A case study on the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres in the commercially produced South African wool clip 2010 – 2017
- Authors: Zietsman, Jolandrie
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55445 , vital:52002
- Description: No formal study on the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres has been performed in South Africa. The purpose of this research project was to investigate the validity of the claims that there has been an increase in the production of wool contaminated with medullated and coloured fibres. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to determine whether the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres in the South African wool clip have changed over time. Secondly, the study aimed to determine whether the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres have a distinct geographic distribution. This study explored eight years of wool production records (2010 to 2017) obtained from BKB, the largest wool broker in South Africa. For the purpose of this research, the wool-producing areas of South Africa were divided into 6 regions, according to average annual rainfall, vegetation type and major farming practices applied in the area. Statistical analysis of the data included descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and post-hoc tests, as well as regression analyses. This study succeeded in quantifying the extent and prevalence of contamination with medullated and coloured fibres in the South African wool clip. The overarching conclusions were: • Floating kemp is the most important contaminant of wool in South Africa, with the incidence of harsh kemp and coloured fibres being very low. • Generally, the most important areas that need attention in combatting contamination in the South African wool clip, are the Mixed Farming Summer Rainfall Region, the Semi-Arid Grassveld and the High Rainfall Grassland. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Zietsman, Jolandrie
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55445 , vital:52002
- Description: No formal study on the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres has been performed in South Africa. The purpose of this research project was to investigate the validity of the claims that there has been an increase in the production of wool contaminated with medullated and coloured fibres. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to determine whether the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres in the South African wool clip have changed over time. Secondly, the study aimed to determine whether the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres have a distinct geographic distribution. This study explored eight years of wool production records (2010 to 2017) obtained from BKB, the largest wool broker in South Africa. For the purpose of this research, the wool-producing areas of South Africa were divided into 6 regions, according to average annual rainfall, vegetation type and major farming practices applied in the area. Statistical analysis of the data included descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and post-hoc tests, as well as regression analyses. This study succeeded in quantifying the extent and prevalence of contamination with medullated and coloured fibres in the South African wool clip. The overarching conclusions were: • Floating kemp is the most important contaminant of wool in South Africa, with the incidence of harsh kemp and coloured fibres being very low. • Generally, the most important areas that need attention in combatting contamination in the South African wool clip, are the Mixed Farming Summer Rainfall Region, the Semi-Arid Grassveld and the High Rainfall Grassland. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Variation in forage quality in subtropical thicket
- Nyembe, Khulisile Jacqueline
- Authors: Nyembe, Khulisile Jacqueline
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52088 , vital:43440
- Description: Several studies have assumed that the plant communities of the Subtropical Thicket biome are nutritious throughout the year. This is based on the observation that they are evergreen, palatable and grow on fertile soils; however this assumption has not been tested. Therefore the aim of this study was to assess forage quality variation in the Subtropical Thicket. This was done at three levels; first we measured the plant quality of dominant plant species in the diets of Thicket herbivores. Secondly, we measured the realised diet quality of Thicket herbivores through the analysis of faecal samples. Lastly we assessed the body condition of Thicket herbivores. The study was conducted at the Colchester (plant quality and diet quality) and Addo Main Camp (body condition assessment) sections of Addo Elephant National Park. To measure the food quality of Thicket plants we analysed 10 plants that are dominant in the diets of Thicket herbivores. To measure diet quality we collected faecal samples from ten herbivores with body mass ranging from 25 kg to 6000 kg. Plant quality results showed that only 30% of the sampled plants met the high energy goat diet protein requirements and that all the sampled plants did not meet the high energy goat diet fibre requirements. This indicates that Thicket plants are not as highly nutritious as they were thought to be. The principle components analysis together with overlapping confidence intervals showed that there was no significant difference between the summer plant samples and the winter plant samples. The faecal quality results showed that there was significant seasonal difference and that faecal diet quality was a function of body size. The body condition results showed that all the sampled herbivores lost condition in the cold dry months. The evidence from faecal diet quality and body condition assessment is sufficient for us to reject the assumption that Thicket forage is consistently nutritious throughout the year. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Nyembe, Khulisile Jacqueline
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52088 , vital:43440
- Description: Several studies have assumed that the plant communities of the Subtropical Thicket biome are nutritious throughout the year. This is based on the observation that they are evergreen, palatable and grow on fertile soils; however this assumption has not been tested. Therefore the aim of this study was to assess forage quality variation in the Subtropical Thicket. This was done at three levels; first we measured the plant quality of dominant plant species in the diets of Thicket herbivores. Secondly, we measured the realised diet quality of Thicket herbivores through the analysis of faecal samples. Lastly we assessed the body condition of Thicket herbivores. The study was conducted at the Colchester (plant quality and diet quality) and Addo Main Camp (body condition assessment) sections of Addo Elephant National Park. To measure the food quality of Thicket plants we analysed 10 plants that are dominant in the diets of Thicket herbivores. To measure diet quality we collected faecal samples from ten herbivores with body mass ranging from 25 kg to 6000 kg. Plant quality results showed that only 30% of the sampled plants met the high energy goat diet protein requirements and that all the sampled plants did not meet the high energy goat diet fibre requirements. This indicates that Thicket plants are not as highly nutritious as they were thought to be. The principle components analysis together with overlapping confidence intervals showed that there was no significant difference between the summer plant samples and the winter plant samples. The faecal quality results showed that there was significant seasonal difference and that faecal diet quality was a function of body size. The body condition results showed that all the sampled herbivores lost condition in the cold dry months. The evidence from faecal diet quality and body condition assessment is sufficient for us to reject the assumption that Thicket forage is consistently nutritious throughout the year. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Plastic particle characterization and concentrations found in the river and marine water environment of Algoa Bay, South Africa
- Authors: Moss, Kerry-Leigh
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53874 , vital:46025
- Description: Only 12% of the world's published plastic research includes references to Africa despite it being a significant contributor to the global plastic waste and mismanagement problem (~88.5% of Africa's plastic waste is mismanaged). Ocean plastics are transported from land by rivers to the sea. However, source contextualization is complex. Many African rivers predominantly run alongside human settlements that host informal waste dumpsites. In this study a simple cost effective, easily deployed, consistent and replicable survey methodology was employed. The study quantified macro plastic in three rivers discharging into Algoa Bay, South Africa. The results indicated that industrial Swartkops and metropolitan Baakens Rivers both illustrate moderate plastic pollution (>3000 plastic particles/day), with the relatively natural Sundays River to showing minimal evidence of river macroplastic (<100 plastic particles/day). The types of plastic were noted using the RIMMEL app (premier African implementation), enabling proportional comparison of different plastic litter types to be completed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Oceanography Department,2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Moss, Kerry-Leigh
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53874 , vital:46025
- Description: Only 12% of the world's published plastic research includes references to Africa despite it being a significant contributor to the global plastic waste and mismanagement problem (~88.5% of Africa's plastic waste is mismanaged). Ocean plastics are transported from land by rivers to the sea. However, source contextualization is complex. Many African rivers predominantly run alongside human settlements that host informal waste dumpsites. In this study a simple cost effective, easily deployed, consistent and replicable survey methodology was employed. The study quantified macro plastic in three rivers discharging into Algoa Bay, South Africa. The results indicated that industrial Swartkops and metropolitan Baakens Rivers both illustrate moderate plastic pollution (>3000 plastic particles/day), with the relatively natural Sundays River to showing minimal evidence of river macroplastic (<100 plastic particles/day). The types of plastic were noted using the RIMMEL app (premier African implementation), enabling proportional comparison of different plastic litter types to be completed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Oceanography Department,2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Spatial modelling of accessibility to tuberculosis treatment: the case of Ngaka Modiri Molema District
- Authors: Ramotsongwa, Karabo Naome
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55435 , vital:52000
- Description: Accessibility to healthcare refers to the availability, or the provision of healthcare-byhealthcare professionals and stakeholders and individuals' ability to obtain care and treatment. It affects overall physical, social, and mental health; disease and disability prevention; detection and treatment of health conditions; standard of living; preventable death; and life expectancy, and it is crucial to the performance of health care systems around the world. If healthcare services are available and are in sufficient supply, people will be able to seek health care, and a population will have access to services. The leading cause of death globally is Tuberculosis (TB) and South Africa is amongst the top 5 countries most affected by TB. This is aggravated by high HIV/AIDS statistics. Children belowthe age of 4, between the ages of 4- 15, and women and men of working ages are highly affected by TB and it is the primary cause of death in these groups in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. This study used study tools like Spatial Modelling, Geographic Information Systems and software like ArcGIS 10.5, TerrSet IDRISI 18.30, and secondary data from the North West Departmentof Health (Tier.net &DHIS) and also TB patients’ home addresses to investigate the accessibility of TB treatment in Ngaka Modiri Molema, in order to spatially visualize the distribution of a communicable disease like TB and public healthcare facilities in the Ngaka Modiri Molema (NMM) District and suggest optimum sites for hospital facilities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Ramotsongwa, Karabo Naome
