009666   Jain P K;Mewade R (NO, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal-462 051, Email: pkjain10@rediffmail.com) : New approach for repairing damaged floors laid over expansive soil. Asian J chem envir Res 2010, 3(4), 19-23.

The floors laid over expansive soil may get sunk due to moisture variation in the soil beneath. The prevailing methods of repairing the floors are time consuming and costly. This paper suggests a new approach of repairing the floor that requires only partial removal and replacement of problematic soil. It utilizes the benefits of soil stabilization along with experimentally tested method of providing short length concrete piles at regular interval. The proposed method is fast and economical in comparison to conventional methods.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

009665   Iyer G H (NO, , Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Email: harihara.iyer@gmail.com) : Energy conservation opportunities/audit vis-a-vis mine productivity. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(3-4), 119-22.

Mining operation, whether opencast or underground, with modern equipment is highly energy intensive, needing energy conservation and management to ensure efficiency, cost effectiveness, and overall productivity. Energy efficiency as well as energy conservation is the topics of global interests with particular reference to developing countries whose economy is totally energy dependent. Exhaustible primary energy resources such as coal, lignite, oil, nuclear fuels are being mined out to meet our energy needs. As such, energy conservation effort has to necessarily commence from mining activities. This aspect is particularly relevant in today's context of global economic meltdown where the mining industry is worst affected, passing through the worst of crises ever. An attempt has been made in this paper to highlight the energy conservation opportunities, energy audit, and the relevant Energy Conservation Act-2001, and certain energy saving measures, leading to higher productivity followed by a few case study examples.

3 ref

009664   Horng J W (Electronic Engineering Dep, Chung Yuan Christian Univ, Chung-Li, 320 23, Taiwan) : High input impedance first-order allpass, highpass and lowpass filters with grounded capacitor using single DVCC. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2010, 17(3), 175-8.

A voltage-mode high input impedance first-order allpass, highpass and lowpass filters using one differential voltage current conveyor (DVCC), one grounded capacitor and two resistors is presented. The allpass, highpass and lowpass signals can be obtained simultaneously from the circuit configuration. The simulation results confirm the theoretical analysis.

3 illus, 1 tables, 23 ref

009663   Horng J W (Electronic Engineering Dep, Chung Yuan Christian Univ, Chung-Li-32023) : Current-mode and transimpedance-mode universal biquadratic filter using multiple outputs CCIIs. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2010, 17(3), 169-74.

A current-mode and transimpedance-mode universal biquadratic filter with single input and multi-outputs using three multiple outputs second-generation current conveyors (MOCCIIs), five resistors and two grounded capacitors is presented. The proposed circuit can realize current-mode notch, bandpass and lowpass responses, simultaneously. The current-mode highpass and allpass responses can be obtained by interconnection of relevant output currents. Moreover, the transimpedance-mode highpass, bandpass, lowpass, notch and allpass filters can also be obtained, simultaneously, from the proposed circuit.

5 illus, 1 tables, 16 ref

009662   Hasani H;Shanbeh M (Textile Engineering Dep, Isfahan Univ of Technology, Isfahan-84156-83111, Iran) : Application of multiple linear regression and artificial neural network algorithms to predict the total hand value of summer knitted T-shirts. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2010, 35(3), 222-7.

A mathematical method, Weighted Euclidean Distance, has been applied for indirect determination of total hand value from the KES system parameters obtained for various summer knitted T-shirts. In this method, the weight of multivariable related to fabric hand has been determined from objective measurements without any resource to subjective evaluation. Artificial neural network with back propagation learning algorithm and multiple linear regression algorithm have been used to construct predictive models for the determination of total hand value of summer knitted T-shirts based on fabric mechanical properties measured on the KES system of each sample as input and total hand value predicted by mathematical model as desired output. The predictive power of optimized models is calculated and compared. The results reveal that the artificial neural network model is very effective for predicting the total hand value and has the better performance as compared to multiple linear regression model.

2 illus, 6 table, 15 ref

009661   Gielish H (DMT Gmbh & Co. KG, Am Technologiepark 1, 45307 Esse, Germany, Email: hartwig.gielish@dmt.de) : Location and exploration of hidden coal fires in India-extingusihing strategies. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 389.

009660   Ghose A K (NO, Indian School of Mines Univ, Dhanbad, Email: ghose.ajay@gmail.com) : Coal mine fires in India-an overview. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 419-20.

009659   Dutta B K;Durgaprasad P V;Vaze K K;Naveen Kumar V (Reactor Safety Div, BARC, Trombay, Mumbai-400 055) : Material modelling to assess properties of irradiated material. BARC Newsl 2010, 316(Sep), 40-6.

