MSN  *  15th Annual International Conference, Nigerian Materials Congress (NIMACON - 2016)

The sudden and sustained decline in the price of petroleum and the dependence on this good has resulted in adverse effect on the nation’s economy. This paper discusses the role of Ceramic In the diversification of the nation’s economy. Within this frame work, the concept of Ceramic, its properties, the production process, its advantages/application and job creation abilities were discussed. From our evaluation of this good, we were able to discover that ceramic a fraction of the many solid minerals which nature has given to man to enhance its environment has the potential to transform the nation’s economy. Clearly and incontrovertibly, we arrived at the conclusion that ceramic is a veritable tool for sustainable national economy diversification.

Twelve representative marble samples were collected from Jakura and environs and tested for specific gravity, density, compressive strength, porosity, flexural strength, hardness water absorption, soundness or durability and Los Angeles Abrasion to ensure its suitability for use in the production of tiles. The flexural, hardness and compressive strengths shows its high resistance to crushing and bending effects while the specific gravity and density values proves its ability to bear the impact of the objects that will be place on it. The soundness and water absorption values makes them suitable for flooring and outdoor cladding due to its resistance to weathering and thawing because of its low rate of water absorption. All these characteristics make the Jakura marble very suitable for tiles production as contribution to the manufacturing Industry.

Key words-Tiles, compressive strength, porosity, flexural strength, water absorption,

Experimental investigation in this study revealed that, Cassava Peel Ash, contained the following important elements: Nitrogen as the dominant element, phosphorous, silicon, sulphur, sodium, calcium and potassium. Compounds such as starch and cynogenic acid were found to be present. The effect of addition of CPP as percentage of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) ranging from 0% (control) to 1% was investigated. The results of the setting time tests on the cement mortar revealed that the initial setting time were increased from 77 minutes to 149 minute for the control with 0% CPP and the mix with 1% CPP respectively. The final setting time was also increased from 158 minute to 392 minute for the control and 1% CPP mixes respectively

In this study, synthesized Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) was composited with activated carbon prepared from coconut coirpith in two different ratios. The adsorbents were characterized by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), Brunauer, Emmett and Teller surface area (BET), Nanosizer and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The adsorbent were employed in the adsorption of nitrates from aqueous solution. Effects of variables such as pH, initial nitrate concentration, contact time, adsorbent dosage and temperature on adsorption were all investigated. The adsorption of nitrate was fitted with the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm with correlation coefficient, R2 in the range 0.90 - 0.99 for all adsorbents. The maximum monolayer capacity (qmax) were in the range 7.90 mg/g and 100 mg/g at an optimum pH of 2. Pseudo-second-order kinetic models best describe experimental data with an R2 of 0.999. The equilibrium time and thermodynamic studies revealed that the adsorption process of nitrate was spontaneous and endothermic.

Keywords: Synthesis, Characterization, Adsorption isotherm, Nitrate, Thermodynamics, Kinetic models.

Presently, microbial methods have been widely known to be the best method for textile dyes decolorization and have been utilized enormously in the treatment of wastewater containing synthetic dyes used by textile industries. The present work was devoted to study side by side the potentials of using indigenous microbial strains isolated from wastewaters of an effluent treatment plant of a Textile Industry and the feasibility of employing reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) membrane systems as an alternative treatment method of textile wastewater discharged from textile mills. Experiments were performed in a laboratory scale set up using four potential candidates’ microbial strains, in which the bacterial strains (Pseudomonas monteilii and Aeromonas hydrophila) and the fungal strains (Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Aspergillus oryzae) were selected based on their ability to decolorize and degrade dyes effluent into non-toxic form. Decolorization efficiencies of the microbial strains were measured as a function of the operational parameters (aeration, dye concentration, pH, temperature, total viable count and optical density) and the microbial isolates showed increase in cell number as the concentration, absorbance and pH decreases, while for the membrane technologies, a TFC commercial spiral wound polyamide nanofilter NF90 (Dow-Film Tec) were used, the effects of dye concentration, pH of solution, feed temperature, dissolved salts and operating pressure on permeate flux and dye rejection were studied. Results at operating conditions of dye concentration was 72 mg/L, feed temperature of 38°C and pressure 8.5 bar showed the final dye removal with RO membrane as 64.3%, 96.27% and 92.8% for organic dyes, Congo red and Direct blue 80, respectively. With NF membrane, the final dye removals were 61.65%, 96.92% and 94% for organic dyes, Congo red and Direct blue 80, respectively. The presence of salt (particularly NaCl) in the dye solution resulted in a higher color removal with a permeate flux decline. It was confirmed that pH of solution had a positive impact on dye removal, while feed temperature showed a different image. A comparison was made between the results of dye decolorization in microbial and membrane methods. The present study indicates that the use of NF membrane in dye removal from the effluent of textile mills is also effective and promising.

Key words: Decolorization, Nanofiltration, Microbial strains, Reverse osmosis, textile effluent

This study examined the reductive leaching of manganese from spent zinc-carbon batteries in sulphuric acid using glucose as a reducing agent. Leaching tests were done according to a 4-factor Box-Behnken Design with leaching time, temperature, acid concentration and glucose dose as the design variables. Simple regression equations for Mn and Zn extraction were determined from the experimental data and the main effects and interactions from the leaching studies were investigated by the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Experimental results indicate that the dissolution rate is chemical reaction controlled and the optimum percentage dissolution was found to be 86.73%, with the optimum dissolution time, temperature, acid concentration and glucose dose being 150 min, 75°C, 4 M and 5.0 g/L, respectively.

Mould making has become an inevitable process in engineering parts production all over the world. In this paper, the contributions of standardized and operational steel making industry in galvanizing the process of selecting proper materials are enumerated. Also, efforts were made to scrutinize the standard global best practices as it concerns selecting the proper materials for plastic injection mould making. Finally, the Iron and Steel industries’ contributions to nation building are dissected in view of proffering solution to the challenges of steel production in Nigeria.

It is no longer news that fundamental to the economic performance indexes of any nation in terms of development and industrialization is dependents largely on the availability of raw material deposit - precisely, solid mineral deposit. Adequate knowledge and understanding of these raw materials with respect to its availability, properties and performance as well as chains of processes it undergoes from ore mining to the market is vital to the actualization of the diversification of a nations economy. It follows that materials education will in no small measure enhance the application of these raw materials appropriately with a view to adding value to the nations economy - particularly Nigeria. It is therefor the intent of this work to x-ray what extend this approach (material education) will influence the development and utilization of solid mineral deposits in Nigeria.

Bentonites from Ashaka (GA) and Tango (GT) of Gombe State, Nigeria were surface modified with Tetraphenyl phosphonium and Hexadecylpridinium bromides by cation exchange method for their possible use in Polymer / Clay Nanocomposite Preparation. The surfaces of the modified products were characterized by means of FTIR, XRD and SEM...

