015304   Chatterjee S G (Paper and Bioprocess Engineering Dep, State Univ of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, 1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, New York 13210, USA, Email: schatterjee@esf.edu) : Theoretical analysis of dissolved-gas transfer to the bulk liquid in gas absorption with a first-order reaction. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(3), 177-93.

A theoretical analysis using the surface-renewal and film-penetration models, which includes gas-phase resistance to mass transfer, is presented for the rate of absorption of a gas and its transfer to the bulk liquid in the case where the solute gas undergoes a first-order chemical reaction in the liquid phase. It reveals that: (a) The fraction of absorbed gas transported to the bulk liquid depends upon the Hatta number Ha in case of the surface-renewal model and on Ha as well as a dimensionless hydrodynamic parameter in case of the film-penetration model. (b) The widely assumed law of addition of resistances is valid for the surface-renewal and film-penetration models. (c) The reaction influences both the overall mass-transfer coefficient and the nature of the driving force, i.e. the increased rate of absorption due to the reaction is not solely due to the enhancement factor multiplying the liquid-phase mass-transfer coefficient for physical absorption as has been conventionally assumed in the literature. It is also shown that in a gas-liquid reactor the film and surface-renewal models give close predictions for both the rate of absorption and concentration of dissolved gas in the liquid leaving the reactor. For values of Ha ≥ 0.5, the bulk-liquid concentration of dissolved gas predicted by both models is negligible compared to its interfacial concentration.

2 illus, 31 ref

015303   Balasubramaniam R (Materials and Metallurgical Engineering Dep, Indian Instirtute of Technology, Kanpur-208 016, Email: bala@iitk.ac.in) : On the confirmation of the traditional unit of length measure in the estimates of circumference of the earth. Curr Sci 2009, 96(4), 547-52.

The prevalence of two different measures for the circumference of the earth in Sanskrit astronomical texts has been resolved by considering the concept of a constant angulam of 1.763 cm and the metro logical table defined in Kautilya's Arthasastra. The traditional measures defined in the Arthasastra have been related to the measures defined in the Ain-i-Akbari, by considering the same issue of circumference of the earth. The study has established the connection of the traditional unit of measure, the angulam, of the Harappan Civilization (~2000 BC) with length measures of the Mughal period (AD ~ 1600), thereby confirming an unbroken tradition in the use of the angulam of 1.763 cm over a period of more than 3600 years in the Indian subcontinent. The possible measurement units which can be used to analyse the dimensions of most engineered structures of the subcontinent through the ages have been proposed and briefly confirmed by the dimensions of the marble platform of the Taj Mahal.

1 table, 24 ref

015302   Bala G (Centre for Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: gbala@caos.iisc.ernet.in) : Problems with geoengineering schemes to combat climate change. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 41-8.

Accelerated rate of increase in atmospheric CO₂ concentration in recent years has revived the idea of stabilizing the global climate through geoengineering schemes. Majority of the proposed geoengineering schemes will attempt to reduce the amount of solar radiation absorbed by our planet. Climate modelling studies of these so called 'sunshade geoengineering schemes' show that global warming from increasing concentrations of CO₂ can be mitigated by intentionally manipulating the amount of sunlight absorbed by the climate system. These studies also suggest that the residual changes could be large on regional scales, so that climate change may not be mitigated on a local basis. More recent modelling studies have shown that these schemes could lead to a slowdown in the global hydrological cycle. Other problems such as changes in the terrestrial carbon cycle and ocean acidification remain unsolved by sunshade geoengineering schemes. Review the proposed geoengineering schemes, results from climate models and discuss why geoengineering is not the best option to deal with climate change.

5 illus, 54 ref

015301   Bairagi H;Ghati A;Ray L (Food Technology and Biochemical Enigneering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: lgrftbe@yahoo.com) : Biosorption of copper ions by Bacillus cereus M<. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(3), 203-14.

The severity of heavy metal contamination and its potential adverse health impact on the public has led to tremendous efforts being made to purify water containing toxic metal ions. Biosorption is presented as an alternative to traditional physicochemical means for removing toxic metals from ground water and wastewater. Removal of copper from solution was studied using growing cells and washed cells of Bacillus cereus M^{1₁₆. Optimum process conditions for maximum biosorption (73.3%) of Cu (II) ions using growing cells were - volume of medium: 50 ml in a 250 ml Erlenmeyer flask; temperature: 30°C; pH: 6.0; fermentation time: 24 h; inoculum size (24 h cell growth): 3%; initial metal ion concentration: 75 mg/L. Removal of copper using washed cells of the selected strain was investigated in batch mode and equilibrium was attained within 180 min at 30°C, pH 3.5 when initial metal ion concentration was 100 mg/L using 8.18 g/L biomass (dry weight) in 50 ml saline in 250 ml Erlenmeyer flask. Both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were tested and it was found that the former had a better fit with the data.}

11 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

015300   Anil M;Turkmenoglu M;Yapici N;Pinarbasi A; Kilic O (Mining Engineering Dep, Cukurova Univ, Adana, Turkey, Email: manil@cu.edu.tr) : Effect of classical eberhart lime kiln modifications on capacity and lime quality of kilns. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(6), 4663-88.

While there are various factors affecting lime quality, the quality of raw material, calcination temperature and calcination time as well as the fuel type used are among most important factors. Some modernization activities were performed in classical Eberhart type lime kilns of a facility that is located in the city of Adana, Turkey. In this context, alterations were done in kiln heights of this facility and both new stack system and stack gas treatment units were mounted in the facility and in this way, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) having carcinogenic effect were anulled by keeping them at 900 °C for at least 0.3 s. Loading raw materials and fuel into kilns through an automated system and similarly, loading unburned lime from kiln base to unburned lime bunker automatically have provided considerable advantages. The used kiln limestone was investigated in detail both under laboratory conditions and kiln regime calcination conditions and the factors affecting lime quality were determined through plenty of surface area, porosity measurements and chemical analysis. It was observed that, depending on the limestone content, dissolution accelerates after 850 °C and when 900 °C is reached for pure limestone in kiln applications, it is understood that the calcination is completed. Some of porosities which are opened in sections exposed to calcination for a long time in higher temperatures are blocked. In applications where it was understood that MgO and other impurities within the limestone are effective on the quality, it was seen calcination process was completed at low temperatures for limestone having more than 5% MgO content. Due to aforementioned alterations performed on 8 modernized Eberhart type kilns of partner facility of this project, Nur Kirec Ltd. Sti., the facility now in a position to obtain emission license. In addition, capacity of this facility increased by 20% active CaO ratios in produced quick lime has reached up to an average value of 92.

