i-manager Publications

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

Current Issue Vol. 13 Issue 1

Mitigating Slack Rope Events in Mine Hoist Systems: A Design Review of Energy Absorbing and Biomechanical Considerations
Morphological, Elemental and Optical, Properties of Sphalerite Nanoparticle (ZnS) Doped with Neem Leaf Extract
Effect of 5 % Tensile Pre-Straining on Low Cycle Fatigue Behaviour of Inconel 718 Superalloy
Advancing Biomass Briquetting Technologies: A Review of Coffee Husk Waste Utilization for Renewable Energy
MEMS Fabrication Materials and Techniques for Emerging Trends

Most Cited

Volume 13 Issue 1 April - June 2025

Research Paper

Mitigating Slack Rope Events in Mine Hoist Systems: A Design Review of Energy Absorbing and Biomechanical Considerations

Webster Talent Rukweza* , Portia Mupfumira, Tafadzwa Mukodi*

*-*** Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe.

Rukweza, W. T., Mupfumira, P., and Mukodi, T. (2025). Mitigating Slack Rope Events in Mine Hoist Systems: A Design Review of Energy Absorbing and Biomechanical Considerations. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 1-18.

Abstract

In underground mining operations, hoist systems serve as indispensable infrastructure for the vertical transit of personnel and materials, yet their operational integrity is frequently compromised by catastrophic failure modes, most notably slack rope phenomena. This study conducts a critical evaluation of engineering design paradigms aimed at risk mitigation, with dual emphasis on energy dissipation mechanisms and human biomechanical constraints during emergency deceleration scenarios. Methodologically, it synthesizes and critiques current technological interventions- including elastomeric suspension arrays and friction-based wedge arrestors-through the lens of their energy management efficacy and compatibility with human tolerance thresholds for transient accelerative forces. The analysis identifies a critical tension between achieving optimal energy attenuation and preserving occupant safety within biologically permissible G-force parameters, as delineated by contemporary trauma biomechanics research. Empirical data from recent industrial accidents are analyzed to quantify systemic vulnerabilities, revealing an urgent need for multilayered safety architectures in hoist system design. This study advances a multidisciplinary framework for future innovation, integrating mechanical engineering, materials science, and physiological principles to drive iterative improvements in mine hoist safety protocols. The proposed paradigm shift emphasizes predictive modeling of dynamic load scenarios and failsafe mechanism redundancy as essential components of next-generation hoisting systems.

References

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Research Paper

Morphological, Elemental and Optical, Properties of Sphalerite Nanoparticle (ZnS) Doped with Neem Leaf Extract

Chiamaka Peace Onu*

Department of Physics and Industrial Physics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria.

Onu, C. P. (2025). Morphological, Elemental and Optical, Properties of Sphalerite Nanoparticle (ZnS) Doped with Neem Leaf Extract. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 19-30.

Abstract

This study investigated the properties of undoped sphalerite nanoparticles and neem leaf extract-doped sphalerite nanoparticles. The sphalerite nanoparticles were prepared by the ball milling technique and were doped with the neem leaf extract using the doctor blade method. The morphological, elemental, and optical properties of the nanoparticles were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersed X-ray analysis (EDX), and UV spectrophotometry, respectively. The SEM micrograph revealed significant change in the morphological structure of the sphalerite nanoparticles, which are not coarse, densely packed, well-formed flakes with uneven-edged crystalline structures. to a coarse, dispersed, grain-like crystalline structure after doping with neem leaf extract. The EDX confirmed the presence of zinc, sulfide, calcium, phosphorus, iron, chromium, and selenium and traces of other elements. UV-Vis Spectroscopy showed that the transmittance of both the doped and undoped sphalerite increased as the spectrum The wavelength moved from the ultraviolet region to the visible region at 94% and 88%, respectively, at the near-infrared region. The photon energy with respect to the refractive index of both doped and undoped sphalerite was found to be 1.66 eV–2.64 eV and 1.38 eV to 2.45 eV, respectively, which revealed that the doped sphalerite nanoparticle is beneficial for higher nonlinear optical response for optoelectronic devices. The band gap of the doped sphalerite nanoparticles was 2.52 eV, which is significantly better than the 3.63 eV obtained in undoped sphalerite. This suggested that the neem leaf extract introduced necessary impurities, which enhanced the optoelectronic properties of the sphalerite nanoparticles. Hence, neem leaf-doped sphalerite nanoparticles can be a potential enhanced material for optoelectronic devices with excellent performance in photovoltaic applications.

