CO2 Gas Emissions Research Articles

Rubbery organic frameworks (ROFs) toward ultrapermeable CO2-selective membranes.

The capture of CO2 is of high interest in our society representing an essential tool to mitigate man-made climate warming. Membrane technology applied for CO2 capture offers several advantages in terms of energy savings, simple operation, and easy scale-up. Glassy membranes are associated with low gas permeability that negatively affect on their industrial implementation. Oppositely, rubbery membranes offer high permeability, but their selectivity is low. Here we report rubbery organic frameworks (ROFs) combining the high permeability of soft matrices with the high sieving selectivity of molecular frameworks. The best performing membranes provide a CO2/N2 selectivity up to 104 with a CO2 permeability up to 1000 Barrer, representing relevant performances for industrial implementation. Water vapors have a positive effect on CO2 permeability, and the CO2/N2 selectivity is higher than in dry conditions, as most of CO2 gas emissions are present in fully humidified gas streams. The synergetic high permeability/selectivity performances are superior to that observed with current state-of-the-art polymeric membranes.

Enhancing energy efficiency in Bangladesh’s readymade garment sector: the untapped potential of LED lighting retrofits

Purpose Previous studies emphasized the substantial energy-saving potential of light emitting diode (LED) lighting systems, especially in the clothing industry. However, the specific quantification of energy conservation potential in industrial factories, particularly in Bangladesh’s readymade garment (RMG) sector, remains unexplored. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential energy savings and efficiency improvements of lighting systems in Bangladesh’s RMG sector using LED technology. Design/methodology/approach Understanding and optimizing energy consumption is crucial in the RMG sector because this sector contributes significantly to the country’s export earnings. For this, an RMG factory was surveyed and possible lighting system retrofitting was estimated and compared. Findings The adoption of energy-efficient lighting options, particularly LED, could decrease the current lighting energy usage from 15% to 7.5% in Bangladesh. First, this study reveals, that the reduction of annual energy consumption was determined to be 18,220 kWh due to the retrofitting of the lighting system with LED tube. Second, it conducts real-time measurements to assess the suitability of in-building lighting systems, providing insights into the current scenario. Lastly, it evaluates the economic and environmental benefits of the proposed lighting system in the RMG industries. Due to the retrofitting of the lighting system, the reduction of equivalent CO2 gas emissions was found to be 119.896 tCO2. Originality/value For the first time, this study explored the potential for enhancing energy-efficient lighting system design through retrofitting in the RMG industry, with a focus on Bangladesh. By addressing these aspects, this study aims to contribute to the advancement of energy efficiency and conservation efforts in the RMG sector, ultimately fostering sustainable industrial development in Bangladesh and beyond.

Impacts of Environmental Conditions on Thermal, Emissions and Economic Performance of Gas Turbine Using Different Types of Fuels: An Experimental Investigation

Gas turbine has been used widely for electrical power generation based on simple cycle system. However, the relatively low thermal efficiency engages the researchers in investigating possible methods to enhance gas turbine performance. In the current study, three different types of fuels were used (crude oil, light oil, and natural gas) to operate the gas power plant in Qayyara, Mosul, Iraq and to evaluate the plant's performance, environmental impact and economic cost. The Aspen Husys package was used for simulation based on data recorded by the control department. Results showed that the software applied was highly valid. The external environmental temperature influenced the performance and efficiency of the station significantly with maximum values obtained for winter by 114MW and thermal efficiency of 32.02% for natural. The emissions of CO2, SO2, and NOX gases are decreased, whereas CO emission is increased when the temperature of the external environment is raised with fewer emissions obtained for natural gas. The cost of three fuels in (summer) is the highest among the four months, with the higher cost for light fuel by 68.2 Iraqi diners/kiloWatt.hour. Therefore, light fuel cannot be used for the permanent operation of gas turbines, and natural gas fuel gives better performance and lower emissions than the other two types of fuels.

