Volume 20 Issue 4

This study showcases the characterization of a surface modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) hollow fiber membrane via Cellulose/PVDF coating. Scanning electron microscopy shows evidence of Cellulose/PVDF coating where surface roughness and coating lines with cracking is visible. The rough surface correlates with an improved pure water flux. However, the presence of surface cracks and higher cellulose loading results in decreased flux. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy shows evidence of cellulose on the coated membrane. X-Ray diffraction revealed amorphous phase on the surface of the coated membrane, indicating that coated membrane has improved hydrophilic properties. The coated membrane samples have improved pure water flux performance up to 3 times the value from control (157.8864 L/m²/h/bar) for samples P01 (432.9142 L/m²/h/bar) and P02 (483.8453 L/m²/h/bar) which is the best performing membrane. The porosity and mean pore size correlate with the pure water flux as increase in porosity with increased mean pore size enables better permeability. However, the increased porosity with decreased mean pore size causes a clogging effect which may be attributed to the swelling of the membrane when in contact with the pure water. Overall, the cellulose/PVDF coating modifies the surface properties by developing a rough and porous hydrophilic layer. It enables better performance for the hydrophobic PVDF hollow fiber membrane.

Being in an urban or developed area can adversely affect human well-being. On the other hand, human well-being is supported by recreational activities, which are often carried out outside, particularly in natural areas. Most research on such topics has focused on non-urban/non-developed areas, for which the term ecosystem services describes the direct and indirect benefits that people may receive. In developed regions, limited access to natural features can hinder these benefits. This study explored the specific case of a tree-walking route located within a developed campus in the US. This route is noteworthy for its diverse collection of 40 distinct woody species, which contributes to the campus’s green infrastructure. Two on-site observations were carried out to visually document the trees on the route and to understanding ecological value. An AI-based mobile application, ‘Picture This’, was used to follow the route as a self-guided participant. The results indicate that it is possible to use the application as a guide with approximately 84% accuracy. Its accessibility enhances its potential as a free resource for researchers, students, and nature enthusiasts.

A key challenge for the paper industry in adopting nanocellulose materials is finding the right balance between production costs and the benefits for specific paper grades, given the industry’s variety of products and processes. This study developed the first model to evaluate changes in steam consumption and other process parameters on a paper machine when incorporating lignin-containing micro- and nano-fibrillated cellulose (LMNFC) as a dry-strength additive, as well as its economic effects. Significant operational differences were observed in steam consumption, dissolved solids in the sewer stream, and production rates when implementing LMNFC in different scenarios. Using the assumption that reductions in basis weight frees up enough drying capacity to offset the additional drying requirements of LMNFC, this led to a 15% reduction in manufacturing costs while maintaining paper strength. A capital payback period of five years was estimated for LMNFC production, with a minimum selling price of $243 per ton. It is important to evaluate both process dynamics and dual cost metrics (cost per ton and cost per area), when analyzing the impact of LMNFC on linerboard production. While LMNFC increases the cost per ton, the lower cost per MSF underscores its material efficiency and economic benefits, particularly for lightweight grades.

Hemp fiber, as a renewable bio-based material, holds significant potential in the textile and paper industries. To unlock this potential, a critical step involves purification of the fibers. However, conventional degumming methods suffer from high energy consumption, severe fiber damage, and environmental pollution. This study evaluated a proposed one-step alkaline-hydrogen peroxide degumming process under mild conditions to achieve high-value utilization of hemp crops. Orthogonal experiments were conducted to optimize reaction conditions, including temperature, time, and liquid-to-solid ratio. Results showed that under optimal conditions (80°C, 4 h, 10:1 liquid-to-solid ratio), the residual gum content was 7.68% and fiber crystallinity increased by 8.33%. Additionally, the proportion of short fibers increased while coarse fibers decreased, yielding paper with a tensile index of 190 N/m and a whiteness of 70.3%. This low-temperature degumming process effectively removed gums while minimizing fiber damage, offering an eco-friendly and industrially viable solution for hemp fiber applications.

This study examined parental and children’s perceived value preferences regarding wooden toy materials to facilitate more efficient toy selection while evaluating whether fast-growing Paulownia wood can serve as a valuable alternative to high-consumption timber species to promote green toy adoption. The research employed three common wood types used in toys, furniture, and construction – ash, beech, and Paulownia – to fabricate experimental toy prototypes. Through on-site observations and questionnaires, parental preferences were documented across five dimensions: surface characteristics, price, usage cycle, environmental friendliness, and suitability. Results were analyzed using fuzzy theory for data recording, SPSS 27 for descriptive statistics, and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process for solution validation. Findings indicate that while Paulownia showed slightly weaker advantages in surface characteristics and modest benefits in usage cycle and suitability, it demonstrated significant advantages in price competitiveness and environmental performance, suggesting substantial potential for wider adoption.

