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Preliminary study on Gongronema latifolium stems fibers as a renewable engineering material for reinforcing polymer composites Okafor, Christian Emeka; Ugwu, Peter Chukwuemeka; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu; Akçakale, Nürettin; Ifedigbo, Emmanuel Ekene; Madumere, Augustine Uzodinma
Budapest International Research in Exact Sciences (BirEx) Journal Vol 7, No 1 (2025): Budapest International Research in Exact Sciences, January
Publisher : Budapest International Research and Critics University

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/birex.v7i1.8031

The ultimate analysis of Gongronema latifolium plant stem fibers was conducted to evaluate their potential as a renewable engineering material. The study utilized Gongronema latifolium plant fibers sourced from a local farm in Anambra State. Lignin determination was done by using 0.3 g samples prepared alongside 0.3 g for cellulose and crude fiber analyses. Key chemicals used included 72% sulfuric acid for lignin extraction and petroleum ether for defatting. Standard laboratory glassware and equipment, including a muffle furnace for ash content determination and an electric oven for drying, were employed. Ash content was determined from the incineration of 2 g of fibers at 800 °C and the bulk density was determined using a pycnometer. Moisture content was determined through oven drying while crude fibre was carried out using Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) procedure where sample was treated with refluxing acid and alkali solutions of sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide respectively. Cellulose content was determined via the Crampton and Mayrand method, involving centrifugation and acid digestion. Samples for lignin content determination were subjected to 72% sulfuric acid hydrolysis and weights obtained were used for calculation of lignin. The percentages of cellulose content were 12.862%, lignin 10.301%, and hemicellulose 6.005%. The moisture content of stem fibers was determined to be 1.711% from a sample weight of 1.344 g. The ash content was calculated at 10.095% from a sample of 1.466 g. Additionally, the fiber content was found to be 4.249% from a sample weight of 1.624 g, while the bulk density was measured at 0.417 g/ml. These findings indicate a favorable composition for reinforcing materials in composites and other engineering applications. As the findings have revealed, fibers obtained from Gongronema latifolium have notable potential in being used as the substitutes to the conventional engineering materials that would pave way for the creation of environmentally friendly products in the field of material engineering. Further studies are recommended to explore the processing techniques and performance characteristics of these fibers in reinforced composite applications.

Analysis of heavy metal concentrations of ofia-imoka river inAwka town Southeast Nigeria for domestic purposes Nwanna, Emmanuel Chukwudi; Maduegbuna, John Ikedinachukwu; Odeh, Calistus Princewill; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu; Okadigwe, Emmanuel Igwebudu
Jurnal Pesona Indonesia Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): JPI 2025
Publisher : Institut Teknologi Pendidikan Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.71436/jpi.v2i2.39

Recognizing the heavy metal attributes of water is essential when handling resources, evaluating its purity, as well as tackling environmental issues. Water is an essential part of life and a vital resource for industrial, residential, and environmental uses. Because of the possible connections to cancer and other illnesses, the presence of heavy metal poisoning in rivers poses major health hazards through ingestion and skin exposure. The river's typical usage for drinking, cooking, and other domestic tasks are restricted since it flows via a channel that may have become polluted by manufacturing, agriculture, among other human activity. The sample was gathered, and its degree of contamination by heavy metals as well as appropriateness for household use were assessed. Lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), molybdenum (Mo), manganese (Mn), arsenic (As), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), silver (Ag), and calcium (Ca) are among the characteristics that were examined. Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) were used to analyze the metal content in water samples and contrasted with World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits. All of the metrics, with the exception of nickel mg/l (0.011) and mercury mg/l (0.003), were found to be below WHO permissible levels. The administration of agricultural chemical products, growth in urbanization, industrialization, mining for minerals, and natural factors such as weathering of rocks are the main causes of this contamination. As a means to tackle pollution from heavy metals and safeguard human health, the study highlights the need for ongoing surveillance and focused mitigation techniques. Given the recommended values, the Ofia-Imoka river is unfit for human consumption since the levels of nickel, and mercury exceeded what the WHO considers safe.

Low-cost plantain fiber composite as an alternative material for auto body fenders: A performance and manufacturing cost comparison Jeremiah, Obiafudo Obiora; Madubueze, Ofochebe Sunday; Chimezie, Anyaora Sunday; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu
Humanities Horizon Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : PT. Pena Produktif Kreatif

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.63373/3047-8014/34

High density polyethylene composite reinforced with natural plantain fiber was produced using injection moulding technique. The production process utilized the popular L18 Taguchi experimental design to investigate the effects of the major process variables such as barrel temperature, mold temperature, injection pressure, holding pressure, back pressure, clamping force and shaft speed in the final mechanical property of the composite material. The mechanical tests conducted on the new material reveal that fiber volume fraction of 0.1 combined with particle size of 75 μm and compactibilizer mass of 0.00024 kg gives a high-quality composite material suitable for auto body fender application, at reduced manufacturing cost of ₦1454/kg of the composite. The composite material produced at optimized process condition was found to have tensile strength of 87.44 MPa, yield strength of 76.6 MPa, flexural strength of 77.03 J, Rockwell hardness strength of 756.99, Impact strength of 16.21 J and density of 993 kg/m3. The result shows that the auto body fender produced based on the compactibilized plantain fiber reinforced high-density polyethylene composite has an advantage of low density and reduced production cost compared to conventional/alternative materials.

