007866   Bandyopadhyay A;Biswas M N (NO, Government College of Engineering & Technology, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata-700 098, Email: amitava.bandy@gmail.com) : Microbial degradation of CS₂. Int J chem Sci 2007, 5(4), 1513-24.

Carbon sulfide (CS₂) is a toxic chemical to humans. Epidemiological studies revealed its various deleterious effects like disruption of nervous system, nausea, euphoria fatigue etc. Carbon disulfide leaves the viscose rayon plant with the exhaust as also with the effluent and that can cause severe damage to the environment if proper control measures are not taken. Thus abatement of CS₂ assumes significant importance from the viscose rayon industry. Amongst various methods developed so far microbial degradation of CS₂ seems to be a viable one. Artic1e reports on the microbial degradation of CS₂ in the liquid phase in a batch reactor. The kinetics of the bio-degradation process and the growth characteristics of the bacteria (Thiobacillus thiooxidans) employed are elucidated. The performance analysis of the system developed is also discussed.

7 illus, 13 ref

007865   Balagurunathan K;Sundara Raman R (Mech Engg Dep, SCSVMV (Deemed University), Enathur, Kanchipuram) : Thermal stress analysis on di diesel engine cylinder head. Bull chem Sci 2005, 3(1), 11-12.

The objective of paper is to analyse the thermal stress distribution in the Internal Combustion Direct Injection Diesel Engine Cylinder Head. Cylinder heads often fail in operation due to cracks that are noticed in the regions where cooling is limited. The steady state temperature gradients and the level of temperatures are the primary causes of thermal fatigue in cast iron cylinder heads. Because of this thermal fatigue effect, the cracks were noticed to appear at the critical zones of the fire deck portion i.e., between valves, between the injector nozzle hole and the intake or exhaust valves.

3 ref

007864   Atkuri V V;Basu J K;Sengupta S (Chemical Engineering Dep, Indian Institute ot Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur-721 302, Email: sonalis@che.iitkgp.ernet.in) : Homogeneous solubilisation kinetics for the synthesis of benzyl salicylate under solid-liquid phase transfer catalysis. Indian chem Engr 2008, 50(3), 181-93.

Phase transfer catalysis is a unique route to synthesise pharmaceuticals, perfumery compounds, and many other specialty and fine chemicals at mild experimental condition. Synthesis of benzyl salicylate by the reaction of sodium salicylate and benzyl chloride using solid-liquid phase transfer catalysis was investigated using tetra butyl ammonium bromide as phase transfer catalyst. Chlorobenzene was used as the solvent. No by-product was found in the reaction except sodium chloride, which separated out as solid. The influence of different process parameters, such as degree of agitation, temperature, mole ratio of the reactants, catalyst loading on the reaction were investigated. Different phase transfer catalysts were employed to compare their catalytic efficiency and the decreasing efficiency was observed to be in the order of: tetra butyl ammonium bromide > tetra propyl ammonium bromide > ethyl tri-phenyl phosphonium bromide > tetra butyl ammonium hydrogen sulfate > tetra ethyl ammonium bromide. A simple kinetic model has been derived to interpret the experimental data. The apparent activation energy was found to be 50.399 kJ/mol.

11 illus, 20 ref

006999   Yonzan H;Tamang J P (Food Microbiology Lab, Botany Dep, Sikkim Government College, Sikkim University, Gangtok-737102, Email: jyoti_tamang@hotmail.com) : Traditional processing of Selroti - a cereal based ethnic fermented food of the Nepalis. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(1), 110-14.

The Nepali communities of the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal and Bhutan prepare a cereal-based fermented food, Selroti using their indigenous knowledge. This paper is aimed to document the traditional knowledge of the ethnic Himalayan people on preparation of Selroti and its ethnical importance.

006998   Tamang J P;Chettri R;Sharma R M (Food Microbiology Lab, Botany Dep, Sikkim Government College, Sikkim University, Tadong-737 102, Email: jyoti_tamang@hotmail.com) : Indigenous knowledge of Northeast women on production of ethnic fermented soybean foods. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(1), 122-6.

Several ethnic communities of Northeast India have invented the traditional technology of converting protein rich soybeans into flavoured fermented food with easy digestibility and bio-nutrients. This is exclusively carried out by the ethnic women in Sikkim, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh. Worth native knowledge of these women has been documented and six sticky fermented soybean foods have been listed out which include kinema, hawaijar, tungrymbai, aakhone, bekang and peruyyan.

006997   Jeyaram K;Singh T A;Romi W;Ranjita Devi A; Singh W M;Dayanidhi H;Rajmuhon Singh N;Tamang J P (Microbial Resources Div, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Takeylpat Institutional Area, Imphal-795001, Email: saccharomyces@rediffmail.com) : Traditional fermented foods of Manipur. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(1), 115-21.

In Manipur, traditional fermented soybean (Hawaijar), bamboo shoot products (Soibum/Soijim, Soidon), fish products (Ngari, Hentak), mustard leaf extract (Ziang Sang, Ziang Dui) and fermented beverages, viz. Atingba and fruit wines have been consumed as a regular food in different recipes over a long period of time. These household arts are handed down through generation by generation. In the study, the traditional preparation processes of fermented foods of Manipur were documented.

004923   Todorova S;Simeonhov N;Mitsulov A (Textile Engineering Dep, University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy, Sofia, Bulgaria) : Influence of cellulase enzyme (Cellusoft L) on chemical and structural changes of cellulose. Man Made Text India 2007, 50(4), 141-4.

The preparation of cellulose for subsequent chemical processing through its treatment with cellulase enzyme "Cellusoft L" was examined. The samples obtained after enzyme treatment showed changes in the cellulose structure, as well as in the main indicators affecting the technological suitability of the cellulose for chemical treatment. Degree of crystallinity and any possible changes, which may have occurred in the crystal structure of the cellulose, was determined X-ray-structural analysis. The influence of the used enzyme's concentration over the said indicators was also examined.

1 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

004922   Muthusamy K;Gopalakrishnan S;Kochupappy Ravi T;Sivachidambaram P (Biotechnology Dep, College of Pharmacy, Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Paramedical Sciences, Sri Ramakrishna Hospital Campus, Coimbatore-641 044, Email: muthusaamyk@yahoo.co.in) : Biosurfactants: properties, commercial production and application. Curr Sci 2008, 94(6), 736-47.