Furniture design has undergone a significant transformation over the centuries, evolving from purely functional objects to artistic expressions that reflect societal values, technological advancements, and environmental concerns. In contemporary society, furniture design plays a critical role not only in shaping interior spaces but also in influencing lifestyle, culture, and sustainability. The modern emphasis on minimalism, ergonomics, and multifunctionality reflects changing living patterns, urbanization, and an increased focus on well-being. Technological innovations, such as digital fabrication and smart materials, have further expanded the possibilities of design, enabling more personalized and efficient solutions. Additionally, there is a growing consciousness around sustainable practices, leading to the use of eco-friendly materials and circular design principles. This evolution highlights the intersection of aesthetics, utility, and ethics in modern design. By examining key trends and innovations, this study explores how contemporary furniture design responds to the needs of a dynamic society and contributes to shaping the future of living environments.

Exposure to airborne dust and noise during woodworking operations pose serious occupational health risks. This study investigated the influence of key cutting parameters—rotational speed, feed rate, tooth count, and dust collection system status—on PM10 concentration and noise levels during circular sawing. Experimental measurements were conducted on six materials, including solid wood species (Scots pine, Oriental beech) and engineered wood products (plywood, medium-density fiberboard, oriented strand board, and particleboard). The collected data were analyzed using response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize cutting conditions, aiming to minimize emissions while maintaining operational efficiency. The results indicated that both material type and processing parameters notably affected dust and noise levels. Optimized cutting settings led to a measurable reduction in exposure, offering practical guidelines for improving workplace safety in the woodworking and furniture industries. This study contributes to the development of safer and more sustainable machining practices by addressing the hidden risks associated with dust and noise pollution.

The abundant coconut palm (Cocos nucifera L.) offers an appealing alternative to meet the increasing demand for wood panels, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. However, the sclerenchymatous vascular bundle of coconut wood poses challenges for rotary peeling, and the high capital and operational costs associated with palm wood limit its practical use. Consequently, this preliminary study aimed to develop pure and hybrid coconut-sawn veneer composites (using Macaranga peltata). Veneers were bonded with phenol-formaldehyde resin in crossband orientation and hot-pressed (40 kg/cm², 135 to 140 °C, 15 min). Four types of 3-layer composites were produced: Pure medium-density coconut composite (Pure-MD), Pure high-density coconut composite (Pure-HD), coconut-Macaranga hybrid medium-density composite (Hybrid-MoD), and coconut-Macaranga hybrid high-density composite (Hybrid-HD). Physico-mechanical tests revealed that Pure-MD and Pure-HD met Indian standards (IS 303:1989), demonstrating good strength and stiffness. In contrast, high-density composites showed reduced glue adhesion. Hybrid-MD satisfied most criteria except bending stress, restricting high-load applications. Hybrid-HD failed in internal bonding and bending, limiting its utility. The study highlights the potential of pure coconut composites under optimized conditions. However, further improvements are needed for high-density and hybrid composites, focusing on adhesive type, surface modification, veneer alignment, and hot-pressing parameters.

Paper documents gradually deteriorate during long-term storage, accompanied by acidification and a decline in mechanical strength. To achieve both deacidification and mechanical strengthening, sodium tetraborate (Na₂B₄O₇) was used as a deacidification agent, and two starch products (enzymatically hydrolyzed starch, quaternary ammonium cationic starch) served as strengthening agents. The documents were treated either by simultaneous deacidification and reinforcement (one-step method), or deacidification followed by reinforcement (two-step method). The effects of different reinforcement treatments on the mechanical properties and pH of the paper were investigated. Accelerated aging tests (dry and wet aging tests) were conducted to evaluate the change of the mechanical performance of paper documents under optimal reinforcement conditions. Deacidification and reinforcement treatments improved the tensile index, tearing index, and folding endurance. The type of starch modification and the different deacidification and reinforcement processes influenced the mechanical strength. The surface pH values of paper documents only modified with different starches remained below 7.0. Accelerated aging tests on paper treated with different starches (both deacidified and reinforced) revealed that under high temperature and humidity conditions, the mechanical properties of paper documents deteriorated more severely. The treated paper exhibited varying degrees of relative improvement in tensile index, tearing index, and folding endurance.

To optimize the user experience of an e-commerce platform for old and antique hongmu furniture, this study explored the functional design and interface elements of such platforms within the context of the second-hand economy. First, through qualitative research, the general needs of users were identified. Then, using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), the priorities of different types of needs were ranked. After expanding the functional indicators for each type, the Kano model was used to identify the specific attributes of these indicators. Then the results were combined with the AHP study to determine the core functions that the e-commerce platform should possess. Eye-tracking (ET) technology helped to understand users’ visual preferences and identify their focus on interface layout, color, and other aspects. These findings suggest that the functional framework should include 24 features, such as expert authentication and institutional certification; in terms of interface design, multiple layout options should be provided for users to choose from, while balancing color schemes and text-to-image ratios. This study provides theoretical guidance for designing an e-commerce platform for old and antique hongmu furniture, enabling to identify user needs and enhance user satisfaction.