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Article
Publication date: 3 January 2017

Libu Manjakkal, I. Packia Selvam, S.N. Potty and R.S. Shinde

Aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films exhibit interesting optoelectronic properties, which make them suitable for fabrication of photovoltaic cell, flat panel display electrode…

372

Abstract

Purpose

Aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films exhibit interesting optoelectronic properties, which make them suitable for fabrication of photovoltaic cell, flat panel display electrode, etc. It has been shown that aluminium dopant concentration and annealing treatment in reduced atmosphere are the major factors affecting the electrical and optical properties of aluminium doped zinc oxide (AZO) film. Here, the authors report the structural, optical and electrical properties of aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films fabricated by dip coating technique and annealed in air atmosphere, thereby avoiding hazardous environments such as hydrogen. The aim of this paper was to systematically investigate the effect of annealing temperature on the electrical properties of dip-coated film.

Design/methodology/approach

Aluminium-doped ZnO thin films were prepared on corning substrates by dip coating method. Aluminium concentration in the film varied from 0.8 to 1.4 mol per cent. Films have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy and Hall measurements. The deposited films were heat treated at 450-600°C, in steps of 50°C for 1 h in air to study the improvement in electrical properties. Films were also prepared by annealing at 600°C in air for durations of 1, 2, 4 and 6 h. Envelope method was used to calculate the variation of the refractive index and extinction coefficient with wavelength.

Findings

The electrical resistivity is found to decrease considerably when the annealing time is increased from 1 to 4 h. The films exhibited high transmittance (>90 per cent) in the visible range, and the optical band gaps were found to change as per the Moss–Burstien effect, and this was consistent with the observed changes in the carrier concentration.

Originality/value

The study shows the effect of annealing in air, avoiding hazardous reduced environment, such as hydrogen, to study the improvement in electrical and optical properties of aluminum-doped zinc oxide films. Envelope method was used to calculate the variation of optical constants with wavelength.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 34 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

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Article
Publication date: 16 December 2021

Aparna Bhatia and Megha Mahendru

The purpose of this article is to evaluate revenue efficiency performance of life insurance companies in India. The study also compares if private or public insurance sector is…

375

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to evaluate revenue efficiency performance of life insurance companies in India. The study also compares if private or public insurance sector is more “revenue efficient”. Furthermore, the study determines the nature of return to scale (RTS) and identifies the leaders and laggards amongst insurance companies operating in India.

Design/methodology/approach

Revenue efficiency is calculated by employing data envelopment analysis – a non-parametric approach, on a data set of 24 insurance companies over the period 2013–2014 to 2017–2018.

Findings

The empirical results suggest that life insurance companies in India could generate only 34.4% of revenue, which is very less than what these are expected to generate from the same inputs. Majority of life insurance companies operating in India are operating at decreasing return to scale (DRS). There is a reduction in leaders and the highest proportion of companies is falling in the category of laggards.

Originality/value

As per the best knowledge of researchers, no empirical work has been carried out with respect to measuring the revenue efficiency of Indian insurance companies. The current study appropriately fills the gap by not only calculating the revenue efficiency scores of insurance companies in India but also provides insights into the causes of revenue inefficiencies. It also gives implications for efficient and effective management of insurance companies.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 29 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Publication date: 14 December 2023

Adetayo Olaniyi Adeniran, Ikpechukwu Njoku and Mobolaji Stephen Stephens

This study examined the factors influencing willingness-to-repurchase for each class of airline service, and integrate the constructs of service quality, satisfaction and…

Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing willingness-to-repurchase for each class of airline service, and integrate the constructs of service quality, satisfaction and willingness-to-repurchase which were rooted on Engel-Kollat-Blackwell (EKB) model. The study focuses on the domestic and international arrival of passengers at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport in Abuja. Information was gathered from domestic and foreign passengers who had post-purchase experience and had used the airline's services more than once. The survey data were obtained concurrently from arrival passengers at two major international airports using an electronic questionnaire through random and purposive sampling techniques. The data was analysed using the ordinal logit model and structural equation model. From the 606 respondents, 524 responses were received but 489 responses were valid for data analysis and reporting and were obtained mostly from economy and business class passengers. The study found that the quality of seat pitch, allowance of 30 kg luggage permission, availability of online check-in 24 hours before the departing flight, quality of space for legroom between seats, and the quality of seats that can be converted into a fully flatbed are the major service factors influencing willingness-to-repurchase economy and business class tickets. Also, it was found that passengers' willingness to repurchase is influenced majorly by service quality, but not necessarily influenced by satisfaction. These results reflect the passengers' consciousness of COVID-19 because the study was conducted during the heat of COVID-19 pandemic. Recommendations were suggested for airline management based on each class.

