Nader Nciri | Korea University of Technology and Education (original) (raw)

Papers by Nader Nciri

Materials, 2023

Navigating the crossroads of sustainable infrastructure and innovative waste management, this res... more Navigating the crossroads of sustainable infrastructure and innovative waste management, this research unveils the potential of waste honeycombs (WHCs)—an overlooked byproduct of apiculture—as a potent modifier for asphalt binder formulations. This endeavor addresses the dual challenge of enhancing road pavement sustainability and mitigating environmental degradation. A meticulous methodology evaluated the impact of varying WHC concentrations (5, 10, and 15 wt.%) on the asphalt binder, examining its attributes pre- and post-aging. Employing an array of analytical tools—thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID); Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR); scanning electron microscopy (SEM); thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); and a suite of conventional tests such as penetration, softening point, viscosity, ductility, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and multiple stress-creep recovery (MSCR)—provided a comprehensive insight into the binder’s behavior. TLC-FID analyses revealed that WHC, with its 92 wt.% resin content, altered the SARA profile across distinct aging conditions, notably reducing asphaltene content, a factor linked to binder stiffness. The colloidal instability index (IC) further attested to this, pointing to a more thermodynamically stable system with WHC’s inclusion. Meanwhile, FT-IR confirmed a physical interaction between WHC and asphalt without introducing new chemical entities. SEM observations highlighted the superior miscibility of WHC with asphalt, evidenced by a unique microtexture. With marked precision, TGA assessments unveiled a bolstering of asphalt’s inherent thermal resilience consequent to a minor WHC integration. From the conventional tests, shifts in penetration, softening point, and viscosity were observed, with reduced viscosity, indicating improved workability. Lastly, while rutting potential was sensitive to WHC concentrations, fatigue resistance notably heightened with minor to moderate WHC inclusions. In essence, this pioneering study advocates for WHC’s integration into asphalt formulations, offering enhanced road performance coupled with sustainable waste utilization. The findings underscore the synergy between environmental stewardship and infrastructural advancement.

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Construction and Building Materials, 2023

The utilization of fine powder generated from crushing for recycling construction waste is a chal... more The utilization of fine powder generated from crushing for recycling construction waste is a challenging task for the transition to zero waste and sustainable development. This study investigated the physical and chemical characteristics of recycled concrete powders (RCP) generated by repeated recycling of concrete and discussed their application as a partial replacement for cement in mortar. RCPs smaller than 0.15 mm were obtained from three different generations of multi-recycled coarse aggregate concrete, respectively, which replaced cement by 10%, 20% and 30%. The results showed that the RCP became more porous, rough and less dense with an increasing number of concrete recycling. Consequently, the properties of mortar containing RCP decreased as a function of replacement ratio and the number of concrete recycling. By reducing the replacement ratio, the properties of mortar containing RCP obtained from second-generation concrete could be comparable to those of mortar containing RCP obtained from first-generation concrete. However, for mortar made with RCP obtained from third-generation concrete, even at a 10% replacement ratio, the performance was lower than that of the previous-generation mortar with 30% RCP, indicating the need for modification for proper utilization of RCP obtained from repeatedly recycled aggregate concrete.

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Materials Science Forum, 2022

This work is aimed at uncovering the hidden value of waste cow bones towards their use as a susta... more This work is aimed at uncovering the hidden value of waste cow bones towards their use as a sustainable biofiller for hot-mix asphalt (HMA) paving applications. To do so, the effect of various contents of calcined cow bone powder (e.g., 5, 10, and 15 wt. % CBP) on the AP-5 bitumen performance was investigated. Numerous lab techniques were adopted to assess the physicochemical attributes of finished filler-asphalt mastics, namely: elemental analysis, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), needle penetration, ring and ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, and ductility. Iatroscan analysis revealed that the CBP treatment did not alter the saturates but induced an increase in the fractions of aromatics/asphaltenes and a decrease in the resins. The FT-IR scan highlighted that the CBP-binder interactions were mainly governed by physical mechanisms rather than chemical ones. The empirical methods showed that the CBP incorporation enhanced the stiffness/hardness, the consistency, as well as the high-temperature performance of bituminous mixtures. Overall, the use of waste cow bones as a green biofiller is viable and profitable, and it has the potential to reduce the environmental pollution caused by the livestock industry while also improving the performance of hot-asphalt mixes and extending the pavement life at a low cost.

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Materials, 2022

This research effort is geared towards revealing the latent potential of discarded shoe polish th... more This research effort is geared towards revealing the latent potential of discarded shoe polish that might be repurposed as an asphalt fluxing agent for the construction of durable and sustainable road surfaces. To drive this creative invention, the effect of various proportions of waste shoe polish (e.g., 5, 10 and 15 wt. % WSP) on the performance of base AP-5 bitumen was inspected in great detail. A meticulous investigation of the chemical, physical, and rheological properties of the resultant combinations was carried out using a variety of state-of-the-art laboratory techniques, specifically: thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), needle penetration, ring-and-ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, ductility, flash/fire points, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), multiple stress-creep recovery (MSCR), and bending beam rheometer (BBR) tests. The Iatroscan data disclosed that the continuous feeding of binder with WSP had a minor impact on SARA fractional distribution, regardless of aging. According to the FT-IR scan, the stepwise addition of WSP to the binder did not result in any significant chemical alterations in the blends. The combined outcomes of the DSR/BBR/empirical test methods forecasted that the partly bio-sourced additive would greatly improve the mixing–compaction temperatures, workability, and coating–adhesion properties of bituminous mixtures while imparting them with outstanding anti-aging/cracking attributes. In short, the utilization of waste shoe polish as a fluxing agent for hot asphalt mix production and application is not only safe, feasible, and affordable, but it has the potential to abate the pollution caused by the shoe-care market while simultaneously enhancing the overall performance of the pavement and extending its service lifespan.

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Polymers, 2021

To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modif... more To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modifier for road pavement applications, its influence on the asphalt binder’s attributes was profoundly examined. The base AP-5 asphalt along with its specimens dosed with various fractions of DCG (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt%) were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Brookfield viscometer, ring and ball softening point, needle penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were adopted to inspect the physical and rheological changes of asphalt cement after DCG incorporation. FT-IR disclosed that the asphalt-gum interaction was not chemical but physical in nature, whilst XRD demonstrated the existence of talc filler in DCG, which may con...