5 illus, 10 tables, 18 ref

015299   Agarwal R;Garg J K (Statistics Dep, C.C.S. Univ, Meerut-250 004, Email: stat_reshu@yahoo.com) : Methane emission modelling from wetlands and waterlogged areas using MODIS data. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 36-40.

In the study, a Semi-automated Empirical Methane Emission Model (SEMEM) has been developed and used for estimation of methane from wetlands using MOD1S (MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) data. The model has two key factors, namely temperature and productivity. Area extent of different wetlands has been estimated based on knowledge-based classifier using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, optical bands (1, 2 and 3) with thermal channel (31 and 32) data. Land Surface Temperature has been generated using Split Window Method of first-order approximation. Based on the analysis of MODIS data, methane emission from wetlands has been estimated for India pertaining to the months of May and October 2005. Results show that emitted methane in May 2005 was 0.329 Tg with 29,308.27 km^{2 total methane-emitting area, whereas in October 2005 the total emitted methane was 0.466 Tg with 76,340.92 km2 methane-emitting area.}

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

015298   Agarwal M;Arya I;Chaurasia S P;Singh K;George S (Chemical Engineering Dep, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur-302 017, Email: madhunaresh@gmail.com) : Synthesis and characterisation of biodiesel. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(4), 300-8.

The synthesis and characterisation of soybean oil alkyl esters (SOAE) has been carried out in the present study using alkaline catalysed transesterification reaction. Soybean oil was converted to biodiesel by transesterification reaction using batch process. The effects of various reaction parameters - type of alcohol (methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, iso-propanol, n-butanol and iso-butanol), type of catalyst (KOH, NaOH and CH₃ONa), catalyst concentration (0.5, 1 and 1.5%), reaction temperature (30-40, 40-50, 50-60, 60-70 and 70-80°C) and reaction time - on biodiesel yield, were investigated. The quality of the biodiesel produced was evaluated by determining important properties, such as specific gravity, kinematic viscosity, flash point, fire point, pour point, and cloud point using ASTM (D 6751) methods. The characteristics of produced biodiesel were found to be within the prescribed ASTM (D 6751) specifications, thus, indicating that SOAE are acceptable as a substitute for petroleum diesel. The yield and quality of biodiesel obtained from soybean oil transesterification with methanol using 0.5% KOH as catalyst was found to be the best. It was also found that methanol and KOH were the best alcohol and the best catalyst, respectively, for transesterification of soybean oil at 65°C with 10:3 volume ratio of oil to alcohol.

5 illus, 5 tables, 9 ref

015338   Yadav S P;Singh D N;Singh A K;Prasad R (Mining Institute, P.O.B. Polytechnic, , Dhanbad-828 130, Email: spy_mid@rediffmail.com) : Electrical resistivity imaging for the study of quartz reef using inverse slope method. Curr Sci 2009, 96(11), 1521-7.

Electrical resistivity imaging (ERI) is the emerging tool for investigation of subsurface formations by studying the variation in their electrical properties. In the present investigation, the electrical image of a quartz reef has been generated through sounding with the help of 35 electrodes. Seven profiling stations were marked across the quartz reef for generation of ER images. All apparent resistivity data were converted in absolute resistivity of various layers through inverse slope method with the use of surfer software and an ER image was generated to compare it with the real image. Deference between the ER image and the real image (field image) was found negligible. This indicates that sounding data generated though inverse slope method can be utilized as input for generation of the ER image. Image generation using this method is easier, less time-consuming and cost-effective. An equation has been derived for calculating total number of electrodes to be required at desired station or location for performing vertical electrical sounding (VES).

5 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

015337   Wulfingh D R;Rawal R;Garg V;Mathur J (NO, , ) : Energy simulation. Energy Fuel Users J 2009, 59(3), 19-32.

Energy simulation is a computer-based analytical process that Helps building owners and designers to evaluate the energy performance of a building and make it more energy efficient by making necessary modifications in the design before the building is constructed. Use of energy simulation software is necessary to show compliance with Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) via "Whole Building Performance Method, "This Tip Sheet helps in understanding the basic concepts and processes involved in carrying out building energy simulation.

2 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

015336   Wulfingh D R (NO, , ) : Building lighting design. Energy Fuel Users J 2009, 59(3), 5-18.

Lighting is a major energy consumer in commercial buildings, Heat generated from electrical lighting also contributes significantly to the energy needed for cooling of buildings. ECBC prescribes the amount of power for lighting, specifies types of lighting controls, and defines situations where day lighting must be used. This document (primarily adapted from E Source Technology Atlas - Lighting and Energy Efficiency Manual) provides guidance towards the design of ECBC compliant lighting systems in commercial buildings.

10 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

015335   Wang C C (School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing Univ of Civil Engineering and Architecture, No. 1, Zhanlanguan Road, Xicheng District, Beijing-100 044, Email: chongchenwang@126.com) : Hydrothermal synthesis, crystal structure and optical properties of A 2-D organic-inorganic compound Mn(V₂W₄O₁₉)(bpy)(Hbpy)₂(bpy = 4,4'-Bipyridine). Asian J Chem 2009, 21(6), 4755-62.

A hydrothermal reaction of NH₄VO₃, WO₃, MnCl₂ and 4,4'-bipyridine yields a novel organic-inorganic hybrid compound, Mn(V₂W₄O₁₉) (bpy)(Hbpy)₂ (bpy = 4,4'-bipyridine) (C₃H₂₆N₆MnO₁₉V₂W₄, M_r = 1666.79), which was characterized by elemental analysis, IR, single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and UV-Vis-NIR diffuse reflectance spectrum. It crystallizes in monoclinic, space group C2/c with a = 19.931(2) A, b = 11.4920(12) A, c = 16.0917(19) A, (3 = 96.432(2)°, V = 3662.6(7) Angustrum', Z = 4, D_c = 3.023 Mg/m^{3, μ = 13.424 mm-1 and F(000) = 3068. The final R = 0.0630 and wR = 0.1679 for 3234 observed reflections with I>2≈(I). In the crystal, each Mn(II) is six-coordinated by two oxygen atoms from two [V<W₄O₁₉₁₉]4- and two nitrogen atoms from two bidentate bpy ligands and two nitrogen atoms from two pro-tonated and terminal bpy ligands. The title compound is found to have an optical energy gap of 2.1 eV from UV-Vis-NIR diffuse reflectance spectrum.}

3 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

015334   Udaya Kumar P M V;Potha Raju M;Srinivasa Rao K (Civil Engineering Dep, GITAM, Visakhapatnam-530 045, Email: killamsetti@yahoo.com) : Performance of repaired fire affected RC beams. Curr Sci 2009, 96(3), 398-402.

