Hydrogen storage composite alloy Ti0.10Zr0.15V0.35Cr0.10Ni0.30–10% LaNi3 was prepared by two-step arc-melting to improve the electro-catalytic activity and the kinetic performance of Ti-V-based solid solution alloy. ...Hydrogen storage composite alloy Ti0.10Zr0.15V0.35Cr0.10Ni0.30–10% LaNi3 was prepared by two-step arc-melting to improve the electro-catalytic activity and the kinetic performance of Ti-V-based solid solution alloy. The electrochemical properties and synergetic effect of the composite alloy electrode were systematically investigated by using X-ray diffractometry, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic charge/discharge test. It is found that the main phase of the composite alloy is composed of V-based solid solution phase with a BCC structure and C14 Laves phase with hexagonal structure, while the secondary phase is formed in the composite alloy. The comprehensive electrochemical properties of the composite alloy electrode are significantly improved. The activation cycle number, the maximum discharge capacity and the low temperature dischargeability of the composite alloy are 5 cycles, 362.5 mA-h/g and 65.84% at 233 K, respectively. It is suggested that distinct synergetic effect occurs in the activation process, composite process, cyclic process and discharge process at a low or high temperature under different current densities, in the charge–transfer resistance and exchange current density.展开更多
N-(4-Carboxy-phenyl)-3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy-benzamide (2) possesses structural prerequisite for cell differentiation inducing activity, which constitutes the therapeutic basis of all trans retinoic acid (ATRA) ...N-(4-Carboxy-phenyl)-3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy-benzamide (2) possesses structural prerequisite for cell differentiation inducing activity, which constitutes the therapeutic basis of all trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and analogues for the treatment of cancer and dermatosis. In addition to the similarity of the disposition of functional groups with ATRA, 2 shows a conformational equivalence to ATRA in terms of molecular shape, size, as well as the spatial arrangement of functional groups. However, the N methylated compound (3) is devoid of the activity. It owes the biological behavior to the conformational difference, because of the steric interference between N methyl group and the hydrogen atom of a phenyl ring. X ray crystallography, UV, and NMR were performed to investigate the difference.展开更多
Metal-organic-framework (MOF)-based materials with novel physicochemical properties have emerged as promising catalysts for various hydrogenation reactions. In addition to metal clusters and multifunctional organic...Metal-organic-framework (MOF)-based materials with novel physicochemical properties have emerged as promising catalysts for various hydrogenation reactions. In addition to metal clusters and multifunctional organic ligands, MOF-based catalysts can incorporate other functional species, and thus provide various active sites for hydrogenation processes. The structural properties of the catalysts play significant roles in enhancing the interactions among the reactants, products, and catalytic sites, which can be rationally designed. Because of the synergistic effects between the ac-tive sites and the structural properties, MOF-based catalysts can achieve higher activities and selec- tivities in hydrogenation reactions than can be obtained using traditional heterogeneous catalysts. This review provides an overview of recent developments in MOF-based catalysts in the hydro-genation of alkenes, alkynes, nitroarenes, cinnamaldehyde, furfural, benzene, and other compounds. Strategies for improving the catalytic performances of MOF-based catalysts are discussed as well as the different active sites and structural properties of the catalysts.展开更多
N-K2Ti4O9/UiO-66-NH2 composites synthesized by a facile solvothermal method have a core-shell structure with UiO-66-NH2 forming the shell around a N-K2Ti4O9 core.Their photocatalytic activities in the degradation of d...N-K2Ti4O9/UiO-66-NH2 composites synthesized by a facile solvothermal method have a core-shell structure with UiO-66-NH2 forming the shell around a N-K2Ti4O9 core.Their photocatalytic activities in the degradation of dyes under visible light irradiation were investigated.The N-K2Ti4O9/UiO-66-NH2 composites exhibited higher photocatalytic activity than the pure components.This synergistic effect was due to the high adsorption capacity of UiO-66-NH2 and that the two components together induced an enhanced separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs.The mass ratio of N-K2Ti4O9 to ZrCl4 of 3:7 in the composite exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity.Due to the electrostatic attraction between the negatively charged backbone of UiO-66-NH2with the positively charged groups of cationic dyes,the composites were more photocatalytically active for cationic dyes than for anionic dyes.展开更多
In this work,hydrothermal method was used to prepare the CaZnAl-CO3 ternary layered double hydroxides(CaZnAl-CO3-LDHs)with various Ca/Zn/Al molar ratios,which were characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier trans...In this work,hydrothermal method was used to prepare the CaZnAl-CO3 ternary layered double hydroxides(CaZnAl-CO3-LDHs)with various Ca/Zn/Al molar ratios,which were characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectroscope(FT-IR)and scanning electron microscopy(SEM)techniques.The obtained results demonstrate that the samples were well-crystallized and flake-structured.The CaZnAl-CO3-LDHs used alone for thermal stability of poly(vinyl chloride)(PVC)resin,with different Ca/Zn/Al molar ratios and varying additive amounts,were investigated through the tests such as static thermal aging,mass loss and congo red,respectively.The optimum Ca/Zn/Al molar ratio and additive amount were 3.6:0.4:2 and 5 phr(parts per hundred PVC resin),respectively.In addition,the synergistic effects of Ca3.6Zn0.4Al2-CO3-LDHs and CaSt2 were discussed in detail,showing better thermal stability compared with Ca3.6Zn0.4Al2-CO3-LDHs used alone,and the optimum additive amounts of Ca3.6Zn0.4Al2-LDHs and CaSt2 were 6 and 1.0 phr,respectively.展开更多