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55435 , vital:52000
- Description: Accessibility to healthcare refers to the availability, or the provision of healthcare-byhealthcare professionals and stakeholders and individuals' ability to obtain care and treatment. It affects overall physical, social, and mental health; disease and disability prevention; detection and treatment of health conditions; standard of living; preventable death; and life expectancy, and it is crucial to the performance of health care systems around the world. If healthcare services are available and are in sufficient supply, people will be able to seek health care, and a population will have access to services. The leading cause of death globally is Tuberculosis (TB) and South Africa is amongst the top 5 countries most affected by TB. This is aggravated by high HIV/AIDS statistics. Children belowthe age of 4, between the ages of 4- 15, and women and men of working ages are highly affected by TB and it is the primary cause of death in these groups in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. This study used study tools like Spatial Modelling, Geographic Information Systems and software like ArcGIS 10.5, TerrSet IDRISI 18.30, and secondary data from the North West Departmentof Health (Tier.net &DHIS) and also TB patients’ home addresses to investigate the accessibility of TB treatment in Ngaka Modiri Molema, in order to spatially visualize the distribution of a communicable disease like TB and public healthcare facilities in the Ngaka Modiri Molema (NMM) District and suggest optimum sites for hospital facilities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Distinguishing elephant induced thicket degradation and climate related factors in Addo Elephant National Park, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mapheto, Tlhologelo James
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Elephant – Behaviour -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park , Wildlife conservation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60753 , vital:66741
- Description: The Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) is an ecologically sensitive environment where the increase in elephant population, especially in a changing climate is a recipe for landscape degradation and biodiversity loss. The Park is situated in the drought prone Eastern Cape Province, however, the effects of drought on thicket vegetation is less understood. This study aimed to distinguish elephant-induced thicket degradation from the effects of climatic factors, using remote sensing, GIS, and statistical techniques. To characterise and map vegetation conditions of the reserve temporal series Landsat imagery (n = 22) from 1998 to 2018 were analysed. Vegetation states were determined using Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from the growing season of the study period. Using supervised per-pixel image classification technique, the NDVI values characterized into distinct land cover classes viz (1) Intact Thicket, (2) Transformed Thicket, (3) Degraded Thicket, (4) Bare Ground and (6) Water Bodies. Post-classification change detection and landscape fragmentation analysis was performed. Climatic data were obtained from existing weather stations and raster surface of accumulated rainfall and mean maximum temperature were developed using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW). Time series analysis was implemented on the NDVI and climatic condition data by plotting annual measures to indicate variable trends. Temporal trend analysis was performed on the NDVI data using the nonparametric Mann-Kendall trend analysis test to indicate thicket vegetation condition improvement and general degradation. The Residual Trend (RESTREND) approach was employed to remove the effect of rainfall on vegetation productivity. This involved using the Ordinary Least Square regression functionality in ArcMap to compute the relationship between ∑NDVI and accumulated rainfall for every pixel for the study period. The products of the regression were assessed using Pearson’s Correlation (r) at a significance level of 90% (p-value ≤ 0.1) to distinguish strong relationships. Overlay analysis was performed, using the NDVI trend slope and the correlation coefficient (r) raster surfaces, to model vegetation dynamics influenced by elephant activities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mapheto, Tlhologelo James
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Elephant – Behaviour -- South Africa -- Addo Elephant National Park , Wildlife conservation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60753 , vital:66741
- Description: The Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) is an ecologically sensitive environment where the increase in elephant population, especially in a changing climate is a recipe for landscape degradation and biodiversity loss. The Park is situated in the drought prone Eastern Cape Province, however, the effects of drought on thicket vegetation is less understood. This study aimed to distinguish elephant-induced thicket degradation from the effects of climatic factors, using remote sensing, GIS, and statistical techniques. To characterise and map vegetation conditions of the reserve temporal series Landsat imagery (n = 22) from 1998 to 2018 were analysed. Vegetation states were determined using Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from the growing season of the study period. Using supervised per-pixel image classification technique, the NDVI values characterized into distinct land cover classes viz (1) Intact Thicket, (2) Transformed Thicket, (3) Degraded Thicket, (4) Bare Ground and (6) Water Bodies. Post-classification change detection and landscape fragmentation analysis was performed. Climatic data were obtained from existing weather stations and raster surface of accumulated rainfall and mean maximum temperature were developed using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW). Time series analysis was implemented on the NDVI and climatic condition data by plotting annual measures to indicate variable trends. Temporal trend analysis was performed on the NDVI data using the nonparametric Mann-Kendall trend analysis test to indicate thicket vegetation condition improvement and general degradation. The Residual Trend (RESTREND) approach was employed to remove the effect of rainfall on vegetation productivity. This involved using the Ordinary Least Square regression functionality in ArcMap to compute the relationship between ∑NDVI and accumulated rainfall for every pixel for the study period. The products of the regression were assessed using Pearson’s Correlation (r) at a significance level of 90% (p-value ≤ 0.1) to distinguish strong relationships. Overlay analysis was performed, using the NDVI trend slope and the correlation coefficient (r) raster surfaces, to model vegetation dynamics influenced by elephant activities. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Encapsulation of flame retardants for lithium-ion battery safety
- Authors: Ntombela, Nompilo Princess
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55412 , vital:51993
- Description: Lithium-ion technology takes the lead in electric mobility systems, resulting in an increase in the global demand for Li-ion batteries; however, these batteries are associated with numerous safety concerns. Additionally, there are high costs, high energy and power issues which are some of its key limitations. Research efforts are focused on overcoming these obstacles, with different approaches being explored, such as the investigation of more stable salts, modification of active materials and organic solvents, and the use of electrolyte additives. This study focused specifically on electrolyte additives since the electrolyte is one of the most unstable components of the battery. The electrolyte’s decomposition is one of the reactions that occur inside a battery, which may occur due to overcharging or due to an internal short circuit, amongst others. The electrolyte’s decomposition occurs at the early stages of the thermal runaway process and forms part of the reactions that lead to fires and explosions. Thus, this research aims to develop suitable electrolyte additives to improve the safety aspects of Li-ion batteries. Flame retardant additives show great promise in reducing the flammability of the electrolyte in Li-ion batteries, since they serve to suppress the chemical reactions associated with battery ignition. They retard the fires by scavenging the active radical species formed during the decomposition reaction. In this study, the use of flame retardants was investigated. Flame retardant additives have shown to have flame impeding properties inside a battery; however, their direct addition to the electrolyte tends to cause adverse effects on the ionic conductivity and electrochemical performance of the cells. This study investigated an alternative option - the option to microencapsulate such additives into a neutral compound to ensure that the flame retardant has minimal/no effect on the performance of the battery. This investigation looked at tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBP) and bis(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl) methylphosphonate (BFP) as flame retardant additives for the electrolyte. The TBP and BFP flame retardants were microencapsulated in poly(urea formaldehyde) (PUF) coating material via in situ polymerization method. The capsules were characterized using various analytical techniques - to prove it was successfully encapsulated. Electrochemical studies were further done on the capsules and neat flame retardants inside a coin cell. Self-extinguishing time (SET), which is the flammability test, proved that the additives have flame retarding abilities. Opto-digital microscopy (DSX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) did confirm the spherical shape of the microcapsules, where SEM also showed the smooth outer layer of the microcapsules and its hollow inner side. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) proved the presence of the TBP and BFP inside the PUF resin by showing that the chemical composition of microcapsules consisted of both the PUF and flame retardant additives. Simultaneous DSC-TGA (DST) was also performed which showed that the microcapsules were stable before 200 °C, which indicates it would not decompose before the thermal runaway events are occurring. TGA analysis did show that the microcapsules underwent multiple decomposition steps upon heating. Additionally, 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used to quantify the amount of flame retardants additives encapsulated inside PUF shell, and also confirmed the stability of the microcapsules for one month in the electrolyte and at temperatures up to 200 °C. The ionic conductivity was vastly decreased when the flame retardants were added directly to the electrolyte. However, adding the flame retardants in a form of capsules had minimal effect on the ionic conductivity. The cycle capacities of the capsules were also improved when the capsules were added to the cell compared to that of neat flame retardants. The same effect was also noticed when doing Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). This shows that microencapsulation improves the resistance of the cell caused by the flame retardant in comparison to when added directly to the electrolyte of the cell. , Thesis (MSC) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Ntombela, Nompilo Princess
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55412 , vital:51993
