Available Energy Resources Research Articles

Testing the Environmental Kuznets Curve Hypothesis within the Context of Industrial Development through NARDL Model: The Case of France

Energy is one of the necessary and vital factors for the economic development of countries and the increase in living standards. The limited availability of conventional energy resources, in parallel with the rapid increase in energy consumption due to industrialization activities and technological developments, has encouraged countries to change their energy production policies and use alternative energy sources. For this purpose, in the study, the relationship and direction of the relationship between industrial production, CO2 emissions, energy use and economic growth in France are examined with the carrying out of the ADF, PP, KPSS unit root and the NARDL test for the period 1990–2023. The analysis findings reveal that the variables are cointegrated in the long-run and a 1% unit raise in energy consumption would trigger CO2 emissions by 0.46%. The increase in energy consumption in the long term affects both negatively and positively in the long term. While a 1% increase in energy consumption reduces carbon emissions by 0.48%, a 1% decrease causes a 0.35 decrease in carbon emissions. The positive increase in economic growth and the negative increase in energy consumption trigger environmental pollution by causing an increase in carbon dioxide emissions. There is interdependence between economic activities and environmental pollution. Policy makers need to adopt a strategic approach in solving the rapid industrialization phenomenon and the accompanying magnitude of energy consumption, the pressure on natural resources and the environmental pollution problems resulting from them. In this respect, it is an inevitable necessity for countries to continue multilateral negotiations in which the public sector, business world, academia and non-governmental organizations will take part in solving environmental problems.

Facile Synthesis of Porous Zinc Nanosheets for Highly Selective Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to CO

AbstractWith the increasing levels of CO2 emissions and the decreasing availability of energy resources, the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) offers a promising method for utilizing CO2 as a valuable resource using sustainable electrical energy. However, developing cost‐effective and highly efficient catalysts remains a significant challenge. Although zinc, an abundant element on Earth, has shown potential for converting CO2 into CO, its effectiveness as a catalyst for CO2 reduction is hindered by its low selectivity and stability. This study introduces a fast, efficient, and simple electrochemical deposition method for preparing porous zinc nanosheets (NS) using the hydrogen bubble template approach. The as‐prepared zinc NS catalyst demonstrates exceptional catalytic activity due to its highly porous structure and high specific surface area. At a voltage of −1 V versus RHE, it achieves a maximum CO Faradaic efficiency of 89.5 %. The performance of this system is characterized by a partial current density of around −6.17 mA cm−2 in an H‐cell configuration. Additionally, our catalyst exhibits remarkable durability over 10 h, highlighting its significant potential for real‐world utilization in CO2RR.

The Effectiveness of the EU ETS Policy in Changing the Energy Mix in Selected European Countries

In the field of economic analysis, the study of the EU ETS policy has primarily focused on the impact of renewable energy consumption on economic growth, as well as the role of legal and fiscal instruments in the development of clean energy. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the EU ETS policy in altering the energy mix of selected European countries, providing both cognitive and applicational value. The evaluation of the effectiveness of this policy focused on the structure of the energy mix and the relationship between rising CO2 emission allowance prices and the decreasing share of coal in the energy mix. The goal was achieved through statistical analysis of secondary sources, primarily sourced from Bloomberg (2016–2024). The research findings indicated that changes in the structure of energy sources varied across the studied European countries, due to the adopted energy source utilization strategy, resource availability, and geopolitical situations. Additionally, different correlation values were noted between rising CO2 emission allowance prices and the expected reduction in fossil fuel use. Therefore, the EU ETS policy does not fulfill its assigned role—its implementation contributes to disparities in the economic situations of European economies and creates conditions for unequal competition.

