Engineering and Technology Journal

The optimal performance of bubble cups relies on achieving the appropriate surface quality, a common requirement in various industrial applications. The effectiveness of the Magnetic Abrasive Finishing (MAF) process depends on several factors, including the brush's flexibility, that vary across tools. This study investigates the influence of five key parameters, voltage, finishing time, gap distance, rotating speed, and particle size, on microhardness (MH). Experimental work was based on Taguchi design with L27 trials in Minitab 17, involving five variables with three levels for each. The impact of these parameters on microhardness for stainless steel SUS420 bubble cups is assessed using Taguchi and ANOVA analyses. According to the Taguchi analysis, the main parameters that improve microhardness (MH) most are, in order, gap distance, voltage, time, particle size, and spindle speed. The percentage change in microhardness (%ΔMH) increases with higher voltage and time values and decreases with higher particle size and spindle speed values. This study observes an exception to this trend for the gap distance value of 1.2 mm. The use of smaller particle sizes in the range of (20-63) μm showed the most significant enhancement in microhardness (MH) at 21.20%, whereas larger particle sizes (125-250 μm) exhibited lower enhancement in microhardness (MH) at 4.12%.

Electrical Discharging Machining (EDM) offers broad capabilities that allow it to be used in the manufacturing, automotive, and aviation industries, as well as practically all disciplines of conductive material machining. This experimental and numerical work aims to use EDM to evaluate the surface of Alloy Steel (X210). The experiments used the EDM copper electrode with a novel horizontal flushing hole. The findings of the investigations have been analyzed so that the best settings for the input process factors can be determined. Alloy tool steel (X210) is cut in dimensions by the Wire EDM (dk7740) (15 × 15 × 10 mm) with very little research dealing with this alloy. ARL spectrometer method was used to determine the percentage chemical composition. In the current experimental work, the Effect of different parameters such as electrode angle (EA), peak current (Ip), pulse on time (Pon), and pulse off time (Poff) have been investigated using response surface methodology (RSM). Microhardness reaches the maximum value with an electrode angle of 67.5º with increasing current and pulse. Responses (SR and MH) were modeled using RSM. It is found that the lowest SR is achieved when conducted with an electrode tilt of 45º. A high peak current (Ip) has also been discovered to raise SR further while decreasing pulse-off time. The primary effects of input parameters, specifically E.A, Ip, Pon, and Poff, were determined to impact the Ra and MH considerably. Peak current greatly affects 45º angled electrodes while keeping other parameters constant

This study uses a novel sintering technique at very low temperatures (below 300°C) named the Cold Sintering Process to produce highly dense Hydroxyapatite (HA) samples. Nano hydroxyapatite was prepared using two different methods: Synthesis by chemical precipitation method (HA1) and natural source from Boven bone (HA2). The samples are characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), X-ray diffractogram (XRD), transition electron microscope (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Also, physical and mechanical properties measurements were detected, including density and hardness. The results indicated that cold sintering could result in Hydroxyapatite with high densification, high purity, and high stability without thermal decomposition compared with traditional sintering. The relative density and hardness for HA1 are 99% and 502HV, respectively. The relative density and hardness for HA2 are 69% and 350HV, respectively. It can be observed that the HA1 sample has higher densification than HA2 due to the presence of organic matter in natural Hydroxyapatite HA2. This organic material will be removed during the cold sintering process, leaving pores that lead to low densification of HA2 samples. It can be concluded that the synthesis hydroxyapatite (HA1) can be easily sintered by a cold sintering process compared with natural one(HA2).

