Sustainable Studies on Concrete with GGBS As a Replacement Material in Cement

The utilization of supplementary cementation materials is well accepted, since it leads to several possible improvements in the concrete composites, as well as the overall economy. The present paper is an effort to quantify the strength of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) at various replacement levels and evaluate its efficiencies in concrete. Cement with GGBS replacement has emerged as a major alternative to conventional concrete and has rapidly drawn the concrete industry attention due to its cement savings, energy savings, cost savings, environmental and socio-economic benefits. This research evaluates the strength and strength efficiency factors of hardened concrete, by partially replacing cement by various percentages of ground granulated blast furnace slag for M35 grade of concrete at different ages. From this study, it can be concluded that, since the grain size of GGBS is less than that of ordinary Portland cement, its strength at early ages is low, but it continues to gain strength over a long period. The optimum GGBFS replacement as cementation material is characterized by high compressive strength, low heat of hydration, resistance to chemical attack, better workability, good durability and cost-effectiveness

Characterisation of the mantle transcriptome and biomineralisation genes in the blunt-gaper clam, Mya truncata

Members of the Myidae family are ecologically and economically important, but there is currently very little molecular data on these species. The present study sequenced and assembled the mantle transcriptome of Mya truncata from the North West coast of Scotland and identified candidate biomineralisation genes. RNA-Seq reads were assembled to create 20,106 contigs in a de novo transciptome, 18.81% of which were assigned putative functions using BLAST sequence similarity searching (cuttoff E-value 1E − 10). The most highly expressed genes were compared to the Antarctic clam (Laternula elliptica) and showed that many of the dominant biological functions (muscle contraction, energy production, biomineralisation) in the mantle were conserved. There were however, differences in the constitutive expression of heat shock proteins, which were possibly due to the M. truncata sampling location being at a relatively low latitude, and hence relatively warm, in terms of the global distribution of the species. Phylogenetic analyses of the Tyrosinase proteins from M. truncata showed a gene expansion which was absent in L. elliptica. The tissue distribution expression patterns of putative biomineralisation genes were investigated using quantitative PCR, all genes showed a mantle specific expression pattern supporting their hypothesised role in shell secretion. The present study provides some preliminary insights into how clams from different environments – temperate versus polar – build their shells. In addition, the transcriptome data provides a valuable resource for future comparative studies investigating biomineralisation

Insights from the shell proteome : Biomineralization to adaptation

Acknowledgments This work was supported by funding from the CACHE (Calcium in a Changing Environment) initial training network (ITN) under the European Union Seventh Framework Programme, reference grant agreement number 605051. We acknowledge E. Dufour (UMR 7209, MNHN) for shell sample preparation. We thank G. Bolbach and L. Matheron (IBPS-FR3631, Paris) for proteomic analysis and discussionsPeer reviewedPublisher PD

Performance of TiO2 nanoparticles synthesized by microwave and solvothermal methods as photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC)

In this work, a direct comparison of the properties of the TiO2 nanoparticles prepared by microwave and solvothermal methods were carried out and its performance as photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) was analyzed. Though previously some works exist on the preparation of TiO2 nanoparticles by solvothermal or microwave methods, they could not be compared directly as the experiment conditions such as choice of solvent, precursors and reaction temperatures were not virtually same. Herein, TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by microwave and solvothermal methods using the same initial precursors and properties of the prepared nanoparticles were compared. From the X-ray diffraction pattern and Raman analysis, the prepared nanoparticles in both the cases were found to be of anatase phase. Optical properties and its carrier lifetime were studied using UV-Vis absorption, photoluminescence (PL) analysis and PL lifetime studies, respectively. Further, its morphology analyzed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, and SAED (selected area electron diffraction) patterns reveals the polycrystalline nature of the prepared nanoparticles. The surface area and the pore size distribution were studied using BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) and BJH (Barrett-Joyner-Halenda) analysis, which revealed its mesoporous nature and uniform pore distribution. The chemical states of the prepared nanoparticles were further characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The DSSC was fabricated using the prepared TiO2 nanoparticles as photoanodes. Further, the power conversion efficiency and the electron transport properties were analyzed.Indo-Norwegian Collaborative Project INCP UTFORS

Computationally predicted gene regulatory networks in molluscan biomineralization identify extracellular matrix production and ion transportation pathways