Development programs for materials for future fusion power reactors are being carried out a/I over the world. Possible structural materials for the reactor chamber first wall and blanket structure are limited, because these materials are expected to operate above 500 °C and see a damage of upto 7 50-200 dpa. Ferritic/martensitic steels are candidate structural materials to operate at such extreme conditions. Mechanical behaviour of these materials under irradiation conditions are studied, using both numerical and experimental techniques. Recent progress in computational materials science, allows us to understand the behaviour of irradiated materials through numerical simulations. Multi-scale material modelling is such one computational tool, that helps in the determination of macroscopic material deformation (MD) behaviour in a hierarchical way. It helps in understanding the role of nano, micro and meso level defects (voids, dislocations, micro cracks, grain boundaries, dislocation interactions etc.) in plasticity of materials, so as to support laboratory experiments. In-the present article, we describe BARC in-house work in the area of atomistic modelling of mechanical behaviour of irradiated materials, with focus on ferritic/martensitic steels-. This work also forms part of ongoing research, on use of multi-scale material modelling methodoldgy, in the determination of mechanical properties of irradiated structural materials.

8 illus, 12 ref

009658   Dulera I V;Sinha R K (Reactor Engineering Div, BARC, Trombay, Mumbai-400 055) : Indian high temperature reactor programme: an overview. BARC Newsl 2010, 316(Sep), 65-9.

High temperature reactors have a large potential to provide necessary high temperature process heat for hydrogen production, through high efficiency hydrogen production processes. BARC is carrying out developmental work related to various aspects of high temperature nuclear reactors. Besides design, R & D work encompasses development of high temperature high burn-up fuel, special materials, joining technologies, coatings, characterization techniques, instrumentation, passive systems for high temperature thermal management, high temperature heat pipes, systems for reactor safety. Studies planned to be carried out include, seismic behaviour, irradiation behaviour of fuel and materials, inter material compatibility, oxidation and corrosion-related studies.

3 illus, 2 tables, 3 ref

009657   Dikshit M P;Singh O P (NO, , SECL) : Surface miner operation-a cost effective, eco-friendly coal mining for mass production in opencast coal mines in India. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(3-4), 58-61.

Opencast mining in Indian coal industry has contributed significantly after nationalization of the industry. However there are certain disadvantages in operation while such technology is practiced for large scale mining particularly from environmental considerations. Now time has come to adopt state of the art technology in mega oc coal mines in the days to come to make coal mining more eco-friendly and for its better acceptability to the community. Surface miner in OC coal mining operation is a land mark not only for eco-friendly mining but also to care for sized coal suitable for power sectors who are the major consumer for thermal coal in India. Attempts are made in this work to make a presentation on such eco-friendly coal mining by surface miner in India.

3 tables

009656   Dikshit M P (NO, South Eastern Coalfields Limited, Bilaspur) : Mine fires in Indian coal industry. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 349-51.

009655   Deka B;Sahu P P (Electronics & Communication Engg Dep, Tezpur Univ, Napaam-784 028) : Transformation relationship of directional coupler with multimode interference couper and two mode interference couper. J Optics 2009, 38(2), 75-87.

A simple effective index model of directional coupler (DC) with coupling gap refractive index, different from cladding region, has been presented. Using this model, we have shown for the first time the transition from DC to two mode interference (TMI) coupler by decreasing coupling gap and transition from DC to multimode interference (MMI) coupler-based general interference by enhancing refractive index of coupling gap towards refractive index of waveguide core. It is seen that DC with coupling gap <126>0.02 μm is equivalent to TMI coupler and DC with coupling region refractive index <126>0.43% less than that of core region is equivalent to MMI coupler. It is also seen that the reduction of beat length is more in TMI coupler than that for MMI coupler, during transformation of DC to TMI and MMI coupler.

8 illus, 15 ref

009654   Das S;Pal S (Opto-electronic Devices Group, Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute (Council of Scient, Pilani-333 031) : Simple silica-on-silicon technology-compatible design of 1X8 optical splitter based on field matching Y-branch with S-bend sine taper and are waveguide. J Optics 2009, 38(3), 177-90.

A simple technology-compatible design of silica-on-silicon based 1 x 8 optical power splitter is proposed. The device is based on symmetric Y-branch comprising of S-bend sine taper and S-bend sine arc waveguide. Initially, a symmetric Y-junction based 1x8 optical power splitter is designed, which can deliver the best result in simulated performance. The design is, however, not technology-compatible to be fabricated in silica-on-silicon, and therefore, the design is modified by incorporating a finite gap at the splitting junction, instead of zero-gap. Inclusion of this gap in the design slightly deteriorates the simulated performance of the splitter, however, a relatively better post-fabrication performance is expected in terms of total insertion loss, non-uniformity and the polarization dependent loss. Beam propagation method is applied for this work, where S-bend sine taper and arc waveguides are designed for optimal field matching in each Y-branch section of the optical splitter.

11 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

009653   Das M;Singh S P;Pal K;Jena Suchika;Karmakar B (Glass Div, Glass Science and Technology Section, Central Glass and Ceramic Resear, Kolkata-700 032) : Influence of combined Al₂O₃-SiO₂ filler on thermal and dielectric properties of barium zinc borate glass microcomposites for barrier ribs of plasma display panels. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2010, 17(3), 199-207.

