Victor Idankpo Ameh

Copper functions as an exceptionally efficient conductor, garnering considerable interest in electrical and thermal applications; however, its relatively malleable nature and insufficient durability may hinder its structural effectiveness. This study focused on the development of copper-based nanocomposites by reinforcing a copper matrix with co-precipitated CuO/Al₂O₃ nanoparticles (varying from 0 to 10 wt% in increments of 2%). A thorough examination was conducted regarding the microstructural characteristics, mechanical properties, and the electrical and thermal conductivities of the composites. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis validated the successful synthesis of nano-sized CuO and Al₂O₃ phases, with an estimated crystallite size of 33.2 ± 2.4 nm. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a relatively uniform distribution of nano-oxides within the copper matrix, albeit with signs of particle agglomeration at higher loading levels. The durability of the copper exhibited a significant enhancement attributed to the nano-oxide reinforcement, achieving an 180% increase relative to pure copper with a 10% reinforcement addition. Consequently, the tensile strength increased by approximately 68% (from around 154 MPa to nearly 260 MPa), while maintaining an exceptional level of ductility. The electrical conductivity of copper remained largely unchanged with the addition of nanoparticles; rather, a slight improvement in conductivity and a ~30% rise in thermal conductivity were observed at the maximum reinforcement level. This research work presents a copper-based nanocomposite that offers remarkable potential for applications requiring enhanced strength, wear resistance, and exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity.

Agricultural wastes from plant have continued to be a huge contributor to the global biomass generation and their utilization for biochar is growing. The goal of this research was to produce and characterize modified biochar of Vitex doniana (Black plum) seeds using chemical and thermal treatments. To achieve this, the vitex seed was carbonized for 2 hours at 400°C in a pyrolysis reactor. The resulting char was then impregnated for 24 hours with Phosphoric Acid (H₃PO₄) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) as chemical activating agents before being thermally activated at 400°C, 500°C, 600°C, and 700°C respectively. The purpose of the characterization was to see how the activators and activation temperature affected the adsorbents generated. The quality of absorbents produced was affected by the treatment of char with chemical agents and the activation temperature, according to the results. The samples had distinct functional groups on the surface, according to FTIR analysis, and SEM analysis via microscopy revealed the presence of pores on the surface. Iodine absorption testing reveals that materials activated with KOH had a higher absorption value, peaking at 950mg/g for KOH treated and 600°C activation temperature. The pore diameters and pore volume of KOH samples were determined using BET analysis. The results demonstrate that KOH activated at 600°C has larger pores and a higher pore volume, implying that KOH at 600°C has a higher adsorption capacity. The char sample was also subjected to TGA analysis in order to better understand its behavior in temperature settings.