Publications

Guo, W & Ngo, H-H 2012, 'Membrane Processes for Wastewater Treatment' in Zhang, TC, Surampalli, RY, Vigneswaran, S, Tyagi, RD, Ong, SL & Kao, CM (eds), Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, USA, pp. 169-216.
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Nowadays, continued population growth and economic development have contributed to increasing demand on water supplies, while multipurpose water use has let to deteriorating water quality by introducing chemical or biological contaminants to receiving waters. Although governments and water authorities have proclaimed more stringent discharge regulations together with increased wastewater disposal costs to protect human and environmental health, wastewater treatment has become ever more crucial and indispensable in order to preserve the diminishing water resources and minimize adverse impacts on our ecosystem. Over the last century various methods and technologies have been developed and applied to remove solids, organic pollutants and nutrients from wastewater. Wastewater treatment involves the combination of various physical, chemical and biological processes and operations (Table 6.1). In general, conventional wastewater treatment processes can successfully remove the majority of degradable organics and suspended solids found in wastewaters. However, to further provide a sufficient level of treatment to wastewater streams and to remove specific contaminants, membrane seperation technology has been emerged as an alternative and innovative treatment technology and plays an important role in global water market. This chapter gives an extensive and up-to-date review of membrane separation technologies (e.g.,microfiltration (MF), ultrafiltration (UP), nanofiltration (NP) and reverse osmosis (RO) in wastewater treatment with specific attention to various membranes, treatment processes and configurations, and their practical applications.

Guo, W, Ngo, H-H & Vigneswaran, S 2012, 'Enhancement of Membrane Processes with Attached Growth Media' in Zhang, TC, Surampalli, RY, Vigneswaran, S, Tyagi, RD, Ong, SL & Kao, CM (eds), Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, USA, pp. 603-634.
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The consumption of limited waste resources together with the need to comply with ever more stringent water quality standards, and the need to reuse water are the main impetus for the intensification of existing conventional water treatment processes. Moreover, current and impending legislation on wastewater treatment effluent has also led to the need for improved treatment processes capable of removing higher percentages of nutrients, suspended solids, bacteria, etc. (Kramne et al., 2005). During the last decades, the interest in the use of membrane technology has emerged in wastewater treatment as well as drinking water and process water production. This growth can be explained by a combination of (a) growing demand for water with high quality, (b) growing pressure to reuse wastewater, (b) better realibility and integrity of the membranes, (d) lower prices of membranes due to enhanced use, and (e) more stringent standards, e.g., in the drinking water industry (van de Bruggen et al., 2008). Therefore, membrane techniques (e.g., microfiltration (MF), ultrafiltration (DF), nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO)) in general and mebrance bioreactors (MBRs) in particular have been widely applied to wastewater reclamation and reuse for simultaneous organic and nutrient removal. Normally, there are two ways to begin water reuse: either retrofitting the current wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) facilities or constructing extra advanced processes after secondary treatment. Biological nutrients removal (BNR) processes modifying the current conventional WWTP is a typical example of retrofitting, while membrane filtration, carbon adsorption and ozonation are typically used for extra-installation the advanced treatment of secondary effluent (Baek and Chang, 2009). Especially, as eutrophication of the aquatic environment caused by nitrogen and phosphorus present in discharged effluent has become an unavoidable concern, the development of cost-effective and efficient BN...

Guo, W, Ngo, H-H & Vigneswaran, S 2012, 'Fouling Control of Membranes with Pretreatment' in Zhang, TC, Surampalli, RY, Vigneswaran, S, Tyagi, RD, Ong, SL & Kao, CM (eds), Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, USA, pp. 533-580.
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The impediment of the membrane technology is a fouling problem and consequently higher operating and membrane relacement cost. Pretreatment is very important for developing the best treatment process train to secure better membrane treatability and producing acceptable effluent qualities. This chapter addresses the state of the art pretreatment techniques and their application to low pressure (MF/UF) and high pressure (NF/RO) memrances in water and wastewater treatment as well as desalination. The impact of different pretreatment processes on membrane performance and membrane fouling control have been extensively reviewed.

Meujo, DAF & Hamann, MT 2012, 'Science, Policy, and Risk Management: Case of Seafood Safety' in Encyclopedia of Sustainability Science and Technology, Springer New York, pp. 9079-9109.
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Ngo, H-H, Guo, W & Vigneswaran, S 2012, 'Membrane Processes for Water Reclamation and Reuse' in Zhang, TC, Surampalli, RY, Vigneswaran, S, Tyagi, RD, Ong, SL & Kao, CM (eds), Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, USA, pp. 239-275.
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Water reclamation and reuse is being increasingly emphasized as a strategy for rational use of limited freshwater and as a means of safeguarding the deteriorating aquatic environment due to wastewater disposal. Membrane technology is playing a vital role in augment our water supplies and is essential for sustainable production of clean water. This chapter gives a comprehensive review of technological development train of wastewater treatment, as well as the detailed perfonnance of advanced membrance processes in municipal wastewater reclamation and reuse. The technological and economic feasibility of different membrane-based technologies compared to conventional treatment processes is also elucidated in this chapter.

Ni, B & Yu, H 2012, 'Aerobic Granular Sludge Technology for Wastewater Treatment' in Biological Sludge Minimization and Biomaterials/Bioenergy Recovery Technologies, Wiley, pp. 429-463.
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Shon, H 2012, 'Removal of lower-molecular-weight substances from water and wastewater : challenges and solutions' in Wastewater Treatment Advanced Processes and Technologies, CRC Press.
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These features combine to make the book an authoritative resource and practical tool for resolving wastewater treatment issues.

Shon, HK, Phuntsho, S, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J, Aryal, R & Jegatheesan, V 2012, 'Physical, Chemical, and Biological Characterization of Membrane Fouling' in Zhang, TC, Surampalli, RY, Vigneswaran, S, Tyagi, RD, Ong, SL & Kao, CM (eds), Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, USA, pp. 457-503.
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In this chapter, advanced characterization of membrane fouling as a diagnostic tool has been summarized to prevent membrane fouling. Physical, chemical and biological analyses as membrane autopsies are mainly utilized to better understand membrane foulant. The physical characteri zation gives structure, roughness, charge effect, strength and hydrophobicity of membrane fouling. The chemical methods provide qualitative and quantitative measurements of different inorganic and organic matter. The biological properties present the spatial biofilm distribution, structure of dominant microorgnisms and isolation and identification of microorganisms. In addition, detailed membrane foulant types are reviewed in terms of structure, roughness, hydrophobicity, charge effect, strength, calcium, magnesium, alluminum, iron, silicate, particle, functional group, biopolymer, humic acid, polysaccharide, structural composition, biofilm structure, microorganism and foulant interaction.

Singh, G, Johir, MAH, Kandasamy, J, Vigneswaran, S, Kus, B & Naidu, R 2012, 'Stormwater Harvesting and Reuse' in Meyers, RA (ed), Encyclopedia of Sustainability Science and Technology, Springer New York, Germany, pp. 10095-10117.
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Rapid urbanization has contributed to considerable increases in urban stromwater runoff and pollution, a deterioration of the water quality of urban waterways , and significant threats to its ecosystem. Stormwater runoff is the most neglected resource and, given that it contributes significantly to diffuse pollution of our waterways, it needs to be managed in more sustainable way to capture its benefits and at the same time to reduce the adverse impacts on waterways and receiving waters. A cultural change is occurring in urban stormwater management practice. Environmental aspects are becoming a major focus, with potentially profound effects on the traditional approach to stormwater management. An integrated approach to stormwater treatment and management and stormwater harvesting regards stormwater as a resource rather than a waste and considers all aspects of runoff within a development, including implementation of water quality/quantity controls, maximizing water reuse/conservation whilst preserving the amenity and environmental values within the catchment. Stormwater harvesting and reuse offers a potential alternative water supply for at least non-potable uses. The benefits of a successful stormwater harvesting systems include reductions in stormwater pollution loads to downstream waterways and estuaries, and in stormwater volumes and discharges. Methods of assessment to check the extent to which stormwater treatment systems are meeting their design objectives and compliance to water quality standards is important.

Vigneswaran, S, Khorshed, C, Kandasamy, J & Kim, SH 2012, 'Membrane Processes for Desalination: Importance of Pre-Treatment to Reduce Organic Fouling' in Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, pp. 276-297.
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Vigneswaran, S, Nguyen, TV, Kandasamy, J, Aim, RB & Visvanathan, C 2012, 'Membrane Processes for Drinking Water Treatment' in Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, pp. 140-168.
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This volume provides in-depth technical information on the fundamentals, applications, and recent advances of membrane technology, including state-of-the-art reviews of current research, critical analysis of new processes and materials, and ...

Vigneswaran, S, Sathananthan, S, Shon, HK, Kandasamy, J & Visvanathan, C 2012, 'Delineation of Membrane Processes' in Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, pp. 41-74.
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Zhang, TC, Surampalli, RY & Vigneswaran, S 2012, 'The Values of Membrane Science and Technology: Introduction and Overview' in Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications, American Society of Civil Engineers, pp. 1-40.
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Zhou, JL 2012, 'Sampling of Humic and Colloidal Phases in Liquid Samples' in Janusz Pawliszyn (ed), Comprehensive Sampling and Sample Preparation, Elsevier, Amsterdam, pp. 335-348.
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Humic and colloidal phases represent a key fraction of natural dissolved organic matter, which have been difficult to separate and characterize. This chapter examines the current methods for separating humic substances and aquatic colloids from liquid samples, a key step in understanding the environmental significance of such material. Separation methods examined include dialysis, centrifugation, ion exchange, gel filtration, ultrafiltration, cross-flow ultrafiltration, and field-flow fractionation. Each method is critically appraised in terms of advantages, disadvantages, and future direction. In addition, methods of characterizing humic and colloidal samples are evaluated, including spectroscopic techniques, imaging techniques, scattering techniques and others such as analytical pyrolysis and stable isotope analysis. A recommendation is made on the most promising method for separating humic and colloidal material from environmental water samples. © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Abdul, JM, Colville, A, Lim, R, Vigneswaran, S & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Use of duckweed (Lemna disperma) to assess the phytotoxicity of the products of Fenton oxidation of metsulfuron methyl', Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, vol. 83, pp. 89-95.
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Because of pressure on water supplies world-wide, there is increasing interest in methods of remediating contaminated ground waters. However, with some remediation processes, the breakdown products are more toxic than the original contaminant. Organic matter and salinity may also influence degradation efficiency. This study tested the efficiency of Fenton oxidation in degrading the sulfonylurea herbicide metsulfuron methyl (MeS), and tested the reaction products for phytotoxicity with the Lemna (duckweed) bioassay. The efficiency of degradation by Fentonâs reagent (Fe2þ ¼0.09 mM; H2O2¼1.76mM, 4 h) decreased with increasing initial MeS concentration, from 98% with 5 mg/L MeS, to 63% with 70 mg/L MeS. Addition of NaCl (10 mM) and organic matter (humic acid at 0.2 and 2.0 mg C/L as Total Organic Carbon) reduced the efficiency of degradation at low initial MeS concentrations (5 and 10mg/L), but had no effect at high concentrations. The residual Fentonâs reagent after Fentonâs oxidation was toxic to Lemna. After removal of residual iron and H2O2, the measured toxicity to Lemna in the treated samples could be explained by the concentrations of MeS as measured by HPLC/UV detection, so there was no evidence of additional toxicity or amelioration due to the by-products or formulation materials.

Abdul, JM, Kumar, M, Vigneswaran, S & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Removal of metsulfuron methyl by Fenton reagent', Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 137-144.
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The removal of metsulfuron methyl (MeS)-a sulfonyl urea herbicide from contaminated water was investigated by advanced oxidation process (AOP) using Fenton method. The optimum dose of Fenton reagent (Fe 2+/H 2O 2) was 10mg/L Fe 2+ and 60mg/L H 2O 2 for an initial MeS concentration ([MeS] 0) range of 0-80mg/L. The Fenton process was effective under pH 3. The degradation efficiency of MeS decreased by more than 70% at pH>3 (pH 4.5 and 7). The initial Fe 2+ concentration ([Fe 2+] 0) in the Fenton reagent affected the degradation efficiency, rate and kinetics. The degradation of MeS at optimum dose of Fenton reagent was more than 95% for [MeS] 0 of 0-40mg/L and the degradation time was less than 30min. The determination of residual MeS concentration after Fenton oxidation by UV spectrophotometry was affected by the interferences from Fenton reagent. The estimation of residual MeS concentration after Fenton oxidation by high pressure/performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC) was interference free and represented the actual concentration of MeS and does not include the by-products of Fenton oxidation. The degradation kinetics of MeS was modelled by second order reactions involving 8 rate constants. The two reaction constants directly involving MeS were fitted using the experimental data and the remaining constants were selected from previously reported values. The model fit for MeS and the subsequent prediction of H 2O 2 were found to be within experimental error tolerances. © 2011 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry.

Adnan, R, Masjuki, HH & Mahlia, TMI 2012, 'Performance and emission analysis of hydrogen fueled compression ignition engine with variable water injection timing', Energy, vol. 43, no. 1, pp. 416-426.
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Ahmad, RT, Nguyen, TV, Shim, WG, Vigneswaran, S, Moon, H & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Effluent organic matter removal by Purolite®A500PS: Experimental performance and mathematical model', Separation and Purification Technology, vol. 98, pp. 46-54.
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In this study, the performance of Purolite®A500PS in effluent organic matter (EfOM) removal was evaluated through adsorption equilibrium, kinetics and fluidized bed experiments. It was found that the maximum EfOM removal capacity of Purolite®A500PS calculated by the Langmuir isotherm was 50.9 mg DOC/g Purolite®A500PS. The results also showed that fluidized bed operational conditions strongly affected the EfOM removal efficiency. A fluidized bed packed with Purolite®A500PS can maintain a consistent EfOM removal efficiency of more than 80% with more than 800 bed volumes from 10 mg DOC/L of synthetic wastewater. A majority of hydrophilic compounds (76.4%) and a significant amount of hydrophobic compounds (55%) were removed by the Purolite®A500PS fluidized bed. The Purolite®A500PS fluidized bed was also found to remove a majority of biopolymer (98.5%), humic substances (86.5%), and low molecular weight neutrals (83.3%). © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Altaee, A 2012, 'Computational model for estimating reverse osmosis system design and performance: Part-one binary feed solution', Desalination, vol. 291, pp. 101-105.
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A computational model for RO system design and performance prediction was developed in this study. The model was developed to estimate the performance parameters of RO in a multiple membrane elements pressure vessel. For simplicity the results of this study were compared with Reverse Osmosis System Analysis (ROSA) software which was assumed to have acceptable marginal errors. Two different feed water (NaCl) concentrations 35,000. mg/L and 38,000. mg/L were investigated in this study. In this paper, the recovery rate, salt rejection, feed pressure and permeate concentration of each RO element in the pressure vessel was compared with ROSA as shown in figures 2 to 5. The results from this study showed a very good agreement with ROSA up to 95%. Most of the previous studies were focused on studying the performance of a single RO membrane. This study, probably, the first to present a systematic procedure for estimating the performance of multiple RO elements in a pressure vessel. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.

Amarjargal, A, Tijing, LD & Kim, CS 2012, 'Effect of annealing on the phase transition and morphology of Ag NPs on/in TiO2 rods synthesized by a polyol method', Ceramics International, vol. 38, no. 8, pp. 6365-6375.
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Amarjargal, A, Tijing, LD, Pant, HR, Park, C-H & Kim, CS 2012, 'Simultaneous synthesis of TiO2 microrods in situ decorated with Ag nanoparticles and their bactericidal efficiency', Current Applied Physics, vol. 12, no. 4, pp. 1106-1112.
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Amarjargal, A, Tijing, LD, Ruelo, MTG, Lee, DH & Kim, CS 2012, 'Facile synthesis and immobilization of Ag–TiO2 nanoparticles on electrospun PU nanofibers by polyol technique and simple immersion', Materials Chemistry and Physics, vol. 135, no. 2-3, pp. 277-281.
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A simple polyol process is presented here to synthesize silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) on titanium nanosphere substrate (Ag–TiO2), which are subsequently decorated on the surface of electrospun polyurethane (PU) nanofibers by immersion in hot colloidal solution. Various spectroscopic and physical characterization techniques are utilized to study the physico-chemical properties of the prepared samples. The polyol-synthesized Ag–TiO2 decorated PU nanofibers show superior antibacterial properties under UV light, and are potentially useful for water filtration application.

Amarjargal, A, Tijing, LD, Yu, M-H, Kim, C-H, Park, C-H, Kim, D-W & Kim, C-S 2012, 'Characterization and Photocatalytic Efficiency of TiO2/Ti Beads Fabricated by Simple Heat-Treatment', Journal of Materials Science & Technology, vol. 28, no. 2, pp. 184-192.
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Aryal, A, Sathasivan, A & Vigneswaran, S 2012, 'Synergistic effect of biological activated carbon and enhanced coagulation in secondary wastewater effluent treatment', Water Science and Technology, vol. 65, no. 2, pp. 332-339.
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The use of secondary wastewater effluent (SWWE) is an essential strategy for making better use of limited water resources. However, a wide range of organic compounds eventually renders them unsuitable for recycling. In water treatment processes, biologically activated carbon (BAC) is adopted after physicochemical treatment. However, the effectiveness of such combination for SWWE remains poorly understood. This study investigates the effectiveness of various combinations: BAC/enhanced coagulation (EC) or EC/BAC, especially in terms of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal. The results showed that distinct advantage could be obtained by adopting BAC/EC combination rather than EC/BAC, as microbes in BAC not only remove non-coagulable compounds but also synergize the removal efficiency by releasing some coagulable humic substances.

Aryal, R, Johir, MAH, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J & Sleigh, R 2012, 'Performance of a stainless steel membrane in membrane bioreactor process', DESALINATION AND WATER TREATMENT, vol. 41, no. 1-3, pp. 258-264.
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Stainless steel membrane has recently emerged as a durable membrane for microfiltration. An aerobic membrane bioreactor (MBR) equipped with a tubular stainless steel membrane of pore size 0.3âμm was submerged in a wastewater reactor to treat municipal wastewater of about 1,000âmg/L COD. The membrane operational performance was tested at three different permeate flux (7.5, 10 and 15âL/m2âh [LMH]) for 2 days each. In all cases, the rate of transmembrane pressure (TMP) rise was very high at 30, 45 and 80âkPa for 7.5, 10 and 15âLMH, respectively. Different analytical techniques i.e. particle size distribution, UV spectrometry, fluorescent spectrometry and size exclusion chromatography were used to study the nature of mixed liquor and the fouling deposited on the membrane surface. Rapid rise of TMP and decrease in permeate flux was observed during the experiment. Analysis of the fouling indicated a negligible difference in nature of organics between it and the mixed liquor. Filtration flux test showed a high sludge cake and pore-blocking resistance of 4.4âÃâ1019 and 2.8âÃâ1016âmâ1, respectively, compared to a clean membrane resistance 5.4âÃâ1012âmâ1. The similar nature of organics in the mixed liquor and the foulant and recovery of flux after removal of the foulant after gentle washing in water, indicated a rapid sludge accumulation rather than the irreversible fouling.