Biosurfactants or microbial surfactants are surface-active biomolecules that are produced by a variety of micro-organisms. Biosurfactants have gained importance in the fields of enhanced oil recovery, environmental bioremediation, food processing and pharmaceuticals owing to their unique properties such as higher bio-degradability and lower toxicity. Interest in the production of biosurfactants has steadily increased during the past decade. However, large-scale production of these molecules has not been realized because of low yields in production processes and high recovery and purification costs. Describes some practical approaches that have been adopted to make the bio-surfactant production process economically attractive. These include the use of cheaper raw materials, optimized and efficient bioprocesses and overproducing mutant and recombinant strains for obtaining maximum productivity. Descusses the role and applications of biosurfactants focusing mainly on medicinal and therapeutic perspectives. With these specialized and cost-effective applications in biomedicine, we can look forward to biosurfactants as the molecules of the future.

^iia4 illus, 5 tables, 89 ref

004921   Maya Mohan;Chandra V;Sundar Manoharan S (Materials Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Dep, Indian institute of Technology, Kanpur-208 016, Email: ssundar@iitk.ac.in) : New nano CoFe₂ alloy precursor for cobalt ferrite production via sonorduction process. Curr Sci 2008, 94(4), 473-6.

Isolates a stable nano bcc-CoFe₂ alloy using a combi-sonoreduction process under basic conditions, serving as a potential precursor for CoFe₂O₄ production. X-ray and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirms the formation of a bcc phase CoFe₂ alloy with particle size <10 nm, having spherical morphology. The thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) confirms the alloy composition, showing a weight gain between 200 and 500°C, leading to a fully oxidized CoFe₂O₄. A significant increase in the saturation magnetization (M_s = 230 emu/g) for the nano CoFe₂ alloy is observed compared to the theoretical bulk value (200 emu/g) at 300 K.

^ssc4 illus, 14 ref

004920   Kole S (NO, AKPC College, Dist. : Hooghly) : Elastomer networks blends: mechanical and dynamic mechanical characterization of modified silicone rubber networks. Indian Sci Cruiser 2007, 21(4), 31-4.

Silicone rubber vulcanisate was separately subjected to specified hydrothermal treatments as well as to accelerated air ageing. The initial elastic modulus was adapted for measurment of the extent of chain degradation for the specimens treated hydrothermally. The air aged vulcanisate specimens were continuously evaluated during ageing by use of a dynamic viscoelastometer under appropriate mild strain conditions. The results were further translated into kinetic parameters for the degradation reaction. A prominent thermooxidative crosslinking reaction was indicated to be assosiated with the air ageing process.

3 tables, 7 ref

004919   John J A;Ghosh B C (D.T. Div, NDRI, SRS, Bangalore-560 030, Email: jennyannus@yahoo.com) : Bitterness and its reduction in milk protein hydrolyzates. Indian Dairyman 2008, 60(1), 37-45.

"Bitterness, which is a natural consequence of hydrolysis of protein, is the main hindrance to the production of an acceptable protein hydrolyzate possessing good functional properties by the food industry. Debittering of the protein hydrolyzates by different techniques like selective separation, masking, enzymatic treatment and plastein reaction, are the key to the production of an acceptable hydrolyzate which can be used in the formulation of novel functional foods for geriatric, sports nutrition, weight control, anti milk allergic foods and for special medical diets like opioidic, anti hypersensitive and antimicrobial active foods."

3 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

004918   Jadhav B A;Kshirsagar R B;Gadhe K S (Food Engineering Dep, College of Food Technology, MAU, Parbhani-431 402) : Effect of additives on physico-chemical properties of soy-cow milk blended yoghurt. Bionano Front 2009, 2(1), 88-93.

Effect of additives /stabilizers like acacia gum, gaur gum and sodium hexameta phosphate (SHMP) in the different concentrations (0.1 - 0.4%) on the physico-chemical characteristics of soy-cow milk blended yoghurt was studied. The minimum setting time of 4.35 hrs. was observed in the yoghurt prepared by using acacia and guar gum at 0.4 percent concentration . The values of curd tension were increased with increase in the level of concentration of additives. Further addition of guar gum at 0.4 percent concentration improved the viscosity profile and also recorded a minimum synersis (11.48%). The protein and ash contents were slightly increased as the level of concentration of additive increased. Among all the additives, guar gum was found to be best up to the level of 0.4 per cent to improve the physicochemical qualities and also controlled the wheying-off with no adverse effect on quality of the soy-cow milk blended yoghurt.

8 tables, 16 ref

004917   Dhillon G S;Bansal S;Oberoi H S (NO, Central Institute of Post Harvest Engineering and Technology, PAU Campus, Ludhiana-141 002) : Cauliflower waste incorporation into cane molasses improves ethanol production using Saccharomyces cerevisiae MTCC 178. Indian J Microbiol 2007, 47(4), 353-7.

Diluted cane molasses having total sugar and reducing sugar content of 9.60 and 3.80% (w/v) respectively was subjected to ethanol production by Saccharomyces cerevisiae MTCC 178. Incorporation of dried Cauliflower Waste (CW) in molasses at the level of 15% increased ethanol production by nearly 36% compared to molasses alone. Addition of 0.2% yeast extract improved ethanol production by nearly 49% as compared to molasses alone. When the medium containing diluted molasses and 0.2% yeast extract was supplemented with 15% CW, 29% more ethanol was produced compared to molasses with 0.2% yeast extract. Cell biomass, ethanol production, final ethanol concentration and fermentation efficiency of 2.65 mg mL^-1, 41.2 gL^-1, 0.358 gg^-1 and 70.11 % respectively were found to be best at 15% CW supplementation level besides reduction in fermentation time but further increase in CW level resulted in decline on account of all the above parameters. This is probably the first report, in which CW was used in enhancing ethanol production significantly using a small quantity of yeast extract.

