Energy Applications Research Articles

Azobenzene-Functionalized Semicrystalline Liquid Crystal Elastomer Springs for Underwater Soft Robotic Actuators.

As actuated devices become smaller and more complex, there is a need for smart materials and structures that directly function as complete mechanical units without an external power supply. The strategy uses light-powered, twisted, and coiled azobenzene-functionalized semicrystalline liquid crystal elastomer (AC-LCE) springs. This twisting and coiling, which has previously been used for only thermally, electrochemically, or absorption-powered muscles, maximizes uniaxial and radial actuation. The specially designed photochemical muscles can undergo about 60% tensile stroke and provide 15kJ m-3 of work capacity in response to light, thus providing about three times and two times higher performance, respectively, than previous azobenzene actuators. Since this actuation is photochemical, driven by ultraviolet (UV) light and reversed by visible light, isothermal actuation can occur in a range of environmental conditions, including underwater. In addition, photoisomerization of the AC-LCEs enables unique latch-like actuation, eliminating the need for continuous energy application to maintain the stroke. Also, as the light-powered muscles processed to be either homochiral or heterochiral, the direction of actuation can be reversed. The presented approach highlights the novel capabilities of photochemical actuator materials that can be manipulated in untethered, isothermal, and wet environmental conditions, thus suggesting various potential applications, including underwater soft robotics.

New stable rare earth Ti-based semiconductor pyrochlore oxides for low-cost energy applications

New stable rare earth Ti-based semiconductor pyrochlore oxides for low-cost energy applications

Numerical simulation of transient thermal stresses in medium- and high-temperature latent heat storage systems with different fins: Incorporation of experimental stress cracking

Latent heat storage systems play an essential role in energy applications by improving the utilization efficiency and increasing the system flexibility. In this study, a pilot-scale medium-to-high-temperature latent heat storage system was constructed, and experimental heat storage tests were conducted. The temperature distribution of the experimental system was verified through numerical simulations that coupled the physical fields of the fluids, heat transfer, and solid mechanics. Also, the changing dynamic behavior of the stresses in the heat storage process related to the experiments was carefully studied. It was discovered that there were stress concentrations where the heat exchanger tubes touched the casing, with the highest level being over 370.00 MPa. Experimental stress rupture of the shell occurred in the horizontally arranged heat-exchange tubes, whereas vertically arranged tubes significantly reduced the stress at the contact surfaces by 24.70 % according to simulations. Simulation studies on various influencing factors indicated a more significant impact of spiral fins on the system stress. Increasing the preheating temperature by 30 °C reduced stress on the front surface by 109.67 MPa; each 20 °C increase in heating temperature raised the stress by 223.30 MPa, whereas the effect of heat transfer fluid speed was minimal. Regarding the heat-exchange tube dimensions, increasing the height increased the tube body stress by 25.74 MPa, whereas increasing the thickness reduced the stress by 24.20 %. This study comprehensively analyzed the stress dynamics and mitigation strategies of the high-temperature latent heat storage system under various conditions, emphasizing the importance of heat-exchange tube orientation, temperature control, and fin design for optimizing system performance and durability.

Analysis of Entropy Optimization in MHD Flow of Non-Newtonian Nanofluids with Chemical Reaction and Thermal Energies

Investigation of nanofluid flows under various conditions is becoming fascinating research due to its numerous applications in many science and engineering fields such as solar energy, geothermal energy, water purification, glass blowing, enhanced oil recovery, petroleum production and food processing. For the present requirements in thermal energy applications, this mathematical model is considered to explore the diffusion and heat source effects on the flow of conductive Casson and Maxwell nanofluids in a porous medium on an elongating sheet with a chemical reaction. Further, the effects of viscous dissipation and thermal radiation are also examined. Moreover, the entropy generation is analyzed since this approach is employed in solar energy exchangers. The governing equations and the corresponding boundary conditions are constructed. This system of partial differential equations (PDEs) is changed into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) with the help of a suitable transformation and then solved numerically by the bvp5c MATLAB package. The influences of the physical parameters on the flow phenomena are discussed and presented through figures and tables. This analysis explains that the Casson fluid flow has a higher velocity field than the Maxwell fluid flow. The Nusselt number becomes higher as the Dufour numbers increase. It has also been noticed that increasing the Brinkmann number improves the entropy and, an increase in radiation enriches the temperature profile. The concentration of the fluid is decreased for the increasing values of the higher-order chemical reaction parameter. Furthermore, comparisons of the current results were conducted for limiting examples of the problem and found to be in good agreement with existing results in the literature.

