Environmental Science Pollution

Smart Materials for Construction

Description

This cluster of papers focuses on the impact of road salt and deicing chemicals on freshwater salinization, particularly in the northeastern United States. It explores the use of concrete sensors with carbon nanotubes for environmental monitoring and damage detection in structures, as well as the implications for water quality and the environment.

Keywords

Road Salt; Freshwater Salinization; Environmental Impact; Concrete Sensors; Carbon Nanotubes; Damage Detection; Electrical Resistance Measurement; Smart Structures; Environmental Monitoring; Water Quality

The Department of the Interior has a basic responsibility for the appraisal, conservation, and efficient utilization of the Nation's natural resources including water as a resource as well as water … The Department of the Interior has a basic responsibility for the appraisal, conservation, and efficient utilization of the Nation's natural resources including water as a resource as well as water involved in the use and development of other resources.As one of the several Interior agencies, the U.S. Geological Survey's primary function in relation to water is to assess its availability and utility as a national resource for all uses.The Geological Survey's responsibility for water appraisal includes not only assessments of the location, quantity, and availability of water, but also determinations of water quality.Inherent in this responsibility is the need for extensive water-quality studies related to the physical, chemical, and biological adequacy of natural and developed surface-and groundwater supplies.Included, also, is a need for supporting research to increass the effectiveness of these studies.As part of its mission the Geological Survey is responsible for a large part of water-quality data for rivers, lakes, and ground water that is used by planners, developers, water-quality managers, and pollution-control agencies.A high degree of reliability and standardization of these data is paramount.This manual was prepared to provide accurate and precise procedures for the collection and analysis of water samples required for these needs.The series of manuals on techniques describes procedures for planning and executing specialized work in water-resources investigations.The maaterial is grouped under major subject headings called books and further subdivided into sections and chapters; Section A of Book 5 is on water analysis.The chapter on dissolved minerals and gases is the first in this series of chapters on laboratory methods for water-quality analysis.The unit of publication, the chapter, is limited to a narrow field of subject matter.This format permits flexibility in revision and publication as the need arises.Provisional drafts of chapters are distributed to field offices of the U.S. Geological Survey for their use.These drafts are subject
Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Materials and Energy Balances Chapter 3 Risk Assessment Chapter 4 Water Resources Engineering Chapter 5 Water Chemistry Chapter 6 Water Treatment Chapter 7 Water Pollution … Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Materials and Energy Balances Chapter 3 Risk Assessment Chapter 4 Water Resources Engineering Chapter 5 Water Chemistry Chapter 6 Water Treatment Chapter 7 Water Pollution Chapter 8 Wastewater Treatment Chapter 9 Air Pollution Chapter 10 Noise Pollution Chapter 11 Solid Waste Management Chapter 12 Hazardous Waste Management Chapter 13 Sustainability and Green Engineering Chapter 14 Ionizing Radiation (Available at the text website www.mhhe.com/davis) Appendix A Properties of Air, Water, and Selected Chemicals Appendix B Noise Computation Tables and Nomographs Appendix C U.S. Customary System Units Conversion Factors Index
Complex dielectric constants have been measured for ice from the melting point to −65°C, and for solid D2O to −35°C, by a combination of bridge and transient methods. For both, … Complex dielectric constants have been measured for ice from the melting point to −65°C, and for solid D2O to −35°C, by a combination of bridge and transient methods. For both, the dispersion is described by the simple Debye formula, and the relaxation times τ by the simple rate expression τ = A exp(B/RT). For ice, A = 5.3×10−16 sec, B = 13.2 kcal/mole; and for solid D2O, A = 7.7×10−16 sec, B = 13.4 kcal/mole. The equilibrium dielectric constant for ice is 91.5 at 0°C and increases at lower temperatures; the values for solid D2O are only slightly smaller. Measures taken to minimize errors from voids in the sample and direct current conductance are discussed.
A steady-state model for the resistivity of composites is presented, based on the idea that the resistance through a composite is the result of a series of a large number … A steady-state model for the resistivity of composites is presented, based on the idea that the resistance through a composite is the result of a series of a large number of resistors combined in series and parallel. There are three separate contributions to the resistance: constriction resistance at the contacts, tunneling resistance at the contacts, and the intrinsic filler resistance through each particle, with tunneling resistance generally dominating the magnitude of the overall resistance. The model predicts resistivity increases with increasing filler hardness and/or elastic modulus and insulating film thickness, while resistivity decreases with increasing particle size and intrinsic stress. The room-temperature dc resistivity behavior of conductor-filled silicone rubber composites was investigated to verify the model. Comparison of the model to this experimental data showed that good agreement could be obtained for filler materials in which the tarnish layer was a known quantity for a given powder; for other cases, the experimental values were higher than predicted.
