Article
Engineering, Chemical
J. Yang, M. Monnot, T. Eljaddi, L. Ercolei, L. Simonian, P. Moulin
Summary: The study evaluated the feasibility and sustainability of ultrafiltration (UF) technology for municipal wastewater reuse, finding optimized filtration conditions and showcasing the excellent performance of air backwash in membrane fouling control. The UF system demonstrated sustainable and adaptable filtration performance regardless of temperature and feed water quality, meeting reuse guidelines and standards for agricultural irrigation.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Ruly Teran Hilares, Imman Singh, Kevin Tejada Meza, Gilberto J. Colina Andrade, David Alfredo Pacheco Tanaka
Summary: Membrane fouling is caused by physical or chemical interactions leading to foulant deposition or adsorption, reducing membrane flux. Chemical cleaning is effective but environmentally unattractive, and high concentrations can damage the membrane. Micronanobubbles are a promising technique for membrane surface cleaning, but information is limited.
WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH
(2022)
Review
Engineering, Chemical
Nor Naimah Rosyadah Ahmad, Wei Lun Ang, Choe Peng Leo, Abdul Wahab Mohammad, Nidal Hilal
Summary: This paper highlights the importance of saline wastewater treatment and the potential of membrane technology in this field, presenting the advantages of membrane processes in water reclamation and resource recovery. It also discusses membrane fouling issues and the effectiveness of various fouling mitigation strategies.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Anika Amir Mohana, S. M. Farhad, Nawshad Haque, Biplob Kumar Pramanik
Summary: Nanoplastics have become a significant environmental concern due to their adverse effects on water environments. Wastewater treatment plants are identified as major sources of nanoparticle generation, primarily through the mechanism of cracking larger plastic debris. Current membrane processes are ineffective for nanoparticle removal, leading to the need for developing a bio-nanofiltration process as an alternative method. This process can produce nanoparticle-free water for safe discharge.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Chao Zhang, Gang He, Josiah Johnston, Lijin Zhong
Summary: Given the dual challenges of deep carbon mitigation and water resources conservation in China's power sector, the transition pathway towards carbon neutrality by 2050 will require a shift towards low-cost renewables, reduced reliance on coal-CCS power generation, and strategic reallocation of power capacities. Rapid cost declines in renewables could lead to significant reductions in coal power generation with CCS and greater integration of solar photovoltaic and wind energy, with potential co-benefits of water conservation.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Murat Emre Demir, Ibrahim Dincer
Summary: This paper presents a cost analysis study for a commercial-scale hydrogen production and wastewater treatment plant. The study utilizes a photoelectrochemical solar concentrator system for hydrogen generation and wastewater treatment. The cost of hydrogen and the annual benefit from wastewater treatment are calculated.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Tomy Muringayil Joseph, Hussein E. Al-Hazmi, Bogna Sniatala, Amin Esmaeili, Sajjad Habibzadeh
Summary: Water pollution poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health. This review discusses intelligent technologies for water and wastewater treatment, emphasizing the importance of water cleaning for ecosystem protection and human health. It highlights pollution challenges and advocates collaborative efforts and innovative research for freshwater preservation and pollution mitigation.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Mengjiao Yan, Kangying Guo, Yue Gao, Qinyan Yue, Baoyu Gao
Summary: This study investigates the coagulation-ultrafiltration integrated process for oily wastewater treatment. It is found that polyaluminum chloride (PAC) is more effective than AlCl3 and Fe based coagulants. The PAC-PDMDAAC coagulation system forms large and loose flocs, indicating efficient removal of oil droplets.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Jose Bolorinos, Meagan S. Mauter, Ram Rajagopal
Summary: This research introduces a digital twin method to simulate the coordinated operation of energy flexibility resources in wastewater resource recovery facilities. Results show a reduction in electricity bills of 17% and an annualized return on investment of 3% in a California facility. However, new energy flexibility investments are less profitable without time-of-use incentives and existing cogeneration facilities. Overall, the findings suggest the need for policies and subsidies to incentivize the sector's energy flexibility. Rating: 8/10.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Sivasubramani Divya, Tae Hwan Oh
Summary: Membrane-based filtration for wastewater treatment has shown promising results in terms of water purification, and nanocomposite membranes can enhance the filtration process. This offers an effective solution to global concerns over water scarcity and aquatic pollution.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
J. Yang, M. Monnot, Y. Sun, L. Asia, P. Wong-Wah-Chung, P. Doumenq, P. Moulin
