Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
Spring 5-19-2021
Abstract
Bradford’s Law states that for a given subject area the scattering of literature can be divided into three zones. The first zone (Zone 1)also called as core zone consists of very few number of sources (journals) with highest number of citations, the second zone (Zone 2) consists of moderate number of sources (journals) with a few number of citations and the third zone (Zone 3) consists of highest number of sources (journals) with seldom citations. The present study tests the applicability of Bradford’s Law using 606 articles that were collected from the Scopus database for the period from 1988 to 29.02.2020. The 606 articles comprises of 7630 citations scattered in 226 journals. The journal distribution pattern does not comply with the Bradford’s law. However, when Leimkuhler’s Model was employed the dataset follow the Leimkuhler’s model A rank list of core journals is prepared and the “Journal of Applied Polymer Science” ranked the top journal with 923 (12.10%) of total citations followed by Polymer Composites (10.20%), Polymer - Plastics Engineering & Technology and Engineering (6.79%) and Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites (5.45%) . The distribution of the journals in three zones was done and the number of citations in each zone is calculated. The citation pattern of publication of Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology (CIPET) has been analysed. The half life of Plastics Engineering & Technology journals is calculated and found to be 8.38 years.