- Description: Lithium-ion technology takes the lead in electric mobility systems, resulting in an increase in the global demand for Li-ion batteries; however, these batteries are associated with numerous safety concerns. Additionally, there are high costs, high energy and power issues which are some of its key limitations. Research efforts are focused on overcoming these obstacles, with different approaches being explored, such as the investigation of more stable salts, modification of active materials and organic solvents, and the use of electrolyte additives. This study focused specifically on electrolyte additives since the electrolyte is one of the most unstable components of the battery. The electrolyte’s decomposition is one of the reactions that occur inside a battery, which may occur due to overcharging or due to an internal short circuit, amongst others. The electrolyte’s decomposition occurs at the early stages of the thermal runaway process and forms part of the reactions that lead to fires and explosions. Thus, this research aims to develop suitable electrolyte additives to improve the safety aspects of Li-ion batteries. Flame retardant additives show great promise in reducing the flammability of the electrolyte in Li-ion batteries, since they serve to suppress the chemical reactions associated with battery ignition. They retard the fires by scavenging the active radical species formed during the decomposition reaction. In this study, the use of flame retardants was investigated. Flame retardant additives have shown to have flame impeding properties inside a battery; however, their direct addition to the electrolyte tends to cause adverse effects on the ionic conductivity and electrochemical performance of the cells. This study investigated an alternative option - the option to microencapsulate such additives into a neutral compound to ensure that the flame retardant has minimal/no effect on the performance of the battery. This investigation looked at tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBP) and bis(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl) methylphosphonate (BFP) as flame retardant additives for the electrolyte. The TBP and BFP flame retardants were microencapsulated in poly(urea formaldehyde) (PUF) coating material via in situ polymerization method. The capsules were characterized using various analytical techniques - to prove it was successfully encapsulated. Electrochemical studies were further done on the capsules and neat flame retardants inside a coin cell. Self-extinguishing time (SET), which is the flammability test, proved that the additives have flame retarding abilities. Opto-digital microscopy (DSX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) did confirm the spherical shape of the microcapsules, where SEM also showed the smooth outer layer of the microcapsules and its hollow inner side. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) proved the presence of the TBP and BFP inside the PUF resin by showing that the chemical composition of microcapsules consisted of both the PUF and flame retardant additives. Simultaneous DSC-TGA (DST) was also performed which showed that the microcapsules were stable before 200 °C, which indicates it would not decompose before the thermal runaway events are occurring. TGA analysis did show that the microcapsules underwent multiple decomposition steps upon heating. Additionally, 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used to quantify the amount of flame retardants additives encapsulated inside PUF shell, and also confirmed the stability of the microcapsules for one month in the electrolyte and at temperatures up to 200 °C. The ionic conductivity was vastly decreased when the flame retardants were added directly to the electrolyte. However, adding the flame retardants in a form of capsules had minimal effect on the ionic conductivity. The cycle capacities of the capsules were also improved when the capsules were added to the cell compared to that of neat flame retardants. The same effect was also noticed when doing Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). This shows that microencapsulation improves the resistance of the cell caused by the flame retardant in comparison to when added directly to the electrolyte of the cell. , Thesis (MSC) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Estimating activity patterns in camera trap studies, and the overlap between domestic and indigenous ungulates
- Authors: Peral, Christopher Michael
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Ungulates -- Behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52019 , vital:43437
- Description: Animal activity can reveal responses to social and ecological factors such as the presence of food, water, shelter, predators, competitors or conspecifics. Thus, an understanding of an animal’s activity patterns provides insights into how and why they are using landscapes in the manner in which they do. Camera trap surveys, typically used to record the occurrence of species of interest, are also an efficient way to collect data regarding animal activity patterns but require robust analytical methods. The analysis of camera trap data requires assumptions that may differ for camera trap surveys that estimate occurrence or activity. One such assumption is temporal independence. This refers to the removal of images within a specified time interval, as these images are assumed to be images of the same individual. This assumption stems from the use of-time-to-independence in occurrence or density-based studies, where it reduces overestimation of animal counts. In studies of animal activity, this assumption is generally used, even though animal behaviour or activity occurs continuously over time and as such should be measured over time. I analysed 112 467 images of eight cooccurring species, to test the effect across various times to independence, these being set at 1, 5, 10, 15, 30 and 60 minutes. Time-to-independence resulted in significant loss of data and biased the interpretation of the activity patterns of species and interactions amongst species, particularly for herbivorous social species. In light of these findings, activity pattern estimates based on camera trap studies should be cautious when using time-to-independence. I then explore ‘habitat use’ in space and time by domestic and indigenous ungulates using a camera trap survey. Domestic ungulates (livestock) have become common place on rangelands and may compete with native species. It was hypothesised that there will be overlap in habitat use by livestock and indigenous ungulates. My results show that indigenous ungulate species, particularly larger species such as kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), changed their spatial and temporal use as a result of the presence of domestic ungulates. Other smaller indigenous ungulates, such as steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), were less affected by the presence of livestock. Kudu were found to use more open habitats at different times whilst springbok used more dense habitats at different times in the presence of livestock. This supports the hypothesis of competition between livestock and indigenous ungulates. This study provides novel insight into the analysis and interpretation of activity patterns based on camera trap surveys. Additionally, this study demonstrates the competitive displacement between domestic and indigenous ungulate species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Peral, Christopher Michael
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Ungulates -- Behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52019 , vital:43437
- Description: Animal activity can reveal responses to social and ecological factors such as the presence of food, water, shelter, predators, competitors or conspecifics. Thus, an understanding of an animal’s activity patterns provides insights into how and why they are using landscapes in the manner in which they do. Camera trap surveys, typically used to record the occurrence of species of interest, are also an efficient way to collect data regarding animal activity patterns but require robust analytical methods. The analysis of camera trap data requires assumptions that may differ for camera trap surveys that estimate occurrence or activity. One such assumption is temporal independence. This refers to the removal of images within a specified time interval, as these images are assumed to be images of the same individual. This assumption stems from the use of-time-to-independence in occurrence or density-based studies, where it reduces overestimation of animal counts. In studies of animal activity, this assumption is generally used, even though animal behaviour or activity occurs continuously over time and as such should be measured over time. I analysed 112 467 images of eight cooccurring species, to test the effect across various times to independence, these being set at 1, 5, 10, 15, 30 and 60 minutes. Time-to-independence resulted in significant loss of data and biased the interpretation of the activity patterns of species and interactions amongst species, particularly for herbivorous social species. In light of these findings, activity pattern estimates based on camera trap studies should be cautious when using time-to-independence. I then explore ‘habitat use’ in space and time by domestic and indigenous ungulates using a camera trap survey. Domestic ungulates (livestock) have become common place on rangelands and may compete with native species. It was hypothesised that there will be overlap in habitat use by livestock and indigenous ungulates. My results show that indigenous ungulate species, particularly larger species such as kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), changed their spatial and temporal use as a result of the presence of domestic ungulates. Other smaller indigenous ungulates, such as steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), were less affected by the presence of livestock. Kudu were found to use more open habitats at different times whilst springbok used more dense habitats at different times in the presence of livestock. This supports the hypothesis of competition between livestock and indigenous ungulates. This study provides novel insight into the analysis and interpretation of activity patterns based on camera trap surveys. Additionally, this study demonstrates the competitive displacement between domestic and indigenous ungulate species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Linking agrochemical pollution with the aquatic ecological integrity of the Twee River Catchment, Western Cape
- Authors: Brink, Zanné
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Ecological integrity
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52326 , vital:43588
- Description: This study was initiated in the Twee River system due to the threat posed by agrochemicals on the occurrence of the endemic and endangered fish species found within the catchment. Poor knowledge and understanding of the environmental effects of fertilizers, pesticides and other agrochemicals among small and large commercial farmers within the study area, in combination with their intensive use may have resulted in chemical contamination above environmentally safe concentrations. Numerous studies have highlighted the fact that more research needs to be conducted to identify the key threats to the continued existence of specifically the Critically Endangered Sedercypris erubescens. The overall aim of this study was to determine the spatial and temporal patterns in aquatic ecosystem diversity in the Twee River catchment as indicated by macroinvertebrate and native fish distribution and abundance. It was further investigated if there was a link between agrochemical pollution and the aquatic ecological integrity of the Twee River catchment. Selected sampling sites were identified and sampled to determine the presence and concentration of pesticides entering the water of the Twee River system during run-off and event-based spraying. Furthermore, the effect of these pesticides on the distribution and abundance of the aquatic biota were determined using SASS5 for the macroinvertebrate populations and visually sampling the distribution of the native and non-native fish in the Twee River catchment. This study supports suggestions made by previous studies, that sub-lethal to lethal concentrations of insecticides could be a threat to the long-term survival of benthic macroinvertebrates and potentially the more sensitive endemic fish species within the Twee River system. More focussed research is needed to address impacts of pesticides within this catchment. Agricultural and conservation efforts should be aimed at developing of a shared vision amongst stakeholders, to allow for the longterm conservation of the endemic fish of the Twee River. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Brink, Zanné
