In this research, a novel thin film Si-GO10 and nanopowders Si-GO30 of silica-graphene oxide (GO) composite were prepared via the sol–gel method and deposited on glass substrates using spray pyrolysis. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed a relatively strong peak in the graphite layer that corresponds to the (002) plane. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images showed that SiO2 nanoparticles were randomly distributed on the surface of GO plates, and the particle size in these nanopowders was below 50 nm. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis demonstrated that silica nanoparticles on the surface of GO plates exhibited almost spherical and rod-like nanoparticle shape, which in turn confirmed the formation of SiO2–GO nano-hybrids. Photocatalytic investigations revealed that the composite materials exhibit high activity for dye adsorption and decomposition. Si-GO10 thin film did not undergo degradation after 120 min; however, for Si-GO30 nanopowder, the adsorption peak intensity was reduced to 665 nm, indicating a decrease in the dye concentration in the solution. Fourier transform infrared scan (FTIR) analysis demonstrated that carboxylic functional groups are decreased by increasing silica particles. Photoluminescence (PL) spectrum in Si-GO10 thin film showed a sharp emission peak at about 665 nm. This spectrum completely disappeared in Si-GO30 nanopowders. Results of the antibacterial properties emphasized that Si-GO30 nanoparticle would prevent Escherichia coli growth after 20 h. The presented methodology allows for the synthesis of GO supported silicon dioxide nanoparticles for promising applications in photocatalytic and antibacterial fields.
A model using the artificial neural networks and genetic algorithm technique is developed for obtaining optimum dimensions of the foundation length and protections of small hydraulic structures. The procedure involves optimizing an objective function comprising a weighted summation of the state variables. The decision variables considered in the optimization are the upstream and downstream cutoffs lengths and their angles of inclination, the foundation length, and the length of the downstream soil protection. These were obtained for a given maximum difference in head, depth of impervious layer and degree of anisotropy. The optimization carried out is subjected to constraints that ensure a safe structure aga
... Show MoreObjective(s): To assess Baghdad University students’ knowledge and attitudes toward HIV/AIDS, and to find out
the relationship of Baghdad University students’ knowledge and attitudes with certain variables (gender,
socioeconomic status, field of study).
Methodology: A descriptive analytic study was used to assess the knowledge and attitudes of Baghdad University
Students’ toward HIV/AIDS. The study was conducted (November 1st 2012 to July 15th 2013). A non-probability
(purposive sample) of 400 students (males-138 and females-262) were selected from four colleges and they were
in the fourth class, a probability (stratified random) method was used to select four colleges at University of
Baghdad as a study settin
PMMA (Poly methyl methacrylate) is considered one of the most commonly used materials in denture base fabrication due to its ideal properties. Although, a major problem with this resin is the frequent fractures due to heavy chewing forces which lead to early crack and fracture in clinical use. The addition of nanoparticles as filler performed in this study to enhance its selected mechanical properties. The Nano-additive effect investigated in normal circumstances and under a different temperature during water exposure. First, tests applied on the prepared samples at room temperature and then after exposure to water bath at (20, 40, 60) C° respectively. SEM, PSD, EDX were utilized for samples evaluation in this study. Flexural
... Show MoreThis article studied some linear and nonlinear optical characteristics of different pH solutions from anthocyanin dye extract at 180 oC from red cabbage. First, the linear spectral characteristics, including absorption and transmittance in the range 400-800 nm for anthocyanin solution 5% v/v with different pHs, were achieved utilizing a UV/VIS spectrophotometer. The experimental results reveal a shift in the absorption toward the longer wavelength direction as pH values increment. Then, the nonlinear features were measured using the Z-scan technique with a CW 532 nm laser to measure the nonlinear absorption coefficient through an open aperture. A close aperture (diameter 2 mm) calculates the nonlinear refractive index. The open Z-scan sh
... Show MoreThe growing demand for sustainable and high-performance asphalt binders has prompted the exploration of waste-derived modifiers. This study investigates the performance enhancement of Natural Asphalt (NA) using Sugarcane Molasses (SM) and Waste Engine Oil (WEO). The modified blends were prepared by partially replacing 50 % NA with varying proportions of SM and WEO ranging from 10 % to 40 % of the total weight of NA. Comprehensive testing was conducted, including penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity, Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR), Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrated that
... Show MoreThe current research aims at testing the relationship between organizational immunity and preventing administrative and financial corruption (AFC) in Iraq. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences program (R& SPSS) was used to analyse the associated questionnaire data. The research problem has examined how to activate the functions of the organizational immune system to enable it to face organizational risks, attempt to prevent administrative and financial corruption, and access the mechanisms by which to develop organizational immunity. A sample of 161 individuals was taken who worked in the Directorate General of Education, Karbala. Also, it was concluded to a lack of memory function for organizational immunity. In a
... Show MoreIn this study, phytoplankton density, chlorophyll-a, and selected physico- chemical parameters were investigated in Erbil wastewater channel. The surveys were carried out monthly from May 2003 to April 2004. Samplings were established on three sites from headwaters to the mouth. The results showed that pH was in alkaline side of neutrality, with significant differences (P<0.05) between sites 1 and 3. TSS concentration decreased from site 1 toward site 2 (mean value, 80.15 to 25.79 mg.l-1). A clear gradual increase in mineral content (TDS) observed from site one of the channel towards the mouthpart. Soluble reactive phosphate has a concentration maximum mean value reached 48.4 µg.l-1 which is recorded in site 2. A high positive relat
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