The co-effects of Al₂O₃-SiO₂ filler to an extent of 25 wt.% on thermal (softening point and coefficient of thermal expansion) and dielectric constant of lead free BaO-ZnO-B₂O₃-SiO2-Li₂O-Na2O (BZBSLN) glasses have been explored with a view to use as barrier ribs of plasma display panels-(PDPs). The interaction of fillers with glass occurred during firing (570°C) has also been investigated by XRD, SEM micrograph and FTIR spectroscopy analyses. The fillers have been found to be partially dissolved in the glass at the firing temperature leaving some unreacted residual filler which result in ceramic-glass microcomposites. All the properties are found to follow the same experimental and theoretical trends, and regulate by the covalent character as well as the optical basicity of microcomposites. Addition of combined filler found to be yielded the required properties and meeting the criteria for barrier rib application.

12 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

009652   Das A;Raghav R J (Textile Technology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi-110 016, Email: apurba65@gmail.com) : Bursting behavior of spunbonded nonwoven fabrics: Part I-effect of various parameters. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2010, 35(3), 258-63.

Bursting behavior of different polypropylene heat-sealed spunbonded nonwoven fabrics has been studied under different pressure conditions and different mass per unit area (50 - 300 g/m²). The spunbonded nonwoven fabrics are subjected to number of bursting cycles at various levels of pressure and extensions. The effects of rest time at peak pressure, number of pressure cycles, levels of pressure and mass per unit area on bursting behaviour of spunbonded nonwovens have been studied. It is observed that with the increase in mass per unit area of spunbonded nonwovens the bursting strength as well as the extension on bursting increase. Cyclic bursting loading, and time duration at peak loading show significant effect of nature of bursting pressure and extension. With the increase in number of cycles for constant value of bursting pressure, the value of extension of same fabric increases. The level of pressure developed within the nonwoven structure at certain level of extension depends on the mass per unit area of nonwoven.

4 illus, 9 ref

009651   Choudhury D (Electrionices and Communication Engineering Dep, JIS College of Engineering, Block A, Phase III, Kalyani, Nadia-741 235) : Three-dimensional human face recognition. J Optics 2009, 38(1), 16-21.

In this communication, we propose a technique for three-dimensional (3D) human face recognition. The 3D shape information of the faces is utilized to synthesize two-dimensional spatial functions, called the signature functions. Face recognition task is completed by carrying out cross-correlation between the signature functions of the faces and analyzing the correlation peaks. High correlation peak signifies true class recognition and low or no peak signifies false class rejection. Preliminary experimental results are presented that demonstrate the feasibility.

2 illus, 10 ref

009650   Chiu Y S P;Chen K K;Chang H H (Industrial Engineering and Management Dep, Chaoyang University of Technology, Taiwan, Email: chs@cyut.edu.tw) : Solving an economic production lot size problem with multi-delivery policy and quality assarance using an algebraic approach. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(12), 926-9.

This paper studies an economic production lot size problem with multi-delivery policy and quality assurance using an algebraic approach for practitioner, who may not have enough knowledge of differential calculus, to understand such an integrated production-shipment system. A recent study¹⁹ examined same problem using mathematical modeling and differential calculus to derive optimal replenishment lot size.

22 ref

009649   Chen L;Wang T S (Civil Cingineering Informatics Dep, Chung Hua Univ, Hsinchu, Taiwan 30067, R.O. of China) : Modeling slump of concrete using the group method data handling algorithm. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2010, 17(3), 179-85.

This paper proposes the group method data handling (GMDH) algorithm and applies it to estimate the slump of high-performance concrete (HPC). It is known that HPC is a highly complex material whose behaviour is difficult to model, especially for slump. To estimate the slump, it is a nonlinear function of the content of all concrete ingredients, including cement, fly ash, blast furnace slag, water, superplasticizer, and coarse and fine aggregate. Therefore, slump estimation is set as a function of the content of these seven concrete ingredients and additional four important ratios. The GMDH algorithm presented in this paper has the advantage of a heuristic self-organized and gradually complicated model for the complicated multi-variable HPC slump estimation. The model establishes the input-output relationship of a complex system using a multilayered perception-type structure that is similar to a feed-forward multilayer artificial neural network (ANN), but it expresses relationships using more explicit functions than ANN. Moreover, the GMDH has the ability to select significant variables and combine them properly and automatically. The results show that GMDH obtains a more accurate mathematical equation through learning procedures which outperforms the traditional multiple linear regression analysis (RA) and ANN, with lower estimating errors for predicting the HPC slump.

6 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

009648   Chavan Y V;Mishra D K (Electronics and Telecommunication Dep, Maharashtra Academy of Engineering, Alandi(D), Pune, (M.S.), Email: chavan.yashwant@gmail.com) : Lens modeling for computer vision system. J Optics 2009, 38(1), 38-47.

