ARCHIVE   > >   2012 - Vol. 42

DAN GEORGESCU, ADELINA APOSTU, RADU GAVRILESCU, TUDOR SEBA


Abstract

The environmental actions can cause deteriorations of concrete having as consequence an intensified reduction of the elements/construction structures’ performance. The design of the service life of certain structures is performed considering methods with different complexities which must consider a rigorous selection of materials as well as important execution, execution inspection, maintenance factors and status assessment during service life. No matter the complexity of the method used, the design process of the service life must be based on the results obtained from certain experimental researches, necessary for the assessment of the evolution of materials’ characteristics, depending on different environmental conditions.

The freeze/thaw attack with /and without de-icing agents represents one of the actions with frequent occurrence, causing important deteriorations of concrete.

In the first part was presented an analysis of the main experimental methods related to the freeze/thaw action. In this part will be presented the results of certain experimental researches performed by authors in order to determine the freeze/thaw resistance of concretes manufactured with different types of cement produced by CARPATCEMENT HOLDING S.A. – HEIDELBERGCEMENT GROUP.

Keywords

concrete, cements, experimental methods, freeze/thaw attack

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

3-10

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

IOANA PAPAYIANNI, ELEFTHERIOS ANASTASIOU


Abstract

The use of concrete road pavements in Greece is very limited while there are many benefits from their use, especially in road parts of high inclination and heavy track circulation. The development of low-cost concrete, tailor-made for pavements will contribute to this alternative road construction. The design and properties of this type of concrete, which could be applied by using conventional equipment, are presented in this paper. The technical characteristics of the concrete which includes local fly ash as hydraulic binder and steel slag as aggregate are well described, including long-term performance observation.

Keywords

durability, mechanical properties, special concretes

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

11-15

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

DRAGAN BOJOVIĆ, DRAGICA JEVTIĆ, MILOŠ KNEŽEVIĆ


Abstract

This paper presents the optimization of concrete mixtures composition related to a physical property and the process of production of trial mix design by using the multi-layered feed-forward neural networks. This optimization was conducted because there is no clear method of designing concrete mixture composition and for the purpose of shortening procedure of the trial mix design of concrete. Mix design depend on many variables and deterministic models cannot give good results. The goal of the research was to make a model of a neural network, on the set of available data from 288 trial mix, which would, with highest accuracy, predict the compressive strength of concrete at the age of 28 days. In order to attain as high accuracy of obtained results as possible, three levels of input data to the neural networks were considered. On each of the applied groups of input data, the neural networks with 1 and 2 hidden layers were formed. On the basis of the adopted neural network, an algorithm for usage of the network in actual situations was made, applied on an actual model.

Keywords

concrete strength, neural networks, prognostic model

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

16-22

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ALIDA ABDULLAH, SHAMSUL BAHARIN JAMALUDIN, MAZLEE MOHD NOOR, KAMARUDIN HUSSIN


Abstract

This paper presents the influence of natural fibre content on the mechanical properties of coconut fibre based-green composites. The mixture ratio of cement:sand by weight was fixed at 1:1. Coconut fibre was used as reinforcement and added to cement matrix to replace the sand composition. Cement matrix was reinforced with 3wt. %, 6wt. % and 9wt. % of coconut fibre by mixing and curing process. Composites were cured in water for 7, 14, and 28 days. It was observed that the composite reinforced with 9wt. % of coconut fibre demonstrated the highest strength of modulus of rupture and compressive strength.

Keywords

coconut fibre, construction, fibres, composites, portland cement

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

16-22

Domains

COMPOSITES AND NANOCOMPOSITES

Full Paper

LAVINIA ELENA MUNTEAN, DANIELA LUCIA MANEA, CONSTANTIN COSMA


Abstract

This article presents the results related to the concentration of radionuclides and radioactivity index in the case of various mixing formulae of dry mortars.

The determinations have been carried out for 10 mixing formulae of plastering mortar (cement-lime and cement), where the Portland cement CEM I 42.5R, calcium hydrated lime EN 459/1 CL80-S and river aggregates originating from various areas of the Alba county are used.

The results reached indicate the influence of the origin of the river aggregates, differences between the concentrations of radionuclides being noticed in the case of mortars under test.

Keywords

plastering mortars, radioactivity, gamma spectrometry, radioactivity index

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

30-36

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ANDREEA MONCEA, MARIA GEORGESCU, ANA-MARIA PANAIT, CARMEN MUNTEANU


Abstract

High Aluminate Cement is known almost exclusively like a refractory binder. The researches achieved in the last decades, especially in the Kerneos company (the inventor of cement Fondue, in 1908 – known under Lafarge name), have lead at interesting results, concerning the use of this binder, associated with Portland cement and calcium sulfate in complex binders, constituents of the „dry mortars”, for construction works.

In such complex binders, Calcium Aluminate Cement, himself, or by interactions with others components, give specific properties like: setting time and rapid hardening, size variation control, aesthetical qualities (non efflorescence, color stability), good resistance of corrosion, good mechanical strength, including abrasion resistance, reduction of pollution ("eco-friendly"). These properties meet the requirements imposed by applications in areas: leveling masses, ceramic tiles and natural stone adhesive, composites masses for external thermal insulations with decorative characteristics, mortars and concretes for repairs, with rapid setting, mortars with water resistance.

Considering these information, some systematic researches concerning achievement and characterization of ternary binders, in Portland cement (PC) – Calcium Aluminate Cement (CAC) – calcium sulphate (CSHx) system, were initiated at the S.I.M.O.Na department in POLITEHNICA University from Bucharest. Complex binder masses with ranging: 10 – 80% Portland cement, 10 – 60% Calcium Aluminate Cement, 5 – 30% calcium sulphate (hemihydrates or anhydrite III) was realized. This work brings data concerning setting time and mechanical strength, of the ternary binders from Portland cement (PC) – Calcium Aluminate Cement (CAC) – calcium sulphate (CSHx) ternary system, as information regarding size variations, during hardening.

