The nuclear fuel that melted during the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011 is still being cooled by water. In this process, contaminated water containing radioactive substances such as cesium and strontium is generated. The total amount of radioactive pollutants released by the natural environment due to the nuclear accident in Fukushima in 2011 is estimated to be 900 PBq, of which 10 to 37 PBq for cesium. Radioactive cesium (137Cs) is a potassium analog that exists in the water in the form of cations with similar daytime behavior and a small hydration radius and is recognized as a radioactive nuclide that has the greatest impact on the environment due to its long half-life (about 30 years), high solubility and diffusion coefficient, and gamma-ray emission. In this study, alginate beads were designed using Prussian blue, known as a material that selectively adsorbs cesium for removal and detection of cesium. To confirm the adsorption performance of the produced Prussian blue, immersion experiments were conducted using Cs standard solution, and MCNP simulations were performed by modeling 1L reservoir to conduct experiments using radioactive Cs in the future. An adsorption experiment was conducted with water containing standard cesium solution using alginate beads impregnated with Prussian blue. The adsorption experiment tested how much cesium of the same concentration was adsorbed over time. As a result, it was found that Prussian blue beads removed about 80% of cesium within 10-15 minutes. In addition, MCNP simulation was performed using a 1 L reservoir and a 3inch NaI detector to optimize the amount of Prussian blue. The results of comparing the efficiency according to the Prussian volume was shown. It showed that our designed system holds great promise for the cleanup and detection of radioactive cesium contaminated seawater around nuclear plants and/or after nuclear accidents. Thus, this work is expected to provide insights into the fundamental MCNP simulation based optimization of Prussian blue for cesium removal and this work based MCNP simulation will pave the way for various practical applications.

Domestic nuclear power plants conduct radiological environmental impact assessments every year in accordance with the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC) notice. Among them, gaseous effluents are evaluated for their effects due to inhalation, external exposure in the air, exposure from ground surface deposits, food intake. In order to evaluate the impact of this exposure pathway, an evaluation point for each pathway must be selected. In the case of evaluation points, each country has different evaluation points. In the case of Korea, the evaluation point is calculated on the assumption that one lives 365 days a year at the EAB and consumes food from the nearest production area. In the case of the United States, external exposure and inhalation are evaluated at the site boundary or the nearest residential area, and food intake is evaluated by assuming that food produced in the nearest residential area or the nearest production area is consumed. Currently, the dose evaluation is optimized and selected so that EAB evaluation point for each site includes 16 direction evaluation points for each unit. In the E-DOSE60 program currently under development, the evaluation point was selected by calculating 16 direction x number of units without optimization. The food intake evaluation point was selected as the point that satisfies the minimum farmland area of the U.S. NRC NUREG-1301 and is the shortest distance from the site. The location of the production point from multiple units in included all 16 directions for each unit and quantity of evaluation points was optimized to satisfy the shortest distance. It can contribute to improving the reliability of the E-DOSE60 program currently under development by selecting new evaluation points for evaluating inhalation and external exposure evaluation and selecting optimized dose evaluation points for each site for evaluation by ingestion.

In South Korea, the replacement of steam generators began with Kori Unit 1 in 1995, and to date, 20 steam generators have been replaced and are currently stored in intermediate storage facilities. In the future, additional decommissioned steam generators may arise due to measures like the extension of the lifespan of nuclear power plants. In Korea, technological development for dismantling steam generators is underway, and there is no track record of actual dismantling. Although the replaced decommissioned steam generators are stored in intermediate facilities, for site recycling purposes, steam generators, which have relatively lower radiation doses compared to reactor heads and other primary equipment, should be prioritized for dismantling. While there are various specifications for steam generators, those dismantled and stored domestically are of the Recirculation Type. They can be classified into three types: the Westinghouse type WH-51 used in Kori Unit 1, the Fra-51B used in Han-ul Units 1 and 2, and the OPR-1000 used in Han-ul Units 3 and 4. The quantity of U-Tubes varies depending on the specification, but the radiation is concentrated in the primary side components, the U-Tube and Chamber. Since the parts related to the secondary side are not contaminated, they can be disposed of independently after classification. To dismantle a steam generator, it is of utmost importance to first create a scenario regarding where and how the dismantling will take place. Through the analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each scenario, the optimal timing, location, and cutting method for dismantling should be researched. Furthermore, based on those findings, the best scenario should be derived through an analysis of worker radiation exposure and dismantling costs. To achieve this, a 3D simulation software developed by Cyclelife Digital Solutions under the French EDF was utilized to conduct simulations based on different dismantling schedules and methods. As a result, the optimal scenario for dismantling the steam generator was derived.

