Optimizing Bucket Elevator Performance through a Blend of Discrete Element Method, Response Surface Methodology, and Firefly Algorithm Approaches

This research introduces a novel approach to enhancing bucket elevator design and operation through the integration of discrete element method(DEM)simulation,design of experiments(DOE),and metaheuristic optimization algorithms.Specifically,the study employs the firefly algorithm(FA),a metaheuristic optimization technique,to optimize bucket elevator parameters for maximizing transport mass and mass flow rate discharge of granular materials under specified working conditions.The experimental methodology involves several key steps:screening experiments to identify significant factors affecting bucket elevator operation,central composite design(CCD)experiments to further explore these factors,and response surface methodology(RSM)to create predictive models for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge.The FA algorithm is then applied to optimize these models,and the results are validated through simulation and empirical experiments.The study validates the optimized parameters through simulation and empirical experiments,comparing results with DEM simulation.The outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of the FA algorithm in identifying optimal bucket parameters,showcasing less than 10%and 15%deviation for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge,respectively,between predicted and actual values.Overall,this research provides insights into the critical factors influencing bucket elevator operation and offers a systematic methodology for optimizing bucket parameters,contributing to more efficient material handling in various industrial applications.

The Influence of Tartaric Acid in the Silver Nanoparticle Synthesis Using Response Surface Methodology

Silver nanoparticles(AgNPs)synthesized using tartaric acid as a capping agent have a great impact on the reaction kinetics and contribute significantly to the stability of AgNPs.The protective layer formed by tartaric acid is an important factor that protects the silver surface and reduces potential cytotoxicity problems.These attributes are critical for assessing the compatibility of AgNPs with biological systems and making them suitable for drug delivery applications.The aim of this research is to conduct a comprehensive study of the effect of tartaric acid concentration,sonication time and temperature on the formation of silver nanoparticles.Using Response Surface Methodology(RSM)with Face-Centered Central Composite Design(FCCD),the optimization process identifies the most favorable synthesis conditions.UV-Vis spectrum regression analysis shows that AgNPs stabilized with tartaric acid are more stable than AgNPs without tartaric acid.This highlights the increased stability that tartaric acid provides in AgNP ssssynthesis.Particle size distribution analysis showed a multimodal distribution for AgNPs with tartaric acid and showed the smallest size peak with an average size of 20.53 nm.The second peak with increasing intensity shows a dominant average size of 108.8 nm accompanied by one standard deviation of 4.225 nm and a zeta potential of−11.08 mV.In contrast,AgNPs synthesized with polyvinylpyrrolidone(PVP)showed a unimodal particle distribution with an average particle size of 81.62 nm and a zeta potential of−2.96 mV.The more negative zeta potential of AgNP-tartaric acid indicates its increased stability.Evaluation of antibacterial activity showed that AgNPs stabilized with tartaric acid showed better performance against E.coli and B.subtilis bacteria compared with AgNPs-PVP.In summary,this study highlights the potential of tartaric acid in AgNP synthesis and suggests an avenue for the development of stable AgNPs with versatile applications.

Optimization and Characterization of Cellulose Extraction from Grevillea robusta (Silky Oak) Leaves by Soda-Anthraquinone Pulping Using Response Surface Methodology

Response surface methodology (RSM) using the central composite design (CCD) was applied to examine the impact of soda-anthraquinone pulping conditions on Grevillea robusta fall leaves. The pulping factors studied were: NaOH charge 5% to 20% w/v, pulping time 30 to 180 minutes, and the anthraquinone charge 0.1 to 0.5% w/w based on the oven-dried leaves. The responses evaluated were the pulp yield, cellulose content, and the degree of delignification. Various regression models were used to evaluate the effects of varying the pulping conditions. The optimum conditions attained were;NaOH charge of 14.63%, 0.1% anthraquinone, and a pulping period of 154 minutes, corresponding to 20.68% pulp yield, 80.56% cellulose content, and 70.34% lignin removal. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), was used to determine the most important variables that improve the extraction process of cellulose. The experiment outcomes matched those predicted by the model (Predicted R2 = 0.9980, Adjusted R2 = 0.9994), demonstrating the adequacy of the model used. FTIR analysis confirmed the elimination of the non-cellulosic fiber constituents. The lignin and hemicellulose-related bands (around 1514 cm−1, 1604 cm−1, 1239 cm−1, and 1734 cm−1) decreased with chemical treatment, indicating effective cellulose extraction by the soda-anthraquinone method. Similar results were obtained by XRD, SEM and thermogravimetric analysis of the extracted cellulose. Therefore, Grevillea robusta fall leaves are suitable renewable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly non-wood biomass for cellulose extraction.