Summary: In this study, the distribution and fate of microplastics in different water sources and treatment plants in France were investigated. Wastewater was found to contain the highest concentrations of microplastics, followed by surface water/groundwater and seawater. Polyethylene was the most common type of microplastic, followed by polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate. Most treatment technologies were effective in removing microplastics, although some processes or pipes could introduce additional contamination. Ultrafiltration was confirmed to be an effective technology for microplastic retention and size control.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Jinlong Wang, Xiaobin Tang, Yuyao Liu, Binghan Xie, Guibai Li, Heng Liang
Summary: The coupling of vermifiltration (VF) and self-sustained ultrafiltration (SUF) in this study achieved effective removal of dissolved pollutants and various microorganisms, while also improving membrane flux to ensure water safety. The synergistic effects among the modified biofouling layer structure, reduction of extracellular polymeric substances, and increase of inorganics contents contributed to the improved membrane flux, with further enhancement observed with the usage of reflux.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2022)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Alida Cosenza, Hazal Gulhan, Carmelo Massimo Maida, Giorgio Mannina
Summary: This study aims to recover nitrogen from wastewater through the use of ultrafiltration membrane for agricultural water reuse. It proposes and applies a new reclaimed water quality index (RWQI) with an innovative assessment protocol. The study analyzes the influence of filtration and backwashing times on nutrient recovery in an ultrafiltration system. The results show that backwashing time plays a crucial role in reducing operation costs, with the optimal compromise achieved at 7 minutes of filtration and 1 minute of backwashing.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Fu Yang, Zhengkun Huang, Jun Huang, Chongde Wu, Rongqing Zhou, Yao Jin
Summary: Ultrafiltration is a promising and environmentally friendly alternative for treating tannery wastewater. Process efficiency is strongly influenced by operating conditions, while the membrane material has minimal impact on filtration performance and fouling behavior. Reversible resistance and cake formation are the main obstacles and pore-blocking mechanisms in the ultrafiltration process.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Beibei Gao, Jing Tan, Yuhan Cao, Qingsong Zhang, Yanjun Wen, Qingming Zeng, Guolong Tang, Junwen Lv, Lin Wang, Qingyi Zeng
Summary: An ingenious and unassisted solar-driven wastewater resourcezation system (SDWRS) was designed by connecting a silicon cell (SC) to the back of a bismuth-doped TiO2 nanorod array (BTNR) for efficient water treatment accompanying hydrogen and electricity generation. With the doping of Bi, the charge transfer property and donor density of the BTNR were effectively improved. The introduction of SC provided a higher inner bias than conventional photocatalytic fuel cells (PFCs) to drive efficient electron transfer, resulting in enhanced light utilization and charge transfer.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Meteorology & Atmospheric Sciences
Yuchuan Lai, David A. Dzombak
WEATHER AND FORECASTING
(2020)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Natalie M. Isenberg, Paul Akula, John C. Eslick, Debangsu Bhattacharyya, David C. Miller, Chrysanthos E. Gounaris
Summary: The study proposes a new computational framework for robust optimization of highly nonlinear, non-convex models with uncertainty in parameter data and irremovable equality constraints. By using various decision rules, including quadratic ones, it is possible to facilitate recourse in control variables and decrease the overall price of robustness. The generalization of the robust cutting-set algorithm allows for easy identification of robust feasible designs for practical process systems.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
David A. Dzombak
Summary: The 1972 paper by McKee et al. was an early, important contribution to understanding groundwater contamination with organic liquids and to the integrated use of field, laboratory, and modeling studies for remediation approaches. It provided a foundation for intense research and development in investigation and remediation of groundwater contamination problems that began in the 1980s and lasted for two decades.
WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Douglas J. Arent, Shannon M. Bragg-Sitton, David C. Miller, Thomas J. Tarka, Jill A. Engel-Cox, Richard D. Boardman, Peter C. Balash, Mark F. Ruth, Jordan Cox, David J. Garfield
Summary: Jurisdictions and industries are striving to decarbonize energy systems by setting ambitious goals, requiring energy technologies to be adapted to meet key attributes of modern energy systems. This paper presents novel concepts for combining diverse energy generation technologies to meet demanding requirements, emphasizing the importance of synergies among energy technologies.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Paul Akula, John Eslick, Debangsu Bhattacharyya, David C. Miller
Summary: This study investigates the performance of a reference monoethanolamine (MEA) post-combustion CO2 capture unit under steady-state part-load and variable capture operations. It shows that optimal operation of an existing capture unit is crucial for minimizing the energy penalty under part-load and variable capture operations.