References

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Research Paper

Effect of 5 % Tensile Pre-Straining on Low Cycle Fatigue Behaviour of Inconel 718 Superalloy

Manikandan P.* , Sudarshan Rao G., Sushant K. Manwatkar*, Venugopal A.**, Satish Kumar Singh*, Govind****

Vikram Sarabhai Space Center, Trivandrum, Kerala, India.

Manikandan, P. (2025). Effect of 5 % Tensile Pre-Straining on Low Cycle Fatigue Behaviour of Inconel 718 Superalloy. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 31-44.

Abstract

The effect of 5% tensile pre-straining on the low cycle fatigue (LCF) behaviour of Inconel-718 (IN718) superalloy was studied at ambient temperature using fully reversed total strain controlled fatigue tests. For comparison, LCF tests were also carried out on the alloy in unstrained (baseline) condition. Tension-compression cyclic tests were carried out with strain ratio R = 1 and at a constant strain rate of 0.01s-1. The total strain amplitude varied from ±0.4 to ±1.2%. The low cycle fatigue results were analyzed to determine the cyclic stress-strain curves. The cyclic strain hardening parameters were evaluated from the cyclic stress–strain curves. Important fatigue parameters, namely fatigue ductility coefficient, fatigue ductility exponent, and fatigue strength coefficient, were evaluated for both cases. Analysis and comparison of the experimental results showed that the 5% tensile pre-strain causes significant reduction (almost ~50 %) in the fatigue life of the material. For both the baseline and 5% pre-strained material, the plastic strain amplitude in relation to fatigue- life plots exhibited a bilinear relationship. The geometry of hysteresis loops and the occurrence of Masing behavior were analyzed and it was found that the alloy in peak-aged condition exhibited a tendency towards Masing behavior.

References

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Review Paper

Advancing Biomass Briquetting Technologies: A Review of Coffee Husk Waste Utilization for Renewable Energy

Abdirisak Abukar Salad* , Sathish Kumar P. , Sanusi Yinka Sofihullahi*

*-*** Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Ishaka-Bushenyi, Uganda.

Salad, A. A., Kumar, P. S., and Sofihullahi, S. Y. (2025). Advancing Biomass Briquetting Technologies: A Review of Coffee Husk Waste Utilization for Renewable Energy. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 45-58.

Abstract

The global push toward sustainable energy solutions has intensified the exploration of biomass briquetting technologies, particularly in coffee-producing regions. Coffee husk waste, an abundant agro-industrial byproduct, presents a viable renewable energy source through densification techniques. This review systematically evaluates existing research on coffee husk briquetting, emphasizing its thermal, physio-mechanical, and combustion properties. The integration of cow dung as a binder further enhances briquette cohesion, addressing challenges associated with low bulk density and inefficient combustion. The study synthesizes key findings related to environmental impact, policy implications, and technological advancements, underscoring the potential of biomass briquettes in reducing reliance on traditional fuels. While briquetting has been extensively studied, gaps remain in optimizing production parameters to enhance energy yield and emission performance. This review contributes to the discourse on biomass valorization, advocating for further research to refine briquette composition for improved sustainability.

References

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Review Paper

MEMS Fabrication Materials and Techniques for Emerging Trends

Boggadi Nagarjuna Reddy* , Venkatramana Reddy B. D. **

*-** Viswam Engineering College, Madanapalle, Annamayya district, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Reddy, B. N., and Reddy, B. D. V. (2025). MEMS Fabrication Materials and Techniques for Emerging Trends. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 59-66.

Abstract

This paper explores how the selection of materials affects the operation of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), with a particular emphasis on ceramics, carbon-based materials, silicon, silicon-based materials, and polymers. Different material types offer unique benefits, affecting both performance and cost. The formulation of ingredients, analogous to a chemical composition in a recipe, significantly influences the performance of MEMS devices, thereby underscoring the potential for innovation across various technological disciplines.

References

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[8]. Greiner, F., Quednau, S., Dassinger, F., Sarwar, R., Schlaak, H. F., Guttmann, M., & Meyer, P. (2013). Fabrication techniques for multiscale 3D-MEMS with vertical metal micro-and nanowire integration. Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, 23(2), 025018.

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[10]. Jiang, S., Shi, T., Zhan, X., Xi, S., Long, H., Gong, B., & Tang, Z. (2015). Scalable fabrication of carbon-based MEMS/NEMS and their applications: A review. Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, 25(11), 113001.

[11]. Johari, S., Mazalan, M., Sridaran, Y., & Ahmad, S. R. (2015). Characterization of MEMS materials using laser micromachine. Applied Mechanics and Materials, 754, 612-616.