Harnessing Quantum Materials for Enhanced Energy Efficiency and Storage: A Comprehensive Study of Electronic Properties and Performance Optimization

This research explores the exciting potential of various quantum materials to enhance energy efficiency and storage capabilities, filling in a crucial gap in our understanding of their electronic properties and interactions. A major hurdle in this field is the lack of empirical data on key factors such as conductivity, charge mobility, and thermal stability—elements that are vital for optimizing the performance of these materials in energy applications. Our study aims to blend experimental data with computational simulations to create a robust framework for modelling how quantum materials behave under different conditions. This comprehensive approach helps lay a solid foundation for their practical use in energy technologies. We focus on an array of fascinating quantum materials, including topological insulators, transition metal dichalcogenides, and superconductors. To investigate these materials, we employ advanced techniques like scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy, which allow us to delve deep into their unique properties. While pursuing this research, we do encounter challenges. Variations in sample quality, environmental factors during experimentation, and the complexities of theoretical modelling can affect the consistency of our results and the interpretation of our data. Despite these obstacles, our findings suggest that certain quantum materials hold remarkable potential for enhancing energy storage and conversion systems through improved charge mobility and thermal stability. In fact, some materials have demonstrated conductivity levels that surpass those of traditional options, hinting at transformative applications in energy technologies. These insights highlight the importance of continuing our exploration of quantum materials, positioning them as promising candidates for tackling today’s energy challenges and paving the way for advancements in sustainable energy solutions.

Agricultural Waste for Energy Storage, Conversion and Agricultural Applications

Agricultural waste residues (agro-waste) present a significant source of carbohydrates that are often underutilized despite their valuable properties. With increasing urbanization and limited non-renewable resources, the valorization of agro-waste is imperative. The global energy demand is on the rise, driven by factors such as population growth, industrialization, and a desire for enhanced living standards. Traditional energy sources, especially fossil fuels, have come under scrutiny for their environmental impact and limited availability. Consequently, there is an increasing focus on developing renewable and sustainable energy solutions, particularly through the use of agricultural waste. Agricultural waste—including crop residues, animal manure, and byproducts from food processing—represents a largely untapped resource for energy production. Converting this waste into valuable energy can help meet rising energy needs while offering environmental and economic advantages, such as mitigating waste disposal issues and creating additional income sources for the agricultural sector. Despite the significant potential of agricultural waste for energy storage and conversion, several challenges remain. These include issues related to logistics and transportation, the need for pretreatment, and concerns about economic feasibility. Future research should aim to enhance conversion technologies and better integrate agricultural waste into energy and agricultural systems. This review discusses various energy conversion technologies and applications of agricultural waste, including biofuels, biogas, and direct combustion, while exploring its role in energy storage through biochar. This review examines the composition and properties of agricultural waste, the various technologies available for energy conversion, and how agricultural waste can be utilized as a feedstock for biofuels, biogas, and direct combustion. It also investigates the integration of agricultural waste in energy storage solutions like biochar and explores other agricultural applications beyond energy production.

Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach for Optimal Energy Storage System Selection and Applications in Oman

This research aims to support the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by reducing the dependency on non-renewable energy resources and increasing the utilization of the national natural renewable energy resources. Selecting appropriate energy storage systems (ESSs) will play a key role in achieving this vision by enabling a greater integration of solar and other renewable energy. ESSs allow for solar power generated during daylight hours to be stored for use during peak demand periods. Additionally, the proposed framework provides guidance for large-scale ESS infrastructure planning and investments to support Oman’s renewable energy goals. As the global renewable energy market grows rapidly and Oman implements economic reforms, the ESS market is expected to flourish in Oman. In the near future, ESS is expected to contribute to lower electricity costs and enhance stability compared to traditional energy systems. While ESS technologies have been studied broadly, there is a lack of comprehensive analysis for optimal ESS selection tailored to Oman’s unique geographical, technical, and policy context. The main objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of ESS options and identify the type(s) most suitable for integration with Oman’s national grid using a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methodology. This study addresses this gap by applying the Hesitate Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (HF-AHP) and Hesitate Fuzzy VIKOR methods to assess alternative ESS technologies based on technical, economic, environmental, and social criteria specifically for Oman’s context. The analysis reveals pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) and compressed air energy storage (CAES) as the most appropriate solutions. The tailored selection framework aims to guide policy and infrastructure planning to determine investments for large-scale ESSs and provide a model for comprehensive ESS assessment in energy transition planning for countries with similar challenges.

Potentiostatic electrodeposition of copper, indium, and cadmium sulfides for CO2 electroreduction: A path toward sustainable hydrogen generation

This study focuses on the potentiostatic electrodeposition of copper indium and cadmium sulfide (CuS, In2S3, and CdS) thin films on copper substrates, aiming to develop efficient electrocatalysts for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 and sustainable hydrogen generation. Utilizing Cu Kα radiation for X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, the crystal structures of the electrodeposited films were confirmed, revealing well-defined crystalline phases. The films exhibited average particle sizes of 55.99 nm for CuS, 50.37 nm for In2S3, and 63.51 nm for CdS. Cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry were employed to optimize the deposition parameters, ensuring efficient nucleation and growth of the metal sulfide films. The electrochemical performance of the synthesized electrocatalysts was rigorously tested, demonstrating their potential for CO2 reduction under optimized conditions with the highest efficiency for CdS electrodes. Additionally, the electrodeposited CuS and CdS are of the p-type, and In2S3 is of the n-type semiconductor were studied and verified by the Mott–Schottky test. CuS, In2S3, and CdS were found to have donor and acceptor concentrations (ND) of 1.68 × 106, 1.44 × 105, and 8.9 × 105 cm3, respectively. The photoelectrochemical measurements of the electrodeposited metal sulfides were studied at ambient temperature and under illumination, providing higher photocurrent responses for CdS and demonstrating its strong potential as a photoelectrode material for CO2 reduction. This work underscores the significance of facile electrochemical synthesis methods in developing cost-effective and scalable electrocatalysts, paving the way for their integration into photoelectrochemical systems for green energy applications.

Investigation of electronic, optical and thermoelectric properties in orthorhombic perovskite SmFeO3

In this work, we have investigated the electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of orthorhombic perovskite SmFeO3 using density functional and Boltzmann transport theories, for renewable energy applications. The modeling of the exact electron exchange-correlation has been carried out using both Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA) and a functional modified with Hubbard interactions. The spin-polarized calculations show that SmFeO3 adopts a G-type antiferromagnetic configuration. The studied compound's electronic band structure and density of states analysis reveal its p-type semiconductor behavior. Furthermore, the optical properties such as real ε1(ω) and imaginary ε2(ω) components of the dielectric function as well as other conventional optical parameters, were investigated. The results show that SmFeO3 is a promising material for optoelectronic applications. The calculated transport properties including the Seebeck coefficient (S), the electrical conductivity (σ/τ), the electronic thermal conductivity (k0/τ) and the electronic figure of merit (ZTe) show significant results. The studied perovskite is also a potential candidate for thermoelectric applications, due to its high Seebeck coefficient, reaching 2388 μV/K, and the large electronic figure of merit which is close to 1 at room temperature. To improve the thermoelectric performance of SmFeO3 material, we have studied the effect of both p-type and n-type doping on its thermoelectric behavior at different temperature values.

