Showing papers in "Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences in 2013"

Jatropha curcas leaves extract as corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1M hydrochloric acid

Abstract: Corrosion is one of the greatest menace combating metallic materials. This research sought to find a way of minimizing it using a plant based inhibitor that is readily available and eco-friendly. The inhibitive effect of the acid extract of jatropha curcas leaves on the corrosion inhibition of mild steel using mass loss method was investigated. The study was carried out at different concentration of the extract and temperature. Inhibition efficiency of 93.69% was obtained and this show that jatropha curcas leaves extract could inhibit mild steel corrosion in acidic medium. The inhibition efficiency of the extract was found to increase as both the concentration of the extract and temperature increased. Langmuir isotherm was best fitted into the results. The activation energy values of the inhibited corrosion reaction of mild steel are lesser than the value obtained for the blank. The adsorption mechanism was found to be chemiosorption. Kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were also evaluated.

Effect of processing on the proximate and mineral compositions of Trachurus Trachurus : a fish commonly consumed in Nigeria

Abstract: The present study assessed the effect of processing on the sensory qualities, proximate and mineral compositions in the fillet and SHB (skin, head and bone) of Trachurus trachurus. The fish samples were prepared by smoking (wood and coal) or poaching while proximate and mineral analysis was done by standard methods. A sensory quality of the processed fish was conducted via categorical ranking. All processing methods significantly (p Ca > Na > Mg while that of SHB was Ca > K > Na > Mg. The trace elements in both samples increased in this order Fe > Zn > Cu > Mn > Cr. Wood and charcoal smoked fish samples were found most palatable by the panelists. The data obtained from this study demonstrated that processed SHB and fillet could be a veritable source of valuable ingredients for human consumption and animal feeds.

Diagnosis of kidney failure by analysis of the concentration of ammonia in exhaled human breath

Abstract: The human mouth contains many kinds of substances both in liquid and gaseous form. The individual concentrations of each of these substances could provide useful insight to the health condition of the entire body. Ammonia is one of such substances whose concentration in the mouth has revealed the presence or absence of diseases in the body. Kidney failure is one disease which is identified by extremely high ammonia content in human breath. This disease is as a result of the kidneys' inability to process the body's liquid waste thereby resulting in high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level. The result of this is the release of urea throughout the body which is dissipated in the form of ammonia through oral breath. This paper proposes an affordable ammonia breathalyzer for the diagnosis of kidney failure in humans with 85% success rate. The purpose of this research is to provide an affordable and reliable means of detecting kidney failure in hospitals and even in homes. This will help patients of the disease seek medical help quickly (especially those in rural areas). The potential impact of this research is the availability of this means of BUN detection to less privileged people.

Post-occupancy evaluation of Lagos State Polytechnic facilities : a user-based system

Abstract: The condition of facilities in a learning environment determines the performance of the teacher's and the student's. If the facilities are inadequate or dysfunctional then the learning process will be hindered and academic productivity will decrease. It is paramount to evaluate the performance of educational facilities so that appropriate action can be taken to restore or retain the facilities to an acceptable standard. This paper seeks to adopt an investigative approach to post-occupancy evaluation of buildings facilities of Lagos State Polytechnic, Lagos, Nigeria using major technical and functional building evaluation performance criteria. Data collection was based on a survey through self administered questionnaires in which users of the school buildings facilities were asked to report on their assessment and experience of the facilities. Two hundred questionnaires were used for the analysis using mean score of identified performance criteria. Personal interview was also used to gather reasonable information from the users as concerned the performance of the facilities. The user satisfaction survey identified areas of deficiency in the level of noise and conveniences and facilitated the assessment of the overall performance of the building. The study demonstrates how polytechnics in Nigeria can use users' feedback to formulate maintenance policy and improve on future infrastructural development in their institutions from the design stage.

Hydrogeophysical evaluation of the groundwater potential of Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract: Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) was investigated using the electrical resistivity method of geophysical prospecting with a view to evaluating the groundwater potential of the University. The purpose of the research is to assist the university in locating optimum areas where it could focus for the siting of productive groundwater schemes in finding solution to the problem of water supply which it is experiencing as a result of its ever increasing population and infrastructures. Seventy-one (71) Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) stations were occupied within the campus using the Schlumberger electrode array, with half-current electrode spacing (AB/2) varying from 1-100 m. Depth sounding curves were obtained from quantitative interpretations involving partial curve-matching and computer assisted 1-D forward modeling. The characteristic curves observed within the area were the 3-layer, 4-layer and 5-layer types, with percentage occurrence of 34, 56 and 10 respectively. Layer thicknesses and resistivities presented on the curves showed that the weathered basement and fractured basement constitute the main aquifer types that exist within the study area. Maps were prepared for the weathered/fractured layer resistivities, thicknesses, overburden thickness and the bedrock topography. These maps were synthesized and integrated for the production of the groundwater potential map which was eventually used for the groundwater potential classification of the study area into good, moderate and poor groundwater potential zones.

