In this study, biocomposite based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and lotus fiber (LF) was prepared. PLA was plasticized with 4 wt% of polyethylene glycol (PEG). The contents of LFs in the composites were 10, 15 and 20 %. Mechanical and thermal properties and morphology of the PLA/LF composites were investigated. The results showed that LFs significantly improved both tensile strength and elongation at break of the composites, but slightly decreased the thermal stability as compare to neat PLA. SEM analysis results showed that the LF has a rough surface and were well-dispersed in the PLA matrix at the content of 10 and 15 wt%.
In response to little known about the use of face masks for public transport passengers in developing countries, this study investigates the prevalence of using masks and using masks correctly together with influential factors. Using 570-passenger data collected on the whole bus network from 7 September to 3 October 2020 in Hanoi, the authors found that 100% of users wore masks; however, about 11% failed to wear masks correctly. As regards factors, passengers who are old, rarely ride by bus, take heavy luggage, travel with other(s) were more likely to use masks incorrectly. Having a health issue encouraged the correct use of masks. Attitudes towards the COVID-19 were significant factors. The higher levels of agreement with the acute danger of COVID-19 and the risk of infection from the public were involved in the higher likelihood of the correct mask wearing. Notably, over time with no community transmission of the coronavirus, the likelihood of incorrect use of masks was more inclined to increase. To address the wrong utilization of masks on buses, the role of ticket conductors in reminding and asking users using masks incorrectly should be enhanced. Additionally, authorities should issue messages and implement campaigns to encourage citizens to wear in public spaces on a regular basis, particularly when the adherence reduces over the time without community transmission of COVID-19. Although not covering all aspects representing the incorrect mask wearing, this study is one the first research on the incorrect use of masks, thus extending the literature on how public transport users respond the effects of COVID-19.
In this study, the co-polymer BF- g-LMA was successfully synthesized by grafting monomer lauryl methacrylate (LMA) onto bamboo fibers (BFs) using 2,2-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as an initiator. The grafting process was controlled by the monomer and AIBN concentrations, the reaction time and the temperature, and the optimal conditions were found to be [AIBN] = 0.04 mol/L, [LMA] = 1.0 mol/L, 180 min, and 75oC. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to investigate the characteristics of the BF- g-LMA product. The oil sorption capacity of the graft co-polymer was shown to be about 20.0 g oil/g sorbent.
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