Iraqi Journal of Industrial Research

Enhancing Anticorrosive Characteristics of Epoxy through Nanocellulose Reinforcement

Rafah Alwan Nassif, Raghad Hamid Hilal, Wafaa Khalid Khalef — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Nanocellulose (NC) stands out as a promising reinforcement agent for protective coatings due to its renewable, biodegradable, and biocompatible nature. In this research, we synthesized coconut shell powder nanoparticles (CSNPs) with an average size of 52.43 nm in the laboratory. These CSNPs were incorporated into epoxy (EP) coatings at loadings ranging from 0 to 3 wt% through a hand-laying process, applied onto steel rods at room temperature. Characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to analyze the nanocomposite coatings. The corrosion resistance of the coated steel rods was evaluated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) after immersion in a 3.5% sodium chloride solution. Notably, after a 5-day exposure, the 2% CSNP-loaded coating exhibited the highest adhesion strength, surpassing the pure epoxy coating and other formulations. SEM analysis confirmed the excellent dispersion of 2% nanocellulose in the matrix, demonstrating superior anti-corrosion properties over 30 and 90 days of EIS experiments. Comparative studies with pure epoxy resin through EIS and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) tests underscored the significant enhancement in corrosion protection performance achieved by incorporating CSNPs. The study employs terms such as nanocomposites, nanocellulose, characterizations, coating, anticorrosion, and electrochemical tests to comprehensively address the multifaceted aspects of this investigation.

Bohm Diffusion in Magnetron Sputtering System: A Review Article

Murad M. Kadhim, Qusay A. Abbas — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in understanding Bohm diffusion in magnetron sputtering systems, a process critical for optimizing thin-film deposition. Bohm diffusion significantly influences the spatial distribution and energy of sputtered particles near the substrate, impacting the overall film quality and performance. The review delves into theoretical models, experimental findings, and computational simulations to uncover the mechanisms driving Bohm diffusion within the plasma sheath. Key factors, such as magnetic field strength, gas pressure, target-to-substrate distance, and plasma parameters, are examined for their impact on diffusion behaviors and, consequently, film deposition outcomes. By highlighting these interdependencies, the review underscores the importance of Bohm diffusion in achieving controlled, uniform deposition essential for high-performance coatings. Additionally, it addresses how advances in understanding Bohm diffusion can enable more effective tuning of deposition processes to meet specific application requirements in fields ranging from electronics to materials engineering. Through a synthesis of current research, this review offers valuable insights to scientists and engineers aiming to enhance the efficiency and precision of magnetron sputtering for tailored thin-film applications, ultimately contributing to the broader field of thin-film fabrication.

A Review of Bismuth Nanoparticles and Surface Plasmon Resonance; Synthesis and Properties for Medical Physics Applications

Ayia M. H. Kinaanah, Raad M. S. Al-Haddad — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The Study describes the efficient synthesis of bismuth nanoparticles due to their effective properties for medical physics applications, such as cancer therapyptical properties of nonmetalsare being exploited for multimodal therapeutic applications, in particular in the field of studying cancer cells and trying to inhibit their activity. Nano bismuth can be prepared in an environmentally friendly way called the green method, using plant extracts and lemon extract, which is one of the good types for use in preparing nano bismuth studying its properties, and using it in various applications. The good absorption of near - infrared radiation by bismuth nanoparticles has encouraged the use of bismuth in the field of therapeutic studies for cancer, where it has become strongly present, but there is a major challenge facing this type of study because cancer as yet one of the main causes of human demise and the side effects of the traditional treatments have remained without nresolved. In addition, it is present in other areas due to the good efficiency shown by its optical properties. Bismuth using in various applications over the past decades is mainly due to their properties which ensure the high quality of their application. Furthermore, interrelationships in scientific research between various disciplines, for example, between physics and biology, as well as between engineering and biological disciplines. This interconnection between scientific disciplines,can be employed in studying the properties of metallic nanomaterials and thus the possibility of using them and benefiting from them in medical fields.

Phy-X/PSD and NGCAL Models of Several Metal Sulphides: Theoretical Prediction of Gamma Shielding Efficiency

Nadher Ali Salman, Kafa Khalaf Hammud — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Various metal sulphides were selected for gamma and neutron shielding prediction by (Phy-X and NGCAL). The gamma parameters calculated by both software programs in the studied energy range were found to be identical, with differences (Δ% less than 1%) between both models. The Mass Attenuation Coefficient (MAC), Mean Free Path (MFP), Half Value Layer (HVL), Tenth Value Layer (TVL), and Effective Atomic Number (Z_eff) were calculated. Ag₂S was a superior neutron and photon attenuator because it contains two silver ions with the highest density, mean atomic number, and metal composition in addition to the lowest (S%) among all sulphides under evaluation. Additionally, the Ag₂S monoclinic network is fabricated from (2Ag⁺) linked to one (S^2-). Therefore, the presence of heavy packed ions in the unit cell resulted in more gamma attenuation. The Z_effvariation with the energy range of 0.015–15 MeV may be associated with the density, mean atomic number, composition (%) or weight fraction, total atomic cross-section, crystal geometry and elemental packing of each molecule. It can be concluded that Ag₂S was the superior attenuator between the sulphides under prediction, especially at higher energies. The Gamma Protection Efficiency (GPE, %) was also calculated for the gamma shielding subject based on the Linear Attenuation Coefficient (LAC) data presented in the Beer–Lamberts law: GPE% = (1-e^(-µx)) * 100, where the thickness was assumed. The GPE% increased with increasing thickness and decreased with increasing energy. Also, silver sulphide showed the highest GPE among the other tested materials. The GPE% of the thermal or fast neutrons was also calculated, where the increasing order was SnS, SnS₂, ZnS, MoS₂, As₂S₃, CuFeS₂, FeS, CoS, and Ag₂S for thermal neutrons and SnS₂, SnS, MoS₂, As₂S₃, ZnS, CuFeS₂, FeS, Ag₂S, and CoS for fast neutrons.