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Molecules, 2022

This investigation is dedicated to unlocking the hidden potential of discarded cosmetics towards ... more This investigation is dedicated to unlocking the hidden potential of discarded cosmetics towards building green sustainable road pavements in the future. It is particularly aiming at exploring waste lipstick (WLS) as a high-quality functional additive for advanced asphalt mix technologies. To fuel this novel innovation, the effect of various WLS doses (e.g., 5, 10, and 15 wt.%) on the performance of base AP-5 asphalt cement was studied in detail. A wide array of cutting-edge analytical lab techniques was employed to inspect in-depth the physicochemical, microstructural, thermo-morphological, and rheological properties of resultant admixtures including: elemental analysis, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), needle penetration, ring and ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, ductility, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests. Unlike the unstable response of asphaltenes, the additive/artificial aging treatments increased the fraction of resins the most, and decreased that of aromatics; however, asphaltenes did not impair the saturates portion, according to Iatroscan research. FT-IR scan divulged that the WLS-asphalt interaction was physical rather than chemical. XRD diagnosis not only revealed an obvious correlation between the asphaltenes content and the fresh-binder crystallinity but also revealed the presence of fillers in the WLS, which may generate outstanding technical qualities to bituminous mixes. According to AFM/SEM analyses, the stepwise incorporation of WLS grew the magnitude of the “bee-shaped” microstructures and extended the roughness rate of unaged/aged binders. The prolonged consumption of the high thermal-stable additive caused a remarkable drop in the onset degradation and glass transition temperature of mixtures, thus enhancing their workability and low-temperature performance, according to TGA/DTGA/DSC data. The DSR and empirical rheological experiments demonstrated that the WLS could effectively lower the manufacturing and compaction temperatures of asphalt mixes and impart them with valuable anti-aging/fatigue-cracking assets. In a nutshell, the use of waste lipstick as an asphalt modifier is viable and cost-effective and could attenuate the pollution arisen from the beauty sector, while improving the performance of hot/warm asphalt mixes (HAM/WAM) and extending the service life of roadways.

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Materials, 2021

To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modif... more To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modifier for road pavement applications, its influence on the asphalt binder’s attributes was profoundly examined. The base AP-5 asphalt along with its specimens dosed with various fractions of DCG (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt%) were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Brookfield viscometer, ring and ball softening point, needle penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were adopted to inspect the physical and rheological changes of asphalt cement after DCG incorporation. FT-IR disclosed that the asphalt-gum interaction was not chemical but physical in nature, whilst XRD demonstrated the existence of talc filler in DCG, which may confer the bituminous mixes with exceptional engineering properties. Iatroscan analysis evinced that the gum treatment particularly altered the aromatic and resin fractions; meanwhile, the content of saturates and asphaltenes remained relatively unchanged. SEM divulged that the DCG has a complete dissolution within the bitumen matrix, which becomes rougher due to higher dose administration. AFM revealed that the steady gum introduction amplified the size of bee-like structures, shrunk their peri-phase domains, and wiped out the para-phase domains entirely. TGA/DTGA/DSC data highlighted that the high-temperature-stable additive slightly affected the thermal properties of blends. DSR and empirical rheological tests showed that the waste gum made the bitumen less vulnerable to heat and tender, thereby boosting its resistance against fatigue cracking at intermediate service temperatures. On top of that, DCG widened the thermal window of bitumen performance grade (PG), and preserved its viscosity at standard temperatures, leading to maintaining an appropriate workability for asphalt mix. In brief, the use of discarded chewing gum as an asphalt modifier is feasible and could mitigate plastic pollution and provide durable roadways by delivering superior performance.

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Polymers, 2021

To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modif... more To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modifier for road pavement applications, its influence on the asphalt binder’s attributes was profoundly examined. The base AP-5 asphalt along with its specimens dosed with various fractions of DCG (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt%) were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Brookfield viscometer, ring and ball softening point, needle penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were adopted to inspect the physical and rheological changes of asphalt cement after DCG incorporation. FT-IR disclosed that the asphalt-gum interaction was not chemical but physical in nature, whilst XRD demonstrated the existence of talc filler in DCG, which may confer the bituminous mixes with exceptional engineering properties. Iatroscan analysis evinced that the gum treatment particularly altered the aromatic and resin fractions; meanwhile, the content of saturates and asphaltenes remained relatively unchanged. SEM divulged that the DCG has a complete dissolution within the bitumen matrix, which becomes rougher due to higher dose administration. AFM revealed that the steady gum introduction amplified the size of bee-like structures, shrunk their peri-phase domains, and wiped out the para-phase domains entirely. TGA/DTGA/DSC data highlighted that the high-temperature-stable additive slightly affected the thermal properties of blends. DSR and empirical rheological tests showed that the waste gum made the bitumen less vulnerable to heat and tender, thereby boosting its resistance against fatigue cracking at intermediate service temperatures. On top of that, DCG widened the thermal window of bitumen performance grade (PG), and preserved its viscosity at standard temperatures, leading to maintaining an appropriate workability for asphalt mix. In brief, the use of discarded chewing gum as an asphalt modifier is feasible and could mitigate plastic pollution and provide durable roadways by delivering superior performance.

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Materials Today: Proceedings

The roadway performance is chiefly governed by the chemical composition of asphalt, which in turn... more The roadway performance is chiefly governed by the chemical composition of asphalt, which in turn depends on the molecular weight distribution in this product. Gel permeation chromatography is one of the most powerful and convenient analytical technique available for characterizing the entire molecular weight distribution of a bitumen. Molecular weight and polydispersity of two natural asphalts viz. Trinidad Lake asphalt (TLA) and Asphalt Ridge bitumen (ARB) have been determined. The number average molecular weight (M n) of TLA was 893, whereas that of ARB was 993. It is predicted that TLA will deliver a smoother and higher-quality pavement than does ARB.

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International Journal of Chemical, Environmental & Biological Sciences (IJCEBS), Jan 1, 2014

The present paper focuses on physicochemical analysis of two different types of bitumens. These b... more The present paper focuses on physicochemical analysis of two different types of bitumens. These bitumen samples were chosen based on: the original crude oil (sand oil and crude petroleum), and mode of process. The aim of this study is to determine both the manufacturing effect on chemical species and the chemical organization as a function of the type of bitumen sample. In order to obtain information on bitumen chemistry, elemental analysis (C, H, N, S, and O), heavy metal (Ni, V) concentrations, IATROSCAN chromatography (thin layer chromatography-flame ionization detection), FTIR spectroscopy, and 1 H NMR spectroscopy have all been used. The characterization includes information about the major compound types (saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltenes) which can be compared with similar data for other bitumens, more importantly, can be correlated with data from petroleum samples for which refining characteristics are known. Examination of Asphalt Ridge froth bitumen showed that it differed significantly from representative petroleum pitches, principally in their nonhydrocarbon content, heavy metal concentration and aromatic compounds.

