Article
Energy & Fuels
Daniela Guajardo, Fabiola Valdebenito, Juan Diaz, Gerald Cifuentes, Laura Azocar
Summary: The carbonization of Nannochloropsis gaditana microalgae biomass can produce bio-coal similar to bituminous coal, offering a potential alternative for biofuel production. Optimizing the fixed carbon index (FCindex) during carbonization allows for increased fixed carbon content without significantly affecting bio-coal yield. Further studies are needed to investigate high ash content in the final product and potential improvements through optimized conditions and washing steps.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Kabir Abogunde Abdulyekeen, Ahmad Abulfathi Umar, Muhamad Fazly Abdul Patah, Wan Mohd Ashri Wan Daud
Summary: The rapid increase in population has led to the abundant generation of municipal solid waste, which can be converted to energy. Utilizing MSW as a renewable fuel addresses various issues and the torrefaction process is a promising method for pre treating MSW for energy generation.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Edgar A. Silveira, Lucelia A. Macedo, Kevin Candelier, Patrick Rousset, Jean-Michel Commandre
Summary: This study examines the effect of biomass potassium impregnation on weight loss kinetics during torrefaction. Different indexes such as TSI, TCEI, CI, and TSFmod were used to quantify the catalysis on torrefaction, providing valuable insights for reactor design and production of biofuels.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Yuzhuo Wang, Jun Jie Wu
Summary: The thermochemical conversion of biomass is of great importance in meeting global demand for sustainable transport fuels. This article reviews different conversion processes and evaluates their merits and demerits, providing examples of industrial applications. It identifies two promising avenues for future development.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Marek Pronobis, Robert Wejkowski, Sylwester Kalisz, Szymon Ciukaj
Summary: The aim of this work is to analyze the feasibility of converting a pulverized coal boiler to 100% biomass combustion using torrefied PKS. By replacing hard coal with torrefied biomass, CO2 emissions can be practically eliminated, and the problem of coal shortages in Europe can be reduced. However, there are challenges to address such as boiler fouling, grinding new fuel, changing NOx emissions, and exhaust gas dew point. Measurements and calculations were conducted to assess the risks of slagging and fouling and to evaluate the potential use of Dunino halloysite for protection against corrosion. The results show that the combustion of PKS leads to higher flue gas temperatures compared to coal combustion.
Review
Agricultural Engineering
Hafiz Muhammad Uzair Ayub, Ashfaq Ahmed, Su Shiung Lam, Jechan Lee, Pau Loke Show, Young-Kwon Park
Summary: This paper reviews the applications of thermochemical conversion techniques for biofuel production from algal biomass, emphasizing the potential of third-generation biofuels from microalgal feedstock. It highlights the benefits of pyrolysis over other processes in the thermochemical conversion of algal biomass.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Y. A. Reyes, M. Perez, E. L. Barrera, Y. Martinez, K. K. Cheng
Summary: This study critically reviews the thermochemical conversion processes of the invasive tree species Dichrostachys cinerea (marabou) as a high-quality biomass for sustainable biofuel production. Biomass gasification is identified as the most promising technology for small-scale applications in rural areas. The study also emphasizes the sustainable use of invasive tree species as an energy resource, providing income and investment opportunities in developing countries and isolated regions.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2022)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Juan Camilo Solarte-Toro, Jose Andres Gonzalez-Aguirre, Jhonny Alejandro Poveda Giraldo, Carlos A. Cardona Alzate
Summary: The study suggests that the use of fossil fuels can be reduced by utilizing woody biomass as a raw material. Bioenergy can be produced through combustion and gasification processes, while heterogeneous catalytic upgrading can convert syngas and bio-oil into alkanes and alkenes.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Zdenka Kwoczynski, Jiri Cmelik
Summary: The study characterized twelve different biomass waste generated in the Czech Republic to determine their suitability for biochar production. The sample of Extracted rapeseed scrap was identified as the most suitable material for biochar production due to its high nutrient content and thermal stability.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Shiliang Yang, Jin Liang, Shuai Wang, Hua Wang
Summary: The study developed a reactive multiphase particle-in-cell approach to simulate the gasification process of olive oil waste in a pilot-scale full-loop CFB gasifier. Results showed that the size and injection temperature of biomass particles significantly impact the heat transfer properties and temperature distribution of solids.
