#Carbon Steel Shell

[sramfact]

Activated carbon filters are porous materials used to purify air and water by trapping and removing contaminants through adsorption. They consist of activated carbon particles with a high surface area, providing an effective means of removing impurities such as chemicals, gases, odors, and organic compounds. 

The activated carbon filters market size is projected to grow from USD 267 million in 2020 to USD 330 million by 2025, at a CAGR of 4.4%. The activated carbon filters market has been gaining significance with its major application in water treatment and air purification; the duo being its major applications. Stringent government regulations implying directives for industrial water pollution and quality drinking water have led to fast growth and acceptance of activated carbon filter products. These regulations are being implemented in the regions of Europe and North America and also gaining importance in the APAC region. The policies and regulations implemented by different authorities for supporting the use of activated carbon filters are attributing to the growth of activated carbon filters market.

[lsunstreakerl]

ok this might be just for an audience of two, but I've got 1.4k of car brainfucking. if that didn't make sense, it will if you read it. this is, uh, max/rb20. max pov. mature.

The RB20 and Max have not been getting along. It was hard, going from Rocky last year to... this, but Max has been trying. He's been spending time in the car, trying not to force anything from it, but-

The car won't drive. Max needs to be able to get along with the RB20- needs it to be as passionate as he is, as dedicated as he is, as ferocious as they both need to be to beat the McLarens.

They need to be a unit.

Which is why he's here after hours, slipping into the garage. It's not technically against the rules, but it's not a guaranteed performance boost either- it works better for some drivers than others.

It's always worked for Max.

His socks are quiet against the cold floor as he makes his way over to the shipping container the RB20 is currently in. It gets warmer as he approaches, a discordant hum starting up under his skin.

The containers have digital keypads, so Max swings the large metal door shut, setting the lock outside to read BUSY.

He has to use his phone's flashlight to get closer, the buzz building up under his skin.

"I know, I know."

He turns the flashlight off, setting his phone on the ground away from the car. They get twitchy about other electronics- Rocky would lag Max's phone every time he tried to check it in the cockpit.

He slides into the drivers seat, metal cool against his skin as he settles in the seat. The mechanics had left the cocoon seat installed like he'd asked, so it's somewhat comfortable.

His legs extend out in front of him, bare calves brushing against carbon fiber as he tugs his shirt off, tossing it out of the car. Skin is good- the more of it in contact with the car, the stronger the connection.

It's not widely used, because most drivers can't handle it.

Max isn't most drivers.

He can feel the energy of the RB20 buzzing around him, pushing into his skin and his mind, heavy on the edge of his awareness. The RB20 wants to take, but it's graceless, and Max needs to find a balance.

The shell of the seat is cold against his bare skin, and he flinches, pushing through it to press against the seat, shivering as he adjusts.

The RB20 curls around his senses, pressing in on his brain in concern before he feels the car start to warm around him, raising the temperature until it's comfortable against his skin.

His fingers fumble for the seatbelt straps, carefully clicking them into place, and he gasps as they tighten, pushing him further into the seat.

There will be marks on his chest by the time he leaves, marks of the RB20's ownership.

Max sighs, head tilting back as he closes his eyes, trying to relax as much as possible.

He's no expert on the actual magical logistics behind opening up his mind for the car- F1 drivers operate off of instincts instead of education, and he tries to mentally envision his brain as a box, carefully opening the lid for the RB20-

Which is as graceless as always, smashing into Max's brain in an overwhelming rush, and he jerks against the straps, eyes snapping open wide. It's too much, carbon fiber and steel, bolts and screws and fragile human inside of him, and his fingers are digging into his metal casing, thrashing around, and he's so hungry, wants to understand-

The RB20 withdraws, and Max slumps back down, shivering. There's a thin layer of sweat chilling his skin, and he's rattled, confused and disoriented.

A small noise escapes his mouth, head falling back as he stares up at the dark ceiling. The straps relax across him briefly, the RB20 weaving apologetically against his mind, letting him piece himself back together.

It takes him a few minutes, panting raggedly in the car as he tries to remember who he is, what he's doing. He's still feeling wobbly when he tries again, but the RB20 is gentle this time, slinking inside his head, resting its heavy presence over his senses.

Max loses track of his physical body in the seat, too distracted by the endless press of the RB20. It's difficult to describe, to nonracers, but Senna had explained it best,

'There is room in the mind for only one, and when the car comes in... it becomes full quickly.'

Max is feeling it now, the overwhelming sensation creeping up on him as the RB20 pushes deeper, exploring what makes Max who he is- finding his motivation and his passions.

The RB20 pulls on his victory in '21, and Max thrashes against the belts as he feels it again, the rush of endorphins and the elation at winning, all in a few split seconds before the RB20 moves on.

His victory in '22- Max is straining in the seat, eyes wide as he stares at nothing, consumed by the memories- he can feel the cold champagne running down his skin, the alcohol in his veins.

The memory of his first win in '16 has his muscles tensing, the euphoric feeling, the way he'd truly synced with the RB12.

The RB20 sinks into his Silverstone crash, and Max's high plummets, tears beading at his eyes as he feels the pain again, the fear before he'd been encased in metal, shifting to protect him as he'd gone flying at the wall.

His fingers are scrabbling at the metal of the cockpit, slippery with sweat as his mouth drops open in a silent wail, limbs locking up.

The RB20 drops the Silverstone memory, curls around Max's feelings from his entire '23 season, the high from the dominance, Rocky-

It pauses on the memories of Rocky, and Max gasps as the RB20 peers deeper, pulling on all the times Max did this with Rocky, the way the car had liked to slowly peruse through his more explicit memories, always dropping them before they got good.

Rocky had been an asshole- it would wind Max up endlessly with his own memories, and then flash through every orgasm he's had, leaving him a drooling mess in the cockpit.

The RB20 is wrapping around these memories, curling curiously in Max's mind as he trembles, muscles still tense in the seat, fighting against the belts.

It's him and the RB20, him and every victory he's ever him, him and every crash, him and every championship- the RB20 shoves him headlong into his memories of the championship celebrations last year, letting Rocky have its time before the mechanics got their turn, the way Max had been useless by the end of it, face pressed against the side of the car.

The RB20 flashes Max through his memories of every orgasm from the night, and then does it again, and Max is wailing in the seat, fingers clutching at the metal as he comes, head tossed back, hair damp against his skin with sweat.

It feels like it goes on forever, the RB20 slinking through the rest of his mind carefully, letting Max recover.

He's panting, slumped back into the metal behind him. The RB20 curls around his mind again, presses against him. It feels more understanding, more determined.

It's not sure if it can give Max what he needs- but it's willing to try, if it means having the euphoric highs Max has had with his other cars.

He pats the side of the cockpit weakly.

"Thanks mate. I am going to stay for a minute, I think."

Max can't feel his legs- or any of him, really, he's more jelly than he is Max.

The straps unclip around him, zipping back into their spots as Max tries to get his breathing back in order, remember who he is.

When he finally staggers out of the RB20, he has to grip the sides so he doesn't fall, wobbling when he stands. He grabs his phone, crouches to press his lips to the nose of the car.

"We will win it. You and me, yes?"

The buzz of the RB20 feels more settled in his skin. It's an acknowledgment, an agreement- he and the RB20 will drag themselves to that championship by themselves if they have to.

The RB20 has its struggles, the kind most drivers wouldn't be able to get over, the kind that could end a championship run in its tracks.

Max is not most drivers.

He will not let the RB20 be most cars.

[myman0rexic]

An Undergraduate Forensic Viewing of Like Minds (2006) Train Scene

Pray for me. Pray for yourself. We are one now.

Contents:

1. Introduction 2. What We Know 3. The Investigation 4. Bibliography for Nerds

1. Introduction

Some justifications first.

I'm an undergraduate stem student obssessed with many topics, including forensic studies. I just finished a complete course about forensic chemistry/tecnology/law in uni and yes, I'm a big failure of a person and was thinking about applying some of the things I've learned into Like Minds' train scene. To clarify, I'm not an experienced profissional of the field. It is to say, I've never worked in such area and had just one or two significant interaction with said profissionals and students. My considerations won't be 100% accurate, clearly, and I may mistake or ignore fundamental data and studies. I intend solely to present some interesting facts and rapidly discuss their applicability here.

Take everything I say with large grains of salt, this is mostly for my enjoyment.

Let's kill Nigel!

2. What We Know

Figure 1. Visual diagram of forensic ballistics' main areas of study. Some will be mentioned here. [1]

2.1. Ballistics - Anatomy of a Discharge

Ballistics is a science field divided in three main ramifications: (1) Interior Ballistics, (2) Exterior Ballistics and (3) Terminal Ballistics. (1) studies the mechanism of a gun discharge, (2) studies the trajectory and behavior of a projectile once it is ejected from a firegun and (3) studies the damage and overall interaction of the projectile with a material structure (biological or not). [1] Ballistics experts (chemists, some engineers, law experts, etc) ocuppy themselves with many things regarding firearms, a field of work that recuries much study and understading of multiple fields of knowledge such as spectroscopy, law and general legislation, physical properties of chemical coumponds, solid state science, material science, industry production series and others. Some areas of chemistry and biology are of great importance and are commonly used complementarily.

We then understand what bullets are. The component that effectivally hits the target in these scenarios is the actual "projectile".

Figure 2. Simple structure of shotgun (left) and rifle (right) ammunition. [2]

In simple terms, they're composed by (1) a shell that holds everything together, (2) some coumpond responsable for the liberation of gas via chemical reaction and (3) some way to give the heat needed for said reaction to occur. There is a whole field of study and production of these killing objects that seeks out to balance some of their properties in different scenarios by the armamentist industry in oder to supply endless applications that constantly develops new shapes and components, so going through it all would be impossible. Regardless, all ammunition is classified by size, called "gauge" in shotguns, and "caliber" in rifles and handguns. [2]

Case: [in shotguns] It is a small cilindrical piece made out of a tube of common plastic or sturdy paper (the red/blue/colored part) that holds the multiple projectiles to be fired (shots), with a metallic base (the primer) composed of brass (copper and zinc) or steel (iron and carbon). [in rifles] The case is called cartridge case, and it is composed by brass as well. [2]

Powder (or propellant): They are usually Nitroclelullose (handguns), Nitroclelullose/Nitrogliceryn (rifles) and Nitroclelullose/Nitrogliceryn/Nitroguanidyn (long range rifles) [3]. Oversimplifying, organic molecules containing nitro groups (present in Nitroclelullose, Nitrogliceryn and Nitroguanidyn) are really unstable; these chemical groupaments are highly reactive in face of many scenarios. If enough energy is provided (by heating, or mechanical contact and pertubation) they will enter a decompostion process, breaking and reacting with their own bonds spontaneously, liberating gases such as H2O, N2 and CO2. These mentioned gases are much more stable compared to the original organic coumponds, so the atoms will "prefer" to form these species if the conditions are set (thus, a spontaneous reaction). This increases pressure inside the shell and forces the projectile to leave violently as a result of gas expansion. [4] Shotgun powder is composed by potassium nitrate, charcoal and sulfur; a mixture known as "dark powder", and it is separated from the shot (projectiles; multiple balls of steel, lead, rubber, or really anything) by a small component called "wad". The same principle explained in the decomposition of organic nitro-compounds apply for the potassium nitrate present here, but only in the presence of sulfur (easier to melt and ignite), providing the necessary heat for potassium citrate to generate the oxygen needed, resulting in charchoal's combustion. [2]

Primer: Primers are a fundamental part of any ammunition, and yet a simple one. When a firing pin from the firegun hits them, sparkles and heat will be produced, which gives the propellent all requiered energy for the chemical reaction. It is, when the action lever is pulled, the firing pin is tensioned by a spring inside the gun. When the trigger is pulled, this firing pin hits rapidly the ammunition's primer (metallic base). [5]

Figure 3. Shotgun firing pin scheme. [5]

The discussion of differents powders/propellents (like smokeless powder), projectiles shapes (in rifle cases) and firegun types (other than rifle and shotgun) is being ignored.

All that must be known is: the trigger pulling promotes a mechanical impact against the ammunition base, which promotes chemical reactions that liberate great amounts of gases, increasing the pressure inside the case, what will pushes the projectile(s) inside foward with great speed.

2.2. The Shotgun - Means to An End

We now restrain ourselfs to the firegun. Let us take a look on the following images:

Figures 4-9 (left to right, top to bottom). Shotguns' takes from Like Minds (2006).

Main considerations:

The shotgun used by Mr. Colbie isn't the same one used by Nigel/Alex in the train scene. We can clearly point that by the number of barrels, i.e., two barrels contaning two projectiles (killing Nigel's mother and father without visible activation) in its first appearance, and only a single one in its second appearance. Maybe this has been discussed before.

It is not a narrative problem if we have the eyes for it. Nigel's father possesses two shotguns, so we assume Nigel went back and grabbed the single-barrel one before going after Alex.

The reloading thing would be important during the bedroom scene, between the moments where John shoots his wife and Alex picks up the gun from the floor. There would be no way of aciddentially shooting Mr. Colbie wihout Alex pulling the action on the second barrel (how would he know which one of the barrels were loaded and why Mr. Colbie would only activate one of the two barrels? It appears he wasn't using the shotgun to merely scare his family). Perhaps the double barrel shotgun used has some individual firing feature, perhaps.

Also, the single barrel shotgun is the same one used by John when Alex and Nigel first accessed the hidden baseament together. This isn't of great relevance though.

After a compulsive research in gun sale sites and over 900 models of shotguns (no joking), I'm inclined to believe that Nigel's single barrel shotgun is an Era 410 GA Single Shot Break Action. My conclusions is based on Figures 6 and 9, the shotgun's best takes throughout the entire movie. The important details are: a single barrel, with rounded trigger guard that ends exactly where the wooden stock begins, by a rounded break action lever with squarish shape that leans horizontally to the receiver and a rectangular like forestock. Other smaller details are: the receiver's top shape and really curved back, the declination present on the stock and the three screws' position and size.

The engraved symbols on Colbie's receiver are sculpted by a profssional artist called "engraver", by client's demand. Therefore, these sigils are decorative and probably carry some meaning to the shotgun's real owner, so they aren't a discrepancy to worry about. The frame I acquired (Figure 9) is of poor quality and there's nothing I can read in there besides one or two letters. I've tried to watch the movie in other internet sites but it didn't help that much.

It took me forever, but here it is [6], [7]. There are also youtube videos revewing this gun in the Extra section.

Figures 10-13. Era 410 GA Single Shot Break Action Shotgun. [6]

Note: @laurelwen successfully identified Nigel's firegun as a Boito .410. The text engraved on the shotgun's receiver in Figure 9, in fact, reads "Boito". Check it out on this post. Look up Extra Bibliography No. 7 in the shotgun's section as well.

Shotguns are a really old type of gun from the 16th century. Their mechanisms were adjusted during following centuries, but they remain still to date with an extremely simple way of function. Today, there are many types, including the single-shots and hand shotguns, much different than what was originally conceived. A break shotgun is capable of "breaking in half" for reloading, exposing its ejector/extractor and barrel interior just as many other fireguns. [8]

Figure 14. Break action shotgun anatomy. [9]

The Era 410 GA possesses a specially long length of barrel, which helps projectiles to achieve maximum velocity before leaving. Still, it appears from my research that this is a second hand model with low price, low demand and little historical relevance. This is the type of gun that would be bought mainly by collectors and enthusiasts; however, because of its little weight, good shooting and minimalist elegance, this firegun is not one of the worst models out there for small amateur animal hunting.

A 410 (10.41 mm, one smallest shot diameter in the market) with great pattern of dispersion after the discharge isn't bad, so at medium distances most projectiles would succesfully hit the center of a target. This is not very good when we're talking about a point-blank discharge directly at Nigel's face.

