Wensheng Li, Yiding Zhang, Yanwei Xu, Guangming Jiao, Dunwen Zuo, Wenting Lu, Quanshi Cheng, Jiaqi Yu and Yajun Chen
This study aims to investigate the effect of post-treatment on anti-corrosion performance of Al coating on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V (TC4) fastener.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the effect of post-treatment on anti-corrosion performance of Al coating on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V (TC4) fastener.
Design/methodology/approach
The Al coatings with different layer structures were prepared on TC4 by middle-frequency and direct-current combined magnetron sputtering. The cross-sectional morphology and surface roughness of coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope. The corrosion resistance was evaluated by electrochemical method. The monolayer coating was post-treated by Alodine chemical conversion, Ar+ bombardment and a combination of two methods above.
Findings
The results show that the interfaces in bilayer and trilayer coatings reduce the defects. Ar+ bombardment reduces the corrosion current density, and Alodine chemical conversion leads to a higher pitting corrosion potential. The combined post-treatment has the highest polarization resistance.
Originality/value
The corrosion resistance of the Al coating is enhanced as the layer quantity increases. The combination of two post-treatments, Ar+ bombardment and Alodine chemical conversion, could achieve an overall improvement in corrosion resistance of Al coating.
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Zonghuo Li, Wensheng Yang, Xiaohong Liu and Hassan Taimoor
This paper aims to investigate the impact of retailer innovation investment and its spillover’s effect on competitive dual-channel supply chain pricing and optimization strategy…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the impact of retailer innovation investment and its spillover’s effect on competitive dual-channel supply chain pricing and optimization strategy, and explore the coordination mechanism considering decision maker’s bargaining ability.
Design/methodology/approach
The Cournot and Stackelberg game methodology are made use of for the duopoly decentralized and joint decision-making model. The bargaining theory with different negotiation ability was used to analysis the coordination mechanism. Then this paper validates the model by simulation techniques.
Findings
The results enlightened some interesting facts, the increase in innovation demand coefficient spur rise in channel pricing, innovation investment level, supply chain profit and consumer welfare. The rise in innovation spillover coefficient leads to increase in online channel pricing, supply chain profit and consumer welfare. Due to the innovation spillover effect, retailer has to maintain channel competitiveness either through low price or high innovation investment strategies. In addition, online channel pricing, supply chain profit and consumer welfare in joint decision-making scenario is greater than that of decentralized decision-making scenario, while the difference in retailer channel pricing depends on parameters value. The increase in retailer’s joint negotiation factor leads to decrease in channel pricing and innovation investment level. Furthermore, there existence of an optimal innovative investment cost sharing proportion threshold indicates the achievement of dual-channel supply chain coordination. A refinement equilibrium can be achieved through Robinstein bargaining game. A larger interest discount factor leads to decrease in profit.
Originality/value
The research provides a theoretical reference for dual-channel supply chain pricing and coordination strategy under channel competition environment. The research can develop innovative investment strategies for retailers and implement response strategies for manufacturers.
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Fei Zhong, Chunlei Zhang, Wensheng Li, Jingpin Jiao and Liqiang Zhong
Super304H steel is a new fine-grained austenitic heat-resistant stainless steel developed in recent years, and it is widely used in high temperature section superheater and…
Abstract
Purpose
Super304H steel is a new fine-grained austenitic heat-resistant stainless steel developed in recent years, and it is widely used in high temperature section superheater and reheater tubes of ultra-supercritical thermal power units’ boiler. Currently intergranular corrosion (IGC) has occurred in a few austenitic stainless steel tubes in ultra-supercritical units and led to boiler leakage. The purpose of this paper is to find a nondestructive method to quickly and easily detect IGC of austenitic stainless steel tube.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper uses the nonlinear characteristics of ultrasonic propagation in steel tube to detect the IGC of Super304H tube.
Findings
The experimental results show that the nonlinear coefficient generally increases sensitively with the degree of IGC; hence, the nonlinear coefficient can be used to assess IGC degree of tubes, and the nonlinear coefficient measurement method is repeatable for the same tube.
Research limitations/implications
A theory of how IGC would affect the ultrasonic signals and lead to a nonlinear response needs further research.
Practical implications
A nondestructive method to quickly and easily detect IGC is provided.
Social implications
Using ultrasonic nonlinear coefficient to assess IGC degree of tubes is a new try.
Originality/value
This paper provides a new way to test IGC.
Damasen I. Paul and James Uhomoibhi
The purpose of this paper is to systematically examine and draw attention to the potential benefits of solar power generation for access to and use of information and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to systematically examine and draw attention to the potential benefits of solar power generation for access to and use of information and communication technologies (ICT) aimed at sustainable development in emerging economies.