Structural concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials in the world. Concrete elements exposed to fire experience temperature gradients and, as a result, undergo physical changes or spalling, thereby exposing steel reinforcement. The structural property of concrete that has been most widely studied as a function of temperature exposure is compressive strength. Relatively few studies have been undertaken on flexural strength of reinforced cement concrete (RCC) beams and their repair. Therefore, this study was carried out to generate experimental data on residual flexural strength of heated RCC beams and their strengthening using various repair techniques. A total of 25 RCC beams were cast with similar cross-sectional details, length and grade of concrete and clear cover. Twenty beams were meant for fire exposure and the remaining five were used as companion beams. The beams were heated in two stages. In the first stage, two beams were kept at each temperature for 3 h between 100°C and 1000°C, in increments of 100°C. Beams exposed to temperature ranging between 100 and 500°C were repaired by applying paint. The beams exposed to temperature ranging between 600 and 1000°C were repaired for spalling. In the second stage, all repaired specimens were again heated. These test specimens were tested for flexural strength after bringing them to room temperature. The variation of flexural strength of repaired RCC beams with increase in temperature has been studied and the flexural strength of beams before and after the repair was compared.

4 illus, 16 ref

015333   Trivedi U B;Lakshminarayana D (Electronics Dep, Sardar Patel Univ, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat-388 120) : Fabrication of enzyme based amperometric sucrose biosensor. Prajna 2009, 17(Dec), 132-6.

An amperometric sucrose biosensor based on the immobilization of a multi enzyme system of Invertase (INV), Mutarotaa and Glucose Oxidase (GOD) has been developed. A polymer matrix of Polyethylenemine (PEI) and Poly (carbamoylsulphonate) (PCS) hydrogel could successfully be implemented for the immobilization. A thick film screen printing technique was adopted for the fabrication of the basal conducting track of the amperometrie working electrode and counter electrode. An Ag/AgCl reference electrode completed the amperometrie sucrose biosensor system. The fabricated multi enzyme based Pt/PCS+PEI/(INV + Mutarotase + GOD) sucrose biosensor system was found to be able to detect the presence of sucrose in test samples and the results obtained are presented.

2 illus, 19 ref

015332   Tailor J;Raval A;Engineer C;Kotadia H; Kothwala D (Research & Development Div, Sahajanand Medical Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Surat-395 003) : Development and validation of a reversed-phase HPLC method for in-vitro loading and release analysis of paclitaxel coated stent. Trends Biomater artif Organ 2008, 22(2), 79-86.

Simple, rapid and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic method is described for determination of Paclitaxel (PCL) from coated stent surface using a reverse phase X-terra C₁₈ (5 im) column at 227 nm and using acetonitrile, methanol and water in the ratio of 60:5:35 (v/v) as a mobile phase following single-step extraction from Phosphate buffer saline (PBS) pH 7.4 with dichloromethane. The assay was validated against trie classical criteria and was applied to detect paclitaxel content as well as release amount from the stent surface. Sink condition of paclitaxel coated stent was maintained in PBS throughout the experiments by different criteria. It was maintained by modifying the release medium such as methanolic PBS, PBS containing DENA (N, N- Diethylnicotinamide), and 0.1% sodium azide in PBS. With the "sampling" technique, drug-loaded sient was introduced into a vessel, and release was monitored over a period of time by analyzing aliquots of release medium. In the use of agitation by means of orbital shaking incubator, the sampling seems to be easier than the continuous flow method. In the "continuous flow" technique, media is continuously circulated through a cell containing drug-loaded stent followed by analysis. The extraction method achieves a chemical separation of drug from the release media by use of a separating funnel. With all these methods, the setup and sampling techniques seem to influence in vitro release.

8 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

015331   Subramanya K (NO, , Tata BP Solar India Ltd., Plot No. 78, Electronic City, Hosur Road, Bangalore-560 100, Email: anil.patni@tatabp.com) : Solar power for India: the future is bright. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(Spl), 174-82.

1 illus, 1 table, 2 ref

015330   Srinivasan C (Materials Science Dep, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021, Email: ceesri@yahoo.com) : Methane hydrate (alternative energy source) stored in powder form for easy transport. Curr Sci 2009, 96(2), 192-3.

3 illus, 11 ref

015329   Sonde R R (NO, , D-13, MIDC, R.D. Aga Road, Chinchwad, Pune-411 019, Email: rsonde@thermaxindia.com) : Integrated gasification and combined cycle (IGCC)-clean coal tehcnology (CCT) option: myths and realitis in the Indian context. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(Spl), 151-6.

Undoubtedly, IGCC will be the future power generation technology and the best answer for climate change for fossil based power plants. IGCC offers a versatility like no other power generation cycles. The generation of synthesis gas and possibility of separation of hydrogen provides further potential for power generation using fuel cell system besides hydrogen itself being made available for other applications, including for transport. Gasification for Indian coal is still a challenge with few fundamental issues yet to be resolved. This calls for a concerted, collaborative work to address aspects such as high unburnt coal, fluctuating calorific value and scale-up issues. The new design of coal gasifier with improved gas clean-up system will probably be able to solve the coal gasification of tough Indian coal.

3 illus, 1 table

015328   Sinha P;Rai D C (Civil Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur-208 016, Email: dcrai@iitk.ac.in) : Development and performance of single-axis shake table for earthquake simulation. Curr Sci 2009, 96(12), 1611-20.

Exact simulation of earthquake motion has been a serious challenge to researchers and engineers. Shake table testing is being increasingly used in earthquake engineering research centres worldwide, as it is the only available means of nearly truly reproducing the dynamic effects that earthquakes impose on structures. To upgrade the dynamic testing facility at IIT Kanpur, a uniaxial shake table has been installed which is servo-hydraulic-operated and supported on low-friction ball bushing bearings. A relatively simple-system has been assembled with care to ensure an adequate replication of input motion by the shake-table system. Subjective comparisons of input signal vs shake-table response, in both time and frequency domain have been utilized to provide a measure of the capabilities of the simulator to reproduce earthquake motions scaled according to similitude laws. This communication discusses briefly various components of the shake table, its assembly and the investigations that were carried out to provide specific insights into its response characteristics.

15 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

015327   Singh V R;Hegde G;Asundi A (School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineeirng, Nanyang Technological Univ, Singapore-639 798, Email: hegopal@aero.iisc.ernet.in) : Particle field imaging using digital in-line holography. Curr Sci 2009, 96(3), 391-7.