Lens is important component of any imaging or visual system; when light falls on any object partly it is reflected and partly transmitted (through the object). The imaging system is based on the light refracted through the optical components like lens. In this paper we are discussing refraction for the real time imaging, so as to adjust the focus for the various rays received after the refraction from the live scene through the modeled lens. The purpose of this paper is to model a lens in 3-D without distortion, by adjusting the rotational angles and linear distance by translational motion that the object makes with coordinate axes. In the Part-I the linear distance is modeled mathematically, to understand how the distance affects the focusing. The results from Part-I are used in part-II for 3D progressive focusing. The radial distortion is taken into account as the constant tem. The results for the standard deviation, mean and mean squared error for the given set of inputs are tabulated for camera focusing.

5 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

009647   Chattoraj P;Sinha S K;Pradhan G K (NO, PCRA-ER, Kolkata) : Energy audit-a case study of a coal mining area. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(3-4), 109-15.

7 tables, 7 ref

009646   Chakraborty S N (NO, Goma Engineering Pvt. Ltd., Majiwada, Thane-400 601, Email: snchakroborty@yahoo.com) : Combating coal mine fire-application of high pressure water jet technology adopted by Goma Engineering Pvt. Ltd.. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 418,398.

009645   Bordia S K (NO, , Australia, Email: laepng@yahoo.com) : Highly productive mine in harmony with local communities in Papua New Guinea. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(3-4), 93-6.

4 ref

009644   Bora D K;Das L M;Babu M K G (NO, Jorhat Engineering College, Jorhat-7, Email: dilipboraesz@rediffmail.com) : Wear and tear analysis of a single cylinder diesel engine using karanja biodiesel (B20) after 512 hours. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(8), 639-42.

This study presents effects of biodiesel blends namely B20K fuel (80% diesel + 20% Karanja biodiesel) on single cylinder diesel engine performance and lubricating oil under two long duration endurance tests of 512 n. SAE grade 15W 40 engine oil was used for both the tests. Experimental results indicated that engine can be safely operated with B20 fuel, without significant changes in engine power, fuel economy and lubricating oil properties.

4 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

009643   Bodi J;Bodi Z (NO, , Ostrava Vikovicka 3303, Areal dolu Hlubina, 702 00 Ostrava, Chech Republic, Email: zoltan_bodi@gmeconsult.eu) : Use of polyurethane in underground coalmine for sealing of fire in Hullera Vasco Leonese mine. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 369-71.

5 illus, 2 tables

009642   Bhattacharya J (Mining Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur) : Mining and strategic planning guidance on single mine operations. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(3-4), 75-82.

This work discusses on the preparation before starting a mining project vis a vis global trends as applicable. It brings in the mining project scenario as practically feasible from GR, regarding the coal block. It also refers to all the caution necessary for a new entrant to mining of coal a single block basis.

3 tables, ref

009641   Beena Rani;Singh U;Maheshwari R K (Engineering Chemistry Dep, Poornima College of Engineering, RIICO(IA):ISI-2, Goner Road, Sitapura, Jaipur) : Management strategies of plastics waste. Biosphere 2010, 2(2), 111-16.

Plastics are one of the most important technological discoveries of the 20th century and as a material it enjoys the biggest demand in the modern world. But plastics also have several drawbacks. First and foremost, plastic is not biodegradable. Secondly, it contains toxins that can trigger the development of cancerous diseases. Finally, plastics are made of petroleum and petroleum reserves are not eternal. The versatility of plastics has endeared has endeared it various irreplaceable uses. Yet, disposal of plastics remains a grim reality and plastics waste management needs urgent attention. Indian Centre for Plastics in the Environment (ICPE) in its quest to seek amicable, environment friendly and scientific solutions have recently presented two pioneering studies that have the potential to change the nation, turning it clean and green. Generation of plastics waste which constitutes a major part of municipal solid waste creates a lot of environmental pollution, which in turn affects ecosystem and human health. Waste plastics can be recycled and used in several ways including construction of roads. This article discusses the current scenario focuses much on degradable biopolymers, an eco-friendly concept to protect the environment.

5 ref

009640   Bask C B (Materials Science Div, BARC, Trombary, Mumbai-400 055) : Phase transformations in U-Zr alloy system. BARC Newsl 2010, 316(Sep), 60-4.

U-Zr alloy system is a potential candidate for metallic fuels for nuclear reactors. In this context, it is important to understand the phase transformation characteristics of this alloy, as it will govern the in-pile behaviour. The present study is limited to the U-rich part of the U-Zr system, i.e. alloys containing upto 10wt%Zr. However, the U-50wt%Zr composition was also thoroughly investigated to obtain a deeper understanding of the phase transformations involving gamma and delta (UZr₂ phases. The results of the present work provide a new insight into the structural and microstructural changes in U-Zr alloys. The pjesent work also tries to address some of the important aspects of phase transformation reported in literature that were either misinterpreted or inadequately addressed.