2 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

004916   Bhaskar N;Mahendrakar N S (Meat Dep, Fish and Poultry Technology, Central Food Technological Research Insti, Mysore-570 020) : Chemical and microbiological changes in acid ensiled visceral waste of Indian major carp Catla catla (Hamilton) with emphasis on proteases. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(2), 217-25.

Processing of fish generates considerable quantities of highly perishable wastes including visceral mass. The investigation was carried out to evaluate the effect of acid ensilaging on the chemical and microbiological characteristics of the visceral wastes of the Indian major carp, Catla catla, with the main objective of stabilizing the proteases. Acidification of visceral mass resulted in significant (P≤0.05) reduction in pH to 3.3 from the initial value of 6.2, however, it did not change the moisture, fat and ash content significantly (P≥0.05) during the storage period of 4 weeks at an ambient temperature of 27±2°C. Buffer extractable proteins (BEP), although decreased immediately after acidification (P≤0.05), showed an increase up to 2 weeks of storage and then decreased later during further storage. Fresh visceral waste of Catla catla has considerable protease activity especially neutral proteases. Specific activity (U mg^-1 protein) of acidic, neutral and alkaline proteases showed marked decrease during storage (P≤0.05) from the initial values of 4.2, 13.2 and 4.7 respectively. Acid ensilaging negatively affected the proteases present in the fish visceral wastes with alkaline proteases being the most affected.

4 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

004008   Yadav K L;Sharma P (Smart Material Research Laboratory, Physics Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee-247 667, Email: klyadav35@yahoo.com) : Synthesis and characterization of Mn doped PZT ceramics. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2008, 15(1), 61-7.

In the work, the effect of Mn doped PZT ceramics with composition Pb(Zr_0.52Ti_0.48)O₃ + x wt.% of MnO₂. (where x =0, 1, 2 and 3) has been reported. The samples are prepared by employing a simple co-precipitation technique using nitrates of lead, zirconium and titanium_isopropoxide. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the formation of pure phase and homogeneous ceramics of tetragonal symmetry. Scanning electron micrographs shows a uniform grain distribution and the grain size and shape are modified upon Mn addition. Increase in Mn content causes a decrease in average grain size of the material. Dielectric measurements demonstrate a decrease in the dielectric constant and increase in dielectric loss with increase in Mn. The dielectric dispersion is large for the higher concentration of Mn ions in PZT at lower frequencies and is attributed to the space charge accumulation. The undoped and Mn doped PZT ceramics exhibit the hysteresis loops which confirms the ferroelectric behaviour. The prepared ceramics have very low dielectric loss, high dielectric constant and high transition temperature which may be useful for device application.

13 illus, 17 ref

004007   Toliwal S D;Jadav K (Industrial Chemistry Dep, Institute of Science and Technology for Advanced Studies and Research, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120, Email: toliwalsd@yahoo.co.in ) : Fatty acid triazoles derived from Neem, Rice bran and Karanja oils as corrosion inhibitors for mild steel. Indian J chem Technol 2009, 16(1), 32-7.

5-Alkyl-4 phenyl-4H-[1,2,4]triazole-3-thiol of phenyl hydrazides of fatty acids from Neem, Rice bran and Karanja oils have been synthesized and evaluated as corrosion inhibitors of mild steel (MS) in hydrochloric acid solutions by weight loss method. The adsorption of all the phenyl hydrazides derivatives on mild steel surface in the acid solution has been found to obey Langmuir's adsorption isotherm. Inhibition efficiency of these compounds has been found to vary with concentration of the compound, solution temperature, immersion time and concentration of acid solution. The activation energies (Ea) have been calculated to investigate the mechanism of the corrosion inhibition. The inhibition efficiency increases with the increase in concentration of the inhibitors.

004006   Tiwari D C;Jain R;Sharma S (School of Studies in Physics, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior-474 001, Email: rajeevjain54@yahoo.co.in) : Electrochemical behaviour of pyridostigmine bromide-an anticolinergic drug at polyaniline/polypyrrole composite polymer electrode. Indian J chem Technol 2008, 15(4), 319-24.

A composite polymer surface coated on a tin oxide offers dramatic improvement in the stability and sensitivity of voltammetric measurement of pyridostigmine bromide as compared to individual tin oxide, polyaniline or polypyrrole coated electrode. A linear current response was achieved with a detection limit of 1x10^-6M. The stability and morphology of the polymer surfaces were determined by thermogravimetry and scanning electron microscopy respectively. The results suggest that composite polymer electrode is the best detector for pyridostigmine bromide (PB) at lower concentration.

7 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

004005   Sahu S K;Verma V K;Bagchi D;Vinay Kumar; Pandey B D (Metal Extraction & Forming Div, National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur-831 007, Email: sushanta_sk@yahoo.com) : Recovery of chromium(VI) from electroplating effluent by solvent extraction with tri-n-butyl phosphate. Indian J chem Technol 2008, 15(4), 397-402.

Recovery of hexavalent chromium from a model and real electroplating effluent by solvent extraction with tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) was studied. In different acid media chromium(VI) extraction with TBP followed the order HCl > H₂SO₄ ~ HNO₃. In acidic chloride medium chromium(VI) was extracted as HCrO₃,Cl.2TBP. The loading capacity of TBP for chromium(VI) was found to be 5.35 g/L. Stripping of chromium(VI) from loaded TBP was also studied. With 0.1 N NaOH solution chromium(VI) was stripped quantitatively from loaded organic. TBP was also used to recover chromium(VI) and zinc from electroplating effluent collected from an electroplating industry. By simultaneous extraction with TBP, and stripping with 10% H₂SO₄ and 1 N NaOH zinc and chromium(VI) were recovered, quantitatively.

8 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

004004   Pujari V B;Dhage D J;Deshmukh L P (Physics Dep, Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil College, Vashi, Navi-Mumbai-400 703, Email: vbpmodphy@ yahoo.co.in) : n-Hg_xCd_1-xSe thin film electrodes for photoelectrochemical applications. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2008, 15(3), 275-80.

