Article
Engineering, Chemical
Shao-Chi Lo, Tzu-Ming Cheng, Chi-Chang Hu, Chih-Huang Lai
Summary: For the first time, rapid breakdown anodization (RBA) was used to convert WC-Co into high-purity hydrated tungsten oxide (WO3-H2O) and pure cobalt metal. The process successfully removed the tungsten oxidation layer and achieved effective cobalt leaching. This method offers environmental benefits and simplifies the recycling process.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Boris B. Straumal, Lev N. Shchur, David G. Kagramanyan, Elizaveta P. Konstantinova, Alexander V. Druzhinin, Alexei N. Nekrasov
Summary: This paper uses machine vision methods to obtain statistical data on the topology of the interfaces between tungsten carbide grains (WC) and a cobalt matrix (Co) in WC-Co cemented carbides. The outlines of the cobalt binder were chosen to describe the structure of cemented carbides for the first time. Statistical data on the shape of cobalt areas and their possible connection with crack trajectories in cemented carbides are discussed.
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Hanheng Du, Wai Sze Yip, Wanting Sun, Chengwei Kang, Suet To
Summary: This study proposes an in-situ laser-assisted ultraprecision cutting (LAUC) process to create different microstructure arrays on the surfaces of tungsten carbide-cobalt (WC-Co). Experimental results demonstrate the high cutting accuracy and quality of the LAUC process, as well as its superiority over traditional ultraprecision diamond turning in terms of machinability and tool wear reduction.
CERAMICS INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
S. J. Fudger, T. L. Luckenbaugh, B. C. Hornbuckle, K. A. Darling
Summary: Cemented tungsten carbide (WC-Co) is widely used due to its extreme hardness and high modulus, making it suitable for various commercial applications. However, the cobalt (Co) binder in WC-Co is considered a strategic material and may be carcinogenic. As an alternative, nanostructured FeNiZr is being evaluated as a binder replacement. Initial experiments have shown that WC-FeNiZr samples exhibit exceptional hardness and toughness.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF REFRACTORY METALS & HARD MATERIALS
(2024)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Yoshinori Saiki, Takahiro Bando, Toru Harigai, Hirofumi Takikawa, Takahiro Hattori, Hiroaki Sugita, Natsue Kawahara, Kunihiko Tanaka
Summary: Through the investigation of the mechanism of nonuniform film formation on cemented tungsten carbide with a Co binder substrates, it was found that the Co particles on the substrate surface and the uplift of WC grains caused by carbon filament generation led to the nonuniform formation of diamond films. Therefore, preventing the segregation of Co in the initial stage is crucial to achieve a good-quality uniform film.
DIAMOND AND RELATED MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Shasha Wei, Yuanyou Li, Renxin Wang, Hu Yang, Ziming Guo, Rongchuan Lin, Qingmin Huang, Yuhui Zhou
Summary: The study investigated the acid corrosion and erosion behavior of cemented carbide materials for petrochemical applications. Experimental results showed that the coercivity and magnetic saturation strength of pitted cobalt-cemented tungsten carbide were 17.89 KA/m and 14.42 G center dot cm(3)/g, respectively. The erosion resistance of the carbide was significantly affected by corrosion time, with longer times leading to reduced erosion resistance.
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Quanli Zhang, Chenglong Chu, Zhen Zhang, Yandan Zhu
Summary: This study investigates the subsurface damage characteristics of WC/8Co cemented carbide ablated by a nanosecond UV laser through experimental and simulation methods. The results show that thermal stress induced by high temperature gradient is one of the reasons for subsurface damage behaviors. Severe cracking and crushing behaviors are observed in the re-solidified areas and heat-affected zones.
CERAMICS INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Prvan Kumar Katiyar, Rita Maurya, Prince K. Singh
Summary: This study focused on examining failed tungsten carbide (WC-Co) drill bits to identify the causes of insert failure, which were primarily due to shear-off, cracking, and wear. Microscopic analysis using FE-SEM and AFM helped in understanding the degradation and tribocorrosion mechanisms of WC-Co inserts, along with the shape change mechanisms of individual WC grains influenced by tribocorrosion. The study discussed wear and corrosion mechanisms of WC-Co inserts, emphasizing the importance of understanding tribocorrosion mechanisms for the selection and development of suitable WC-Co tool materials.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS ENGINEERING AND PERFORMANCE
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Ehsan Ghasali, Asghar Shahmorad, Yasin Orooji, Arash Faraji, Keivan Asadian, Masoud Alizadeh, Touradj Ebadzadeh
Summary: WC-Co cermets containing Ti and V metallic powders were prepared using ultra-fast microwave heating process, followed by high-energy mixer mill mixing. Fast microwave sintering process at temperatures of 1400, 1500, and 1600°C resulted in dense samples with improved properties, showing WC, TiC, and VC crystalline phases. Increased sintering temperature led to enhanced bending strength, hardness, and fracture toughness in WC-Co-Ti hard metal.