Synthetic natural gas (SNG) production by biomass gasification with CO2 capture: Techno-economic and life cycle analysis (LCA)

The integration of renewables with CCUS technologies has the promising potential to deliver energy applications with overall negative CO2 emissions which would significantly contribute to the climate neutrality. Moreover, the renewable-based synthetic fuels are predicted to replace the conventional fossil fuels. The current work evaluates key techno-economic and environmental indicators for the SNG production from various renewable fuels (e.g., sawdust, residual wood, organic wastes, agricultural and urban wastes etc.) through gasification process fitted with decarbonization capability. The investigated plant capacity was set to 500 MWth SNG with 60 % CO2 capture rate of primary fuel (biomass). The overall concept was evaluated using various process engineering approaches e.g., reactor & process modelling and simulation, model validation, heat and power analysis, techno-economic assessment combined with detailed environmental impact by Life Cycle Analysis (LCA). The investigated design shows promising performance indicators such as high cumulative energy efficiency (69 %) and carbon conversion to SNG, almost zero plant specific CO2 emissions (3 kg/MWh) and overall negative carbon emissions (−457 kg/MWh) from the whole biomass chain. The SNG production cost is not yet fully competitive versus the EU natural gas prices (53 vs. 30–35 €/MWh) but it shows promising potential considering the trends of increasing fossil prices and CO2 emission tax.

Novel modular multilevel matrix converter topology for efficient high-voltage AC-AC power conversion

Introduction. This paper delves into the practical application of multilevel technology, particularly focusing on the capacitor-clamped converter as a promising solution for medium-to-high voltage power conversion, with specific emphasis on direct AC-AC switching conditions. Problem. The limitations of conventional single-cell matrix converters (MC) in efficiency and performance for medium-to-high voltage power conversion applications are well-recognized. Goal. The primary objective is to investigate the performance of the 3 phase modular multilevel matrix converter (3MC) with three flying capacitors (FCs) modeling. This investigation utilizes the Venturini method for gate pulse generation, aiming to compare the performance of the 3MC with standard converter designs. Methodology. To achieve the research goal, the Venturini method is adopted for generating gate pulses for the 3MC, representing a departure from conventional approaches. Detailed simulations employing MATLAB/Simulink are conducted to comprehensively evaluate the performance of the 3MC in comparison to conventional converter designs. Results. The simulation outcomes reveal a significant reduction of 73 % in total harmonic distortion (THD) achieved by the 3MC. This reduction in THD indicates improved robustness and suitability for medium-to-high voltage power conversion systems necessitating direct AC-AC conversion. These results highlight the efficacy of the 3MC in enhancing power conversion efficiency and overall performance. Originality. This paper contributes novel insights into the practical implementation of multilevel technology, particularly within the realm of capacitor-clamped converters. Furthermore, the utilization of the Venturini method for gate pulse generation in the 3MC represents an original approach to enhancing converter performance. Practical value. The research findings present significant advancements in multilevel transformer technology, offering valuable guidance for optimizing transformer design in various industrial and renewable energy applications. These contributions serve to enhance the development of reliable and efficient power systems, addressing critical needs in the energy sector. References 54, tables 3, figures 4.

Electrifying waste textiles: Transforming fabric scraps into high-performance triboelectric nanogenerators for biomechanical energy harvesting

Textiles are an integral part of daily life globally, but their widespread use leads to significant waste generation. Repurposing these discarded fabrics for energy harvesting offers a sustainable solution to both energy demand and textile waste management. In this study, Textile-based Triboelectric Nanogenerators (T-TENGs) were developed using recycled cloth as tribopositive layers and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film as the tribonegative layer, with aluminum foil tape serving as electrodes. Five different recycled textiles were evaluated, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed a correlation between yarn structure and carbon content, leading to enhanced triboelectric performance. Silk-based TENG (S-TENG) demonstrated the highest output, with 320.76 V and 8.73 µA, while exhibiting stable performance over 10,000 cycles. Practical applications were explored by integrating T-TENGs into shoe insoles for energy harvesting during walking and jumping, with rayon-based TENG generating up to 208.52 V on a PVC coil mat. This work highlights the dual benefits of waste reduction and sustainable energy applications, making a compelling case for advanced technologies where recycled textiles function as frictional materials to harvest mechanical energy from human motion and convert it into electrical energy for use in flexible sensors and wearable devices.