Mercury cadmium sclenide (Hg_xCd_1-xSe) thin films semiconductor photoelectrodes of various compositions (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.2) arc fabricated on glass and stainless steel substrates by a simple chemical bath technique. The different preparation parameters and deposition conditions are optimized to yield quality samples. By increasing the Hg-content in host CdSe-latticc, an optical gap (E_g) of the alloyed semiconductor is reduced from 1.72 to 1.06 eV, which corresponds to maximum absorption in the visible and near infra-red regions of solar spectrum. The photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells are then fabricated and studied for their performance through the various parameters. It has been observed that the flat band potential (V_fb) increased with electrode composition, and reached a maximum at x = 0.01. The variations in the photopotential (V_ph) and photocurrent (I_ph) are studied as a function of the electrode composition. Both V_ph and I_ph are found to be boosted significantly and arc explained on the basis of the electrode materials properties.

7 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

004003   Pandey A;Verma P;Pandey O P (Computer Science Dep, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Engineering College, Fatehgarh Sahib-140 407, Email: oppandey@tiet.ac.in) : Comparison of properties of silver-tin oxide electrical contact materials through different processing routes. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2008, 15(3), 236-40.

In the work silver-tin oxide (Ag-SnO₂) electrical contact materials have been prepared by different processing techniques, viz., powder metallurgy (P/M), internal oxidation (I/O) and internal oxidation of alloyed powders (1OAP). The influence of processing routes on the physical properties such as electrical conductivity, density and microstructure of these Ag-SnO₂ composite materials are compared. The microstructural study reveals that internal oxidation (I/O) technique provides most uniform structure.

6 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

004002   Hossain S M;Anantharaman N;Das M (Centre of Advanced Studies and Research, C Abdul Hakeem College of Engineering & Technology, Melvisharam-632 509, Email: skmhossain@yahoo.co.in) : Anaerobic biogas generation from sugar industry wastewaters in three-phase fluidized-bed bioreactor. Indian J chem Technol 2009, 16(1), 58-64.

The studies are undertaken to develop an effective anaerobic continuous digestion process for biogas generation from sugar industry wastewaters using actively digested sludge from a sewage plant, in three-phase fluidized bed bioreactor. Attempts are made to optimize hydraulic retention time (HRT), initial feed pH, feed temperature and flow rate of feed (organic loading rate) for maximum production of methane gas and maximum removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biological oxygen demand (BOD) of sugar industry wastewaters. The optimum conditions for the system are: digestion time, 8 h; initial pH of feed, 7.5; feed temperature, 40°C; feed flow rate, 14 L/ min with maximum organic loading rate (OLR), 39.513 kg COD m-3 h-1. The organic loading rates (OLR) are calculated on the basis of COD inlet in the bioreactor at different flow rates. The maximum expansion of the bed is observed as 23.67 m at optimum feed flow rate of 14 L/ min. The maximum methane gas concentration is 63.56% (v/v) of the total biogas generation at optimum process parameters. The maximum biogas yield rate is 0.835 m3 /kg COD m-3 h-1 with maximum methane gas yield rate of 0.530 m3 /kg COD m-3 h-1 (63.56% v/v) at optimum process parameters. The values for maximum reduction of COD and BOD are 76.82% (w/w) and 81.65% (w/w) with maximum OLR of 39.513 kg COD m-3 h-1 at optimum conditions.

004001   Chodhury N;Monhanty D;Boral P;Saroj Kumar; Hazra S K (NO, Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Resarch, Dhanbad-828 108, Email: drddmonhanty@rediffmail.com) : Microscopic evaluation of coal and coke for metallurgical usage. Curr Sci 2008, 94(1), 74-81.

Growing demands of the steel industry to import coking coals necessitates their optimal use by proper blending with indigenous coals. Petrographic assessment depicts the heterogeneity of the coals. Maceral composition and vitrinite reflectance per cent as a rank parameter arc the basic outcomes of coal petrographic studies that are in frequent use for categorizing coals. The present study also gives an idea about the potentialities of petrographic techniques to decide the optimum blend proportion from coal type, rank and V-step distribution pattern. Apart from this, coke microtextural studies can be used as an efficient tool not only to cross-check the predicted quality of the coke, but also to predict its behaviour during metallurgical operations. Attempts have been made here to predict coke quality from the microtextural study. Three indigenous coals and four imported coals with reflectance ranging from 0.81 to 1.23% have been used in the present study to illustrate the potentialities of microscopic techniques for the assessment of coal and coke for metallurgical usage.

3 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

004000   Arora S;Dhaliwal S S;Kukreja V K (Mathematics Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala, Email: vkkukreja@lycos.com) : Mathematical modelling of the washing zone of an industrial rotary vacuum washer. Indian J chem Technol 2008, 15(4), 332-40.

The flow of miscible fluids through the beds of finite length to investigate the mechanism of displacement washing is presented through a diffusion-dispersion model . The model is based on phenomenon of diffusion-dispersion in porous cylindrical particles, e.g., fibers. The data of 4th stage industrial brown stock washer is used for simulation. Empirical relations have been found between key parameters such as cake thickness, fiber porosity, bed porosity and fiber consistency. Concentration of black liquor solids in discharge pulp and efficiency parameters have been correlated using least square principle.

8 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

002940   Wanchoo R K;Narula M;Thakur A (Chemical Engineering and Technology Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: anupamat@pu.ac.in) : Miscibility studies on some water soluble polymer-polymer blends. J Polym Mater 2007, 24(1), 57-64.

Dilute solution viscometric behavior of four polymer blends was studied at 20 ±0.1 °C. The ternary systems assayed are: Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/Poly vinylpyrollidone (PVP)/Distilled water (DW), PVA/Xanthan Gum (XG)/aq. NaCI, PVA/Poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO)/DW and PVP/PEO/DW. The intrinsic viscosity and the viscometric interaction parameters have been determined for the binary (polymer/solvent) and ternary (polymer1/polymer2/solvent) systems. Degree of miscibility of these polymer blends was interpreted in terms of miscibility parameters, Δb_m, Δb'_m, Δ[η]_m, andμ. Based on tee criteria, miscibility was observed in these systems. The miscibility of all these systems is in accordance with the interactions between the unlike polymer chains rather than the polymer-solvent interactions. Tensile strength of these polymer blend films was also determined.