Excellent mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and nanofibers (CNFs) have motivated the development of advanced nanocomposites with outstanding and multifunctional properties. After achieving a considerable success … Excellent mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and nanofibers (CNFs) have motivated the development of advanced nanocomposites with outstanding and multifunctional properties. After achieving a considerable success in utilizing these unique materials in various polymeric matrices, recently tremendous interest is also being noticed on developing CNT and CNF reinforced cement‐based composites. However, the problems related to nanomaterial dispersion also exist in case of cementitious composites, impairing successful transfer of nanomaterials′ properties into the composites. Performance of cementitious composites also depends on their microstructure which is again strongly influenced by the presence of nanomaterials. In this context, the present paper reports a critical review of recent literature on the various strategies for dispersing CNTs and CNFs within cementitious matrices and the microstructure and mechanical properties of resulting nanocomposites.
ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTRate-controlling processes in the creep of polycrystalline iceP. Duval, M. F. Ashby, and I. AndermanCite this: J. Phys. Chem. 1983, 87, 21, 4066–4074Publication Date (Print):October 1, 1983Publication … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTRate-controlling processes in the creep of polycrystalline iceP. Duval, M. F. Ashby, and I. AndermanCite this: J. Phys. Chem. 1983, 87, 21, 4066–4074Publication Date (Print):October 1, 1983Publication History Published online1 May 2002Published inissue 1 October 1983https://doi.org/10.1021/j100244a014RIGHTS & PERMISSIONSArticle Views1059Altmetric-Citations343LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InReddit PDF (3 MB) Get e-Alerts
"A review of: “Practical Nonpararnetric Statistics. By W. J. CONOVER. (New York: Wiley, 1971.) [Pl" x+462.] £5·25.." ERGONOMICS, 15(2), pp. 211–212 "A review of: “Practical Nonpararnetric Statistics. By W. J. CONOVER. (New York: Wiley, 1971.) [Pl" x+462.] £5·25.." ERGONOMICS, 15(2), pp. 211–212
ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTProperties of Films of Adsorbed Fluorinated AcidsE. F. Hare, E. G. Shafrin, and W. A. ZismanCite this: J. Phys. Chem. 1954, 58, 3, 236–239Publication Date (Print):March 1, … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTProperties of Films of Adsorbed Fluorinated AcidsE. F. Hare, E. G. Shafrin, and W. A. ZismanCite this: J. Phys. Chem. 1954, 58, 3, 236–239Publication Date (Print):March 1, 1954Publication History Published online1 May 2002Published inissue 1 March 1954https://doi.org/10.1021/j150513a011Request reuse permissionsArticle Views1089Altmetric-Citations280LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InReddit PDF (490 KB) Get e-Alerts
Electrically conducting concrete, as provided by the addition of a short carbon fibers (0.2-0.4 vol.%) to concrete, can function as smart structure material that allows non-destructive electrical probing for the … Electrically conducting concrete, as provided by the addition of a short carbon fibers (0.2-0.4 vol.%) to concrete, can function as smart structure material that allows non-destructive electrical probing for the monitoring of flaws. The electrical signal is related to an increase in the concrete's volume resistivity during crack generation or propagation and a decrease in the resistivity during crack closure. The linearity between the volume resistivity change and the compressive stress was good for mortar containing carbon fibers together with either methylcellulose or latex as dispersants. However, the linearity was poor for mortar containing carbon fibers together with both methylcellulose and silica fume, as this mortar required a minimum compressive stress for crack closure, whereas the other two mortars did not.
Long-term data from the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, New Hampshire, suggest that although changes in stream pH have been relatively small, large quantities of calcium and magnesium have been lost … Long-term data from the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, New Hampshire, suggest that although changes in stream pH have been relatively small, large quantities of calcium and magnesium have been lost from the soil complex and exported by drainage water because of inputs of acid rain and declines in atmospheric deposition of base cations. As a result, the recovery of soil and streamwater chemistry in response to any decreases in acid deposition will be delayed significantly.
Synopsis This paper examines the relationship between mix proportions, electrical properties of the constituents of concrete and the over-all electrical resistivity for concrete. The mechanisms for the conduction of electricity … Synopsis This paper examines the relationship between mix proportions, electrical properties of the constituents of concrete and the over-all electrical resistivity for concrete. The mechanisms for the conduction of electricity through the heterogeneous medium of concrete are discussed and an electrical model is proposed. Analysis from a purely theoretical standpoint is also described and the values of electrical resistivity obtained experimentally are shown to compare favourably with the theoretical model.