Article
Thermodynamics
Kamonwat Nakason, Pongtanawat Khemthong, Wasawat Kraithong, Parinvadee Chukaew, Bunyarit Panyapinyopol, Duangta Kitkaew, Prasert Pavasant
Summary: Torrefaction is a promising biomass thermal conversion technology for producing biochar, with CO2 atmosphere producing biochar with the lowest ash content. The study found that torrefaction temperature has a significant impact on the fuel properties of torrified cassava rhizome, and that torrefaction process mainly removes oxygen and hydrogen contents through decarbonization, dehydrogenation, and deoxygenation pathways. Economic feasibility analysis showed that torrefaction of cassava rhizome is cost-advantageous under certain conditions.
CASE STUDIES IN THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Pritam Das, V. P. Chandramohan, Thangavel Mathimani, Arivalagan Pugazhendhi
Summary: Thermochemical techniques are commonly used for converting algae biomass into biofuels, with torrefaction, pyrolysis, and gasification being the most widely used methods. The study compared the efficiency and applicability of these methods and highlighted the advantages and challenges of each.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zhisen He, Shanjian Liu, Wenjing Zhao, Mengqian Yin, Mei Jiang, Dongmei Bi
Summary: This study explored the impact of urea content on nitrogen-rich bio-oil and nitrogen-doped biochar. Different feedstocks were pyrolyzed with urea as the nitrogen source at 500 degrees C. The order of nitrogen increase in nitrogen-doped biochar was cellulose < cellobiose < glucose. The nitrogen-doped biochar exhibited abundant nitrogen and nitrogenous functional groups, with optimal stability. The addition of 50% urea to cellulose resulted in the optimal adsorption performance for diethyl phthalate, while 20% urea content led to the highest anhydro-sugars content in bio-oil (61.86%). Furthermore, a urea proportion of 40% yielded bio-oil with the highest selectivity (91.63%) of nitrogenous heterocyclic compounds (NHCs), including pyrroles, pyrimidines, pyridines, imidazoles, and pyrazines. Hence, an appropriate urea proportion promotes the generation of valuable NHCs and nitrogen-doped biochar from nitrogen-rich cellulose pyrolysis.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Apip Amrullah, Obie Farobie, Asep Bayu, Novi Syaftika, Edy Hartulistiyoso, Navid R. Moheimani, Surachai Karnjanakom, Yukihiko Matsumura
Summary: This study investigated the production of bio-oil and biochar from Ulva Lactuca through slow pyrolysis. The bio-oil obtained from Ulva Lactuca contained significant amounts of carboxylic acids, phenolics, amines/amides, and N-aromatic compounds. The biochar exhibited high calorific values and a larger surface area, indicating its potential as a solid renewable fuel.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
L. L. Z. Cueva, G. J. Griffin, L. P. Ward, S. Madapusi, K. Shah, R. Parthasarathy
Summary: This study investigates the pre-treatment of rice straw with chemical additives for biochar production. The optimized conditions result in increased biochar yield, higher heating value, and lower ash content.
JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL AND APPLIED PYROLYSIS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Baptiste Colin, Rafael L. Quirino, Christ Y. Ntsika-Mbou, Yu-Ying Lin, Bo-Jhih Lin, Francois Leconte, Anelie Petrissans, Wei-Hsin Chen, Mathieu Petrissans
Summary: Despite the wealth of information available, there have been few studies on the transition between wood torrefaction and pyrolysis. This study investigates the degradation of two European wood species at different temperatures and reveals a correlation between the degradation of cellulose and the yield of thermal treatment products. The results indicate a significant change during the transition from torrefaction to pyrolysis, providing insights for the refinement of kinetic models for wood thermal treatment.
WOOD MATERIAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Editorial Material
Environmental Sciences
Thangavel Mathimani, Arivalagan Pugazhendhi, Wei-Hsin Chen
Article
Environmental Sciences
Lalitha Gnanasekaran, R. Suresh, Saravanan Rajendran, Wei-Hsin Chen, Matias Soto-Moscoso
Summary: In this study, the degradation efficiency of textile dyes by pure cobalt oxide and nickel cobaltite under visible light irradiation was investigated. The synthesized nickel cobaltite showed higher crystallinity and visible light absorption compared to pure cobalt oxide. The excellent degradation efficiency of nickel cobaltite makes it a promising visible light catalyst.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
B. Tian, L. Fan, C. T. Chong, Z. Gao, J. -H. Ng, S. Ni, L. Zhu, S. Hochgreb
Summary: This study systematically analyzes the effect of degrees of unsaturation (DoU) of biodiesels on their sooting propensity. The results show that biodiesels with higher saturation levels produce less soot, and the impact of blending ratio on soot reduction is non-linear.
