Search Results (193)

This investigation focuses on optimising the milling processes of white quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) to enhance its industrial applications. Three milling technologies—knife, disc, and ball milling—were employed to produce flours characterised by various physicochemical analyses. The granulometric analysis indicated that ball milling achieved the finest particle size distribution, significantly improving water absorption capacity and dispersion. Mathematical modelling confirmed that the Rosin–Rammler–Bennett model provided superior predictive capability for rheological behaviour (R² > 0.9624). X-ray diffraction revealed a reduction in crystallinity as milling progressed, while differential scanning calorimetry indicated a decrease in gelatinisation enthalpy and temperature range, suggesting enhanced thermal processing efficiency. Ball milling of the quinoa flour resulted in marked structural changes, as observed by electron microscopy, which are associated in the literature with potential benefits for technological applications in gluten-free and health-oriented foods. Furthermore, fractionation of the flours yielded nutrient-rich bran, containing high levels of protein and fibre. These findings establish critical processing–structure–function relationships, promoting the scalable production of high-value quinoa ingredients that cater to the increasing demand for sustainable and health-oriented food solutions. Full article

Edge detection is a fundamental component of vision tasks, yet the fusion stage that combines multi-cue evidence has received limited attention. We explore the use of a family of Choquet-based fusion operators generalised by restricted dissimilarity functions for robust, training-free, single-scale edge detection on the BSDS500 dataset. Local cues are extracted from eight connected neighbours after Gaussian or Gravitational smoothing; ordered samples are aggregated with a fuzzy power measure using three operator families: d-CF, d-XC, and d-CC integrals. Binary edge maps are obtained through non-maximum suppression and Rosin thresholding. Evaluation follows the Bezdek framework for edge detection, utilising the Estrada–Jepson correspondence, and extracts precision, recall, and the F-score. All inferential statistics are restricted to within-family comparisons among our variants. The main results are that gravitational smoothing consistently improves performance, and the best performance is achieved with the absolute-difference restricted dissimilarity under gravitational smoothing. Under Gaussian smoothing, the best performance is obtained with the modulus of the squared difference and with the squared difference of the roots. These findings indicate that restricted-dissimilarity-based Choquet operators, particularly d-CC integrals with gravitational smoothing, form a straightforward and interpretable fusion mechanism, motivating further analysis of component interactions and multi-scale extensions. Full article

Hydrocyclones are widely used for solid–liquid separation, but their performance is highly sensitive to the geometric design. Previous studies often focused on individual structural parameters; however, the combined effects of the vortex finder diameter and aspect ratios on the internal flow field and particle separation behavior remain insufficiently clarified. This study conducted three-dimensional numerical simulations using the realizable k-ε turbulence model, combined with the discrete phase model. The particle size distribution behaves according to the Rosin–Rammler function. Seven different geometries were evaluated under identical operating conditions to systematically investigate how the diameter and aspect ratios influence the internal vortex structures and separation behavior. A decrease in the diameter ratio enhances the dominance of the outward centrifugal forces, which increases the downward discharge of coarse particles but also results in greater liquid entrainment through the underflow. Conversely, larger diameter ratios strengthen the secondary vortex and promote upward flow. However, this also leads to decreased recovery of fine particles due to weakened centrifugal action. Adjusting the aspect ratio effectively mitigates these tradeoffs. Increasing the cone length enhances the residence time, stabilizes the upward vortex, and improves the separation of fine particles. Although the overall separation performance shows diminishing returns beyond a certain aspect-ratio threshold, the recovery of fine particles continues to improve. The results reveal that a balance between centrifugal and drag forces is essential, which is achieved through coordinated control of the vortex finder diameter and cone geometry. This balance is critical for maintaining stable flow fields and high efficiency in fine-particle removal. The findings provide practical design guidance for hydrocyclones, particularly in applications that require enhanced recovery of fine particles and stable multiphase flow behavior. Full article

