Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Nichakorn Wantaneeyakul, Ketwalee Kositkanawuth, Scott Q. Turn, Jinxia Fu
Summary: The biomass renewable energy has become a major focus in Thailand due to its agricultural economy, with research now exploring the properties of biochar produced from rice husk and plastic copyrolysis. The study found that biochar has the potential to be utilized as a solid fuel or soil amendment.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Abid Farooq, Seong-Ho Jang, See Hoon Lee, Sang-Chul Jung, Gwang Hoon Rhee, Byong-Hun Jeon, Young-Kwon Park
Summary: The study introduces an environmentally friendly method for food waste disposal through catalytic steam gasification using various types of Ni-loaded chars. The treated chars showed high hydrogen generation efficiency and prevented coke formation, potentially offering a solution for improving gas yield and hydrogen generation.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Chuanshuai Chen, Boyu Qu, Wenxiang Wang, Weijian Wang, Guozhao Ji, Aimin Li
Summary: Torrefaction is an effective pretreatment process for biomass, which can enhance energy density and reduce moisture and oxygen contents. The study showed that increasing torrefaction temperature decreased hemicellulose and cellulose contents, while the activation energy increased with torrefaction temperature.
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Surendar Moogi, Jechan Lee, Jungho Jae, Christian Sonne, Joerg Rinklebe, Do Heui Kim, Su Shiung Lam, Pau Loke Show, Young-Kwon Park
Summary: This study focuses on the thermocatalytic conversion of rice husk for the production of BTEX chemicals, with considerations given to factors such as reaction environment, type of zeolite, and SiO2/Al2O3 ratio. The highest BTEX yield was achieved in CH4-D(650) with a H-2/CH4 molar ratio of 0.88, utilizing Ga/HZSM-5 zeolite with a Ga loading of 1 wt%. Excessive Ga loading on the zeolite was found to decrease the BTEX yield due to a decrease in available Bronsted acid sites.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Joshua O. Ighalo, Jeanet Conradie, Chinemerem R. Ohoro, James F. Amaku, Kabir O. Oyedotun, Nobanathi W. Maxakato, Kovo G. Akpomie, Emmanuel S. Okeke, Chijioke Olisah, Alhadji Malloum, Kayode A. Adegoke
Summary: The growing population and industrial activities have increased energy demand, leading to the depletion of fossil fuels and environmental issues. This review focuses on the conversion of coconut biomass residue into biochar, discussing production methods, properties, and versatile applications. Various techniques, such as pyrolysis and gasification, have been explored for sustainable resource utilization. The biochar produced from coconut residues has shown potential in wastewater treatment, soil amendment, and carbon sequestration due to its distinct physicochemical properties.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ziyu Gan, Xiaozhuang Zhuang, Kehui Cen, Yuping Ba, Jianbin Zhou, Dengyu Chen
Summary: In this study, biochar was prepared by co-pyrolysis of simulated MSW samples and rice husk gasification tar. The effects of three factors of co-pyrolysis on the biochar yield and quality were systematically evaluated. The results showed that the experimental biochar had higher yield and quality than the theoretical values under the optimized conditions. The three factors differently affected the properties of biochar.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Y. C. Tan, S. Jia, J. Tan, Y. Leow, R. Zheng, X. Y. Tan, S. B. Dolmanan, M. Zhang, P. Y. M. Yew, X. P. Ni, Q. Zhu, J. Xu, X. J. Loh, S. Ramakrishna, D. Kai
Summary: Electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) is a versatile technology for sustainable chemical production. In this study, CH-derived biochar is utilized to improve the performance of CO2RR by enhancing electrode conductivity. The effect of different pyrolysis temperatures on biochar fabrication and catalytic electrode performance is investigated. A life cycle assessment is conducted to compare the sustainability of CH-derived biochar and fossil fuel-derived electrode materials.
MATERIALS TODAY CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Wen-Tien Tsai, Yu-Quan Lin, Hung-Ju Huang
Summary: This study focused on the production of RH-based biochars at different pyrolysis temperatures and holding times, showing that the pore properties of the resulting biochars were positively correlated with the ranges of pyrolysis temperature and holding time studied. The resulting biochars had both microporous and mesoporous structures, and exhibited slight hydrophilicity on the surface. Based on these findings, RH-based biochar could be used in environmental applications such as water conservation, wastewater treatment, and soil amendment.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ibrahim Y. Hakeem, Ibrahim Saad Agwa, Bassam A. Tayeh, Mahmoud H. Abd-Elrahman
Summary: This study investigates the influence of using a combination of rice husk ash (RHA) and olive waste ash (OWA) as partial replacements of cement on high-strength concrete. The results show that the optimal proportions are 20% RHA and 5% OWA, which can increase the compressive strength of the concrete by approximately 58.7%.