3. The Investigation

Figure 15. "If they had any evidence, I wouldn't be talking to you, would I?"

Authorities arrive at the dark, umid and isolated train tracks. Immediatly, a shocking scene: a desperate young man holding in his arms the corpse of a dead boy, disfigured. They transport the living witness away from the scene, but the lying unknown and deformed body is extracted for further autopsy. Detective McKenzie takes over with Forensic Psychiatrist Sally to interrogate the surviving suspect, Alex Forbes.

After the initial approach and first hours of interaction, the case takes an unexpected form. The question now is, did Alex Forbes shoot the now identified Nigel Colbie alone, or did Colbie participated in his own killing to incriminate Alex?

The police wastes its time thinking about common scenarios described in the book. They know the victim, the place where it happened, the exact gun used and the main suspect. Everything comes down to answering the presented question. Psycological attempts of extracting an answer from Alex by closed sessions with Sally, it is, to try and build a thrust and comfort relation with the suspect in order to obtain a confession would be protocol. But Alex clearly is beyond that, and if we must say, he's in control the whole time.

All that is left for the police is to attach towards factual evidences. Now, we describe two fundamental forensic elements of a gun-related crime.

Gunshot Residues (GSRs)

GSRs are one of the strongest evidences when it comes to forensic studies. Being composed of burnt and unburnt organic or inorganic particles from the explosive primer from the shell, propellant and possibly fragments of the bullet, cartridge case, and even the firearm, they frequently contain elements such as Sb (antimony), Ba (barium), Pb (lead) or Zn (zinc), Cu (cooper), and Ti (titanium). Their deposition concentrates away from the firearm into the shooter's (arms, face, hands and chest mainly) and victim's (region of contact mainly) bodies. GSRs can be found in nearby surfaces as well, such as the floor, ceiling, walls, objects, clothes, etc. The direct deposition of these residues must be carefully used as evidence because of its irregular distribution on the surrounding enviroment after the discharge. Thus, the main factors are always the chemical composition and concentration spots. Shotgun shots (the small spherical projectiles) are usually made up of lead or lead/antimony, but some ammunitions use steel, zinc-plated steel, tungsten and bismut in substitution (So, in our case, we can expect more significant ammounts of antimony/lead or zinc, iron and carbon). [10], [11]

A 410 ammunition is classified as "birdshots" ammunition, used for hunting said animals. The little diameter of projectiles allows the carrying of multiple projectiles inside one shell, facilitating the execution of small moving targets. The potential damage mustn't be underrated, though.

The aforementioned substances/elements can be detected, investigated, and quantified using microscopy, chemical analytical and chemometric methods, such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF). All these techniques are extensively known and applied in uncountable areas of science for identification and characterization of solid materials. In a nutshell, these methods revolve around the interaction of matter with radiation (such as X-Rays) and the energy absorved/emitted by it after the interaction. The SEM is a most usefull analysis for it can provide real images of micro structures and particles present above any surface, like clothings, skin, fifregun metal and others, if properly prepared. [10]

It is important to understand that these identification methods are of extreme precision and sensibility, it is, minimal concentrations can and will be detected inneviatbly.

Figure 16 and 17. (Left) Image of gunshot powder residues dispersed in the air after discharge. Top left and (Right) images refer to SEM "photos" of extremely small particles of GSRs that can be chemically analyzed. [12], [13]

What about the lifespan of these residues? In long terms, the shooter's trigger hand (right hand) seems to contain most of the residues that persist for a fair amount of time after the discharge. [10] Unffortunately, the mentioned study occured in controlled enviroments, which is not the case. Another work [14] concludes that most GSRs are lost after two-four hours from the discharge. Considering the fast action from authorities described in the movie, we can basically ignore this factor and consider other variables.

Figure 18. "All I can tell you, was that the heavens were falling. And the sound... it was incredible. It was like the Gods were rejoicing for what was done."

Backspatter Material (BM)

Figure 19. Distribution of Forward Spatter and Backspatter caused by a shot at a biological target. [1]

We hereby exclude the forward spatter, it is, the biological material projected fowards with the projectile (to the back of Nigel's head), for its little relevance, since we're not questioning the type of gun or ammunition used; we assume that Alex is describing a resonable scenario that matches with the actual damage done to Nigel. There are no consistent reasons to question this since everythings seems to support Alex's description of this.

BM comes from the combined forces of several interacting wound and ballistics effects. The collapse of the wound cavity and balance of resulting overpressure, the stream of liquid and tissue particles accelerated along the lateral surface of the projectile, the shot's contact and ejection of muzzle gases out of the entry wound from the powder cavity... Every surrouding surface must be investigated, that is, even the shotgun barrel's interior. This small ambience is fairly protected from external pertubations and houses BM from the shot. Considering the poximity with Nigel's face, we can almost assure to encounter biological material with DNA inside. The bellow mentioned study cites another work where a 9 mm pistol cointaned backspatter material from test targets even at a distance larger than 1 meter, much greater then the few inches that separated Nigel's face from the barrel. [1]

Matter of fact, this biological material can pass by processes of Organ Tissue Identification (OTI) and Body Fluid Identification (BFI) if Nigel's identity was at question, or if we desire to understand more profundly the projectile's damage caused to his skull/face/tissue. [1]

Figure 20. "None of what I've heard makes him a murderer."

So, how can we gather this up to develop the investigation? Utilizing only these two fundamental concepts, we can make a few assumptions.

The big question here is if whether or not Nigel's hands were present by Alex's when the trigger was pulled, which would lead the police to support or oppose Alex's narrative. Chemical examination with organic solvents (which won't cause preocupant harm to a dead body) and analytical methods could immediatly point to the presence of GSRs or biological/non biological BM. If Nigel's hands were elevated in his head level (or superior) in the instant of discharge, trace amounts of discussed metals/elements coming from the firing mechanism and ammunition, as weel as little to some biological material, would definetly be found in his hands and forearm skin since there was no clothing covering. Any substance found in his hands/forearm could be microanalytical compared to the ones present in Alex's hands, clothes and face as well. This could be done with really small samples of fresh skin. On the other hand, if Nigel's arms were lowered at the instant of discharge, we could still expect the presence of GSRs in his arms (yet, in less amounts) but the abssence of backspatter materials most certantly. This would classify Alex as a murderer without excuses, even if he alleged that Nigel asked for it.

In the scenario where Alex discharges at Nigel from a great distance (configuring simply murder) we could note the abssence of GSRs in every part of Nigel's body except for the targeted region (perhaps if they were at a greater distance to each other) and the presence of these GSRs in Alex, but in much higher concentration.

But the enviromnent's conditions are of primordial importance. Nigel and Alex stand in an open area, with considerable wind, heavy rain and gravel soil. The heavy rain could simply carry way much of these residues from Alex's body, clothes and Nigel's hands as well. Most GSR would probably be lost to those conditions and its deposite upon the soil's surface would be extremely hard to be quantitatively analized due to unknown degrees (elevated) of impurities and diverse materials and dirt present, but qualitative tests would still be valid.

The knowledge about the victim, crime scene, shooter, exact firegun and time of the tragic event allied with the fast action from authorities saves most of the police's efforts on identifiying and tracking down evidences. However, what remains still offers a challenge. The best evidence here, GSRs left by the discharge, would be of questionable help considering the presence of heavy rain in sight. Still, analitical quantities of them, if detected in Nigel's skin by proper chemical and espectroscopy-related analysis, can be used to comparate probable ammounts present in Alex's clothing and skin (despite the difficult of such). With that being said, the police would find themselves in a much more complex case of muder/assisted suicide, and further evidences and information about their relationship and recent whereabouts would ineviatably need to be extracted from external sources (such as parents, school's employess, close friends and students). Despite all this, Alex's final acting of removing Susan's body and disapearing from sight (not to mention the card left in Sally's car) immediatly sustent his guilt in a case where he already was the main suspect and basically confirmed criminal. And you know, breaking into a cemetery and extracting a corpse from its grave is definetly worth of some jail time. The Colbie's House Murder would certainly incriminate Alex for homicide as well, and the current Brotherhood's little political influence wouldn't prevent him from this destiny, as it appears. But the case is not over.

Further evidences were to be discussed, if it was not for the dissapearing of Alex Forbes.

The subject now roams unknowingly through England with mysterious intents. Its participation on the described case still lacks formal arguments and the Court should now approve his arrest warrant and search decree. Alex Forbes will most probably live to perpetrate the deluded fantasy responsable for the death of three young students in order to carry the sacred holy burden of an ancient templar bloodline.

Yet, we pray.

Who's the enemy now? We are.

4. Bibliography

[1] Euteneuer J, Courts C. Ten years of molecular ballistics-a review and a field guide. Int J Legal Med. 2021 Jul;135(4):1121-1136. doi: 10.1007/s00414-021-02523-0. Epub 2021 Feb 16. PMID: 33594457; PMCID: PMC8205864. [2] https://spotterup.com/how-ammo-works/ [3] Serol, M.; Ahmad, S.M.; Quintas, A.; Família, C. Chemical Analysis of Gunpowder and Gunshot Residues. Molecules 2023, 28, 5550. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28145550 [4] Guanchao Lan, Jing Li, Guangyuan Zhang, Jian Ruan, Zhiyan Lu, Shaohua Jin, Duanlin Cao, Jianlong Wang, Thermal decomposition mechanism study of 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one (NTO): Combined TG-FTIR-MS techniques and ReaxFF reactive molecular dynamics simulations, Fuel, Volume 295, 2021, 120655, ISSN 0016-2361, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2021.120655. [5] https://www.hunter-ed.com/national/studyGuide/How-the-Shotgun-Shoots/201099_92815/ [6] https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/era-410-ga-single-shot-break-action-shotgun-131-c-8284a72a5b [7] https://firearmland.com/item/1079096107 [8] https://www.letsgoshooting.org/resources/articles/shotgun/meet-the-shotgun/ [9] https://www.atf.gov/firearms/firearms-guides-importation-verification-firearms-ammunition-and-implements-war-top-break [10] Virginie Redouté Minzière, Céline Weyermann, Organic and inorganic gunshot residues on the hands, forearms, face, and nostrils of shooters 30 min after a discharge. Science & Justice, Volume 64, Issue 5, 2024, Pages 557-571, ISSN 1355-0306, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scijus.2024.08.002. [11] Joshua Hallett, Michael Stolk, Michael Cook, K. Paul Kirkbride, Examination of gunshot residue arising from shotgun cartridges containing steel, bismuth or tungsten pellets. Forensic Science International, Volume 306, 2020, 110096, ISSN 0379-0738, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.110096. [12] https://www.bka.de/EN/OurTasks/SupportOfInvestigationAndPrevention/ForensicScience/PhysicalEvidence/Homicide/GunshotResidue/gunshotresidue_node.html [13] Francesco Saverio Romolo, Pierre Margot, Identification of gunshot residue: a critical review. Forensic Science International, Volume 119, Issue 2, 2001, Pages 195-211, ISSN 0379-0738, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0379-0738(00)00428-X. [14] Jalanti, T & Henchoz, P & Gallusser, Alain & Bonfanti, M.S.. (1999). The persistence of gunshot residue on shooters’ hands. Science & justice : journal of the Forensic Science Society. 39. 48-52. 10.1016/S1355-0306(99)72014-9.

Extra

random materials, take a look

1. Chemistry of Explosives (book pdf) https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-4612-0589-0_5 2. ERA 410 GA video 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGWm2aaWVAc&ab_channel=SteadFastCourage 3. ERA 410 GA video 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2S16C5Y6lxY&ab_channel=esquad540 4. Quick discussion about Smokeless Powder on r/guns https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/1tawwm/things_i_want_you_to_know_about_smokeless_powder/#:~:text=Because%20of%20something%20called%20oxygen,and%20temperatures%2C%20leading%20to%20fouling. 5. A little on the kinetic energy of specific projectiles (everything applies here as well) https://nodoroc.com/d/node/20 6. A little more on ammunition Caliber https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/munitions/bullets2-types.htm#google_vignette

For the sake of archieving, here are some shotguns I've separated to double check during my research until the Era 410 GA appeared. Curious enough, number 7, called "boito", appears to be another common name given to Era 410. Woops.

1. https://www.bidsquare.com/online-auctions/north-american-auction/victor-break-action-single-shot-12-ga-shotgun-4988316 2. https://www.crescentcityauctiongallery.com/auction-lot/stevens-arms-.410-gauge-single-shot-break-open-sh_9F84899825 3. https://palmettostatearmory.com/jts-shotguns-single-shot-410-bore-26-single-shot2.html 4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Stoeger-Coach-Gun.jpg 5. https://www.gunsinternational.com/guns-for-sale-online/shotguns/harrington-richardson-shotguns/h-r-bay-state-20-ga.cfm?gun_id=103017190 6. https://www.bankstowngunshop.com.au/product/12g-unknown-model-unknown-single-barrel-blued-wood-28-barrel-poor-condition/ 7. https://www.bankstowngunshop.com.au/product/410-boito-model-reuna-28-single-barrel-blued-timber-3-chamber-sec9622/ 8. https://www.bankstowngunshop.com.au/product/12g-harrington-richardson-model-1908-single-32-barrel-blued-wood/ 9. https://www.bankstowngunshop.com.au/product/12g-norinco-model-std-single-barrel-30-shotgun-great-condition/

10. https://www.bankstowngunshop.com.au/product/12g-raick-freres-model-unknown-single-barrel-30-shotgun-belgium/ 11. https://gritrsports.com/henry-repeating-arms-single-shot-12ga-shotgun-h015-12 12. https://www.tmguns.co.uk/store/p1418/Tomas_Agote%2C_Eibar_12G_single_hammer_ejector_shotgun.html 13. https://www.tmguns.co.uk/store/p1659/Vanguard_Game%2FVermin_.410_hammer_ejector_single_barrel.html 14. https://www.tmguns.co.uk/store/p1290/Astra_Ciclope_12G_single_barrel_hammergun.html 15. https://www.tmguns.co.uk/store/p1883/Rossi_Game%2FVermin_20G_single_hammer_ejector_shotgun.html 16. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Stevens_511_Shotgun.jpg 17. https://www.gunsinternational.com/guns-for-sale-online/shotguns/harrington-richardson-shotguns/harrington-richardson-44-smoothbore.cfm?gun_id=102901609

thank you for reading

[alarwynnwhispers]

✒️ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱɪʟᴇɴᴄᴇ ᴛᴏᴏᴋ ʜᴇʀ - ᴇᴘɪʟᴏɢᴜᴇ: ʜᴏᴍᴇ ɪɴ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴛᴜʀɴ ✒️

ꜰ1 x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ | ʟᴀɴᴅᴏ ɴᴏʀʀɪꜱ ᴀᴜ | ᴀɴɢꜱᴛ + ᴅʀᴀᴍᴀ + ʀᴇᴅᴇᴍᴘᴛɪᴏɴ

⚠️ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢꜱ:

ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ʙʀᴇᴀᴋᴅᴏᴡɴ & ɢʀɪᴇꜰ

ᴛʜᴇᴍᴇꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴀʙᴀɴᴅᴏɴᴍᴇɴᴛ & ʀᴇɢʀᴇᴛ

ᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʟ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ᴅɪꜱᴛʀᴇꜱꜱ

ᴄʀʏɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ᴘʜʏꜱɪᴄᴀʟ ᴄᴏʟʟᴀᴘꜱᴇ

ᴛʜᴇᴍᴇꜱ ᴏꜰ ꜰᴏʀɢɪᴠᴇ��ᴇꜱꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴠᴇʀʏ

Thick Air of Arrival

The private jet descended through cotton-candy clouds into the airport near the Grand Prix venue, wheels kissing the runway with quiet urgency. Lando’s fingers danced on the armrest in rhythm with his heartbeat; (Y/n) sat beside him, rife with calm anticipation. Behind them, Zak and a few McLaren staff watched in pleased silence, the cabin humming with subtle triumph, not just of a return, but of a fragile healing.