Modelling the availability of water, energy, and food resources in transboundary river basins to achieve Sustainable Development Goals 2, 6, and 7

The Water-Energy-Food Nexus (WEFN) has gained international attention as an approach for managing water more holistically, building on the progress made by the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) approach. However, modelling the availability of water, energy, and food and their interconnections is complex, with major barriers that include the availability of both data and modelling platforms capable of assessing the interconnected systems of the WEFN. There have been attempts to model resource availability in each sector generally, but few attempts to consider the WEFN in complex transboundary basins, especially considering Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Here, a water, energy, and food availability model was developed using a combination of remotely sensed, national government reported, and global datasets. The model explores the complex interactions between the physical availability and production of water, energy, and food for several subbasins representing different states. Results showed the potential impacts of socioeconomic development, population changes and transboundary cooperation on resources. Transboundary cooperation in the case study Ma Basin in Southeast Asia, under existing resources and operations could improve monthly food security and reduce coal power operations using excess hydropower in the basin during the dry season. These findings show that transboundary cooperation improves access to energy and food, whilst potentially reducing demands for water. Furthermore, the research has highlighted ways in which transboundary cooperation can further assist in attaining SDGs 12 and 13 on responsible production and climate action, respectively. The modelling framework is easily transferable and can support similar analysis in other basins, contributing to global attainment of several SDGs.

PROSPECTS OF CENTRAL ASIAN MARKETS FOR RUSSIAN OIL COMPANIES

This article is devoted to the current state of the oil sector in the Central Asian countries and an assessment of the prospects of their markets for expanding the presence of Russian companies. The author highlights the main factors that determine the current situation in the oil producing and refining industries in the region: the overall availability of energy resources in general and crude oil in particular, property rights to oil producing and refining enterprises and operating oil pipelines, as well as international agreements in this area concluded over the past five years. The article substantiates the conclusion that today the potential of the region as a transport and logistics corridor and a center for oil production and refining remains largely untapped. In this regard, for Russian companies, the greatest interest lies in measures to establish control over pipelines from countries focused on the export of oil and oil products (Kazakhstan and, to a lesser extent, Turkmenistan) and to strengthen the presence in the domestic markets of those countries that focus on importing energy resources (Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan) by creating their own transport and refinement infrastructure.

A study on production of hydrogen using Al scrap feedstock.

A sustainable future, concerning the energy transformation of a country, heavily relies on the availability of energy resources, particularly renewables such as solar, wind, hydropower, and clean hydrogen. Among these, hydrogen is the most promising energy source due to its high calorific value, ranging between 120 and 140MJ/kg. It has the potential to lead the market in various industries such as power generation, steel, chemical, petrochemical, and automotive. Significant research has been going on in hydrogen production technologies to reduce costs and improve competitiveness with fossil fuels. One such potential approach includes the use of metal-water reactions, which offer unique opportunities for producing clean hydrogen and other valuable byproducts. However, the quantity of hydrogen produced varies depending on the metal feedstock, type of electrolyte, and the activator or catalyst, used in combination with water. This latest work discusses recent progress on hydrogen production and the effects of variations in different parameters on the process, with a focus on aluminum (Al)-water reactions. Investigations have been conducted and reported on the effect of various activators with different concentrations, the quantity of aluminum scrap feedstock, and the volume of the electrolyte on the kinetics of the metal-water reactions and hydrogen production. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was observed to be more effective than potassium hydroxide (KOH) in promoting metal-water reactions. These activator-assisted metal-water reactions help produce clean hydrogen, along with other value-added products such as hydroxides. This work clearly sheds light on the potential utilization of industrial aluminum scrap as feedstock for producing clean hydrogen.