5 tables, 21 ref

002939   Waghmare R V;Belsare N G;Raghuwanshi F C; Deogaonkar V S (Physics Dep, Vidyabharti Mahavidyalaya, Camp, Amravati-444 602, Email: ruwaghmare@rediffmail.com) : Effect of paranitroaniline (PNA) on the DC electrical conduction in 1:1 PS/PMMA polyblend thin films. J Polym Mater 2007, 24(1), 65-75.

The films of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and their blends (PS/PMMA in the ratio 1:1) with various concentrations of the dopant paranitroaniline (PNA) were prepared by isothermal eraporation technique. The I-V measurement of these films were carried out, over the temperature range from 313K to 373Kand voltage range from 25 V to 800 V. The results have been presented in the form of graphs. The blends have shown the increase in conductivity with increase in temperature as well as dopant concentration. The results are indicative of predominant ionic and poor electronic conductions. The dielectric behaviour was studied at various temperatures. It has been observed that dielectric constant increases with rise in temperature. The activation energies in low temperature region (LTR) and high temperature region (HTR) have been calculated. The XRD and FTIR studies support the changes occurring in DC conductivity of the blend.

5 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

002938   Vinutha T;Srikar L N (Biochemistry Unit, Biotechnology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, GKVK Bangalore-560 065) : Essential oil composition of Ocimum sanctum and Ocimum kilimandscharicum inoculated with biofertilizers.. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(1), 60-2.

The essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation of fresh leaves of Ocimum sanctum and Ocimum kilimandscharicum inoculated with Glomus fasciculatum + Azotobacter chroococcum + Aspergillus awamori and control (without inoculation) were analysed by Gas Chromotogaphy (GC) for identification and quantification of the major components. Camphene, camphor, linalool and eugenol were found to be present in both the species. GC analysis revealed the presence of seventeen fractions in O. sanctum and sixteen fractions in O. kilimandscharicum of which five major fractions in both O. sanctum and O. kilimandscharicum have been identified. Eugenol was the major fraction identified in O. sanctum (33.51%). Camphor constituted 57.87% and was the major fraction in O. kilimandscharicum.

1 table, 10 ref

002937   Singha A S;Shama A;Mishra B N (Applied Sciences and Humanities Dep, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur-177 005, Email: singha@nitham.ac.in) : Pressure induced graft copolymerization of binary vinyl monomer mixtures onto Saccharum cilliare fiber and evaluation of some physical, chemical and thermal properties. J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 93-101.

Modification of Saccharum cilliare fiber has been carried out by gran copolymehzation of different binary monomer mixtures: Methyl methacrylate (MMA)/Acrylonitrile (AN); MMA/Methyl acrylate (MA); MMA/Acrylic acid (AA); and MMA/Acrylamide (AAm) under optimum pressure (1.5 Kg/cm²) using potassium persulfate - ferrous ammonium sulfate (FAS-KPS) as redox initiator. Initially optimum reaction conditions were worked out for graft copolymerization of MMA onto S. cilliare fiber for getting maximum graft yield. This was followed by graft copolymerization of binary monomer mixtures onto fiber under optimum reaction conditions by varying the concentration of binary component of vinyl monomer (AN, MA, AA and AAm ) with optimum concentration of MMA to get maximum graft yield. The graft copolymers thus prepared were subjected to evaluation of their physico-chemical and thermal properties. Characterization of the graft copolymers has been done by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA)/Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).

6 illus, 10 tables, 20 ref

002936   Shenoy M A;Shetty A;Patil M;D'Melo D (Polymer Engineering and Technology Div, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai Univ, Mumbai, Email: mas@udct.org) : Effect of maleimides on mechanical properties of epoxy compositions. J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 103-10.

Epoxy resins are a very versatile class of compounds. They have excellent mechanical properties and are easily processable. In the present study the effect of addition of various maleimides on the mechanical properties of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A-diaminodiphenyl methane (DDM) based epoxy composites was evaluated. The imides used were based on aniline, a-napthyl amine, o-chloroaniline and p-nitro aniline. All the modified epoxy matrices showed an improvement in mechanical properties between 2.5 to 5 phr followed by a decrease as the concentration of the maleimide increased. This would allow for the use of maleimides in epoxy compositions where minor changes in properties can be brought about by the incorporation of small quantities of these additives.

5 illus, 14 ref

002935   Rath S K;Suryawansi U G;Patri M;Chakraborty B C (Naval Materials Research Laboratory, , Shil-Badlapur Road, Ambernath-421 506, Email: mrpatri@rediffmail.com) : Adhesion improvement of LDPE by radiation induced oxidation. J Polym Mater 2007, 24(1), 91-100.

Commercial LDPE samples were irradiated in presence of air using ⁶⁰Co γ-ray. Structural changes during irradiation were investigated by FTIR and UV spectrophotometry. The increase in surface energy of the films was analyzed by surface tension measurement with polar and dispersive components. The SEM/EDAX dot mapping analysis for oxygen composition of the films showed an increasing oxygen population in the film with increasing dose of exposure. The adhesion test of the exposed film with MS metal substrate in lap shear and peel off mode showed improved adhesion compared to the untreated film. The mechanical properties decreased beyond total dose of 200 kGy.

7 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

002934   Rath S K;Suryavansi U G;Patri M (Naval Materials Research Laboratory, , Shil-Badlapur Road, Addl. Ambernath, Ambernath-421 506, Email: mrpatri@rediffmail.com) : Polyurethane sealant based on hydroxy terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) capped with isophorone Di-isocyanate (IPDI). J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 85-92.

A two component polyurethane sealant has been prepared. Component A, known as prepolymer, is synthesized by capping hydroxy terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) with isophorone di-isocyanate(IPDI). Component B, known as hardener, comprises of a polyol (polyoxypropylene triol) as crosslinker, methylene bis orthochloroaniline (MOCA) and benzylidene bis orthochloroaniline (BOCA) as chain extenders and fillers have been used. The shelf life of the prepolymer synthesized has been studied in terms of the stability of the isocyante content and corresponding viscosity changes with time. The sealant prepared has been characterized in terms of tensile properties and adhesion with rubber substrates. The unequal reactivity of the isocyanate has been taken advantage of, in tuning the pot life of the sealant. The effect of various urethane catalysts vis-a-vis pot life and mechanical properties of the sealant was evaluated.