This paper seeks to study the effects of biotechnological processes in food processioning in Nigeria. To be exact, biotechnology originated with traditional food fermentation a method pass from generations to generations. Today, this pioneering practice has been expanded and improved so that microorganisms and other biological agents have found use in many other areas. Recent developments in genetics, enzymology, recombinant technology, and fermentation technology have led to advances in biotechnology far beyond the original traditional scope. In many locations, village-art methods and age-old techniques are still used for food processing. Developing countries such as Nigeria are obviously lagging behind the advances in biotechnology. Increasing populations, drought and other natural disasters, and inadequate food production dictate that better options for food processing must be adopted as fast as humanly possible for the country to meet its present food demands. Acquiring expertise in biotechnology through education and training therefore becomes very fundamental towards achieving this goal. Also, infrastructure and equipment required for biotechnological research will need to be established.

The need for an alternative route to the synthesis of goethite particles which requires less time, materials and energy, as well as the need to investigate the efficiency of the surface binding power of the goethite composite with waste carbonaceous materials such as Date palm seeds necessitated this study. Goethite (FeOOH) which is an iron oxy-hydroxide was synthesized through air oxidation method with iron II chloride and sodium hydrogen carbonate as precursors. Date-palm (Phoenix dactylifera) seeds charcoal was also prepared and used for compositing with the synthesized goethite. Physico-chemical characteristics such as the pH, moisture content, percentage yield, bulk density and pHpzc were determined for both samples. Further instrumental characterization such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) for the surface functional groups, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for the shapes and morphology of both samples, X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) to obtain the elemental composition, BET surface area determination and particle nano-sizer to determine the size of the particles were carried out. The results of physico-chemical characterization of goethite and composite showed that pHpzc values were 8 and 7; bulk densities also obtained were 0.86 and 0.74 for goethite and composite respectively. The main surface functional group from FTIR and major element obtained from XRF in both samples is the OH group and iron (Fe) respectively. The SEM results for goethite and the composite particles showed high porosity in their structure which enables them to bind easily with other materials. BET revealed that the surface area of the goethite and the composite is 797.662 and 329.866 m2/g respectively. The nano-sizer also revealed a near nano-size for the synthesized goethite and its composite with particle size of about 172-173nm but can be classified as fine particles. The study concluded that based on the obtained characterization results, the synthesized goethite and the prepared composite will find applications in various analytical procedures such as ion exchange, chromatographic methods and adsorption processes to mention but a few.

Keywords: Iron oxide, Goethite, Date-palm seeds, Particle nano-sizer, BET, FTIR, XRF, SEM

Nano-sized kaolin also known as alumina was synthesised from local kaolin subsequently suspended in low density polyethylene (LDPE) to produce nano-polymer for application in electrical insulation. The alumina was prepared by acid leaching via digestion, precipitation, peptization and drying. It was subsequently used to dope the LDPE at varying compositions. The mechanical properties of the samples produced in this work, was investigated by Nanoindenta and it showed that the presence of alumina in the LDPE improved the Young’s modulus and hardness of the samples

Production of activated carbon was done via microwave-assisted activation technique using an organic base and mixture of calcium chloride and sodium chloride as activating agents. The possibility of using mixture of coconut shell and palm kernel shell for producing activated carbon was also demonstrated. The structures and functional groups of the produced activated carbon were elucidated using X-ray Diffraction technique and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. The morphology and elemental composition of the produced activated carbon were investigated using Scanning Electron microscope coupled with an Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscope. The effectiveness of the activated carbon for removal organic dyes from water contaminated with organic dyes was tested via adsorption studies using the Freundlich model. Finally, ash and water contents of the activated carbons were determined.

Keywords: Activated carbon, co-activators, microwave activation, surface functional groups, microstructures, adsorption, water purification.

This study was carried out to evaluate the potential use of cow dung (CD) and chicken feather (CF) in producing Biogas and through anaerobic co-digestion with each other at different percentage ratios for a period of 37 days retention time. The total volumes of the gas produced were 0.171188m3, 0.094286m3, 0.059321m3, 0.030594m3, and 0.000304m3 for 100%CD, 75%CD-25%CF, 50%CD50%CF, 25%CD 75%CF, 100%CF respectively. It was observed that biogas production was optimized when cow dung and chicken feather were mixed in different ratio of (0-100%). It was observed that 100%CD produced the highest Biogas, but when the Chicken feather increases the production rate decreases, this could be as a results of inhibiting factor such as high keratin content with long fatty Acids associated with the feather, and was regarded as failed digester as it does not produce significant amount of biogas. The average temperatures of the digesters recorded in the morning, afternoon and evening were between 260C-430C while the average ambient temperature observed during the study was 340C which were within the mesophilic range. The pH values of the media in all the substrates digested varied almost within the optimal limits for methanogenic bacteria (pH: 6.0 -7.4¬), except for 100% Chicken feather which shows slightly acidic. The carbon to nitrogen ratio measured was within the optimum range of 20:1 to 30:1. The modified Gompertz equation was used to adequately describe the cumulative biogas production from these digesters. The constants were determined using the non linear regression approach with the aid the solver function of the Microsoft excel tool pack. Biogas production is found to be feasible from the wastes; the inflammability test was conducted during anaerobic digestion.

Keywords: Cow dung; Chicken feather; Anaerobic; Modified gomperzt model.

The effect of cobalt on the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of AlSi-Fe alloy was investigated. Alloys of varying percentages of cobalt from 0.1 to 0.5% at 0.1% interval with the percentages of iron and silicon kept constant were sand casted into cylindrical test bars of dimension 15×400mm. The casts were machined into test specimen sizes, heat treated and the mechanical properties (Tensile strength, Hardness and impact energy) of the alloy samples were determined and also the corrosion characteristics of the alloys in 0.5M H2SO4 solution at room temperature (28°C) were investigated by electrochemical methods.. The results showed that there was a decrease in tensile strength with increase in wt% cobalt addition, the percentage decrease in strength been from a maximum value of 71.6 N/mm2 at 0 wt% to a minimum of 52.1N/mm2 at 0.4 wt% of cobalt addition. The impact energy increases to a maximum value of 15.2 Joule at 0.1 wt% cobalt addition and then decreases with further cobalt addition. The maximum hardness value of 70266.6 Mpa was obtained at 0.1 wt% cobalt addition, and a minimum corrosion rate of 0.000713 mm/year and maximum linear polarization resistance of 30228Ω at 0.2 wt% cobalt addition.

