Mix design process of polyester polymer mortars modified with recycled GFRP waste materials

In this study, the effect of incorporation of recycled glass fibre reinforced plastics (GFRP) waste materials, obtained by means of shredding and milling processes, on mechanical behaviour of polyester polymer mortars (PM) was assessed. For this purpose, different contents of GFRP recyclates, between 4% up to 12% in weight, were incorporated into polyester PM materials as sand aggregates and filler replacements. The effect of the addition of a silane coupling agent to resin binder was also evaluated. Applied waste material was proceeding from the shredding of the leftovers resultant from the cutting and assembly processes of GFRP pultrusion profiles. Currently, these leftovers as well as non-conform products and scrap resulting from pultrusion manufacturing process are landfilled, with additional costs to producers and suppliers. Hence, besides the evident environmental benefits, a viable and feasible solution for these wastes would also conduct to significant economic advantages. Design of experiments and data treatment were accomplish by means of full factorial design approach and analysis of variance ANOVA. Experimental results were promising toward the recyclability of GFRP waste materials as partial replacement of aggregates and reinforcement for PM materials, with significant improvements on mechanical properties of resultant mortars with regards to waste-free formulations.

Design of experiments applied to the mix design process of polymer mortar materials modified with GFRP recyclates

In this work, the effect of incorporation of recycled glass fibre reinforced plastics (GFRP) waste materials, obtained by means of shredding and milling processes, on mechanical behavior of polyester polymer mortar (PM) materials was assessed. For this purpose, different contents of GFRP recyclates (between 4% up to 12% in mass), were incorporated into polyester PM materials as sand aggregates and filler replacements. The effect of silane coupling agent addition to resin binder was also evaluated. Applied waste material was proceeding from the shredding of the leftovers resultant from the cutting and assembly processes of GFRP pultrusion profiles. Currently, these leftovers, jointly with unfinished products and scrap resulting from pultrusion manufacturing process, are landfilled, with supplementary added costs. Thus, besides the evident environmental benefits, a viable and feasible solution for these wastes would also conduct to significant economic advantages. Design of experiments and data treatment were accomplish by means of full factorial design approach and analysis of variance ANOVA. Experimental results were promising toward the recyclability of GFRP waste materials as aggregates and reinforcement for PM materials, with significant improvements on mechanical properties with regard to non-modified formulations.

Simulation and life cycle assessment of process design alternatives for biodiesel production from waste vegetable oils

This study uses the process simulator ASPEN Plus and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to compare three process design alternatives for biodiesel production from waste vegetable oils that are: the conventional alkali-catalyzed process including a free fatty acids (FFAs) pre-treatment, the acid-catalyzed process, and the supercritical methanol process using propane as co-solvent. Results show that the supercritical methanol process using propane as co-solvent is the most environmentally favorable alternative. Its smaller steam consumption in comparison with the other process design alternatives leads to a lower contribution to the potential environmental impacts (PEI’s). The acid-catalyzed process generally shows the highest PEI’s, in particular due to the high energy requirements associated with methanol recovery operations.

Full analysis of suspension geometry and chassis performance of Formula Student racing car

Formula Student events gather engineering students, who compete, designing, building and racing single-seater cars. The team of ISEP is working on its first car that soon will take part in this competition. This work aims to analyze the current design’s chassis, focusing on suspension geometry and frame’s performance. After analyzing results of the tests planned suggestions, that can be taken into consideration during design process of next cars will be presented. As the car has not been tested yet this work can also be helpful to explain its performance on the track later.

Desenvolvimento de uma ferramenta para cálculo de estruturas em material compósito

Os desafios à engenharia moderna são cada vez maiores, pretendendo-se quase sempre obter estruturas mais leves, com propriedades mecânicas atrativas e muitas vezes com geometrias complexas. Com tais requisitos, um dos materiais que tem vindo a ter uma crescente aplicação é o material compósito. Contudo, no que toca ao cálculo estrutural destes materiais, tudo se torna mais complexo, já que são materiais que geralmente são formados por empilhamento de várias camadas de material heterogéneo, podendo estas encontrarem-se dispostas segundo diferentes orientações. Assim, a utilização de um software que permita a previsão das propriedades mecânicas de uma estrutura em material compósito através da micromecânica, a aplicação da Teoria Clássica dos Laminados e de um critério de rotura, como por exemplo o de Tsai-Hill, é fundamental para agilizar o processo de estudo da estrutura a fabricar. Para dar uma resposta a tal necessidade foi desenvolvida uma aplicação, em MATLAB® GUI, denominada CAFE – Composite Analysis For Engineers, com ambiente gráfico apelativo, que permite determinar todas as variáveis importantes no estudo de estruturas em material compósito. Esta aplicação visa suportar e agilizar a aprendizagem desta área do conhecimento, permitindo também o acesso ao código de cálculo por parte do utilizador, de modo a conhecerem-se as equações utilizadas e, eventualmente, ser alvo de futuros desenvolvimentos. O programa desenvolvido foi alvo de validação, recorrendo-se para tal, a uma comparação dos resultados obtidos entre o respetivo programa e por um outro programa de grande fiabilidade. Assim sendo, concluiu-se que o software CAFE apresenta resultados válidos, encontrando-se apto a ser utilizado.