INDUSTRIAL & ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Meteorology & Atmospheric Sciences
Yuchuan Lai, David A. Dzombak
Summary: The study presents an integrated technique that combines global climate models with a statistical time series forecasting model to obtain location-specific temperature and precipitation projections. The approach uses an ensemble of GCMs to describe climate change signals and an ARIMA model to model and project regional deviations, resulting in city-specific daily temperature and precipitation series with improved accuracy. The G-ARIMA model is efficient in updating projections when new observations become available, making it a viable option for regional climate projection in practical engineering applications.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED METEOROLOGY AND CLIMATOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
David A. Dzombak, Miranda R. Gorman
Summary: Significant advancements have been made in understanding element cycles in the past 50 years, with a focus on the grand nutrients carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. Aquatic Chemistry has played a crucial role in elucidating the cycles of these elements through its basic chemistry and chemical systems perspective. Research on element cycling beyond the grand nutrients has primarily focused on commodity metals in the past 20 years, contributing to a better understanding of metal cycles.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Jonathan C. Callura, Qingyang Shi, David A. Dzombak, Athanasios K. Karamalidis
Summary: This study investigated the extraction of rare earth elements (REE) from saline solutions using polymer resin beads functionalized with N,N-bis(phosponomethyl)glycine (BPG). The results showed that the BPG-functionalized resins were highly selective for REE and could efficiently adsorb and recover heavy metals. Competitive batch adsorption experiments and column experiments demonstrated the high adsorption efficiency and recovery rate of REE using BPG-functionalized resins.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yuchuan Lai, David A. Dzombak
Summary: This study assessed the impact of changing ambient air temperature on water temperature and water quality parameters in drinking water distribution systems. It predicted potential increases in water temperature in the future due to climate change.
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Christopher L. Hanselman, Xiangyu Yin, David C. Miller, Chrysanthos E. Gounaris
Summary: This article introduces a novel Python package, MatOpt, that allows more efficient utilization of mathematical optimization models in the design of nanostructured materials. The development of this package enhances the application capabilities of materials science experts in mathematical optimization models, thus facilitating the development of nanostructured materials.
JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL INFORMATION AND MODELING
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Xian Gao, Bernard Knueven, John D. Siirola, David C. Miller, Alexander W. Dowling
Summary: Accelerating the deep decarbonization of electric grids requires coordination of complex energy systems and infrastructures. A new multiscale simulation framework is proposed in this study to better design, operate, and control integrated energy systems. Through two case studies, the importance of understanding and quantifying resource-grid interactions is demonstrated.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Paul Akula, Andrew Lee, John Eslick, Debangsu Bhattacharyya, David C. Miller
Summary: Accurate thermodynamic properties of electrolyte systems are crucial for chemical processes. This study presents a comprehensive description of the thermodynamic framework for multielectrolyte mixed solvent systems and successfully applies it to the MEA-H2O-CO2 case study.
Article
Engineering, Civil
Yuchuan Lai, Tania Lopez-Cantu, David A. Dzombak, Constantine Samaras
Summary: An overview of applying global climate model projections in infrastructure engineering is provided, including decision stages, uncertainty and challenges in selecting projection products and processing techniques. Two case studies highlight the potential variations in regional climate change projections due to different decision sequences. Recommendations for applying GCM projections in engineering are offered based on applications and uncertainties reported in the literature.
JOURNAL OF INFRASTRUCTURE SYSTEMS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Miranda R. Gorman, David A. Dzombak, Chad Frischmann
Summary: Materials production contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. As consumption of resources increases, so does the environmental impact of material extraction. Secondary production from recycled materials requires less energy and has a lower greenhouse gas footprint compared to primary production. Adopting different scenarios for secondary production can result in significant reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Radhakrishna Tumbalam Gooty, Jaffer Ghouse, Quang Minh Le, Bhurisa Thitakamol, Sabereh Rezaei, Denis Obiang, Raghubir Gupta, James Zhou, Debangsu Bhattacharyya, David C. Miller
Summary: Recent studies show that fossil generators with PCC systems are necessary for cost reduction in deep decarbonization. In this study, the NPV of retrofitting an NGCC unit with a flexible PCC system was evaluated, considering market signals from a high VRE grid. The optimization problem for system design and operation was formulated, and surrogate models were developed to solve the problem. The profitability of retrofitting depended on the region and carbon price, emphasizing the importance of market signals in the design process.
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.