In this paper, a self-sensing carbon nanotube (CNT)/cement composite is investigated for traffic monitoring. The cement composite is filled with multi-walled carbon nanotubes whose piezoresistive properties enable the detection of … In this paper, a self-sensing carbon nanotube (CNT)/cement composite is investigated for traffic monitoring. The cement composite is filled with multi-walled carbon nanotubes whose piezoresistive properties enable the detection of mechanical stresses induced by traffic flow. The sensing capability of the self-sensing CNT/cement composite is explored in laboratory tests and road tests. Experimental results show that the fabricated self-sensing CNT/cement composite presents sensitive and stable responses to repeated compressive loadings and impulsive loadings, and has remarkable responses to vehicular loadings. These findings indicate that the self-sensing CNT/cement composite has great potential for traffic monitoring use, such as in traffic flow detection, weigh-in-motion measurement and vehicle speed detection.
Abstract The modeling of the electrical conductivity of polymer composites reinforced with conductive fibers is investigated. Existing models generally can be divided into percolation theories and non‐percolation theories. The basis … Abstract The modeling of the electrical conductivity of polymer composites reinforced with conductive fibers is investigated. Existing models generally can be divided into percolation theories and non‐percolation theories. The basis of the percolation theory is the fact that the conductivity of the composite increases dramatically at a certain fiber concentration called the percolation threshold. This theory can be used to model the behavior of the composite or to predict the percolation threshold itself. Non‐percolation theories include terms, which account for microstructural data such as fiber orientation, length, and packing arrangement. A comparison of experimental data with predictions from the various models reveals that only the percolation theory is able to accurately model the conductive behavior of an actual composite. Two alternative new models, which predict the volume resistivity of a composite using microstructural data, are evaluated. The first model relates resistivity to the concentration and orientation of the fibers, while assuming perfect fiber‐fiber contact. The relationship between resistivity and fiber concentration predicted by the model is in qualitative agreement with actual data, and predictions of the anisotropy in volume resistivity compare well with experimental results. The second model accounts for the effect of fiber‐fiber contact and fiber length on composite resistivity. Predictions are in excellent agreement with experimental data for polypropylene composites reinforced with nickel‐coated graphite fibers.
The emerging discipline of urban ecology is shifting focus from ecological processes embedded within cities to integrative studies of large urban areas as biophysical-social complexes. Yet this discipline lacks a … The emerging discipline of urban ecology is shifting focus from ecological processes embedded within cities to integrative studies of large urban areas as biophysical-social complexes. Yet this discipline lacks a theory. Results from the Baltimore Ecosystem Study, part of the Long Term Ecological Research Network, expose new assumptions and test existing assumptions about urban ecosystems. The findings suggest a broader range of structural and functional relationships than is often assumed for urban ecological systems. We address the relationships between social status and awareness of environmental problems, and between race and environmental hazard. We present patterns of species diversity, riparian function, and stream nitrate loading. In addition, we probe the suitability of land-use models, the diversity of soils, and the potential for urban carbon sequestration. Finally, we illustrate lags between social patterns and vegetation, the biogeochemistry of lawns, ecosystem nutrient retention, and social-biophysical feedbacks. These results suggest a framework for a theory of urban ecosystems.
Chloride concentrations are increasing at a rate that threatens the availability of fresh water in the northeastern United States. Increases in roadways and deicer use are now salinizing fresh waters, … Chloride concentrations are increasing at a rate that threatens the availability of fresh water in the northeastern United States. Increases in roadways and deicer use are now salinizing fresh waters, degrading habitat for aquatic organisms, and impacting large supplies of drinking water for humans throughout the region. We observed chloride concentrations of up to 25% of the concentration of seawater in streams of Maryland, New York, and New Hampshire during winters, and chloride concentrations remaining up to 100 times greater than unimpacted forest streams during summers. Mean annual chloride concentration increased as a function of impervious surface and exceeded tolerance for freshwater life in suburban and urban watersheds. Our analysis shows that if salinity were to continue to increase at its present rate due to changes in impervious surface coverage and current management practices, many surface waters in the northeastern United States would not be potable for human consumption and would become toxic to freshwater life within the next century.
Significance In lakes, chloride is a relatively benign ion at low concentrations but begins to have ecological impacts as concentrations rise into the 100s and 1,000s of mg L −1 … Significance In lakes, chloride is a relatively benign ion at low concentrations but begins to have ecological impacts as concentrations rise into the 100s and 1,000s of mg L −1 . In this study, we investigate long-term chloride trends in 371 freshwater lakes in North America. We find that in Midwest and Northeast North America, most urban lakes and rural lakes that are surrounded by >1% impervious land cover show increasing chloride trends. Expanding on this finding, thousands of lakes in these regions are at risk of long-term salinization. Keeping lakes “fresh” is critically important for protecting the ecosystem services freshwater lakes provide, such as drinking water, fisheries, recreation, irrigation, and aquatic habitat.