Digital holography is the direct recording of holograms using a CCD camera and is an alternative to the use of a film or a plate. In this communication in-line digital holographic microscopy has been explored for its application in particle imaging in 3D. Holograms of particles of about 10 im size have been digitally reconstructed. Digital focusing was done to image the particles in different planes along the depth of focus. Digital holographic particle imaging results were compared with conventional optical microscope imaging. A methodology for dynamic analysis of micro-particles in 3D using in-line digital holography has been proposed.

12 illus, 28 ref

015326   Singh A K;Kothari M;Mishra P K;Purohit R C; Virendra Kumar (Soil and Water Conservation Engineering Dep, College of Technology and Engineering, MPUA&T, Udaipur-313 001) : Effect of stone barrier on runoff and soil loss under different discharge rate and slopes in black soils of Karnataka-a laboratory sudy. Indian J agric Res 2009, 43(1), 10-17.

Investigation to study the effect of stone barrier under different slopes on runoff and soil loss in vertisols channel was condrcted under the simulated conditions using tilting hydraulic flume. The fabricated flume can be tilted through screw jacks in the range between 0.0 to 5.0 per cent slopes and is having perforated bed for collection of deep drainage besides arrangement for measurement of runoff and soil loss. Flume was kept at four slopes of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 per cent for a simulated flow of 5.0, 7.5 and 10.00 Ips (liter per second) for 15 minutes duration over 30 cm soil depth. Results of this study show that runoff in the bare soil condition was in the range of 64.10 to 82.00 per cent and under the stone barrier condition 57.30 to 77.92 per cent of total flow under three discharge rates and four slopes. The stone barrier reduced runoff in the range of 4.97 to 10.60 per cent and soil loss in the rage of 37.15 to 62.50 per cent under three discharge rate and four slopes in comparison to bare soil condition. The results can be useful for planning and design stone barrier in fields waterways in black soils of semi arid region in Karnataka to check sediment transportation from field to river system.

7 tables, 3 ref

015325   Roy P D;Ghosh S (Dr. B.C. Roy Engineering College, M. E. Dep. Jemua Road, Fuljhor, Durgapur, Email: pdroy02@yahoo.co.in) : Force on vertically submerged circular thin plate in shallow water due to oblique wave. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(4), 411-17.

Describes a solution of obliquely incident surface wave force on circular plate in shallow water. Small amplitude linear wave theory is used on vertically submerged circular thin plates under three different configurations: (1) a surface-piercing circular thin plate, (2) a submerged circular thin plate and (3) a bottom-standing circular thin plate. Finally Morison's equation is used for the determination of wave force. The plates are submerged in water near the shore on uniformly sloping bottom. The solution method is confined in a finite domain, which contains the regions of different depth of water and the plate. Employing Laplace equation and boundary value problems in the finite domain, the desired velocity potential for small amplitude linear wave is derived by separation of variables. Horizontal wave force and moment are obtained with respect to the wave amplitude at different incident angles of wave as well as with different depth of water and different wave period. It is observed that these forces and moments are converging with the increase in wave period whereas the steepness of force and moment against wave amplitude are extremely high for small wave period.

5 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

015324   Ramesh K V;Raju G M J;Murty M S N;Sarma C B (Chemical Engineering Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: kvramesh69@yahoo.com) : Wall-to-bulk mass transfer in a two-phase upflow bubble column with a composite promoter. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(3), 215-27.

Experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of pertinent dynamic and geometric variables on wall-to-bulk mass transfer coefficient in two-phase upflow bubble column in the presence of a composite promoter. The liquid phase is an electrolyte consisting of equimolal solution of potassium ferrocyanide and ferricyanide of 0.01 N with 0.5 N sodium hydroxide. The gas phase is nitrogen and a 6.73 cm i.d. acrylic column was employed as the test section. Helical tapes of four different widths wound on central rods of three different diameters with five varying pitches were used as composite promoter elements along with annular rods of four different diameters. Measurement of limiting currents at point electrodes fixed flush with the inner surface of the test section facilitated the computation of wall-to-bulk mass transfer coefficients. The wall-to-bulk mass transfer coefficient was found to increase with increase in liquid and gas velocities in the presence of the promoter. The effect of rod diameter, tape width and tape pitch yielded improvements upto 40% at lower liquid and gas velocities. The entire data were correlated with the equation j_D = 110.3 (Re)^{-0.8424 (Fr_g)0.089.}

11 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

015323   Pradip;Rai B (Process Engineering Innovation Laboratory, Tata Research Development and Design Centre, A Div of Tata Consultancy Services Ltd., 54B Hadapsar Industrial Estate, Pune-411 013, Email: pradip.p@tcs.com) : Development of innovative technologies for the treatment, recyling and utilisation of bauxite residue (Red Mud) in India. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(Spl), 28-38.

4 illus, 40 ref

015322   Ozkan O;Ozdemir O;Azgin S T (Environmental Engineering Dep, Erciyes Univ, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey, Email: ozkan@erciyes.edu.tr) : Prediction of biochemical oxygen demand in a wastewater treatment plant by artificial neural networks. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(6), 4821-30.

In this study, output biochemical oxygen demand concentration of Kayseri advanced biological wastewater treatment plant was defined with the daily input data of 2004-2007 belonging to the same facility and this data was estimated rapidly and confidently by training with multi layered artificial neural networks model. In the establishment of the artificial neural networks model temperature, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, suspended solids, chemical oxygen demand and total dissolved solids parameters were used as input while biochemical oxygen demand parameter was used as output. The structure yielding the best result was obtained by training the artificial neural networks structure with 5 inputs, two hidden layers by Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. In this structure, it was found that mean square error 0.45, mean absolute error 0.445 and R^{2 = 0.915.}

5 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

015321   Nejad M H;Khosravi A;Gharanjig K;Moradian S (NO, Faculty of Polymer and Color Engineering, P.O. Box 15875-4413, Tehran, Iran, Email: a.khosravi@aut.ac.ir) : Synthesis of some monoazo acid dyes based on naphthalimides. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(6), 4812-20.