Acknowledgements We would like to thank Prof Peter Kille for constructive comments on this work. Funding This work was supported by the Natural Environment Research Council Core Funding to the British Antarctic Survey, a DTG Studentship (Project Reference: NE/J500173/1) to V.A.S. and a Junior Research Fellowship to V.A.S from Wolfson College, University of Cambridge. Conflict of Interest: none declared.Peer reviewe

Soluble perlecan domain i enhances vascular endothelial growth factor-165 activity and receptor phosphorylation in human bone marrow endothelial cells

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Immobilized recombinant perlecan domain I (PlnDI) binds and modulates the activity of heparin-binding growth factors, <it>in vitro</it>. However, activities for PlnDI, in solution, have not been reported. In this study, we assessed the ability of soluble forms to modulate vascular endothelial growth factor-165 (VEGF₁₆₅) enhanced capillary tube-like formation, and VEGF receptor-2 phosphorylation of human bone marrow endothelial cells, <it>in vitro</it>.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>In solution, PlnDI binds VEGF₁₆₅in a heparan sulfate and pH dependent manner. Capillary tube-like formation is enhanced by exogenous PlnDI; however, PlnDI/VEGF₁₆₅mixtures combine to enhance formation beyond that stimulated by either PlnDI or VEGF₁₆₅alone. PlnDI also stimulates VEGF receptor-2 phosphorylation, and mixtures of PlnDI/VEGF₁₆₅reduce the time required for peak VEGF receptor-2 phosphorylation (Tyr-951), and increase Akt phosphorylation. PlnDI binds both immobilized neuropilin-1 and VEGF receptor-2, but has a greater affinity for neuropilin-1. PlnDI binding to neuropilin-1, but not to VEGF receptor-2 is dependent upon the heparan sulfate chains adorning PlnDI. Interestingly, the presence of VEGF₁₆₅but not VEGF₁₂₁significantly enhances PlnDI binding to Neuropilin-1 and VEGF receptor-2.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Our observations suggest soluble forms of PlnDI are biologically active. Moreover, PlnDI heparan sulfate chains alone or together with VEGF₁₆₅can enhance VEGFR-2 signaling and angiogenic events, <it>in vitro</it>. We propose PlnDI liberated during basement membrane or extracellular matrix turnover may have similar activities, <it>in vivo</it>.</p

Deciphering mollusc shell production: the roles of genetic mechanisms through to ecology, aquaculture and biomimetics

Most molluscs possess shells, constructed from a vast array of microstructures and architectures. The fully formed shell is composed of calcite or aragonite. These CaCO3 crystals form complex biocomposites with proteins, which although typically less than 5% of total shell mass, play significant roles in determining shell microstructure. Despite much research effort, large knowledge gaps remain in how molluscs construct and maintain their shells, and how they produce such a great diversity of forms. Here we synthesize results on how shell shape, microstructure, composition and organic content vary among, and within, species in response to numerous biotic and abiotic factors. At the local level, temperature, food supply and predation cues significantly affect shell morphology, whilst salinity has a much stronger influence across latitudes. Moreover, we emphasize how advances in genomic technologies [e.g. restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-Seq) and epigenetics] allow detailed examinations of whether morphological changes result from phenotypic plasticity or genetic adaptation, or a combination of these. RAD-Seq has already identified single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with temperature and aquaculture practices, whilst epigenetic processes have been shown significantly to modify shell construction to local conditions in, for example, Antarctica and New Zealand. We also synthesize results on the costs of shell construction and explore how these affect energetic trade-offs in animal metabolism. The cellular costs are still debated, with CaCO3 precipitation estimates ranging from 1-2 J/mg to 17-55 J/mg depending on experimental and environmental conditions. However, organic components are more expensive (~29 J/mg) and recent data indicate transmembrane calcium ion transporters can involve considerable costs. This review emphasizes the role that molecular analyses have played in demonstrating multiple evolutionary origins of biomineralization genes. Although these are characterized by lineage-specific proteins and unique combinations of co-opted genes, a small set of protein domains have been identified as a conserved biomineralization tool box. We further highlight the use of sequence data sets in providing candidate genes for in situ localization and protein function studies. The former has elucidated gene expression modularity in mantle tissue, improving understanding of the diversity of shell morphology synthesis. RNA interference (RNAi) and clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats - CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) experiments have provided proof of concept for use in the functional investigation of mollusc gene sequences, showing for example that Pif (aragonite-binding) protein plays a significant role in structured nacre crystal growth and that the Lsdia1 gene sets shell chirality in Lymnaea stagnalis. Much research has focused on the impacts of ocean acidification on molluscs. Initial studies were predominantly pessimistic for future molluscan biodiversity. However, more sophisticated experiments incorporating selective breeding and multiple generations are identifying subtle effects and that variability within mollusc genomes has potential for adaption to future conditions. Furthermore, we highlight recent historical studies based on museum collections that demonstrate a greater resilience of molluscs to climate change compared with experimental data. The future of mollusc research lies not solely with ecological investigations into biodiversity, and this review synthesizes knowledge across disciplines to understand biomineralization. It spans research ranging from evolution and development, through predictions of biodiversity prospects and future-proofing of aquaculture to identifying new biomimetic opportunities and societal benefits from recycling shell products.FCT: UID/Multi/04326/2019; European Marine Biological Research Infrastructure Cluster-EMBRIC (EU H2020 research and innovation program) 654008; European Union Seventh Framework Programme [FP7] ITN project 'CACHE: Calcium in a Changing Environment' under REA 60505; NERC Natural Environment Research Council NE/J500173/1info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Flexural and Cyclic Behaviour of Hollow and Concrete-filled Steel Tubes