Salt pollution and human-accelerated weathering are shifting the chemical composition of major ions in fresh water and increasing salinization and alkalinization across North America. We propose a concept, the freshwater … Salt pollution and human-accelerated weathering are shifting the chemical composition of major ions in fresh water and increasing salinization and alkalinization across North America. We propose a concept, the freshwater salinization syndrome, which links salinization and alkalinization processes. This syndrome manifests as concurrent trends in specific conductance, pH, alkalinity, and base cations. Although individual trends can vary in strength, changes in salinization and alkalinization have affected 37% and 90%, respectively, of the drainage area of the contiguous United States over the past century. Across 232 United States Geological Survey (USGS) monitoring sites, 66% of stream and river sites showed a statistical increase in pH, which often began decades before acid rain regulations. The syndrome is most prominent in the densely populated eastern and midwestern United States, where salinity and alkalinity have increased most rapidly. The syndrome is caused by salt pollution (e.g., road deicers, irrigation runoff, sewage, potash), accelerated weathering and soil cation exchange, mining and resource extraction, and the presence of easily weathered minerals used in agriculture (lime) and urbanization (concrete). Increasing salts with strong bases and carbonates elevate acid neutralizing capacity and pH, and increasing sodium from salt pollution eventually displaces base cations on soil exchange sites, which further increases pH and alkalinization. Symptoms of the syndrome can include: infrastructure corrosion, contaminant mobilization, and variations in coastal ocean acidification caused by increasingly alkaline river inputs. Unless regulated and managed, the freshwater salinization syndrome can have significant impacts on ecosystem services such as safe drinking water, contaminant retention, and biodiversity.
Humidity sensor technologies amenable to widespread application in electronic control systems are reviewed. The principal sensor groups of interest include resistive ceramics, dielectric polymers, and resistive polyelectrolytes. The physical mechanisms … Humidity sensor technologies amenable to widespread application in electronic control systems are reviewed. The principal sensor groups of interest include resistive ceramics, dielectric polymers, and resistive polyelectrolytes. The physical mechanisms and application trade‐offs for each group are considered. Stability of sensor response is a primary concern. At the present time no single design option can be considered to be universally applicable.
"How can I analyse my sample of rainwater? ""This soil sample is thought to contain heavy metals - how can I test it?"" Many students and technicians the world over … "How can I analyse my sample of rainwater? ""This soil sample is thought to contain heavy metals - how can I test it?"" Many students and technicians the world over need to find the answers to questions such as these. This unique book provides detailed instructions for practical experiments in environmental analysis. The comprehensive coverage includes the chemical analysis of important pollutants in air, water, soil and plant tissue, and the experiments generally require only basic laboratory equipment. Practical Environmental Analysis is supplemented by theoretical material explaining, amongst other concepts, the principles behind each method and the importance of various pollutants. Also included are suggestions for projects and example calculations. The subject and content of this timely book will guarantee a warm welcome from students, technicians and lecturers alike."
Abstract Total alkalinity (TA) plays an important role in buffering seawater and determining how much anthropogenic carbon dioxide the oceans can absorb and mitigate the rise in atmospheric concentrations. Total … Abstract Total alkalinity (TA) plays an important role in buffering seawater and determining how much anthropogenic carbon dioxide the oceans can absorb and mitigate the rise in atmospheric concentrations. Total alkalinity varies with location, depth, and time making it an important variable needed to quantify and monitor ocean acidification, and potentially for ocean alkalinity enhancement interventions. Currently, best practices are to use expensive high‐quality borosilicate glass bottles for collecting and storing these samples. However, unlike other carbon system variables, TA is not affected by gas exchange meaning plastic bottles may be suitable for TA sample storage. Plastic bottles are lighter, cheaper, and less prone to breakage making them easier to handle and ship. Here, we test the suitability of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) for collection and long‐term storage of TA samples. In two sets of experiments, it was determined that HDPE is not suitable for long‐term storage of TA samples as there were large changes in TA over time and precision of duplicate samples was very poor. We hypothesize that HDPE plastic is slightly porous leading to leaching of alkalinity either into or out of the bottle over time impacting the value of the sample. Use of HDPE bottles for TA samples is not recommended for long term sample storage.