5 illus, 5 ref

009639   Banga S;Varshney P K (Applied Sciences & Humanities Dep, Manav Rachna College of Engineering, Faridabad-121 004, Email: sangitabanga@gmail.com) : Effect of impurities on performance of biodiesel: a review. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(8), 575-9.

This paper reviews effect of impurities formed during transesterification process and how biodiesel can be made free from impurities. It also highlights effect on performance of long term storage of biodiesel.

^iia29 ref

009638   Banerjee P K;Datta A K (NO, Future Institute of Engineering and Management, Kolkata-700150) : Illumination and noise toterant face recognition based on eigen-phase correlation filter modifiel by Mexican hat wavelet. J Optics 2009, 38(3), 160-8.

The performance of frequency domain correlation filter is studied for face recognition by considering only the phase part of the face images. The dimensions of the phase spectra are reduced by using frequency domain principal component analysis (PCA). The phase only correlation filter is modified by using continuous Mexican hat wavelet to generate a new wavelet modified phase only correlation filter (WPρCF).The performances of the technique at natural and noisy conditions are improved, when compared to conventional correlation filters. It has been shown that the new approach improves the recognition accuracy at different illuminations and noise conditions.

4 illus, 2 table, 14 ref

009637   Bagde M N (Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research, Regional Centre, MECL Complex, Nagpur-440 006) : In-situ stress and elastic wave velocity relationship: a review. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(7), 174-7, 87.

A detailed literature review on relationship between in-situ stress and elastic wave valocity has been carried out. It was found that many investigators tried to find out relationship between elastic wave velocity and different parameters from in-situ data using seismic and geophysical methods and also in laboratory conditions. In this paper, a relationship between in-situ stress and elastic wave velocity up to a depth of 5 km which is of interest in rock burst and or hazardous conditions based on the available data in literature is presented.

^iia3 illus, 17 ref

009636   Ayyappan S;Mayilsamy K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Dr Mahalingam College of Engineering and Technology, Pollachi-642 003, Email: sa_tech2004@yahoo.co.in) : Experimental investigation on a solar tunnel drier for copra drying. J scient ind Res 2010, 69(8), 635-8.

A natural convection solar tunnel drier (STD) was developed for copra drying under meteorological conditions of Pollachi, India. STD reduced moisture content from 52.2% to 8% in 57 n under full load and 52 n under half load conditions. Drying rate in bottom tray was lower (2%) than that of top tray. Average efficiency of STD was estimated as 20%. Quality of copra obtained was good (84.66% Milling copra Grade 1) as compared to open sun drying (53%).

5 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

009635   Al-Dahan Z T;Nazar A;Rashid H G (Laser & Optoelectronic Dep, Nahrian Univ, College of Engineering, Daghadad, Iraq, Email: alaa_naza@yahoo.com) : Design of polarization insenstive narrow bandpass filter. J Optics 2009, 38(1), 48-65.

An infrared narrow bandpass filter of single half-wave cavity was designed at non-normal incidence of radiation illuminated by collimated energy within the spectral region (8-12 μm). The change in the spectral characteristic of the filter was studied with the aid of characteristic matrix theory. Furthermore, needle optimization method was used to provide the best conformance to desire spectral characteristic at the operating conditions of an infrared system, thus, polarization insensitive narrow bandpass was achieved.

5 illus, 17 ref

009634   Ahmed I;Jagdish;Nabiullah M;Prasad R S (NO, Central Institute of Mining & Fuel Research, Dhanbad-826 015) : Investigation into the effect of high expansion, high stability foaming material on auto oxidation of coal using thermo gravimeteric technique. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 399-405,12.

Spontaneous heating is a nagging problem in coal mines. It results in heavy economic losses and often precious human life. A number of techniques are practiced in various coal producing countries to control spontaneous heating and fire problem in underground coal mines. Among the different techniques, uses of high expansion foam have been found as an effective tool to inertize the fire affected area and thus quenching the fire. In this technique, the foam generated using nitrogen gas at elevated pressure, remains stable for long time. Thus foam blankets the burning coal mass and provides inertization of the surrounding environment as well as cooling effect. The role of foam as inhibitor has not been studied in detail. This study deals with determination of efficacy of three different foaming compounds in retarding spontaneous heating characteristics of coal using thermo gravimetric analysis technique. The findings have indicated that coal samples treated with foam compound have visible impact on retardation of spontaneous heating characteristics of coal.

14 illus, 2 table, 22 ref

009633   Ahmad I;Sahay N;Varma N K;Sinha A (NO, Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research, Barwa Road, Dhanbad-826 015, Email: ishtiaque_cmri@yahoo.co.in) : Application of high expansion nitrogen foam to control mine fire-a case study. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(11), 390-8.

High expansion nitrogen foam technology has been found an effective technique world over for controlling underground mine fire. In this paper the conventional methods adopted in coal mines for dealing a fire have been briefly discussed. Attempts have been made to highlight the advantages and merits of high expansion foam technology over the other techniques. A success story of application of high expansion nitrogen for controlling underground fire in record time in MCL mines has been presented and reference of other places in Indian coal mines where the technique were applied successfully, has been made in brief.

