Hostile Essay

Hostile take overs are when one company attempts to take over a company that doesn’t wished to be taken over, this is usually done by either the acquiring company attempting to buy out stakeholders or influence the management, or change, to get the deal approved. This can cause many problems for the business, such as contrasting cultures in the business which could lead to an unsuccessful business with multiple goals and the two companies could be heading in opposite directions. Also by acquiring the business in this way there could be potential problems in the structure of the business, such as when Vodafone took over many companies and couldn’t successfully integrate the companies into one solid structure. When Kraft decided to take over Cadburys by acquiring over 75% of the shares, by which in UK law enables them to delist the shares off the Stock market. This was widely rejected by employees who wanted to remain under the name of Cadburys as they felt that they could lose their jobs, this was shown to take this direction in 2011 when they closed the original factory although they had said they weren’t to do this. They were also found to break many promises that they had made before the deal was finalised, however due to the size and success of both companies they managed to have continued success after the takeover. However a Hostile takeover is unlikely to be successful because of key board members may be worried about their position should the company be acquired, they use many different methods to prevent the takeover. This is certainly one key reason that takeovers are likely to fail; one method they use is the Poison pill. This is when the board of directors sell more shares should one party gain too many shares, therefore devaluing the shares bought by the company trying to take over the over company. This was the case when Carl Icahn attempted to take over Netflix but the board of directors felt that this wasn’t for them and stated that should he buy more than 10% of stock they would float more stock to the market, he currently owns 9. 75%. This would then cause the takeover bid to be much more expensive for the party attempting to do so and would hopefully put them off the idea of trying to gain complete control of the company. Another method used by companies to prevent hostile takeover is the Golden Parachute, this is when should the CEO lose his job due to takeover, there would have to be a large pay out, sometimes millions of pounds, hopefully to deter a hostile takeover, this was the case in the appointment of Charles C.  Tillinghast Jr. to TWA. To conclude I think that to some extent it’s true that hostile takeovers are prevented by key stake holders as they have the ability to vote on matters that can prevent the takeover, such as the board members, they can choose members who are likely to refuse any takeover, although should a lucrative deal be offered they have a large influence on the takeover. However I think that the board of directors can, although not always, have much more influence on the potential hostile takeover, for example through the use of a poison pill it can effectively increase its businesses worth by offering shares at a lower price and increasing the cost for the acquiring company.

Kristen Cookie Company Essay

Yes. If Kristen and roommate can only do their own job, the max order(order by order) they can process is 8 orders a night. But if they can cross-training, would 1. Receive order print and reply Roommate 1 minute/order Mix ingredients Kristen 6 minutes /max 3trays Spooning cookies onto tray Kristen 2 minutes/tray Cookies in oven Roommate 10 minutes/tray Cool down cookies Roommate 5 minutes/tray Pack Roommate 2 minutes/tray Accept payment Roommate 1 minute/order 2. (1) Spooning cookies onto tray Cookies in oven (If receive a 2-dozens order) While Kristen is spooning cookies onto tray, the first tray she finished can send to roommate to put into oven. At the mean time, Kristen can spoon the second tray. (2) (If receive a 2-dozens order) While cooling down the first tray of cookies, roommate can put second tray into oven. (3) (If receive a 2-dozens order) After the first tray cool down, can pack directly. At the same time, second tray of cookies should be in the oven. 3. According to the answer of 1st question shown. So, amount of time to process a dozen of cookies is 27minutes (1+6+2+10+5+2+1=27) 4. (1) If Kristen proceed order by order, will be 8 orders of single dozen per night. 4 hours=240 minutes, 240/27=8.88 orders. (2) If Kristen and roommate can proceed different orders at the same time, that is 240minutes/45 minutes = 5.3 5.3x2orders =10.6, 10 orders be able to process more orders. Example shown below for 4hours performance of Kristen and roommate As the chart shown above, 4 hours of cross-training process can almost complete single dozen orders. 6. If Kristen and roommate still process order by order(process one order at one time), buying another oven can only reduce the baking time for 2-dozens order, 2-dozens order(time spend) complete orders in 4 hours one oven 1 + 6 + 2 + 10 + 10 + 5 + 2 + 1 = 37mins 6 two ovens 1 + 6 + 2 + 2 + 10 + 5 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 31mins 7 That’s mean, add another oven can only increase one more 2-dozens order. Therefore, buying another oven is not a good decision. 7. Question 3 is design to work from order to order, that is, Kristen and roommate have to (1) do their own job, and (2) can only process one order at a time. However, in real life, people will try hard to combine orders to save the time of process. 8. Without labor cost, the ingredients’ cost and the package cost are total $0.70. Assume that Kristen and her roommate both receive $10/hour as salary, and receive 15 orders per night. The total cost will be $90.5 per night, and $6.00 per pack of cookie. One pack of fresh cookies (daily made) sold in grocery store is about $3.00-5.00. We can assume that Kristen Cookies Company set their price at $6.00 pack. (Kristen and roommate only earn $10/hour/person as salary) Even though, the cookie Kristen Cookie Company provides is the freshest and most convenience for students. It is very hard to have extra profit. The significant problem that Kristen Cookie Company has is that *The producing process is not efficient. Because they are offering a customization service. If they can limit their product line into fewer categories They can switch their delivery system from â€Å"projects † to â€Å"job shop† .

Organizational Change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4

Organizational Change - Essay Example PWRC typically employs 5 case managers and 35 correctional officers. The average age of the members of staff is 40 years. A large number of staff is male however; during the first couple of years of data collection, approximately 70% members of the staff were female. In the third year, this percentage dropped to 60%. Around 70% of the staff has obtained their high school diploma and around 90% of the staff in based on African-American employees. PWRC has implemented a change process that emphasized on modifying the climate and culture of the facility. The goal of PWRC is to create a learning environment that supports the results of offenders. A training model, as part of change process, was implemented to evaluate the organizational change. The change process comprised of 2-day communication process, which focused on building communications skills of staff so that they can communicate with offenders in an effective manner. The purpose of this training was to create a sustainable change (Rogers, 2003; Armenakis, Harris, & Mossholder, 1993). This training system addresses the need to external facilitators and coaches in order to help the staff members for learning material in training session. On-site training is a tool that comprises of intensive coaching as well as coaching after training sessions. The most appropriate method for implementing organizational change in correction agency is ‘Continuous On-Site Training’. This method focuses on implementing change for communication strategies, which are utilized by staff as well as for organizational readiness. It has been observed that the most important factor to address in any organization while implementing change is communication skills. If communication skills are appropriate then any change can be implemented easily. If staff members are taught that change is for their own benefits then they will be eager to adopt the change. Therefore, the most appropriate method is to implement ‘Continuous On-Site

Read instruction Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Read instruction - Essay Example The Baroque architects, gardeners and artists including the chief designer Louis Le Vau and the artist Charles Le Brun undertook a responsible mission in order to erect a palace suitable and grand enough to host the whole royal family and the large court (EAH). One of the most remarkable fragments of Versailles is the Hall of Mirrors built and decorated under the king Louis XIV in the period when absolutism was on its peak. The 73-meters-long gallery was created with intention to glorify the victory of France in the war and symbolize political, economic and cultural success of France (en.chateauversailles.fr). Marble, gilding, mirrors, crystal chandeliers and lavish decoration tell the spectator of the glory and prestige of the French court. The political achievements were depicted by Le Brun on the arches of the gallery referring to ancient allegories. The economic power of the country was transparently stated through the number of mirrors located in front of each window of the gall ery and – thus – making the hall even more spacious. The key idea of such lavish mirror use was to demonstrate the production potential of France in mirror-making (mirrors were the objects of luxury at that time). Moreover, the Hall of Mirrors adorned with splendid Baroque paintings alluding to ancient mythology and marble sculptures of the ancient Greek gods was a brilliant specimen of the best cultural and artistic tendencies of the 17th century. To my thinking, the primary purpose is achieved successfully as Versailles and – particularly – the Hall of Mirrors inspires awe even nowadays: no wonder that the hall was often used as a waiting room for visitors because it is a perfect piece to be the â€Å"face† of the court and suggest the power and splendor of the King. In this respect, it should be also mentioned that the palace must have elevated the Crown in the eyes of the people of France: the suggestive

Micro12isa Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Micro12isa - Essay Example This shows the boom period in which the minimum wage is increased because of which restaurants owners have to pay more to their waiters as well as it increases the cost of meals and would result in increase in unemployment. The demand and supply curve in the above graph show the impact of the taxes imposed by government on price and quantity demanded. In the above graph the Pe and Qe are the equilibrium price and quantity demanded respectively. Suppose the government imposed tax on any good and the amount of this tax is shared by both producers and the consumers as well. Supply curve shifts from S to S1 because of this tax as the producer desires to sell the good at higher prices in order to decrease the tax’s effect on him and this result in the increase in the price of the good from â€Å"Pe† to â€Å"Pt† as well as decrease in the quantity demanded â€Å"Qe† to â€Å"Qt.† Therefore from the graph we can conclude that if government imposes on any good it would result in decrease in the producer’s revenue, raises prices for consumers, and decreases the quantity of the good available in the market. Now let suppose the government put a tax on this product and also the demand curve is perfectly elastic then the supply curve shifts leftward that is the producer will decrease the supply of product because of which the producer’s surplus decreases and he will have to pay the tax. This we can in the graph given below. Apparently the producers seem to have little costs due to the drug being illegal so the trading does not include any taxation. However the usual cost includes cost of production, transportation, legal actions that may be taken at any step by law enforcing agencies in case of being caught. In case the contrabands are made legal, governments will impose taxation and duties on their trading due to their harmful effects. Such duties will decline the producer surplus and the part of their