As they collected their belongings, McLaren’s logistics team whisked (Y/n) to the suite before Lando even stepped onto European soil. The suite sat high above the paddock, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pit lane and grandstands, sleek and suffused with light. A welcome note lay on the marble table:

“For (Y/n): A place to remember. Love, M.”

Hearts flipped by the gesture, she found herself wanting to cry again, but these were tears polished with hope, not pain.

Friday: FP1—A Quiet Beginning

That afternoon, the air along the paddock shimmered with the low hum of tension, taut with expectation. Mechanics moved with precise urgency, radios crackled with clipped commands, and somewhere in the distance, an engine revved, a thunderous prelude to what was coming. The atmosphere was charged, electric.

Lando walked hand in hand with (Y/n), their fingers intertwined in quiet defiance of the chaos around them. She was nestled between Zak and Oscar at the edge of the McLaren hospitality stand, surrounded by a sea of orange and steel, but his world had narrowed to just her.

His grip tightened slightly, not possessive, but anchoring. Reassuring.

As if the moment itself might slip through his fingers if he didn’t hold on tight enough.

When it was time, he broke away with a final squeeze, striding toward the car as engineers opened the garage like gates to a battlefield. He slid into the cockpit, the carbon shell familiar yet always a little colder on high-pressure weekends. As the HANS device clicked around his neck and the mechanics tightened his belts, he found her again.

Just for a second—

Eyes locked across the distance.

He didn’t smile. He didn’t wave. He simply mouthed three words, almost like a vow:

“I need you.”

And she, steady as ever, nodded back. Her smile was soft, but unshakable, anchored in a kind of trust that made the earth feel less prone to collapse.

The lights went green.

The car jolted forward, engines roaring into life around him, a mechanical symphony of velocity and control. He shifted through the gears with instinctive ease, each downshift smooth, every apex kissed with precision. To the telemetry team, his laps would later read as “measured,” even “restrained.”

But he knew better.

This wasn’t restraint born of caution.

This was restraint born of devotion—

To her.

To them.

To something greater than a scoreboard.

Every lap was a vow. Every braking zone a conversation.

His heart didn’t race for the podium. It raced for what waited behind the garage doors.

When the session ended and he returned to the pit lane, his breath was steady but his hands trembled just slightly with adrenaline. Helmet off, curls damp against his forehead, he searched the garage, and there she was.

Waiting.

Her smile met him like sunrise after storm.

“You did great,” she said softly, as if anything louder might shatter the sacred stillness between them. Then, gently, “Just keep going.”

And for the first time in weeks, he felt like he could.

Not for points. Not for legacy.

But for her.

For the quiet kind of love that steadied his pulse even at 300 kilometers an hour.

Friday: FP2—Slip and Regain

The second session carried sharper teeth. The sun hung higher now, casting harsh shadows across the tarmac, and the asphalt simmered beneath the weight of hotter tyres, heavier fuel loads, and tighter margins. Engineers buzzed over radios, tension stacking with every lap.

Lando knew the tempo had changed the moment he crossed the pit exit line. There was less grace here, more grit. This session demanded more of him. And he offered it willingly.

But midway through the run, just as he carved into turn seven, a long, tightening left-hander, he felt it: a lurch in the chassis, subtle but sharp. Understeer. Unexpected. He adjusted quickly, instinct flaring. The steering wheel jerked beneath his hands, and the tyres screamed in protest, rubber cooking against the heat-glazed track.

He missed the apex by inches. A whisper of rubber flirted with the barrier, close enough to feel it, not enough to leave a scar.

For a split second, everything narrowed: engine tone, pulse, breath. His heart slammed against his ribs.

But he made it.

Held the line.

Finished the lap.

He coasted back into the pit lane, visor cracked open, the roar of the engine tapering into a low growl as he slowed in front of the garage. When the crew waved him to a stop and lifted the nose cone, his gloved hands hovered on the wheel for a beat longer than usual.

Only when the belts were undone did he exhale, deep, controlled, like he was emptying out the fear before it could settle.

Helmet off, balaclava pulled down to his chin, he stepped out of the car and immediately scanned the edge of the paddock.

She was there.

(Y/n) stood just behind the barrier, arms crossed, her expression unreadable at first, but her eyes gave her away. Worry clung to them like fog, even as she tried to stay calm for him.

Without a word, he crossed to her. The crowd buzzed, a few heads turned, but none of it reached him.

He reached over the barrier, fingers brushing her skin, and pressed one finger gently to her temple.

A silent promise.

“I’ve got you.”

She closed her eyes at the touch, something in her chest loosening. Then she opened them again, brighter this time, and exhaled.

A small smile lifted the corner of her mouth. Not relief.

Trust.

And that was enough.

Saturday: FP3—Turning the Corner

Practice three arrived with the soft hush of dawn. The circuit shimmered beneath the golden wash of morning light, the grandstands slowly waking with scattered movement and yawning murmurs. It was the kind of sunrise that felt almost forgiving, like the world might just be kind today.

Lando rolled out onto the track with purpose. There was no bravado in his driving, just clarity. Each gearshift felt smoother, more deliberate. Each turn-in came with instinct instead of doubt. The car responded to him like a living thing, agile, eager, aligned.

No mistakes.

Just rhythm.

The kind that came from focus, yes, but also from faith.

And with every clean lap, every perfectly clipped apex, he felt it: the shift. A quiet turning. Something inside him settling, as if the weight he’d been carrying all season had finally started to lift.

When he returned to the paddock, the sun had fully broken through the cloud line, casting long shadows across the hospitality tents. (Y/n) was there, waiting near the barriers, a coffee in one hand, her other tucked beneath the sleeve of her jacket.

Her eyes found his, and in them, a gleam of quiet pride.

Not loud. Not performative.

Just unmistakably hers.

He walked straight to her and didn’t hesitate. His fingers slipped into hers, calloused palm to palm, a grounding touch he hadn’t realized he needed until it was there.

He didn’t speak at first. Neither did she.

And then, in a voice low and resolute, Lando murmured, “Let’s do this.”

She nodded once, firmly.

No pep talk. No fuss. No fragile optimism.

Just shared certainty, weathered, wordless, whole.

The kind of moment forged not from fairy tales, but from pain endured, reconciliations earned, and love rebuilt in the quiet aftermath.

Her presence steadied him more than any telemetry data or last-minute setup tweak. She was his map, his margin for error, the only variable he could trust completely.

And as he stepped away toward qualifying preparations, the grip of her hand still lingered in his own.

Saturday Evening: Qualifying—Champions Made of Steel

By the time evening blanketed the circuit, the paddock thrummed with anticipation. The heat of the day had broken, leaving behind a velvet tension, cool air crackling with possibility, engines humming like caged thunder.

Lando strapped in for qualifying. Q1. Then Q2. Then Q3.

Each session carved out a version of him that was unrelenting, composed, almost surgical in precision. His lines were fearless, entry points kissed by instinct, apexes sliced like threads in a seamstress’s hand. Throttle feathered where it needed to be, and unleashed when the corners begged for speed.

The telemetry lit up green, sector after sector. The engineers on the pit wall barely breathed. Even the crowd, usually deafening, seemed to hold their collective exhale between turns.

In Q3, as the shadows of the grandstands stretched across the track like ink spills, Lando crossed the line.

A surge of numbers.

A beat of silence.

Then: Pole.

Oscar’s voice crackled over the team radio, controlled, but layered with a joy he couldn’t mask.

“Amazing lap, mate. Pole.”

The pit lane erupted. Mechanics threw arms in the air. Cameras swung to capture his every move.

But Lando didn’t soak in the celebration. Not yet.

Helmet off, curls tousled, sweat lining his brow, he moved like a man only half-present. Not with the moment. But with someone else.

His eyes swept past the paddock chaos, past the media hounds, the flashes of orange and silver.

There.

She stood alone, framed between fans and the crush of flashing bulbs. (Y/n)’s expression was unreadable at first, until he came closer.

Then he saw it.

Pride.

Raw, soul-deep pride.

Tears shimmered at the corners of her eyes, not yet fallen. Her shoulders rose and fell with slow, purposeful breaths, as if she was trying to contain it all. He hadn’t just won a lap, he’d earned back something far greater.

He didn’t pause to soak up the crowd or bask in the limelight.

He walked straight to her.

When he reached her, he lifted his hand to her cheek, gently, reverently, as if even now he wasn’t sure he deserved to touch her. His thumb brushed beneath her eye, catching a tear before it could fall.

“We did it,” he murmured, voice hoarse with exhaustion and reverence.

Her breath caught, just slightly.

Then she leaned into his touch, eyes fluttering shut for a second like she could still hardly believe it.

“Yes,” she whispered. “Together.”

And for the first time in weeks, maybe months, the world quieted. Not because the cameras stopped flashing or the crowd stopped shouting, but because they stopped needing the world to notice.

They had each other.

And that, finally, was enough.

Girl Squad: Support and Solidarity

Earlier that morning, before the engines stirred, before the cameras began their hunt and the tension of qualifying rippled across the paddock, the suite was filled with something far gentler, laughter, the clink of tea cups, the rustle of fabric and affection.

Lily Z., Kelly, Lily M., Alexandra, Carmen, and Rebecca had all gathered in (Y/n)’s suite just after sunrise. The air was thick with chamomile and the scent of rosewater from the glass cooler humming softly in the corner. Light poured through the sheer curtains like liquid gold, casting warmth over skin and soft edges.

They spoke in murmurs, not because there were secrets, but because the moment asked for softness.

The conversation drifted easily, from the strange summer weather in Monza, to the silly things the children had said over FaceTime, to a half-joking plan about sneaking out after the race for pancakes and wine.

But beneath it all, woven through every glance and shared breath, was something quieter. A pact. A promise. Living love.

Lily handed (Y/n) a leather-bound notebook, the spine already worn with thumbprints and memory. “For the next chapter,” she said simply. No pressure. Just belief.

Kelly reached into her tote bag and pulled out a care package wrapped in brown parchment string: a handful of polaroids from their slow walks in Forks, wildflowers pressed between pages, her favorite chamomile tea blend tucked in a glass vial. “To remind you,” she said, with that rare tenderness only found in people who’ve learned to love after losing.

Alexandra, grinning like mischief in a designer scarf, leaned in with a wink. “The Norris heir needs a soft landing, yeah?”

They all laughed, and in that laughter, something shifted.

(Y/n) brought her hands to her face, hiding her smile behind the tips of her fingers. “I’m okay,” she told them, voice steady, words careful.

But they knew her too well.

They heard the translation beneath it. I’m standing because you hold me. I can be strong because you are here.

They didn’t push. Didn’t try to stitch her back together. They let her cry, just a little, when the silence grew heavy enough to crack her breath.

And when the tears faded, they let her laugh again, tentative at first, then brighter. A laughter that could only be born in the presence of women who had loved deeply, survived worse, and still chose gentleness.

In a world spinning fast and ruthless, they were her stillness.

Not spectators. Not accessories. They were soft. Fierce. Love in motion. And that morning, before the chaos of the track reclaimed her, they wrapped her in it completely.

Saturday Night: Promises by Lamplight

That night the suite glowed with lamps low and amber. (Y/n) typed by laptop, tapping new superiors to her next novel whose working title was simply Healing, inspired by all this: rain, warmth, silence, triumph.

The bathroom door sighed as Lando emerged, droplets beading hairspray-gone-wrong from his damp scalp.

He slipped behind her, chest warm. One arm wrapped around her waist, the other brushed her hair tenderly.

“Why now?” she asked softly, not resentful—curious.

He took a breath. “Because I love you. Because you’re here. And I finally know I can’t live a life without you.”

He placed a gentle kiss on her temple: an apology, a promise.

Tears shimmered where they caught the light.

“I vow,” he said, voice solemn, “I will never hurt you again. I’ll spend every breath proving it.”

They cried until the world dissolved, until the weight of all they hadn’t said was drained through the salt of shared tears. The room held them in quiet reverence, its golden lamplight casting soft shadows on the walls as if even time had paused to let them breathe.

Each sob stripped away another layer of pain. There were no accusations left, no defenses. Only honesty. Only aching.

Grief curled between them like a third presence, heavy but no longer suffocating. Forgiveness moved quietly in its place, not loud, not dramatic, just real. It lived in the way her fingers gripped his shirt, and how he cradled her like she was something he couldn’t lose twice.

Hope stirred, not with fireworks, but with a single breath they took together. A fragile, resurrected thing.

Soon enough, they lay on the suite’s couch, wrapped in the oversized throw blanket someone had carelessly tossed aside hours ago. Her cheek rested against his chest, their hands loosely intertwined between them. Above, the ceiling light dimmed to a soft glow. Outside, the city buzzed with nightlife and noise, but here, in this room, was stillness.

Not peace, not yet. But something like it.

And as the minutes passed, the night seemed to bend around them, quiet, protective, holding them like the pages of a story still being written.

Sunday: Race Day—Victory of the Heart

Race day dawned not with sun, but with intention.

The air was taut, charged with a kind of electricity only the grid knew how to summon. Engines growled awake. Mechanics flew through final checks with practiced precision. The scent of rubber, fuel, and tension blanketed the paddock.

Fans chanted names like hymns. Cameras snapped. The asphalt shimmered beneath the weight of expectation.

Lando crouched beside (Y/n), one gloved hand grazing her knee, the other still clutching his helmet. His visor was up, eyes bloodshot from sleep and something more vulnerable.

His voice came low, reverent. “This is for us.”

Her breath caught. Tears threatened again, not from sorrow, but from the swell of everything they’d survived to stand here now.

She nodded, lips trembling. He didn’t linger. There wasn’t time. Just the promise in her gaze, and the fire in his.

And then he was gone, climbing into the cockpit, shoulders square, jaw set. The car came alive around him, a symphony of engineering and nerve.

The lights blinked red. Red. Red. Out.

Launch.

P1 off the line. Clean through turn one. He flowed like instinct through every apex, each gear shift sewn together with mechanical grace. Cadence like poetry.

In his ears: “Gap 1.2 seconds.” He responded without hesitation. “Copy. I’ve got it.” “Push pace, conserve tires.” “Understood.”

Laps blurred, time distorted. Every corner became a ritual. Not just racing, but remembering: her hand in his, the nights he almost gave up, the morning she said I’ll go with you.

Final lap. Still the leader. His pulse drummed in time with the engine’s rhythm. Not panic, focus. Precision. Presence.

The chequered flag waved.

First.

Triumph didn’t hit all at once, it bloomed in waves. Relief. Exhaustion. A strange, surreal elation.

He slowed the car, pulled into parc fermé, pulled off his helmet, eyes already scanning the crowd. Searching. Finding.

There she was. (Y/n), standing on tiptoes behind the McLaren crew barrier, holding her phone up to record, face streaked with tears and joy so bright it stunned him.

He didn’t think, he ran. Through pit lane. Through noise. Through history.

She barely had time to brace before he scooped her into his arms, her laugh catching against his shoulder. He held her close, so close, like letting go was no longer an option.

And then he kissed her. Hard, honest, desperate. Loud and proud, in front of cameras, crew, the roaring world.

When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested against hers. He was breathless and damp with sweat, but smiling wider than he had in months. “We won,” he said, voice raw.

(Y/n)’s eyes sparkled, her hands still gripping the sides of his fire suit. She nodded, smiling through tears that didn’t try to hide. “Yes,” she whispered. “We did.”

Final Farewell: Love Sealed in Speed and Silence

Back in the suite later that night, the world had quieted.

