Dynamic Mechanical Analysis of Borassus Husk Fiber Reinforced Epoxy: Evaluating Suitability for Advanced Aerospace and Automotive Applications

This study investigates the effect of elevated temperatures on the mechanical properties of Borassus husk fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites, focusing on their potential for aerospace internal structural components. Composites were fabricated using Borassus husk fibers incorporated with epoxy resin, including 5% alkali‐treated fibers (treated for varying durations) to improve adhesion. Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) was performed according to ASTM D5418‐01 standards. Results revealed that both untreated and alkali‐treated fibers enhanced the storage modulus of the composites. The highest loss modulus was observed for the composite with 1‐h treated fibers. The glass transition temperature ( T g ), determined from the peak loss modulus, was significantly higher (84°C–89°C) for treated Borassus husk fiber/epoxy composites compared to neat epoxy and composites reinforced with other natural fibers, such as flax, jute, palm sprout, date palm, sisal, and kenaf. Alkali treatment also notably increased the tan δ (damping factor), with the highest value (1.2) for the 0.75‐h treated fiber composite, outperforming several other natural fiber‐epoxy composites. Cole–Cole plots indicated improved resin‐fiber adhesion for composites containing 0.75‐ and 1‐h treated husk fibers. Phase angle data confirmed enhanced energy dissipation and viscoelastic behavior. Thermo‐mechanical stability improved, with the 0.75‐h treated fiber composite showing the lowest total mass loss (0.4%). Overall, alkali‐treated Borassus husk fiber composites exhibited superior mechanical stiffness, damping capacity, and thermal stability, making them ideal for aerospace and automotive applications requiring strength, impact resistance, and sustainability. It will also contribute to achieving the “net‐zero” target established in the 2015 Paris Agreement

Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 1: Insights Into Its Physical and Chemical Properties

Bio-based materials are gaining importance in engineering due to their availability, recyclability, and eco-friendliness. Among them, Borassus flabellifer (Palmyra palm) fruit shell (husk) is an underutilized biofiber in Bangladesh, currently limited to disposal or waste-to-energy applications despite its potential for high-value uses. This study explores the physical, chemical, and microstructural properties of untreated Borassus flabellifer husk to evaluate its suitability as a sustainable material for engineering applications. The physical properties, including density, water absorption, moisture regain, and porosity, were assessed according to BS EN ISO 1183-1:2019, ASTM D750, ASTM D2654-22, and ISO 2738 standards. The husk was found to be significantly lighter than its fine as well as coarse fibers and conventional natural fibers like jute, flax, and sisal, making it ideal for lightweight engineering designs. FTIR analysis (qualitatively) revealed the presence of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which contribute to its mechanical strength, water absorption, and thermal insulation properties, respectively. SEM analysis further demonstrated a cross-linked, porous, and tubular fiber structure, enhancing its thermal and sound insulation features. The findings suggest untreated Borassus flabellifer husk can be a promising alternative for applications requiring lightweight, thermally, and acoustically insulating materials. While its moisture and water resistance outperform some biofibers, chemical treatments could enhance these properties further. To maximize its potential, efficient collection and supply chain systems are essential for industrial-scale production. Harnessing this abundant resource could support sustainable development while encouraging the cultivation and preservation of Borassus flabellifer trees

The association of compassion and positive psychology among people who offend: a scoping review of the literature

PurposeGlobal recidivism rates remain high, with re-offending being a common issue. Traditional offender rehabilitation programmes often rely on the risk-need-responsivity model and cognitive behavioural therapy. However, the emergence of positive psychology and strengths-based approaches, such as the good lives model and desistance-based approaches, have started to challenge this dominant model, offering alternatives for reducing re-offending. Despite growing interest, the literature on positive psychology and compassion-based approaches in offender rehabilitation is still limited. This paper aims to explore the existing literature and assess its impact on offender populations.Design/methodology/approachA scoping review was conducted, which initially identified 925 articles. After removing duplicates and applying eligibility criteria, 46 articles were included in the final analysis.FindingsFour key themes emerged: the effects of compassion and positive psychology on emotions and traits, the role of relationships and identity, the connection between compassion and desistance, and the protective role of strengths in personal growth and reducing offending. The review underscores the potential benefits of integrating compassion and positive psychology into offender rehabilitation. However, the existing research is sparse, and further studies, such as randomised controlled trials or longitudinal research, are necessary to establish the long-term effects of these interventions on recidivism. Incorporating these approaches could signal a paradigm shift towards a more holistic, human-centred approach to offender rehabilitation.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first review to explore both compassion and positive psychology-based interventions among people who offend

