The study was conducted to identify indoor air quality and the level of thermal comfort in various selected locations in Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment （FKAB）, University Kebangsaan Malaysia （UKM） wi...The study was conducted to identify indoor air quality and the level of thermal comfort in various selected locations in Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment （FKAB）, University Kebangsaan Malaysia （UKM） with built-up area of 250,936 fie. The indoor air quality and thermal comfort were measured at various selected locations by using indoor air quality equipment （Thermal Comfort SERI）. The thermal comfort assessments are based on Malaysian Code of Practice Indoor Air Quality 2005 and Moderate Thermal Environments-Determination of the PMV and PPD indices specification of the condition for thermal comfort （ISO7730：1994） From the data analysis, the FKAB building is considered inadequately vented space. The concentration of CO2 for all sampling area evaluated exceeds the recommended concentration （〉 1000 ppm）. The ventilation system used in FKAB building is designed by delivering fix amount of fresh air into building from external building without consideration on the number of occupants. This common ventilation design will increase the amount of CO2 dramatically all day long and these reflect the inefficiency of energy used. The faculty needs to be equipped with a comprehensive energy management system that can allow detailed documentation of continuous performance of all energy system and consumption in the building.展开更多
One of the crucial elements that is directly tied to the quality of living organisms is the quality of the water.How-ever,water quality has been adversely affected by plastic pollution,a global environmental disaster ...One of the crucial elements that is directly tied to the quality of living organisms is the quality of the water.How-ever,water quality has been adversely affected by plastic pollution,a global environmental disaster that has an effect on aquatic life,wildlife,and human health.To prevent these effects,better monitoring,detection,characterisation,quanti-fication,and tracking of aquatic plastic pollution at regional and global scales is urgently needed.Remote sensing tech-nology is regarded as a useful technique,as it offers a promising new and less labour-intensive tool for the detection,quantification,and characterisation of aquatic plastic pollution.The study seeks to supplement to the body of scientific literature by compiling original data on the monitoring of plastic pollution in aquatic environments using remote sensing technology,which can function as a cost saving method for water pollution and risk management in developing nations.This article provides a profound analysis of plastic pollution,including its categories,sources,distribution,chemical properties,and potential risks.It also provides an in-depth review of remote sensing technologies,satellite-derived in-dices,and research trends related to their applicability.Additionally,the study clarifies the difficulties in using remote sensing technologies for aquatic plastic monitoring and practical ways to reduce aquatic plastic pollution.The study will improve the understanding of aquatic plastic pollution,health hazards,and the suitability of remote sensing technology for aquatic plastic contamination monitoring studies among researchers and interested parties.展开更多
Compaction grouting is primarily applied based on empiricism,and it is challenging to quantify its densification effect.To address this issue,five sets of laboratory model tests on ideal compaction grouting were condu...Compaction grouting is primarily applied based on empiricism,and it is challenging to quantify its densification effect.To address this issue,five sets of laboratory model tests on ideal compaction grouting were conducted,with varying pressures from 400 kPa to 800 kPa,to quantitatively evaluate the densification effect in unsaturated soils.The response of surrounding soil during compaction grouting was monitored.The changes in dry density and void ratio induced by compaction grouting were obtained by monitoring volumetric water content to determine compaction efficiency.In addition,a model was developed and validated to predict the effective compaction range.The results show that soil dry density increased rapidly during compaction grouting before being stabilized at a consistent level.As expected,it is positively correlated with grouting pressures(GPs)and negatively correlated with the distance from the injection point.At higher GPs,the difference in densification effect around the injection point after compaction grouting was significant.Interestingly,variations in ultimate dry density and peak earth pressures perpendicular to the injection direction exhibited axisymmetric behavior around the injection point when comparing the dry density and earth pressure results.Furthermore,soil densification resulted in a decrease in suction.However,no significant effect of GP on suction at different soil positions was observed.Moreover,compaction efficiency decreased with increasing distance from the injection point,showing a strong linear relationship.In addition,the model results for the effective compaction range were basically consistent with the extrapolated values from the experimental results.展开更多
Investigating the influence of radiation on glass fibre composites is essential for their use in space and aerospace environment.Gaining insight into the damage mechanisms caused by gamma irradiation,can improve the s...Investigating the influence of radiation on glass fibre composites is essential for their use in space and aerospace environment.Gaining insight into the damage mechanisms caused by gamma irradiation,can improve the safety and resilience of structures.This paper is aimed at investigating the failure mode and damage of gamma-irradiated repurposed pultruded glass fibre-reinforced polyester subjected to lowvelocity impact using three types of non-destructive techniques.Three sets of differently layered configurations(CRC,WCRW,W2CR2C)consisting of chopped(c),roving(r),and weaved(w)fibre-reinforced polyester are applied in this study.Drop hammer test is applied to evaluate the low-impact resistance properties of Gamma-irradiated composite at 100 kGy,500 kGy,and 1000 kGy.Preliminary flexural and hardness tests are conducted to further assess the behaviour of irradiated polymer composites.Further,the damage modes associated with the low-impact test are characterised using infrared thermography,flat panel digital radiography,and microscope observation.The results show that the composites irradiated with various doses display good impact resistance at 20 J,presenting minor damages in the form of dents on the surface.The irradiated CRC and WCRW display best impact resistance at 500 kGy,while W2CR2C at 1000 kGy.This shows that the layering sequence of reinforcement fibre can influence the impact resistance of irradiated composites.Apart from that,the application of non-destructive techniques show different damage mechanisms in the form resin cracks,yarn splitting/fracture,and matrix splitting when the composites are exposed at high and low irradiation doses.These findings offer valuable data for the defence industry,particularly in the areas of repair,maintenance,and the development of new materials.展开更多
A series of true-triaxial compression tests were performed on red sandstone cubic specimens with a circular hole to investigate the influence of depth on induced spalling in tunnels.The failure process of the hole sid...A series of true-triaxial compression tests were performed on red sandstone cubic specimens with a circular hole to investigate the influence of depth on induced spalling in tunnels.The failure process of the hole sidewalls was monitored and recorded in real-time by a micro-video monitoring equipment.The general failure evolution processes of the hole sidewall at different initial depths(500 m,1000 m and 1500 m)during the adjustment of vertical stress were obtained.The results show that the hole sidewall all formed spalling before resulting in strain rockburst,and ultimately forming a V-shaped notch.The far-field principal stress for the initial failure of the tunnel shows a good positive linear correlation with the depth.As the depth increases,the stress required for the initial failure of the tunnels clearly increased,the spalling became more intense;the size and mass of the rock fragments and depth and width of the V-shaped notches increased,and the range of the failure zone extends along the hole sidewall from the local area to the entire area.Therefore,as the depth increases,the support area around the tunnel should be increased accordingly to prevent spalling.展开更多