The sustainability of the nuclear power industry hinges increasingly on the safe, long-term disposal of radioactive waste. Despite significant innovations and advancements in nuclear fuel and reactor design, the quest for a permanent solution to handle accumulating radioactive waste has received comparatively less attention. Conventionally, two widely recognized solidification methods, namely cementation for low and intermediate-level waste and vitrification for high-level waste, have been favored due to their simplicity, affordability, and availability. Recently, geopolymers have emerged as an appealing alternative, gaining attention for their minimal carbon footprint, robust chemical and mechanical properties, cost-effectiveness, and capacity to immobilize a broad spectrum of radionuclides, including radioactive organic compounds. This study delves into the synthesis of metakaolin-based geopolymers tailored for the immobilization of fission products like cesium (Cs) and molybdenum (Mo). The investigation unfolded in two key steps. In the initial step, we optimized the alkali content to prevent the occurrence of efflorescence, a potential issue. Remarkably, as the Na2O/Al2O3 ratio increased from 0.82 to 1.54, we observed significant enhancements in both compressive strength (11.45 to 27.07 MPa) and density (up to 2.23 g/cm3). This suggests the importance of careful adjustment in achieving the desired geopolymer characteristics. The second phase involved the incorporation of 2wt% of Cs and Mo, both individually and as a mixture, into the geopolymer matrix. We prepared the GP paste, which was poured into cylindrical molds and cured at 60°C for one week. To scrutinize the crystallinity, phase purity, and bonding type of the developed matrix, we employed XRD and FTIR techniques. Additionally, we conducted standard compressive strength tests (following ASTM C39/C39M-17b) to assess the stacking durability and robustness of the developed waste form, vital for storage, handling, transportation, and disposal in a deep geological repository. Furthermore, to evaluate the chemical durability, diffusivity and leaching of the GP waste matrix, we employed the ASTM standard Product Consistency Test (PCT: C 1285-02) and American nuclear society’s devised leaching test (ANS 16.1). It is noteworthy that the introduction of Cs and Cs/Mo in the GP matrix led to a reduction of more than 50% and 60% in compressive strength, respectively. This outcome may be attributed to the interference of Cs and Mo with the geopolymerization process, potentially causing the formation of new phases. However, it is crucial to emphasize that both developed matrices exhibited an acceptable normalized leaching rate of less than 10-5 g·m-2·d-1. This finding underscores the promising potential of the GP matrix for the immobilization of cationic and anionic radioactive species, paving the way for more sustainable nuclear waste management practices.

This study presents the synthesis, characterization, and utilization of marine macroalgae-derived bio-carbon catalysts (BC and KOH-AC) for the efficient conversion of waste cooking oil (WCO) into biodiesel. The biochar (BC) was produced through slow pyrolysis of macroalgal biomass, which was subsequently activated with potassium hydroxide (KOH) to produce a KOH-modified activated carbon (KOH-AC) catalyst. Advanced characterization techniques, including SEM, EDX, XRD, FTIR, and TGA, were used to examine the physicochemical characteristics of the catalysts. The synthesized catalysts were utilized to produce biodiesel from WCO, and the results revealed that the highest biodiesel yields, 98.96%, and 47.54%, were obtained using KOH-AC and BC catalysts, respectively, under optimal reaction conditions of 66 °C temperature, 12.3 M/O molar ratio, 130 min time, and 3.08 wt.% catalyst loading via RSM optimization. The kinetic and thermodynamic parameters, such as k, Ea, ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG, were determined to be 0.0346 min− 1, 43.31 kJ mol− 1, 38.98 kJ mol− 1, − 158.38 J K− 1 mol− 1, and 92.58 kJ mol− 1, respectively. The KOH-AC catalyst was recycled up to five times, with a significant biodiesel yield of 80.37%. The fuel properties of the biodiesel met ASTM (D6751) specifications, ensuring that it has excellent fuel characteristics and can be used as an alternative fuel.

프로바이오틱스 제품에 대한 수요가 지속적으로 증가하 고 있으며, Lactobacillus 균주가 가장 대중적인 프로바이 오틱스로 널리 사용되고 있다. 프로바이오틱스는 기준에 적합한 균수의 확보가 중요하며 제조원가나 시간 등을 낮 추기 위해 배양법의 개발이 필요하므로 Lactobacillus 생 산을 위한 배양 조건이 최적화되었다. 반응표면방법론에 의한 통계적 최적화에서 반응 변수에 영향을 미치는 독립 변수의 최적 조건은 Lactobacillus acidophilus의 경우 22.55 시간(배양시간), 25oC(배양온도), 3.41%(프리바이오틱스 농 도); Lactiplantibacillus plantarum의 경우 24시간, 30.86oC, 2.00%; Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus의 경우 66.67시간, 35oC, 3.41%이었다. Lactobacillus의 최적 배양조건은 예측 한 결과와 실제 결과가 밀접하게 일치하는 것을 확인하였 다. 이러한 데이터는 수율 높은 Lactobacillus를 생산하는 데 중요한 포인트를 제공할 것이다.

