort has been expanded in correlating the panel test results with some measurable properties. In this regard, equipment has been recently developed by combining several different mechanical, surface, and acoustic properties to characterize softness. In comparison with panel tests, these instruments (e.g., tissue softness analyzer) have been found to give equivalent softness metrics. A combination of materials selection and manufacturing operations are used to create softer tissue sheets. This paper reviews the sensation of softness as perceived by the human touch, techniques for measuring softness, the influence of fiber on softness, manufacturing techniques, and additives used for softness enhancement.
8 citations
TL;DR: In this paper , the effect of biochar on root morphological, root physiological functions, and rice yield in saline-sodic paddy soil has been studied, and the root absorption vigor and root oxidization capacity were enhanced and increased significantly by decreasing Na+/K+ ratio, MDA content, and increasing K+ concentration in rice root.
Abstract: Saline-sodic soil is one of the major threats to crop growth, production, and quality. Biochar amendment could alleviate the adverse impacts of saline-sodic stress in crops. However, the effect of biochar on root morphological, root physiological functions, and rice yield in saline-sodic paddy soil has not been studied. Here, the underlying mechanisms of positive effects in morphological characteristics and physiological functions of rice roots under heavily saline-sodic paddy soil amended with biochar were evaluated. The soil was amended with biochar at zero-biochar (CK), 15g kg-1 soil (T1), 30 g kg-1 soil (T2), or 45 g kg-1 soil (T3). Biochar addition significantly increased root length, root volume, root dry weight, and root-shoot ratio at all growth stages. The root absorption vigor and root oxidization capacity were enhanced and increased significantly by decreasing Na+/K+ ratio, MDA content, and increasing K+ concentration in rice root after biochar amendment. The root bleeding rate of biochar treatments at different growth stage were 11.01% to 67.73% greater than these of CK. The yield of rice was increased significantly under saline-sodic paddy soil after biochar amendment. It was concluded that biochar had positive effect on the morphological characteristics and physiological functions in rice roots in saline-sodic paddy soil.
8 citations
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors designed and evaluated the detachable corner joints used in wooden furniture frames, including a commonly used detachable joint (control) form using mortise and tenon with plug reinforcement and three novel proposed joints, i.e., novel joint I ~ III, which adopted in-line double-hole nuts, metal sheet connector, and embedded nuts and screws respectively, via numerical and experimental methods.
Abstract: This study aimed to design and evaluate the detachable corner joints used in wooden furniture frames, including a commonly used detachable joint (control) form using mortise and tenon with plug reinforcement and three novel proposed joints, i.e., novel joint I ~ III, which adopted in-line double-hole nuts, metal sheet connector, and embedded nuts and screws respectively, via numerical and experimental methods. The numerical analysis results indicated that the optimal proposed joint (novel joint І) had good mechanical performance when subjected to bending load with proper stress distributions and relatively low maximum stress compared with the other two proposed joints. The experimental results showed that the bending load resistance of the control and the optimal proposed joints were 1920 N (0.14) and 4390 N (0.05), respectively. The bending moment capacity and bending stiffness of the optimal joints were remarkably higher than the bending moment capacity and bending stiffness of the control joint. In addition, the combination of the numerical and experimental methods could effectively simplify the steps of furniture connection design and development and save costs in terms of time and materials.
7 citations
TL;DR: In this article , the authors obtained plant extracts from saffron waste using different solid-liquid extraction techniques and evaluated the extraction method performance by the value of the extraction yields, which showed that the incorporation of this natural extract did not negatively affect the stability of the studied cosmetic formulations.
Abstract: The valorization of indigenous flora waste by extraction of biologically active compounds has potential applications in the medical and cosmetic fields. The polyphenols and flavonoids extracted from this waste are valuable compounds for the manufacture of new cosmetic and/or dermato-cosmetic formulas to protect the skin from oxidative stress. This study obtained plant extracts from saffron waste—petals, tepals, and superior portions of stem—using different solid-liquid extraction techniques. The influence of some physical operating parameters was studied (extraction time, solid/liquid ratio, solvent extraction composition). The extraction method performance was assessed by the value of the extraction yields. The obtained extracts were characterized by the content of polyphenols and flavonoids, and the antioxidant activity determined with the DPPH and ABTS methods and the UV-VIS spectrometry. Some emulsions O/W were prepared and preliminarily characterized (pH, sensory analysis, stability after centrifugation and storage). The obtained results showed that the incorporation of this natural extract did not negatively affect the stability of the studied cosmetic formulations and advanced characterization (microbiological control of contamination, rheology studies and in vitro and in vivo studies) can be continued in order to implement a new product.