This research investigates the potential of using sugar cane mill (SCM) to control the setting time of concrete. Waste sugar cane parts such as the peels, joints and ratoons were collected and sun-dried. The dried waste sugar cane parts were pounded and sieved through 75 µm BS sieve to obtain the SCM. Ordinary Portland cement was used in the investigation. The SCM in quantities of 0%, 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.075%, 0.1%, 0.125%, 0.15%, and 0.175% were added to the cement to produce SCM-OPC pastes. Since it was observed that the varying quantities of SCM produced different workabilities of SCM–OPC pastes, consistency tests were carried out for every SCM-OPC composition to arrive at water–cement ratio for each of the varying quantities of SCM used. Setting time of the OPC was tested using the SCM-OPC pastes in accordance with BS EN 196-3: 2003. Results show that SCM delays the setting time of OPC. From the results, it is concluded that SCM is a retarder. It is, therefore, recommended that SCM be used as a retarder in concrete

Studies on natural fibre reinforced composites have been increasing over the years. This is so because of their good properties which includes light weight, renewable, low cost and biodegradable. Researchers have experimented on the modification of the natural fibers or the matrix to make them compatible, however there are sparse literatures on modification carried out on both fibre and matrix to enhance their interfacial interactions. This study therefore presents investigation on the physical and mechanical properties of composites fabricated from Toluene -2-,4-Diisocynate (TDI) treated fibre and castor oil modified polyester matrix. Castor oil concentration was varied from 0.0% to 2.0% at an interval of 0.5% by volume on a constant TDI treatment of (1% TDI in chloroform) on the wood fiber. The composite was fabricated using hand layup followed by compression under 10kN. Castor oil treatment concentration decreased the hardness of the material within the concentration of castor oil investigated while other properties such as water absorption (1.93%) and Modulus of Elasticity (182.12MN/m2) were peaked at 1.0% castor oil treatment concentration. Elongation at break increased linearly with castor oil concentration to a maximum 13.13% at 2% treatment concentration. These behaviours in the properties of the fabricated composite can be used as a basis in product manufacture for tailored applications.

The effect of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment on the physical and mechanical properties of Epoxy/Atile seed particulate composite by hand lay-up method was studied. The Atile seed particulates were varied between 0 and 20% at 5% interval and 180µm sieve size. The density test as well as mechanical properties (tensile, impact and hardness) were studied for both treated Atile seed particles (TAS) and untreated Atile seed particles (UTAS). Tensile fractured surfaces of the composites were also studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results for the tensile strength of the composites were all higher than that of the unreinforced sample with a maximum at 5% particle addition for both the TAS and UTAS, and the results for the hardness increased progressively with filler loading from 0 to 20% Atile particulate addition for both the TAS and UTAS. The tensile fractured surfaces of the samples revealed rough surfaces especially for the TAS due to the NaOH treatment.

KEYWORDS: Epoxy resin, atile, sodium hydroxide, particulate and microstructure.

The effect of coagulants treatment on the physicochemical properties of water was investigated in this study. The study samples were collected from three different locations in Usen community. Physicochemical properties of the samples suggest that the water quality were affected by seasonal variations with the water having more desirable quality during the dry season; as CODs, total solids, suspended solids, conductivity values, turbidity were higher in the raining season than in the dry season. The water samples were treated using coagulants at different concentration; 0.00, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5mg/l. The coagulants used are: iron (III) chloride (FeCl3), and aluminum sulphate (Al2(SO4)3). Coagulation did not desirably affect some water properties as the treatment resulted to increased conductivity, dissolved solids and total solids. However, chemical oxygen demand of the three samples reduced progressively with increase in the coagulant concentration. Suspended solid removal was also effective with the three coagulants but on higher concentration, FeCl3 gave rise to the problem of discolouration, thus leading to increased turbidity. The effect of coagulation on heavy metal concentration reveals that the metal concentration reduced progressively with increasing concentration of the coagulant and at 0.4 – 0.5mg/l of coagulant some heavy metals were totally eliminated.

Keywords: Water, Coagulants Physicochemical, metal concentration

This paper presents a study on the effects of corn-cob ash (CCA) as a supplementary cementing material in self compacting concrete (SCC). The CCA used was obtained by controlled burning of corn cob to ash in a kiln to a temperature of 600°C for two hours, and after allowing cooling, sieved through sieve 75 µm and characterized. The effects of CCA on SCC were investigated at replacement levels of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20%, respectively by weight of cement. Fresh SCC grade 35 of mixes made with partial replacement with CCA in the order as above were tested for workability and hardened concrete tested for compressive and splitting tensile strengths at curing ages of 3, 7, 28 and 56 days in accordance with standard procedures. The result of the investigation showed that the CCA used was reactive and has a combined SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 content of 71.32%, which can be classified as class F pozzolana. The rheological properties of fresh SCC decreased with increase in CCA content while compressive and splitting tensile strengths of hardened SCC decreased with increase in CCA content. The 56 days compressive strength of the SCC with CCA ranged from 30.7 N/mm2 to 52.1 N/mm2, and up to 15% CCA is recommended as partial substitute of cement for production of SCC.

Nigeria is a leading producer of plantain (Musa paradisiaca) and cocoa (Thenbroma cacao) CAN (2006). Product preparation from these agricultural produce result to huge amount of waste. However when properly managed, abundance of these waste could generate alkali solution as alternative to inorganic ones. Also, pressure on the use of imported inorganic alkali has led to exorbitant prices of alkalis based finished goods. It is therefore attractive to examine the potentials of these farm wastes as alternative sources of alkali. Samples of cocoa pods (CP) and plantain peels (PP) were separately burnt in air to obtain the ash. The moisture, dry matter and ash contents of the samples were investigated. Alkali was extracted from the ashes sample using water at room temperature. The extracts were characterized for their alkali content, conductivity, pH and metal concentration. Analysis of the extracts gave alkaline content as 0.805M and 0.890M for CP ash extract and PP ash extract respectively, conductivity was 71.64s/m and 86.6s/m, while the pH was 11.42 and 11.48 respectively. Metal analysis results of the extracts, revealed that they contain appreciable amount of potassium and sodium ions with PP ash extract having a higher percentage composition of potassium (47.17%) than CP (41.15%).