Atabani, AE, Silitonga, AS & Mahlia, TMI 2012, 'Cost benefit analysis and environmental impact of fuel economy standards for passenger cars in Indonesia', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 5, pp. 3547-3558.
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Atabani, AE, Silitonga, AS, Badruddin, IA, Mahlia, TMI, Masjuki, HH & Mekhilef, S 2012, 'A comprehensive review on biodiesel as an alternative energy resource and its characteristics', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 4, pp. 2070-2093.
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Bhuiya, MMK, Ahamed, JU, Chowdhury, MSU, Sarkar, MAR, Salam, B, Saidur, R, Masjuki, HH & Kalam, MA 2012, 'Heat transfer enhancement and development of correlation for turbulent flow through a tube with triple helical tape inserts', International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 39, no. 1, pp. 94-101.
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Bhuiya, MMK, Ahamed, JU, Sarkar, MAR, Salam, B, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Saidur, R & Sayem, ASM 2012, 'Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop Characteristics in Turbulent Flow Through a Tube', Experimental Heat Transfer, vol. 25, no. 4, pp. 301-322.
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Bhuiya, MMK, Chowdhury, MSU, Ahamed, JU, Khan, MJH, Sarkar, MAR, Kalam, MA, Masjuki, HH & Shahabuddin, M 2012, 'Heat transfer performance for turbulent flow through a tube using double helical tape inserts', International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 39, no. 6, pp. 818-825.
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Buxton, L, Takahashi, S, Hill, R & Ralph, PJ 2012, 'VARIABILITY IN THE PRIMARY SITE OF PHOTOSYNTHETIC DAMAGE IN SYMBIODINIUM SP (DINOPHYCEAE) EXPOSED TO THERMAL STRESS', JOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY, vol. 48, no. 1, pp. 117-126.
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Exposure to elevated temperature is known to cause photosynthetic inhibition in the coral symbiont Symbiodinium sp. Through the use of the artificial electron acceptor, methyl viologen, this study identified how reduced photosynthetic capacity occurs as a result of inhibition up- and/or downstream of ferredoxin in Symbiodinium sp. in hospite and in culture. Heterogeneity between coral species and symbiont clades was identified in the thermal sensitivity of photosynthesis in the symbionts of the scleractinian corals Stylophora pistillata and Pocillopora damicornis, as well as among Symbiodinium cultures of clades A, B, and C. The in hospite symbionts of S. pistillata and the cultured clade C Symbiodinium both exhibited similar patterns in that their primary site of thermal inhibition occurred downstream of ferredoxin at 32 degrees C. In contrast, the primary site of thermal inhibition occurred upstream of ferredoxin in clades A and B at 32 degrees C, while at 34 degrees C, all samples showed combined up- and downstream inhibition. Although clade C is common to both P. damicornis and S. pistillata, the manner of thermal inhibition was not consistent when observed in hospite. Results showed that there is heterogeneity in the primal site of thermal damage in Symbiodinium among coral species and symbiont clades.

Chanan, A, Vigneswaran, S & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Case study research: training interdisciplinary engineers with context-dependent knowledge', European Journal of Engineering Education, vol. 37, no. 1, pp. 97-104.
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It is now widely acknowledged that water management discipline is transforming, from being a public health and flood prevention challenge of the nineteenth century to a multi-dimensional challenge of water security for the twenty-first century. In order to train water engineers to be capable of working with this holistic multi-dimensional approach, a new paradigm in engineering education is required. Adjustments already made to undergraduate coursework are not enough; this new paradigm requires modifications to the PhD in engineering, with greater emphasis on interdisciplinary case study research. Such a change can deliver PhD graduates with both sufficient social and technical knowledge, who can then go on to become the hybrid lecturers crucially needed for training future water engineers.

Chekli, L, Phuntsho, S, Shon, HK, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J & Chanan, A 2012, 'A review of draw solutes in forward osmosis process and their use in modern applications', DESALINATION AND WATER TREATMENT, vol. 43, no. 1-3, pp. 167-184.
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Forward osmosis (FO) is one of the emerging membrane technologies which has gained renewed interest recently as a low energy desalination process. The central to FO process is the draw solution (DS) and the membrane because both play a substantial role on its performance. Hence, the selection of an appropriate DS is crucial for the process efficiency. Many DS have been tested so far for a wide range of modern applications and this paper aims to review the various aspects of the DS in the process performance and provides valuable information regarding the selection criteria of suitable DS. Several general DS properties such as the osmotic pressure and the water solubility can affect the process performance. Other intrinsic properties to specific novel DS such as the emerging magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) can also have an impact on the process efficiency and have to be evaluated. Separation and recovery of the DS are one of the major challenges facing the development of FO process. The recovery process should not be energy intensive, otherwise the FO process cannot be comparable with other pressure-driven processes. Thermolytic solutions such as ammonia carbonates are considered as the promising DS for desalination applications; however, their recovery process efficiency relies on the availability of low-grade heat. MNPs are emerging and effective DS for desalination and can be readily recovered by a magnetic field or conventional membrane processes. However, the aggregation of MNPs due to their magnetic properties has been issued. The vast numbers of studies on the use of NaCl as DS for the treatment of impaired water open up the possibilities of using seawater or reverse osmosis brine streams as suitable DS for such purpose. Fertilisers were also suggested as DS for seawater and wastewater treatment when the diluted DS can be used directly for irrigation. The development of an adequate and efficient DS coupled with a low-cost energy recovery system is c...

Chen, X, Gallucci, J, Campana, C, Huang, Z, Lingam, HK, Shore, SG & Zhao, J-C 2012, 'Anti and gauche conformers of an inorganic butane analogue, NH3BH2NH2BH3', Chemical Communications, vol. 48, no. 64, pp. 7943-7943.
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Chen, X, Zhang, Y, Wang, Y, Zhou, W, Knight, DA, Yisgedu, TB, Huang, Z, Lingam, HK, Billet, B, Udovic, TJ, Brown, GM, Shore, SG, Wolverton, C & Zhao, J-C 2012, 'Structure determination of an amorphous compound AlB4H11', Chemical Science, vol. 3, no. 11, pp. 3183-3183.
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Chen, Z, Ngo, HH & Guo, W 2012, 'A critical review on sustainability assessment of recycled water schemes', SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT, vol. 426, pp. 13-31.
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Recycled water provides a viable opportunity to supplement water supplies as well as alleviate environmental loads. To further expand current schemes and explore new recycled water end uses, this study reviews several environmental assessment tools, including Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Material Flow Analysis (MFA) and Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) in terms of their types, characteristics and weaknesses in evaluating the sustainability of recycled water schemes. Due to the limitations in individual models, the integrated approaches are recommended in most cases, of which the outputs could be further combined with additional economic and social assessments in multi-criteria decision making framework. The study also proposes several management strategies in improving the environmental scores. The discussion and suggestions could help decision makers in making a sound judgement as well as recognising the challenges and tasks in the future. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.

Chen, Z, Ngo, HH, Guo, WS, Listowski, A, O'Halloran, K, Thompson, M & Muthukaruppan, M 2012, 'Multi-criteria analysis towards the new end use of recycled water for household laundry: A case study in Sydney', SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT, vol. 438, pp. 59-65.
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This paper aims to put forward several management alternatives regarding the application of recycled water for household laundry in Sydney. Based on different recycled water treatment techniques such as microfiltration (MF), granular activated carbon (GAC) or reverse osmosis (RO), and types of washing machines (WMs), five alternatives were proposed as follows: (1) do nothing scenario; (2) MF. +. existing WMs; (3) MF. +. new WMs; (4) MF-GAC. +. existing WMs; and (5) MF-RO. +. existing WMs. Accordingly, a comprehensive quantitative assessment on the trade-off among a variety of issues (e.g., engineering feasibility, initial cost, energy consumption, supply flexibility and water savings) was performed over the alternatives. This was achieved by a computer-based multi-criteria analysis (MCA) using the rank order weight generation together with preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluation (PROMETHEE) outranking techniques. Particularly, the generated 10,000 combinations of weights via Monte Carlo simulation were able to significantly reduce the man-made errors of single fixed set of weights because of its objectivity and high efficiency. To illustrate the methodology, a case study on Rouse Hill Development Area (RHDA), Sydney, Australia was carried out afterwards. The study was concluded by highlighting the feasibility of using highly treated recycled water for existing and new washing machines. This could provide a powerful guidance for sustainable water reuse management in the long term. However, more detailed field trials and investigations are still needed to effectively understand, predict and manage the impact of selected recycled water for new end use alternatives. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.

Chon, K, Cho, J, Shon, HK & Chon, K 2012, 'Advanced characterization of organic foulants of ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis from water reclamation', Desalination, vol. 301, pp. 59-66.
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Organic foulants obtained from ultrafiltration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes of a large scale municipal water reclamation plant were rigorously characterized using conventional and advanced characterization analyses (e.g. pyrolysis and mass spectrometry) in order to identify major constituents of the organic foulants and investigate fouling characteristics in a large scale application of the UF and RO membranes. Although water qualities and characteristics of effluent organic matter in the feed water were slightly changed during the UF membrane, fouling characteristics of the UF and RO membranes used in a large scale municipal water reclamation plant were significantly different according to the type of membranes. Hydrophobic fractions comprising of carboxylic acids and aldehydes strongly contributed to the fouling formation of the UF membrane compared to that of the RO membranes whereas the RO membrane foulants mainly consisted of hydrophilic fractions comprising of amides and alcohols due to the repulsive electrostatic interaction between negatively charged RO membrane surfaces and hydrophobic fractions with a negative charge, indicating that the membrane characteristics could play an important role in the fouling formation of the tested UF and RO membranes. © 2012 Elsevier B.V..

Chon, K, KyongShon, H & Cho, J 2012, 'Membrane bioreactor and nanofiltration hybrid system for reclamation of municipal wastewater: Removal of nutrients, organic matter and micropollutants', Bioresource Technology, vol. 122, pp. 181-188.
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A membrane bioreactor (MBR) and nanofiltration (NF) hybrid system was investigated to demonstrate the performance of treating nitrogen, phosphorus and pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in municipal wastewater. With the MBR and NF (molecular weight cut off (MWCO): 210 Da), the concentration of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) was effectively reduced by nitrification by MBR and negatively charged surface of NF (TN: 8.67 mgN/L and TP: 0.46 mgP/L). Biosorption and microbial decomposition in MBR seem to be major removal mechanisms for the removal of PPCPs. Among various parameters affecting the removal of PPCPs by NF, namely, physicochemical properties of the PPCPs (charge characteristics, hydrophobicity and MW) and membranes (MWCO and surface charge), the MWCO effect was found to be the most critical aspect.

Das Gupta, M, Loganathan, P & Vigneswaran, S 2012, 'Adsorptive Removal of Nitrate and Phosphate from Water by a Purolite Ion Exchange Resin and Hydrous Ferric Oxide Columns in Series', SEPARATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, vol. 47, no. 12, pp. 1785-1792.
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Elevated concentrations of nitrate and phosphate in surface and ground waters can lead to eutrophication, and nitrate can also cause health hazards to humans. The adsorption process is generally considered to be an efficient technique in removing these ions provided that the adsorbent is highly selective for these ions. Removal of nitrate and phosphate from a synthetic water (50 mg N/L as nitrate, 15 mg P/L as phosphate) and a wastewater (12.9 mg N/L as nitrate, 5.9 mg P/L as phosphate) using a Purolite A500P anion exchange resin and a hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) columns (60 cm height, 2 cm diameter, flow rate 1 m/h) in series containing 1-10% (w/w) of these adsorbents and the remainder anthracite (90-99%) were studied. Data from batch adsorption experiment at various concentrations of adsorbents satisfactorily fitted to Langmuir adsorption isotherm for nitrate and phosphate on Purolite with adsorption maxima of 64 mg N/g and 7 mg P/g and only for phosphate on HFO with adsorption maxima of 14 mg P/g. Both batch and column experiments showed that Purolite selectively removed nitrate and HFO selectively removed phosphate. The Purolite column BTC time was greater for nitrate than for phosphate. At the highest percentage by weight of Purolite almost all nitrate was removed in batch study and up to 1000 min in column study, but it was not able to remove a comparatively high percentage of phosphate. However, when the effluent from the Purolite column was passed through the HFO column almost all phosphate was removed. The two columns when set up in series also removed almost all nitrate and phosphate from the wastewater. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.

El Saliby, I, Okour, Y, Shon, HK, Kandasamy, J, Lee, WE & Kim, J-H 2012, 'TiO2 nanoparticles and nanofibres from TiCl4 flocculated sludge: Characterisation and photocatalytic activity', Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, vol. 18, no. 3, pp. 1033-1038.
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In this study, dye and secondary effluent wastewaters were used to generate a non-hazardous sludge. Anatase TiO2 nanoparticles have been successfully synthesised from the calcination of the TiCl4 flocculated sludge. A conventional hydrothermal method was adopted to produce anatase nanofibres (calcined at 600 8C) from TiO2 nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy investigations showed the highly crystalline nanoparticles and nanofibres after calcination. The size of nanofibres was related to the size of their nanoparticles precursors. Nanoparticles had larger surface area than nanofibres, lower pore volume and bigger pore diameter. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis revealed that impurities can be successfully removed by a subsequent hydrothermal/acid wash of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles had better overall photocatalytic activity for the degradation of organics in synthetic wastewater compared to nanofibres. On the other hand, nanofibres had a better adsorption capacity.

El Saliby, I, Shahid, M, McDonagh, A, Shon, HK & Kim, J-H 2012, 'Photodesorption of organic matter from titanium dioxide particles in aqueous media', Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, vol. 18, no. 5, pp. 1774-1780.
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Photo-induced desorption of organic compounds from TiO2 particles in aqueous media during photocatalysis has promising applications in water treatment. Photodesorption is a relatively fast phenomenon that facilitates the regeneration of photocatalysts with low energy consumption while concentrating the waste products in an energy and water efficient process. We propose that this transport phenomenon involves a significantly reduced affinity between the photocatalyst and pollutants upon UV illumination, and leads to the rapid detachment/decomposition of adsorbed pollutants. In this study, we report the effect of experimental conditions (pH, photocatalyst loading, organic loading, UV light irradiation and flow rate) on this phenomenon in a recirculating photocatalysis continuous reactor. Initially, organic compounds were allowed to adsorb on the surface of the photocatalyst (Degussa P25) until adsorption equilibrium was achieved. The photodesorption phenomenon was observed shortly after UVlight illumination of TiO2 but before the bulk photocatalytic oxidation takes place. The pH of the solution was found to affect both the adsorption and the desorption percentages revealing the role of particle charge on this phenomenon. Additionally, a 1 g/L loading of photocatalyst showed an optimum photodesorption rate using a single strength synthetic wastewater at pH 7.

Fatahi, B, Basack, S, Premananda, S & Khabbaz, H 2012, 'Settlement prediction and back analysis of Young's modulus and dilation angle of stone columns', Australian Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 67-80.
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Ground improvement using stone columns is one of the most suitable methods for deformation control of soft soils. The use of stone columns can improve the bearing capacity, reduce settlement, accelerate consolidation process and enhance slope stability as ivell as resistance to liquefaction. Settlement prediction of the ground influenced by the large stiffness difference between the columns and the surrounding soil and the induced arching is discussed in this paper. Plate load test is one of the common methods to be used for quality control of stone column reinforced ground. The test results can be used to back calculate some of the design parameters of the stone column. A finite element based procedure to estimate the Young's modulus and dilation angle o f stone column material using plate load test residts is proposed. The employed finite element model is axisymmetric and suitable for a cylindrical stone column. The field measurements after calibration have been in good agreement with numerical results for predicting deformations. The procedure developed in this study can be adopted by practicing engineers to estimate the Young's modulus and dilation angle of stone columns by conducting a plate load test. © Institution of Engineers Australia, 2012.

Fatahi, B, Khabbaz, H & Fatahi, B 2012, 'Mechanical characteristics of soft clay treated with fibre and cement', GEOSYNTHETICS INTERNATIONAL, vol. 19, no. 3, pp. 252-262.
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In this study, the influence of three types of fibre - polypropylene, recycled carpet and steel - on the mechanical properties of cement-treated clay is investigated. Cement-treated clay specimens were prepared with cement contents of 5%, 10% and 15% by weight of dry soil, and cured for 14 days. To investigate and understand the influence of different fibre types and contents, three different percentages of fibre content were adopted. The results of unconfined compression tests on 90 cylindrical samples of cement-treated clay with varied cement and fibre contents are analysed to discern the relationships between these parameters and the key mechanical properties, including unconfined compressive strength and stiffness of treated soil. Furthermore, indirect tension test results of a further 90 treated soil samples have been used to determine the influence of fibre and cement content on the tensile strength of the treated soil. The fibre reinforcement increases the peak compressive strength. The addition of fibres increases the residual strength and changes the brittle behaviour of the cement-treated clay to that of a more ductile material. The tensile strength of the cement-treated clay is increased by adding carpet and steel fibres, but small quantities of polypropylene fibres do not influence the tensile strength. © 2012 Thomas Telford Ltd.

Fatahi, B, Le, TM & Khabbaz, H 2012, 'Effects of initial stress state on performance of embankments on soft soils', Australian Geomechanics Journal, vol. 47, no. 3, pp. 77-88.
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Analysing the behaviour of soft soil under embankment loads is a challenging task for geotechnical engineers. This numerical study revisits the case study of an embankment constructed on Boston Blue Clay, considering the model incorporating the influence of soil creep on the ground lateral deformation and pore water pressure. Then a numerical parametric study is conducted to investigate the influence of the lateral earth pressure coefficient at rest (K0) calculated based on the different available correlations on the vertical and horizontal displacements, pore water pressures, and the factor of safety of the embankment. The results indicate that although the value of Ko influences the predicted horizontal and vertical displacements notably, it has minor effects on the predicted pore water pressures. The lateral earth pressure coefficient influences the long term stability of the embankment and thus the effects of the initial stress field on the stability of embankments should be taken into consideration, while assessing the performance of embankments constructed on soft soils. It is recommended to determine the in situ horizontal stresses using accurate methods such as self-boring pressuremeter to predict the behaviour of embankments on the soft ground precisely.