An integrated recycling approach for GFRP pultrusion wastes: recycling and reuse assessment into new composite materials using Fuzzy Boolean Nets

In this study, efforts were made in order to put forward an integrated recycling approach for the thermoset based glass fibre reinforced polymer (GPRP) rejects derived from the pultrusion manufacturing industry. Both the recycling process and the development of a new cost-effective end-use application for the recyclates were considered. For this purpose, i) among the several available recycling techniques for thermoset based composite materials, the most suitable one for the envisaged application was selected (mechanical recycling); and ii) an experimental work was carried out in order to assess the added-value of the obtained recyclates as aggregates and reinforcement replacements into concrete-polymer composite materials. Potential recycling solution was assessed by mechanical behaviour of resultant GFRP waste modified concrete-polymer composites with regard to unmodified materials. In the mix design process of the new GFRP waste based composite material, the recyclate content and size grade, and the effect of the incorporation of an adhesion promoter were considered as material factors and systematically tested between reasonable ranges. The optimization process of the modified formulations was supported by the Fuzzy Boolean Nets methodology, which allowed finding the best balance between material parameters that maximizes both flexural and compressive strengths of final composite. Comparing to related end-use applications of GFRP wastes in cementitious based concrete materials, the proposed solution overcome some of the problems found, namely the possible incompatibilities arisen from alkalis-silica reaction and the decrease in the mechanical properties due to high water-cement ratio required to achieve the desirable workability. Obtained results were very promising towards a global cost-effective waste management solution for GFRP industrial wastes and end-of-life products that will lead to a more sustainable composite materials industry.

How to feel “in love" with math: a MOOC experience

In the past few years we have witnessed astonishing developments on distance learning tools, in particular on Open Educational Resources (OER) such as Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC). In this paper we present the “Mathematics without STRESS”, a MOOC Project, which has been a collaborative volunteer effort that brought together professors, from four schools of the Polytechnic Institute of Oporto (IPP), in Portugal. Some concepts directly associated with MOOC and their quickly growing popularity are complemented with a discussion of some particular MOOC characterizations. The design process of this project is revealed by focusing on the MOOC structure we used, as well as on the several types of course materials that were produced. At last, we undertake a short discussion about some of the problems, achievements and challenges met throughout this project development, giving a special attention to the motivational aim of this work - hoping to contribute to a change in the way of teaching and learning Mathematics is seen and practiced nowadays.

O método de lançamento incremental. Conceitos base e uma aplicação prática

Ao longo desta dissertação, é abordada a temática das obras de arte, focando-se um processo construtivo em particular, que é o Método de Lançamento Incremental. Começa-se por um enquadramento geral da temática das obras de arte, sendo feita a sua descrição, e faz-se uma síntese histórica dos materiais utilizados nas mesmas. De seguida, são apresentados os tipos de tabuleiros existentes e as tipologias estruturais das obras de arte. São mencionados ainda os processos e equipamentos construtivos que são utilizados na sua construção. É, de seguida, feita uma abordagem mais profunda ao processo construtivo alvo desta dissertação, nomeadamente questões de índole prática e de dimensionamento. É feita ainda uma aplicação prática, sendo feito um Estudo Prévio de uma solução para uma obra de arte executada com este processo construtivo. Termina-se indicando aspetos importantes na monitorização das obras de arte executadas pelo processo construtivo alvo desta dissertação, sendo ainda apresentadas as conclusões a que se chegou no final da mesma e possíveis desenvolvimentos futuros.

Picture marks semiotics between ontwerpen and vormgeving

This project seeks to implement and operationalize an analytical and schematic tool proposed in the doctoral thesis of Eduardo Aires applied to the first pages of newspapers (FBAUP: 2006), to the study of the symbol within the visual identity – the picture mark – starting with its semiotic analysis. Our research has the main objective to contribute to providing guidelines to facilitate both the communication and the methodology used by students and professionals of graphic design, translating, in a graphic way, implicit phenomena that is still in the spectrum of intuition, concerning Identity Design (specifically, the design of the graphic mark), and bringing them to the field of scientific definitions. It is our intention to provide the design of a picture mark, a graphic sign which is intended to synthesize, identify and bring positive values about an entity, with an educational tool that would constitute itself as knowledge so far nonexistent.