Effects of inorganic fertilizer on the growth and nutrient composition of Moringa ( Moringa oleifera )

Abstract: Supply of nutrients required for optimum growth of Moringa can be a limitation to its cultivation. A pot experiment was conducted in 2011 to investigate the effects of inorganic fertilizer on the growth and nutrient composition of Moringa oleifera leaves. N: P: K: fertilizer was applied at five levels which include 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120kgN:P:K/ha in four replicates. The experimental design was Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Growth parameters include number of leaves per plant, plant height (cm) and stem girth (mm). Proximate analysis of oven-dried leaves was done to determine percentage protein, calcium (ppm), phosphorus (ppm) and iron (ppm). 120kgN:P:K/ha significantly produced more leaves of 119.75 which is comparable to 90kgN:P:K/ha but higher significantly than other treatments. Similarly, the height and stem girth of Moringa were best supported by 120kgN:P:K/ha but is not different significantly from the control plant. Highest fertilizer rate of 120kgN:P:K/ha produced the highest quantity of protein (19.01%), there is therefore, a tendency that such trend may be observed with higher fertilizer rate. In diet that requires more calcium and iron minerals, fertilizer could be applied at 30kgN:P:K/ha while 60kgN:P:K/ha favors phosphorus accumulation in the leaves.

Usability Analysis of Students Information System in a Public University

Abstract: This study aimed to discover factors leading to usability problem found in the students' information system. The experience of the respondents' and impressions of the investigated application were obtained from the surveys and interviews. Data was collected using Computer System Usability Questionnaire. The respondents in this study were 132 students of Computer Science program and two operation officers from Information Technology Department. Four factors were constructed using factor analysis. Assigned as the usability criteria that affect user's impressions are; useful information, timely access, interface design, and error recovery. Moreover, four qualities are found to create nuisance to the users; time taken to complete the task is frustrating, functions and capabilities of the system is not as expected, error message is not stated clearly and recovery from mistakes is not easy. Based on the results, it is necessary to develop a hostel management system for all hostels in the campus. A limited version of proposed hostel management system is presented. It is also suggested to include response from different background for example respondents from economy science in the future. Reducing these limitations is necessary in order for the results to become potential guidance for the next iteration of the development process.

Exploratory Study of Crushed Periwinkle Shell as Partial Replacement for Fine Aggregates in Concrete

Abstract: An exploratory study of crushed periwinkle shell (CPWS) as partial replacement for fine aggregate in concrete was carried out. Mechanical and Physical properties of the (CPWS) and fine aggregate (river sand) were determined and compared. Concrete cubes of 1:2:4 and 1:3:6 by weight of cement, were prepared in the laboratory, using the following proportions, 0:100, 30:70, 50:50 and 100:0 CPWS to fine aggregate (river sand). 14, 21 and 28 days compressive strength test were carried out on the concrete cube. The CPWS had an average moisture content of approximately 11.65%, the highest amongst the aggregates. Physical examination of the CPWS particles showed that the grains were angular in shape with rough surface texture. The sieve analysis test revealed that the particle sizes were fine aggregates with about 98.8% passing through the British sieve No. 4 (4.75mm). The CPWS had a bulk density of 1504kg/m3, while that of the river sand was 1636kg/m3. The workability test revealed that the slump values decreased in the concrete mixture as the quantity of CPWS increased. It was also discovered that the compressive strength decreased with increased percentage of replacement of the river sand with CPWS. The control (highest) 28 days compressive strength of the concrete produced with zero percent CPWS and 100% river sand was 24.89N/mm2. 28 days compressive strength of concrete cubes with 50% CPWS and 50% river sand for mix proportion of 1:2:4 was 18.00N/mm2. From the results of this exploratory study, it can be safely concluded that CPWS can be used as a partial replacement of river sand in the production of light weight concrete in areas where the periwinkle shells are in abundance. The purpose of the study is to explore the possibility of turning waste to wealth. A significant factor is that concrete will be produced cheaper in areas with large population of periwinkle shells, while the environment that these periwinkle shells are usually dumped will become better protected.