A series of novel monoazo acid dyes derived from naphthalimide were prepared. 4-Amino-N-methyl (alternatively N-butyl) derivatives of naphthalimide, aniline andp-nitroaniline were used as the diazo components and schaeffer's acid and H-acid constituted the coupling components. 4-Aminonaphthalimide derivatives mentioned above were prepared by standard reactions from acenaphthene as the starting material. The reaction conditions were varied in order to obtain optimal yields for each stage of the preparation to obtain the corresponding 4-aminonaphth-alimide derivative as the diazo component which was subsequently purified. Diazotization and coupling reactions were carried out in order to obtain the final acid dyes. Again maximal yields were sought after and the reaction conditions were varied accordingly. All intermediates and dyes were recrystallized in order to be attained in a purified form. The obtained dyes and their corresponding intermediates were characterized by the use of elemental analysis, DSC, FTIR, ^{1H NMR and UV-visible spectroscopic techniques. Spectrophotometric investigations of the prepared dyes-in different solvents were carried out in order to obtain their absorption maxima, solvatochromic effects and various intensities. The acid dyes were finally dyed on polyamide fibres in order to investigate their dyeing properties and the obtainable colour gamut.}

3 illus, 6 tables, 19 ref

015320   Namgial D;Jha M K (NO, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Srinagar-191 121, Email: madan@agfe.iitkgp.ernet.in) : Filtering techniques for quantifying tidal impacts on groundwater: a comparative analysis. Curr Sci 2009, 96(7), 947-56.

Analysis of tidal effects on aquifer systems plays an important role in coastal aquifer management. In this study, the impacts of tidal fluctuations on groundwater levels were quantified by three filtering techniques: filtering technique I (tidal efficiency and time lag), filtering technique II (moving average), and filtering technique III (25 h mean). The tide-aquifer interaction data were obtained from the Konan aquifer, Japan (two unconflned sites) and the Dridrate aquifer, Morocco (three confined sites). Groundwater filtering by tidal efficiency and time lag indicated that the peak of the filtered groundwater level had shifted slightly to right and its amplitude decreased. For the unconfined sites, the mean at 13 h by filtering technique III was found to be lower than that obtained by filtering technique II. Similarly, for the confined sites, the mean at 13 h obtained by filtering technique III was relatively low compared to the mean at 36 h by filtering technique II. Although filtering techniques II and HI are able to remove solar and lunar harmonics from measured groundwater data, filtering technique I is more useful for practical purposes.

11 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

015319   Mukhopadhyay M;Panja P (Chemical Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076, Email: mm@che.iitb.ac.in) : Pressurised hot water as a novel extractant of natural products. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(4), 311-24.

Pressurised hot water extraction (PHWE) has emerged as a highly promising energy-efficient and environmentally benign technique for recovering bioactive molecules from natural materials using sub-critical compressed liquid water in the temperature range of 80-180°C. It is set to replace conventional solvent extraction, pressurised organic solvent extraction or supercritical fluid extraction (SCFE) to obviate their limitations. A critical review on variations in the characteristic properties of PHW and the factors influencing the performance of PHWE process reveals its great potential to improve the yield and quality, by proper optimisation of process parameters. This novel extractant can be utilised to efficiently obtain clean product from a variety of natural substances.

10 illus, 5 tables, 35 ref

015318   Mondal S;Saha M C (NO, , Reliance Industries Ltd., Jamnagar, Email: smondal_chem@rediffmail.com) : Mass transfer from suspended sphere in presence of inert multi-particulate fluidised solid. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(3), 240-4.

Mass transfer from naphthalene spheres in the presence of inert fluidised particles of different size fraction has been studied. The parameters considered in the present study include effect of particle Reynolds number Re_p, suspended sphere diameter, bed porosity in mass transfer, and effect of inert fluidised particle diameter on mass transfer coefficient. Inert fluidised particles, spherical in nature and having specific gravity 1.4 with size ranging from 0.2923667 to 0.6276975 mm were used. The diameter of the suspended naphthalene spheres varied from 17 to 31 mm. The Re_p varied from 11 to 70 with varying air velocity and fluidised bed porosity varied from 0.48 to 0.73. Mass transfer coefficient was found to vary from 3.6 x 10^{-5 to 2.4 x 10-4. The corresponding mass transfer factor varied from 7.88 x 10-7 to 8.92 x 10-6. The effect of different parameters, which affect the rate of mass transfer from suspended spheres in the presence of inert fluidised particles, were co-related in a new form of mass transfer factor J'_D which is the function of mass transfer factor J_D, naphthalene diameter D_nap and inert particle diameter D_pi A new correlation was established with J'_D and modified Reynolds number.}

4 illus, 7 ref

015317   Lakshmanan N;Gomathinayagam S;Harkrishna P; Abraham A;Chitra Ganapathi S (Structural Engineering Research Centre, CSIR, Taramani, Chennai-600 113, Email: goms@sercm.org) : Basic wind speed map of India with long-term hourly wind data. Curr Sci 2009, 96(7), 911-22.

Long-term data on hourly wind speed from 70 meteorological centres of India Meteorological Department have been collected. The daily gust wind data have been processed for annual maximum wind speed (in kmph) for each site. Using the Gumbel probability paper approach the extreme value quantiles have been derived. A design basis wind speed for each site for a return period of 50 years has also been evaluated. The site-specific changes in the design wind speeds in the contemporary wind zone map for the design of buildings/ structures are highlighted and revision to the map is suggested.

12 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

015316   Kumar S;Choudhary V (Centre for Polymer Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110 016, Email: veenach@hotmail.com) : Comparative studies on the crystallisation behaviour of poly (Ether ketone) (PEK). Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(Spl), 13-27.

Describes the crystallisation and melting behaviour of poly (ether ketone) (PEK), prepared by Gharda Chemicals Ltd., India and compares the same with the PEK supplied by ICI as Victrex. Reportedly, the routes of synthesis of the two polymers are different. Crystallisation of PEK was studied under non-isothermal conditions with differential scanning calorimetry. Crystallisation parameters were evaluated with standard equations and the results were interpreted on the basis of nucleation, crystallisation, and activation energy of crystallisation. The behaviour of Gharda PEK and Victrex PEK was comparable.

11 illus, 8 tables, 15 ref

015315   Khan N H (Process Development, Tata Chemicals Limited, Mithapur-361 345, Email: najmul.khan@tatachemicals.com ) : Soda ash industry: future challenges. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(Spl), 162-4.

Soda ash is a basic chemical product with primary application in the glass, detergents, soap, and paper industries. It tracks fairly closely with economic Gross Domestic Product. Before 2005, the growth in soda ash consumption in the world was 2.45% but in the past few years, the consumption has grown at a rate of 5%. This rise is attributed mainly to the significant improvement taking place in construction, infrastructure etc., in the developing countries. The demand is expected to grow till 2012 but after that it is expected to decline to 2.12%, following a cyclic process.

