Comparative Study of the Rock-breaking Mechanism of a Disc Cutter and Wedge Tooth Cutter by Discrete Element Modelling

The operation of a shield tunnel boring machine(TBM)in a high-strength hard rock stratum results in significant cutter damage,adversely affecting the thrust and torque of the cutter head.Therefore,it is very important to carry out the research on the stress characteristics and optimize the cutter parameters of cutters break high-strength hard rock.In this paper,the rock-breaking performance of cutters in an andesite stratum in the tunnel of Qingdao Metro Line No.8 was investigated using the discrete element method and theoretical analysis.The rock-breaking processes of a disc cutter and wedge tooth cutter were simulated by software particle flow code PFC^(3D),and the rock-breaking degree,stress of the cutter,and rock-breaking specific energy were analyzed.The rock damage caused by the cutter in a specific section was divided into three stages:the advanced influence,crushing,and stabilizing stages.The rock-breaking degree and the tangential and normal forces of the wedge tooth cutter are larger than that of the disc cutter under the same conditions.The disc cutter(wedge tooth cutter)has the highest rock-breaking efficiency at a cutter spacing of 100 mm(110 mm)and a penetration depth of 8 mm(10 mm),and the rock-breaking specific energy is 11.48 MJ/m^(3)(12.05 MJ/m^(3)).Therefore,two types of cutters with different penetration depths or cutter spacing should be considered.The number of teeth of wedge tooth cutters can be increased in hard strata to improve the rock-breaking efficiency of the shield.The research results provide a reference for shield cutterhead selection and cutter layout in similar projects.

Investigation of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene propellant breaking characteristics and mechanism impacted by submerged cavitation water jet

A submerged cavitation water jet(SCWJ)is an effective method to recycle solid propellant from obsolete solid engines by the breaking method.Solid propellant's breaking modes and mechanical process under SCWJ impact are unclear.This study aims to understand those impact breaking mechanisms.The hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene(HTPB)propellant was chosen as the research material,and a self-designed test system was used to conduct impact tests at four different working pressures.The high-speed camera characterized crack propagation,and the DIC method calculated strain change during the impact process.Besides,micro and macro fracture morphologies were characterized by scanning electron microscope(SEM)and computed tomography(CT)scanning.The results reveal that the compressive strain concentration region locates right below the nozzle,and the shear strain region distributes symmetrically with the jet axis,which increases to 4% at first 16th ms,the compressive strain rises to 2% and 6% in the axial and transverse direction,respectively.The two tensile cracks formed first at the compression strain concentrate region,and there generate many shear cracks around the tensile cracks,and those shear cracks that develop and aggregate cause the cracks to become wider and cut through the tensile cracks,forming the tensile-shear cracks and the impact parts eventually fail.The HTPB propellant forms a breaking hole shaped conical after impact 10 s.The mass loss increases by 17 times at maximum,with the working pressure increasing by three times.Meanwhile,the damage value of the breaking hole remaining on the surface increases by 7.8 times while 2.9 times in the depth of the breaking hole.The breaking efficiency is closely affected by working pressures.The failure modes of HTPB impacted by SCWJ are classified as tensile crack-dominated and tensile-shear crack-dominated damage mechanisms.

Rock breaking performance of the newly proposed unsubmerged cavitating abrasive waterjet

To improve the rock breaking ability, cavitating waterjet and abrasive waterjet are combined by using a coaxial low-speed waterjet generated around the periphery of a high-speed abrasive waterjet, and a new type of waterjet called unsubmerged cavitating abrasive waterjet(UCAWJ) is thus produced. The rock breaking performance of UCAWJ was compared with submerged cavitating abrasive waterjet(SCAWJ)and unsubmerged abrasive waterjet(UAWJ) by impinging sandstone specimens. Moreover, the effects of jet pressure, standoff distance, abrasive flow rate and concentration were studied by evaluating the specific energy consumption, and the area, depth, and mass loss of the eroded specimen. The results show that the artificially generated submerged environment in UCAWJ is able to enhance the rock breaking performance under the same operating parameters. Furthermore, the rock breaking performance of UCAWJ is much better at higher jet pressures and smaller standoff distances when compared with UAWJ. The greatest rock breaking ability of UCAWJ appears at jet pressure of 50 MPa and standoff distance of 32 mm, with the mass loss of sandstone increased by 370.6% and the energy dissipation decreased by 75.8%. In addition, under the experimental conditions the optimal abrasive flow rate and concentration are 76.5 m L/min and 3%, respectively.