CASE STUDIES IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Qianqian Guo, Zehuang Zhang, Lingqin Zhao, Xu Wang, Yanjun Hu
Summary: The release characteristics of oxygen-containing compounds and aromatics during the pyrolysis of waste tire (WT) and the co-pyrolysis of WT and bamboo sawdust (BS)/rice hull (RH) were analyzed at different temperatures. The proportion of oxygen-containing compounds showed a decreasing trend with increasing temperature, while the proportion of aromatics increased. Adding BS reduced the formation of nitrogen- and sulfur-containing organic compounds, while adding RH inhibited their formation. The results suggested that oxygen-containing free radicals released from BS promoted the transformation of rubber components into hydrocarbon products.
JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL AND APPLIED PYROLYSIS
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Yueji Bai, Arul Arulrajah, Suksun Horpibulsuk, Jian Chu
Summary: The rapid growth in biomass waste generation has become a significant global challenge, and utilizing biomass waste materials as sustainable construction materials is one potential solution. This study evaluated the engineering and environmental properties of olive stone biochar (OSB) as a green construction fill material, and compared it with recycled glass. The results showed that OSB performed well as a construction fill material and had no adverse environmental impact.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Anwar Ameen Hezam Saeed, Noorfidza Yub Harun, Muhammad Roil Bilad, Muhammad T. Afzal, Ashak Mahmud Parvez, Farah Amelia Shahirah Roslan, Syahirah Abdul Rahim, Vimmal Desiga Vinayagam, Haruna Kolawole Afolabi
Summary: The study demonstrated that controlling moisture content is an effective way to enhance the quality of briquettes made from rice husk, with the 14% moisture content briquette showing the highest calorific value and desirable morphology.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Pawel Kazimierski, Katarzyna Januszewicz, Wojciech Godlewski, Aleksander Fijuk, Tomasz Suchocki, Patryk Chaja, Beata Barczak, Dariusz Kardas
Summary: This study analyzed the pyrolysis products of agricultural wastes and compared them with wood chips. The results showed that charring is an effective method to increase the energy concentration, and the ash contribution of biochar is lower than that of wood.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Negar Kazemi Targhi, Omid Tavakoli, Ali Hekmat Nazemi
Summary: This study investigates the interaction between lentil husks and Chlorella vulgaris during co-pyrolysis process. The results show that the addition of C. vulgaris significantly improves the yield and quality of bio-oil. The optimized conditions result in a bio-oil yield of 18% with improved carbon content and higher heating value.
JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL AND APPLIED PYROLYSIS
(2022)
Review
Agricultural Engineering
Jechan Lee, Seonho Lee, Young-Kwon Park
Summary: Wastewater contains odor-causing chemical compounds, and biochar has been proposed as an effective approach for their removal while maintaining environmental neutrality. The removal performance of biochar is influenced by its raw material, modification method, and the type of odorants. Further research is needed for practical application of biochar in reducing odorants in wastewater.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Microscopy
Rafael Travincas, Manuel F. C. Pereira, Isabel Torres, Antonio Mauricio, Dora Silveira, Ines Flores-Colen
Summary: This article reviews the main applications of X-ray microtomography in the microstructural study of mortars, highlighting its potential and limitations, and emphasizes the importance of this technique in characterizing mortars and enabling the development of more innovative and sustainable formulations.