PURPOSES : A model for minimizing cutting loss and determining the optimum layout of blocks in pavements was developed in this study. METHODS : Based on literature review, a model which included constraints such as the amount, volume, overlap, and pattern, was developed to minimize the cutting loss in an irregular pavement shape. The Stach bond, stretcher bond, and herringbone patterns were used in this model. The harmony search and particle swarm algorithms were then used to solve this model. RESULTS : Based on the results of the model and algorithms, the harmony search algorithm yielded better results because of its fast computation time. Moreover, compared to the sample pavement area, it reduced the cutting loss by 20.91%. CONCLUSIONS : The model and algorithms successfully optimized the layout of the pavement and they have potential applications in industries, such as tiling, panels, and textiles.

Injection molding is a process of shaping resin materials by heating them to a temperature above their melting point and then using a mold. The resin material is injected into and cooled within the mold cavity, solidifying into the desired shape. The core and cavity components that make up the mold cavity are crucial elements for the precision molding in injection molding. In the case of precision mold production, the application of 5-axis machining technology is required to ensure high machining quality for complex shapes, and among these factors, the tool angle is a critical machining condition that determines the surface roughness of the workpiece. In this study, we aim to measure the surface roughness of the machined surface of KP4A specimens during machining processes with variations in the tool angle and analyze the correlation between the tool angle and surface roughness.

ars using diesel have always had problems with reducing exhaust fumes, and have been studied steadily in this regard. There were studies on the remanufacturing effect of DOC catalyst deactivated by diesel vehicle smoke reduction device, analysis of vehicle fire accident cases caused by damage to diesel vehicle smoke reduction device, and related studies on the remanufacturing effect of diesel vehicle smoke reduction device DPF. This study also developed an optimized system for complete combustion of smoke generated by institutions using diesel engines in low-temperature exhaust gases. The main systems to be developed are high-performance heaters, burner structures that can maintain ignition in exhaust flows, and exhaust flow control units that reduce exhaust gas backflow effects caused by diesel engines.

해양산업시설에서는 많은 종류의 유해물질의 배출 가능성이 존재하기 때문에 이에 대한 체계적인 대응체계가 필요하다. 그 중 연속자동 측정이 가능하면서 ppb 수준의 낮은 검출하한 (limit of detection:LOD)를 갖는 센서 구현은 매우 중요하다. 이를 위해 본 연구에서 는 활성탄소(carbon black)와 Indium tin oxide (ITO) 나노입자를 혼합한 film의 표면저항의 변화를 이용한 고성능 센서 제안 및 구현을 위해 성능인자를 최적화하였다. 센서 구조는 접촉 면적과 전극 간격을 최적화하였다. 접촉 면적이 증가하면 감도, LOD 성능이 향상되었으며 60 mm2에서 최적화되었다. 또한, 전극 간격은 접촉 면적을 일정하게 유지한 상태에서 변화시켰으며 센서 응답은 전극 간격이 감소함에 따라 증가하는 것을 확인하였다. 마지막으로 센서 표면에서의 유해물질의 잔류시간 증가를 위해 화학흡착제를 적용하였다. 화학흡착제는 유해 물질을 선택적으로 흡수할 수 있는 polyester계를 선택하였다. 그 결과 농도가 증가함에 따라 응답이 선형적으로 증가하여 센서로 활용이 가능한 것을 확인하였다. 이러한 3가지의 방법을 통해 센서를 제작하였을 때 액상 유해물질을 기존 센서의 LOD(89.9 ppb)와 비교 10~40 ppb 정도의 낮은 농도를 검출할 수 있는 센서를 구현하였다.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is currently the most commonly used microbial pesticide. In the previous study, Bt IMBL-B9 known for its high toxicity against Spodoptera exigua, S. frugiperda and Plutella xylostella was characterized. To develop novel biopesticide, optimization of culture medium is required for the cost-effective mass production for toxin production of IMBL-B9. Through experimental design by Plackett-Burman design, ingredients that significantly influenced the production of IMBL-B9's toxin were selected. Using these results, the novel culture medium for IMBL-B9 was developed and the toxin yield of IMBL-B9 was significantly increased than conventional media by using this medium. These results could be useful for the development of biopesticides.