Optimization of Preparation of Oregano Oil Microspheres by Box-Behnken Response Surface Methodology

[Objectives]To optimize the formulation and preparation of oregano oil microspheres by Box-Behnken response surface methodology.[Methods]Chitosan was used as the carrier material to prepare oregano oil microspheres by emulsion crosslinking method.The encapsulation efficiency,drug loading and ID 50 were used as the evaluation indicators,and the comprehensive score(OD)obtained by"coefficient of variation-AHP comprehensive weighting method"was used as the final evaluation indicator.The formulation design and preparation process were optimized by single factor experiment and Box-Behnken response surface methodology,and the optimal process parameters were determined.[Results]The optimal formulation and preparation process parameters of oregano oil microspheres were as follows:the ratio of oregano oil to chitosan was 2∶1,the emulsifying speed of double emulsion was 200 r/min,the amount of emulsifier in the colostrum was 4%,and the volume of curing agent was 1.0 mL.The average encapsulation efficiency was 45.33%±1.32%,the average drug loading was 30.59%±2.45%,and the median diameter(ID 50)was 52.596μm±0.023%.[Conclusions]The encapsulation efficiency,drug loading and ID 50 of oregano oil chitosan microspheres prepared by emulsion crosslinking method met the requirements.The drug-loaded microsphere not only can be used as a preparation finished product for direct application,but also be used as a product intermediate to lay a foundation for the research and development of subsequent dosage forms.

Optimization of Enzymatic Extraction Process of Polysaccharides from Pseudostellaria heterophylla Fibrous Roots by Response Surface Methodology and Its Pilot Application

[Objectives]To study and optimize the process conditions of enzymatic hydrolysis technology for extracting polysaccharides from Pseudostellaria heterophylla fibrous roots and its application in workshop pilot tests.[Methods]P.heterophylla fibrous roots were taken as the matrix material,and Box Behnken design was used to analyze the extraction time,composite enzyme addition amount,and liquid-solid ratio for response surface optimization experiments,and then applied to the pilot extraction of P.heterophylla fibrous roots.[Results]Response surface analysis showed that all factors had a significant impact on the experimental indicators.The optimal extraction process conditions for polysaccharides from P.heterophylla fibrous roots were extraction time of 2.7 h,compound enzyme addition of 2.5%,and liquid-solid ratio of 32.The yield of polysaccharides from P.heterophylla fibrous roots was 4.83%.The water extraction process of P.heterophylla fibrous roots extraction pilot was used as the control group for response surface optimization of the pilot experiment.The optimization results showed that the extraction time was 3 h,the amount of composite enzyme added was 2.5%,and the liquid-solid ratio was 28.The polysaccharide yield was 4.75%,an increase of 4.63%compared to the control group.[Conclusions]This paper could provide feasibility for the innovation of enzy-matic hydrolysis technology for P.heterophylla fibrous roots and its workshop pilot practice application,as well as a reference for the industrial application of its medicinal resources.

Optimization of Methylene Blue Dye Adsorption onto Coconut Husk Cellulose Using Response Surface Methodology: Adsorption Kinetics, Isotherms and Reusability Studies

In this study, coconut husk cellulose was employed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly adsorbent to eliminate methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. The successful development of response surface methodology paired with a central composite design (RSM-CCD) enabled the optimization and modelling of the adsorption process. The study investigated the individual and combined effects of three variables (pH, contact time, and initial MB dye concentration) on the adsorption of MB dye onto coconut husk cellulose. The developed RSM-CCD model exhibited a remarkable degree of precision in predicting the removal efficiency of MB dye within the specified experimental parameters. This was demonstrated by the strong regression parameters, with an R2 value of 99.79% and an adjusted R2 value of 99.6%. The study depicted that the optimal parameters for attaining a 98.8827% removal of MB dye using coconut husk cellulose were as follows: an initial MB dye concentration of 30 mg∙L−1, contact time of 120 minutes, and pH 7 at a fixed adsorbent dose of 0.5 g. The Freundlich isotherm model provided the most satisfactory description of the equilibrium adsorption isotherms, suggesting that MB dye adsorption onto coconut husk cellulose occurs on a heterogeneous surface. The experimental results demonstrated a strong agreement with the pseudo-second-order kinetics model, indicating that the number of active sites present on the cellulose adsorbent predominantly influences the adsorption process of MB dye. Additionally, the adsorbent made from coconut husk cellulose exhibited the potential to be reused, as it retained its efficiency for a maximum of three cycles of adsorption of MB dye. The results of this study show that coconut husk cellulose has the potential to be an effective and sustainable adsorbent for removing MB dye from aqueous solutions.

