006980   Madolappa S;Sagar R;Sharanappa N;Raibagkar R L (Post Graduate Studies and Research in Materials Science Dep, Gulbarga University, Gulbarga-585 106, Email: rlraibagkar@rediffmail.com) : Investigation on microstructure and dielectric behaviour of (Ba_0.999-x Gd_0.001Cr_x)TiO₃ ceramics. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 601-6.

Ceramics of BaTiO₃ co-doped with Gd and Cr at Ba-site was synthesized via solid-state reaction route. Surface morphology shows the increase in grain size with the increase of Cr-content below 3 mol%. The high value of î in the synthesized samples is associated with space charge polarization and inhomogeneous dielectric structure. Gd is diffused well into the most of Ba sites and vacancies leaving very few defects or voids for the generation of absorption current which results in dielectric loss. Below 3 mol% of Cr-concentration, dissipation factor was improved. Increase in a.c. conductivity with rise of temperature is due to increase in thermally activated electron drift mobility of charges according to the hopping conduction mechanism. Moreover, samples show the positive temperature coefficient of conductivity, which is most desirable for developing highly sensitive thermal detectors and sensors. Also, higher frequency indicates motion of charges in the ceramic samples.

4 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

006979   Lenin K;Shabeer H A;Suresh Kumar K; Panneerselvam K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Jayaram College of Engineering and Technology, Trichy, Tamil Nadu, Email: eninnaga@yahoo.com ) : Process parameters optimization for friction stir welding of Polypropylene material using Taguchi's approach. J scient ind Res 2014, 73(6), 369-74.

Deals with the successful application of friction stir welding (FSW) in joining a polypropylene material. Welding parameters such as tool pin profile, feed rate and tool rotational speed were selected with the objective of producing a good weld joint with maximum strength and minimum defects. The maximum strength was considered for the selection of process parameters. Taguchi method was used to analyze the effect of each welding process parameters and then to determine the optimal process parameters. From this experiment, it was found that the effects of welding parameters on the maximum strength were in the order of tool pin profile, feed rate, and tool rotational speed. The optimal combination of FSW parameters was the threaded pin profile, feed rate of 60 mm/min and tool rotational speed of 1500 rpm. A confirmation test was carried out and results were closer to the optimized results.

4 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

006978   Latha N;Raj V;Selvam M (Chemistry Dep, Kandaswamy kandar's College, Paramathy-Velur-638 182, Email: alaguraj2@rediffmail.com) : Effect of plating time on growth of nanocrystalline Ni-P from sulphate/glycine bath by electroless deposition method. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 719-27.

Nanocrystalline nickel phosphorus (NC-Ni-P) deposits from sulphate/glycine bath using a simple electroless deposition process is demonstrated. In the present investigation, nanoporous alumina films are formed on the aluminium surface by anodization process followed by deposition of nickel onto the pores by electroless plating method. Anodic aluminium oxide surface was first sensitized and activated by using palladium chloride solution before immersing into the electroless nickel bath. Electroless nickel plating was carried out from the optimized bath by changing the deposition time from 20 to 1800 s at a constant temperature of 80 °C and a pH of 4.0. Surface morphology, elemental composition, structure and reflectance of the deposits have been analysed by using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray diffractometry and UV-visible spectroscopic studies, respectively. Electroless nickel deposits formed at an early stage produces dense uniform nanocrystals containing higher percentage of atomic phosphorus with cubic Ni (111) structure. As the deposition time increased, nanocrystalline sharp peak became amorphous and dimension of the crystal size varied from 54 to 72 nm.

8 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

006977   Kavitha A;SasiKumar S (Anna University, , Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Email: susmi_sri@yahoo.com) : Minimizing switching activities through reordering algorithm for efficient power management. J scient ind Res 2014, 73(6), 421-6.

One of the emerging challenges in the current scenario of modern-day technologies is the power dissipation occurring in high end VLSI circuits that are predominantly caused due to the switching activities of the circuit under test procedures. We have presented a well-organized test pattern generator that is more appropriate for built in self-test (BIST) structures used in the testing of VLSI circuits. The BIST sufficiently keeps the power dissipation in check without altering the fault coverage. Our version of the test pattern generator aims at bringing down the switching activity to the least minimum amount possible. In addition to this, a modified version of Floyd algorithm is used which re-orders the vectors in the test sequence and this further reduces the switching activities that occurs while testing of combinational circuits. This technique brings down the hamming distance between test vectors which leads to reduction in dynamic power dissipations to a great extent. Moreover, in order to reduce execution time and power, genetic algorithm is incorporated with Floyd algorithm. We have used the ISCAS'85 benchmark circuit for our experiments.

2 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

006976   Kaplan Y;Okay S;Motorcu A R;Nalbant M (Manufacturing Engineering Dep, Faculty of Technology, Pamukkale University, Denizli 20020, Turkey, Email: armotorcu@comu.edu.tr) : Investigation of the effects of machining parameters on the thrust force and cutting torque in the drilling of AISI D2 and AISI D3 cold work tool steels. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(2), 128-38.

In this study, the effects of workpiece hardness, drill diameter, drill length and drilling parameters on thrust force and cutting torque are investigated in the drilling of AISI D2 and AISI D3 cold work tool steels under dry drilling conditions. The experiments are performed at three cutting speeds (5, 10 and 15 m/min) and three feed rates (0.04, 0.05 and 0.06 mm/rev). Workpiece hardness, drill diameter, drill length, cutting speed are considered as independent variables (machining parameters), and full factorial design is selected for experimental trials. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is employed to determine the most significant machining parameters on the thrust force and cutting torque. The predictive equations are developed in confidence intervals with the linear regression analysis to obtain the thrust force and cutting torque as a function of machining parameters and the correlation coefficients (R2) of equations for thrust force and cutting torque are calculated as 92.7% and 84.1%, respectively. As a result of this study, it is found that all of the machining parameters are effective on the thrust force and cutting torque. Thrust force and cutting torque increase with the increase of workpiece material hardness, drill diameter, drill length, feed rate and number of holes, and decrease with the increase of cutting speed.

8 illus, 10 tables, 24 ref

006975   Kalampounias A G (Chemical Engineering Dep, University of Patras, GR 26504, Patras, Greece and Foundation for Res, FORTH/ICE-HT, P.O. Box 1414, GR 26504, Patras, Greece, Email: angelos@chemeng.upatras.gr) : Low-energy excitations in a low-viscous glass-forming liquid. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 607-11.

Polarized and depolarized low frequency Raman spectra of a liquid mixture, viz. 0.15LiCl-0.85H₂O, has been analysed in detail in order to elucidate the temperature and polarization characteristics of quasi-elastic line and Boson peak. The employed fitting procedure shows more convincingly that the Boson peak contribution to the overall low frequency Raman pattern is present even in this low-viscous liquid. The degree of disorder in this liquid is not so high and certain micro-ordering effects may take place due to hydrogen bonding. The results are discussed in the framework of the current phenomenological status of the field.