Pretreatment methods of lignocellulosic materials for biofuel production : a review

Abstract: The environment of the world is crumbling under the major crisis of global warming and environmental degradation. To face these problems stimulated efforts to reduce CO2 emissions are needed and it is essential to consider green energy solutions. Biofuels offer one of the best alternative options as they have much lower life cycle GHG emissions compared to fossil fuels. These are liquid fuels derived from renewable biological sources. However, the problem of economic production is acting as the major challenge in its acceptance. Though several types of biofuels exist, bioethanol and biobutanol are considered the most economic choices as they could be mixed with petroleum and used as gasohol, and can be used to harness the already existing market of the fossil fuels. Lignocelluloses - the most abundant biological material on earth - is considered one of the best feedstocks for conversion to biofuel. Lignocellulosic matter is everywhere - agricultural and forestry residue, weeds, municipal, food and paper industry waste, etc. Using lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel conversion can wind up several economic constraints like biomass cost, collection and storage of biomass, etc. The bioconversion process is however very complex and still requires many innovations. This paper gives an overview of the challenges faced during lignocellulose bioconversion and deals with the latest technologies to overcome one of the major hurdles in the process - the pretreatment procedure. The study tries to present the pretreatment technologies with an overall comparison and their effect on the major feedstock types.

Study of VLF mode instability with AC electric field for subtracted bi-Maxwellian in the magnetosphere of Uranus

Abstract: Whistler mode wave is studied for subtracted bi-Maxwellian plasma in the magnetosphere of Uranus in the presence of perpendicular AC electric field. Using the method of characteristic solutions and kinetic approach the dispersion relation has been derived. The growth rate has been calculated for Uranian Magnetosphere. Calculation of growth rate shows that either a loss-cone or a thermal anisotropy in the hot plasma component of the magnetosphere of Uranus can lead to the generation of incoherent emission of low frequency whistler mode waves. It is seen that the whistler mode instability can be generated even with the lowest value of magnetic field, like, nanotesla, for subtracted bi-Maxwellian distribution function. Also the Doppler shifting frequency changes due to increase in AC frequency. It is also concluded that effective parameters for the generation of Whistler mode wave are temperature anisotropy, relativistic factor, amplitude of subtracted distribution and width of the loss-cone distribution function, which are discussed in results and discussion section. The results are of importance in explaining VLF emissions over a wide frequency range and provide diagnostics of plasma parameters in the Uranian magnetosphere. Present studies should be helpful to get better understanding of auroral activity and whistlers in the planetary magnetospheres.

Satellite image analysis using remote sensing data in parts of western Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract: The study investigated the effect of human activities on the environment. Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was used as an indication of environmental degradation in the Western Niger Delta region for the past one-half decades. The bands used for the calculation of the NDVI of 1987 and 2002 were band 4 (infrared wavelength) and band 3 (red wavelength). The Land Use Land Cover (LULC) maps and NDVI analysis revealed that dense forest in 1987 covered 1089702.2 hectares and the built-up area was 42904.1ha. The dense forest value reduced to 987688.5 ha in 2002 and the built-up area slightly increased to 45423.8 ha. In 1987, wetland covered an area of 275917.7 hectares, but reduced to 130209.4 hectares in 2002. The LULC and NDVI of the area have shown that the area has been degraded, since the NDVI values (which depict the amount of green vegetation) decreased from 0.3 in 1987 to 0.2 in 2002. These can be attributed to the effect of hydrocarbon exploration and other anthropological changes in the study area. This work will help to alert all concerned on the devastation done to the environment and measures to take to curb further devastation.

Thermal analysis of the modified and unmodified silica gels to estimate their applicability as stationary phase in gas chromatography

Abstract: The prepared and surface modified silica gels were subjected to thermal analysis via thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The modification methods are calcinations at 500 °C and 1000 °C, hydrothermal treatment, silylation, coating with polymer and bonded with polymer, these modicications are used to improve silica surfaces for using as good solid stationary phase or good solid support in gas chromatography. Temperature is an important factor affecting the life and efficiency of stationary phase and therefore affecting the efficiency of gas chromatographic separation. All the modified silica samples are more thermally stable compared with parent silica. SiC and double treated silica (SiCHT and SiCS) showed the high stabilities and lowest weight loss among the all modified solids. With respect to coating with polymer, SiBo25% is more stable than SiCo25% which has the same polymer content and it is evident that SiCCo10% is the most stable silica sample compared with the other coated and bonded silica samples. Our goal of this work is study the changes that occurs for silica gel surfaces in order to assess the maximum recommended temperature for using these materials as stationary phases in gas chromatography.