The use of bamboo as a sustainable and relatively cheap construction material in the Nigerian building industry is yet to be fully harnessed as in China, Taiwan, Kenya, etc. This study appraised the potentials of bamboo as a sustainable construction material in Nigeria. Review of past studies showed that bamboo is higher than concrete, wood and second to steel in terms of strength (resistance against deformation); while in terms of stiffness, it is rated the best. It has a compressive strength of 34.3MPa that met the requirements for application in building works. The annual global trade value of bamboo has been placed to about $10 billion. It grows at temperatures of 280C to 500C in sandy loam to loamy clay soils and tolerates saline, wet and marshy soils. The bamboo contains starch of about 2 – 6%, deoxidized saccharide 2%, fat 2 – 4% and protein 0.8 – 6% which enhance its durability against mold, fungal and borers. As a green building component, bamboo has the potential to capture 17 metric tons of carbon per hectare annually. Reviews have showed that the occurrence of bamboo in Nigeria varies across the geopolitical zone, it accounts for atleast 10% of the natural vegetation in South East, South South and South West. In the North Central it accounts for 6 – 9% and 3% in the North East and North West. The bamboos in Southern parts of the country are thick and short while in the Northern parts are slim and tall. Its application as building material included foundation, flooring, wall (in processed forms as Plybamboo , medium density fiberboard (MDF), laminated lumber, particle board); roofing such as corrugated matboards, doors and window frames, furniture and scaffolds. The characteristics and availability of bamboo; and the high cost of building materials in Nigeria; and the goals for sustainable construction are factors that require the exploration of bamboo as a potential building material in the country.

A shatter resistant tempered plain glass/polyethylene terephthalate laminate composite was developed by stacking polyethylene terephthalate laminate sheets of 0 µm, 100 µm, 200 µm and 300 µm thick in a unidirectional manner in a specified sequence between two soda lime glass layers of 3mm thick that has been tempered at 620ͦC for 130 seconds and rapidly cooled with a blast of air for 130 seconds in a form of sandwich. The composite was allowed to cure for 7 days and the mechanical properties of the various composites such as impact strength, hardness values and flexural strength were investigated. The result revealed an increasing value of mechanical properties (impact strength, hardness and flexural strength) as the thickness of the polyethylene terephthalate laminate increases from 0 µm to 300 µm in the various composites produced.

The present study focused on the beneficiation of a Nigerian origin complex chromite ore. The Tunga Kaduda Chromite origin, Anka Local Government of Zamfara state, Nigeria, was beneficiated via sink floatation and magnetic separation techniques concurrently. The chromite ore was analysed to contain 45.85% Cr2O4 and 17.0% SiO2 which was not suitable for metallurgical purposes. Detailed characterization studies were carried out using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) respectively. The sample assaying 45.85% of Cr2O4 was subjected to beneficiation process in order to enrich the ore in term of Cr2O4 following floatation and magnetic separation routes. The result obtained after the analysis of the beneficiated ore using wet chemical analysis and atomic absorption spectrophotometer shows that Cr2O4 content increased to 61.5% with a maximum of Cr : Fe ratio of 8.2 : 1. This high increase in Cr2O4 content is apparently high enough to be suitable for use in both electro-deposition practice and ferro-chromium alloy productions.

Key words: eneficiation,chromite ore, sink floatation, magnetic separation.

The research presents the “Effect of bagasse ash re-inforcement on the mechanical and physical properties of polymer blend composite”. The polymer blend matrix was re-inforced with bagasse ash particles from 0-25% wt. addition at an interval of 5% wt. The mechanical properties test showed that there was an average decrease in the impact energy value with increase in the Bagasse ash particle addition. 10% wt. of the Bagasse ash particle addition gave the maximum impact energy value of 1.5 J. the hardness value increases from a minimum hardness value of 5.87 HV0.2 at 0% wt. bagasse ash particle addition to a maximum of 11.26HV0.2 at 25% wt. bagasse ash particle addition, 20% wt. of the Bagasse ash particle addition gave the highest tensile strength of 21.65N/〖mm〗^2. While the physical properties test results showed that the percentage Water absorption increases with increase in Bagasse ash particle addition, 25% wt. bagasse particle addition gave the highest percentage water absorption of 1.92%.This shows that the polymer blend matrix is hydrophobic but with increasing bagasse ash particle addition, it gains hydrophilic tendencies. The percentage thickness swelling also increases with increase in Bagasse ash particle to a maximum at 25% wt. with highest percentage thickness swelling of 13.726% and for the Density test, 0% wt. of the Bagasse ash particle addition gave the lowest density value of 0.766×〖10〗^(-3)g/〖mm〗^3.

Color impurity in industrial effluents pose a significant risk to human health and the environment, so much effort has been expended to degrade them using various methods, including the use of agricultural waste materials as adsorbent. The purpose of this study was to provide understanding of the mechanisms for the removal of Eosin yellow (EY) from aqueous solutions onto plantain (musa paradisica) peels (PP) as adsorbent. The influence of initial pH, agitation time, temperature, adsorbent dose, and initial adsorbate concentration on the adsorption efficiency was investigated using batch equilibrium assays. The fitness of equilibrium data to common isotherm equations such as the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin, and kinetic models such as pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and intra-particle diffusion were tested. Thermodynamic parameters such as ΔG, ΔS, ΔH and ΔHr were also calculated and results evaluated. Results obtained showed that the best adsorption potential was recorded at EY concentration of 200 mg/L (18.72 mg/g), initial pH of 2 (18.79 mg/g) and agitation time of 60 minutes (18.76 mg/g). Adsorption capacity of the peels increased with increase in temperature, and decreased with increasing adsorbent dose. Results of isotherm and kinetic studies revealed the order of fittings: Langmuir > Freundlich > Temkin, and Pseudo-second order > intra-particle diffusion > pseudo-first order respectively. Langmuir model gave the best fit with regression, R2 = 0.969, adsorption capacity, qm = 18.87 mg/g and the Langmuir equilibrium constant KL = 0.059 L/mg, which suggests a homogeneous surface for the mound. The adsorption data for EY was found to fit well into the pseudo-second order (R2 = 0.998) and intra-particle diffusion (R2 = 0.919) models. Based on the obtained values of entropy change (+105.26 J/mol/K), Gibb’s free energies (e.g. -1.2997 kJmol-1 at 303 K) and enthalpy change (+30.78 kJmol-1), the adsorption was found to be feasible, spontaneous, and endothermic. Values of isosteric heat of adsorption (-23.39 kJmol-1), enthalpy change (+30.78 kJmol-1), and results of isotherm and kinetic studies showed that adsorption of EY onto PP followed a combined chemisorptions and physisorption mechanism. Thus, the results of the study could provide fundamental information to evaluate PP for the practical removal of EY from waste water.

Keywords: Adsorption, Eosin Yellow, Plantain peels, Isotherm, Kinetics and Thermodynamics.