Ionic liquid reinforced cellulose nanofiber with iron oxide electrocatalyst

Increased attention has been focused on the preparation of nanoarchitectures for applicability in energy, environmental and biological streams. However, concerns have been raised regarding environmental effects due to the harsh chemicals used in such preparations. To overcome this issue, the present study reports the use of a green solvent, 1-methyl-3-propyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium iodide or [Pmim]I, for the preparation of cellulose nanofiber-iron oxide (CNF-Fe2O3) composite. The as-prepared nanofiber composite is characterized with the aid of analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FE-SEM/EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). As a proof-of-concept demonstration, the resulting nanostructure is employed as an electrocatalyst and is compared with the bare CNFs, non-cellulose NFs and a standard RuO2 catalyst. The results indicate that the CNF-Fe2O3 composite achieves a standard current density (j) of 10 mA cm−2 at only 260 mV compared to 280, 290, and 370 mV for the standard RuO2, the bare CNFs, and non-cellulose nanofibers (NFs), respectively. These differences become more prominent at a high current density of 100 mA cm−2, where the CNF-Fe2O3 requires only 310 mV, while the CNFs, RuO2, and NFs consume 360, 370, and 550 mV, respectively.

Recycling of spent heat pack towards Fe-Fe3O4@NC catalyst for ORR in direct methanol fuel cells and Al-air batteries

The effective repurposing of waste materials is crucial for sustainable development. The widespread use of disposable iron-based chemical warmers (IBCW) generates substantial solid waste annually. In this study, IBCWs were repurposed as raw materials to synthesize different electrocatalyst composites comprising metallic and oxide forms of iron embedded in nitrogen-doped carbon (NC). The composites were evaluated as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts. The optimized Fe-Fe3O4@NC demonstrated enhanced ORR kinetics, with an onset potential of 0.92 V and a half-wave potential of 0.86 V vs. RHE. As an air cathode for direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC), Fe-Fe3O4@NC achieved a power density of 33.3 mW cm−2 at 88 mA cm−2, demonstrating its practical applicability. Additionally, a quasi solid-state aluminium-air battery (SAAB) was assembled using this catalyst as the air cathode with a PVA-KOH gel electrolyte and the separator. The quasi SAAB exhibited an open circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.46 V, a power density of 40 mW cm-2, and good rate capability compared to Pt/C. The combined effect of metallic and oxide iron with nitrogen doping enhances the overall catalytic activity. This study demonstrates that IBCWs can be effectively transformed into valuable catalysts for renewable energy applications, enabling clean and sustainable utilization of waste materials.

Enhancing thermoelectric and radiation shielding performance of novel LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12 skutterudites for energy applications

We explore the structural, optoelectronic, and thermoelectric properties of LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12 skutterudites using first-principles computations and semi-classical Boltzmann Transport equations. These materials are classified as semiconductors exhibiting band gaps of 0.55 eV and 1.8 eV for spin-up and down polarizations. Valence band maxima (VBM) and conduction band minima (CBM) lie on the gamma points, indicating direct band gaps for both spin channels. The band structure, density of states, and optical characteristics reveal that the material is a semiconductor. The optical reflectivity and complex dielectric function were calculated for a wide range of photon radiation to understand these compounds' optical properties. The transport parameters were investigated using electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, the Seebeck coefficient, the power factor, the heat capacity, and the figure of merit determined using the Boltztrap code. The LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12 has a Seebeck coefficient of 5.77×10−6 V/K (Up), whereas the down channel has a 4.2×10−6 V/K. The highest figure of merit is 0.99, and as a result, the theoretical findings provide a robust foundation for upcoming experimental research. In this study, utilize the Phy-X program to evaluate the radiation shielding capabilities of LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12, focusing on critical parameters like mass attenuation coefficients (γmac) and half-value layers (γhvl), essential for optimizing protection against hazardous ionizing radiation. Computational study of energy-renewable and thermoelectric properties enables experimenters to investigate fresh applications for predicting photovoltaic materials with atomic-level accuracy.