Air temperature estimation from satellite remote sensing to detect the effect of urbanization in Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract: This study demonstrated the application of Landsat imaging for estimating land surface temperature (LST; Ts) and air temperature (Ta) in Jakarta, Indonesia, using the observed relationship between Ts and Ta. The use of satellite remote-sensing data can help overcome the spatial problem of estimating Ta, particularly in areas with low station density, using satellite-based Ts estimation and ground-based relationships between Ts and Ta. Ts values were obtained from Landsat images taken in 1989 and 2006. The Landsat images were compared with ground-based measurements obtained in 2012. The results showed a strong correlation between Landsat Ts and ground-based Ts measurements (R2 = 0.79) which indicated the reliability of this approach to represent actual Ts values. To understand the relationship between Ta and Ts using satellite imagery in both years, a statistical approach was applied. The range of the determination coefficient (R2) between Ta and Ts in ground-based measurements was R2 = 0.77 in Landsat. This result demonstrating the usefulness of Ts as an indicator of Ta estimation in Jakarta by using image satellite.

Preliminary geophysical evaluation of Orin bauxite deposit southwestern Nigeria

Abstract: Economic viability of any metallic mineral deposit depends on its areal and depth extent as well as chemical composition amongst other factors. This study was a preliminary attempt to determine the depth to and the probable areal extent of the bauxite deposit at Orin-Ekiti. As part of the methodological approach, electrical resistivity geophysical survey method involving the vertical electrical sounding (VES) technique were carried out at nine (9) points at the environment of study and seven samples picked randomly were analyzed for Al2O3 chemical content using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS). Results of these investigations revealed two main sounding curves; QH (VES 1.1, 2.4 and 4.1) and KH (VES 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 2.1, 3.1 and 3.4). Four to six layers subsurface lithological formations of nearly similar degree of saturation were delineated. Layers 3 of the sounding curves constitute the bauxite deposit with variable thicknesses range of 7.1 â?? 14.2m. Preliminary quality assessment revealed bauxite of 25.10 â?? 61.26% Al2O3 (average 42.17% Al2O3) content. The purpose of this study therefore is to confirm the possible occurrence of bauxite of sufficient quantity and quality at Orin-Ekiti as a first indication and invitation for further investigation of a wider scope towards the exploitation for economic development.

Physico-chemical characterization of industrial effluents contaminated soil of Sanganer

Abstract: Sanganer is famous for textile dyeing and printing industries. Water pollution caused by the textile industry is mainly by the release of wastewater coming out from the wet processing operations like bleaching, dyeing and printing etc. During the present study, the physico-chemical characteristics of the textile effluent contaminated soil samples of Sanganer region were analysed by standard methods and found to have great variation. Soil samples were highly coloured, foul smelling and alkaline (pH 8.8) and contained trace metal ions with concentrations values which were not in compliance with standards. The pH of the samples was alkaline in nature (8.0-8.8). The values of electrical conductivity ranged from 0.19-0.81 mmhos/cm. The amount of % organic matter and % organic carbon ranged from 0.31 - 0.41% and 0.18 - 0.24% respectively. The effluent from the textile industry was the major source of pollution which will affect the flora and fauna existing in such environment. Thus, there is need for treatment of textile effluent before they are discharged into the environment.

Synthesis and characterization of Cds and Cdse quantum dots by UV-VIS spectroscopy

Abstract: The results of the experimental investigations of the synthesis and characterization of Cds and CdSe quantum dots is presented. In this work cadmium sulphide (CdS) and cadmium selenide(CdSe) quantum dots are synthesized successfully by adopting the hot injection/solvo thermal chemical synthesis method using octdecane as a non-coordinating high boiling point organic solvent in place of trioctyphosphine (Top) which posed environmental hazard. A sudden injection of room temperature sulphur and selenium solution into the hot cadmium solution produce seed crystals which grow quickly and they are monodispersed. Samples are withdrawn from the hot solution and quench at room temperature to produce a series of increasing quantum dots size. Subsequent characterization studies were carried out on the synthesized Cds and CdSe QDs using Uv-vis spectroscopy machine and irradiation with UV-light. The absorption spectra exhibit a strong blue-shift with decreasing size of QDs size, which is attributed to the quantum size effect (QSE). The sizes and band gaps of the Cds and CdSe were calculated, from the outcome of the calculation, it was deduced that the band gap energies varies from larger value to smaller values due to depletion of the band gap as a result of increased temperature. The results of this research are likely to be useful toward the understanding formation mechanism of CdS and CdSe.