6 citations
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors presented the push-out experimental results of hybrid notch-screw connections for timber-concrete composite structures and discussed failure modes, ultimate strength, slip moduli, and ductility.
Abstract: This paper presents the push-out experimental results of hybrid notch-screw (HNS) connections for timber-concrete composite structures. A total of 7 groups of specimens were designed and tested. The experimental parameters included the loading constraint conditions (i.e., the test specimens were loaded either in local compression or in uniform compression), shapes of notches in the wood, screw number in notch, notch width, and the inclusion of a self-tapping screw reinforcement for timber or not. The experimental results were discussed in terms of failure modes, ultimate strength, slip moduli, and ductility. The yield strengths and ductility factors were determined based on the load-slip curves according to existing standards. The experimental results showed that both the shear timber width and the self-tapping screw reinforcement played important roles in terms of the ultimate strengths, ductility, and deformability. Rectangular notched connections with screw reinforcements displayed timber shear failure coupled with brittle failure. With the trapezoidal notch, the ductility of the connections improved, coupled with a decrease in the slip modulus. The self-tapping screw reinforcement for shear timber could greatly improve the ductility performance of the HNS connections. The slip modulus models for the connection with vertical deep notches were provided, which were in agreement with the experimental results.
6 citations
TL;DR: In this paper , the anatomical characteristics of four promising Indonesian bamboo species, including Dendrocalamus giganteus, Bambusa vulgaris var. striata, and Dandrocalamus asper, were investigated to produce an identification key and quality indices.
Abstract: The anatomical characteristics in the culms of the four promising Indonesian bamboo species, including Dendrocalamus asper, Dendrocalamus giganteus, Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris, and Bambusa vulgaris var. striata, were investigated to produce an identification key and quality indices for further effective utilization. The crystalline properties of the bamboo culm were determined using X-ray diffraction analysis. Dendrocalamus asper and Bambusa vulgaris var. striata showed vascular bundle type IV, while Dendrocalamus giganteus and Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris displayed vascular bundle type III. The vascular bundle density in the bamboo culms increased from the bottom to the top part and was higher in the outer part than in the inner part. The fiber portion and length in the outer part were higher than those in the inner part, opposite of those in the parenchyma portion. Dendrocalamus giganteus had the largest vessel and parenchyma diameter, while Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris had the smallest. Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris had the longest parenchyma, while Bambusa vulgaris var. striata and Dendrocalamus giganteus had the shortest. The outer part of the four bamboo culms showed higher relative crystallinity than the inner part. All anatomical parameters, except for crystallite width, showed a variation in the radial direction of the four bamboo culms but did not show a consistent tendency vertically. This study revealed that the anatomical properties were different between bamboo species and could be used for species identification and quality evaluation indices of the culms.
5 citations
TL;DR: In this article , carbon fiber (CF)-filled fiberboard specimens for electromagnetic (EM) shielding applications were produced by mixing CF with wood fiber (WF), and the panel properties with different loadings (1, 2, 3, 5, and 10%) of CF were analyzed.
Abstract: Carbon fiber (CF)-filled fiberboard specimens for electromagnetic (EM) shielding applications were produced in this study by mixing CF with wood fiber (WF). The aim of this work was to study the panel properties with different loadings (1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, and 10%) of CF. The mechanical, physical, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties of the produced medium density fiberboard (MDF) were analyzed. The shielding effectiveness (SE) of the CF1 sample was 23.5 dB to 35.0 dB in the frequency range of 8.2 GHz to 12.4 GHz. The maximum SE of 64 GHz to 76 dB was obtained for the CF10 sample. The investigation of the mechanical properties of MDF panel indicated that the modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and internal bonding (IB) of the composite panels were less than those of the control panel. The MOR, MOE, IB, thickness swelling (TS), and water absorption (WA) of the panel with 1% CF (CF1) were 24.7 MPa, 2,510 MPa, 0.69 MPa, 14.5%, and 52.3% respectively. Generally, the MDF panels with 1% CF exhibited a greater ability for EM shielding applications because of their acceptable properties according to the EN 622-5 (2019) standard and appropriate EM shielding of at least 20 dB.