Optimization of Cellulose Nanocrystal Isolation from Ayous Sawdust Using Response Surface Methodology

This study focuses on the extraction of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), derived from Ayous sawdust. The process involves multiple steps and a large amount of chemical products. The objective of this research was to determine the effects of factors that impact the isolation process and to identify the optimal conditions for CNC isolation by using the response surface methodology. The factors that varied during the process were the quantity of MCC, the concentration of sulfuric acid, the hydrolysis time and temperature, and the ultrasonic treatment time. The response measured was the yield. The study found that with 5.80 g of microcrystalline cellulose, a sulfuric acid concentration of 63.50% (w/w), a hydrolysis time of 53 minutes, a hydrolysis temperature of 69˚C, and a sonication time of 19 minutes are the ideal conditions for isolation. The experimental yield achieved was (37.84 ± 0.99) %. The main factors influencing the process were the sulfuric acid concentration, hydrolysis time and temperature, with a significant influence (p < 0.05). Infrared characterization results showed that nanocrystals were indeed isolated. With a crystallinity of 35.23 and 79.74, respectively, for Ayous wood fiber and nanocrystalline cellulose were observed by X-ray diffraction, with the formation of type II cellulose, thermodynamically more stable than native cellulose type I.

INTEGRATION SHAPE AND SIZING OPTIMIZATION OF COMPOSITE WING STRUCTURE BASED ON RESPONSE SURFACE METHOD

An effective optimization method for the shape/sizing design of composite wing structures is presented with satisfying weight-cutting results. After decoupling, a kind of two-layer cycled optimization strategy suitable for these integrated shape/sizing optimization is obtained. The uniform design method is used to provide sample points, and approximation models for shape design variables. And the results of sizing optimization are construct- ed with the quadratic response surface method （QRSM）. The complex method based on QRSM is used to opti- mize the shape design variables and the criteria method is adopted to optimize the sizing design variables. Compared with the conventional method, the proposed algorithm is more effective and feasible for solving complex composite optimization problems and has good efficiency in weight cutting.

Optimization of preparing V_2O_5 by calcination from ammonium metavanadate using response surface methodology

Parameters of technique to prepare vanadium pentoxide by calcination from ammonium metavanadate were optimized using central composite design of response surface methodology. A quadratic equation model for decomposition rate was built and effects of main factors and their corresponding relationships were obtained. The results of the statistical analysis show that the decomposition rate of ammonium metavanadate is significantly affected by calcination temperature and calcination time. The optimized calcination conditions are as follows： calcination temperature 669.71 K, calcination time 35.9 min and sample mass 4.25 g. The decomposition rate of ammonium metavanadate is 99.71%,which coincides well with experimental value of 99.27% under the optimized conditions, suggesting that regressive equation fits the decomposition rates perfectly. XRD reveals that it is feasible to prepare the V2O5 by calcination from ammonium metavanadate using response surface methodology.

Numerical analysis of multicomponent responses of surface-hole transient electromagnetic method

We calculate the multicomponent responses of surface-hole transient electromagnetic method. The methods and models are unsuitable as geoelectric models of conductive surrounding rocks because they are based on regular local targets. We also propose a calculation and analysis scheme based on numerical simulations of the subsurface transient electromagnetic fields. In the modeling of the electromagnetic fields, the forward modeling simulations are performed by using the finite-difference time-domain method and the discrete image method, which combines the Gaver–Stehfest inverse Laplace transform with the Prony method to solve the initial electromagnetic fields. The precision in the iterative computations is ensured by using the transmission boundary conditions. For the response analysis, we customize geoelectric models consisting of near-borehole targets and conductive wall rocks and implement forward modeling simulations. The observed electric fields are converted into induced electromotive force responses using multicomponent observation devices. By comparing the transient electric fields and multicomponent responses under different conditions, we suggest that the multicomponent-induced electromotive force responses are related to the horizontal and vertical gradient variations of the transient electric field at different times. The characteristics of the response are determined by the varying the subsurface transient electromagnetic fields, i.e., diffusion, attenuation and distortion, under different conditions as well as the electromagnetic fields at the observation positions. The calculation and analysis scheme of the response consider the surrounding rocks and the anomalous field of the local targets. It therefore can account for the geological data better than conventional transient field response analysis of local targets.

