i-manager's Journal on Material Science (JMS)


Volume 12 Issue 4 January - March 2025

Research Paper

A Numerical Simulation on Improving Biogas Combustion in the Blast Furnace

Victor Tambaoga* , Khadidja Safer**, Terence Matupire***, David Ndiyamba****, Laurence Maregedze*****, Erasmus Madzudzo******
*-****** Midlands State University, Midlands, Zimbabwe.
Tambaoga, V., Safer, K., Matupire, T., Ndiyamba, D., Maregedze, L., and Madzudzo, E. (2025). A Numerical Simulation on Improving Biogas Combustion in the Blast Furnace. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 12(4), 1-8.

Abstract

In order to preserve non-renewable resources and lessen the environmental impact of combustion systems in terms of pollutant emissions, it is necessary to think about increasing energy efficiency and switching to alternative fuels for industrial combustion furnaces. However, their low calorific value in comparison to conventional natural gas may make their use problematic. This research paper considers oxygen enhanced combustion and oxidizer preheating as a way of improving the heating value of biogas which can be used as a substitute for natural gas in blast furnaces. Using Ansys Fluent, natural gas combustion is simulated, and biogas combustion is simulated with oxygen enhancement and oxidizer preheating. The results obtained show that the heat value of biogas increases with oxygen enhancement and oxidizer preheating.

Research Paper

Effect of Liquid Hydrogen Exposure on Mechanical and Fracture Properties of Ti-5Al-2.5Sn-ELI Alloy in Vacuum Annealed Condition

Manikandan P.* , Naresh Kumar K.**, Sudarshan Rao G.***, Sushant K Manwatkar****, Venugopal A.*****, Satish Kumar Singh******, Govind*******
*-******* Materials and Mechanical Entity, Vikram Sarabhai Space Center, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
Manikandan, P., Kumar, K. N., Rao, G. S., Manwatkar, S. K., Venugopal, A., Singh, S. K., and Govind. (2025). Effect of Liquid Hydrogen Exposure on Mechanical and Fracture Properties of Ti-5Al-2.5Sn-ELI Alloy in Vacuum Annealed Condition. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 12(4), 9-16.

Abstract

Ti-5Al-2.5Sn is an extra low interstitial (ELI) grade titanium alloy used in spherical gas bottles submerged in liquid hydrogen (LH2) tanks at cryogenic temperature (20 K). It is essential to study the effect of LH2 exposure on the mechanical and fracture properties of the alloy. The impact of LH2 on the fracture toughness and other mechanical properties, such as tensile properties, impact strength, and notch tensile strength (NTS) of the alloy Ti-5Al-2.5Sn, has been studied at room and cryogenic temperatures. The results show that there was a marginal degradation in fracture toughness and ductility of the alloy due to LH2 exposure. However, fractography analysis revealed that the fracture morphology of the alloy exhibits a typical ductile mode of failure in the presence and absence of LH2.

Research Paper

The Effect of Ni Doped ZnO and its Photovoltaic Application of Dye Sensitized Solar Cells using Natural Dye

Selva Esakki E.* , Muthu Kani R.**
*-** JP College of Arts and Science, Ayakudi, Agarakattu, Tamil Nadu, India.
Esakki, E. S., and Kani, R. M. (2025). The Effect of Ni Doped ZnO and its Photovoltaic Application of Dye Sensitized Solar Cells using Natural Dye. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 12(4), 17-26.

Abstract

In order to make ZnO-based dye-sensitized solar cells that act as photosensitizers for Terminalia catappa fruit, the metal oxide semiconductor of undoped and Ni-doped ZnO nanoparticles was synthesized using the solvothermal method. Ethanol was used as the solvent. The X-ray Diffraction, Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Ultraviolet-Visible, and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for structural, optical, and electrical characterizations were used to analyze these produced nanoparticles. Additionally, a solar simulator with one sun AM 1.5G (100 mW/cm²) light supplied by a 300 W xenon lamp was used to analyze the J-V characterization of solar cell parameters. This result also shows that the corresponding efficiency of a solar cell application can be increased by incorporating Ni into ZnO nanoparticles in a solution.

Review Paper

Technological Innovations in Surface Finishing and Polishing: Towards Enhanced Quality and Efficiency

Harvinder Singh* , Swarn Kumar**, Avtar Singh***, Ravinder Singh****, Satish Kumar*****
*-***** Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chandigarh Group of Colleges, Landran, Mohali, India.
Singh, H., Kumar, S., Singh, A., Singh, R., and Kumar, S. (2025). Technological Innovations in Surface Finishing and Polishing: Towards Enhanced Quality and Efficiency. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 12(4), 27-35.

Abstract

Enhancing surface quality across all machine components is essential for minimizing wear-related losses and prolonging the operational life of mechanical parts. Fine finishing plays a critical role in the manufacturing of hard surfaces—such as molds and dies—by improving surface smoothness and flatness while eliminating tool marks. Although cutting processes have largely been automated through Computer Numerical Control (CNC) systems, fine finishing and polishing still heavily depend on the skill and expertise of experienced operators. In instances where operators lack polishing proficiency, achieving the desired surface roughness and smoothness becomes time- consuming. Notably, polishing operations can consume more than half of the total production time, presenting a significant challenge in manufacturing workflows. Additionally, the harsh working conditions associated with polishing—characterized by noise and dust—often discourage workers from engaging in such tasks. Given these challenges, this review study focuses on recent advancements and emerging technologies aimed at improving fine surface finishing processes.

Review Paper

Advancements in Micro-machining Techniques and their Applications in Various Industries

Venkatramana Reddy B.D* , Boggadi Nagarjuna Reddy**, Venkatramana Reddy B. D. ***
*-** Viswam Engineering College, Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Reddy, B. N., and Reddy, B. D. V. (2025). Advancements in Micro-Machining Techniques and their Applications in Various Industries. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 12(4), 36-47.

Abstract

Precision manufacturing relies heavily on micro-machining in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biomedicine, where precision is a top priority. Ultrashort pulse lasers have revolutionized laser micromachining as a leading technique due to their ability to produce precise cuts and intricate microstructures, thereby boosting the capabilities of cutting-edge technology. Employing these techniques guarantees cost-effectiveness and high precision and provides protection against thermal damage, which is essential for intricate manufacturing processes. Integrating laser micromachining with other advanced techniques significantly improves the overall quality of the manufacturing process. Significant progress has been made in laser-based micromachining, which is exerting a considerable impact on various industries, notably semiconductors and optics, by facilitating the precise fabrication and production of complex components. Recent studies have focused on improving the accuracy and speed of laser micromachining techniques, which will enable new opportunities for advancement in leading-edge technological industries. This paper provides a comprehensive review of advancements in micromachining techniques and their applications in various industries.