10 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

009632   Adhikari G R;Venkatesh H S;Theresraj A I; Balachander R (NO, National Institute of Rock Machanics, Champions Reefs, Kolar Gold Fields-563 117) : Prediction of ground vibration and air overpressure from construction blasting. J Mines Metals Fuels 2009, 57(5-6), 125-31.

Prediction of ground vibration and air overpressure from construction blasts for a known charge per delay at a specified distance is necessary for planning safe blasting operations. For this purpose, vibration and air overpressure data generated from construction blasts by the National Institute of Rock Mechanics over a period of 16 years were compiled and analysed. The data were grouped into surface-to-surface, underground-to-underground and underground-to-surface categories and empirical equations were derived for respective categories. These equations can be very handy when site-specific equations are not available at any construction project. As the dominant frequency of ground vibration is greater than 8 Hz, the permissible vibration level is 10 mm/s for residential structures while it is much higher for underground structures depending on rock mass quality. Suggestions for control of ground vibration and air overpressure are also discussed in brief.

13 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

009631   Acharya S K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-269 008) : Effects of fiber content on abrasive wear of lantana camara fiber reinforced polymer matirx composite. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2010, 17(3), 219-23.

This work aims to present a study on abrasive wear behaviour of locally available Lantana-Camara fiber (LCF), reinforced in epoxy matrix. Wear tests are carried out in dry conditions on a pin-on-disc machine against 400 grit size abrasive paper with test speed of 0.314 m/s and normal load 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 N. The effects of fiber content on abrasive wear properties of composites are investigated. The results show that the incorporation of LCF into epoxy improves the abrasive wear behaviour considerably. The optimum wear reduction is obtained when fiber content is 40 wt%. It is observed that abrasive wear loss increases with increase of normal load. The worn surface morphologies are examined by SEM and possible wear mechanism has been discussed.

5 illus, 20 ref

025189   Yuksek I;Celik A;Gulez K (Mech Engng Fac Mech Engng Dep, Yildiz Tech Univ, 34349, Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey, Email: gulez@yildiz.edu.tr) : Natural frequencies of a flat viaduct road part simply supported on two ends. Sadhana 2006, 31(1), 9-20.

Viaduct roads have wide application in big cities with high traffic loads, in order to decrease traffic density and to connect subways to highways. Viaduct roads are constructed using steel structures instead of concrete ones in areas of earthquake risks. The low weight of steel structures however causes problems such as vibration and noise. There is increasing demand especially in populated areas to suppress vibration and noise on highway roads for reducing noise-related environmental pollution. In the study, bending vibrations of rectangular plate viaduct roads, which are supported by six fixed elements of rectangular cross-sectional elements are con-sidered. Natural frequencies are obtained using the Rayleigh-Ritz technique, finite elements analysis, experimentally and neural networks (NN).

7 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

025188   Yildirmaz G;Sarul M H;Gulgun R;Obdan H (Electrical-Electronics Fac Electl Engng Dep, Yildiz Tech Univ, 34349 Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey, Email: gyildir@yildiz.edu.tr) : Renovating the excitation circuit of a conventional welding converter. Sadhana 2006, 31(1), 47-59.

Presents two different new excitation current supplies based on power electronics for an existing conventional welding converter. The proposed circuits are simulated using Lab-VIEW 1200 AI and a PC based system. In the expressions for winding currents the dynamic inductances are used to take into account the saturation in the core of the winding. The experimental circuits are implemented and tested. The percentage peak-to-peak ripple currents are calculated for both simulation and experimental results and for both circuit configurations. The results are summarized in two tables for comparison.

9 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

025187   Xu J;Lai W;Zhu W (Min Engng Dep, China Univ of Min & Technol, Xuzhou-221 008, Jiangsu, PR China) : Coal mining industry in China. J Mines Metals Fuels 2005, 53(11-12), 263-6.

Status of coal mining industry in China has been introduced, including status of coal mining industry in China's economy, coal resource, output and operating costs of coal, coal extracting technology, safety running status of coal mining industry, green mining techniques etc.

7 illus, 4 tables, 3 ref

025186   Wong F;Nagarajan R;Yaacob S (Sch of Engng and Inf Technol, Univ Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabula, Sabah, Malaysia) : Fuzzy image segmentation via thresholding. J Instn Engrs-Pt ET 2006, 86(Jan), 68-72.

The paper presents an image segmentation method referred to as fuzzy image segmentation via thresholding (FIST). The threshold value that is needed for the segmentation procedure is obtained through a programmed automated computation. The histogram of the image and the measure of fulness constitute the first stage of the segmentation procedure whereby the threshold value is obtained. Inputting the threshold value into a 'split and merge' procedure leads to the final stage. This procedure of FIST has been applied successfully to image processing requirements for autonomous mobility of blind individuals.