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Proceeding of the International Ocean (Offshore) and Polar Engineering Conference (ISOPE), Jun 15, 2014

Tow commercially available petroleum pitches (P-I and P-II) have been characterized through the c... more Tow commercially available petroleum pitches (P-I and P-II) have been characterized through the combination of conventional physicochemical techniques used for pitch characterization, like elemental analysis, penetration, softening point, viscosity, FTIR spectroscopy, TLC-FID, and 1 H NMR spectroscopy. Elemental analysis and FTIR spectroscopy were employed to characterize the chemical composition of pitches. It was found that the pitches are similar in the hydrocarbon content and the (H/C) atomic ratio. Higher oxygen content differentiated P-I pitch from P-II pitch. More carbon, hydrogen and sulfur and lesser nitrogen was the distinctive feature observed for all commercial petroleum pitches. The distribution of vanadium and nickel did not show any apparent similarities in pitch samples. The amount of vanadium was almost thrice of that of nickel. TLC-FID was applied for the rapid determination of saturates, aromatics, and polar compounds. It was found that the content of aromatics was considerably higher in all pitch materials (over than 50 wt. %). 1 H NMR analysis confirmed that P-II pitch exhibits higher degree of aromaticity compared to P-I pitch. The similarities found are a consequence of the similar chemical composition of the pitches (determined by FTIR and TLC-FID), as well as the similar process used for the manufacturing of petroleum pitches. However, the results deducted from the set of physical experiments demonstrated that the two selected pitches behaved differently through penetration, softening point, and viscosity tests. These observations can affect later their applications, i.e. in the area of carbon fiber preparation or in the road pavement.

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Journal of Applied Science and Agriculture , Aug 30, 2014

Background: The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most widely grown edible legume specie... more Background: The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most widely grown edible legume species in Tunisia. The physical properties of three white varieties of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) namely; 'Twila', 'Coco', and 'Beldia' were investigated. Objective: This study projects the physical properties of beans in view of designing the equipments necessary for harvesting, handling, sorting, and processing. Methods: Physical and morphological studies were done for each variety by conventional methods. Seed mass, seed size, seed density, hydration capacity, hydration index, hydration coefficient, swelling capacity, swelling index, and swelling coefficient was determined for the three varieties. Results: The bean varieties which used in this study showed large variability in all physical and morphological features. The results revealed that seed mass, seed size, seed density, hydration capacity, hydration index, hydration coefficient, swelling capacity, swelling index, and swelling coefficient ranged from 27.63-50.95 g/ 100 seeds, medium-large, 1.26-1.34 g/ mL, 0.22-0.53 g/ seed, 0.47-0.52, 1.94-2.12 %, 0.21-0.50 mL/ g, 0.23-0.57, and 2.22-2.48 %, accordingly. Conclusion: In view of nutritional importance of (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) seeds, impact of soaking, cooking, autoclaving, and germination on their antinutritional factors needs further insight.

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Journal of Petroleum & Environmental Biotechnology, Oct 20, 2014

This research provides new insights into the chemical composition of the Gilsonite in order to as... more This research provides new insights into the chemical composition of the Gilsonite in order to ascertain its properties which can assist in the refining and processing paths of the natural resource. Gilsonite, naturally occurring asphaltite bitumen, consists of a complex mixture of organic compounds. It was collected in the Uinta Basin near the town of Bonanza, Utah. The aim of this work is to obtain a more complete picture of molecular structure of Gilsonite, very important in fuel processing industry, matching and interpreting the results from different techniques. The Gilsonite was characterized by elemental analysis (EA) to determine the concentrations of C, H, N, S, and O, by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for comparative analysis of the chemical structures, by Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy of hydrogen (1 H NMR) to ascertain the aliphatic and aromatic hydrogen fractions, and by Thin layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (Iatroscan TLC-FID) to quantify saturated and aromatic hydrocarbons, and resin/asphaltene fractions. The results were evaluated in combination with the available geological data and with some bitumens to evaluate, chemically, possible mechanisms of Gilsonite formation. Low hydrogen to carbon atomic ratio (1.44), low sulfur (0.27 wt.%) and high nitrogen (3.25 wt.%) contents were the main characteristics of the Gilsonite from Uinta Basin. FTIR revealed the presence of alkane, aromatic rings, phenyl rings, alcohols, carbonyl groups, organic sulfoxides, and sulfate salts, confirming the fact that Gilsonite is composed of high molecular weight polycyclic constituents comprising of nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen heteroatoms. Likewise, FTIR proved that Gilsonite includes fingerprint of clay minerals. Iatroscan data showed interestingly that Gilsonite contains considerable amount of asphaltenes (79.7 wt.%) and nil amount of aromatics (0 wt.%). While, the yields of saturates and resins account only for 1.6 wt.% and 18.7 wt.%, respectively. Furthermore, SARA method estimated that Gilsonite is extremely instable (Colloidal instability index, CII = 4.34). Proton NMR measurements indicated that the aliphatic hydrogen portion is approximately 95.38% and the aromatic hydrogen fraction is about 4.62%.

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Journal of Medicinal Food, Sep 10, 2015

This research aimed at assessing the content and the functional properties of phytohemagglutinin ... more This research aimed at assessing the content and the functional properties of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) in different varieties of beans widely consumed in Tunisia through soaking, cooking, autoclaving, germination, and their combinations. This study was carried out on three varieties of white beans grown in different localities of Tunisia, namely Twila, Coco, and Beldia, as well as on imported and local canned beans. All bean samples underwent biochemical and immunological evaluation by employing several techniques such as indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hemagglutinating assay, Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion, and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Biochemical and immunological analyses indicated that raw dry beans contained a considerable amount of proteins and PHAs. ELISA demonstrated that soaking, either in plain water or in alkaline solution, caused an increase in the concentration of PHA. A slight increase of PHA was produced equally by germination during 4 days in all bean varieties. Cooking or autoclaving of presoaked beans resulted in a complete disappearance of PHA. ELISA test also proved that both imported and local canned beans contained fingerprints of PHA. Hemagglutination assays showed that not only cooked and autoclaved presoaked beans lacked the ability to agglutinate red blood cells but also autoclaved unsoaked beans did. In agar gel immunodiffusion using rabbit anti-PHA serum, raw, soaked, cooked unsoaked, and sprouted beans gave precipitin arc reactions, indicating that PHA existed in immunoreactive form in the tested seeds. SDS-PAGE electropho-retograms showed protein isolates of Twila and Beldia beans to have different profiles through soaking, cooking, and autoclaving processes. This work revealed that the combination of soaking and cooking/autoclaving was the best way in reducing PHA content and its activity in all bean varieties when compared with germination.

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Research Journal of Biotechnology , Nov 14, 2015

The mechanism by which kidney bean lectin PHA (phytohemagglutinin) provokes dramatic changes of t... more The mechanism by which kidney bean lectin PHA (phytohemagglutinin) provokes dramatic changes of the small intestinal ecosystem upon feeding is not entirely clear yet. The objectives of this work were to screen in vitro the interaction of an extract of Twila beans variety grown in Tunisia with a panel of eleven microbes and to evaluate the effect of PHA on the growth behavior of Lactobacillus delbrueckki subsp. bulgaricus isolated from a commercial yogurt. The activity of the lectin was checked by hemagglutination test. The interaction between the microbial suspensions and the bean extract was assayed in test tubes incubated for 1 hour at room temperature and then left overnight at 20ºC. The kinetic behavior of L. bulgaricus strain cultivated in MRS Broth medium was assessed in the presence of PHA. Results indicated that bean extract agglutinated human as well as animal erythrocytes with a higher specificity for group blood cell O and sheep erythrocytes. Bacteriological binding assays showed that Twila extract failed to agglutinate all the tested microorganisms. PHA did not stimulate or inhibit the growth of L. bulgaricus. These observations suggest that lectins present in Twila beans, when ingested; might not have any biological effects towards pathogenic and beneficial microbes.