Color impurity in industrial effluents pose a significant risk to human health and the environment, so much effort has been expended to degrade them using various methods, including the use of agricultural waste materials as adsorbent. The purpose of this study was to provide understanding of the mechanisms for the removal of Eosin yellow (EY) from aqueous solutions onto plantain (musa paradisica) peels (PP) as adsorbent. The influence of initial pH, agitation time, temperature, adsorbent dose, and initial adsorbate concentration on the adsorption efficiency was investigated using batch equilibrium assays. The fitness of equilibrium data to common isotherm equations such as the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin, and kinetic models such as pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and intra-particle diffusion were tested. Thermodynamic parameters such as ΔG, ΔS, ΔH and ΔHr were also calculated and results evaluated. Results obtained showed that the best adsorption potential was recorded at EY concentration of 200 mg/L (18.72 mg/g), initial pH of 2 (18.79 mg/g) and agitation time of 60 minutes (18.76 mg/g). Adsorption capacity of the peels increased with increase in temperature, and decreased with increasing adsorbent dose. Results of isotherm and kinetic studies revealed the order of fittings: Langmuir > Freundlich > Temkin, and Pseudo-second order > intra-particle diffusion > pseudo-first order respectively. Langmuir model gave the best fit with regression, R2 = 0.969, adsorption capacity, qm = 18.87 mg/g and the Langmuir equilibrium constant KL = 0.059 L/mg, which suggests a homogeneous surface for the peels. The adsorption data for EY was found to fit well into the pseudo-second order (R2 = 0.998) and intra-particle diffusion (R2 = 0.919) models. Based on the obtained values of entropy change (+105.26 J/mol/K), Gibb’s free energies (e.g. -1.2997 kJmol-1 at 303 K) and enthalpy change (+30.78 kJmol-1), the adsorption was found to be feasible, spontaneous, and endothermic. Values of isosteric heat of adsorption (-23.39 kJmol-1), enthalpy change (+30.78 kJmol-1), and results of isotherm and kinetic studies showed that adsorption of EY onto PP followed a combined chemisorptions and physisorption mechanism. Thus, the results of the study could provide fundamental information to evaluate PP for the practical removal of EY from waste water.
Keywords: Adsorption, Eosin Yellow, Plantain peels, Isotherm, Kinetics and Thermodynamics.

Agricultural wastes are rich as precursor for cheap but quality silica. Guinea corn Husk was used to synthesize silica in line with Green Chemistry to make use of renewable feedstock. The Guinea corn Husk was leached in 0.1 M HCl, washed, dried and calcined at 650 oC for 4hr. The resultant ash was used to prepare silica using NaOH solution, precipitated by adding H2SO4 and then washed to remove sulphate by-product. Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was used as a template for the synthesis of the mesoporous form silica. The siliceous materials were characterized using XRF, FTIR and SEM to investigate its composition, functional group and the morphology respectively. The elemental investigation revealed 47.8% Si as major element in the ash, the presence of Si-O-Si and surface modification carried out were confirmed by FTIR spectra. SEM micrographs also showed improvement in the morphology. Guinea corn Husk as an agricultural waste can be a sustainable means for silica and other siliceous materials.

Magnetite nanoparticles, activated carbon and its composite were synthesized in the laboratory. The prepared sample were characterized using Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRF) and Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). Adsorption capacity of these adsorbents was tested for Pb (II) ion from aqueous solutions. The adsorption was found to be dependent on temperature, time, pH, adsorbent dosage and also on the initial metal ion concentration. The adsorption of Pb (II) ion on the composite best fit the Freundlich adsorption isotherm while that of activated carbon fits the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Magnetite fits both the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms. The adsorption of Pb (II) ion on all the adsorbents followed Pseudo-second order perfectly implying chemisorption as the mechanism of reaction.

Keywords: Adsorption; Magnetite, Activated Carbon, Composite, Isotherm, Kinetic models.

The reinforcing effect of calabash powder (Crescentia cujete) in polymer-matrix composite has been studied. Composites of high density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix containing 0 to 40 weight percent of calabash powder at 10 weight percent intervals were prepared by compounding and pressing. The composites were characterized by density measurement, mechanical properties test and morphological study of fracture surfaces of the composite. Results of the tests showed a reduction in density of the composite with increase in filler content, while improvement in some mechanical properties was also noticed. A general improvement in hardness and stiffness of the composite was observed with increase in filler content, while the tensile strength only increased at 10 percent filler content before continuously decreasing with further filler addition. Elongation at break, impact and flexural strengths of the composite, however, decreased with increase in filler content. Scanning electron micrographs of fracture surfaces revealed a fair distribution of the filler in the matrix. Fracture of composite containing large amount of filler occurred with little plastic deformation in contrast to the unreinforced where appreciable plastic deformation is noticeable from the SEM of the fracture surface.

This research work deals with the preparation of soaps from neem oil and soya bean oil blends and analyses the soap produced. The soaps were produced by varying the percentage of oils; (soya bean oil and neem oil) in the ratio of 100%, 90/10%, 80/20%, 70/30%, 60/40%, 50/50%, 40/60%, 30/70%, 20,80%, 90/10% and 100% to obtain soap samples A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J and K, respectively. The oils and a calculated amount of base at 33°C – 43°C was mixed to form soap and allowed to cure. The properties of the soap such as; pH values, total alkali, % fatty matter, moisture content and form height were analyzed, and the values range from 7.9 – 9.0, 0.12 – 0.37g, 60 – 80%, 13 – 18.6 and 12.0 – 15.6cm were obtained, respectively. Sensitivity test was conducted for soap sample I (70% neem oil and 30% soya bean oil) using isolated bacterial; Escherichia coli, staphylococcus aureus and salmonella typhi against the control sample at varying concentrations. Generally, the performance of the soaps produced was found to be good.

Keywords: Neem oil, Soya bean oil, pH value, Sensitivity, Oil blends

Geotechnical constructions such as High-rise buildings, industrial layouts etc. require both a foundation and construction materials that are made of materials that could not only withstand such heavy load, but could also remain competent for decades in other to avoid both natural and artificial hazards that could lead to loss of precious lives and properties; In search of such extensive province that have the required foundational competence, Ado Ekiti and suburb becomes an area of research interest. Four fresh samples of granite-gneiss and migmatite (the predominant rocks) were collected from four different locations in the study area, which is part of the Basement Complex of Southwestern Nigeria. The samples collected were analysed petrographically and geochemically to determine their mineralogical and chemical composition respectively. The minerals observed when the samples from both the granite-gneiss and migmatite were subjected to petrographic analysis are quartz, orthoclase feldspar, plagioclase feldspar, microcline, hornblende, biotite muscovite and zircon (accessory mineral). The results obtained from the geochemical analysis using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS), shows that the range of values of the major oxides analysed from the samples are SiO2 (59.97%-60.53%), Al2O3 (16.24% - 18.87%), Fe2O3 (4.80% - 7.26%), MgO (0.28% - 0.31%) and CaO (0.69% - 1.24%). This geochemical analysis result indicate that the samples from both rocks are rich in Silica content and poor in ferromagnesian minerals which account for their light colouration, high resistance to weathering and that the rocks are magmatic in origin. The earlier mentioned property of the rocks in the study area (high resistance to weathering) amidst other factors that this paper highlight indicates that the study area has foundational materials that could hold and sustain such geotechnical constructions.