6 illus, 17 ref

025185   Ubeyli M;Yildirim R O;Ogel B (TOBB Ekonomi ve Teknoloji Universitesi Muhendislik Fakultesi, Makine Muhendisligi, Ankara. Turkey) : On the drop-weight testing of alumina/aluminum laminated composites. Sadhana 2005, 30(5), 673-86.

Laminated composites with ceramic front layers and metallic or composite backing layers have gained attractiveness as lightweight armours, as they exhibit the same ballistic performance with lower areal densities as compared to steels. Drop-weight testing (DWT) has potential for evaluating the low velocity impact behaviour of materials. This testing gives significant ideas and information about failure mechanisms and behaviour of materials under low velocity impact. In this study, DWT of alumina/aluminum laminated composites was done in order to investigate the effects of lamination type, density with respect to area and mechan-ical property of backing material on the low velocity ballistic performance of these composites. The experimental results showed that the laminated composite with ceramic front layer and aged-aluminum alloy as backing layer was the most effec-tive among different investigated specimens against low velocity impact loads.

10 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

025184   Suneel M (PGAD, (DRDO Ministry of Def Govt of India), DRDL Complex Kanchanbagh, Hyderabad-500 058, Email: suneel@ieee.org) : Electronic circuit realization of the logistic map. Sadhana 2006, 31(1), 69-78.

Electronic circuit realization of the logistic difference equation is presented using analog electronics. The behaviour of the realized system is evaluated against computer simulations of the same. The circuit is found to exhibit the entire range of dynamics of the logistic equation: fixed points, periodicity, period doubling, chaos and intermittency. Quantitative measurements of the dynamics of the realized system are presented and are found to be in good agreement with the theoretical values. Some possible applications of such a realization are briefly discussed.

7 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

025183   Sukumar S;Parameswarn P;Jayagopal L S (Civ Engng Dep, Govt Coll of Engng, Salem-636 011) : Local-, distortional- and Euler- buckling of thin walled built-up open cross-sections under compression. J Struct Engng 2006, 32(6), 447-54.

Thin walled built-up columns of open cross-section are susceptible to instability in a variety of modes which can be described as local, distortional and Euler's (i.e., flexural or flexural-torsional) buckling. For many section geometries distortional buckling will be the controlling mode and consequently an accurate estimation of the stress at which distortional buckling occurs will form a critical part of the design. In this paper, investigation on built-up channel sections, formed by assembling cold formed angle sections with and without lips is presented. Six different section geometries are tested between hinged-end boundary conditions. The section geometries are chosen such that all types of buckling modes are met with. Buckling stresses obtained from experiments are compared with theoretical buckling stresses and FEM analysis results. Maximum Limit Strength of columns using Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) by American Iron and Steel Institute Code (AISI) and Limit State Design (LSD) by British Standard (BS 5950 Part 5) are also presented. Design curve for maximum strength of built-up columns undergoing distortional or mixed local-distortional modes of buckling is proposed.

6 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

025182   Srinivas V;Ramanjaneyulu K (Structural Engng Res Cent, CSIR Campus, Taramani, Chennai-600 113) : Application of artificial neural networks for design responses of bridge decks. J Instn Engrs-Pt CI 2006, 86(Feb), 151-8.

The process of structural design starts with a preliminary model which is to be analysed to get the design responses and these are used to evaluate the design based on fixed evaluation criteria. If any of the constraints are not satisfied or a codal provision is violated, then the analysis is to be carried out again with the revised model to get the new design parameters. The process is repeated a number of times before arriving at a finally acceptable design model. When going for optimisation of bridge decks, more extensive calculations are required because of lot of iterations which are laborious and time consuming. The paper explores the possibility of using artificial neural networks (ANN) in obtaining the design responses by training the network with several patterns of different configurations of a particular type of bridge deck, so that when a new problem with a set of input data is given to the ANN, it can to give the output design responses data with an acceptable tolerance. The neural network has been tested with untrained bridge data to get the design responses and it is observed that the network is giving acceptable results when compared with the analytical results within the domain of training data.

5 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

025181   Sreenath H G;Lakshmanan N (NO, Structural Engng Res Cent, C.S.I.R.Campus, Taramani, Chennai-600 113, Email: director@sercm.csir.res.in) : Innovative and cost-effective technologies for rural housing. J rur Technol 2005, 2(1), 1-8.