2 illus, 3 ables, 20 ref

002933   Rashmi;Dayal R (Chemistry Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehra Dun-248 006, Email: dyalr@icfre.org) : Essential oil constituents of Achyranthes aspera leaves. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(1), 33-4.

The chemical composition of the volatile oil isolated from Achyranthes aspera leaves, growing in Dehra Dun was analyzed by G.C. M.S. Seven compounds viz., p-benzoquinone, hydroquinone, spathulenol, nerol, α-ionone, asarone and eugenol constituting 63.05% of the oil were identified. Hydroquinone (57.7%) was found to be the chief constituent.

19 ref

002932   Rana V S;Blazquez M A (Natural Product Chemistry Lab, Plant Bioresources Div, Institute of Bioresoureces of Sustainable Development, Takyelpat Institutional Area, Imphal-795 001, Email: ranavs2000@yahoo.com) : Volatile constituents of Centella asiatica aerial parts. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(1), 57-8.

The volatile oil from the aerial parts of Centella asiatica was analyzed by GC and GC-MS. Of the thirty-seven compounds, consisting of 61.29% of the oil identified, the major constituents were caryophyllene oxide (15.1%), α-humulene (11.3), β-caryophyllene (10.3) and germacrene D (4.6).

1 table, 10 ref

002931   Rana V S (Natural Product Chemistry Lab, Medicinal Plants and Horticultural Reso, Institute of Bioresources of Sustainable Development, Takyelpat Institutional Area, Imphal-795 001, Email: ranavs2000@yahoo.com) : Chemical constituents of fermented succulent bamboo shoot of Bambusa balcooa. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 59-60.

The volatile compounds (yield 0.2g per kg) obtained from the fermented succulent bamboo shoots of Bambusa balcooa by hydrodistillation was analyzed by GC-MS. Thirteen compounds consisting of 97.4% of mixture were identified. The major compounds were hexadecanoic acid (61.4%), p-cresol (31.1), 3a-(3,4-dimethylenedioxy)-hexahydroindole (2.2), 6-Ethyl-2,3-dimethyl-4-(methoxyphenyl)-pyridine (1.6) and hydroquinone (1.1).

1 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

002930   Rana V S (Natural Product Chemistry Lab, Medicinal Plants and Horticultural Reso, Institute of Bioresources of Sustainable Development, Takyelpat Institutional Area, Imphal-795 001, Email: ranavs2000@yahoo.com) : Volatile constituents of Eupatorium birmanicum leaves. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 49-51.

The volatile oil of Eupatorium birmanicum DC., leaves was analyzed by GC and GC-MS. Forty one compounds accounting for 55.75% of the oil were identified. The main components were bornyl acetate (14.90%), caryophyllene (8.31), methyl ether thymol (7.56), β-sesquiphellandrene (4.71), 2,5 -dimethoxy-p-cymene (4.46), trans-ocimene (1.40), coumarin (1.37), α-humulene (1.32) and caryophyllene oxide (1.06).

1 table, 4 ref

002929   Raina A P;Walia S;Sharma K K;Abraham Z;Mishra S K (Germplasm Evaluation Div, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi-110 012, Email: aprraina@yahoo.co.in) : Components of the essential oil of greater galangal (Alpinia galanga) rhizomes from Kerala, south India. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 54-7.

The essential oil of was isolated by hydrodistillation of the rhizomes of six accessions of Alpinia galanga (L.) collected from Kerala, South India. The oil percentage in these collections ranged from 0.27 to 0.62, highest being in IC 87883 (0.62) followed by IC 349746 (0.56). Essential oils were analyzed by capillary GC and GC-MS and thirty components were identified. Major components present in this oil were 1,8-cineole (60.50-72.49),a -terpineol (1.08-4.31), α-pinene (5.42-7.41), terpinen-4-ol (1.95-2.42).

2 tables, 16 ref

002928   Raina A P;Walia S;Sharma K K;Abraham Z;Mishra S K (Germplasm Evaluation Div, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi-110 012, Email: aprraina@yahoo.co.in) : Essential oil constituents of rhizome oil of Alpinia calcarata from south India. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 27-30.

The hydrodistilled essential oils from rhizome of five collections of Alpinia calcarata Rosc., growing in South India were analyzed by capillary GC and GC-MS. The oil percentage varied from 0.73 to 1.26. Twenty four compounds representing 92.86% of the oils were identified. The major components were 1, 8-cineole (37.21), and α-fenchyl acetate (19.87). Other components were: α-pinene (4.13), camphene (6.02), β-pinene (3.89), camphor (4.38), α-terpineol (5.71) and methyl cinnamate (2.63).

2 tables, 19 ref

002927   Paul B;Mathulla T;Issac A;Mathew A G (NO, , Plant Lipids (P) Ltd., Kolenchery, Cochin-682 311) : Acetone originating from curcumin during determination of residual solvent. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 41-3.

Curcumin crystals of 95% purity obtained from turmeric (Curcuma longa L) have great demand both as a natural food colour and as an antioxidant. Out of the solvents used, removal of acetone residue is always a difficult step. It is now established that during the heating conditions of testing, acetone is evolved from curcumin, detectable in parts per million level.

1 table, 8 ref

002926   Parcha V;Jaswinder Kaur;Ubaid S (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, S.Bhagwan Singh Post Graduate Institute of Biomedical Science & Resear, Balawala, Dehradun, Email: vparcha@rediffmail.com) : Composition and antimicrobial studies on essential oil from Mentha spicata. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 45-7.

Hydrodistilled essential oil of Mentha spicata analyzed by GC-MS revealed presence of 22 compounds out of which 6 (71%) are identified. The highest percentage is of methyl acetate (23.75) followed by menthol (23.20), menthone (16.73), isomenthone (4.14) and limonene/β-phellandrene (3.00). The oil exhibited good antimicrobial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus.

2 tables, 7 ref

002925   Osabohien E;Egboh S H O;Imanah J E (Chemistry Dep, Delta State Univ, Abraka, Igeria, Email: osabohieneemma@yahoo.com) : Rheological and physico-mechanical properties of natural rubber filled with welder's used carbide waste. J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 77-84.