Blue Carbon Potential of Mangrove Ecosystems and Its Management to Promote Climate Change Mitigation in Indonesia

This research aimed to analyze blue carbon potential and mangrove ecosystem management in promoting climate change mitigation in Indonesia. The collected data included mangrove area data obtained through the Indonesian National Ecosystem Monitoring System (SIMONTANA). This research calculated the carbon stock using the global average of mangrove carbon stock. The results showed that the total blue carbon stored in mangrove ecosystems reached 3,267.87 Megaton Carbon (MtC). Papua and Kalimantan regions contributed the most significant potential, with 1,707.22 MtC and 608.17 MtC, respectively. The absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) reached 11,982.21 MtCO2e. The most significant CO2 gas emissions absorption was observed in the Papua region, amounting to 6,259.80 MtCO2e, followed by Sumatra with 2,118.59 MtCO2e. This high potential value correlated with mangrove ecosystem management policies, such as conservation, restoration, and blue carbon monetization. Mangrove management for climate change mitigation was carried out through national and international cooperation to achieve the 26% to 40% emission reduction target. The existing management model of mangrove ecosystems focused on improving ecological sustainability with less orientation on improving community welfare. Implementing blue carbon monetization at the district level by involving the community as the owners or managers of the mangrove ecosystems is crucial.

Effects of Dietary Energy Profiles on Energy Metabolic Partition and Excreta in Songliao Black Pigs Under Different Ambient Temperature.

In order to further reveal the special characteristics of energy metabolism and the characteristics of energy requirements of fattening pigs grown in low-temperature environments, this study used a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial array of treatments, which harnessed two temperatures (low-temperature, LT group: 10 °C; normal-temperature, NT group: 20 °C), two feed energy levels (normal-energy, NE group: 14.02 MJ/kg metabolic energy; high-energy, HE group: 15.14 MJ/kg metabolic energy), and two feed energy sources (LF group: low fat, HF group: high fat). Thirty-two Songliao black fattening pigs with an initial body weight of 85.48 ± 2.31 kg were completely randomized into eight treatment groups, with four replicates in each treatment group and one pig in each replicate. The pigs were placed in a respiratory metabolic chamber for a 6-day trial. There was one pig per respiratory metabolic chamber in a single cage. The results showed that the average daily weight gain in the normal-temperature, high-energy, and high-fat groups was higher than that of the low-temperature, normal-energy, and low-fat groups (p < 0.05). The fat deposition rate, protein oxidation, and fat oxidation of the high-fat group were higher than those of the low-fat group (p < 0.05). The energy digestibility, protein digestibility, and fat digestibility in the high-fat group were higher than those in the normal-energy group (p < 0.05). The fat digestibility and energy deposition rate in the high-fat group were higher than those in the low-fat group (p < 0.05). The respiratory quotient in the high-energy group was lower than that in the normal-energy group (p < 0.05), and the respiratory quotient in the high-fat group was lower than that in the low-fat group (p < 0.05). There was an interaction between temperature and energy sources in terms of the respiratory quotient, fat oxidation, blood urea nitrogen content, and glucose content (p < 0.05). Appropriately increasing the energy level of the diet and improving the energy structure of the feed (increasing the level of fats and oils) will benefit Songliao black fattening pigs by increasing their energy use efficiency and at the same time reducing greenhouse gas CO2 emissions, and these changes are more pronounced in cold environments.

