Article accepted for publication
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Biodegradable Polymers Derived from Rice Husk and Cassava Peels for Commercial Food Packaging
Author: Juntem Yam et al.
Abstract: The accumulation of single-use, petroleum-based plastics poses a severe threat to global ecosystems, necessitating the development of sustainable, bio-based alternatives. This study explores the synthesis of novel biodegradable polymer films utilizing agricultural waste—specifically, cellulose extracted from rice husks and starch from cassava peels. The research outlines a scalable, low-impact chemical extraction and film-casting process. The resulting biopolymers are subjected to comprehensive characterization, including tensile strength testing, water vapor permeability, and thermal stability analysis. Additionally, soil burial degradation assays are conducted to measure the environmental breakdown rate of the materials over a 90-day period. The findings aim to demonstrate that agro-waste-derived bioplastics can achieve mechanical and barrier properties comparable to conventional synthetic plastics, thereby offering a viable, circular-economy solution to plastic pollution and agricultural waste management.
Keywords: Biopolymers, Sustainable Packaging, Agricultural Waste Valorization, Cellulose Extraction, Circular Economy, Biodegradability
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Enhancing Heat Transfer in Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage Systems Utilizing Discus Mesh Fins
Author: RaziarWakhah et al.
Abstract: Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) systems employing Phase Change Materials (PCMs) offer significant potential for bridging the gap between energy supply and demand. However, the inherently low thermal conductivity of most commercial PCMs severely restricts their melting and solidification rates, thereby limiting overall system efficiency. This study proposes and numerically investigates a novel heat transfer enhancement technique using discus mesh fins embedded within the LHTES unit. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted to evaluate the transient thermal performance, tracking the liquid fraction and temperature distribution over time. The results indicate that the integration of discus mesh fins significantly accelerates the phase change process by promoting both conductive and convective heat transfer mechanisms within the melt pool. Compared to conventional longitudinal fins, the discus mesh configuration reduces complete melting time by a substantial margin, presenting a highly efficient structural optimization for advanced renewable energy storage applications.
Keywords: Phase Change Materials, Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage, Discus Mesh Fins, Thermal Conductivity, Heat Transfer Enhancement
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Effects of Deep Cryogenic Treatment on the Microstructural and Thermal Properties of Copper Chill Plates
Author: Veborah Horn et al.
Abstact: Copper chill plates are critical components in directional solidification processes, requiring exceptional thermal conductivity and wear resistance to maintain strict thermal gradients. This research explores the effects of Deep Cryogenic Treatment (DCT) at -196°C on the microstructural evolution and thermomechanical performance of commercial-grade copper chill plates. Samples were subjected to varying holding times at cryogenic temperatures, followed by controlled tempering. Microstructural characterization via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) revealed a significant reduction in residual stresses and the refinement of grain structures. Thermal conductivity measurements demonstrated a measurable enhancement in the DCT-treated samples compared to conventionally treated counterparts. Furthermore, the surface hardness and wear resistance were notably improved, prolonging the operational lifespan of the chill plates under cyclic thermal loading. These findings suggest that deep cryogenic treatment is a highly effective, post-fabrication process for optimizing the thermal management capabilities of copper chill plates in advanced casting applications.
Keywords: Deep Cryogenic Treatment, Copper Chill Plates, Thermal Conductivity, Microstructural Refinement, Directional Solidification
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Comparative Analysis of Machinability and Tensile Strength in Aluminium 2011 Alloy and Galvanized Steel for Aerospace Structural Components
Author: Tabel Gato et al.
Abstract: The selection of optimal materials for aerospace structural components relies heavily on balancing lightweight properties with high tensile strength and manufacturability. This paper presents a comparative experimental study investigating the machinability, surface roughness, and tensile characteristics of Aluminium 2011 Alloy and Galvanized Steel under varied cutting parameters. Aluminium 2011, known for its excellent free-machining qualities, was evaluated against the corrosion-resistant and durable Galvanized Steel. Orthogonal cutting tests were performed, monitoring cutting forces, tool wear, and chip morphology. Tensile testing was subsequently conducted to assess the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the machined specimens. The results demonstrate that while Galvanized Steel exhibits superior ultimate tensile strength suitable for high-load bearing mounts, Aluminium 2011 provides a drastically superior surface finish and reduced tool wear, making it ideal for precision-crafted, weight-sensitive aeronautical fittings. The study provides comprehensive guidelines for material selection in hybrid aerospace manufacturing.