Road to Civil War Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Road to Civil War - Term Paper Example The weighty constitutional compromises were the Missouri Compromise of 1820, Compromise of 1850, the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 and repeal of the Missouri Compromise. The Missouri compromise of 1820 was as a result of an application for statehood made by Missouri in 1817. It was the first territory to apply for statehood within the area of Louisiana Purchase. This provoked the anger among northern states politicians because the main agenda of Southern leaders were to have a state with no restriction on slavery. Missouri application resulted to a fiery debate between the north and south over the issue of slavery in the new territories admitted as states to the union. Slavery was the most divisive issue between northern and southern States in early 1800s,and it threatened to break the union because of their differences regarding the slaves. Northern states were against slavery, and they wanted to have it outlawed. The Missouri application also led to controversy in congress over the s lave states with Congressman James Talmadge of New York seeking for additional provision in the Missouri statehood bill specifically restricting further buying of slaves into Missouri. His amendment also sought to have children of slave’s already in Missouri be set free at age of 25. Although the house of representative had approved the amendment, the senate rejected them and voted in favor of southern thus allowing slavery in Missouri. Southern senators were also blocking the statehood of Maine though a compromise was worked out for it during the congress meeting of late 1819. The compromise resolved that Maine would enter the union as Free State, while the Missouri would enter as a slave state (Alexander and Rucker 340). Alabama joined the union as a slave a state, making the number of slave states and Free states equal. The Missouri Compromise agreement helped is regulating the spread of slavery into the other parts Louisiana Purchase. This was achieved because the agreeme nt had stated clearly that no any new territory was to be admitted in the union from Missouri’s southern border. The congressional compromise over slavery also helped in setting a precedent that congress could control slavery in new territories and states (Schultz 480). The Missouri Compromise was exceedingly fruitful as it managed to contain the issue of slavery for three decades thus preventing eruption of war between northern and southern states. The Compromise of 1850 was second, and it was as a result of the end, of the Mexican –American war in 1848. It consisted of a series of bills which were passed by congress in their attempt to determine whether the western territories surrendered by America after the end of the war will enter the union as free or slave states. The legislation was highly controversial, and it passed after a lot of struggles as it was destined to be unpopular. The legislation consisted of five laws, which managed to balance the interest of Fre e states and slave states. The compromise resulted to admission of California to the union as a free state; Texas was paid $10 million as financial compensation for abandoning claims to lands west of the Rio Grande, organisation of new territory of Mexico without prohibition of slavery, elimination of slavery in Washington, D.C., and passing of the fugitive Slave

Movie summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Movie summary - Essay Example Rusty’s role is that of the assistant project manager who assists Danny in the strategizing of their plan. Together, they recruit nine other men each with their own specialization in the field of crime. To complete the plan, they include a financier, in the person of Reuben Tishkoff, who also has an axe to grind against Terry for closing down his casino. The movie is an excellent example of the concept of project management, from the setting up of the goals to its accomplishment. The goal was to rob the underground vault of the three largest casinos in Las Vegas. Danny however has an ulterior motive in fabricating the heist, which he never mentioned to his accomplices, that is to win back his ex-wife Tess. Danny could be the project manager who leads the group in the performance of the task on hand. Danny exemplifies a charismatic leader who is very effective at motivating his ten man team. His vision was simple, clearly verbalized and understood making it easy for his followers to focus on the job. As a project manager, Danny is observed to be intelligent and confident; thus, he is able to execute his plan well and able to inspire his team. The Path-Goal Theory of Robert House can be applied in the leadership style of Danny. As defined in the theory, â€Å"a leader can affect the performance, satisfaction and motivation of a group by offering rewards for achieving performance goals, clarifying paths towards these goals and removing obstacles to performance† (Value Based Management , par 1). However, the theory also states that the effectiveness of the leader is based on situational factors. The situational factors that affect Danny’s leadership style are the varied personalities of his team and the high-risk environment where they will be working on. The management style of both Danny and Rusty is one of consultation and delegation. They had to delegate the different tasks to their members realizing that it was to the best interest of

Definition of Efficient Market Hypothesis Literature review

Definition of Efficient Market Hypothesis - Literature review Example In the realm of financial markets, the value of information is indispensable. It is through the data that most analysts gain more information regarding the market. Market behavior is generally characterized by the flow of information. Therefore, comprehending the data that comes in and out of the market is vital. Through this information, analysts are able to predict prices and movements in the market. In addition, the data that is observed in the market generate perspectives that allow practitioners to forecast long-term movements in the components of financial markets. Although financial markets are hard to grasp, there are suggestions that such markets function with efficiency. Efficiency, when referred to the market, pertains to the changes in price and exchange between buyers and sellers. Apparently, financial markets are highly valued because investors are more inclined with fast-paced forms of revenue generation. Most important, the efficiency of the market makes decision making less risky and more rewarding. Eugene Fama (1970) was the main innovator of the Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH). EMH implies that financial markets are efficient such that the price of assets, stocks, and other securities reflect all information available; thus, provide an unbiased view of investors regarding future prospects. One important aspect that EMH asserts is that it is seemingly impossible to outperform the market through the use of information known to the market. The information as defined by EMH refers to the data that are unpredictable in the present and appears sparingly in the future. EMH is considered as a fundamental component of modern financial economics (Feinstein, 2000). A compelling view of EHM was provided by Bodie et al. (1996) describing it as a result of rigorous underpinning and supported extensive empirical work. Bowman and Buchanan (1995) identified EMH as meticulously formulated. It is clear that the process in supportive concepts for a developed and competitive securities market. Several executives, however, pointed out some inconsistencies with EMH. These arguments are indeed supported by studies involving various subjects. The essence of EMH has embedded on the information associated stocks and the prevailing price associated with these securities. Malkiel (1987) stated that the varying point of views being presented by the buyers and sellers represent all the information and from the pool, relevant data are gathered. Indeed, the price of stocks will be affected by unexpected news, which of course is still unknown to the investors. There is a natural relationship between markets that efficiently provide available information to their role in efficient market distribution (Stiglitz, 1981). Further studies, on the other hand, pointed out that markets that provide efficient information are not required to provide productive efficiency in the economy. Such description supports tendencies when the market is incomplete and information that is considered as differentiated is costly but valuable. It is understandable that some data appear to be useless. But investors have been creative in creating a sense in this information.

Case Study on Psalm 121 Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Case Study on Psalm 121 - Term Paper Example These psalms could also have been written during the days of Hezekiah when the Assyrians were threatening the security of Judea and Jerusalem3. The Psalms of Ascent are called the hymns of the stairs because they were said to have been sung while the pilgrim was going up and down the stairs of the Temple of Jerusalem4. The reason for this is that either the One of these psalms is Psalm 121, or â€Å"a song of ascents†6 which contains metaphors describing Divine intervention at the time of threats in our lives. During the post-exilic period, a new identity of Judaism was emerging and brewing at the Temple in Jerusalem. In Psalm 121, the first-person narrator is the ancient pilgrim who has experienced various human problems and who is now on his way to Jerusalem7. This pilgrim longs for Jerusalem itself8. Psalm 121 employs particular poetic devices that further reveal the message of assurance of God’s protection. The use of the statements, â€Å"He will not let your foot slip,†9 and â€Å"he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep†10 are metaphors that reveal the assurance of God. The first one – â€Å"He will not let your foot slip† – is about God not allowing a human being to put himself in danger. Oftentimes, people do things that put them in trouble and sometimes tend to make choices that would eventually harm them. However, God assures, through Psalm 121, that He will not allow this to happen. This also implies that although God has granted man free will, it does not mean that He would allow man to make choices that will put him in danger. Moreover, the line â€Å"he who watches over Israel will neither slumber. Moreover, the line which says â€Å"he who watches over Israel will neither slumber not sleep† – implies that God sees everything and that He does not blink at all so that He would some small detail escape His sight and scrutiny, and He does this to assure the pilgrim that he is always watched over, guarded and

Management Compensation Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Management Compensation - Research Paper Example Compensation is an essential component of human resource management, which aids in motivation of employees, besides enhancing organizational effectiveness. Types of Management Compensation Management compensation encompasses both intrinsic and extrinsic components in the form of monetary benefits and non-monetary benefits such as paid holiday. Compensation incorporates salary, as well as other rewards and allowances given to employees in return for their outstanding services. Compensation can be depicted as representing base pay, long-term incentives, bonuses, stock options, and benefits (Davis and Edge 2). The goal based incentive (stock options, bonuses, and long-term incentives) is fashioned at aligning the corporation’s interests (financial success) with those of top managers. Description Management compensation is an effective means of enhancing the productivity of the employees and ensuring that deserving employees feel appreciated for their efforts. Some companies utili ze management compensation as a tool for fostering a performance-oriented culture where the employees focus on the company’s overall strategic goals. Management compensation is meant to motivate the employees, especially the top management within a company. The motivation of management compensation is to align the employee performance with the business goals, besides enhancing employee satisfaction and retention. ... Management compensation also enhances self-confidence, leading to self actualization. Management Compensation: An Incentive to Manipulate Accounting Reports Managers commit fraud because of the resultant economic benefits flowing from it. Given management’s self interest, executives may manipulate accounting earnings in pursuit of personal agenda, such as bonuses (Armstrong, Jagolinzer & Larcker 225). Income smoothing tends to be dominant in corporations applying internal performance standards compared to those using external standards. The downside of goal based incentives is that, besides encouraging managers to work smarter to deliver positive results (desired results), they also induce executives to manipulate financial results such as profit and share prices. This is an attempt to enhance their pay, which is itself a violation of executive’s fiduciary duty and a fraud (Laux and Laux 870). In most cases, companies design equity-based compensation contracts in order to provide executives with incentives meant to enhance stock prices via legitimate means. However, the contracts may also generate enhanced incentives to produce fraudulent financial statements or engage in actions geared at misleading analysts and investors on the stock value of the company. The incentives to engage in fraudulent activities may be serious in occasions where the executives believe that competition or other constrains limit their ability to enhance the value of the firm legitimately, and consequently reduce the incentives. Some studies show a likelihood of fraud in relation to incentives from unrestricted stock holdings compared to incentives from restricted stock. Managers at fraud firms tend to exercise larger portions of their vested options and are