The increasing use of deicing agents during winter, driven by abnormal climate changes such as global warming, has raised environmental concerns, including soil salinization, plant growth inhibition, road infrastructure corrosion, … The increasing use of deicing agents during winter, driven by abnormal climate changes such as global warming, has raised environmental concerns, including soil salinization, plant growth inhibition, road infrastructure corrosion, and elevated particulate matter (PM10) levels near roads. This study aimed to develop an eco-friendly deicing agent incorporating Ball Clay (Eco-Friendly Deicing Agent with Ball Clay, EDBC) and evaluate its dust suppression performance and physicochemical properties compared to conventional chloride-based deicing agents. The dust suppression performance of EDBC was evaluated using PM10 concentration measurements in a controlled chamber, comparing its effectiveness at different concentrations (5% and 30%) with calcium chloride (CaCl<sub>2</sub>) and sodium chloride (NaCl). Additionally, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) analyses were conducted to assess the surface structure and physicochemical interactions of EDBC with dust particles. At a 5% concentration, EDBC achieved an average PM10 concentration of 174.03 μg/m<sup>3</sup>, significantly lower than CaCl<sub>2</sub> (405.83 μg/m<sup>3</sup>) and NaCl (1256.67 μg/m<sup>3</sup>). Even at a 30% concentration, EDBC maintained the lowest dust concentration of 101.8 μg/m<sup>3</sup>. SEM/EDS analysis confirmed that EDBC formed a dense and uniform surface structure, enabling strong physicochemical binding to dust particles. In contrast, CaCl<sub>2</sub> and NaCl, due to their high solubility and hygroscopic nature, showed limited dust suppression efficiency and posed challenges for long-term environmental sustainability. These results suggest that EDBC is a promising alternative to traditional chloride-based deicing agents, providing both effective dust control and environmental benefits.
Particulate matter (PM) originating from road dust is an increasing concern in urban air quality, particularly as non-exhaust emissions from tire–pavement interactions gain prominence. Existing models often focus on meteorological … Particulate matter (PM) originating from road dust is an increasing concern in urban air quality, particularly as non-exhaust emissions from tire–pavement interactions gain prominence. Existing models often focus on meteorological and traffic-related variables while oversimplifying pavement surface characteristics, limiting their applicability across diverse spatial and traffic conditions. This study investigates the influence of concrete pavement macrotexture—specifically the Mean Texture Depth (MTD) and surface wavelength—on PM10 resuspension. Field data were collected using a vehicle-mounted DustTrak 8530 sensor following the TRAKER protocol, enabling real-time monitoring near the tire–pavement interface. A multivariable linear regression model was used to evaluate the effects of MTD, wavelength, and the interaction between silt loading (sL) and PM10 content, achieving a high adjusted R2 of 0.765. The surface wavelength and sL–PM10 interaction were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The PM10 concentrations increased with the MTD up to a threshold of approximately 1.4 mm, after which the trend plateaued. A short wavelength (<4 mm) resulted in 30–50% higher PM10 emissions compared to a longer wavelength (>30 mm), likely due to enhanced air-pumping effects caused by more frequent aggregate contact. Among pavement types, Transverse Tining (T.Tining) exhibited the highest emissions due to its high MTD and short wavelength, whereas Exposed Aggregate Concrete Pavement (EACP) and the Next-Generation Concrete Surface (NGCS) showed lower emissions with a moderate MTD (1.0–1.4 mm) and longer wavelength. Mechanistically, a low MTD means there is a lack of sufficient voids for dust retention but generates less turbulence, producing moderate emissions. In contrast, a high MTD combined with a very short wavelength intensifies tire contact and localized air pumping, increasing emissions. Therefore, an intermediate MTD and moderate wavelength configuration appears optimal, balancing dust retention with minimized turbulence. These findings offer a texture-informed framework for integrating pavement surface characteristics into PM emission models, supporting sustainable and emission-conscious pavement design.
With the continuous expansion of highway networks and rapid advancements in the transportation industry, the need for highway maintenance and reconstruction has become increasingly urgent. Resonant rubblization technology generates an … With the continuous expansion of highway networks and rapid advancements in the transportation industry, the need for highway maintenance and reconstruction has become increasingly urgent. Resonant rubblization technology generates an interlocking structure within the pavement layer by producing diagonal cracks at angles of 35–40°, thereby significantly enhancing load-bearing capacity and structural stability. As a result, this technique offers substantial benefits, including a marked reduction in reflective cracking, efficient reuse of existing concrete slabs (with a utilization rate exceeding 85%), reduced construction costs (by 15–30% compared to conventional methods), and faster construction speeds—up to 7000 square yards per day. Consequently, resonant rubblization has emerged as a key method for rehabilitating aging cement concrete pavements. Building on this foundation, this paper reviews the fundamental principles of resonant rubblization technology by synthesizing global research findings and engineering case studies. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical development, equipment design, construction principles, and practical application outcomes of resonant rubblization, with particular attention to its effects on pavement structure, load-bearing capacity, and long-term stability. Future research should focus on developing more realistic subgrade models, improving evaluation methods for post-rubblization pavement performance, and advancing the intelligentization of resonant equipment. The ultimate goal is to enhance the quality of road maintenance and repair, ensure road safety, and promote the development of long-life, sustainable road infrastructure through the continued advancement and application of resonant rubblization technology.