5 citations
TL;DR: In this article , the decay resistances of aspen (Populus tremula) and pine (Pinus sibirica) wood from decay caused by white-rot (Polyporous versicolor L.ex.
Abstract: Due to its non-toxicity and environmentally friendly nature, carbohydrate-based fatty acid (CFA) esters are encouragingly used as antimicrobials and synthetic intermediates. They also are notably applied in food, surfactant, and pharmaceutical industries. In this respect, methyl 2,6-di-O-isopentanoyl-α-D-glucopyranoside (2), synthesized in a single step from methyl α-D-glucopyranoside (1), was converted into four other 3,4-di-O-acyl esters (3 – 6). All the newly synthesized CFA esters (2 – 6) were applied for the first time to study decay resistances of aspen (Populus tremula) and pine (Pinus sibirica) wood from decay caused by white-rot (Polyporous versicolor L.ex. Fr.) and brown-rot (Postia placenta (Fr). Cke.) fungi. Most of these CFA esters protected these woods from fungal attack, reduced deterioration, and preserved the weight percentage of woods at a certain point. It is noted that the CFA esters compounds reduced the deterioration and suppressed the weight percentage loss of wood at a certain point and from low to moderate decay resistances against the selected fungi.
5 citations
TL;DR: In this article , the authors present a review of various chemical treatments having the potential to render hydrophobic character to polysaccharide-based barrier layers, such that they can continue to impede the transfer of such permeants as oxygen, greases, flavor compounds, and water vapor.
Abstract: Paper, nanocellulose, and other polysaccharide-based materials can be excellent candidates for food packaging barrier layers, except that they tend to be vulnerable to moisture. This article reviews published research describing various chemical treatments having the potential to render hydrophobic character to such layers. Emphasis is placed on systems in which hydrophobic monomers are used to treat either particles or sheets comprised largely of polysaccharides. A goal of this review is to identify combinations of materials and procedures having promise for scale-up to industrial production, while providing effective resistance to moisture. The idea is to protect the underlying polysaccharide-based barrier layers such that they can continue to impede the transfer of such permeants as oxygen, greases, flavor compounds, and water vapor. A further goal is to minimize any adverse environmental impacts associated with the treatments. Based on the research articles considered in this review, promising hydrophobic treatments can be achieved involving silanes, ester formation, other covalent interactions, plasma treatments, and to some extent by various treatments that do not require formation of covalent bonds. The article is designed such that readers can skip ahead to items of particular interest to them.
5 citations
TL;DR: In this article , green and naturally aged camphorwood (Cinnamomum camphora) samples were thermally treated at 120, 150, or 180 °C for 2.5 h to investigate how various thermal treatments affected dimensional stability and hygroscopity.
Abstract: Green and naturally aged camphorwood (Cinnamomum camphora) samples were thermally treated at 120, 150, or 180 °C for 2.5 h to investigate how various thermal treatments affected dimensional stability and hygroscopity. As a result, mass loss showed an increasing trend after treatment from 0.88% to 2.44%, whereas equilibrium moisture content exhibited a decreasing trend (in the range of 10.88% to 7.96%) after treatment at 180 °C. Additionally, thermal treatment improved the dimensional stability of camphorwood samples. Fourier-transform infrared spectra for wood after thermal treatment revealed that treatment led to hemicellulose deacetylation.
TL;DR: This paper used simplification to eliminate certain inaccuracies and to use simplification, which means using the general term "Low-Temperature Transition Mixtures" or introducing the term "DES-like mixtures".
Abstract: Recent years of research and development have brought frequently used terms for new types of green solvents to the lexicon of scientists. This can lead to terminological inaccuracies. In particular, different names are being used for the same types of solvents: Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES); Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents; Low-Transition Temperature Mixtures; Low-Melting Mixtures. It would, therefore, be appropriate to eliminate certain inaccuracies and to use simplification, which means using the general term “Low-Temperature Transition Mixtures” or introducing the term “DES-like mixtures”.
