• Journal of the Korean Electrochemical Society
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• v.25 no.4
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• pp.154-161
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• 2022

The carbon-neutrality induced by the global warming is important for the modern society. Hydrogen has been received the attention as a new energy source to replace the fossil fuels. Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, which convert the chemical reaction energy of hydrogen into electric power directly, are a type of eco-friendly power for future vehicles. Due to the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction and costly Pt catalyst in the cathode, the research related to the replacement of Pt-based catalysts has been vitally carried out. In this case, however, the performance is significantly different from each other and a variety of factors have existed. In this review paper, we rearrange and summarize relevant papers published within 5 years approximately. The selection of precursors, synthesis method, and co-catalyst are represented as a core factor, while the necessity of research for the further enhancement of activity may be raised. It can be anticipated to contribute to the replacement of precious metal catalysts in the various fields of study. The final objective of the future research is depicted in detail.

• Journal of Conservation Science
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• v.38 no.3
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• pp.217-233
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• 2022

The remains found in Geumcheok-ri, Gyeongju are located in close proximity to the Ancient Tombs in Geumcheok-ri, Gyeongju (Historic Site) which were built between the late 5th and early 6th centuries, and these tombs are known to belong to the powerful rulers of that area. Using metallurgical techniques, this study was conducted on the iron objects obtained from the excavated remains in Geumcheok-ri, Gyeongju which are presumed to have a close relation to the nearby ruins that played an important role in the growth of Silla. To identify differences in manufacturing techniques based on the purpose of the iron objects, eight objects were selected after classifying them by use and the microstructure and non-metallic inclusions were investigated. The analyses results confirmed that the manufacturing process involved forging iron with a high or low carbon content to produce a particular shape, and that the carburization process was applied to iron post forging a shape to increase its strength when necessary. The mechanical properties were improved by selectively applying the steelmaking method and the heat treatment technique considering the functions of the parts, and the low temperature reduction was applied to the smelting process. Furthermore, in comparison with the iron objects excavated from the remains located in the center of Gyeongju and its outskirts, it is confirmed that there is similarity in the smelting and manufacturing techniques between these objects.

• Ocean and Polar Research
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• v.45 no.3
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• pp.141-153
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• 2023

Biological pump processes generated by diatom production in the surface water of the Southern Ocean play an important role in exchanging CO₂ gas between the atmosphere and ocean. In this study, the biogenic opal content of the sediments was measured to elucidate the variation in the primary production of diatoms in the surface water of the Southern Ocean since the last glacial period. A piston core (COR-1bPC) was collected from the Conrad Rise, which is located in the Indian sector of the Southern Ocean. The sediments were mainly composed of siliceous ooze, and sediment lightness increased and magnetic susceptibility decreased in an upward direction. The biogenic opal content was low (38.9%) during the last glacial period and high (73.4%) during the Holocene, showing a similar variation to that of Antarctic ice core ΔT and CO₂ concentration. In addition, the variation of biogenic opal content in core COR-1bPC is consistent with previous results reported in the Antarctic Zone, south of the Antarctic Polar Front, in the Southern Ocean. The glacial-interglacial biogenic opal production was influenced by the extent of sea ice coverage and degree of water column stability. During the last glacial period, the diatom production was reduced due to the penetration of light being limited in the euphotic zone by the extended sea ice coverage caused by the lowered seawater temperature. In addition, the formation of a strong thermocline in more extensive areas of sea ice coverage led to stronger water column stability, resulting in reduced diatom production due to the reduction in the supply of nutrient-rich subsurface water caused by a decrease in upwelling intensity. Under such environmental circumstances, diatom productivity decreased in the Antarctic Zone during the last glacial period, but the biogenic opal content increased rapidly under warming conditions with the onset of deglaciation.