[12]. Kim, B. J., & Meng, E. (2015). Review of polymer MEMS micromachining. Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, 26(1), 013001.

[13]. Krogstad, J. A., Keimel, C., & Hemker, K. J. (2014). Emerging materials for microelectromechanical systems at elevated temperatures. Journal of Materials Research, 29(15), 1597-1608.

[14]. Liao, M., & Koide, Y. (2011). Carbon-based materials: growth, properties, MEMS/NEMS technologies, and MEM/NEM switches. Critical Reviews in Solid State and Materials Sciences, 36(2), 66-101.

[15]. Liu, C. (2007). Recent developments in polymer MEMS. Advanced Materials, 19(22), 3783-3790.

[16]. Nia, E. F., & Kouki, A. (2024). Ceramics for microelectromechanical systems applications: A review. Micromachines, 15(10), 1244.

[17]. Obuh, I. E. (2018). Low-Cost Fabrication Techniques for RF Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) Switches and Varactors (Doctoral dissertation, University of Leeds).

[18]. Rathaur, A. S., Katiyar, J. K., & Patel, V. K. (2020). Tribo- mechanical Aspects in Micro-electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS). Tribology in Materials and Applications (pp. 243-259).

[19]. Saipriya, L., Deekshitha, A., Shreya, S., Verma, S., Swathi, C., & Manjunatha, C. (2022). Advances in graphene based MEMS and nems devices: Materials, fabrication, and applications. ECS Transactions, 107(1), 10997.

[20]. Schulz, M. (2009). Polymer derived ceramics in MEMS/NEMS–a review on production processes and application. Advances in Applied Ceramics, 108(8), 454- 460.

[21]. Torkashvand, Z., Shayeganfar, F., & Ramazani, A. (2024). Nanomaterials based micro/nanoelectromechanical system (MEMS and NEMS) devices. Micromachines, 15(2), 175.

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

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Volume 13 Issue 1 April - June 2025

Mitigating Slack Rope Events in Mine Hoist Systems: A Design Review of Energy Absorbing and Biomechanical Considerations

Webster Talent Rukweza* , Portia Mupfumira**, Tafadzwa Mukodi***

*-*** Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe.

Rukweza, W. T., Mupfumira, P., and Mukodi, T. (2025). Mitigating Slack Rope Events in Mine Hoist Systems: A Design Review of Energy Absorbing and Biomechanical Considerations. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 1-18.

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Morphological, Elemental and Optical, Properties of Sphalerite Nanoparticle (ZnS) Doped with Neem Leaf Extract

Chiamaka Peace Onu*

Department of Physics and Industrial Physics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria.

Onu, C. P. (2025). Morphological, Elemental and Optical, Properties of Sphalerite Nanoparticle (ZnS) Doped with Neem Leaf Extract. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 19-30.

Abstract

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Effect of 5 % Tensile Pre-Straining on Low Cycle Fatigue Behaviour of Inconel 718 Superalloy

Manikandan P.* , Sudarshan Rao G.**, Sushant K. Manwatkar***, Venugopal A.****, Satish Kumar Singh*****, Govind******

Vikram Sarabhai Space Center, Trivandrum, Kerala, India.

Manikandan, P. (2025). Effect of 5 % Tensile Pre-Straining on Low Cycle Fatigue Behaviour of Inconel 718 Superalloy. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 31-44.

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Advancing Biomass Briquetting Technologies: A Review of Coffee Husk Waste Utilization for Renewable Energy

Abdirisak Abukar Salad* , Sathish Kumar P. **, Sanusi Yinka Sofihullahi***

*-*** Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Ishaka-Bushenyi, Uganda.

Salad, A. A., Kumar, P. S., and Sofihullahi, S. Y. (2025). Advancing Biomass Briquetting Technologies: A Review of Coffee Husk Waste Utilization for Renewable Energy. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 45-58.

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MEMS Fabrication Materials and Techniques for Emerging Trends

Boggadi Nagarjuna Reddy* , Venkatramana Reddy B. D. **

*-** Viswam Engineering College, Madanapalle, Annamayya district, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Reddy, B. N., and Reddy, B. D. V. (2025). MEMS Fabrication Materials and Techniques for Emerging Trends. i-manager’s Journal on Material Science, 13(1), 59-66.

Abstract

References

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Webster Talent Rukweza* , Portia Mupfumira, Tafadzwa Mukodi*

Manikandan P.* , Sudarshan Rao G., Sushant K. Manwatkar*, Venugopal A.**, Satish Kumar Singh*, Govind****

Abdirisak Abukar Salad* , Sathish Kumar P. , Sanusi Yinka Sofihullahi*