Journal of Applied Research on Science and Technology (JARST)

Cold pressed virgin coconut oil production: Enhancing energy efficiency through a closed tunnel hot air generation system

Boonthong Wasuri, Sombat Hathairattananon, Bopit Chainok — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The primary aim of this paper was to research and develop a closed tunnel house hot air production system, focusing on cost reduction in the cold-pressed coconut oil production process. The study's scope was centered on a case analysis of Tropicana Oil Co. Ltd. situated in Sampran district, Nakhon Pathom province. The research encompassed the design of a system capable of generating hot air and conserving thermal energy within a closed tunnel house environment. This included developing and constructing a prototype system tailored to this purpose. One of the key objectives was to assess the system's efficiency within the closed tunnel house setup. The broader goal was to enhance air temperature while reducing moisture content before initiating the coconut drying process. It was achieved through an electricity-powered hot air-drying technique, the process aimed to efficiently eliminate water or moisture from dried coconut, priming it for the subsequent cold-pressed oil extraction phase. The resulting system is anticipated to yield multiple benefits. It's projected to curtail energy consumption for operators by minimizing temperature losses within the system. This is facilitated by augmenting natural heat to elevate the air and container temperature during baking. Furthermore, this research unveiled insights into the optimal tunnel house configuration as a highly effective heat source. It also advanced knowledge in creating low-humidity heat storage systems and measurement/control mechanisms tailored for specific tasks. These innovations are anticipated to have applications beyond the coconut oil industry, extending to other sectors reliant on heat energy for production processes.

Microencapsulation of moringa oil in bio-polymer by simple solvent evaporation technique

Oraya Kullawong, Amorn Chaiyasat, Preeyaporn Chaiyasat — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Moringa oil (MO) contains various bioactive components and pharmacology. It is attractive to use as a raw ingredient in various products. However, there are limitations on its direct utilization, especially MO's instability and hastening the active ingredient's degradation from external environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, oxidation, light, and heat. To solve these problems, in this work, microencapsulation of MO using different biopolymers as cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB), ethyl cellulose (EC), and poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) were carried out by a simple solvent evaporation technique. The prepared polymer microcapsule suspensions were highly colloidal stable for all types of biopolymers and ratios. The spherical biopolymer capsules were formed to a micrometer size after solvent evaporation under all conditions. However, when the microcapsules were dried, aggregation was found with the polymer microcapsules at a ratio of PLLA to MO of 50:50 for all three types of polymers, possibly due to the low amount of polymer to completely encapsulate all of MO. When polymer contents increased to 70%, the dried spherical polymer microcapsules were smoothly produced. Using 70% polymers, the PLLA microcapsule surface was smoother than the polymer microcapsules prepared by CAB and EC which exhibited the dent or hole on the outer surface. Micrometer size, spherical polymer capsules with a core-shell morphology were fabricated. Due to the higher hydrophilicity of the polymer than the MO, the polymer moves outward, forming a strong shell around the MO. Then, all three biopolymers can be used for the microencapsulation of MO at a suitable polymer to MO ratio. However, using PLLA at a ratio of PLLA to MO of 70:30 presented the highest encapsulation efficiency (74.08%), which may be due to its high molecular weight. Because of the non-toxicity and biodegradability of biopolymers, the fabricated microcapsules would be well applied in cosmetic products.

Development of a photoelectrocatalytic method to improve the efficiency of E. coli removal

Kanyarat Hmud, Masashi Hatamoto, Somporn Moonmangmee, Chatchai Ponchio — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The photoelectrocatalytic technology has attracted significant attention for effectively eliminating organic matter and microbiological pollutants in the environment, owing to its remarkable efficiency and low power consumption. The major goal of this research is to develop and determine the optimal conditions that will facilitate the photoelectrocatalytic technique's enhancement of E. coli eradication. The WO₃/BiVO₄ photoanode was fabricated on a conductive glass substrate using the automatic dip coating process, employing a layer-by-layer deposition method. Subsequently, the WO₃/BiVO₄ photoanode was calcinated at 550 °C for 60 minutes. The produced WO₃/BiVO₄ electrodes were employed as working electrodes to investigate and determine the optimal parameters for enhancing the eradication of E. coli process. The primary factors investigated in this study were the concentration of KCl electrolyte solution and the applied potential. These parameters were examined to identify the best circumstances that would result in the highest efficiency for the degradation of E. coli in a photoelectrochemical system. The study also aimed to comprehend the catalytic mechanism implicated in eliminating E. coli by implementing three different processes: photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and photoelectrocatalysis. We discovered that the key factors directly influencing E. coli eradication effectiveness under the photoelectrocatalytic process were applied potential and electrolyte solution concentration. The optimum conditions eliminated 99.99% of E. coli in 150 minutes with an initial concentration of 10⁶ CFU/ml, an electrolyte concentration of 0.01 M KCl, and an applied potential of 2.0 V. The study confirmed photoelectrocatalytic cells' efficacy in removing microorganisms and recommended their application in a wider range of wastewater treatment systems.