A review of rock macro-indentation:Theories,experiments,simulations,and applications

Rock macro-indentation plays a fundamental role in mechanical rock breaking for various rock engineering application,such as drilling,tunneling,cutting,and sawing.Over the past decades,extensive research has been conducted to understand the indentation mechanisms and responses through various approaches.This review aims to provide an overview of the current status and recent advancements in theories,experiments,numerical simulations,and applications of macro-indentation in rock engineering.It starts with elaborating on the mechanisms of macro-indentation,followed by a discussion of the merits and limitations of commonly used models.Influence factors and their effects on indentation test results are then summarized.Various numerical simulation methods for rock macro-indentation are highlighted,along with their advantages and disadvantages.Subsequently,the applications of indentation tests and indentation indices in characterizing rock properties are explored.It reveals that compression-tension,compression-shear,and composite models are widely employed in rock macroindentation.While the compression-tension model is straightforward to use,it may overlook the anisotropic properties of rocks.On the other hand,the composite model provides a more comprehensive description of rock indentation but requires complex calculations.Additionally,factors,such as indentation rate,indenter geometry,rock type,specimen size,and confining pressure,can significantly influence the indentation results.Simulation methods for macro-indentation encompass continuous medium,discontinuous medium,and continuous-discontinuous medium methods,with selection based on their differences in principle.Furthermore,rock macro-indentation can be practically applied to mining engineering,tunneling engineering,and petroleum drilling engineering.Indentation indices serve as valuable tools for characterizing rock strength,brittleness,and drillability.This review sheds light on the development of rock macro-indentation and its extensive application in engineering practice.Specialists in the field can gain a comprehensive understanding of the indentation process and its potential in various rock engineering endeavors.

Observation of Zero-Energy Modes with Possible Time-Reversal Symmetry Breaking on Step Edge of CaKFe_(4)As_(4)

Topologically nontrivial Fe-based superconductors attract extensive attentions due to their ability of hosting Majorana zero modes(MZMs)which could be used for topological quantum computation.Topological defects such as vortex lines are required to generate MZMs.Here,we observe the robust edge states along the surface steps of CaKFe_(4)As_(4).Remarkably,the tunneling spectra show a sharp zero-bias peak(ZBP)with multiple integerquantized states at the step edge under zero magnetic field.We propose that the increasing hole doping around step edges may drive the local superconductivity into a state with possible spontaneous time-reversal symmetry breaking.Consequently,the ZBP can be interpreted as an MZM in an effective vortex in the superconducting topological surface state by proximity to the center of a tri-junction with different superconducting order parameters.Our results provide new insights into the interplay between topology and unconventional superconductivity,and pave a new path to generate MZMs without magnetic field.

Two-fold symmetry of the in-plane resistance in kagome superconductor Cs(V_(1-x)Ta_(x))_(3)Sb_(5) with enhanced superconductivity