Keywords

Calcium aluminate cement, Portland cement, compressive strength, ternary binders

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

37-51

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

DAN NICOLAE UNGUREANU, NICOLAE ANGELESCU, VIOLETA TSAKIRIS, VIRGIL MARINESCU


Abstract

In this paper is presented a synthesis method of calcium phosphate bioceramics such as hydroxiapatite, the mineral component of bones and hard tissue in mammals. Hydroxyapatite powders have been obtained by chemical coprecipitation, by using calcium hydroxide and ortophosphoric acid as a source of calcium and phosphorus. The synthesized powders were characterized by X – ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering technique (DLS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The proposed method lead to obtain a hydroxyapatite with a degree of crystallinity, greater than 80%, in case of all samples thermal treated at 8000C.

Keywords

biomaterials, hydroxyapatite, chemical precipitation, x - ray methods, degree of crystallinity

MARIANA IVAN, MARCELA MUNTEAN, FLORENTINA POTECAŞU


Abstract

The main user of the refractories is the iron and steel industry segment related to transporting, processing and casting of the molten metal (iron and steel).

At present, masses with good thermal, mechanical and chemical properties are imported, As a result of the analysis of the wear influences which the refractories in contact to the hot metal and slag are subjected to (mechanical and erosion stress, abrasion, ferro-static pressure, radiation rate – temperature >1500°C, chemical stress – corrosion caused by the slag attack), new refractory plastic mud gun masses for covering the hot metal taphole and the slag notch have been obtained and tested in the laboratory.

Improvement of the properties of the present plastic masses was aimed by adding materials that could offer the new masses the best thermal, mechanical and chemical characteristics, thus being obtained environment-friendly anhydrous plastic refractory masses by replacing the tar with a inorganic binding matter.

Plastic refractory masses of different compositions have been obtained in the laboratory.Their physical, chemical and mechanical characteristics have been defined after heating and thermal treatment.

Keywords

refractory plastic masses, organic binders, taphole clay

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

61-68

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

GEORGETA VELCIU, FLORENTINA GRIGORE, CRISTIAN ŞEITAN, VIRGIL MARINESCU


Abstract

The aim of the experimental work was to obtain the hollow microspheres alumina, used as fillers in the preparation of insulating coating materials.

As a method of preparation was approached sol-gel technique combined with ion extraction method by emulsified sols. Synthesized gels were calcined at different temperatures and were characterized in order to determine the structure and morphology of oxide microspheres obtained.

The conditions for formation of hollow microspheres and was followed to establish the influence of organic components on the morphology of Al2O3 microspheres, and the influence of technological parameters (speed of soils mixing, drying and sintering temperature) on the formation of hollow alumina microspheres were examined.

The gel microspheres and hollow microspheres were characterized by using thermogravimetriy analysis, differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction, microstructural analysis. XRD results indicated the formation of αAl2O3 at 12000C, and optical and scanning electronic microscopy confirmed the cavitary morphology of the gel calcined.

Keywords

sol-gel, emulsified soil, microstructure, microspheres, hollow, αAl2O3

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

69-75

Domains

MATERIALS SCIENCE

Full Paper

VASILICA DIMA, MIHAI EFTIMIE, ADRIAN VOLCEANOV, GEORGETA VOICU, RAMONA DINCĂ


Abstract

This paper presents experimental results on cathode ray tubes – CRT - glass waste for recovery in glazes. We characterized the CRT glass waste and we obtained frits from it.

We determined the density, the hydrolytic stability, the wetting ability against temperature and the thermal expansion curves, both on waste and obtained glasses.

Glazes were prepared and applied on ceramic support (terracotta and sandstone) in laboratory. SEM micrography was performed to support-glazes interface.

Keywords

CRT glass waste, glazes, recovery

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

76-81

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

DORINA ISOPESCU, IULIAN ASTANEI


Abstract

The article presents a comparative analysis on the evaluation of two building systems for strength structures made with timber. The analysis is performed on a structural module commonly used for execution of construction, ground floor and attic, with temporary housing function.

Structural finite element analysis evaluates tensions, deformations and displacements for the characteristic structural elements, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of using each building system.

In the last part are drawn conclusions based on results, outlooks and recommendations for further developments.

Keywords

wood, conventional structure, framing structure

Year

2012

Issue

42 (1)

Pages

82-93

Domains

COMPOSITES AND NANOCOMPOSITES

Full Paper

ION ROBU, IONELA PETRE, NASTASIA SACA


Abstract

This paper contains information regarding durability of mortars/concrete with cement with 0%, 10% and 20% metakaolin addition (MK). Durability was assessed by determinations on the mortar such as water absorption, freeze-thaw resistance, shrinkage and behavior in sulfate solution (MgSO4, K2SO4) and on concrete: workability, volume of entrapped and entrained air, mechanical strength and permeability tests.

The results indicate that MK is a pozzolanic addition, which can be used in the production of composite cements with good physical, mechanical and chemical properties. Studies have revealed MK’s favorable effect on the properties over time of mortars and concretes.

The mortars based on cement with MK additions exposed to sulfate solutions have a good behavior up to one year exposure. The sulfates resistance of MK cements has to be correlated with the decrease in C3A content by partially replacing clinker with MK.

Keywords

metakaolin, pozzolana, mortar, concrete

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

111-121

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

CARMEN MUNTEANU, MARIA GEORGESCU


Abstract

The polycarboxylate type superplasticizers are substances with dispersing and fluidizing effect on cement pastes, allowing a very important reduction of the water/cement ratio, with favorable influences on mechanical strengths that the binding materials are developing. Depending on their nature, cement nature and dosage, the polycarboxylate superplasticizers cause certain changes in the kinetics of hydration processes and hydrates formation.

