Article
Thermodynamics
Octavio Alves, Catarina Nobre, Luis Durao, Eliseu Monteiro, Paulo Brito, Margarida Goncalves
Summary: The study aimed to evaluate dry and hydrothermal carbonisation technologies for converting solid recovered fuel (SRF) from construction and municipal solid wastes to biochars or hydrochars with improved fuel quality. Results showed that hydrothermal carbonisation produced hydrochars with better fuel characteristics.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
J. Cespiva, J. Skrinsky, J. Veres, M. Wnukowski, J. Serencisova, T. Ochodek
Summary: This study investigates a solid recovered fuel gasification process as a regional, clean energy supply from an affordable source. A unique cross/updraft gasification reactor is utilized, and various equivalence ratios and load regimes are examined. The parameters studied include producer gas quality, conversion efficiency, and char material yield. The findings suggest that low material load improves gas purity and conversion efficiency, and the process shows low tar content and potential for material valorization.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ying-Chu Chen, Hsing-Chou Lin, Li-Yun Chen
Summary: In this study, solid-recovered fuel was prepared from municipal solid waste, and the dechlorination process was evaluated using calcium hydroxide as a detergent. The results showed that calcium hydroxide effectively removed chlorine content and increased the high heating value of the solid-recovered fuel. The dechlorination technologies investigated in this study provide guidance for producing high-standard solid-recovered fuel at a lower cost and with less chlorine pollution.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
S. Ali Saadabadi, Niels van Linden, Abel Heinsbroek, P. V. Aravind
Summary: This study examines the potential of generating electricity in a solid oxide fuel cell using methane recovered from groundwater as the fuel. By processing the gas and utilizing specific technologies, the electrical efficiency of the solid oxide fuel cell can be increased up to 60%.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Christopher Igwe Idumah
Summary: Plastics have shown rapid growth in domestic and industrial usage due to their flexibility and lower cost, but their short shelf-life, disposal difficulty, and increasing costs have led to serious environmental challenges, prompting the need for alternative disposal methods. Green biodegradable polymers have not been able to meet the high demand for plastics, leading to continued use of petroleum-based polymers in various applications. Plastics recycling has evolved through various technologies, showing potential to conserve natural resources and reduce waste.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL ANALYSIS AND CALORIMETRY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xiao Liu, Haohao Jiang, Jia Wang, Wenyi Zhang, Linchao Hu, Mingguo Peng, Linqiang Mao
Summary: This study examined the reaction behaviors of Cr-hosting spinels at high temperature and provided new insights for treating solid wastes containing Cr, including possible oxidation mechanisms and oxidation-reduction processes. The study showed that CaO can trigger the oxidation of Cr(III) in Cr-hosting spinels and identified the key steps for the oxidation process. Additionally, the study demonstrated that CaO can also trigger the reduction of CaCrO4 into a new Cr(V) compound, and highlighted the temperature-dependent reactions of CuO with CaCrO4 to form CuCrO2.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Qidong Xu, Lingchao Xia, Qijiao He, Zengjia Guo, Meng Ni
Summary: A 2D model was developed to simulate heat and mass transfer processes in methanol-fuelled SOFC, with parametric simulations conducted to investigate the effects of various factors on SOFC performance. The study found that the peak power density of methanol-fuelled SOFC can be high, but the temperature distribution is significantly affected by the working conditions.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Qidong Xu, Meng Ni
Summary: A 2D numerical model was developed to study a tubular direct methanol SOFC, with parameters such as temperature, thickness, and length having significant effects on performance. Increasing temperature enhances cell performance, while other parameters also play important roles in optimizing SOFC performance.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Myeongjong Lee, Hyeongtak Ko, Seacheon Oh