The kagome superconductor CsV_(3)Sb_(5) has attracted widespread attention due to its rich correlated electron states including superconductivity, charge density wave(CDW), nematicity, and pair density wave. Notably, the modulation of the intertwined electronic orders by the chemical doping is significant to illuminate the cooperation/competition between multiple phases in kagome superconductors. In this study, we have synthesized a series of tantalum-substituted Cs(V_(1-x)Ta_(x))_(3)Sb_(5) by a modified self-flux method. Electrical transport measurements reveal that CDW is suppressed gradually and becomes undetectable as the doping content of x is over 0.07. Concurrently, the superconductivity is enhanced monotonically from T_(c) ~ 2.8 K at x = 0 to 5.2 K at x = 0.12. Intriguingly, in the absence of CDW, Cs(V_(1-x)Ta_(x))_(3)Sb_(5)(x = 0.12) crystals exhibit a pronounced two-fold symmetry of the in-plane angular-dependent magnetoresistance(AMR) in the superconducting state, indicating the anisotropic superconducting properties in the Cs(V_(1-x)Ta_(x))_(3)Sb_(5). Our findings demonstrate that Cs(V_(1-x)Ta_(x))_(3)Sb_(5) with the non-trivial band topology is an excellent platform to explore the superconductivity mechanism and intertwined electronic orders in quantum materials.

Across two phylogeographic breaks: Quaternary evolutionary history of a mountain aspen (Populus rotundifolia) in the Hengduan Mountains

Biogeographical barriers to gene flow are central to plant phylogeography.In East Asia,plant distribution is greatly influenced by two phylogeographic breaks,the Mekong-Salween Divide and Tanaka-Kaiyong Line,however,few studies have investigated how these barriers affect the genetic diversity of species that are distributed across both.Here we used 14 microsatellite loci and four chloroplast DNA fragments to examine genetic diversity and distribution patterns of 49 populations of Populus rotundifolia,a species that spans both the Mekong-Salween Divide and the Tanaka-Kaiyong Line in southwestern China.Demographic and migration hypotheses were tested using coalescent-based approaches.Limited historical gene flow was observed between the western and eastern groups of P.rotundifolia,but substantial flow occurred across both the Mekong-Salween Divide and Tanaka-Kaiyong Line,manifesting in clear admixture and high genetic diversity in the central group.Wind-borne pollen and seeds may have facilitated the dispersal of P.rotundifolia following prevalent northwest winds in the spring.We also found that the Hengduan Mountains,where multiple genetic barriers were detected,acted on the whole as a barrier between the western and eastern groups of P.rotundifolia.Ecological niche modeling suggested that P.rotundifolia has undergone range expansion since the last glacial maximum,and demographic reconstruction indicated an earlier population expansion around 600 Ka.The phylogeographic pattern of P.rotundifolia reflects the interplay of biological traits,wind patterns,barriers,niche differentiation,and Quaternary climate history.This study emphasizes the need for multiple lines of evidence in understanding the Quaternary evolution of plants in topographically complex areas.

Generating highly active oxide-phosphide heterostructure through interfacial engineering to break the energy scaling relation toward urea-assisted natural seawater electrolysis

Urea-assisted natural seawater electrolysis is an emerging technology that is effective for grid-scale carbon-neutral hydrogen mass production yet challenging.Circumventing scaling relations is an effective strategy to break through the bottleneck of natural seawater splitting.Herein,by DFT calculation,we demonstrated that the interface boundaries between Ni_(2)P and MoO_(2) play an essential role in the selfrelaxation of the Ni-O interfacial bond,effectively modulating a coordination number of intermediates to control independently their adsorption-free energy,thus circumventing the adsorption-energy scaling relation.Following this conceptual model,a well-defined 3D F-doped Ni_(2)P-MoO_(2) heterostructure microrod array was rationally designed via an interfacial engineering strategy toward urea-assisted natural seawater electrolysis.As a result,the F-Ni_(2)P-MoO_(2) exhibits eminently active and durable bifunctional catalysts for both HER and OER in acid,alkaline,and alkaline sea water-based electrolytes.By in-situ analysis,we found that a thin amorphous layer of NiOOH,which is evolved from the Ni_(2)P during anodic reaction,is real catalytic active sites for the OER and UOR processes.Remarkable,such electrode-assembled urea-assisted natural seawater electrolyzer requires low voltages of 1.29 and 1.75 V to drive 10 and600 mA cm^(-2)and demonstrates superior durability by operating continuously for 100 h at 100 mA cm^(-2),beyond commercial Pt/C||RuO_(2) and most previous reports.

