Simplified evaluation aided by mathematical calculation for characterization of polyols by hydroxyl value determination

The standard approach: National voluntary consensus

Physicochemical properties of artisanal refined gasoline (ARG), arstisanal refined HHK, regular refined HHK and regular automotive gasoline (RAG) sampled from the Eastern Kolo Creek and a tank farm depot in Delta State, Nigeria were investigated. This was to compare the physicochemical properties of the samples with each other and their compliance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The finding revealed that the artisanal refined products quality did not comply with ASTM standards. The research octane number, motor octane number, Reid vapor pressure, and specific gravity of RAG were (ASTM) compliant while only the final boiling point of ARG were within ASTM range. Based on the findings, the artisanal refined products might have been poorly refined or adulterated and could constitute problems in automotive engines if used. However, this crude technology can be upgraded and the gasoline quality improved through alkylation, isomerization, and cyclization. Artisanal refiners should be trained to become proficient with the intent of becoming incorporated into the upstream petroleum sector.

Current pipeline design practice within water, wastewater, and drainage pipe industries is largely based on the American Water Works Association (AWWA) design manuals and standards, American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) codes and design practices, respectively. AWWA, ASTM and AASHTO practices recognize the importance of proper specification and installation of bedding and backfill for achieving the intended structural performance of buried rigid and more importantly flexible pipelines. However, the guidance provided by various AWWA design manuals, specific for pipe materials, ASTM standards, and AASHTO codes use different terminology and requirements to classify and specify bedding and backfill materials based on the pipe material. This variability of bedding and backfill classification and specification requirements creates unnecessary confusion amongst pipeline designers and introduces a potential for unintended use of bedding and backfill materials. More importantly, the use of inconsistent and non-standard soil classification terminologies makes the interdisciplinary communications difficult, potentially resulting in inappropriate and inconsistent selection of engineering properties for the pipeline design. With an understanding of the potential risks from these different specifications based on pipe material, the development of a uniform classification of bedding and backfill materials has been proposed in the past. Due care must be exercised in selecting such a uniform classification system for bedding and backfill. This paper presents the opinion that such a uniform classification and specification system should be based upon fundamental soil mechanics principles, the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS), and engineering properties of soils. The system should also consider the past and present practices of pipeline design. In an attempt to develop such a system, this paper presents the following: 1) A summary of the current practices of classification and specification of bedding and backfill for water/wastewater and storm drainage pipelines. 2) A comparison of current classification and specification practices of bedding and backfill for different pipe materials noting common and differentiating parameters. 3) A proposed uniform framework for classification and specification based on USCS and engineering properties of the bedding and backfill materials.

This paper presents a review of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) standards for determining the plane-strain fracture toughness of cemented carbides and rocks, respectively, with an eye toward applicability to concrete. The evolution of the chevron-notched test specimen used in these standards is briefly reviewed. A discussion of a particular chevron-notched configuration, the short rod test specimen, and associated test methods follows. The ASTM and ISRM standards are then described. The paper evaluates the potential for learning from, modifying, or adapting these standards for use on a standard fracture toughness test for concrete. The potential advantages and disadvantages of using the short rod geometry and testing methods on concrete are discussed, taking into account fracture response, shape, volume, preparation, precracking, symmetry, and subsize specimen effects. Preliminary research into the applicability of the short rod geometry and testing procedures on concrete is discussed.

Investigation of the tensile-shear failure of asphalt concrete base (ACB) construction materials using a non-linear cohesive crack model and critical crack threshold analysis

Because of the temperature extremes encountered during emergency resuscitation and transport in the field, we sought to evaluate the performance and safety of 10 adult resuscitators (5 permanent units: Hope 4, Laerdal, Lifesaver, Mark 3, and PMR; and 5 disposable units: BagEasy, Code Blue, CPR Bag, DMR, and SPUR) across an operational temperature range of -18°C to 50°C. METHOD: We tested the devices against the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard F-920 and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Standard 8382. We tested each resuscitator by using a lung model, the Bio-Tek VT-1 Ventilator Tester. RESULTS: All of the resuscitators met the ventilation requirements for Vr and f (600 mL × 20) and I:E < 1:1 except the SPUR at -18°C. Standards ASTM F-920 and ISO 8382 specify a fractional delivered oxygen concentration (FDO₂) of ≥ 0.85 with attachments and ≥ 0.40 without attachments at oxygen flow of 15 L/min and VE of 7.2 L/min (600 mL × 12). Nine resuscitators met Standards ASTM F-920 and ISO 8382 for FDO₂ with attachments at 21°C and 50°C, but only 3 units (Code Blue, DMR, and PMR) passed at -18°C. At 21°C, the Hope 4 had an FDO2 of 0.77 ± 0.03, which was significantly lower (p < 0.001) than that of the other 9 resuscitators, all of which were ≥ 0.93. Nine resuscitators met the FDO₂ standard without attachments. All 10 resuscitators passed the tests for valve function after contamination with simulated vomitus (at an oxygen flow of 30 L/min) and for backward leakage. At the ventilation pattern recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA) (800 mL × 12) the PMR's mean FDO₂ dropped to 0.86 ± 0.03 because of air leaking into the bag where it attaches to the patient-valve assembly. All 10 resuscitators passed the test for mechanical shock at 21°C and 50°C, but 3 units failed at -18°C. CONCLUSION: We conclude that only the Code Blue and DMR meet the ASTM and ISO standards for operator-powered adult resuscitators across the operational temperature range of -18°C to 50°C.