This paper brings information regarding the influence of polycarboxylate type superplasticizers on hydration processes and on the hardening structure formation for binding systems containing cements with different mineralogical compositions, synthesized in laboratory. The considered superplasticizer additive was CHRYSO Fluid Premia 180 type, used as a solution, containing the active substance in the proportion of 21.5 % ± 1.0%.Their dosage was in proportion of 0.3 % and 0.9%, related to the cement (these values were chosen based on literature data).

The influence of this additive on cements hydration processes was investigated by X-ray diffraction analysis on the binding pastes, after hardening till 28 days.

Information regarding the influence of the polycarboxylate additive on the binding properties were assessed by mechanical strength measurements on micro samples prepared from plastic mortars without/with addition of 0.9 % superplasticizer, after hardening periods of time 2-28 days. The proportion of 0.9% superplasticizers was selected considering the results obtained on the cement pastes prepared from an ordinary Portland cement CEM I 52.5 R with the same superplasticizer additive, varying the proportion between 0.3% and 1.3%.

Keywords

metakaolin, pozzolana, mortar, concrete

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

122-133

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

GORDANA TOPLIČIĆ-ĆURČIĆ , ZORAN GRDIĆ, NENAD RISTIĆ, IVA DESPOTOVIĆ, DRAGAN ĐORĐEVIĆ, MILOŠ ĐORĐEVIĆ


Abstract

Permeability of concrete to water depends on a number of factors. The actual micro-structure of cement paste, and consequently also the number and size of pores in the paste have a major impact on it. Aggregate type used in concrete making also affects the depth of pressurized water penetration into the concrete. The influence of various types of crushed mineral aggregates (basalt, limestone, diabase and andesite) on the concrete pressurized water absorption in comparison to the benchmark concrete produced with river aggregate was studied. The porosity of hardened concrete cement matrix has been examined by the Krüss optical stereo-zoom microscope and adequate software. The share of the pores smaller than ≤1μm in the hardened cement paste decreases with the increase of water-cement factor. On the other hand, the share of the pores larger than ≥10μm increases with the increase of water/cement factor.

Keywords

hardened cement structure, concrete, porosity, optical microscopy, aggregates

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

134-142

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ANJA TERZIĆ , LJUBICA PAVLOVIĆ, ZAGORKA RADOJEVIĆ, LJILJANA MILIČIĆ


Abstract

Concrete undergoing thermal treatment before and during life-service can be applied as building material for thermal insulation in high-temperature plants. When such concretes are designed with secondary raw materials they show satisfying performances. Sintering and microstructural changes occur within concrete with increasing temperature. Change progression can be monitored by measuring compressive strength and porosity with destructive and non-destructive tests (ultrasonic pulse velocity technique, image analysis). Experiment has been performed on standard, corundum concrete and recycled, bauxite concrete. Samples were thermally treated from 110 to 1500ºC. Destructive tests were used in compressive strength and porosity investigation. Non-destructive tests were performed in order to compare results. Creep testing was conducted to prove sintering process. Results showed that recycled concrete has equal properties as standard concrete.

Keywords

ultrasonic pulse velocity, sintering, high-temperature concrete, image analysis, recycling

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

143-151

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ANA MARIA MONCEA, MARIA GEORGESCU, ALINA BĂDĂNOIU, ECATERINA MATEI


Abstract

Portland cement and derived blended cements, represent binding matrices adequate for the immobilization of hazardous waste. The high pH of the intergranular pore solution in the cement stone along with the presence of calcium silicates hydrates with high specific surface area, as main hydrates, are key elements in the immobilization capacity of noxious elements in these matrices. Portland clinker free binding systems such as alkali activated slag have also a good immobilization capacity of toxic elements such as heavy metals.

The present study brings information regarding the immobilization of a glass waste with high Pb content (> 15%), derived from cathode ray tube glass (CRT) recycling, in three types of matrices: ordinary Portland cement (CEM I), slag cement (CEM III A) and alkali – activated slag binder. All binders showed a good immobilization capacity of the Pb waste (over 99%).

The mechanical strengths developed by the ordinary Portland cement were not adversely affected by the presence of CRT waste (dosed in amounts corresponding to 0.18-10% Pb content).

The compressive strength recorded for the slag cement with a high amount of waste (corresponding to 10% Pb) decreased with 25% and for alkali activated slag with 15% (with reference to the binder without waste).

Keywords

Portland cement, alkali – activated slag, waste, Pb immobilization, compressive strengths

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

152-163

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

FLORENTINA ALBU, CRISTIAN ŞEITAN, CHRISTU ŢÂRDEI, VIOLETA TSAKIRIS, GEORGETA VELCIU


Abstract

This paper presents experimental results obtained in developing ceramic composites based on SiC and Si3N4, sintered by plasma sintering method (Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). Sintering process took place in a controlled atmosphere of nitrogen (N2), at a temperature of 18500C. The experiments aimed to obtain ceramic plates based on SiC and Si3N4 doped with different sintering additives (Al2O3, Y2O3) and their characterization.

Physical-mechanical parameters were determined (bulk density, apparent porosity, water absorption, tensile strength and hardness). Mineralogical composition analysis was also carried out by X-ray diffraction for both composites. The results reflect the benefits of obtaining by plasma sintering method, because of the superior characteristics results comparing with those materials obtained by the classical method.

Keywords

ceramic composites, SiC, Si3N4, SPS sintering, physico-mechanical parameters

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

164-171

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

ANA MARIA LUNGU, ANDREI SÂRBU, VICTOR FRUTH, FLORIANA CONSTANTIN, MIRCEA TEODORESCU, NARTZISLAV PETROV


Abstract

A series of new inorganic/organic composites were synthesized by polymerization of acrylic acid in a concentrated aqueous suspension of alumina powder, using N,N’-methylenebisacrylamide as crosslinker. The inorganic/organic composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal analysis (TGA/DTG), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Composite materials, with a volumetric shrinkage ranging from 50 to 87% depending on the acrylic acid concentration, were obtained. By increasing the acrylic acid concentration, the compressive strength increased up to 230 MPa. It was demonstrated that these composite systems can form porous alumina ceramic materials with ~80% porosity after burning off the organic network.