TL;DR: In this article , the use of agricultural biomass as a promising resource for renewable energy production, e.g., bio-oil and biogas via pyrolysis and catalysis, among other technologies.
Abstract: This paper discusses the use of agricultural biomass as a promising resource for renewable energy production, e.g., bio-oil and biogas via pyrolysis and catalysis, among other technologies. In order to prevent the accumulation of agricultural biomass, most countries still use traditional disposal or processing methods, e.g., burning in the field, which not only has a low energy conversion rate, but also releases harmful gases, e.g., CO2, CO, and NH3. These traditional methods are regarded as inefficient with respect to the low utilization of waste; they also pose a threat to human health. The energy conversion of agricultural biomass makes full use of resources and accelerates the development of green energy. In particular, agricultural biomass can lead to the production of high-quality renewable fuels and chemical raw materials through catalytic pyrolysis technologies. The fuel produced using catalytic pyrolysis has a low sulfur and alkali metal contents and techno-economic analysis shows that catalytic pyrolysis greatly reduces the production cost and improves the utilization rate of agricultural biomass. The production of bio-oil and gas via catalytic pyrolysis and agricultural biomass are environmentally friendly and economically feasible for clean energy production. Therefore, additional research is needed to enable the upscaling of renewable energy products.
TL;DR: In this paper , the properties of a bio-carbon mixture made from Dabai (Canarium odontophyllum) nutshell with the addition of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and montmorillonite (MMT) clay were investigated.
Abstract: The nanocarbon-based mixture was shown to be an effective adsorbent for removing dyes and heavy metals from wastewater via adsorption. The goal of this research was to prepare and investigate the properties of a bio-carbon mixture made from Dabai (Canarium odontophyllum) nutshell with the addition of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and montmorillonite (MMT) clay. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to determine the functional groups of raw carbon and potassium hydroxide (KOH)-activated carbon (AC). The FTIR analysis of the active carbon revealed that the active carbon had more surface chemistry than the non-AC. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was used to compare the raw and AC morphologies and the developed nanocarbon. The results were confirmed using energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis to verify the elements in the studied sample. The SEM analysis revealed that the structure of both the carbon samples was irregular, granular, and porous. BET analysis showed that nano-activated carbon had higher surface area compared to activated carbon itself. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used in Design-Expert 13.0 software for the sample composition development to achieve the best performance of the developed nanocarbon as an adsorbent.
TL;DR: In this paper , TEMPO-oxidized, regenerated cellulose beads were prepared using a simple falling ball technique for cationic methylene blue (MB) removal.
Abstract: Toxic organic dyes present in wastewater should be removed before discharge. In this study, TEMPO-oxidized, regenerated cellulose beads were prepared using a simple falling ball technique for cationic methylene blue (MB) removal. The obtained cellulose beads were characterized using various analytical techniques. The results indicated that TEMPO-oxidized cellulose beads displayed porous structures with high content of carboxylic acid groups. Thus, the negatively charged cellulose beads can effectively adsorb cationic MB with an adsorption capacity of 495 mg/g at a starting concentration of 100 mg/L. This simple one-step adsorption process achieved near-complete MB removal at pH 7, indicating strong electrostatic interactions between cationic MB and negatively charged oxidized cellulose beads. The experimental data can be well described by the Langmuir isotherm model and the Pseudo-second-order model. The fabricated cellulose beads exhibit great potential for practical application in dye removal from wastewater.
TL;DR: Wang et al. as discussed by the authors proposed a conceptual framework of furniture online consumer experience (FOCE), which divides online consumption experience into three dimensions: perceived risk experience, emotional experience, and new technology interactive experience.
Abstract: In recent years, people’s acceptance of online shopping has increased markedly with the gradual maturing of e-commerce. The furniture industry in China, along with many other countries, is paying increased attention to the online retail business. The furniture online consumption experience has attracted attention both in academic and industrial fields. The purpose of this paper is to provide a literature review of the furniture online consumption with an aim to extend the concept of consumer experience to the context of online furniture consumption. The paper offers three important contributions for both academics and practitioners. First, it analyzes the main influencing factors of the consumer experience concerning wood furniture online consumption in China. And secondly, it proposes a conceptual framework of furniture online consumer experience (FOCE), which divides online consumption experience into three dimensions: perceived risk experience, emotional experience, and new technology interactive experience. Finally, from a managerial perspective, the authors put forward constructive strategies in terms of furniture online sales. The findings of this study afford practical implications for the improvement of the online shopping experience of consumers for furniture companies.