Europe and the United States have a worldwide significance in the field of concrete control and construction, as well as the cleared and specified standards, according to many countries adopted their standards and regulations in the field of concrete quality control and assurance as proof of the Europe and US strong standards and due to lack of their regulations. This research compares the European standards, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and American Concrete Institute (ACI) standards for testing the mechanical properties of concrete. The research focuses on compressive strength, flexural tensile strength, shear strength, and modulus of elasticity as key properties for assessing the quality and performance of concrete. The study found variations in the specimen size, preparation, and curing requirements, as well as testing procedures and acceptance criteria among the European, ASTM and ACI standards. The research also compared the specimen preparation and curing standards among the different standards. The research highlights the importance of following the appropriate standards and testing procedures to ensure the test results’ reliability and accuracy. Proper specimen preparation and curing are also critical to obtain accurate and representative test results. The research concludes that by following the relevant standards and procedures, it is possible to obtain consistent and reliable results that can be used to assess the quality and performance of concrete in various construction applications. This research provides a useful guide for engineers, contractors and researchers involved in the construction industry to understand and apply the standards for testing the mechanical properties of concrete.

Portions of the sulfur in coal frequently are transformed from one form into another when coal undergoes chemical changes through weathering, pyrolysis, or chemical cleaning. Only three forms of sulfur (sulfatic, pyritic, and organic) are distinguished by the widely-used analytical procedure to determine forms of sulfur in coal, American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Method D-2492. Although the ASTM method is adequate for most fresh untreated coals, two other sulfur forms, elemental and sulfidic, may be present as a result of weathering effects or coal desulfuriza-tion treatments. Results concerning the proportions of organic and pyritic sulfur removed from coal by chemical or thermal desulfurization treatments can sometimes be misleading when using the standard ASTM methods on treated or altered coals. Quantitative tracking of the major forms of sulfur (organic and pyritic) in a coal to the products of different coal treatments is now possible by using carefully selected coals with distinctive sulfur isotope characteristics and analytical methods discussed in this chapter.

Petroleum is presently the most dominant source of global supply of energy; the consumption of it is on the increase due to the advance in technology, innovation and human population growth. In order to overcome this challenge, the production of biodiesel using heterogeneous- or homogenous-based catalyst has been considered in view of ease of catalyst separation from the mixture and low energy consumption. This study aimed to investigate the production of biodiesel using calcium oxide obtained from river snail shells through calcinations method at 800 oC for 4 hours in a muffle furnace and used as catalyst for the production of biodiesel from desert date seed oil. The chemical composition of the calcined river snail shell was determined by XRF (X-ray fluorescence) techniques. Desert date seed oil was transesterified into biodiesel using electromagnetic stirrer device. Methanol was introduced with CaO into the reaction vessel containing the desert date seed oil. The Central Composite Design method was achieved at varied temperature of 50-60 oC and the catalyst concentration between 0.5-2.0 wt% at constant reaction time of 1 hour 30 minutes after which the mixture was allowed to settle and the methyl ester (biodiesel) was separated from the mixture. The characterization of desert date seed oil methyl ester showed that the biodiesel had a flash point 65 oC, pour point of -4 oC, cloud point of 2 oC, acid value of 3.92 mgKOH/g and density of 0.87 g/cm3 and these values are all within the range as specified by ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and EN (European Norm) standards for biodiesel. The FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) analyses also reveal that desert date seed oil contains much oil content that makes it suitable raw materials for biodiesel production. The maximum response yield of biodiesel was 90% at the temperature of 60 oC and catalyst concentration of 0.5 wt%. This work further shows that derived catalyst obtained from river snail shell can be used as catalyst to produce biodiesel through transesterification process.