Keywords

gelcasting, polymeric composites, alumina, acrylic acid, sintering, porous ceramics

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

172-178

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

C.Y.HEAH, H.KAMARUDIN, A.M.MUSTAFA AL BAKRI, M.BNHUSSAIN, M.LUQMAN, I.KHAIRUL NIZAR, Y.M.LIEW


Abstract

Alkali concentration is the most significant factor in geopolymerization process that must be taken into consideration during the synthesis of kaolin geopolymers. The kaolin geopolymers were prepared by mixing kaolin and alkali activator solution. The alkali activator solution used was mixture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3). This study aims to analyze the effect of NaOH concentration (6-14M) on mechanical properties of kaolin geopolymers. Compressive strength results showed that the optimum NaOH concentration is 8M. SEM, XRD and FTIR analysis were performed to study the transformation taken place during the geopolymer synthesis.

Keywords

kaolin, geopolymers, alkali concentration, mechanical properties

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

179-186

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

FLORENTINA GRIGORE, MAGDALENA LUNGU, DIANA SAVU, MIHAI RADU, GEORGETA VELCIU


Abstract

Tricalcium phosphate has received a special attention as graft for bone regeneration due to its excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. In this paper, we prepared β-Ca3(PO4)2 granules that were tested in terms of biocompatibility. Firstly, we obtained the ceramic materials by polymeric sponge technique starting from ultrafine powders of β-TCP obtained in our laboratory and polyurethanes sponge from S.C Poliflex. Secondly, the ceramic foam was grained through a sieve with mesh sizes ranging between 500-1000 μm to obtain the grains. The chemical composition and morphology were investigated using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and optical microscopy (OP). The characteristics of the ceramic slurries were determined with the ZetaPlus Brookhaven device. The biocompatibility of the product was analyzed by evaluation of the cytotoxic effects, using the agar diffusion method.

Keywords

tricalcium phosphate granules, ceramic suspensions, biocompatibility

DANIELA AURELIA PÎRVU, BOGDAN MIHAI GĂLBINAŞU, ION PĂTRAŞCU, CRISTINA FLORENTINA PÎRVU, DAN NIŢOI


Abstract

Self- adhesive cements are the lmost recent class of cements based on resin composites designed to secure the prosthetic restorations to dental tissues. Comparatively to classic cements based on resins, they are more attractive to dentists because there is no requirement for a preconditioning of the substrates. Nevertheless, their adhesive performance has been less evaluated.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the shear bond strength of the three resin self- adhesive cements: MaxcemElite (Kerr)- ME, Biscem (Bisco)- BC, Rely XU100 (3MEspe)- RU and a classic version of resin cement - Variolink II ( Ivoclar)- VL to ceramic substrates: glass matrix and zirconia.

The results evaluated by one-way ANOVA test indicated no statistically significant differences among the four cements in terms of adhesion to glass ceramics – the means of the values were: 14.33 MPa (SD+4.16)- ME, 17.55 MPa (SD+6.45)- BC, 21.45 MPa (SD+5.46)- RU and 21.40 MPa (SD+4.38)- VL. There are differences among the means of the values of the four groups analyzed (probability p <0.0001), the adhesion to zirconia: 4.9 MPa (SD+0.61)- ME, 10.84 MPa (SD+0.25)- BC, 8.2 MPa (SD+0.24)- RU and 15.65 MPa (SD+1.07)- VL.

Keywords

composite cements, glass ceramics, zirconia, shear bond strenght

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

193-203

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

DORINA ISOPESCU, OANA STĂNILĂ, IULIAN ASTANEI, CĂLIN CORDUBAN


Abstract

Wood as building material shall comply with the concept of sustainable development and provides the association between economic growth and environmental protection. Physical and mechanical properties of wood have a large number of values determined by the influences of an extended number of factors.

The article presents a description of wood properties required for design of wooden construction elements, and an analysis of the results obtained by testing laboratory specimens, according to standards requirements in force for simple bending, tensile and compression. Finally conclusions and recommendations are based on the results.

Keywords

timber elements, bending, tensile, compression, laboratory test

Year

2012

Issue

42 (2)

Pages

204

Domains

COMPOSITES AND NANOCOMPOSITES

Full Paper

MIHAI ROHAN


Abstract

Cement industry has to prepare its future in the context of European Union’s stringent need for a long term vision. If the vision is missing, serious consequences may occur, as for example, the European Commission’s failure in reaching a consensus with countries as Brazil, China, India, USA and many others, regarding reduction of global warming carbon emissions.

Major challenges which Cement industry from Europe must meet on future are mainly refer to:

Climate changes, that includes CO2 allocation for the period 2013-2020, revision of list for vulnerable sectors at carbon leakage, roadmap for a low carbon economy by 2050, tax of CO2 for energetic products, adaptation at climate changes, etc.

Energy Efficiency Directive

Implementation of Industrial Emissions Directive and of BATs (Best Available Technics)

Implementation of Agreement regarding crystalline silica

Sources efficiency and the access at raw materials and durable using of resources

Biodiversity and Nature 2000

Waste Framework Directive and also wastes management from constructions and demolishes

REACH and CLP (classification, labeling and packing)

Revision of the Directive SEVESO II

Implementation of Regulation for construction products

Revision of cement and concretes standard

Environment Product Declaration

Gamma radiations from building materials

Mercury emissions

Keywords

cement, durability, environment, concrete

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

231-236

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ECATERINA ANDRONESCU, DORU VLADIMIR PUŞCAŞU


Abstract

This paper aims at providing more recent information concerning dioxins and furans emissions in cement plants. The evaluated results were obtained from thousands of monitoring tests carried out worldwide and in Romania, after 2006. The measurements cover most of the production technologies and a great variety of waste based alternative fuels.