EXPERIMENTAL THERMAL AND FLUID SCIENCE
(2023)
Editorial Material
Energy & Fuels
Hwai Chyuan Ong, Adi Kusmayadi, Nor Aishah Saidina Amin
Article
Thermodynamics
Siqi Wang, Cheng Tung Chong, Tian Xie, Viktor Jozsa, Jo-Han Ng
Summary: The co-firing of ammonia with hydrocarbon fuel is a promising way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. However, the conventional way of co-firing results in high NOx pollutant emissions, requiring an innovative mitigation strategy. This study examines the combustion characteristics and emissions performance of a partially-mix ammonia-methane dual flame, which shows reduced NO and CO emissions compared to the fully premixed flame.
Article
Thermodynamics
Guangcan Su, Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli, Hwai Chyuan Ong, Shaliza Ibrahim, Mei Yee Cheah, Ruonan Zhu, Quan Bu
Summary: The global pandemic of COVID-19 has had devastating effects on the environment, society, and economy worldwide. In this study, a sustainable and environmentally friendly method is proposed to convert hazardous medical waste into valuable fuel products through pyrolysis. The use of medical protective clothing (MPC) in pyrolysis, along with the addition of catalysts, improves the quality of bio-oil produced from oil palm wastes (OPWs) pyrolysis.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Muhammad Zubair Yameen, Hamad AlMohamadi, Salman Raza Naqvi, Tayyaba Noor, Wei-Hsin Chen, Nor Aishah Saidina Amin
Summary: Marine macroalgae-derived biochar is a viable heterogeneous catalyst for biodiesel synthesis due to its diverse functional groups and high porosity. This article provides a critical assessment of its production, physicochemical characteristics, and activation techniques for biodiesel production.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Mohamed Amsal, Manh-Vu Tran, Yew Mun Hung, Gianfranco Scribano, Cheng Tung Chong
Summary: This study investigates the evaporation characteristics of palm biodiesel droplets under normal gravity through numerical simulations. The results show that higher temperatures significantly enhance the evaporation rate, while higher pressures decrease the evaporation rates. Changing the oxygen/nitrogen composition in the environment also affects the evaporation rate, with higher oxygen concentration leading to a higher evaporation rate. This study provides important insights into the evaporation behavior of palm biodiesel and its dependence on external parameters.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Congyu Zhang, Wei-Hsin Chen, Ying Zhang, Shih-Hsin Ho
Summary: This research investigates the variation and transformation of fuel properties in a humid environment. The results indicate that humidity treatment weakened the HHV, elemental C percentage, and contact angle of the microalgal biomass/biochar, leading to poor fuel properties. Humidity benefited the growth of microorganisms, which can consume the organic components in microalgal biomass.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Anh Tuan Le, Ashok Pandey, Ranjan Sirohi, Prabhakar Sharma, Wei-Hsin Chen, Nguyen Dang Khoa Pham, Viet Dung Tran, Xuan Phuong Nguyen, Anh Tuan Hoang
Summary: Biochar has applications in energy and environmental fields. To predict its characteristics, a hybrid technique combining machine learning algorithms and game theory-based SHAP analysis was developed. The BRT-based model showed the best prediction performance and SHAP analysis revealed temperature as the main factor affecting the predictions. This hybrid technique provides valuable insights for improving control and application of biochar.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Hisham Alghamdi, Chika Maduabuchi, Kingsley Okoli, Abdullah Albaker, Ibrahim Alatawi, Ahmed S. S. Alsafran, Mohammad Alkhedher, Wei-Hsin Chen
Summary: This study pioneers the integration of TEGs and PV modules within hybrid systems and employs neural networks to analyze the intricate interdependencies among parameters. The results show a remarkable improvement in power output and efficiency, highlighting the transformative potential of integrated TEGs and PV modules and the importance of parameter optimization.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Congyu Zhang, Yong Zhan, Wei-Hsin Chen, Shih-Hsin Ho, Young-Kwon Park, Alvin B. Culaba, Ying Zhang