3 illus

015314   Kanavi S (NO, Tata Consultancy Services, 4th and 5th Floor, P.T.I. Building, No.4, Sansad Marg, New Delhi-100 001, Email: shivanand.kanavi@tcs.com) : Indian software: from artisans to global industry. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(Spl), 157-61.

6 ref

015313   Joshi J B (Homi Bhabha Distinguished Chair Professor, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Dep of Atomic Energy, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai-400 094, Email: jbj@udct.org) : Process intensification. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(Spl), 52-77.

The present status of design of chemical process equipment is still closer to an art than science. Therefore, the prevailing design practice depends heavily on the accumulated experience, intuition and empiricism. However, on the international level, new knowledge gets continuously generated and deeper insights are possible with the help of computers and modern instrumentation. Such developments occur in universities, research institutions, via industrial research and development and a lot of them occur in the operating plants themselves. This knowledge is available in the form of research publication, patents and through conferences/symposia/workshops. Judicious application of this available knowledge (knowledge engineering) in the operating plants can result in enhancements in capacities (in many cases upto 50% and in some cases even upto 100%) and improvements in selectivities. More importantly, the wasteful byproducts can be reduced, which greatly helps in reduction of the pollution load on the environment. All these benefits are "knowledge based" and the investments in hardware are usually marginal. This overall exercise is, therefore, named as "More from Less through Knowledge Engineering".

4 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

015312   Jain M P;Sathiyamoorthy D;Rao V G (NO, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai-400 085, Email: mpjain2000@yahoo.com ) : Hydrochlorination of silicon in a fluidised bed reactor. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(4), 272-80.

The present work aims to study the reaction between silicon and hydrogen chloride (HC1) gas to produce, primarily, trichlorosilane in fluidised bed condition. The experimental data were obtained first in fixed bed and then in fluidised bed to determine reaction rate constants for the reaction of HC1 gas on metallurgical grade silicon. The reactor used for the purpose was a laboratory reactor of ID 26.6 mm and height 470 mm made up of stainless steel 316L. The reaction products were condensed at - 78°C after coming out from the outlet of the fluidised bed reactor. Uncondensed trichlorosiiane vapours, if any, from the condenser were trapped in caustic soda solution forming silica that was washed and weighed to calculate the amount of uncondensed trichlorosilance. The experiments were carried out in temperature range 316-326°C, using the average silicon particle sizes of 88-208 u, and flow rates of HC1 gas of 1.6-3.2 1pm at 1.0 atmospheric pressure. Experimental conversions of HC1 were evaluated. Fluidised bed models of Kunii and Levenspiel, and Kato and Wen were analysed utilising the experimental data to determine overall rate constant and conversions. The experimental conversions of HCl were compared with the estimated values from the Kunii and Levenspiel model as well as from the Kato and Wen model.

2 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

015311   Heinrichs J;Jarmar T;Wiklund U;Engqvist H (Engineering Science Dep, The Angstrom Laboratory, Uppsala Univ, Sweden) : Physical vapour deposition and bioactivity of crystalline titanium dioxide thin films. Trends Biomater artif Organ 2008, 22(2), 104.

Lack of interfacial stability is one of the causes behind the need for revision surgery of metallic implants. Thin films of titanium oxide have recently been proven to be bioactive (in vitro) and non-resorbable. The objective of the paper is to investigate the relationship between deposition parameters of thin crystalline titanium oxide films (using reactive sputtering), their microstructure and the in vitro bioactivity. The relative amounts of anatase and rutile were hard to control via the deposition parameters tested. No direct coupling between the hydroxylapatite layer and the crystalline films from different deposition runs could be derived from this investigation.

7 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

015310   Hegde G M;Reddy K P J (Aerosace Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: hegopal@aero.iisc.ernet.in) : Future switching technology: bacterial protein-based programmable all-optical switch for integrated optics applications?. Curr Sci 2009, 96(11), 1461-5.

Reports on the bacterial protein-based all-optical switches which operate at low laser power, high speed and fulfil most of the requirements to be an ideal all-optical switch without any moving parts involved. This consists of conventional optical waveguides coated with bacteriorhodopsin films at switching locations. The principle of operation of the switch is based on the light-induced refractive index change of bacteriorhodopsin. This approach opens the possibility of realizing protein-based all-optical switches for communication network, integrated optics and optical computers.

4 illus, 40 ref

015309   Hakeem M A;Ali M M;Singhal R;Ali S S (Chemical Engineering Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002, Email: mahakeem63@yahoo.co.in) : Modelling of non-isothermal batch reactor using fuzzy logic. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(4), 261-71.

The work, fuzzy logic (FL) has been used to model the performance of a batch reactor system and, hence, the conversion profile at varying operating conditions. The transient temperature vs. time data of exothermic reaction was taken from open literature [1] for modelling with FL. The FL model with properly chosen fuzzy sets, type of membership function and rule base relate time with temperature very well in the reactor under experimental condition. The simulated result through FL model was compared with experimental findings, mathematical model and artificial neural network (ANN) model. The FL model predictions were found to be in very good agreement with experimental findings with average absolute error less than 1%.

10 illus, 5 tables, 16 ref

015308   Habibi S;Rashidi A;Bazgir S;Katbab A A; Montazer M (Textile Engineering Dep, Islamic Azad Univ, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran, Email: roshidi50@yahoo.com) : Preparation and flame retardancy of poly(ethylene terephthalate)/montmorillonite nanocomposites. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(6), 4881-8.

Presents the experiments on preparing nanocomposites based on poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and montmorillonite via melt blending with different clay loadings to investigate their combustion behaviour. All the samples have intercalated structure by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy. Their thermal stability and combustion behaviour were investigated by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), limiting oxygen index (LOI) and cone calorimeter. Peak heat release rate of nanocomposites decrease as the contents of clay increase compared to that of pristine poly(ethylene terephthalate).

015307   Goel A K;Behera D;Swain S;Behera B K (College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar-751 003) : Performance evaluation of a low-cost manual sunflower thresher. Indian J agric Res 2009, 43(1), 37-41.

Two types of low-cost sunflower threshers (wire mesh type and perforated GI sheet type) were developed and their performance was compared with pedal operated thresher and the traditional method. The test was conducted at four levels of moisture content (db) i.e., 13.84, 11.23, 10.50 and 8.38% for MSFH-17 variety of sunflower crop with different cub diameter ranging from 16-19 cm. The threshing capacity of the threshers increased with decrease in moisture content from 13.84 to 10.50 per cent below which it decreased for all th-2 treatments. The mechanical damage decreased with decrease in seed moisture content and threshing efficiency increased with decrease in moisture content in all the treatments. Based on highest threshing capacity, lowest cost of threshing and a grain breakage of less than 2 per cent, the optimum seed moisture content was found to be 10.50 per cent for threshing of sunflower crop. As highest threshing capacity and lowest cost of threshing were observed with wire mesh type thresher, this may be recommended for adoption by small and marginal farmers of the state.