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Ecological integrity
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52326 , vital:43588
- Description: This study was initiated in the Twee River system due to the threat posed by agrochemicals on the occurrence of the endemic and endangered fish species found within the catchment. Poor knowledge and understanding of the environmental effects of fertilizers, pesticides and other agrochemicals among small and large commercial farmers within the study area, in combination with their intensive use may have resulted in chemical contamination above environmentally safe concentrations. Numerous studies have highlighted the fact that more research needs to be conducted to identify the key threats to the continued existence of specifically the Critically Endangered Sedercypris erubescens. The overall aim of this study was to determine the spatial and temporal patterns in aquatic ecosystem diversity in the Twee River catchment as indicated by macroinvertebrate and native fish distribution and abundance. It was further investigated if there was a link between agrochemical pollution and the aquatic ecological integrity of the Twee River catchment. Selected sampling sites were identified and sampled to determine the presence and concentration of pesticides entering the water of the Twee River system during run-off and event-based spraying. Furthermore, the effect of these pesticides on the distribution and abundance of the aquatic biota were determined using SASS5 for the macroinvertebrate populations and visually sampling the distribution of the native and non-native fish in the Twee River catchment. This study supports suggestions made by previous studies, that sub-lethal to lethal concentrations of insecticides could be a threat to the long-term survival of benthic macroinvertebrates and potentially the more sensitive endemic fish species within the Twee River system. More focussed research is needed to address impacts of pesticides within this catchment. Agricultural and conservation efforts should be aimed at developing of a shared vision amongst stakeholders, to allow for the longterm conservation of the endemic fish of the Twee River. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The quantification of Pinus patula recovery and productivity of manually orientated biomass collection in post mechanised full tree and semi mechanised tree length harvesting operations
- Authors: Ncongwane, Thandekile Hazel
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Pinus patula – south Africa , Forest ecology , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61511 , vital:70692
- Description: The use of biomass as an alternate source of energy has grown in popularity. Different types of biomass are obtained from a variety of sources including natural forests, forestry plantations and agriculture residues. However, forestry residues have been identified as the most promising source, due to the wide variety of plant products including leaves, twigs, branches, merchantable stem, stumps and roots. The main sources of plantation forest biomass are residues from thinning, clearfell and conventional products such as pulpwood and sawn timber operations. These residues can accumulate between 4.3 to 9.4 billion tonnes annually around the world. The biomass availability in plantation forests has led to the development of different harvesting systems to help collect the products from infield to sawmill. Biomass harvesting has mainly been achieved through mechanised systems because of their high yields. However, the use of manual systems has been neglected due to technical limitations and financial viability. Thus, in South Africa, there is no scientific research looking at manual systems of collecting biomass from plantations. Because of this, different forestry stakeholders, including small growers and contractors using manual systems for biomass harvesting have limited knowledge regarding what to expect in terms of recoverable amounts, productivity and cost. This research examines the productivity of the manual biomass collection and the quantification of recovered and unrecovered residues after mechanised full tree (FT) and semi mechanised tree length (TL) harvesting operations in Pinus patula compartments. A total number of 8 plots with +/-200 standing trees were marked in each system. The diameter and height of all marked trees were measured to determine tree volume. Moreover, the quantification of recoverable woody biomass was determined, where after, a residues assessment method using plots and line transects was used to determine the amount of unrecovered residues. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Ncongwane, Thandekile Hazel
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Pinus patula – south Africa , Forest ecology , Biomass energy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61511 , vital:70692
- Description: The use of biomass as an alternate source of energy has grown in popularity. Different types of biomass are obtained from a variety of sources including natural forests, forestry plantations and agriculture residues. However, forestry residues have been identified as the most promising source, due to the wide variety of plant products including leaves, twigs, branches, merchantable stem, stumps and roots. The main sources of plantation forest biomass are residues from thinning, clearfell and conventional products such as pulpwood and sawn timber operations. These residues can accumulate between 4.3 to 9.4 billion tonnes annually around the world. The biomass availability in plantation forests has led to the development of different harvesting systems to help collect the products from infield to sawmill. Biomass harvesting has mainly been achieved through mechanised systems because of their high yields. However, the use of manual systems has been neglected due to technical limitations and financial viability. Thus, in South Africa, there is no scientific research looking at manual systems of collecting biomass from plantations. Because of this, different forestry stakeholders, including small growers and contractors using manual systems for biomass harvesting have limited knowledge regarding what to expect in terms of recoverable amounts, productivity and cost. This research examines the productivity of the manual biomass collection and the quantification of recovered and unrecovered residues after mechanised full tree (FT) and semi mechanised tree length (TL) harvesting operations in Pinus patula compartments. A total number of 8 plots with +/-200 standing trees were marked in each system. The diameter and height of all marked trees were measured to determine tree volume. Moreover, the quantification of recoverable woody biomass was determined, where after, a residues assessment method using plots and line transects was used to determine the amount of unrecovered residues. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An investigation of alternative separation strategies for common chemical mixtures by means of host-guest chemistry protocols with host compounds N,N′- bis(5-phenyl-5-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11- dihydro-5-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine
- Authors: Barton, Danica Brione
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid -- South Africa , Enzymes –Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61176 , vital:69791
- Description: In this work, the selectivity behaviour of two host compounds, namely N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H1) and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11-dihydro-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H2), was assessed in mixtures of difficult-toseparate compounds, including the xylenes and ethylbenzene, pyridine and methylpyridines, and anisole and methylanisoles. These host compounds were synthesized using Grignard addition reactions with phenylmagnesium bromide on dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one and 10,11- dihydrodibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one, respectively. The resultant alcohols were treated with perchloric acid to form the corresponding perchlorate salts, which were then reacted with ethylenediamine to afford the required H1 and H2 host compounds. Yields were 95 ad 52% for this final step in each case. An investigation of the conformations, both from experiment (using single crystal X-ray diffractometry (SCXRD) on the apohost compound) and computational calculations was undertaken. Unfortunately, H1 always crystallized out as a powder unless this host compound formed a complex with a guest species, and so could not be subjected to SCXRD analysis as apohost alone. However, a single crystal structure for apohost H2 was successfully obtained and compared with computational data from a previous investigation. It was observed that the conformation of apohost H2 compared favourably with that of the lowest energy conformer from that work. In single solvent recrystallization experiments with o-, m-, p-xylene (o-Xy, m-Xy, p-Xy) and ethylbenzene (EB), both H1 and H2 formed complexes with only one of the four guest species, namely p-Xy and o-Xy, respectively. The host:guest (H:G) ratios were 1:1 for both of these complexes. In the equimolar guest/guest competition experiments, inclusion complexes only formed when p-Xy or o-Xy, respectively, were present in the mixtures; if p-Xy (for experiments with H1) or o-Xy (H2) was absent from these mixtures, only apohost was recovered from the glass vessels. Three selectivity profiles were constructed for each of these host compounds, in which each one was recrystallized from binary mixed guests in various proportions. These demonstrated an overwhelming preference of H1 for p-Xy and H2 for o-Xy, which concurred with the results from the equimolar experiments. Thermal analysis using H1∙p-Xy revealed that this complex was unstable at ambient conditions, while SCXRD explained this observation: this complex may be defined as a true clathrate since no host‧‧‧guest interactions were identified at all, and the guest was retained in the complex by means of steric factors alone. Furthermore, the guest molecules resided in wide open channels that may have facilitated the guest release process. H2∙o-Xy, on the other hand, was stable at room temperature, and the guest release event only commenced at 69.7 °C (Ton). This too was explained by SCXRD analyses in that interactions between host and guest species were observed in this case. Additionally, the guest molecules were housed in discrete cages, which made their escape more challenging compared with p-Xy in H1∙p-Xy. It was concluded that, in this guest series, both of the host compounds would be effective as separatory tools employing host-guest chemistry protocols due to their remarkable selectivities for p-Xy (H1) and o-Xy (H2). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Barton, Danica Brione
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid -- South Africa , Enzymes –Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61176 , vital:69791