Multiple Input–Single Output (MISO) Framework for Low Velocity Impact Response of Hybrid Gongronema latifolium/S-Glass Fibre Epoxy Composites Okafor, Christian Emeka; Ugwu, Peter Chukwuemeka; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu; Akçakale, Nürettin; Nwanna, Emmanuel Chukwudi
Journal of Mechanical Engineering Science and Technology (JMEST) Vol 9, No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Malang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.17977/um016v9i12025p177

Sustainable composites are vital for impact-critical aerospace, automotive, and defense applications. This study used Multiple Input–Single Output (MISO) experimental approach to assess how hybrid ratio, mass fraction, and fiber orientation influence the low-velocity impact behavior of Gongronema/S-glass epoxy composites. Gongronema fibers and S-glass were combined with ER-F292 epoxy and molded into ASTM-standard samples. Charpy impact tests measured energy absorption. A 60-run design evaluated input variable combinations, and Multiple Linear Regression identified significant predictors using p-values and confidence intervals. Results showed that the mean values for hybridization ratio, mass fraction, fiber orientation, and low velocity impact were (2.50), (27.79%), (67.90°), and (3.82 J), respectively. It was found that the mass fraction had significant negative correlation with low velocity impact (r = -0.455; p = 0.000), as did the fiber orientation (r = -0.853; p = 0.000). The results for R = (0.994), R² = (0.989), F = (1607.390), and Durbin-Watson = (2.213) show that the regression model is highly predictive. Regression coefficients indicated negative effects from hybridization ratio (-0.357), mass fraction (-0.032), and fiber orientation (-0.017), all statistically significant (p = 0.000). Residual plots confirmed model validity. The TEM images of confirmation test sample 1 reveal fiber-matrix interfaces with particle sizes between 10.02–26.40 nm. Variations in scale (100 nm and 50 nm) show microstructural differences, suggesting strong adhesion, dispersion aggregation, and anisotropic behavior due to 90-degree fiber orientation within epoxy matrix. The study concludes that strategic optimization of input parameters significantly enhances the impact resistance of hybrid biocomposites.

Multi-Criteria Performance Evaluation and Optimization of Composite Particleboard Materials: A Grey Relational Analysis Approach Ogochukwu Chinedum, Chukwunedum; Chidozie Chukwuemeka, Nwobi-Okoye; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu; Daniel Chinazom, Anizoba
Journal of Engineering and Science Vol. 4 No. 1 (2025): June
Publisher : Yayasan Kawanad

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56347/jes.v4i1.290

This study presents a comprehensive multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) of fifteen composite particleboard materials based on their fundamental physical and mechanical properties. The evaluation utilized Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) to systematically rank particleboard compositions according to five critical performance parameters: density (D), water absorption (WA), thickness swelling (TS), modulus of rupture (MOR), and modulus of elasticity (MOE). The Grey Relational Grade (GRG) methodology revealed significant performance variations among different particleboard compositions. The analysis identified sawdust waste reinforced with plastic-based resin (waste styrofoam) as the optimal composition, achieving the highest GRG value of 0.8143 (81.43%), indicating superior overall performance characteristics. Conversely, cement-bonded particleboard manufactured from pine (Pinus caribaea M.) sawdust and coconut husk/coir (Cocos nucifera L.) demonstrated the lowest performance with a GRG value of 0.4279 (42.79%). The research methodology employed systematic normalization procedures and grey relational coefficient calculations to establish comprehensive performance rankings. Results indicate that material composition and binder selection significantly influence particleboard performance characteristics, with plastic-based resins demonstrating superior mechanical properties compared to traditional formaldehyde-based binders. This investigation provides a quantitative framework for optimizing composite particleboard manufacturing processes and material selection strategies. The findings contribute to sustainable materials engineering by identifying high-performance alternatives utilizing waste materials, thereby supporting circular economy principles in the wood products industry. The established ranking system serves as a decision-support tool for manufacturers seeking to optimize particleboard compositions for specific applications while maintaining cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability

ICT and its contribution to economic growth and development in Nigeria Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu
Humanities Horizon Vol. 2 No. 3 (2025)
Publisher : PT. Pena Produktif Kreatif