Design/methodology/approach
Electricity plays a crucial role in the development and use of ICT and in the process of striving to achieve sustainable development in emerging economies. It has been shown that electrical energy is intrinsically linked to economic, environmental and social dimensions of sustainable development. An extensive analysis of the major contribution of solar electricity in various sectors such as economic, social and environmental benefits is provided. The paper concludes with a discussion on current status of solar electricity in major emerging economies, their planning policies and strategies for promoting solar power generation for increased access to ICT by people and sustainable development of society.
Findings
The demand for electricity in residential, commercial and industrial sectors in developing countries (emerging economies) is likely to increase, both as a result of increase in population and expanding industrialization. It remains amongst others, a growing challenge for these nations to obtain and put in place reliable and secured electricity supplies, for accessing ICT and to work towards achieving sustainability. The important issues that must be considered and addressed for the successful implementation of solar electricity programs for sustainability and wellbeing in developing nations are pointed out.Practical implications – The paper shows that the problems of lack of qualified solar technicians and established Photovoltaic (PV) markets and business modes, renewable (solar) energy education have to be addressed. Other issues include appreciation of solar electricity as one of the major energy component, lowering initial cost of the PV technology, availability of finance mechanisms for customers, import tax exemption and regarding electricity as one of the basic needs like food, shelter and clothing. Overhaul of existing systems needs to take place in order to provide the means to deal with some of these issues.
Originality/value
Availability of power remains crucial for development in emerging markets. Solar electricity is of major interest for the energy sector in developing or emerging economies because it offers the possibility of generating renewable electricity using sunlight – a resource that is widely and freely available in most, if not all, developing countries. This paper raises awareness about this in a unique way and identifies problems faced by the sectors. To address some of these challenges without compromising the goal of sustainability and development, it is important that low carbon emitting electrical energy sources such as solar electricity are given high priorities by policy makers, industries and research and development institutions in emerging countries. Some innovative suggestions are provided for achieving this.
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Zonghuo Li, Wensheng Yang and Yinyuan Si
This paper investigates a dual-channel supply chain in which a manufacturer offers coupons in the online channel and the retailer in the offline channel. The optimal pricing and…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper investigates a dual-channel supply chain in which a manufacturer offers coupons in the online channel and the retailer in the offline channel. The optimal pricing and coupon promotion policies are explored, and the brand image under different promotion scenarios is studied.
Design/methodology/approach
Three differential game models, namely no coupon is offered, coupons offered by the manufacturer and coupons offered by the retailer, are constructed.
Findings
The results show that the manufacturer and retailer intend to conduct coupon promotions under a large coupon redemption rate. Coupon promotion derives a higher price and profit for the issuers, and the manufacturer can free-ride on the retailer's coupon promotion. The retailer's profit in the retailer-promotion scenario may be lower than that in the manufacturer-promotion scenario in some special conditions. Besides, price, coupon face value, brand image and profit increase over time. After multiple cycles game, the operational strategy evolves to an optimal equilibrium status.
Originality/value
This paper provides guidance and advice for dual-channel supply enterprises to implement joint pricing and coupon promotion strategies under multiple sales seasons.
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Wensheng Xiao, Qi Liu, Linchuan Zhang, Kang Li and Lei Wu
Bat algorithm (BA) is a global optimization method, but has a worse performance on engineering optimization problems. The purpose of this study is to propose a novel chaotic bat…
Abstract
Purpose
Bat algorithm (BA) is a global optimization method, but has a worse performance on engineering optimization problems. The purpose of this study is to propose a novel chaotic bat algorithm based on catfish effect (CE-CBA), which can effectively deal with optimization problems in real-world applications.
Design/methodology/approach
Incorporating chaos strategy and catfish effect, the proposed algorithm can not only enhance the ability for local search but also improve the ability to escape from local optima traps. On the one hand, the performance of CE-CBA has been evaluated by a set of numerical experiment based on classical benchmark functions. On the other hand, five benchmark engineering design problems have been also used to test CE-CBA.
Findings
The statistical results of the numerical experiment show the significant improvement of CE-CBA compared with the standard algorithms and improved bat algorithms. Moreover, the feasibility and effectiveness of CE-CBA in solving engineering optimization problems are demonstrated.
Originality/value
This paper proposed a novel BA with two improvement strategies including chaos strategy and catfish effect for the first time. Meanwhile, the proposed algorithm can be used to solve many real-world engineering optimization problems with several decision variables and constraints.