By close reference to the Lumber Room Essay Example for Free

By close reference to the Lumber Room Essay By Close Reference to The Lumber Room and The Destructors examine the behaviour of Nicholas and Trevor and stay how far you feel that actions are understandable and justified The two boys, Trevor and Nicholas have a very different behaviour but they have the same reason to perform their actions on their enemies. This reason is revenge. Although, the action they take to gain revenge are very different. Trevor carries out his revenge on society by destroying Mr Thomass or Old Miserys house whereas Nicholas takes his vengeance on his sio-distant aunt by spoiling her image as an adult. Trevor plans to destroy the house when Mr Thomas will be away all tomorrow and Bank Holiday, and after he becomes the leader of the Wormsley Common Gang. This gives him more confidence and power to plan the tactics, and more respect from the gang. Trevor does this by going to see the interior design and structure of the house. As Trevor said to Blackie; He showed it to me, proves this. He is determined to demolish the house with the help and support of the gang. As Blackie said to the gang; Its proposed that to-morrow and Monday we destroy Old Miserys house, shows this. He orders them to perform different jobs using different tools such as nails, chisels, saws, and hammers to carry out the operation. As Trevor orders Blackie; When youve finished in here crack the plaster in the passage up with you sledge-hammer, illustrates an idea of this. To completely tear down the house they attach a piece of rope from the house to a lorry and wait for the lorry driver to start the vehicle. However, Nicholas prepares to ruin his sio-called aunts image as an adult. When Nicholas is not given a special meal he puts the frog in his milk to prove to the adults that they can be wrong at certain times and that they dont listen to him. This causes his aunt to make him stay at home after annoying them. Nicholas goes into the lumber room to trick her into thinking that he has entered the gooseberry garden when he is not suppose to. As the aunt remarked to herself; Only because I have told him he is not to, proves this. She tries to catch him into doing something wrong by entering the garden but slips into the rain-water tank. Nicholas then hears her calling him and reaches the front of the garden. He informs her that he is not allowed to enter the garden and accuses her of being the Evil One as she lied to him. As Nicholas shouts to his aunt; Now I know that you are the Evil One and not aunt, illustrates this. Nicholas finally punishes his aunt by not rescuing her out of the tank. His behaviour is excessive and unnatural as a young child. Trevors action is understandable because the house was constructed and designed by Christopher Wren and not by his father, it contained panellings and stairs, its survived in the Blitz, and its state was still looking beautiful. Trevor also did this as his family had dropped down their position in society. This was that his father had lost his high position job as an architect and had to apply for a low position job as a clerk. As Trevor said to the gang; Wren built that house, father says, proves this. All of these factors make Trevor jealous as he does not have these things now, and so this causes him to destroy the house to take his revenge on society. Although, Nicholass action is understandable because he tries to prove to the adults that they can be wrong at certain occasions and that they dont listen to him when he mentions something important. As Nicholas repeated to them; You said there couldnt possibly be a frog in my bread-and-milk; there was a frog in my bread-and-milk, proves this. This causes him to stay at home as a punishment from his aunt. All of these aspects cause Nicholas to take his revenge on his soi-distant aunt by spoiling her image as an adult. Trevors action is not justified because he is taking his revenge on the wrong sector of society. This is futile as it does not affect the people who made Trevors family descend down in society but Mr Thomas, an innocent and old person who lived in the beautiful house all alone, and did not cause any of this to them. I also feel that Trevor does not have the right to destroy the house because it is not his property but Mr Thomass. Nevertheless, Nicholass action is justified because he was debarred to go to Jagborough sands with the other children by his soi-distant aunt, and so had to stay at home as a form of punishment from her. Therefore, my opinion on this is beneficial because Nicholas feels that his aunt should not have punished him in trying to prove the characteristics of the adults. I also approve of his action because I feel that adults should admit their mistakes, listen to what children say, and not disregard their views.

Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites to Strengthen Structures

Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites to Strengthen Structures Aim The project aim is to identify the use of FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymers) composites in strengthening of structures. The general process and methodology considered in achieving this objective is by externally bonding Fibre reinforced plastics to the metal structure/plate and thus testing the specimen under 3 point bend as well as 4 point bend tests. The preliminary report will focus on the project introduction, literature review related to the project topic, project plan and further to be carried out. Analysis of Tasks As mentioned the projectà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s main focus is strengthening of structures. So the question is why is there a need for strengthening of structures? The reason behind the strengthening of structures is that the structure will be able to support greater magnitude of loads than the values for which the structures are originally designed. Strengthening may become necessary in course of time in order to overcome the damage caused due to environmental factors such as corrosion as well as fatigue cracking. The method of bonding reinforcement represents an attractive solution to the problem as it can be achieved with relatively small impact on the structure. The next stage of the preliminary thesis will focus on the literature review. The literature review section is divided in to two sections firstly it will focus on the topics related to the Composite Materials, which will involve the following topics. Definition of Composite Material Classification of Composite Materials Types of Matrix Types of Reinforcement Advantages and Disadvantages of Composite Materials Manufacturing of Composite Materials The next section of the literature review will focus on the topics related to strengthening of structures. For this section following topics will be considered. Different Methods for Structure Strengthening Different Methods for Structure Strengthening using FRP Composites. The preliminary thesis will also look at the comparison between the structural strengthening using FRP Composites and Steel plates. This will help in giving a suitable reason as to why Composites are preferred over Steel plates for structural strengthening. Composites are considered as one of the most promising material for reducing the weight as well as increasing the strength of the material. The theory of hybrid material has been successfully exploited when studying sandwich panel technology. Now the concept of integrated multi materials is extended to a wider variety of structures, components and applications. Fibre reinforced plastics (FRPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s) have been successfully used for the post strengthening of structures over a number of years. The design and manufacturing of composites has led to its application in variety of industries such as automotive, aerospace, sporting goods, construction and in the marine as well as oil and gas industries. Moreover the method of bonded reinforcements also comes into account when there have been cases where errors in design or construction of a structure have questioned safety aspect. This can be achieved by externally bonding reinforcements at a cost of very small impact to the structures. Project Time-Line (Gantt chart) Literature Review Composite Materials Composite materials also known as composites are defined as a combination of two or more materials to give a unique combination of properties [1]. This definition is very general and thus includes metals, alloys, plastic co-polymers, minerals and wood. A material is only classified as a composite if the material satisfies the following conditions [2]: The material must be manufactured It should consist of two or more physically and/or chemically distinct, suitably arranged or distributed phases with an interface separating them. The characteristics of the composites are not depicted by any of the components in the isolation. Fibre reinforced composite materials differ slightly from the general definition because in this FRP the constituent materials are different at the molecular level and at mechanically separable. However the final material properties of the composite are better in comparison to that of the constituents. The figure 1 below gives a basic idea of how the structure of composite material looks like. The composites can be classified as fibre reinforced, particle reinforced, dispersion strengthened and laminates composites. Figure Structure of Composite Material [http://resources.edb.gov.hk/~s1sci/R_S1Science/sp/en/syllabus/unit14/new/images/s.gif] The composite material consists of two main elements the matrix and reinforcements (fibre). The classification of Composite materials is as shown in figure 2. Composite Materials Matrix Reinforcements Polymer Metal Ceramic Particle Reinforcement Fibre Reinforcement Structural Reinforcement Laminates Long Fibre Short Fibre Preferred Orientation Random Orientation Bidirectional Unidirectional Preferred Orientation Random Orientation Figure Classification of Composite Material Types of Matrix There are three main types of matrix considered when studying composites materials namely Polymer, Metal and Ceramic. Polymer Matrix composites are the most common types of matrix composites. They are also known as FRP (Fibre reinforced polymers). The resin used in here is polymer based combined with a variety of fibres such as Glass, Carbon and Aramid as reinforcements. Metal Matrix Composites are mainly used in the automotive industry. The materials use a metal for example Aluminium as the matrix which is then reinforced with fibres such as silicon carbide. Ceramic Matrix Composites are used in very high temperature environments. This type of materials uses Ceramic as the matrix and the matrix is then reinforced with short fibres such as Silicon Carbide and Boron Nitride. A matrix plays an important role in a Composite structure. There are several functions of Matrix most of which are very important to the satisfactory performance of the structure. The following points outline the important functions of the matrix. The matrix binds the fibre together and thus transfers the load to the fibres. The matrix provides the rigidity and shape to the structure. The matrix isolates the fibres such that each individual fibre can perform separately, due to this crack propagation process slows down. The surface finish quality of the structure is provided by the matrix. The matrix acts as a protection to the reinforced fibres from chemical attack and mechanical wear and tear. The type of material selected as matrix affects the ductility and failure mode of the structure together with the fibreà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s compatibility. Types of Reinforcements The other constituent in the composite material is called the Reinforcement. This gives the composite the necessary strength and stiffness. The structure of the reinforcement is thin rod like. The most commonly used reinforcements are Glass, Carbon, Aramid, and Boron fibres. The diameters of these fibres range from 5 µm to 20  µm. [1] Due to the thin diameter of the fibre, the fibres are flexible and can be formed easily into any shapes. Fibres can come into many forms such as continuous fibre, discontinuous fibre, short fibres, long fibres, organic fibres and inorganic fibres. Fibre brings out the high performance of the material; this is due to three important characteristics of the fibres. The orientation of the fibres also has an impact on the performance of the composite. The fibres can be unidirectional, cross ply or random in its arrangement. Small diameter in comparison to the grain size. As a result of this higher fraction of theoretical strength can be attained. High aspect ratio (length/diameter); this allows a larger amount of load to be transferred. High degree of flexibility. The main functions of fibres are as listed below [1]; To carry the load. Hence fibres are made from materials with high tensile strength and high elastic modulus. Provides strength, stiffness, thermal stability and other structural properties in the composites. Provide electrical conductivity or insulation, depending on the type of fibre used. Advantages of Composites Composites are designed to perform in applications which require lighter weight and higher performance. The advantages of using composites are listed below. High resistance to Corrosion; due to this the application in marine, infrastructure and chemical is very good. High specific stiffness and high specific strength; this gives a weight reduction so is used for the application in aerospace, automotive and manufacturing of sporting goods. The impact resistance is high compared to metal. Higher fatigue strength. Unidirectional carbon/epoxy composites have good fatigue strength of almost 90% of its static strength. Composite materials offer increased amount of design of flexibility. For example the coefficient of thermal expansion of composite can be made zero if suitable constituents and lay up sequence is selected. As the coefficient of thermal expansion is relatively low compared to metals, the composite structure thus provides a good dimensional stability. Also due to the design flexibility, composite materials can be formed into any shapes. Process cycle times and costs are also reduced because of the use of composites in production of net shape and near net shape parts. Composite materials dampen the vibrations an order of magnitude better than metals. Glass reinforced and aramid reinforced composite meet the FAA and JAR requirements for low smoke and toxicity and thus are used in interior panels of aircrafts, stow bins and galley walls. Disadvantages of Composites There will always be limitations to the benefits of the composites. The disadvantages are as listed below. Weaker in transverse direction and low in toughness. Material cost is high compared to that of steel and aluminium. The lack of high volume production limits the wide spread use of composite materials. However this is changing as modern production methods such as Pultrusion, Resin transfer Moulding and other methods have been automated to increase the rate of production. The knowledge through books and database is limited when comes to designing parts with composite. Composites absorb moisture, which affects the properties and dimensional stability of the composite. Difficult to join together with other material due to its anisotropic properties and high sensitivity to damage. For example when drilling holes for mechanical fastening. Brittle like behaviour. Difficult to repair as most composites use thermo set matrices that can not be re shaped. On the contrary thermoplastics can be repaired how ever they are rare [4]. Solvent resistance, chemical resistance and environmental stress cracking of composite depend on the properties of polymers. Some polymers have low resistance to the solvents and environmental stress cracking[1]. Manufacturing of Composite Materials Before looking into manufacturing of composite materials; it is important to look at manufacturing of fibre performs briefly. Fibre performs is how fibre are manufactured before being bonded to the matrix to form a composite material. Fibre performs are often manufactured in sheets or filaments in case of spraying applications. The fibre manufacturing process is carried out by adopting the technique used in textile industry. The techniques used are weaving, knitting, braiding and stitching [5]. The manufacturing process of composite material in general can be divided into two main processes. Prepreg Moulding Wet Moulding PrepReg Moulding The process of prepreg moulding can be further categorized as: Bladder Moulding Compression Moulding Autoclave/Vacuum bag Moulding Mandrel Wrapping [6]Bladder Moulding: In this process the sheets of prepreg material are laid up and placed in female style mould along with a balloon like bladder. The mould is then closed and placed in the heated press. Eventually, the bladder is pressurized which then forces the layers of material against mould walls. The part is then cured and removed from the hot mould. The process is ideally suited for complex hollow shapes. Also the process has great cost to performance balance. Typical example of equipment using bladder moulding technique is the manufacturing of tennis racquet. Average cure cycle range is 15-60 minutes. Compression Moulding: A process where a à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“performà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? or à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“chargeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? of single moulding compound (SMC) or bulk moulding compound (BMC) or sometimes prepreg fabric is placed in the mould cavity. Once the mould is closed, the material is compacted and cured inside by heat and pressure. The process also offers excellent detailing for geometric shapes. The average cure cycle range is 2-20 minutes. The tooling is process is often more expensive. Auto Clave/Vacuum Bag Moulding: The figure below gives an idea of vacuum bagging for prepreg lay-up process. Figure Vacuum bagging for prepreg lay up process [http://www.highcomp.no/design/bilder/vacum/vacum.gif] Once all the prepregs are laid out in the desired sequence, vacuum bagging preparations are set up as per the figure 3 for curing of the part. First step is application of release film on the top of all the prepreg. The release film is a perforated film that allows captured air, excess resin and volatiles to escape. Secondly is the application of bleeder on top of release film; it is a porous fabric that absorbs moisture and excess resin coming from stack of prepregs/laminates. Thirdly is the application of non porous and non-perforated film on top of bleeder. After this a breather layer is applied; this is a porous fabric which creates even pressure around the part and at the same time allowing air and volatiles to escape. Then final layer is of vacuum bag. The vacuum bag is an expendable polyamide film. The film is sealed on all sides of laminate using a seal tape. A nozzle is inserted into the vacuum bag and is then connected to hose vacuum pump for creating vacuum. Mandrel Wrapping: In these process sheets of prepreg material is wrapped around steel or aluminium mandrel. The prepreg material is compacted by nylon or polypropylene cello tape. Parts are cured by hanging in the oven. Once the curing process is completed, the cello and mandrel are removed which results in a hollow carbon tube. Advantages of prepreg lay up process are that it is simple process when manufacturing complex parts. Also strong and stiff parts can be fabricated using this process. Also allows production of high fibre volume fraction. Prepregs usually have more than 60% fibre volume fraction. Limitations of the process being that labour is intensive as a result of which the process is not suitable for high volume production applications. Also parts manufactured by this process are very expensive. Wet Moulding Wet moulding process can be divided into following processes. Wet layup Spray Up process Filament winding Pultrusion Resin transfer Moulding (RTM) Resin transfer moulding under vacuum (VARTM) Wet Lay-up: in this process a fabric