Summary: This study evaluates the relationship between torrefaction parameters and fuel properties using various indicators. It finds that some indicators can accurately reflect the changes in different fuel properties. Additionally, the variations of torrefaction severity index and contact angle are correlated to the changes in the fuel property of the torrefied biochar.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Larissa Richa, Baptiste Colin, Anelie Petrissans, Jasmine Wolfgram, Ciera Wallace, Rafael L. Quirino, Wei-Hsin Chen, Mathieu Petrissans
Summary: This study evaluates the possibility of using catalytic torrefaction as a pretreatment to improve wood pyrolysis and combustion for greener biochar production. The findings show that catalytic torrefaction can significantly decrease the devolatilization peak during combustion, making the wood's combustion similar to that of coal.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2024)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Dong-Jun Lee, Seong-Heon Cho, Jonghyun Park, Jun Ho Yim, Sungyup Jung, Junsu Park, Yiu Fai Tsang, Wei-Hsin Chen, Young Jae Jeon, Eilhann E. Kwon
Summary: This study proposes a sustainable method to valorize hydrogen chloride (HCl) from PVC in bioethanol (BE) production. It suggests acid treatment and the use of a nitrogen source during fermentation to enhance BE productivity. The co-pyrolysis of the residues from the saccharification of horse hay and dechlorination of PVC resulted in an enhanced generation of CO, which was further increased by catalytic co-pyrolysis. These findings highlight the potential of integrating PVC thermochemical processes into BE production for waste valorization.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Yong Cheng, Fukai Song, Lei Fu, Saishuai Dai, Zhiming Yuan, Atilla Incecik
Summary: This paper investigates the accessibility of wave energy absorption by a dual-pontoon floating breakwater integrated with hybrid-type wave energy converters (WECs) and proposes a hydraulic-pneumatic complementary energy extraction method. The performance of the system is validated through experiments and comparative analysis.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jing Gao, Chao Wang, Zhanwu Wang, Jin Lin, Runkai Zhang, Xin Wu, Guangyin Xu, Zhenfeng Wang
Summary: This study aims to establish a new integrated method for biomass cogeneration project site selection, with a focus on the application of the model in Henan Province. By integrating Geographic Information System and Multiple Criterion Decision Making methods, the study conducts site selection in two stages, providing a theoretical reference for the construction of biomass cogeneration projects.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mert Temiz, Ibrahim Dincer
Summary: The current study presents a hybrid small modular nuclear reactor and solar-based system for sustainable communities, integrating floating and bifacial photovoltaic arrays with a small modular reactor. The system efficiently generates power, hydrogen, ammonia, freshwater, and heat for residential, agricultural, and aquaculture facilities. Thermodynamic analysis shows high energy and exergy efficiencies, as well as large-scale ammonia production meeting the needs of metropolitan areas. The hybridization of nuclear and solar technologies offers advantages of reliability, environmental friendliness, and cost efficiency compared to renewable-alone and fossil-based systems.
Editorial Material
Thermodynamics
Wojciech Stanek, Wojciech Adamczyk
Article
Thermodynamics
Desheng Xu, Yanfeng Li, Tianmei Du, Hua Zhong, Youbo Huang, Lei Li, Xiangling Duanmu
Summary: This study investigates the optimization of hybrid mechanical-natural ventilation for smoke control in complex metro stations. The results show that atrium fires are more significantly impacted by outdoor temperature variations compared to concourse/platform fires. The gathered high-temperature smoke inside the atrium can reach up to 900 K under a 5 MW train fire energy release. The findings provide crucial engineering insights into integrating weather data and adaptable ventilation protocols for smoke prevention/mitigation.