Identification of processing window for extrusion of large thick-walled Inconel 625 alloy pipes using response surface methodology

Identifying suitable processing window is necessary but difficult for achieving favorable microstructure and performance in extrusion of large thick-walled pipe with difficult-to-deform Inconel 625 alloy. In this work, a method was established for identifying the extrusion process window considering temperature control using response surface methodology. Firstly, the response surface models, which correlate temperature rise and peak temperature to key extrusion parameters, have been developed by orthogonal regression based on finite element calculated data. Secondly, the coupled effects of the key extrusion parameters on the temperature rise and peak temperature have been disclosed based on the regression models. Lastly, suitable extrusion processing windows, which are described by contour map of peak temperature in the space of extrusion speed and initial billet temperature, have been established for different extrusion ratios. Using the identified process window, a suitable combination of the key extrusion parameters can be determined conveniently and quickly.

Optimization of Supercritical Carbon dioxide Extraction of Ginger Essential Oil by Response Surface Method

[Objective] Ginger essential oil （GEO） is widely used in food production and medical field in recent years due to its prominent biological functions, and this study was conducted to obtain high-quality and high-purity ginger essential oil from the fresh ginger. [Method] GEO was extracted from ginger roots by supercritical fluid extraction （SFE） method. The effects of flow rate of CO2, mesh size of ginger powder and volume of entrainer were investigated by single-factor experiments and response surface method. The content and extraction rate of 6-gingerol represented the extraction index of GEO. [Result] The conditions were optimized as follows： flow rate of CO2 at 25 L/h, mesh size of ginger power of 80 mesh, and volume of anhydrous ethanol as entrainer of 92.46 ml. The optimal extraction rate of 6-gingerol was 3.21%, which was predicted by RSM. [Conclusion] The optimal process of supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of ginger essential oil was identified by singlefactor experiments and response surface method. The present study provides a satisfactory method for purifying GEO from ginger for industrial purpose.

SCRAMJET INLET MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION BASED ON RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY

The uniform design and response surface methodology （RSM） are applied to the multi-objective optimization of a 2-D mixed compression scramjet inlet. The set of experimental design points on the design space is selected by the uniform design, and the inlet performance is analyzed by computational fluid dynamics （CFD）. Then complete quadratic polynomial response surface approximation models are constructed based on the performance analysis results and then used to replace theoriginal complex inlet performance model. The optimization is conducted using a multi-objective genetic algorithm NSGA-Ⅱ, and the Pareto optimal solution set is obtained. Results show that the uniform design and RSM can reduce the computational complexity of numerical simulation and improve the optimization efficiency.

Optimization of the biphasic release of indomethacin from HPMC/pectin/calcium chloride matrix tablet by response surface methodology

We studied the effect of two independent variables, the pectin/calcium chloride weight ratio and the overall matrix weight in HPMC/pectin/calcium matrix tablet, on the release of indomethacin. A two-factor 5-level central composite experimental design was employed. Responses of the Peppas correlation parameters n and K and the 10% release time （T0.1） were optimized by response surface methodology. Significant effect of the independent variables on the biphasic release parameters, n and K, was observed. N, K and T0.1 were well fitted with the second-order quadratic equations rather than linear equations. Moreover, the mathematic fitting and the response surfaces showed significant cross-interaction between the pectin/calcium chloride ratio and the overall matrix weight. The optimal formulation with larger n, longer T0.1 and smaller K consisted of medium pectin/calcium chloride ratio around 1.0 and medium matrix weight around 200 mg. Validation studies on the optimal formulations showed good predictability of the n, K and T0.1 values with biases within the range of-7.33% and 6.26%. Our results support that central composite design can be used to optimize drug release from HPMC/pectin/calcium matrix tablet with high predictability.

Device Robust-Design by Using Response Surface Methodology

Device robust-design is inherently a multiple-objective optimization problem.Using design of experiments (DoE) combined with response surface methodology (RSM) can satisfy the great incentive to reduce the number of technology CAD(TCAD) simulations that need to be performed.However,the errors of RSM models might be large enough to diminish the validity of the results for some nonlinear problems.To find the feasible design space,a new method with objectives-oriented design in generations that takes the errors of RSM model into account is presented.After the augment design of experiments in promising space according to the results of RSM model in current generation,the feasible space will be emerging as the model errors deceasing.The results on FIBMOS examples show that the methodology is efficient.