This research aimed to analyze alpaca (Vicugna pacos) wool fiber as a reinforcement in the properties of concrete. For this purpose, methodologies such as ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), ACI (American Concrete Institute), and Peruvian Technical Standards (NTP) were used; likewise, the experimental design methodology was employed. The sample consisted of 45 specimens; 30 were cylindrical, and 15 were in the form of beams. The alpaca wool fiber was used in percentages of 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4%, with 60 mm length cuts added to the concrete mix. The results showed that the compressive strength in the specimens containing the alpaca wool fiber at 28 days complies with the percentages established by the ACI standard. However, the compressive strength of 33.48% was decreased in the control specimen. As for the tensile strength, compared to the control specimen, an average increase of 1.19% was observed on day 28. Finally, compared to the control specimen, the values obtained in the flexural strength of the alpaca wool fiber specimens showed an average reduction of 19% and 18% on days 14 and 28, respectively. In conclusion, when analyzing the samples containing the alpaca wool fiber, we observed that the tensile strength improved thanks to alpaca wool fibers.

The chemical composition of 23 wood chip samples and 132 wood pellet samples manufactured in the United States and Canada were analyzed for their energy and chemical properties and compared to German standards for pellet quality. The pellet samples obtained from various locations across northern New York and New England included 100 different manufacturers and duplicate samples of some brands. The calorific value, moisture content, and ash content of the samples were determined according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) methods. Sulfate and chloride samples were prepared using ASTM methods and analyzed by ion chromatography (IC). The elemental compositions of the ashed wood samples were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP–MS). Mercury was measured by direct analysis of wood samples. The distributions of the sample characteristics, such as heating value, ash content, moisture content, ions, and heavy elements, are presented. Major ash-forming elements were Ca, K, Al, Mg, and Fe. Although heavy elements are found naturally in wood and bark, some pellet samples had unusually high concentrations of heavy elements. This contamination was likely because of inclusion of extraneous materials, such as scrap or painted wood, bark or leaves, and other possible contaminants, during pellet manufacturing processes. Most of the commercially available wood pellets of this study would meet German and European industrial standards. However, standards for elemental compositions of commercial wood pellets and chips need to be established in the United States to exclude extraneous materials. The promulgation of such standards would reduce environmental problems related to air emissions and ash used as fertilizers for agriculture soils, where there are limits on the allowable concentrations for many elements.

The research about biodiesel produced from cow's fat using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as catalyst has been done. Biodiesel produced from cow's fat was done through transesterification process using methanol 1:12 which priory react with 0.3% NaOH as catalyst due to oil and methanol weight. The transesterification process was conducted for 5 hours at 65°C. Biodiesel from cow's fat is characterisized by GC-MS and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) method. Methyl ester which produced from cow's Fat fat are 31.67% of stearic acid, 25.67% of palmitate acid, and 22.68% of oleate acid. Biodisel from cow's fat are qualified as diesel fuel and biodiesel characterisized by ASTM for specific density (0.8705 kg/m3), kinematic viscosity (4,481 mm2/s), flash point (176,5 0C), pour point (21 0C), and Conradson's carbon residu (0.0139% wt).

Synthesis and characterization of hexafluorozirconic acid powder and its application in nanoceramic coating

Effect of fiber type and combinations on the mechanical, physical and thermal stability properties of polyester hybrid composites

One of the fundamental problems in simulating the motion of sharp interfaces between immiscible fluids is a description of the transition that occurs when the interfaces merge and reconnect. It is well known that classical methods involving sharp interfaces fail to describe this type of phenomena. Following some previous work in this area, we suggest a physically motivated regularization of the Euler equations which allows topological transitions to occur smoothly. In this model, the sharp interface is replaced by a narrow transition layer across which the fluids may mix. The model describes a flow of a binary mixture, and the internal structure of the interface is determined by both diffusion and motion. An advantage of our regularization is that it automatically yields a continuous description of surface tension, which can play an important role in topological transitions. An additional scalar field is introduced to describe the concentration of one of the fluid components and the resulting system of equations couples the Euler (or Navier–Stokes) and the Cahn–Hilliard equations. The model takes into account weak non–locality (dispersion) associated with an internal length scale and localized dissipation due to mixing. The non–locality introduces a dimensional surface energy; dissipation is added to handle the loss of regularity of solutions to the sharp interface equations and to provide a mechanism for topological changes. In particular, we study a non–trivial limit when both components are incompressible, the pressure is kinematic but the velocity field is non–solenoidal (quasi–incompressibility). To demonstrate the effects of quasi–incompressibility, we analyse the linear stage of spinodal decomposition in one dimension. We show that when the densities of the fluids are not perfectly matched, the evolution of the concentration field causes fluid motion even if the fluids are inviscid. In the limit of infinitely thin and well–separated interfacial layers, an appropriately scaled quasi–incompressible Euler–Cahn–Hilliard system converges to the classical sharp interface model. In order to investigate the behaviour of the model outside the range of parameters where the sharp interface approximation is sufficient, we consider a simple example of a change of topology and show that the model permits the transition to occur without an associated singularity.