Quality aspects of African salad

Abstract: The proximate and microbiological quality of African salad a special salad recipe native to Nigeria was investigated in order to provide scientific, research based information on the nutritional and micro floral composition of this exotic delicacy. Samples of salad were purchased from six food vending sites which serve as the major business and residential area in Owerri. The predominant bacterial isolates from African salad belong to Bacillus spp, Staphylococcus spp, Escherichia coli, Enterococci and Serracia. The fungal spp isolated include Saccharomyces, Mucor, Rhizopus, Penicillium and Aspergillus. The mean total aerobic plate count range from 7.7x1011 to 4.8x1012, coliform count range from 8.5x1010 to 3.5x1011 and fungal count range from 6.6x109 to 4.7x1010. Based on the specifications by International Commission for Microbiological Specification for Foods (ICMSF), the level of contaminations was unacceptable and could pose health challenge. The chemical composition of the African salad samples consist of carbohydrate (21.07%), protein (4.38%), fat (7.80%), fiber (3.29%), and moisture (62.72%). Energy value of 169.30 kcal and minerals were recorded. African salad as seen from this report is a nutritious food, fit for all age groups. Special care however, has to be taken in its preparation as contaminants could be introduced through the ingredients. Education of food handlers and the general public on food safety measures, effective Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) application and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) implementation is imperative

Environmental effects of application of fertilizers and pesticides on water and soil in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract: Protection of natural resources is of priority to government, non-governmental organizations and individuals. Effort had been made and financial resources had been expended on researches that examine and investigate point- and non-point-source pollution. This article presents the outcome of field investigations carried out on a stream that passes through Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (I.A.R & T) Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Nigeria. The analysis of water samples shows that there is an environmental pollution due to the high concentration of potassium and phosphate. The amount of phosphate in the water and in the soil was found to be 14.2 and 11.19mg/l respectively, which are beyond the tolerable limit of 30µg/l. This will support the aquatic growth such as algal boom. In extreme cases, it will result to methemoglobinemia with bluish discoloration of infant referred to as "Blue baby". Chlorinated pesticides being used at Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IART) has released chlorine of 151.2 mg/l to the water course that runs through the villages, making use of this surface water course that runs through the villages, for their domestic purposes at the downstream. This will create health challenges such as persistent hemdytic anemia and dialysis for the inhabitants of the area. However, such effluent from I.A.R.&T must be biodegraded before discharging into the watercourse in order to prevent environmental pollution.

Studies on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the Lagos Lagoon 1 : occurrence and levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface waters of the lagoon

Abstract: The Lagos lagoon is one of Africa's largest estuarine ecosystems. Its water receives organic input from a wide variety of sources; atmospheric, industrial, and municipal activities. Environmental impacts from PAHs continue to elicit global concern and attract attention especially in Lagos and its environs. Some PAH compounds which are toxic, mutagenic, or carcinogenic could be taken up and accumulated by aquatic organisms from polluted water, thereby resulting in the modern day diseases in humans. This research aims at assessing the decline of the water quality of Lagos lagoon due to land-based human activities in order to reveal the extent of exposure of humans to PAH risk. The research presents the need for control measures necessary for the minimization or prevention of PAH pollution to ensure a safe environment for our people. All the 16 USEPA priority PAHs were present across all twelve locations in high concentrations irrespective of the distance from the source point. They all exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) and USEPA recommended maximum contamination levels. The majorities of the PAHs were four to six ring compounds and most predominantly were Benzo (a) pyrene and Pyrene. The pattern was the same for the PAH levels throughout the year. Increase in PAH concentration tracks closely with increase in combustion sources and automobile use. This study evaluated the trends in PAHs, a group of contaminants with multiple urban sources in water samples from twelve points on the Lagos lagoon between February and December 2004.

Characterization of erodibility using soil strength and stress-strain indices for soils in some selected sites in Anambra State

Abstract: The purpose of the study are to develop models for predicting the susceptibility or extent of soils to erosion in the selected sites in the state; to measure and observe the relationship between soil strength indices, stress-strain characteristics and changes in moisture content (mc%) and dry density (γd) for some selected soil samples in the state; to obtain the jet index (Ji) for the various soil samples and to investigate the relationship between soil strength indices or stress-strain characteristics on the erosion resistance of compacted soils. In this study, initial soil strength indices (qu) and stress-strain characteristics namely failure strain (ef); area under the stress-strain curve up to failure (Is) and stress-strain modulus between no load and failure (Es) were investigated as potential indicators for characterizing the erosion resistance of two compacted soils namely sandy clay loam (SCL) and clay loam (CL) in some selected sites in Anambra State, Nigeria. The unconfined compressive strength (used in obtaining strength indices) and stress-strain measurements were obtained as a function of moisture content in percentage (mc %) and dry density (γd). Test were conducted over a range of 8% to 30% moisture content and 1.0g/cm3 to 2.0g/cm3 dry density at applied loads of 20, 40, 80, 160 and 320kPa. Based on the results, it was found out that initial soil strength alone was not a good indicator of erosion resistance. For instance in the comparison of exponents of mc% and γd for jet index or erosion resistance index (Ji) and the strength measurements, qu and Es (Table 7) agree in signs for mc%, but are opposite in signs for γd. Therefore there is an inconsistency in exponents making it difficult to develop a relationship between the strength parameters and Ji for this data set. In contrast, the exponents of mc% and γd for Ji and ef and Is are opposite in signs (Table 7), there is potential for an inverse relationship. The measured stress-strain characteristics however, appeared to have potential in providing useful information on erosion resistance. The models developed for the prediction of the extent or the susceptibility of soils to erosion and subjected to sensitivity test on some selected sites as shown in table 8 achieved over 90% efficiency in their functions. Finally, the contributions to knowledge are the models developed for all the sites in the state that can be used to easily predict the susceptibility or extent of soils to erosion.