Simulation of an 18 MW Alkaline Electrolysis Plant for Green Hydrogen Production in Abu Dhabi

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In the global effort to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the creation of green hydrogen by water electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar power, is becoming more important. In order to take advantage of the rich solar energy resources in the Al Dhafra region and offer sustainable electricity for the plant's hydrogen production operations, this research presents a simulation and analysis of an alkaline electrolysis plant located in Abu Dhabi. Based on basic chemical engineering design concepts, the research performs extensive calculations for the material and energy balances and estimates the capital costs of the process equipment. The findings show that the proposed alkaline electrolysis facility can produce hydrogen at a rate of 3753 kg/h and, as a beneficial byproduct, 28906 kg/h of oxygen. It is expected that an 18 MW alkaline electrolysis plant will require a total capital investment of about 100,000,000 USD, with an approximate yearly profit predicted of this process that reached of 50,000,000 USD. This analysis supports the region's sustainability goals and the global shift to a low-carbon future by highlighting the economic feasibility and environmental advantages of including the renewable energy-powered green hydrogen generation into Abu Dhabi's energy landscape.

Effect of Al2O3/H2O Nanofluid on the Flow and Forced Convection Heat Transfer Enhancement in a Pipe Using Commercial CFD Code

Sarmad A. Ali, Mohanad R. Hameed, Hanan K. Kadhim — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The use of advanced nanofluids increases and improves the heat transfer process in different industrial and engineering applications compared to conventional fluids. In recent years, researchers have used in their research investigations the addition of nanofluids with the basic fluid to improve its thermophysical properties. This research deals with a numerical study (simulation using commercial CFD code) of forced convection heat transfer in a two-dimensional (2D) pipe by adding aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) as a nanofluid with water (H₂O) and by partially constant heat flux along the length of the pipe and in the direction of the axis of fluid flow. Several operational parameters have been studied, including the heat transfer coefficient, the Nusselt number, the friction factor, and the pressure difference as a function of the Reynolds number, as well as studying the temperature distribution, velocity, and pressure of fluid flow inside the test section. Reynolds number range of fluid flow (3000 - 6000) with volumetric fractions of nanofluids at (0.6% and 1.5%). The results of the study showed the addition of nanofluid with water improves and increases the heat transfer coefficient and thus increases the Nusselt number, also the friction factor gradually decreases by increasing the velocity of the fluid passing into the pipe.

Dynamic Stress Analysis of Turbocharger Blades under High-Velocity Impact Load

Sarah S. Faraj, Nabil H. Hadi — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The turbocharger fails due to high pressure and rotational speed. To examine the stress placed on the turbocharger's turbine blade, the analysis focused specifically on the turbine's relation to a 118 kW engine used in automobiles. The turbine operates at a rotational speed of 10000 r.p.m. In calculating the turbine design, factors such as pressure, quantity, breadth, tangential force, mass flow rate, radial force, and the input and output of the blades were considered. The turbine blade design included twelve blades. SolidWorks software was used to study and model the turbine blade of the turbo-engine, and a suitable finite element model was developed. In this project, the turbocharger turbine wheel, with configurations of 8, 10, and 12 blades, was designed and optimized for material selection. When subjected to the same pressure and speed, the Von Mises stress and deformation data were analyzed, comparing aluminum alloys (2618-T61 and 7075-T6), alloy steel, and copper alloys (manganese bronze). The results showed that the turbine wheel experienced minimal Von Mises stress of 175.8 MPa in aluminum alloy (2618-T61) with 12 blades at a ball velocity of 50 m/s, a minimum equivalent elastic strain of 1.503 in alloy steel with 8 blades, and a minimum total deformation of 6.138×10⁻² mm in alloy steel with 8 blades at a ball velocity of 50 m/s. Therefore, aluminum alloy (2618-T61) with 12 blades was determined to be the most suitable material and configuration for the turbine blade wheel.