China's environmental tax reform achieves the co-management of carbon and haze: The role of optimizing energy utilization

Environmental tax reform in China is an essential initiative to achieve carbon and haze co-management by shifting the Environmental Fee to Tax (EFT). Therefore, we employ a Coupling Coordination Degree (CCD) model to measure the level of carbon and haze co-management across three distinct scenarios in China. Treating the EFT policy as a quasi-natural experiment, the study explores its impact on carbon and haze co-management using data of 282 prefecture-level cities in China during 2015–2020. Furthermore, the study further analyzes the regional heterogeneity and the transmission mechanisms of optimizing energy utilization. The principal findings of this investigation are as follows. First, the co-management levels of carbon and haze in China show a discernible upward trend from 2015 to 2020. A heightened emphasis on carbon reduction is helpful in improving the co-management level of carbon and haze. Co-management levels of carbon and haze are lower within the treatment group compared to the control group, but their growth rates are higher. Second, the EFT policy in China has significantly enhanced the co-management level of carbon and haze. Third, the impact of China's EFT policy has a more pronounced effect in western China and a comparatively weaker effect in middle China, which may be attributed to variations in industrial infrastructure, supporting facilities, availability of clean energy resources, and prevailing policy inclinations across different regions of China. Finally, China's EFT policy is an instrumental factor in augmenting the co-management level of carbon and haze, primarily through pathways of upgrading energy structure and improving energy efficiency.

Electrochemistry of 2D-materials for the remediation of environmental pollutants and alternative energy storage/conversion materials and devices, a comprehensive review

This review article explores into the complicated relationship between electrochemistry and 2D materials, exploring their mutual influences and the consequential advancements in energy conversion, storage, and environmental applications. Electrochemical reactions, manifested through oxidations and reductions at submerged electrodes, form the linchpin connecting the electrochemistry of 2D materials with their practical utility. Various electrochemical cell topologies are investigated for their role in enhancing material flexibility, operational states, energy conversion efficiency, and device design adaptability. The comprehensive discussion extends to diverse applications, emphasizing the pivotal roles of 2D materials in environmental remediation, alternate energy storage and conversion, and chemical reactivity. Noteworthy applications include pollutant detection, adsorption and absorption of pollutants, elimination of both organic and inorganic pollutants, and photocatalytic degradation. The review also addresses materials synthesis via electrochemical processes, detailing functionalization, handling, and deposition techniques. Particular focus is directed towards local electrochemical techniques enabling the analysis and local alteration of 2D materials. Moreover, this paper concludes the article published in the recent years with this topic and most significant trends observed in 2022 and 2023 with electrochemistry of materials for the remediation of environmental pollutants. While the trends of article publishing increased from 2020 to 2023 with topic alternative energy storage/conversion materials. Finally, offering a comprehensive overview of the synergistic relationship between electrochemistry and 2D materials and their transformative potential in sustainable technologies. Broader contextThe decreasing availability of energy resources and the contamination of the environment are two significant worldwide concerns that need immediate attention. The focus on 2D materials and associated technologies is important for the efficient conversion of solar energy into chemical energy. These materials have diverse applications in fields such as energy (e.g., water splitting), synthesis (e.g., production of valuable chemicals and N2 reduction), and the environment (e.g., CO2 reduction and environmental remediation). Furthermore, Electrochemical energy storage and conversion (EESC) technologies are widely acknowledged as the most viable solutions to address the escalating energy crisis and environmental degradation because to their exceptional energy efficiency and little environmental footprint. Currently, there have been several reports discussing the use of 2D-materials in energy applications and wastewater treatment. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews that summarize the electrochemistry of 2D-materials, their preparation strategies, modification techniques, and related properties. Furthermore, there is a need for detailed analysis of the progress in applying 2D-materials for environmental pollution remediation, electrocatalytic performance, energy storage, and conversion technologies and devices. In this paper, we systematically and comprehensively review the electrochemistry of 2D-materials and innovatively analyze the design principles and difficulties of 2D-materials. We discussed comprehensively the remediation of environmental pollutants through 2D-materials in water treatment fields such as photocatylsts, adsorption/absorption and dyes removal as an entry point and provide an in-depth knowledge and outlook on the current status and development potential of specific applications of energy storage and conversion materials and devices.