Pursuing Excellence in the Biomedical Field:The Inspiring Story of Prof.Dr.Mike Chan——An Interview with Prof.Dr.Mike Chan,Scientist,Author and Founder of European Wellness Biomedical Group

From humble beginnings to global influence,Prof.Dr.Mike K.S.Chan's story is a remarkable tale of passion,perseverance,and groundbreaking innovation in the biomedical field.As the co-owner and founder of the European Wellness Biomedical Group,he has dedicated his life to advancing biotechnology,stem cell research,and regenerative medicine,profoundly impacting lives across the globe.

Team China’s Groundbreaking Success at Paris Olympics

China’s Olympic delegation at the Paris 2024,with 404 athletes competing in 232 events across 30 sports,clinched 40 gold,27 silver,and 24 bronze medals,marking their best performance at an Olympics held abroad.The success of these athletes across various disciplines demonstrates the country’s efforts to expand its athletic prowess while also marks a new chapter for Chinese sportsmanship on the international stage.

A VISIONARY PARTNERSHIP A visit to China by Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan highlights how future-oriented the relationship is

From September 8 to 9,Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan made an official visit to Beijing.It was the first visit by a Singaporean Foreign Minister to China since new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong succeeded Lee Hsien Loong.It was also the inaugural visit under an annual exchange mechanism between the ruling parties of both countries,which has been groundbreaking and exerted a positive influence on China-Singapore cooperation and regional development.

New material trends for the first quarter of 2024

New textile materials are being developed at a rapid pace,breaking the boundaries between traditional textile technologies and offering new functional,environmental and comfort benefits.In the first quarter of 2024,the textile industry has ushered in a wave of innovation.These new materials not only bring new development opportunities for the textile industry,but also more possibilities for our lives.This article summarizes some of the recently released new textile materials,their application prospects and impact on the industry.

Swiss cycling brand to pushing the boundaries of sustainability

Possenia,a trailblazing newcomer in the cycling industry,proudly announces a groundbreaking achievement:it is Switzerland’s first cycling brand to introduce the bluesign®PRODUCT label,marking an important milestone in sustainable cycling apparel in Europe.These environmentally conscious,premium cycling essentials are now available on Digitec Galaxus as well as directly through Possenia’s own website.

Enhancing textile production:Smartex exhibits groundbreaking solutions

Smartex,a trailblazing leader in textile industry innovation,was proud to announce its return to ITM 2024,showcasing unparalleled advancements in quality control and production efficiency.Building on the success of previous exhibitions at ITM 2022 and ITMA Milan 2023,Smartex emerges stronger than ever,presenting its complete Smartex System tailored to transform textile manufacturing.

Shoaling Internal Solitary Waves and the Formation of Boluses

An internal solitary wave of elevation in a two-layer density stratified system of an incompressible, viscous and homogeneous fluid was studied. The run-up of a wave of elevation encountering different slopes was investigated numerically based on solving the continuity, Navier-Stokes and convective-diffusion equations within the Boussinesq approximation. The commercial software COMSOL Multiphysics was used to conduct the numerical simulations. For gradual shoals, a bolus formed that transported dense fluid up the shoal. The bolus disappeared when it reached its maximum height on the slope due to the draining of the dense fluid. Various shoal angles were simulated to detect the critical angle above which a bolus does not form. An angle of 30 or less resulted in the formation of a bolus. In addition, the simulations demonstrated that the size of the bolus induced by shallower slopes was larger and that the vertical height traveled by the bolus was insensitive to the slope of the shoal.