5 illus, 3 tables

015306   Dursun S;Savas Durduran S;Kunt F (Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Selcuk Univ, 42003 Konya, Turkey, Email: sdursun@selcuk.edu.tr) : Fluoride concentration modelling in Konya city drinking water wells via geographical information system. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(6), 4805-11.

Fluoride is one of the important elements in drinking water. This element is needed in small quantities; because it has an important role for health. Even small quantities of some trace elements have significant effect on human health. In this study, bearing in mind that especially excessive or low fluoride content of drinking waters is important for human health, water samples were collected from 50 different water wells in Konya city centre for determination of their fluoride concentrations. Water fluoride data analyses for modelling were carried out using Geographical Information System (GIS) then, fluoride level maps were presented to aid the identification of areas where high-fluoride waters and fluorosis may be a problem. It was observed that fluoride levels of all collected samples were below the limit given in T.S.-266 and WHO standards. The highest fluoride concentration was detected in water wells at Sakarya area with 0.42 mg L^{-1. The lowest fluoride level was obtained from Ali Tasoluk well water with 0.092 mg L-1. Fluoride level in the tap water has a great importance for tooth and bone health. In the systems where water is supplied from wells with low fluoride content, it is necessary addition of fluoride using appropriate methods. In addition, if it is not possible for fluoride addition, it is necessary to inform the people who using this water about application fluoride tablets.}

1 table, 40 ref

015305   Chowdhury D (Material Science Div, Polymer Unit, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati-781 035, Email: devasishc@gmail.com) : Combination of self-assembly and nanolithography as an effective nanofabrication methodology for device realization. Curr Sci 2009, 96(7), 923-32.

Scanning probe-based nanolithography techniques are advantageous and have the potential to replace the expensive photolithography process. One of the scanning probe techniques is constructive nanolithography, which is a nano-electrochemical process of oxidizing only the terminal -CH₃ group to -COOH of the highly ordered monolayer of OTS (n-octadecyltrichlorosilane) self-assembled on silicon with a conducting scanning force microscope tip. Making use of surface self-assembly in combination with constructive nanolithography various species such as metals, metal ions, semiconductor nanoparticles and organic compounds can be assembled, over which reactions and reorganization processes can take place for their further use as nanodevices.

9 illus, 52 ref

015304   Chatterjee S G (Paper and Bioprocess Engineering Dep, State Univ of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, 1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, New York 13210, USA, Email: schatterjee@esf.edu) : Theoretical analysis of dissolved-gas transfer to the bulk liquid in gas absorption with a first-order reaction. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(3), 177-93.

A theoretical analysis using the surface-renewal and film-penetration models, which includes gas-phase resistance to mass transfer, is presented for the rate of absorption of a gas and its transfer to the bulk liquid in the case where the solute gas undergoes a first-order chemical reaction in the liquid phase. It reveals that: (a) The fraction of absorbed gas transported to the bulk liquid depends upon the Hatta number Ha in case of the surface-renewal model and on Ha as well as a dimensionless hydrodynamic parameter in case of the film-penetration model. (b) The widely assumed law of addition of resistances is valid for the surface-renewal and film-penetration models. (c) The reaction influences both the overall mass-transfer coefficient and the nature of the driving force, i.e. the increased rate of absorption due to the reaction is not solely due to the enhancement factor multiplying the liquid-phase mass-transfer coefficient for physical absorption as has been conventionally assumed in the literature. It is also shown that in a gas-liquid reactor the film and surface-renewal models give close predictions for both the rate of absorption and concentration of dissolved gas in the liquid leaving the reactor. For values of Ha ≥ 0.5, the bulk-liquid concentration of dissolved gas predicted by both models is negligible compared to its interfacial concentration.

2 illus, 31 ref

015303   Balasubramaniam R (Materials and Metallurgical Engineering Dep, Indian Instirtute of Technology, Kanpur-208 016, Email: bala@iitk.ac.in) : On the confirmation of the traditional unit of length measure in the estimates of circumference of the earth. Curr Sci 2009, 96(4), 547-52.

The prevalence of two different measures for the circumference of the earth in Sanskrit astronomical texts has been resolved by considering the concept of a constant angulam of 1.763 cm and the metro logical table defined in Kautilya's Arthasastra. The traditional measures defined in the Arthasastra have been related to the measures defined in the Ain-i-Akbari, by considering the same issue of circumference of the earth. The study has established the connection of the traditional unit of measure, the angulam, of the Harappan Civilization (~2000 BC) with length measures of the Mughal period (AD ~ 1600), thereby confirming an unbroken tradition in the use of the angulam of 1.763 cm over a period of more than 3600 years in the Indian subcontinent. The possible measurement units which can be used to analyse the dimensions of most engineered structures of the subcontinent through the ages have been proposed and briefly confirmed by the dimensions of the marble platform of the Taj Mahal.

1 table, 24 ref

015302   Bala G (Centre for Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: gbala@caos.iisc.ernet.in) : Problems with geoengineering schemes to combat climate change. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 41-8.

Accelerated rate of increase in atmospheric CO₂ concentration in recent years has revived the idea of stabilizing the global climate through geoengineering schemes. Majority of the proposed geoengineering schemes will attempt to reduce the amount of solar radiation absorbed by our planet. Climate modelling studies of these so called 'sunshade geoengineering schemes' show that global warming from increasing concentrations of CO₂ can be mitigated by intentionally manipulating the amount of sunlight absorbed by the climate system. These studies also suggest that the residual changes could be large on regional scales, so that climate change may not be mitigated on a local basis. More recent modelling studies have shown that these schemes could lead to a slowdown in the global hydrological cycle. Other problems such as changes in the terrestrial carbon cycle and ocean acidification remain unsolved by sunshade geoengineering schemes. Review the proposed geoengineering schemes, results from climate models and discuss why geoengineering is not the best option to deal with climate change.

5 illus, 54 ref

015301   Bairagi H;Ghati A;Ray L (Food Technology and Biochemical Enigneering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: lgrftbe@yahoo.com) : Biosorption of copper ions by Bacillus cereus M<. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(3), 203-14.