Automated Infrastructure Sustainability Assessment: A Deep Learning Approach For Real-Time CO2 Image Analysis

This study investigates the potential of using deep learning for real-time image analysis in assessing sustainable infrastructure and urban development. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) are implemented to evaluate live-captured building images, enabling automated classification and data extraction for decision-making. The proposed approach overcomes the limitations of existing methods by facilitating real-time analysis and large-scale data processing. A dataset exceeding 12,000 images rigorously evaluates the CNN model's performance. This research establishes a framework for leveraging deep learning for real-time assessment of sustainable infrastructure, paving the way for improved data-driven urban planning and development decision-making. The study confirms that the Inception Net V3-based feature extraction technique accurately classifies images based on CO2 emission levels. This classification task is best performed using the Neural Network model. Advanced feature extraction techniques are essential for improved environmental image classification

System automation and organisation for intelligent electricity networks

The transition from conventional energy generation to clean energy generation based onrenewable energies is leading to a rapidly growing share of decentralised energy sources in theelectricity supply. As a result, fundamental changes in the electricity supply structure are takingplace, creating new challenges for the decentralised operation of future electricity grids. TheClustering Power Systems Approach (CPSA) provides a solution in terms of the organisationand subdivision of the electricity grid by allocating cluster areas for its structured automationand control. This research focuses on providing a suitable software system for decentralisedautomation and control systems based on the CPSA to meet the rapid changes and futurechallenges in electrical power networks.Using this approach, a developed software architecture design for automation and controlsystems, the so-called Smart Grid Cluster Controller (SGCC), was developed and is presentedin this doctoral thesis. A suitable method for digitally describing the structure of powernetworks and the data organisation of clustered power system status was researched, developedand validated under real grid operating conditions. The topology of decentralised power gridsis mapped by graph-based fundamental structures and enhanced by a novel Neighbour ClusterOverlapping Method (NCOM). In addition, a time-series database was used for decentralisedprocess data mapping, whereby a direct reference to the topology description was realised.Decentralised neighbouring grid cluster areas can be coordinated concerning the necessaryprocess data exchange.The results of the validated software architecture design, the graph-based cluster topologydescription using NCOM, and the organisation for decentralised process data exchange show asignificant contribution to conventional industrial automation systems for the application ofdecentralised automation and control. The results developed based on the research discussed inthis thesis provide the possibility of an organised and structured operation of increasinglydecentralised power networks

An investigation of the impact of Islamic microfinance on women's entrepreneurship development in rural areas of Bangladesh a case study of indigenous women in Chittagong

Islamic microfinance presents a promising solution for fostering women's entrepreneurship and alleviating poverty in emerging economies. This study examines the impact of Islamic microfinance (IMF) on tribal women in Bangladesh, exploring how it aids them in developing entrepreneurial initiatives. Furthermore, it seeks to investigate the effects of Islamic microfinance on tribal women's financial empowerment, the well-being of their families, poverty reduction, and access to economic resource schemes.This study utilises qualitative data collection methods to assess the impact of Islamic microfinance in achieving its objectives. Additionally, this investigation conducts semi-structured interviews with successful tribal women entrepreneurs and those aspiring to entrepreneurship. The interviews encompass two focus groups: effective tribal women entrepreneurs with at least one year of experience, and individuals who have recently participated in or are interested in entrepreneurial programmes and training to engage in entrepreneurial schemes through the Islamic microfinance sector in the future. The qualitative data is analysed through thematic analysis and coded using NVivo software.Furthermore, this thesis evaluates the impact of Islamic microfinance on tribal women's entrepreneurship development in rustic regions of Bangladesh, where there is a shortage of understanding regarding Islamic microfinance facilities. It determines how Islamic microfinance approaches can improve tribal women's entrepreneurship, increasing their contribution to household income and family welfare. In addition, it measures the extent to which Islamic microfinance approaches significantly contribute to expanding the entrepreneurial activities of tribal women. Based on empirical outcomes, the study has highlighted that Islamic microfinance programs contribute considerably to tribal women’s entrepreneurship development and poverty elimination. The research findings also underscore that, through the effective support of Islamic microfinance, tribal women entrepreneurs have contributed to women's empowerment, gender equity, household well-being, and economic enfranchisement in developing countries like Bangladesh.However, the empirical outcomes also have emphasised that tribal women entrepreneurs can succeed better if IMFIs offer them entrepreneurial schemes tailored solely for tribal women, easier access to finance, and formal entrepreneurship training. Finally, these empirical outcomes have contributed to the broader Islamic microfinance literature by reviewing Bangladesh's moderately less investigated emerging economy. This thesis also theoretically and methodologically explores Islamic microfinance's impact and influence on rural women's entrepreneurship development, specifically among tribal women in Chittagong, Bangladesh