Estações de tratamento de águas residuais: conceitos e dimensionamento

O presente relatório é o corolário do Estágio Curricular que a autora efetuou, durante o segundo semestre do ano letivo de 2014/2015 na SBS – Engenharia Civil, Hidráulica e Ambiente, Lda. Nesta empresa a autora foi integrada na equipa técnica que elaborou um Projeto de Execução para uma Estação de Tratamento de Águas Residuais que irá ser construída em Montemor-o-Novo, tendo-lhe sido atribuídas as seguintes tarefas principais: i) estudo de ferramentas de dimensionamento de ETAR; e ii) estudo dos processos de tratamento de águas residuais a instalar. O tratamento de águas residuais não é matéria que conste do atual Plano de Estudos do Mestrado em Engenharia Civil do ISEP. Este facto, associado à premente necessidade de dar resposta às expectativas da Entidade Acolhedora, obrigou a autora a um esforço de aprendizagem significativo. Nesta fase foi executada uma aprofundada pesquisa bibliográfica que permitiu à autora obter o nível de conhecimentos teóricos necessário para a plena integração na Equipa de Projeto. Já integrada na Equipa de Projeto o primeiro trabalho desenvolvido pela autora foi a análise detalhada do Caderno de Encargos e da respetiva Nota Técnica. Seguidamente a autora participou em todas as fases do Projeto tendo, por isso, colaborado na análise do Estudo Geotécnico, no dimensionamento dos órgãos da ETAR, no cálculo do perfil hidráulico, na definição de formas (plantas e cortes) dos órgãos, na elaboração da Lista de Equipamentos e do Mapa de Quantidades e, por último, na elaboração da Memória Descritiva e Justificativa do Processo de Tratamento e Equipamentos. O Caso Prático incluído no presente documento é, em larga medida, o corolário do processo de aprendizagem de que a autora beneficiou no decorrer do Estágio Curricular. Grande parte das tarefas que a autora executou ao longo da elaboração do projeto relacionaram-se com o dimensionamento dos órgãos da ETAR e com os respetivos cálculos hidráulicos. Os conhecimentos teórico-práticos desta forma adquiridos foram reunidos num conjunto de ferramentas, maioritariamente folhas de cálculo, que se verificou serem úteis nos processos de dimensionamento e de teste de soluções alternativas. É parte integrante deste relatório um capítulo no qual é feita uma detalhada apresentação dos conceitos teóricos subjacentes ao Projeto de ETAR. Este capítulo reflete o estudo que a autora teve necessidade de efetuar antes de se sentir capaz de integrar a Equipa de Projeto.

Machine for visual inspection

The project was made during the Erasmus+ Program in Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Portugal. I had a pleasure to do this in Gislotica Mechanical Solution, Lda. This document presents a process of design a vertical inspection station for truck tires. The first part contains an introduction. There are information about Gislotica Company and also first analysis of problem. In next part is presented way to figured out the task and described all issues connected with designed machine. In last part were made some conclusions about problems and results. There is a place not only for sum up design process but also my develop during the project. I repeatedly pointed out which issues were new for me. A lot of times I focus on myself and gained experience and information about design process.

Optimization process of polyester polymer mortars modified with recycled GFRP waste aggregates – application of factorial experiment design-

Glass fibre-reinforced plastics (GFRP), nowadays commonly used in the construction, transportation and automobile sectors, have been considered inherently difficult to recycle due to both: cross-linked nature of thermoset resins, which cannot be remolded, and complex composition of the composite itself, which includes glass fibres, matrix and different types of inorganic fillers. Presently, most of the GFRP waste is landfilled leading to negative environmental impacts and supplementary added costs. With an increasing awareness of environmental matters and the subsequent desire to save resources, recycling would convert an expensive waste disposal into a profitable reusable material. There are several methods to recycle GFR thermostable materials: (a) incineration, with partial energy recovery due to the heat generated during organic part combustion; (b) thermal and/or chemical recycling, such as solvolysis, pyrolisis and similar thermal decomposition processes, with glass fibre recovering; and (c) mechanical recycling or size reduction, in which the material is subjected to a milling process in order to obtain a specific grain size that makes the material suitable as reinforcement in new formulations. This last method has important advantages over the previous ones: there is no atmospheric pollution by gas emission, a much simpler equipment is required as compared with ovens necessary for thermal recycling processes, and does not require the use of chemical solvents with subsequent environmental impacts. In this study the effect of incorporation of recycled GFRP waste materials, obtained by means of milling processes, on mechanical behavior of polyester polymer mortars was assessed. For this purpose, different contents of recycled GFRP waste materials, with distinct size gradings, were incorporated into polyester polymer mortars as sand aggregates and filler replacements. The effect of GFRP waste treatment with silane coupling agent was also assessed. Design of experiments and data treatment were accomplish by means of factorial design and analysis of variance ANOVA. The use of factorial experiment design, instead of the one factor at-a-time method is efficient at allowing the evaluation of the effects and possible interactions of the different material factors involved. Experimental results were promising toward the recyclability of GFRP waste materials as polymer mortar aggregates, without significant loss of mechanical properties with regard to non-modified polymer mortars.

Impact of design options in zero energy building conception: the case of large buildings in Portugal

The new recast of Directive 2010/31/EU in order to implement the new concept NZEB in new buildings, is to be fully respected by all Member States, and is revealed as important measure to promote the reduction of energy consumption of buildings and encouraging the use of renewable energy. In this study, it was tested the applicability of the nearly zero energy building concept to a big size office building and its impact after a 50-years life cycle span.