4 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

006974   Jinlian L;Xianming W;Shang C;Jianben L; Zeqiang H (NO, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jishou University, Jishou 416000, china, Email: xianmingwu@163.com) : Enhanced high temperature performance of LiMn₂ O₄ coated with Li₃ BO₃ solid electrolyte. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 687-91.

Cathode material, LiMn₂O₄, was synthesized by solid-state reaction followed by surface coating of Li₃BO₃ solid electrolyte. Structure and electrochemical performance of the prepared powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic charge-discharge techniques, respectively. Results show that Li₃BO₃ coated LiMn₂O₄ has similar X-ray diffraction patterns as LiMn₂O₄. The discharge specific capacities of LiMn₂O₄ coated with 0.1, 0.3 and 0.6 wt% Li₃BO₃ are 123.3, 118.2 and 110 mAh/g, respectively, which is slightly smaller than that of 124.4 mAh/g for LiMn₂O₄. However, the capacity retention of Li₃BO₃ coated LiMn₂O₄ is at least 5.6 and 7.6% higher than LiMn₂O₄ when cycled at room temperature and 55°C, respectively. Li_BO₃ coated LiMn₂O₄ shows much better cycling behaviours than LiMn₂O₄.

6 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

006973   Jianing L;Chuanzhong C;Cuifang Z (Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of, Shandong University, Jinan', 250061, China, Email: jn2369@163.com) : Effect of nano-CeO₂ on microstructure properties of TiC/TiN+TiCN-reinforced composite coating. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 541-6.

TiC/TiN+TiCN-reinforced composite coatings were fabricated on Ti-6Al-4V alloy by laser cladding, which improved surface performance of the substrate. Nano-CeO₂ was able to suppress crystallization and growth of crystals in the laser-cladded coating to a certain extent. With the addition of proper content of nano-CeO₂, this coating exhibited fine microstructure. In this study, Al₃Ti+TiC/TiN+nano-CeO₂ laser-cladded coatings have been studied by means of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. X-ray diffraction results indicated that Al₃Ti+TiC/TiN+nano-CeO₂ laser-cladded coating consisted of Ti₃Al, TiC, TiN, Ti₂Al₂₀Ce, TiC_0.3N_0.7, Ce(CN)₃ and CeO₂, this phase constituent was beneficial in increasing microhardness and wear resistance of Ti-6Al-6V alloy.

8 illus, 18 ref

006972   Jebaraj A V;Ajaykumar L (Mechanical Engineering Dep, College of Engineering, Guindy, Anna University, Chennai-600 025, Email: vjebaraj@gmail.com) : Microstructural analysis and the influence of shot peening on stress corrosion cracking resistance of duplex stainless steel welded joints. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(2), 155-67.

This paper aims to study the weldment of duplex stainless steel (DSS) AISI 2205. Tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding is performed with controlled welding parameters. The effect of cooling rate on microstructural changes is analyzed by varying the heat input during welding. The results show that high heat input and excessive nickel content in the filler wire, leads to excessive formation of austenite phases in the fusion zone. Lower heat input nucleates lesser amount of austenite phases and also very low heat input causes lack of fusion in the weld joints. Microstructural variations due to welding are assessed by conducting the micro hardness test, impact toughness test and tensile test. To study the effect of shot peening, the samples are prepared from the DSS welded plate. The chloride induced stress corrosion cracking (SCC) test is conducted and the result shows a noticeable improvement in the corrosion resistance of the weld zone due to shot peening. The findings of this study can be used in marine applications.

19 illus, 5 tables, 19 ref

006971   Jaisingh S J;Selvam V;Suresh Chandra Kumar M; Thyagarajan K (Mechanical Engineering Dep, St. Xavier's Catholic College of Engineering, Nagercoil-629 003, Email: singh_pec@rediffmail.com ) : Thermo-mechanical properties of unsaturated polyester toughened epoxysiliconized iron (III) oxide nanocomposites. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(2), 241-5.

Novel siliconized iron (III) oxide nanoparticles reinforced unsaturated polyester (UP) toughened epoxy nanocomposites is prepared. The siliconized iron (III) oxide nanoparticles are improved thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) based epoxy resin is toughened with 5, 10 and 15% (by wt) of UP using benzoyl peroxide as radical initiator and 4, 4'-diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) as curing agent. UP toughened epoxy systems are reinforced with 1, 3, and 5% (by wt) of siliconized iron (III) oxide nanoparticles. The thermal and mechanical properties, and microstructures of nanocomposites are investigated. Data results from thermal and mechanical studies indicate that the insertion of siliconized iron (III) oxide nanoparticles into UP toughened epoxy system enhances the thermal and mechanical properties. Morphology of the hybrid system reveals homogenous distribution of nanoparticles.

2 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

006970   Gunasekar S (NO, Welding Research Institute, BHEL, Tiruchirappalli-620 014) : Evolution of ultrasonic testing. WRI Jl 2013, 34(2), 33-9.

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) is one of the volumetric non-destructive testing method in which high frequency sound wave is used to conduct examinations and make measurements. Ultrasonic inspection can be used for flaw detection, evaluation, dimensional measurements, material characterization, and much more. The field of ultrasonic testing has grown drastically in a short period of time compared to other NDT methods. Having medical applications as a origin, this techniques are further used for industrial applications also for testing the materials. The growth and developments in ultrasonic testing is discussed in this paper.

7 illus, 5 ref

006969   Goswami S;Dutta A (Chemistry Dep, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh-786 004, Email: gsamadrita@yahoo.com) : Conductivity study of solid polyelectrolytes based on hydroiodide salt of poly(4-vinyl pyridine-co-butylmethacrylate), poly(4-vinyl pyridine-co-butylacrylate). Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 635-40.

The chain flexibility of poly(4-vinylpyridine) was tried to increase by lowering its glass transition temperature (T_g) and by increasing its amorphous region by copolymerizing with butyl methacrylate and butylacrylate which act as internal plasticizer. The copolymers were prepared in five different feed molar ratios to optimize the required properties such as higher room temperature conductivity and better film-forming capacity. The conductivity and conduction behaviour of the copolymers, as well as their hydroiodide salts have been reported. There was about 103-104-fold increase in room temperature conductivity of these plasticized polyelectrolytes.

6 illus, 31 ref

006968   Gomathi P;Sivakumar A (Structural Engineering Div, VIT University, Vellore-632 014, Email: sivakumara@vit.ac.in) : Fly ash based lightweight aggregates incorporating clay binders. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(2), 227-32.

This study focuses on the strength characterization of artificial fly ash aggregates produced from a pelletization process. Additionally, to improve the stability and strength properties of fly ash aggregates clay binders such as bentonite and metakaolin are added during the production. Physical properties such as specific gravity, bulk density, water absorption, gradation and individual crushing strength of aggregates are determined. The faster hardening of fresh aggregates is envisaged with the addition alkali activator in the binder. Fly ash aggregates are then cured in different environmental conditions such as controlled humidity curing at 40% RH and 35°C, hot air oven curing at two different temperatures - 50°C and 100°C. Porosity of fly ash aggregates is found to be reduced with the addition of binder material as a result of good agglomeration with fly ash. Also, the production efficiency of fly ash aggregates is found to be dependent on the binary blends of fly ash with clay binders and the concentration of alkali activator added to the fly ash. The test results also indicate that a maximum crushing strength of 17.97 MPa can be obtained in the case of fly ash aggregates subjected to hot air oven curing at 100°C.