AC Networks With Microgrids: Passivity-Based Controllers in Single Phase Electric Network

—This paper is an investigation of the possible integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) in single-phase alternating current networks, using voltage-controlled converters, based on passivity-based control theory. In closed-loop operation, Hamiltonian representations facilitate the development of passive controllers that guarantee stability. The trajectory tracking problem can be solved as a regulation problem by transforming the non-autonomous dynamical model into an incremental model. In this work, the primary contribution is the ability to control active and reactive power flows between DERs and the grid according to the availability of primary energy resources and converter capacity. Simulated results indicate that all passive controllers achieve the control objective, maintaining asymptotic stability and achieving the same dynamic performance as integral proportional controllers. SimPowerSystems library is used to develop all simulations under the MATLAB/Simulink environment. The paper presents a novel approach to integrating distributed energy resources into single-phase alternating current networks, utilizing voltage-controlled converters and leveraging passivity-based control theory.

Advancements in Expanded Clay Manufacturing Using "Clay-Desert Sand-Oil Sludge" Sludge Composite Materials

This study explores the development of resource-saving expanded clay technology utilizing underutilized clay raw materials and oil extraction waste. Traditional expanded clay production is energy-intensive and often employs high-quality clay; however, our research identifies technological modes and parameters for producing expanded clay through plastic molding, incorporating substandard raw materials and oil sludge. This method eliminates the need for costly energy-releasing additives and reduces energy costs associated with drying and firing by 25-30%. The research aims to demonstrate the feasibility of this novel production technique in the Republic of Kazakhstan, considering the local availability of raw materials, energy resources, and regional demand for thermal insulation materials in industrial and civil construction. Our findings suggest that integrating 'Desert Sand-Oil Sludge' into the batch composition can effectively produce granulated porous thermal insulation material, aligning with the region's development strategy and offering significant economic and environmental benefits.
 Highlights:
 
 Resource Utilization: Uses oil waste and substandard clay to produce expanded clay, reducing reliance on high-quality materials.
 Energy Savings: Cuts energy costs for production by 25-30% through innovative processing.
 Regional Benefit: Aligns with Kazakhstan's strategy by utilizing local resources and supporting construction needs.
 
 Keywords: Expanded Clay, Oil Sludge, Desert Sand

Energetic Valorization of the Innovative Building Envelope: An Overview of Electric Production System Optimization

The world population increased from 1 billion in 1800 to around 8 billion today. The Population Division of the United Nations predicts a global population of approximately 10.4 billion people by the end of the century. That represents over 2 billion more people. Moreover, the global community is currently experiencing a precarious state due to the enduring repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic across all sectors, including energy. Given the rising global population and the limited availability of primary energy resources, we must reach a balance between the demands of a growing human population and the planet’s carrying capacity. The dreadful conflict in Ukraine has precipitated an enormous energy crisis. This crisis has served as a warning to the world population of how much it depends on this resource to survive. In France, the building sectors, specifically residential and tertiary, account for 45% of the total final energy consumption. It is the first energy consumer of the country and one of the most polluting (i.e., about 34% of CO2 emitted by France). Consequently, we must consider alternative energy resource forms (i.e., substitution energy forms). Harvesting energy from the building envelope may be a viable technique for partially satisfying the electricity demands of building users. In this context, scientific research offers considerable potential for developing more innovative and efficient systems. This article aims to review the state-of-the-art of advances on the subject to orient and further optimize energy production systems, particularly electricity. This work addresses several points of view: it discusses the overall backdrop of the present study and introduces the subject; details the research strategy and procedures used to produce this paper; develops the state-of-the-art on the potential for generating or recovering power from the building envelope; presents the SWOT analysis of the earlier-described systems. Finally, it concludes by offering findings and viewpoints.

Energy security and the shift to renewable resources: The case of Russia-Ukraine war

The performance of energy firms plays a crucial role in ensuring energy security, as it determines the availability and affordability of energy resources for a country, especially in the face of geopolitical crisis. This study explores the impact of economic sanctions imposed on Russia in early 2022 on energy stock returns in 57 countries, providing causal evidence on the relationship between major geopolitical events and energy security. Using advanced DiD methodology, the research found that nations heavily reliant on oil imports saw a significant increase in energy stock returns, suggesting no major issue of energy security in sanction-sender nations. Moreover, renewable energy companies experienced a greater rise in returns than non-renewable counterparts, indicating a potential shift towards renewables during times of geopolitical tension. These findings shed light on the intricate relationship between geopolitical events, market trends, and energy security policy, offering valuable insights for policymakers to navigate this complex landscape.