The cooperative effect of laser surface texturing(LST) and double glow plasma surface alloying on tribological performance of lubricated sliding contacts was investigated.A Nd:YAG laser was used to generate microdimpl...The cooperative effect of laser surface texturing(LST) and double glow plasma surface alloying on tribological performance of lubricated sliding contacts was investigated.A Nd:YAG laser was used to generate microdimples on steel surfaces. Dimples with the diameter of 150μm and the depth of 30-35μm distributed circumferentially on the disc surface.The alloying element Cr was sputtered to the laser texturing steel surface by double glow plasma technique.A deep diffusion layer with a thickness of 30μm and a high hardness of HV900 was formed in this alloy.Tribological experiments of three types of samples(smooth,texturing and texturing+alloying) were conducted with a ring-on-disc tribometer to simulate the face seal.It is found that,in comparison with smooth steel surfaces,the laser texturing samples significantly reduce the friction coefficient.Moreover,the lower wear rate of the sample treated with the two surface techniques is observed.展开更多
The synergistic inhibition effect of poly(ethylene glycol)-400(PEG-400)and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide(CTMAB)on the corrosion of Zn and Zn-Ni alloys in 8 mol/L KOH solution saturated with Zn O was observed by poten...The synergistic inhibition effect of poly(ethylene glycol)-400(PEG-400)and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide(CTMAB)on the corrosion of Zn and Zn-Ni alloys in 8 mol/L KOH solution saturated with Zn O was observed by potentiodynamic anodic/cathodic polarization(PDP),and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS)measurements.The electrochemical studies confirmed that there was a synergism between PEG-400 and CTMAB on corrosion inhibition of Zn and its alloys.Corrosion inhibition efficiency of the mixed inhibitors,250 mg/L CTMAB+250 mg/L PEG-400,was found to be much higher than that of the single inhibitor,500 mg/L PEG-400 or 500 mg/L CTMAB.Scanning electron microscopic(SEM)investigations before and after the corrosion inhibition process emphasize the synergistic effect of the mixed inhibitors.Accordingly,it was found that the addition of the investigated inhibitors to the alkaline solution enhanced the discharge and capacity of the alkaline battery anodes.The obtained electrochemical data exhibited a good correlation with the computational one.展开更多
The one-pot synthesis of methyl isobutyl ketone(MIBK) from acetone using multifunctional catalysts is an important sustainable organic synthesis method with high atom and energy efficiency.Herein. we report a series...The one-pot synthesis of methyl isobutyl ketone(MIBK) from acetone using multifunctional catalysts is an important sustainable organic synthesis method with high atom and energy efficiency.Herein. we report a series of Pd supported on mixed metal oxide(MMO) catalysts with controllable acidic/basic/metallic sites on the surface. We study the relationship between the nature, synergy,and proximity of active sites and the catalytic performance of the multifunctional catalyst in the tandem reaction, in detail. In the existence of Lewis acid and base sites, the catalysts with medium-strength acidic/basic sites show preferred activity and/or MIBK selectivity. For multifunctional catalysts, the catalytic properties are more than just a collection of active sites, and the Pd/Mg_3Al-MMO catalyst possessing 0.1% Pd loading and ~0.4 acid/base molar ratio exhibits the optimal 42.1% acetone conversion and 37.2% MIBK yield, which is among the best reported so far for this tandem reaction under similar conditions. Moreover, the proximity test indicates that the intimate distance between acidic/basic/metallic sites can greatly shorten the diffusion time of the intermediate species from each active site, leading to an enhancement in the catalytic performance.展开更多
The effects of salinity (50 mmol/L NaCI) and Cd (1 μmol/L CdCl2) as sole and combined on growth and photosynthetic parameters were studied using two soybean genotypes, Huachun 18 and NGB. The concentrations of C...The effects of salinity (50 mmol/L NaCI) and Cd (1 μmol/L CdCl2) as sole and combined on growth and photosynthetic parameters were studied using two soybean genotypes, Huachun 18 and NGB. The concentrations of Cd^2+, Zn^2+, Ca^2+, Mg^2+, K^+ and Na^+were also determined in seeds and pods. Huachun 18 suffered a more serious decrease than NGB in net photosynthetic rate (P,) in the treatments of salinity stress alone and combined stress (NaCl+Cd), showing that it is relatively sensitive to salinity. The decrease in P, caused by salt stress in Huachun 18 was mainly due to the reduced total chlorophyll content and photosynthetic efficiency (the ratio of variable fluorescence to maximal fluorescence, Fv/Fm), whereas the decease in NGB was mainly related to reduced stomatal conductance (Gs), The combined stress of both Na and Cd did not induce further decrease in photosynthesis and fluorescence in the two genotypes relative to salt or Cd stress alone. Greater change in the pod concentrations of Zn^2+, Ca^2+, Mg^2+, K^+ and Na^+was detected under salt stress for Huachun 18 than for NGB. The results suggested that the interactive effect of NaCl-Cd on growth and nutrient uptake differs between the two soybean genotypes.展开更多