The effects of Cu content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of thixoformed Al-6Si-xCu-0.3Mg(x= 3,4,5and 6,mass fraction,%) alloys were studied.The samples were thixoformed at 50%liquid content and severa...The effects of Cu content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of thixoformed Al-6Si-xCu-0.3Mg(x= 3,4,5and 6,mass fraction,%) alloys were studied.The samples were thixoformed at 50%liquid content and several of the samples were treated with the T6 heat treatment.The samples were then examined by optical microscopy(OM),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),energy dispersive X-ray(EDX) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction(XRD) analysis,as well as hardness and tensile tests.The results show that the cooling slope casting and thixoforming process promote the formation of very fine and well distributed intermetallic compounds in the aluminium matrix and the mechanical properties of the alloys increase considerably compared with the permanent mould casting.The results also reveal that as the Cu content in the alloy increases,the hardness and tensile strength of the thixoformed alloys also increase.The ultimate tensile strength,yield strength and elongation to fracture of the thixoformed heat-treated Al-6Si-3Cu-0.3Mg alloy are 298 MPa,201 MPa and 4.5%,respectively,whereas the values of the thixoformed heat-treated alloy with high Cu content(6%) are 361 MPa,274 MPa and 1.1%,respectively.The fracture of the thixoformed Al-6Si-3Cu-0.3Mg alloy shows a dimple rupture,whereas in the alloy that contains the highest Cu content(6%),a cleavage fracture is observed.展开更多
Al–Si–Cu–Mg foundry alloys are used in casting process technologies.However,their strength properties remain low due to their microstructural characteristics and porosity.In this work,the microstructural characteri...Al–Si–Cu–Mg foundry alloys are used in casting process technologies.However,their strength properties remain low due to their microstructural characteristics and porosity.In this work,the microstructural characteristics,dislocation densities,and mechanical properties of Al–Si–Cu–Mg cast alloys prepared through different casting methods were studied experimentally.Four casting processes,namely,gravity casting(GC),rheocasting(RC),thixoforming(Thixo),and Thixo with heat treatment,were used.The GC and RC samples had mainly dendriticα-Al phase microstructures and exhibited coarse Si particles and intermetallic compounds in their interdendritic regions.By contrast,the Thixo and heat-treated Thixo(HT-Thixo)samples exhibited microstructural refinement with uniformly distributedα-Al globules,fine fibrous Si particles,and fragmented intermetallic compounds amongα-Al globules.The accumulation of dislocation densities increased in the Thixo sample as the strain was increased due to plastic deformation.Furthermore,the ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the HT-Thixo sample increased by 87%and 63%,respectively,relative to those of the GC sample.The cleavage fracture displayed by the GC and RC samples led to brittle failure.Meanwhile,the Thixo and HT-Thixo samples presented dimple-based ductile fracture.展开更多
A series of Al-6Si-3Cu-(0.3-2)Mg alloys were produced by a conventional casting process.Cooling slope technique wasemployed to produce feedstocks before they were thixoformed at50%liquid fraction.The effect of Mg on t...A series of Al-6Si-3Cu-(0.3-2)Mg alloys were produced by a conventional casting process.Cooling slope technique wasemployed to produce feedstocks before they were thixoformed at50%liquid fraction.The effect of Mg on the microstructure ofAl-Si-Cu aluminium alloys under as-cast and semisolid conditions was investigated.It was found that by adding Mg to Al-Si-Cualloy,some of the Al2Cu phase and silicon were consumed to form Al5Cu2Mg3Si5and Mg2Si phases.The needle-likeβ-Al5FeSi phasetransformed to Chinese-script-likeπ-Al8Mg3FeSi6with the addition of Mg.In the as-cast alloys,the primaryα(Al)was dendritic,butas the Mg content increased,the phase became less dendritic.Moreover,the Mg addition considerably modified the size of theα(Al)phase,but it had no significant effect on the silicon morphology.In the thixoformed alloys,the microstructure showed a fine globularprimary phase surrounded by uniformly distributed silicon and fragmented intermetallic phases.The eutectic silicon was modifiedfrom a flaky and acicular shape to fine fibrous particles.The effect of Mg on eutectic silicon during semisolid processing wasevident.The primary Mg2Si particles were modified from big polygonal particles to become smaller and more globular,whereas themorphology of the Chinese-script-likeπ-Al8Mg3FeSi6changed to a compact shape.The results also exhibit that as the Mg content inthe A319alloy increased,the hardness,yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the thixoformed alloys significantly improved,but the elongation to fracture dropped.展开更多
The equivalent four-pole network model is used to simulate one-dimension longitudinal acoustic resonator with different buffer diameters and lengths, aiming to reach a theoretic model which is able to estimate the opt...The equivalent four-pole network model is used to simulate one-dimension longitudinal acoustic resonator with different buffer diameters and lengths, aiming to reach a theoretic model which is able to estimate the optimal buffer geometry. In experiments, the buffer volumes are decreased gradually by filling a set of aluminum rings with different inner diameters and lengths into the buffers to get the desired dimensions. The experimental results show that the average deviation of 1.1% is obtained between the experimental results and the theoretical simulation at the buffer length of 30 mm. Experiments show that the minimum background signal occurs when the buffer length is equal to a quarter of the acoustic wavelength (λ/4). The amplitude of the photoacoustic signal is barely influenced when dbuf>3dres. Considering that oversize of photoacoustic cell needs more measuring gas and more material, the buffer diameter can be deduced to dbuf≈3dres. Therefore, smaller photoacoustic cell is desirable.展开更多
Our study was carried out to assess the level of noise generated and ground vibrations induced during blasting operations at the Ewekoro limestone quarry in Nigeria.To achieve this objective,vibro monitor equipment wa...Our study was carried out to assess the level of noise generated and ground vibrations induced during blasting operations at the Ewekoro limestone quarry in Nigeria.To achieve this objective,vibro monitor equipment was used to take readings related to noise generated and ground vibrations during all blasting operations that took place in the quarry for a period of one month.As well,a digital camera was used to take photographs of residential structures within villages near the quarry.The results obtained indicate that the ground vibration readings fall between 0.5 mm/s and 2.1 mm/s and the noise generated during the blasting operations between 82 dB and 89 dB.These readings when compared with the limits set by FEPA(Federal Environmental Protection Agency) of 5.0 mm/s and 150 dB) all fall within the permissible limits.However the photographs of most structures near the quarry reveal cracks and dilapidated building walls.Recommendations are made on how to sustain and improve current blasting techniques.展开更多