The design of sustainable polymer systems with tunable properties is essential for next-generation functional materials. This study examines the influence of a phenol-free modified rosin resin (Unik Print™ 3340, UP)—a maleic anhydride- and fumaric acid-modified gum rosin—on the structural, thermal, rheological, and mechanical behavior of four poly(lactic acid) (PLA) grades with different molecular weights and crystallinity. Blends containing 3 phr of UP were prepared by melt compounding. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the incorporation of UP did not alter the thermal degradation of PLA, confirming stability retention. In contrast, differential scanning calorimetry revealed that UP affected thermal transitions, suppressing crystallization and melting in amorphous PLA grades and shifting the crystallization temperature to lower values in semi-crystalline grades. The degree of crystallinity decreased for low-molecular-weight semi-crystalline PLA but slightly increased in higher-molecular-weight samples. Mechanical tests indicated that UP acted as a physical modifier, increasing toughness by over 25% for all PLA grades and up to 60% in the amorphous, low-molecular-weight grade. Rheological measurements revealed moderate viscosity variations, while FESEM analysis confirmed microstructural features consistent with improved ductility. Overall, UP resin enables fine tuning of the structure–property relationships of PLA without compromising stability, offering a sustainable route for developing bio-based polymer systems with enhanced mechanical performance and potential use in future biomimetic material designs. Full article

This study investigates the influence of crushed plum stones and rosin (colophony) as additives in the pelletisation of pine sawdust, with a focus on energy consumption, pellet quality, and combustion performance. The addition of crushed plum stones combined with 10% rosin reduced the energy demand of the process. Incorporating 10–20% plum stones with 10% rosin decreased the pelletiser power demand by 18% and 25%, respectively, compared to pure sawdust. Plum stone addition significantly improved the energetic parameters of pellets. At a 20% share, the calorific value increased to 18.02 MJ·kg⁻¹ and the heat of combustion to 20.04 MJ·kg⁻¹, while 10% rosin further enhanced these values by 1.67 MJ·kg⁻¹ (8.4%). Although bulk and particle density slightly decreased, a 10% plum stone share raised the kinetic strength to 97.24%, indicating improved mechanical durability. Combustion tests confirmed favourable properties of the modified pellets, including lower air excess coefficients (λ) and reduced emissions of CO, NO, and SO₂. However, a 10% rosin content slightly exceeded CO emission limits set by the Ecodesign Directive, suggesting that its share should be reduced to ~5%. The results confirm that crushed plum stones and rosin are effective modifiers in sawdust pelletisation, enhancing both process efficiency and fuel quality. This approach supports circular economy principles by converting plant-based residues into high-quality biofuels. Full article

To date, the grinding behavior of saprolite and lateritic overburden mixtures remains poorly understood. The Bond Work Index (BWI) is the principal indicator used to determine the specific energy consumption during the grinding process. To establish the F₈₀ and P₈₀ values, granulometric distribution models—Rosin–Rammler (RR), Gates–Gaudin–Schuhmann (GGS), and the Swebrec function (SWEF)—were evaluated. The mineral phases of the feed samples were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction. This study provides evidence that the RR function is the most suitable for simulating the particle size distribution of the feed material, with residual errors below 6.30% and a coefficient of determination (R²) exceeding 97%. After the grinding equilibrium cycle is reached, the SWEF model proves to be the most appropriate, exhibiting residual errors under 3.50% and R² values above 98%. BWI reveals that saprolite is the most difficult ore to grind, with specific energy consumption increasing from 16.38 kWh/t to 25.50 kWh/t as the proportion of saprolite in the mixture rises. This reflects a clear upward trend, as confirmed by a fitted model with an R² of 98.54%. In contrast, the grindability index (Gbp) decreases, indicating that the material becomes increasingly resistant to grinding as the saprolite content increases. This may be attributed to inherent material properties, such as hardness, or to physical phenomena related to fragmentation. The declining Gbp further suggests that greater energy input is required to achieve additional particle size reduction. Overall, the findings demonstrate that saprolite is inherently difficult to grind and behaves according to its own grinding characteristics, regardless of whether it is processed alone or in combination with lateritic overburden. Full article

The recurrent influx of invasive Sargassum horneri along the coasts of South Korea poses significant ecological and economic challenges, including habitat disruption, aquaculture damage, and shoreline pollution. This study investigates a sustainable valorization pathway by converting SH into functional biochar through slow pyrolysis and utilizing the product as a core material for eco-friendly marine buoys. Biochars were produced at pyrolysis temperatures ranging from 300 °C to 700 °C and characterized for elemental composition, FT-IR spectra, leachability (CODcr), and biodegradability. Higher pyrolysis temperatures resulted in lower H/C and O/C molar ratios, indicating enhanced aromaticity and hydrophobicity. The biochar produced at 700 °C (SFBW-700) exhibited the highest structural and environmental stability, with minimal leachability and resistance to microbial degradation. A composite buoy was fabricated by mixing SFBW-700 with natural binders (beeswax and rosin), forming solid specimens without synthetic polymers or foaming agents. The optimized composition (biochar:beeswax:rosin = 85:10:5) showed excellent performance in density, buoyancy, and impact resistance, while fully meeting the Korean eco-friendly buoy certification criteria. This work presents a circular and scalable approach to mitigating marine macroalgal blooms and replacing plastic-based marine infrastructure with biochar-based eco-friendly composite alternatives. The findings suggest strong potential for the deployment of SH-derived biochar in marine engineering applications. Full article