Microwave backscattering from the sea surface with breaking waves

Based on the effective medium approximation theory of composites, the whitecap-covered sea surface is treated as a medium layer of dense seawater droplets and air. Two electromagnetic scattering models of randomly rough surface are applied to the investigation of microwave backscattering of breaking waves driven by strong wind. The shapes of seawater droplets are considered by calculating the effective dielectric constant of the whitecap layer. The responses of seawater droplets shapes, such as sphere and ellipsoid, to the backscattering coefficient are discussed. Numerical results of the models are in good agreement with the experimental measurements of horizontally and vertically polarized backscattering at microwave frequency 13.9GHz and different incidence angles.

Simulation of the ocean surface mixed layer under the wave breaking

A one-dimensional mixed-layer model, including a Mellor- Yamada level 2.5 turbulence closure scheme, was implemented to investi- gate the dynamical and thermal structures of the ocean surface mixed layer in the northern South China Sea. The turbulent kinetic ener- gy released through wave breaking was incorporated into the model as a source of energy at the ocean surface, and the influence of the breaking waves on the mixed layer was studied. The numerical simulations show that the simulated SST is overestimated in summer without the breaking waves. However, the cooler SST is simulated when the effect of the breaking waves is considered, the corre- sponding discrepancy with the observed data decreases up to 20% and the MLD calculated averagely deepens 3.8 m. Owing to the wave-enhanced turbulence mixing in the summertime, the stratification at the bottom of the mixed layer was modified and the tempera- ture gradient spread throughout the whole thermocline compared with the concentrated distribution without wave breaking.

Annihilation Solitons and Chaotic Solitons for the （2＋1）-Dimensional Breaking Soliton System

By means of an improved mapping method and a variable separation method, a series of variable separation solutions including solitary wave solutions, periodic wave solutions and rational function solutions） to the （2＋1）-dimensional breaking soliton system is derived. Based on the derived solitary wave excitation, we obtain some special annihilation solitons and chaotic solitons in this short note.

The rock breaking and ROP increase mechanisms for single-tooth torsional impact cutting using DEM

Torsional impact drilling is a new technology which has the advantages of high rock-breaking efficiency and a high rate of penetration(ROP).So far,there is no in-depth understanding of the rock-breaking mechanism for the ROP increase from torsional impact tools.Therefore,it has practical engineering significance to study the rock-breaking mechanism of torsional impact.In this paper,discrete element method(DEM)software(PFC2 D)is used to compare granite breaking under the steady and torsional impacting conditions.Meanwhile,the energy consumption to break rock,microscopic crushing process and chip characteristics as well as the relationship among these three factors for granite under different impacting frequencies and amplitudes are discussed.It is found that the average cutting force is smaller in the case of torsional impact cutting(TIC)than that in the case of steady loading.The mechanical specific energy(MSE)and the ratio of brittle energy consumption to total energy are negatively correlated;rock-breaking efficiency is related to the mode of action between the cutting tooth and rock.Furthermore,the ROP increase mechanism of torsional impact drilling technology is that the ratio of brittle energy consumption under the TIC condition is larger than that under a steady load;the degree of repeated fragmentation of rock chips under the TIC condition is lower than that under the steady load,and the TIC load promotes the formation of a transverse cracking network near the free surface and inhibits the formation of a deep longitudinal cracking network.

Numerical Simulation of Independent Advance of Ore Breaking in the Non-pillar Sublevel Caving Method

The mechanism of stress generation and propagation by detonation loading in five separate independent advance of ore breaking patterns is discussed in the paper. An elastic numerical model was developed using AN- SYS/LS-DYNA 3D Nonlinear Dynamic Finite Element Software. In this package ANSYS is the preprocessor and LS-DYNA is the postprocessor. Numerical models in the paper to actual were l：10 and the element mesh was dissected in scanning mode utilizing the symmetry characteristics of the numerical model. Five different advance rates were studied. Parameters, such as the time required to maximum stress, the action time of the available stress, the maximum velocity of the nodes, the stress penetration time, the magnitude of the stress peak and the time duration for high stress were numerically simulated. The 2.2 m advance appeared optimum from an analysis of the simulation results. The results from numerical simulation have been validated by tests with physical models.