Exploring the impact of Anions, Alkyl group and confinement effect in ionic liquid @ UiO-66(Zr) MOF: A DFT study

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a strong research material due to their exceptional porosity and tunable functional nature. MOF structures consist of metal nodes with organic linker, which can be functionalized depending on the required application. With the tunable properties, it has wide range of applications in energy, environmental and therapeutic approaches. Nevertheless there are several factors which can affect their performance such as lower affinity towards target molecules, chemical and thermal stability etc. To counter these issues several studies have been devoted on functionalizing the MOF. In this work, we have considered UiO-66 (University of Oslo-66) MOF because of its exceptional thermal and chemical stability with a series of versatile ionic liquids (ILs). The selected ILs are 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ([C2MIm]+) and 1‑butyl‑3-methylimidazolium ([C4MIm]+) cations with various anions [X]−, where X = acetate (OAc), tetrafluroborate (BF4), dicyanamide (DCA), nitrite (NO2) and chloride (Cl) anions. These ILs have been impregnated in tetrahedral (∼10 Å) and octahedral (∼16 Å) pores of UiO-66 structure. First principle density functional theory (DFT) approach is used to study the structure, stability, spectral properties and charge transfer between IL/UiO-66 interfaces. Our calculations suggest that, IL does not affect the structure of UiO-66 surface. The anion and the alkyl group in the cations play a vital role in the stability of the complexes. Furthermore, confinement effect influence the stability of the complexes, irrespective nature of anion and cation. Electron density and charge transfer analyses reveal that anions have profound liking towards MOF because of having high electronegative atoms. Our study will help to understand the molecular level interaction between IL@MOF interface, and these composite can be utilized for the energy and environment related applications.

Comparative Analysis of an 8 – Stage Cockcroft Walton Voltage Multiplier and A Dickson Voltage Multiplier in The Context of Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting

Purpose: This study seeks to enhance voltage multipliers for Radio Frequency (RF) energy harvesting, with an emphasis on increasing the efficiency of harvested energy. This improvement is vital for sustainable energy applications and reducing environmental pollution caused by fossil fuels. Theoretical reference: RF energy harvesting technology is gaining recognition as a viable sustainable method for capturing ambient energy, with earlier research primarily focused on antenna and circuit design. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of energy harvesting is still constrained by inadequate power output. This study expands on prior research by directly comparing two commonly utilized voltage multipliers, the Cockcroft Walton and Dickson multipliers, in the context of RF energy harvesting. Method: The Cockcroft Walton and Dickson voltage multipliers were optimally designed using Multisim and their performance was analysed using MATLAB. The comparison was conducted at an input voltage of 1V within two frequency ranges: 85 MHz – 110 MHz (FM band) and 1.8 GHz – 3.0 GHz (4G band). Output voltages for both multipliers were recorded and compared across these frequency bands. Results and Conclusion: At an input voltage of 1V within the FM band (85 MHz – 110 MHz), the Dickson voltage multiplier outperformed the Cockcroft Walton multiplier, delivering an output voltage of 11.1V compared to 6.6V. However, in the 4G band (1.8 GHz – 3.0 GHz), the Cockcroft Walton multiplier was more effective, providing a maximum output voltage of 5.2V against Dickson's 4.1V. The study concludes that the Dickson multiplier is more suitable for harvesting RF energy from the FM band, while the Cockcroft Walton multiplier is better for 4G band energy harvesting. Implications of research: The findings suggest that different RF energy harvesting applications may benefit from distinct voltage multipliers, depending on the frequency band in question. This could guide the design of more efficient RF energy harvesting circuits in future technologies aimed at sustainable energy solutions. Originality/value: This study offers a direct comparison of two voltage multipliers under different RF frequency conditions, providing valuable insights into optimizing energy harvesting technologies for green energy applications. The results help advance the understanding of efficient circuit design for specific RF frequency bands, contributing to the development of more effective energy harvesting systems.