Electromagnetic waves propagation in dust storms at millimetre wave band

Abstract: The effects of dust storms on propagation of electromagnetic wave at millimeter wave band are investigated. The propagation at millimeter wave band is affected by dust particles by way of signal attenuation. Formula for evaluating the wave attenuation at higher frequencies in a dusty medium is therefore developed in this work. The formula is based on the complex forward scattering amplitude of spherical dust particles using Rayleigh method. Three conditions are set to validate the suitability of the method for the model. It is shown that the Rayleigh approximation is valid for determining the scattering of spherical dust particles for the particle sizes and frequency range considered. The wave attenuation expression is proposed in terms of wavelength, visibility and complex permittivity. Attenuation results obtained are compared with some already published results. It is found that the attenuation by the proposed formula and the published formulae show close agreement. Attenuation in dry dust is only significant when the visibility becomes severe or at lower millimetric wave bands.

Growth response of Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze in a waste engine oil-polluted soil

Abstract: The indiscriminate dumping of waste engine oil which has led to the loss of arable land, forests and potable water is on the rise. Phytoremediation which is the use of plants in the clean-up of polluted environment is an emerging technology, which is environmentally friendly and cheaper than the conventional technology. About 400 plant spp. are able to remediate polluted environments and more are being discovered. This study therefore, was carried out to determine the impact of waste engine oil-polluted soil on some growth parameters of Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze. Sun-dried top soil (0-10cm) was measured into buckets. Waste engine oil (WEO) was added to soil and mixed thoroughly to obtain various concentrations on weight basis: 0, 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 % w/w oil-in-soil. One month after soil was amended with WEO, sprouted shoot cuttings of A. brasiliana were transplanted from a nursery. There was significant (p<0.05) decreases in plant growth parameters in the oil-polluted soil. The sprouted plants had a shoot growth rate of 58.6 % in the 1 % w/w oil-polluted soil, while plants in the 12 % w/w oil-polluted soil had a growth rate of 36 % by the 2nd week after transplant (WAT). In the 1 % w/w oil-polluted soil, plants grew to an average height of 100 cm while plants in the 12 % w/w oil-polluted soil had average height of 41.67 cm. It was generally observed that in spite of the duration of the study (4 months) and the impact of oil on the vegetative growth of A. brasiliana, the plants survived even at 12 % w/w oil-in-soil treatment. The persistence of A. brasiliana in the polluted soil provides the possibility for its being a candidate for phytoremediation.

Design, fabrication and performance evaluation of an indigenenous honey extractor

Abstract: Honey is the most important primary product of beekeeping both from a quantitative and an economic point of view. It was also the first bee product used by human kind in ancient times. The history of the use of honey is parallel to the history of man and virtually every culture evidence can be found of its use as a food source and as a symbol employed in religious, magic and therapeutic ceremonies is an appreciation and reference it owes among other reasons to its unique position until very recently, as the only concentrated form of sugar available to man in most parts of the world. The same cultural richness has produced an equally colorful variety uses of honey in other product. Because of these important reasons, honey used to be extracted (collected) to meet the demand both in raw form or as valued added to other products. The economic and medicinal importance of honey warrants the development of low cost, locally made and portable extractor that can be accessed by the honey farmers. The availability of this machine will increase honey production into the market, relief the honey farmers of their drudgery in producing honey, create self employment for the jobless and finally increases the economy of Nigeria through exportation of this honey and its products. The physical characteristics (viscosity, density, hyroscopicity; surface tension) and thermal properties of honey were considered before the design and fabricate of this extractor. The design was made simple and manually operated which can be installed at home or farm where breeding of honey bees is possible. It is a chain driven system with sprockets of small diameter of 55 mm and big diameter 343 mm and teeth number of 18 and 113 respectively with chain pitch of 99.525mm of type number 150D/N=06B-2Rdon DR957. The chain system was mounted on a vertical central solid shaft of diameter 25 mm to this shaft was the honey comb net bucket of hexagon shape with six segments was welded. A full turn will give the net bucket housed in a cylindrical container (drum) speed of 200 rpm when loaded. While the design driven force is 0.7054N. The volume of honey collected was 9.0 litres while the one collected from imported honey extractor was 11.0 litres when 15 kg of honey comb was used to fill their net baskets under the same number of turns. This proved the local fabricated extractor to be 82% relative efficient. The cost of production was twenty five thousand (25,000) naira only which is one hundred and sixty US dollars ($155.28) equivalent of current exchange rate of N161 Naira per US dollar. This amount took care of bought out component, machining, non machining, and material costs with 10% profit margin. The only limitation is that it is not electrically driven, has the advantage of being used in both urban and rural areas where there is no electricity.