Joining Mg to Al is challenging because of the deterioration of mechanical properties caused by the formation of intermetallic compounds(IMCs) at the Mg/Al interface. This study aims to improve the mechanical properti...Joining Mg to Al is challenging because of the deterioration of mechanical properties caused by the formation of intermetallic compounds(IMCs) at the Mg/Al interface. This study aims to improve the mechanical properties of welded samples by preventing the fracture location at the Mg/Al interface. Friction stir welding was performed to join Mg to Al at different rotational and travel speeds. The microstructure of the welded samples showed the IMCs layers containing Al12Mg17(γ) and Al3Mg2(β) at the welding zone with a thickness(< 3.5 μm). Mechanical properties were mainly affected by the thickness of the IMCs, which was governed by welding parameters. The highest tensile strength was obtained at 600 r/min and 40 mm/min with a welding efficiency of 80%. The specimens could fracture along the boundary at the thermo-mechanically affected zone in the Mg side of the welded joint.展开更多
Catalyst-coated membranes(CCMs)have gained popularity among membrane electrode assembly(MEA)fabricators for their abilities and advantages compared with those of other methods,such as catalyst-coated substrates(CCSs)....Catalyst-coated membranes(CCMs)have gained popularity among membrane electrode assembly(MEA)fabricators for their abilities and advantages compared with those of other methods,such as catalyst-coated substrates(CCSs).CCMs show a profound new analysis for reducing platinum(Pt)catalyst loading.In addition,they increase the total number of reactions that occur on the MEA because of their active area amplification,which leads to an improved catalyst-utilization efficiency rate.Moreover,several characteristics are involved in the MEA fabrication methods.Material-manufacturing effects with regard to catalyst inks and analysis of the overall performance of MEAs prepared by the CCM and CCS methods are deliberated.This deliberation emphasizes the practical approaches in minimizing performance deterioration during the fabrication of MEAs using the CCM method and converses the commercialization of the CCM fabrication method toward developing an end product.Novel research is required for MEA fabrication using the CCM methods to ensure that the fuel cell performance is improved.Therefore,this review is focusing on the pros and cons of both distinguished methods,that is,CCM and CCS fabrication,for better comparison.展开更多
By utilizing wave velocity imaging technology,the uniaxial multi-stage loading test was conducted on siltstone to attain wave velocity imagings during rock fracture.Based on the time series parameters of acoustic emis...By utilizing wave velocity imaging technology,the uniaxial multi-stage loading test was conducted on siltstone to attain wave velocity imagings during rock fracture.Based on the time series parameters of acoustic emissions(AE),joint response characteristics of the velocity field and AE during rock fracture were analyzed.Moreover,the localization effect of damage during rock fracture was explored by applying wave velocity imagings.The experimental result showed that the wave velocity imagings enable three-dimensional(3-D)visualization of the extent and spatial position of damage to the rock.A damaged zone has a low wave velocity and a zone where the low wave velocity is concentrated tends to correspond to a severely damaged zone.AE parameters and wave velocity imagings depict the changes in activity of cracks during rock fracture from temporal and spatial perspectives,respectively:the activity of cracks is strengthened,and the rate of AE events increases during rock fracture;correspondingly,the low-velocity zones are gradually aggregated and their area gradually increases.From the wave velocity imagings,the damaged zones in rock were divided into an initially damaged zone,a progressively damaged zone,and a fractured zone.During rock fracture,the progressively damaged zone and the fractured zone both develop around the initially damaged zone,showing a typical localization effect of the damage.By capturing the spatial development trends of the progressively damaged zone and fractured zone in wave velocity imagings,the development of microfractures can be predicted,exerting practical significance for determining the position of the main fracture.展开更多
Noninvasive gluoose monitoring development is critical for diabetic patient continuous moni-toring.However,almost all the available devices are invasive and painful.Noninvasive methods such as using spectroscopy have ...Noninvasive gluoose monitoring development is critical for diabetic patient continuous moni-toring.However,almost all the available devices are invasive and painful.Noninvasive methods such as using spectroscopy have shown some good results.Unfortunately,the drawback was that the tungsten halogen lamps 1usage that is impractical if applied on human skin.This paper compared the light emitting diode(LED)to traditional tungsten halogen lamps as light source for glucose detection where the type of light source plays an important role in achieving a good spectrum quality.Glucose concentration measurement has been developed as part of noninvasive technique using optical spectroscopy.Small change and overlapping in tungsten halogen results need to replace it with a more convenient light source such as LED.Based on the result obtained,the performance of LED for absorbance spectrum gives a signifcantly different and is directly proportional to the glucose concentration.The result shows a linear trend and scucssully detects lowest at 60 to 160 mg/dL glucose concentration.展开更多
Drinking water is supplied through a centralized water supply system and may not be accessed by communities in rural areas of Malaysia.This study investigated the performance of a low-cost, self-prepared combined acti...Drinking water is supplied through a centralized water supply system and may not be accessed by communities in rural areas of Malaysia.This study investigated the performance of a low-cost, self-prepared combined activated carbon and sand filtration(CACSF) system for roofharvested rainwater and lake water for potable use. Activated carbon was self-prepared using locally sourced coconut shell and was activated using commonly available salt rather than a high-tech procedure that requires a chemical reagent. The filtration chamber was comprised of local,readily available sand. The experiments were conducted with varying antecedent dry intervals(ADIs) of up to 15 d and lake water with varying initial chemical oxygen demand(COD) concentration. The CACSF system managed to produce effluents complying with the drinking water standards for the parameters p H, dissolved oxygen(DO), biochemical oxygen demand(BOD5), COD, total suspended solids(TSS), and ammonia nitrogen(NH_3-N). The CACSF system successfully decreased the population of Escherichia coli(E. coli) in the influents to less than 30 CFU/m L. Samples with a higher population of E. coli(that is, greater than 30 CFU/m L) did not show 100% removal. The system also showed high potential as an alternative for treated drinking water for roof-harvested rainwater and class II lake water.展开更多
Thixoforming is a processing method that deforms metal in a semisolid state.The advantages of this process include the production of parts with good surface finish,fine microstructures and superior mechanical properti...Thixoforming is a processing method that deforms metal in a semisolid state.The advantages of this process include the production of parts with good surface finish,fine microstructures and superior mechanical properties.However,the process mostly produces parts from aluminium cast grades,thereby not fully utilising the true potential of this method.Hence,thermodynamic modelling can be used to formulate alloy compositions that favour this processing method.Here,the effects of reducing copper content and increasing silicon and magnesium contents on the thixoformability of aluminium alloy 2014 were presented.The work consists of both the modelling and experimental validation.Results showed that by increasing Si and decreasing Cu content in the alloy,the solidification interval temperature was decreased and the temperature working window between the stipulated liquid fractions was widened,two of the characteristics favouring the process.A high solid-solution temperature employed resulted in the dissolution of unfavourable Mg2Si compound.An increase in Mg content used also resulted in the formation of the compactπ-Al8FeMg3Si6 phase and the decrease in the amount of the sharp and plate-like structure of theβ-Al5FeSi phase,improving the strength of the modified alloy.Subsequent T6 heat treatment successfully further increased the strength of the modified alloy.展开更多
