Article
Engineering, Environmental
Sadia Ilyas, Rajiv Ranjan Srivastava, K. Vinay Singh, Ruan Chi, Hyunjung Kim
Summary: This study presents a novel recycling scheme for spent Li-ion batteries, which involves a series of dissolution, precipitation, and separation steps to efficiently recover all metals with high recovery rates and purity.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Ajay B. Patil, Mohamed Tarik, Rudolf P. W. J. Struis, Christian Ludwig
Summary: With the growing consensus on the UN sustainable development goals, there is a need for circular resources and economies in a digital society context. A cost-effective recycling method for single REEs from end-of-life lamp e-waste is presented, demonstrating high recovery rates and less environmental impact compared to mining.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2021)
Review
Engineering, Chemical
Fenghui Wu, Xinxin Liu, Guangfei Qu, Ping Ning
Summary: With the development of new technologies, the methods for extracting valuable metals from solid waste are becoming more diverse. This paper reviews and analyzes the existing technologies for extracting valuable metals from solid waste, and proposes suggestions for optimizing the extraction process. Supercritical fluid extraction shows significant economic and environmental benefits.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Hanna Salmenpera, Kati Pitkanen, Petrus Kautto, Laura Saikku
Summary: The study shows that different actors in promoting the circular economy face varying obstacles, and promoting material value retention in cycles can be achieved through better sharing of waste-related data and increased dialogue and cooperation among key players.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Review
Environmental Studies
Liancheng Li, Jian Zuo, Xiaoguang Duan, Shaobin Wang, Kunsheng Hu, Ruidong Chang
Summary: This article discusses the impact of plastic waste on the environment and human health, explores management and mitigation measures, and proposes a future research agenda.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REVIEW
(2021)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Mingjing He, Xiefei Zhu, Shanta Dutta, Samir Kumar Khanal, Keat Teong Lee, Ondrej Masek, Daniel C. W. Tsang
Summary: Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is a promising alternative for valorizing food waste digestate (FWD) and avoiding disposal issues. Co-HTC of FWD with wet lignocellulosic biomass, such as wet yard waste (YW), and 0.5 M HCl shows superior attributes in terms of energy recovery and nutrient recovery from process water. However, attention should be paid to the carbon loss issue during the process.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Jeonghyun Kim
Summary: Construction and demolition waste in South Korea accounts for half of annual waste, and is expected to increase due to outdated structures and reconstructions. Limited land area and mountainous terrain restrict landfilling, making recycling of construction waste urgent. Stakeholders in South Korea are making efforts to practically use construction waste, which can serve as valuable examples for countries lacking waste management systems.
CLEAN TECHNOLOGIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
(2021)
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Pinku Chandra Nath, Amiya Ojha, Shubhankar Debnath, Minaxi Sharma, Prakash Kumar Nayak, Kandi Sridhar, Baskaran Stephen Inbaraj
Summary: Converting food waste into animal feed not only helps the environment but also reduces the cost of livestock production. Different technologies have been developed to make safe and healthy animal feed from food waste, which helps to reduce waste and provide animals with a new source of protein. Ensuring the quality and safety of the feed is important, and more research and development is needed to improve the production and disposal methods of food waste-based animal feed.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Sadia Ilyas, Rajiv Ranjan Srivastava, Hyunjung Kim
Summary: An innovative process integration for sustainable recovery of critical metals from waste printed circuit boards is demonstrated, involving acid pre-treatment and microbial activity for base metals' liberation. Through optimization, efficient separation and extraction of copper, nickel, zinc, and gold are achieved.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Review
Construction & Building Technology
Mingxue Ma, Vivian WY. Tam, Khoa N. Le, Robert Osei-Kyei
Summary: The significant increase in construction activities has resulted in a large amount of construction and demolition waste, with recycling being considered the ideal solution. However, the slow adoption of recycled concrete is mainly due to quality and price concerns. Investigating the factors affecting the price of recycled concrete is crucial for controlling the price and improving its financial viability.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Hyuni Jung, Giyoung Shin, Hojung Kwak, Lam Tan Hao, Jonggeon Jegal, Hyo Jeong Kim, Hyeonyeol Jeon, Jeyoung Park, Dongyeop X. Oh
Summary: Human society heavily relies on plastic for convenient and hygienic living, but low recycling rates result in the majority of plastic waste ending up in landfills or the ocean. Increasing recycling and upcycling rates is crucial, but technical limitations need to be overcome.