Details

Innovation, Social Responsibility and Sustainability
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83797-462-7

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Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 19 December 2024

Stewart Selase Hevi

This paper investigates the mediated-moderation roles of adhocracy culture (ADC) and business ecosystem learning between user experience (UX) and continuous use of block-chain…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper investigates the mediated-moderation roles of adhocracy culture (ADC) and business ecosystem learning between user experience (UX) and continuous use of block-chain technologies (CUBT) among freight firms in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

A stratified sampling technique was used in the selection of 327 employees of freight firms. This paper employs regression analysis to examine the hypothesized paths.

Findings

The findings show that ADC moderates the partially mediated role of the business ecosystem between technology UX and CUBT.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the cross-sectional design adopted, the study findings do not reflect the changing dynamics of employees of freight firms over a long period of time in Ghana.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first in maritime transport literature to explore the relevance of BCT among freight firms in an emerging economy.

Details

Maritime Business Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2397-3757

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Article
Publication date: 24 September 2024

Ataullah Kiani

This paper delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) across diverse sectors, notably project management. It examines the potential of AI to…

482

Abstract

Purpose

This paper delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) across diverse sectors, notably project management. It examines the potential of AI to revolutionize project management processes within entrepreneurial ventures, where agility, efficiency and innovation reign supreme.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a comprehensive analysis, this study navigates the intersection of AI and entrepreneurial project management. It meticulously dissects the opportunities AI presents, the hurdles it introduces and the optimal strategies for harnessing its capabilities effectively. Drawing insights from complexity theory, a framework is crafted to delineate AI’s capacity to substitute human involvement, elucidating key considerations for transitioning to a digitally-driven paradigm in entrepreneurial project management.

Findings

The study underscores AI’s potential to augment project management processes significantly, particularly in fostering agility and innovation. However, challenges persist, necessitating adept navigation to maximize AI’s benefits. The framework delineates the extent to which AI can supplant human roles, offering crucial insights into the digital transformation of entrepreneurial project management.

Practical implications

Practitioners are equipped with valuable guidance on leveraging AI effectively, enhancing organizational agility and performance. Understanding the implications of AI adoption fosters informed decision-making in the realm of project management.

Social implications

The integration of AI in entrepreneurial project management signifies broader societal shifts toward digitalization and automation. Insights from this study contribute to navigating these transformations, fostering greater resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurial endeavors.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel perspective on the intersection of AI and entrepreneurial project management, shedding light on unexplored terrain. By drawing on complexity theory, it advances a nuanced understanding of AI’s implications, paving the way for future research avenues in this dynamic field.

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 12 December 2023

Marcello Cosa, Eugénia Pedro and Boris Urban

Intellectual capital (IC) plays a crucial role in today’s volatile business landscape, yet its measurement remains complex. To better navigate these challenges, the authors…

3248

Abstract

Purpose

Intellectual capital (IC) plays a crucial role in today’s volatile business landscape, yet its measurement remains complex. To better navigate these challenges, the authors propose the Integrated Intellectual Capital Measurement (IICM) model, an innovative, robust and comprehensive framework designed to capture IC amid business uncertainty. This study focuses on IC measurement models, typically reliant on secondary data, thus distinguishing it from conventional IC studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analysis across Web of Science, Scopus and EBSCO Business Source Ultimate in February 2023. This yielded 2,709 IC measurement studies, from which the authors selected 27 quantitative papers published from 1985 to 2023.

Findings

The analysis revealed no single, universally accepted approach for measuring IC, with company attributes such as size, industry and location significantly influencing IC measurement methods. A key finding is human capital’s critical yet underrepresented role in firm competitiveness, which the IICM model aims to elevate.

Originality/value

This is the first SLR focused on IC measurement amid business uncertainty, providing insights for better management and navigating turbulence. The authors envisage future research exploring the interplay between IC components, technology, innovation and network-building strategies for business resilience. Additionally, there is a need to understand better the IC’s impact on specific industries (automotive, transportation and hospitality), Social Development Goals and digital transformation performance.