Keywords: Aluminium 2011 Alloy, Galvanized Steel, Machinability, Aerospace Materials, Tensile Strength
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Python-Driven Predictive Modeling for Student Outcome Attainment in Undergraduate Renewable Energy Systems Courses
Author: K. S. Shao et al.
Abstract: The shift towards outcome-based education in engineering mandates precise, data-driven methodologies to calculate and predict student attainment. This study introduces an automated, Python-based computational framework designed to evaluate Course Outcome (CO) and Program Outcome (PO) attainment for a B.Tech course in Renewable Energy Systems. By aggregating multi-faceted assessment data—including continuous internal evaluations, mid-semester examinations, and end-semester results—the script dynamically calculates attainment thresholds across a specified range of student registration numbers. The model further utilizes basic machine learning regression techniques to predict future performance trends based on historical pedagogical data. Implementation of this tool at the departmental level significantly reduced administrative overhead and provided real-time insights into instructional efficacy. The results highlight specific areas within the Renewable Energy Systems syllabus where pedagogical interventions are required, demonstrating that automated Python scripts can effectively optimize academic administration and enhance the quality of engineering education.
Keywords: Outcome-Based Education, Course Attainment, Renewable Energy Systems, Python Automation, Engineering Education
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Thermal Management of Aeronautical Avionics Utilizing Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage Systems
Author: Ragthon Sargarti et al.
Abstract: Modern aeronautical engineering faces escalating challenges in thermal management due to the increasing power density and miniaturization of onboard avionics. Traditional active cooling systems impose significant weight and power penalties, adversely affecting aircraft performance. This research investigates the feasibility of employing Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) systems using organic Phase Change Materials (PCMs) as a passive thermal management solution for high-power avionics. A transient, three-dimensional computational model was developed to simulate the heat dissipation from electronic components into a finned LHTES heat sink during peak operational loads. The study evaluates various PCM candidates based on their melting temperatures and latent heat capacities relative to the thermal thresholds of typical aerospace electronics. Results show that the optimized LHTES unit successfully absorbs transient heat spikes, maintaining the avionics within safe operating temperature limits for the duration of the peak load, thereby offering a viable, lightweight, and passive alternative for aerospace thermal regulation.
Keywords: Aeronautical Engineering, Thermal Management, Avionics Cooling, Phase Change Materials, Passive Cooling
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Development of an Automated HTML/CSS Manuscript Submission Portal with Co-Author Verification for Engineering Journals
Author: Chghjong Parky et al.
Abstract: The peer-review and manuscript submission process forms the backbone of academic publishing; however, inefficient digital interfaces often lead to severe bottlenecks and data mismanagement. This paper details the architectural design and deployment of a customized, web-based manuscript submission portal specifically engineered for open-access engineering journals. Built utilizing a responsive HTML/CSS frontend and a Python-based backend, the portal integrates specialized modules for real-time metadata parsing, dynamic co-author verification tabs, and automated confirmation workflows. The system architecture emphasizes user-centric design, allowing submitting authors to seamlessly categorize their research while automatically validating ORCID credentials and institutional affiliations. Security protocols and database structures were optimized to handle high-volume submissions securely. Pilot testing of the platform demonstrated a 40% reduction in editorial triage time and a significant decrease in incomplete submissions. This digital engine provides a scalable and highly efficient framework for modernizing the academic publishing ecosystem.
Keywords: Manuscript Submission System, Web Development, Academic Publishing, Automated Workflows, HTML/CSS
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Experimental Investigation of Phase Change Materials for Solar Thermal Energy Storage in Regional Climates
Author: Zunghng-Lahng Cung et al.