Correlational analysis of sewage disposal methods and incidence rates of typhoid fever and cholera in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract: This work of correlating incidence rates of typhoid fever and cholera to sewage disposal methods was necessitated by the observed occurrence of typhoid fever and cholera incidences with respect to sewage management approaches. The aim of the work was achieved by observations, interviews and medical records of 25 years (1986 to 2010) from two major health facilities of University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and Braithwaite Memorial Hospital (BMH). The purpose of this work is to highlight the typhoid fever and cholera consequences resulting from improper disposal of sewage. In the first sewage management regime where pit latrines, bucket latrine and pier latrines were used, records show incidence rates of 49% typhoid and 51% cholera for UPTH and 53% typhoid and 47% cholera for BMH. The second sewage management regime where water carriage/closet systems of sewage disposal systems and septic tanks were used, the incidence rate of typhoid fever was 94% and cholera was 6% for both UPTH and BMH. This implies evident correlation of incidences of typhoid fever and cholera with sewage disposal methods in time and space. The increases in the incidences of typhoid fever and cholera are majorly underpinned by poverty, poor food hygiene, poor water sanitation, and generally poor environmental sanitation. Water carriage/closet systems of sewage disposal are here recommended to reduce contamination of food, surface and ground water by sewage.

A preliminary assessment of the potash biocatalyst potential of empty-oil-palm-bunch (EOPB) residues for biodiesel production

Abstract: This paper is focusing on the need to secure a high purity potash-alkali catalyst from EOPB residues (wastes of the oil palm industry), which is capable of replacing the existing synthetic source for the local production of biodiesel. In it, measured EOPB residues were subjected to pre-treatment processes such as drying and incineration. This resulted to the formation of EOPB-ash. The ash was digested in distilled water at 60 °C for 12 h amidst frequent agitation. The recovered EOPB-ash extract was evaporated and dried to form the solid potash. An analysis of the EOPB residue pre-treatment process showed: moisture content, 57.12 %; dry matter, 42.88 % and ash content, 7.33 %. Also, using the method of atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), the metal content of the EOPB-ash was analyzed as: Potassium, 61 %; magnesium, 25 %; calcium, 12 %; sodium, 1% and traces of other metals. This result confirmed the potash-alkali potentials of the EOPB-ash. The potash-alkali content of the solid potash was analyzed as: KOH, 41.55 g/dm3 and K2CO3, 102.4 g/dm3, while its composition in the solid potash and EOPB-ash were 87.1 and 57.6 % respectively. Thus, the solid potash was recommended as a more appropriate potash biocatalyst for a high yield biodiesel production.

Characterization of Mbayion clay for its industrial potentials

Abstract: Clay deposit abounds in large number of spots within and around Mbayion, Gboko local Government Area. However this clay is rarely exploited for major uses but only for the production of locally made traditional pots and bricks. It is in view of this, that Mbayion clay samples were obtained for characterization for its suitability in the production of ceramics stoneware, burnt bricks making, floor tiles and flower pots. This would not only brings about investment but also contribute to the employments of our teeming youth population into various ceramics skills acquisition jobs. The samples were analysed for plasticity, shrinkage, loss on ignition and chemical composition employing standard methods. Results of analysis showed that chemical composition of the clay was SiO2 (68.478 ± 1.464%); Al2O3 (14.947 ± 0.027%); Fe2O3 (8.968 ± 1.773%); K2O (2.405 ± 0.020%); Na2O (0.034 ± 0.021%); CaO (1.1615 ± 0.186%); MgO (1.143 ± 0.025%); SO3 (0.021 ± 0.020%) and pH (6.58 ± 0.174). Physical analysis showed a mean modulus of plasticity to be 2.54kgf/cm3, mean percentage making moisture (20.85%) and % total shrinkage ranged from 10.67-12.17 over a temperature range of 900-1100°C. Comparison of this result with other research indicates that Mbayion clay could be useful for manufacture of some ceramic industrial products like floor tiles, flower pots, stoneware and burnt bricks.