11 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

006967   Dogan H;Yildiz E;Kaya M;Inan T Y (TUBITAK, Marmara Research Centre, Chemistry Institute, 41470 Gebze-Kocaeli, Turkey, Email: tulay.Inan@mam/gov.tr) : Sulfonated carbon black-based composite membranes for fuel cell applications. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 563-73.

Two different commercial grade carbon black samples, Cabot Regal 400R (C1) and Cabot Mogul L (C2), were sulfonated with diazonium salt of sulfanilic acid. The resultant sulfonated carbon black samples (S-C) were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Composite membranes were then prepared using S-C as fillers and sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) as polymer matrix with three different sulfonation degrees (DS = 60, 70 and 82%). Structure and properties of the composite membranes were characterized by FTIR, TGA, scanning electron microscopy, proton conduction, water uptake, ion exchange capacity and chemical stability. Incorporation of S-C particles above 0. 25 wt% caused decrease in chemical stability. Pristine and composite membranes prepared from SPEEK82 decomposed completely in <60> 1 h, which is undesirable for fuel cell applications. SPEEK60 membrane having wt% of 0.25-0. 5 with S-C particles led to higher proton conductivity than that of pristine membrane. No positive effect was observed on the properties of the composite membranes with the addition of S-C particles at high concentrations due to the agglomeration problems and decrease in the content of conductive polymer matrix.

13 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

006966   Dhngra M;Lalit Kumar;Shrivastava S;Senthil Kumar P;Annapoorni S (Phyiscs and Astrophysics Dep, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: annapoorni@physics.du.ac.in) : Impact of interfacial interactions on optical and ammonia sensing in zinc oxide/polyaniline structures. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 647-52.

Zinc oxide/polyaniline (ZnO/PANI) hybrid structures have been investigated for their optical and gas sensing properties. ZnO nanoparticles, prepared by the sol-gel method, pressed in the form of pellets were used for gas sensing. The hybrid ZnO/PANI structure was obtained by the addition of PANI on the surface of ZnO. The UV-Vis absorption of the modified pellets show band edge at 363 nm corresponding to ZnO, while a change in the absorption peaks for PANI was observed. The possible interaction between Zn^{2+ of ZnO and NH-group of PANI was confirmed using Raman spectroscopy studies. The results reveal that the hybrid structures exhibit much higher sensitivity to NH₃ gas at room temperature than blank ZnO, which is sensitive to NH₃ gas at higher temperature. This enhancement has been attributed to the creation of active sites on the ZnO surface due to the presence of PANI.}

8 illus, 40 ref

006965   Basu S;Wang Y H;Ghanshyam C;Kapur P (CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation, , Sector-30, Chandigarh-160 030, Email: dcghan@gmail.com) : Fast response time alcohol gas sensor using nanocrystalline F-doped SnO₂ films derived via sol-gel method. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 521-33.

Pure and fluorine-modified tin oxide (SnO) thin films (250-300 nm) were uniformly deposited on corning glass substrate using sol-gel technique to fabricate SnO₂-based resistive sensors for ethanol detection. The characteristic properties of the multicoatings have been investigated, including their electrical conductivity and optical transparency in visible IR range. Pure SnO₂ films exhibited a visible transmission of 90% compared with F-doped films (80% for low doping and 60% for high doping). F-doped SnO₂ films exhibited lower resistivity (0.12 x 10^{-4 Ω cm) compared with the pure (14.16 x 10-4 Ω cm) one. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques were used to analyse the structure and surface morphology of the prepared films. Resistance change was studied at different temperatures (523-623 K) with metallic contacts of silver in air and in presence of different ethanol vapour concentrations. Comparative gas-sensing results revealed that the prepared F-doped SnO₂ sensor exhibited the lowest response and recovery times of 10 and 13 s, respectively whereas that of pure SnO₂ gas sensor, 32 and 65 s, respectively. The maximum sensitivities of both gas sensors were obtained at 623 K.}

12 illus, 1 table, 38 ref

006964   Balaji G;Gnanambal I (Electrical and Electronics Engineering Dep, Paavai Engineering College, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, , Email: rahullaagi@gmail.com) : Wind power generator using horizontal axis wind turbine with convergent nozzle. J scient ind Res 2014, 73(6), 375-80.

This paper introduces the wind power generator using horizontal axis wind turbine with convergent nozzle. This paper brings a detailed theoretical and practical study of air concentrating nozzle and the optimum nozzle dimensions have been analyzed indetail. Commercial CFD software which is used for the nozzle with different tapering angle has also been analyzed. The length of the nozzle was varied to study its effect on the increase of wind speed for constant inlet and outlet nozzle areas placed atdifferent distances from the wind tunnel. The results of the new wind turbine performance characteristics using concentrating nozzles have also been outlined. We have practically deliberated and constructed a wind power generator, established on this nozzle duct furnished with the optimal nozzle.

4 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

006963   Bai Z;Xu W;Xie C;Dong M;Zhang S;Xu J;Xiao S (Key Lab for Green Processing and Functionalization of New Textile Mat, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan, 430073, P.R. China, Email: zkbwn@163.com) : Preparation and gas-sensing property of parallel-aligned ZnO nanofibrous films. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 505-11.

Parallel-aligned zinc oxide (ZnO) nanofibrous films fabricated by using electrospinning technique were used in gas sensors for the detection of ethanol and formaldehyde. The morphologies and crystal structures of the films were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. FE-SEM results showed that ZnO nanofibres had an approximate diameter of 100-300 nm and consisted of hexagonal wurtzite structure ZnO nanocrystals with a primary particle diameter of 20-50 nm. The results of resistance-temperature characteristics and responses to ethanol and formaldehyde indicated that the parallel-aligned ZnO nanofibrous film had a low activation energy (0.246 eV), a low optimum operating temperature and a high response. The response and recovery had a high rate in the initial stage and a low rate in the later stage. The parallel-aligned ZnO nanofibrous film had excellent potential application for formaldehyde sensor.

6 illus, 45 ref

006962   Baez-Pimiento S;Betancourt I;Hernandez-Rojas M E;Badini-Confalonieri G A;Jacas A;Vazquez M (Departamento de Materiales Met  licos y Cer micos, Instituto de Invest, Universidad Nacional Aut¢noma de M‚xico, M‚xico, D.F., 04510, M‚xico, Email: sbp@iim.unam.mx) : Low-field magnetization process and complex permeability of FeCoBSiTa wires coated with hard magnetic CoNi layer. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 559-62.

