Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Kaiqi Lv, Zhengjian Chen, Jiaheng Zhang, Yong Liu, Jinxing Long
Summary: Current lignin conversion techniques face the challenge of low carbon utilization efficiency due to the generation of residual solid (char). Therefore, understanding the pathway for char formation is crucial for lignin valorization. This study provides mechanistic insights into char formation in lignin depolymerization through hydrothermal decomposition. The results suggest that the char consists of a multi-layer construction of coke and oligomer, primarily derived from native G-lignin and demethoxylation of S-lignin, while H-lignin contributes to the formation of volatile monophenols. Additionally, new methylene bridges form between the benzene rings in lignin, leading to the formation of recalcitrant char. A plausible mechanism for char formation is proposed and verified using density functional theory calculation.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Shiori Kubo
Summary: Ordered nanostructured materials and their porous counterparts are important for various applications. Understanding the pathways involved in the formation of these materials, as demonstrated in the study of carbonaceous particles, can help in designing nanomaterials with controlled nanostructures. Transmission electron microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering analyses were used to investigate the formation process.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Prachayapreaut Pengthong, Philippe Anthony Bopp, Siriporn Jungsuttiwong, Tanin Nanok
Summary: In this study, quantum mechanical calculations were performed to investigate the formation mechanisms of lactide from lactic acid in toluene solutions under neutral and acidic conditions. The results showed that there is no promising reaction under neutral conditions, while under acidic conditions, lactic acid can be converted into dimers and then further converted into lactide, especially when additional lactic acid molecules are available. However, to selectively produce lactide, the system should not contain an excess of lactic acid, which can be achieved in suitable porous media.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR STRUCTURE
(2023)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Yanbo Ma, Yuyong Hou, Weijie Wang, Meijie Cui, Zhile Guo, Tong Han, Zhiyong Liu, Nahui Hao, Fangjian Chen, Lei Zhao
Summary: Mixotrophic microalgae cultivation can increase biomass, but the utilization mechanism of inorganic carbon (IC) and organic carbon (OC) is unknown. This study characterized the consumption of IC and OC, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, intracellular NADPH content, and transcriptional changes in related genes. The results showed that IC was preferentially utilized, with 76% consumed within 8 hours. Subsequently, OC became the dominant carbon resource. The addition of bicarbonate enhanced photosynthesis and OC assimilation. These findings provide insights into carbon utilization under mixotrophic conditions and clues for promoting microalgae growth.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Shuoyang Liang, Aikelaimu Aihemaiti, Yingying Cai, Yiping Su, Rui Li, Zewei Quan, Zuotai Zhang
Summary: Developing calcium-based sorbents for capturing and separating CO2 from high-temperature flue gas is a potential route to alleviate environmental problems caused by excessive CO2 emissions. However, the anti-deactivation mechanism of stable CaO materials during the cyclic adsorption-desorption process is not well-understood, making it difficult to design Ca-based materials.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ni Wen, Siyuan Chen, Qiuchen Lu, Yunbo Li, Qinghua Fan, Quan Kuang, Youzhong Dong, Yanming Zhao
Summary: In this work, MnV2O6 nanoflakes were successfully synthesized and evaluated as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The nanoflake electrode exhibited high reversible specific capacity, excellent rate capability and stable cycling performance. The electrochemical reaction mechanism of MnV2O6 during the discharge/charge process was confirmed by in situ XRD analysis.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Xiaoyang Yang, Baofeng Wang, Yanxia Guo, Fengling Yang, Fangqin Cheng
Summary: In this paper, the hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of sewage sludge (SS) at different temperatures was studied to understand the structure evolution and properties of the hydrochar. Analytical techniques such as BET, XPS, Raman, and FTIR were used to analyze the chemical structures of the hydrochar. The results revealed that the surface area of the hydrochar initially increased and then decreased with increasing temperature, with the highest specific surface area obtained at 200 degrees C. Additionally, raising the temperature led to a decrease in the O/C and H/C ratio, and promoted the transformation of small aromatic ring systems to larger ones in the hydrochar.
JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL AND APPLIED PYROLYSIS
(2023)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Xu Liu, Heng Zhong, Chunling Wang, Daoping He, Fangming Jin
Summary: Converting CO2 into value-added chemicals is environmentally and economically beneficial, and hydrothermal reduction is a promising strategy. This paper summarizes the recent advances in converting CO2 into formic acid using metal- and biomass-based catalysts under hydrothermal conditions, and discusses the effects of several experimental variables on the formic acid yield.
ENERGY SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Mengfan Cai, Zhiming Qi, Christophe Guy, Chunjiang An, Xiujuan Chen, Zheng Wang, Qi Feng
Summary: Biodegradable mulches (BMs) can help mitigate disposal and environmental problems, but the addition of biodegradable macro-plastics (BMaPs) can increase the content of biodegradable microplastics (BMPs). UV irradiation weakens BMaPs and increases their roughness and hydrophilicity, promoting the adsorption of soil pollutants. Compared to paper mulch, bioplastic mulch releases fewer and smaller plastic particles but contributes more dissolved organic matter with aromatic structures and carboxylic acids to the water environment.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Hongjie Li, Xue Kang, Mengyi Yang, Boris Dodji Kasseney, Xuguo Zhou, Shiyou Liang, Xiaojie Zhang, Jia-Long Wen, Baoting Yu, Ning Liu, Yufen Zhao, Jianchu Mo, Cameron R. Currie, John Ralph, Daniel J. Yelle
Summary: Plant cell walls, which are rich in organic carbon, are difficult to degrade due to lignin barriers. However, termites have evolved the ability to efficiently degrade lignified woody plants. This study reveals the mechanism of lignin depolymerization by termites, as well as the evolutionary origin of lignin degradation in termites. These findings have implications for the development of ligninolytic agents.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
P. SundarRajan, K. P. Gopinath, J. Arun, K. GracePavithra, A. Adithya Joseph, S. Manasa
Summary: This review discusses the challenges of commercializing HTL technology and focuses on nutrient recovery from PHWW, as well as the production of bio-crude oil from biomass. It also explores the composition of PHWW, possible valorization pathways, and recent research on recycling and reutilization. The study highlights the benefits of anaerobic digestion as a detoxification step and the implications for sustainable energy production in thermochemical pathways.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Ge Song, Zonglin Yi, Fangyuan Su, Lijing Xie, Chengmeng Chen
Summary: By constructing a LiF-rich SEI film on graphite surface and using LiDFBOP as an electrolyte additive, researchers have enhanced the performance of lithium-ion batteries at low temperatures, showing great potential for practical applications.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Han-Wen Cheng, Shan Wang, Guanyu Chen, Zhengwang Liu, Dominic Caracciolo, Merry Madiou, Shiyao Shan, Jincang Zhang, Heyong He, Renchao Che, Chuan-Jian Zhong
Summary: This review emphasizes the latest insights into heterogeneous catalysts under relevant reaction conditions using in situ/operando transmission electron microscopic techniques. By discussing atomic-scale and nanoscale details, it highlights the challenges and opportunities in terms of catalytic properties and design applications.