Wood modification using biopolymers has emerged as a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical treatments, enhancing wood’s durability, moisture resistance, and mechanical properties while reducing environmental impact. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in biopolymer-based wood modification, focusing on commonly used biopolymers such as furfuryl alcohol, polylactic acid, caprolactone, polybutylene adipate terephthalate, polybutylene succinate, zein, lignin, tannin, chitosan, alginate, gums, fatty acids, rosin, and sorbitol + citric acid. Future perspectives highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between academia, research institutions, and industry to accelerate innovation and commercialization. This review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals working toward the development of high-performance, eco-friendly modified wood products. Full article

Microcapsules with self-healing properties were synthesized via emulsion polymerization, with melamine formaldehyde resin serving as the microcapsule wall and a mixture of shellac and rosin solutions encapsulated as the core. The core–wall ratio was tested as a variable, and two ratios of 0.59:1 and 0.68:1 were selected for the preparations. Microcapsules were added to the waterborne paint films at concentrations of 0%, 5.0%, 10.0%, 15.0%, 20.0%, and 25.0%, respectively, to obtain self-healing waterborne paint films with different microcapsule contents. The effects of microcapsules with different core–wall ratios and concentrations in the paint films on the optical, mechanical, and self-healing properties of the paint film were investigated. The results showed that an increase in microcapsule content led to a corresponding rise in the paint film ∆E. The coating-film glossiness exhibited a decreasing tendency with an increase in microcapsule concentration. When the content of microcapsules was below 15.0%, the coating maintained a high level of adhesion and hardness. However, once the concentration surpassed 20.0%, coating adhesion began to decline. The addition of microcapsules effectively enhanced the thermal-aging resistance of the paint film. At the core–wall ratio of 0.68:1 and a microcapsule content of 20.0%, the paint film exhibited the best aging resistance, and the repair rate reached 16.1%, indicating good self-healing performance. Full article

The escalating disasters caused by the movement of shallow buried strata in China’s western mining areas are increasingly threatening operational safety. A critical issue in ensuring secure mining practices in these areas is the creep failure of weakly cemented soft rock under low-stress conditions. The unique particle contact mechanisms in weakly cemented mudstone, combined with the persistence of the cemented materials and the particulate matter they form, lead to mechanical responses that differ significantly from those of typical soft rocks during loading. Building on an existing multivariate linear regression equation for new similar materials, this study developed qualified weakly cemented medium similar materials, offering appropriate materials for long-term creep tests of weakly cemented formations. This was accomplished by employing orthogonal proportioning tests. The principal findings of our investigation are as follows: The new, similar material exhibits low strength and prominent creep characteristics, accurately simulating weakly cemented materials in western mining areas. The concentration of rosin–alcohol solution has a measurable impact on key parameters, such as σ_c, E, and γ in the weakly cemented similar material specimens. Furthermore, the creep characteristics of the specimens diminish progressively with an increase in the proportion of iron powder (I) and barite powder (B). The material was applied to a similar indoor model test simulating the weakly cemented material surrounding the auxiliary haulage roadway in Panel 20314 of the Gaojialiang Coal Mine, with speckle analysis employed for detailed examination. The experimental findings suggest that both the conventional mechanical properties and long-term creep characteristics of the material align with the required specifications, offering robust support for achieving optimal outcomes in the similar model test. Full article