TL;DR: In this article , the effects of heat treatment on the properties of wood and the mechanism of the heat treatment are discussed, and the development direction and prospect of high temperature heat treatment technology in the future are forecasted.
Abstract: High temperature heat treatment is one of the main technologies with the highest market conversion rate and broad future prospects in the functional technology of wood. Chemical reagents are not added in the production process. The treatment improves the dimensional stability, biological durability, wood color, and acoustic properties without reducing the environmental performance of the product. However, there are some problems in heat treatment, such as the reduction of mechanical properties and surface wettability of wood, high production energy consumption, and large exhaust emissions. Therefore, understanding the influence and mechanism of high temperature heat treatment technology on wood properties is of guiding significance to further improve the quality of heat-treated wood, improve production process, and develop new equipment. This article reviews the effects of heat treatment on the properties of wood and the mechanism of heat treatment. Then, some applications of heat treatment of wood are introduced. Finally, the development direction and prospect of high temperature heat treatment technology in the future are forecasted.
TL;DR: In this paper , a review of the impact of the interfacial bonding between the reinforcing NFr and polymer matrix on the performance of natural fiber polymer composites has been presented, and it has been found that interdiffusion, electrostatic adhesion, chemical reactions, and mechanical interlocking are responsible for the interlocking.
Abstract: The development of natural fiber (NFr) composites for a variety of applications is on the rise. The optimization of the interfacial bonding (IFB) between the reinforcing NFr and polymer matrix is perhaps the single most critical aspect in the development of natural fibre polymer composites (NFPCs) with high mechanical performance. While the IFB is critical in determining the mechanical properties of the NFPCs, such as stress transfer, it is one of the least understood components. This article offers a summary of IFB mechanisms, different modification approaches targeted at lowering incompatibility and improving IFB, and evaluation of the impact of IFB. It has been found that 1) In general, interdiffusion, electrostatic adhesion, chemical reactions, and mechanical interlocking are accountable for the IFB; 2) the incompatibility of the fibre and matrix, which results in poor dispersion of the fiber, weak IFB, and ultimately worse composite quality, may be addressed through strategic modifications; and 3) Interfacial interactions between polymers and nanoparticles (NPs) are significantly improving their performance in areas like thermal, mechanical, robust IFB, and moisture absorption. As a result, this review study could be an important resource for scholars interested in coating and treating NFr to further enhance their surface characteristics.
TL;DR: In this paper , the properties of materials obtained by compression-molding were compared with three-dimensional (3D) printed materials, and it was observed that the tensile strength of the 3D-printed and compressionmolded materials were close to each other.
Abstract: Mechanical properties of materials obtained by compression-molding were compared with three-dimensional (3D) printed materials. Firstly, wood flour was added at different levels (0, 5, 10, and 20%) to polylactic acid (PLA) polymer to produce filaments. Then, mechanical test samples were printed from the produced filaments with a 3D printer. The produced filaments were made into pellets, and sheets were obtained by compression molding. According to the mechanical test results, it was observed that the tensile strength of the 3D-printed and compression-molded materials were close to each other, and the elasticity modulus of the compression-molded samples was higher than the 3D-printed samples. In the hardness comparison, the compression-molded specimens exhibited higher hardness values than the 3D-printed specimens. When the morphological properties of the materials were examined, it was seen that the cross-sections of the compression-molded materials were smooth and had less void than the 3D printed ones. The glass transition, crystallization, and melting temperatures of the materials did not change much with the processing methods. Only the 3D-printing process increased the crystallinity percentages.
TL;DR: In this paper , a 5-L scale experimental results revealed that when glucose was used as the carbon source, Cupriavidus necator could produce 4.74 g/L PHA with 77.6% of PHA content in the microorganism 72 hours after the initiation of the experiment.