IMPORTANCE OF NATURAL RESOURCE ACCOUNTING IN INDIA : A CASE STUDY ON THE MINERAL AND ENERGY RESOURCES

Natural resource accounting is a crucial framework for evaluating the economic and environmental dimensions of a regions resource utilization. This case study delves into the crucial field of natural resource accounting in India, with a specific focus on the management of mineral and energy resources. The study underscores the fundamental axiom that Measurement of a resource leads to its better management. Through data collection, resource valuation, stock and flow analysis, sustainability assessment, and environmental impact evaluation, the paper reveals insights into the sustainable management of these invaluable assets.Indias burgeoning demand for mineral and energy resources, driven by rapid economic growth, necessitates an informed approach to resource management. Natural resource accounting serves as a key tool in this regard. By quantifying these resources, assessing their value, marketing them and considering their economic, environmental, and social impacts, this study advocates for a more informed decision-making process.The study emphasizes how the data and analysis derived from natural resource accounting facilitate the formulation of effective policies. These policies encompass resource extraction quotas, taxation, conservation measures, and environmental regulations, all of which are vital in ensuring responsible resource management.Furthermore, the study acknowledges the significant environmental repercussions of mineral and energy resource extraction. It underscores the importance of accounting for environmental costs and damages, thereby advancing policies aimed at responsible resource management and environmental conservation.A critical aspect addressed in this case study is the assessment of resource sustainability. Understanding whether resources are being extracted at a rate that is sustainable in the long term is paramount. It also underscores the need for policies that promote sustainable resource management and conservation.Transparency and public awareness are another focal point of the study. The availability of information regarding the status and utilization of mineral and energy resources can lead to more responsible resource management practices and enhanced accountability among stakeholders.Finally, this study emphasizes the economic planning and revenue generation potential of natural resource accounting. By grasping the value and availability of mineral and energy resources, governments can allocate resources for development projects, infrastructure, and social welfare programs more effectively.In conclusion, natural resource accounting is a vital tool for sustainable resource management in India. By quantifying and assessing these resources while considering their economic, environmental, and social implications, the government and stakeholders can make more informed decisions and work towards responsible resource management. The study highlights the potential for responsible management of mineral and energy resources in India, benefiting both the present and future generations while safeguarding its natural heritage.

ENERGY SECURITY IN THE GLOBAL CONTEXT: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF GEOPOLITICAL DYNAMICS AND POLICIES

Energy security is a critical dimension in the contemporary global landscape, where the availability, affordability, and reliability of energy resources play a pivotal role in shaping geopolitical dynamics and national policies. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the intricate interplay between energy security, geopolitics, and policies on the global stage. The quest for energy security is inherently linked to the geopolitical landscape, as nations strategically position themselves to secure access to vital energy resources. The competition for control over key energy reserves, transit routes, and distribution networks often shapes international relations, leading to geopolitical tensions and conflicts. The study delves into the geopolitical dynamics surrounding major energy-producing regions, such as the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Arctic, analyzing the impact of these dynamics on global energy security. Policies and strategies employed by nations to enhance their energy security are critical aspects of this review. The analysis encompasses a range of policy dimensions, including diversification of energy sources, investments in renewable energy technologies, and the development of resilient energy infrastructure. Moreover, the study explores the role of international collaborations, agreements, and institutions in fostering energy security and addressing common challenges. The transition towards a sustainable and secure energy future is a key focus, considering the increasing importance of climate change mitigation and the imperative to reduce dependence on finite fossil fuel resources. The paper emphasizes the significance of policy frameworks that balance economic, environmental, and security considerations to achieve a holistic approach to energy security. This comprehensive review provides a nuanced understanding of energy security within the global context, offering insights into the complex interconnections between geopolitics and policies. It underscores the need for a collaborative and multifaceted approach to address the challenges and opportunities inherent in securing the world's energy future.
 Keywords: Energy Security, Policies, Geopolitical Dynamics, Energy, Review.