Abstract: Solar thermal energy storage presents a vital pathway for localized energy independence, particularly in regions with abundant insolation but intermittent grid stability. This study presents an experimental investigation into the performance of varying Phase Change Materials (PCMs) integrated into a solar water heating system under specific regional climatic conditions. A customized Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) prototype was fabricated and instrumented to monitor transient temperature profiles during solar charging and nocturnal discharging phases. Paraffin wax and a synthesized salt hydrate were evaluated for their thermal cycling stability and energy retention capabilities. The experimental data revealed that the salt hydrate exhibited superior volumetric energy density, extending the availability of hot water by up to four hours post-sunset compared to standard sensible heat storage. The findings provide localized empirical data to optimize solar thermal systems for residential and municipal applications in developing urban centers.
Keywords: Solar Thermal Energy, Phase Change Materials, Thermal Cycling, Climatic Conditions, Renewable Energy
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Investigation of Vibration Mitigation Parameters for Superior Surface Integrity in High-Speed CNC Milling
Author: Avinash Kumar et al.
Abstract: High-speed CNC milling is widely used in precision manufacturing, but vibration remains a major challenge because it can degrade surface integrity, reduce dimensional accuracy and accelerate tool wear. This paper presents a study of vibration mitigation parameters in order to improve surface quality in high-speed CNC milling. The objective is to identify the process parameters that minimize chatter and lead to better machined surfaces. The effects of cutting and mitigation parameters on vibration behaviour and surface response were investigated through a structured experimental methodology. The machining trials were performed by measuring the vibration signals in the time and frequency domains and the surface integrity was measured by roughness and other quality indicators. The results indicated that effective vibration mitigation can reduce oscillatory instability and suppress peaks associated with chatter, which improves the surface finish due to more stable chip formation. The findings confirm that vibration control is a direct route to better surface integrity in high-speed CNC milling rather than a secondary process adjustment. The study also demonstrates that mitigation parameters should be considered together with spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut during process optimization.
Keywords: High-speed CNC milling, Vibration mitigation, Chatter suppression, Surface integrity, Surface roughness, Machining dynamics
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Thermal Performance of Metal Matrix Composite Enhancers in Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage
Author: Rarah Mount Gill et al.
Abstract: The efficiency of Phase Change Material (PCM) based energy storage is frequently compromised by the low thermal conductivity of the storage medium. This research addresses this fundamental limitation by proposing the dispersion of highly conductive Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) elements within the PCM to form a hybrid Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) system. Aluminum-based MMC structures, fabricated via stir casting, were integrated into a cylindrical thermal energy storage unit filled with industrial-grade paraffin. An extensive experimental setup tracked the temporal evolution of the solid-liquid interface and the overall heat transfer rates during the charging and discharging cycles. The incorporation of the MMC structures resulted in a highly interconnected conductive network, fundamentally altering the dominant heat transfer mechanism from natural convection to enhanced conduction. The results demonstrate a reduction in the melting and solidification durations by 34% and 41%, respectively, validating MMCs as a robust enhancement strategy.
Keywords: Metal Matrix Composites, Phase Change Materials, Thermal Conductivity, Heat Transfer, Solidification
Research article, Type: Subscription;
Title: Structural Integrity and Fatigue Life Estimation of Galvanized Steel and Composite Joints in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Author: John O. Rena et. al.
Abstract: The integration of dissimilar materials in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) airframes presents unique challenges regarding structural integrity and fatigue resistance. This research provides an in-depth computational and experimental analysis of the load-bearing capabilities of adhesive and mechanically fastened joints connecting Galvanized Steel brackets to carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. Given the aeronautical requirements for high strength-to-weight ratios, understanding the failure mechanisms at these specific interfaces is crucial. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was utilized to model the stress concentrations and predict the onset of delamination under simulated aerodynamic loading conditions. Experimental fatigue testing was subsequently conducted to validate the computational models, subjecting the joints to cyclical tension-compression loads. The results indicate that hybrid joints, utilizing both structural adhesives and customized lightweight fasteners, exhibit superior fatigue life and delay the propagation of inter laminar cracks. These findings provide essential design guidelines for hybrid material integration in next-generation aeronautical structures.
Keywords: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Galvanized Steel, Composite Joints, Fatigue Life, Structural Integrity