Abstract: Because of their lower environmental impact, biodegradable polymers such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) produced within cultured bacteria represent promising alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. PHA production in flasks yielded optimal results with a carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of 22. The 5-L scale experimental results revealed that when glucose was used as the carbon source, Cupriavidus necator could produce 4.74 g/L PHA with 77.6% of PHA content in the microorganism 72 h after the initiation of the experiment. When the hydrolysis liquid from inedible rice was used as the carbon source, the highest concentration of PHA and ratio of PHA content in the microorganism were 4.82 g/L and 68.6%, respectively, after 72 h. Using the hydrolysis liquid from inedible rice as the carbon source reduced the culture cost and shortened the culture time, without affecting the structure of the PHA during production. Using the hydrolysis liquid from rice as the carbon source in PHA production (by C. necator) yielded optimal results, and the results may serve as a reference for applications involving other PHA-producing bacteria. Employing alternative carbon sources to culture bacteria might become a means of increasing the productivity and ensuring the quality of PHA products in the future.
TL;DR: In this paper, the concentrations of aluminum (Al), one of the most important heavy metals, were determined in the different organs of five plant species grown in regions with different traffic densities.
Abstract: One of the most critical problems throughout the world is air pollution, causing the death of millions of individuals annually, and it is reported that 90% of the global population breathes polluted air. Among the components of air pollution, the most harmful ones are the heavy metals, which can remain non-degraded in nature for a long time, bio-accumulate in living organisms, and be toxic or carcinogenic at low concentrations. Hence, monitoring and reducing heavy metal pollution in the air are high-priority research topics. Heavy metals can accumulate within various organs of plants grown in an environment with an increased level of heavy metal pollution. The metal analyses on these organs can provide insight into the heavy metal pollution in the air. In the present study, the concentrations of aluminum (Al), one of the most important heavy metals, were determined in the different organs of five plant species grown in regions with different traffic densities. Remarkable changes were observed in the Al concentrations in all the organs of species, which were examined here by organ and traffic density. The highest values were obtained from the organs of plants grown in no-traffic regions.
TL;DR: In this article , an overview of the underlying principles and both the present and future applications of lignin within the nonwoven industry is presented, and an effort is made to outline the advantages and challenges of using Lignin as a green and sustainable ingredient for the production of non-woven materials.
Abstract: While lignin has been gaining wide research interest for a variety of applications across many industries, relatively little work has been published on its applications in nonwovens. Consequently, this article offers an overview of the underlying principles and both the present and future applications of lignin within the nonwoven industry. Due to the distinct structure of lignin, processing, fiber production, composites with polymers, dye dispersant, and fire-retardant applications are all unique opportunities for lignin application in nonwovens discussed in this review. Conventional nonwoven processing techniques, such as electrospinning, have been reported to successfully produce lignin-based nonwovens, specifically lignin/polymer composite nonwovens. This account points to pivotal polymer matrix/lignin composite compatibility issues that define various processing technologies. However, lignin use is not limited to incorporation within nonwoven fibers mats and is currently used in dye dispersion with the potential of phase out petroleum-based dye dispersants. Finally, the high phenolic content of lignin endows it with fire-retardant and antimicrobial properties, among others, that present additional opportunities for lignin in the nonwoven industry. Throughout this review, an effort is made to outline the advantages and challenges of using lignin as a green and sustainable ingredient for the production of nonwoven materials.
TL;DR: In this article, a novel joint was proposed and compared with the typical joint commonly used in the cantilevered leg in modern wood furniture, which confirmed that the novel structure had a better mechanical performance.
Abstract: The cantilevered leg joint commonly used in modern wood furniture was studied by numerical and experimental methods. A novel joint was proposed and compared with the typical joint commonly used in the cantilevered leg. Both of them were made of beech wood (Fagus orientalis Lipsky). The experimental results showed that the bending moment capacity of the novel joint was remarkably higher than the typical joints, which confirmed that the novel structure had a better mechanical performance. The numerical analysis was conducted according to GB/T 10357.3 standard, the results showed that the stresses of the typical joint were mainly concentrated on the wooden components, while the stresses of the novel joint were concentrated on the metal connectors. The stress concentration obtained by the finite element method (FEM) was consistent with the failure modes of the experimental tests, which provides a reliable method for evaluating and optimizing the novel furniture structure.
TL;DR: In this article, three silver fir boards were tied together to make a triangular prism, which acted as a chimney, to start the charring process, and the resulting cupping effect was investigated as an indicator of the quality of the process.