Cellulose rubber foam composite use as oil absorbent

Poptorn Klaykhem, Pruttipong Pantamanatsopaopa, Warunee Ariyawiriyanan — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The focus of this study was to explore the fabrication of cellulose rubber foam (CRF) using kapok fibers (KF) as an oil absorbent material. Chemical methods such as sodium hydroxide surface treatment, hydrogen peroxide treatment, and acid hydrolysis were employed to prepare cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). The results of the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy test indicated that the chemical modification of kapok fiber resulted in the removal of lignin and hemicellulose by a disappearing peak at 17, 52, and 148 ppm, respectively. Hydrolysis process of the kapok fiber resulted in nanometer-sized cellulose, with a yield of 72% as revealed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The amount of cellulose nanocrystals from kapok fiber (KF-CNC) used in the study varied from 0 to 5 phr during the formation of the cellulose rubber foam, and it was found that the foam density increased as the number of cellulose nanocrystals from kapok fiber increased. Additionally, the percentage of collapse from the compressive strength of cellulose rubber foam decreased as the amount of cellulose nanocrystals from kapok fiber increased. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the incorporation of cellulose nanocrystals from kapok fiber into the rubber foam (RF) as the amount of cellulose nanocrystals from kapok fiber increased. The oil absorbent of cellulose rubber foam composite with 1 phr cellulose nanocrystals from kapok fiber show highest absorption capacity was 17.8 g/g. The cellulose rubber foam composite absorbs oil before absorbing water when water and oil are combined. Moreover, the cellulose rubber foam could be reused more than 50 times.

Boosting cordycepin production through plant-based oils for vegetarian consumption

Watcharin Yuttavanichakul, Nipaporn Kanthong, Nuntaporn Pungsungvorn — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Cordyceps fungi, including species such as Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris, are known for producing bioactive chemicals, notably cordycepin. Traditional cordyceps cultivation in Thailand relies on silkworm pupae as a substrate in solid-state fermentation, posing challenges in catering to vegetarian consumers. This study aimed to develop a solid-state fermentation process for cordyceps cultivation using vegetable oils, thus modifying the cereals medium and eliminating the need for silkworm pupae while enhancing bioactive chemical production and promoting cordyceps growth. The findings demonstrate that C. militaris can successfully grow and produce adenosine and cordycepin when the culture medium is modified with plant oils. Plant oils, including olive, soybean, peanut, palm, sesame, coconut, and sunflower oil, proved effective for cultivating C. militaris on PDA. Notably, adding a 3% mixture of palm oil in PDA resulted in the most significant promotion of C. militaris mycelium, with a diameter of 5.93 cm. Consequently, the modified cereals medium, incorporating palm oil, was adopted for solid-state fermentation of C. militaris. The results demonstrate that C. militaris can be successfully cultured to produce fruiting bodies comparable and total yields to those obtained using traditional cereals and silkworm pupa medium. Furthermore, there is a notable increase in adenosine and cordycepin production, indicating the potential of this method to enhance C. militaris yield and bioactive chemical output. This research highlights the feasibility of incorporating plant oils as substitutes or additives to silkworm pupae, improving productivity and enabling the production of C. militaris suitable for vegetarian consumption.