Due to the conditions inherent to clinker production: high temperatures, approx. 2000 °C for gases and long residence times of flue gases in the kiln (about 10 seconds at temperatures higher than 1100 – 1200 °C and 5 – 6 second at temperatures over 1800°C), the release of dioxins and furans from clinker kilns is very low, no matter the fuels, even when alternative fuels based on hazardous waste are used.

As a result of the existing conditions, a DRE (destruction and removal factor) of 99.9999% can be reached in the clinker kilns for POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants), like dioxins and furans. The measurements carried out worldwide and in Romania confirm the very low level of dioxin and furan emissions of clinker kilns.

Keywords

dioxins, furans, alternative fuels

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

237-241

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

DOREL RADU, ANDREEA DAVID


Abstract

Considering that cement industry is more often and more serious confronted with crises of fossil fuels, therefore with the necessity of reducing specific heat consumptions, the use of alternative fuels may be an efficient solution.

Although in the past few years the research in this domain has increased, at present there is little information regarding how the use of alternative fuels may influence the values of the main thermo-technological indicators of combustion process and rotary kilns: temperature and enthalpy of hot gases, absolute productivity and specific heat consumption.

This paper aims to present some data regarding the influence of partial/total substitution of a reference fuel with an alternative one on specific heat consumption of rotary kilns.

Keywords

alternative fuels, oxygen enriched air, enthalpy of hot gases, specific heat consumption

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

242-255

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ZHITAO CHEN, YINGZI YANG, YAN YAO, YANGCAN WU


Abstract

Quasi-static compressive strength and dynamic impact compressive response of PVA fiber reinforced cement-based composite (PVA-FRCC) with different water binder ratio were studied. The quasi-static compressive strength decreased with increasing water binder ratio. The split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) was used to obtain the dynamic impact compressive response of PVA-FRCC. The results showed that the stress-strain relationship of PVA-FRCC with different water binder ratio performed obvious strain rate effect. The deformation capacity of PVA-FRCC under dynamic load was improved with the increase of water binder ratio. The energy absorption capacity also performed rate dependency; as water binder ratio increase, the energy absorption capacity of PVA-FRCC was weakened.

Keywords

water binder ratio; PVA-FRCC; dynamic mechanical properties; SHPB

PETRU BALTĂ


Abstract

This communication, having a review character of the works developed in the frame of the department Science and Engineering of the Oxidic Materials and Nano-Materials, begins with a short remembering of the problems of the oxide glass structure in the middle of the last century. A special attention is given to the concept elaborated by Professor Şerban Solacolu under the name quasicrystalline structure of glass. In the current year, a Nobel Prize was given for a theory with a similar name, elaborated for non-crystalline metallic alloys. In the department were studied the ideas concerning the chemical equilibrium in oxidic melts, which determine at high temperatures, the formation of a nano-heterogeneous structure with a certain aggregates distribution theoretically calculable which may be correlated with some properties of the resulted glass. An important progress was realized when an experimental method was elaborated for determining the basicity of these structural elements with the possibility to estimate their compositions and distribution. The principle of the experimental method is presented. The distribution of the nano-heterogeneous elements offers interesting information concerning the structure of glass and make possible correlations with properties. So is outlined the possibility to follow, even at the industrial level, the influences of some components of technology on the structure and properties of the produced glass.

Keywords

Professors’ Solacolu quasicrystalline structure of glass, studies of glass structure in our department, new SBD method for determination of the nano-heterogeneous aggregates distribution in glass

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

264-269

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

IOAN LAZĂU, COSMIN VANCEA


Abstract

Foam glass as a building construction material is competing with insulating polymeric and fiber materials as it is a good insulator. The low flammability, thermal stability and high chemical durability are a distinct advantage over polymeric materials. The possibility to produce foam glass using industrial wastes was investigated in this paper: three types of recycled glass wastes (window panes, bottle glass and glassware) together with fly ash were the main raw materials while SiC was used as foaming agent. Two different weight ratios glass waste: fly ash: SiC (80:10:10 and 70:20:10) were used for the foam glass synthesis. The raw materials as powders were mixed together with and then pressed into cylinders using ethylene glycol as binder. The heat treatment was conducted at 900°C for 5 and 10 minutes respectively. Optical microscopy, apparent porosity and apparent density and chemical stability of the foam glasses were used in order to characterize the obtained products as insulator materials for the building industry. The foam glasses obtained from a 5 minutes heat treatment process had an apparent porosity of 37.8-41.3% and an apparent density of 1.03-1.22 g/cm3 compared to those obtained from a 10 minutes heat treatment process, having an apparent porosity of 66.7-69.5% and apparent densities of 0.51-0.55 g/cm3. The obtained results confirm the alternative producing foam glass from glass wastes.

Keywords

thermal treatment, porosity, glass wastes, optical microscopy, insulator

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

270-275

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

ALINA MELINESCU, MARIA PREDA


Abstract

Porcelain stoneware is a high performance product with high wear resistance, used for floor tiles in high traffic areas. The final product must have a higher proportion of crystalline phase compared with the traditional ceramic floor tiles in order to obtain a good resistance. For this reason the chemical composition was chosen based on alkaline-earth oxides, which have the ability to form compounds with high speed of crystallization. Theoretically cordierite and mulltite have been chosen as the main mineralogical components which were widely varied. Samples were synthesized by pressing then heated (sintered) at 1200-13500C with 2 hours plateau at maximum sintering temperature (thermal treatment temperature).

On the thermally treated samples the variation of vitrification characteristics according to the thermal treatment temperature was determined. An appropriate behaviour to vitrification was observed for the samples with theoretical content of cordierite of 30-50%. The X-ray diffraction shows that at low temperatures (the cordierite is a major phase, but in low proportions magnesium spinel and mullite occur). The latter is a nonequilibrium compound that occurs as an intermediate phase in the formation of cordierite and entirely consumed over 1300°C. At temperature of 1300-1350°C remain crystalline only two components of equilibrium. Texture studies performed with electron microscopy revealed the presence of mullite as neddle form and cordierite as tabular form.