The medals, cool, gleaming reminders of glory, rested on the glass table, catching fragments of city light filtering through the windows. Roses, half-wilted from celebration, lay scattered across the carpet and coffee table, the petals soft and fragrant like the hours they’d just lived through.

Laughter had echoed here earlier, his teammates had come and gone in a steady stream of elation and relief. Oscar had hugged him too hard. Zak raised a toast with a hand on (Y/n)’s shoulder. Even the engineers had offered soft congratulations, their smiles stitched with something close to pride.

But now, the door was locked. The music silenced. The world narrowed.

It was just them.

He stood in the middle of the room, peeling off his race suit piece by piece, exhaustion tugging at each limb. The water ran in the ensuite, hot, steady, but he paused by the window instead. His gaze fixed on nothing in particular. Just lights. Just breath.

The adrenaline was gone. But the clarity remained.

He needed her.

Not as someone to hold the camera. Not as someone to smile beside him when the champagne sprayed. Not as a trophy for public affection or a placeholder for loneliness.

He needed her because without her, all of it, every lap, every win, every cheering crowd, meant nothing.

She stepped quietly behind him, fingers brushing the base of his spine, anchoring him.

He turned.

His voice, when it came, was low. Stripped of ego. Bare. “Stay.”

No speech. No performance. Just a single, fragile word that held the weight of a thousand unsent apologies.

(Y/n) didn’t hesitate. She stepped into him, letting her forehead rest against his sternum, arms winding around his waist like she’d been there all along.

She lay her head on his chest, his warmth grounding her, their breath syncing in the stillness.

“I’m trying to.” she said.

They didn’t need more.

No promises spoken, no wounds picked at. Only presence. Only forgiveness wrapped in quiet contact. Only the rhythm of his heart, steady under her cheek, telling her what he couldn’t say again without shattering.

And so they remained, in the hush after the storm, in the afterglow of both a race won and a love restored. The greatest victory: not speed. Not silver. Not spectacle. But this, being here. Being seen. Being chosen again.

𝘏𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘥. 𝘏𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥, 𝘢𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘵𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘯𝘴, 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘥, 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦—𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘪𝘮, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘥.

📝 Note from the Author: Can you believe it’s my 20th day on Tumblr? Twenty days of headcanons, hurt/comfort, romantic tension you could slice with a racing knife, and yes, serving the Alarwynnites like it's a full-time job (with emotional damage benefits). 😌

I owe you guys an apology, I didn’t post yesterday 😭 Before you fire me from my own blog, hear me out:

I touched runway. With friends. In broad daylight. I know, shocking.

I watched the British Grand Prix Free Practices like a woman possessed. Yes, all of them. FP1, FP2—live, screaming, holding back tears every time Lando turned a corner. I was there. Spiritually parked in the McLaren garage.

I enjoyed my time out too, and honestly... I think (Y/n) would’ve wanted that for me 😌✨

Now… To my beloved Alarwynnites: this is where I leave you. 🥺 I know, I know, "Bitin author!! Nasaan yung pag-uusap after the GP?" Trust me, I hear you loud and clear 😭 BUT—

You can imagine what happens next, right? The post-race talk… the real closure… maybe more soft moments and healing behind closed doors… iyakan sa hallway, sabay yakapan sa balcony, ganon vibes.

For now, this is where the curtain falls. I’m ending it here, at 11 chapters. I know it's short, compressed, maybe a bit bitin for some, but this felt like the right place to stop.

Thank you for reading, for crying, laughing, and spiraling with me. Let’s meet again in the next story. 😉

With love, me 🧡

[macbethsymphony]

The Swordsman and the Blacksmith | Chapter 5

Roronoa Zoro x Reader

Chapter wc: 3.1k

Chapter rating: SFW

Content/Warnings: NSFW, 18+, Fem!Reader, Enemies to lovers, SLOW slow burn, Eventual smut

Summary: Your skills as a blacksmith have made you desirable to both the government and pirates. You know you have to leave this island if you want to escape your fate, but that doesn't make the choice of leaving any easier. Roronoa Zoro is intrigued by your skills as a blacksmith. Your work is like nothing he's ever seen before. Unfortunately, you're hot-headed and he's rude and you both definitely hate each other.

Chapters [1] [2] [3] [4]

Masterlist

Slowly crossposting from AO3 Feel like binging the rest of it? it's all there!

Chapter 5: The knife

The gentle caress of the sea breeze tousled your hair as you savored the rich aroma of your morning coffee. You’d woken up unusually early today, the prospect of getting your hands on steel again, to start creating, firing your spirit. Something had shifted in you after that argument, you felt free. No one had admonished either of you for the outburst, laughing and teasing you about it instead. It felt as though they were happy you’d finally let go of your reservations and let your true self peek through. You leaned on the railing of the quarter deck as you observed the activity below you.

Your eyes couldn’t help but follow the shirtless swordsman as he practiced his forms. You may hate the man, but you could see why Sandai Kitetsu had chosen him. It pissed you off to admit it, but you were sure he also had every right to Wado Ichimonji and Shusui. There was a rugged elegance to his movements, raw power that demanded attention. The fluidity and control of his haki coursing through the blades was incredible. You were more than certain he was deadly in a fight.  

“Hey! Asshole! Show me your swords.” You called out to him.

He glanced up at you, a scowl forming on his features at the interruption. “No,” he shouted back.

Rolling your eyes, you leaned further against the railing, your irritation mounting. “Aw, come on. Don’t be such a fucking prick about it.” You retorted, your words laced with frustration.

The swordsman’s only response was his middle finger before he turned back to the movement he was trying to master.

You scoffed. Didn’t matter, you’d decided today was going to be a good day. You pushed yourself away from the railing, heading towards your forge with a spring in your step. The fires had to be hot enough now to get started. You hummed to yourself, smile bright on your face.

The heat of the forge enveloped you like a warm embrace as you stepped into the small workshop aboard the Thousand Sunny. Beads of sweat formed on your brow, a testament to the intense heat radiating from the roaring flames. With a determined expression, you approached your sturdy workbench, where a stack of raw steel awaited your skilled hands.

Your eyes wandered across the multitude of options presented before you. They stopped on a smaller slab, it seemed to call to you. Taking a deep breath, you picked it up. The familiar coolness of the metal felt nice in your palm.

“What will you be?” You asked the bar, eyeing it gently.

You closed your eyes, feeling the weight in your grasp, finding its core, its essence. You turned it a few times in your hands, feeling for its quirks, its personality. You smiled as a picture formed in your mind.

“A knife, huh?” you said to the steel. “You want to be useful, don’t you?” You could honor that. “Don’t worry, I’ll find you a most passionate owner,” you told it, Sanji passing your mind.

You examined the steel more thoroughly. It was mild steel, its low-carbon content would make it perfect for the outer shell of a kitchen knife. You’d still have to reinforce it with a high carbon core to ensure durability over the years. Good. It wouldn’t be too hard, the perfect project to test this new forge.

You donned on your leather apron and gloves, taking a long linen cloth to cover your hair so it didn’t burn at the contact of the imminent sparks that would scatter in the workshop. The steps were now clear in your mind, you wasted no time in getting started, eager to craft a blade worthy of the chef’s culinary skills.

With a steady hand and focused mind, you retrieved a length of high-carbon steel, feeling its weight and potential beneath your fingertips. You immersed it into the searing heat of the fire, precision and purpose in your quick movements. The rhythmic cadence of the flames cast a familiar warm hue on your face as you impatiently waited for the steel to turn from a dull gray to a glowing fiery orange.

When the steel attained the desired temperature, you carefully took it out of the fire, setting it on the anvil with care. Your hand went to the hilt of your hammer, its familiar weight feeling like an extension of your very being. You closed your eyes, letting go of the turmoil of your mind. You took a deep breath in as you drew from the strength of your soul, allowing haki to flow through you, infusing your tool with power. As you exhaled, a sense of calm washed over you, your focus honing to a razor-sharp point.

With a resounding clang, the first strike of your hammer against the hot steel sent a shockwave of power rippling through the air. Sparks erupting in a dazzling display, mingling with the crackling dark spirals of your haki as they danced around you. Each strike was a symphony of strength and skill, the metal yielding beneath the relentless force of your blows.

 Once you were satisfied with the core’s shape, you turned your attention to the mild steel. As you worked, the heat of the forge faded into the background, replaced by a singular focus on the task at hand. Time seemed to blur as you lost yourself in the rhythm of the forge, outside world melting away until only you and the metal remained into existence.

With a final strike on the combined metals, the shape of the knife was complete. It was time to start the grinding process. You allowed your eyes to look out the door momentarily, eyes squinting against the brightness of the midday sun. A tray with a pitcher and some food had been left on a small bench, you realized with a start that you’d missed lunch.

As you devoured the offering hastily, you couldn't help but feel slight anxiety at the hope the cook would like this gift. The scorching heat of the forge brought you back to reality. You were ready to lose yourself in your work again, eager to see how the patterns of the steel would show up as you would grind away the scales that had formed on the surface of the cooled steel. With renewed vigor, you turned your attention back to the knife in progress.

With a flip of a switch, the grinding belt hummed to life, its rhythmic whir echoing in the confined space of the workshop. You took a moment to admire the patterns emerging on the surface of the steel as the scales were meticulously ground away. Each pass revealed the intricate layers, a testament to the fusion of high carbon and mild steel. The blade began to take on a life of its own, its unique design coming to fruition under your skilled hands.

Hours passed, the repetitive sound of grinding becoming a soothing background melody as you lost yourself in the meditative process. The knife, once a mere slab of metal, now started to embody the essence of your craftsmanship. The curves and edges spoke of precision, a harmony born from the dance of the forge.

With the grinding phase completed, you moved on to the critical step of heat-treating the blade. You carefully heated it until it glowed a vibrant red, then plunged it into a quenching oil bath, the sizzle and hiss filling the air. The transformation was underway, the blade evolving from raw potential to sleek excellence.

As the knife cooled, you couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The next steps involved the delicate processes of polishing and etching, adding the final touches to your creation. The blade was brought to a fine shine, and you meticulously etched a decorative mermaid pattern onto its surface, a subtle yet captivating addition that shined when the light hit it at the perfect angle.

Now, the knife was ready for its handle. You sifted through your collection of materials until you found a rich, dark wood that complemented the elegance of the black blade. With practiced hands, you shaped and polished the handle, ensuring a comfortable grip for its future owner.

The final assembly brought together the blade and handle in a seamless union. You marveled at the completed knife, a fusion of craftsmanship and passion. It held a story within its layers, a narrative of hours spent in the forge, shaping not just steel but a piece of your soul.

As you cleaned and arranged your tools, you noticed the sun beginning to dip below the horizon. The workshop was now bathed in the warm hues of the sunset. You couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment as you wrapped the finished knife in a clean linen cloth. You wondered for a moment if it was too late in the day to present your gift to the cook but the echo of laughter coming from the galley told you otherwise.

Your feet carried you to the door of the kitchen eagerly, anticipation making your hands tremble in the slightest way. You stopped in front of the door gathering your courage as you listened in on the loud conversation.

“Did you see the way (Y/n) was handling that hammer? It was like magic!” Luffy exclaimed, his voice full of excitement.

You shifted awkwardly at the praise.

Usopp chimed in, his tone filled in awe. “Yeah! And did you see the sparks flying everywhere? It was like she was conjuring magic right before our eyes!”

Sanji’s smooth voice drifted through the air. “Ahhh, (Y/n) may have been covered in soot and sweat, but the elegance she was exerting was as captivating as a siren’s song.” He mused.

“I have to admit, I knew you weren’t lying Luffy” Nami said taking a pause to find the right words. “When you said she was impressive, I didn’t doubt it, but I never could have guessed it would be so extraordinary.” She finished, tone stunned in awe.

Your hand stilled on the doorknob, blush heating your cheeks at the words of admiration.

Robin’s gentle laughter followed. “Indeed, she possesses quite the unique ability. Watching her work is delightful.”

Franky’s booming voice resonated next. “I’ve seen my fair share of blacksmiths in action, but none compare to (Y/n)! Our little firecracker’s skills are really SUPER!"

Chopper’s enthusiastic squeal added to the chorus of praise. “I can’t believe how talented (Y/n) is! She’s like a superhero! I wonder what she’s been making.”

You took that as your sign to come in, opening the door.

“Oh! (Y/n)! You’re finally out!” Brook said delighted by your presence.

“You’re just in time for dessert,” Sanji said with a smile.

You cleared your throat. “Uhm actually Sanji, I have something for you.” You said. He turned back to you, curiosity in his eyes. “I really want to thank all of you for taking me on, I just… guess you’re the first person to receive my appreciation.” You continued shyly as you handed him the wrapped blade, apprehension keeping your body taut.

Sanji’s eyes widened as he unwrapped the finely crafted knife. The black blade gleamed in the warm light of the galley, mermaid pattern glowing in a purplish hue. Sanji gave it an expert twirl in his hand, feeling the balance of the blade. The handle, polished to perfection, felt smooth and comfortable in his grasp.

“For me?” Sanji asked, his usual playful demeanor momentarily replaced by genuine surprise. The crew fell silent, their eyes fixed on the knife, its aura demanding all the attention.

“I know you already have amazing knives, but I thought maybe you’d have some space for one more?” You said nervously.

“(Y/n)! This is incredible! I’ve never seen anything like this. Thank you so much!” Sanji exclaimed with a childish smile.

You couldn’t help but smile at his reaction, all tension leaving your shoulders.

“Let me see!” Usopp said excitedly.

“Me too!” Chopper chimed in. Everyone fighting playfully to see your hard work for themselves.

As you settled into your chair, weariness seeped into your bones, a heavy weight after a long day of forging. The lively banter of your crewmates provided a comforting backdrop, but you couldn't shake the sense of exhaustion that washed over you like a tidal wave.

Out of the corner of your eye, you caught the swordsman's gaze lingering on you, an unknown intensity that sent a shiver down your spine. Yet, in your current state of fatigue, you lacked the energy to address the unfamiliar tension. With a resigned sigh, you loosened the bindings of your hair, allowing it to cascade in soft waves over your shoulders, a small act of surrender to the fatigue that engulfed you.

Just as you began to sink into the solace of relaxation, Nami's voice pierced through the tranquility of your mind, jolting you back to the present. "By the way, (Y/n)," She said. "We've spotted the next island today. We'll probably make a stop tomorrow, but it looks like a Navy base," she informed you, her tone laced with a hint of concern. "We're getting pretty low on food, so we'll have to steal some from them. The whole routine is pretty standard to us, but we were wondering... Do you know how to fight?" She asked.

Her question hung in the air, casting a sobering shadow over the jovial atmosphere. It was a stark reminder of the choices you’d taken. And yet, amidst the uncertainty, there was a glimmer of trust in her inquiry, a silent acknowledgment of your role within the crew.

You paused, considering her words carefully. “I’m not a fighter, if that’s what you’re asking.” You said. “But I know how to defend myself.”

“Good! We’ll add you in the roster then!” She responded. “We usually let chance pick the different teams for those missions, so don’t worry too much about it! You might even get to stay on the ship!” She smiled at you.

You smiled back. A navy base, huh? That would prove interesting.

Roronoa Zoro couldn’t help the irritation stirring within him as the shitty cook unveiled the knife. His brows furrowed as he watched the genuine expression of delight on the chef’s face as the man twirled the blade skillfully in his hand.

He scoffed inwardly at the display. The blade was black, haki infused. His fingers twitched. He hated to admit it but how he longed to hold the blade. He shifted uncomfortably, his scowl deepening at the excitement around him. His gaze wandered to the door, contemplating slipping away unnoticed.

But then, his eyes landed on you.

