This study was conducted in the autumn season of 2024-2025 in the fields of the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences – University of Baghdad, to investigate the effect of organic fertilizers prepared using sesame and soybean husks, and foliar application with milk thistle extract (Silybum marianum), on the qualitative properties of Italian kale plants. The experiment was conducted as factorial experiment (6×3) in a randomized complete block design (R.C.B.D.) with split-plot arrangement and three replicates. Factors were included: the first factor (six fertilization treatments : chemical fertilization at recommended rates , two levels each of organic sesame husks (2 and 4 kg m⁻²) and soybean husks (2 and 4 kg m⁻²

Biodegradable polymers have garnered increasing attention as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional petroleum-derived plastics, which pose a global environmental challenge due to their difficult recycling and slow degradation. This study focuses on the preliminary evaluation of surface functional properties of chitosan films reinforced with TiO₂ or ZnO nanoparticles (NPs). These films were prepared at different loading ratios using the solution-casting method. Structural and morphological properties were characterized using FTIR and FESEM, while functional properties were evaluated by surface wettability, UV–Vis spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and antibacterial activity testing. FTIR results showed significant changes in abs

Abstract : Silicone elastomer is widely used as the material of choice for fabricating maxillofacial prosthesis. However, silicone properties are far from ideal; low tear strength, low tensile strength and insufficient elasticity are the most undesirable properties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of addition of nano SiO2filler on tear strength, tensile strength, elongation at break, hardness and color of Cosmesil M-511 HTV maxillofacial silicone elastomer. Nano SiO2was added to the silicone base in concentrations of 4%, 5% and 6% by weight. Silicone with 0% nano filler served as a control. Tear test was done according to ISO 34-1. Tensile and elongation test was done according to ISO 37. Shore A hardness test was done

In this investigation, deep eutectic solvent based on propionic acid and choline chloride was used to prepare polyaniline, polypyrrole, and poly(aniline-co-pyrrole) samples using chemical oxidation and polymerization. Quantum mechanical calculations were conducted using time-dependent density functional theory to determine the electronic, spectroscopic properties and structure of homopolymers and the copolymer which were compared with the respective experimental data. Furthermore, the synthesized materials were characterized using Fourier transform IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-visible spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. IR and UV-visible spectra confirmed copolymerization, and SEM revealed that the copol

This investigation was carried out to examine the effect of replacing partial of flour by dried Lentils (Lens culinaris) to white flour in different percentages on the chemical, sensory and storage properties of the Laboratory bread. The results revealed that replacing 0% than wheat flour by lentil powder (1) control was high significan than the replacing 25 and 35% than wheat flour by lentil powder ( 4 and 5) in flavor and chewiness . The results of sensory evaluation showed that replacing 4 were high significan different than that of replacing 1 in external layer colour. Other replacing percentages, however, did not show significant differences of in comparison with control . In regards with chemical analysis of Iron and copper, i

In order to implement the concept of sustainability in the field of construction, it is necessary to find an alternative to the materials that cause pollution by manufacturing, the most important of which is cement. Because factory wastes provide siliceous and aluminous materials and contain calcium such as fly ash and slag that are used in the production of high-strength geopolymer concrete with specifications similar to ordinary concrete, it was necessary for developing this type of concrete that is helping to reduce CO₂ (dioxide carbon) in the atmosphere. Therefore, the aim of this study was to study the influence of incorporating various percentages of slag as a replacement for fly ash and the effect of sl

The aim of this work was to capture solar radiation and convert it into solar thermal energy by using a storage material and the heat transfer fluid like oil and water and comparison between them, we used the evacuated tube as a receiver for solar radiation, The results showed that the oil better than water as storage material and the heat transfer fluid and the effective thermal conductivity material and good for power level, rates and durations of charge and discharge cycles.