Article
Plant Sciences
Bernardo Duarte, Vanessa Pires, Joao Carreiras, Ricardo Cruz de Carvalho, Renata Ferreira, Manuel F. C. Pereira, Antonio M. Mauricio, Susete Martins-Dias, Isabel Cacador
Summary: This study evaluated the influence of biochar amendments on metal-contaminated mine soils and their effects on metal uptake and physiological performance of Cistus ladanifer plants. The addition of biochar increased the bioavailability of metals, resulting in an increased metal burden in the plants. This led to a reduction in photochemical traits, but efficient energy dissipation mechanisms prevented irreversible photoinhibition. The plants exposed to 1% biochar concentration showed improved metal uptake and preserved metabolic activity, making it the most suitable amendment for phytoremediation purposes.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Rosangela Addesso, Daniela Baldantoni, Beatriz Cubero, Jose Maria De La Rosa, Jose Antonio Gonzalez Perez, Igor Tiago, Ana Teresa Caldeira, Jo De Waele, Ana Z. Miller
Summary: Removing lampenflora, phototrophic organisms developing on rock surfaces in tourist cavities due to the artificial lighting, is a challenge for sustainable and appropriate long-term management of caves. The effects of commonly used lampenflora cleaning operations (NaClO, H2O2 and UVC) were investigated in Pertosa-Auletta Cave (Italy). NaClO showed good disinfection capability without causing any rock deterioration, while H2O2 was corrosive and did not remove biomass effectively. UVC treatments had no noticeable effect on the biofilms.
Article
Archaeology
Carolina Marques Sanchis, Pilar Bosch-Roig, Begona Carrascosa Moliner, Ana Z. Miller
Summary: The potential use of essential oils in Cultural Heritage has been increasingly studied in the last decade due to their antimicrobial potential and absence of toxicity. This research assessed the volatile antifungal activity of two essential oils (Origanum vulgare and Syzygium aromaticum) for the first time against fungi isolated from biodeteriorated archaeological mummified skin. The results showed that the tested essential oils exhibited antifungal activity, with oregano oil being the most effective for all three fungal strains.
JOURNAL OF CULTURAL HERITAGE
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Pablo Souza-Alonso, David Garcia-Romero, Mar Lorenzo Moledo, Agustin Merino
Summary: Ecological restoration is a crucial strategy for ecosystem recovery and societal development, which requires the involvement of restorers and relevant stakeholders, as well as better adaptation to societal needs. Service-learning, based on community projects, offers a way to expand the scope of ecological restoration and engage society, especially younger generations. By using service-learning projects, students can learn about environmental issues and actively participate in collaborative initiatives, ultimately promoting knowledge transfer and enhancing society's commitment to ecological restoration.
RESTORATION ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
A. R. H. LeBlanc, A. Palci, N. Anthwal, A. S. Tucker, R. Araujo, M. F. C. Pereira, M. W. Caldwell
Summary: The central question in squamate evolution is whether snakes evolved their elongated, limbless bodies or their specialized skulls and teeth first. The authors use histology to show that odontoclasts resorb dentine internally and investigate this mechanism in fossil snakes, providing a method for identifying fossil snakes. They also detect internal tooth resorption in the fossil snake, Yurlunggur, suggesting it is one of the earliest innovations in Pan-Serpentes, likely preceding limb loss.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Anthropology
Emmanuelle Meunier, Filipa Dias, Joao Fonte, Alexandre Lima, Alexandra Rodrigues, Carlo Bottaini, Rui J. C. Silva, Joao P. Veiga, Manuel F. C. Pereira, Elin Figueiredo
Summary: This paper presents a comprehensive study on the evidence for ancient tin mining at the Ervedosa mine in Portugal. The geological context of the site indicates a rich cassiterite deposit, and ancient mining tools were recovered, providing evidence of prehistoric mining activities.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND ANTHROPOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Jose Maria De la Rosa, Sara Maria Perez-Dali, Paloma Campos, Agueda Sanchez-Martin, Jose Antonio Gonzalez-Perez, Ana Zelia Miller
Summary: Today's agriculture faces the challenge of ensuring food supply for a growing population while human activity has deteriorated a significant portion of the world's soils. Valorizing and recycling mineral and agricultural waste can enhance a sustainable economy and promote activities focused on soil nutrient cycling.
Article
Archaeology
L. F. Vieira Ferreira, I. Ferreira Machado, M. F. C. Pereira, C. Mangucci
Summary: This study aims to identify the origin of the Garcia de Resende tiles and provide extensive data on ceramic materials used in Lisbon and Seville workshops. Through an archaeometric study using X-Ray Diffraction, X-Ray Fluorescence Emission, and Stereo Microscopy experiments, the ceramic pastes of Lisbon tiles were classified into four types. Similar studies were conducted on cuerda seca and arista tiles, confirming the traditional attributions and identifying Garcia de Resende tiles as a Seville production.