CERAMICS INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Riccardo Polini, Andrea Marcucci, Cadia D'Ottavi, Patrizia Nunziante, Paolo De Filippis, GianCarlo Marcheselli
Summary: Tungsten carbide (WC) is a crucial tungsten compound, widely used in engineering due to its combination of high hardness and strength with the toughness and plasticity of WC-Co cermet composites. Direct synthesis of WC from tungsten concentrate through carbothermic reduction has been achieved, allowing for significant energy savings and reduced CO2 emissions compared to traditional methods. The new process also results in lower amounts of industrial waste, making it a more sustainable option for producing WC powders for cemented carbides.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Manufacturing
Zhengkai Xu, Ganesh Kumar Meenashisundaram, Fern Lan Ng
Summary: Additive manufacturing techniques, particularly Binder Jetting, offer alternative methods for fabricating crack-free hard metals. In this study, high-density crack-free WC-45Cr-18Ni parts were successfully fabricated using Binder Jetting and sintering at a temperature of 1350 degrees C, achieving excellent properties for potential applications in high-temperature environments requiring corrosion, oxidation, and wear resistance.
VIRTUAL AND PHYSICAL PROTOTYPING
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Steven Moseley, Siavash Momeni
Summary: This study documents, analyzes, and quantifies the wear phenomena in different cemented carbide drill bits used for rotary-percussive drilling through steel reinforced concrete, and explores how material choice influences wear.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF REFRACTORY METALS & HARD MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xiaodi Zhang, Jiming Wang, Guojie Zhang, Jun Liu, Ying Wang, Yuqing Zhao, Guoqiang Li
Summary: To enhance the DRM reaction performance of catalysts, Co-Ni/WC-AC catalysts are prepared by impregnation with WC-AC as the support. BET, XRD, H2-TPR, XPS, and TG are used to characterize the structural features of the catalysts. The introduction of Ni in the 20Co/WC-AC catalyst promotes the conversion of W species to WC, improving the activity and sintering resistance of the catalysts. Different ratios of Ni also have a significant effect on the chemical environment on the catalyst surface.10Co-10Ni/WC-AC catalysts exhibit high surface Oa and Ob contents, and demonstrate excellent catalytic performance with stable conversion rates of CH4 and CO2 at 800 degrees C.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Shengbin Zhao, Chenpeng Jia, Yuxue Yuan, Lixin Wang, Yiming Huang, Lijun Yang
Summary: Tungsten carbide-nickel (WC-Ni) composite coatings were prepared on martensite stainless steel 2Cr13 using laser hot-wire deposition technology. The microstructural evolution and dissolution characteristics of ceramic particles in the coatings were systematically investigated, showing that the coatings had increased hardness and wear resistance due to the control of dilution degree and optimized microstructures.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF REFRACTORY METALS & HARD MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Jiong Yuan, Yiming Huang, Lixin Wang, Chenpeng Jia, Feng Zhang, Lijun Yang
Summary: In this study, three types of Ni-WC/W2C coatings were produced using TIG cladding, and the dissolution characteristics of tungsten carbide particles were systematically investigated. The results demonstrated that tungsten carbide particles of different sizes exhibited different dissolution characteristics, which consequently influenced the microstructure and properties of the coatings. The dissolution mechanism of tungsten carbide particles followed a fragmentation-dissolution-diffusion-precipitation process, while the coatings were comprised mainly of retained particles, a nickel matrix, and various shaped carbides. The wear resistance of the particle reinforced coatings was primarily determined by the mean distance between tungsten carbide particles (MDP).