Assessment of Waste Animal Fats (WAFS) Biodiesel Production Potential as an Alternative Fuel for Zambia: A Case Study of Southern Province

The volatility in global fuel prices and the desire to reduce energy dependency on fossil fuels has necessitated the speeding up of alternative energy supply sources. Coupled to this is the global urgent need to reduce the accumulation of CO2 and green house gas (GHG) emissions as a result of fossil fuels production and use. Further, the mandate by united nations to move towards sustainably produced energy for the transportation, and power generation demands that we seek energy solutions that meet reduced negative impact on the environment. It is in this regard that this study seeks alternatives in waste animal fats (WAFs) biodiesel as an option that could meet the ever increasing demand for fossil fuel in the transport sector and power generation. For the transport sector and power generation , the biodiesel maybe blended with the fossil diesel in the approved ratios as stipulated by the Energy Regulation Board and the Zambia Bureau of Standards to help mitigate the net GHG and CO2 emissions. The biodiesel production in this study was based on the modified two-step process. These two steps involved passing the feedstock through esterification using sulphuric acid as catalyst and there after base catalysed using sodium hydroxide in a process referred to as transesterification. The resulting products in the esterification process are the esters and water whilst in the transesterification are the biodiesel and glycerol. The feedstock used are those of waste animal fats (WAFs) of cattle, pig and chicken that has been discarded from meat processing and animal slaughter houses. The feedstocks have been carefully selected based on the animals raised in the country with a bigger slaughtered population as well as reared. The population of animals reared and slaughtered annually are obtained from the Zambia Ministry of Agriculture animal population census records. Based on these records, the preferred feedstock sources where obtained. The study further 1. explored the economic potential of the biodiesel production for the Zambian government and beyond. 2. compared some of the characteristics of WAF biodiesel to that of imported fossil diesel 3. affirmed that WAF biodiesel has a very good impact in reducing environmental pollution as WAF dumping to land fills and the cost of disposal is reduced. Also,WAF biodiesel is bio-degradable. Thus, moving closer to an effective sustainable development as required by the united nations sustainability goals if full scale production is implemented in Zambia.

Demise of fossil fuels part I: Supply and demand

According to United Nations , the world needs to reduce the emission of CO2 and other global warming gases by 45 % by 2030 and to negligible amount by 2050. According to UN, this is necessary to keep the goal of keeping earth temperature not exceeding 1.5 °C compared to pre-industrial level temperatures.To achieve this objective means reducing the fossil fuel consumption. Fossil fuels are largely responsible for emitting CO2; therefore, without significant reduction in fossil fuels consumption by 2050, the net zero emission by 2050 is not possible.One argument advanced in support of reducing fossil fuels consumption is limited supply. Using the principle of “Peak Oil Theory,” proponents state that fossil fuels is a limited resource and the world will simply run out of it. Based on the available data, we demonstrate that supply of fossil fuels is relatively abundant, and we will not run out of fossil fuels in near term. Using shale formations as an example, we demonstrate how the success of drilling horizontal wells with hydraulic fractures have significantly increased the oil and gas resource available for exploitation. To reduce fossil fuels demand, the available solutions include improving energy efficiency, reducing subsidies on fossil fuels, imposing carbon tax and life choice changes. We discuss some of those alternatives. Fossil fuel supply is relatively abundant and only possible solution to reduce the consumption is to reduce the demand. By comparing developed countries' consumption with developing countries’ consumption, we see a pathway where growth in GDP can be achieved without significant increase in fossil fuels consumption. Because of efficiency gains in energy usage, GDP in developed countries continues to grow without increase in fossil fuels consumption. Faster we reach the efficiency stage in developing countries, easier it would be reduce the fossil fuel consumption in the world.