is placed in open mould which is then hand saturated with wet resin. The curing occurs normally at room temperature. However it can be cured at higher temperatures based on the heat resistance of the mould. The advantage of this process is that the material cost and tooling cost is low. Because of this the process is considered as low tech process. Spray-up process: The processing steps are similar to that of the wet lay-up process except for the method of creating the laminates. The basic steps are as follows [1]. The mould is waxed and polished for easy de-moulding Gel coat is applied to the mould surface and allowed to harden before building any other layer. The barrier coat is applied to avoid fibre print through the gel coat surface. Oven curing of barrier coat. Mixing of resin with fillers and the mixture is then pumped to a holding tank. Spraying of resin, catalyst and chopped fibres on the mould surface. This is done with the aid of hand held spray gun. The spraying is carried out in typical pattern to create uniform thickness of the laminate. A roller is then used in order to make the fibre and resin material compact as well as create a smooth and even surface. The laminate is then cured in the oven. The part is then de-moulded and sent for finishing work. The process of spray lay-up is very economical, maximizes the use of low cost tooling as well as low cost material systems however it is not suitable for making parts that have high structure requirements, fibre volume fraction can be difficult to control as well as the thickness. The surface finish on both the sides is not same. Also dimensional tolerance is poor. Filament Winding: This is a process in which resin-impregnated fibres are pulled and wound over a rotating mandrel at desired angle. The fibre pulled is from a wet bath of resin. Curing occurs at room temperature or higher temperature. The performance is limited and it is difficult to obtain uniform fibre distribution and resin content through out the thickness of the laminate. The process is very suitable for tubular parts such as pressure vessels. Figure Filament Winding Process [http://www.thaicomposites.com/images/filament-winding.gif] The advantages of this process being its ability to utilize low cost raw material and low cost tooling systems. It can be automated for the production of high volume composite parts. The figure 4 gives an indication of the filament winding process. Pultrusion: As the name suggests, it is a process which will have pulling and extrusion (cutting). In this process resin impregnated fibres are pulled through to make a part. Saturated material is pulled through a heated closed die and cured while continuously moving through the die. The figure 5 gives an indication of the process. Figure Pultrusion process [http://www.ultrafiberglass.com/pultrusion%20process.jpg] The advantage of pultrusion process is that it is a continuous process and can be completely automated to get the finished product. The process is suitable for making high volume composite parts. Utilizes low cost fibre and resin systems thus provide a low production cost of products. The limitations being that the thin wall parts, tapered and complex parts cannot be produced. Resin Transfer Moulding A resin and catalyst are placed in two separate tanks A and B. A release agent such as gel coat is then applied to mould for good surface finish. The preform is placed inside the mould and the mould is then clamped. The mould is then heated to a specified temperature. Mixed Resin is then injected at selected temperature and pressure. Vacuum is also created to remove air bubbles as well as assist in resin flow. The injection continues until the mould is completely filled. The vacuum is turned off. The pressure inside the mould is increased to ensure that remaining porosity is collapsed. After curing for certain period of time depending on resin, the composite part is removed from mould. In this process, fabrics are placed in to a mould and then wet resin is injected. Resin is pressurized and is then forced into the cavity which is under vacuum. In the VARTM process resin is completely pulled in to cavity under vacuum. This moulding process allows precise tolerance and detailed shaping, however this may result in at times failure to fully saturate fabric leading to weak shape in the final product. The figure and steps following the figure describe the process. Figure Resin Transfer Moulding [http://www.ctihuatai.com/index.files/rtmstatic.gif] Strengthening of Structures The next stage of literature review will now focus on the strengthening of structures. As explained earlier the need for strengthening of structures; it is important to look at first the different methods adopted in order to strengthen the structure. The structure strengthening methods include the following. Span Shortening Pre-stressed Concrete Section Enlargement Structure Strengthening using FRP Composites. Span Shortening This is method in which length of a beam is shortening. This is achieved by installing additional supports underneath the existing members. Materials used in this process are mainly structural steel members and cast in place reinforced concrete members. The members are connected mechanically using bolts and adhesive anchors. Span shortening reduces the deflection in the beam. This can be proved by means of simple calculation. P1ÃŽÂ ´1 Let us consider a beam of length à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“L (m)à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? under a load P kN undergoing a 3 point bend test. l1 Where ÃŽÂ ´ is the deflection in the beam. Let us consider a pair of equations in order to calculate deflection in the beam. ; If ratio of the deflection is taken in to account, and doubling the span length meaning l2 = 2l1. Then, Then ÃŽÂ ´2 = 8 x ÃŽÂ ´1; this means that central deflection will become 8 times. So to conclude the method shorter the span, less deflection will occur at the centre. Pre stressed Concrete Pre stressed concrete is a method used for overcoming concreteà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s natural weakness in tension. Pre-stressing tendons generally made of high tensile steel rods are used to provide clamping load that generates compressive stresses which balances out the tensile stress that would be experienced by the concrete beams due to bending [7]. The process of pre stressing can be achieved in three ways: pre tensioned concrete, bonded or un-bonded post-tensioned concrete. However the method is mainly used for civil engineering and construction projects. The figure below gives an indication of the method. Figure Pre Stressing Method [http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/BRIDGE/pt/images/pt102.gif] Section Enlargement In simple terms, it is when the second moment of area is changed. The method involves placing an additional bonded reinforcement concrete to an existing structure member in the form of an overlay or a jacket. The main advantage of this technique is that it increases the load bearing capacity or stiffness. The technique reduces bending and shear forces on overstressed beams. Structure Strengthening using FRP Composites Fibre reinforced polymers are applied to strengthen structure. There method can be primarily divided in to two categories. One is the strengthening of structure at manufacturing phase and other is after manufacturing. The technique used to strengthen structure at manufacturing phase is known as Near Surface Mounted Reinforcement (NSMR) and the strengthening of structure can be achieved once the manufacturing is completed is by external plate bonding method. Near Surface Mounted Reinforcement Near surface mounted reinforcement is one of the latest and most promising techniques to be considered when strengthening concrete structures. Using FRP instead of steel in this technique has many advantages such as its better resistance to corrosion, quick and easy installation due to light weight. When compared with external bonding method, the NSMR has many advantages such as amount of site installation work is reduced for example removal of plaster, etc. second advantage being that NSMR is less prone to de-bonding from concrete substrate. NSMR bars can be easily anchored into adjacent members to prevent failures due to de-bonding. This feature is very important when considering flexural strengthening. NSMR bars can be easily pre-stressed. As the bars are covered by cover of concrete, so they are less exposed to accidental impact or mechanical damage such as fire or wear and tear. As the NSMR technique is new, the knowledge on this technique is limited than that of externally bonded reinforcement. In recent studies CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced polymer) NSM reinforcements have been widely used to strengthen structures. The following general steps must be performed during the strengthening. Sawing up slots in concrete cover, depth of the structure is dependent on the product used. After sawing of slots, careful cleaning is required. If using an epoxy system, the slots where the bars are to be installed must be dry before bonding. If cement system is used then the surface must be wet. Adhesive is applied in the slot when using epoxy system or cement mortar is used when using cement system. The figure below gives an indication of the technique. Figure Near Surface mounted Reinforcement technique [http://msw.mcmaster.ca/~koranyy/Photos/NSM-vertical.jpg] In the above figure it can be seen that a carbon fibre rope is placed in the centre of the brick wall and an epoxy paste is applied. The figure on the left is for vertical reinforcement and the figure on the right is for horizontal reinforcement. The second part of the images is the finished version of structure once the method is completed. The application of this technique is mainly on flat surfaces and is suitable for strengthening in bending. The process is also helpful in increasing the shear capacity of the beams. The next method considered for structure strengthening using FRP composites is external plate bonding. However it is first important to compare the advantage of using composites over steel plates. These are explained in the next segment of the report. External Plate Bonding The general principle of external plate bonding method is that in this method transfer of stresses takes place from the structural element to the additional plates that are adhered or bolted. Whilst strengthening structure many problems are faced such as. Load Increases: Structure with externally bonded plates has capacity to accept higher live loads for example in factories where heavy machines are installed. External plate bonding also reduces deformation and is also helpful where vibrations are an issue. Damage to Structural Parts: it can be utilized in cases where the building has been damaged due to fire or vehicle collision. Improvement in suitability: This can be achieved by limiting deflection and reducing crack widths and stresses. Modification of Structural System: Plate bonding provides a cost effective solution where structure has been weakened by removal of walls and columns or opening cuts. Errors in planning or construction: Plate bonding provides solution to earlier design errors and calculation errors. In general terms external plate bonding can reduce deflection thus limit cracking as well as increase the load bearing capacity and also increase the flexural strength and finally improve resistance to shear in certain cases. As the method of plate bonding can be achieved by both using Composites as well as steel plates so it is important to understand the advantage of composite over steel plates. This analysis will be carried on three grounds namely technical, practical/application and Economic. The table on the next page summarizes the technical differences between the composite and steel plates Composite Steel Plates High tensile strength of Carbon fibre (5650N/mm2) Tensile strength of steel is (235 N/mm2) No corrosion Highly prone to corrosion Strength to weight ratio is higher Strength to weight ratio is lower Table Technical differences between Composite and Steel Plates When performing practical application on site; installation of steel plates requires an extensive amount of work such as drilling holes in plates, wrapping plates and bolting the plates. Where as the composite plates would require very limited work such as bonding to the metal plate using an epoxy. Table 2 summarizes the economic differences Potential Cost Composite Steel Plates High Low Volume Typically 10-50% of steel Relatively high Adhesive smaller area of plates required so less adhesive Area of plates is high so higher amount of adhesive Preparation Off site On site Limited Limited Extensive Extensive Labour Requirement Low High Equipment Low High Temporary support None Yes Time Fast Slow Table Economic Differences between Composite and steel plates The application of the plates externally can be varying such as if the surface is horizontal than FRP is applied horizontally or in the U shape. If the structure is a circular column then FRP is applied by wrapping around it. Wrapping sheets have fabrics in same direction or bi-directional. One thing to be considered when using FRP is that it needs to be protected from fire. An FRP plate applied to the bottom of structure (tension face) increases the strength of beam and reduces deflection. Where as application of FRP strips attached in U shape around the sides and bottom of beam increases shear resistance. Wrapping of sheets around column results in higher strength and restrains lateral expansion of columns. The figures below give an example of application of FRP composite to structure. (A) (B) (C) Figure Strengthening using FRP Composites [http://sites.google.com/site/frpstrengthening/frpdrawing2-custom-size-398-103.jpg] [http://www.structural.net/Article_Images/Figure%204.JPG] Figure A and B look at plate bonding and figure C gives an indication of wrapping columns. Discussion The project is currently in its research phase. The topics covered in the literature review section of the report are vital as it is important to gain knowledge about the subject and understand its applications in the real engineering world. The future work in the project will involve an additional literature review for structural strengthening and the next stage will be to set up a meeting with the supervisor to discuss the experiment as to what needs to be performed. Once this is completed the project plan will be reviewed to meet the final submission date of the thesis as mentioned earlier in the deliverables section. To conclude the test to be carried out for this purpose will be a 3 point bend test and 4 point bend test and thus the results will be concluded. Bibliography Dag Linghoff (2009), Thin Walled Structures, Carbon-fibre Composites for strengthening steel structures, volume 47 pages 1048-1058. U.Meier (1995), Construction and Building Materials, Strengthening of structures using carbon fibre epoxy composites, volume 9 issue 6 pages 341-351. A.R.Rahai and M.M.Alinia (2008), Construction and Building Materials, Performance Evaluation and Strengthening of concrete structures with composite bracing members, volume 22 issue 10 pages 2100-2110 J.G.Broughton (1997), International Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites to Strengthen Structures Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites to Strengthen Structures Aim The project aim is to identify the use of FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymers) composites in strengthening of structures. The general process and methodology considered in achieving this objective is by externally bonding Fibre reinforced plastics to the metal structure/plate and thus testing the specimen under 3 point bend as well as 4 point bend tests. The preliminary report will focus on the project introduction, literature review related to the project topic, project plan and further to be carried out. Analysis of Tasks As mentioned the projectà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s main focus is strengthening of structures. So the question is why is there a need for strengthening of structures? The reason behind the strengthening of structures is that the structure will be able to support greater magnitude of loads than the values for which the structures are originally designed. Strengthening may become necessary in course of time in order to overcome the damage caused due to environmental factors such as corrosion as well as fatigue cracking. The method of bonding reinforcement represents an attractive solution to the problem as it can be achieved with relatively small impact on the structure. The next stage of the preliminary thesis will focus on the literature review. The literature review section is divided in to two sections firstly it will focus on the topics related to the Composite Materials, which will involve the following topics. Definition of Composite Material Classification of Composite Materials Types of Matrix Types of Reinforcement Advantages and Disadvantages of Composite Materials Manufacturing of Composite Materials The next section of the literature review will focus on the topics related to strengthening of structures. For this section following topics will be considered. Different Methods for Structure Strengthening Different Methods for Structure Strengthening using FRP Composites. The preliminary thesis will also look at the comparison between the structural strengthening using FRP Composites and Steel plates. This will help in giving a suitable reason as to why Composites are preferred over Steel plates for structural strengthening. Composites are considered as one of the most promising material for reducing the weight as well as increasing the strength of the material. The theory of hybrid material has been successfully exploited when studying sandwich panel technology. Now the concept of integrated multi materials is extended to a wider variety of structures, components and applications. Fibre reinforced plastics (FRPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s) have been successfully used for the post strengthening of structures over a number of years. The design and manufacturing of composites has led to its application in variety of industries such as automotive, aerospace, sporting goods, construction and in the marine as well as oil and gas industries. Moreover the method of bonded reinforcements also comes into account when there have been cases where errors in design or construction of a structure have questioned safety aspect. This can be achieved by externally bonding reinforcements at a cost of very small impact to the structures. Project Time-Line (Gantt chart) Literature Review Composite Materials Composite materials also known as composites are defined as a combination of two or more materials to give a unique combination of properties [1]. This definition is very general and thus includes metals, alloys, plastic co-polymers, minerals and wood. A material is only classified as a composite if the material satisfies the following conditions [2]: The material must be manufactured It should consist of two or more physically and/or chemically distinct, suitably arranged or distributed phases with an interface separating them. The characteristics of the composites are not depicted by any of the components in the isolation. Fibre reinforced composite materials differ slightly from the general definition because in this FRP the constituent materials are different at the molecular level and at mechanically separable. However the final material properties of the composite are better in comparison to that of the constituents. The figure 1 below gives a basic idea of how the structure of composite material looks like. The composites can be classified as fibre reinforced, particle reinforced, dispersion strengthened and laminates composites. Figure Structure of Composite Material [http://resources.edb.gov.hk/~s1sci/R_S1Science/sp/en/syllabus/unit14/new/images/s.gif] The composite material consists of two main elements the matrix and reinforcements (fibre). The classification of Composite materials is as shown in figure 2. Composite Materials Matrix Reinforcements Polymer Metal Ceramic Particle Reinforcement Fibre Reinforcement Structural Reinforcement Laminates Long Fibre Short Fibre Preferred Orientation Random Orientation Bidirectional Unidirectional Preferred Orientation Random Orientation Figure Classification of Composite Material Types of Matrix There are three main types of matrix considered when studying composites materials namely Polymer, Metal and Ceramic. Polymer Matrix composites are the most common types of matrix composites. They are also known as FRP (Fibre reinforced polymers). The resin used in here is polymer based combined with a variety of fibres such as Glass, Carbon and Aramid as reinforcements. Metal Matrix Composites are mainly used in the automotive industry. The materials use a metal for example Aluminium as the matrix which is then reinforced with fibres such as silicon carbide. Ceramic Matrix Composites are used in very high temperature environments. This type of materials uses Ceramic as the matrix and the matrix is then reinforced with short fibres such as Silicon Carbide and Boron Nitride. A matrix plays an important role in a Composite structure. There are several functions of Matrix most of which are very important to the satisfactory performance of the structure. The following points outline the important functions of the matrix. The matrix binds the fibre together and thus transfers the load to the fibres. The matrix provides the rigidity and shape to the structure. The matrix isolates the fibres such that each individual fibre can perform separately, due to this crack propagation process slows down. The surface finish quality of the structure is provided by the matrix. The matrix acts as a protection to the reinforced fibres from chemical attack and mechanical wear and tear. The type of material selected as matrix affects the ductility and failure mode of the structure together with the fibreà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s compatibility. Types of Reinforcements The other constituent in the composite material is called the Reinforcement. This gives the composite the necessary strength and stiffness. The structure of the reinforcement is thin rod like. The most commonly used reinforcements are Glass, Carbon, Aramid, and Boron fibres. The diameters of these fibres range from 5 µm to 20  µm. [1] Due to the thin diameter of the fibre, the fibres are flexible and can be formed easily into any shapes. Fibres can come into many forms such as continuous fibre, discontinuous fibre, short fibres, long fibres, organic fibres and inorganic fibres. Fibre brings out the high performance of the material; this is due to three important characteristics of the fibres. The orientation of the fibres also has an impact on the performance of the composite. The fibres can be unidirectional, cross ply or random in its arrangement. Small diameter in comparison to the grain size. As a result of this higher fraction of theoretical strength can be attained. High aspect ratio (length/diameter); this allows a larger amount of load to be transferred. High degree of flexibility. The main functions of fibres are as listed below [1]; To carry the load. Hence fibres are made from materials with high tensile strength and high elastic modulus. Provides strength, stiffness, thermal stability and other structural properties in the composites. Provide electrical conductivity or insulation, depending on the type of fibre used. Advantages of Composites Composites are designed to perform in applications which require lighter weight and higher performance. The advantages of using composites are listed below. High resistance to Corrosion; due to this the application in marine, infrastructure and chemical is very good. High specific stiffness and high specific strength; this gives a weight reduction so is used for the application in aerospace, automotive and manufacturing of sporting goods. The impact resistance is high compared to metal. Higher fatigue strength. Unidirectional carbon/epoxy composites have good fatigue strength of almost 90% of its static strength. Composite materials offer increased amount of design of flexibility. For example the coefficient of thermal expansion of composite can be made zero if suitable constituents and lay up sequence is selected. As the coefficient of thermal expansion is relatively low compared to metals, the composite structure thus provides a good dimensional stability. Also due to the design flexibility, composite materials can be formed into any shapes. Process cycle times and costs are also reduced because of the use of composites in production of net shape and near net shape parts. Composite materials dampen the vibrations an order of magnitude better than metals. Glass reinforced and aramid reinforced composite meet the FAA and JAR requirements for low smoke and toxicity and thus are used in interior panels of aircrafts, stow bins and galley walls. Disadvantages of Composites There will always be limitations to the benefits of the composites. The disadvantages are as listed below. Weaker in transverse direction and low in toughness. Material cost is high compared to that of steel and aluminium. The lack of high volume production limits the wide spread use of composite materials. However this is changing as modern production methods such as Pultrusion, Resin transfer Moulding and other methods have been automated to increase the rate of production. The knowledge through books and database is limited when comes to designing parts with composite. Composites absorb moisture, which affects the properties and dimensional stability of the composite. Difficult to join together with other material due to its anisotropic properties and high sensitivity to damage. For example when drilling holes for mechanical fastening. Brittle like behaviour. Difficult to repair as most composites use thermo set matrices that can not be re shaped. On the contrary thermoplastics can be repaired how ever they are rare [4]. Solvent resistance, chemical resistance and environmental stress cracking of composite depend on the properties of polymers. Some polymers have low resistance to the solvents and environmental stress cracking[1]. Manufacturing of Composite Materials Before looking into manufacturing of composite materials; it is important to look at manufacturing of fibre performs briefly. Fibre performs is how fibre are manufactured before being bonded to the matrix to form a composite material. Fibre performs are often manufactured in sheets or filaments in case of spraying applications. The fibre manufacturing process is carried out by adopting the technique used in textile industry. The techniques used are weaving, knitting, braiding and stitching [5]. The manufacturing process of composite material in general can be divided into two main processes. Prepreg Moulding Wet Moulding PrepReg Moulding The process of prepreg moulding can be further categorized as: Bladder Moulding Compression Moulding Autoclave/Vacuum bag Moulding Mandrel Wrapping [6]Bladder Moulding: In this process the sheets of prepreg material are laid up and placed in female style mould along with a balloon like bladder. The mould is then closed and placed in the heated press. Eventually, the bladder is pressurized which then forces the layers of material against mould walls. The part is then cured and removed from the hot mould. The process is ideally suited for complex hollow shapes. Also the process has great cost to performance balance. Typical example of equipment using bladder moulding technique is the manufacturing of tennis racquet. Average cure cycle range is 15-60 minutes. Compression Moulding: A process where a à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“performà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? or à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“chargeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? of single moulding compound (SMC) or bulk moulding compound (BMC) or sometimes prepreg fabric is placed in the mould cavity. Once the mould is closed, the material is compacted and cured inside by heat and pressure. The process also offers excellent detailing for geometric shapes. The average cure cycle range is 2-20 minutes. The tooling is process is often more expensive. Auto Clave/Vacuum Bag Moulding: The figure below gives an idea of vacuum bagging for prepreg lay-up process. Figure Vacuum bagging for prepreg lay up process [http://www.highcomp.no/design/bilder/vacum/vacum.gif] Once all the prepregs are laid out in the desired sequence, vacuum bagging preparations are set up as per the figure 3 for curing of the part. First step is application of release film on the top of all the prepreg. The release film is a perforated film that allows captured air, excess resin and volatiles to escape. Secondly is the application of bleeder on top of release film; it is a porous fabric that absorbs moisture and excess resin coming from stack of prepregs/laminates. Thirdly is the application of non porous and non-perforated film on top of bleeder. After this a breather layer is applied; this is a porous fabric which creates even pressure around the part and at the same time allowing air and volatiles to escape. Then final layer is of vacuum bag. The vacuum bag is an expendable polyamide film. The film is sealed on all sides of laminate using a seal tape. A nozzle is inserted into the vacuum bag and is then connected to hose vacuum pump for creating vacuum. Mandrel Wrapping: In these process sheets of prepreg material is wrapped around steel or aluminium mandrel. The prepreg material is compacted by nylon or polypropylene cello tape. Parts are cured by hanging in the oven. Once the curing process is completed, the cello and mandrel are removed which results in a hollow carbon tube. Advantages of prepreg lay up process are that it is simple process when manufacturing complex parts. Also strong and stiff parts can be fabricated using this process. Also allows production of high fibre volume fraction. Prepregs usually have more than 60% fibre volume fraction. Limitations of the process being that labour is intensive as a result of which the process is not suitable for high volume production applications. Also parts manufactured by this process are very expensive. Wet Moulding Wet moulding process can be divided into following processes. Wet layup Spray Up process Filament winding Pultrusion Resin transfer Moulding (RTM) Resin transfer moulding under vacuum (VARTM) Wet Lay-up: in this process a fabric is placed in open mould which is then hand saturated with wet resin. The curing occurs normally at room temperature. However it can be cured at higher temperatures based on the heat resistance of the mould. The advantage of this process is that the material cost and tooling cost is low. Because of this the process is considered as low tech process. Spray-up process: The processing steps are similar to that of the wet lay-up process except for the method of creating the laminates. The basic steps are as follows [1]. The mould is waxed and polished for easy de-moulding Gel coat is applied to the mould surface and allowed to harden before building any other layer. The barrier coat is applied to avoid fibre print through the gel coat surface. Oven curing of barrier coat. Mixing of resin with fillers and the mixture is then pumped to a holding tank. Spraying of resin, catalyst and chopped fibres on the mould surface. This is done with the aid of hand held spray gun. The spraying is carried out in typical pattern to create uniform thickness of the laminate. A roller is then used in order to make the fibre and resin material compact as well as create a smooth and even surface. The laminate is then cured in the oven. The part is then de-moulded and sent for finishing work. The process of spray lay-up is very economical, maximizes the use of low cost tooling as well as low cost material systems however it is not suitable for making parts that have high structure requirements, fibre volume fraction can be difficult to control as well as the thickness. The surface finish on both the sides is not same. Also dimensional tolerance is poor. Filament Winding: This is a process in which resin-impregnated fibres are pulled and wound over a rotating mandrel at desired angle. The fibre pulled is from a wet bath of resin. Curing occurs at room temperature or higher temperature. The performance is limited and it is difficult to obtain uniform fibre distribution and resin content through out the thickness of the laminate. The process is very suitable for tubular parts such as pressure vessels. Figure Filament Winding Process [http://www.thaicomposites.com/images/filament-winding.gif] The advantages of this process being its ability to utilize low cost raw material and low cost tooling systems. It can be automated for the production of high volume composite parts. The figure 4 gives an indication of the filament winding process. Pultrusion: As the name suggests, it is a process which will have pulling and extrusion (cutting). In this process resin impregnated fibres are pulled through to make a part. Saturated material is pulled through a heated closed die and cured while continuously moving through the die. The figure 5 gives an indication of the process. Figure Pultrusion process [http://www.ultrafiberglass.com/pultrusion%20process.jpg] The advantage of pultrusion process is that it is a continuous process and can be completely automated to get the finished product. The process is suitable for making high volume composite parts. Utilizes low cost fibre and resin systems thus provide a low production cost of products. The limitations being that the thin wall parts, tapered and complex parts cannot be produced. Resin Transfer Moulding A resin and catalyst are placed in two separate tanks A and B. A release agent such as gel coat is then applied to mould for good surface finish. The preform is placed inside the mould and the mould is then clamped. The mould is then heated to a specified temperature. Mixed Resin is then injected at selected temperature and pressure. Vacuum is also created to remove air bubbles as well as assist in resin flow. The injection continues until the mould is completely filled. The vacuum is turned off. The pressure inside the mould is increased to ensure that remaining porosity is collapsed. After curing for certain period of time depending on resin, the composite part is removed from mould. In this process, fabrics are placed in to a mould and then wet resin is injected. Resin is pressurized and is then forced into the cavity which is under vacuum. In the VARTM process resin is completely pulled in to cavity under vacuum. This moulding process allows precise tolerance and detailed shaping, however this may result in at times failure to fully saturate fabric leading to weak shape in the final product. The figure and steps following the figure describe the process. Figure Resin Transfer Moulding [http://www.ctihuatai.com/index.files/rtmstatic.gif] Strengthening of Structures The next stage of literature review will now focus on the strengthening of structures. As explained earlier the need for strengthening of structures; it is important to look at first the different methods adopted in order to strengthen the structure. The structure strengthening methods include the following. Span Shortening Pre-stressed Concrete Section Enlargement Structure Strengthening using FRP Composites. Span Shortening This is method in which length of a beam is shortening. This is achieved by installing additional supports underneath the existing members. Materials used in this process are mainly structural steel members and cast in place reinforced concrete members. The members are connected mechanically using bolts and adhesive anchors. Span shortening reduces the deflection in the beam. This can be proved by means of simple calculation. P1ÃŽÂ ´1 Let us consider a beam of length à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“L (m)à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? under a load P kN undergoing a 3 point bend test. l1 Where ÃŽÂ ´ is the deflection in the beam. Let us consider a pair of equations in order to calculate deflection in the beam. ; If ratio of the deflection is taken in to account, and doubling the span length meaning l2 = 2l1. Then, Then ÃŽÂ ´2 = 8 x ÃŽÂ ´1; this means that central deflection will become 8 times. So to conclude the method shorter the span, less deflection will occur at the centre. Pre stressed Concrete Pre stressed concrete is a method used for overcoming concreteà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s natural weakness in tension. Pre-stressing tendons generally made of high tensile steel rods are used to provide clamping load that generates compressive stresses which balances out the tensile stress that would be experienced by the concrete beams due to bending [7]. The process of pre stressing can be achieved in three ways: pre tensioned concrete, bonded or un-bonded post-tensioned concrete. However the method is mainly used for civil engineering and construction projects. The figure below gives an indication of the method. Figure Pre Stressing Method [http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/BRIDGE/pt/images/pt102.gif] Section Enlargement In simple terms, it is when the second moment of area is changed. The method involves placing an additional bonded reinforcement concrete to an existing structure member in the form of an overlay or a jacket. The main advantage of this technique is that it increases the load bearing capacity or stiffness. The technique reduces bending and shear forces on overstressed beams. Structure Strengthening using FRP Composites Fibre reinforced polymers are applied to strengthen structure. There method can be primarily divided in to two categories. One is the strengthening of structure at manufacturing phase and other is after manufacturing. The technique used to strengthen structure at manufacturing phase is known as Near Surface Mounted Reinforcement (NSMR) and the strengthening of structure can be achieved once the manufacturing is completed is by external plate bonding method. Near Surface Mounted Reinforcement Near surface mounted reinforcement is one of the latest and most promising techniques to be considered when strengthening concrete structures. Using FRP instead of steel in this technique has many advantages such as its better resistance to corrosion, quick and easy installation due to light weight. When compared with external bonding method, the NSMR has many advantages such as amount of site installation work is reduced for example removal of plaster, etc. second advantage being that NSMR is less prone to de-bonding from concrete substrate. NSMR bars can be easily anchored into adjacent members to prevent failures due to de-bonding. This feature is very important when considering flexural strengthening. NSMR bars can be easily pre-stressed. As the bars are covered by cover of concrete, so they are less exposed to accidental impact or mechanical damage such as fire or wear and tear. As the NSMR technique is new, the knowledge on this technique is limited than that of externally bonded reinforcement. In recent studies CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced polymer) NSM reinforcements have been widely used to strengthen structures. The following general steps must be performed during the strengthening. Sawing up slots in concrete cover, depth of the structure is dependent on the product used. After sawing of slots, careful cleaning is required. If using an epoxy system, the slots where the bars are to be installed must be dry before bonding. If cement system is used then the surface must be wet. Adhesive is applied in the slot when using epoxy system or cement mortar is used when using cement system. The figure below gives an indication of the technique. Figure Near Surface mounted Reinforcement technique [http://msw.mcmaster.ca/~koranyy/Photos/NSM-vertical.jpg] In the above figure it can be seen that a carbon fibre rope is placed in the centre of the brick wall and an epoxy paste is applied. The figure on the left is for vertical reinforcement and the figure on the right is for horizontal reinforcement. The second part of the images is the finished version of structure once the method is completed. The application of this technique is mainly on flat surfaces and is suitable for strengthening in bending. The process is also helpful in increasing the shear capacity of the beams. The next method considered for structure strengthening using FRP composites is external plate bonding. However it is first important to compare the advantage of using composites over steel plates. These are explained in the next segment of the report. External Plate Bonding The general principle of external plate bonding method is that in this method transfer of stresses takes place from the structural element to the additional plates that are adhered or bolted. Whilst strengthening structure many problems are faced such as. Load Increases: Structure with externally bonded plates has capacity to accept higher live loads for example in factories where heavy machines are installed. External plate bonding also reduces deformation and is also helpful where vibrations are an issue. Damage to Structural Parts: it can be utilized in cases where the building has been damaged due to fire or vehicle collision. Improvement in suitability: This can be achieved by limiting deflection and reducing crack widths and stresses. Modification of Structural System: Plate bonding provides a cost effective solution where structure has been weakened by removal of walls and columns or opening cuts. Errors in planning or construction: Plate bonding provides solution to earlier design errors and calculation errors. In general terms external plate bonding can reduce deflection thus limit cracking as well as increase the load bearing capacity and also increase the flexural strength and finally improve resistance to shear in certain cases. As the method of plate bonding can be achieved by both using Composites as well as steel plates so it is important to understand the advantage of composite over steel plates. This analysis will be carried on three grounds namely technical, practical/application and Economic. The table on the next page summarizes the technical differences between the composite and steel plates Composite Steel Plates High tensile strength of Carbon fibre (5650N/mm2) Tensile strength of steel is (235 N/mm2) No corrosion Highly prone to corrosion Strength to weight ratio is higher Strength to weight ratio is lower Table Technical differences between Composite and Steel Plates When performing practical application on site; installation of steel plates requires an extensive amount of work such as drilling holes in plates, wrapping plates and bolting the plates. Where as the composite plates would require very limited work such as bonding to the metal plate using an epoxy. Table 2 summarizes the economic differences Potential Cost Composite Steel Plates High Low Volume Typically 10-50% of steel Relatively high Adhesive smaller area of plates required so less adhesive Area of plates is high so higher amount of adhesive Preparation Off site On site Limited Limited Extensive Extensive Labour Requirement Low High Equipment Low High Temporary support None Yes Time Fast Slow Table Economic Differences between Composite and steel plates The application of the plates externally can be varying such as if the surface is horizontal than FRP is applied horizontally or in the U shape. If the structure is a circular column then FRP is applied by wrapping around it. Wrapping sheets have fabrics in same direction or bi-directional. One thing to be considered when using FRP is that it needs to be protected from fire. An FRP plate applied to the bottom of structure (tension face) increases the strength of beam and reduces deflection. Where as application of FRP strips attached in U shape around the sides and bottom of beam increases shear resistance. Wrapping of sheets around column results in higher strength and restrains lateral expansion of columns. The figures below give an example of application of FRP composite to structure. (A) (B) (C) Figure Strengthening using FRP Composites [http://sites.google.com/site/frpstrengthening/frpdrawing2-custom-size-398-103.jpg] [http://www.structural.net/Article_Images/Figure%204.JPG] Figure A and B look at plate bonding and figure C gives an indication of wrapping columns. Discussion The project is currently in its research phase. The topics covered in the literature review section of the report are vital as it is important to gain knowledge about the subject and understand its applications in the real engineering world. The future work in the project will involve an additional literature review for structural strengthening and the next stage will be to set up a meeting with the supervisor to discuss the experiment as to what needs to be performed. Once this is completed the project plan will be reviewed to meet the final submission date of the thesis as mentioned earlier in the deliverables section. To conclude the test to be carried out for this purpose will be a 3 point bend test and 4 point bend test and thus the results will be concluded. Bibliography Dag Linghoff (2009), Thin Walled Structures, Carbon-fibre Composites for strengthening steel structures, volume 47 pages 1048-1058. U.Meier (1995), Construction and Building Materials, Strengthening of structures using carbon fibre epoxy composites, volume 9 issue 6 pages 341-351. A.R.Rahai and M.M.Alinia (2008), Construction and Building Materials, Performance Evaluation and Strengthening of concrete structures with composite bracing members, volume 22 issue 10 pages 2100-2110 J.G.Broughton (1997), International