Biphase wires consisting of a soft magnetic amorphous nucleus surrounded by a hard magnetic CoNi layer of variable thickness were obtained by means of rotating water-quenching method and subsequent electroplating technique. Magnetization processes for all the biphase wires were resolved in terms of reversible bulging of magnetic domains and spin rotation by means of complex permeability measurements within the frequency range of 10 Hz-13 MHz. Results are interpreted in terms of CoNi layer effect on the magnetic anisotropy of the soft core.

4 illus, 16 ref

006961   Azhagurajan A;Selvakumar N;Suresh A (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Mepco Schlenk Engineering College, Sivakasi-626 005, Email: a_azhagu@yahoo.co.in) : Environment friendly fireworks manufacturing using nano scale flash powder. J scient ind Res 2014, 73(7), 479-84.

Flash powder composition is used in the fireworks industry to manufacture the firecracker which consists of pottasium nitrate, aluminium and sulphur powder in 75 microns range. During fireworks crackers bursting, more polluted gases are emitted and thus pollute the atmosphere. In this study, synthesis of flash powders and manufactured the fire crackers with the use of nano flash powders. The particle sizes of the chemicals are 139.7 nm for KNO₃, 94.5 nm for Al and 92.36 nm for S. The nano flash powders are mixed with micron powders in different ratios and crackers are manufactured. The residues are collected and analysed for the metal content. Also gas analysis is done for all the combination of crackers. SEM analysis of the residues is analysed. Results shows that crackers made of 100 % nano flash powder provide less quantity of sulphur dioxide and metal content.

2 illus, 19 ref

006960   Amarnath K;Prasad K;Chamdra K P;Kulkarni A R (University Department of Physics, T.M. Bhagalpur University, Bhagalpur-812 007, Email: k.prasad65@gmail.com) : Impedance and a.c. conductivity studies of Ba(Pr_1/2Nb_1/2)O₃ ceramic. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 591-9.

Impedance and electrical conduction studies of Ba(Pr_1/2Nb_1/2)O₃ ceramic prepared through conventional ceramic fabrication technique are presented. The crystal symmetry, space group and unit cell dimensions were estimated using Rietveld analysis. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated the formation of a single-phase cubic structure with space group, Pm3m . EDAX and SEM studies were carried out to study the quality and purity of compound. To find a correlation between the response of the real system and idealized model circuit composed of discrete electrical components, the model fittings were presented using impedance data. Complex impedance as well as electric modulus analyses suggested dielectric relaxation to be of non-Debye type and negative temperature coefficient of resistance character. The correlated barrier hopping model was employed to successfully explain the mechanism of charge transport in Ba(Pr_1/2Nb_1/2)O₃. The a.c. conductivity data were used to evaluate density of states at Fermi level, minimum hopping length and apparent activation energy.

13 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

006959   Ali H M;Iqbal A;Hashemipour M (Refrigeration and Air-condition Dep, Technical College of Mosul, Foundation of Technical Education, Mosul,Iraq, Email: hrlha@yahoo.com) : Dimensional accuracy and strength comparison in hole making of GFRP composite using Co₂ laser and abrasive water jet technologies. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(2), 189-99.

The dimensional accuracy and strength of a part is of critical importance in the manufacturing industry, especially for precision assembly operation. In the manufacturing process, the designed part will be presented in a drawing with all dimensions normally given within a certain range of tolerances. The tolerance defines the limits of induced deviation for which allowance should be made in the design, and within which actual size is acceptable. In laser and abrasive water jet cutting, dimensional accuracy is one of the important parameters to define the quality of produced part. The aim of the present work is to compare experimentally the influence of cutting parameters on dimensional accuracy and strength of hole making in GFRP by using laser beam and abrasive water jet cutting technologies. Full factorial design is used as a statistical method to study the effects of predictor variables on the response variables. The results show that abrasive water jet cutting gives a less out of roundness in cutting hole diameter, less reduction in strength and large difference between upper and lower diameter compared to the laser cutting technology of hole making in the type of the glass fiber reinforced plastic composite material used in the present work.

11 illus, 9 tables, 14 ref

006958   Agarwal G;Agrawal H;Srinivas M;Majumdar B; Mukhopadhyay N K (Metallurgical Engineering Dep, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bhaskar@dmrl.drdo.in) : Role of aluminium addition on structure of Fe substituted Fe_73.5-x Si_13.5B₉Nb₃Cu₁Al_x alloy ribbons. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 613-18.

The investigation has dealt with the structure and magnetic properties of rapidly solidified and annealed Fe_73.5-x Si_13.5B₉Nb₃Cu₁Al_x (x=0, 2, 4, 6 at%) ribbons prepared by melt spinning. Complete amorphous structure was obtained in as-spun ribbons of x =0 and 2 at% compositions, whereas structure of ribbons containing higher Al was found to be partially crystalline. Detailed thermal analyses of the alloys and the melt spun ribbons revealed that the glass forming ability in the form of T_x/Tl (ratio between crystallization and liquidus temperature) is the highest for 2 at% Al alloys and decreases with further addition of Al. Annealing of all as spun ribbons resulted in the precipitation of nanocrystalline phase embedded in amorphous matrix in the form of either DO3 phase or bcc α -Fe(Si/Al) solid solution depending on the initial composition of the alloy. Only bcc α -Fe(Si/Al) solid solution was formed in 2 at% Al ribbons whereas ordered DO3 structure was found to be stabilized in other ribbons including 0 at% Al. A detailed study on determination of precision lattice parameter of nanocrystalline phase revealed that the lattice parameter increases with the addition of Al indicating the partitioning behaviour of Al in nanocrystalline phase.

9 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

006957   Affam A C;Chaudhuri M (Civil Engineering Dep, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Bandar Seri Iskandar, 31750 Tronoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia) : UV photo-fenton treatment of combined chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin and chlorothalonil pesticides aqueous solution. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2013, 12(1), 105-10.

Study examined the effect of the operating conditions of the UV photo-Fenton process on COD and TOC removal, biodegradability improvement and mineralization of combined chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin and chlorothalonil pesticides in aqueous solution. The optimum operating conditions for treatment of an aqueous solution containing 100 mg/L of chlorpyrifos, 50 mg/L of cypermethrin and 250 mg/L of chlorothalonil were observed to be H₂O₂/COD molar ratio 2, H₂O₂/Fe^{2+ molar ratio 25 and pH 3. Under the optimum operating conditions, complete degradation of the pesticides occurred in 1 min. Biodegradability (BOD₅/COD ratio) increased from zero to 0.38 and COD and TOC removal were 78.56 and 63.76%, respectively in 60 min. The treatment resulted in release and mineralization of organic carbon and nitrogen from the pesticide molecules as evident from TOC degradation (removal), and decrease in NH₃-N from 22 to 3.9 mg/L and increase in NO₃-N from 0.7 to 19.3 mg/L in 60 min. The study shows that UV photo-Fenton process is effective in pretreatment of combined chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin and chlorothalonil pesticides aqueous solution for biological treatment.}

7 illus, 35 ref

006956   Adhikari S;Banerji P (Materials Science Centre, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur-721 302, Email: pallab@matsc.iitkgp.ernet.in) : Poly(aniline-co-m-aminobenzoic acid) deposited on poly(vinyl alcohol): Synthesis and characterization. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(4), 641-5.