Keywords

mullite, cordierite, RX, SEM, porcelain stoneware

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

276-282

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

CHRISTU ŢÂRDEI, SORINA MITREA, OANA CRĂCIUNESCU, ELENA IULIA OPRIŢA, RUXANA TRUŞCĂ


Abstract

Intensive research is conducted both in understanding the phenomenon of "repair / healing of the bone" and for the development of techniques, devices and materials for effective applications involved in bone regeneration. This study is aimed at the development of a method to fabricate porous spherical tri-calcium phosphate (β-TCP) granules, which can be impregnated with a drug. Microspheres were prepared by the ionotropic gelation technique using CaCl2 as cross-linking agent.

The microstructure and composition of ceramic microsphere were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In vitro cell culture tests showed that both ceramic microsphere types were highly biocompatible and favored cell growth during 72 hours of cultivation. Porous tri-calcium phosphate microspheres can be used for bone void filler, but also for drug delivery systems.

Keywords

biomaterials, tri-calcium phosphate, ceramic beads, alginate, ionotropic gelation

ALINA DUMITRU, GEORGETA VELCIU, VIRGIL MARINESCU, GABRIELA SBARCEA


Abstract

The elaboration of bulk (1-x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)-xPbTiO3 by using the columbite method is presented. The main aim of the processing was to avoid the formation of an unwanted pyrochlore phase. Optimized sintering temperatures have been chosen in correlation with the densification evolution. Samples with the PMN/PT ratio of 1.0/0.0, 0.9/0.1 and 0.65/0.35 have been processed; X-Ray diffraction and scanning electronic microscopy investigation are presented. The results showing the formation of pyrochlore-free structure in all the investigated samples at sintering temperatures around 1,100 0C.

Keywords

ceramics, PMN-PT, sintering, relaxors, X-ray methods

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

290-293

Domains

MATERIALS SCIENCE

Full Paper

ALEXANDRA LUCIA CARABĂŢ, DANIELA BERGER, ŞERBAN GEORGESCU, SILVIU NĂSTASE, ŞTEFANIA STOLERIU, CRISTIAN MATEI


Abstract

Eu-doped lanthanum orthophosphate samples were prepared by precipitation in aqueous solution of lanthanide ions using different precipitation agents or applying a hydrothermal treatment. The influence of the precipitation parameters on the structure and morphology of La0.95Eu0.05PO4 was studied analyzing the samples by XRD, FTIR and SEM. La0.95Eu0.05PO4 synthesized by precipitation method presented rhabdophane structure, whereas the hydrothermal method leads to rhabdophane phase when H3PO4 was added in the synthesis and a mixture of rhabdophane and monazite phases when KH2PO4 or Na2HPO4 were used. The annealing step at 550°C/1h led to the monazite phase stabilization. The luminescent properties of La0.95Eu0.05PO4 samples were investigated.

Keywords

Eu-doped lanthanum orthophosphate, precipitation technique, hydrothermal treatment

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

294-298

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

CRISTINA BUSUIOC, SORIN ION JINGA, ECATERINA ANDRONESCU


Abstract

Ba(Mg1/3Ta2/3)O3 (BMT) compound is one of the most studied complex perovskite oxide with adequate properties for microwave applications, such as filters or antennas. BMT thin films were obtained by a modified sol-gel method, using the spin coating technique. Pt-coated Si or α-Al2O3 plates were used as substrates. X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were employed for compositional, structural and morphological characterization of BMT samples. BMT thin films present single-phase compositions and cubic structure. The dielectric properties of BMT thin films were investigated at low frequency.

Keywords

Sol-gel; Thin films; Dielectrics; Microwaves

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

299-305

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

VLAD IONUŢ LUNTRARU, CRISTINA MIHAELA BAICEA, CORNELIU TRIŞCĂ-RUSU, AURELIA CRISTINA NECHIFOR


Abstract

This paper presents the synthesis and characterization of iron particles covered with colloidal titanium dioxide and the functionalization of the TiO2 coated surface with cyanuric chloride. The synthesized materials were structurally characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy and Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

Keywords

magnetic particles, titanium dioxide, cyanuric chloride

Year

2012

Issue

42 (3)

Pages

306-312

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

MĂDĂLINA GEORGIANA FLOREA, ANTON FICAI, OVIDIU OPREA, CORNELIA GURAN, DENISA FICAI, L. PALL, ECATERINA ANDRONESCU


Abstract

The aim of this work is to obtain new drug delivery systems with prolonged release of biological active folic acid. The prolonged delivery of folic acid, a component of the B complex is essential during the life being responsible with many essential functions including cell division and growth. The obtained materials were characterized by, FTIR and XRD as well as by studying the release profiles of folic acid and water uptake. It can conclude that the release rate is influenced by the used silica precursors.

Keywords

biocomposite materials, silica, DDS, sustained delivery

INÉS GARCÍA-LODEIRO, OLGA MALTSEVA, ÁNGEL PALOMO, ANA FERNÁNDEZ-JIMÉNEZ


Abstract

Concerns around the CO2 emitted in Portland cement manufacture have driven the scientific community to seek alternative materials with the same features as Portland cement but which can be sustainably manufactured. One such category of materials includes the blended or hybrid cements.

These cements form when blends containing low proportions of cement and high proportions (60-70 %) of mineral additions (slag, fly ash or metakaolin) are alkali activated. This article reviews the fundamental chemistry governing these new reactive systems. It also analyses the nature of the reaction products formed and their compatibility under different reaction conditions.

Keywords

hybrid cement, alkaline activation, N-A-S-H gel, geopolymer

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

330-335

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

CRISTINEL MORARU


Abstract

The harmonization of Romanian regulations with the European ones has led to significant changes regarding the rules for concrete production, for design and execution of the elements and structures. The enforcement, in Romania staring with 2002 year of the European standards continuing to require significant changes regarding minimum strength classes and concrete works’ execution conditions.