With the aim of drawing valuable lessons for the management and planning of similar business transformation initiatives, this paper critically evaluates a change project at an organization in South Africa, from three ...With the aim of drawing valuable lessons for the management and planning of similar business transformation initiatives, this paper critically evaluates a change project at an organization in South Africa, from three inter-woven dimensions: creating the climate for change, engaging and enabling the organization, and sustaining change. Firstly, a key achievement demonstrates that attempts to create a conducive climate for change should recognize that the unit of change in any organization is, ultimately, the individual. Levers for such initiatives should navigate the macro-organizational change narrative and translate change generalities into specific individual actions and behaviors. Secondly, learning from an implementation gap, similar efforts would gain better traction in engagement and empowerment by leveraging on an influential cross-functional team made up of enthusiastic supporters of the required change, to foster ownership and to embrace change across the organization. Key characteristics that should be represented on the team include leadership skills, expertise, credibility, effective communication, and a sense of urgency. Thirdly, in terms of sustaining change, twin lessons surge to the fore. On a positive note, by progressing its values-set into an annual staff award, there is a pointer to the potential of innovatively encouraging and rewarding employees to live the value qualities. And, on the flip side, a need is underscore of the critical role of seamless executive leadership, providing ongoing co-creating windows for instilling positive attitudes and creating synergies among related strategic initiatives.展开更多
Mergers & acquisitions (M&As) are important strategic instruments, yet nearly half of all transactions fail, often resulting in disastrous write-offs and losses for corporations and financing institutions alike - ...Mergers & acquisitions (M&As) are important strategic instruments, yet nearly half of all transactions fail, often resulting in disastrous write-offs and losses for corporations and financing institutions alike - despite promising prospects upfront. Applied research has been trying to find a "panacea" to prevent or at least predict M&A failure, investigating motives, synergies and performance. Despite the growing unease with the stationary explanatory models in literature, research has only marginally focused on the concept of time, with inquiries into market timing and integration speed. Yet other timing concepts have been neglected in concepts so far despite early empirical evidence for their existence. The purpose of this paper is thus to identify and elaborate on the importance of further relevant theories of timing. For this, and true to the exploratory nature of the topic, the authors have chosen a qualitative comparative case study design based on existing case reports which are investigated for narrations highlighting timing concepts. This study reveals six factors which have a crucial impact on the M&A outcome: time of acquisition, M&A duration in its entirety, M&A sequence, synergy chronology, frequency of acquisitions and time to step back. It contributes to theory and practice in outlining the careful attention that needs to be paid in planning in these factors to enhance the chances of a successful M&A transaction.展开更多
The consumption ofthermoset resins as building polymers is approximately over one million tone word wide. The thermoset resins are proven construction materials for the technical and highly demanding applications of t...The consumption ofthermoset resins as building polymers is approximately over one million tone word wide. The thermoset resins are proven construction materials for the technical and highly demanding applications of the transportation, electrical and building part industry. Heat stability, high thermal, low shrinkage, excellent mechanical properties are typical for their type of polymers. Above applications in addition to the mechanical properties also require good flame retardants of the materials. Undertaken activities refer to official draft, laws and legal recommendations in UE states. This paper presents positive effect of reduced flammability of thermoset resins (unsaturated polyester and epoxy resins) thanks to the use of nanocomposites containing multi-ingredient halogen-flee flame retardants which combine conventional phosphorus/nitrogen modifiers interacting with nanofillers (oMMT (organomodified montmorillonite), EG (expandable graphite), graphene, GO (graphene oxide), nSi (nanosilica)).展开更多
A rational integration of multiple reactive centers into a combined unit to facilitate their cooperative effects is a smart approach for accelerating the catalytic activity.Here,to achieve this goal,linear imidazolium...A rational integration of multiple reactive centers into a combined unit to facilitate their cooperative effects is a smart approach for accelerating the catalytic activity.Here,to achieve this goal,linear imidazolium-based ionic polymers were confined into the nanopores of mesoporous silica nanospheres anchored with homogeneously distributed zinc salts.Owing to the flexible character and the reinforced cooperative effects of the ionic liquid(nucleophile)and zinc species(Lewis acid)in the confined mesoporous structure,the resultant composite exhibited dramatically improved catalytic performance in the cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides to form cyclic carbonates.This was in contrast to that observed for the individual catalytic components.Moreover,such a solid catalyst could be easily recovered and reused four times without a significant loss of activity.展开更多