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Journal of Medicinal Food, Dec 17, 2015

The chronic ingestion of raw or undercooked kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) causes functiona... more The chronic ingestion of raw or undercooked kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) causes functional and morphological derangement in various tissues. The major objectives of this study were to investigate the gavage effects of a raw Beldia bean variety that is widely consumed in Tunisia, on the small intestine morphology and jejunal absorption of water, electrolytes, and glucose in Wistar rats. Twenty young male rats were randomly divided into two groups of 10 rats. The first group served as the control and was gavaged with 300 mg of a rodent pellet flour suspension (RPFS), whereas the second experimental group was challenged with 300 mg of a Beldia bean flour suspension (BBFS) for 10 days. Histological studies were performed using light and electron microcopy. The intestinal transport of water, sodium, potassium, and glucose was studied by perfusing the jejunal loops of the small bowels in vivo. The feeding experiments indicated that BBFS did not affect weight gain. Histomorphometric analyses showed that the villus heights, crypt depths, and crypt/villus ratios in the jejunum and ileum were greater in the BBFS-fed rats than controls. Electron microscopy studies demonstrated that the rats exposed to RPFS exhibited intact intestinal tracts; however, the BBFS-treated rats demonstrated intestinal alterations characterized by abnormal microvillus architectures, with short and dense or long and slender features, in addition to the sparse presence of vesicles near the brush border membrane. BBFS administration did not significantly affect glucose absorption. However, significant decreases were observed in water and electrolyte absorption compared with the uptake of the controls. In conclusion , raw Beldia beans distorted jejunum morphology and disturbed hydroelectrolytic flux. KEY WORDS: electrolyte transport glucose transport phytohemagglutinin small intestine morphology white kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

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Journal of Medicinal Food , Jan 8, 2016

Although kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lectin toxicity is widely known, its effects in the ... more Although kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lectin toxicity is widely known, its effects in the gastrointestinal tract require further study. This investigation aimed to identify and characterize phytohemagglutinins (PHAs) in the small intestine and sera of rats following oral challenge with ground white beans. Twenty young, adult male rats were divided randomly into two groups of 10 animals each. The control group underwent gavage with a suspension of 300 mg of rodent pellet flour. The experimental group was administered a 300 mg Beldia bean flour suspension (BBFS). After 10 days of daily treatment, jejunal rinse liquid (JRL) and ileum rinse liquid and secretions, as well as sera, were collected. All biological fluids were screened for lectin reactivity using competitive inhibition ELISA, Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion, and immu-noelectrophoresis techniques. The results revealed the presence of immunogenic intraluminal PHAs 3-4 h after the oral intake of the BBFS in the JRLs as well as in the jejunal and ileal secretions; however, no PHA was detectable in the rat sera. Ingestion of raw Beldia beans may lead to interaction between PHAs and the mucosa of the small intestine, potentially resulting in an inflammatory response.

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Materials, Oct 21, 2016

Over the last decade, unexpected and sudden pavement failures have occurred in several provinces ... more Over the last decade, unexpected and sudden pavement failures have occurred in several provinces in South Korea. Some of these failures remain unexplained, further illustrating the gaps in our knowledge about binder chemistry. To prevent premature pavement distress and enhance road performance, it is imperative to provide an adequate characterization of asphalt. For this purpose, the current research aims at inspecting the chemistry, microstructure, thermal, and physico-rheological properties of two types of asphalt, namely petroleum asphalt (PA) and natural asphalt (NA). The binders were extensively investigated by using elemental analysis, thin-layer chromatography with flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-fight mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy (RS), Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1 H-NMR), ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), penetration, softening point, ductility, and viscosity tests. The findings of this research have revealed the distinct variations between the chemical compositions, microstructures, and thermo-rheological properties of the two asphalts and provided valuable knowledge into the characteristics of the binders. Such insight has been effective in predicting the performance or distress of road pavement. This paper will, therefore, be of immediate interest to materials engineers in state highway agencies and asphalt industries.

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Key Engineering Materials, Dec 12, 2016

Up to date, no extravagant attempts have been made to use the vegetable oil-based polyols as reju... more Up to date, no extravagant attempts have been made to use the vegetable oil-based polyols as rejuvenator agents for aged asphalts. In this context, the nature and composition of these biodegradable products need to be identified and physicochemical properties of different nature of compounds need to be measured. Three different vegetable oil-based polyols designed as castor oil polyol, soybean flexible polyol, and soybean rigid polyol were characterized by FT-IR, TLC-FID, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR and by the determination of some usual characteristics such as acid value, hydroxyl value, iodine value, and viscosity. It is speculated that the soybean flexible polyol may serve as a potential rejuvenator for aged asphalts.

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Materials Chemistry and Physics, Mar 14, 2017

This paper deals with the poorly understood effects of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymer ... more This paper deals with the poorly understood effects of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymer on the bitumen performance. It focuses on determining the impact of various concentrations (e.g., 0, 4, 8, and 12 wt. %) of SBS on the attributes of two types of asphalt namely AP-5 asphalt and solvent deasphalting (SDA) pitch. The unmodified and modified binders were investigated in terms of their chemical compositions, microstructures, thermo-analytical behaviors, and physical properties. The intricate chemical compositions were evaluated by elemental analysis and thin layer chromatography-ionization detection (TLC-FID). Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were utilized to examine the microstructures. Whereas, thermal characteristics were evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The physical behaviors were monitored through the softening point, penetration, viscosity, and ductility tests. The findings showed that the blending of asphalt with different amounts of SBS resulted into different rheological behaviors. This was reflected from the difference in the SARA (i.e., saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes) compositions and colloidal instability indexes of the modified asphalts. SEM exhibited a continuous asphalt phase with distributed SBS particles, a continuous polymer phase with distributed asphalt globules, or two interconnected continuous phases. FT-IR, 1H 13C NMR, and XRD data revealed that the AP-5 asphalt and SDA pitch experienced a number of distinct structural changes. TGA/DSC studies determined the occurrence of diverse events during thermal treatment. It is concluded that the degree of SBS modification depends strongly on SARA composition and polymer content. If the polymers are molded at higher concentrations along with aromatics-rich SDA pitches, then the mixtures are found to be much more stable than those obtained with asphaltenes-rich AP-5 asphalts.