Size fraction characterisation of highly-calcareous and siliceous fly ashes

The properties of coal fly ash vary significantly depending on factors such as coal type, combustion conditions, and flue gas emission reduction methods. This study investigates the influence of particle size fractionation on the chemical composition, mineralogical structure, and thermal behaviour of two types of fly ash: high calcium ash derived from lignite (S1) and silica-rich ash from bituminous coal (S2). Dry aerodynamic separation was used to obtain distinct size fractions, which were then subjected to a comprehensive characterisation including X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermal analysis. The results reveal notable differences between the S1 and S2 ashes and between their size fractions. The finer fractions (< 20 μm) of S1 showed an increased calcium and sulphur content, while the coarser fractions (> 100 μm) contained more silica and alumina. The S2 ash exhibited a higher overall silica content, with alkali metals concentrated in finer fractions. Thermal analysis demonstrated distinct behaviours for each type and fraction of ash. Fine fractions of S1 ash showed SO2 emission at elevated temperatures, while S2 ash exhibited greater CO2 gas emission. After thermal treatment, the recrystallisation of the glassy phase was observed for S1, while the S2 ashes were more prone to melting and agglomeration. The study highlights the potential for the customised utilisation of specific ash fractions in various applications, such as geopolymer synthesis, adsorbent materials, and refractory products. This comprehensive characterisation contributes to a better understanding of fly ash properties and their dependence on particle size, providing valuable insights to optimise fly ash utilisation in various industries. The findings suggest strategies for a more efficient use of fly ash resources, particularly relevant in the context of decreasing fly ash availability due to the phase-out of coal power plants.

DBN-based molecular solvents for highly efficient and reversible CO2 capture

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a crucial step in mitigating global warming. Carbon dioxide (CO2) represents one of the most pivotal greenhouse gases contributing to climate change. Many researchers are actively engaged in the development of effective and reversible CO2 absorbents to control and reduce CO2 gas emissions. In this paper, we synthesized a series of molecular solvents (MSs) based on the superbase 1,5-diazabicyclo [4.3.0]-5-nonene (DBN) and used them for CO2 capture. The CO2 capture capacity of MSs composed of DBN and different alcohols was systematically investigated, with DBN-Methanol (1:1.25) demonstrating superior absorption performance by achieving a maximum absorption capacity of 0.263 g CO2/g MS. The effects of temperature, pressure, the molar ratio of the hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) to hydrogen bond donor (HBD), and moisture on the absorption process were studied. The experimental results were corroborated by NMR spectra analysis and FTIR spectra analysis, confirming that these MSs can effectively react with CO2 to produce carbonate and carbamate compounds through synergistic absorption involving hydroxyl group as primary component and amino group as secondary component. In addition, it is worth noting that the MSs studied in this work exhibit only glass transition at low temperatures and transform into ionic liquids (ILs) after capturing CO2, resulting in a significant increase in conductivity and demonstrating considerable electrochemical potential.

Study of improving the quality of charcoal briquettes mixed to sago barks and sago dregs as an alternative energy source

Abstract The sago processing industry generates waste in the form of sago barks and dregs, which often polluting the environment, To address this issue, one promising solution is the conversion of these waste into renewable energy such as briquettes. This study aims to improve the quality of sago dreg briquettes by incorporating sago barks, aiming for compliance with charcoal briquette standards and indoor air quality regulations concerning to briquette combustion emissions. Various mixing ratios were examined, to determine the optimal composition. The manufacturing process followed the standard guidelines outlined in SNI 01-6235-2000. Testing procedures encompassed proximate analysis, calorific value determination via bomb calorimetry, and assessment of CO gas emissions using an Environmental Combustion Analysis (ECA) tool. Results indicated a significant influence of the Barks-dreg ratio on physical characteristics, combustion behavior, and CO emissions. The KBA2 mixture, comprising 90% barks and 10% dregs, exhibited the most good attributes, including moisture (2%), ash (10.32%), fly matter (20.66%), bound carbon content (69.02%), and calorific value (5806.4 cal/g). Emission testing with the ECA tool confirmed CO emissions of 357 mg/Nm3, well within acceptable limits. In conclusion, this study shows that mixing sago barks and sago dregs in certain proportions can produces briquettes that meet quality standars, which have the potential for sustainable energy production in the sago industry.