JOURNAL OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SCIENCE-REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xiaolong Wang, Matilde Costa e Silva, Manuel Francisco Costa Pereira, Hugo Bras, Gustavo Paneiro
Summary: This study aims to research the implications of rubber powder utilisation, from tires recycling, in the deformability and strength properties of CPB. It is concluded that using recycled rubber materials in mine paste backfill can decrease waste tire pollution and improve some mechanical properties of the filling body. Tests were carried out to determine the uniaxial compressive strength, elastic energy of deformation, Young's modulus, and Poisson's ratio in specimens made up of mine tailings, Portland cement, wastewater, rubber powder, and plasticisers. The analysis of experimental data shows that recycled rubber enhances the flow characteristics of the fresh slurry. In the hardened state, recycled rubber reduces the uniaxial compressive strength and Poisson's ratio of the specimens, while increasing deformability (decreasing Young's modulus) and enhancing the ability to absorb elastic strain energy of the filling body. The study concludes that recycled rubber can be applied to prevent rockbursts and provides valuable information for the efficient management of solid waste based on sustainable development and circular economy
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MINING RECLAMATION AND ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
David Seixas Esteves, Manuel F. C. Pereira, Ana Ribeiro, Nelson Duraes, Maria C. C. Paiva, Elsa W. W. Sequeiros
Summary: The study aimed to prepare composites based on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and magnetite particles to investigate the effects of magnetic fields on the electrical resistance of the electrodes. The results showed that MWCNTs were responsible for the electrical conductivity of the composites, and combining magnetite particles with MWCNTs reduced the electrical resistance. Magnetic patterning is a versatile and low-cost approach to manufacturing sensors for soft robotics.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Rafael Travincas, Isabel Torres, Ines Flores-Colen, Manuel Francisco, Poliana Bellei
Summary: This study aims to analyze the influence of different substrates on the performance of industrial cement-based mortar. The research methodology includes experimental data and statistical analysis (ANOVA) of the results. The study concludes that the substrates significantly affect the characteristics and behavior of the applied mortar.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Bruna Rijo, Ana Paula Soares Dias, Nicole de Jesus, Manuel Francisco Pereira
Summary: With the increase in population, a considerable amount of food waste is generated globally every day. Researchers have found that this waste can be used as a source for renewable fuels through low-temperature catalytic pyrolysis of biomass from household garbage. The results show that various organic waste materials can be converted into valuable products such as bio-oil using this pyrolysis technique.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Poliana Bellei, Fernanda Magalhaes, Manuel Pereira, Isabel Torres, Runar Solstad, Ines Flores-Colen
Summary: By using a mixture of expanded cork and oyster shells, thermal natural hydraulic lime mortars with improved thermal insulation and physical characteristics for sustainable construction can be produced.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaojian Liu, Bei Wang, Yayun Ma, Xiangyang Zhou, Juan Yang, Yuehui He, Jingjing Tang, Fanyun Su, Wan Yang
Summary: This study proposes a combined process of reduction roasting of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid leaching to improve the recovery efficiency of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries. By utilizing the reducing gas produced from the pyrolysis of herb-medicine residue, the layered structure of the cathode powder is destroyed and converted into Li2CO3, Ni, Co, and MnO. Additionally, selective extraction of lithium is achieved using oxalic acid, and the efficiency and kinetics of lithium extraction are improved under the combined action of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Muxina Konarova, Nuno Batalha, Gabriel Fraga, Mohamed H. M. Ahmed, Steven Pratt, Bronwyn Laycock
Summary: This study presents a proof of concept for a technology that integrates PET recovery from mixed plastic waste and plastic pyrolysis. By depolymerizing PET into TPA using a low volatility oil as medium, it achieves low-pressure operation and a selective separation and recovery of TPA from the product mix. Full PET conversion and high TPA recovery were achieved, making it an effective solution for processing mixed waste streams and improving the yield and quality of liquid product from thermal pyrolysis compared to untreated feedstock.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zhenhua Sun, Jing Li, Xuejiang Wang, Siqing Xia, Jianfu Zhao
Summary: This study investigated the influence of in-situ formed MgFe2O4 on the hydrothermal treatment of swine manure. The results showed that the in-situ formation of MgFe2O4 improved the dehydration and decarboxylation of organic components in swine manure, thereby improving its carbonization degree. Furthermore, it enhanced the stabilization of heavy metals and the retention of phosphorus. MgFe2O4 modified hydrochars exhibited remarkable adsorption capacity for Pb(II) and Cu(II) without any leaching of heavy metals.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yijing Jiang, Boyang Leng, Jingxin Xi