The national infrastructure development program has become a priority in Romania. This aspect together with the additional strength and durability requirements make it necessary to use specialized high-strength cements.

The article shows the main features of cement CEM I 52,5R as well as the results of some studies carried out on concrete prepared with this type of cement.

Keywords

performance, specialized, resistance, durability, concrete

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

336-341

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ANDREEA MONCEA, MARIA GEORGESCU


Abstract

Considering some previous data concerning binding properties of silicate–aluminate–sulfate composites, the present paper brings complementary data regarding the influence of environmental factors (temperature, humidity), on the behavior of such kind of binders. Composite materials based on ternary binders with Portland cement, high aluminate cement and calcium sulfate (as hemihydrates or anhydrite III) content were investigated.

For selected compositions, taking into account their good binding properties in normal conditions, the influence of high temperatures and freezing–thawing effects on the mechanical strengths of such binders were investigated.

X–ray diffraction and thermal analysis were carried out for deeper research of involved processes in this complex masses behavior.

Keywords

High aluminate cement, Portland cement, thermal properties, ternary binders

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

342-349

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

CARMEN MUNTEANU, MARIA GEORGESCU, ANDREEA MONCEA


Abstract

The paper provides information regarding the influence of fly ash additions - alone or associated with a polycarboxylate type superplasticizer – on the main physical and mechanical properties of pastes and mortars containing Portland cement CEM I 52.5 R.

Fly-ash, from Govora plant, was used as addition in blended cements, in quantities of 10% up to 50%. The superplasticizer was of polycarboxylate type - CHRYSO Fluid Premia 180 (solution containing 21.5±1.0% active substance). The superplasticizer was dosed at a ratio of 0.9% (with reference to cement).

Information of the influence of the fly ash addition, associated with superplasticizer, on the physical properties of cement pastes were obtained by the assesment of water for normal consistency and setting time. The hardening processes of cement mixed with different amounts of fly ash associated with polycarboxylate type superplasticizer, were evaluated by the assessment of mechanical strength, on the mortar specimens with binder/sand = 1/3 and water to binder ratios in order to ensure a similar workability for mortars without and with superplasticizer.

The increase of fly-ash addition determines a continous increase of water for standard consistency (32.2%-37.6%). Polycarboxylate superplasticizer addition (0.9%) significantly reduced the values of the water for standard consistency, at levels between 22% and 28%, for cement containing 10 - 50% fly ash. The increase of fly ash amount increases the setting time, but for the pastes with 0.9% polycarboxylate additive this retarding effect is dimished.

Mechanical strengths of the mortars based on cements with fly ash decreased, while the content of fly ash increased. The decrease of mechanical strengths was less important for the cements containing fly ash and 0.9% polycarboxylate superplasticizer, in correlation with the smaller water/binder ratio. Thus, for the binder with 30% fly ash and 0.9% superplasticizer, the compressive strengths were higher as compared with the ordinary Portland cement.

Keywords

fly ash, polycarboxilate superplasticizer, physical and mechanical properties

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

350-355

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

ANA MARIA MONCEA, MARIA GEORGESCU, ALINA MELINESCU, ŞTEFANIA STOLERIU, ANDREEA MONCEA


Abstract

Beside traditionali binders – Portland cement and blended cements, the binders of type alkali activated slag (AAS) and geopolymer can represent efficient matrices for immobilization of noxious substances.

The present paper brings informations regarding the phisical and chemical processes at the hardening of alkali-activated slag and geopolymer, in which a waste with Pb content was immobilised. Geopolymer binder was prepared using a fly ash and as activator – a mixture of Na2O.nSiO2 and NaOH with silica modulus of 1.12. Alkali activated slag binders,were prepared with the same alkali-activator.

This type of binders have a good immobilization capacity of the glass waste resulted from discarded cathode ray tube (CRT) with Pb content, added in amounts corresponding to 0.18-10% Pb. The inclusion of Pb2+ ions into the binding systems determines a certain retarding influence on the hardening processes, the effect being more intense for shorter periods of hardening and for higher amounts of Pb. The X-ray difraction data sugests the formation of a complex aluminosilicate with Pb content.

Keywords

Alkali-activated slag, geopolymer, CRT waste, reaction products, hardening processes

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

356-363

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

SILVANA BORCĂNESCU, IOAN LAZĂU, CORNELIA PĂCURARIU, ALEXANDRA JURCA


Abstract

The paper presents the results obtained in the mullite synthesis using the sol –gel method, starting from Si(OC2H5)4 (TEOS) and aluminum nitrate, respectively the sol-gel method combined with the combustion method. The combination of the two methods was achieved by addition urea, corresponding to the reaction with aluminum nitrate. The initiation of the combustion process was made by introducing the mixtures in the oven pre-heated at 500°C. The mullite formation requires further annealing at 1200°C, so in the case of the sol-gel method and in the combined version. The major difference between the two methods consist in avoiding the NOx release by using the combined version.

Keywords

sol-gel, combustion synthesis, X-ray method, mullite

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

364-369

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

CORNELIU BOB, TAMAS DENCSAK, CRISTIAN TANASIE, IONEL BALCU


Abstract

Concrete is the most frequently used man-made construction material. Although it is considered non-ecological due to the great amount of CO2 emissions at cement production, concrete can reabsorb a part of the released CO2.

This paper encompasses theoretical work and laboratory determinations regarding the ability of concrete to absorb atmospheric CO2 by carbonation. The presentation contains an original model for the calculation of carbonation depth, followed by a short overview of existing studies in the field of CO2 uptake. The second part of the paper unveils an experimental program that uses an original and unconventional procedure that is also combined with traditional methods. The main aims are to determine the CO2 uptake using a direct procedure and to obtain an adequate coefficient for the carbonation capacity of the initial calcium oxide with a tribute to the existing theoretical considerations. The experimental results were in good correlation with the theoretical models and an appropriate coefficient has been obtained.