- Description: In this work, the selectivity behaviour of two host compounds, namely N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H1) and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11-dihydro-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H2), was assessed in mixtures of difficult-toseparate compounds, including the xylenes and ethylbenzene, pyridine and methylpyridines, and anisole and methylanisoles. These host compounds were synthesized using Grignard addition reactions with phenylmagnesium bromide on dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one and 10,11- dihydrodibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one, respectively. The resultant alcohols were treated with perchloric acid to form the corresponding perchlorate salts, which were then reacted with ethylenediamine to afford the required H1 and H2 host compounds. Yields were 95 ad 52% for this final step in each case. An investigation of the conformations, both from experiment (using single crystal X-ray diffractometry (SCXRD) on the apohost compound) and computational calculations was undertaken. Unfortunately, H1 always crystallized out as a powder unless this host compound formed a complex with a guest species, and so could not be subjected to SCXRD analysis as apohost alone. However, a single crystal structure for apohost H2 was successfully obtained and compared with computational data from a previous investigation. It was observed that the conformation of apohost H2 compared favourably with that of the lowest energy conformer from that work. In single solvent recrystallization experiments with o-, m-, p-xylene (o-Xy, m-Xy, p-Xy) and ethylbenzene (EB), both H1 and H2 formed complexes with only one of the four guest species, namely p-Xy and o-Xy, respectively. The host:guest (H:G) ratios were 1:1 for both of these complexes. In the equimolar guest/guest competition experiments, inclusion complexes only formed when p-Xy or o-Xy, respectively, were present in the mixtures; if p-Xy (for experiments with H1) or o-Xy (H2) was absent from these mixtures, only apohost was recovered from the glass vessels. Three selectivity profiles were constructed for each of these host compounds, in which each one was recrystallized from binary mixed guests in various proportions. These demonstrated an overwhelming preference of H1 for p-Xy and H2 for o-Xy, which concurred with the results from the equimolar experiments. Thermal analysis using H1∙p-Xy revealed that this complex was unstable at ambient conditions, while SCXRD explained this observation: this complex may be defined as a true clathrate since no host‧‧‧guest interactions were identified at all, and the guest was retained in the complex by means of steric factors alone. Furthermore, the guest molecules resided in wide open channels that may have facilitated the guest release process. H2∙o-Xy, on the other hand, was stable at room temperature, and the guest release event only commenced at 69.7 °C (Ton). This too was explained by SCXRD analyses in that interactions between host and guest species were observed in this case. Additionally, the guest molecules were housed in discrete cages, which made their escape more challenging compared with p-Xy in H1∙p-Xy. It was concluded that, in this guest series, both of the host compounds would be effective as separatory tools employing host-guest chemistry protocols due to their remarkable selectivities for p-Xy (H1) and o-Xy (H2). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
The influence of site characteristics on growth and wood properties of Pinus radiata and Pinus elliottii in the Southern and Eastern Cape forestry regions of South Africa
- Authors: Sigcau, Chulumanco
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- Environmental aspects , Pine – Growth -- South Africa , Pinus radiata
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61234 , vital:69828
- Description: The intensive nature of plantation forestry in South Africa requires efficiency and financial viability in production systems, amidst a complex growing environment subjected to changing macro-climatic patterns. The success of plantation forestry operations depends, amongst others, on our understanding of tree growth and wood formation patterns in response to variable growing conditions in both space and time. This study was conducted on the two most commonly used species in the southern and Eastern Cape forestry regions, i.e., Pinus radiata and P. elliottii. The region is regarded as highly suitable for plantation forestry in terms of climatic conditions, but soil characteristics pose several challenges due to nutritional disorders and poor drainage. The study focused on investigating the influence of both soil and climatic conditions on the growth and Wood Density properties of the two species, and to establish functional relationships where possible. The two species showed comparable growth rates at the reference age of 13 years on the range of sites sampled in the study area. An analysis of variance showed greater differences in Site Index between than within sample plots, pointing towards the possible influence of site on growth variation. Correlations between climatic variables and the growth of both species were generally weak and contradictory. Possible reasons for this phenomenon are discussed. It is proposed that the general favourable climatic profile of the region and hydromorphic nature of soils reduce the chances of significant correlations between variables influencing moisture availability and tree growth. The analysis of correlations between soil parameters and tree growth revealed some influence of soil organic C and Na on the growth of P. elliottii. This is discussed in terms of our understanding of the influence of soil parent material and soil ecology. The absence of any correlations between soil chemical parameters and the growth of P. radiata was conspicuous. This is in contradiction with earlier studies on the species in the region and can possibly be explained in terms of the site-specific fertilizing policy of the industry, as well as the less diverse range of sites sampled than in the past, which can mask or reduce nutrient limitations for tree growth. However, P. radiata did show a high level of sensitivity towards effective soil depth. Site-quality prediction models are proposed for the two species, but with variable application value due to the limited options of significant control variables that can be considered for inclusion in the models. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Sigcau, Chulumanco
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- Environmental aspects , Pine – Growth -- South Africa , Pinus radiata
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61234 , vital:69828
- Description: The intensive nature of plantation forestry in South Africa requires efficiency and financial viability in production systems, amidst a complex growing environment subjected to changing macro-climatic patterns. The success of plantation forestry operations depends, amongst others, on our understanding of tree growth and wood formation patterns in response to variable growing conditions in both space and time. This study was conducted on the two most commonly used species in the southern and Eastern Cape forestry regions, i.e., Pinus radiata and P. elliottii. The region is regarded as highly suitable for plantation forestry in terms of climatic conditions, but soil characteristics pose several challenges due to nutritional disorders and poor drainage. The study focused on investigating the influence of both soil and climatic conditions on the growth and Wood Density properties of the two species, and to establish functional relationships where possible. The two species showed comparable growth rates at the reference age of 13 years on the range of sites sampled in the study area. An analysis of variance showed greater differences in Site Index between than within sample plots, pointing towards the possible influence of site on growth variation. Correlations between climatic variables and the growth of both species were generally weak and contradictory. Possible reasons for this phenomenon are discussed. It is proposed that the general favourable climatic profile of the region and hydromorphic nature of soils reduce the chances of significant correlations between variables influencing moisture availability and tree growth. The analysis of correlations between soil parameters and tree growth revealed some influence of soil organic C and Na on the growth of P. elliottii. This is discussed in terms of our understanding of the influence of soil parent material and soil ecology. The absence of any correlations between soil chemical parameters and the growth of P. radiata was conspicuous. This is in contradiction with earlier studies on the species in the region and can possibly be explained in terms of the site-specific fertilizing policy of the industry, as well as the less diverse range of sites sampled than in the past, which can mask or reduce nutrient limitations for tree growth. However, P. radiata did show a high level of sensitivity towards effective soil depth. Site-quality prediction models are proposed for the two species, but with variable application value due to the limited options of significant control variables that can be considered for inclusion in the models. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Optimizing herbicide-use for the killing of eucalypt stumps
- Authors: Mavhungu, Tshilidzi
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53857 , vital:46023
- Description: The South Africa (SA) forest industry relies on plantations of exotic forestry trees (Pinus, Acacia and Eucalyptus) to fulfil its timber requirements. With 52.0% of the afforested land in South Africa planted to various eucalypts and their hybrid combinations. Of the total area planted to eucalypts in SA, 75 000 ha is re-established annually by means of silvicultural regimes and operations matched to site productivity, desired end-product and method of regeneration. Unlike other commercially grown tree species, eucalypt species have the ability to coppice after felling. Coppicing is a common form of regeneration in South African forestry as it allows the plantation owner the option of a second timber rotation without replanting. However, if any factors affecting coppicing are compromised, and the site is to be replanted, then it is important to kill the stumps before replanting as rapid initial growth of the coppice shoots will require earlier control than that associated with normal weeding operations. Over time, various methods of woody plant control have been proposed and tested, with most of these making use of herbicides as opposed to the repeated manual removal of coppice regrowth. Globally, most industries subscribe to standards associated with sustainable production (economic, environmental and social) against which they are measured. Within SA, 80% of the forests are certified though either the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or International Standards Organisation (ISO) which recommend the identification and avoidance of ‘highly hazardous’ chemicals; the promotion of ‘non-chemical’ methods for pest management as an element of an integrated pest and vegetation management strategy; and the appropriate use of chemicals that are used. To test the current recommendations for killing eucalypt stumps to include other species, the potential of reducing herbicides used, and the influence of time after application on the survival of eucalypt stumps, two trials were initiated at Entabeni plantation (Venda, Limpopo) and one at Wilgeboom plantation (Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga) between 2018 and 2020. Extending eucalypt cut-stump control practices: Most of the trial work on killing of eucalypts in SA has been conducted on Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus camaldulensis or Eucalyptus macarthurii, with all grown on shorter pulpwood rotations. To extend current recommendation to include Eucalyptus cloeziana (grown on a longer rotation for poles), a trial was established in 2018 at Entabeni plantation (Limpopo Province) to quantify the interaction between Application method (basal-frill; cut-surface; foliar) and Herbicide (no herbicide applied; Roundup; Garlon; Roundup + Garlon) for the killing of 12 year-old stumps following harvesting. Assessments were carried out at 1, 3 and 6 months following application and included Stump survival, Stump quarter with coppice and Coppice heath. Relative to the control plots (100% survival), all herbicides tested were equally effective, 70–90% of the stumps killed. This study confirms previous research regarding the killing of eucalypt stumps. Roundup, Garlon or a combination of two, when applied according to label recommendations to a stump as a basal-frill or cut-surface application (within 30 minutes of felling) resulted in 70-90% of the stumps killed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Mavhungu, Tshilidzi