In this study, multi-structured coatings of biocompatible and antibacterial materials on a 316 L stainless steel (SS) implant have been electrophoretically deposited for orthopedic applications. Two layers of composite coatings have been deposited; the first layer of composite coating biopolymer layer consists of (chitosan with Gelatin) and the second composite coating layer of bio-ceramic comprises Hydroxyapatite with chitosan. The first layer was deposited at (3 g/L concentration of Gelatin, 20 voltage, and 3 min and 0.5 g/L chitosan) parameters, and the second layer was deposited at (6 g/L, 40 voltage, 1 min, and 0.5 g/L chitosan) parameters. In this study, the stability of the suspension was evaluated using the Zeta potential test, which manifested good stability. The adhesion strength between the composite coatings' first layer and the 316L stainless steel substrate, as well as between the coating layers themselves, was determined using the Tape test, and the removal area for the first layer was 8.06% while for the second layer was 6.01%. The wettability test elucidated for the 316 L stainless steel and first coating layer and the second coating layer, the second composite coating layer became super hydrophilic, and a very high wettability was exhibited with multilayer coating. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the surface's topology revealed a homogenous and defect-free composite coating. The result of the antibacterial efficiency of the 316 L SS substrate improved as the number of coating composite layers increased, and the resistance to corrosion of 316L SS enhanced as the number of coating composite layers increased.

In medical surgery, a customized implant is often required to meet surgical requirements, especially in cases with complicated or traumatic deformities. The emerging techniques of additive manufacturing, e.g., 3D printing, may help provide a quick response to such needs, provided that a valid approach capturing required implant shape data is generated and processed to better suit 3D printing. Different materials, including biocompatible polymer and metal, may suit medical-surgical applications. In this paper, an investigation is conducted to assess 3D printing technology use as part of a full system, from capturing implant shape data to producing the customized implant. The investigation is supported by experimental studies of medical cases. The first case aimed to produce shatter-related finger distal phalanx implants, whereas the second aimed to design and reconstruct a suitable cranial implant for a patient with a left frontoparietal skull lesion. For these cases, the study has adopted a scenario based on CT scans to generate the required implant shape data; hence using DICOM format. The captured data from the two cases are processed using a developed systematic processing approach to generate the final design of the required customized implants. The designs are then converted into suitable manufacturing codes for 3D printed plastic and metal prototypes enabling the assessment of the technique utilizing the facilities of UrukTech Company in Baghdad, Iraq, and Sohar University in Oman. Results show that the developed approach, from data capture to 3D printed implants, has succeeded in addressing the need for customized implants. For instance, the accuracy of the cranial implant was confirmed dimensionally, aiding in restoring structures, appearance, and psychological stability. The design and manufacturing of custom 3D-printed bone implants represent a significant advancement in medical technology and orthopedics, provided that biocompatible materials are used. Therefore, the technique may be adopted in the near future to serve the medical surgery field. The developed approach in this study encompasses several key ideas, contributions, and significant results, including creating patient-specific bone implants by utilizing medical imaging and 3D printing. Hence, the developed approach enables the creation of complex implant geometries that otherwise would be challenging to manufacture.

The rapid growth in wireless telecommunication systems has spurred a strong interest in lightweight, compact, and cost-effective materials. One promising solution for achieving these characteristics is using polymer matrix ceramic-reinforced composites. In this context, complex oxide materials, specifically Zn1-xCuxWO4 (where x=0 and x=0.03), were used to reinforce three different polymer matrices: epoxy, polyurethane, and silicone rubber. The primary objective was to create composites with low loss factors and high dielectric constants, essential qualities for telecommunications systems. To create the complex oxides, the solid-state reaction method was employed. In particular, the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed that Zn0.97Cu0.03WO4 exhibited a monoclinic phase structure similar to that of ZnWO4. Moreover, the impact of substituting copper ions on the dielectric properties was thoroughly examined through Rietveld refinement of X-ray diffraction data. Subsequently, composite materials were prepared using a simple hand-mixing method with 5% and 10% volume fractions of Zn1-xCuxWO4 (x=0 and x=0.03) integrated into the three different polymer matrices. To this end, the study extensively analyzed how the filler content and its concentration influenced the dielectric properties of these composites. The dielectric properties were characterized within the C-band frequency range, specifically from 4 to 8 GHz, utilizing transmission/reflection measurements with a vector network analyzer (VNA). The results confirm the potential enhancement of Zn0.97Cu0.03WO4/polymer composites compared to ZnWO4/polymer composites. More precisely, 10% Vf. Zn0.97Cu0.03WO4/epoxy composite and 10% Vf Zn0.97Cu0.03WO4/polyurethane composite showed satisfactory properties with (ϵr= 1.36 x 102, tanδ= 4.72 x 10-1 at 7.1 GHz) and (ϵr= 1.18 x 102, tanδ= 4.72 x 10-1 at 7.1 GHz), respectively.