Drilling and blasting play vital roles in opencast mining. These operations not only affect the cost of production directly but as well and significantly, the overall operational costs. This research was carried out t...Drilling and blasting play vital roles in opencast mining. These operations not only affect the cost of production directly but as well and significantly, the overall operational costs. This research was carried out to find a possible way of optimizing the drilling and blasting operations in an open pit mine of Somair (Société des Mines de l’Air), in the Niger Republic. In order to optimize the drilling operation, the time taken by two drilling machines to accomplish the same task was analyzed statistically. The result indicates that the Down the Hole Hammer Drilling Rig (DMNo406) is more efficient than the Drill Master (DM405). The relative unit consumption of two explosives (Explus and Nitram 9), when used under the same operating conditions, were also considered and the results indicate Explus to be more economical per unit consumption with a range of 0.15 g/t–0.183 g/t, when compared with Nitram 9 with a unit consumption range of 0.19 g/t-0.24 g/t in the study area.展开更多
Benefits achieved by the biodegradable magnesium(Mg) and zinc(Zn) implants could be suppressed due to the invasion of infectious microbial, common bacteria, and fungi. Postoperative medications and the antibacterial p...Benefits achieved by the biodegradable magnesium(Mg) and zinc(Zn) implants could be suppressed due to the invasion of infectious microbial, common bacteria, and fungi. Postoperative medications and the antibacterial properties of pure Mg and Zn are insufficient against biofilm and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, bringing osteomyelitis, necrosis, and even death. This study evaluates the antibacterial performance of biodegradable Mg and Zn alloys of different reinforcements, including silver(Ag), copper(Cu), lithium(Li), and gallium(Ga). Copper ions(Cu^(2+)) can eradicate biofilms and antibiotic-resistant bacteria by extracting electrons from the cellular structure. Silver ion(Ag^(+)) kills bacteria by creating bonds with the thiol group. Gallium ion(Ga^(3+)) inhibits ferric ion(Fe^(3+)) absorption, leading to nutrient deficiency and bacterial death. Nanoparticles and reactive oxygen species(ROS) can penetrate bacteria cell walls directly, develop bonds with receptors, and damage nucleotides. Antibacterial action depends on the alkali nature of metal ions and their degradation rate, which often causes cytotoxicity in living cells. Therefore, this review emphasizes the insight into degradation rate, antibacterial mechanism, and their consequent cytotoxicity and observes the correlation between antibacterial performance and oxidation number of metal ions.展开更多
Carbon sequestration in unmineable coal seams has been proposed as one of the most attractive technologies to mitigate carbon dioxide(CO_(2))emissions in which CO_(2)is stored in the microporous structure of the coal ...Carbon sequestration in unmineable coal seams has been proposed as one of the most attractive technologies to mitigate carbon dioxide(CO_(2))emissions in which CO_(2)is stored in the microporous structure of the coal matrix in an adsorbed state.The CO_(2)adsorption process is hence considered one of the more efective methodologies in environmental sciences.Thus,adsorption isotherm measurements and modelling are key important scientifc measures required in understanding the adsorption system,mechanism,and process optimization in coalbeds.In this paper,three renowned and reliable adsorption isotherm models were employed including Langmuir,Freundlich,and Temkin for pure CO_(2)adsorption data,and the extended-Langmuir model for multicomponent,such as fue gas mixture-adsorption data as investigated in this research work.Also,signifcant thermodynamics properties including the standard enthalpy change(ΔH°),entropy change(ΔS°),and Gibbs free energy(ΔG°)were assessed using the van’t Hof equation.The statistical evaluation of the goodness-of-ft was done using three(3)statistical data analysis methods including correlation coefcient(R^(2)),standard deviation(σ),and standard error(SE).The Langmuir isotherm model accurately represent the pure CO_(2)adsorption on the coals than Freundlich and Temkin.The extended Langmuir gives best experimental data ft for the fue gas.The thermodynamic evaluations revealed that CO_(2)adsorption on the South African coals is feasible,spontaneous,and exothermic;and the adsorption mechanism is a combined physical and chemical interaction between the adsorbate and the adsorbent.展开更多
Graphene oxide is a very high capacity adsorbent due to its functional groups and π-π interactions with other compounds. Adsorption capacity of graphene oxide, however, can be further enhanced by having synergistic ...Graphene oxide is a very high capacity adsorbent due to its functional groups and π-π interactions with other compounds. Adsorption capacity of graphene oxide, however, can be further enhanced by having synergistic effects through the use of mixed-matrix composite. In this study, silica-decorated graphene oxide(SGO) was used as a high-efficiency adsorbent to remove Congo red(CR) and Cadmium(Ⅱ) from aqueous solutions. The effects of solution initial concentration(20 to 120 mg/l), solution pH(pH 2 to 7), adsorption duration(0 to 140 min) and temperature(298 to 323 K) were measured in order to optimize the adsorption conditions using the SGO adsorbent. Morphological analysis indicated that the silica nanoparticles could be dispersed uniformly on the graphene oxide surfaces. The maximum capacities of adsorbent for effective removal of Cd(Ⅱ) and CR were 43.45 and 333.33 mg/g based on Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms, respectively. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms displayed the highest values of Q max for CR and Cd(Ⅱ) adsorption in this study, which indicated monolayer adsorption of CR and multilayer adsorption of Cd(II) onto the SGO, respectively. Thermodynamic study showed that the enthalpy( H) and Gibbs free energy( G) values of the adsorption process for both pollutants were negative, suggesting that the process was spontaneous and exothermic in nature. This study showed active sites of SGO( π-π, hydroxyl, carboxyl, ketone, silane-based functional groups) contributed to an enormous enhancement in simultaneous removal of CR and Cd(Ⅱ) from an aqueous solu-tion, Therefore, SGO can be considered as a promising adsorbent for future water pollution control and removal of hazardous materials from aqueous solutions.展开更多
文摘The study was conducted to identify indoor air quality and the level of thermal comfort in various selected locations in Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment （FKAB）, University Kebangsaan Malaysia （UKM） with built-up area of 250,936 fie. The indoor air quality and thermal comfort were measured at various selected locations by using indoor air quality equipment （Thermal Comfort SERI）. The thermal comfort assessments are based on Malaysian Code of Practice Indoor Air Quality 2005 and Moderate Thermal Environments-Determination of the PMV and PPD indices specification of the condition for thermal comfort （ISO7730：1994） From the data analysis, the FKAB building is considered inadequately vented space. The concentration of CO2 for all sampling area evaluated exceeds the recommended concentration （〉 1000 ppm）. The ventilation system used in FKAB building is designed by delivering fix amount of fresh air into building from external building without consideration on the number of occupants. This common ventilation design will increase the amount of CO2 dramatically all day long and these reflect the inefficiency of energy used. The faculty needs to be equipped with a comprehensive energy management system that can allow detailed documentation of continuous performance of all energy system and consumption in the building.