In this work, we have deposited poly(aniline-co-m-aminobenzoic acid) on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) by in situ polymerization. The polymerization was effected within maleic acid (MA) cross-linked PVA hydrogel. The copolymer was obtained by oxidative polymerization of aniline hydrochloride and m-aminobenzoic acid using ammonium persulfate as an oxidant. Instead of conventional solution polymerization, here synthesis was carried out on APS soaked MA cross-linked PVA (MA-PVA) film where the polymer was in situ deposited in its conducting form. The composite film was characterized by Fourier transform infra red (FT-IR) and ultraviolet visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy and electrical measurements. Surface morphology of the composite films was studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The variation of conductivity of the films was studied.

3 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

006955   Abe R;Sekhar C R;Sasaki S;Shivananda K R; Shinji M (Oriental Consultant Ltd, , Tokyo, Japan, Email: chalumuri.ravisekhar@gmail.com) : Measuring and monitoring construction dust using mobile phone cameras. Curr Sci 2013, 104(7), 817-21.

6 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

006081   Zou T;Li H;Zhao N;Shi C (Airworthiness Certification Technology Research and Management Centre, Civil Aviation Univ of China, Tianjin 300 300, China, Email: zoutianchun@yahoo.com.cn) : Electromagnetic and microwave absorbing properties of hollow carbon nanospheres. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(2), 213-16.

A mass of hollow carbon nanospheres (HCNSs) was fabricated by chemical vapour deposition of methane over NiAl₂O₃ catalyst at 600 °C. The products were characterized with high-resolution transmission electron microscope images, and the results showed that the external diameter of the HCNSs was 5-90 nm and the thickness of wall was about 10 nm. Microwave absorption of HCNSs/paraffin composites was mainly attributed to dielectric loss. The microwave-absorbing peaks of composites containing HCNSs shifts to low frequencies, and the bandwidth below -10 dB and minimum RL decrease with increasing thickness of HCNSs/paraffin composites.

4 illus, 10 ref

006080   Zheng W;Shui M;Shu J;Gao S;Xu D;Chen L;Feng L;Ren Y (The State Key Laboratory base of Novel Functional Materials and Prepar, Ningbo Univ, Ningbo 315211, P.R. China, Email: shuimiao@nbu.edu.cn) : GITT studies on oxide cathode LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ synthesized by citric acid assisted high-energy ball milling. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(3), 495-8.

Layered LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ was synthesized by a citric acid assisted solid-state method. The structure and electrochemical properties of the LiNii/sCoi/sMni/sC^ materials were investigated. XRD analysis indicated the as-synthesized LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ was with the layered α-NaFeO₂ structure. The discharge capacity was about 154 m.Ahg^{-1 at 0.1 °C rate in the range of 2.0-4.5 V. The kinetics of the LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ materials was investigated by the galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT) method. The lithium ion diffusion coefficient of the LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3 was determined in the range of 10-8-10-9 cm2.s-1 as a function of voltage of 3.7-4.5 V.}

7 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

006079   Yu H;Ming H;Gong J;Li H;Huang H;Pn K;Liu Y; Kang Z;Wei J;Wang D (NO, Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM) and Jiangsu K, Suzhou 215123, China, Email: yangl@suda.edu.cn) : Facile synthesis of Au/ZnO nanoparticles and their enhanced photocatalytic activity for hydroxylation of benzene. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(3), 367-72.

Au/ZnO nanocomposites have been prepared by a simple chemical method. For the first time, the nanocomposites were directly used as photocatalysts for hydroxylation of aromatic hydrocarbons under UV and visible light irradiation. The results show that the as-prepared photocatalysts display high photocatalytic activity for UV and visible catalytic hydroxylation of benzene. Without the assistance of any solvent or additive, high selectivity and high conversion efficiency were still obtained. Different photocatalytic mechanisms were proposed depending on whether excitation happens on ZnO semiconductor or on the surface plasmon band of Au. The former is Au nanoparticles act as electron buffer due to irradiation by UV light and ZnO nanoparticles as reactive sites for hydroxylation of benzene, the latter is that Au nanoparticles act as light harvesters and inject electrons into ZnO conduction band and as photocatalytic sites under visible light irradiation.

4 illus, 28 ref

006078   Wang H;Liu L;Xu J W;Yuan C L;Yang L (School of Materials Science and Engineering, Guilin Univ of Electronic Technology, Guilin-541 004, China, Email: wh65@tom.com) : Effects of Bi doping on dielectric and ferroelectric properties of PLBZT ferroelectric thin films synthsized by sol-gel processing. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(3), 389-93.

[Pb_0.95(La_1-yBi_y)_0.05]Zr_0.53Ti_0.47 ]O₃ (PLBZT) ferroelectric thin films have been synthesized on indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass by sol-gel processing. PLBZT thin films were annealed at a relatively low temperature of 550 °C in oxygen ambient. Effects of Bi doping on structure, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of PLBZT were investigated. Bi doping is useful in crystallization of PLBZT films and promoting grain growth. When the Bi-doping content y is not more than 0.4, an obvious improvement in dielectric properties and leakage current of PLBZT was confirmed. However, when the Bi-doping content is more than 0.6, the pyrochlore phase appears and the remnant polarization P_r of PLBZT thin films is smaller than that of (Pb_1-xLa_x)(Zr_1-yTi_y) O₃ (PLZT) thin films without Bi doping. PLBZT thin films with excessive Bi-doping content are easier to fatigue than PLZT thin films.

7 illus, 15 ref

006077   Vyas B;Maheshwari R P;Das B (Electrical Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee) : Evaluation of artificial intelligence techniques for fault type identification in advanced series compensated transmission lines. IETE J Res 2014, 60(1), 85-91.

In this paper, two well-known artificial intelligence techniques, artificial neural network (ANN) and upport vector machine (SVM) have been modelled for fault type classification for a transmission line equipped with thyristor controlled series compensator (TCSC) to compare their performance. Due to the non-linear changes introduced by the compensation devices, protection of the series compensated transmission line has been a difficult task. The problem is still complex for advanced series compensated transmission lines. The relaying procedure for a compensated transmission line usually involves fault type identification and fault section identification to conclude for the final decision. The algorithm modelled in this paper has been devised on the analysis of a half cycle post-fault current signals, with the help of discrete wavelet transform as a feature extraction tool. The training and testing of ANN and SVM have been performed with an identical fault data set for comparison. The accuracy of the classifiers had been tested with a large number of fault cases encircling different system conditions and fault conditions. These system conditions are simulated on Power System Computer Aided Design/ElectroMagnetic Transients Program (PSCAD/EMTP) with variation in system parameters such as change in firing angle of TCSC, fault resistance, fault inception angle, loading angle of generator, and source impedance variation for all 10 types of faults. The classifiers are compared in detail with their performance at various firing angles of TCSC and for different fault types.