Cost of traditional building materials has increased considerably over the past tew years due to inflation, increasing cost of energy and due to the widening gap between demand and supply. Providing shelter for rural masses is an important agenda of the government. Allocating funds and executing the projects in time, particularly, in construction sector (houses for the rural masses) has not been realized. This is due to the cumbersome conventional construction process. As a result of this, housing shortage in India still remains critical, especially for low-income households. It is estimated that the housing shortage is as high as 40 million units, suggesting that more than 200 million people are living in chronically poor housing conditions or in streets. Even though the 9th live year plan's goal was to provide "shelter for all, it has not been achieved by the year 2000 and could not be achieved by the end of the plan 2002. This indicates that innovative technologies that are speedier and economical are the only alternatives. In order to wipe off this backlog, and achieve the goal, the construction industry has to adopt speedier and improved or innovative construction methods, such as, partial prefabrication of roofs and floors, though not total prefabrication that demand heavy investments on lifting and handling equipment. It is, therefore, necessary to adopt innovative construction techniques for the construction of houses for low-income households that result in speed, savings in cost, and overall economy using locally available materials and conventional materials. Considering the above important factors. Structural Engineering Research Centre (SERC), Chennai, has developed several cost-effective roof/floor schemes, construction of roofs using movable framework, and other utility products that are normally associated with the housing colony, such as, ferrocement water tanks, cupboards, roof trusses, fibre reinforced manhole covers and frames, partially prestressed concrete transmission/lighting poles, etc. Some of these technologies that are discussed in this paper will help the decision making bodies to realise the fruits of R&D in transferring the technology from laboratory to land, entrepreneur development, and provide job opportunities for the rural masses to earn their livelihood.

17 illus, 21 ref

025180   Sivakumar Babu G L;Rao R S (Civ Engng Dep, Indian Inst of Sci, Bangalore-560 012, Email: gls@civil.iisc.ernet.in) : Analysis of earthquake induced displacements of embankments. Indian Geotech J 2005, 35(3), 349-64.

Obtains the earthquake induced ground displacements by strength reduction procedure and dynamic analysis using FEM. The results are compared with the displacements obtained using available empirical methods. To evaluate the displacements, a few analytical/empiricical approaches are suggested in literature. There is a need to examine the applicability of these approaches as design tools to evaluate the earthquake induced deformations. It is also found essential to conduct deformation related stability analysis, as the conventional methods of stability analysis do not give importance to displacement-based approaches. The study suggests that strength reduction approach and displacement-based approach should be given more importance than the conventional factor of safety based approaches and empirical methods in the design and analysis of embankments subjected to earthquakes.

8 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

025179   Singh R P;Jain S K (Appl Mechanics Dep, B.I.T. Mesra, Ranchi-835 215) : Free asymmetric transverse vibration of linearly varying thickness polar orthotropic annular plate with flexible edge conditions. J Struct Engng 2006, 32(6), 475-81.

8 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

025178   Singh N;Jain S C;Mishra V;Poddar G C;Kaur P; Singla H;Aggarwal A K;Kapur P (NO, Cent Scienctific instruments Organisation, Sector 30, Chandigard-160 030, Email: nsmehla@rediffmail.com ) : Fibre Bragg grating-based sensing device for petrol leak detection. Curr Sci 2006, 90(2), 219-21.

Fibre Bragg gratings (FBGs) have emerged in recent years as important sensor elements for various applications. In the communication application of an FBG sensor using a surgical rubber as transducer element for petrol leak detection in pipelines and tanks is presented. The rubber, which is in tubular form and is bonded with the fibre containing FBG, reversibly swells in the presence of petrol thus resulting in Bragg wave-length shift. the shift is measured using an interrogator with a swept fibre laser source (1520-570 nm). the design aspects and experimental procedure along with analysis of results obtained and the potential for distributed sensing have been discussed.

3 illus, 7 ref

025177   Sharma A K;Rajendra Prasad (NO, Res Cent Imarat, Hyderabad-500 069) : Qualification methodologies for ICs and MMICs for aerospace industry. Def Sci J 2006, 56(1), 87-91.

The ICs/MMICs attained importance in the field of microelectronics as these play a major role in the aerospace industry. The reliability of the ICs/MMICs becomes the critical issue because of complex material properties. A methodology has to be adopted which encompasses the qualification of ICs/MMICs for their use in the areas of strategic importance. A three-step procedure, which includes the process qualification, product qualification, and product acceptance is followed. The process qualification outlines a procedure that the foundry should follow to assure the quality, uniformity, and reproducibility from a specific process. Product qualification involves a set of simulations and measurements to establish the electrical, thermal, and reliability characteristics of a particular circuit design. Lastly, product acceptance is a series of tests performed on the deliverables.

4 illus, 3 ref

025176   Sharma A K;Goel A (Computer Engng Dep, YMCA Inst of Engng, Faridabad-121 006) : Best neighbour node selection algorithm for mobile ad hoc networks. J Instn Engrs-Pt ET 2006, 86(Jan), 79-83.

Ad hoc network is a collection of wireless, mobile, dynamic, and arbitrarily located nodes. The nodes cooperate with each other to create an infrastructureless temporary low cost Network. The high mobility of nodes result in rapid changes in the routes, thus requiring some mechanism for determining new mutes with minimum overheads and bandwidth consumption. Such infrastructureless networks use multicast routing protocols to manage random and uncertain events like rescue missions, disaster recovery, crowd control etc. The existing multicast routing protocols suffer from many drawbacks. An algorithm called best neighbor node selection algorithm (BNNSA) which has been designed for choosing the next best mobile node in such a manner that number of packets transmitted on network are drastically reduced has been presented.

9 illus, 13 ref