Flexural characteristics and potentials of oil palm stem as reinforcement in concrete beams

Abstract: This paper examined the flexural characteristics and potentials of oil palm stem (OPS) as reinforcement in concrete beams. The soaring cost of steel used in building construction has been a source of concern to governments and private developers in most developing countries. Utilising OPS in concrete production not only solves the problem of disposing this solid waste but helps conserve natural resources. A total of 30 fiber strip reinforced concrete beams of size 150 x 150 x 750 mm were casted. The concrete beams were reinforced with different 10mm x 20mm oil palm fiber strips resulting in varying percentage reinforcement. The threepoint bending test was adopted to assess cracking, deflection and flexural strength of the beam at curing ages of 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. Analysis of variance was used to analyse the data at significance level p=0.05. The result showed that there is an increase in the load carrying capacity of fiber reinforced beam with increase in the % reinforcement from 2%. Vertical cracks and shear cracks were observed at the center and edges of the beams respectively. The ultimate failure load increased from 58.8kN to 89.7 kN as the number of fiber strips increased from 2 to 6 with an optimum value of 3%. Strip volume had significant effects on the flexural and compressive strengths of reinforced concrete samples. Structural performance of oil palm strips as reinforcement in concrete was less than that of steel. However, it could still be considered for lowly stressed structures.

Structure and facies development resulting from neogene gravity tectonics and depositional processes : application to Afo Field Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract: Integration of geophysical data with stratigraphic concepts has added a new dimension to basin analysis without which reservoir, source and seal discrimination may be difficult. A good knowledge of the environment of deposition will aid hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation. This study involves seismic stratigraphic interpretation of Afo Field in the western part of Niger Delta. Seismic data acquired over this field were analysed for the area's internal architecture and gross depositional processes responsible for its facies architectural and structural composition. These analyses were done with a view to know better the environment of deposition of the different facies known to promote the exploration and production of hydrocarbon. Time and time thickness contour maps were generated, facies map of the reflection configuration and that of the relationship of reflections to boundaries were also developed. A cross section drawn across these maps have enabled the determination of the environments for further exploratory studies. The result of this study shows that the environment of deposition was that of delta to marine environment, which can further be incorporated with well data to know the stratigraphy. This approach of combining high resolution seismic data with improved depositional stratigraghic concepts has proved to be effective for basin analysis.

Design of a small scale biodiesel processor.

Abstract: The demand for biodiesel processor is expanding as a result of increasing acceptance of biodiesel as a viable alternative fuel for diesel engines because of its renewable source, high biodegradability and reduced harmful exhaust emissions. This works examines the design of small scale biodiesel processor capable of transesterifying 20 litres of biodiesel per batch from biodiesel feedstock at minimum cost and near perfect purity of biodiesel to reduce treatment after biodiesel production. Basic design requirements such as: stir speed, maximum reaction temperature, mass and energy balance and heat requirements as well as drive and control system were fixed. Performance evaluation of the processor was carried out using vegetable oil and results obtained are within the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specification for biodiesel.

The proximate composition, physical qualities, sensory attributes and microbial load of mungbean biscuits as affected by processing

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to increase the awareness on the potentials of mungbean seeds (Vigna radiata (L) Wilczek (which is lesser known in Nigeria) in biscuit making, especially on the improved nutritional value, hence adding to the variety of products from gluten-free composite flours. The seeds were boiled and toasted at different intervals and then milled into flour. The flour samples were used in baking biscuits and the samples were evaluated for proximate composition, physical qualities, sensory attributes and microbial load. Biscuits from raw flour had the least protein content (2.66%) and did not differ significantly (P>0.05) from the sample produced from 90min boiled mungbean seeds flour (2.88%). The biscuit sample from 30min toasted mungbean seeds flour had the highest crude protein (6.59%) while that from 60min toasted seeds flour had the least protein (3.31%). No significant difference (P>0.05) in moisture content of the biscuits was observed and the physical qualities of the entire biscuit samples did not markedly differ. It was also observed that increase in boiling and toasting time had no significant (P>0.05) effect on the colour, texture, odour, flavour, and general acceptability of the mungbean biscuits except the taste which slightly differed. The result indicated that the bacterial loads of the biscuits produced from boiled mung flour were higher than those from the toasted mung flour. However, apart from the biscuit produced from 30min toasted flour with the least fungal count (3x105cfu/g), the 30min boiled flour and 45min toasted flour with an average fungal count of 8x105cfu/g had fungal counts that were below the tolerable levels (25-250cfu/g).