<title>Abstract</title> This study examines the influence of acetylene carbon black (ACB) addition on the electrical and mechanical properties of cement-based materials, including cement paste, mortar, and concrete. The primary objective … <title>Abstract</title> This study examines the influence of acetylene carbon black (ACB) addition on the electrical and mechanical properties of cement-based materials, including cement paste, mortar, and concrete. The primary objective is to enhance the electrical conductivity of these composites while maintaining acceptable compressive strength for structural applications. Comprehensive evaluations were conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrical resistivity measurements, and compressive strength tests. The findings revealed that ACB significantly improved the electrical properties of all composites. At 28 days, the resistivity of cement paste without ACB decreased from 80.65 Ω·m to 40.69 Ω·m with ACB addition. Mortar exhibited a significant reduction from 193.57 Ω·m to 33.11 Ω·m, while concrete showed a substantial decrease from 919.53 Ω·m to 344.00 Ω·m. The ball milling method for cement paste + ACB improved dispersion and further enhanced conductivity. Overall, the incorporation of ACB in cement-based materials offers a balanced approach to developing multifunctional composites with enhanced electrical and mechanical performance, making them suitable for applications such as self-sensing, de-icing, and electromagnetic interference shielding in infrastructure projects.
Abstract This study investigates the impact of magnetic alignment of micro steel fibers (0.35%, 0.70%, and 1.05% contents) on the mechanical and electrical properties of fiber‐reinforced self‐compacting concrete. A simplified … Abstract This study investigates the impact of magnetic alignment of micro steel fibers (0.35%, 0.70%, and 1.05% contents) on the mechanical and electrical properties of fiber‐reinforced self‐compacting concrete. A simplified magnetic circuit was designed and built to align the fibers within the concrete matrix. A finite element model was developed to qualitatively analyze the magnetic field distribution, concentration zones, and reliability, then verified through experimental testing. Electrical properties were characterized by bulk electrical resistivity measurements. Mechanical performance was assessed through compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural performance. Preferential magnetic orientation of micro steel fibers led to maximum enhancements of 9.1% in compressive strength, 10% in tensile strength, and 9.1% in flexural failure load, aligning with detection methods of electrical resistivity and orientation factor. Toughness index (T 150 ) improved by up to 32.0% compared to nonmagnetized specimens, allowing for a feasible reduction in fiber volume while preserving bending performance with aligned fibers.
This study advances the development of self-sensing concrete through functionalization with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for structural health monitoring. Through experimental analyses, it relies on its dual responsiveness to mechanical and … This study advances the development of self-sensing concrete through functionalization with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for structural health monitoring. Through experimental analyses, it relies on its dual responsiveness to mechanical and thermal stimuli. Three-point bending and thermal tests were systematically conducted on concrete samples with CNT concentrations ranging from 0 to 0.05 wt.% of cement, evaluated at 7- and 28-day curing periods. Mechanical testing demonstrated curing-dependent behavior: At 7 days, mechanical strength and electrical current response exhibited pronounced variability across CNTs loadings, with optimal balance achieved at 0.01% CNTs. At 28 days, the tests show that the mechanical properties are relatively stabilized, reaching the highest value at 0.006 wt.% CNTs and achieving the best electrical sensitivity at 0.01 wt.% CNTs. The thermal experiments revealed faster current modulation in the 7-day samples than in the 28-day counterparts, with intermediate CNT concentrations (e.g., 0.01 wt.%) showing a more sensitive response. The sensitivity was analyzed for both mechanical and thermal changes to further evaluate the feasibility of using CNT-reinforced concrete as a sensor material. Conductivity measurements on fully cured samples indicated that all samples exhibited electrical conductivities in the 10-4 S/m range, suggesting semiconductive behavior, while 0.006 wt.% CNTs yielded the highest conductivity. Higher CNT content did not further improve conductivity, likely due to agglomeration disrupting the network. These findings confirm CNT-modified concrete's dual electromechanical and thermal responsiveness and support its potential as a multifunctional sensing material.