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development outlines 17 individual Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that guide the needs of practice for many professional disciplines around the world, including engineering, res...The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development outlines 17 individual Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that guide the needs of practice for many professional disciplines around the world, including engineering, research, policy, and development. The SDGs represent commitments to reduce poverty, hunger, ill health, gender inequality, environmental degradation, and lack of access to clean water and sanitation. If a typical reductionist approach is employed to address and optimize individual goals, it may lead to a failure in technological, policy, or managerial development interventions through unin- tended consequences in other goals. This study uses a systems approach to understand the fundamental dynamics between the SDGs in order to identify potential synergies and antagonisms. A conceptual system model was constructed to illustrate the causal relationships between SDGs, examine system structures using generic system archetypes, and identify leverage points to effectively influence intentional and minimize unintentional changes in the system. The structure of interactions among the SDGs reflects three archetypes of system behavior: Reinforcing Growth, Limits to Growth, and Growth and Underinvestment. The leverage points identified from the conceptual model are gender equality, sustainable management of water and sanitation, alternative resources, sustainable livelihood standards, and global partnerships. Such a conceptual system analysis of SDGs can enhance the likelihood that the development community will broaden its understanding of the potential synergistic benefits of their projects on resource management, environmental sustainability, and climate change. By linking the interactions and feedbacks of those projects with economic gains, women's empowerment, and educational equality, stakeholders can recognize holistic improvements that can be made to the quality of life of many of the world's poor.展开更多
There are two theories regarding the origin of the remarkable synergistic effect observed in Au‐Ag bimetallic catalysts when applied to various oxidative reactions. One is based on the importance of the contact inter...There are two theories regarding the origin of the remarkable synergistic effect observed in Au‐Ag bimetallic catalysts when applied to various oxidative reactions. One is based on the importance of the contact interfaces between AgOx regions and the surface of the bulk Au as active working sites, while the other holds that charge transfer from Ag to Au in a surface Au‐Ag alloy causes the catalytic activity. One key point in examining these theories and determining the origin of the synergy in‐volves determining whether or not Ag exists as an oxide or as a metallic alloy on the Au surface. To confirm that enhanced activity results from contact between Ag2O and Au nanoparticles (NPs), a comparative study of catalytic CO oxidation over Au/Ag2O and Ag2O was performed in the present work, using a closed recirculation reaction system. A reaction mixture consisting of a stoichiometric composition of CO and O2 (CO/O2=2/1) was supplied to both catalysts and the resulting pressure decrease rates were tracked, from which the amounts of gas consumed as well as the quantity of CO2 produced were determined. The steady state reactions of both Au/Ag2O and Ag2O did not lead to any meaningful difference in the rate of pressure decrease during the oxidation. The pressure decrease over both catalysts was attributed to the reduction of surface lattice O on Ag2O by CO. The results obtained for Au/Ag2O are in good agreement with previous data resulting from the use of Ag‐contaminated Au powder (Ag/Au‐b) having an oxidized surfaces. This finding suggests that the perimeters between AgOx zones and the bulk Au surface may not function as active sites during CO oxidation. A review of previous results obtained with Ag/Au‐b specimens having so‐called steady state surfaces indicates that AgOx species in such materials are reduced to the 0 state to form a Ag‐Au alloy that provides the active sites.展开更多
The three-body force effects on the equation of state and its iso-spin dependence of asymmetric nuclear matter and on the proton fraction in neutron star matter have been investigated within Brueckner-Hartree-Fock app...The three-body force effects on the equation of state and its iso-spin dependence of asymmetric nuclear matter and on the proton fraction in neutron star matter have been investigated within Brueckner-Hartree-Fock approach by using a microscopic three-body force. It is shown that, even in the presence of the three-body force, the empirical parabolic law of the energy per nucleon vs. isospin asymmetry is fulfilled in the whole asymmetry range and also up to high density. The three-body force provides a strong enhancement of symmetry energy at high density in agreement with relativistic approaches. It also shows that the three-body force leads to a much more rapid increasing of symmetry energy with density in relatively high density region and to a much lower threshold density for the direct URCA process to occur in a neutron star as compared to the predictions adopting only pure two-body force.展开更多
Using a diffusion model we investigate deformation effects on the sensitivity of different light particles to nuclear dissipation for a rather neutron-deficlent ^178Pb system. Galculations show that deformation signif...Using a diffusion model we investigate deformation effects on the sensitivity of different light particles to nuclear dissipation for a rather neutron-deficlent ^178Pb system. Galculations show that deformation significantly increases the sensitivity of neutron emission to dissipation strength, and that this effect becomes stronger with increasing deformation.展开更多