Summary: Currently, there is increasing interest in using pyrolysis to chemically recycle non-recyclable plastic waste into petrochemical feedstock. This study compared the pyrolysis characteristics of fixed and fluidized bed reactors, and conducted kinetic analysis for pyrolysis of solid residual fuel (SRF). Results showed that the fluidized bed reactor had a more active decomposition of SRF and produced greater gas yields.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Jongkeun Lee, Sungwan Cho, Daegi Kim, JunHee Ryu, Kwanyong Lee, Haegeun Chung, Ki Young Park
Summary: This study found that hydrothermal carbonization treatment can improve the energy-related properties of cattle and pig slaughterhouse wastes, with more significant improvements observed in pig waste. Mild HTC treatment at around 200 degrees Celsius was deemed suitable for converting pig waste to value-added solid fuel. Energy recovery efficiency varies depending on the chemical composition of the raw feedstock.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Tossapon Katongtung, Thossaporn Onsree, Nakorn Tippayawong
Summary: Machine learning techniques were used to predict biocrude yields and higher heating values from hydrothermal liquefaction of wet biomass and wastes. An extreme gradient boosting model showed the best prediction accuracy with temperature being the most influential feature. Feedstock characteristics contributed more than 55% to the model, and individual effects and interactions of the most important features were also examined for better understanding of the system.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Wen-Tien Tsai
Summary: This paper focuses on the development of solid recovered fuels (SRFs) in Taiwan from the perspectives of environmental, economic, and engineering characters. Based on the database of the official handbook/yearbook, the energy supply from indigenous biomass and waste accounted for only 1.2% of the total energy supply in 2021. Available indigenous biomass and waste mainly include waste wood, sugarcane bagasse, and mixtures containing wood/paper.
Review
Energy & Fuels
Silvere Panisset, Monica Burriel, Jerome Laurencin, David Jauffres
Summary: Numerical models are versatile tools for studying and predicting the performance of solid oxide cells (SOCs) based on their microstructure and composition. This article reviews existing models for the oxygen electrode in SOCs and discusses the current challenges of electrode modelling, focusing on better performance and durability prediction, particularly for thin-film SOCs.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICS-ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Katia Gallucci, Andrea Di Giuliano, Sergio Rapagna
Summary: The study conducted continuous gasification tests on a mixture of lignite and solid recovered fuel, evaluating the effects of different operating conditions on syngas quality, tar reduction effectiveness, and H2/CO molar ratio improvement. Results showed that gasification with a SRF/lignite mixture at 800 degrees C was feasible, with the best outcomes achieved using a SRF/lignite ratio of 0.2 wt/wt.
Review
Thermodynamics
Steven B. Beale, Martin Andersson, Carlos Boigues-Munoz, Henrik L. Frandsen, Zijing Lin, Stephen J. McPhail, Meng Ni, Bengt Sunden, Andre Weber, Adam Z. Weber
Summary: Solid oxide cells are a promising technology for energy conversion, capable of converting hydrogen-rich fuels into electrical energy or storing energy from transient resources. To compete in the market, improving reliability, extending product lifecycles, and reducing costs are essential. Mathematical models provide insights into physical phenomena and performance, but accurate parameterization and validation through experimental methods are crucial for model reliability.
PROGRESS IN ENERGY AND COMBUSTION SCIENCE
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Zhuxian Yang, Mian Zahid Hussain, Pablo Marin, Quanli Jia, Nannan Wang, Salvador Ordonez, Yanqiu Zhu, Yongde Xia
Summary: This review presents unconventional technologies and materials for ventilation air methane (VAM) enrichment, with a focus on adsorption-based processes. The feasibility of various technologies and the properties of different materials for methane separation are discussed. The review provides valuable insights for better mitigation and utilization of VAM and other low grade methane, and supports the upcoming low-carbon economy.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY A
(2022)
Review
Energy & Fuels
Laura Faba, Paula Rapado, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: This work reviews the research advances in carboxylation reactions using CO2 and light organic molecules of renewable origin, with a focus on chemical catalytic approaches. Carboxylation, as one of the most promising carbon capture and utilization technologies, offers double environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing sustainable processes for commodity synthesis.