Feito, R, Valcárcel, Y & Catalá, M 2012, 'Biomarker assessment of toxicity with miniaturised bioassays: diclofenac as a case study', Ecotoxicology, vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 289-296.
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Fu, Q, Ren, JM & Qiao, GG 2012, 'Synthesis of novel cylindrical bottlebrush polypseudorotaxane via inclusion complexation of high density poly(ε-caprolactone) bottlebrush polymer and α-cyclodextrins', Polym. Chem., vol. 3, no. 2, pp. 343-351.
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Fu, Q, Ren, JM, Tan, S, Xu, J & Qiao, GG 2012, 'Synthesis of Novel Core Cross‐Linked Star‐Based Polyrotaxane End‐Capped via “CuAAC” Click Chemistry', Macromolecular Rapid Communications, vol. 33, no. 24, pp. 2109-2114.
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AbstractThe first example of core cross‐linked star (CCS) polyrotaxane was prepared using the poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) (PCL) CCS three‐dimensional (3D) scaffold. The 3D CCS polymer was firstly prepared through the “arm‐first” approach. Then, the “arms” of the resultant PCL CCS polymer were threaded with α‐cyclodextrins (α‐CDs). The threaded α‐CDs were permanently locked by the “click” reaction of terminal alkyne functionalities of the star polymers with the azide‐functionalized end caps to afford the CCS polyrotaxanes. All analytical results confirm the formation of the CCS polyrotaxanes and reveal their characteristics, including fluorescence under UV, a channel‐type crystalline structure, a two‐step thermal decomposition, and a unique core‐shell structure in great contrast to the polymer precursors.

Fujioka, T, Khan, SJ, Poussade, Y, Drewes, JE & Nghiem, LD 2012, 'N-nitrosamine removal by reverse osmosis for indirect potable water reuse – A critical review based on observations from laboratory-, pilot- and full-scale studies', Separation and Purification Technology, vol. 98, pp. 503-515.
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Gilbert, JA, Hill, R, Doblin, MA & Ralph, PJ 2012, 'Microbial consortia increase thermal tolerance of corals', MARINE BIOLOGY, vol. 159, no. 8, pp. 1763-1771.
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This study examined the response of a coral holobiont to thermal stress when the bacterial community was treated with antibiotics. Colonies of Pocillopora damicornis were exposed to broad and narrow-spectrum antibiotics targeting coral-associated α and γ-Proteobacteria. Corals were gradually heated from the control temperature of 26 to 31 °C, and measurements were made of host, zooxanthellar and microbial condition. Antibiotics artificially reduced the abundance and activity of bacteria, but had minimal effect on zooxanthellae photosynthetic efficiency or host tissue protein content. Heated corals without antibiotics showed significant declines in F V/F M, typical of thermal stress. However, heated corals treated with antibiotics showed severe tissue loss in addition to a decline in F V/F M. This study demonstrated that a disruption to the microbial consortium diminished the resilience of the holobiont. Corals exposed to antibiotics under control temperature did not bleach, suggesting that temperature may be an important factor influencing the activity, diversity and ecological function of the holobiont bacterial community. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.

Guo, W, Ngo, H-H & Li, J 2012, 'A mini-review on membrane fouling', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 122, no. 1, pp. 27-34.
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During the last decades, the interest of using membrane technology has emerged in wastewater treatment as well as drinking water and process water production. However, the impediment of the membrane technology is the fouling problem and consequently higher operating and membrane replacement cost. Hence, better understanding of membrane fouling is not only the key to solve the problems, but also is one of the main factors driving membrane technology forward. This mini-review paper identifies the major foulants and the principal membrane fouling mechanisms such as pore blocking, cake formation, concentration polarization, organic adsorption, inorganic precipitation and biological fouling. It also gives a holistic review about different fouling phenomena during the application of membrane separation technologies in water and wastewater treatment, with specific references to various problems, membranes, treatment processes and its practical applications. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.

Hallegraeff, GM, Blackburn, SI, Doblin, MA & Bolch, CJS 2012, 'Global toxicology, ecophysiology and population relationships of the chainforming PST dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum', HARMFUL ALGAE, vol. 14, pp. 130-143.
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Increasing scientific awareness since the 1980s of the chain-forming dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum has led to this species being reported with increased frequency in a globally increasing number of countries (23 at present). G. catenatum exhibits little molecular genetic variation in rDNA over its global range, in contrast to RAPD fingerprinting which points to high genetic variation within regional populations even between estuaries 50. km apart. All Australian and New Zealand strains possess a thymine nucleotide (T-gene) near the start of the 5.8S rRNA whereas all other global populations examined to date possess cytosine-nucleotide (C-gene), except for southern Japan which harbours both C-gene and T-gene strains. Together with cyst and plankton evidence this strongly suggests that both Australian and New Zealand populations have derived from southern Japan. Global dinoflagellate populations and cultures exhibit an extraordinary variation in PST profiles (STX and 21 analogues), but consistent regional patterns are evident with regard to the production of C1,2; C3,4; B1,2; and neoSTX analogues. PST profiles of cyst-derived cultures are deemed unrepresentative. Distinct ecophysiological differences exist between tropical (21-32°C) and warm-temperate ecotypes (12-18°C), but these appear unrelated to ITS genotypes and PST toxin phenotypes. On current evidence, cyst germination appears to play a minimal role in the bloom dynamics of this species, while seasonal and inter-annual bloom variations result from the physical constraints (temperature and light) on the growth of the dinoflagellates in the water column. G. catenatum exhibits a capacity to utilize many forms of nitrogen. Its chain formation and strong motility allow it to undergo retrieval migrations to exploit light and nutrient resource gradients in both stratified and mixed environments. Subtle strain-level variations in micronutrient (Se, humics) requirements and interaction with associat...

Hasan, MH, Mahlia, TMI & Nur, H 2012, 'A review on energy scenario and sustainable energy in Indonesia', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 4, pp. 2316-2328.
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Hasan, MH, Muzammil, WK, Mahlia, TMI, Jannifar, A & Hasanuddin, I 2012, 'A review on the pattern of electricity generation and emission in Indonesia from 1987 to 2009', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 5, pp. 3206-3219.
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Hazrat, MA, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Badruddin, IA, Ramli, R & Pang, SC 2012, 'Steady state analysis of coolant temperature distribution in a spark ignition engine cooling jacket', International Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, vol. 7, no. 3, pp. 243-250.
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A full scale SI engine has been imported in to the CFD tool to analyse the temperature distribution of coolant throughout the cooling channels. The segregated approach solver has been adopted to solve the energy equations along with the RANS two layer turbulence model to find out accordance with the available theoretical and published results. The input values are collected from complete vehicle test and from available documents, too. The main objective of the analysis was to observe the coolant temperature distribution inside the cooling jacket when the engine is turned off. The steady state simulation shows that though the average coolant outlet temperature is found within the acceptable limit of cooling system operation principle, there is a large temperature gradient in fluid thermal boundary layers within cross section and overall jacket path. The analysis demands that there should be some special arrangement of maintaining the fluid flow inside the cooling jacket even after the engine is turned off to avoid further loss of the engine body due to high temperature accumulation inside the cooling jacket and fluid in it. The lump capacity conduction equation for first sec shows that the wall temperature obtained through the energy equation is in accordance with it, too.

Heran, M, Aryal, R, Shon, HK, Vigneswaran, S, Elmaleh, S & Grasmick, A 2012, 'How to Optimize Hollow-Fiber Submerged Membrane Bioreactors', WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH, vol. 84, no. 2, pp. 115-119.
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Membrane fouling is linked to reversible or irreversible accumulation of macromolecules and solids on membrane surfaces and to the irreversible adsorption inside pores. If reversible accumulation can be controlled by filtering in subcritical conditions, then adsorption could also be minimized by reducing the soluble organic matter [extracellular polymeric substances, soluble microbial products (SMP)]. This research shows how the choice of operating parameters related to biological reaction (solid retention time and the organic loading rate) can influence the process rate and the by-product (SMP) production. It also illustrates how suspension characteristics and membrane aeration can influence membrane fouling control according to the hollow fiber configuration and to the different scales of observation. The investigations were based on the definition of different fouling level and fine-tuning of a model to better understand the effects of operating parameters on membrane bioreactor filtration.

Hill, R, Larkum, AWD, Prasil, O, Kramer, DM, Szabo, M, Kumar, V & Ralph, PJ 2012, 'Light-induced dissociation of antenna complexes in the symbionts of scleractinian corals correlates with sensitivity to coral bleaching', CORAL REEFS, vol. 31, no. 4, pp. 963-975.
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Elevated temperatures in combination with moderate to high irradiance are known to cause bleaching events in scleractinian corals, characterised by damage to photosystem II (PSII). Photoprotective mechanisms of the symbiont can reduce the excitation pressure impinging upon PSII. In the bleaching sensitive species, Acropora millepora and Pocillopora damicornis, high light alone induced photoprotection through the xanthophyll cycle, increased content of the antioxidant carotenoid, β-carotene, as well as the dissociation of the light-harvesting chlorophyll complexes. The evidence is compatible with either the membrane-bound chlorophyll a-chlorophyll c2-peridinin-protein (acpPC) complex or the peripheral peridinin-chlorophyll-protein complex, or both, disconnecting from PSII under high light. The acpPC complex potentially showed a state transition response with redistribution towards photosystem I to reduce PSII over-excitation. This apparent acpPC dissociation/reassociation was promoted by the addition of the xanthophyll cycle inhibitor, dithiothreitol, under high irradiance. Exposure to thermal stress as well as high light promoted xanthophyll de-epoxidation and increased β-carotene content, although it did not influence light-harvesting chlorophyll complex (LHC) dissociation, indicating light, rather than temperature, controls LHC dissociation. Photoinhibition was avoided in the bleaching tolerant species, Pavona decussata, suggesting xanthophyll cycling along with LHC dissociation may have been sufficient to prevent photodamage to PSII. Symbionts of P. decussata also displayed the greatest detachment of antenna complexes, while the more thermally sensitive species, Pocillopora damicornis and A. millepora, showed less LHC dissociation, suggesting antenna movement influences bleaching susceptibility. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.

Hokmabadi, AS, Fakher, A & Fatahi, B 2012, 'Full scale lateral behaviour of monopiles in granular marine soils', MARINE STRUCTURES, vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 198-210.
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Monopiles are used in piers as mooring or berthing dolphins. This article reports the results of full-scale lateral loading tests on monopiles constructed as dolphins in the Pars Special Economic Energy Zone in southern Iran. The length and diameter of the monopiles were approximately 40 m and 2 m, respectively. Lateral loading tests of such large monopiles are not commonly undertaken, thus there is limited data available. This research developed a lateral analysis of piles computer code to examine analytical methods for pile analysis. Appropriate models were introduced resulting in accurate predictions in the analysis of lateral loaded piles. The results showed that traditional p-y curves and strain wedge models calculate larger pile head deflection in comparison to the field test data and therefore local calibration is essential. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.

Hokmabadi, AS, Fatahi, B & Samali, B 2012, 'Recording inter-storey drifts of structures in time-history approach for seismic design of building frames', Australian Journal of Structural Engineering, vol. 13, no. 2, pp. 175-179.
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The growing trend in the application of direct displacement-based or performance-based design, lays more emphasis on the precise prediction of design parameters such as the inter-storey drift controlling the performance level of the structure. Practising engineers employ different methods to record the inter-storey drifts in time-history approach mainly based on the maximum lateral deformation of the structure. In this study, a 15-storey concrete moment resisting building is designed using time-history analysis. Then reliability and accuracy of each method in predicting the maximum inter-storey drifts under the influence of three earthquake records, namely 1995 Kobe, 1994 Northridge and 1940 El Centro earthquakes, are investigated. Results clearly indicate that to choose the most critical drift to evaluate the performance level of structures, the absolute maximum drift over time should be calculated. Other methods based on the maximum storey deflection may result in unconservative design.

Hong, S, Aryal, R, Vigneswaran, S, Johir, MAH & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Influence of hydraulic retention time on the nature of foulant organics in a high rate membrane bioreactor', Desalination, vol. 287, no. 1, pp. 116-122.
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The influence of hydraulic retention time (HRT) in a submerged hollow fibre membrane bioreactor was studied by conducting experiments at four different HRTs (4,2, 1.3 and 1 h) at room temperature of 25 °C. lt was found that a shorter HRT led to a higher development of trans-membrane pressure. The highest sludge cake and pore-blocking resistances of 4.02 x 1011 m-1 and 0.77 x 1011 m-1 respectively were noted for the shortest HRT (of 1 h) application. UV and fluorescence spectroscopy analyses showed that the nature of organics in the biomass and sludge cakes were different. The organic fraction analysis by liquid chromatography with organic carbon detector (LC-OCO) showed a significant amount of biopolymers and a lower amount of humics for longer HRT.

Hossain, A, Ngo, H, Guo, W & Nguyen, V 2012, 'Biosorption of Cu(II) From Water by Banana Peel Based Biosorbent: Experiments and Models of Adsorption and Desorption', Journal of Water Sustainability, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 87-104.
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Banana peel, a discarded agricultural waste was used to produce bioadsorbent through easy and environmental friendly processes. This banana peel based biosorbent was evaluated for adsorptive removal of copper from water and its desorption capability. The characterisation results showed this biosorbent had very high specific surface area, potential binding sites and functional groups. The optimal conditions for biosorption were found at pH 6.5, biosorbent size of less than 75μ, dose of 0.5g/100ml and 1-hour contact time. Thermodynamic analysis also indicated that its adsorption was spontaneous. Significant desorption of copper (94%) was obtained when using 0.1N H2SO4. Both adsorption and desorption equilibrium data were well described by Langmuir, SIPS and Koble-Corrigan models whilst kinetics data by pseudo-first order, Elovich and Intraparticle diffusion models. Modelsâ parameters were optimised by MATLABâs non-linear modelling. All models had good fitness with the experimental data from high R2 (0.970-1.00), low non-linear errors - RMSE (0.004-10.00) and low 2 (0.0004-10.00). The maximum adsorption and desorption capacities were 20.37 and 32.40 mg/g, respectively. The adsorption processes were controlled by chemisorption. Both adsorption and desorption processes could be described by the pseudo-first order kinetic. The potential applicability of banana peel based bioadsorbent could be further examined in a large-scale.

Hossain, MA, Ngo, HH, Guo, WS & Nguyen, TV 2012, 'Palm oil fruit shells as biosorbent for copper removal from water and wastewater: Experiments and sorption models', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 113, pp. 97-101.
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Palm oil fruit shells were evaluated as a new bioadsorbent to eliminate toxic copper from water and wastewater. Without any chemical treatment, palm oil fruit shells were washed, dried and grounded into powder (<75μm) for use in the experiments. Characterization showed mesopore based bioadsorbent was prepared from palm oil fruit shells. The results indicate that the highest Cu removal efficiency was found in an aqueous solution with pH of 6.5. The equilibrium sorption capacity of copper was significantly high (between 28 and 60mg/g) at room temperature. Nonlinear regression analyses for isotherm models revealed that three-parameter isotherms had a better fit to the experimental data (R 2>0.994) than that of two-parameter isotherms. The copper sorption system was heterogeneous as the values of exponents were lying between 0 and 1. The highly correlated pseudo-second-order kinetics model (R 2>0.998) ascertained the applicability of copper removal by palm oil fruit shells. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

Hossain, MA, Ngo, HH, Guo, WS & Setiadi, T 2012, 'Adsorption and desorption of copper(II) ions onto garden grass', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 121, pp. 386-395.
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The garden grass (GG) was firstly used to remove copper(II) from water as bioadsorbent. From the results of characterisation, the GG had the merits of high specific surface area, significant adsorption sites and functional groups. Copper-adsorption significantly depends on the initial copper concentrations, contact time, pH, adsorbent doses, particle sizes and temperature. The positive values of DG indicates that the adsorption of copper onto garden grass is non-spontaneous and values lies within the ranges of 4.452â13.660 kJ/mol for supporting physical adsorption. 0.1 N H2SO4 was found as suitable eluent, which could be used 5 cycles of adsorptionâdesorption. The data from adsorption and desorption equilibrium were well fitted by the Langmuir, SIPS and RedlichâPeterson isotherm models. The maximum adsorption and desorption capacities were 58.34 and 319.03 mg/g, respectively, for 1 g dose. Adsorption and desorption kinetics could be described by the Pseudo-first-order model.

How, HG, Teoh, YH, Masjuki, HH & Kalam, MA 2012, 'Impact of coconut oil blends on particulate-phase PAHs and regulated emissions from a light duty diesel engine', Energy, vol. 48, no. 1, pp. 500-509.
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Huang, Z & Autrey, T 2012, 'Boron–nitrogen–hydrogen (BNH) compounds: recent developments in hydrogen storage, applications in hydrogenation and catalysis, and new syntheses', Energy & Environmental Science, vol. 5, no. 11, pp. 9257-9257.
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Jeong, S, Choi, YJ, Nguyen, TV, Vigneswaran, S & Hwang, TM 2012, 'Submerged membrane hybrid systems as pretreatment in seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO): Optimisation and fouling mechanism determination', JOURNAL OF MEMBRANE SCIENCE, vol. 411, pp. 173-181.
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Three different submerged membrane hybrid systems (SMHSs) namely submerged membrane coagulation hybrid system (SMCHS), submerged membrane adsorption hybrid system (SMAHS), and submerged membrane coagulation-adsorption hybrid system (SMCAHS) were studied as pretreatment systems to seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO). The performances of these SMHSs were compared with that of submerged membrane system (without any coagulation or adsorption) in terms of trans-membrane pressure (TMP) development, critical flux, ultrafilter modified fouling index (UF-MFI), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal efficiency, and the removal of detailed organic fractions. The experimental results show that pretreatment by SMCAHS led to the best results in terms of organic removal and critical flux. With the low doses of ferric chloride (FeCl 3) and powder activated carbon (PAC) of 0.5mg of Fe 3+/L and 0.5g of PAC/L, respectively, this hybrid system could remove 72% of DOC and reduce the UF-MFI nearly five times. The initial DOC and UF-MFI of seawater used in this study were 2.53mg/L and 14,165s/L 2, respectively. The application of three different membrane fouling models namely pore blockage, pore constriction, and cake formation models showed that cake formation was the predominant fouling mechanisms causing fouling in SMHSs. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.

Jeong, S, Kim, LH, Kim, S-J, Nguyen, TV, Vigneswaran, S & Kim, IS 2012, 'Biofouling Potential Reductions Using a Membrane Hybrid System as a Pre-treatment to Seawater Reverse Osmosis', Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, vol. 167, no. 6, pp. 1716-1727.
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Biofouling on reverse osmosis (RO) membranes is the most serious problem which affects desalination process efficiency and increases operation cost. The biofouling cannot be effectively removed by the conventional pre-treatment traditionally used in desalination plants. Hybrid membrane systems coupling the adsorption and/or coagulation with low-pressure membranes can be a sustainable pre-treatment in reducing membrane fouling and at the same time improving the feed water quality to the seawater reverse osmosis. The addition of powder activated carbon (PAC) of 1.5 g/L into submerged membrane system could help to remove significant amount of both hydrophobic compounds (81.4%) and hydrophilic compounds (73.3%). When this submerged membrane adsorption hybrid system (SMAHS) was combined with FeCl3 coagulation of 0.5 mg of Fe3+/L, dissolved organic carbon removal efficiency was excellent even with lower dose of PAC (0.5 g/L). Detailed microbial studies conducted with the SMAHS and the submerged membrane coagulation-adsorption hybrid system (SMCAHS) showed that these hybrid systems can significantly remove the total bacteria which contain also live cells. As a result, microbial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as well as total ATP concentrations in treated seawater and foulants was considerably decreased. The bacteria number in feed water prior to RO reduced from 5.10E +06 cells/mL to 3.10E+03 cells/mL and 9.30E+03 cells/mL after SMAHS and SMCAHS were applied as pre-treatment, respectively. These led to a significant reduction of assimilable organic carbon (AOC) by 10.1 μg/L acetate-C when SMCAHS was used as a pre-treatment after 45-h RO operation. In this study, AOC method was modified to measure the growth of bacteria in seawater by using the Pseudomonas P.60 strain. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2012.