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF REFRACTORY METALS & HARD MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
R. Reid Harvey, Ethan D. Fechter-Leggett, Rachel L. Bailey, Nicole T. Edwards, Kathleen B. Fedan, M. Abbas Virji, Randall J. Nett, Jean M. Cox-Ganser, Kristin J. Cummings
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2020)
Review
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
M. Abbas Virji, Laura Kurth
Summary: Peak exposures can overwhelm normal defense mechanisms and induce adverse health effects. The definition and use of peak metrics in epidemiologic and exposure studies lack consensus. Characteristics of peak exposure depend on exposure patterns, biokinetics, and disease mechanisms.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Aleksandr B. Stefaniak, Eleanor E. Wade, Robert B. Lawrence, Elizabeth D. Arnold, M. Abbas Virji
Summary: The study compared particle transfer and adherence to various substrates with bare human skin, revealing potential under- and over-sampling issues by these substrates. Recommendations were made to use substrates that better reflect human skin characteristics for more accurate exposure assessment.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH PART A-TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
J. E. Lindberg, M. M. Quinn, R. J. Gore, C. J. Galligan, S. R. Sama, N. N. Sheikh, P. K. Markkanen, A. Parker-Vega, N. D. Karlsson, R. F. LeBouf, M. A. Virji
Summary: This study evaluated the airborne concentrations and time profiles of total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) and chlorine generated during typical bathroom cleaning by home care aides using conventional and green products. Quats-based product generated higher TVOC concentrations compared to bleach-based or green products. Each product rapidly increased TVOC concentrations within the first few minutes of application, with spraying producing the highest exposures. Thirteen aides experienced peak chlorine exposures above the OSHA PEL ceiling limit when using the bleach-based product.
JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Robert F. Phalen, Mark D. Hoover, Michael J. Oldham, Annie M. Jarabek
Summary: The effects of inhaled aerosols, whether beneficial or harmful, depend on the initial deposition dosage in the body and subsequent clearance mechanisms. Challenges exist in predicting, measuring, and simulating these processes, as well as in replacing laboratory animals with in vitro cellular exposures. Collaboration among specialists from different disciplines is essential for advancing dosimetry models and applications in both laboratory and real-life inhalation exposures.
JOURNAL OF AEROSOL SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Robert F. Phalen, Mark D. Hoover, Michael J. Oldham, Otmar Schmid, Laleh Golshahi
Summary: This paper discusses methods for defining respiratory tract anatomy required for inhaled aerosol deposition models. Advances in scanning living subjects or non-dissected excised lungs have improved our understanding of airway anatomy, yet challenges remain. While current knowledge is adequate for modeling medical and environmental exposure cases, there is still room for improvement in understanding respiratory tract anatomy and addressing remaining anatomical issues.
JOURNAL OF AEROSOL SCIENCE
(2021)
Editorial Material
Engineering, Chemical
Robert F. Phalen, Chantal Darquenne, Mark D. Hoover, Annie M. Jarabek
JOURNAL OF AEROSOL SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
James Crooks, Margaret M. Mroz, Michael VanDyke, Alison McGrath, Christine Schuler, Erin C. McCanlies, M. Abbas Virji, Kenneth D. Rosenman, Milton Rossman, Carol Rice, Dimitri Monos, Tasha E. Fingerlin, Lisa A. Maier
Summary: The presence of E69 allele is associated with higher risk for CBD and BeS, while increasing exposure decreases the odds of BeS. CBD cases did not show a strong association with exposure, possibly due to limitations in exposure estimates.
OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE
(2022)
News Item
Oncology
F. Belpoggi, R. C. Cattley, B. Reisfeld, P. Stewart, M. C. Turner, M. Audebert, J. Cox, C. Ge, P. Gustavsson, H. Kaefferlein, L. Lash, A. Lumen, M. Matsumoto, M. T. Munoz-Quezada, C. Peters, M. Purdue, C. Svendsen, A. Virji, M. G. Yakubovskaya, J. Yiin
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Aleksandr B. Stefaniak, Lauren N. Bowers, Gabe Cottrell, Ergin Erdem, Alycia K. Knepp, Stephen B. Martin, Jack Pretty, Matthew G. Duling, Elizabeth D. Arnold, Zachary Wilson, Benjamin Krider, Alyson R. Fortner, Ryan F. LeBouf, M. Abbas Virji, Arif Sirinterlikci
Summary: Fused filament fabrication three-dimensional (FFF 3-D) printing is considered environmentally sustainable, but there may be risks of pollutant releases during plastic recycling. By assessing the released contaminants, it helps demonstrate the sustainability and circular economy potential of FFF 3-D printing in distributed spaces.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2022)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
M. Abbas Virji, Kristin J. Cummings, Jean M. Cox-Ganser
Summary: Coffee production is a global industry with workers exposed to complex mixtures of gases, dusts, and vapors, which may lead to respiratory health issues. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health conducted investigations on respiratory abnormalities in 17 coffee facilities in the US, studying exposure characteristics, hazard relationships, and exposure mitigation opportunities.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Lisa Kobos, Kim Anderson, Laura Kurth, Xiaoming Liang, Caroline P. P. Groth, Lucy England, A. Scott Laney, M. Abbas Virji
Summary: This study investigated the use of cleaning and disinfecting products among healthcare facility staff, finding that many occupations reported high glove use. The occupations with high product use frequencies, such as bleach and quaternary ammonium compounds, had higher rates of skin disorders.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Lauren N. Bowers, Aleksandr B. Stefaniak, Alycia K. Knepp, Ryan F. LeBouf, Stephen B. Jr Jr Martin, Anand C. Ranpara, Dru A. Burns, M. Abbas Virji
Summary: Vat photopolymerization (VP) can emit potentially hazardous particles and gases, impacting indoor air quality. Different tasks and technologies lead to varying concentrations of particles and organic compounds. Careful consideration of tasks is necessary to minimize indoor air pollution and exposure potential.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Aleksandr B. Stefaniak, Lauren N. Bowers, Stephen B. Martin, Duane R. Hammond, Jason E. Ham, J. R. Wells, Alyson R. Fortner, Alycia K. Knepp, Sonette du Preez, Jack R. Pretty, Jennifer L. Roberts, Johan L. du Plessis, Austin Schmidt, Matthew G. Duling, Andrew Bader, M. Abbas Virji
Summary: Extrusion of high-melt-temperature polymers on large-format additive manufacturing machines can release particles and gases, some of which may have negative implications for human health, therefore further exposure and risk assessments are necessary. The study found that harmful substances like BPA and BPS could be spread through the air and contaminate work surfaces during the extrusion process.
