Quantum Tech Meets Civil Engineering

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Changes in selenium bioavailability in selenium

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INTRODUCTION This study explores how differing irrigation regimes and organic amendments shape selenium (Se) behaviour in naturally Se‑rich paddy soils. By comparing continuous flooding (CF) with alternating wet‑dry (AWD) cycles and evaluating cotton‑straw biochar (BC) versus sheep manure (SM) at two dosage levels, the work seeks to clarify why Se sometimes remains locked in soil and how it can be mobilised for healthier rice production. WATER‑MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES Switching from CF to AWD proved pivotal: periodic drainage not only elevated root‑surface iron‑plaque formation but also boosted rhizospheric affinity for Se. AWD further hastened the shift from weakly organic‑bound forms toward soluble and exchangeable fractions, creating a more plant‑available Se pool without relying solely on chemical inputs. ORGANIC AMENDMENTS AND RATES Amendment chemistry mattered. A modest 10 g kg⁻¹ SM dose maximised Se bioavailability—especially under AWD—while BC repeatedly suppressed it. Manure’s...
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Extremely Large Telescope Threatened by Energy Project in Chile

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  The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is renowned for its exceptional conditions for astronomical observation. Its clear, dark skies have attracted multiple world-class observatories. However, a proposed green energy megaproject threatens to disrupt these conditions. This project, backed by AES Andes, aims to construct an extensive energy infrastructure for hydrogen and green ammonia production. Its proximity to the Paranal Observatory, home to the European Southern Observatory’s Extremely Large Telescope, poses risks to astronomical research. Importance of the Atacama Desert for Astronomy The Atacama Desert is considered one of the best locations on Earth for astronomical studies. Its high altitude and minimal light pollution provide ideal conditions. The Paranal Observatory is a key facility in this region, which has become a hub for nearly 40% of the world’s ground-based astronomy. The area is expected to increase this capacity to 60% within the next decade. The Extremely Large...
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Failure mode dependent shear strength of unreinforced concrete brick masonry wall panels

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  INTRODUCTION This section introduces the purpose and significance of the study, emphasizing the need to evaluate shear strength in unreinforced concrete brick masonry wall panels under diagonal compression. EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM Details the methodology, including the variables tested—specifically, the bed-joint mortar mixing ratio—and outlines the process of fabricating and testing thirty masonry wall panel specimens. FAILURE MODES IDENTIFICATION Describes the five observed failure modes in the tested panels: diagonal tension, combined failure, bed-joint sliding, toe crushing, and non-diagonal failure, explaining the characteristics of each. SHEAR STRENGTH ANALYSI Presents a detailed discussion on how shear strength varied with each identified failure mode and highlights the dependency of shear performance on the mode of failure. COMPARATIVE EVALUATION WITH EXISTING CODES Compares the experimental results with existing masonry design code provisions, particularly focusing on shear...
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