• Clean Technology
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• v.16 no.2
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• pp.132-139
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• 2010

The Cu-Mn mixed oxide catalysts with different molar ratios of Cu/(Cu+Mn) prepared by co-precipitation method have been investigated in CO oxidation at $30^{\circ}C$. The catalysts used in this study were characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), $N_2$ sorption, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and $H_2$-temperature programmed reduction $(H_2-TPR)$ to correlate with catalytic activities in CO oxidation. The $N_2$ adsorption-desorption isotherms of Cu-Mn mixed oxide catalysts showed a type 4 having pore range of 7-20 nm and BET surface area was increased from 17 to $205\;m^2{\cdot}g^{-1}$ with increasing of Mn content. The XPS analysis showed the surface oxidation state of Cu and Mn represented $Cu^{2+}$and the mixture of $Mn^{3+}$ and $Mn^{4+}$, respectively. Among the catalysts studied here, Cu/(Cu+Mn) = 0.5 catalyst showed the highest activity at $30^{\circ}C$ in CO oxidation and the catalytic activity showed a typical volcano-shape curve with respect to Cu/(Cu+Mn) molar ratios. The water vapor showed a prohibiting effect on the efficiency of the catalyst which is due to the competitive adsorption of carbon monoxide on the active sites of catalyst surface and finally the formation of hydroxyl group with active metals.

• Economic and Environmental Geology
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• v.55 no.6
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• pp.661-669
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• 2022

The need for miniaturization, high efficiency, and green energy resources as an energy storage device through the development of various electronic device has emerged. Accordingly, nanomaterials with excellent electrochemical properties, such as graphene and graphene hybrids, are attracting attention as promising materials. In particular, in the electric vehicle industry, cost reduction of secondary batteries is a key factor that can determine the spread of related industries, and it is most important to analyze R&D trends for battery material technology and respond to future technological development directions. Therefore, in this study, we tried to suggest a direction for R&D activities in the future by analyzing patent trends for graphene anode material technology for secondary batteries and deriving implications. As a result, in the case of anode material technology, the proportion of foreigners in the US and European patent markets was higher than in the Korean and Japanese patent markets, which means that the US and European marketability is high. In addition, Japanese applicants are filing high-level applications not only in the Japanese patent market but also in other countries suggests that Japan is leading the technology in this field. Lastly, the proportion of research institutes in the patent market of Korea and the US remains high compared to that of Japan and Europe, indicating that the commercialization of technology is still slow in those countries. Therefore research institutes and companies in Korea will have to establish their own strategies for developing and securing materials using the results of patent trends in major countries and major companies analyzed in this study.

• Journal of the Microelectronics and Packaging Society
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• v.30 no.4
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• pp.44-49
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• 2023

In the global pursuit of carbon neutrality, the rapid increase in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has led to a corresponding surge in the demand for batteries. To achieve high efficiency in electric vehicles, considerations of weight reduction and battery safety have become crucial factors. Copper and aluminum, both recognized as lightweight materials, can be effectively joined through laser welding. However, due to the distinct physical characteristics of these two materials, the process of joining them poses technical challenges. This study focuses on conducting simulations to identify the optimal laser parameters for welding copper and aluminum, with the aim of streamlining the welding process. Additionally, a Graphic User Interface (GUI) program has been developed using the Python language to visually present the results. Using machine learning image data, this program is anticipated to predict joint success and serve as a guide for safe and efficient laser welding. It is expected to contribute to the safety and efficiency of the electric vehicle battery assembly process.

• Journal of Korea Port Economic Association
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• v.39 no.2
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• pp.41-57
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• 2023

The drybulk shipping market has high freight rate volatility in the chartering market and various and complex factors affecting the market. In the unstable economic situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the BDI plunged due to a decrease in trade volume, but turned from the end of 2020 and maintained a booming period until the end of 2022. The main reason for the market change is the decrease in the available fleet that can actually be operated for cargo transport due to port congestion by the COVID-19 pandemic, regardless of the fleet and trade volume volatility that have affected the drybulk shipping market in the past. A decrease in the actual usable fleet due to vessel waiting at port by congestion led to freight increase, and the freight increase in charting market led to an increase in second-hand ship and new-building ship price in long-term equilibrium relationship. In the past, the drybulk shipping market was determined by the volatility of fleet and trade volume. but, in the future, available fleet volume volatility by pandemics, environmental regulations and climate will be the important factors affecting BDI. To response to the IMO carbon emission reduction in 2023, it is expected that ship speed will be slowed down and more ships are expected to be needed to transport the same trade volume. This slowdown is expected to have an impact on drybulk shipping market, such as a increase in freight and second-hand ship and new-building ship price due to a decrease in available fleet volume.