ACS CHEMICAL HEALTH & SAFETY
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Aleksandr B. Stefaniak, Lauren N. Bowers, Stephen B. Martin, Duane R. Hammond, Jason E. Ham, J. R. Wells, Alyson R. Fortner, Alycia K. Knepp, Sonette du Preez, Jack R. Pretty, Jennifer L. Roberts, Johan L. du Plessis, Austin Schmidt, Matthew G. Duling, Andrew Bader, M. Abbas Virji
Summary: The study showed that extrusion of ABS, PC, and other high-melt-temperature polymers by LFAM machines released significant levels of particulate and volatile organic compounds, warranting consideration of engineering controls.
ACS CHEMICAL HEALTH & SAFETY
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Dewan Muhammad Shoaib, Tanvir Ahmed, Kazy Farhat Tabassum, Mehedi Hasan, Fazle Sharior, Mahbubur Rahman, Makfie Farah, Md Azizur Rahman, Alauddin Ahmed, James B. Tidwell, Mahbub-Ul Alam
Summary: An intervention was implemented in Bangladesh during COVID-19 to reduce occupational health risks for waste and sanitation workers. The intervention involved training and distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE). The study found that the intervention improved workers' knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding PPE usage.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYGIENE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
(2024)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Andreas Kortenkamp, Olwenn Martin, Eleni Iacovidou, Martin Scholze
Summary: The European Food Safety Authority's downward revision of the Health-based Guidance Value for bisphenol A (BPA) has led to disagreements with other regulatory agencies, particularly the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment. The differing views between EFSA and BfR are driven by their respective selection of endpoints and study evaluation systems, as well as their acceptance or refusal of immunotoxic effects as a basis for establishing a Health-based Guidance Value.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYGIENE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
(2024)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Shizhen He, Bjorn Lundberg, Jenny Hallberg, Susanna Klevebro, Goran Pershagen, Kristina Eneroth, Erik Melen, Matteo Bottai, Olena Gruzieva
Summary: Early life air pollution exposure and abnormal inflammation-related protein profiles may interact synergistically towards lower lung function in infants.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYGIENE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
(2024)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Paulien Cleys, Emilie Hardy, Yu Ait Bamai, Giulia Poma, Adam Cseresznye, Govindan Malarvannan, Paul T. J. Scheepers, Susana Viegas, Simo P. Porras, Tiina Santonen, Lode Godderis, Jelle Verdonck, Katrien Poels, Carla Martins, Maria Joao Silva, Henriqueta Louro, Inese Martinsone, Lasma Akulova, An van Nieuwenhuyse, Martien Graumans, Selma Mahiout, Radu Corneliu Duca, Adrian Covaci
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess the exposure of e-waste workers to phthalates and alternative plasticizers. The results showed that e-waste workers had higher urinary concentrations of phthalates and metabolites compared to non-occupationally exposed controls. However, no significant differences were found between pre-and post-shift concentrations in the e-waste workers.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYGIENE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
(2024)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Karolina Bralewska
Summary: This review study examines the concentrations of various air pollutants in fire stations, identifies the limitations and strengths of existing research, identifies research gaps and challenges, and suggests potential solutions for reducing firefighter exposure to air pollution at fire stations.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYGIENE AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
(2024)