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53857 , vital:46023
- Description: The South Africa (SA) forest industry relies on plantations of exotic forestry trees (Pinus, Acacia and Eucalyptus) to fulfil its timber requirements. With 52.0% of the afforested land in South Africa planted to various eucalypts and their hybrid combinations. Of the total area planted to eucalypts in SA, 75 000 ha is re-established annually by means of silvicultural regimes and operations matched to site productivity, desired end-product and method of regeneration. Unlike other commercially grown tree species, eucalypt species have the ability to coppice after felling. Coppicing is a common form of regeneration in South African forestry as it allows the plantation owner the option of a second timber rotation without replanting. However, if any factors affecting coppicing are compromised, and the site is to be replanted, then it is important to kill the stumps before replanting as rapid initial growth of the coppice shoots will require earlier control than that associated with normal weeding operations. Over time, various methods of woody plant control have been proposed and tested, with most of these making use of herbicides as opposed to the repeated manual removal of coppice regrowth. Globally, most industries subscribe to standards associated with sustainable production (economic, environmental and social) against which they are measured. Within SA, 80% of the forests are certified though either the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or International Standards Organisation (ISO) which recommend the identification and avoidance of ‘highly hazardous’ chemicals; the promotion of ‘non-chemical’ methods for pest management as an element of an integrated pest and vegetation management strategy; and the appropriate use of chemicals that are used. To test the current recommendations for killing eucalypt stumps to include other species, the potential of reducing herbicides used, and the influence of time after application on the survival of eucalypt stumps, two trials were initiated at Entabeni plantation (Venda, Limpopo) and one at Wilgeboom plantation (Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga) between 2018 and 2020. Extending eucalypt cut-stump control practices: Most of the trial work on killing of eucalypts in SA has been conducted on Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus camaldulensis or Eucalyptus macarthurii, with all grown on shorter pulpwood rotations. To extend current recommendation to include Eucalyptus cloeziana (grown on a longer rotation for poles), a trial was established in 2018 at Entabeni plantation (Limpopo Province) to quantify the interaction between Application method (basal-frill; cut-surface; foliar) and Herbicide (no herbicide applied; Roundup; Garlon; Roundup + Garlon) for the killing of 12 year-old stumps following harvesting. Assessments were carried out at 1, 3 and 6 months following application and included Stump survival, Stump quarter with coppice and Coppice heath. Relative to the control plots (100% survival), all herbicides tested were equally effective, 70–90% of the stumps killed. This study confirms previous research regarding the killing of eucalypt stumps. Roundup, Garlon or a combination of two, when applied according to label recommendations to a stump as a basal-frill or cut-surface application (within 30 minutes of felling) resulted in 70-90% of the stumps killed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Continuous flow synthesis of a key intermediate towards the antidiabetic drug repaglinide
- Authors: Williams, Arushan
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Diabetes -- Miscellanea -- South Africa , Diabetes –Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61064 , vital:69715
- Description: Across the world, diabetes is one of the leading causes of deaths attributed to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). In Africa, a huge proportion of African countries’ annual healthcare budgets are consumed by diabetes (7 %) with many already experiencing healthcare budget deficits. The prevalence of diabetes is rapidly growing and threatens the economic productivity and livelihood of many families within the region. The world leaders have invested heavily in reducing the pandemic by focusing on increasing the availability of affordable essential medicines in developing countries. The majority of diabetes cases are due to type 2 diabetes (90 %) and may be treated using oral hypoglycaemic drugs (OHDs). Repaglinide (REP) is a non-sulfonylurea insulin secretagogue (meglitinide) with greater HbA1c reduction than metformin in newly onset type 2 diabetic patients, however due to the high price of REP outside Asia, cheaper and less effective OHDs are prescribed to patients. Many of the reported synthetic routes towards REP utilize a key intermediate, 2-(3-ethoxy-4- iethoxycarbonyl)phenyl)acetic acid. The key intermediate contributes significantly to the price of REP as many of the intermediate’s synthetic routes suffer from long reaction times, low yields and industrial complex approaches. Therefore, this has prompted us to investigate an efficient process towards the synthesis of 2-(3-ethoxy-4-(ethoxycarbonyl)phenyl)acetic acid using multiple continuous flow systems. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Williams, Arushan
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Diabetes -- Miscellanea -- South Africa , Diabetes –Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61064 , vital:69715
- Description: Across the world, diabetes is one of the leading causes of deaths attributed to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). In Africa, a huge proportion of African countries’ annual healthcare budgets are consumed by diabetes (7 %) with many already experiencing healthcare budget deficits. The prevalence of diabetes is rapidly growing and threatens the economic productivity and livelihood of many families within the region. The world leaders have invested heavily in reducing the pandemic by focusing on increasing the availability of affordable essential medicines in developing countries. The majority of diabetes cases are due to type 2 diabetes (90 %) and may be treated using oral hypoglycaemic drugs (OHDs). Repaglinide (REP) is a non-sulfonylurea insulin secretagogue (meglitinide) with greater HbA1c reduction than metformin in newly onset type 2 diabetic patients, however due to the high price of REP outside Asia, cheaper and less effective OHDs are prescribed to patients. Many of the reported synthetic routes towards REP utilize a key intermediate, 2-(3-ethoxy-4- iethoxycarbonyl)phenyl)acetic acid. The key intermediate contributes significantly to the price of REP as many of the intermediate’s synthetic routes suffer from long reaction times, low yields and industrial complex approaches. Therefore, this has prompted us to investigate an efficient process towards the synthesis of 2-(3-ethoxy-4-(ethoxycarbonyl)phenyl)acetic acid using multiple continuous flow systems. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the effectiveness of area-based conservation intervention in avoiding biodiversity loss in South Africa
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
The synthesis of anastrazole intermediates using continuous flow systems
- Authors: Tanyi, Sam Tambi
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54116 , vital:46304
- Description: In this study, the continuous flow synthesis of anastrozole intermediates were investigated using mesitylene as starting material. Anastrozole is an important drug used for the treatment of breast cancer. In the first step, mesitylene was brominated using N-bromosuccinimide to obtain 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluene. Selectivity became an issue due to the formation of two by-products; namely 1,3,5-tris(bromomethyl) benzene (the tribrominated by-product) and 1-(bromomethyl)-3,5-dimethylbenzene (the monobrominated by-product). Since the reaction parameters can be more precisely controlled in flow chemistry systems, we were able to optimize the formation the desired product 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluene. The reaction was initially optimized ina 15μLChemtrix glass micro reactor resulting in 100%conversion with 95%selectivity towards the desired product 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluenein 15 seconds, with a throughput of 0.006 g/h. The reaction was then scaled up in a 1.7 mLLTF reactor, equally yielding 100%conversion with 95%selectivityin 4minutes, with a throughput of2.01g/h. The bromination of mesitylene was also attempted in a homemade photochemical reactor consisting of a 3.02 polytetrafluoroethylene coil reactor and BLE-6T365 UV lamp. In this photochemical reactor, although 100%conversionwas again obtained only75%selectivity was achieved in 20minutes, with a throughput of 0.025g/h. This drop in selectivity was attributed to poorer mixing in the larger polytetrafluoroethylene coil reactor and possibly insufficient light penetration. The next step, involving the cyanation of 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluene to obtain 2,2'-(5-methyl-1,3-phenylene) diacetonitrilegave 100%conversion in 1 minute at 190 °C in a 1.7 mLLTFreactor, with a throughput of 5.2g/h. The subsequent methylation of 3,5-bis(cyanomethyl)toluene to obtain3,5-bis(1-cyano-1-methylethyl) toluene was investigated using a1mLpolytetrafluoroethylenecoil reactor, ultimatelyachieving99%conversionat40 °Cin 8minutes, with a throughput of 0.045g/h. Next, the bromination of3,5-bis(1-cyano-1-methylethyl)toluene using N-bromosuccinimideto yield 2,2'-(5-bromomethyl-1,3-phenylene)di(2-methyl propionitrile) gave 100%conversion at 120 °C in 4 minutes, with a throughput of 0.35g/h. Lastly, the multistep synthesis of 3,5-bis(cyanomethyl)toluene was done in two integrated 1.7 mLLTF reactors, using the predetermined optimum conditions to achieve 94%conversion towards 3,5-bis(cyanomethyl)toluene with a total r , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Tanyi, Sam Tambi
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54116 , vital:46304
- Description: In this study, the continuous flow synthesis of anastrozole intermediates were investigated using mesitylene as starting material. Anastrozole is an important drug used for the treatment of breast cancer. In the first step, mesitylene was brominated using N-bromosuccinimide to obtain 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluene. Selectivity became an issue due to the formation of two by-products; namely 1,3,5-tris(bromomethyl) benzene (the tribrominated by-product) and 1-(bromomethyl)-3,5-dimethylbenzene (the monobrominated by-product). Since the reaction parameters can be more precisely controlled in flow chemistry systems, we were able to optimize the formation the desired product 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluene. The reaction was initially optimized ina 15μLChemtrix glass micro reactor resulting in 100%conversion with 95%selectivity towards the desired product 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluenein 15 seconds, with a throughput of 0.006 g/h. The reaction was then scaled up in a 1.7 mLLTF reactor, equally yielding 100%conversion with 95%selectivityin 4minutes, with a throughput of2.01g/h. The bromination of mesitylene was also attempted in a homemade photochemical reactor consisting of a 3.02 polytetrafluoroethylene coil reactor and BLE-6T365 UV lamp. In this photochemical reactor, although 100%conversionwas again obtained only75%selectivity was achieved in 20minutes, with a throughput of 0.025g/h. This drop in selectivity was attributed to poorer mixing in the larger polytetrafluoroethylene coil reactor and possibly insufficient light penetration. The next step, involving the cyanation of 3,5-bis(bromomethyl)toluene to obtain 2,2'-(5-methyl-1,3-phenylene) diacetonitrilegave 100%conversion in 1 minute at 190 °C in a 1.7 mLLTFreactor, with a throughput of 5.2g/h. The subsequent methylation of 3,5-bis(cyanomethyl)toluene to obtain3,5-bis(1-cyano-1-methylethyl) toluene was investigated using a1mLpolytetrafluoroethylenecoil reactor, ultimatelyachieving99%conversionat40 °Cin 8minutes, with a throughput of 0.045g/h. Next, the bromination of3,5-bis(1-cyano-1-methylethyl)toluene using N-bromosuccinimideto yield 2,2'-(5-bromomethyl-1,3-phenylene)di(2-methyl propionitrile) gave 100%conversion at 120 °C in 4 minutes, with a throughput of 0.35g/h. Lastly, the multistep synthesis of 3,5-bis(cyanomethyl)toluene was done in two integrated 1.7 mLLTF reactors, using the predetermined optimum conditions to achieve 94%conversion towards 3,5-bis(cyanomethyl)toluene with a total r , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Upwelling over submarine canyons: an in-situ and modelling approach