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.63373/3047-8014/41

Nigeria’s economy continues to face structural challenges such as low productivity, inadequate infrastructure, and limited diversification beyond oil. In this context, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has emerged as a potential driver of economic transformation, offering new opportunities for growth, innovation, and competitiveness. The study population comprised 75 people, including 25 UBA Magadisu staff and 50 ATM cardholders. Using stratified random sampling through a hat-drawn method, 20 staff and 34 customers were selected, following Ndagi’s guideline for small populations. Data was sourced from questionnaires (primary) and internet documents (secondary). The questionnaire’s validity was ensured through supervisor review and reliability tested with a pilot study of 10 GTB staff. Data collection was facilitated by the HR manager, with respondents given five days to complete the instrument. Analysis employed mean scores for Likert responses, percentages for demographics, and chi-square to test significance. The results revealed a fairly balanced gender distribution with slightly more females than males, while the majority of respondents were within the 31–50 years age range. Findings showed strong support for the importance of ICT in Nigeria’s economy, with many agreeing that it contributes to growth and development. ICT awareness was also perceived as high, though doubts remained about its usefulness across all economic sectors. Chi-square analysis confirmed ICT’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s economic development. The study concludes that ICT is a transformative driver of progress in Nigeria, but its full potential can only be realized through enhanced awareness, equitable accessibility, and integration across sectors.

Multi-Criteria Performance Evaluation and Optimization of Composite Particleboard Materials: A Grey Relational Analysis Approach Ogochukwu Chinedum, Chukwunedum; Chidozie Chukwuemeka, Nwobi-Okoye; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu; Daniel Chinazom, Anizoba
Journal of Engineering and Science Vol. 4 No. 1 (2025): June
Publisher : Yayasan Kawanad

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56347/jes.v4i1.290

This study presents a comprehensive multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) of fifteen composite particleboard materials based on their fundamental physical and mechanical properties. The evaluation utilized Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) to systematically rank particleboard compositions according to five critical performance parameters: density (D), water absorption (WA), thickness swelling (TS), modulus of rupture (MOR), and modulus of elasticity (MOE). The Grey Relational Grade (GRG) methodology revealed significant performance variations among different particleboard compositions. The analysis identified sawdust waste reinforced with plastic-based resin (waste styrofoam) as the optimal composition, achieving the highest GRG value of 0.8143 (81.43%), indicating superior overall performance characteristics. Conversely, cement-bonded particleboard manufactured from pine (Pinus caribaea M.) sawdust and coconut husk/coir (Cocos nucifera L.) demonstrated the lowest performance with a GRG value of 0.4279 (42.79%). The research methodology employed systematic normalization procedures and grey relational coefficient calculations to establish comprehensive performance rankings. Results indicate that material composition and binder selection significantly influence particleboard performance characteristics, with plastic-based resins demonstrating superior mechanical properties compared to traditional formaldehyde-based binders. This investigation provides a quantitative framework for optimizing composite particleboard manufacturing processes and material selection strategies. The findings contribute to sustainable materials engineering by identifying high-performance alternatives utilizing waste materials, thereby supporting circular economy principles in the wood products industry. The established ranking system serves as a decision-support tool for manufacturers seeking to optimize particleboard compositions for specific applications while maintaining cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability

A Survey and Ranking of Common Particleboard Materials Using Grey Relational Grade (GRG) Chukwunedum, Ogochukwu Chinedum; Nwobi-Okoye, Chidozie Chukwuemeka; Ekwueme, Godspower Onyekachukwu; Chinazom, Anizoba, Daniel
Journal of Industrial Engineering & Management Research Vol. 6 No. 4 (2025): August 2025
Publisher : AGUSPATI Research Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.7777/jiemar.v6i3.600

In this research study fifteen (15) different composites of particleboards were studied based on their five (5) common physical and mechanical properties, and was graded and ranked based on these properties using Grey Relational Grade (GRG). Their common properties upon which the analysis was done and results were obtained are: Density (D), Water Absorption (WA), Thickness Swelling (TS), Modulus of Rupture (MOR), and Modulus of Elasticity (MOE). The Grey Relational Grade (GRG) used in this research study for the grading and ranking showed that the particleboard made from Sawdust Wastes and Plastic-Based Resin (Waste Styrofoam) has the best Grey Relational Grade with a value of 0.8143 (81.43%) GRG, and was ranked number one, depicting the particleboard composition with the best physical and mechanical properties. From the Grey Relational Grade results, Cement-Bonded particleboard made from Pine (Pinus Caribaea M.) Sawdust and Coconut Husk/Coir (Cocos Nucifera L.) showed the least GRG with a value of 0.4279 (42.79%) GRG, and was ranked the least, number fifteen, depicting the particleboard composition with the poorest physical and mechanical properties. The results from this research study will serve as a framework which will aid and guide industries in the wood and allied products (composite particleboard) manufacturing to obtain the optimized composition of composite particleboards (CPB’s) for production. This investigative research will increase the knowledge and development, as well as the best utilization and application of the investigated composite particleboard, as well as improve the economy of both the manufacturing industries and the nation en large through these allied-wood products.

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