A new control strategy named adjacent coupling error strategy is proposed to multi-motor drive system. The adjacent coupling error control scheme is developed considering the tracking speed error in one motor and the ...A new control strategy named adjacent coupling error strategy is proposed to multi-motor drive system. The adjacent coupling error control scheme is developed considering the tracking speed error in one motor and the synchronous error among adjacent motors simultaneously. In the strategy, due to non-linear effects of the two mentioned errors to the motion control of motor i, an adaptive fuzzy logic controller is designed to decide the control variable of the motor drive system. The multi-motor drive system is modeled and simulated by SIMULINK. The simulated researches show that the proposed strategy improves the synchronization, stabilization, and convergence of the multi-motor system.展开更多
基金Project (B2011203074) supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province, ChinaProject (201101A129) supported by the Technology Research and Development Program of Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China
文摘Hydrogen storage composite alloy Ti0.10Zr0.15V0.35Cr0.10Ni0.30–10% LaNi3 was prepared by two-step arc-melting to improve the electro-catalytic activity and the kinetic performance of Ti-V-based solid solution alloy. The electrochemical properties and synergetic effect of the composite alloy electrode were systematically investigated by using X-ray diffractometry, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic charge/discharge test. It is found that the main phase of the composite alloy is composed of V-based solid solution phase with a BCC structure and C14 Laves phase with hexagonal structure, while the secondary phase is formed in the composite alloy. The comprehensive electrochemical properties of the composite alloy electrode are significantly improved. The activation cycle number, the maximum discharge capacity and the low temperature dischargeability of the composite alloy are 5 cycles, 362.5 mA-h/g and 65.84% at 233 K, respectively. It is suggested that distinct synergetic effect occurs in the activation process, composite process, cyclic process and discharge process at a low or high temperature under different current densities, in the charge–transfer resistance and exchange current density.
文摘N-(4-Carboxy-phenyl)-3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy-benzamide (2) possesses structural prerequisite for cell differentiation inducing activity, which constitutes the therapeutic basis of all trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and analogues for the treatment of cancer and dermatosis. In addition to the similarity of the disposition of functional groups with ATRA, 2 shows a conformational equivalence to ATRA in terms of molecular shape, size, as well as the spatial arrangement of functional groups. However, the N methylated compound (3) is devoid of the activity. It owes the biological behavior to the conformational difference, because of the steric interference between N methyl group and the hydrogen atom of a phenyl ring. X ray crystallography, UV, and NMR were performed to investigate the difference.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(21322606,21436005,21576095)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2016M590771)Guangdong Natural Science Foundation(2016A030310413,2013B090500027,2014A030310445,2016A050502004)~~
文摘Metal-organic-framework (MOF)-based materials with novel physicochemical properties have emerged as promising catalysts for various hydrogenation reactions. In addition to metal clusters and multifunctional organic ligands, MOF-based catalysts can incorporate other functional species, and thus provide various active sites for hydrogenation processes. The structural properties of the catalysts play significant roles in enhancing the interactions among the reactants, products, and catalytic sites, which can be rationally designed. Because of the synergistic effects between the ac-tive sites and the structural properties, MOF-based catalysts can achieve higher activities and selec- tivities in hydrogenation reactions than can be obtained using traditional heterogeneous catalysts. This review provides an overview of recent developments in MOF-based catalysts in the hydro-genation of alkenes, alkynes, nitroarenes, cinnamaldehyde, furfural, benzene, and other compounds. Strategies for improving the catalytic performances of MOF-based catalysts are discussed as well as the different active sites and structural properties of the catalysts.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (51372062)the Anhui Provincial Natural Science Foundation(1508085MB28,1308085MB21)~~
文摘N-K2Ti4O9/UiO-66-NH2 composites synthesized by a facile solvothermal method have a core-shell structure with UiO-66-NH2 forming the shell around a N-K2Ti4O9 core.Their photocatalytic activities in the degradation of dyes under visible light irradiation were investigated.The N-K2Ti4O9/UiO-66-NH2 composites exhibited higher photocatalytic activity than the pure components.This synergistic effect was due to the high adsorption capacity of UiO-66-NH2 and that the two components together induced an enhanced separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs.The mass ratio of N-K2Ti4O9 to ZrCl4 of 3:7 in the composite exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity.Due to the electrostatic attraction between the negatively charged backbone of UiO-66-NH2with the positively charged groups of cationic dyes,the composites were more photocatalytically active for cationic dyes than for anionic dyes.