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Jing Huang, Jingxian Liu and Wensheng Yang
Inventory pledge financing (IPF) serves as an effective means to address the financial constraints faced by supply chains. This study develops an IPF system involving a bank, SMEs…
Abstract
Purpose
Inventory pledge financing (IPF) serves as an effective means to address the financial constraints faced by supply chains. This study develops an IPF system involving a bank, SMEs and a third-party logistics provider (3PL) to explore the impact of varying cost structures and regulatory environments, specifically the strategic interactions within IPF system before and after the blockchain implementation. Also, provides theoretical foundations for improving the overall efficiency of financing and advancing the application of blockchain technology.
Design/methodology/approach
An evolutionary game framework is employed to analyze the dynamics of financing behaviors before and after the blockchain implementation. Simulation methods are utilized to examine how different factors, including concealing costs, penalty structures and disposal prices, influence decision-making processes within IPF system.
Findings
Under IPF, the interactions of participants are shaped by asset management capabilities, reinvestment returns and penalties for fraud. As concealing costs increase, the likelihood of reaching a (loose regulation, compliant pledge) equilibrium rises. Post-blockchain implementation (IPFB), the equilibrium is influenced by default losses and compliance gains. Blockchain technology enhances regulation, effectively reducing fraud risks.
Originality/value
This study bridges significant gaps by offering a dynamic and behavioral perspective on IPF in the context of blockchain technology. Using an evolutionary game framework, the study uncovers how blockchain reshapes decision-making processes, mitigates fraud risks and enhances regulatory efficiency. By integrating cost structures and compliance incentives, it offers novel insights into behavioral shifts and systemic improvements in financing ecosystems.
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With the urbanization development in China, natural ecological environment and ecological environments in rural areas have been affected. Therefore, the characteristics and…
Abstract
With the urbanization development in China, natural ecological environment and ecological environments in rural areas have been affected. Therefore, the characteristics and classification of rural greenway were analyzed on the basis of eco economic model theory, the resources of ecological, cultural, recreational and industrial greenway planning were evaluated, and the structure characteristics of rural greenway network are analyzed. A mathematical model of space superposition analysis is constructed. Taking SunYea town of Feixian county in Shandong as the object, starting from the green road network space, greenway system, service facilities, transfer system and identification system and other aspects, the construction of the rural greenway was carefully planned. Practice has proved that rural greenway planning research has improved the scientific nature of the allocation of resources, and has a certain exemplary role for the construction of rural greenway network in similar areas.
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Zhijian Wang, Yin Wang, Lin Liu, Wengsheng Zhu, Jing Li, Yujie Zhao, Haijun Pang and Qilong Wu
The aim of this study is to first investigate the surface integrity of cylindrical rollers under grinding process and then design a reasonable superfinishing process that improve…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to first investigate the surface integrity of cylindrical rollers under grinding process and then design a reasonable superfinishing process that improve the anti-fatigue performance of cylindrical rollers by optimization of the surface integrity.
Design/methodology/approach
First, the white and dark layers produced by the grinding process is analyzed by microscope. Then, the influence of oilstone pressure on the stock removal, surface precision and crowned profile are explored. Finally, an optimal superfinishing process and a novel turnaround device are designed to improve surface integrity.
Findings
The experimental results show that as the oilstone pressure increases, the stock removal first increases and then remains stable. This hints that the stock removal of a single-time superfinishing process has an upper limit. In the current conditions, the maximum stock removal is 6 µm. Double-time superfinishing process and the turnover device can effectively eliminate the white and dark layers and improve the symmetric of roller profile. In addition, the surface precision is also improved.
Originality/value
The surface integrity of bearing rollers is very important to the application of industry field. The findings and the methods in the study can be helpful to improve the surface integrity of the bearing rollers.
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Wensheng Lin, Guangbin Wang, Yan Ning, Qiuwen Ma and Shuyuan Dai
Megaproject performance measurement (MPM) has received great attention in the project management community, but it primarily focused on the design of performance measures or…
Abstract
Purpose
Megaproject performance measurement (MPM) has received great attention in the project management community, but it primarily focused on the design of performance measures or frameworks. Yet, whether MPM utilization can improve megaproject performance and how project actors use MPM to improve megaproject performance is less well understood. This study aims to investigate whether and how the use of MPM can contribute to better megaproject performance.
Design/methodology/approach
Through the lens of the lever of control, this study conceptualizes MPM utilization as diagnostic use and interactive use. A holistic research model and related hypotheses integrating MPM use, project complexity and megaproject performance were established. The model was validated using a partial square-structural equation modeling method.
Findings
Based on 214-megaproject data collected through a questionnaire survey in China, the results show positive effects of diagnostic use and interactive use on megaproject performance. Both, however, have substitutional interaction effects. The moderating results suggest that the higher project complexity weakens the positive effects of MPM utilization on megaproject performance.
Originality/value
This study advances megaprojects performance measurement and management literature by validating the value of MPM utilization on performance. It also presents practical implications for project managers to improve performance by appropriate MPM utilization.