Keywords

concrete, carbonation, CO2 uptake, drying, X-ray method

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

370-380

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

GUANGBIN QU, AILIAN ZHANG


Abstract

Cement mortar prisms were made with three different cementitious materials (with or without mineral admixture) plus 30% mass of limestone filler. After 28 days of curing in water at room temperature, these samples were submerged in 2% magnesium sulfate solution at different temperatures (50C, 200C and alternate temperature between 5℃ and 20℃) for a year. The strength development was measured on these immersed prisms at intervals, and samples selected from the surface of prisms were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results show that the influence of temperature on the resistance to sulfate attack of mortar is related to the binder compositions. A higher temperature leads to a quicker strength loss of the mortar without mineral admixture. For blended cements, a higher temperature is favorable for the pozzolanic reaction of mineral admixture and the overall deterioration of mortar is reduced. After 1 year of exposure to magnesium sulfate solutions, the formation of thaumasite was checked in the OPC mortars at both 5℃ and 20℃. It is concluded that the thaumasite formation is not limited to structures at low temperature (less than 15℃).

Keywords

cement, mineral admixture, sulfate attack, temperature, thaumasite

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

381-386

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

Full Paper

GABRIEL OPRIŞAN, NICOLAE ŢĂRANU, MIHAI BUDESCU, IOANA ENTUC


Abstract

Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are currently successfully implemented to strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) beams improving their structural response to frequent loading conditions. The most utilized techniques are based on prefabricated composite plates bonded to the tension side with adhesives or by bonding quasi-unidirectional fabrics made of carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites or glass fibres fabrics impregnated with polymeric resins.

An experimental program has been carried out at The Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services Iaşi, to verify a number of strengthening solutions and reveal the working conditions, failure types and the structural efficiency of the proposed systems. The structural response has been evaluated through testing the RC beams under four points loading scheme. The difference in structural behaviour of unstrengthened and strengthened beams has been revealed on both loading bearing capacity and stiffness. The experimental results have been compared to those obtained by numerical modeling.

Keywords

plate bonding, failure modes, carbon fibres, numerical modeling, structural response

LU SHUANG, WANG ZHENG


Abstract

On-site corrosion sensor was developed to monitor the adverse effects in the chloride – contaminated concrete structures. Galvano-static Pulse Technique(GPT) was applied to measure the polarization resistance of the anodes and the electrical resistance of the surrounded concrete using the sensor. This paper presents the analysis of GPT measurements performed in the chloride-contaminated concrete for the laboratory tests. The relationship between the corrosion rate of steel electrodes and surrounded concrete resistance measured by corrosion sensor confirms the reliability of developed corrosion sensor. The results further show that the concrete resistance is also an indicative parameter which is related to the corrosion state of concrete structures.

Keywords

corrosion monitoring, concrete structures, GPT, polarization resistance

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

399-404

Domains

BINDERS AND CONCRETE

MATERIALS SCIENCE

Full Paper

ANCUŢA BORLEA (TIUC), TIBERIU RUSU, SILVIU IONESCU, OVIDIU NEMEŞ


Abstract

Revaluation of wastes in the soundproofing material domain has a major international and national importance from a technical, economical and ecological point of view. This paper presents researches on the determination of the sound absorption coefficient dependent upon frequency, for every sample, thus determining the phonic absorption capacity of every resulted material. Materials were obtained by including some materials considered as wastes – pine sawdust and recycled rubber particles, in a polymer type organic matrix. The samples were made of reinforcement material and polyurethane binder, in different proportions and of different thicknesses.

Keywords

composites, noise, sound absorption, wastes, absorption coefficient

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

405-414

Domains

COMPOSITES AND NANOCOMPOSITES

Full Paper

MARIA GOREA, IOANA OLIVIA RUJONI


Abstract

Cordierite, Mg2Al4Si5O18, has a very low thermal expansion coefficient, thus a high resistance to thermal shocks. Accordingly, it is used in applications where high resistances to thermal shock, as well as chemical stability at high temperatures are essential; such is the case of Diesel particulate filters (DPF). This paper concerns the synthesis of cordierite by using the sol-gel method starting from two silicon-rich precursors: hydrophil aerosil and TEOS. When starting with TEOS, a magnesium carbonate basic pentahydrate and aluminium nitrate, a monomineralic powder consisting of cordierite is obtained at temperatures lower than 1000˚C. In order to obtain corresponding ceramics, these powders were sintered at temperatures in the 1000–1350˚C range. The thermal expansion coefficient decreased with firing temperature increase. The ceramics fired at 1300˚C were submitted to chemical attack by an alkaline mixture (one mole Na2CO3 with 1.5 moles SiO2) under so-called “less-severe” conditions, i.e., 900˚C and then under “severe” conditions at 1000˚C for 5 minutes. The SEM images evidence no corrosion in the first case, and slight corrosion features under the circumstance of the “severe” attack.

Keywords

Cuvinte cheie (engleza)

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

415-424

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper

L. PALL, J-L. BOBET, E. ANDRONESCU


Abstract

The compounds synthesized in the ternary systems La-TM-B, Gd-TM-B et Y-TM-B (TM=Ni, Fe, Co) were studied in terms of their crystal structure, chemical composition and hydrogen sorption properties. Most of the compounds obtained in these systems crystallize with a CeCo4B type structure, with lattice parameters close to those of the compound GdNi4B. A total replacement of Ni by Fe and/or Co is sometimes possible, meaning that a total solid solution exists between RENi4B and REFe4B or RECo4B. Also, the boron is assumed to partially occupy two different crystallographic sites, although only one of these is mainly occupied by boron. The new phase GdNi2.5B2.5 was also observed in this study for the first time. In addition, a pseudo-binary phase GdB3 is observed. Finally, it is reported that only the compound LaNi4B absorbs hydrogen, albeit irreversibly.

Keywords

intermetallics, borides, ternary compounds

Year

2012

Issue

42 (4)

Pages

425-432

Domains

CERAMICS AND GLASS

Full Paper