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Materials, 2023

Navigating the crossroads of sustainable infrastructure and innovative waste management, this res... more Navigating the crossroads of sustainable infrastructure and innovative waste management, this research unveils the potential of waste honeycombs (WHCs)—an overlooked byproduct of apiculture—as a potent modifier for asphalt binder formulations. This endeavor addresses the dual challenge of enhancing road pavement sustainability and mitigating environmental degradation. A meticulous methodology evaluated the impact of varying WHC concentrations (5, 10, and 15 wt.%) on the asphalt binder, examining its attributes pre- and post-aging. Employing an array of analytical tools—thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID); Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR); scanning electron microscopy (SEM); thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); and a suite of conventional tests such as penetration, softening point, viscosity, ductility, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and multiple stress-creep recovery (MSCR)—provided a comprehensive insight into the binder’s behavior. TLC-FID analyses revealed that WHC, with its 92 wt.% resin content, altered the SARA profile across distinct aging conditions, notably reducing asphaltene content, a factor linked to binder stiffness. The colloidal instability index (IC) further attested to this, pointing to a more thermodynamically stable system with WHC’s inclusion. Meanwhile, FT-IR confirmed a physical interaction between WHC and asphalt without introducing new chemical entities. SEM observations highlighted the superior miscibility of WHC with asphalt, evidenced by a unique microtexture. With marked precision, TGA assessments unveiled a bolstering of asphalt’s inherent thermal resilience consequent to a minor WHC integration. From the conventional tests, shifts in penetration, softening point, and viscosity were observed, with reduced viscosity, indicating improved workability. Lastly, while rutting potential was sensitive to WHC concentrations, fatigue resistance notably heightened with minor to moderate WHC inclusions. In essence, this pioneering study advocates for WHC’s integration into asphalt formulations, offering enhanced road performance coupled with sustainable waste utilization. The findings underscore the synergy between environmental stewardship and infrastructural advancement.

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Construction and Building Materials, 2023

The utilization of fine powder generated from crushing for recycling construction waste is a chal... more The utilization of fine powder generated from crushing for recycling construction waste is a challenging task for the transition to zero waste and sustainable development. This study investigated the physical and chemical characteristics of recycled concrete powders (RCP) generated by repeated recycling of concrete and discussed their application as a partial replacement for cement in mortar. RCPs smaller than 0.15 mm were obtained from three different generations of multi-recycled coarse aggregate concrete, respectively, which replaced cement by 10%, 20% and 30%. The results showed that the RCP became more porous, rough and less dense with an increasing number of concrete recycling. Consequently, the properties of mortar containing RCP decreased as a function of replacement ratio and the number of concrete recycling. By reducing the replacement ratio, the properties of mortar containing RCP obtained from second-generation concrete could be comparable to those of mortar containing RCP obtained from first-generation concrete. However, for mortar made with RCP obtained from third-generation concrete, even at a 10% replacement ratio, the performance was lower than that of the previous-generation mortar with 30% RCP, indicating the need for modification for proper utilization of RCP obtained from repeatedly recycled aggregate concrete.

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Materials Science Forum, 2022

This work is aimed at uncovering the hidden value of waste cow bones towards their use as a susta... more This work is aimed at uncovering the hidden value of waste cow bones towards their use as a sustainable biofiller for hot-mix asphalt (HMA) paving applications. To do so, the effect of various contents of calcined cow bone powder (e.g., 5, 10, and 15 wt. % CBP) on the AP-5 bitumen performance was investigated. Numerous lab techniques were adopted to assess the physicochemical attributes of finished filler-asphalt mastics, namely: elemental analysis, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), needle penetration, ring and ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, and ductility. Iatroscan analysis revealed that the CBP treatment did not alter the saturates but induced an increase in the fractions of aromatics/asphaltenes and a decrease in the resins. The FT-IR scan highlighted that the CBP-binder interactions were mainly governed by physical mechanisms rather than chemical ones. The empirical methods showed that the CBP incorporation enhanced the stiffness/hardness, the consistency, as well as the high-temperature performance of bituminous mixtures. Overall, the use of waste cow bones as a green biofiller is viable and profitable, and it has the potential to reduce the environmental pollution caused by the livestock industry while also improving the performance of hot-asphalt mixes and extending the pavement life at a low cost.

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Materials, 2022

This research effort is geared towards revealing the latent potential of discarded shoe polish th... more This research effort is geared towards revealing the latent potential of discarded shoe polish that might be repurposed as an asphalt fluxing agent for the construction of durable and sustainable road surfaces. To drive this creative invention, the effect of various proportions of waste shoe polish (e.g., 5, 10 and 15 wt. % WSP) on the performance of base AP-5 bitumen was inspected in great detail. A meticulous investigation of the chemical, physical, and rheological properties of the resultant combinations was carried out using a variety of state-of-the-art laboratory techniques, specifically: thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), needle penetration, ring-and-ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, ductility, flash/fire points, dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), multiple stress-creep recovery (MSCR), and bending beam rheometer (BBR) tests. The Iatroscan data disclosed that the continuous feeding of binder with WSP had a minor impact on SARA fractional distribution, regardless of aging. According to the FT-IR scan, the stepwise addition of WSP to the binder did not result in any significant chemical alterations in the blends. The combined outcomes of the DSR/BBR/empirical test methods forecasted that the partly bio-sourced additive would greatly improve the mixing–compaction temperatures, workability, and coating–adhesion properties of bituminous mixtures while imparting them with outstanding anti-aging/cracking attributes. In short, the utilization of waste shoe polish as a fluxing agent for hot asphalt mix production and application is not only safe, feasible, and affordable, but it has the potential to abate the pollution caused by the shoe-care market while simultaneously enhancing the overall performance of the pavement and extending its service lifespan.

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Polymers, 2021

To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modif... more To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modifier for road pavement applications, its influence on the asphalt binder’s attributes was profoundly examined. The base AP-5 asphalt along with its specimens dosed with various fractions of DCG (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt%) were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Brookfield viscometer, ring and ball softening point, needle penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were adopted to inspect the physical and rheological changes of asphalt cement after DCG incorporation. FT-IR disclosed that the asphalt-gum interaction was not chemical but physical in nature, whilst XRD demonstrated the existence of talc filler in DCG, which may con...