Context Clues

Context Clues Schatz, Elinore K., Baldwin, R. Scott (1986). Context Clues are Unreliable Predictors of Word These experiments were done to help the researchers and educators decide whether context clues help students with defining words. The two researchers were Elinore Kress Schatz and R. Scott Baldwin. Schatz is from the Greater Miami Hebrew Academy and R. Scott Baldwin was a former English teacher who became a professor of Teaching and Learning at the University of Miami. He is currently the Dean of Edinboro Universitys school of Graduate studies and research (http://www.edinboro.edu/departments/university_comm/President/pec-members/baldwin.dot). There were three different experiments done during this particular study. In the first experiment, there were 53 tenth graders and 48 eleventh graders from a private school in Fort Lauderdale, Florida who were tested. The demographics of the school consisted of students from a middle class background who were mainly Caucasian. Before the testing began, researchers tested a group of college bound tenth graders to see if they knew the meanings of the words that were going to be used on the test. If 65% or more of those students knew the meaning a word, then the word was thrown out because the researchers saw this as the students prior knowledge. The students were given two tests with one test having the words-in-context and the other with the words used in isolation. The researchers did the two tests to determine which method helps the students more. The words- in-context came from twenty-five paragraphs from novels used at this school for the tenth and the eleventh grade students. Some examples of those books include The Scarlet Letter and The Pearl. Paragraphs were chosen by their location in the book and by determining which words were low frequency words. Some examples of those words include imperious and inexorable. The words- in -context test was set up like a multiple choice test with a paragraph using the word and the students would have to identify which option shows how the word was used. The words in isolation test were a multiple choice vocabulary test. The students were then randomly assigned tests. The words in isolation testing took around ten to fifteen minutes to complete and the words-in-context testing to ok around thirty to forty minutes to complete. The results showed that â€Å"there was no statistically significant difference between the means of the no-context group (M= 9.14, SD=2.08) and the context group (M=8.76, SD= 3.72)† (Schatz Baldwin 443). These results were then tested in the second experiment to see if the results were accurate or based on the type of literary work. In the second experiment, there were 39 eleventh graders from a private school in Miami, Florida who were tested. The demographics of the school was the same as the previous school with most students being middle class. There were two tests once again but this time the words in the passages were from the four content areas. The mediums used included science textbooks (biology and physics), novel passages (same novels as other test), history textbooks, and magazines (Schatz Baldwin 444). Both tests had the same words on them but one used the words- in-context and the other test had them in isolation. All students took the words in isolation test first. The students finished the first test in 45 minutes and the words-in-context testing took two days to complete. The results of this test indicate that there was no real significant change whether the words w ere in isolation or in-context. In the third experiment, the researchers used 84 tenth and eleventh graders from a private Hebrew school in Florida. The materials were the same as the first experiment except that the tests were not multiple choice anymore. The students had to write out the meaning of the words. The two researchers then graded the papers not knowing whether the one they were grading was the test with the words- in-context or the words in isolation. They determined that multiple choice testing did not hurt the testing. The overall conclusion they came up with it that teachers need to look at a better way to help students understand the meanings of words.

Three Admirable Souls :: essays research papers

Three Admirable Souls There are different people that have certain qualities that make us admire them. Some people have their own admirable souls. The three nationally known figures that I admire and respect are Jackie Robinson, Billy Graham, and Condolezza Rice, due to all of their recognizable tributes that they have given not only to their families but to everyone around the world. The first person I admire and respect is Jackie Robinson there are many reasons for my admiration for Mr. Robinson. To begin with Jackie Robinson proved to be a man of courage and self respect. He earned and proved this courage and self respect by accepting a very challenging invitation to become the first African American to enter the Major League Baseball, where there was only Caucasian players. For example, when he first began to play he was faced with racism with this also came along, discrimination, physical, and verbal abuse. While facing this racism, Jackie Robinson held on to proving himself a man of self respect and looking forward to proving that a man should not be valued or accepted by the color of his skin, but by the inward person, which makes us who really are. Jackie Robinson behaved like a gentleman despite of all the challenges before him and so by doing this he gained respect by those around him and opened opportunities for other African American players to enter the National Baseball League. These are the qualities of Jackie Robinson courage, humbleness, and self respect that have come to make me admire and respect him. The second person that I admire and respect is Billy Graham. Billy Graham is a world famous evangelist that has been called to preach the Gospel according to his religious belief. Billy Graham began his ministry in the United States and England for the "Youth of Christ Crusade", which eventually led him to have large-scale evangelistic campaign in Los Angeles in 1949. I admire his dedication to his ministry because he has taken the gospel so that every one will have an opportunity to receive salvation according to his religious belief. Billy Graham is still obedient to the calling of his ministry because of his fifty six years of preaching and at the age of eighty seven his obedience is still having an influence on young and older people. Those who have had an encounter with Mr. Graham have had their faith stronger and have spiritually grown.

jane eyre, a passage to india , and the tempest :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jane Eyre, A passage to India, and The Tempest all hold within their covers’ stories of women or girls who knowingly and unknowingly affected the lives of men they were involved with. However, the females’ range of influence does vary between the books due the writer’s opinions of the female sex. The strength and influence of women did and will continue to have an affect on the men they are surrounded by as well as our society as a whole.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jane Eyre begins as a young, weak girl and buds into a strong, independent woman. Because of her strength and amount of growth she is able to influence and change one very important man in her life. Mr. Rochester when he meets Jane is a very cold man. He loves no one, not Adele the child that is possibly his of Miss. Ingram a woman he would soon be engaged to. As her time a Thornfield Hall lengthens the reader watches his transformation from the man calling her Miss. Eyre to the man who begs her love him, stay with him and marry him. Charlotte Bronte shows through Jane’s impact on Rochester, as well as her own metamorphosis, that women are strong and capable as well as important to their society and the men they meet. The influence Jane had on Rochester and the fortitude she showed would allow society to see what a woman is capable of and in turn has the women reading encouraged to do the same. The way Bronte portrayed Jane affected not only Rochester but t he women and men of society today.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dr. Azziz, when met with Mrs. Moore, is immediately drawn to her. He befriends her and through this friendship he is changes. Before he knew Mrs. Moore he didn’t have a strong liking of the English though he tolerated and even got along with them. Mrs. Moore, however, gave him a way to understand them and because of her influence he began friendships with Mr. Fielding and Mrs. Quested. After the cave incident the way Mrs. Moore viewed life had changed and she became a very negative person. Dr. Azziz just like Mrs. Moore became very angry and negative when she in a way abandoned him. Mrs. Moore’s character has the ability to make society take a second look at the muddle of India and consider is as more than that.