SOUTHERN JOURNAL OF SCIENCES

Background: Dams are one of the biggest threats to aquatic biodiversity. They restrict the movement of migratory fish. The construction of barriers can cause the complete extinction of some species from the rivers. When a dam can no longer perform its function or research will determine the need to demolish it, dams are often removed. In the lower part of the Enguri River, Georgia, an irrigation weir is currently non-functional. Aims: This research aims to prove the need to demolish the dam construction on the 44th km of the Enguri River, as it negatively impacts biodiversity and creates an artificial barrier in the river. Methods: Visual inspection was used as a method to assess the morphology and habitat of the dam where it is located. The conversation method was used with Engurhesi LTD representatives to understand the current function of the dam. The Questions were related to the current function of the dam. Results: Based on the conservation with Engurhesi LTD representatives, the study has shown that there is no reason that an irrigation weir might be left in its current state on the Enguri River. Based on the studies, the damage to biodiversity is real and disturbing. Discussion: The irrigation weir on the Enguri River was left untended because of the construction of the Enguri dam. Currently, there is no reason to divert the river Enguri with the help of an irrigation weir as there is no excess water in this river. Conclusions: In conclusion, it can be said that it is necessary to remove the irrigation weir on the Enguri River to restore habitat and mitigate the threats to biodiversity.

Introduction: Thermal insulating coatings are increasingly being introduced into construction practice for internal and external finishing enclosing structures and pipelines. Thermal insulation coatings are usually made based on polymer binder and mineral fillers. The durability and stability of the properties of heat-insulating materials depend on the type of binder. As a rule, polymers are used as a binder: epoxy resin; silicone rubber; urea-formaldehyde resins; aqueous dispersed polymers - styrene-butadiene, polyvinyl acetate, and acrylate (acrylic and styrene-acrylic). The quality indicator of binders can be assessed by the influence of the seasonality of climatic impact, and as a result, the best elastic strength characteristics of binders can be established after one month to a year of field tests. Aim: To determine the influence of climatic factors on the change in the elastic-strength indicators of epoxy polymers binders used in liquid thermal insulation coatings. Methods: A tensile testing machine of the AGS-X series with the TRAPEZIUM X software was used for mechanical tests. The tests were carried out in accordance with GOST 11262-2017 (ISO 527-2: 2012) "Plastics. Tensile test method". Results and Discussion: The paper discusses the results of experimental studies of the compositions of polymer binders and their resistance to various climatic factors, which will later be used as a polymer binder for thermal insulation coatings based on fine mineral granular systems. Conclusions: When analyzing the changes in the characteristics of polymer samples after exposure to climatic factors, it was found that compositions based on Etal-247 epoxy resin, cured with amine hardeners Etal-1440N, Etal-1460, Etal-1472, and Etal-45M, demonstrate the best elastic strength characteristics after one year of full-scale tests. The high stability of the indicators under consideration allows us to conclude that the use of Etal-247 resin as a base leads to creating of the most climate-resistant epoxy coatings.

Background: The Second Southern Science Conference (SSCON 2024) represents a significant milestone in international scientific collaboration, bringing together researchers from twelve nations across multiple continents. The conference, held in Mendoza, Argentina, and co-hosted by the University of Vassouras in Brazil, marked both the 64th anniversary of Universidad de Mendoza and the 20th anniversary of Periódico Tchê Química, demonstrating the growing importance of cross-border academic partnerships. Aim: This study aimed to document and analyze the outcomes and impact of the Second Southern Science Conference, focusing on participation metrics, collaborative patterns, and institutional contributions while highlighting the significance of the hybrid format in facilitating global scientific dialogue. Methods: The analysis involved quantitative assessment of conference participation metrics, including the number of approved papers, author distributions, and institutional representation. The study examined participation patterns across countries and institutions, analyzing collaboration trends through statistical data visualization and comparative analysis of submission rates. Results: The conference achieved significant participation metrics with 65 approved papers and 242 contributing authors, averaging 4 authors per paper. The Universidad Nacional de Córdoba emerged as the leading institution, showcasing its 4 centuries legacy of academic excellence. The analysis revealed strong representation from Latin American institutions, with Brazil and Argentina leading in submissions. Most papers involved 2-5 collaborators, indicating effective research collaboration patterns. Over 500 people participated in the event through both in-person and virtual attendance options. Discussion: The hybrid format successfully facilitated broader international participation and knowledge exchange, which is particularly beneficial for addressing contemporary global challenges. The strong showing from Latin American institutions highlights the region's growing influence in international scientific discourse. The conference's interdisciplinary nature fostered new collaborative initiatives and research partnerships. Conclusions: The conference demonstrated the effectiveness of hybrid international scientific events in fostering global collaboration and knowledge exchange. Areas for improvement were identified, including extended submission timelines and establishment of a permanent management committee. The success of this edition supports the planning of future iterations, with the next edition scheduled to be held in Vassouras, Rio de Janeiro.