This paper presents a study on the flexural and cyclic behaviour of concrete filled steel hollow beam sections. The specimens in-filled with normal mix concrete, fly ash concrete, quarry waste concrete and low strength concrete (Brick-bat-lime concrete) and hollow steel sections were tested. Measurements of strains and deflections were made under two-point loading. A theoretical model was also developed to predict the moment carrying capacity. The capacities of the beams were compared with the ultimate capacity obtained using the international standards EC4-1994, ACI-2002 and AISC-LRFD-1999. The result of the experimental investigation showed that the moment carrying capacity increases based on the compressive strength of the filler materials. Energy absorption capacity also increase due to in filled materials. Analytical results show good agreements with experimental results

Flexural behaviour of hybrid fibre (steel fiber and silica fume) reinforced self compacting composite concrete members

The present day world is witnessing the construction of very challenging and difficult civil engineering structures. Self-compacting concrete (SCC) offers several economic and technical benefits; the use of steel fiber extends its possibilities. Steel fiber acts as a bridge to retard their cracks propagation, and improve several characteristics and properties of the concrete. Therefore, an attempt has been made in this investigation to study the Flexural Behaviour of Steel Fiber Reinforced self compacting concrete incorporating silica fume in the structural elements. The self compacting concrete mixtures have a coarse aggregate replacement of 25% and 35% by weight of silica fume. Totally eight mixers are investigated in which cement content, water content, dosage of superplasticers were all constant. Slump flow time and diameter, J-Ring, V-funnel, and L-Box were performed to assess the fresh properties of the concrete. The variable in this study was percentage of volume fraction (1.0, 1.5) of steel fiber. Finally, five beams were to be casted for study, out of which one was made with conventional concrete, one with SCC (25% silica fume) and other were with SCC (25% silica fume + 1% of steel fiber, 25% silica fume + 1.5% of steel fiber) one with SCC (35% silica fume), and other were SCC (35% Silica fume + 1% of steel fiber, 35% Silica fume + 1.5% of steel fiber). Compressive strength, flexural strength of the concrete was determined for hardened concrete for 7 and 28 days. This investigation is also done to determine the increase the compressive strength by addition of silica fume by varying the percentage.</jats:p

Experimental Study on Concrete by Using Polymer and Partial Repalcement of M.Sand

Abstract: Polymer concrete (pc) is a composite material in which the binder consists entirely of a synthetic organic polymer. It is increasing popularity as a new construction material due to its high compressive, tensile and flexural strengths, short curing time and impact resistance. This paper explores a research study which has been initiated to improve fundamental understanding of this material and to provide the knowledge required for its broad utilization. Hence a comparison has made between the conventional concrete and polymer concrete along with Partial Repalcement of sand By M.Sand. The mix design of M25 grade concrete is done. In experimental methods such as compressive strength test and Flexural strength test is performed. Polymer resin concrete with resin percentage 0.1% to 0.3% and replacement of M.sand with 10% to 30% is performed and Compared the results with conventional concrete.</jats:p