Powder metallurgy (PM) is a highly effective re-processing method mostly used for magnesium-base alloys, especially in high-performance Mg alloys. In the present work, the experimental and optimization of PM process parameters, including compaction pressure, sintering temperature, and sintering time, for AZ31 magnesium alloy have been investigated using Taguchi Design of Experiment (DOE) and ANOVA method. The regression equation for obtaining density, porosity, and hardness of AZ31 Mg alloy has been formulated and experimentally validated. Three parameters are dependent in the current work, 450, 550, and 600 MPa compaction pressure, 455, 520, and 585ºC sintering temperature, and 30, 60, and 90 min sintering time. It was found that the factors determined beyond analyzing the main effect plots for means is an amalgamation of a compaction pressure (600 MPa), a temperature (585ºC) of sintering, and a time (60 min) of sintering. The optimal density, porosity, and hardness values determined from the regression equations are 1.82 g/cm3, 3.4%, and 72.10 HV, correspondingly. The experimental density, porosity, and hardness values for the samples treated at the optimum factors are 1.73 g/cm3, 2.2%, and 74.51 HV. The percentage error between the investigational outcomes and the outcomes resulted is < 3% for density, porosity, and hardness. The analysis ANOVA also found that the compaction pressure is the highly effective factor in the density, porosity, and hardness of sintered samples, followed by the same effective sintering temperature and time.

Carburizing is a process that improves the mechanical properties of low-carbon steel, particularly its surface hardness. Introducing carbon into the steel's surface enhances the creation of a durable and resistant outer layer. The technique is especially useful for low-carbon steel because it cannot be hardened by quenching and tempering. This work investigates the effects of solid carburizing on the mechanical properties of mild steel. Oak charcoal was used as a carbon source due to its local availability and low cost. The study examined how solid carburization affects the microstructure and mechanical characteristics of mild steel. Mild steel samples were carburized at 830, 880, and 930 °C temperatures for 30, 50, and 75 minutes. These samples underwent Rockwell hardness, impact, and tensile strength testing. The research investigated the influence of the carburization process, carburization temperature, oak charcoal as a carbon source, and soaking period on the mechanical properties of mild steel. It compared the mechanical properties of mild steel before and after carburization. The treated and untreated samples had different ultimate stress values. The untreated specimens had a value of 629 MPa, whereas the hardened specimens had a value of 1030 MPa. The specimens carburized at 930 °C and submerged for 75 minutes displayed the best mechanical characteristics. Oak charcoal is suitable since the research found that it considerably increases mild steel component surface hardness. This technology is cost-effective and efficient, making it a good choice when other carbon sources are scarce or costly.

Two-dimensional nano structural compounds are attracting the focus of researchers worldwide. The need to treat wastewater and prevent the release of hazardous substances into the environment has increased because of growing environmental awareness. New compounds, most of which are not biodegradable, have emerged due to rising consumer expectations. Due to their distinctive chemical and physical characteristics, MXene has lately been recognized as an exciting option. The strong hydrophilicity of MXene makes them a promising candidate for environmental remediation methods like photocatalysis, natural chemical nature, and powerful electrochemistry—adsorption, membrane separation, and electrocatalytic sensors for identifying pollution. MXene has strong surface functional groups, an ion exchange property, and an extremely hydrophilic surface. The most recent developments in MXene preparation and characterization for (Ti C Tx) based nano photocatalysts for water remediation and applications are summarized in this review. Additionally, there are difficulties associated with the synthesis and application of MXene for examining and discussing pollution decontamination. This emerging field focuses on utilizing MXene materials to address water pollution issues through photocatalytic processes. Challenges in designing effective MXene-based photocatalysts are explored, including issues related to charge carrier separation, electron transfer dynamics, and optimizing catalytic efficiency. Recent developments and innovative strategies for overcoming these challenges are discussed, highlighting advancements in enhancing photocatalytic performance and improving water remediation capabilities. The synopsis aims to provide a concise overview of the current state of MXene-based nano photocatalysts for water treatment, offering insights into both hurdles and promising breakthroughs in this critical area of environmental research.