文摘One of the crucial elements that is directly tied to the quality of living organisms is the quality of the water.How-ever,water quality has been adversely affected by plastic pollution,a global environmental disaster that has an effect on aquatic life,wildlife,and human health.To prevent these effects,better monitoring,detection,characterisation,quanti-fication,and tracking of aquatic plastic pollution at regional and global scales is urgently needed.Remote sensing tech-nology is regarded as a useful technique,as it offers a promising new and less labour-intensive tool for the detection,quantification,and characterisation of aquatic plastic pollution.The study seeks to supplement to the body of scientific literature by compiling original data on the monitoring of plastic pollution in aquatic environments using remote sensing technology,which can function as a cost saving method for water pollution and risk management in developing nations.This article provides a profound analysis of plastic pollution,including its categories,sources,distribution,chemical properties,and potential risks.It also provides an in-depth review of remote sensing technologies,satellite-derived in-dices,and research trends related to their applicability.Additionally,the study clarifies the difficulties in using remote sensing technologies for aquatic plastic monitoring and practical ways to reduce aquatic plastic pollution.The study will improve the understanding of aquatic plastic pollution,health hazards,and the suitability of remote sensing technology for aquatic plastic contamination monitoring studies among researchers and interested parties.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.42172298,42002289)the Shanghai Geological Star Program for their financial support.
文摘Compaction grouting is primarily applied based on empiricism,and it is challenging to quantify its densification effect.To address this issue,five sets of laboratory model tests on ideal compaction grouting were conducted,with varying pressures from 400 kPa to 800 kPa,to quantitatively evaluate the densification effect in unsaturated soils.The response of surrounding soil during compaction grouting was monitored.The changes in dry density and void ratio induced by compaction grouting were obtained by monitoring volumetric water content to determine compaction efficiency.In addition,a model was developed and validated to predict the effective compaction range.The results show that soil dry density increased rapidly during compaction grouting before being stabilized at a consistent level.As expected,it is positively correlated with grouting pressures(GPs)and negatively correlated with the distance from the injection point.At higher GPs,the difference in densification effect around the injection point after compaction grouting was significant.Interestingly,variations in ultimate dry density and peak earth pressures perpendicular to the injection direction exhibited axisymmetric behavior around the injection point when comparing the dry density and earth pressure results.Furthermore,soil densification resulted in a decrease in suction.However,no significant effect of GP on suction at different soil positions was observed.Moreover,compaction efficiency decreased with increasing distance from the injection point,showing a strong linear relationship.In addition,the model results for the effective compaction range were basically consistent with the extrapolated values from the experimental results.
基金funded by Universiti Tenaga Nasional(UNITEN),Malaysia for supporting this research under the Dato'Low Tuck Kwong International Grant,project code 20238002DLTKsupport for this work from the Ministry of Higher EducationMalaysia through the Higher Institution Center of Excellence(HICoE 2023-JPT(BPKI)1000/016/018/34(5))program+2 种基金supported by Tenaga Nasional Berhad(TNB)and UNITEN through the BOLD Refresh Postdoctoral Fellowships under Grant J510050002-IC-6 BOLDREFRESH2023-Centre of ExcellencePrince Sultan University for their supportIndustrial Technology Division,Malaysian Nuclear Agency for their support in this research work.
文摘Investigating the influence of radiation on glass fibre composites is essential for their use in space and aerospace environment.Gaining insight into the damage mechanisms caused by gamma irradiation,can improve the safety and resilience of structures.This paper is aimed at investigating the failure mode and damage of gamma-irradiated repurposed pultruded glass fibre-reinforced polyester subjected to lowvelocity impact using three types of non-destructive techniques.Three sets of differently layered configurations(CRC,WCRW,W2CR2C)consisting of chopped(c),roving(r),and weaved(w)fibre-reinforced polyester are applied in this study.Drop hammer test is applied to evaluate the low-impact resistance properties of Gamma-irradiated composite at 100 kGy,500 kGy,and 1000 kGy.Preliminary flexural and hardness tests are conducted to further assess the behaviour of irradiated polymer composites.Further,the damage modes associated with the low-impact test are characterised using infrared thermography,flat panel digital radiography,and microscope observation.The results show that the composites irradiated with various doses display good impact resistance at 20 J,presenting minor damages in the form of dents on the surface.The irradiated CRC and WCRW display best impact resistance at 500 kGy,while W2CR2C at 1000 kGy.This shows that the layering sequence of reinforcement fibre can influence the impact resistance of irradiated composites.Apart from that,the application of non-destructive techniques show different damage mechanisms in the form resin cracks,yarn splitting/fracture,and matrix splitting when the composites are exposed at high and low irradiation doses.These findings offer valuable data for the defence industry,particularly in the areas of repair,maintenance,and the development of new materials.