Keywords: Petrographic study, geotechnical constructions, Ado-Ekiti, sustainable.

Geotechnical constructions such as High-rise buildings, industrial layouts etc. require both a foundation and construction materials that are made of materials that could not only withstand such heavy loads, but could also remain competent for decades in other to avoid both natural and artificial hazards that could lead to loss of precious lives and properties; In search of such extensive province that have the required foundational competence, Ado Ekiti and suburb becomes an area of research interest. Four fresh samples of granite-gneiss and migmatite (the predominant rocks) were collected from four different locations in the study area, which is part of the Basement Complex of Southwestern Nigeria. The samples collected were analysed petrographically and geochemically to determine their mineralogical and chemical composition respectively. The minerals observed when the samples from both the granite-gneiss and migmatite were subjected to petrographic analysis are quartz, orthoclase feldspar, plagioclase feldspar, microcline, hornblende, biotite muscovite and zircon (accessory mineral). The results obtained from the geochemical analysis using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS), shows that the range of values of the major oxides analysed from the samples are SiO2 (59.97%-60.53%), Al2O3 (16.24% - 18.87%), Fe2O3 (4.80% - 7.26%), MgO (0.28% - 0.31%) and CaO (0.69% - 1.24%). This geochemical analysis result indicate that the samples from both rocks are rich in Silica content and poor in ferromagnesian minerals which account for their light colouration, high resistance to weathering and that the rocks are magmatic in origin. The earlier mentioned property of the rocks in the study area (high resistance to weathering) amidst other factors that this paper highlight indicates that the study area has foundational materials that could hold and sustain such geotechnical constructions.

Keywords: Petrographic study, geotechnical constructions, Ado-Ekiti, sustainable.

In this research, two tanneferous plants [C. coriaria (DD)-Hydrolysable class and P. clappertoniana (PC)-condensed] have been blended in five different formulations [PC, DD, PC/DD (1:1), PC/DD (1:3), and PC/DD (3:1)] to examine its synergetic effect on the resultant Leather. The tanning trials were carried out using 30% offer for shoe upper Leather. The physico- chemical properties of the resultant Leather [shrinkage temperature (Ts 0C), Apparent density (g/cm3), Tensile strength/elongation (N/mm,2), Resistance to compression (Kgf/cm2), Indentation index (1/100mm),water vapour permeability (%), water vapour adsorption (%), young’s modulus and Lastometer (mm)] were determined according to the International Union of Leather Technicians and Chemist(IULTCS)official methods. The results show that, formulation PC/DD (3:1) gave the highest shrinkage temperature of 85°C, PC/DD (1:1) gave the highest resistance to compression of 6.65N/mm2, DD gave the indentation index of 37, PC/DD (1:3) gave the apparent density of 5.63 Kg/m3, PC/DD (1:1) gave water vapour permeability of 0.12%, PC/DD (1:3) gave water vapour adsorption of 13.5%, PC/DD (1:1) gave the highest elongation of 52%, DD gave young’s modulus of 72.17 N/mm2 and DD gave the highest tensile strength of 33.2 N/mm2. From the values obtained, it could be seen that each parameter is independent of the other, and the choice is based on the particular parameter that is of paramount importance to the end user since all the parameters met the standard requirements for the shoe upper leather.
Key Words: Caesalpinia coriaria (DD), Parkia clappetoniana (PC), tanning, physico-mechanical properties, physico-chemical properties

Parkia clappertoniana has been found to contain secondary metabolites that reduces oxidative damage such as that caused by free radicals. For an extensive use of this substances, Box-Behnken design was used to optimize the extraction conditions of total tannins and antioxidant from the plant. Temperature,time and particle size were the three independent variables used in the extraction and percentage yield were determined. A quadratic polynomial model was used to characterize the extraction processes. The results showed that these three independent variables significantly influenced the percentage yield of total tannins and total antioxidants. To obtain the highest percentage yield of total tannins and total antioxidant, the optimum conditions were temperature 65°C, time 120 min and the particle size of 0.04mm. the soxhlets extraction method was used to extract total tannins and total antioxidants from the plant.

Key words: tannins, antioxidants, parkia clappertoniana,extraction and response surface methodology

The Evaluation of the possible secondary metabolites and macronutrients of Parkia clappertoniana husks using standard methods has been carried out with methanol and ethyl acetate as solvents for the extraction. The percentage secondary metabolites of the methanolic extracts of tannins, saponins, flavonoids were found to be 45.19,38.60 & 69.90% respectively, while ethyl acetate extracts were found to be 46.86, 68.50% respectively and the saponin was absent. For the Macro nutrients of carbohydrate, proteins, fiber and free fatty acid were found to 79.08, 4.93, 12.69, and 4.00% respectively. Experimental evaluation indicates that Parkia clappertoniana is a rich source of secondary metabolites (tannins, flavonoids, saponins) and macronutrients (carbohydrate, proteins, fiber and free fatty acid). The result reveals that Parkia clappertoniana husk could significantly act as antioxidant and could support the claim about the use of this plant in herbal treatment.

Key word: secondary metabolites, macronutrients and Parkia clappertoniana.

Unsaturated hydraulic conductivity properties of waste foundry sand treated with bentonite-rice husk ash (WFS-BEN-RHA) blend was evaluated for possible use as a barrier material in waste containment application. The soil water characteristic test was carried out on the specimens prepared at -2, 0, and +2 moisture content relative to the optimum moisture content (OMC) and compacted with British Standard light (BSL), West African Standard (WAS) and British Standard heavy (BSH) energies. The data obtained were fit into Brooks–Corey (BC), van Genuchten (VG) and Fredlund – Xing (FX) models to predict hydraulic conductivity. The results obtained showed that higher compactive efforts produced materials with better water retention, and volumetric water content generally increased with higher RHA content. The three models overestimate the volumetric water content for the range of matric suction considered with poor correlations between the measured and predicted soil water characteristic curves (SWCCs). The unsaturated hydraulic conductivity of WFS–BEN–RHA decreased with increasing RHA content for the matric suctions considered (i.e., 10, 500 and 1500 kPa). The FX model gave the best prediction of hydraulic conductivity WFS - 12% -BEN - 8% RHA that meets the specification for liners.