Welder's Used Carbide Waste (WUCW) was collected, air dried and screened wth 75nm sieve. It was analysed in terms of its moisture content, loss on ignition, iodine adsorption number, oil absorption, pH, metal oxides and silica contents. It was applied as filler singly and in blends with carbon black (A/330) filler in natural rubber NR) compounding using efficient vulcanization system. The rheological properties such as scorch time, cure time, maximum torque and the physico-mechanical properties (tensile strength, modulus (M100), elongation at break, specific gravity, resilience and hardness) were determined. The results were compared with carbon black (N330) filled NR compounds. The WUCW-filled NR showed cure enhancement and significant increase in tensile strength and hardness upto optimum of 50 phr filler loading before decreasing. The modulus (M100), elongation at break and resilience decreased slightly with increasing filler content. The specific gravity increased with increasing filler loading. The results of the WUCW-filled NR vulcanizates showed inferiority in reinforcement compared to standard carbon black(N330) filled NR vulcanizates but had superior impact on resilience and elongation at break.

6 tables, 30 ref

002924   Narkhede J S;Shertukde V V (Polymer Engineering and Technology Dep, University Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai-400 019, Email: jsnarkhede@rediffmail.com) : Thermal and mechanical properties of PBT/clay nanocomposites. J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 1-14.

Polybutylene terephthalate - clay nanocomposites were prepared by melt intercalation in a twin screw extruder. Montmorillonite (MMT) was modified using three intercalating agents viz decyl triphenylphosphonium bromide, hexadecyl triphenylphosphonium bromide and cetylpyridinium chloride. The intercalation of these surfactants into the clay matrix was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Thermal behavior of organoclay was studied using TGA, which shows increased thermal stability of phosphonium treated clays as compared to pyridinium treated clay. Dispersion of organoclay in the P/BT matrix was characterized using XRD. The effect of the different treatments of the clay on the crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of the composites was studied using DSC, tensile test and flexural test. Phosphonium treated clay containing nanocomposites showed improved properties as compared to pyridinium treated clay.

9 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

002923   Melkani A B;Negi A;Bisht C M S;Dev V (Chemistry Dep, Kumaun Univ, Nainital-263 002, Email: anandbmelkani@sancharnet.in) : Constituents of the essential oil from Scutellaria scandens D. Don. Indian Perfumer 2007, 51(2), 37-9.

The composition of the essential oil from the aerial parts of Scutellaria scandens D. Don, from Kumaun region of Uttarakhand, India was investigated by capillary GC and GC-MS. The GC of the oil revealed the presence of 50 components. Thirty four components were identified representing 87.2% of the oil. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons constituted the major part (76.3%) -caryophyllene (27.7), germacrene-D (19.0), -amorphene (6.5) were the major constituents.

1 table

002922   Kundariya D S;Ghetiya R M;Parsania P H (Polymer Chemistry Div, Chemistry Dep, Saurashtra Univ, Rajkot-360 005, Email: phparsania@yahoo.com) : Synthesis and physico-chemical characterization of thermosetting material via ring opening polymerization of bisoxazine. J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 119-26.

Bisbenzoxazine of biphenol (BIPHO) was synthesized by condensing 0.05 mol biphenol, 0.2mol formaldehyde and 0.1 mol aniline. BIPHO was thermally polymerized via ring opening polymerization. Resultant cross-linked polymer (PBIPHO) was characterized by solubility, IR, ¹H/NMR, DSC and TGA. BIPHO and PBIPHO followed three steps degradation. BIPHO undergoes selective ring opening polymerization over the temperature range 150-250°C and degrades at elevated temperature. A 57-64% residue at 550°C indicated high thermal stability of the cured polymer. DSC thermograms of BIPHO and its polymer supported physico-chemical transformation. New thermosetting material may be useful for its specific applications to be searched.

4 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

002921   Kaushik S;Raina R K;Verma G;Bhatia G;Khandal R K (NO, Shriram Institute for Industrial Research, 19 University Road, Delhi-110 007, Email: rkhandal@shriraminstitute.org) : Processibility and properties of thermosetting composition of coal tar pitch and phenol formaldehyde resin. J Polym Mater 2007, 24(1), 27-38.

A simple and reproducible method has been developed for processing of thermoplastic coal tar pitch (CTP) which had been effectively modified for reduction in its carcinogenic components to form thermosetting composition with phenol-formaldehyde (PF) resin in presence of a cross-linking agent. These thermosetting sheets thus prepared in two-step procedure showed appreciable improvement in electrical and thermal properties. The waterproofing tendency also improved as the amount of CTP was increased to a particular level. The best properties were observed for the thermosetting composition where 40 phr of CTP was present. Thus these sheets can be used for electrical, thermal and waterproofing applications like thermostat casing, insulators, switch boards, electronic tube bases, furniture, roof sheathing, exterior wall sheathing etc.

9 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

002920   Kaith B S;Chauhan A;Misra B N (Chemistry Dep, National Institute of Technology Deemed Univ, Jalandhar, Email: bskaith@yahoo.co.in) : Morphological transformation in graft copolymers of binary mixture of methyl acrylate and acrylonitrile with Hibiscus sabdariffa fiber by XRD and DTA/TGA. J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 69-76.

Graft copolymers of Hibiscus sabdariffa fiber with Methyl acrylate and acrylonitrile binary mixtures possessing different percentage grafting, were subjected to X-ray powder diffraction studies. The degree of crystallinity of the fiber was found to decrease with the increase in grafting. This shows that raw fiber has undergone morphological transformations during graft copolymerization. The results were further correlated with thermo-gravimetric and differential thermal analysis. It was observed that in most of the graft copolymers thermal resistance increased with increase in grafting. The results were further characterized by scanning electron microscopic and FTIR studies.

4 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

002919   Hossain M A;Rahman M S;Chaki B M;Rahman M M; Miah M A J;Ahmad H (Chemistry Dep, Rajshahi Univ, Rajshahi 6205, Email: samarhass@yahoo.com) : Atom transfer radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate in presence of CuCl and triphenyl phosphine. J Polym Mater 2007, 24(1), 101-6.