There you stood, a faint smile playing on your lips as you watched Sanji’s reaction with a mixture of relief and nervousness. Your hair was wrapped in a white linen cloth, soft strands had escaped the confines of the binding, opting to cling to your sweat covered skin. A soft blush of happiness adorned your rosy cheeks mixed with streaks of ashes. You hadn’t really bothered cleaning up before coming in, your eagerness to give the knife surpassing all else. Your eyes met his briefly as you let the bindings of your hair go. Zoro couldn’t help the strange flutter in his chest, a strange sensation he couldn’t quite place. His irritation redoubled, ready to fight. You were lost in a conversation with Nami.

With a scowl Zoro stood up, grabbed a random bottle of booze, and escaped the cheerful ambiance of the galley for his usual peaceful nook in the crow’s nest.

That morning, they had all been surprised as the first clank of your hammer against steel had resonated in the air. A wave of energy had coursed through their bodies, Zoro’s concentration shattered instantly. The air had felt thick, the wind had halted, it was as though time had stopped. Then your hammer had hit steel once again and existence had resumed.

He had been caught so off guard by the display of power that he hadn’t been able to get his concentration back for the rest of the day. He’d sheathed his swords and headed to the crow’s nest with every intention of sleeping the day away. But like everyone else he hadn’t been able to resist the temptation to observe you in your mastery. His eyes had remained glued to your form, observing you from high up.

With a frustrated groan, Zoro took a swig from the bottle of booze he’d taken with him. The familiar sharp bite of the alcohol burning his throat in a comforting manner. He leaned back against the railing, his gaze fixed on the twilight sky as he attempted to push aside the turmoil of his thoughts.

The wind ruffled his short hair as he attempted to draw out his haki, trying to mirror the way you inexplicably had done earlier in the day.

“Damn it,” He muttered under his breath as he let go in failure, taking another swig out of the bottle as if to drown out his thoughts.

But try as he might, he couldn’t shake the image of you standing there amidst the chaos of the forge, soft strands of hair plastered against your neck, face streaked with sweat and ashes. The raw power dancing around you had been mesmerizing.

Zoro watched as one by one, the crew went to bed. He itched to see the knife for himself.

Giving in to the temptation, he entered the kitchen. His gaze immediately caught the knife. The black blade glinted in the soft light of the moon. As he approached, he could feel the subtle hum of haki emanating from the metal. His hand hesitated momentarily before picking it up.

His rough fingers traced the edge of the blade, the smoothness of the black steel beneath his touch sending a shiver down his spine. For a moment he was lost in the intricate patterns etched on its surface, the mermaid design captivating his attention. He gave it a hesitant twirl. Once. Twice. The balance was stunning, the sharpness of the edge deadly. It was a blade born not just from skill but from passion, a fact that irked him more than he cared to admit. He let his hand clench around the handle of the knife. The shape was perfect, it felt like an extension of his arm.

“It’s a stunning blade, isn’t it?” Robin’s voice shattered the silence.

He let go of the knife in surprise. The clank as it fell back down on the counter, loud in the stillness of the night.

“It is,” he admitted turning to face her.

“Sanji’s a lucky man,” she said with a soft smile, taunting him.

He didn’t answer.

Robin rolled her eyes at his stubbornness.

“Why don’t you let her look at your swords?” She asked as he was about to pass her. Zoro stopped in his tracks. “None, of your business,” he snapped, irritation lacing his words as he left the galley.

← Previous Chapter | Next Chapter →

Masterlist

[mybeingthere]

Designs and colours of shells are wonderous - a true mystery of nature.

Here the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute explains the technology of shell-building. Yes, I understand everything, but it is still a wonder. Images are from various internet archives.

"Where do shells come from? The animals make them. Mollusks have an outermost layer of tissue on their bodies. Called the mantle, this layer connects the animal to its shell. The mantle also creates that shell.

Specialized cells in the mantle build the shell using proteins and minerals. These are secreted—released into the space outside the cells. There, the proteins create a framework that provides support for the growing shell. The proteins in the framework also determine which minerals are used in specific parts of the shell.

Calcium carbonate, the main mineral found in shells (including eggshells), binds to the protein. If you have ever seen construction workers build with concrete, this is similar. The protein is like the steel rebar that gives shape and support. Calcium carbonate is like the cement that fills in all the gaps.

Calcium carbonate can form two different types of crystals. One is called calcite. This incredibly common crystal can be found all over the world. Calcite makes up chalk, marble, coral, limestone—and seashells. The other form is aragonite. This crystal has a different arrangement of calcium carbonate. Both calcite and aragonite are found in seashells.

A mollusk’s shell has three layers. Each is made up of similar materials. But how those materials are arranged gives them each a different look and feel. The outermost layer is mostly protein. It’s often rough and may have bumps or spikes. Proteins in the middle layer cause calcium carbonate to form calcite crystals. These fill in the spaces, making the shell tough to break.

The innermost layer is the one in contact with the mantle. It’s a smooth, iridescent layer called nacre or mother-of-pearl. Nacre is made up of protein and calcium carbonate. But it looks and feels completely different from other parts of the shell. That’s because the mantle secretes different proteins for different layers. Different proteins cause calcium carbonate to crystallize in different ways. Those used in the middle layer create calcite. Those used in the innermost layer create aragonite.

As the animal grows, its shell must grow along with it. This happens along the outer edges. A snail adds to its shell around the opening, where it pokes its head out. For a clam or mussel, it’s the outer edges where the two shells separate. The result is growth rings, like those in a tree, that allow us to measure a mollusk’s age.

When the animal inside dies, its shell is gradually pounded against the rocks and sand. Over time, shells break down. They become part of the sand. White beaches have sand made almost entirely of tiny bits of shells."

[hirocimacruiser]

Thorough comparison of JGTC vehicles

M・S war in the GT300 class

Mitsubishi and Subaru continue to engage in a fierce battle in the WRC, but there is a feeling that a new battle will take place at the JGTC, which has moved to the circuit. Cusco Racing entered the GT300 class a little earlier than last year with the Impreza, which has poured its know-how into building dirt trial class vehicles. On the other hand, Mitsubishi has started entering entries this season with FTOs made by Ralliart, with engines by HKS and chassis by Nova. Let's do a thorough comparison.

Photography: Shinji Takizawa/Takahito Naito/Satoshi Kamimura Interview cooperation: Cusco/Nova Engineering Photography cooperation: Fuji Speedway

The Mitsubishi/Subaru war breaks out even at JGTC, which is currently the most popular!

The most interesting race in Japan today is the GT Championship. In this year's GT

championship Mitsubishi and Subaru face off.

Noda. Subaru started accepting entries last year with the Cusco Subaru Impreza.

The vehicle uses a 2-door coupe body. Since Cusco (Carrosse) specializes in producing dirt track D vehicles (unlimited modification class), they utilize their D vehicle know-how and develop their own machines, although the engines are supplied by STI. Mitsubishi, on the other hand, is the Taeivon FTO, which has started entry from this year. Basic design by Mitsubishi modified by Ralliart. HKS, which has been working on Mitsubishi's motorsports engines for a ling time was in charge of the engine, and Nova Engineering, which has worked on race cars in all categories including top formulas, was in charge of the chassis. As you can see from this, the Cusco Impreza is a pure privateer, but the Taeivon FTO is a private car with factory support.

-The dark brown color is very strong.

Now, when I compare the construction of these two machines, I notice something interesting. Both have a normal FF or 4WD drive layout from factory. However, the drive layout chosen for each GT model is FF for the FTO and FR for the Impreza. If both had around 300 PS of horsepower, they would have chosen the lightweight and simple option over 4WD traction. However, since the FTO is a horizontally mounted engine, unless you choose 4WD, the only option is FF. How much is 300PS?

However, FF, where steering and drive transmission are handled by two wheels, and rear drive, where each wheel is separate, are at a considerable disadvantage in terms of tire wear.

However, knowing this, FTO chose FF. On the other hand, Subaru's horizontally opposed 4-cylinder FR engine is longitudinally installed, so it easily becomes an FR engine that is not found in production cars. Furthermore, the engine is compact and has a low center of gravity, so the layout clearly gives the Impreza an advantage in terms of balance.

As for the engine, both are 2L turbos.

FTO is handled by HKS, but basically WRC for group A. Since the Impreza is also supplied by STI, its performance is probably quite similar. By the way, the nominal values ​​from each team are 300 PS/40 kg-m for FTO and 320 PS or more/35 kg-m for Impreza.

However, when it comes to the chassis, both cars have been created using different approaches. As I wrote earlier, the Cusco Impreza was built using the know-how of dirt trial D-class vehicles. There are no restrictions on modification of D vehicles. At Cusco, we are using this unlimited know-how to run on dirt to create vehicles that fit within the framework of the GT Championship. The chassis is mainly reinforced with pipes. Rather than a monocoque frame, it is more appropriate to call it a pipe frame covered with a steel shell. The structure is such that all suspension input is received by the pipe. That's why there are pipes running along the floor.

On the other hand, the Taeivon FTO is naturally reinforced with pipes, but it is also connected to the normal monocoque with steel plates, making it a semi-monocoque, and adding carbon to increase body rigidity. This area is circuit racing, and it is unique to Nova, which handles formula racing.

Suspension is according to regulations

Although no changes are allowed, other modifications may be made.

You can call it freedom, and both cars have completely different suspension systems from the commercially available cars. In order to accommodate the huge 18-inch tires and to keep the vehicle height as low as possible, the wheel house was changed to something completely different, and the engine was mounted as low as possible at the rear. Naturally, the members are also original and produced. Therefore, the mounting position, or geometry, of the suspension arm can be changed freely, and It has been moved to a position suitable for running on the circuit, and of course the arms and uprights have also been made specifically for it.

Now, which of these two cars is faster? Looking at the first round of this season, Suzuka, the FTO showed a fast run that would be hard to believe in its debut race, and managed to finish in 3rd place (Round 2 at Fuji canceled). Objectively, FTO, which is participating in the race for the first time this season and can be called a works model, has an advantage.

Perhaps, but with Impreza's good balance and Cusco's vehicle manufacturing know-how, we can expect a heated battle in Future GT.

I can't take my eyes off the championship.

_____________________________________________

CUSCO SUBARU IMPREZA

ENGINE & DRIVE-TRAIN

①The huge aluminum core is arranged in two stages, with the intercooler on the top and the radiator on the bottom. The thickness of the radiator in particular is surprising when compared to the stock one. (2) The right-hand light serves as an air intake, and the air is guided through a duct to the turbine set in front of the engine. (3,4) If you look closely at the piping, you can see the aluminum pipe extending from the radiator to the bulkhead. This is led through the interior to the water-cooled transmission and differential oil cooler. Incidentally, the engine control unit is installed indoors together with the data logger. (5) the transmission is Hewland's sequential gearbox. Even though it doesn't have a bellhousing, it's very compact.

⑥ When you remove the rear suspension arm and brake, you'll see a reinforcement made of a lot of aluminum, and behind that you can see the differential.

AERO PARTS

① The front spoiler is the type that has recently become mainstream, with large side gills that generate downforce. The air intake has slits that distribute air to the radiator and intercooler, which have two upper and lower stages. ②The front hood is dominated by a huge air outlet. ③Equipped with a huge slitted wing on the rear that combines two wings. ④The rear bumper appears to be of normal shape, but you can see the aluminum vertical plate of the diffuser underneath.

SUSPENSION & BRAKE

①The front wheel house has a huge Brembo caliper and rotor that makes the suspension almost invisible. The arms are of course remade with pipes, and the links are rose joints. ② The rear is the same, but the shock and the parts that connect the shock and upright are compared to those on the market.

It looks like it's strangely sturdy. ③④ The front stabilizer is installed above and behind the engine (perhaps this is a measure to mount the engine low?), so the input from the suspension is via a long rod.

COCKPIT

① Increase body strength by creating a semi-pipe frame with a roll cage. Therefore, bars are not only strung above and along the sides, but are also set along the floor and welded at strategic points. ② The transmission is sequential and has a special lever (maybe the linkage has been removed due to maintenance?). ③Switches and indicators are arranged on the center console that protrudes according to the seat position. ④The seat is moved back considerably and fixed in a very low position. The instrument panel itself remains normal. ⑤ The meter is equipped with a digital type on the steering wheel column. The steering wheel and pedals are also selected to match the seat.

_____________________________________________

The Mitsubishi/Subaru war breaks out even at JGTC, which is currently the most popular!

The most interesting race in Japan today is the GT Championship. In this year's GT championship Mitsubishi and Subaru face off.

Noda. Subaru started accepting entries last year with the Cusco Subaru Impreza.

The vehicle uses a 2-door coupe body. Since Cusco (Carrosse) specializes in producing dirt track D vehicles (unlimited modification class), they utilize their D vehicle know-how and develop their own machines, although the engines are supplied by STI. Mitsubishi, on the other hand, is the Taeivon FTO, which has started entry from this year. Basic design by Mitsubishi modified by Ralliart. HKS, which has been working on Mitsubishi's motorsports engines for a ling time was in charge of the engine, and Nova Engineering, which has worked on race cars in all categories including top formulas, was in charge of the chassis. As you can see from this, the Cusco Impreza is a pure privateer, but the Taeivon FTO is a private car with factory support.

-The dark brown color is very strong.

Now, when I compare the construction of these two machines, I notice something interesting. Both have a normal FF or 4WD drive layout from factory. However, the drive layout chosen for each GT model is FF for the FTO and FR for the Impreza. If both had around 300 PS of horsepower, they would have chosen the lightweight and simple option over 4WD traction. However, since the FTO is a horizontally mounted engine, unless you choose 4WD, the only option is FF. How much is 300PS?

However, FF, where steering and drive transmission are handled by two wheels, and rear drive, where each wheel is separate, are at a considerable disadvantage in terms of tire wear.

However, knowing this, FTO chose FF. On the other hand, Subaru's horizontally opposed 4-cylinder FR engine is longitudinally installed, so it easily becomes an FR engine that is not found in production cars. Furthermore, the engine is compact and has a low center of gravity, so the layout clearly gives the Impreza an advantage in terms of balance.

As for the engine, both are 2L turbos.

FTO is handled by HKS, but basically WRC for group A. Since the Impreza is also supplied by STI, its performance is probably quite similar. By the way, the nominal values ​​from each team are 300 PS/40 kg-m for FTO and 320 PS or more/35 kg-m for Impreza.

However, when it comes to the chassis, both cars have been created using different approaches. As I wrote earlier, the Cusco Impreza was built using the know-how of dirt trial D-class vehicles. There are no restrictions on modification of D vehicles. At Cusco, we are using this unlimited know-how to run on dirt to create vehicles that fit within the framework of the GT Championship. The chassis is mainly reinforced with pipes. Rather than a monocoque frame, it is more appropriate to call it a pipe frame covered with a steel shell. The structure is such that all suspension input is received by the pipe. That's why there are pipes running along the floor.

On the other hand, the Taeivon FTO is naturally reinforced with pipes, but it is also connected to the normal monocoque with steel plates, making it a semi-monocoque, and adding carbon to increase body rigidity. This area is circuit racing, and it is unique to Nova, which handles formula racing.

Suspension is according to regulations

Although no changes are allowed, other modifications may be made.

You can call it freedom, and both cars have completely different suspension systems from the commercially available cars. In order to accommodate the huge 18-inch tires and to keep the vehicle height as low as possible, the wheel house was changed to something completely different, and the engine was mounted as low as possible at the rear. Naturally, the members are also original and produced. Therefore, the mounting position, or geometry, of the suspension arm can be changed freely, and It has been moved to a position suitable for running on the circuit, and of course the arms and uprights have also been made specifically for it.

Now, which of these two cars is faster? Looking at the first round of this season, Suzuka, the FTO showed a fast run that would be hard to believe in its debut race, and managed to finish in 3rd place (Round 2 at Fuji canceled). Objectively, FTO, which is participating in the race for the first time this season and can be called a works model, has an advantage.