Энергетическая безопасность в глобализованном мире – роль международно-правового регулирования

In the globalized world, energy security means the ability of countries and regions to satisfy their energy demands without any threats to their economic, social or political stability. Energy security depends on a variety of factors such as availability, reliability, price and sustainability of energy resources as well as the level of cooperation and competition between producers, consumers and transit countries. Energy security in the globalized world is a multifaceted problem that includes availability, reliability and accessibility of energy resources. International cooperation is of great importance since energy security is not limited by national borders, but is a common global problem. The key role is assigned to international treaties. Countries need to solve legal issues arising in view of the transition to the low-carbon economy and guarantee that their policy is in line with the obligations to fight against the climate change. The achievement of safe and sustainable energy future in the inter-related world requires a combination of legal measures and strategic planning.

ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ ПРОЕКТА ИНВЕСТИЦИОННОГО ПЛАНА В ОБЛАСТИ ПРОРЫВНЫХ ЭНЕРГЕТИЧЕСКИХ ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ

Breakthrough energy technologies are the key to industrial upgrading, and the innovation of breakthrough energy technology concepts is the initial reform of the new generation of information technology revolution. Given the availability of energy resources that partially replace coal and oil in the current energy mix, the Russian energy system needs to further increase the share of non-fossil energy sources, but existing technologies and industrial scales are difficult to achieve this goal and even more difficult to maintain the implementation of the net zero goal.

A heat recovery-based ecofriendly solar thermal-driven electricity/hydrogen/freshwater multigeneration scheme using LNG regasification: Energy, exergy, economic, and environmental (4E) analysis

The availability of ample solar energy resources holds significant importance for populated islands as it represents a vital avenue for ensuring sustainable energy provision while reducing reliance on external energy sources. The proposed system is designed to offer residential solutions, providing a promising answer to fulfill the varied energy requirements of modern islands. This innovative system integrates parabolic trough solar collectors, a cascaded organic Rankine cycle (ORC), a hydrogen production unit via electrolysis, and a water desalination system through membrane modules. By employing an optimized methodology, this system enhances the thermal efficiency of the proposed setup and enables island communities to access natural gas resources. A robust programming code has been crafted to comprehensively evaluate the system from the standpoints of energy, exergy, economics, and the environment. The system is engineered to accomplish a range of objectives, including the generation of 1.2 MW of electricity, meeting a cooling load of 460 kW, producing 9.7 kg/h of hydrogen, and supplying 33 kg/s of desalinated water. In addition, natural gas is delivered to the consumer network at a rate of 3.09 kg/s. The financial assessment, which includes the initial investment and ongoing maintenance, shows that the cost rate for the whole system is 142 $/h, with an estimated levelized cost of 33.2 Cent/m3 for fresh water. The findings of the environmental assessment indicate that the proposed system holds significant potential for mitigating carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, with a maximum reduction rate of 254 kg/h. This reduction in CO2 emissions leads to a corresponding decrease in the CO2 emission cost rate, estimated to be approximately 7 $/h.