Flash powder, an explosive compound widely used in flash bangers and pyrotechnic shells, among others, has emerged as a critical point in discussions about the negative effects of its use. … Flash powder, an explosive compound widely used in flash bangers and pyrotechnic shells, among others, has emerged as a critical point in discussions about the negative effects of its use. Currently, fireworks present significant challenges due to their adverse impacts on the environment and the generation of acoustic disturbances in residential and urban areas due, among other compounds, to flash powder. This powder, mainly composed of potassium perchlorate and metallic compounds such as aluminium or magnesium, is crucial to achieve the opening and bursting of pyrotechnic devices. Therefore, it is necessary to develop alternatives that solve the flash powder associated problems to give a sustainable future to the pyrotechnic sector. This study proposes compositions that could be possible alternatives to reduce emissions and sound pressure levels, whit the intention of ensuring suitable performance for these pyrotechnic articles. F2 category flash bangers from different manufacturers were collected. The operation of these bangers was compared in different tests, by adding inert materials such as sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and recycled glass, at 10 % and 20 % (w/w), and by replacing the flash powder with nitrocellulose ([C6H7(NO2)3O5]n), with a nitrogen percentage of less than 12.6 %, as stated in the European pyrotechnics regulation. The samples were subjected to sound pressure level measurements according to EN 15947-4:2022 standard, but also CO and CO2 emissions were evaluated. It was observed that the compositions studied could lead to a significant reduction in both pollutant emissions and the noise level generated by the pyrotechnic articles. After studying the explosion pressure generated for their substitution in pyrotechnic shells, it is concluded that the addition of inert compounds can be a real alternative. However, the nitrocellulose does not achieve a correct operation as a substitute for flash powder, and nitrocellulose with a higher nitrogen content must be studied.
<title>Abstract</title> During Arctic winter, cities like Fairbanks (interior Alaska, USA) frequently experience poor air quality because locally emitted pollutants accumulate at the surface under cold, stable conditions with low surface-level … <title>Abstract</title> During Arctic winter, cities like Fairbanks (interior Alaska, USA) frequently experience poor air quality because locally emitted pollutants accumulate at the surface under cold, stable conditions with low surface-level winds. While Atmospheric Rivers (ARs, corridors of warm and humid air transport) can disperse air pollution by bringing gusty winds and precipitation on land-fall, this study shows that ARs can degrade air quality in the inland Arctic. When AR warm air flows over a cold surface layer without breaking through it, the AR traps locally emitted pollutants near the ground. Shallow atmospheric profiling (&lt;20m) in downtown Fairbanks during an AR event in December 2019 reveals sharp vertical gradients in temperature, humidity and pollutants. We observe that AR warm-air advection caused strong temperature inversions (locally 0.5-1 ̊C/m) meters above ground-level, effectively trapping surface emissions and worsening air quality. A multi-year reanalysis finds that AR-related warm air intrusions into interior Alaska are associated with historic exceedances in carbon monoxide (CO) above the legal air quality standard in Fairbanks. We show that ARs can substantially degrade wintertime air quality in inland urban Arctic environments. Tracing ARs and their influence on surface air quality may offer additional mitigation opportunities against wintertime pollution in high-latitude cities.
This study explores the impact of thermal annealing on the magnetic signal enhancement of three distinct Metglas ribbon materials: 2826MB3, 2605SA1, and 2714A. Each material underwent a systematic annealing process … This study explores the impact of thermal annealing on the magnetic signal enhancement of three distinct Metglas ribbon materials: 2826MB3, 2605SA1, and 2714A. Each material underwent a systematic annealing process under a range of temperatures (50–500 ∘C) and durations (10–60 min) to evaluate the influence of thermal treatment on their magnetic signal response. The experimental setup applied a constant excitation frequency of 20 kHz, allowing for direct comparison under identical measurement conditions. The results show that while all three alloys benefit from annealing, their responses differ in magnitude, stability, and sensitivity. The 2826MB3 and 2605SA1 ribbons exhibited similar enhancement patterns, with maximum normalized voltage increases of 75.8% and approximately 70%, respectively. However, 2605SA1 displayed a more abrupt signal drop at elevated temperatures, suggesting reduced thermal stability. In contrast, 2714A reached the highest enhancement at 86.8% but also demonstrated extreme sensitivity to over-annealing, losing its magnetic response rapidly at higher temperatures. The findings highlight the critical role of carefully optimized annealing parameters in maximizing sensor performance and offer practical guidance for the development of advanced magnetoelastic sensing systems.