Perhaps, but with Impreza's good balance and Cusco's vehicle manufacturing know-how, we can expect a heated battle in Future GT.

I can't take my eyes off the championship

_____________________________________________

TAEIVON TRAMPIO FTO

FISCO race information

I photographed these two cars on the practice day for the second round of the GT Championship, which was held at FISCO on May 3rd. By the way, the next big race to be held at FISCO is the third round of Formula Nippon on May 31st. This year's F Pon competition is fierce. Let's go to FISCO to watch the heated battle. Inquiries: Fuji Speedway ☎03-3409-2365

AERO PARTS

① The outer shell of the Taeivon FTO was designed by the designer of the commercial FTO car. The original FTO design was utilized, such as using the hole for the turn signal as an air intake for the brake, and the design was made more functional. ②The front hood outlet is also well designed. The opening is small, but it seems to come through easily. ③Although the rear wing is large, it looks like it could be attached to a production car as is. It will also be equipped with the Delta Wicker found on the Lan Evo. ④⑤ The underside of the body is covered with an all-carbon undercover, and the rear under spoiler finally functions as a diffuser to increase down force.

SUSPENSION & BRAKE

①②③The front and rear brakes are Brembo, which is standard for GT cars. Although it is a FF, the rear brake capacity is also quite large. The suspension is formally the same as normal, but the mounting position, arm shape, and upright are completely race-specific.The shock with reservoir tank is a double spring specification with a helper spring. (4,5) Inner Fender has been completely rebuilt to accommodate the huge tires. Also, the reinforcement near the strut upper, which is the apex, is like a semi-monocoque made of iron plates, and it seems to be extremely rigid.

ENGINE

(1) There have been some modifications such as cutting the flange, but a normal EX manifold with a heat shield is included. The turbine is also basically normal. This is because the engine itself has a displacement of 2026 cc, which is essentially a WRC Group A car engine. A wire mesh is placed over the right headlight, which serves as an intake to the turbine. Since the nose is low, the intake cooler and oil cooler are mounted horizontally. The engine control is surprisingly Motech. The unit is fixed near the footwell on the passenger side (right side). You can see the machined aluminum stay behind the piping to mount the engine, and the finish is very beautiful.

COCKPIT

① Although the roll cage has a large number of bars, different pipe diameters are used to prevent unnecessary weight increase. (2) However, for the part that needs to be strong, from the roof to the A-pillar, the roll cage and body are connected with a steel plate and made into a box shape to increase strength. ③ Since the vehicle height is low and there is an undercover, the thick exhaust pipe for the turbo has nowhere to go and is pushed up towards the floor. Nearby again! Car is equipped with ballast that takes into account weight balance. ④ Switches that match the receding seats are housed in the carbon center console, which also includes switches for the electric mirrors and power windows. (5) The carbon door has a normal lining...

[rwby-encrusted-blog]

RWBY vs KRML

Ruby: *Twirls CR* Well Hello There~

Meliny: *Loading Budge* Um. Hi?

Ruby: Oh! Sorry, I was talking to the Gun!

~~~~~

Meliny: Does that thing get heavy?

Ruby: Nah, my Baby it perfectly weighted~

Meliny: Cool.

~~~~~

Weiss: *Cycles Dust* Hello Remington. You seem well.

Remi: *Flourishing Levy* I am Feeling Better. It is a Pleasure to see you again.

Weiss: That is excellent News. I ... I had missed you. It's good to see you as well.

~~~~~

Remi: *Loading his Revolvers* Hey, Weiss, I want to apologize for being so Abrasive when we last saw each other. These guys have really Helped me come out of my shell.

Weiss: *Curtsy* Yeah, My team has tdone the same for me. You're forgiven.

Remi: I'm Forgiven? That Easy? Alright then! Let's Roll!

~~~~~

Blake: *Swings in* You must Be Marigold. I've heard a fair amount about you.

Marigold: *Stands Tall, Points sword at Blake* Aye! And a little Birdie told me you were one them Belladonnas! Seem our Reputations precede us.!

Blake: ... And Now I've heard From you. Hi.

~~~~~

Marigold: *Accidently sets off Hookshot, retracts it* Heya Catsup! How's the Family?

Blake: I could ask you the same question, Privateer.

Marigold: ... So that's how We're going at it, Aye?

~~~~~

Yang: *Punches Knuckles, Burn ignites* Wil, Wil, Wil, Look Who we've got here!

Wilhelm: *Nocks Bolt* Oh? Xiao-Long You been hanging onto that one?

Yang: Haha! Looks like we got a fight on hands!

~~~~~

Wilhelm: *Raps Crossbow against Shield* Come and GET SOME BLONDIE!

Yang: *Riding in on Bmblb* WITH THIS ENERGY! GLADLY!

Wilhelm: THIS BATTLE SHALL BE ONE OF LEGEND!

~~~~

Bonus

Ruby: *Petal bursts in* Ooh! Are those Dual Chamber Dust infusion Revolvers?

Remi: *Loading Revolvers* Yep! That's a custom scythe, yeah? That Blade collapsing mechanism seems really tough for how thin it is!

Ruby: Ah, Thank you! My baby is my pride and joy!

Remi: Yeah, Well my pals here are some of my finest work - the most consistent and versatile tools I have! Carbon steel blade edge-

Ruby: With a custom Steel/Aluminum mixture for Weight, Strength, and-

Both: Heat sinking, because repeated firing increases weight of wear and results in damage to the edge of the blade unless the barrel is properly cooled ...

NO CONTEST

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

NASA's Roman space telescope's 'exoskeleton' whirls through major test

A major component of NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope just took a spin on the centrifuge at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Called the Outer Barrel Assembly, this piece of the observatory is designed to keep the telescope at a stable temperature and shield it from stray light.

The two-part spin test took place in a large, round test chamber. Stretching across the room, a 600,000-pound (272,000-kilogram) steel arm extends from a giant rotating bearing in the center of the floor.

The test itself is like a sophisticated version of a popular carnival attraction, designed to apply centrifugal force to the rider—in this case, the outer covering for Roman's telescope. It spun up to 18.4 rotations per minute. That may not sound like much, but it generated force equivalent to just over seven times Earth's gravity, or 7 g, and sent the assembly whipping around at 80 miles per hour.

"We couldn't test the entire Outer Barrel Assembly in the centrifuge in one piece because it's too large to fit in the room," said Jay Parker, product design lead for the assembly at Goddard. The structure stands about 17 feet (5 meters) tall and is about 13.5 feet (4 meters) wide. "It's designed a bit like a house on stilts, so we tested the 'house' and 'stilts' separately."

The "stilts" went first. Technically referred to as the elephant stand because of its similarity to structures used in circuses, this part of the assembly is designed to surround Roman's Wide Field Instrument and Coronagraph Instrument like scaffolding. It connects the upper portion of the Outer Barrel Assembly to the spacecraft bus, which will maneuver the observatory to its place in space and support it while there. The elephant stand was tested with weights attached to it to simulate the rest of the assembly's mass.

Next, the team tested the "house"—the shell and a connecting ring that surrounds the telescope. These parts of the assembly will ultimately be fitted with heaters to help ensure the telescope's mirrors won't experience wide temperature swings, which make materials expand and contract.

To further protect against temperature fluctuations, the Outer Barrel Assembly is mainly made of two types of carbon fibers mixed with reinforced plastic and connected with titanium end fittings. These materials are both stiff (so they won't warp or flex during temperature swings) and lightweight (reducing launch demands).

If you could peel back the side of the upper portion –– the house's "siding" –– you'd see another weight-reducing measure. Between the inner and outer panels, the material is structured like a honeycomb. This pattern is very strong and lowers weight by hollowing out portions of the interior.

Designed at Goddard and built by Applied Composites in Los Alamitos, California, Roman's Outer Barrel Assembly was delivered in pieces and then put together in a series of crane lifts in Goddard's largest clean room. It was partially disassembled for centrifuge testing, but will now be put back together and integrated with Roman's solar panels and Deployable Aperture Cover at the end of the year.

In 2025, these freshly integrated components will go through thermal vacuum testing together to ensure they will withstand the temperature and pressure environment of space. Then they'll move to a shake test to make sure they will hold up against the vibrations they'll experience during launch. Toward the end of next year, they will be integrated with the rest of the observatory.

IMAGE: This structure, called the Outer Barrel Assembly, will surround and protect NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope from stray light that could interfere with its observations. In this photo, engineers prepare the assembly for testing. Credit: NASA/Chris Gunn

[henglihong]

Green and Eco-Friendly Blasting Media: Current Development, Trends, and Future Challenges

——An In-Depth Industry Analysis for Manufacturing Managers and Environmental Engineers

Introduction: The Revolution of Blasting Technology in the Era of Environmental Transformation

As global environmental regulations tighten (e.g., EU REACH, U.S. EPA standards) and the ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) concept gains traction, the manufacturing industry is increasingly demanding sustainable surface treatment technologies. Traditional blasting media, such as silica sand and steel grit, are under scrutiny due to dust pollution, high energy consumption, and health risks. In contrast, green and eco-friendly blasting media are emerging as a core breakthrough for industry transformation. This article combines the latest market data and technological trends to analyze the current development and future challenges in this field, providing strategic insights for decision-makers.

I. Market Status: Policy-Driven Growth and Technological Advancements

1. Market Size and Growth Potential

According to Grand View Research, the global blasting media market reached $5.2 billion in 2023, with the share of eco-friendly media rising from 12% in 2018 to 28% in 2023, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7%. By 2030, the market share of green media is expected to exceed 45%, with the Asia-Pacific region (especially China and India) becoming a growth engine due to manufacturing upgrade demands.

2. Mainstream Eco-Friendly Media Types

Plant-Based Materials (walnut shells, corn cobs): Biodegradable, low dust emission (70% less than silica sand), suitable for precision parts.

Synthetic Ceramic Particles (alumina, silicon carbide): High hardness, reusable 5-8 times, reducing long-term costs.

Ice/Dry Ice: Zero-residue technology, with over 40% penetration in the aerospace sector.

Recycled Glass Beads: Made from waste glass, reducing carbon emissions by 65% compared to traditional processes.

3. Policy and Industry Standards Driving Adoption

The EU Circular Economy Action Plan aims to increase industrial waste recycling to 70% by 2030.

China’s 14th Five-Year Plan tightens blasting dust emission limits to 10mg/m³ (previously 20mg/m³).

Automotive giants (e.g., Toyota, Volkswagen) have incorporated "green blasting certification" into supply chain standards.

II. Technological Advantages and Business Value: Why Choose Green Media?

1. Environmental Benefits

Dust Control: Plant-based media reduce dust concentration to <2mg/m³ (compared to 15-20mg/m³ for silica sand), lowering the risk of silicosis.

Carbon Reduction: Each ton of recycled glass beads reduces CO₂ emissions by 1.2 tons compared to new steel grit.

Waste Management: 95% of synthetic ceramic media can be recycled, reducing landfill costs.

2. Economic Breakthroughs

Lower Lifecycle Costs: In the automotive industry, switching to ice media reduced annual maintenance costs by 18% per production line (source: Frost & Sullivan).

Improved Efficiency: High-precision ceramic particles increase blasting speed by 30% and reduce rework rates.

III. Future Challenges: Technological Bottlenecks and Industry Collaboration

1. Technical Pain Points

Material Limitations: Plant-based media have low hardness (Mohs 2-3), making them unsuitable for hard substrates like high-strength steel.

Cost Barriers: Green media prices remain 20-50% higher than traditional materials, hindering adoption by SMEs.

Lack of Recycling Systems: Only 35% of global companies have media recycling equipment, relying on third-party processing.

2. Industry Collaboration Challenges

Lack of Standardization: Differing definitions of "eco-friendly media" across countries create barriers to cross-border procurement.

Insufficient R&D Investment: SMEs lack funding for new material testing (single certification costs exceed $50,000).

IV. Solutions: Innovation and Ecosystem Building

1. Technological Breakthrough Paths

Composite Material Development: For example, "bio-resin + ceramic" hybrid media balancing hardness and biodegradability.

Smart Blasting Equipment: AI algorithms optimize media usage, reducing waste.

Cryogenic Plasma Technology: A zero-media alternative to physical blasting (currently in the lab stage).

2. Industry Ecosystem Recommendations

Policy Subsidies: Governments should offer tax credits for green media procurement (e.g., U.S. IRA Act).

Industry Alliances: Establish cross-company recycling networks to share regeneration facilities.

Customer Education: Use Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) reports to quantify long-term benefits and boost decision-maker confidence.

V. Conclusion: Green Blasting—A Must for Sustainable Manufacturing

Eco-friendly blasting media are not just a compliance requirement but a strategic choice for cost reduction, efficiency improvement, and brand value enhancement. To overcome the dual challenges of technological evolution and market education, innovation, policy coordination, and industry collaboration are essential to transition this field from an "optional solution" to an "industry standard."

Keywords: Green blasting media, eco-friendly surface treatment, sustainable manufacturing, blasting technology trends, industrial carbon neutrality, ESG compliance

Data Sources: Grand View Research, Frost & Sullivan, European Environment Agency, China Ministry of Ecology and Environment. Further Reading:

2024 Global Surface Treatment Technology White Paper

Pathways to Carbon Neutrality in Manufacturing: Starting with Blasting Processes

[tojskfarnijler]

Apocalypse Jargon: So we're actually making this a series now?

The sky, an ultramarine blue, and the clouds, a rusty red. She saw two endless forces at each other's necks. Lightning and optics, mains hum. Pained wails and a bruising pain, taos hum. At some point it all turns into green noise, one she'd never heard before. Emergence in her dreamscapes, she saw objects in fractions of dimensions, peril with comfort.

Tall lycophytes filter the solar light. The buzz of a giant mayfly. Spoon on a boat made of trilobite shells, it's Basho. The swamp forest was rather shallow, Spoon could see the life beneath the boat. The ride was a first in a while, Spoon was relaxed.. until Lunae came running on water with a freshly caught akmonistion whilst being chased by a giant levitating psionic phantom nervous system. When it got close to Spoon's range, it immediately dissolved into the air. Following O'Donnell's first law, Lunae fell into the swamp's shallows and grabbed a couple extra lungfishes. They were really generous at giving Spoon more food, but always argues between each other on how much they should have. A carbon steel scythe interrupts their lunch. A lower elven deity of death has been mutated, and releases long threads of fate. The surrounding forest cut down in a sweep. Lunae tried to enclose it inside a cavitation bubble, but there isn't enough pressure difference. She grabbed a piece of loose trilobite shell and rocked the boat into the water, utilizing buoyancy to shoot the mutated reaper, cracking its skull. She repeated, but the reaper has tied its thread of fate on her, and she had lost control of her corporeal form. Attempting to drown herself, Basho scoffs at the idea, since she is already a Foraman, she is largely capable of absorbing oxygen in water. Basho realizes that the threads of fate means that it is a deterministic deity, which is his territory. He pulls out carved obsidian and schist coins, and prayed with it. The threads of fate begin to weaken to the point of tangling between trees, causing the reaper to get stuck. The physical tension releases the spiritual bind Lunae was in. Lunae climbed the swamp floor towards the reaper, slightly weakened from reverse osmosis. She yanked one of the threads of fate and began puppeteering the reaper around to smash into the trees and the ground. As she is closer to the ocean, the presence of beach sand become more apparent. She souldrives the sandy loam to crush the reaper's form. This demanifests the lower deity, and leaves behind mutivine bones. They repurposed the scythe into the world's first tumbler. The threads of fate and mutivine bones were perfect for making a soul lantern, Basho was very excited to perform improvised witchcraft for the first time, but Lunae seems to be rather curiojealous. Spoon has been mystified this entire time...