Numerical and experimental investigation of heat transfer of longitudinal fin with varying pitch length in flat plate solar air heater

Solar energy is a promising clean energy alternative, and consequently, the novel and innovative applications of solar energy in day-to-day life are expected to rise in the near future. The reason for limited applications of solar air heaters is their low thermal efficiency. This is due to inadequate heat transfer from the absorber plate to the air (working fluid). It has done various experiments with different pitch lengths and recorded the efficiencies corresponding to various pitch lengths. Numerical and Experimental Investigation of heat transfer of longitudinal fin with varying number of pitch length (1–5) in a flat plate solar air heater to improve the rate of heat transmission, thin and lengthy fins have been put underneath the absorber plate. The fin was intended to be square. The investigation included two different fluid masses at rates of 0.0252 and 0.10 kg/s with two distinct Reynolds numbers, 627.46 and 26585.55. The goal of the present study is to get an understanding of the effects of variations in air flow rate on the outlet temperature, heat transfer through the solar collector's thickness, and overall thermal efficiency. It has done a CFD simulation on Ansys to verify the experimental results with the simulation results.

The Molecular Design and Electroluminescent Performance of Near-Infrared (NIR) Iridium(III) Complexes Bearing Isoquinoline-, Phthalazine- and Phenazine-Based Ligands.

Near-infrared (NIR) light has characteristics of invisibility to human eyes, less background interference, low light scattering, and strong cell penetration. Therefore, NIR luminescent materials have significant applications in imaging, sensing, energy, information storage and display. The development of NIR luminescent materials thus has emerged as a highly dynamic area of research in the realm of contemporary materials. To date, NIR luminescent materials are roughly divided into inorganic materials and organic materials. Compared with inorganic materials, organic NIR luminescent materials have become a hot research topic in recent years due to their rich sources, easy control of structure, simple preparation process, low cost, and good film-forming properties. Among them, iridium(III) [Ir(III)] complexes exhibit excellent properties such as thermal stability, simple synthesis, easy color modulation, short excited state lifetimes, and high brightness, thus becoming one of the ideal luminescent material systems for preparing high-quality organic light-emitting diodes. Therefore, how to obtain Ir(III) complexes with NIR emission and high efficiency through molecular design is a necessary and promising research topic. This work reviews the research progress of representative NIR Ir(III) complexes bearing isoquinoline-, phenazine-, and phthalazine-based ligands reported in recent years and introduces the design strategies and electroluminescent performances of NIR Ir(III) complexes.

Mechanically Robust and Biodegradable Electrospun Membranes Made from Bioderived Thermoplastic Polyurethane and Polylactic Acid.

Petroleum-based plastic waste plagues the natural environment, but plastics solve many high-performance solutions across industries. For example, porous polymer membranes are used for air filtration, advanced textiles, energy, and biomedical applications. Sustainable and biodegradable Bioplastic membranes can compete with nonrenewable materials in strength, durability, and functionality but biodegrade under select conditions after disposal. Membranes electrospun using a blend of bioderived thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polylactic acid (PLA) perform effectively under tensile and cyclic loading, act adequately as an air filter media, and biodegrade in a home-compost environment, with the aliphatic formulation of TPU showing greater biodegradability compared to the formulation containing aromatic moieties. Blending TPU with PLA dramatically increases the strain at break of the PLA membrane, while the addition of PLA in TPU stiffens the material considerably. Measurements of the pressure drop and filtration efficiency deem this electrospun membrane an effective air filter. This membrane provides a solution to the need for quality air filtration while decreasing the dependence on petroleum feedstocks and addressing the issue of plastic disposal through biodegradation.