Due to the concerns over their environmental and health impacts, there have been attempts for shift towards biorational pesticides from synthetic pesticides. Among them, plant essential oils have emerged as promising active ingredients. Due to the complex interactions among their constituents, the bioactivities of essential oils can vary depending on the compositions, which often undermine their stability in efficacy. Here, we present a model-based optimization approach to develop reliable rosemary oil-based biorational pesticide, against two-spotted spider mites, Tetranychus urticae Koch. The ecotoxicity against Daphnia magna and foliar phytotoxicity against Phaseolus vulgaris were also evaluated. Our quadratic models accurately predicted miticidal activity, ecotoxicity, and phytotoxicity. We aimed to maximize, minimize, and minimize these parameters, respectively. We employed seven multi-objective evolutionary algorithms in Matlab. Among them, the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II with adaptive rotation based simulated binary crossover (NSGA-II-ARSBX) performed best. We experimentally determined the thresholds for miticidal activity and phytotoxicity, based on the current approval process for agricultural pesticide products in Korea. After applying the thresholds, we validated the obtained viable solutions. Our study offers a novel framework to enhance the reliable and responsible use of essential oils as biorational pesticides.

참두메부추(Allium spirale Willd.)는 관상 및 식용식물로 서 가치가 높다. 그러나, 참두메부추의 육묘를 위한 생육조 건에 관한 연구는 부족한 실정이다. 본 연구는 육묘 플러그 셀 크기, 차광율 및 시비처리가 참두메부추의 유묘 성장에 미치는 영향을 조사하였다. 실험 결과, 플러그 셀 크기는 용 적이 가장 큰 105셀에서 생육이 가장 우수하였다. 생육지표 중 초장과 근장은 60% 차광처리에서 상대적으로 높게 측정 되어 생육이 우수하였다. 속효성 고형비료[DO-Peters(N:P:K= 20:20:20)는 셀 당 100mg을 시비했을 때 근수와 근장의 수치 가 가장 높게 조사되었으며, 속효성 액체비료 Peters(N:P:K= 20:20:20)는 8mL씩 주 2회 시비한 처리구에서 초장과 엽수 의 수치가 가장 높았다. 따라서 참두메부추 유묘의 초기 생육 에 있어서 속효성 고형비료는 100mg, 액체비료는 8mL를 주 2회 시비하는 것이 적절하였다. 참두메부추는 원예상토가 충 진된 105셀 플러그 트레이에 종자를 파종한 후 DO-PRO 100mg 또는 Peters 8mL를 주 2회 엽면시비하면서 60% 차 광조건에서 재배하는 것이 효과적이었다.

최근 우리는 Hg2+에 대한 높은 선택성을 가지며 Hg2+와 결합하여 밝은 녹색 형광을 보이는 tetraphenylethylene-bis(thiophen-2-ylmethyl)amine (TPE-BTA)의 착화합물(TPE-BTA-2Hg2+)의 구조를 밝혀내기 위해 시 간 의존적(time-dependent, TD) 밀도 함수 이론(DFT)을 이용하였다. 그러나 우리는 이 과정 속에서 Hg2+ 이온에 대한 모든 전자(all electron, AE) basis set인 x2c-TZVPPall만이 실험 스펙트럼에 가까운 흡수 및 형광 스펙트럼을 성공적으 로 재현한다는 것을 발견했다. 많이 알려져 있는 effective core potential (ECP) 기반인 LANL2DZ는 형광스펙트럼 계산 과 관련된 들뜬 상태의 구조 최적화 계산을 모두 실패했으며 또한, LANL2DZ는 첫 번째 들뜬 상태의 최적화 과정에서 너무 작은 형광 에너지를 제공했다. 이때 LANL2DZ는 리간드와 Hg2+ 사이의 거리가 증가함에 따라 빠르게 감소하는 HOMO-LUMO gap을 제공하는 반면, x2c-TZVPPall은 점진적으로 감소하는 안정적인 HOMO-LUMO gap을 보여줬다. 우리는 적어도 Hg2+ 이온을 포함하는 착화합물 시스템에서 ECP에서 발생하는 기하학적 문제들을 피하기 위해서는 모 든 전자 기본 세트를 사용하거나 새로운 ECP를 만들어야 된다고 조심스럽게 제안한다.

In a steam turbine system for nuclear power plant, the exhaust loss consists of leaving loss, hood loss, turn-up loss and restriction loss. The exhaust loss during rated power operation of steam turbine equipment is inevitable, but it can be optimized by several factors such as last stage blade length, condenser vacuum and steam velocity. In this paper the relationship between the exhaust loss and electrical output of domestic nuclear power plants was quantitatively evaluated, and ways to reduce this loss were considered.