Despite that, her unconscience senses dread again, this time at the zenith. A dwarf planet has been transported here this entire time. Basho was extremely terrified and asked why Lunae did not warn him, she simply thought it was no big deal. The ocean is now visibly meniscus. They were then greeted by the sudden appearance of a Necrozoan knight, an armor made of coal, a body made of extracellular polymeric substance. They telepathically apologized for the inconvenience of the mutated reaper, and vanishes before Lunae can snatch more material. Basho found that habit of hers, impolite. They are now scrambling to find safety, but at this point, the dwarf planet will likely contact the earth in a matter of hours if not minutes. Spoon's electrozom brain has been on overdrive for enough time for her cancerous neurons to develop logic gates baked into her axons. Electroweak nerve cells allowing muonic transmission. This causes her to develop a pathway directly into her unconscience, allowing her to use a larger range of enermotion. While this situation is a checkmate, she found out that the same way she was brought through to here from the escher dimension, she could do the same now. The abundance of curse in the region coupled with her ragement and the untouched qi ocean surrounding them allows her to ignite and conduct a pathway in mid air to a random liminal dreamscape. Lunae and Basho says their goodbyes to that world of theirs, with a slight longing look.

They enter the realm of Child's Play. A favourite spot for witches and wizards to traverse to other dimensions due to ease of access. Paislefishes and Flakinons populate the marinile surfaces. Clocks, sextants, astrolabes, teddy bears, alphabet cubes, compasses, sundials, calendars, festival dolls, miniature houses... They walk across the many carpeted corridors littered with toys and antique items, sometimes meeting with windows of various designs to a sky peppered with clouds. Lunae hates the fuzzy textures, but Basho is in complete awe. They were then greeted by the witch of insanity, this time she promises she means no harm. It advises on the presence of paislesharks as they can deconfold you in a cinch, but also the extremely dense mixture of universe energies and entropies in the air. Lunae proved right, she feels an immense cold feeling, she complained to Basho as to why he didn't tell her of the turbulence, and he thought it was no big deal. They both fought each other as Spoon tuned in. The witch of insanity then grinned, cheshire. She... gave Spoon another problem in her unconscience. She is afflicted with the presence of aqueous mana and crystalline magic in her brain. A third ailment. Lunae and Basho were already at the witch's neck, but Spoon relieved in a better mental clarity. However, something began to rapidly transmute her electrozom skin to form patches of soulburnt blood skin. The witch clarified that such phenomenon is only natural as her body begins to evolve. Her grin is ominous, yet the three aren't able to feel the presence of ill intent. The witch then guides them through the endless corridors.

Spoon is dizzy.

[the-insomniac-emporium]

SWORDTEMBER '24, DAY 19: MAGNETIC

Item ID: JQ-2419 Item Name: Saber of Recall/Gauntlet of Recollection Category: B-5 Origin Point: Aldentium Maxus, Industrius Sector Owner: Morriette Winchest (C), Naomi Winchest (O) Description: A curved blade, single edged, paired with a single gauntlet. Attached to the gauntlet is a 1st place prize for a junior science fair. The blade is made from damascus steel, and is approximately 85 cm long with a 20 cm hilt. Wiry metal forms a guard around the front of the grip. Encasing the handle is a carbon fiber shell, fitted in place with golden rivets. Hidden beneath the shell are some sort of electronics, as well as a magnetic plate, activated by the paired gauntlet. The gauntlet can be adjusted to fit larger hands, but is designed for usage by a left-handed human or near-human. Although it provides light protection, the armor is primarily meant to house the technology for the item’s gimmick: A blade that the user can recall at will. As the FPA is not allowed to dismantle the item, we are unable to determine exactly how it functions, and must instead attempt to interpret the original owner’s explanation. For a detailed overview, including excerpts from the OO’s submission, see supplementary file JQ-2419-A. In summation: Intricate usage of electromagnetic fields pairs with item-specific radio waves to create powerful, heavily localized attraction, allowing the saber to be retrieved from up to 15 m. Furthermore, the user can activate a lesser form of the magnetic force to prevent the blade from being separated from the gauntlet. Acting Supervisor’s Notes: Hold up… this was somebody’s SCIENCE FAIR PROJECT? Guess the Winchest family is filled with technological troublemakers. Geniuses, admittedly, but the kind that tend to do more harm than good, in the end. Here’s hoping that the next generation learns from the mistakes of their father.

-----

Technically, Supervisors (acting or otherwise) at the FPA don’t normally get involved with the routine testing of confiscated items. At most, they supervise the testing of particularly dangerous materials. Some of the previous supervisors have had specializations, such as a background in biochemicals, that led to them occasionally getting more hands-on with testing that involved their field of expertise. For Cynthia, it’s literally her hands that have allowed her to test today’s item.

Of all of the 13 employees at this branch who can technically wear the gauntlet, she’s the only one with a dominant left hand.

After watching one of her employees fumble around for a bit too long, she offered to step in, and was quickly ushered to the locker room to don the appropriate attire. Now she’s back in the WTC (Weapon Testing Center), facing off against everyone’s favorite sparring partner: A scrawny looking automaton affectionately referred to as JAXSON, official designation J4-X50. The metal lad is more than happy to pull their metaphorical punches, their programming preventing them from actually hurting anyone, but it certainly feels like a real match to Cynthia.

It’s after two minutes of sword fighting that JAXSON finally makes a move that would have killed her in an actual fight. As it is, the capped tip of their blade stops a centimeter away from her throat. A beat passes. JAXSON pulls away their weapon, stands perfectly straight, and gives a bow before returning to standby mode. In an instant there’s awkward, scattered clapping from the observation deck above, from the handful of employees that were watching the match. The sound snaps Cynthia out of her post-adrenaline haze, her eyes shooting up to her audience.

Their reaction confuses her, at first. Then she remembers that she’s the only employee here with any formal melee training- at least when it comes to blades- and suddenly it clicks that she must have put on quite the show. Were her skills really that impressive? Compared to either Naomi or Yusuke, she hardly feels like anything other than a complete novice. But to a group like this?... Well, she supposes it feels like a nice enough confidence boost, regardless of whether or not she has an actual talent.

A shame they were too distracted to record any data, though… guess she’s in for another demonstration.

[ultfan]

aesthetic.

what are your muse’s aesthetics? BOLD any which apply to your muse! remember to REPOST! feel free to add to the list!

[ COLOURS ]  ~  burgundy. red. crimson. scarlet. maroon. mahogany. copper. amber. chocolate. brown. tawny. tan. bronze. brass. orange. gold. saffron. yellow. chartreuse. spring green. lime. mint. green. olive. forest. turquoise. teal. cerulean. blue. navy. cobalt. periwinkle. indigo. pewter. plum. purple. magenta. fuchsia. lilac. lavender. pink. coral. peach. ivory. cream. white. silver. grey. smoke. charcoal. ebony. black. pastels. vibrant. matte. metallic. muted. dark. light.

[ BODY ] ~ mutations. claws. fangs. wings. tails. feathers. webs. spikes. scales. fur. stripes. spots. freckles. acne. bruises. scars. scratches. gashes. lashes. wounds. amputations. burns. brands. teeth. gums. tongues. lips. beards. mustaches. cheeks. noses. ears. eyes. eyelashes. eyebrows. hair. heads. neck. shoulders. collar bones. arms. elbows. wrists.  hands. fingers. breast. back. ribs. abs. belly. hips. curves. butts. legs. thighs. knees. shins. ankles. feet. toes. nails. sweat. spit. tears. blood. heart. stomach. lungs. liver. veins.  guts. bones. spine. muscle. skin. feline. canine. masculine. feminine.

[ WEAPONS ]  ~  bites. fists. sword. dagger. spear. arrow. bow. crossbow. hammer.  shield. poison. guns. axes. throwing axes. whips. knives. throwing knives. pepper sprays. tasers.  machine guns. slingshots. katanas. maces. staffs. wands. powers. magical items. magic. rocks. mud balls. bombs. missiles. boomerangs. lethal pets. lasers.

[ MATERIALS ]  ~ metal. gold. silver. platinum. pewter. titanium. iron. steel. copper. bronze. brass. tin. bismuth. diamonds. pearls. rubies. garnets. sapphires. emeralds. jade. peridots. alexandrite. opal. topaz. jasper. quartz. rose quartz. smoky quartz. amethyst. citrine. fluorite. amber. malachite. turquoise. lapis lazuli. sodalite. pyrite. labradorite.  moonstone.  petrified wood. wood. paper. parchment. hemp. canvas. burlap. oils. skin. muslin. rayon. faux. wool. fur. lace. leather. skins. suede. corduroy. silk. satin. chiffon. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. rocks. flint. asphalt. brick. granite. marble. dust. rust. glitter. sand. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. nylon. polyester. plastic. glass. porcelain.  bone. shells. coral.

[ NATURE ]  ~ grass. leaves. trees. bark. flowers. roses. daisies. forget me nots. tulips. lavender. petals. thorns. seeds. hay. roots. ocean. pond. river. stream. waterfall. creek. meadow. forest. desert. tundra. savanna. rain forest. tropical. jungle. marsh. moors. swamp.  plains. hills. highlands. caves. underwater. coral reef. beach. waves. space.  clouds. mountains. fire. lava. ice. frost. water. air. earth. rain. snow. wind. moon. stars. sun.  heat. cold. steam. lightning. sunlight. moonlight. dawn. dusk. twilight. midnight. sunrise.  sunset. dewdrops. shadow. tornado. hurricane. water spout. thunder. hail. twisters. humidity. dryness.

[ ANIMALS ]  ~ birds. penguins. eagles. owls. falcons. vultures. hawks. swans. parrots. parakeets. doves. pigeons. ducks. robins. cardinals. blue jays. bluebirds. blackbirds. crows. ravens. magpies. mockingbirds. flamingos. ostriches. seagulls. albatross. peacocks. condors. finches. pelicans. chickens. geese. quail. bats. sheep. cows. buffalo. deer.  hedgehogs. elephants. horses. giraffes. cats. lions. tigers. pumas. cheetahs. jaguars. foxes. dogs. wolves. coyotes. bunnies. mice. rats. monkeys. apes. bears. pandas. polar bears. snakes. iguanas. chameleons. alligators. crocodiles. turtles. lizards. frogs. toads. whales. dolphins. fish. sharks. stingrays. octopus. lobsters. crabs. bugs. spiders. ants.  moths. butterflies. flies. maggots. roaches. ladybugs. beetles. cicadas. dragonflies. fleas. termites. leeches. worms. snails. mosquitoes. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons. dinosaurs.

[ FOODS/DRINKS ]  ~  pepper. salt. sugar. honey. syrup. caramel. candy. bubblegum.  mints.  candy canes. gumdrops. lollipops. chocolate. vanilla. cinnamon. ice cream. cake. cookies. brownies. biscuits. pie. tarts. lemonade. soda. champagne. wine. brandy. rum. whiskey. vodka. tequila. sake. beer. soju. gin. crema de cacao. cocoa. latte. coffee. tea.  spices. herbs. fruit. apples. oranges. lemons. cherries. strawberries. blueberries. raspberries. cranberries. watermelons. cantaloupes. bananas. coconuts. grapes. kiwi. pomegranates. tomatoes. vegetables. potatoes. cucumbers. carrots. turnips. onions. leeks.  celery. broccoli. cabbages. lettuces. roots. nuts. white meat. red meat. raw meat. veal. pork. chicken. beef. venison. fish. lobster. oysters. pizza. ambrosia. pasta. sandwiches. soup.

[ HOBBIES ]  ~  music. piano. flute. woodwinds. whistles. drums. guitar. cello. synthesizer.  violin. lute. harp. fiddle. harmonica. trumpet. brass. singing. composing. folk.  classical. bluegrass. blues. jazz. big band. pop. country. rock. punk. metal. electronica. hip hop. reggae. ska. rap. vinyl records. cassettes. cds. soundcloud. itunes. spotify. art.  sculpting. pottery. painting. watercolour. drawing. pastels. charcoal. sketching. graffiti. printing. inking. collecting. fighting. martial arts. self-defence. boxing. fencing. sumo. wrestling. jousting. paintball. lazer tag. duelling. hunting. fishing. climbing. weight lifting. training. sports. football. football (usa). rugby. baseball. cricket. lacrosse. volleyball. basketball. tennis. badminton. skating. cycling. sailing. rowing. hiking. running. gymnastics. dancing. ice skating. hockey.  reading. writing. cooking. sewing. acting. photography. video games. horseback riding. gardening. smithing. shopping. traveling. movies. theatre. libraries. books. magazines. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. science.

[ STYLE ]  ~ nudism. perfume. cologne. piercings. tattoos. henna. body paint. war paint.  make up. lipstick. mascara. eyeliner. eye shadow. powder. beauty marks. blush. nail polish. lingerie. fishnet. pantie-hoes. socks. stockings. leggings. long johns. under armor. corsets. sports bras. bustles. camisoles. blouses. button ups. tunics. vests. waistcoats. leather jackets. ponchos. sweaters/jumpers. hoodies. skirts. jeans. kilts. breeches. scarfs. cravats. ascots. belts. sashes. gloves. heels. sandals. platforms. tennis shoes. penny loafers. jordans. slippers. boots. cowboy boots. rain boots. army boots. armor. justaucorps. trench coats. capes. cloaks. burqa. suits. tuxedos. kimonos. saris. sun dresses. gowns. jewelry. earrings. nose rings. lip rings. tongue piercings. belly rings. gauges. eyebrow rings. necklaces. pearl strings. leis. bracelets. bangles. cuffs. watches. friendship bracelets. rings. pendants. lockets. broaches. boutonnieres. pocket watches. cuff links. hats. crowns. circlets. flower crowns. helmets. hijabs. turbans. baseball caps. cowboy hats. brocade. doublet. gorget. bracers. masks. cowls. braces. glasses. sun glasses. eye contacts. pyjamas.

[ MISC ]  ~ balloons. bubbles. candles. battle. war. diplomacy. peace. money. power.  clocks. photos. mirrors. pets. diary. fairy lights. madness. sanity. sadness. happiness. optimism. pessimism. loneliness. family. friends. assistants. co-workers. enemies.  loyalty. smoking. drugs. kindness. love. sex. hugs. duality. sin. lust. greed. wrath. envy. sloth. gluttony. pride. virtue. chivalry. honour. piety. charity. diligence. chastity. gentleness. aggression. romance. hatred. grief. pity. success. bitterness. sorrow. joy. fear. anger. good. evil. relativity. vampirism. sapphism. life. birth. time. death. illusion. silence.

[aquaskypressuretank]

Introduction to the Pumplus Well Tank ｜Aquasky

A pressure tank is a general term for a vessel designed to hold liquids or gases under pressure. Depending on their specific applications, these tanks are referred to by various names across industries. In this article, we will focus on residential pressure water booster systems, where they are commonly known as Well Tanks or Sanitary Water Tanks.

1. Introduction to the Pumplus Well Tank

The Aquasky PumPlus Pressure Tank is an indispensable part of residential pressurized water systems, providing water pressure at a consistent level. The tank stores supplemental water between the diaphragm and liner, and the pressurized air chamber creates a supply circle. This innovative design significantly reduces the frequency of motor startups, maintaining steady system pressure and enhancing the efficiency of household appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. It also ensures a strong water flow for showering and bathing.

Designed as an energy-saving solution, the PumPlus pressure tank requires no maintenance and, when paired with a properly sized pump, provides reliable and long-lasting service. This system not only minimizes energy consumption and protects against water hammers but also stabilizes water pressure to effectively meet daily needs.

Aquasky's commitment to quality and efficiency is embodied in the PumPlus series, which exemplifies the best in diaphragm-type pressure tank technology, offering a practical solution for managing residential water systems.