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Molecules, 2022

This investigation is dedicated to unlocking the hidden potential of discarded cosmetics towards ... more This investigation is dedicated to unlocking the hidden potential of discarded cosmetics towards building green sustainable road pavements in the future. It is particularly aiming at exploring waste lipstick (WLS) as a high-quality functional additive for advanced asphalt mix technologies. To fuel this novel innovation, the effect of various WLS doses (e.g., 5, 10, and 15 wt.%) on the performance of base AP-5 asphalt cement was studied in detail. A wide array of cutting-edge analytical lab techniques was employed to inspect in-depth the physicochemical, microstructural, thermo-morphological, and rheological properties of resultant admixtures including: elemental analysis, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), needle penetration, ring and ball softening point, Brookfield viscometer, ductility, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests. Unlike the unstable response of asphaltenes, the additive/artificial aging treatments increased the fraction of resins the most, and decreased that of aromatics; however, asphaltenes did not impair the saturates portion, according to Iatroscan research. FT-IR scan divulged that the WLS-asphalt interaction was physical rather than chemical. XRD diagnosis not only revealed an obvious correlation between the asphaltenes content and the fresh-binder crystallinity but also revealed the presence of fillers in the WLS, which may generate outstanding technical qualities to bituminous mixes. According to AFM/SEM analyses, the stepwise incorporation of WLS grew the magnitude of the “bee-shaped” microstructures and extended the roughness rate of unaged/aged binders. The prolonged consumption of the high thermal-stable additive caused a remarkable drop in the onset degradation and glass transition temperature of mixtures, thus enhancing their workability and low-temperature performance, according to TGA/DTGA/DSC data. The DSR and empirical rheological experiments demonstrated that the WLS could effectively lower the manufacturing and compaction temperatures of asphalt mixes and impart them with valuable anti-aging/fatigue-cracking assets. In a nutshell, the use of waste lipstick as an asphalt modifier is viable and cost-effective and could attenuate the pollution arisen from the beauty sector, while improving the performance of hot/warm asphalt mixes (HAM/WAM) and extending the service life of roadways.

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Materials, 2021

To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modif... more To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modifier for road pavement applications, its influence on the asphalt binder’s attributes was profoundly examined. The base AP-5 asphalt along with its specimens dosed with various fractions of DCG (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt%) were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Brookfield viscometer, ring and ball softening point, needle penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were adopted to inspect the physical and rheological changes of asphalt cement after DCG incorporation. FT-IR disclosed that the asphalt-gum interaction was not chemical but physical in nature, whilst XRD demonstrated the existence of talc filler in DCG, which may confer the bituminous mixes with exceptional engineering properties. Iatroscan analysis evinced that the gum treatment particularly altered the aromatic and resin fractions; meanwhile, the content of saturates and asphaltenes remained relatively unchanged. SEM divulged that the DCG has a complete dissolution within the bitumen matrix, which becomes rougher due to higher dose administration. AFM revealed that the steady gum introduction amplified the size of bee-like structures, shrunk their peri-phase domains, and wiped out the para-phase domains entirely. TGA/DTGA/DSC data highlighted that the high-temperature-stable additive slightly affected the thermal properties of blends. DSR and empirical rheological tests showed that the waste gum made the bitumen less vulnerable to heat and tender, thereby boosting its resistance against fatigue cracking at intermediate service temperatures. On top of that, DCG widened the thermal window of bitumen performance grade (PG), and preserved its viscosity at standard temperatures, leading to maintaining an appropriate workability for asphalt mix. In brief, the use of discarded chewing gum as an asphalt modifier is feasible and could mitigate plastic pollution and provide durable roadways by delivering superior performance.

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Polymers, 2021

To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modif... more To uncover the potential benefits of discarded chewing gum (DCG) as a performance-enhancing modifier for road pavement applications, its influence on the asphalt binder’s attributes was profoundly examined. The base AP-5 asphalt along with its specimens dosed with various fractions of DCG (e.g., 3, 6, and 9 wt%) were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thin-layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Brookfield viscometer, ring and ball softening point, needle penetration, and dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) tests were adopted to inspect the physical and rheological changes of asphalt cement after DCG incorporation. FT-IR disclosed that the asphalt-gum interaction was not chemical but physical in nature, whilst XRD demonstrated the existence of talc filler in DCG, which may confer the bituminous mixes with exceptional engineering properties. Iatroscan analysis evinced that the gum treatment particularly altered the aromatic and resin fractions; meanwhile, the content of saturates and asphaltenes remained relatively unchanged. SEM divulged that the DCG has a complete dissolution within the bitumen matrix, which becomes rougher due to higher dose administration. AFM revealed that the steady gum introduction amplified the size of bee-like structures, shrunk their peri-phase domains, and wiped out the para-phase domains entirely. TGA/DTGA/DSC data highlighted that the high-temperature-stable additive slightly affected the thermal properties of blends. DSR and empirical rheological tests showed that the waste gum made the bitumen less vulnerable to heat and tender, thereby boosting its resistance against fatigue cracking at intermediate service temperatures. On top of that, DCG widened the thermal window of bitumen performance grade (PG), and preserved its viscosity at standard temperatures, leading to maintaining an appropriate workability for asphalt mix. In brief, the use of discarded chewing gum as an asphalt modifier is feasible and could mitigate plastic pollution and provide durable roadways by delivering superior performance.

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Materials Today: Proceedings

The roadway performance is chiefly governed by the chemical composition of asphalt, which in turn... more The roadway performance is chiefly governed by the chemical composition of asphalt, which in turn depends on the molecular weight distribution in this product. Gel permeation chromatography is one of the most powerful and convenient analytical technique available for characterizing the entire molecular weight distribution of a bitumen. Molecular weight and polydispersity of two natural asphalts viz. Trinidad Lake asphalt (TLA) and Asphalt Ridge bitumen (ARB) have been determined. The number average molecular weight (M n) of TLA was 893, whereas that of ARB was 993. It is predicted that TLA will deliver a smoother and higher-quality pavement than does ARB.

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International Journal of Chemical, Environmental & Biological Sciences (IJCEBS), Jan 1, 2014

The present paper focuses on physicochemical analysis of two different types of bitumens. These b... more The present paper focuses on physicochemical analysis of two different types of bitumens. These bitumen samples were chosen based on: the original crude oil (sand oil and crude petroleum), and mode of process. The aim of this study is to determine both the manufacturing effect on chemical species and the chemical organization as a function of the type of bitumen sample. In order to obtain information on bitumen chemistry, elemental analysis (C, H, N, S, and O), heavy metal (Ni, V) concentrations, IATROSCAN chromatography (thin layer chromatography-flame ionization detection), FTIR spectroscopy, and 1 H NMR spectroscopy have all been used. The characterization includes information about the major compound types (saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltenes) which can be compared with similar data for other bitumens, more importantly, can be correlated with data from petroleum samples for which refining characteristics are known. Examination of Asphalt Ridge froth bitumen showed that it differed significantly from representative petroleum pitches, principally in their nonhydrocarbon content, heavy metal concentration and aromatic compounds.