Techno-economic and environmental impact assessment of a hybrid renewable energy system employing an enhanced combined dispatch strategy

Developing countries face challenges in maintaining a reliable power supply due to factors such as ageing infrastructure and rapid urbanization. Relying on backup diesel generators during outages is not only ecologically hazardous but also economically inefficient. Integrating multiple renewable sources with conventional energy systems is crucial to meeting growing energy demands and reducing carbon emissions. This study assesses dispatch strategies for optimal operation in hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) connected to an unreliable national grid (GRD). An enhanced combined dispatch (ECD) strategy is introduced for effective energy distribution, considering load demands, energy resource availability, and grid unreliability. Compared to load following (LF) and cycle charging (CC) strategies, the ECD strategy proves superior, resulting in an optimized HRES configuration with a 248 kW solar PV array, a 2 kW wind turbine (WDT), a 22 kW biogas generator (BGG), a 92 kW diesel generator (DiG), and a 658 kWh battery storage (BSS). Achieving a low Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) at 0.148 USD per kilowatt-hour and a Net Present Cost (NPC) of 1.99 million USD. Adopting the ECD strategy also exhibits substantial reductions in CO2, CO, SO2, and NOx emissions when compared to CC and LF. ECD achieves approximately 25% lower CO2 emissions, 34% lower CO emissions, and a 40% reduction in SO2 and NOx emissions. These findings highlight the ECD strategy's potential for effective, economically viable, and environmentally conscious energy solutions, particularly relevant in developing nations like Nigeria, where Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems could play a crucial role in the energy sector.

Nisin and Organic Acid Salts Improved the Microbial Quality, Extended the Shelf Life, and Maintained the Sensory Attributes of Semidry Beef Luncheon Marketed at Adverse (35-40 °C) Ambient Summer Temperatures.

Semidry beef luncheon may undergo deteriorative changes during storage at ambient temperatures in tropical and subtropical regions including Egypt. This study was conducted in a meat plant in Egypt with the aim of overcoming the economic losses from the returns of spoiled unsold beef luncheon displayed in grocery stores at adverse summer temperatures of 37 °C or more. Ten approaches were applied using different preservatives, comprising sodium nitrite, nisin, potassium sorbate, and organic acid salts (a combination of sodium lactate, sodium acetate, and sodium diacetate). In addition, the product was cooked at different temperatures and was stored for 21 days at 37 °C, during which time the shelf life, microbial quality, pH, and sensory attributes were investigated. By Day 21 of storage, the luncheon contained 50 mg/kg sodium nitrite, 25 mg/kg nisin, and 1000 mg/kg organic acid salts and, when cooked at a final core temperature of 92 °C, exhibited reductions in aerobic plate count, anaerobic plate count, lactic acid bacterial count, and mold and yeast counts by 4.32, 3.54, 3.47, and 1.89 log10 CFU/g, respectively, when compared with the control. The sensory attributes and pH were also maintained in the final products of such treatment, with no product return and the avoidance of economic loss. This study presents a novel approach for solving the major problem of the deteriorative changes that occur in semidry luncheon sausage and similar meat products which require rejection with a huge economic loss, especially in tropical and semitropical areas of the world that have similar problems of high climatic temperatures and a low availability of energy or technological resources.

Evaluation method for the availability of solar energy resources in road areas before route corridor planning

The full utilization of solar energy resources along the road is an effective method to solve the energy shortage in transportation. The key to this is an accurate evaluation of solar energy resources, which provides the rationale for the optimal location of road photovoltaic (PV) projects. However, determining the availability of solar energy resources in road areas before route corridor planning remains difficult. To address the issue, this paper developed a standardized method. Firstly, this paper analyzed the critical factors affecting the availability of solar energy resources. They were meteorology, topography, land use type, geology, and location. On that basis, we developed a four-level evaluation indicator system. Then, it proposed a multi-indicator evaluation method based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Geographic Information System (GIS). It used AHP to calculate the weights of each indicator, with solar radiation being the most important. It used GIS to analyze and overlay the spatial distribution of multiple indicators to obtain the map of suitability grades, which could be used to route corridor selection for road PV projects. It also used a case study to demonstrate how the method is applied. The findings show that the method can accurately evaluate the availability of solar energy resources. Furthermore, it studied the appropriate division of evaluation units and it is advised that they shouldn't be larger than 30 m × 30 m. These results provide guidance as a reference for the application of road PV projects and site selection for route corridors worldwide. That will promote the integration of transportation and energy in the future.