基金Project(21371180)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(K1303015-11)supported by the Science and Technology Project of Changsha City,ChinaProject(20130162110018)supported by the Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education,China。
文摘In this work,hydrothermal method was used to prepare the CaZnAl-CO3 ternary layered double hydroxides(CaZnAl-CO3-LDHs)with various Ca/Zn/Al molar ratios,which were characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectroscope(FT-IR)and scanning electron microscopy(SEM)techniques.The obtained results demonstrate that the samples were well-crystallized and flake-structured.The CaZnAl-CO3-LDHs used alone for thermal stability of poly(vinyl chloride)(PVC)resin,with different Ca/Zn/Al molar ratios and varying additive amounts,were investigated through the tests such as static thermal aging,mass loss and congo red,respectively.The optimum Ca/Zn/Al molar ratio and additive amount were 3.6:0.4:2 and 5 phr(parts per hundred PVC resin),respectively.In addition,the synergistic effects of Ca3.6Zn0.4Al2-CO3-LDHs and CaSt2 were discussed in detail,showing better thermal stability compared with Ca3.6Zn0.4Al2-CO3-LDHs used alone,and the optimum additive amounts of Ca3.6Zn0.4Al2-LDHs and CaSt2 were 6 and 1.0 phr,respectively.
基金Project(2007046) supported by High Technology Research Project of Jiangsu Province,China
文摘The cooperative effect of laser surface texturing(LST) and double glow plasma surface alloying on tribological performance of lubricated sliding contacts was investigated.A Nd:YAG laser was used to generate microdimples on steel surfaces. Dimples with the diameter of 150μm and the depth of 30-35μm distributed circumferentially on the disc surface.The alloying element Cr was sputtered to the laser texturing steel surface by double glow plasma technique.A deep diffusion layer with a thickness of 30μm and a high hardness of HV900 was formed in this alloy.Tribological experiments of three types of samples(smooth,texturing and texturing+alloying) were conducted with a ring-on-disc tribometer to simulate the face seal.It is found that,in comparison with smooth steel surfaces,the laser texturing samples significantly reduce the friction coefficient.Moreover,the lower wear rate of the sample treated with the two surface techniques is observed.
基金Chemistry Department,Faculty of Science,Sohag University,and the deanship of scientific research,King Faisal University(Project No.1811020)for financing of this work.
文摘The synergistic inhibition effect of poly(ethylene glycol)-400(PEG-400)and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide(CTMAB)on the corrosion of Zn and Zn-Ni alloys in 8 mol/L KOH solution saturated with Zn O was observed by potentiodynamic anodic/cathodic polarization(PDP),and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS)measurements.The electrochemical studies confirmed that there was a synergism between PEG-400 and CTMAB on corrosion inhibition of Zn and its alloys.Corrosion inhibition efficiency of the mixed inhibitors,250 mg/L CTMAB+250 mg/L PEG-400,was found to be much higher than that of the single inhibitor,500 mg/L PEG-400 or 500 mg/L CTMAB.Scanning electron microscopic(SEM)investigations before and after the corrosion inhibition process emphasize the synergistic effect of the mixed inhibitors.Accordingly,it was found that the addition of the investigated inhibitors to the alkaline solution enhanced the discharge and capacity of the alkaline battery anodes.The obtained electrochemical data exhibited a good correlation with the computational one.
文摘The one-pot synthesis of methyl isobutyl ketone(MIBK) from acetone using multifunctional catalysts is an important sustainable organic synthesis method with high atom and energy efficiency.Herein. we report a series of Pd supported on mixed metal oxide(MMO) catalysts with controllable acidic/basic/metallic sites on the surface. We study the relationship between the nature, synergy,and proximity of active sites and the catalytic performance of the multifunctional catalyst in the tandem reaction, in detail. In the existence of Lewis acid and base sites, the catalysts with medium-strength acidic/basic sites show preferred activity and/or MIBK selectivity. For multifunctional catalysts, the catalytic properties are more than just a collection of active sites, and the Pd/Mg_3Al-MMO catalyst possessing 0.1% Pd loading and ~0.4 acid/base molar ratio exhibits the optimal 42.1% acetone conversion and 37.2% MIBK yield, which is among the best reported so far for this tandem reaction under similar conditions. Moreover, the proximity test indicates that the intimate distance between acidic/basic/metallic sites can greatly shorten the diffusion time of the intermediate species from each active site, leading to an enhancement in the catalytic performance.