- Authors: Rautenbach, Gustav
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Oceanography -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52078 , vital:43442
- Description: The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, located along the coastline of northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), hosts South Africa's only tropical coral reef system and is clustered with submarine canyons. These ecosystems support a flourishing diving and pelagic sportfishing industry in the area that contributes tens of millions of rand to the South African Gross Domestic Profit (GDP) annually as well as to provide income and job security for the majority of the local residents. Understanding the oceanographic dynamics, particularly upwelling events, will improve current knowledge of how the ecosystem works and may enhance conservation techniques. The upwelling events within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park results in the influx of cold and nutrient rich waters that supports biological productivity in the area. The complex oceanography, dominated by the Northern Agulhas Current and mesoscale eddies that stem from the Mozambique Channel and South East Madagascar Current (SEMC) is understudied and lacks understanding. This thesis aims to build upon the current knowledge of the upwelling events over the submarine canyons and the concurrent influence on the Mixed Layer Depth (MLD). At the submarine canyons, six anomalous cooling events were identified from surface and subsurface measurements extracted from the Operational Sea Surface Temperature and Ice Analysis (OSTIA) Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and from data collected using Underwater Temperature Recorders (UTRs) over a 12-month period. Depth-integrated lagged correlations showed a 2-to-7-hour lag period from the deep to shallow stations, suggesting that the anomalous cooling events are in fact upwelling events. Wind measurements from the Mbazwana Weather Station and snapshots of sea-level anomalies illustrated that the weaker and shorter upwelling events are driven either by alongshore wind stress or a cyclonic eddy event solely; whereas the stronger event was driven by the combination of both forcing mechanisms. An idealized canyon ocean model is used to interrogate the two forcing mechanisms more fully and showed that the most intense upwelling events are driven by the combined effect of upwelling-favourable alongshore wind stress and a cyclonic eddy which results in strong upward vertical velocity anomalies and the greatest shallowing (6.88 m) of the MLD. With the contribution of the in-situ measurements as a baseline study it is apparent that the idealised model does provide an improved understanding of the upwelling events and forcing mechanism over the submarine canyons within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ocean Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Rautenbach, Gustav
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Oceanography -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52078 , vital:43442
- Description: The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, located along the coastline of northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), hosts South Africa's only tropical coral reef system and is clustered with submarine canyons. These ecosystems support a flourishing diving and pelagic sportfishing industry in the area that contributes tens of millions of rand to the South African Gross Domestic Profit (GDP) annually as well as to provide income and job security for the majority of the local residents. Understanding the oceanographic dynamics, particularly upwelling events, will improve current knowledge of how the ecosystem works and may enhance conservation techniques. The upwelling events within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park results in the influx of cold and nutrient rich waters that supports biological productivity in the area. The complex oceanography, dominated by the Northern Agulhas Current and mesoscale eddies that stem from the Mozambique Channel and South East Madagascar Current (SEMC) is understudied and lacks understanding. This thesis aims to build upon the current knowledge of the upwelling events over the submarine canyons and the concurrent influence on the Mixed Layer Depth (MLD). At the submarine canyons, six anomalous cooling events were identified from surface and subsurface measurements extracted from the Operational Sea Surface Temperature and Ice Analysis (OSTIA) Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and from data collected using Underwater Temperature Recorders (UTRs) over a 12-month period. Depth-integrated lagged correlations showed a 2-to-7-hour lag period from the deep to shallow stations, suggesting that the anomalous cooling events are in fact upwelling events. Wind measurements from the Mbazwana Weather Station and snapshots of sea-level anomalies illustrated that the weaker and shorter upwelling events are driven either by alongshore wind stress or a cyclonic eddy event solely; whereas the stronger event was driven by the combination of both forcing mechanisms. An idealized canyon ocean model is used to interrogate the two forcing mechanisms more fully and showed that the most intense upwelling events are driven by the combined effect of upwelling-favourable alongshore wind stress and a cyclonic eddy which results in strong upward vertical velocity anomalies and the greatest shallowing (6.88 m) of the MLD. With the contribution of the in-situ measurements as a baseline study it is apparent that the idealised model does provide an improved understanding of the upwelling events and forcing mechanism over the submarine canyons within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ocean Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Beauty from Ashes:short term postfire regeneration of dune fynbos -thicket vegetation in the South Eastern Cape floristic region
- Authors: Gcina, Sinenjongo
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Fynbos ecology – Nelson Mandela University Campus Nature Reserve , Forest fires -- Prevention and control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59666 , vital:62319
- Description: Aim This study aims to provide an understanding and a description of the short-term postfire regeneration and ecology of the fynbos-thicket vegetation on a coastal dune system in the southeastern Cape Floristic Region. Another aim is to assess the recovery of the vegetation community by assessing the growth forms and the disturbance response across a range of species from thicket and fynbos communities and to provide a belowground bud bank classification for each of these species in the coastal dune systems. Location The study site was the Mandela University Reserve and the Noordhoek dune fields, situated in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, which is part of the south-eastern Cape Floristic Region. The study site hosts thicket-fynbos mosaic vegetation type that occurs in a Mediterranean-Climate Ecosystem (MCE). Methods Firstly, field observations and photographs of plant species were taken weekly to assess and identify the species that were emerging and persisting in the dune system in the first 12 months postfire. Phenological events of the species that emerged (e.g., flowering, fruiting, leaf growth, leaf yellowing, and leaf abscission) were also observed and reported on. Secondly, an excavation of 21 species (e.g., Jamesbrittenia microphylla, Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata) was conducted to classify the species into their belowground bud bank types. Results There was a rapid emergence of resprouters (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) in the first 12 months postfire. This was followed by their growth; primarily occurring after the rainfall events. The dominant resprouting species (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) entered the system two weeks after the fire. There was a significant difference in the time to the first emergence of the different regeneration groups postfire (P < 0.001): on average, obligate sprouters (OS) appeared 1 month after fire – two months earlier than facultative sprouters (FS) and four months earlier than non-sprouters (NS). There was no statistical evidence to suggest that the FS and non-sprouters NS emerged at different times postfire; however, most NS species were observed in the system 5 months after fire. 4 Exceptions were the NS species Pelargonium grossularoides and Mesembryanthemum aitonis, both annuals that emerged 1 month after fire. A wide range of OS species that appeared earlier in the system (e.g., Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata, and Lauridia tetragona) exhibit underground lateral growth with belowground bud banks (BBBs) from which they recover after disturbance. In total, six BBB types were recorded in this study, namely: bud-bearing root, rhizome, rhizophore, woody rhizome, stem tuber, and corms. The bud-bearing root from woody species was the dominant BBB in this system. Main conclusion The return of species that occurs in the first year after fire occurs rapidly in the first 2 months as resprouting species (primarily OS) appear in the system. Following this, the rate of return of species decreases as reseeding species (primarily NS) gradually reestablish and occupy the gaps in the dune fynbos-thicket vegetation. This study has shown that plant species in this ecosystem are adapted to fire disturbance as their populations are able to reestablish through various regeneration strategies, including resprouting from different types of BBB. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Gcina, Sinenjongo
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Fynbos ecology – Nelson Mandela University Campus Nature Reserve , Forest fires -- Prevention and control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59666 , vital:62319