ADVANCED ENERGY MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Sarra N. Dimassi, John N. Hahladakis, Mohamed Nejib Daly Yahia, Mohammad I. Ahmad, Sami Sayadi, Mohammad A. Al-Ghouti
Summary: Plastics are highly desired due to their diverse functional properties, but their poor waste management leads to their eventual accumulation in the oceans and degradation. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of plastic degradation is crucial. This study investigates the natural degradation of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in extreme marine conditions. Results show that microplastics (MPs) degrade faster than macroplastics, with PP MPs experiencing higher weight loss (49%) than PET MPs (1%) in outdoor marine conditions. This research provides valuable insights into the degradation rates of different plastic types.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Mario Benes, Guillermo Pozo, Maria Abian, Angela Millera, Rafael Bilbao, Maria U. Alzueta
Summary: The possibility of using ammonia as a fuel and energy carrier with low emissions can contribute to the transition to a low-carbon economy. Experimental studies on the pyrolysis of ammonia show that H2 and N2 are the main products, and the conversion rate of ammonia increases with longer gas residence times. Working in different reactors or using different gases does not significantly impact the conversion values of ammonia under pyrolysis conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jingchun Huang, Zhenqi Wang, Yu Qiao, Bo Wang, Yun Yu, Minghou Xu
Summary: Temperature significantly affects the transformation of nitrogen during sludge hydrothermal carbonization, with different distributions of nitrogen in different products at different temperatures. The transformation pathways of protein-N and amino acid species are also influenced by temperature and the addition of CaAc and NaAc.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE COMBUSTION INSTITUTE
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Jinxiu Cao, Sui Boon Liaw, Yu Long, Yun Yu, Hongwei Wu
Summary: This study aims to understand the fundamental reaction mechanisms during fast pyrolysis of acid-impregnated cellulose, showing how different temperatures affect the formation of key compounds in the reaction intermediates and primary volatiles. The results indicate that acid impregnation reduces the onset reaction temperature of cellulose pyrolysis, leading to the production of different major products at varying temperatures. The study also suggests that condensation reactions play an important role during acid-catalysed cellulose pyrolysis, with char formation becoming the favored pathway at higher temperatures.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE COMBUSTION INSTITUTE
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Yee Wen Chua, Hongwei Wu, Yun Yu
Summary: This study investigates the interactions between cellulose and lignin during fast pyrolysis at temperatures of 100-350 degrees C. The results suggest that co-pyrolysis of cellulose and lignin enhances volatile release at lower temperatures but increases char formation at higher temperatures. The differences in char yields between experimental and calculated values provide evidence of cellulose-lignin interactions during co-pyrolysis.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE COMBUSTION INSTITUTE
(2021)
Editorial Material
Energy & Fuels
Shurong Wang, Qiang Lu, Huiyan Zhang, Haoran Yuan, Haiping Yang, Chenguang Wang, Yun Yu, Kaige Wang
Review
Energy & Fuels
Jun Xu, Qichen He, Zhe Xiong, Yun Yu, Shu Zhang, Xun Hu, Long Jiang, Sheng Su, Song Hu, Yi Wang, Jun Xiang
Summary: Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for analyzing various samples, covering the entire thermochemical processing of coal, biomass, and wastes. It can be used for characterizing and diagnosing feedstock and products, providing important support for studying thermochemical processes.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Bing Song, Richen Lin, Chun Ho Lam, Hao Wu, To-Hung Tsui, Yun Yu
Summary: This paper provides an overview of the opportunities for biomass valorization through the combination of hydrothermal and biological techniques, reviews recent advances in treatment conditions and optimal performances, compares energy balance and economic feasibility of different integrated options, and concludes the challenges and perspectives for advancing complete biomass valorization using integrated hydrothermal and biological techniques.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Geyi Wang, Huan Liu, Tongzhou Chen, Xiuju Zhang, Haiyan Li, Yun Yu, Hong Yao
Summary: The study quantified the corrosion resistance of coatings prepared by different technologies under high temperature conditions through thermal corrosion and ash adhesion tests. Results showed that TWAS coatings had poor corrosion resistance, while PTA and HVOF coatings performed well at higher temperatures. Furthermore, the study on HVOF-NiCr coatings revealed a linear enhancement in corrosion resistance with the increase of Cr content.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Jinxiu Cao, Yun Yu, Hongwei Wu
Summary: This study proposes a new method using tracers to determine the true yields of ejected aerosols and evaporated vapors in condensable volatiles produced from cellulose pyrolysis. The results show the key role of thermal ejection in the formation of condensable volatiles, significantly influencing the yield and composition of tar generated from cellulose pyrolysis.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Erwei Leng, Yilin Guo, Yanshan Yin, Yun Yu, Xun Gong, Jingwei Chen, Yuan Xue, E. Jiaqiang
Summary: In this study, a combination of spectroscopic techniques was used to reveal the catalytic mechanism of KCl and CaCl2 on cellulose char evolution during slow pyrolysis, providing insights into the evolution of functional groups in pyrolysis char. The results of this research are significant for understanding biomass pyrolysis mechanism and industrial production of biochar.