基金Projects(41877272,41472269)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(2017zzts167)supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China。
文摘A series of true-triaxial compression tests were performed on red sandstone cubic specimens with a circular hole to investigate the influence of depth on induced spalling in tunnels.The failure process of the hole sidewalls was monitored and recorded in real-time by a micro-video monitoring equipment.The general failure evolution processes of the hole sidewall at different initial depths(500 m,1000 m and 1500 m)during the adjustment of vertical stress were obtained.The results show that the hole sidewall all formed spalling before resulting in strain rockburst,and ultimately forming a V-shaped notch.The far-field principal stress for the initial failure of the tunnel shows a good positive linear correlation with the depth.As the depth increases,the stress required for the initial failure of the tunnels clearly increased,the spalling became more intense;the size and mass of the rock fragments and depth and width of the V-shaped notches increased,and the range of the failure zone extends along the hole sidewall from the local area to the entire area.Therefore,as the depth increases,the support area around the tunnel should be increased accordingly to prevent spalling.
基金Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) and the Ministry of Education Malaysia for financial support of this studyUniversiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) for the financial support under research grants GUP-2012-040 and AP-2012-014
文摘The effects of Cu content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of thixoformed Al-6Si-xCu-0.3Mg(x= 3,4,5and 6,mass fraction,%) alloys were studied.The samples were thixoformed at 50%liquid content and several of the samples were treated with the T6 heat treatment.The samples were then examined by optical microscopy(OM),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),energy dispersive X-ray(EDX) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction(XRD) analysis,as well as hardness and tensile tests.The results show that the cooling slope casting and thixoforming process promote the formation of very fine and well distributed intermetallic compounds in the aluminium matrix and the mechanical properties of the alloys increase considerably compared with the permanent mould casting.The results also reveal that as the Cu content in the alloy increases,the hardness and tensile strength of the thixoformed alloys also increase.The ultimate tensile strength,yield strength and elongation to fracture of the thixoformed heat-treated Al-6Si-3Cu-0.3Mg alloy are 298 MPa,201 MPa and 4.5%,respectively,whereas the values of the thixoformed heat-treated alloy with high Cu content(6%) are 361 MPa,274 MPa and 1.1%,respectively.The fracture of the thixoformed Al-6Si-3Cu-0.3Mg alloy shows a dimple rupture,whereas in the alloy that contains the highest Cu content(6%),a cleavage fracture is observed.
基金financially supported by the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and the Ministry of Education(MoE)Malaysia(Nos.MI-2019-025 and DIP-2016-007)。
文摘Al–Si–Cu–Mg foundry alloys are used in casting process technologies.However,their strength properties remain low due to their microstructural characteristics and porosity.In this work,the microstructural characteristics,dislocation densities,and mechanical properties of Al–Si–Cu–Mg cast alloys prepared through different casting methods were studied experimentally.Four casting processes,namely,gravity casting(GC),rheocasting(RC),thixoforming(Thixo),and Thixo with heat treatment,were used.The GC and RC samples had mainly dendriticα-Al phase microstructures and exhibited coarse Si particles and intermetallic compounds in their interdendritic regions.By contrast,the Thixo and heat-treated Thixo(HT-Thixo)samples exhibited microstructural refinement with uniformly distributedα-Al globules,fine fibrous Si particles,and fragmented intermetallic compounds amongα-Al globules.The accumulation of dislocation densities increased in the Thixo sample as the strain was increased due to plastic deformation.Furthermore,the ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the HT-Thixo sample increased by 87%and 63%,respectively,relative to those of the GC sample.The cleavage fracture displayed by the GC and RC samples led to brittle failure.Meanwhile,the Thixo and HT-Thixo samples presented dimple-based ductile fracture.
基金Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia(UKM)and the Ministry of Higher Education(MOHE),Malaysia,for financial support under research grants AP-2012-014 and FRGS/1/2014/TK01/UKM/01/2
文摘A series of Al-6Si-3Cu-(0.3-2)Mg alloys were produced by a conventional casting process.Cooling slope technique wasemployed to produce feedstocks before they were thixoformed at50%liquid fraction.The effect of Mg on the microstructure ofAl-Si-Cu aluminium alloys under as-cast and semisolid conditions was investigated.It was found that by adding Mg to Al-Si-Cualloy,some of the Al2Cu phase and silicon were consumed to form Al5Cu2Mg3Si5and Mg2Si phases.The needle-likeβ-Al5FeSi phasetransformed to Chinese-script-likeπ-Al8Mg3FeSi6with the addition of Mg.In the as-cast alloys,the primaryα(Al)was dendritic,butas the Mg content increased,the phase became less dendritic.Moreover,the Mg addition considerably modified the size of theα(Al)phase,but it had no significant effect on the silicon morphology.In the thixoformed alloys,the microstructure showed a fine globularprimary phase surrounded by uniformly distributed silicon and fragmented intermetallic phases.The eutectic silicon was modifiedfrom a flaky and acicular shape to fine fibrous particles.The effect of Mg on eutectic silicon during semisolid processing wasevident.The primary Mg2Si particles were modified from big polygonal particles to become smaller and more globular,whereas themorphology of the Chinese-script-likeπ-Al8Mg3FeSi6changed to a compact shape.The results also exhibit that as the Mg content inthe A319alloy increased,the hardness,yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the thixoformed alloys significantly improved,but the elongation to fracture dropped.
基金This work has been supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No.61177076）, and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities （No.2012-Ia-020）.
文摘The equivalent four-pole network model is used to simulate one-dimension longitudinal acoustic resonator with different buffer diameters and lengths, aiming to reach a theoretic model which is able to estimate the optimal buffer geometry. In experiments, the buffer volumes are decreased gradually by filling a set of aluminum rings with different inner diameters and lengths into the buffers to get the desired dimensions. The experimental results show that the average deviation of 1.1% is obtained between the experimental results and the theoretical simulation at the buffer length of 30 mm. Experiments show that the minimum background signal occurs when the buffer length is equal to a quarter of the acoustic wavelength (λ/4). The amplitude of the photoacoustic signal is barely influenced when dbuf>3dres. Considering that oversize of photoacoustic cell needs more measuring gas and more material, the buffer diameter can be deduced to dbuf≈3dres. Therefore, smaller photoacoustic cell is desirable.