Jeong, S, Nguyen, TV, Shon, HK & Vigneswaran, S 2012, 'The performance of contact flocculation–filtration as pretreatment of seawater reverse osmosis', Desalination and Water Treatment, vol. 43, no. 1-3, pp. 246-252.
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Deep bed filtration has traditionally been used as a pretreatment in seawater desalination. The performance of contact flocculation-filtration (CFF) as pretreatment of seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) was evaluated in terms of pressure drop through the filter and removal of organics and turbidity. The average turbidity, total suspended solids, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) of raw seawater were 0.92 NTU, 3.6, and 1.12mg/L, respectively. The performances of CFF were experimentally evaluated with different flocculant doses (0.5-3.0mg Fe3+/L) and rapid mixing times (1.7-14.4 s). Here rapid mixing was performed in a spiral flocculation unit which consisted of a PVC tube of length 0.5m and internal diameters of 0.16 and 0.40 cm. The experimental results show that the filtration rate of 10.0m/h led to an extensive increase in both head loss (pressure drop) and turbidity as compared to those at filtration rates of 5.0 and 7.5 m/h. The head loss also significantly decreased when the flocculant dose was reduced from 3 to 0.5mg Fe3+/L. However, the organic matter (26% of DOC) removal was lower at a lower dose of ferric chloride (1.0 mg/L as Fe3+). The removal efficiency of DOC at low concentration of ferric was improved considerably through the improvement of rapid mixing. The application of CFF process also led to a significant decrease in ultrafiltermodified fouling index (UF-MFI). © 2012 Desalination Publications. All rights reserved.

Jimenez, IM, Larkum, AWD, Ralph, PJ & Kuehl, M 2012, 'Thermal effects of tissue optics in symbiont-bearing reef-building corals', LIMNOLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY, vol. 57, no. 6, pp. 1816-1825.
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Reflectance spectroscopy and microscale temperature measurements were used to investigate links between optical and thermal properties of corals. Coral tissue heating showed a species-specific linear correlation to the absorptance of incident irradiance. Heat budgets estimated from absorptance and thermal boundary layer measurements indicated differences in the relative contribution of convection and conduction to heat loss in Porites lobata and Stylophora pistillata, and a higher heat conduction into the skeleton of the thin-tissued branching S. pistillata as compared to the massive thick-tissued P. lobata. Decreasing absorptance associated with bleaching resulted in decreased surface warming of coral tissue. Action spectra of coral tissue heating showed elevated efficiency of heating at wavelengths corresponding to absorption maxima of major zooxanthellae photopigments. Generally, energy-rich radiation (, 500 nm) showed the highest heating efficiency. Speciesspecific relationships between coral tissue heating and absorptance can be strongly affected by differences in the thermal properties of the skeleton and/or tissue arrangement within the skeletal matrix, indicating a yet unresolved potential for coral shape, size, and tissue thickness to affect heat dissipation and especially the conduction of heat into the coral skeleton.

Jimenez, IM, Larkum, AWD, Ralph, PJ & Kuhl, M 2012, 'In situ thermal dynamics of shallow water corals is affected by tidal patterns and irradiance', MARINE BIOLOGY, vol. 159, no. 8, pp. 1773-1782.
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We studied the diel variation of in situ coral temperature, irradiance and photosynthetic performance of hemispherical colonies of Porites lobata and branching colonies of Porites cylindrica during different bulk water temperature and tidal scenarios on the shallow reef flat of Heron Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Our study presents in situ evidence that coral tissue surface temperatures can exceed that of the surrounding water under environmental conditions typically occurring during low tide in shallow reef or lagoon environments. Such heating may be a regular occurrence on shallow reef flats, triggered by the combined effects of high irradiance and low water flow characteristic of low Spring tides. At these times, solar heating of corals coincides with times of maximum water temperature and high irradiance, where the slow flow and consequent thick boundary layers impede heat exchange between corals and the surrounding water. Despite similar light-absorbing properties, the heating effect was more pronounced for the hemispherical P. lobata than for the branching P. cylindrica. This is consistent with previous laboratory experiments showing the evidence of interspecific variation in coral thermal environment and may result from morphologically influenced variation in convective heat transfer and/or thermal properties of the skeleton. Maximum coral surface warming did not coincide with maximum irradiance, but with maximum water temperature, well into the low-tide period with extremely low water flow in the partially drained reef flat, just prior to flushing by the rising tide. The timing of low tide thus influences the thermal exposure and photophysiological performance of corals, and the timing of tidally driven coral surface warming could potentially have different physiological impacts in the morning or in the afternoon.

Johir, MAH, George, J, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J, Sathasivan, A & Grasmick, A 2012, 'Effect of imposed flux on fouling behavior in high rate membrane bioreactor', Bioresource Technology, vol. 122, pp. 42-49.
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The influence of imposed flux and aeration rates on membrane fouling in a submerged membrane bioreactor was studied. The experiments were conducted at four imposed fluxes and three aeration rates. The effect of flux on the reduction of membrane fouling w

Johir, MAH, Vigneswaran, S, Sathasivan, A, Kandasamy, J & Chang, CY 2012, 'Effect of organic loading rate on organic matter and foulant characteristics in membrane bio-reactor', Bioresource Technology, vol. 113, pp. 154-160.
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In this study, the influence of organic loading rate (OLR) on the performance of a membrane bio-reactor (MBR) was investigated. The MBR was operated with 6 different OLRs between 0.5 and 3.0 kg COD/m3 d. The hydrodynamic parameters of the MBR were kept constant. The hydraulic retention time and sludge retention time were kept at 8 h and 40 d respectively. From the experimental investigation, it was found that the removal efficiency of DOC, COD and NH4-N decreased when OLRs were increased from 0.5 to 3.0 kg COD/m3 d. Higher OLRs of 2.75-3.0 kg COD/m3 d resulted in a higher transmembrane pressure development. The fractionation of organic matters showed more hydrophilic substances with higher OLRs. A detailed organic matter characterization of membrane foulant, soluble microbial product and extracellular polymeric substances showed that bio-polymers type substances together with humic acid and lower molecular neutral and acids were responsible for membrane fouling.

Kalam, MA, Ahamed, JU & Masjuki, HH 2012, 'Land availability of Jatropha production in Malaysia', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 6, pp. 3999-4007.
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Kalam, MA, Masjuki, HH, Shahabuddin, M & Mofijur, M 2012, 'Tribological characteristics of amine phosphate and octylated/butylated diphenylamine additives infused bio-lubricant', Energy Education Science and Technology Part A: Energy Science and Research, vol. 30, no. 1, pp. 123-136.
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This paper presents the experimental results of normal lubricant, additives added lubricants and waste vegetable oil (WVO) contaminated bio-lubricants to evaluate the tribological properties such that friction and wear characteristics. The test was conducted using a four-ball tribotester with standard test method IP- 239. The balls used in four-ball tribotester were based on carbon-chromium steel ball bearings. To evaluate friction and wear characteristics, coefficient of friction (μ), wear scar diameter (WSD), flash temperature parameter (FTP), viscosity index (VI) and total acid number (TAN) were investigated. Each test was conducted for five different loads from 50 kg to 90 kg at an interval of 10 kg. The lubricant was contaminated with WVO from 1% to 5%. The normal lubricant (as sample A) was used for comparison purposes. The test results showed that WVO contaminated lubricants with suitable anti-wear additive (amine phosphate) can reduce friction and wear coefficient substantially. The objective of this investigation is to develop a new lubricant based on waste palm oil (such as WVO). © Sila Science.

Kus, B, Johir, M, Kandasamy, J, Vigneswaran, S, Shon, H-Y, Sleigh, R & Moody, G 2012, 'Performance of granular medium filtration and membrane filtration in treating stormwater for harvesting and reuse', DESALINATION AND WATER TREATMENT, vol. 45, no. 1-3, pp. 120-127.
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This paper discusses laboratory scale and pilot scale treatment systems used to in treat water from a stormwater canal in Carlton, Sydney. The laboratory scale pre-treatment systems investigated included flocculation, GAC filtration and fibre filter prior to laboratory scale steriflow stainless steel membrane filter. The results showed that these pre-treatments improved the quality of the filtrate as measured by the turbidity and TOC removal effi ciency. The use of pre-treatment improved the TOC removal efficiency from 10% to 90%. Among the three pretreatment methods, GAC filter resulted in the highest TOC removal efficiency (88%). Pilot scale experiments were also carried out using stainless steel membrane filtration and GAC filtration at Carlton, Sydney. Pilot scale experiments showed that the Steri-Flow membrane filter treatment without any pre-treatment achieved an effluent fi ltrate turbidity of between 0.79â0.99 NTU which were well below the 5 NTU ADWG (2004) limit [1]. The influent raw stormwater had generally low concentrations of heavy metals. Following membrane filtration the concentration of all heavy metals were reduced to very low levels and well within the ADWG (2004) [1] limits. The membrane fi lter could not remove TOC in significant amounts. GAC adsorption used as post-treatment following Steri-flow membrane treatment effectively reduced the TOC influent feed levels. GAC filtration of stormwater provided a 70% removal of organics. It removed all types of organic. The GAC filter did not provide any further improvement to the turbidity level or heavy metal concentration following treatment with the Steri-flow membrane system.

Kus, B, Kandasamy, J, Vigneswaran, S, Shon, H & Moody, G 2012, 'Two stage filtration for stormwater treatment: a pilot scale study', Desalination and Water Treatment, vol. 45, no. 1-3, pp. 361-369.
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This paper presents the results of the granular medium filter and membrane (Ultra Flo membrane) filter experiments conducted with raw stormwater collected from a stormwater canal at Carlton, in Sydney. The filter medium experimented were granular activat

Law, Y, Ni, B-J, Lant, P & Yuan, Z 2012, 'N2O production rate of an enriched ammonia-oxidising bacteria culture exponentially correlates to its ammonia oxidation rate', Water Research, vol. 46, no. 10, pp. 3409-3419.
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Le, TM, Fatahi, B & Khabbaz, H 2012, 'Viscous Behaviour of Soft Clay and Inducing Factors', Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, vol. 30, no. 5, pp. 1069-1083.
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As a result of the scarcity of land for construction, a number of projects to construct man-made islands or to expand lands over soft grounds keeps increasing. Creep behaviour of soft ground has been considered as a challenging issue for engineers and researchers for many years. A number of studies have focused on the method to predict the creep deformation of the ground under a construction site. However, there is no unified theory to clearly explain the mechanism of soil creep deformation of soils. Results of the critical review in this paper indicate that the causes of soil creep can be categorised into five main groups, namely (a) the breakdown of the inter-particle bonds, (b) sliding between the soil particles, (c) water flow from micro-pores to macro-pores (d) the deformation due to the structural viscosity and (e) the deformation due to the jumping of bonds. This paper presents these mechanisms in details with an effort to recommend an enhanced explanation for the creep compression mechanisms of clays. © 2012 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.

Lee, JH, Zhou, JL, Lee, Y, Oh, S-Y & Kim, SD 2012, 'Changes in the sorption and rate of 17β-estradiol biodegradation by dissolved organic matter collected from different water sources', J. Environ. Monit., vol. 14, no. 2, pp. 543-551.
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The potential biodegradation and subsequent transformation of 17β-estradiol (E2) to estrone (E1) were examined in the presence of various dissolved organic matter (DOM) isolated from effluent, river and lake waters. In addition, estrogenicity was estimated in association with the removal of E2 via its sorption onto DOM and biodegradation. The more biodegradable lake-derived DOM promoted more extensive transformation of E2 into E1 than the effluent organic matter through a biodegradation process. Overall, under all conditions, biodegradation dominated the removal of E2 in water. The increased dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations in river and lake-derived DOM (e.g. 6.5 mg C L -1) reduced the removal of E2 by decreasing its biodegradation due to the moderate sorption of E2 onto DOM. The effluent organic matter showed greater removal of E2 via biodegradation, as well as significantly high sorption. This was associated with a large amount of hydrophobic fulvic acid (FA)- and humic acid (HA)-like organic components, as shown by the small increase in the specific UV absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA 254). An increase in the DOC concentration reduced the removal of E2, resulting in high estrogenicity. The present study suggests that both organic composition and DOC concentration influenced the removal of E2 and, therefore, should be fully considered when assessing estrogenicity and its impacts on the aquatic environment. © 2012 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Leong, KY, Saidur, R, Mahlia, TMI & Yau, YH 2012, 'Entropy generation analysis of nanofluid flow in a circular tube subjected to constant wall temperature', International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 39, no. 8, pp. 1169-1175.
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Leong, KY, Saidur, R, Mahlia, TMI & Yau, YH 2012, 'Modeling of shell and tube heat recovery exchanger operated with nanofluid based coolants', International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 55, no. 4, pp. 808-816.
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Leong, KY, Saidur, R, Mahlia, TMI & Yau, YH 2012, 'Performance investigation of nanofluids as working fluid in a thermosyphon air preheater', International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 39, no. 4, pp. 523-529.
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Liaquat, AM, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Varman, M & Hazrat, MA 2012, 'Experimental analysis on engine performance and emission characteristics using biodiesel obtained from non-edible oil', International Review of Mechanical Engineering, vol. 6, no. 3, pp. 659-665.
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There are concerns that biodiesel feedstock may compete with food supply in the long term, if the raw materials are vegetable virgin oils only. Therefore, throughout the world, large amounts of non-edible oil plants are available in nature. In this paper, experimental study has been carried out to analyze engine performance and emission characteristics for direct injection diesel engine using biodiesel obtained from non-edible oil such as jatropha oil and was blended with diesel fuel (DF) by 5% (JB5), 10% (JB10), 15% (JB15) and 20% (JB20) volumetrically without any engine modifications. Due to the presence of molecular oxygen, biodiesel undergoes improved combustion in the engine and has less polluting emissions in comparison with normal diesel fuels. Engine performance test was performed at 100% load keeping throttle 100% wide open with variable speeds of 1500 to 2400 rpm at an interval of 100 rpm. Whereas, emission tests were carried out at 2300 rpm at 100% and 80% throttle position. As results of investigations, there has been a decrease in torque and brake power, while increase in specific fuel consumption (sfc) has been observed for all biodiesel blend fuels over the entire speed range compared to DF. In case of engine exhaust gas emissions, reduction in HC, CO and CO2 were found for all blends. Besides, sound level for blend fuels was also reduced compared to DF. It can be concluded that jatropha biodiesel blend fuels can be used in diesel engines without any engine modifications and have beneficial effects both in terms of emission reductions and alternative petroleum diesel fuel. © 2012 Praise Worthy Prize S.r.l. - All rights reserved.

Liaquat, AM, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Varman, M, Hazrat, MA, Shahabuddin, M & Mofijur, M 2012, 'Application of blend fuels in a diesel engine', Energy Procedia, vol. 14, pp. 1124-1133.
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Listowski, A, Ngo, H & Guo, W 2012, 'Development of a New Framework and Methodology for Social Assessment of Recycled Water Schemes', Journal of Water Sustainability, vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 149-157.
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The framework and methodology for social assessment follows concepts based on integrated water management and technology as the holistic process. This study was initially undertaken through literature review, collection and analysis of actual data from areas where water reclamation scheme have been in operation. The data obtained helped with identification of information gaps and communication deficiencies. The social assessment of technology might create some controversies, especially over environmental and health impact associated with a long term use of recycled water. This concept also implies that scientific research should support public debate, allowing greater public evaluation of the scheme its implications and consequences. This study could confirm that social assessment of water reclamation and reuse is considered in broad context and it suffers institutional separation and differentiation from economy and technology. It is fair to assert that, political economy and technological research are seen to be quite different from social research and it is often considered in a largely interpret technology and environmental contexts.

Liu, C, Ngo, HH & Guo, W 2012, 'Watermelon Rind: Agro-waste or Superior Biosorbent?', APPLIED BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY, vol. 167, no. 6, pp. 1699-1715.
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Biosorption of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and lead (Pb) on watermelon rind in a wellstirred batch system was investigated. pH showed significant influence on the biosorption process. Optimal pH for Cu, Zn, and Pb biosorption was found to be 5.0, 6.8 and 6.8, respectively. Watermelon rind was in favor of Pb and it could remove up to 99% Pb between pH ranges of 5 and 6.8 when Pb concentration is lower than 100 mg/L. The biosorptive capacity of watermelon on Cu, Zn, and Pb was 6.281, 6.845, and 98.063 mg/g, respectively. The equilibrium data fitted well to Langmuir adsorption isotherm while pseudo-secondorder kinetic model exhibited more advantages for describing kinetic data than pseudo-firstorder kinetic model. NaOH was found to be a suitable eluent. After desorption in NaOH solution, the resorption efficiency reached as high as 99% of these three metals either in a single-component or multi-component system. From the characterization study, ion exchange and micro-precipitation were estimated to be the main mechanisms. Due to its high metal uptake capacity, reusability, and metal recovery, watermelon rind can be considered as an eco-friendly and economic biosorbent for removing Pb from water and wastewater.

Liu, C, Ngo, HH, Guo, W & Tung, K-L 2012, 'Optimal conditions for preparation of banana peels, sugarcane bagasse and watermelon rind in removing copper from water', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 119, pp. 349-354.
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In this study, three agro-waste materials were used as biosorbents for removal of copper (Cu) from water. This work aims to optimise conditions for preparation of these materials to obtain maximum Cu adsorption capacity. The optimal conditions were determined in terms of Cu removal efficiency and/or energy consumption. The results indicate that banana peels dried at 120 C for 2 h and ground into powder form led to a better performance in terms of both copper removal efficiency and energy consumption. For sugarcane bagasse and watermelon rind, 120 C was the suitable drying temperature. However, the best drying time was 1 h for sugarcane bagasse and 3 h for watermelon rind. The powder form with size of <150 lm was optimal for all biosorbents in terms of removal efficiency and equilibration time. The findings are beneficial to the application of these agro-waste materials for Cu removal from water and wastewater treatment.