2. Design and Features of the Pumplus Well Tank

Constructed from cold-rolled carbon steel, the Pumplus Well Tank is built to withstand high pressures and harsh environmental conditions, making it ideal for for coastal areas prone to corrosion. With capacities ranging from 1 to 500 liters, it meets a variety of residential system sizes and requirements.

* Material and Construction:

The study cold-rolled carbon steel exterior of the tank offers excellent resistance to a wide range of atmospheric environments and corrosive media, ensuring durability and reliability in potable water systems.

* Connector Design:

To enhance tank adaptability and strength, the Pumplus Well Tank incorporates three types of stainless steel connectors:

* Male Straight Connector: Used on smaller and horizontal tanks for straightforward attachment to plumbing systems.

* Reinforced Male Connector: Features a reinforcing plate that increases the welding circumference by 50%, enhancing the strength and durability of the connection.

* Elbow Female Connector: Designed for medium and large tanks, this design features a side opening that facilitates easier pipe installation, improving the installation process.

* Internal Structure:

Inside, the tank is divided by a flexible rubber butyl diaphragm into two main chambers: the Water Chamber and the Air Chamber.

* The Water Chamber: Equipped with a corrosion-resistant propylene (PP) liner that molds to the tank shell's shape, preventing water contact with the steel shell and ensuing corrosion. It features a type 304 stainless steel threaded outlet for seamless connection to the water supply.

* The Air Chamber: Sealed and pre-charged with nitrogen to enhance stability and reduce maintenance needs, featuring an air valve for crucial pressure adjustments.

* The diaphragm is the only moving part, dynamically adjusting to changes in water volume to maintain consistent pressure and prevent water logging.

3. How Pumplus Works Inside a Pump System

In a pump system not equipped with a pressure tank, water is not very compressible, and pipes can only store a small amount of water. As a result, when you open a tap, the pressure drops quickly, leading to minimal water output. At this point, the pressure falls to the "on" setting of the pressure switch, prompting the pump to activate and start pumping again.

Integrating a pressure tank into a pump system significantly enhances its operation and extends the pump's lifespan by managing water pressure more efficiently. The tank stores water under pressure, operating as follows:

* As water is drawn from the well and pumped into the tank, it compresses the air in the upper part of the tank, increasing the internal pressure. When this pressure reaches its maximum limit t(ypically 50 to 60 PSI), the pump stops pumping water, maintaining pressure in the system.

* When water is demanded - such as opening a faucet - the compressed air in the air pressure zone is released. This air pressure deflates, pushing against the rubber diaphragm in the tank and expelling water through the plumbing system. Once the water level drops to a certain level and the air pressure in the tank drops to a pre-set minimum (typically 30 to 40 PSI), the pump reactivates to refill the tank.

* When the tap shuts, then the water stops flowing and the pressure in the system builds. When the pressure reaches the “off” setting of the switch or controller, then this turns the pump off and the pipes remain pressurized.

The tank's air pressure and water volume are controlled by a pressure switch, which has preset high and low pressure thresholds.

This system reduces the frequency of pump cycling, which is crucial for preventing wear and tear on the pump and saving electricity. By buffering the pressure and storing water in advance, the tank ensures a steady supply and reduces the stress on the pump, which is especially important for systems where pumps are not designed to start frequently, such as submersible bore pumps.

Picture 1: The work of the pressure tank within a system

4. Benefits of Using Pumplus Well Tanks

Pumplus Well Tanks are expertly designed to boost the efficiency and longevity of water systems, providing several key benefits. These tanks store pressurized water, significantly reducing the frequency of pump cycling, which not only extends the pump’s lifespan but also conserves energy and lowers utility costs. This feature also improves battery life in systems where applicable. The tanks ensure a consistent water flow and pressure, crucial for both residential comfort and industrial applications. Additionally, they offer protection against water hammers, which can cause sudden and harmful pressure changes, thus safeguarding your plumbing infrastructure. With a Pumplus Well Tank, you gain instant access to well water without needing to manually activate the pump, enhancing operational convenience and reducing the mechanical strain on your pump.

By integrating a Pumplus Well Tank into your system, you not only safeguard the mechanical integrity of your pump but also enhance the overall functionality and efficiency of your water supply system, ensuring it operates smoothly and quietly.

5. Pumplus Pressure Tank Models by Aquasky

* In-line Models

Available sizes: 3, 8, 12, 18, 24 liters

These models are typically installed directly in the main water supply line and feature a 1” connection, making them ideal for seamless integration into residential systems.

* Vertical Stand Models

Available sizes: 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 130, 160, 200, 240, 300, 325, 450, 500 liters

* Tanks ranging from 40 to 120 liters come with a 1” connection and a plastic base, suitable for moderate residential use.

* Larger sizes from 130 to 325 liters include a 1-1/4” connector and plastic base, designed for extensive residential or light commercial applications.

* The largest tanks, 450 and 500 liters, are equipped with a 1-1/4” connector and an iron support base, ideal for commercial settings requiring substantial water capacity.

* Horizontal Models

Available sizes: 18, 24, 40, 60, 80, 100 liters

These are equipped with a 1” connection and a plastic pump stand, providing flexibility and durability for various installation environments.

6. Methods for Choosing the Correct Size of Pumplus Pressure Tank

Choosing the proper size for your Pumplus pressure tank is crucial to prevent premature pump failure and ensure efficient system operation. Here are the detailed steps and considerations:

* Residential Capacity Based on Drawdown Capacity:

* Determine Flow Rate: Measure how many liters per minute your pump produces.

* Calculate Minimum Runtime: Typically, one minute is sufficient. Multiply the flow rate by the minimum runtime to determine the drawdown capacity, ensuring the pump operates efficiently without frequent cycling.

The formula: Flow Rate (LPM) x Minimum Runtime (1 minute) = Drawdown Capacity

For example: 60 LPM flow rate x 1 = 60 liters drawdown capacity.

* Set Pressure Switch: The pressure switch setting is the pressure at which the pump turns on to fill the tank up, and the pressure at which the pump shuts off, knowing the tank is full. Standard settings range from 2.07/3.45 bar to 2.76/4.14 bar, where the first number is the cut-in pressure and the second is the cut-out pressure. This setting significantly impacts the drawdown capacity and system efficiency.

* Residential Capacity Based on Fixture Count:

The capacity of the pump system in gallons per minute (GPM) should equal the number of fixtures in the home. This must take into account all use for the kitchen, bath, appliances, outside irrigation, a pool, and special fixtures, such as a hot tub. In this model, modern home with two bathrooms (three outlets each), kitchen sink, dishwasher, washing machine, laundry tub, and two outside hose outlets would require a capacity of 12 gallons per minute, based on the 12 fixtures or outlets.

Aquasky’s experts suppose each water faucet flows out 10 litres of water each time, so customer just needs to know the number of water faucet inside the water system, and they can select a correct size pressure tank.

* Using Aquasky Selection Tool

Please link to the following AQUASKY website: https://aquaskyplus.com/sel_tools.php

Enter demand figures, AQUASKY will help you calculate the proper size pressure tank.

7. Installation Process

Installing an Aquasky Pumplus Well Tank is a critical step in ensuring efficient operation and extended longevity of your water system.

Start by removing any existing equipment such as old steel galvanized tanks, air volume controls, and plugging or removing bleeder and snifter valves. After unpacking your new tank, begin the initial setup by removing the air valve cap and using a standard tire pressure gauge to check and adjust the tank’s pre-charge pressure. This should be set to 2 PSI below the pump’s cut-in pressure setting, ensuring adjustments are made when the tank is empty and the system pressure is at 0 PSI to avoid inaccuracies. Typically, Pumplus tanks come with a preset cut-in pressure of 30 PSI, so adjust the pre-charge to 28 PSI. Consult your pump’s documentation for specific settings, often found under the pressure switch cover.

Once adjusted, re-secure the air valve cap tightly. Choose an installation site that minimizes risk in the event of leaks and provides adequate drainage, making sure the location’s flooring is level. When making pipe connections, ensure that the pipe size from the tank matches that from the pump to the house, and follow local or state plumbing codes. Refer to the included installation diagram (from Picture 2 to Picture 6) for further guidance. After all connections are secure, prime the pump and restore power. Finally, check all joints to ensure they are airtight, preventing any leaks and guaranteeing system integrity. By carefully following these steps, you will successfully install your Pumplus Well Tank, optimizing its performance and enhancing the durability of your water pressure system.

8. Maintenance and Longevity

Aquasky Pumplus pressure tanks are built to last, but their lifespan greatly depends on proper maintenance and system setup. The longevity of these tanks is influenced by two main factors: the inherent quality of the tank and the suitability of its size and settings for the specific system.

Under typical conditions, Aquasky Pumplus pressure tanks are designed to last about 5 years. With optimal care and ideal water conditions, high-quality models can extend up to 8 years or more. In systems where the water is consistently clean and the tank is correctly sized, the lifespan can reach an average of 10 years.

Here are some tips on how to maximize the lifespan of your pressure tank:

* For optimal performance, it is essential to ensure the tank is properly sized and configured for your system to efficiently handle water demand and minimize wear and tear.

* Regularly monitoring and managing water quality is also crucial, particularly in coastal areas where higher salt content can accelerate corrosion. Installing a filter system can help mitigate damage from sediments like sand or small rocks that might erode the diaphragm over time, potentially leading to leaks.

* To further extend the tank’s life, reduce the frequency of pump cycling to prevent mechanical strain and quick wear of the diaphragm. Regular inspections of the diaphragm and adjustments to the tank’s pre-charge based on water usage or system changes are vital.

9. Conclusion

The Pumplus Well Tank exemplifies the advantages of using a high-quality pressure tank in any pressurized water system. With its sturdy design, efficient operation, and potential for energy savings, it represents a wise investment for ensuring reliable and effective water pressure management.

For more information of Aquaksy Pumplus well tank, you can click website: https://aquaskyplus.com/PUMPLUS.php

Or you can email to us: frankwang@aquasky.com.tw

[ironmengatesdoorsdesign]

What Materials Are Frequently Utilized In Iron Work Services, And Also Just How Do They Contribute To The Total Toughness?

In the wide realm of building and also construction, iron job solutions command a substantial location as a result of their necessity in developing resilient structures. The integral stamina, convenience, and also longevity of iron make it an optimal product for numerous applications varying from constructing frameworks to crafting complex decorative aspects.

However, the total long life as well as efficiency of iron-based frameworks are not exclusively contingent on the natural buildings of this metal; they are equally affected by the type of materials utilized combined with iron as well as the particular treatments applied during the construction procedure.

The extensive use alloys-- compounds made by incorporating two or even more metallic elements-- is a testimony to this reality. Alloys boost the physical buildings of pure metals, making them preferable for particular applications.

For instance, adding carbon to pure iron results in steel-- an alloy known for its increased strength and resistance versus wear and tear. Similarly, surface treatments like galvanizing can considerably improve corrosion resistance, consequently expanding the lifespan of iron frameworks.

This article aims to clarify these typically made use of materials in iron job services while elucidating exactly how they add towards boosting general sturdiness.

Checking out the Function of Alloys and Treatments in Enhancing Long Life of Structures

The unification of alloys and treatments in iron work services becomes a perfect symbol of strength as well as long life, dramatically boosting the sturdiness as well as life expectancy of frameworks.

Alloys are a fusion of 2 or more metallic elements, which when combined, existing superior homes contrasted to individual parts. Significantly, steel - an alloy predominantly made up of iron and also carbon - is renowned for its high tensile strength as well as malleability. It has become a staple in building due to these top qualities combined with its resistance to environmental results such as rusting. Other prominent selections consist of cast iron, identified by its terrific solidity as well as put on resistance, making it excellent for applications where toughness is paramount.

Moreover, various treatments have been created to additionally improve these intrinsic characteristics of alloys made use of in the field. Hot-dip galvanizing involves finish iron or steel with zinc, giving cathodic defense that prevents deterioration successfully. Similarly, powder layer uses added protection versus weathering whilst at the same time supplying a visually pleasing finish. The procedure entails using powdered paint electrostatically onto steel surface areas after that treated under warm to develop a difficult shell-like layer over the product's surface area.

These treatment approaches not only add in the direction of enhancing general architectural integrity but additionally supply considerable financial benefits by minimizing maintenance expenses and also expanding service life cycles.

[nainad123]

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Market: Top Vendors, Industry Trends, Growth, Recent Developments, Technology Forecast to 2033 

The carbon capture and storage (CCS) market (二酸化炭素回収・貯留（CCS）市場) was valued at approximately US$ 2.9 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to exhibit a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.4% to reach US$ 10.2 billion by 2033.

CCS involves the extraction of carbon dioxide (CO2) from energy and industrial sources, followed by its transportation to a storage facility where it is securely isolated from the atmosphere. This process serves as a crucial strategy for mitigating and stabilizing atmospheric greenhouse gas levels. Among industries, Oil & Gas stands out as a key sector embracing CCS technology, driven by its potential to meet both current and future energy demands of the planet.

𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=6943 

In the quest for mitigating climate change, technological innovations are emerging as a beacon of hope. Among these innovations, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) stands out as a critical solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon capture and storage involve the capture of CO2 emissions from industrial processes and power generation, transporting it to storage sites, and securely storing it underground. This process prevents CO2 from entering the atmosphere, thus curbing its contribution to global warming.

In recent years, technological breakthroughs have been instrumental in making CCS more efficient, cost-effective, and scalable. One notable advancement is the development of novel capture technologies that can capture CO2 from various sources, including power plants, cement factories, and industrial facilities. These technologies encompass solvent-based capture, membrane separation, and solid sorbent capture, among others. They offer greater efficiency and lower energy consumption compared to traditional capture methods, thereby reducing the overall cost of CCS implementation.

Furthermore, innovations in carbon storage technologies have expanded the range of suitable geological formations for CO2 storage. Enhanced monitoring and verification techniques ensure the secure containment of stored CO2, minimizing the risk of leakage and ensuring long-term storage integrity. This reassures stakeholders, including governments, investors, and communities, about the safety and reliability of CCS projects.

𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐬:

Aker Solutions

Exxon Mobil Corporation

Hitachi

Honeywell International

JGC Holdings Corporation

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Royal Dutch Shell

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞:

In the competitive landscape of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), notable manufacturers include Exxon Mobil Corporation, Halliburton, Hitachi, Honeywell International, JGC Holdings Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Royal Dutch Shell, and Schlumberger Limited.

Furthermore, companies such as Calpine, Chevron, Dow, and several others have committed to exploring solutions aimed at capturing and securely storing up to 50 million tons per year (TPY) of CO2 by 2030 and approximately 100 million TPY by 2040 within Houston's Industrial sector. This underscores the lucrative nature of the market, with significant growth opportunities anticipated for market players through long-term trade relationships with potential industry operators.

𝐒𝐞𝐠𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 (𝐂𝐂𝐒) 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭

By Type :

Direct Air

Bioenergy

By Technology :

Pre-combustion Capture

Oxy-Fuel Combustion Capture

Post Combustion Capture

By Service Type :

Capture

Transportation

Utilization

Storage

By Application :

Agriculture

Oil & Gas

Iron & Steel

Building & Construction

Chemical & Petrochemical

By Region :

North America

Latin America

Europe

East Asia

South Asia & Oceania

MEA

Technological advancements will continue to drive the expansion of the CCS market, enabling broader adoption across various industries and regions. However, realizing the full potential of CCS requires continued collaboration, innovation, and investment from governments, industries, and society as a whole. By harnessing the power of technology, we can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future and mitigate the impacts of climate change for generations to come.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐭:

US Sales Office

11140 Rockville Pike

Suite 400

Rockville, MD 20852

United States

Tel: +1 (628) 251-1583, +353-1-4434-232

Email: sales@factmr.com