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Proceeding of the International Ocean (Offshore) and Polar Engineering Conference (ISOPE), Jun 15, 2014

Tow commercially available petroleum pitches (P-I and P-II) have been characterized through the c... more Tow commercially available petroleum pitches (P-I and P-II) have been characterized through the combination of conventional physicochemical techniques used for pitch characterization, like elemental analysis, penetration, softening point, viscosity, FTIR spectroscopy, TLC-FID, and 1 H NMR spectroscopy. Elemental analysis and FTIR spectroscopy were employed to characterize the chemical composition of pitches. It was found that the pitches are similar in the hydrocarbon content and the (H/C) atomic ratio. Higher oxygen content differentiated P-I pitch from P-II pitch. More carbon, hydrogen and sulfur and lesser nitrogen was the distinctive feature observed for all commercial petroleum pitches. The distribution of vanadium and nickel did not show any apparent similarities in pitch samples. The amount of vanadium was almost thrice of that of nickel. TLC-FID was applied for the rapid determination of saturates, aromatics, and polar compounds. It was found that the content of aromatics was considerably higher in all pitch materials (over than 50 wt. %). 1 H NMR analysis confirmed that P-II pitch exhibits higher degree of aromaticity compared to P-I pitch. The similarities found are a consequence of the similar chemical composition of the pitches (determined by FTIR and TLC-FID), as well as the similar process used for the manufacturing of petroleum pitches. However, the results deducted from the set of physical experiments demonstrated that the two selected pitches behaved differently through penetration, softening point, and viscosity tests. These observations can affect later their applications, i.e. in the area of carbon fiber preparation or in the road pavement.

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Journal of Applied Science and Agriculture , Aug 30, 2014

Background: The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most widely grown edible legume specie... more Background: The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most widely grown edible legume species in Tunisia. The physical properties of three white varieties of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) namely; 'Twila', 'Coco', and 'Beldia' were investigated. Objective: This study projects the physical properties of beans in view of designing the equipments necessary for harvesting, handling, sorting, and processing. Methods: Physical and morphological studies were done for each variety by conventional methods. Seed mass, seed size, seed density, hydration capacity, hydration index, hydration coefficient, swelling capacity, swelling index, and swelling coefficient was determined for the three varieties. Results: The bean varieties which used in this study showed large variability in all physical and morphological features. The results revealed that seed mass, seed size, seed density, hydration capacity, hydration index, hydration coefficient, swelling capacity, swelling index, and swelling coefficient ranged from 27.63-50.95 g/ 100 seeds, medium-large, 1.26-1.34 g/ mL, 0.22-0.53 g/ seed, 0.47-0.52, 1.94-2.12 %, 0.21-0.50 mL/ g, 0.23-0.57, and 2.22-2.48 %, accordingly. Conclusion: In view of nutritional importance of (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) seeds, impact of soaking, cooking, autoclaving, and germination on their antinutritional factors needs further insight.

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Journal of Petroleum & Environmental Biotechnology, Oct 20, 2014

This research provides new insights into the chemical composition of the Gilsonite in order to as... more This research provides new insights into the chemical composition of the Gilsonite in order to ascertain its properties which can assist in the refining and processing paths of the natural resource. Gilsonite, naturally occurring asphaltite bitumen, consists of a complex mixture of organic compounds. It was collected in the Uinta Basin near the town of Bonanza, Utah. The aim of this work is to obtain a more complete picture of molecular structure of Gilsonite, very important in fuel processing industry, matching and interpreting the results from different techniques. The Gilsonite was characterized by elemental analysis (EA) to determine the concentrations of C, H, N, S, and O, by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for comparative analysis of the chemical structures, by Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy of hydrogen (1 H NMR) to ascertain the aliphatic and aromatic hydrogen fractions, and by Thin layer chromatography-flame ionization detection (Iatroscan TLC-FID) to quantify saturated and aromatic hydrocarbons, and resin/asphaltene fractions. The results were evaluated in combination with the available geological data and with some bitumens to evaluate, chemically, possible mechanisms of Gilsonite formation. Low hydrogen to carbon atomic ratio (1.44), low sulfur (0.27 wt.%) and high nitrogen (3.25 wt.%) contents were the main characteristics of the Gilsonite from Uinta Basin. FTIR revealed the presence of alkane, aromatic rings, phenyl rings, alcohols, carbonyl groups, organic sulfoxides, and sulfate salts, confirming the fact that Gilsonite is composed of high molecular weight polycyclic constituents comprising of nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen heteroatoms. Likewise, FTIR proved that Gilsonite includes fingerprint of clay minerals. Iatroscan data showed interestingly that Gilsonite contains considerable amount of asphaltenes (79.7 wt.%) and nil amount of aromatics (0 wt.%). While, the yields of saturates and resins account only for 1.6 wt.% and 18.7 wt.%, respectively. Furthermore, SARA method estimated that Gilsonite is extremely instable (Colloidal instability index, CII = 4.34). Proton NMR measurements indicated that the aliphatic hydrogen portion is approximately 95.38% and the aromatic hydrogen fraction is about 4.62%.

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Journal of Medicinal Food, Sep 10, 2015

This research aimed at assessing the content and the functional properties of phytohemagglutinin ... more This research aimed at assessing the content and the functional properties of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) in different varieties of beans widely consumed in Tunisia through soaking, cooking, autoclaving, germination, and their combinations. This study was carried out on three varieties of white beans grown in different localities of Tunisia, namely Twila, Coco, and Beldia, as well as on imported and local canned beans. All bean samples underwent biochemical and immunological evaluation by employing several techniques such as indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hemagglutinating assay, Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion, and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Biochemical and immunological analyses indicated that raw dry beans contained a considerable amount of proteins and PHAs. ELISA demonstrated that soaking, either in plain water or in alkaline solution, caused an increase in the concentration of PHA. A slight increase of PHA was produced equally by germination during 4 days in all bean varieties. Cooking or autoclaving of presoaked beans resulted in a complete disappearance of PHA. ELISA test also proved that both imported and local canned beans contained fingerprints of PHA. Hemagglutination assays showed that not only cooked and autoclaved presoaked beans lacked the ability to agglutinate red blood cells but also autoclaved unsoaked beans did. In agar gel immunodiffusion using rabbit anti-PHA serum, raw, soaked, cooked unsoaked, and sprouted beans gave precipitin arc reactions, indicating that PHA existed in immunoreactive form in the tested seeds. SDS-PAGE electropho-retograms showed protein isolates of Twila and Beldia beans to have different profiles through soaking, cooking, and autoclaving processes. This work revealed that the combination of soaking and cooking/autoclaving was the best way in reducing PHA content and its activity in all bean varieties when compared with germination.

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Research Journal of Biotechnology , Nov 14, 2015

The mechanism by which kidney bean lectin PHA (phytohemagglutinin) provokes dramatic changes of t... more The mechanism by which kidney bean lectin PHA (phytohemagglutinin) provokes dramatic changes of the small intestinal ecosystem upon feeding is not entirely clear yet. The objectives of this work were to screen in vitro the interaction of an extract of Twila beans variety grown in Tunisia with a panel of eleven microbes and to evaluate the effect of PHA on the growth behavior of Lactobacillus delbrueckki subsp. bulgaricus isolated from a commercial yogurt. The activity of the lectin was checked by hemagglutination test. The interaction between the microbial suspensions and the bean extract was assayed in test tubes incubated for 1 hour at room temperature and then left overnight at 20ºC. The kinetic behavior of L. bulgaricus strain cultivated in MRS Broth medium was assessed in the presence of PHA. Results indicated that bean extract agglutinated human as well as animal erythrocytes with a higher specificity for group blood cell O and sheep erythrocytes. Bacteriological binding assays showed that Twila extract failed to agglutinate all the tested microorganisms. PHA did not stimulate or inhibit the growth of L. bulgaricus. These observations suggest that lectins present in Twila beans, when ingested; might not have any biological effects towards pathogenic and beneficial microbes.