Loganathan, P, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J & Naidu, R 2012, 'Cadmium Sorption and Desorption in Soils: A Review', CRITICAL REVIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, vol. 42, no. 5, pp. 489-533.
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Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental pollutant that can be readily taken up by plants and may enter the food chain, causing risk to human health. It can also affect soil quality and, if easily leached, has the potential to pollute surface and ground waters. Sorption and desorption are critical processes controlling the phytoavailability and mobility of Cd in soils. The authors present the present knowledge on the mechanisms and hysteresis of Cd sorption and desorption in soils and factors such as pH, ionic strength, index cation, other heavy metal cations, inorganic anions, organic ligands, Cd loading rate, and the type and amounts of organic matter and inorganic colloids influencing these processes. The methods used to determine the nature and magnitude of Cd sorption and desorption are also critically reviewed.

Luo, L, Wang, XC, Guo, W, Ngo, HH & Chen, Z 2012, 'Impact assessment of excess discharges of organics and nutrients into aquatic systems by thermodynamic entropy calculation', JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT, vol. 112, pp. 45-52.
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In this study, a method was proposed for calculating the thermodynamic entropy increase DS in a water body after receiving excess discharge of organics and nutrients in order to quantitatively assess the impact of pollutants discharge on aquatic systems. The enthalpy change was evaluated using the standard thermodynamic data according to the possible chemical and/or biochemical reactions such as organic oxidation, nitrification/denitrification, and phosphorus precipitation, for the recovery of water quality to the background level. A series of equations were established for calculating the DS associated with the decomposition or removal of TOC, NO3eN, NO2eN, NH3eN and TP. The values of DS corresponding to unit mass (per g) of these pollutants were calculated as 54.0 kJ/K, 2.91 kJ/K, 10.01 kJ/K, 28.51 kJ/K and 2.81 kJ/K, respectively. Besides, the applicability of the proposed method was proved by a scenario analysis regarding effluent quality control and surface water quality protection in China.

Ma, XY, Wang, XC, Ngo, H & Guo, W 2012, 'Application of vibrio qinghaiensis sp. Q67 for ecotoxic assessment of environmental waters: A mini review', Journal of Water Sustainability, vol. 2, no. 4, pp. 209-220.
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Ecotoxicity assessment using luminescent bacteria has been wildly used because it is rapid, sensitive and cost effective for screening water and wastewater quality. This mini-review focused on the application of Vibrio qinghaiensis sp. Q67 (abbreviated as Q67), a natural freshwater luminescent bacteria strain discovered in China. The characteristics of the bioassay using Q67 were firstly reviewed with comparison to that using the Vibrio fischeri, a widely used marine luminescent bacteria strain. In addition to the principal of bioassay using luminescent bacteria, attention was paid to the applications of Q67 to the toxicity assessment of organic and inorganic substances, and practical water samples. With its advantage for direct evaluation of freshwater samples without salt addition, Q67 toxicity test can be a good alternative of Vibrio fischeri for toxicological study of environmental waters.

Macreadie, PI, Allen, K, Kelaher, BP, Ralph, PJ & Skilbeck, CG 2012, 'Paleoreconstruction of estuarine sediments reveal human-induced weakening of coastal carbon sinks', GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY, vol. 18, no. 3, pp. 891-901.
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Human activities in coastal areas frequently cause loss of benthic macrophytes (e.g. seagrasses) and concomitant increases in microalgal production through eutrophication. Whether such changes translate into shifts in the composition of sediment detritus is largely unknown, yet such changes could impact the role these ecosystems play in sequestrating CO2. We reconstructed the sedimentary records of cores taken from two sites within Botany Bay, Sydney the site of European settlement of Australia to look for human-induced changes in dominant sources of detritus in this estuary. Cores covered a period from the present day back to the middle Holocene (6000years) according to 210Pb profiles and radiocarbon (14C) dating. Depositional histories at both sites could not be characterized by a linear sedimentation rate; sedimentation rates in the last 3050years were considerably higher than during the rest of the Holocene. C:N ratios declined and began to exhibit a microalgal source signature from around the time of European settlement, which could be explained by increased nutrient flows into the Bay caused by anthropogenic activity. Analysis of stable isotopic ratios of 12C/13C showed that the relative contribution of seagrass and C3 terrestrial plants (mangroves, saltmarsh) to detritus declined around the time of rapid industrial expansion (1950s), coinciding with an increase in the contribution of microalgal sources. We conclude that the relative contribution of microalgae to detritus has increased within Botany Bay, and that this shift is the sign of increased industrialization and concomitant eutrophication.

Mahlia, TMI, Ng, HM, Olofsson, T, Andriyana, A & Hasanuddin, I 2012, 'Energy and cost savings of optimal thickness for selected insulation materials and air gaps for building walls in tropical climate', Energy Education Science and Technology Part A: Energy Science and Research, vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 649-662.
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Air conditioning usage in buildings is one of the major energy consumption sources due to thermal comfort requirement in tropical climate. An efficient building thermal insulation can reduce the energy consumption for cooling systems due to heat transfer from ambient. Therefore, it is crucial to study the effectiveness of energy saving by thermal insulation for buildings. In this study, the savings of ten selected building thermal insulation materials on the energy consumption of air-conditioning for cooling are evaluated based on tropical climate condition in Malaysia. The life-cycle cost analysis is conducted is calculated based on the energy savings. The results have revealed that life cycle cost is varying from 73 to 85%/m 2 wall and energy saving from 85 to 92%/m 2 wall, which can be achieved depending on the insulation material used at their optimal thickness. The insulations Stropor exhibit optimal results in terms of economic benefits. The energy savings of air gap in the wall construction is also investigated for the selected insulation material. It is found that additional 0.64%/m 2 wall of life cycle cost savings can be achieved by applying 6 cm air gap at the selected insulation at optimal thickness. © Sila Science.

Mahlia, TMI, Tohno, S & Tezuka, T 2012, 'A review on fuel economy test procedure for automobiles: Implementation possibilities in Malaysia and lessons for other countries', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 6, pp. 4029-4046.
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McMinn, A, Ashworth, C, Bhagooli, R, Martin, A, Salleh, S, Ralph, P & Ryan, K 2012, 'Antarctic coastal microalgal primary production and photosynthesis', MARINE BIOLOGY, vol. 159, no. 12, pp. 2827-2837.
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Primary production in coastal Antarctica is primarily contributed from three sources: sea ice algae, phytoplankton, and microphytobenthos. Compared to other eastern Antarctic sites, the sea ice microalgal biomass at Casey Station, in spring 2005 was rela

Mofijur, M, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA & Shahabuddin, M 2012, 'Experimental study of additive added palm biodiesel in a compression ignition engine', Energy Education Science and Technology Part A: Energy Science and Research, vol. 30, no. SPEC .ISS.1, pp. 1-12.
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In this study, the effect of anti oxidant additives on performance and emissions of a biofuelled engine was investigated experimentally and compared with diesel fuel. For this study four fuel sample including B0 (100% diesel fuel), B100 (100% palm biodiesel), B35 (35% palm biodiesel and 65% diesel) and B35+1% (B35 with 1% additives) was used in a multi cylinder compression ignition engine. Performance and emissions were investigated at various engine speeds of 1500 rpm to 4000 rpm at an interval of 250 rpm and with 50% throttle opening. To evaluate the performance characteristics brake power (BP), brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and exhaust temperature were tested where as incase of emissions test nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), total hydrocarbon (THC) and carbon dioxide (CO2) were measured. The results showed that using 1% anti oxidant additive with higher percentages (35%) of palm biodiesel blend gave 2.7% lower brake power but it significantly reduced exhaust emissions including NOx emissions than diesel fuel. Based on this study fuel 'B35+1%' (35% biodiesel with 1% additives) was achieved as a promising alternative fuel for compression ignition engine. © Sila Science.

Mofijur, M, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Hazrat, MA, Liaquat, AM, Shahabuddin, M & Varman, M 2012, 'Prospects of biodiesel from Jatropha in Malaysia', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 7, pp. 5007-5020.
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Mofijur, M, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Shahabuddin, M, Hazrat, MA & Liaquat, AM 2012, 'Palm Oil Methyl Ester and Its Emulsions Effect on Lubricant Performance and Engine Components Wear', Energy Procedia, vol. 14, pp. 1748-1753.
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Mohammed, T, Aryal, R, Vigneswaran, S, Loganathan, P, Kandasamy, J & Naidu, R 2012, 'Removal of heavy metals in stormwater by hydrous ferric oxide', PROCEEDINGS OF THE INSTITUTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERS-WATER MANAGEMENT, vol. 165, no. 3, pp. 171-178.
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Stormwater runoff from urban and industrial areas contains several types of heavy metals that have negative ecological impacts on receiving waters, and therefore methods need to be developed to remove these pollutants. Combined removal of a mixture of heavy metal cations (Cu 2+, Zn 2+, Cd 2+, and Ni 2+) and an oxy anion (selenate, SeO 4-) from an artificially prepared stormwater was investigated by sorption of these heavy metals on hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) in a column experiment under intermittent runoff (wetting and drying) condition, as occurs between rainfall events in the field. The heavy metal removal behaviour varied between ions as well as with time. In each continuous column run (8 h) the amount of ions removed progressively decreased with time and reached a constant level at approximately 4-6 h. However, stopping the runoff for 40 h and starting the next runoff after this period removed a large quantity of heavy metals in the first few hours of this run. The intermittent runoff for seven runs showed that HFO has a high capacity to remove copper and zinc, which were present in higher concentrations in the stormwater than cadmium, nickel and selenium.

Mohammed, T, Loganathan, P, Kinsela, A, Vigneswaran, S & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Enrichment, inter-relationship, and fractionation of heavy metals in road-deposited sediments of Sydney, Australia', SOIL RESEARCH, vol. 50, no. 3, pp. 229-238.
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Urban road-deposited sediments (RDS) are potential sources of heavy metal pollution of both terrestrial and aquatic environments. We determined the heavy metals enrichments, their possible sources, and potential bioavailability and mobility in RDS from nine sites along major motorways of Sydney, the largest city with highest road traffic density in Australia. Mean total concentrations of metals in the RDS decreased in the order: Fe >Mn >Zn >Cu >Cr >Pb >Ni >Cd. The corresponding order in the background soils (minimally contaminated from roads) was: Fe >Mn >Zn ∼ Ni >Cu ∼ Pb >Cr >Cd. Both the pollution index (PI) and metal enrichment factor (EF), which are comparative measures between contaminated and uncontaminated sites, were highest for Cu and Zn. Inputs of Cu and Zn to RDS were likely to be mainly the result of brake and tyre wear, respectively. Cluster and correlation analyses showed that while the concentrations of these two metals were related in the soil, they were not correlated in RDS. Low PI and EF values as well as the close inter-relationships of Fe, Mn, Cr, and Ni in both RDS and soils suggest that these metals were derived mainly from natural sources. Metal fractionation data showed 5095% of Cr and Fe in RDS to be present in the immobile and bio-unavailable residual fraction, whereas 1565% of Zn was contained in the exchangeable fraction, which is considered to be mobile and bioavailable. © 2012 CSIRO.

Mohammed, T, Vigneswaran, S, Loganathan, P, Kandasamy, J & Aryal, R 2012, 'Removal of Inorganic Contaminants from Simulated Stormwater by Three Sorbents in Columns Under Intermittent Runoff Condition', SEPARATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, vol. 47, no. 16, pp. 2340-2347.
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Combined removal of inorganic contaminants from a synthetic tormwater was investigated by their sorption on hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) (5%), HFO + Ca(OH)2(6%), and HFO + Ca(OH)2 + MnO2 (7%) in columns containing 93-95% anthracite, conducted under seven intermittent runoffs, each of 8 h duration with a 40 h (drying) period between them. At the initial period when Ca(OH)2 produced elevated pHs, the HFO column removed less metals but more Se than the HFO + Ca(OH)2 columns. With increased time when the pH effect of Ca(OH)2 became insignificant, the MnO2 in the column increased the removal of all contaminants. The removal efficiencies (%) at the flow rate of 0.75 m/h for Cd, Cu, Ni, Zn by the HFO + Ca(OH)2 + MnO2 column were 88-100%, and Se by the HFO column were 92-94% for the 1st and 3rd runs. The corresponding values for the 5th and 7th runs were 51-88% and 82-88%, respectively.

Nguyen, T, Ngo, H, Guo, W & Nguyen, V 2012, 'Phosphorous removal from aqueous solutions by agricultural by-products: A critical review', Journal of Water Sustainability, vol. 2, no. 3, pp. 193-207.
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Phosphorous plays an essential role in the development of living organisms. Nevertheless, phosphorous pollution, known as the eutrophication, is regarded as one of main causes of water quality deterioration. Hence, the decontamination of phosphorous from aqueous solutions is of importance for eutrophication control and phosphorous recovery. This review paper investigates the potential use of agricultural by-products (ABPs) as biosorbents in remediation of phosphorous contaminated waters. It was found that the modified ABPs exhibit equivalent or higher sorption capacity of phosphorous compared to conventional adsorbents. The efficient removal of phosphorous by ABPs requires some chemical modifications. The application of ABPs is highly recommended because of their significant advantages, including the abundant availability, low cost, high efficiency and without detrimental impacts on the environment. As adsorptive removal of phosphorous by ABPs is a relatively new process, there are still many aspects for future research, such as development of novel and cost-effective modification techniques, modeling for process optimization, desorption, cost-benefit analysis etc. The improvements in these aspects are expected to make it the method of choice in the future.

Nguyen, TT, Ngo, HH, Guo, W, Li, J & Listowski, A 2012, 'Effects of Sludge Concentrations and Different Sponge Configurations on the Performance of a Sponge-Submerged Membrane Bioreactor', APPLIED BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY, vol. 167, no. 6, pp. 1678-1687.
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The performance of a novel sponge-submerged membrane bioreactor (SSMBR) was evaluated to treat primary treated sewage effluent at three different activated sludge concentrations. Polyurethane sponge cubes with size of 1×1×1 cm were used as attached growth media in the bioreactor. The results indicated the successful removal of organic carbon and phosphorous with the efficiency higher than 98% at all conditions. Acclimatised sponge MBR showed about 5% better ammonia nitrogen removal at 5 and 10 g/L sludge concentration as compared to the new sponge system. The respiration test revealed that the specific oxygen uptake rate was around 1.0-3.5 mgO2/gVSS.h and likely more stable at 10 g/L sludge concentration. The sludge volume index of less than 100 mL/g during the operation indicated the good settling property of the sludge. The low mixed liquor suspended solid increase indicated that SSMBR could control the sludge production. This SSMBR was also successful in reducing membrane fouling with significant lower transmembrane pressure (e.g. only 0.5 kPa/day) compared to the conventional MBR system. Further study will be conducted to optimise other operating conditions. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2012.

Nguyen, TT, Ngo, HH, Guo, W, Listowski, A & Li, JX 2012, 'Evaluation of sponge tray-membrane bioreactor (ST-MBR) for primary treated sewage effluent treatment', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 113, pp. 143-147.
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The membrane bioreactor system (MBR) with pre-treatment of sponge tray bioreactor (STB) was evaluated at different operating conditions for treating primary treated sewage (PTS). The result indicated the successful removal of DOC with the efficiency of higher than 95%. The highest nutrient removal efficiency of 83.6% (NH 4-N) and 75.5% (PO 4-P) was observed at sludge concentration of 330mg/L. Specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR) of activated sludge in MBR kept increasing up to 6mgO 2/gVSSh during stage IV. The sludge volume index (SVI) of less than 100mL/g during the operation indicated the good settling property of the sludge. At highest sludge concentration of 5g/L, trans-membrane pressure (TMP) was increasing dramatically during first 15d up to 25kPa; however it was only 6kPa at lower sludge concentrations. It is concluded that the system showed the highest performance at stage III with sludge concentration of 330mg/L. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

NI, B-J & YU, H-Q 2012, 'Microbial Products of Activated Sludge in Biological Wastewater Treatment Systems: A Critical Review', Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology, vol. 42, no. 2, pp. 187-223.
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Ni, B-J, Fang, F, Xie, W-M, Xu, J & Yu, H-Q 2012, 'Formation of Distinct Soluble Microbial Products by Activated Sludge: Kinetic Analysis and Quantitative Determination', Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 46, no. 3, pp. 1667-1674.
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Ni, B-J, Ruscalleda, M & Smets, BF 2012, 'Evaluation on the microbial interactions of anaerobic ammonium oxidizers and heterotrophs in Anammox biofilm', Water Research, vol. 46, no. 15, pp. 4645-4652.
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Nur, H, Lee Kee, G, Hamdan, H, Indra Mahlia, TM, Efendi, J & Cornelis Metselaar, HS 2012, 'Organosulfonic acid functionalized zeolite ZSM-5 as temperature tolerant proton conducting material', International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, vol. 37, no. 17, pp. 12513-12521.
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Nur, T, Johir, MAH, Loganathan, P, Vigneswaran, S & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Effectiveness of purolite A500PS and A520E ion exchange resins on the removal of nitrate and phosphate from synthetic water', DESALINATION AND WATER TREATMENT, vol. 47, no. 1-3, pp. 50-58.
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Water pollution due to the excessive presence of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) is a serious environmental worldwide problem, because both species are implicated in the eutrophication of receiving surface waters and elevated nitrate concentration in drinking water can be toxic to infants. The removal efficiencies of nitrate and phosphate from water spiked with different ratios and concentrations of these nutrients by two ion-exchange resins (Purolite A500PS and Purolite A520E) were studied in batch kinetics and equilibrium adsorption experiments. Both purolites were found to be selective towards nitrate removal at all ratios of nitrate to phosphate in solution. Purolite A520E showed higher (<85%) removal efficiency of nitrate than Purolite A500PS (about 65%) from a solution containing 20mgN/L as nitrate and 10mgP/L as phosphate at a resin dose of 1.5 g/L. However, Purolite A500PS showed higher (65%) removal of phosphate than Purolite A520E (48%). Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models fitted well for the adsorption of nitrate on Purolite A520E (R2 = 0.95-0.96). However, the adsorption of nitrate on Purolite A500PS can be explained satisfactorily only by Freundlich model (R2 = 0.98). The adsorption of phosphate on the resins fitted well to Freundlich model (R2 = 0.90) for Purolite A500PS as well as for Purolite A520E (R2 = 0.90). The adsorption of phosphate and nitrate on both ion-exchange resins was much better described by pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2≥0.99) than by pseudo-first-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.25-0.94).© 2012 Desalination Publications.