Concrete\'s fracture susceptibility is due to its limited tensile strength, which can lead to cracks. Steel reinforcement is added to designated areas to address this issue, but minuscule cracks can allow liquids and vapors to infiltrate the reinforcing material, causing corrosion. Self-healing concrete can resist corrosion by mending and sealing minor cracks. This study aims to determine if fused deposition modeling (FDM) can fabricate innovative vascular networks and tubes from polylactic acid (PLA) created by using three-dimensional (3D) printing methods, and its characteristics were contrasted with those of two- and one-dimensional (2D) networks.The dimensions of the internal and exterior diameters were 4 and 5.6 mm, respectively. The researchers used a planetary ball mill to apply an organic polycarboxylate ether liquid and fly ash nanopowder to all vascular architectures. The prefabricated tubes were then incorporated into a concrete beam to enable self-repairing capabilities. The water-to-cement ratio was 0.6%; the mixture was 1 part cement, 2.16 parts water, and 2.98 other ingredients. The self-healing properties were assessed using a four-point bending test. The developed pipes can produce self-healing concrete by introducing nano fly ash particles and low-viscosity healing solutions into the blood vessel network, enabling the concrete to undergo self-repair mechanisms. The specimen that had 3D treatment restored its strength to 95% at flexural recovery.

This study uses electro-spinning techniques to create a poly(vinyl alcohol)-chitosan-zinc oxide nanoparticles (PVA+CS)+ZnO NPs system in three concentrations of ZnO for application as composite nanofibers for wound treatment applications and Employing the Taguchi technique to optimize the mechanical characteristics via a four-level experimental design process (L16). Numerous techniques have been utilized to characterize the nanofibrous scaffolds: contact angle measurement, cytotoxicity testing, proliferation testing, evaluation of antimicrobial activity, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy Dispersion X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), and a comparative experimental study involving the determination of hardness using the Nanoindentation method for (PVA+CS)+ZnO. The ideal combination for adding ZnO as nanoparticles was found to be (PVA+CS)+0.6 ZnO, with a flow rate of 0.5 mL/hr, an applied voltage of 18 kV, and a needle tip-to-collector distance of 15 cm (position). This resulted in the smallest fiber diameter (48 nm) with a smooth and uniform distribution. As a consequence, (PVA+CS)+ZnO can be regarded as non-toxic in accordance with the criteria. The methyl thiazole tetrazolium (MTT) assay was used to evaluate the cell viability of L929 (cell cultures for skin). It significantly affects cell viability, achieving 50% in less than 24 hours, which means cell growth through 24 hours is necessary for embryonic development, tissue repair, and regulation of cell division in case of wound healing. Exhibiting findings of inhibition zone diameter in antibacterial activity test exceeding 20 mm. According to the results, (PVA+CS)+0.6 ZnO's hydrophilic properties showed a well-connected porous structure and made it easier for nutrients and oxygen to be exchanged, encouraging cellular activity. After evaluating the mechanical characteristics of each specimen, the main determinants of these characteristics are determined using a Taguchi orthogonal array L16 design. The results of this study suggest that (PVA+CS)+0.6 ZnO could be a good biomedical material for skin tissue engineering applications.