The homogeneous living radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) in dimethyl formamide as a solvent was carried out by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) in presence of CuCI ligated to triphenyl phosphine and p-tolunesulfonyl chloride (p-TsCI) as initiator. Polymerization proceeded quite rapidly and achieved 100% conversion within 4 h. Polymer molecular weight (M_n) increased with conversion and molecular weight distribution (M_w/M_n) suggested a monodispersed system.

5 illus, 14 ref

002918   Ghatbandhe A S;Yenkie M K N (Chemical Technology Dep, Laxminarayan Institute of Technology, R T M Nagpur Univ, Nagpur, Email: ajay_gbandhe@rediffmail.com) : 2,4 dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) sorption from aqueous solution using granular activated carbon and polymeric adsorbents and studies on effect of temperature on activated carbon adsorption. J envir Sci Engng 2008, 50(2), 163-8.

Adsorption equilibrium, kinetics and thermodynamics of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), one of the most commonly used chlorophenol, onto bituminous coal based Filtrasorb-400 grade granular activated carbon, were studied in aqueous solution in a batch system with respect to temperature. Uptake capacity of activated carbon found to increase with temperature. Langmuir isotherm models were applied to experimental equilibrium data of 2, 4-DCP adsorption and competitive studies with respect to XAD resin were carried out. Equilibrium data fitted very well to the Langmuir equilibrium model. Adsorbent monolayer capacity 'Q°, Langmuir constant 'b' and adsorption rate constant 'k_a' were evaluated at different temperatures for activated carbon adsorption. This data was then used to calculate the energy of activation of adsorption and also the thermodynamic parameters, namely the free energy of adsorption, ΔG°, enthalpy of adsorption, ΔH°and the entropy of adsorption ΔS°. The obtained results showed that the monolayer capacity increases with the increase in temperatures. The obtained values of thermodynamic parameters showed that adsorption of 2,4 DCP is an endothermic process. Synthetic resin was not found efficient to adsorb 2,4 DCP compared to activated carbon. The order of adsorption efficiencies of three resins used in the study found as XAD 7HP > XAD 4 > XAD 1180.

6 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

002917   Fahmy T (Polymer lab., Polymer Research Group, Phys. Dept., Faculty of Sci., Mansoura Uni., 35516, Email: tfahmy_5@yahoo.com) : Iodine- doped poly (ethyl methaceylate) relaxation by thermally stimulated depolarization currents and thermal sampling method. J Polym Mater 2007, 24(1), 13-25.

Corona poling and thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) techniques have been used to study the relaxation behaviour of pure and iodine-doped poly (ethyl methacrylate) (PEMA) in the vicinity of the glass transition temperature (T_g). Different parameters such as, corona field and corona temperature, have been used. The global TSDC spectrum of pure PEMA with varying poling field and poling temperature revealed that pure PEMA is characterized by only a single relaxation peak located at T= 349 K. On the other hand, iodine-doped PEMA samples are characterized by two distinguished relaxation peaks. The first one has been observed in the temperature range from 347 K to 363 K, whereas, the second one has been detected at a higher temperature side at T~ 395 K. Based on the results, the origin of the TSDC peak was attributed to a superposition of dipolar relaxation and space-charge which build up. Thermal sampling (TS) technique was used to get more information about the fine structure of pure and iodine-doped PEMA samples.

5 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

002916   Deshmukh A S (Home-Science Dep, Govt. Vidarbha Institute of Science & Humanities, Amravati-444 604) : Eco friendly dyeing of silk with teak saw dust (waste) as a natural colourant. Vidarbha J Sci 2008, 3(2), 35-9.

The harmful effect of synthetic dyes and textile processing methods cause enormous damage to environment by way of water pollution by releasing toxic chemicals, non biodegradable dyes, total dissolved solids and sludge from effluent treatment plants. Therefore there is a need to realize the importance and to explore the eco friendly technologies of dyeing is more urgent. It will be more beneficial if an eco-friendly industrial waste can be utilized for the purpose. In the study an attempt has been made to use the extract of sawdust and to see whether it can yield dye; since teak sawdust is abundantly available locally as timber industry waste. The extracted dye has been applied on silk fabric using eco-friendly mordants, like Alum, ferrous sulphate, stannous chloride and a natural mordant Harda. The dyed samples showed the changes in shades of colour with the change of mordants and exhibited good colour fastness properties. The use of this dye will help in waste utilization to create value added products for the green minded consumer.

2 tables, 6 ref

002915   Davoodi M M;Sapuan S M;Yunus R (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Dep, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia) : Development of fiber reinforced epoxy composite energy absorber for automotive bumper system. J Polym Mater 2008, 25(1), 15-21.

The bumper absorber has the main task in energy absorption in automotive bumper system. There are two types of energy absorber in modern cars. The first one is for low impact as a reversible energy absorber and another one for crashworthiness impact as an irreversible energy absorber. In the case of low impact test energy absorption, it normally uses foam as an absorber which in some material cases is harmful and need more equipment for production; also there is incomplete recovery after compression. The fiber reinforced polymer composite material offers essential characteristics such as weight reduction, design and manufacturing flexibility and safety improvement. Elliptical shape absorber is a suitable geometry in energy absorption. Substitution of elliptical polymer composite material for foam material in car bumpers is discussed.

11 illus, 11 ref

002914   Dass N;Chetri P;Das H;Sen Sarma N (Material Sciences Div, IASST, Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati-781 035) : Synthesis of poly 2-vinyl pyridinium salt as polyelectrolyte and water soluble foam. J Polym Mater 2007, 24(1), 49-50.

Poly-2vinyl pyridinium salt of periodic acid was synthesized by the interaction of poly-2vinyl pyridine with periodic acid at room temperature, which shows polyelectrolyte character in solid state. The formation of the salt was confirmed by IR and ¹H NMR techniques. Impedances were determined from30°C to 120°C in solid state. Observation indicated that the addition of IO^4- causes the formation of foam when heated from ambient temperature to 70° C due to the evolution of O₂. From the molecular mass of P-2VP and P-2VP-HIO₄ it was found that 95% of pyridine molecule was periodated. Foam was prepared from this salt by heating at different temperatures. The foam so prepared was water soluble. The densities and pore size of the same are also presented.

7 illus, 1 table, 21 ref