Abstract: The aim of this work was to better understand the ignition method of timber charring in order to improve the industrial process. Three silver fir boards were tied together to make a triangular prism, which acted as a chimney. To start the charring process, the traditional Yakisugi method uses an ignitor paper ball. This ignitor paper ball was in this research replaced with a gas burner. The gas burner supplies the required energy in an even level and provides airflow in the upward direction. The surface temperature of the samples increased from 10 to 500 °C in approximately 40 to 80 s at all recorded positions, which is considerably faster than when using a traditional method. The thickness of the charred layer and the resulting cupping effect were investigated as an indicator of the quality of the process. The charred layer produced by the gas burner method was not as thick as was achieved with the traditional method, which can be attributed to a shorter charring time. Approximately half the specimens showed cupping to the charred side, which may be related not only to a shorter charring time than previous studies, but also to the annual ring orientation of the timber. Further research should be performed on the charred layer thickness and cupping to define all relevant parameters.
TL;DR: In this article , a combination of angle of repose tests and simulation optimization design is presented to obtain simulation parameters of the alfalfa with different moisture contents, and the results were 41.99, 38.30, 47.47, 56.31, and 63.09%.
Abstract: During the simulation analysis of the discrete element method (DEM) for the alfalfa compression process, the input parameters in DEM software had a significant effect on simulation results. To obtain simulation parameters of the alfalfa with different moisture contents, a combination of angle of repose tests and simulation optimization design are presented in this paper. The repose angle of the alfalfa with moisture contents of 2.7%, 13.4%, 19.9%, 33.1%, and 74.5% was measured, and the results were 41.99˚, 38.30˚, 47.47˚, 56.31˚, and 63.09˚, respectively. Inclinometer tests, shear test, and restitution test were performed to evaluate the contact parameters. Taking contact parameters as the calibration object, the Plackett-Burman test was used to screen out which parameters had significant influence on the repose angle. The results of variance analysis showed the surface energy was the most significant parameter in the alfalfa repose angle test for each moisture content. Based on the Box-Behnken test, a second-order regression model of repose angle was obtained and the significance parameters were optimized and calibrated. The parameters calibrated in this paper can provide a reference for other simulations of alfalfa utilization.
TL;DR: In this paper , a rational and reliable color quantitative system was developed to solve the problem of pure perceptual and non-standardized selection of colour in furniture, which can provide a reference for the colour quantification used by furniture enterprises.
Abstract: To solve the problem of pure perceptual and non-standardized selection of colour in furniture, a rational and reliable colour quantitative system was developed. This approach is beneficial to the upgrading and optimization of products by furniture manufacturing enterprises. The wardrobe colour selection system is based on the Munsell colour system, the colour harmony theory and the Birkhoff aesthetic colour selection system to construct a wardrobe colour selection system. It has three analytical parts, consisting of wardrobe colour selection and data analysis, which can provide a reference for the colour quantification used by furniture enterprises. Once the system was constructed, a company’s wardrobe colour selection and coated sheet sample was used as an example to test its efficacy. The wardrobe colour selection system was evaluated to optimize the design of the company’s original wardrobe product colour selection. The results showed that the wardrobe colour selection system improved consumers’ preference for the company’s wardrobe colour selection. The wardrobe colour selection system provides a reference for furniture companies, engineers and designers in product colour selection and optimization design, which is conducive to scientifically informed manufacture and a standard formulation of furniture colour.
TL;DR: In this paper, a review of surface modifications of nanocellulose and their subsequent application in the papermaking is presented, which will form a literature source for future use by various stakeholders and the sustainable paper manufacturers.
Abstract: The increasing usage of petroleum-based compounds has prompted numerous environmental concerns. Consequently, there has been a steady rise in research on the synthesis of useful materials from natural sources. Paper technologists are seeking environmentally acceptable dry end and wet end additives. Among the bio-based resources available, nanocellulose is a popular sustainable nanomaterial additive in the paper industry because of its high strength, high oxygen barrier performance, low density, great mechanical properties, and biocompatibility. NC’s extensive hydroxyl groups provide a unique possibility to dramatically modify the hydrophilicity and charge of the surface in order to improve their potential applications in the paper industry. The current paper reviews two series of surface modifications, each with various subcategories, depending on why modified nanocellulose is added in the paper production: to improve barrier properties or to improve mechanical properties of packaging materials. The methods presented in this study use the minimum amount of chemically hazardous solvents to have the least impact on the environment. This review focuses on modifications of nanocellulose and their subsequent application in the papermaking. The knowledge and the discussion presented in this review will form a literature source for future use by various stakeholders and the sustainable paper manufacturers.