Olofsson, T & Mahlia, TMI 2012, 'Modeling and simulation of the energy use in an occupied residential building in cold climate', Applied Energy, vol. 91, no. 1, pp. 432-438.
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Ong, HC, Mahlia, TMI & Masjuki, HH 2012, 'A review on energy pattern and policy for transportation sector in Malaysia', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 532-542.
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Ong, HC, Mahlia, TMI, Masjuki, HH & Honnery, D 2012, 'Life cycle cost and sensitivity analysis of palm biodiesel production', Fuel, vol. 98, pp. 131-139.
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Pan, Y, Ye, L, Ni, B-J & Yuan, Z 2012, 'Effect of pH on N2O reduction and accumulation during denitrification by methanol utilizing denitrifiers', Water Research, vol. 46, no. 15, pp. 4832-4840.
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Pang, SC, Kalam, MA, Masjuki, HH & Hazrat, MA 2012, 'A review on air flow and coolant flow circuit in vehicles’ cooling system', International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 55, no. 23-24, pp. 6295-6306.
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Pang, SC, Kalam, MA, Masjuki, HH, Badruddin, IA, Ramli, R & Hazrat, MA 2012, 'Underhood geometry modification and transient coolant temperature modelling for robust cooling networks', International Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, vol. 7, no. 3, pp. 251-258.
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In this current era, increasing computing power, effort to reduce prototypes' cost and time, and shorten design-to-product time urges the need of numerical computation. Higher cooling's load or requirement is attributed by higher power of engine. Also, higher quantity of heat exchangers and vehicles' styling resulted limited space at vehicles' hood. These factors have caused the design job of vehicles' hood and engine cooling system to be more crucial and challenging. A well designed and robust engine cooling system could sustain in the worst and toughest condition. One of the worst conditions for engine cooling system is sudden keying-off of engine after hill climbing and high speed driving. In this research, three dimensional computational fluids dynamic (CFD) is utilised to model the dynamic air flow at the hood with complicated geometry. On the other hand, one dimensional thermo-fluid model could simulate the system effect after including all the components in engine cooling system. With integration of both models, the transient coolant temperature before and after vehicles' keying off is simulated and is analysed thoroughly. Front-end hood geometry is morphed to reduce air separation at heat exchangers. Two cone-shaped air directing devices are included to guide higher volume of ram air toward frontal face of heat exchangers. Different heat soak scenarios are simulated and transient temperature trend is observed. The coolant temperature tends to increase tremendously when huge amount of heat soak could not be dissipated away in-time.

Pant, HR, Park, CH, Pant, B, Tijing, LD, Kim, HY & Kim, CS 2012, 'Synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic properties of ZnO nano-flower containing TiO2 NPs', Ceramics International, vol. 38, no. 4, pp. 2943-2950.
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In this study, TiO 2-impregnated ZnO nano-flowers were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal process. Aqueous suspension containing ZnO precursor and commercial TiO 2 NPs (P25) is heated at 140 °C for 2 h. The morphology and structure of as-synthesized particles were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which revealed that TiO 2 NPs were attached on the surface of ZnO flower. It was observed that the presence of TiO 2 NPs in the hydrothermal solution could sufficiently decrease the size of ZnO flower. The hybrid nanostructure, with unique morphology, obtained from this convenient method (low temperature, less time, and less number of reagents) was found to be effective photocatalyst under UV-irradiation. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd and Techna Group S.r.l.

Pant, HR, Park, CH, Tijing, LD, Amarjargal, A, Lee, D-H & Kim, CS 2012, 'Bimodal fiber diameter distributed graphene oxide/nylon-6 composite nanofibrous mats via electrospinning', Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, vol. 407, pp. 121-125.
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In this work, nylon-6 spider-wave-like nano-nets are fabricated by regulating the amount of graphene oxide (GO) in polymer solution during electrospinning. The spider-wave-like nano-nets that comprise interlinked thin (≈14 nm diameter) and thick fibers (≈192 nm diameter) are widely distributed throughout the mat when suitable amount of GO is blended with nylon-6 solution. The heterogeneous composite mats were composed of bimodal nanofibers in which pore diameter was sufficiently decreased. The acceleration in ionization and degradation of nylon-6 (due to formic acid) solution caused by well-dispersed GO sheet as well as the formation of hydrogen bond between nylon-6 molecules and GO sheet during electrospinning are proposed as the possible mechanisms for the formation of these spider-wave-like nano-nets

Park, C-H, Jung, MY, Tijing, LD, Lee, HB, Kim, NS & Kim, CS 2012, 'Characterization and biostability of HA/Ti6Al4V ACL anchor prepared by simple heat-treatment', Ceramics International, vol. 38, no. 7, pp. 5385-5391.
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Park, C-H, Kim, C-H, Tijing, LD, Lee, D-H, Yu, M-H, Pant, HR, Kim, Y & Kim, CS 2012, 'Preparation and characterization of (polyurethane/nylon-6) nanofiber/ (silicone) film composites via electrospinning and dip-coating', Fibers and Polymers, vol. 13, no. 3, pp. 339-345.
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This paper reports on the preparation and characterization of nanofibers and nanofiber/film composites fabricated by electrospinning and dip-coating. The polymers in this study consist of polyurethane, nylon-6, and silicone. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fiber distribution, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and tensile tests were conducted. The electrospun nylon-6 nanofiber/dip-coated silicone film (dried for 5 min) showed the optimum tensile strength and strain results, showing an increase in tensile strength of 63 % compared to pure nylon-6 nanofiber alone. XRD and FTIR verified the presence of individual polymers in the composite matrix. The electrospun PU nanofiber produced the biggest fiber diameter, while electrospun nylon-6, and PU/nylon-6 produced uniform fiber diameters, with PU/nylon-6 obtaining very random and curved fiber morphology. © 2012 The Korean Fiber Society and Springer Netherlands.

Park, C-H, Kim, T-H, Lee, D-H, Tijing, LD, Yu, M-H, Moon, S-D & Kim, CS 2012, 'Magnetic Polishing of Titanium-Nickel Alloy Stents: Surface Characterization and Catheter Deployment Test', Metallurgical and Materials Transactions A, vol. 43, no. 9, pp. 3006-3010.
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We report here for the first time the use of magnetic polishing to improve the surface finish of titanium-nickel (TiNi) stents for better performance. We investigated the effects of polishing time and rotational speed on the average surface roughness, surface chemical contents, and push-out load of stents. The magnetically polished stents show a decrease of 2.3 to 17.9 pct in surface roughness and a lower push-out load for stent deployment from the catheter.

Petrou, K, Kranz, SA, Doblin, MA & Ralph, PJ 2012, 'PHOTOPHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF FRAGILARIOPSIS CYLINDRUS (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE) TO NITROGEN DEPLETION AT TWO TEMPERATURES', JOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY, vol. 48, no. 1, pp. 127-136.
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The photosynthetic efficiency and photoprotective capacity of the sea-ice diatom, Fragilariopsis cylindrus (Grunow) W. Krieg., grown in a matrix of nitrogen repletion and depletion at two different temperatures (-1°C and +6°C) was investigated. Temperature showed no significant effect on photosynthetic efficiency or photoprotection in F. cylindrus. Cultures under nitrogen depletion showed enhanced photoprotective capacity with an increase in nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) when compared with nitrogen-replete cultures. This phenomenon was achieved at no apparent cost to the photosynthetic efficiency of PSII (F V/F M). Nitrogen depletion yielded a partially reduced electron transport chain in which maximum fluorescence (F M) could only be obtained by adding 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea (DCMU). reoxidation curves showed the presence of Q B nonreducing PSII centers under nitrogen depletion. Fast induction curves (FICs) and electron transport rates (ETRs) revealed slowing of the electrons transferred from the primary (Q A) to the secondary (Q B) quinone electron acceptors of PSII. The data presented show that nitrogen depletion in F. cylindrus leads to the formation of Q B nonreducing PSII centers within the photosystem. On a physiological level, the formation of Q B nonreducing PSII centers in F. cylindrus provides the cell with protection against photoinhibition by facilitating the rapid induction of NPQ. This strategy provides an important ecological advantage, especially during the Antarctic spring, maintaining photosynthetic efficiency under high light and nutrient-limiting conditions. © 2011 Phycological Society of America.

Phuntsho, S, Shon, HK, Hong, S, Lee, S, Vigneswaran, S & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Fertiliser drawn forward osmosis desalination: the concept, performance and limitations for fertigation', REVIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND BIO-TECHNOLOGY, vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 147-168.
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With the world's population growing rapidly, pressure is increasing on the limited fresh water resources. Membrane technology could play a vital role in solving the water scarcity issues through alternative sources such as saline water sources and wastewater reclamation. The current generation of membrane technologies, particularly reverse osmosis (RO), has significantly improved in performance. However, RO desalination is still energy intensive and any effort to improve energy efficiency increases total cost of the product water. Since energy, environment and climate change issues are all inter-related, desalination for large-scale irrigation requires new novel technologies that address the energy issues. Forward osmosis (FO) is an emerging membrane technology. However, FO desalination for potable water is still a challenge because, recovery and regeneration of draw solutes require additional processes and energy. This article focuses on the application of FO desalination for non-potable irrigation where maximum water is required. In this concept of fertiliser drawn FO (FDFO) desalination, fertilisers are used as draw solutions (DS). The diluted draw solution after desalination can be directly applied for fertigation without the need for recovery and regeneration of DS. FDFO desalination can make irrigation water available at comparatively lower energy than the current desalination technologies. As a low energy technology, FDFO can be easily powered by renewable energy sources and therefore suitable for inland and remote applications. This article outlines the concept of FDFO desalination and critically evaluates the scope and limitations of this technology for fertigation, including suggestions on options to overcome some of these limitations. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.

Phuntsho, S, Shon, HK, Majeed, T, El Saliby, I, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J, Hong, S & Lee, S 2012, 'Blended Fertilizers as Draw Solutions for Fertilizer-Drawn Forward Osmosis Desalination', ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, vol. 46, no. 8, pp. 4567-4575.
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In fertilizer-drawn forward osmosis (FDFO) desalination, the final nutrient concentration (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium (NPK)) in the product water is essential for direct fertigation and to avoid over fertilization. Our study with 11 selected fertilizers indicate that blending of two or more single fertilizers as draw solution (DS) can achieve significantly lower nutrient concentration in the FDFO product water rather than using single fertilizer alone. For example, blending KCl and NH 4H 2PO 4 as DS can result in 0.61/1.35/1.70 g/L of N/P/K, which is comparatively lower than using them individually as DS. The nutrient composition and concentration in the final FDFO product water can also be adjusted by selecting low nutrient fertilizers containing complementary nutrients and in different ratios to produce prescription mixtures. However, blending fertilizers generally resulted in slightly reduced bulk osmotic pressure and water flux in comparison to the sum of the osmotic pressures and water fluxes of the two individual DSs as used alone. The performance ratio or PR (ratio of actual water flux to theoretical water flux) of blended fertilizer DS was observed to be between the PR of the two fertilizer solutions tested individually. In some cases, such as urea, blending also resulted in significant reduction in N nutrient loss by reverse diffusion in presence of other fertilizer species. © 2012 American Chemical Society.

Phuntsho, S, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J, Hong, S, Lee, S & Shon, HK 2012, 'Influence of temperature and temperature difference in the performance of forward osmosis desalination process', JOURNAL OF MEMBRANE SCIENCE, vol. 415, pp. 734-744.
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Forward osmosis (FO) is an emerging technology for low energy desalination. Amongst the many other factors, temperature of the draw solution (DS) and feed solution (FS) plays an important role in influencing the performance of the FO process. In this study, the influence of the temperature and the temperature difference on the performance of FO process has been studied in terms of water and solute fluxes. Temperature difference was maintained by elevating only one of the solutions (either DS or FS). The results indicate that, water flux on average increases by up to 1.2% for every degree rise in temperature from 25 °C to 35 °C while this rise is 2.3% from 25 °C to 45 °C. Providing a temperature difference by elevating only the DS also enhanced the water flux significantly, although it was lower than FO process operated at isothermal conditions. However, elevating only the temperature of FS did not significantly improve the water flux although it was higher than the FO process operated at 25 °C. This has significant implications in FO process because the total mass of the DS requiring heat energy is significantly less than the total FS used. The influences of temperature in the FO process such as through changes in the thermodynamic properties of the solutions and the various concentration polarisation effects are also explained in details. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.

Pijuan, M, Wang, Q, Ye, L & Yuan, Z 2012, 'Improving secondary sludge biodegradability using free nitrous acid treatment', Bioresource Technology, vol. 116, pp. 92-98.
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Pradhan, M, Vigneswaran, S, Kandasamy, J & Ben Aim, R 2012, 'Combined effect of air and mechanical scouring of membranes for fouling reduction in submerged membrane reactor', DESALINATION, vol. 288, pp. 58-65.
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This study investigated the combined effect of air flow and use of granular support medium in suspension in a submerged membrane reactor to reduce membrane fouling. Lower membrane fouling and a slower rise in transmembrane pressure (TMP) were noticed when a higher air flow rate was used for membrane scouring. Further fouling reduction was achieved by adding a granular medium in the reactor. The results showed that in the absence of the granular medium, when air flow was tripled (from 600 to 1800 L/h/m2), the TMP development was decreased by 60%. TMP further dropped to 85% with the addition of granular medium (for the same air flow rate). The doubling of the air flow rate (from 600 to 1200 L/h/m2), without granular medium, led to a 32% reduction in TMP development at 10 L/m2.h. The same result was obtained at a lower air flow rate of 600 L/h/m2 with the granular medium. This result shows that the same reduction of TMP can be obtained by adding granular medium instead of doubling air flow rate. Therefore adding granular medium in the suspension (mechanical scouring) with air flow (air scouring) could be a sustainable alternative to applying high air flow in submerged membrane systems.

Rahman, MM, Öztop, HF, Ahsan, A, Kalam, MA & Billah, MM 2012, 'MHD Mixed Convection in a Channel with a Triangular Cavity', Numerical Heat Transfer, Part A: Applications, vol. 61, no. 4, pp. 268-282.
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Rahman, MM, Öztop, HF, Ahsan, A, Kalam, MA & Varol, Y 2012, 'Double-diffusive natural convection in a triangular solar collector', International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 39, no. 2, pp. 264-269.
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Ren, JM, Fu, Q, Blencowe, A & Qiao, GG 2012, 'Organic Catalyst-Mediated Ring-Opening Polymerization for the Highly Efficient Synthesis of Polyester-Based Star Polymers', ACS Macro Letters, vol. 1, no. 6, pp. 681-686.
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Rismanchi, B, Saidur, R, Masjuki, HH & Mahlia, TMI 2012, 'Energetic, economic and environmental benefits of utilizing the ice thermal storage systems for office building applications', Energy and Buildings, vol. 50, pp. 347-354.
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Rismanchi, B, Saidur, R, Masjuki, HH & Mahlia, TMI 2012, 'Thermodynamic evaluation of utilizing different ice thermal energy storage systems for cooling application in office buildings in Malaysia', Energy and Buildings, vol. 53, pp. 117-126.
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Seymour, JR, Doblin, MA, Jeffries, TC, Brown, MV, Newton, K, Ralph, PJ, Baird, M & Mitchell, JG 2012, 'Contrasting microbial assemblages in adjacent water masses associated with the East Australian Current', ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS, vol. 4, no. 5, pp. 548-555.
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Different oceanographic provinces host discrete microbial assemblages that are adapted to local physicochemical conditions. We sequenced and compared the metagenomes of two microbial communities inhabiting adjacent water masses in the Tasman Sea, where the recent strengthening of the East Australian Current (EAC) has altered the ecology of coastal environments. Despite the comparable latitude of the samples, significant phylogenetic differences were apparent, including shifts in the relative frequency of matches to Cyanobacteria, Crenarchaeota and Euryarchaeota. Fine-scale variability in the structure of SAR11, Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus populations, with more matches to 'warm-water' ecotypes observed in the EAC, indicates the EAC may drive an intrusion of tropical microbes into temperate regions of the Tasman Sea. Furthermore, significant shifts in the relative importance of 17 metabolic categories indicate that the EAC prokaryotic community has different physiological properties than surrounding waters. © 2012 Society for Applied Microbiology and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Shafie, SM, Mahlia, TMI, Masjuki, HH & Ahmad-Yazid, A 2012, 'A review on electricity generation based on biomass residue in Malaysia', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 8, pp. 5879-5889.
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Shahabuddin, M, Kalam, MA, Masjuki, HH, Bhuiya, MMK & Mofijur, M 2012, 'An experimental investigation into biodiesel stability by means of oxidation and property determination', Energy, vol. 44, no. 1, pp. 616-622.
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Shahabuddin, M, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Mofijur, M, Hazrat, MA & Liaquat, AM 2012, 'Effect of Additive on Performance of C.I. Engine Fuelled with Bio Diesel', Energy Procedia, vol. 14, pp. 1624-1629.
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Sharma, G, Shon, HK & Phuntsho, S 2012, 'Electrocoagulation and crossflow microfiltration hybrid system: fouling investigation', DESALINATION AND WATER TREATMENT, vol. 43, no. 1-3, pp. 253-259.
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The fouling study of crossflow microfiltration (MF) was comparatively studied with feedwater containing kaolin suspension with and without electrocoagulation (EC) pre-treatment. An acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) MF membrane of pore size 0.4 lm was used in this study. The experiments were carried out at three different concentration of kaolin (100, 400 and 800 mg/l) and with three different crossflow velocities of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 l/min. When the feedwater was pre-treated by EC, the fouling was found to follow standard law of filtration. Besides the standard filtration law, the fouling mechanism also followed the classical cake filtration model due to formation of a secondary membrane. © 2012 Desalination Publications. All rights reserved.

Shekarchian, M, Moghavvemi, M, Rismanchi, B, Mahlia, TMI & Olofsson, T 2012, 'The cost benefit analysis and potential emission reduction evaluation of applying wall insulation for buildings in Malaysia', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 7, pp. 4708-4718.
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Shim, WG, Abdul, JM, Mohammad, T, Vigneswaran, S, Ngo, HH & Kandasamy, J 2012, 'Biofilter in leachate treatment processes', DESALINATION AND WATER TREATMENT, vol. 41, no. 1-3, pp. 249-257.
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Landfill leachate is produced when rainwater infiltrates into the landfill and permeates through the decomposing waste within the landfill leaching out with it contaminants and pollutants. Untreated leachates can permeate ground water or mix with surface

Shon, HK, Nghiem, LD, Kim, S, Shu, L & Jegatheesan, JV 2012, 'Challenges in Environmental Science and Engineering, CESE-2011: 25–30 September, Ever Green Plaza Hotel, Tainan City, Taiwan', Desalination and Water Treatment, vol. 47, no. 1-3, pp. 1-2.
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Silitonga, AS, Atabani, AE & Mahlia, TMI 2012, 'Review on fuel economy standard and label for vehicle in selected ASEAN countries', Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 16, no. 3, pp. 1683-1695.
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Sinutok, S, Hill, R, Doblin, MA, Kuhl, M & Ralph, PJ 2012, 'Microenvironmental changes support evidence of photosynthesis and calcification inhibition in Halimeda under ocean acidification and warming', CORAL REEFS, vol. 31, no. 4, pp. 1201-1213.
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The effects of elevated CO 2 and temperature on photosynthesis and calcification of two important calcifying reef algae (Halimedamacroloba and Halimeda cylindracea) were investigated with O 2 microsensors and chlorophyll a fluorometry through a combination of two pCO 2 (400 and 1,200 µatm) and two temperature treatments (28 and 32 °C) equivalent to the present and predicted conditions during the 2100 austral summer. Combined exposure to pCO 2 and elevated temperature impaired calcification and photosynthesis in the two Halimeda species due to changes in the microenvironment around the algal segments and a reduction in physiological performance. There were no significant changes in controls over the 5-week experiment, but there was a 50-70 % decrease in photochemical efficiency (maximum quantum yield), a 70-80 % decrease in O 2 production and a threefold reduction in calcification rate in the elevated CO 2 and high temperature treatment. Calcification in these species is closely coupled with photosynthesis, such that a decrease in photosynthetic efficiency leads to a decrease in calcification. Although pH seems to be the main factor affecting Halimeda species, heat stress also has an impact on their photosystem II photochemical efficiency. There was a strong combined effect of elevated CO 2 and temperature in both species, where exposure to elevated CO 2 or temperature alone decreased photosynthesis and calcification, but exposure to both elevated CO 2 and temperature caused a greater decline in photosynthesis and calcification than in each stress individually. Our study shows that ocean acidification and ocean warming are drivers of calcification and photosynthesis inhibition in Halimeda. Predicted climate change scenarios for 2100 would therefore severely affect the fitness of Halimeda, which can result in a strongly reduced production of carbonate sediments on coral reefs under such changed climate conditions.