Optimization of ballistic vest for protective atrocity and stabbing

Montien O-thongkham, Sujira Khojitmate — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0700

In the optimization of the ballistic vest to prevent atrocity and stabbing, two fabrics were utilized: a ballistic plate made of synthetic fiber Endumax® Shield XF 33 and Twaron® SRM 509. Test the thickness and weight of the fabric before being tested for atrocity and stabbing protection. Finally, test the ammunition protection. The results were as follows: (1) The thickness of Twaron® and Endumax® fabrics. The average was 0.44300 and 0.22000 mm., and the standard deviation and variance were low. (2) The weight of Twaron® and Endumax® fabrics. The average was 1.99300 and 1.45100 g., and the standard deviation and variance were low. (3) Protective atrocity P1/B at the L2, E1 level, the average energy is 33.176 joules. The average blade depth is 0 mm., within the specified standard. Protective atrocity P1/B at the L2 and E2 levels has an energy average of 50.52 joules. The average blade depth is 1 mm., which is also within the specified standard criteria. (4) Protective stabbing SP/B at the L2 and E1 levels, the energy average is 33.54 joules. The average blade depth is 0 mm., within the specified standard. Protective stabbing SP/B at the L2 and E2 levels, the average energy is 49.894 joules. The average blade depth is 7.6 mm., which is also within the specified standard criteria. (5) Ballistic vest plate test with 0.44 MAG SJHP ammunition 240 g. The average bullet velocity was 437.78 m/s. The collapse footprint is 19.6 mm., within the specified standard. Tested with 9 mm. FMJ ammunition 124 g. The average bullet velocity was 438.15 m/s. The collapse footprint is 18 mm., which is also within the specified standard criteria. From various test results, it can be concluded that the ballistic vest provides excellent protection according to military standards and is suitable for security officials' work.

2-Keto-gluconate production and purification by thermotolerant acetic acid bacterium Nguyenibacter vanlangensis KKS-R1

Phongsupha Chanthachaiyaphum, Somporn Moonmangmee, Duangtip Moonmangmee — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0700

2-Keto-gluconic acid (2-KGA) is a pivotal intermediate in the production process of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C. The bacterium Nguyenibacter vanlangensis KKS-R1 is an acetic acid bacterium (AAB) that has been selectively screened for its ability to produce 2-KGA among twenty-five bacterial isolates at high temperatures up to 40°C. This thermotolerant property makes it advantageous for various industries. Therefore, it has garnered interest for its potential application in the production of 2-KGA and purification of the 2-KGA product. This study evaluated the production of 2-KGA by N. vanlangensis KKS-R1 using 1% gluconate as the substrate. The 2-KGA was determined by thin-layer chromatography, Lanning and Cohen’s method, and high-performance liquid chromatography. After fermentation in a minimal liquid medium for 24 hours, the bacterium showcased its prowess by producing 2-KGA concentrations of 7.5 g/L. However, the purity of the 2-KGA production is paramount for industrial applications. In addressing this, a rigorous chromatographic purification regimen was employed. This involved two sequential stages of ion exchange chromatography, DEAE-Sephacel and DOWEX 1X4, followed by Superdex^TM S-200 column chromatography. The collective efficacy of these methodologies yielded a product with an impressive purity index of 71.02%. The 2-KGA product was then subjected to a decolorization process using activated carbon and freeze-dried. This results in the compound being a pure white powder. This investigation indicates that N. vanlangensis KKS-R1 shows good potential as a 2-KGA producer at high temperatures. Under proper purification techniques. These findings contribute to developing purified processes and producing 2-KGA for industrial efficiency.