TL;DR: Schizophyllum commune is a basidiomycete that is capable of producing different valuable metabolites such as schizophyllan-a polysaccharide, ethanol, and lignocellulolytic enzymes as mentioned in this paper .
Abstract: Schizophyllum commune is a basidiomycete that is capable of producing different valuable metabolites such as schizophyllan-a polysaccharide, ethanol, and lignocellulolytic enzymes. Schizophyllan finds application in the food industry, pharmacy, and oil recovery. It acts as a non-specific stimulator of immune system. It shows bioactivities such as antineoplastic, antibacterial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic properties. S. commune is capable of producing bioethanol directly in a single step using lignocellulosic biomass. Lignocellulolytic enzymes including cellulase, xylanase, pectinase, laccase, lignin peroxidase, and manganese peroxidase, are also synthesized efficiently by different strains of S. commune. Being a good producer of ligninolytic enzymes, S. commune has been shown to be effective for the degradation of various synthetic dyes. This article reviews the production of schizophyllan, ethanol, and enzymes and the utilization of S. commune for lignocellulose degradation and decolorization of synthetic dyes.
TL;DR: In this article , the potential and challenges in using bamboo and its products for many applications that can contribute to a renewable society are considered and a review of the potential of using bamboo is presented.
Abstract: Bamboo biomass is known for its low cost, abundance, fast growth rate, low weight-to-height ratio, and load-bearing abilities, making it an attractive alternative to materials such as wood, metal, steel, and plastic for multiple applications. Bamboo is traditionally used in handicrafts, food, building, construction, pulp, and paper. The production of energy and green adsorbents with unique properties are a few emerging applications of bamboo. Porous structured, bamboo-based charcoal allows the separation of solute from solvent and can be used to detoxify the air, water, and soil. The surface functional groups can be enhanced during thermal processing, yielding activated carbon products and serving greenhouse gas capturing applications. Nanoparticle particles (Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 and silver) coated bamboo charcoal has shown microwave and Infrared energy shielding effects. Bamboo-based charcoal also has exceptional medicinal values, is an efficient drug-delivery agent, and has tremendous potential for small and medium enterprises. Bamboo charcoal is also investigated as a toxin adsorber and hence a blood purifier. This review also considers the potential and challenges in using bamboo and its products for many applications that can contribute to a renewable society.
TL;DR: In this article , three fungal isolates, namely Aspergillus flavus, Cladosporium cladosporioides, and Alternaria alternata, were subjected to chitinase production using a medium with different concentrations of NaCl up to 10%.
Abstract: Strategies based on halo- and thermostable enzymes are promising and attractive for biotechnological applications. Three fungal isolates, namely Aspergillus flavus, Cladosporium cladosporioides, and Alternaria alternata, and were subjected to chitinase production using a medium with different concentrations of NaCl up to 10%. C. cladosporioides was found to be the main chitinase producer at high concentration of NaCl; therefore, its identification was confirmed using 18S rDNA. The highest chitinase production (88.67 U/mL) was obtained by C. cladosporioides, followed by A. flavus (76.17 U/mL), and A. alternata (70.67 U/mL) at 5% NaCl, while their production without NaCl was 35.07 U/mL, 22.83 U/mL, and 21.33 U/mL, respectively. Thermal stability of chitinase was recorded at 50 °C at 20 min. Chitinase halostability at 20 min indicated that 10% NaCl was the optimum level, with activity 88.3 U/mL. Safranin dye decolorization by C. cladosporioides was enhanced to 88.25% via the addition of 5% NaCl to growth medium containing chitin. The inhibitory activity of chitinase was detected against C. lunata and F. oxysporium with or without NaCl. Culex pipiens larvae were more affected by C. cladosporioides chitinase produced at 5% than 10% NaCl. Energy scores of the molecular docking investigations confirmed the insecticidal activity of chitinase against C. pipiens larvae.