Details

Journal of Intellectual Capital, vol. 25 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1469-1930

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Article
Publication date: 2 September 2021

Lei Fu, Hui Li, Li Lin, Qingyuan Wang, Qi Fan, Xinjie Huang, XiuLan Li, Sheng Lai and Lifei Chen

Most supersonic aircraft were manufactured using 2A70 aluminum alloy. The purpose of this paper is to study the corrosion mechanism and fatigue behavior of an aircraft in a…

350

Abstract

Purpose

Most supersonic aircraft were manufactured using 2A70 aluminum alloy. The purpose of this paper is to study the corrosion mechanism and fatigue behavior of an aircraft in a semi-industrial atmospheric corrosive environment, alternating effects of corrosion and fatigue were used to simulate the aircraft’s ground parking corrosion and air flight fatigue.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, the aluminum alloy samples were subjected to pre-corrosion and alternating corrosion-fatigue experiments. The failure mechanisms of corrosion and corrosion fatigue were analyzed using microscopic characterization methods of electrochemical testing, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Miner’s linear cumulative damage rule was used to predict the fatigue life of aluminum alloy and to obtain its safe fatigue life.

Findings

The results showed that the corrosion damage caused by the corrosive environment was gradually connected by pitting pits to form denudation pits along grain boundaries. The deep excavation of chloride ions and the presence of intergranular copper-rich phases result in severe intergranular corrosion morphology. During cyclic loading, alternating hardening and softening occurred. The stress concentration caused by surface pitting pits and denudation pits initiated fatigue cracks at intergranular corrosion products. At the same time, the initiation of multiple fatigue crack sources was caused by the corrosion environment and the morphology of the transient fracture zone was also changed, but the crack propagation rate was not basically affected. The polarization curve and impedance analysis results showed that the corrosion rate increases first, decreases and then increases. Fatigue failure behavior was directly related to micro characteristics such as corrosion pits and microcracks.

Originality/value

In this research, alternating effects of corrosion and fatigue were used to simulate the aircraft’s ground parking corrosion and air flight fatigue. To study the corrosion mechanism and fatigue behavior of an aircraft in a semi-industrial atmospheric corrosive environment, the Miner’s linear cumulative damage rule was used to predict the fatigue life of aluminum alloy and to obtain its safe fatigue life.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 68 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

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Article
Publication date: 24 September 2024

Sagar H. Mane, Tushar S. Wagh, Gotan H. Jain and Madhavrao K. Deore

The study aims to develop an inexpensive metal oxide semiconductor gas sensor with high sensitivity, excellent selectivity for a specific gas and rapid response time.

33

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to develop an inexpensive metal oxide semiconductor gas sensor with high sensitivity, excellent selectivity for a specific gas and rapid response time.

Design/methodology/approach

This study synthesized Zn2SnO4 nanostructures using a hydrothermal method with a 1 M concentration of zinc chloride (ZnCl2) as the zinc source and a 0.7 M concentration of tin chloride (SnCl4) as the tin source. Thick films of nanostructured Zn2SnO4 were then produced using screen printing. The structural properties of Zn2SnO4 were confirmed using X-ray diffraction, and the formation of Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles was verified by transmission electron microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyse the surface morphology of the fabricated material, while energy dispersive spectroscopy provided insight into the chemical composition of the thick film. These fabricated thick films underwent testing for various hazardous gases, including nitrogen dioxide, ammonia, hydrogen sulphide (H2S), ethanol and methanol.

Findings

The nanostructured Zn2SnO4 thick film sensor demonstrates a notable sensitivity to H2S gas at a concentration of 500 ppm when operated at 160°C. Its selectivity, response time and recovery time were assessed and documented.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitations of this research on metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors include poor selectivity to specific gases, limited durability and challenges in achieving detection at room temperature.

Practical implications

The nanostructured Zn2SnO4 thick film sensor demonstrates a strong response to H2S gas, making it a promising candidate for commercial production. The detection of H2S is crucial in various sectors, including industries and sewage plants, where monitoring this gas is essential.

Social implications

Currently, heightened global apprehension about atmospheric pollution stems from the existence of perilous toxic and flammable gases. This underscores the imperative need for monitoring such gases. Toxic and flammable gases are frequently encountered in both residential and industrial environments, posing substantial hazards to human health. Noteworthy accidents involving flammable gases have occurred in recent years. It is crucial to comprehend the presence and composition of these gases in the surroundings for precise detection, measurement and control. Thus, there has been a significant push for extensive research and development in diverse sensor technologies using various materials and methodologies to monitor and regulate these gases effectively.