• Journal of the Korea Institute of Building Construction
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• v.23 no.6
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• pp.785-796
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• 2023

The adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance(ESG) practices in domestic construction firms is predominantly driven by major corporations. These companies not only publish reports on their ESG management but also engage in a meticulous process of identifying key issues and setting priorities. This process entails an in-depth evaluation of the severity of various issues and the gathering of insights from experts in the field. Interestingly, a comparative analysis of ESG assessments for construction companies, both domestically and internationally, reveals significant discrepancies in outcomes. These differences stem from the varied evaluation methodologies and criteria employed by different assessing bodies. Addressing this gap, our study proposes a suite of strategies aimed at bolstering ESG management within the construction sector. We advocate for enhanced policy support and financial backing, especially targeting small and medium-sized enterprises(SMEs) to facilitate their engagement in ESG practices. A critical step forward involves the standardization and transparent disclosure of ESG evaluation criteria, tailored to reflect the unique aspects of the construction industry. Moreover, the standardization and publication of ESG assessments for subcontractors are essential, equipping them with the necessary tools for effective ESG management and evaluation. Given the global nature of construction projects, particularly those commissioned by the European Union in regions like Africa and East Asia, adherence to ESG standards is imperative. Our long-term vision includes the development of a comprehensive database detailing ESG regulations and their impacts, segmented by region and country. This repository will serve as a valuable resource for companies venturing into international construction projects.

• Korean Chemical Engineering Research
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• v.62 no.1
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• pp.7-12
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• 2024

The durability of the catalyst support has a significant effect on the durability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). The accelerated durability evaluation of the catalyst support is performed at a high voltage (1.0 to 1.5 V), and the catalyst and ionomer binder in the catalyst layer are also deteriorated, hindering the evaluation of the durability of the support. The existing protocol (DOE protocol) was improved to find conditions in which the support, which is a durability evaluation target, deteriorates further. A protocol (MDOE) was developed in which the relative humidity was lowered by 35% and the number of voltage changes was reduced. After repeating the 1.0 ↔ 1.5 V voltage change cycle, the catalyst mass activitiy (MA), electrochemical active area (ECSA), electrical double layer capacity (DLC), Pt dissolution and particle growth were analyzed. Reaching 40% reduction in mass activity, the MDOE protocol took only 500 cycles, reducing the number of voltage changes compared to the DOE method and increasing the degradation of the carbon support by 50% compared to the DOE protocol.

• Journal of the Korea institute for structural maintenance and inspection
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• v.28 no.1
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• pp.53-60
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• 2024

Compressive strength in concrete has many affecting parameters and varies with exposure conditions. Although the concrete has same mix proportions, its properties are different with exposure conditions, and sea-environment can be classified into three groups such as tidal, atmospheric, and sea submerged region particularly. In this study, compressive strength was evaluated on 7-year-cured concrete and the results from previous equations (KDS, ACI, CEB, and JSCE) were compared with them. Furthermore the strength and carbonation progress were evaluated on concrete cured for 7 years exposed to three different sea environment. Three levels of w/c (water to cement) ratio (0.37, 0.42, and 0.47) and three different exposure conditions (tidal, atmospheric, and submerged) were considered. The results from wet-cured condition are all higher than those from the previously proposed equations, and the results from different sea exposure conditions (tidal, atmospheric, and submerged region) were lower than those from wet-cured condition. A reduction of strength was evaluated with increasing w/c ratio and the minimum strength was evaluated in the sea-submerged conditions. Several experimental constants applicable to the previous equations were obtained from regression analysis since the strength change with w/c ratios were not considered in those equations. Regarding carbonation depth with different exposure conditions, higher carbonation depth clearly was observed with increasing w/c ratios, and evaluated in the order of atmospheric, submerged, and tidal region. Considerable carbonation depth was observed in submerged and tidal region due to sulfate ion and dissloved carbon dioxide as well.