CO2 emission heat map of Gulf Cooperation Council region using Python for Geographic Information Systems

Abstract As part of the efforts to ensure a place in the global competitive landscape, Oman is aligning itself with sustainable development through diversified economic measures. To address the United Nations thirteenth Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) which is climate action, the stakeholders of Oman need to understand the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and compare the amount of CO2 with the emissions in neighbouring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries such as United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). In this research, an attempt is being made to collect the CO2 emission for all these countries and show them on a web map using python programming language. The data ranging from year 1964 to 2021 is collected from CO2 and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Comma Separated Values (csv) format. For each country, an approximate location for Capital in terms of Latitude and Longitude is taken from google maps. Using folium library of python, these locations and CO2 emission for a particular year is plotted on google map Application Programming Interface (API). The findings reveal that Oman’s CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and industry in 2022 year is 72 million tonnes which is relatively lower when compared to those of smaller GCC countries such as Qatar (101 million tonnes) and the UAE (244 million tonnes). Nonetheless, a gradual upward trend of 12 million tonnes of CO2 emissions has been observed in Oman between the years 2019 to 2022. The python program provides an easy way to visualise the CO2 emission heatmap without the need of any proprietary software or program.

Study of the Incidence of CO and CO2 Gas Emission Levels and Temperature, of the Automotive Air Conditioning System Inside an Interprovincial Bus at Different Environmental and Operating Conditions

The present curricular integration work proposes to analyze the levels of CO and CO2 gas emissions in the passenger compartment of an interprovincial bus, considering environmental and functional conditions, to obtain values that are analyzed, allowing to know the comfort conditions of the passenger, and considering an ideal temperature of 22∘C. The study was carried out on the selected route during the bus route, both in the central and peripheral urban sectors, where the influx of users is notable throughout the day. The field measurements were carried out (August 5-10), inside the passenger compartment of an interprovincial bus, considering operating variables of the automotive air conditioning system, such as condition, OFF, air recirculation, and air renewal. Data were collected in the passenger compartment’s front, middle, and rear sections. An IAQ TESTO 440 gas analyzer was used through the CO2 and the CO probe, located at a height of 1.1 m from the floor, which was considered as the average respiratory level of the passenger, generating the data in lapses of 10 min. Once the analysis has been carried out, the data is tabulated and the concentration levels of emissions produced by the users’ exhalation are determined. Finally, by tabulating the data, it was possible to know the concentration percentages of the gas emissions produced by the users, in the different locations of the passenger compartment. It is recommended that for future research, a study be carried out with data collected from a full day of travel. Keywords: Air conditioning, optimization, gas emissions, air quality, passenger cabin, comfort, gas analyzer, interprovincial transport. Resumen Este trabajo de integración interna propone analizar el CO2 y las emisiones de CO2 en el habitáculo de los autobuses interurbanos, teniendo en cuenta las condiciones ambientales y funcionales, para obtener los valores analizados, que permitan conocer el estado de confort del pasajero. Teniendo en cuenta la temperatura ideal de 22∘C. En la ruta seleccionada, el estudio se realizó a lo largo de la ruta del bus, tanto en la zona céntrica como en la semiurbana donde hay una gran cantidad de usuarios a lo largo del día. Se realizaron mediciones de campo (del 5 al 10 de agosto) al interior del habitáculo de un bus interurbano, teniendo en cuenta variables operativas del sistema de aire acondicionado del vehículo como condición, apagado, recirculación de aire y cambio de aire. Los datos se recopilan en las partes delantera, media y trasera de la cabina. El analizador de gases IAQ TESTO 440 se utiliza como medio para los detectores de CO2 y CO, colocado a una altura de 1,1 metros del estanque, que se considera la frecuencia respiratoria media del pasajero, produce datos en un tiempo breve en 10 minutos. Una vez que se completa el análisis, se tabulan los datos y se determina la concentración exhalada del usuario. Finalmente, es posible conocer el porcentaje de emisiones generadas por el usuario, en diferentes puntos del habitáculo. Se recomienda que se realice un estudio con los datos recopilados en el transcurso de un día de viaje para futuras investigaciones. Palabras Clave: emisiones de gases, transporte interprovincial, analizador de gases, aire acondicionado, calidad del aire, habitáculo de pasajeros.