Article
Thermodynamics
Samreen Hameed, Adhirath S. Wagh, Abhishek Sharma, Vishnu Pareek, Yun Yu, Jyeshtharaj B. Joshi
Summary: This study investigates the effect of salt on cellulose pyrolysis behavior using the chemical percolation devolatilization (CPD) model. The experimental results show that salt has a pronounced effect on the primary pyrolysis reactions of cellulose, accelerating its decomposition and favoring the formation of gases and char.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL ANALYSIS AND CALORIMETRY
(2022)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Md. Maksudur Rahman, Yun Yu, Hongwei Wu
Summary: This paper reviews the environmental concerns and waste management due to the increase in waste tyre globally and emphasizes the importance of pyrolysis as an attractive technical route for waste tyre valorization. The paper summarizes the pyrolysis reaction chemistry, discusses the key factors influencing the properties and distribution of pyrolysis products and impurity removal, and surveys the potential applications of pyrolysis products. It also covers the important role of impurities and their remediation strategies, the progress in process development and analysis, and identifies the remaining challenges and research gaps in the field of waste tyre pyrolysis.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Zhiliang Wu, Yun Yu, Hongwei Wu
Summary: This study investigates the reaction mechanisms of hydrothermal decomposition of glucose and fructose to understand the formation of 5-HMF. The results show that 5-HMF is not directly produced from glucose or fructose in water. However, in the presence of formic acid, dehydration to produce 5-HMF becomes a primary reaction. The selectivity of this reaction increases with reducing the initial pH.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Haiyan Li, Huan Liu, Mingwen Bai, Xiuju Zhang, Hetian Chi, Tongzhou Chen, Yun Yu, Hong Yao
Summary: The corrosion resistance of Ni40AA and Ni40AA-Mo coatings on 304SS substrate was evaluated in molten NaClNa2SO4-KCl-K2SO4 salts at 600 degrees C. Results showed that in the oxidizing-chloridizing environment, the addition of Mo significantly reduced the dissolved Cr in soluble corrosion products. Mo substituted Cr to react with molten salts, reducing the depletion of Cr and enhancing the accumulation of Cr-rich oxides. As a result, the corrosion resistance of Ni40AA was improved, with a reduction in corrosion weight gain by approximately 50% and thickness loss by 1/3.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Xiuju Zhang, Huan Liu, Tongzhou Chen, Haiyan Li, Zifeng Huang, Yun Yu, Hong Yao
Summary: Municipal solid waste incineration technology has rapidly developed for waste disposal and energy conversion. However, the high content of alkali salts, especially chlorides, in the waste causes severe high-temperature corrosion. High-velocity oxy-fuel spray (HVOF) coating shows promise in mitigating this issue, but the corrosion process involving flue gas and deposits is not well understood. This study investigates the in-service performance and coupling corrosion mechanism. The results provide insights into the corrosion mechanism induced by deposits and flue gas and clarify the resistance of HVOF-NiCr coating through staged characterization.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ben He, Yun Yu, Xun Gong, Shuai Liu, Hong Tian, Erwei Leng
Summary: This study investigates the possible reaction mechanisms for the polymerization of levoglucosan to produce various anhydro-disaccharides and beta-D-glucose under H2SO4 catalysis using density functional theory calculation. Thermodynamic and kinetic analysis reveal that anhydro-disaccharides with beta linkages are most likely formed by direct polymerization of two levoglucosan molecules, while different anhydro-disaccharides with alpha linkages are formed by different reaction mechanisms. The addition of H2SO4 as a catalyst significantly reduces the activation energy for various reactions and promotes the production of anhydro-disaccharides and beta-D-glucose.