The problem of membrane fouling remains a significant concern in ultrafiltration, a commonly employed method in water treatment due to its high efficacy and minimal energy consumption. This study made a nanocomposite ultrafiltration membrane out of MXene Ti3C2 nanosheets, a new two-dimensional material, to improve the antifouling properties of PVDF membranes. It was possible to incorporate the nanosheets into the membrane structure through in situ embedment during the phase inversion process. To learn more about them, the study investigated the membranes using FESEM, FTIR, water contact angle (CA), and porosity measurements. The application of common flux and rejection tests assessed the manufactured membranes' performance. Adding MXene Ti3C2 to membranes made them less hydrophobic than the original membrane that wasn't mixed with anything else. The porosity and pore size of the membrane exhibit an increase in the MXene ratio. The mixed matrix membrane containing 0.5 wt% of Ti3C2 (M3) exhibited the lowest contact angle (CA). The modification of membrane characteristics has a positive impact on their overall performance. The membrane exhibiting the greatest porosity, specifically 0.5 wt% of Ti3C2, N5, demonstrated the highest flux rates for pure water and protein solution, measuring 538 L/m2.h and 467.8 L/m2.h, respectively. The membrane with the highest hydrophilicity, which was labeled as M3, had much better protein rejection and flux recovery rates than the pure membrane. Specifically, the recorded values for M3 were 96.6, whereas the corresponding values for the pristine membrane were 59.6. MXene Ti3C2 has some interesting properties, such as better water permeability, protein rejection, and excellent antifouling abilities, which makes it a possible material for changing antifouling membranes.

This study aims to explain the effect of adding the bioactive substance (alpha enzyme) to the electrolyte solution using electrochemical deposition. Through which copper nanoparticles are manufactured, the originality of the research lies in the presence of this addition as a new method in manufacturing nanoparticles in an electrochemical manner, as the alpha-amylase enzyme is extracted from camel saliva, and the product has been diagnosed using (EDX) and scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) techniques. , Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) technology, and Zeta potential. The proposed method is an easy, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly method where the alpha enzyme was used as a feedstock at concentrations of (0.25, 0.50, 0.57, and 1) g added to a solution containing the ideal sample obtained through the electrochemical precipitation process before adding the enzyme, as the solution before The addition process contains concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4) at concentrations of (20, 30, 40, 50 and 60) g/ml. The regular shape and stable distribution can be observed after the addition compared to the shape of the particles before the addition in terms of shape and size. The process was carried out under constant conditions, including the current. Direct, voltage and temperature, and after the addition process, sulfuric acid was dispensed with, while the process conditions with the addition were at a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius and an incubation period that lasted a full hour before the electrodeposition process was carried out in accordance with the enzyme activity conditions, where a nanosized copper powder of a granular size was obtained. Approximately 44 nanometers. It is worth noting that the nanoparticle size was modulated using the experimental conditions, e.g., pH, reducing step, enzyme amount, or incubation time. This controlled synthesis allows the preparation of CuNP bionanoparticles at Cu 3.13 powder at a concentration of 80 g CuSO4 + 0.50 α-amylase.

Nano powder mixed electrical discharge machining (NPMEDM) is an advanced thermo-physical process. It is used to create complex, precise shapes in hard-to-machine materials, such as nickel-based alloys like Inconel 718, due to their mechanical properties. This study introduces magnetic field assistance to improve the discharge state. Nano aluminum oxide was added to biodegradable soybean oil, serving as the insulating fluid to machine Inconel 718 alloy. The study examined the impact of machining parameters, including current, pulse on time, powder concentration, and magnetic field assistance, on outcomes like white layer thickness, material removal rate, and tool wear rate. Minitab software facilitated a general full factorial multi-level design to analyze the results. Findings showed that adding nano Al2O3 with a magnetic field is crucial in enhancing process performance. The lowest white layer thickness achieved was 20.59 μm, showing a 54.32% improvement. The highest material removal rate was 13.259 mm3/min, with an increase of 42.193%. The tool wear rate also improved; the minimum value was 0.0228 mm3/min, reduced by about 80.44% compared to using no powder in the dielectric fluid. Optimal settings to enhance performance were found to be a current of 8 A, pulse on time of 100 μs, powder concentration of 4 g/l, and a magnetic field intensity of 0.2 T.