GREENHOUSE GASES-SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
D. Ursueguia, C. Daniel, C. Collomb, C. Cardenas, D. Farrusseng, E. Diaz, S. Ordonez
Summary: The study compared the adsorption performance of HKUST-1 MOF with activated carbon for low-grade cyclohexane under different water concentrations, showing that HKUST-1 has higher affinity to cyclohexane, especially at low partial pressures. The MOF also exhibited good stability results, comparable to activated carbon, even in the presence of water.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Igor Krivtsov, Ashish Vazirani, Dariusz Mitoraj, Mohamed M. Elnagar, Christof Neumann, Andrey Turchanin, Yolanda Patino, Salvador Ordonez, Robert Leiter, Mika Linden, Ute Kaiser, Radim Beranek
Summary: Light-driven production of hydrogen peroxide can be achieved through selective dioxygen reduction, and the separation of the product is addressed by implementing a biphasic reaction system. This system enables efficient hydration and easy separation of the high-concentration product.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY A
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yolanda Patino, Laura Faba, Raquel Pelaez, Jennifer Cueto, Pablo Marin, Eva Diaz, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: Different applications of ion exchange resins in biorefinery catalytic processes are discussed, focusing on three case studies related to biomass upgrading. These resins have shown potential as catalysts due to their tailored acidic properties and stability in the presence of water. However, their acidity may still pose limitations for certain reactions in the aqueous phase.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Safe ELdeen M. E. Mahmoud, David Ursueguia, Mohamed E. Mahmoud, Tarek M. Abel-Fattah, Eva Diaz
Summary: Biochar materials, such as ACE@CSNB, have shown promising potential in water treatment due to their sustainable adsorption properties. The surface modification of nanobiochar with a cation exchanger improves its adsorption behavior and homogeneity, resulting in higher removal efficiency of pollutants like methylene blue dye and lead ions.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Eva Diaz, Pablo Rapado-Gallego, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: Chemical hydrogen storage is essential for establishing hydrogen as a main energy vector. Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) offer the advantage of safe, efficient, and high-density hydrogen storage. In this study, molecular simulations were used to estimate the properties of potential LOHCs and evaluate the performance of binary mixtures. The results suggest that certain pairs, such as 1-methylnaphthalene/1-methyldecahydronaftalene and methyl-benzylpyridine/perhydromethylbenzylpyridine, are suitable candidates for chemical hydrogen storage.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
David Ursueguia, Eva Diaz, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: MOFs are potential adsorbents for methane separation from nitrogen, but the presence of water and carbon dioxide can seriously affect their adsorption performance. Different commercial MOFs have different tolerance to humidity and carbon dioxide, with Basolite F300 being the most resistant material.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Mauro Alvarez, Pablo Marin, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: In this study, a Cu/Y zeolite catalyst was prepared by solid-state ion exchange and was found to be a promising alternative to the traditional CuCl aqueous catalyst for the oxidative carbonylation of methanol. The reaction conditions were optimized and a rigorous kinetic model for the reaction was proposed.
FUEL PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
David Ursueguia, Eva Diaz, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: The study aims to address the decrease in methane adsorption capacity of HKUST-1 MOF under humid conditions by synthesizing composites of HKUST-1 and α-Al2O3 particles. The results show that composites with low MOF loads (<9%) can maintain and even improve methane adsorption capacity after humid treatment, and surprising improvements in thermal stability were also observed.
MICROPOROUS AND MESOPOROUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Demography
Serajeddin Mahmoudiani
Summary: Understanding fertility is crucial in predicting unintended pregnancies. Higher education levels among women and their husbands are associated with a lower proportion of unintended pregnancies. Employed women have a significantly lower proportion of unintended pregnancies compared to non-employed women.
BIODEMOGRAPHY AND SOCIAL BIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Eva Diaz, Pablo Rapado-Gallego, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: The use of the naphthalene/decalin pair as a liquid organic hydrogen carrier has gained interest. However, a major challenge is the solidification of naphthalene at ambient conditions, which can be addressed by adding light organics. Dehydrogenation of decalin over various supported precious catalysts was investigated.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Ukrit Chaemwinyoo, Pablo Marin, Claudia Fernandez Martin, Fernando V. Diez, Salvador Ordonez
Summary: Lean methane emissions pose a significant environmental problem, and an integrated adsorption/desorption and regenerative catalytic oxidation process has been proposed for their treatment. Experimental studies on methane adsorption/desorption were conducted, and a dynamic model was developed based on the collected data. A regenerative catalytic oxidizer was designed and its performance was evaluated through simulations, with special attention given to the integration with the adsorption/desorption step.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(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.