4 tables, 20 ref

006076   Tashima M M;Soriano L;Borrachero M V;Monzo J; Paya J (NO, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnologia del Hormigon, Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Camino de Vera s/n, Edificio 4G, 46022 Valencia, Spain) : Effect of curing time on microstructure and mechanical strength development of alkali activated binders based on vitreous calcium aluminosilicate (VCAS). Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(2), 245-9.

The aim of this paper is to study the influence of curing time on the microstructure and mechanical strength development of alkali activated binders based on vitreous calcium aluminosilicate (VCAS). Mechanical strength of alkali activated mortars cured at 65 °C was assessed for different curing times (4-168 h) using 10 molal NaOH solution as alkaline activator. Compressive strength values around 77 MPa after three days of curing at 65 ° C were obtained. l.68 MPa/h compressive strength gain rate was observed in the first 12h, decreasing to 0.95MPa/h for the period of 12-72 h. The progress of geopolymeric reaction was monitored by means of TGA and, electrical conductivity and pH measurements in an aqueous suspension. Significant decrease in pH and electrical conductivity were observed in the 4-72 h period, demonstrating the geopolymerization process. Furthermore, SEM images showed an important amount of (N, C)ASH gel and low porosity of the developed matrix.

5 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

006075   Sumathi O M;Mudigonda M (NO, , ) : Wireless non-invasive vital sign sensors and multisensory data fusion techniques. J Instrum Technol Innovation 2014, 4(2), 1-6.

Wireless technology in patient monitoring system enables clinicians to monitor vital signs with remote capability. Recent advancements in embedded system have led to explosive growth in wireless medical sensors that allow vital signs to be automatically collected and integrated into patient's care record for real-time monitoring. Research and development in cognitive sensor networking is driven by trends in information fusion, intelligent sensor and wireless communication. In this paper, recent trends in smart non-invasive wireless medical sensors and multisensory data fusion techniques for patient's health care monitoring are reviewed. In particular, low-cost cognition-based integrated wireless smart sensors used in monitoring hospital patient's cardiac activity, respiratory activity and blood pressure are presented. Several multisensory data-fusion techniques are also reviewed. Finally, the paper suggests the best methods for wireless real-time vital sign monitoring.

006074   Srinivasan R;Keerthinarayana S (Civil Engineering Dep, Coimbatore Institute of Technology, Coimbatore-641 014, Email: rsrinivasancivil@gmail.com) : Durability studies on replacement of fine aggregates as CSFB in concrete. Ecol Envir Conserv 2013, 19(3), 779-85.

In this paper, the effects of crushed spent fire bricks (CSFB) as fine aggregate replacement material on the chloride resisting properties, important to durability of concrete structures have been studied. CSFB have been used up to 60% replacement by volume of fine aggregate with fixed water to binder ratio of 0.45. The properties of concrete investigated include water absorption, volume of permeable voids, permeability, chloride penetration depth, resistance to chloride ion penetration in terms of total charge passed in coulombs and XRD analysis. The specimens incorporating CSFB, when exposed to chloride solution exhibit significantly lower charge passed value and lesser chloride diffusion for all fine aggregate replacement levels (FARL). An overall result indicates that CSFB (25-30% FARL) blended concretes showed superior durability properties.

5 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

006073   Shirvan M K M;Alamatian E;Bafti F G; Kheradmand Y (Civil Engineering Dep, Shirvan Branch, Islamic Azad Univ, Shirvan, Iran) : Flow simulation of dam break and determining flooding zones using MIKE 21. Ecol Envir Conserv 2013, 19(3), 679-84.

This paper is about Barzu concrete double arch dam break and its investigation using MIKE 21 software. Topographic maps were prepared by the Army Geographic Agency. And the initial conditions assumed in being constant of the water behind the dam, and being in the normal depth and dry bed downstream of the dam regardless of reservoir sedimentation. By study of the dam failure on a sunny day without rain, a slug volume of water behind the dam flooded areas can be obtained and the critical points are identified. In the first method, the catchment graph for critical points in time intervals and location elevation code was determined and in the second method that is spatial, two-dimensional flow that indicates flood zoning of the whole area in time interval. By comparing these two methods prejudice for dam failure time is obtained. Using the risk matrix, areas of flood risk by integration of velocity and depth flood maps determined risk level in each area and also crisis management for the area is defined and factors for preventing from Barzu dam failure are recommended.

10 illus, 11 ref

006072   Sharma J D;Kataki A C;Vijay C R (NO, Dr. B. Borooach Cancer Institute, Guwahati-781 016, Email: dr_j-sarma@rediffmail.com) : Population-based incidence and patterns of cancer in Kamrup Urban Cancer Registry, India. Natn med J India 2013, 26(3), 133-41.

Cancer is not a notifiable disease in India. The Indian Council of Medical Research (1CMR) initiated the National Cancer Registry Programme in 1982 to measure the burden and pattern of cancer in India. However, no data were available from the northeastern region till 2001 when a WHO-sponsored, ICMR project showed a relatively high frequency of microscopically diagnosed cases of cancer in the region. A population-based cancer registry was established in January 2003 in Guwahati to cover the Kamrup Urban district in the northeastern region of India. We report the data generated in the first 6 years of the registry (2003-08). Information on cancer was obtained by voluntary participation of different sources including major hospitals, diagnostic centres, state referral board and birth and death registry centres within the registry area. A total of 6608 cases were registered during the 6-year period (1 January 2003-31 December 2008); 3927 were men and 2681 women. The age-adjusted incidence rates were 167.9 per 100000 among men and 133.8 per 100000 among women. The oesophagus was the leading site of cancer among men, comprising 18.3% of all cancers with an age-adjusted rate of 30.7 per 100000. Among women, the breast followed by the cervix uteri were the leading sites of cancer. These two cancers comprised 30% of all cancers among women. Tobacco-related cancers accounted for 58.2% of cancers among men and 26.9% of cancers among women. The patterns observed from the analysis of data from the cancer registry at Guwahati provide comprehensive information on occurrence of cancer and can be valuable for planning cancer control programmes in the region.

7 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

006071   Shafieirad M;Shafiee M;Abedi M (Electrical Engineering Dep, Amirkabir Univ of Technology, Tehran, Iran) : Recursive identification of continuous two-dimensional systems in the presence of additive colored noise. IETE J Res 2014, 60(1), 74-84.

In this paper, a recursive algorithm is developed to estimate the parameters of a partial differential equation as a continuous two-dimensional (2-D) system in the presence of additive colored noise. The system is modelled as hybrid Box-Jenkins model. No comprehensive algorithm for identification of continuous 2-D systems simultaneous with noise process parameter estimation has been proposed so far. Also, there is no recursive method to identify the continuous 2-D systems. The proposed algorithm estimates the noise-free system parameters and colored noise process parameters based on the instrumental variable method simultaneously. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is evaluated by a numerical example.

4 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

006070   Sarmah M K;Borthakur A;Dutta A (NO, Oil India Limited, P.O. Duliajan, Dist. Dibrugarh-786 602, Email: manoj_sarmah@oilindia.in) : Pyrolysis of petroleum asphaltenes from different geological origins and use of methylnaphthalenes and methylphenanthrenes as maturity indicators for asphaltenes. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(2), 311-17.