Abstract Aircraft deicer and anti-icer formulations (ADAF) and airfield pavement deicer formulations (PDM) are commonly used at airports that experience freezing precipitation. In addition, road salt is often applied in … Abstract Aircraft deicer and anti-icer formulations (ADAF) and airfield pavement deicer formulations (PDM) are commonly used at airports that experience freezing precipitation. In addition, road salt is often applied in urban areas surrounding airports. This mixture of deicers in receiving streams can be toxic to aquatic organisms. A 17-year study of deicers and toxicity in runoff samples from sites in and near Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) included bioassay testing of Ceriodaphnia dubia, Pimephales promelas, Raphidocelis subcapitata, and Aliivibrio fischeri concurrently with quantification of freezing-point depressants that represent presence of the various deicers. Propylene glycol was monitored to represent aircraft deicers and anti-icers, acetate and formate were monitored to represent airfield pavement deicers, and chloride was monitored to represent road salt. Toxicity endpoints (e.g. lethal concentrations and inhibitive concentrations) were compiled for 19 airport deicer products and NaCl. Comparison of freezing-point depressant concentrations with toxicity endpoints indicated that propylene glycol, acetate, and chloride exceeded endpoint concentrations in multiple samples: More than 70% of 492 runoff samples exceeded at least one endpoint concentration with exceedances of propylene glycol and acetate-based deicer endpoints as well as road salt endpoints. Validation of these results were observed with measured toxic effects on C. dubia, P. promelas, and R. subcapitata in bioassays conducted on undiluted samples: Samples with multiple deicers exceeding endpoint thresholds had greater toxicity than samples with individual deicer endpoint exceedances, and samples with no endpoint exceedances typically exhibited less toxicity than samples with only one endpoint exceedance. A comparison of additivity of toxicity quotients with bioassay results fit a log-logistic regression curve indicating that the condition of tested organisms degraded with increasing deicer presence. These findings suggest that concurrent reduction of runoff from aircraft, airfield pavement, and road salt deicers will be needed to eliminate aquatic toxicity in adjacent watersheds.
Groundwater is a critical freshwater resource, yet its quality is increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities, particularly in urbanized regions. This study employs geospatial analysis to evaluate the spatiotemporal variability of … Groundwater is a critical freshwater resource, yet its quality is increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities, particularly in urbanized regions. This study employs geospatial analysis to evaluate the spatiotemporal variability of groundwater quality across 11 Watershed Management Areas (WMAs) in northern New Jersey, from 1999 to 2016. Using specific conductance (SC) as a proxy for salinity, we applied Ordinary Kriging interpolation to estimate SC values in unmonitored locations, leveraging data from 295 shallow wells within the New Jersey Ambient Groundwater Quality Monitoring Network. The results reveal significant spatial heterogeneity in groundwater quality, strongly associated with land use and road density. The Northeast water region, characterized by high urbanization and extensive road networks, exhibited the poorest water quality, with salinity levels exceeding the 750 μS/cm threshold for freshwater in WMAs such as Lower Passaic (WMA-4) and Hackensack (WMA-5). In contrast, the Northwest region, dominated by agricultural and undeveloped land, maintained better water quality. Temporal analysis showed a worrying decline in freshwater coverage, from 80% in 1999–2004 to 74% in 2014–2016, with deicing salts and aging sewer infrastructure identified as major contamination sources. The study highlights the efficacy of Kriging and GIS tools in mapping groundwater quality trends and highlights the urgent need for targeted water management strategies in vulnerable regions. These findings provide policymakers and stakeholders with actionable insights to mitigate groundwater degradation and ensure long-term freshwater sustainability in northern New Jersey.
In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were uniformly applied to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film using a bar-coating method to fabricate conductive thin films, and their transmittance, surface morphology, and … In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were uniformly applied to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film using a bar-coating method to fabricate conductive thin films, and their transmittance, surface morphology, and effects on the heating and electrical properties of cement composites were analyzed. The experimental parameters considered were the mixing method, MWCNT concentrations, use or absence of coating films, applied voltages, and electrode spacings. Considering these parameters, the cement composites were divided into a total of four groups and then fabricated. Group 1 is a method for fabricating plain cement composites (PCCs), while Group 2 is a method for fabricating PCC using only MWCNT-coated films. Group 3 is a method for fabricating PCC by adding only MWCNT dispersion, and finally, Group 4 is a method for fabricating PCC using both MWCNT dispersion and MWCNT-coated films. Furthermore, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) image analysis confirmed that MWCNT were evenly distributed across the entire front surface of the PET film and formed a dense network structure. The experimental results of cement composites using these showed that when both MWCNT dispersion and MWCNT-coated films were used, the electrical resistance was significantly reduced and the heating performance was improved. In particular, when the electrode spacing was 40 mm and the applied voltage was 30 V, the MDCF-0.75 specimen exhibited the highest heating performance and the lowest electrical resistance.