This review comprehensively explores natural polymer-based materials, focusing on their characteristics, applications, and innovations across different sectors, including medicine, the environment, energy, textiles, and construction. With increasing concern about resource depletion and pollution, biomaterials offer a sustainable alternative to fossil-derived products. The review highlights polysaccharide-based and protein-based biomaterials, as well as others, such as polyisoprene, rosin, and hyaluronic acid. Emphasis is laid on their compositions and attractive characteristics, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and functional versatility. Moreover, the review deeply discusses the ability of natural polymers to form hydrogels, aerogels, films, nanocomposites, etc., enhanced by additives for innovative applications. Future development trends of biomaterials in biomedicine, sustainable materials, environmental biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing are also explored. Their growing potential in these sectors is driven by research advances in emerging technologies such as 3D bioprinting, nanotechnology, and hybrid material innovation, which are proven to enhance the performance, functionality, and scalability of biopolymers. The review suggests several strategies, including improvement in processing techniques and material engineering to overcome limitations associated with biomaterials, thereby reinforcing their suitability and role in a circular and sustainable economy. Full article

Heat storage in compacted soil embankments is a promising technology in energy geotechnics, but its impact on the thermo-hydraulic behavior of unsaturated soils remains insufficiently understood. This paper investigates coupled heat and moisture transfer in unsaturated soil under different thermal conditions using a new bottom-heating method. The thermo-hydraulic response is monitored along the soil column and compared to an isothermal drying test. Variations in suction and water content were analyzed to determine water retention curve and to derive unsaturated hydraulic conductivity using the instantaneous profile method. The water retention curve exhibited deviations under thermal conditions, with reduced water contents observed only at intermediate suctions. Unsaturated hydraulic conductivity decreased significantly at moderate suctions but increased by up to one order of magnitude at high suctions. Heat-driven moisture redistribution was examined through flux calculations, highlighting that vapor-phase transport contributed significantly, up to 88%, to the upward water migration. These findings contribute to a better understanding of thermo-hydraulic interactions in unsaturated soils, which is essential for optimizing thermal storage applications in compacted embankments. Full article

Gum rosin and its derivatives have been used traditionally in coatings and adhesives and are now increasingly applied in diverse medical and pharmaceutical fields. Owing to its film-forming ability, hydrophobic nature, biocompatibility, and ease of chemical modification, gum rosin has emerged as a promising excipient for controlled drug release, targeted drug delivery, and other biomedical applications. This review summarizes the evolution of gum rosin applications, from its conventional roles to its modern utilization in nanocarriers, transdermal systems, and other advanced drug delivery platforms. In addition, we discuss the challenges related to allergenicity, brittleness, and excessive hydrophobicity and propose strategies (such as chemical modification and polymer blending) to overcome these issues. This review provides a reference framework for researchers developing new rosin-based materials in pharmaceutical sciences. Full article

In groundwater quality analysis, nonlinear models are typically used, with domains spanning the entire real number line. In this study, alongside these models (Logistic, Gompertz and Richards), nonlinear models defined based on functions whose domain is only the positive part of the real number line are presented (Michaelis–Menten, Hill 1 and 2 and Rosin–Rammler 1 and 2). Two case studies were observed in the paper: (i) the dependence of nitrate concentration on the pumping rate in the Bartolovec wellfield, and (ii) the dependence of nitrate concentration on the distance from the source of pollution in the Varaždin wellfield. Both wellfields are located in the alluvial aquifer in northwestern Croatia. In this way, the curves obtained on the basis of the mentioned mathematical functions were fitted to the experimental data. The results show a good fit, so that the values of the coefficients of determination R² are greater than 0.82 for the case study (i) and greater than 0.96 for the case study (ii). Since the models differ in the number of parameters (e.g., three parameters for Michaelis–Menten and five parameters for Rosin–Rammler), the corrected Akaike information criterion (AIC_c) was used for their comparison. In this way, the best fit for the case study (i) was obtained for the Rosin–Rammler 1 model, while for the case study (ii), it was for the Hill 1 model. A t-test was performed for all models, and they can be considered reliable at a significance level of 0.05. However, t-values and p-values were also calculated for each parameter of each model. Based on these results, it is concluded that all model parameters can be considered reliable at a significance level of 0.05 only for the Hill 1 and Rosin–Rammler 1 models in both case studies. For this reason, these models can generally be considered the best fit to the experimental data. The study demonstrates the superiority of nonlinear models with domains restricted to positive real numbers (e.g., Hill 1, Rosin–Rammler 1) over traditional models (e.g., Logistic, Richards) in groundwater quality analysis. These findings offer practical tools for predicting contaminant extremes (e.g., maximum/minimum concentrations) and optimizing groundwater management strategies. Full article