Asphaltenes separated from two different crude oils from upper Assam, India, having different geological origins, viz. DK (eocene) and JN (oligocene-miocene) were pyrolysed at 600 °C and the products were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) especially for the generated alkylnaphthalenes and alkylphenan-threnes. Both the asphaltenes produce aliphatic as well as aromatic compound classes. Alkylnaphthalenes and alkylphenanthrenes were identified by using reference chromatograms and literature data and the distributions used to assess thermal maturity of the asphaltenes. The ratios of β-substituted to α-substituted isomers of both alkylnaphthalenes and alkylphenanthrenes revealed higher maturity of the JN asphaltenes than the DK asphaltenes. For both the asphaltenes, the abundance of 1-methylphenanthrene dominates over that of 9-methylphenanthrene showing the terrestrial nature of the organic matter.

4 illus, 3 tables, 47 ref

006069   Sandhya M K;Murugan K;Devaraj P (Ramanujan Computing Centre, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025) : False data elimination in heterogeneous wireless sensor networks using location-based selection of aggregator nodes. IETE J Res 2014, 60(2), 145-53.

The false data injected by the compromised sensor nodes in heterogeneous wireless sensor networks are not only a threat to data integrity but also consume bandwidth and power unnecessarily. The existing mechanisms for eliminating the injected false data are carried out with a fixed set of aggregator nodes. This causes battery drain at the aggregator nodes, leading to reduced network lifetime. Hence, it is necessary to reduce the battery drain by changing the aggregator nodes at regular intervals. The periodic change of aggregator nodes introduces the problem of pair-wise key establishment among the sensor nodes. This paper aims at eliminating the injected false data in heterogeneous wireless sensor networks. It also addresses the issue of battery drain at the aggregator nodes by periodically selecting the aggregator nodes based on location, exploiting the heterogeneity of the sensor nodes in the network. The problem of pair-wise key establishment is resolved by using a suitably modified cryptographic scheme based on Jacobian elliptic Chebyshev rational map. This modification is due to the fact that the original scheme is easily breakable.

11 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

006068   Sandhu N S;Vadhera S;Sandhu K S (NO, , ) : Performance of wind turbine under different operating modes. J Alternate Energy Sour Technol 2014, 5(2), 1-10.

Out of all renewable energy resources wind energy is found to be the most viable energy source due to its availability, pollution free and fast developments globally. Wind turbine, one of the major components of wind energy conversion system is used to capture the energy associated with the wind for driving the induction generator generally adopted to generate electrical power. Power output of wind turbines varies in accordance with the wind variations and as observed from literature, wind turbines may be operated either in constant speed or variable speed operation. However, complicated controls as adopted for such operations make the system expansive and complicated. Keeping it in view, in this paper a new approach based upon the generator control is proposed to analyze the operation of wind turbine under two operating modes. Simulation results as obtained using developed Matlab model prove the effectiveness of such control strategies. Investigations as reported along with the wind speed data for installation site may be helpful to decide the mode of operation for wind turbine to be installed.

006067   Sainath A V S;Reddy A V R (Organic Coatings and Polymers Div, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: avss@iict.res.in) : Modification of polysulfone with pendant carboxylic acid functionality for ultrafiltration membrane applications. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(2), 271-6.

p-Carboxyphenoxymethyl polysulfone (CPMPSF) was synthesized in two steps: (i) chloromethylation of polysulfone (PSF) by in situ generated chloromethyl radical in presence of stannic chloride in tetrachloroethane and (ii) reaction of chloroniethylated PSF with p-hydroxybenzoic acid in presence of potassium carbonate in dimethyl-formamide. The structures of the modified PSFs were confirmed by elemental analysis, IR, ^{1H-NMR and 13C-NMR techniques. The PSF and CPMPSF based ultrafiltration membranes were prepared according to phase-inversion process using water as nonsolvent at 4° and 15 °C, employing casting dope having different amounts of polymer (PSF or CPMPSF), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and solvent, dimethylformamide (DMF). The membranes were characterized for their pore size, pure water flux and flux and rejection for the permeation of different molecular weight poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) solutions and sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. The pore radius of the CPMPSF membrane which was prepared without PVP in the casting dope was about 222 A, whereas, that of the membrane prepared in the presence of PVP (6 wt%) in the casting dope was about 124 Å. For the PSF membranes, pore radii were 80 A (without PVP) and 176 Å (with PVP 6wt%). The CPMPSF-based membranes exhibited higher flux and rejections for PEG and NaCl solutions, as compared to the PSF membranes, due to the presence of hydrophilic car-boxylic acid group. The CPMPSF membrane exhibited about 48% rejection of NaCl when tested for 5000 ppm feed solution at 400 psi.}

5 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

006066   Rudra M R;Gazabare S;Pieper R J (Electrical Engineering Dep, Texas at Tyler Univ, TX, USA) : Predicting limits for memristor on - off resistances consistent with linear drift model. IETE J Res 2014, 60(1), 42-9.

In this paper it is demonstrated that the numerical linear drift solution for the memristor is, as expected, in perfect agreement with results generated using the Hewlett-Packard memristor. This comparison includes I-V characteristics, flux, width of doped region, and the charge. A performance criterion is introduced for the memristor in terms of the ratio defined by the maximum width of the trademark bow-tie hysteresis normalized by the corresponding current. Using this performance criterion it is possible to predict the practical ranges for the ratio of resistances associated with the "off" and the "on" states. This criterion was tested in both cases: "on" and "off" resistances selectively fixed. Both cases were fairly close in identifying the practical range, i.e. 200.

7 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

006065   Rostami R;Lamit H;Khoshnava S M;Rostami R (NO, Univ Teknologi of Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Malaysia, Email: rostami@yahoo.com) : Urban green spaces and city sustainability. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2013, 15(2), 441-6.

Today more than ever cities are characterized by intensified high-level human concentration accompanied by the accumulation of the main human activities such as the economic, cultural, educational and social ones. Rising population and rapid worldwide urbanization has created enormous problems of health and environment and have raised concerns about the sustainability of cities. In this regard, on recreational areas and urban green spaces become important. The quality of green spaces helps to define the identity of towns and cities, which can enhance their attraction for living, working, investment and tourism. And, by affording important socio-economic and psychological needs, enrich human life with meanings and emotions and raise quality of life as key component of sustainability. In this study, one of famous sample of historical Persian Gardens were chosen due to its historical background as first sample of Iranian urban green spaces which are still being used actively by the residents. The issues investigated are functional and emotional dimensions involved in the experience of garden and its importance for people's general well-being.

2 illus, 26 ref

006064   Rostami R;Lamit H;Khoshnava S M;Rostami R (NO, Univ Teknologi of Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Malaysia, Email: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com) : Industrialization and sustainable construction a case study of Malaysia. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2013, 15(2), 433-40.