Originality/value

In this research, Zn2SnO4 nanostructures were synthesized using a hydrothermal method with ZnCl2 at a concentration of 1 M for zinc and SnCl4 at a concentration of 0.7 M for tin. Thick films of nanostructured Zn2SnO4 were then fabricated via screen printing technique. Following fabrication, all thick films were subjected to testing with various toxic gases, and the results were compared to previously published data. The analysis indicated that the nanostructured Zn2SnO4 thick film sensor demonstrated outstanding performance concerning gas response, gas concentration, selectivity and response time, particularly towards H2S gas.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 45 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

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Article
Publication date: 5 May 2020

Tintu Jose Manicketh and Mannancheril Sebastian Francis

The paper aims to investigate the feasibility of developing natural dyes from the barks of Araucaria columnaris and leaves of Macaranga peltata, Averrhoa bilimbi. The paper also…

233

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate the feasibility of developing natural dyes from the barks of Araucaria columnaris and leaves of Macaranga peltata, Averrhoa bilimbi. The paper also deals with the application of natural dyes in textile coloration.

Design/methodology/approach

Dye extraction was carried out using the aqueous method. The dyeability of the aqueous extract was assessed on cotton, silk and polyester yarns using different mordants (alum, acetic acid, CuSO4, lemon juice) and without mordant. UV–Visible spectral analysis and pH of different natural dyes were determined. Percent absorption, K/S values, CIELab values and fastness properties of the selected dyed yarns were also assessed.

Findings

The percentage values for dye exhaustion differed with various mordants. The K/S values were found to be influenced by the addition of mordants. Different hues were obtained with the usage of different mordants. Fastness results exhibited good to very good grades.

Research limitations/implications

The effective application of aqueous method of dye extraction in the study avoids solvent toxicity. The current results proved that the dyeing could be achieved at room temperature for different yarns (cotton, silk, polyester). At present, no report exists in the literature of research work on the extraction of natural dyes from the leaves of M. peltata, A. bilimbi and their dyeing potential on cotton, silk and polyester.

Practical implications

The present work offers new environment-friendly dye as well as simple dyeing method. Barks and leaves are promising sources of dye. Enormous availability of barks and leaves avoids the exploitation of the plant parts for the extraction of natural dyes.

Originality/value

The important feature of this study was the effective dyeing of natural and synthetic fibers at room temperature. The novel sources of natural dyes would contribute significantly to the existing knowledge of dyeing, and the natural dyes reduce the environmental impact of synthetic dyes.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 32 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

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Article
Publication date: 9 November 2015

Apostolos Giovanis, Pinelopi Athanasopoulou and Evangelos Tsoukatos

The purpose of this paper is to extend the well-established nomological network of service quality-relationship quality-customer loyalty by introducing service fairness – a…

7027

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend the well-established nomological network of service quality-relationship quality-customer loyalty by introducing service fairness – a distinct service evaluation concept. Specifically, the study aims to investigate the impact of service fairness on relationship quality as a complementary to service quality driver, and the direct and indirect effect of service fairness on customer loyalty in the presence of service quality and relationship quality in a no failure/recovery effort service context.

Design/methodology/approach

A telephone survey of a random sample of 408 customers of auto repair and maintenance services was implemented using a structured questionnaire with established scales. Data were analyzed with partial least squares path methodology, a structural equation modeling methodology.

Findings

Interactional fairness is the most important formative determinant of customers’ overall fairness perception, followed by procedural and distributive fairness. Relationship quality measured as a higher order construct, made of satisfaction; trust; affective and calculative commitment, is the main determinant of customer loyalty. Also, it partially mediates, along with service quality, the relationship between service fairness and customer loyalty and fully mediates the effect of service quality on customer loyalty. Finally, service fairness has the highest overall effect on customer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is industry-specific and this may affect generalizability of findings. Also, the cross-sectional design adopted does not reflect temporal changes.

Practical implications

Interactional fairness is of utmost importance to customers of the investigated industry. So, customers should be fairly treated at every point of contact. Also, service quality is heavily affected by service fairness. Thus, fair service leads to high-perceived service quality. Third, service quality affects customer loyalty only through relationship quality. Only when service quality is coupled by long-term quality relationships, signs of customer loyalty appear. Finally, service fairness influences customer loyalty mainly through service and relationship quality and has the highest overall effect on customer loyalty. So, fairly treating customers is crucial for developing long-term relationships that lead to customer loyalty.

Originality/value

The role of service fairness in the service quality-relationship quality-customer loyalty chain is investigated and using a higher order construct for relationship quality.

Details

Journal of Service Theory and Practice, vol. 25 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2055-6225

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