Surawski, NC, Ristovski, ZD, Brown, RJ & Situ, R 2012, 'Gaseous and particle emissions from an ethanol fumigated compression ignition engine', ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 145-151.
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A 4-cylinder Ford 2701C test engine was used in this study to explore the impact of ethanol fumigation on gaseous and particle emission concentrations. The fumigation technique delivered vaporised ethanol into the intake manifold of the engine, using an injector, a pump and pressure regulator, a heat exchanger for vaporising ethanol and a separate fuel tank and lines. Gaseous (Nitric oxide (NO), Carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC)) and particulate emissions (particle mass (PM2.5) and particle number) testing was conducted at intermediate speed (1700 rpm) using 4 load settings with ethanol substitution percentages ranging from 10% to 40% (by energy). With ethanol fumigation, NO and PM2.5 emissions were reduced, whereas CO and HC emissions increased considerably and particle number emissions increased at most test settings. It was found that ethanol fumigation reduced the excess air factor for the engine and this led to increased emissions of CO and HC, but decreased emissions of NO. PM2.5 emissions were reduced with ethanol fumigation, as ethanol has a very low 'sooting' tendency. This is due to the higher hydrogen-to-carbon ratio of this fuel, and also because ethanol does not contain aromatics, both of which are known soot precursors. The use of a diesel oxidation catalyst (as an after-treatment device) is recommended to achieve a reduction in the four pollutants that are currently regulated for compression ignition engines. The increase in particle number emissions with ethanol fumigation was due to the formation of volatile (organic) particles; consequently, using a diesel oxidation catalyst will also assist in reducing particle number emissions. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sweetman, LJ, Nghiem, L, Chironi, I, Triani, G, in het Panhuis, M & Ralph, SF 2012, 'Synthesis, properties and water permeability of SWNT buckypapers', Journal of Materials Chemistry, vol. 22, no. 27, pp. 13800-13800.
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Tabatabaiefar, SHR, Fatahi, B & Samali, B 2012, 'Finite difference modelling of soil-structure interaction for seismic design of moment resisting building frames', Australian Geomechanics Journal, vol. 47, no. 3, pp. 113-120.
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The importance of Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI) both for static and dynamic loads has been well established and the related literature spans at least 30 years of computational and analytical approaches for solving soil-structure interaction problems. Since the 1990s, great effort has been made to substitute the classical methods of design by new ones based on the concept of performance-based seismic design. Also, the necessity of estimating the vulnerability of existing structures and assessing reliable methods for their retrofit have greatly attracted the attention of engineering communities in most seismic zones throughout the world. In the present study, in order to draw a clear picture of soil characteristics effects on seismic response of moment resisting building frames, a ten storey moment resisting building frame, resting on shallow foundation, is selected in conjunction with three soil types with shear wave velocities less than 600m/s, representing soil classes Ce, De and Ee, according to Australian Standard AS 1170.4. The structure is modelled considering the three mentioned types of the soil deposits employing Finite Difference approach using FLAC 2D software. Fully nonlinear dynamic analyses under influence of different earthquake records are conducted, and the results of the different cases are compared and discussed. The results indicate that as shear wave velocity and shear modulus of the subsoil decrease, inter-storey drifts and subsequently the necessity of considering SSI effects in seismic design of moment resisting building frames increase. In general, by decreasing the subsoil stiffness, the effects of soil-structure interaction become more dominant and detrimental to the seismic behaviour of moment resisting building frames. These effects substantially alter performance level of the building model resting on soil classes De and Ee from life safe to near collapse. Consequently, structural safety for the mentioned building frames ...

Tijing, LD, Ruelo, MTG, Amarjargal, A, Pant, HR, Park, C-H & Kim, CS 2012, 'One-step fabrication of antibacterial (silver nanoparticles/poly(ethylene oxide)) – Polyurethane bicomponent hybrid nanofibrous mat by dual-spinneret electrospinning', Materials Chemistry and Physics, vol. 134, no. 2-3, pp. 557-561.
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Tijing, LD, Ruelo, MTG, Amarjargal, A, Pant, HR, Park, C-H, Kim, DW & Kim, CS 2012, 'Antibacterial and superhydrophilic electrospun polyurethane nanocomposite fibers containing tourmaline nanoparticles', Chemical Engineering Journal, vol. 197, pp. 41-48.
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This paper describes a one-step fabrication of tourmaline (TM) nanoparticles (NPs)-decorated polyurethane (PU) composite nanofibers with superhydrophilic and antibacterial properties. The physico-chemical properties of the prepared samples were characterized by different characterization techniques. FESEM and TEM images confirmed the presence of well-dispersed TM NPs in/on PU nanofibers. The incorporation and homogeneous dispersion of 3. wt% TM NPs in PU exhibited an increase in tensile strength and modulus of 75% and 87%, respectively from those of the neat PU. All TM/PU composite mats showed improved hydrophilicity compared to neat PU mat, and a superhydrophilic surface with a contact angle of 13° was obtained at 5. wt% TM content. FTIR spectra confirmed the interaction of TM NPs to PU matrix through hydrogen bonding. Bacterial tests showed high zone inhibition for both Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) and Enterococci (Gram-positive) using the TM/PU composite mats with increasing efficiency as with the increase of TM NP content. The present TM/PU composite mat, which has improved mechanical properties, superhydrophilic surface, and good antibacterial properties, may be a potential candidate as an antibacterial material, in the field of health-protection textile and water filtration. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.

Verhoeven, MPC, Kelaher, BP, Bishop, MJ & Ralph, PJ 2012, 'Epiphyte grazing enhances productivity of remnant seagrass patches', AUSTRAL ECOLOGY, vol. 37, no. 8, pp. 885-892.
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Anthropogenic nutrient enrichment is increasingly modifying community structure and ecosystem functioning in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. In marine ecosystems, the paradigm is that nutrient enrichment leads to a decline of seagrasses by stimulatin

Wangpraseurt, D, Larkum, AWD, Ralph, PJ & Kuehl, M 2012, 'Light gradients and optical microniches in coral tissues', FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY, vol. 3, no. 316, pp. 1-9.
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Light quantity and quality are among the most important factors determining the physiology and stress response of zooxanthellate corals. Yet, almost nothing is known about the light ?eld that Symbiodinium experiences within their coral host, and the basic optical properties of coral tissue are unknown. We used scalar irradiance microprobes to characterize vertical and lateral light gradients within and across tissues of several coral species. Our results revealed the presence of steep light gradients with photosynthetically available radiation decreasing by about one order of magnitude from the tissue surface to the coral skeleton. Surface scalar irradiance was consistently higher over polyp tissue than over coenosarc tissue in faviid corals. Coral bleaching increased surface scalar irradiance by ~150% (between 500 and 700 nm) relative to a healthy coral. Photosynthesis peaked around 300 µm within the tissue, which corresponded to a zone exhibiting strongest depletion of scalar irradiance. Deeper coral tissue layers, e.g., ~1000 µm into aboral polyp tissues, harbor optical microniches, where only ~10% of the incident irradiance remains. We conclude that the optical microenvironment of corals exhibits strong lateral and vertical gradients of scalar irradiance, which are affected by both tissue and skeleton optical properties. Our results imply that zooxanthellae populations inhabit a strongly heterogeneous light environment and highlight the presence of different optical microniches in corals; an important ?nding for understanding the photobiology, stress response, as well as the phenotypic and genotypic plasticity of coral symbionts.

Wilson, KG & Ralph, PJ 2012, 'Laboratory testing protocol for the impact of dispersed petrochemicals on seagrass', MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN, vol. 64, no. 11, pp. 2421-2427.
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To improve the effectiveness of oil spill mitigation, we developed a rapid, logistically simple protocol to detect petrochemical stress on seagrass. Sections of leaf blades from Zostera muelleri subsp. capricorni were exposed to the water accommodated fraction (WAF) of non-dispersed and dispersed Tapis crude oil and fuel oil (IFO-380) for 5. h. Photosynthetic health was monitored by assessing changes in effective quantum yield of photosystem II (ΔF/Fm') and chlorophyll a pigment concentrations. Loss of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) was measured using an oil-in-water fluorometer, whilst GC-MS analyses quantified the hydrocarbon components within each treatment. Few significant differences were detected in the chlorophyll a pigment analyses; however, ΔF/Fm' appeared sensitive to petrochemical exposure. Dispersing both types of oil resulted in a substantial increase in the TPH of the WAF and was generally correlated with a greater physiological impact to the seagrass health, compared with the oil alone. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.

Xie, M, Nghiem, LD, Price, WE & Elimelech, M 2012, 'Comparison of the removal of hydrophobic trace organic contaminants by forward osmosis and reverse osmosis', WATER RESEARCH, vol. 46, no. 8, pp. 2683-2692.
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Xie, M, Price, WE & Nghiem, LD 2012, 'Rejection of pharmaceutically active compounds by forward osmosis: Role of solution pH and membrane orientation', SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY, vol. 93, pp. 107-114.
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Xie, W-M, Ni, B-J, Li, W-W, Sheng, G-P, Yu, H-Q & Song, J 2012, 'Formation and quantification of soluble microbial products and N2O production by ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB)-enriched activated sludge', Chemical Engineering Science, vol. 71, pp. 67-74.
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Xie, W-M, Ni, B-J, Seviour, T, Sheng, G-P & Yu, H-Q 2012, 'Characterization of autotrophic and heterotrophic soluble microbial product (SMP) fractions from activated sludge', Water Research, vol. 46, no. 19, pp. 6210-6217.
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Xing, W, Ngo, HH, Guo, WS, Listowski, A & Cullum, P 2012, 'Optimization of an integrated sponge - Granular activated carbon fluidized bed bioreactor as pretreatment to microfiltration in wastewater reuse', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 113, pp. 214-218.
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A specific integrated fluidized bed bioreactor (iFBBR) was optimized in terms of organic loading rate (OLR), hydraulic retention time (HRT) and frequency of new sustainable flocculant (NSBF) addition for primary treated sewage effluent (PTSE) treatment. It was observed that iFBBR achieved the best performance with the operating conditions of 4 times/day NSBF addition, HRT of 90 min and OLR of 8.64 kgCOD/day m3. The removal efficiencies were found to be more than 93% of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), 61% of total nitrogen (T-N) and 60% of total phosphorus (T-P). iFBBR as pretreatment of submerged microfiltration (SMF) is successful in increasing the critical flux and reducing the membrane fouling. NSBF-iFBBR-SMF hybrid system led to very high organic removal efficiency with an average DOC removal of 97% from synthetic PTSE.

Yisgedu, TB, Huang, Z, Chen, X, Lingam, HK, King, G, Highley, A, Maharrey, S, Woodward, PM, Behrens, R, Shore, SG & Zhao, J-C 2012, 'The structural characterization of (NH4)2B10H10 and thermal decomposition studies of (NH4)2B10H10 and (NH4)2B12H12', International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, vol. 37, no. 5, pp. 4267-4273.
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Zhao, YX, Gao, BY, Shon, HK, Wang, Y, Kim, J-H, Yue, QY & Bo, XW 2012, 'Anionic polymer compound bioflocculant as a coagulant aid with aluminum sulfate and titanium tetrachloride', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 108, pp. 45-54.
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The objectives of this study are to investigate the impacts of anionic polymer compound bioflocculant (CBF) as a coagulant aid on coagulation performance and floc characteristics with titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) and aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3). The effect of dosing sequence was also investigated. Floc size, breakage, regrowth and floc fractal dimension were examined using a laser diffraction instrument. The results showed that CBF with TiCl4 or Al2(SO4)3 coagulants exhibited synergistic effects by promoting dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal. For both TiCl4 and Al2(SO4)3, the floc recoverability was improved by CBF addition, and the flocs formed by TiCl4 and the corresponding dual-coagulants showed weaker recovery ability than those by Al2(SO4)3 and the corresponding dual-coagulants. Fractal dimension analysis demonstrated that the floc fractal dimension values increased with the increasing coagulant dose. The effect of CBF on fractal dimension of the flocs generated by TiCl4 was different from that of Al2(SO4)3.

Zhao, YX, Gao, BY, Wang, Y, Shon, HK, Bo, XW & Yue, QY 2012, 'Coagulation performance and floc characteristics with polyaluminum chloride using sodium alginate as coagulant aid: A preliminary assessment', CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL, vol. 183, pp. 387-394.
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The effect of sodium alginate (SA) on coagulation performance and floc characteristics with polyaluminum chloride (PAC) was evaluated in synthetic humic acid-kaolin water treatment. Coagulation performance and floc characteristics of PAC were investigated for comparison. The results showed that PAC plus SA exhibited certain synergistic effect on DOC (dissolved organic carbon) and turbidity removal. DOC removal was more enhanced by SA at low PAC doses than at higher ones, while turbidity removal was enhanced when PAC doses were larger than 1.5 mg/L. The growth, breakage, regrowth and fractal nature of flocs were investigated using Mastersizer 2000, with the results suggesting that the aggregated flocs after PAC-SA (PAC dosed first) flocculation showed faster growth rate and with larger floc size compared with the flocs formed by PAC. Besides, PAC-SA gave the flocs with more open structure but better recovery ability after floc breakage compared with PAC.

Zhao, YX, Wang, Y, Gao, BY, Shon, HK, Kim, J-H & Yue, QY 2012, 'Coagulation performance evaluation of sodium alginate used as coagulant aid with aluminum sulfate, iron chloride and titanium tetrachloride', DESALINATION, vol. 299, no. 1, pp. 79-88.
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Coagulation-flocculation was applied to humic acid-kaolin synthetic water samples, using sodium alginate (SA) as a coagulant aid with primary coagulants used: aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3), iron chloride (FeCl3) and titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4). The corresponding dual-coagulants were dented as Al2(SO4)3-SA, FeCl3-SA and TiCl4-SA by dosing SA 30 s after primary coagulants addition. Coagulation performance was investigated in terms of turbidity reduction and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal and the flocs were characterized in terms of size, growth rate, strength, recoverability and structure through onâline monitoring of the coagulation process using Mastersizer 2000. The results showed that dual-coagulants could remove HA effectively with appropriate SA doses. Primary coagulants plus SA exhibited an apparent improvement in both floc growth rate and floc size. Besides, floc recoverability was significantly increased. It was suspected that SA addition may have a positive effect on the solid/liquid separation process. However, dual-coagulants gave the flocs with more open structure.

Zhou, JL, Maskaoui, K & Lufadeju, A 2012, 'Optimization of antibiotic analysis in water by solid-phase extraction and high performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry', Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 731, no. 1, pp. 32-39.
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This paper describes the development of an optimized method based on solid-phase extraction (SPE) followed by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for the simultaneous analysis of ten antibiotic compounds including tetracyclines, sulfonamides, macrolides and quinolones. LC-MS/MS sensitivity has been optimized by alterations to both LC and MS operations. Of the two high resolution columns tested, Waters Symmetry C18 endcapped and Agilent Zorbax Bonus-RP, the latter was found to show better performance in producing sharp peaks and clear separation for most of the target compounds. Optimization of the MS fragmentation collision and cone energy enhanced the peak areas of the target analytes. The recovery of the target compounds from water samples was most efficient on Waters Oasis HLB SPE cartridge, while methanol was shown to be the most suitable solvent for desorbing the compounds from SPE. In addition, acidification of samples prior to SPE was shown to enhance the recovery of the compounds. To ensure a satisfactory recovery, the flow rate through SPE should be maintained at ≤10mLmin-1. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of antibiotics from environmental water samples, with concentrations being

Zhou, Q, Diao, C, Sun, Y & Zhou, J 2012, 'Tolerance, uptake and removal of nitrobenzene by a newly-found remediation species Mirabilis jalapa L.', Chemosphere, vol. 86, no. 10, pp. 994-1000.
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The growth, photosynthesis rate, and ultrastructure of Mirabilis jalapa L. as a newly-found remediation species under stress of nitrobenzene (NB) and its uptake and removal of NB by the plants were investigated. The results showed that M. jalapa plants could endure contaminated soils by lower than 10.0mgNBkg -1 because there was no decrease in the total length of the plant roots, the maximum length of the hypocotyle, the length of the first seminal root, the height of the shoots and the dry biomass of the seedlings as well as the photosynthesis rate of the plants compared with those in the control. In particular, the growth of the plants could be significantly (P<0.01) enhanced by 0.1mgNBkg -1 under unautoclaved and autoclaved soils. Ultrastructural observations on leaf cells of the plants found that these cells had smooth, clean and continuous cell membranes and cell walls, indicating that there was no obvious damage by NB in comparison with those in the control. Although the absorption of NB in shoots and roots of M. jalapa was weak, plant-promoted biodegradation of NB was considerable and the dominant contribution in the removal of NB from contaminated soils, suggesting the feasibility of M. jalapa applied to phytoremediation of NB contaminated soils. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

Zhou, Z, Meng, F, Liang, S, Ni, B-J, Jia, X, Li, S, Song, Y & Huang, G 2012, 'Role of microorganism growth phase in the accumulation and characteristics of biomacromolecules (BMM) in a membrane bioreactor', RSC Adv., vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 453-460.
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Zuthi, MFR, Ngo, HH & Guo, WS 2012, 'Modelling bioprocesses and membrane fouling in membrane bioreactor (MBR): A review towards finding an integrated model framework', BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY, vol. 122, pp. 119-129.
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The bioprocesses taking place in activated sludge wastewater treatment system itself are characterized by great complexity and yet incomplete understanding of some of the phenomena involved. The MBR technology inherent deficiencies for its simulation due to additional intrinsic complexities resulting from the interaction between concurrently occurring and dynamic biological processes with membrane filtration and the straightforward adoption of the activated sludge modelsâ (ASM) frameworks or their modified variations. In this backdrop, this paper compiles a brief overview of the previous developments to the current state-of-the-art mathematical modelling approaches of the MBR system. With extended discussions on particular topics such as applications of modified ASMs to MBR modelling, ASM extensions incorporating soluble microbial products (SMP)/extracellular polymeric substances EPS) concepts, this paper also provides a guide for different end-users of mathematical models of MBR systems.