The effect of maltodextrin on properties of salted egg yolk

Sansanee Thimthong, Nanoln Dangsungwal, Supuksorn Masavang — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Salted eggs are mainly produced through salting treatments that taste salty. However, high sodium intake is part of the pathophysiology of hypertension. Thus, this study aimed to develop low-sodium egg yolks with salting treatment using sodium chloride (NaCl) and maltodextrin to reduce salt content in the salting process. Salted egg yolks were produced using methods in the salting process using maltodextrin (10% and 20% supplement) and were compared to salted eggs brined with 20 and 26% sodium chloride (NaCl) solutions. The moisture content, salt content, color, and texture properties of salted egg yolks during salting for up to 35 days were determined. Nevertheless, salted egg yolks produced with the salting solution using maltodextrin supplement had a significant salt content (0.21-3.30 mg/g) that was lower than the amount discovered in commercial salted yolks (2.84-4.15 mg/g). The results revealed that the maltodextrin substitution affected the salted yolks' properties. The salt contents of all salted egg yolk samples gradually increased during the salting process, along with slight decreases in moisture content as salting time and salt solution concentration increased. The lightness (L*) and the yellowness (b*) decreased while the redness (a*) increased. The hardness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness of salted egg yolks increased rapidly over the time of salting, while springiness decreased during the initial stages of salting and reached almost constant levels at the end of salting. As the salting time increased to 35 days, the salted yolk gradually became dark reddish. The maximum denaturation temperature (T_max) and denaturation enthalpy (DH) of egg proteins increased with increasing salting time. These effects were most pronounced due to the high maltodextrin content of the salting solution. This study suggests that this approach with maltodextrin substitution using the shell egg salting protocol can produce low-sodium salted eggs.

Fabrication of PS-TiO2 hybrid via mini-emulsion polymerization: Study the effect of crosslink on the photocatalytic properties of the hybrid

Thanapong Phetsombun, Tanapak Metanawin, Siripan Metanawin — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0700

In this study, a polystyrene (PS)/nano-TiO₂ hybrid was prepared by a mini-emulsion polymerization process to improve the photocatalytic properties when the crosslinking agent was added. N, N'-methylenebis (acrylamide) (MbA) was used as a crosslinking agent. The effect of a crosslinking agent on the photocatalytic properties was studied. The diameter, morphology, and photocatalytic properties of the samples were characterized and discussed. The methylene blue discoloration was monitored at 660 nm by a spectrophotometer. The result showed that the L* value from the Hunter color scale for 7 wt% TiO₂-PS/0.25 wt% MbA was highest at 73.73. It was noticed that the 7 wt% TiO₂- PS/0.25 wt% MbA hybrid gave the highest photocatalytic properties. The FE-SEM confirmed the well-defined structure with a spherical shape and network formation to improve the photocatalytic properties. The diameter and morphology of the PS/TiO₂ hybrid were in the range of 76 nm to 95 nm by using a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). The particle size of the 1 wt% TiO₂- PS/0.25 wt% MbA was 76 nm, which was smaller than that of the pristine PS of 88 nm. The particle size of the 7 wt% TiO₂ – PS/0.25 wt% MbA hybrid was increased by 25%. The HR-TEM image of the PS/TiO₂ hybrid was studied to confirm the encapsulation of TiO₂ particles in the hybrid. The FFT image of PS/MbA/TiO₂ 7 wt% demonstrated the crystalline structure of TiO₂ (dot) and the amorphous structure of PS (ring). FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of the Ti-O functional group in the PS hybrid spectra. It was noticed that the TiO₂ particles were successfully encapsulated in the PS/TiO₂ hybrid.

Real-time vehicle detection system on the highway

Pisanu Kumeechai — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Locating and classifying different types of vehicles is a vital element in numerous applications of automation and intelligent systems ranging from traffic surveillance to vehicle identification, with deep learning models now dominating the field of vehicle detection. However, vehicle detection in Bangladesh remains a relatively unexplored research lacuna. One of the main goals of vehicle detection is its real-time application, with “You Only Look Once” (YOLO) models proving to be the most effective. This paper compared real-time vehicle highway detection systems using YOLOv4, Faster R-CNN and SSD algorithms to determine the best performance. A vehicle detection and tracking system was also developed that improved highway safety. Vehicle trials compared the real-time performances of the YOLO, Faster R-CNN and SSD algorithms in detecting and tracking highway vehicles by measuring precision, recall, F1-score and operating speed. Models for each algorithm were constructed and each model was trained and tested, with performance measured using a confusion matrix. This statistical tool assessed the efficiency of the system using a prepared test dataset and evaluated the results using appropriate indicators such as real-time road lines, traffic signs and vehicle detection false positive rates. Results showed that the YOLOv4 algorithm outperformed Faster R-CNN and SSD in real-time vehicle detection and tracking on highways. YOLOv4 also processed the results more quickly and proved superior in detecting and tracking objects in real time. The Faster R-CNN algorithm gave high object detection, tracking accuracy and recall while reducing the number of locations needing detection, with the SSD algorithm providing high precision, recall and good image detection results.