Corrosion Behaviour, Kinetic and Thermodynamic Studies of Water Hyacinth Extract as a Corrosion Inhibitor for Low-Carbon Steel

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Corrosion inhibitors are widely used in industry to reduce the corrosion rate of metals and alloys. Corrosion inhibitors adsorb onto metallic surfaces and insulate them from deterioration. Plants abundant in nature offer a cost-effective replacement for toxic chemical inhibitors on the market. The current research used the potentiostatic polarization technique at room temperature to explore the inhibitory impact of water hyacinth extract on the corrosion of low-carbon steel specimens in a 3.5% NaCl solution. The Tafel curve was used to assess corrosion inhibition activity, with the best inhibition efficiency reaching 79.36% at a concentration of 200 ppm. Cyclic polarization indicated the type of corrosion was general corrosion. The surface of carbon steel was investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). FTIR analysis reveals the presence of alkaloid compounds, which are known corrosion inhibitors. In addition, the polarization behavior indicates that this inhibitor acts as a mixed-type inhibitor. Kinetic and thermodynamic parameters have been obtained from temperature studies. The higher activation energy than the blank (26.17 kJ/mol to 46.4 kJ/mol) suggests that an inhibitor has been deposited on the metal surface that is corroding, providing a resist layer to prevent corrosion. The low-carbon steel dissolution process is exothermic, as evidenced by the negative enthalpy of activation value. A positive increase in the activation entropy during the formation of the film layer suggests more disordering.

Screening and Optimization of L-Methioninase Production by Gram-Negative Bacteria from Various Hospitals in Baghdad City

Zahraa Mohammed Wahib, Sahira Nsayef Muslim, Farha A. Ali Shafi — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

L-methioninase, a pyridoxal 5′-phosphate dependent enzyme that catalyze degradation of L-methionine to ammonia, methanethiol and α -ketobutyrate. L-methioninase had received a lot of interest for its importance, so to improve the production of L-methioninase, media optimization was done. In this study, clinical isolates of gram-negative bacteria have been collected from several hospitals located in Baghdad city, these isolates were Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii and Serratia marcescens. The screening for detecting L-methioninase production was performed by semi-quantitative and quantitative analysis, the results revealed that out of all obtained isolates, 31(41.33%) were L-methioninase producers from semi-quantitative screening while by quantitative method only 16 isolates out of these 31 isolates revealed specific activity ranged from 0.19 to 1.15 U/mg and the maximum specific activity was for E. coli U8, which was chosen as best producer isolates. The L-methioninase activity reached its maximum level when E. coli U8 was cultivated with the best conditions, which is consisted of using modified mineral salt M9 broth medium supplemented with L-methionine mixed with galactose (2 g/L) as carbon source and L-glutamine (1.5 g/L) and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours at pH 7.

Children in Zakho City with Normal Weight or Obesity and Their Serum Magnesium Levels

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Backgrounds: Obesity among children is a global health issue, with a significant increase in prevalence over the past three decades. Over 379 million children and adolescents globally are overweight or obese. Magnesium is fourth among the most abundant cations after calcium, sodium, and potassium. Magnesium is essential for biological functions. It can lead to deadly outcomes such as vasospasm of cardiac arteries, arrhythmias, and even unexpected death. Methodology: A cross-sectional case-control research design was used to evaluate data from 100 children 50 boys, and 50 girls, aged 2-14 years at Zakho General Hospital in Iraq. The sample was obtained between April 1st, 2022, and April 1st, 2023. Demographic data, blood collection, and anthropometric measurements were used. Serum magnesium levels were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Ethical approval was obtained from the College of Medicine/University of Zakho. Statistical analysis included Chi-square and independent t-tests. Results: The study found that the majority of obese children are 5-10 years old, with males dominating. The mean serum magnesium level for all participants was 2.082 ±0.190 mg/dl which is a bit higher in the obese than normal-weight children with no significant difference. Conclusion: The serum magnesium level is not significantly related to body weight in children. Further studies are recommended focusing on the dietary intake and physical activity that are the main confounders for this association.

Potential Health Impact of Excessive Disinfectant Use during COVID-19 Pandemic

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

During COVID-19 pandemic, disinfection is a commonly used practice to control and prevent spreading the infection. Overexposure to these chemicals has led to negative health consequences. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge and effects of the overuse of disinfectants during the COVID-19 outbreak in Baghdad, Iraq. One hundred employees working in medical field (Ibn Al-Bitar Research Center/ Corporation of research and Industrial Development, Ministry of Industry and Minerals – Iraq) were participated in a cross-sectional questionnaire survey conducted between January and March 2022. The study found that 68% of participants were confirmed to be infected with the virus, while 32% were not. The participants showed a significant age and gender distribution. According to data, 86% of the participant committed to wearing masks, 58% committed to wearing gloves while 35% committed to wearing both gloves and masks. People pick news as their main information source over social media. Furthermore, 70% of participants used ethanol for hand sterilization, while 36% used gel hand sanitizers from different manufactures. According to health consequences that appeared with different symptoms and documented during overuse of disinfectant, the regular hand sanitizer use could cause irritation and skin damage for 33% of the participants, while 67% did not show any reaction. Employers with health symptoms suggested to be related to sterilizer overuse were found to be 33% and 35% affected in skin and breathing, respectively. To summarize, this survey provides a scientific vision on the negative side effect of the excessive use of disinfectant on health which should increase the public awareness worldwide.