Atabani, AE, Saidur, R, Silitonga, AS & Mahlia, TMI 1970, 'Energy Economical and Environmental Analysis of Industrial Boilers Using VSD', Applied Mechanics and Materials, 2nd International Conference on Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (ICMAE 2011), Trans Tech Publications, Ltd., Bangkok, THAILAND, pp. 3223-3233.
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As a result of the successful implementation of the industrialization plan in 1985; Malaysia has changed from an agricultural economy into industrial based economy. The industrial sector represents the highest consuming sector across all other sectors and accounts for about 48% of all total energy demand. This paper is concerned with an energy saving, economic and environmental analysis of industrial boilers in Malaysia when using variable speed drives (VSD). The results obtained when reducing the speed of water pumps by 60% show that 4 GWh, 93.6% of energy, RM 863,375 and 2,160 ton of CO2 could be saved annually. These results represent high energy saving, environmental and economic benefits associated with this energy saving technology. ABBREVIATIONS

Chartrand, KM, Rasheed, M, Petrou, K & Ralph, PJ 1970, 'Establishing tropical seagrass light requirements in a dynamic port environment', Proceedings of the 12th International Coral Reef Symposium, Cairns, Australia, 9-13 July 2012, International Coral Reef Symposium, ReefBase, Cairns.
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Tropical seagrasses inhabit naturally turbid waters with dynamic light environments and variable water quality in coastal waters adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef. Large tidal fluxes amplify the magnitude of these conditions with extreme high and low light over relatively short time scales (i.e. hours). Large port developments in the region have the potential to confound the complex relationships between seagrass physiology and this dynamic light field with the onset of dredging and their associated turbid plumes. Understanding the capacity for seagrasses to respond to changes in the quantity and quality of the light environment will allow for prediction of how seagrass species and populations will tolerate changes in light attenuation that may occur during dredging. We present a strategy for determining seasonal-specific light requirements for an intertidal tropical seagrass community in a port environment. Locally relevant light requirements are established by describing the relationships among photosynthetic inputs and losses, tidal exposure, shifts in spectral light quality, seasonality and the capacity to utilise below ground carbon reserves. The outcomes of the study provide guidelines for a mitigation strategy that is focused on maintaining critical windows of light to support seagrass growth and the longer term survival of these productive coastal ecosystems.

Fatahi, B, Engelbert, D, Mujic, S & Khabbaz, H 1970, 'Assessment of Surcharging on Strength and Stiffness of Cement Treated Clays', Grouting and Deep Mixing 2012, Proceedings of the Fourth International Conference on Grouting and Deep Mixing, American Society of Civil Engineers, Louisiana, USA, pp. 272-280.
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Deep soil mixing (DSM) is a ground improvement technique most appropriate in applications aimed at improving properties of soft clay, which is very sensitive to temperature and water content changes. This paper presents an experimental study capturing effects of surcharge application during curing time on the stress-strain behaviour of DSM columns. An investigation has been undertaken into the effects of varying surcharges, applied immediately after mixing, ranging from 40kPa to 120kPa, on the strength and stiffness of cement treated kaolinite clay samples with different cement contents. The results of uniaxial tests are analysed to illustrate how the Young's modulus and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) are influenced under varying surcharges. Results confirm a promising increase in strength and stiffness with increased preloading. Results are significant, in that desired DSM column strengths can be achieved through a combination of cement and surcharging, as opposed to increasing the cement content; thus significantly reducing the carbon footprint induced by cement production. © 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.

Fatahi, B, Far, H, Sadeghi Hokmabadi, A & Samali, B 1970, 'Significance of bedrock depth in dynamic soil-structure interaction analysis for moment resisting frames', 2nd International Conference on Performance-Based Design in Earthquake Geotechnical Engineering, International Conference on Performance-Based Design in Earthquake Geotechnical Engineering, Associazione Geotecnica Italiana - Roma, Taormina, Italy, pp. 1396-1406.
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In this study, a fifteen storey moment resisting building frame, resting on a shallow foundation, is selected in conjunction with two clayey soils with the shear wave velocities less than 600m/s, representing soil classes De and Ee, according to AS 1170.4. Different bedrock depths including 10m, 20m, and 30 m are employed in the numerical modelling using finite difference software FLAC 2D. Fully nonlinear dynamic analysis under the influence of different earthquake records is conducted, and the results of the three different cases are compared and discussed. The results indicate that the dynamic properties of the subsoil such as shear wave velocity as well as bedrock depth play significant roles in seismic response of the building frames under the influence of soil-structure interaction. As the bedrock depth increases, lateral deflections and inter-storey drifts of the structures increase. These effects can change the performance level of structures from life safe to near collapse or total collapse. Therefore, the conventional design procedure excluding SSI is not adequate enough to guarantee the structural safety for the building frames resting on soft soil deposits.

Fatahi, B, Khabbaz, H & Fatahi, B 1970, 'Application of Polypropylene and Carpet Fibres to Improve Mechanical Properties of Cement Treated Clay', International Symposium on Ground Improvement IS-GI, PROCEEDINGS OF THE INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM, SIMSG, Brussel, pp. 303-308.
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In this study, the influence of two types of fibre reinforcement, namely polypropylene and carpet waste fibres, on mechanical properties of cement treated kaolinite is investigated. The results of unconfined compressive strength testing of 63 cylindrical samples of cement treated kaolinite with varied cement and fibre contents are analysed to discern the relationships between these parameters and the key mechanical properties, including unconfined compressive strength and stiffness of treated soil. The fibre reinforcement increases the peak strength. The initial Young's modulus of the fibre reinforced cement treated kaolinite increases by adding polypropylene whereas slightly decreases when adding carpet fibres. The improvement of mechanical properties was far more pronounced with the introduction of polypropylene than carpet waste fibres. The implication of these findings is a cost effective and environmentally friendly alternative compare to increasing cement content in soil to achieve the required mechanical properties, particularly where the strength is a governing consideration.

Fatahi, B, Khabbaz, H & Le, TM 1970, 'Improvement of rail track subgrade using stone columns combined with geosynthetics', ADVANCES IN TRANSPORTATION GEOTECHNICS II, International Conference on Transportation Geotechnics (ICTG), CRC Press - Taylor & Francis Group, Hokkaido, Japan, pp. 202-206.
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This study seeks to identify the effectiveness of ground improvement using stone columns in controlling settlement of soft soils when placed under the dead loads of the rail structure and the large live loads of freight trains. The employed numerical study assesses the relationship between the column position in the track cross section and the overall settlement of the ballasted rail formation. The numerical results show that the overall settlement of the track reduces significantly with the use of stone columns close to the centre of the track and not just under the rail. In addition, application of one layer of geogrids between sub-ballast and sub-grade assists to reduce the maximum settlement of track decreasing the future maintenance costs. © 2012 Taylor & Francis Group.

Howes, J, Ralph, P, Stuart, B & Gardner, S 1970, 'Biochemical energy balance of the coral symbiosis using vibrational spectroscopy', 12th International Coral Reef Symposium, Cairns.

Khabbaz, H & Fatahi, B 1970, 'General and Technical Considerations for Implementing High Speed Rail Systems in Australia', PROCEEDINGS OF THE 2012 AGS SYMPOSIUM: ADVANCES IN GEOTECHNICAL ASPECTS OF ROADS AND RAILWAYS, AGS Symposium Advances in Geotechnical Aspects of Roads and Railways, The Australian Geomechanics Society, Darling Harbour, NSW, Australia, pp. 67-78.
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Australia has a number of medium speed rail services such as the Prospector, which runs from East Perth to Kalgoorlie, at speeds of up to 160 km/hr. Speeds as high as 210 km/hr have been reached by the tilt train from Brisbane to Rockhampton. Although there are a few medium speed rail systems in Australia, there is not a passenger rail transport with the high transit speeds seen in other countries. This paper presents the feasibility of implementing high speed rail systems in Australia by looking at the main elements that a high speed train is composed of. This paper also reviews the performance of high speed rail systems around the world and the factors contributed to their success made them successful. The main objective of this study is to look at how the solutions from overseas and how the technical requirements particularly the geotechnical aspects of tracks for a high speed rail system can be applied in Australian existing and new tracks. Australia has its own unique demographic, geographic and economic characteristics and the aim is to identify where there are overlaps between Australiaâs characteristics and countries with high speed rail systems. High speed rail transport might not necessarily be one the best solutions for the transportation at present in Australia, but it can be what a nation needs to succeed in its future transportation system.

Khabbaz, H, Fatahi, B & Nucifora, C 1970, 'Finite Element Methods against Limit Equilibrium Approaches for Slope Stability Analysis', Proceedings of the 11th Australia - New Zealand Conference on Geomechanics - Ground Engineering in a Changing World (ANZ 2012), Australia New Zealand Conference on Geomechanics, Geomechanical Society and New Zealand Geotechnical Society, Melbourne, Australia, pp. 1293-1298.
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A number of powerful numerical models, including limit equilibrium and finite element (FE) methods, have been developed for slope stability analysis in recent decades. The limit equilibrium method contains several limitations, yet is considered the most common approach. However, the advancement of technology has increased the use of the finite element method as it embraces a wider range of features. The limit equilibrium software, SLOPE/W, and the FE program PLAXIS are two common software programs currently employed in geotechnical engineering. Slope analysis using the limit equilibrium method involves a series of slip surfaces dividing ground into vertical slices, and using the static equilibrium equations to calculate the factor of safety (FOS) and stresses for each slice. PLAXIS requires the input of soil properties and elastic-plastic parameters of elements. In this study the properties of a heterogeneous slope, consisting of general fill embankment over soft, slightly overconsolidated clay is implemented in each program. The FOS of slopes is determined for subsequent design requirements, and results are analysed and comparisons are conducted. The effect of Youngâs modulus on the FOS is also discussed. Recommendations are provided based on the results and previously published findings. The contribution of this paper is beneficial to geotechnical engineers, as it discusses the suitability and limitations of each method and assesses reliability of model outputs for slope stability analyses.

Liaquat, AM, Masjuki, HH, Kalam, MA, Bhuiya, MMK & Varman, M 1970, 'Influence of Coconut Biodiesel and Waste Cooking Oil Blended Fuels on Engine Performance and Emission Characteristics', ASME 2012 Internal Combustion Engine Division Fall Technical Conference, ASME 2012 Internal Combustion Engine Division Fall Technical Conference, American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
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Due to diminishing petroleum reserves and the environmental consequences of exhaust gases from petroleum fuelled engines, alternative fuels are becoming increasingly important for diesel engines. The processed form of vegetable oil (Biodiesel) and waste products (waste cooking oil) offer attractive alternative fuels for compression ignition engines. In this study experimental work has been carried out to investigate engine performance parameters and emissions characteristics for direct injection diesel engine using coconut biodiesel and waste cooking oil blends without any engine modifications. A total of three fuel samples, such as DF (100% low-sulfur diesel fuel), CB10 (10% coconut biodiesel and 90% DF), and C5W5 (5% CB + 5% waste cooking oil and 90% DF) respectively are used. Engine performance test was performed at 100% load keeping throttle 100% wide open with variable speeds of 1500 to 2400 rpm at an interval of 100 rpm. Whereas, emission tests were carried out at 2300 rpm at 100% and 80% throttle position. As the results of investigations, there has been a decrease in torque and brake power, where increase in specific fuel consumption has been observed for blend fuels over the entire speed range as compared to diesel fuel. In case of engine exhaust gas emissions, lower HC, CO, CO2 emissions and higher NOx emissions, were found for fuel blends compared to diesel fuel. However, sound level for both blend fuels was lower as compared to diesel fuel. It can be concluded that CB10 and C5W5 can be used in diesel engines without any engine modifications and have beneficial effects both in terms of emission reductions and alternative petroleum diesel fuel. However, C5W5 produced better results compared to CB10.

Mirlatifi, S & Fatahi, B 1970, 'Numerical Analysis of Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil Wall as Bridge Abutment', Proceedings of the 11th Australia - New Zealand Conference on Geomechanics - Ground Engineering in a Changing World (ANZ 2012), Australia New Zealand Conference on Geomechanics, Geomechanical Society and New Zealand Geotechnical Society, Melbourne, Australia, pp. 1383-1388.
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This paper presents the finite element analysis of a geosynthetic reinforced soil wall as a bridge abutment built in Tehran, and the predictions are compared with the available field measurements. This abutment is analysed using both Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM) for stability analysis and Finite Element Method (FEM) for deformation analysis. Two dimensional plane strain finite element model is adopted for the simulation. Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) geogrid with high tensile moduli and low creep characteristics has been adopted in this project to limit the deformation of the bridge abutment. In this model, the backfill soil and geogrids simulated adopting Mohr-Coulomb model, and the elasto-plastic material model that only works in tension, respectively. Bridge abutments can be stabilised by including geosynthetic layers with high tensile moduli satisfying both stability and deformation criteria reducing the construction cost and time, post construction deformations, and future maintenance cost.

Rismanchi, B, Saidur, R, Masjuki, HH & Mahlia, TMI 1970, 'Cost-benefit analysis of using cold thermal energy storage systems in building applications', Energy Procedia, 2nd International Conference on Advances in Energy Engineering (ICAEE), Elsevier BV, Bangkok, THAILAND, pp. 493-498.
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Rujikiatkamjorn, C, Indraratna, B & Fatahi, B 1970, 'Numerical prediction of unsaturated ground behavior influenced by vegetation and vacuum consolidation', 5th Asia-Pacific Conference on Unsaturated Soils 2012, Asia-Pacific Conference on Unsaturated Soils Theory and Practice, Kasetsart University, Thailand, pp. 701-706.
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Bioengineering including native vegetation is an ancient method of improving the stability of slopes. In modern railway engineering, this technique is re-captured for increasing the soil stiffness and shear strength of subgrade beneath rail tracks. Currently this practice has become increasingly popular in Australia for stabilising railway corridors built over expansive clays and compressive soft soils. This paper looks at the stabilisation role by suction generated by both the natural vegetation and the artificial vacuum application using the numerical analysis. For demonstrating the role of native vegetation, a mathematical model for the rate of root water uptake was incorporated in the analysis. The soil moisture content distribution and the soil marric suction profile adjacent to the tree were numerically captured based on the general effective stress theory of unsaturated soil. For vacuum application, the equivalent plane strain theory was employed to simulate radial consolidation and artificially applied suction. The performance of both techniques on track constructed on soft formation was discussed and compared in terms of settlement and associated pore pressure.

Sadeghi Hokmabadi, A, Fatahi, B, Far, H & Samali, B 1970, 'Effects of soil-pile-structure interaction on seismic response of moment resisting buildings on soft soil', 3rd International Conference on New Developments in Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, International Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, Near East University Press, Turkey, Turkey, pp. 377-385.
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Dynamic response of structures sitting on soft soils is influenced by the soil properties, and the response is significantly different to the fixed base condition owing to the interaction between the ground and the structure, In order to study this effect, a fifteen storey moment resisting building frame, representing a conventional type of regular mid-rise building frame, resting ,on soil type Ee according to Australian Earthquake action code with the shear wave velocity equal to 150 mls is adopted. The numerical analysis using FLAC2D software is carried out for three different cases, namely: (1) fixed-base structure representing the situation excluding the soil-structure interaction (SSI); (2) structure supported by shallow foundation on soft soil; and (3) structure supported by pile foundation in soft soil. Benchmark earthquakes including the 1995 Kobe, the 1994 Northridge, the 1968 Hachinohe, and the 1940 EI Centro earthquakes are adopted. Results indicate that considering soil-structure interaction in both cases with shallow and pile fouudations is vital, and the conventional desigu procedure excluding soil-structure interaction is not adequate to guarantee the structural safety for the moment resisting buildings resting on the soft soil.

Shafie, SM, T.M.I.Mahlia, Masjuki, HH & Rismanchi, B 1970, 'Life cycle assessment (LCA) of electricity generation from rice husk in Malaysia', Energy Procedia, 2nd International Conference on Advances in Energy Engineering (ICAEE), Elsevier BV, Bangkok, THAILAND, pp. 499-504.
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Tabatabaiefar, HR, Fatahi, B & Samali, B 1970, 'Effects of soil dynamic properties and bedrock depth on seismic response of building frames incorporation soil-structure interaction', 5th Asia-Pacific Conference on Unsaturated Soils 2012, Asian-Pacific conferences on unsaturated soils, Kasetsart University, Pattaya, Thailand, pp. 504-510.
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In this study, a ten storey moment resisting building frame, resting on a shallow foundation, is selected in conjunction with three soil types with the shear wave velocities less than 600m/s, representing classes Ce, De and Ee, according to AS 1170.4. Different bedrock depths including 10m, 20m, and 30 m are employed in the numerical modelling using finite difference software FLAC 2D. Fully nonlinear dynamic analysis under influence of different earthquake records is conducted, and the results of the three different cases are compared and discussed. The results indicate that the dynamic properties of the subsoil such as shear wave velocity as well as bedrock depth play significant roles in seismic response of the building frames under the influence of soil-structure interaction. As the shear wave velocity of the subsoil decreases and bedrock depth increases, lateral deflections and inter-storey drifts of the structures increase. The mentioned effects can change the performance level of the structures from life safe to near collapse or total collapse. Therefore, the conventional design procedure excluding SSI is no longer adequate to guarantee the structural safety for the building frames resting on soft soil deposits.

Zhao, X, Ma, C & Gu, P 1970, 'Preface', Energy Procedia, 2nd International Conference on Advances in Energy Engineering (ICAEE), Elsevier BV, Bangkok, THAILAND, pp. 1-1.
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Johir, MA, George, J, Vigneswaran, S & Kandasamy, J 2012, Testing integrated nutrient recovery, SCOPE Newsletter – no 86 - Page 12..

Gopinadhan, M, Majewski, PW, Choo, Y & Osuji, CO 2012, 'Order-disorder transition and alignment dynamics of a block copolymer under high magnetic fields by in situ x-ray scattering'.

Zhang, TC, Surampalli, RY, Vigneswaran, S, Tyagi, RD, Ong, SL & Kao, CM 2012, 'Membrane Technology and Environmental Applications', ASCE Publications, p. ix.
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This volume provides in-depth technical information on the fundamentals, applications, and recent advances of membrane technology, including state-of-the-art reviews of current research, critical analysis of new processes and materials, and ...