Summary: The increased generation of municipal solid waste has had a significant impact on the economy, environment, and public health. The current waste treatment process has limitations. By developing a comprehensive social costing model, this study assesses the impacts of municipal solid waste management throughout its life cycle and provides policymakers with best practices and feasibility information.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Marina Hernandes de Paula e Silva, Ricardo Coser Mergulha, Jose Geraldo Vidal Vieira, Andrea Brasco Pampanelli, Rodrigo Salvador, Diogo Aparecido Lopes Silva
Summary: This study developed and implemented a self-assessment tool to assist companies in decision-making processes for establishing circular flows based on Lean Manufacturing and Circular Economy principles. The tool utilized a maturity model and was applied to nine companies of varying characteristics. The findings revealed that certain companies showed higher maturity in water-waste and chemical-emissions management, with larger enterprises focusing on these strategies. However, many companies lacked sufficient training and employee awareness prior to seeking cleaner alternatives, and comprehensive actions to manage the product lifecycle were lacking. To address these gaps, the tool provided tailored recommendations for each company to improve their processes, products, and value chain.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Gamze Dogdu, Turgay Pekdemir, Sanaz Lakestani, Seyda Karabork, Osman Cavus
Summary: This paper presents data on food waste associated with mini size food packaging services, highlighting the difficulties in emptying the food and consumer wastefulness as the main causes. These findings have significant implications for the sustainability of food and relevant packaging.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qingxia Li, Xin Kong, Yuxin Chen, Jianan Niu, Jia Jing, Jin Yuan, Yifeng Zhang
Summary: This study investigates how to enhance methane production from food waste after hydrothermal pretreatment. The results demonstrate a significant increase in methane yield when zero-valent iron and magnetite are used together, and high organic loading is favorable for methane production. Microbial diversity analysis further reveals the dominant pathways and metabolic processes involved in methane generation.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
D. H. H. Sim, I. A. W. Tan, L. L. P. Lim, E. T. Lau, B. H. Hameed
Summary: The development of controlled-release fertilizer formulation is important for preventing environmental pollution caused by nutrient leaching and volatilization. This study combined biochar-based fertilizer with encapsulation technology to improve the nutrient release mechanism. Optimal conditions for synthesizing urea-impregnated biochar (UIB) were determined using central composite design, and the release of nitrogen was described by mathematical models. Results showed that encapsulated UIB (EUIB) achieved complete release of nitrogen in water and exhibited improved water retention in sandy-textural soil. Therefore, EUIB derived from peppercorn waste has the potential to be used as a sustainable controlled-release fertilizer for agriculture.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuchuan Wang, Neslihan Akdeniz
Summary: Incorporating biochar into composting systems can increase compost temperatures. This study developed a heat transfer model for a biochar-amended co-composting system and found that biochar increased thermal conductive losses but also enhanced microbial activity, resulting in an overall increase in total heat unit. When biochar was applied on the surface, it mainly functioned as an insulator.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
George Tsalis, Birger Boutrup Jensen, Jessica Aschemann-Witzel
Summary: This paper empirically explores the relationship between retail price promotions and household food waste. The results show that households with a higher proportion of discount food purchases and environmental awareness tend to waste less food, while larger households and those lacking food handling skills tend to waste more food.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lukas Friederici, Arne Koch, Patrick Martens, Jana Pantzke, Sebastiano Di Bucchianico, Thorsten Streibel, Christopher P. Rueger, Ralf Zimmermann
Summary: The increasing demand for lightweight materials has led to a rise in fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) production. However, the properties and compositional range of FRPs pose challenges to recycling strategies. Pyrolysis has emerged as a promising method for separating the fibers from the polymer matrix. This study investigated the pyrolysis process using thermal analysis and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and also assessed the toxicity of the recovered fibers using an in vitro model.
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Devika Kannan, Shakiba Khademolqorani, Nassibeh Janatyan, Somaieh Alavi
Summary: This paper introduces Smart Waste Management (SWM) that applies Industry 4.0 technologies in waste management. A framework called SWM4.0 is developed, which highlights the importance of smart people, smart cities, smart enterprises, and smart factories in achieving successful waste management. The paper also suggests future research directions and managerial implications.