文摘Our study was carried out to assess the level of noise generated and ground vibrations induced during blasting operations at the Ewekoro limestone quarry in Nigeria.To achieve this objective,vibro monitor equipment was used to take readings related to noise generated and ground vibrations during all blasting operations that took place in the quarry for a period of one month.As well,a digital camera was used to take photographs of residential structures within villages near the quarry.The results obtained indicate that the ground vibration readings fall between 0.5 mm/s and 2.1 mm/s and the noise generated during the blasting operations between 82 dB and 89 dB.These readings when compared with the limits set by FEPA(Federal Environmental Protection Agency) of 5.0 mm/s and 150 dB) all fall within the permissible limits.However the photographs of most structures near the quarry reveal cracks and dilapidated building walls.Recommendations are made on how to sustain and improve current blasting techniques.
基金Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia for supporting this research project through the research funding (AP-2015-016)
文摘Joining Mg to Al is challenging because of the deterioration of mechanical properties caused by the formation of intermetallic compounds(IMCs) at the Mg/Al interface. This study aims to improve the mechanical properties of welded samples by preventing the fracture location at the Mg/Al interface. Friction stir welding was performed to join Mg to Al at different rotational and travel speeds. The microstructure of the welded samples showed the IMCs layers containing Al12Mg17(γ) and Al3Mg2(β) at the welding zone with a thickness(< 3.5 μm). Mechanical properties were mainly affected by the thickness of the IMCs, which was governed by welding parameters. The highest tensile strength was obtained at 600 r/min and 40 mm/min with a welding efficiency of 80%. The specimens could fracture along the boundary at the thermo-mechanically affected zone in the Mg side of the welded joint.
基金The authors acknowledge the financial support provided by the Ministry of Higher Education,Malaysia through the research grants LRGS/2013/UKM-UKM/TP-01 and UKM GUP-2016-044.9.0.
文摘Catalyst-coated membranes(CCMs)have gained popularity among membrane electrode assembly(MEA)fabricators for their abilities and advantages compared with those of other methods,such as catalyst-coated substrates(CCSs).CCMs show a profound new analysis for reducing platinum(Pt)catalyst loading.In addition,they increase the total number of reactions that occur on the MEA because of their active area amplification,which leads to an improved catalyst-utilization efficiency rate.Moreover,several characteristics are involved in the MEA fabrication methods.Material-manufacturing effects with regard to catalyst inks and analysis of the overall performance of MEAs prepared by the CCM and CCS methods are deliberated.This deliberation emphasizes the practical approaches in minimizing performance deterioration during the fabrication of MEAs using the CCM method and converses the commercialization of the CCM fabrication method toward developing an end product.Novel research is required for MEA fabrication using the CCM methods to ensure that the fuel cell performance is improved.Therefore,this review is focusing on the pros and cons of both distinguished methods,that is,CCM and CCS fabrication,for better comparison.
基金Projects(51774138,51804122,51904105)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProjects(E2021209148,E2021209052)supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province,China。
文摘By utilizing wave velocity imaging technology,the uniaxial multi-stage loading test was conducted on siltstone to attain wave velocity imagings during rock fracture.Based on the time series parameters of acoustic emissions(AE),joint response characteristics of the velocity field and AE during rock fracture were analyzed.Moreover,the localization effect of damage during rock fracture was explored by applying wave velocity imagings.The experimental result showed that the wave velocity imagings enable three-dimensional(3-D)visualization of the extent and spatial position of damage to the rock.A damaged zone has a low wave velocity and a zone where the low wave velocity is concentrated tends to correspond to a severely damaged zone.AE parameters and wave velocity imagings depict the changes in activity of cracks during rock fracture from temporal and spatial perspectives,respectively:the activity of cracks is strengthened,and the rate of AE events increases during rock fracture;correspondingly,the low-velocity zones are gradually aggregated and their area gradually increases.From the wave velocity imagings,the damaged zones in rock were divided into an initially damaged zone,a progressively damaged zone,and a fractured zone.During rock fracture,the progressively damaged zone and the fractured zone both develop around the initially damaged zone,showing a typical localization effect of the damage.By capturing the spatial development trends of the progressively damaged zone and fractured zone in wave velocity imagings,the development of microfractures can be predicted,exerting practical significance for determining the position of the main fracture.
文摘Noninvasive gluoose monitoring development is critical for diabetic patient continuous moni-toring.However,almost all the available devices are invasive and painful.Noninvasive methods such as using spectroscopy have shown some good results.Unfortunately,the drawback was that the tungsten halogen lamps 1usage that is impractical if applied on human skin.This paper compared the light emitting diode(LED)to traditional tungsten halogen lamps as light source for glucose detection where the type of light source plays an important role in achieving a good spectrum quality.Glucose concentration measurement has been developed as part of noninvasive technique using optical spectroscopy.Small change and overlapping in tungsten halogen results need to replace it with a more convenient light source such as LED.Based on the result obtained,the performance of LED for absorbance spectrum gives a signifcantly different and is directly proportional to the glucose concentration.The result shows a linear trend and scucssully detects lowest at 60 to 160 mg/dL glucose concentration.
基金supported by the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Grant(Grant No.GUP-2014-077)
文摘Drinking water is supplied through a centralized water supply system and may not be accessed by communities in rural areas of Malaysia.This study investigated the performance of a low-cost, self-prepared combined activated carbon and sand filtration(CACSF) system for roofharvested rainwater and lake water for potable use. Activated carbon was self-prepared using locally sourced coconut shell and was activated using commonly available salt rather than a high-tech procedure that requires a chemical reagent. The filtration chamber was comprised of local,readily available sand. The experiments were conducted with varying antecedent dry intervals(ADIs) of up to 15 d and lake water with varying initial chemical oxygen demand(COD) concentration. The CACSF system managed to produce effluents complying with the drinking water standards for the parameters p H, dissolved oxygen(DO), biochemical oxygen demand(BOD5), COD, total suspended solids(TSS), and ammonia nitrogen(NH_3-N). The CACSF system successfully decreased the population of Escherichia coli(E. coli) in the influents to less than 30 CFU/m L. Samples with a higher population of E. coli(that is, greater than 30 CFU/m L) did not show 100% removal. The system also showed high potential as an alternative for treated drinking water for roof-harvested rainwater and class II lake water.