Article
Thermodynamics
Da Guo, Heping Xie, Mingzhong Gao, Jianan Li, Zhiqiang He, Ling Chen, Cong Li, Le Zhao, Dingming Wang, Yiwei Zhang, Xin Fang, Guikang Liu, Zhongya Zhou, Lin Dai
Summary: This study proposes a new in-situ pressure-preserved coring tool and elaborates its pressure-preserving mechanism. The experimental and field test results demonstrate that this tool has a high pressure-preservation capability and can maintain a stable pressure in deep wells. This study provides a theoretical framework and design standards for the development of similar technologies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Aolin Lai, Qunwei Wang
Summary: This study assesses the impact of China's de-capacity policy on renewable energy development efficiency (REDE) using the Global-MSBM model and the difference-in-differences method. The findings indicate that the policy significantly enhances REDE, promoting technological advancements and marketization. Moreover, regions with stricter environmental regulations experience a higher impact.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mostafa Ghasemi, Hegazy Rezk
Summary: This study utilizes fuzzy modeling and optimization to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). By simulating and analyzing experimental data sets, the ideal parameter values for increasing power density, COD elimination, and coulombic efficiency were determined. The results demonstrate that the fuzzy model and optimization methods can significantly improve the performance of MFCs.
Article
Thermodynamics
Zhang Ruan, Lianzhong Huang, Kai Wang, Ranqi Ma, Zhongyi Wang, Rui Zhang, Haoyang Zhao, Cong Wang
Summary: This paper proposes a grey box model for fuel consumption prediction of wing-diesel hybrid vessels based on feature construction. By using both parallel and series grey box modeling methods and six machine learning algorithms, twelve combinations of prediction models are established. A feature construction method based on the aerodynamic performance of the wing and the energy relationship of the hybrid system is introduced. The best combination is obtained by considering the root mean square error, and it shows improved accuracy compared to the white box model. The proposed grey box model can accurately predict the daily fuel consumption of wing-diesel hybrid vessels, contributing to operational optimization and the greenization and decarbonization of the shipping industry.
Article
Thermodynamics
Huayi Chang, Nico Heerink, Junbiao Zhang, Ke He
Summary: This study examines the interaction between off-farm employment decisions between couples and household clean energy consumption in rural China, and finds that two-paycheck households are more likely to consume clean energy. The off-farm employment of women is a key factor driving household clean energy consumption to a higher level, with wage-employed wives having a stronger influence on these decisions than self-employed ones.
Article
Thermodynamics
Hanguan Wen, Xiufeng Liu, Ming Yang, Bo Lei, Xu Cheng, Zhe Chen
Summary: Demand-side management is crucial to smart energy systems. This paper proposes a data-driven approach to understand the relationship between energy consumption patterns and household characteristics for better DSM services. The proposed method uses a clustering algorithm to generate optimal customer groups for DSM and a deep learning model for training. The model can predict the possibility of DSM membership for a given household. The results demonstrate the usefulness of weekly energy consumption data and household socio-demographic information for distinguishing consumer groups and the potential for targeted DSM strategies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Xinglan Hou, Xiuping Zhong, Shuaishuai Nie, Yafei Wang, Guigang Tu, Yingrui Ma, Kunyan Liu, Chen Chen
Summary: This study explores the feasibility of utilizing a multi-level horizontal branch well heat recovery system in the Qiabuqia geothermal field. The research systematically investigates the effects of various engineering parameters on production temperature, establishes mathematical models to describe their relationships, and evaluates the economic viability of the system. The findings demonstrate the significant economic feasibility of the multi-level branch well system.
Article
Thermodynamics
Longxin Zhang, Songtao Wang, Site Hu
Summary: This investigation reveals the influence of tip leakage flow on the modern transonic rotor and finds that the increase of tip clearance size leads to a decline in rotor performance. However, an optimal tip clearance size can extend the rotor's stall margin.
Article
Thermodynamics
Kristian Gjoka, Behzad Rismanchi, Robert H. Crawford
Summary: This paper proposes a framework for assessing the performance of 5GDHC systems and demonstrates it through a case study in a university campus in Melbourne, Australia. The results show that 5GDHC systems are a cost-effective and environmentally viable solution in mild climates, and their successful implementation in Australia can create new market opportunities and potential adoption in other countries with similar climatic conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jianwei Li, Guotai Wang, Panpan Yang, Yongshuang Wen, Leian Zhang, Rujun Song, Chengwei Hou
Summary: This study proposes an orientation-adaptive electromagnetic energy harvester by introducing a rotatable bluff body, which allows for self-regulation to cater for changing wind flow direction. Experimental results show that the output power of the energy harvester can be greatly enhanced with increased rotatory inertia of the rotating bluff body, providing a promising solution for harnessing wind-induced vibration energy.