Optimization of the Fermentation Conditions of Sweet Oats by Response Surface Methodology

Objective] The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of five variables （steaming time, moisture content before inoculation, inoculation amount, fer-mentation temperature, fermentation time） on the sweetness of sweet oats, obtained the best fermentation conditions. [Method] Plackett-Burman （PB） was to evaluate the effects of five variables, and selected significant factors. The steepest ascent was used to approach the optimal response surface experimental area. The optimal fer-mentation condition was obtained by central composite design and response surface analysis. [Results] It was indicated that moisture content, inoculation amount and fer-mentation temperature had significant influences on the content of the reducing sugars. The optimal conditions of moisture content, inoculation amount and temper-ature were 45.26%, 0.014%（g/g） and 28 ℃, respectively. The predicted value of the reducing sugar content was 13.16 mg/g. [Conclusion] Under the optimal conditions, the content of the reducing sugars in the sweet oats could be up to 12.91 mg/g, which was on the whole consistent with the predictive maximum value.

Extraction Techniques of Krill Oils Optimized with Response Surface Methodology

The research explored the extraction techniques of organic solvents of Antarctic kril oil and the effects of freezing temperature, extractant proportion, ex-traction time, drying temperature and ratio of material and liquid on extraction ratio of Antarctic kril oil. Based on single-factor experiments, optimal extraction conditions were concluded as per response surface methodology, as fol ows： freezing tempera-ture at -38.5 ℃, the ratio of material and liquid at 1 g：6.7 ml, and drying tempera-ture at 66.8 ℃, where the yield rate of crude oil reached 13.71%.

Optimization of Lipase Catalyzed Synthesis of Ethyl Valerate, a Green Apple Flavor Using Response Surface Methodology （RSM）

Ethyl valerate, a green apple flavor is short-chain ester with fruity notes is widely used in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Traditionally, flavor esters are produced by chemical method or extracted by natural sources. However, with the steadily growing demand for natural flavor compounds, the biosynthesis of such esters by lipase under mild conditions has been receiving much attention for producing these valuable products. In this study, enzymatic synthesis of ethyl valerate in solvent free system, was successfully optimized via response surface method （RSM） based on 5-level, 4-variable of central composite rotatable design （CCRD）. The parameters were reaction time （30-60 min）, reaction temperature （30-60 ℃）, amount of enzyme （10-25%, w/w） and shaking speed （50-150 rpm）. The optimum condition derived via RSM for the reaction was reaction time of 48 min, reaction temperature of 30 ℃, enzyme amount of 25%, （w/w） and shaking speed of 51 rpm. The actual experimental yield was 84.28 % under the optimum condition, which compared well with the maximum predicted value of 84.61%. Comparison of predicted and experimental values reveals good correspondence between them, implying that empirical models derived from RSM can be used to adequately describe the relationship between the factors and response in the synthesis of ethyl valerate.

Optimization of Microwave Extraction of Flavonoids from Water Chestnut Skin Dregs with Response Surface Method

[Objective] In order to take full advantage of processing by-product of water chestnut, the microwave extraction method of flavonoids from water chestnut skin dregs was optimized. The extracted flavonoids had a relatively high yield. [Method] The Box-Behnken design-based response surface method was adopted to optimize the microwave extraction of flavonoids from water chestnut skin dregs, a by-product of water chestnut starch. The mathematical relationships between various influencing factors and flavonoids yield were established. [Result] The optimum extraction conditions of flavonoids from water chestnut skin dregs were as follows： ethanol concentration of 55.4%, solid/liquid ratio of 1：30 g/ml, microwave power of 320 W, microwave time of 3 min and microwave time of 2 times. Under the optimum extraction conditions, the theoretical flavonoids yield was 2.376%. However, the actual flavonoids yield under the optimum extraction conditions was 2.365%. The relative error between actual values and theoretically predicted values was 0.461%. [Conclusion] The results showed the optimized extraction method is reliable, and it can provide a reference for the comprehensive and highly efficient utilization of water chestnut processing wastes.

Response surface methodology for optimizing adsorption performance of gel-type weak acid resin for Eu(Ⅲ)

The conditions relating to enhanced adsorption procedure of earth element europium（Eu） onto gel-type weak acid resin（110-H） in aqueous solution were optimized by means of the response surface methodology（RSM）, which proved that 110-H owned satisfactory adsorption capacity（346.85 mg/g） in optimum conditions, belonging to one of the high adsorption capacity materials. Then, the adsorption and desorption behaviors were investigated by batch studies. The adsorption performance showed high agreement with the Lagergren-first-order model and Langmuir isotherm with thermodynamic adsorption parameters of ΔH= 36.1 k J/mol and ΔS=200 J/（mol·K）. Desorption study revealed that 110-H could be effectively eluted by a low concentration of HCl solution（0.1 mol/L） to regenerate and reuse. Finally, the 110-H and Eu（III） loaded 110-H were characterized by IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope（SEM） to analyze the mechanism of adsorption, which proved to be chemisorbed.