Playful Citizen Discussion Space to Help Steer Society Towards Water Security

In this paper, we explore the use of a playful dilemma activity, a survey and public data analysis to spark citizen awareness and reflection on water use within the UK. Water security ensures access to fresh water for survival and society’s needs. There is significant citizen agency in water security that impacts the freshwater reserves. However, in many countries, water security is under-discussed. Encouraging spaces for individuals to assess their water use, identify waste, and adopt sustainable practices is key to sustaining freshwater resources for the future. We present a case study conducted as part of the GREAT project to stimulate citizen discussion on water use and its subsequent impact on the broader water system. Through a series of activities, citizens can reflect on their water use, consider the future forecast of water security within the UK, and experience a playful dilemma to save a city from the effects of drought. In this dilemma, players are part of an organisation tackling a city’s water crisis. Faced with limited water resources, players analyse data on the population's usage and suggest behaviour changes to reduce consumption. The challenge lies in balancing the need for water conservation with the risk of proposing changes that are resisted by the population. The players must convince the facilitator of both the practicality and acceptability of their plans. Success restores water security, but failure reveals the consequences of inaction. Within this playful discussion space, we create an exchange for citizens to elicit attitudes and preferences on current water use and explore how individuals might be “nudged” into less wasteful behaviour. In this paper, we describe the co-design of this qualitative approach, share findings on attitudes and preferences elicited (n = 19), and reflect on this method as a tool for fostering awareness and meaningful citizen discussions

Becoming a mental health professional two autoethnographic accounts of the clinical psychology journey

PurposeThis paper aims to highlight the arduous journey of becoming a clinical psychologist.Design/methodology/approachThe two authors provide autoethnographic accounts of their respective journeys to become clinical psychologists.FindingsA year after graduation, neither author had succeeded in their goal. They talk about the danger of getting stuck in “the doctoral rut”, where the ambition of becoming a clinical psychologist can take over the applicant’s life to the exclusion of other career options.Research limitations/implicationsThis is of course only the story of two clinical psychology applicants, yet it will resonate with the thousands of people who apply for clinical psychology training each year. Of the five mental health professions, there are more people wanting to become clinical psychologists. This represents a reservoir of talent wanting to enter the field of mental health.Practical implicationsThere needs to be other pathways for psychology graduates who want to work in the mental health field than just clinical psychology but which offer attractive career pathways.Social implicationsGiven the stigma attached to people with mental health problems, it is interesting that so many psychologists want to work in this field.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the commitment that many young psychologists have towards working in mental health services. While it reports on the stories of just two individuals, these accounts are typical of many clinical psychology applicants

Borassus husk fibre/epoxy composites experimental analysis of physical, thermal, flexural, and dynamic mechanical properties for high-performance applications

This study explores the impact of alkali treatment on the physical, thermal, flexural, and thermo-mechanical properties of Borassus flabellifer husk fiber-reinforced epoxy composites in accordance with standards. Using the hand layup method, composites were fabricated with 10% (wt.) untreated and alkali-treated fibers (0.25–2 hours). SEM analysis confirmed improved fiber-matrix adhesion, leading to enhanced properties. Treated fiber composites exhibited reduced moisture regain (0.57−1.28%) and water absorption (0.59−1.55%), indicating superior moisture resistance. Thermal stability increased with alkali treatment, with integral process decomposition temperature (IPDT) reaching 547°C for 2-hr treated fibers. The glass transition temperature (Tg) peaked at 94.5°C for the 0.5-hr treated Borassus fiber-reinforced epoxy (0.5TBHFE). Flexural modulus (up to 3.2 GPa) and strength (up to 108.7 MPa) exceeded many conventional bio-fibers-reinforced composites, making them rational for structural applications. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed enhanced damping properties (tan δ up to 1.21), improving energy dissipation and impact resistance. Overall, 0.5TBHFE offered an optimum balance between stiffness and damping, making it suitable for aerospace and automotive applications. This study highlights the potential of Borassus husk fibers as a sustainable reinforcement alternative, though further optimization and industrial processing are needed for broader application