- Description: Aim This study aims to provide an understanding and a description of the short-term postfire regeneration and ecology of the fynbos-thicket vegetation on a coastal dune system in the southeastern Cape Floristic Region. Another aim is to assess the recovery of the vegetation community by assessing the growth forms and the disturbance response across a range of species from thicket and fynbos communities and to provide a belowground bud bank classification for each of these species in the coastal dune systems. Location The study site was the Mandela University Reserve and the Noordhoek dune fields, situated in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, which is part of the south-eastern Cape Floristic Region. The study site hosts thicket-fynbos mosaic vegetation type that occurs in a Mediterranean-Climate Ecosystem (MCE). Methods Firstly, field observations and photographs of plant species were taken weekly to assess and identify the species that were emerging and persisting in the dune system in the first 12 months postfire. Phenological events of the species that emerged (e.g., flowering, fruiting, leaf growth, leaf yellowing, and leaf abscission) were also observed and reported on. Secondly, an excavation of 21 species (e.g., Jamesbrittenia microphylla, Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata) was conducted to classify the species into their belowground bud bank types. Results There was a rapid emergence of resprouters (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) in the first 12 months postfire. This was followed by their growth; primarily occurring after the rainfall events. The dominant resprouting species (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) entered the system two weeks after the fire. There was a significant difference in the time to the first emergence of the different regeneration groups postfire (P < 0.001): on average, obligate sprouters (OS) appeared 1 month after fire – two months earlier than facultative sprouters (FS) and four months earlier than non-sprouters (NS). There was no statistical evidence to suggest that the FS and non-sprouters NS emerged at different times postfire; however, most NS species were observed in the system 5 months after fire. 4 Exceptions were the NS species Pelargonium grossularoides and Mesembryanthemum aitonis, both annuals that emerged 1 month after fire. A wide range of OS species that appeared earlier in the system (e.g., Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata, and Lauridia tetragona) exhibit underground lateral growth with belowground bud banks (BBBs) from which they recover after disturbance. In total, six BBB types were recorded in this study, namely: bud-bearing root, rhizome, rhizophore, woody rhizome, stem tuber, and corms. The bud-bearing root from woody species was the dominant BBB in this system. Main conclusion The return of species that occurs in the first year after fire occurs rapidly in the first 2 months as resprouting species (primarily OS) appear in the system. Following this, the rate of return of species decreases as reseeding species (primarily NS) gradually reestablish and occupy the gaps in the dune fynbos-thicket vegetation. This study has shown that plant species in this ecosystem are adapted to fire disturbance as their populations are able to reestablish through various regeneration strategies, including resprouting from different types of BBB. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Cluster analysis for group selection in launch sales predictions
- Authors: Watchurst, Lee
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Cluster analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52003 , vital:43447
- Description: One way for businesses to stay ahead in a competitive market is through the launch of new products and planning for these launches optimally. This includes ordering the correct quantity of stock in advance as well as maintaining these stock levels while the item launches. However, holding too much stock in warehouses can affect the business costs adversely. This research proposes the use of cluster analysis techniques to determine the up-front purchase quantity by identifying similar items and using their initial quantities sold. Products will be grouped based on their numerical and categorical attributes. Once the data is clustered, the Bass model will be used to obtain a sales profile for the new item. The Bass model is a popular choice for product life cycle planning due to the emphasis placed on the timing of adoption. The study will make use of data from a retail and wholesale company that sells, in part, single use items. With the planning for new launches being a key problem point in many companies, this research aims to optimise the planning process and ensure product launch success across stores. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Watchurst, Lee
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Cluster analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52003 , vital:43447
- Description: One way for businesses to stay ahead in a competitive market is through the launch of new products and planning for these launches optimally. This includes ordering the correct quantity of stock in advance as well as maintaining these stock levels while the item launches. However, holding too much stock in warehouses can affect the business costs adversely. This research proposes the use of cluster analysis techniques to determine the up-front purchase quantity by identifying similar items and using their initial quantities sold. Products will be grouped based on their numerical and categorical attributes. Once the data is clustered, the Bass model will be used to obtain a sales profile for the new item. The Bass model is a popular choice for product life cycle planning due to the emphasis placed on the timing of adoption. The study will make use of data from a retail and wholesale company that sells, in part, single use items. With the planning for new launches being a key problem point in many companies, this research aims to optimise the planning process and ensure product launch success across stores. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Synthesis and characterization of iron doped sodium and potassium titanates using the pechini sol-gel method
- Authors: Guga, Aluwani
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53646 , vital:45683
- Description: Iron doped (Fe: 5Ti) sodium and potassium titanates were prepared by the Pechini sol-gel method and calcined at 800 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), FTIR and Raman spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure and morphology of the titanate nanomaterials. A quantitative XRD analysis using Rietveld refinement of the titanates confirmed the powders to consist of crystalline phases with the Na2Ti7O15 and K2Ti8O17 phases predominant for the sodium and potassium titanate, respectively. This was further confirmed using selected area electron diffraction (SAED) in the TEM. SEM and TEM analyses indicated that the titanates are consistent with a nanostructured material exhibiting rod-like morphology. The elemental compositions of the titanites were examined by SEM-EDS and TEM-EDS and found to agree well with the targeted Fe to Ti ratio from synthesis. Limited evidence for the segregation of iron in the titanate regions were found indicating the iron to be incorporated within the titanate lattice. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) fine-structure analysis of the Fe L2,3 core-loss edge was successfully used to match the Fe to a 2+ or 3+ valence state, consistent with its occupation at Ti lattice sites. Finally, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy were used to study the vibrational modes of the functional group of the sodium and potassium titanates. Vibrational modes consistent with previously reported findings for the titanate phases identified were found with no evidence of isolated Fe related modes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Guga, Aluwani
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53646 , vital:45683
- Description: Iron doped (Fe: 5Ti) sodium and potassium titanates were prepared by the Pechini sol-gel method and calcined at 800 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), FTIR and Raman spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure and morphology of the titanate nanomaterials. A quantitative XRD analysis using Rietveld refinement of the titanates confirmed the powders to consist of crystalline phases with the Na2Ti7O15 and K2Ti8O17 phases predominant for the sodium and potassium titanate, respectively. This was further confirmed using selected area electron diffraction (SAED) in the TEM. SEM and TEM analyses indicated that the titanates are consistent with a nanostructured material exhibiting rod-like morphology. The elemental compositions of the titanites were examined by SEM-EDS and TEM-EDS and found to agree well with the targeted Fe to Ti ratio from synthesis. Limited evidence for the segregation of iron in the titanate regions were found indicating the iron to be incorporated within the titanate lattice. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) fine-structure analysis of the Fe L2,3 core-loss edge was successfully used to match the Fe to a 2+ or 3+ valence state, consistent with its occupation at Ti lattice sites. Finally, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy were used to study the vibrational modes of the functional group of the sodium and potassium titanates. Vibrational modes consistent with previously reported findings for the titanate phases identified were found with no evidence of isolated Fe related modes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Growth performance of three F1 Hybrid tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Cultivars grown in Peat moss and Sawdust
- Authors: Mondile, Landile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tomatoes – Irrigation – Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59853 , vital:62450
- Description: The tomato is one of the most important and commonly grown vegetable crops cultivated by subsistence as well as commercial farmers in South Africa. Even though hydroponic tomato production has gained popularity, tomato production in South Africa is mostly practised open field. This is because most South African households in rural communities depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Tomatoes are one of the “cash crops” − meaning cash in hand for many farmers. As a staple food for many rural communities and households, tomatoes are prepared as relish daily. Including tomatoes in the human diet provides the benefit of various important nutrients, such as Vitamin C, amongst others. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance − by assessing the number of leaves, stem diameter, plant height and number of flowers per plant − in three Solanum lycopersicum L. cultivars, namely: F1 hybrids Star9006, TF4009 and TF4011, grown in peat moss and sawdust respectively. In addition, the research aimed at investigating how peat moss and sawdust, as growing media, influenced the growth performance of the tomato cultivars under study. The study was conducted at the Döhne Agricultural Development Institute near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. The experiment was laid out in a split randomized complete block design (RCBD) in which the growing media, namely: sawdust and peat moss, were assigned as main plots and the tomato cultivars to sub-plots, with three replicates. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mondile, Landile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tomatoes – Irrigation – Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59853 , vital:62450
- Description: The tomato is one of the most important and commonly grown vegetable crops cultivated by subsistence as well as commercial farmers in South Africa. Even though hydroponic tomato production has gained popularity, tomato production in South Africa is mostly practised open field. This is because most South African households in rural communities depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Tomatoes are one of the “cash crops” − meaning cash in hand for many farmers. As a staple food for many rural communities and households, tomatoes are prepared as relish daily. Including tomatoes in the human diet provides the benefit of various important nutrients, such as Vitamin C, amongst others. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance − by assessing the number of leaves, stem diameter, plant height and number of flowers per plant − in three Solanum lycopersicum L. cultivars, namely: F1 hybrids Star9006, TF4009 and TF4011, grown in peat moss and sawdust respectively. In addition, the research aimed at investigating how peat moss and sawdust, as growing media, influenced the growth performance of the tomato cultivars under study. The study was conducted at the Döhne Agricultural Development Institute near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. The experiment was laid out in a split randomized complete block design (RCBD) in which the growing media, namely: sawdust and peat moss, were assigned as main plots and the tomato cultivars to sub-plots, with three replicates. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-12