基金Project (No. Z304104) supported by Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province, China
文摘The effects of salinity (50 mmol/L NaCI) and Cd (1 μmol/L CdCl2) as sole and combined on growth and photosynthetic parameters were studied using two soybean genotypes, Huachun 18 and NGB. The concentrations of Cd^2+, Zn^2+, Ca^2+, Mg^2+, K^+ and Na^+were also determined in seeds and pods. Huachun 18 suffered a more serious decrease than NGB in net photosynthetic rate (P,) in the treatments of salinity stress alone and combined stress (NaCl+Cd), showing that it is relatively sensitive to salinity. The decrease in P, caused by salt stress in Huachun 18 was mainly due to the reduced total chlorophyll content and photosynthetic efficiency (the ratio of variable fluorescence to maximal fluorescence, Fv/Fm), whereas the decease in NGB was mainly related to reduced stomatal conductance (Gs), The combined stress of both Na and Cd did not induce further decrease in photosynthesis and fluorescence in the two genotypes relative to salt or Cd stress alone. Greater change in the pod concentrations of Zn^2+, Ca^2+, Mg^2+, K^+ and Na^+was detected under salt stress for Huachun 18 than for NGB. The results suggested that the interactive effect of NaCl-Cd on growth and nutrient uptake differs between the two soybean genotypes.
文摘With the aim of drawing valuable lessons for the management and planning of similar business transformation initiatives, this paper critically evaluates a change project at an organization in South Africa, from three inter-woven dimensions: creating the climate for change, engaging and enabling the organization, and sustaining change. Firstly, a key achievement demonstrates that attempts to create a conducive climate for change should recognize that the unit of change in any organization is, ultimately, the individual. Levers for such initiatives should navigate the macro-organizational change narrative and translate change generalities into specific individual actions and behaviors. Secondly, learning from an implementation gap, similar efforts would gain better traction in engagement and empowerment by leveraging on an influential cross-functional team made up of enthusiastic supporters of the required change, to foster ownership and to embrace change across the organization. Key characteristics that should be represented on the team include leadership skills, expertise, credibility, effective communication, and a sense of urgency. Thirdly, in terms of sustaining change, twin lessons surge to the fore. On a positive note, by progressing its values-set into an annual staff award, there is a pointer to the potential of innovatively encouraging and rewarding employees to live the value qualities. And, on the flip side, a need is underscore of the critical role of seamless executive leadership, providing ongoing co-creating windows for instilling positive attitudes and creating synergies among related strategic initiatives.
文摘Mergers & acquisitions (M&As) are important strategic instruments, yet nearly half of all transactions fail, often resulting in disastrous write-offs and losses for corporations and financing institutions alike - despite promising prospects upfront. Applied research has been trying to find a "panacea" to prevent or at least predict M&A failure, investigating motives, synergies and performance. Despite the growing unease with the stationary explanatory models in literature, research has only marginally focused on the concept of time, with inquiries into market timing and integration speed. Yet other timing concepts have been neglected in concepts so far despite early empirical evidence for their existence. The purpose of this paper is thus to identify and elaborate on the importance of further relevant theories of timing. For this, and true to the exploratory nature of the topic, the authors have chosen a qualitative comparative case study design based on existing case reports which are investigated for narrations highlighting timing concepts. This study reveals six factors which have a crucial impact on the M&A outcome: time of acquisition, M&A duration in its entirety, M&A sequence, synergy chronology, frequency of acquisitions and time to step back. It contributes to theory and practice in outlining the careful attention that needs to be paid in planning in these factors to enhance the chances of a successful M&A transaction.
文摘The consumption ofthermoset resins as building polymers is approximately over one million tone word wide. The thermoset resins are proven construction materials for the technical and highly demanding applications of the transportation, electrical and building part industry. Heat stability, high thermal, low shrinkage, excellent mechanical properties are typical for their type of polymers. Above applications in addition to the mechanical properties also require good flame retardants of the materials. Undertaken activities refer to official draft, laws and legal recommendations in UE states. This paper presents positive effect of reduced flammability of thermoset resins (unsaturated polyester and epoxy resins) thanks to the use of nanocomposites containing multi-ingredient halogen-flee flame retardants which combine conventional phosphorus/nitrogen modifiers interacting with nanofillers (oMMT (organomodified montmorillonite), EG (expandable graphite), graphene, GO (graphene oxide), nSi (nanosilica)).
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(201573136,21603128,U1510105)the Natural Science Foundation for Young Scientists of Shanxi Province(2016021034)the Scientific Research Start-up Funds of Shanxi University(RSC723)~~
文摘A rational integration of multiple reactive centers into a combined unit to facilitate their cooperative effects is a smart approach for accelerating the catalytic activity.Here,to achieve this goal,linear imidazolium-based ionic polymers were confined into the nanopores of mesoporous silica nanospheres anchored with homogeneously distributed zinc salts.Owing to the flexible character and the reinforced cooperative effects of the ionic liquid(nucleophile)and zinc species(Lewis acid)in the confined mesoporous structure,the resultant composite exhibited dramatically improved catalytic performance in the cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides to form cyclic carbonates.This was in contrast to that observed for the individual catalytic components.Moreover,such a solid catalyst could be easily recovered and reused four times without a significant loss of activity.
基金This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation (1243510).