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Journal of Medicinal Food, Dec 17, 2015

The chronic ingestion of raw or undercooked kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) causes functiona... more The chronic ingestion of raw or undercooked kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) causes functional and morphological derangement in various tissues. The major objectives of this study were to investigate the gavage effects of a raw Beldia bean variety that is widely consumed in Tunisia, on the small intestine morphology and jejunal absorption of water, electrolytes, and glucose in Wistar rats. Twenty young male rats were randomly divided into two groups of 10 rats. The first group served as the control and was gavaged with 300 mg of a rodent pellet flour suspension (RPFS), whereas the second experimental group was challenged with 300 mg of a Beldia bean flour suspension (BBFS) for 10 days. Histological studies were performed using light and electron microcopy. The intestinal transport of water, sodium, potassium, and glucose was studied by perfusing the jejunal loops of the small bowels in vivo. The feeding experiments indicated that BBFS did not affect weight gain. Histomorphometric analyses showed that the villus heights, crypt depths, and crypt/villus ratios in the jejunum and ileum were greater in the BBFS-fed rats than controls. Electron microscopy studies demonstrated that the rats exposed to RPFS exhibited intact intestinal tracts; however, the BBFS-treated rats demonstrated intestinal alterations characterized by abnormal microvillus architectures, with short and dense or long and slender features, in addition to the sparse presence of vesicles near the brush border membrane. BBFS administration did not significantly affect glucose absorption. However, significant decreases were observed in water and electrolyte absorption compared with the uptake of the controls. In conclusion , raw Beldia beans distorted jejunum morphology and disturbed hydroelectrolytic flux. KEY WORDS: electrolyte transport glucose transport phytohemagglutinin small intestine morphology white kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

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Journal of Medicinal Food , Jan 8, 2016

Although kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lectin toxicity is widely known, its effects in the ... more Although kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) lectin toxicity is widely known, its effects in the gastrointestinal tract require further study. This investigation aimed to identify and characterize phytohemagglutinins (PHAs) in the small intestine and sera of rats following oral challenge with ground white beans. Twenty young, adult male rats were divided randomly into two groups of 10 animals each. The control group underwent gavage with a suspension of 300 mg of rodent pellet flour. The experimental group was administered a 300 mg Beldia bean flour suspension (BBFS). After 10 days of daily treatment, jejunal rinse liquid (JRL) and ileum rinse liquid and secretions, as well as sera, were collected. All biological fluids were screened for lectin reactivity using competitive inhibition ELISA, Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion, and immu-noelectrophoresis techniques. The results revealed the presence of immunogenic intraluminal PHAs 3-4 h after the oral intake of the BBFS in the JRLs as well as in the jejunal and ileal secretions; however, no PHA was detectable in the rat sera. Ingestion of raw Beldia beans may lead to interaction between PHAs and the mucosa of the small intestine, potentially resulting in an inflammatory response.

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Materials, Oct 21, 2016

Over the last decade, unexpected and sudden pavement failures have occurred in several provinces ... more Over the last decade, unexpected and sudden pavement failures have occurred in several provinces in South Korea. Some of these failures remain unexplained, further illustrating the gaps in our knowledge about binder chemistry. To prevent premature pavement distress and enhance road performance, it is imperative to provide an adequate characterization of asphalt. For this purpose, the current research aims at inspecting the chemistry, microstructure, thermal, and physico-rheological properties of two types of asphalt, namely petroleum asphalt (PA) and natural asphalt (NA). The binders were extensively investigated by using elemental analysis, thin-layer chromatography with flame ionization detection (TLC-FID), matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-fight mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy (RS), Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1 H-NMR), ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), penetration, softening point, ductility, and viscosity tests. The findings of this research have revealed the distinct variations between the chemical compositions, microstructures, and thermo-rheological properties of the two asphalts and provided valuable knowledge into the characteristics of the binders. Such insight has been effective in predicting the performance or distress of road pavement. This paper will, therefore, be of immediate interest to materials engineers in state highway agencies and asphalt industries.

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Key Engineering Materials, Dec 12, 2016

Up to date, no extravagant attempts have been made to use the vegetable oil-based polyols as reju... more Up to date, no extravagant attempts have been made to use the vegetable oil-based polyols as rejuvenator agents for aged asphalts. In this context, the nature and composition of these biodegradable products need to be identified and physicochemical properties of different nature of compounds need to be measured. Three different vegetable oil-based polyols designed as castor oil polyol, soybean flexible polyol, and soybean rigid polyol were characterized by FT-IR, TLC-FID, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR and by the determination of some usual characteristics such as acid value, hydroxyl value, iodine value, and viscosity. It is speculated that the soybean flexible polyol may serve as a potential rejuvenator for aged asphalts.

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Materials Chemistry and Physics, Mar 14, 2017

This paper deals with the poorly understood effects of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymer ... more This paper deals with the poorly understood effects of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymer on the bitumen performance. It focuses on determining the impact of various concentrations (e.g., 0, 4, 8, and 12 wt. %) of SBS on the attributes of two types of asphalt namely AP-5 asphalt and solvent deasphalting (SDA) pitch. The unmodified and modified binders were investigated in terms of their chemical compositions, microstructures, thermo-analytical behaviors, and physical properties. The intricate chemical compositions were evaluated by elemental analysis and thin layer chromatography-ionization detection (TLC-FID). Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were utilized to examine the microstructures. Whereas, thermal characteristics were evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The physical behaviors were monitored through the softening point, penetration, viscosity, and ductility tests. The findings showed that the blending of asphalt with different amounts of SBS resulted into different rheological behaviors. This was reflected from the difference in the SARA (i.e., saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes) compositions and colloidal instability indexes of the modified asphalts. SEM exhibited a continuous asphalt phase with distributed SBS particles, a continuous polymer phase with distributed asphalt globules, or two interconnected continuous phases. FT-IR, 1H 13C NMR, and XRD data revealed that the AP-5 asphalt and SDA pitch experienced a number of distinct structural changes. TGA/DSC studies determined the occurrence of diverse events during thermal treatment. It is concluded that the degree of SBS modification depends strongly on SARA composition and polymer content. If the polymers are molded at higher concentrations along with aromatics-rich SDA pitches, then the mixtures are found to be much more stable than those obtained with asphaltenes-rich AP-5 asphalts.

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