基金the National University of Malaysia (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM)the Ministry of Education (MOE) of Malaysia for the financial support received under research grant DIP-2016-007
文摘Thixoforming is a processing method that deforms metal in a semisolid state.The advantages of this process include the production of parts with good surface finish,fine microstructures and superior mechanical properties.However,the process mostly produces parts from aluminium cast grades,thereby not fully utilising the true potential of this method.Hence,thermodynamic modelling can be used to formulate alloy compositions that favour this processing method.Here,the effects of reducing copper content and increasing silicon and magnesium contents on the thixoformability of aluminium alloy 2014 were presented.The work consists of both the modelling and experimental validation.Results showed that by increasing Si and decreasing Cu content in the alloy,the solidification interval temperature was decreased and the temperature working window between the stipulated liquid fractions was widened,two of the characteristics favouring the process.A high solid-solution temperature employed resulted in the dissolution of unfavourable Mg2Si compound.An increase in Mg content used also resulted in the formation of the compactπ-Al8FeMg3Si6 phase and the decrease in the amount of the sharp and plate-like structure of theβ-Al5FeSi phase,improving the strength of the modified alloy.Subsequent T6 heat treatment successfully further increased the strength of the modified alloy.
文摘Drilling and blasting play vital roles in opencast mining. These operations not only affect the cost of production directly but as well and significantly, the overall operational costs. This research was carried out to find a possible way of optimizing the drilling and blasting operations in an open pit mine of Somair (Société des Mines de l’Air), in the Niger Republic. In order to optimize the drilling operation, the time taken by two drilling machines to accomplish the same task was analyzed statistically. The result indicates that the Down the Hole Hammer Drilling Rig (DMNo406) is more efficient than the Drill Master (DM405). The relative unit consumption of two explosives (Explus and Nitram 9), when used under the same operating conditions, were also considered and the results indicate Explus to be more economical per unit consumption with a range of 0.15 g/t–0.183 g/t, when compared with Nitram 9 with a unit consumption range of 0.19 g/t-0.24 g/t in the study area.
基金support by Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP),Malaysia,under Grant No.015LC0-336。
文摘Benefits achieved by the biodegradable magnesium(Mg) and zinc(Zn) implants could be suppressed due to the invasion of infectious microbial, common bacteria, and fungi. Postoperative medications and the antibacterial properties of pure Mg and Zn are insufficient against biofilm and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, bringing osteomyelitis, necrosis, and even death. This study evaluates the antibacterial performance of biodegradable Mg and Zn alloys of different reinforcements, including silver(Ag), copper(Cu), lithium(Li), and gallium(Ga). Copper ions(Cu^(2+)) can eradicate biofilms and antibiotic-resistant bacteria by extracting electrons from the cellular structure. Silver ion(Ag^(+)) kills bacteria by creating bonds with the thiol group. Gallium ion(Ga^(3+)) inhibits ferric ion(Fe^(3+)) absorption, leading to nutrient deficiency and bacterial death. Nanoparticles and reactive oxygen species(ROS) can penetrate bacteria cell walls directly, develop bonds with receptors, and damage nucleotides. Antibacterial action depends on the alkali nature of metal ions and their degradation rate, which often causes cytotoxicity in living cells. Therefore, this review emphasizes the insight into degradation rate, antibacterial mechanism, and their consequent cytotoxicity and observes the correlation between antibacterial performance and oxidation number of metal ions.
基金Acknowledgements The authors acknowledge the National Research Foundation(NRF)of South Africa for the fnancial support provided to undertake this research successfully.
文摘Carbon sequestration in unmineable coal seams has been proposed as one of the most attractive technologies to mitigate carbon dioxide(CO_(2))emissions in which CO_(2)is stored in the microporous structure of the coal matrix in an adsorbed state.The CO_(2)adsorption process is hence considered one of the more efective methodologies in environmental sciences.Thus,adsorption isotherm measurements and modelling are key important scientifc measures required in understanding the adsorption system,mechanism,and process optimization in coalbeds.In this paper,three renowned and reliable adsorption isotherm models were employed including Langmuir,Freundlich,and Temkin for pure CO_(2)adsorption data,and the extended-Langmuir model for multicomponent,such as fue gas mixture-adsorption data as investigated in this research work.Also,signifcant thermodynamics properties including the standard enthalpy change(ΔH°),entropy change(ΔS°),and Gibbs free energy(ΔG°)were assessed using the van’t Hof equation.The statistical evaluation of the goodness-of-ft was done using three(3)statistical data analysis methods including correlation coefcient(R^(2)),standard deviation(σ),and standard error(SE).The Langmuir isotherm model accurately represent the pure CO_(2)adsorption on the coals than Freundlich and Temkin.The extended Langmuir gives best experimental data ft for the fue gas.The thermodynamic evaluations revealed that CO_(2)adsorption on the South African coals is feasible,spontaneous,and exothermic;and the adsorption mechanism is a combined physical and chemical interaction between the adsorbate and the adsorbent.
基金NPRP Grant # 10-0127-170270 from Qatar National Research FundMI-2017-002 grant from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia。
文摘Graphene oxide is a very high capacity adsorbent due to its functional groups and π-π interactions with other compounds. Adsorption capacity of graphene oxide, however, can be further enhanced by having synergistic effects through the use of mixed-matrix composite. In this study, silica-decorated graphene oxide(SGO) was used as a high-efficiency adsorbent to remove Congo red(CR) and Cadmium(Ⅱ) from aqueous solutions. The effects of solution initial concentration(20 to 120 mg/l), solution pH(pH 2 to 7), adsorption duration(0 to 140 min) and temperature(298 to 323 K) were measured in order to optimize the adsorption conditions using the SGO adsorbent. Morphological analysis indicated that the silica nanoparticles could be dispersed uniformly on the graphene oxide surfaces. The maximum capacities of adsorbent for effective removal of Cd(Ⅱ) and CR were 43.45 and 333.33 mg/g based on Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms, respectively. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms displayed the highest values of Q max for CR and Cd(Ⅱ) adsorption in this study, which indicated monolayer adsorption of CR and multilayer adsorption of Cd(II) onto the SGO, respectively. Thermodynamic study showed that the enthalpy( H) and Gibbs free energy( G) values of the adsorption process for both pollutants were negative, suggesting that the process was spontaneous and exothermic in nature. This study showed active sites of SGO( π-π, hydroxyl, carboxyl, ketone, silane-based functional groups) contributed to an enormous enhancement in simultaneous removal of CR and Cd(Ⅱ) from an aqueous solu-tion, Therefore, SGO can be considered as a promising adsorbent for future water pollution control and removal of hazardous materials from aqueous solutions.