文摘The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development outlines 17 individual Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that guide the needs of practice for many professional disciplines around the world, including engineering, research, policy, and development. The SDGs represent commitments to reduce poverty, hunger, ill health, gender inequality, environmental degradation, and lack of access to clean water and sanitation. If a typical reductionist approach is employed to address and optimize individual goals, it may lead to a failure in technological, policy, or managerial development interventions through unin- tended consequences in other goals. This study uses a systems approach to understand the fundamental dynamics between the SDGs in order to identify potential synergies and antagonisms. A conceptual system model was constructed to illustrate the causal relationships between SDGs, examine system structures using generic system archetypes, and identify leverage points to effectively influence intentional and minimize unintentional changes in the system. The structure of interactions among the SDGs reflects three archetypes of system behavior: Reinforcing Growth, Limits to Growth, and Growth and Underinvestment. The leverage points identified from the conceptual model are gender equality, sustainable management of water and sanitation, alternative resources, sustainable livelihood standards, and global partnerships. Such a conceptual system analysis of SDGs can enhance the likelihood that the development community will broaden its understanding of the potential synergistic benefits of their projects on resource management, environmental sustainability, and climate change. By linking the interactions and feedbacks of those projects with economic gains, women's empowerment, and educational equality, stakeholders can recognize holistic improvements that can be made to the quality of life of many of the world's poor.
基金supported by CREST project(Catalyst Design of Gold Clusters through Junction Effect with Metal oxides,Carbons,and Polymers)sponsored by Japan Science and Technology Agency(JST)~~
文摘There are two theories regarding the origin of the remarkable synergistic effect observed in Au‐Ag bimetallic catalysts when applied to various oxidative reactions. One is based on the importance of the contact interfaces between AgOx regions and the surface of the bulk Au as active working sites, while the other holds that charge transfer from Ag to Au in a surface Au‐Ag alloy causes the catalytic activity. One key point in examining these theories and determining the origin of the synergy in‐volves determining whether or not Ag exists as an oxide or as a metallic alloy on the Au surface. To confirm that enhanced activity results from contact between Ag2O and Au nanoparticles (NPs), a comparative study of catalytic CO oxidation over Au/Ag2O and Ag2O was performed in the present work, using a closed recirculation reaction system. A reaction mixture consisting of a stoichiometric composition of CO and O2 (CO/O2=2/1) was supplied to both catalysts and the resulting pressure decrease rates were tracked, from which the amounts of gas consumed as well as the quantity of CO2 produced were determined. The steady state reactions of both Au/Ag2O and Ag2O did not lead to any meaningful difference in the rate of pressure decrease during the oxidation. The pressure decrease over both catalysts was attributed to the reduction of surface lattice O on Ag2O by CO. The results obtained for Au/Ag2O are in good agreement with previous data resulting from the use of Ag‐contaminated Au powder (Ag/Au‐b) having an oxidized surfaces. This finding suggests that the perimeters between AgOx zones and the bulk Au surface may not function as active sites during CO oxidation. A review of previous results obtained with Ag/Au‐b specimens having so‐called steady state surfaces indicates that AgOx species in such materials are reduced to the 0 state to form a Ag‐Au alloy that provides the active sites.
文摘The three-body force effects on the equation of state and its iso-spin dependence of asymmetric nuclear matter and on the proton fraction in neutron star matter have been investigated within Brueckner-Hartree-Fock approach by using a microscopic three-body force. It is shown that, even in the presence of the three-body force, the empirical parabolic law of the energy per nucleon vs. isospin asymmetry is fulfilled in the whole asymmetry range and also up to high density. The three-body force provides a strong enhancement of symmetry energy at high density in agreement with relativistic approaches. It also shows that the three-body force leads to a much more rapid increasing of symmetry energy with density in relatively high density region and to a much lower threshold density for the direct URCA process to occur in a neutron star as compared to the predictions adopting only pure two-body force.
基金The project supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant No. 10405007 and the Teaching and Researching Foundation of the Excellent Teacher of Southeast University
文摘Using a diffusion model we investigate deformation effects on the sensitivity of different light particles to nuclear dissipation for a rather neutron-deficlent ^178Pb system. Galculations show that deformation significantly increases the sensitivity of neutron emission to dissipation strength, and that this effect becomes stronger with increasing deformation.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.60774023)
文摘A new control strategy named adjacent coupling error strategy is proposed to multi-motor drive system. The adjacent coupling error control scheme is developed considering the tracking speed error in one motor and the synchronous error among adjacent motors simultaneously. In the strategy, due to non-linear effects of the two mentioned errors to the motion control of motor i, an adaptive fuzzy logic controller is designed to decide the control variable of the motor drive system. The multi-motor drive system is modeled and simulated by SIMULINK. The simulated researches show that the proposed strategy improves the synchronization, stabilization, and convergence of the multi-motor system.