The severity of heavy metal contamination and its potential adverse health impact on the public has led to tremendous efforts being made to purify water containing toxic metal ions. Biosorption is presented as an alternative to traditional physicochemical means for removing toxic metals from ground water and wastewater. Removal of copper from solution was studied using growing cells and washed cells of Bacillus cereus M^{1₁₆. Optimum process conditions for maximum biosorption (73.3%) of Cu (II) ions using growing cells were - volume of medium: 50 ml in a 250 ml Erlenmeyer flask; temperature: 30°C; pH: 6.0; fermentation time: 24 h; inoculum size (24 h cell growth): 3%; initial metal ion concentration: 75 mg/L. Removal of copper using washed cells of the selected strain was investigated in batch mode and equilibrium was attained within 180 min at 30°C, pH 3.5 when initial metal ion concentration was 100 mg/L using 8.18 g/L biomass (dry weight) in 50 ml saline in 250 ml Erlenmeyer flask. Both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were tested and it was found that the former had a better fit with the data.}

11 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

015300   Anil M;Turkmenoglu M;Yapici N;Pinarbasi A; Kilic O (Mining Engineering Dep, Cukurova Univ, Adana, Turkey, Email: manil@cu.edu.tr) : Effect of classical eberhart lime kiln modifications on capacity and lime quality of kilns. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(6), 4663-88.

While there are various factors affecting lime quality, the quality of raw material, calcination temperature and calcination time as well as the fuel type used are among most important factors. Some modernization activities were performed in classical Eberhart type lime kilns of a facility that is located in the city of Adana, Turkey. In this context, alterations were done in kiln heights of this facility and both new stack system and stack gas treatment units were mounted in the facility and in this way, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) having carcinogenic effect were anulled by keeping them at 900 °C for at least 0.3 s. Loading raw materials and fuel into kilns through an automated system and similarly, loading unburned lime from kiln base to unburned lime bunker automatically have provided considerable advantages. The used kiln limestone was investigated in detail both under laboratory conditions and kiln regime calcination conditions and the factors affecting lime quality were determined through plenty of surface area, porosity measurements and chemical analysis. It was observed that, depending on the limestone content, dissolution accelerates after 850 °C and when 900 °C is reached for pure limestone in kiln applications, it is understood that the calcination is completed. Some of porosities which are opened in sections exposed to calcination for a long time in higher temperatures are blocked. In applications where it was understood that MgO and other impurities within the limestone are effective on the quality, it was seen calcination process was completed at low temperatures for limestone having more than 5% MgO content. Due to aforementioned alterations performed on 8 modernized Eberhart type kilns of partner facility of this project, Nur Kirec Ltd. Sti., the facility now in a position to obtain emission license. In addition, capacity of this facility increased by 20% active CaO ratios in produced quick lime has reached up to an average value of 92.

5 illus, 10 tables, 18 ref

015299   Agarwal R;Garg J K (Statistics Dep, C.C.S. Univ, Meerut-250 004, Email: stat_reshu@yahoo.com) : Methane emission modelling from wetlands and waterlogged areas using MODIS data. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 36-40.

In the study, a Semi-automated Empirical Methane Emission Model (SEMEM) has been developed and used for estimation of methane from wetlands using MOD1S (MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) data. The model has two key factors, namely temperature and productivity. Area extent of different wetlands has been estimated based on knowledge-based classifier using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, optical bands (1, 2 and 3) with thermal channel (31 and 32) data. Land Surface Temperature has been generated using Split Window Method of first-order approximation. Based on the analysis of MODIS data, methane emission from wetlands has been estimated for India pertaining to the months of May and October 2005. Results show that emitted methane in May 2005 was 0.329 Tg with 29,308.27 km^{2 total methane-emitting area, whereas in October 2005 the total emitted methane was 0.466 Tg with 76,340.92 km2 methane-emitting area.}

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

015298   Agarwal M;Arya I;Chaurasia S P;Singh K;George S (Chemical Engineering Dep, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur-302 017, Email: madhunaresh@gmail.com) : Synthesis and characterisation of biodiesel. Indian chem Engr 2009, 51(4), 300-8.

The synthesis and characterisation of soybean oil alkyl esters (SOAE) has been carried out in the present study using alkaline catalysed transesterification reaction. Soybean oil was converted to biodiesel by transesterification reaction using batch process. The effects of various reaction parameters - type of alcohol (methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, iso-propanol, n-butanol and iso-butanol), type of catalyst (KOH, NaOH and CH₃ONa), catalyst concentration (0.5, 1 and 1.5%), reaction temperature (30-40, 40-50, 50-60, 60-70 and 70-80°C) and reaction time - on biodiesel yield, were investigated. The quality of the biodiesel produced was evaluated by determining important properties, such as specific gravity, kinematic viscosity, flash point, fire point, pour point, and cloud point using ASTM (D 6751) methods. The characteristics of produced biodiesel were found to be within the prescribed ASTM (D 6751) specifications, thus, indicating that SOAE are acceptable as a substitute for petroleum diesel. The yield and quality of biodiesel obtained from soybean oil transesterification with methanol using 0.5% KOH as catalyst was found to be the best. It was also found that methanol and KOH were the best alcohol and the best catalyst, respectively, for transesterification of soybean oil at 65°C with 10:3 volume ratio of oil to alcohol.

5 illus, 5 tables, 9 ref

024971   Victorbabu B R;Surekha C V V S (Statistics Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Guntur-522 510, Email: Victorsugnanam@yahoo.co.in) : New method of construction of second-order slope rotatable designs using pairwise balanced designs. Int J agric statist Sci 2010, 6(1), 1-9.

A new method of construction of second-order slope-rotatable designs (SOSRD) using pairwise balanced designs (PBD) is suggested. It is observed that the method sometimes leads to designs with less number of design points than those available in the literature. Modified SOSRD using incomplete block designs with unequal block sizes of Victorbabu (2008) is shown to be obtainable using this method. Minimum number of design points for the new method of construction of SOSRD using balanced-incomplete block designs and PBD are suggested.

2 tables, 12 ref

024970   Ubale P V;Kane S P (Statistics Dep, G. S. Collage, Khamgaon-444 303) : Modified stopping criterion in TTSP. Int J agric statist Sci 2010, 6(1), 99-104.

In the original secretary problem a stopping rule is developed which gives the maximum probability of the best selection. In this paper rather than focusing on maximization of probability of the best selection a rule is developed which gives a maximum expected value of the real rank of the units. Further a Two Tailed Secretary Problem (TTSP) where, we have two non selection zones in the sequence of the units is mainly considered to develop the criterion.

5 tables, 3 ref