Article
Environmental Studies
Nihan Karali, Nihar Shah
Summary: Global scenarios aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement would lead to increased deployment of low-carbon technologies, which rely on critical raw materials (CRMs). However, the role of CRM supply in the scalability of these technologies is often overlooked in climate policies. Circular economy strategies, such as end-of-life collection and recycling, offer a potential solution by securing the supply chain for CRMs. The study finds that enhanced collection and recycling efforts could meet a significant portion of CRM demand for low-carbon technologies by 2050, but progress is needed in developing robust collection frameworks, efficient recycling technologies, and recycling-friendly product designs.
ENERGY RESEARCH & SOCIAL SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Pieter Antoon van der Lans, Christopher Antony Jensen, Mehran Oraee
Summary: The construction industry in Australia has a high level of waste intensity and faces barriers to implementing sustainable waste management practices. This research explores the role of incentives in achieving sustainable waste management in the commercial construction industry, finding that incentives can encourage behavior change and lead to better waste outcomes.
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Dagang Lin, Yu Fu, Xiaodie Li, Lingli Wang, Meiru Hou, Dongdong Hu, Qingchao Li, Zhen Zhang, Chunxiao Xu, Sifan Qiu, Zhaohui Wang, Grzegorz Boczkaj
Summary: This review summarizes the various applications of persulfate (PS) in addition to pollutant decontamination, including solid waste treatment and regeneration of ecomaterials. The possible reaction mechanisms are elaborated, and the differences between PS treatment and conventional technologies are highlighted. The challenges, research needs, and future prospects are discussed to promote the development of PS-based oxidation processes in niche environmental fields.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Carlos Alberto de Albuquerque, Carlos Henrique Pereira Mello, Jose Henrique de Freitas Gomes, Valquiria Claret dos Santos
Summary: Research shows that electronic waste is highly toxic and has a rapid growth rate, emphasizing the need for more studies on environmentally friendly waste disposal. China, the USA, and India are the countries with the highest publication rate on this topic, whereas Brazil has a relatively low research output in this field.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering
Mehmet Gonen, Dylan D. Rodene, Sandeep Panda, Ata Akcil
Summary: This study investigated the sustainable production of boric acid from colemanite mineral and sulfuric acid, considering waste treatment and raw material costs. It found that facility-dependence and raw material costs significantly influenced the production costs of boric acid. The unit production cost of boric acid and payback time were calculated, providing insights into the economic analysis of commercial boric acid production processes.
MINERAL PROCESSING AND EXTRACTIVE METALLURGY REVIEW
(2022)
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Ata Akcil, Yahaya Alhaji Ibrahim, Pratima Meshram, Sandeep Panda, Abhilashb
Summary: The global demand for rare earth elements (REEs) is constantly rising, and using urban waste such as consumer electronic scrap (CE-Scrap) for recycling has the potential to meet this demand. However, commercial extraction and recovery of REEs from recycled CE-Scrap is still below 1%, highlighting the need for further research and development in this area. This article discusses the potential CE-Scrap resources for REEs recycling, as well as the feasibility and challenges associated with this process.
JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ceren Erust, Ata Akcil, Aysenur Tuncuk, Haci Deveci, Ersin Yener Yazici, Sandeep Panda
Summary: The study assessed the bioleaching of copper from high-grade waste printed circuit boards collected from obsolete mobile phones using iron and sulfur oxidizing bacteria. It was found that the microorganisms efficiently solubilized copper from the boards, leading to improved efficiency in copper electrowinning. The novel approach of iron precipitation and solvent displacement crystallisation significantly enhanced the current efficiency during the electrowinning process.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Sepeideh Ghobadi, Javad Vazifeh Mehrabani, Sandeep Panda
Summary: The addition of graphite further enhanced the bio-oxidation efficiency of sphalerite, indicating a bio-catalytic effect and possible galvanic interaction between sphalerite and graphite. The presence of graphite also stabilized the leaching conditions of the system, promoting bacterial activity.
GEOMICROBIOLOGY JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering
Srabani Mishra, Sandeep Panda, Ata Akcil, Seydou Dembele
Summary: Mineral biotechnological applications, such as bioleaching and bio-beneficiation, have gained attention for their economic and eco-friendly benefits. However, there are still aspects that require further research for full-scale industrial application. This paper provides comprehensive details on the fundamentals and applications of bioleaching, bioflotation, and bioflocculation, including key microorganisms, factors affecting each process, and aspects related to scale-up and industrial applications.
MINERAL PROCESSING AND EXTRACTIVE METALLURGY REVIEW
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Seydou Dembele, Ata Akcil, Sandeep Panda
Summary: Developed economies have classified antimony as a critical raw material, with China leading global antimony production. Despite a growing demand and technological advances, antimony is projected to become one of the scarcest metals by 2050. Various extractive metallurgical routes are utilized for stibnite processing, with bio-hydrometallurgy slowly gaining momentum. This review provides insights into antimony production, market trends, research advances, and future perspectives in terms of research and industrial needs.
MINERALS ENGINEERING
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Applied
Vladimir Rychkov, Evgeny Kirillov, Sergey Kirillov, Grigory Bunkov, Maxim Botalov, Vladimir Semenishchev, Denis Smyshlyaev, Andrey Malyshev, Aslan Taukin, Ata Akcil
Summary: Selection of appropriate method for rare earth element (REE) preconcentration from industrial by-products is challenging. Liquid extraction and ion exchange methods are commonly used, while sorption processes are gaining attention for the recovery of REE from industrial wastes.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Symbat Dyussenova, Rinat Abdulvaliyev, Ata Akcil, Sergey Gladyshev, Galiya Ruzakhunova
Summary: The results of studies on gibbsite-kaolinite bauxite processing are presented, including the use of preliminary chemical activation and thermal transformation to obtain a concentrate suitable for further processing. Chemical activation and temperature changes during enrichment improve the extraction of valuable components and lead to the formation of chemically stable phases. The optimized firing temperature and alkaline treatment result in high extraction rates and yield of red mud during processing.
Review
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Brinthan Kanesalingam, W. Ashane M. Fernando, Sandeep Panda, Chulantha Jayawardena, Dinesh Attygalle, D. A. S. Amarasinghe
Summary: Coal fly ash (CFA) is a versatile raw material that can be used to produce various value-added products, but its potential is often overlooked. Conventional processing methods for CFA pose environmental challenges and require high energy consumption. This study explores the use of biometallurgical approaches as an eco-friendly alternative, focusing on microorganism applications, CFA preprocessing, bioreactors, and synthesis of nano silica particles. A novel method utilizing preprocessing and biometallurgical processes is proposed to extract value-added components from CFA, promoting environmental stewardship and circular economy.
Review
Environmental Sciences
Basudev Swain, Ata Akcil, Jae-chun Lee
Summary: Significantly unexploited red mud contains valuable rare earth metals and other metals that can be recovered through an industrial-scale valorization process. The global red mud inventory could reach 4 billion tons by 2020, with a potential value of approximately $4.3 trillion in rare earth metals. This article discusses the challenges and opportunities of valorizing red mud and proposes a feasible sequential metal recovery process.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
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.