One of the requirements of a barrier material in an engineered waste containment system is that there should be no leakage in its hydraulic performance; at the same time it should be able to minimize contaminant transport and attenuate contaminant leachate species. In this study, diffusion test, batch equilibrium and compatibility test were carried on WFS-BEN-RHA mixture to evaluate its hydraulic performance when in contact with municipal solid waste leachate, (MSWL). The movement and attenuation of two cations and one anion (i.e. Na+, K+ and Cl- ) investigated shows that Na+ and K+ were adsorbed and retarded by WFS-BEN-RHA mixture, while Cl- diffused easily through the barrier material. The long term hydraulic conductivity test carried out shows there was no significant change in hydraulic conductivity of WFS-BEN-RHA mixture when permeated with MSWL. The study shows that WFS treated with 12% BEN- 8% RHA blend and compacted with BSH energy is able to attenuate and retard chemical migration and is compatible with the MSWL used.

There was an increasing interest in application of chitosan and chitin in a wide range of the technologies taking advantage of their special properties such as low density, biocompatibility, biodegradability, reactivity, non-toxicity, adsorption properties, etc. Production,cost of chitin and its derivatives continue to be the prime factor limiting more widespread application of these substances. Despite its huge availability, the utilization of chitin in Nigeria has been restricted by lack of knowledge of what is chitosan by a layman in Nigeria.The challenge that the quality of our environment over the years has declined as a result of various human activities. The waste of these natural polymer (chitin) is a major source of surface pollutant in the coastal area of Nigeria. Today Chitosan is no longer considered as just a waste product from sea food industries. The production of Chitosan from crustacean shells as a food industry and composite industry, waste is economically feasible. The proper utilization of those water resources (aquaculture) in terms of research in chitin and chitosan can bring the economic and academic prosperity of the nation. The paper highlighted Science and technology play a vital role in a nation’s development. The paper also enlighten the public and attempt has been made to understand the importance and characteristics of chitosan by describing the various aspects, including the physical and chemical properties, processing, and applications. In view of this, this paper will attract the attention of entrepreneurs, industrialists, academicians, and environmentalists. This review also discusses the various attempts reported on solving this problem from the point of view of science and technology has to a reasonable extend demonstrated the use chitosan as a sources of material for composites production .Especially polymer industries cannot absolutely rely on synthetic fibres for finishing: But can complement the available synthetic fibres with natural fibre such as chitosan.
Keywords: Chitosan, Science, Technology, Production, Challenges and Prospect.

This research work investigates the levels of lead, cadmium, Nickel, Zinc and Cobalt in 10 brands of skin lightening creams used by students in Ahmadu Bello University main campus Samaru, Zaria, Nigeria. The samples were analysed by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The concentrations of cobalt, cadmium, and lead in the analysed samples were below the WHO tolerable limits of 0.005, 0.003 and 0.05 mg/kg, respectively. However, the concentrations of Nickel in the analysed samples were above the WHO tolerable limit of 0.01 mg/kg without ana exception. The concentration of Zn that was detected was above the WHO tolerable limit of 0.04 mg/kg in only one of the analysed samples. This study also revealed the health risks associated with the continual use of some of these skin lightening creams containing heavy metals in high concentration leading to a disastrous health effects associated with their poisoning.

Zeolite Y was synthesized using commercial sodium hydroxide and Kankara kaolin as starting material in the presence of kaolinite derived sodium silicate. Synthesis was done at 900C, 950C and 1000C for crystallization time of 12, 18, 24 and 36 hours. Results showed that commercial sodium hydroxide could be used to successfully produce zeolite Y from Kankara kaolin when gel having the following ratios (H_2 O)/(〖Na〗_2 O)=30, Na/(Na+K)=0.8 and (〖Na〗_2 O)/〖Sio〗_2 = 0.7 were used. Zeolite Y with crystallinity of 69% was produced at 900C for 18 hours. Crystallization of zeolite materials from kaolin and low grade NaOH was observed to be quite different from commercial due to the relative inactive state of Si and Al source of the former, as well as, the presence of other cations. Seeding with sodium silicate selectively induce the formation of NaY and eliminate the process of induction and nucleation. Cost analysis showed an overwhelming $185.524 difference between imported high grade chemicals and locally obtained chemicals in favour of locally obtained chemicals, per unit catalyst. The starting material, intermediates and as-synthesized zeolites were characterized using XRF, XRD and SEM analyses. The resulting NaY type zeolite can found application in refining process as suggested by the analytical results.

Zeolite 3A was produced from kaolin procured from Kankara in Kastina State, Nigeria. The kaolin was calcined at 750̊C and 850°C for 4 hours after beneficiation. The raw and beneficiated kaolin as well as metakaolin were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and x-ray florescence (XRF). Calcination at 750̊C for 4 hours was confirmed to produce metakaolin. Zeolite 4A samples were synthesized using fusion prior to hydrothermal and straigth hydrothermal methods. Zeolite 3A samples were subsequently developed from each of the zeolite 4A samples produced from the two synthesis methods and were characterized using XRD, XRF, Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET), Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results from the analyses revealed that, fusion prior to hydrothermal method (Z3FH) seems to give better zeolite 4A. The pore size of 3.09Å, pore volume of 0.08726 cm3/g and surface area of 245.6 m2/g from BET for Z3FH gave a relatively better result than with zeolite 3A produced from straight hydrothermal (Z3H), with pore size of 3.73 Å, pore volume of 0.063 cm3/g and surface area of 177 m2/g, when compared with pore size of 2.82 Å, pore volume of 0.08025 cm3/g and surface area 225.5 m2/g of commercial zeolite 3A. From the results obtained, the formation of relatively pure crystalline zeolite 4A appeared to have been promoted by the fusion prior to hydrothermal method.

Textile dyes present in waste water requires remover due to their hazardous and negative impacts on the environment. In this paper, the photocatalytic degradation of Vat Green 8 on anatase titania at a buffer pH of 7, 8 and 9 had been investigated. The effect of various operational parameters such as catalyst loading, pH, initial dye concentration and irradiation time of the photocatalytic degradation was studied on a laboratory scale photoreactor containing 100 W mercury bulb. Varying concentrations of the dye such as 5 mg/l, 12.5 mg/l and 20 mg/l was prepared and ran in the photoreactor and the dye removal was monitored using UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The results obtained revealed that much of the dyes were removed at an optimum pH of 9 and catalyst dose of 1 mg/l. The percentage efficiency of the colour remover reached a maximum of 99% at dye concentration of 12.5 mg/l and irradiation time of 90 minutes.