Construction industry is one of the driving forces of the nations' economy due to its contribution in generating wealth through constant growth in GDP, which influence the development of social and economic infrastructures, and building, and providing job opportunities. But, against all these benefits construction industry' total energy and resource consumption and carbon emission also raise a growing concerns regarding this industry among experts. Construction industrialization could be considered as a feasible tool to support the construction industry to achieve sustainable development in the current process of rapid urbanization. In other words the unique characteristics of Industrialized Building System have the potential to respond well to the sustainability challenge facing the construction industry. Thus, this study tries to examine industrialization and its relation and capabilities towards the agenda of the sustainability particularly with respect to Malaysia.

1 table, 29 ref

006063   Rostami R;Lamit H;Khoshnava S M;Rostami R (NO, Technology of Malaysia Univ, Johar Bahru, Malaysia, Email: raheleh.rostami@yahoo.com) : Application of soft-wares in green and sustainable construction: a case study in Malaysia. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2013, 15(2), 425-32.

Construction industry is one of driving force of nations' economy. But, the industry's total energy and resource consumption and carbon emission is raising a growing concern regarding construction industry among experts and stake holders. Consequently, enormous changes have taken place among the architectural/engineering professions over the last decade in the promotion of environmentally responsible buildings. In this regard, application of soft wares have revolutionized and optimized construction industry. One of the recent innovations is Building Information Modelling (BIM) which has received tremendous interest for its impact on sustainable development and provides the opportunity to develop energy analysis software programs for the industry. This study more over the reviewing of literatures regarding green, sustainable construction and related soft wares, also tried to examine a case study by application of Autodesk Revit and Ecotect to reveal their role and contribution in steering construction toward Green and Sustainability.

3 illus, 16 ref

006062   Rasooli A;Boutorabi M A;Divandari M;Azarniya A (Materials Engineering Dep, Faculty of Materials Engineering, Tabriz Univ, P.O. Box 5166616471, Tabriz, Iran, Email: a.rasooli@tabrizu.ac.ir) : Effect of high heating rate on thermal decomposition behaviour of titanium hydride (TiH₂) powder in air. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(2), 301-9.

DTA and TGA curves of titanium hydride powder were determined in air at different heating rates. Also the thermal decomposition behaviour of the aforementioned powder at high heating rates was taken into consideration. A great breakthrough of the practical interest in the research was the depiction of the P_H2-time curves of TiH₂ powder at various temperatures in air. In accordance with the results, an increase in heating rate to higher degrees does not change the process of releasing hydrogen from titanium hydride powder, while switching it from internal diffusion to chemical reaction. At temperatures lower than 600 °C, following the diffusion of hydrogen and oxygen atoms in titanium lattice, thin layers TiH_x phase and oxides form on the powder surface, controlling the process. On the contrary, from 700 °C later on, the process is controlled by oxidation of titanium hydride powder. In fact, the powder oxidation starts around 650 °C and may escalate following an increase in the heating rate too.

11 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

006061   Rao P V G K (NO, , ) : Design of hybrid power generation system using labview. J Instrum Technol Innovation 2014, 4(2), 7-14.

Need of the electrical energy increases in the life with the increase in the trends in the technology for the sophistication of the day to day life. This requires an increase in the production of the electrical energy. In the field of electrical power generation from the conventional methods like hydroelectricity, thermal power systems which use fossil fuel, there is needed to concern the factors which influence the environmental conditions including pollution, greenhouse effect and also rising of fuel prices. Hence there is a need for power generating units which are not polluting, highly efficient, easily situated and makes use of renewable sources. This paper focuses on design of multisource power generating system called as "Hybrid System", which generates power from the renewable sources like solar light energy and wind energy. The benefits of the hybrid system are long term reliability and sustainability, optimal power generation, reduction in pollution, generation of high quality power and efficient use of the renewable energy resources. Hybrid system can be made as a roof top power generating system, thus reducing the load on the grid, and increasing the number of power generating units.

006060   Rambu A P;Sirbu D;Sandu A V;Prodan G;Nica V (Alexandru Ioan Cuza Univ of Iasi, Iasi Univ, Faculty of Physics, 11 Carol I Blvd., Iasi 700506, Romania, Email: alicia.rambu@uaic.ro) : Influence of in doping on electro-optical properties of ZnO films. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(2), 231-7.

Thin metallic films of Zn and In/Zn were deposited onto glass substrates by thermal evaporation under vacuum. The metallic films were submitted to a thermal oxidation in air, at 623 K, for different oxidation times (30-90 min), in order to be oxidized. Structural and morphological analyses (X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy) revealed that the obtained undoped and In-doped ZnO thin films possess a polycrystalline structure. Transmission spectra were recorded in spectral domain from 280 to 1400 nm. The influence of In doping and oxidation parameters as well, on the optical parameters (transmittance, optical bandgap, Urbach energy) were analysed. It was clearly evidenced that by In doping, the optical properties of ZnO films were improved. The temperature dependence of electrical conductivity was studied using surface-type cells with Ag electrodes. The obtained results indicate that In-doped ZnO films exhibit an enhancement of electrical conductivity with few orders of magnitude when compared with non-doped ones.

7 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

006059   Rajesh M;Singh B (Electrical Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi) : Single-phase boost rectifier fed SRM drive. IETE J Res 2014, 60(1), 12-9.

Single-phase double boost rectifier is proposed for providing direct current (DC) supply for midpoint converter fed SRM (switched reluctance motor) drive. The proposed single-phase double boost rectifier consists of two single-phase boost converters with DC output connected in series to feed midpoint converter fed SRM drive. This system is capable of improving power quality at alternating current (AC) mains and maintains the capacitor voltages constant. The proposed single-phase double boost rectifier fed SRM drive is designed, modelled, and its performance is simulated in MATLAB/Simulink. The performance of proposed drive system is compared with a single-phase diode bridge voltage-doubler fed SRM drive to demonstrate effectiveness of proposed single-phase double boost rectifier for power quality improvements at AC mains.

4 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

006058   Paul P K;Hussain S A;Bhattacharjee D;Pal M (Physics Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: pkpaul@phys.jdvu.ac.in) : Preparation of polystyrene-clay nanocomposite by solution intercalation technique. Bull Mater Sci 2013, 36(3), 361-6.

Polymer-clay nanocomposites of commercial polystyrene (PS) and clay laponite were prepared via solution intercalation technique. Laponite was modified suitably with the well known cationic surfactant cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide by ion-exchange reaction to render laponite miscible with hydrophobic PS. X-ray diffraction analysis in combination with scanning electron microscopy gives an idea of structural and morphological information of PS-laponite nanocomposite for different varying organo-laponite contents. Intercalation of PS chain occurs into the interlayer spacings of laponite for low organo-laponite concentration in the PS-O-laponite mixture. However, aggregation and agglomeration occur at higher clay concentration. The molecular bond vibrational profile of laponite as well as PS-laponite nanocomposite have been explored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis along with differential scanning calorimetry results reveal the enhancement of both thermal stability and glass transition temperature of PS due to the incorporation of clay platelets.

5 illus, 30 ref