Keywords: Irradiation, Anatase, Photocatalytic degradation, Photoreactor and pH

A single stage transesterification of vegetable oils having FFA greater than 0.5% over a base catalyst usually leads to saponification. A modified solid base KF/Eggshell catalyst was prepared by wet impregnation method and applied for the circumvention of this occurrence of saponification. BET analysis revealed that, the catalyst is mesoporous with a pore size of 3.24nm, specific surface area of 128 m2/g and pore volume of 0.045 cm3/g. Furthermore, the 79 nm sized crystallites of the catalyst having hexagonal shapes are shown in the SEM micrographs to be systemically arranged; as such, present the high specific surface area of the catalyst to the reacting species. The parameters affecting the preparation of the catalyst such as calcination temperature and time of the eggshell, KF dosage, calcination time and temperature of the catalyst were investigated using CCD. The optimal synthesis conditions were found to be 900°C eggshell calcination temperature for 2h, 29 wt% KF dosage, and 6000C KF/Eggshell calcination temperature for 2h. The catalyst was applied in a single stage transesterification of neem oil having FFA of 4.2% to produce biodiesel, 93% yield of biodiesel was obtained. Analyses of some important fuel properties indicated that, the biodiesel produced is comparable to the ASTM commercial standard for automobile applications.

Anthill was successfully used as catalyst for the production of fatty acid methyl esters from waste cooking oil. The anthill was wet beneficiated and calcined at temperature ranging between 600°C and 1000°C. The performances of the anthill catalyst at optimal calcination temperature of 800°C was studied at given reaction time of 1-3 h, reaction temperature of 60-70 oC and at fixed methanol-oil ratio of 6:1 and catalyst loading of 7 wt%. The FAME yield of 64.12% was obtained for reaction time of 3hrs and temperature of 70°C. The raw and calcined catalysts were characterized using SEM, FTIR and XRF. The XRF shows that the anthill is rich in CaO, Na2O and Al2O3 nature of the anthill. The SEM gave a better morphological insight on pretreatment of anthill. FTIR and GC-MS confirmed the formation of FAME and its constituents respectively. This study revealed that anthill can serve as good catalyst for the synthesis of biodiesel from waste cooking oil.

Over few decades, conventional carbon-derived fuels have been the energy used in the country for propulsion of automobiles, powering of stationary power stations and other industrial systems. However, the fugitive emission resulting from the fossil fuels usage has caused local and global environmental problems affecting human and ecological health, and nation’s economy. Coupling with the depletion and volatile price of carbon-based fuel, the need for sustainable, cleaner and alternative fuels to the conventional fuels becomes imperative. With notable contribution of Nigeria to the global concentration of carbon IV oxide in the atmosphere, prompted its national policy statement and programmes on free-carbon fuels, especially, 2003-National Energy Policy for Nigeria (NEPN) regarding hydrogen, participation in the international negotiation on renewable energy exploitation of Kyoto Protocol enforced in 2005, and follow-up of NEPN with Renewable Energy Master Plan (REMP) in 2006, among others. Efficient and renewable fuel like hydrogen (particularly hydrogen fuel cells) is desirous for Nigeria as part of its energy mix to attain robust economy, as envisioned by year, 2020. This paper focuses on facts regarding hydrogen as energy carrier with near-zero carbon emission and high heating values, as a precursor for its timely adoption and utilization by Nigeria government to boost its energy synthesis and overcome the current energy challenges in a no-distant time.

Keywords: Fossil fuel, fugitive emission, alternative fuel, sustainable, hydrogen, utilization, energy mix.

A study on the preparation of porous silica from a Nigerian talc ore by acetic acid leaching was investigated. The initial and leached silica products were characterized by Energy Dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy Dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and the N2 adsorption techniques. The influence of acetic acid concentration, reaction temperature and particle size on the ore leaching kinetics were examined. The results of the dissolution rates were found to be significantly influenced by leachant concentration, temperature and decreasing particle size. The dissolution mechanism process followed the diffusion control shrinking core model and the calculated activation energy of 34.53 kJ/mol supports the proposed mechanism. The leached product has a BET specific surface area increased to 2.056 m2/g from the initial ore surface area of 0.15 m2/g. At optimal leaching conditions, the pore size distribution calculated by BJH method based on N2 gas isotherms showed the presence of peaks from micropores and mesopores formation, indicating the porous nature of leached product.

The deliberate reduction of the frictional pressure drop occurring in a flow system by the addition of certain polymeric materials is called drag reduction. The discovery of this phenomenon has led to huge savings in both design and operations of fluid transport systems. In this work, drag reduction in 30mm and 50mm internal diameter acrylic pipes for single phase water flows were measured. Polyamide nylon fibers were used as drag reducing agents (DRA) and then combined with polyethylene oxide (PEO: mol. Wt 8 x 106g/mol) in a synergistic system in both pipe sizes. Maximum polymer and fiber concentration tested were 5ppm and 0.75wt% respectively. Results showed that for a fixed fiber concentration, drag reduction reduced with increasing Reynolds number, while it increased with increasing fiber concentration. A synergistic effect of the combination of fibers and polymers was observed at low fiber concentrations and Reynolds numbers. The results from the combination are promising for further investigations.

Fluid flows are encountered in everyday life and particularly in the oil and gas industries and an accurate prediction of the flow properties will enhance efficient design and operational flexibility leading to savings and increased productivity. In this work a modified two-fluid model was developed based on experimental observations of the interface configuration in stratified liquid-liquid flows. The experimental data were obtained in a horizontal 14 mm ID acrylic pipe, for test oil and water superficial velocities ranging from 0.0081 m/s to 0.6 m/s and from 0.052 m/s to 0.6 m/s respectively, which correspond to stratified and stratified wavy flows. Using conductance probes, average interface heights were obtained at the pipe centre and close to the pipe wall, which revealed a concave shape in all cases studied. A correlation between the two heights was developed that was used in the two-fluid model. In addition, from the time series of the probe signal at the pipe centre, the average wave amplitude was calculated to be 0.0005 m and was used as an equivalent roughness in the interfacial shear stress model. Both the interface shape and roughness were considered in the two-fluid model together with literature interfacial stress correlations. Results showed that the inclusion of both the interface curvature and the equivalent roughness in the two-fluid model improved its predictions of pressure drop and interface height over the range of studied superficial oil and water velocities. Compared to the two-fluid model with other interfacial shear stress correlations, the modified model performed better particularly at low superficial velocitie

The kinetics of the oxidation of orange II (S-) by BrO3- has been studied in aqueous hydrochloric acid medium at an ionic strength of reaction medium, I = 0.50 mol dm-3 (NaCl), [H+] = 5.0 ´ 10-2 mol dm-3 (HCl) and T = 21 ± 1°C. The redox reaction displayed a stoichiometry of 1:2 and obeys the rate law: - d[OII-]/dt = (a + b[H+])[S-][BrO3-]                        
The second order rate constant increases with increase in acid concentration and in the ionic strength of reaction medium. The rates of reaction displayed a positive salt effect. Added cations and anions inhibited the reaction rate. Results of the Michaelis – Menten plot gave no evidence of intermediate complex formation during the course of the reaction. Based on the results obtained, the outersphere mechanism is proposed for the reaction.

Keywords: Orange II, Kinetics, Mechanism, Bromate ion