Sustainability evaluation and life cycle assessment of concretes including pozzolanic by-products and alkali-activated binders

The construction industry's top priorities for achieving a sustainable future include minimizing the use of non-renewable resources, managing waste generation, and reducing related gas emissions. This fact emphasizes the need for using natural materials such as pozzolan as a substitute or supplemental component in the production of Portland cement concrete. This study presents a review of evaluating the sustainability performance and life cycle assessment of pozzolan-based concrete compared with ordinary Portland cement concrete using the preference selection index approach and evaluating CO2 gas emissions during material life cycle stages. Furthermore, the durability and environmental effects of using pozzolan in concrete were comprehensively investigated. The advantages of using Pozzolans-based concrete in the development of sustainability aspects have been precisely predicted through the application of the PSI method, which depends on several criteria based on the properties of different cement types. It was discovered that substituting pozzolanic material for a portion of Portland cement when producing concrete significantly reduces the environmental effects (i.e., energy use and carbon dioxide emissions).

Optimizing Dijkstra's Algorithm for Managing Urban Traffic Using Simulation of Urban Mobility (Sumo) Software

Among the challenges of urbanization is traffic management as a measure of growth and progress. Recent population growth has resulted in a significant increase in vehicles, causing traffic jams that are challenging for the existing transportation networks. This congestion affects other services, including public transit, airports, road maintenance, and pollution caused by emissions of CO2 and other gases. Furthermore, it doubles the amount of fuel used. This has negative consequences for society as well as economic losses. This paper focuses on an improved Dijkstra algorithm based on traffic congestion levels to address the above problems. Improved Dijkstra algorithm can provide (a) real data collected from the map via OpenStreetMap, (b) Add four features to SUMO(Simulation of Urban Mobility) simulator software (time period, rush-hour, number of vehicles, and routing algorithm), (c) it could know congestion level for roads (d) rerouting vehicles to avoid traffic congestion. Based on the simulation results and analysis presented in the paper, it was found that the proposed improved Dijkstra algorithm increased the performance of the road traffic flow by reducing the number of related vehicles in traffic congestion and average delay time for experiment scenarios.

Green Building and Energy-Efficient Design

In the modern era, the rapid expansion of infrastructure is a crucial indicator of a country's development. However, this growth must be balanced with environmental conservation to ensure the well-being of humans and other living organisms. The construction industry, a significant development driver, is also a primary source of environmental pollution, contributing to approximately 40% of air pollution. The production and transportation of construction materials, particularly cement and steel, are primary culprits. These processes release substantial amounts of CO2, a greenhouse gas that deteriorates the ozone layer and exacerbates global warming. Cement production accounts for 8-10% of global anthropogenic CO2 emissions, while steel manufacturing contributes about 5-10%. These emissions harm the environment and adversely affect human living conditions. Although it is challenging to eliminate CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions, adopting sustainable living practices, such as the construction of green buildings, offers a viable path toward mitigation. Green or sustainable buildings are designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to minimize adverse environmental impacts and promote occupant health and well being. These structures aim to reduce resource consumption, increase energy efficiency, improve indoor air quality, and decrease the overall environmental footprint compared to traditional buildings. By prioritizing Sustainability, green buildings present an effective strategy to address the ecological challenges the construction industry poses, paving the way for a more sustainable and harmonious relationship between development and the natural world.

Monitoring CO2 and SO2 Exhaust Gas Emissions on Tanker Ships With An IoT Based PLC Controller

Monitoring CO2 and SO2 Exhaust Gas Emissions on Tanker Ships With An IoT Based PLC Controller

Exploring chemical disposal options for non-condensable gasses in geothermal power plants: A case study of Kızıldere geothermal field (Türkiye)

Geothermal power plants are among the most important renewable energy power plants owing to their high-capacity factors and integrated utilization possibilities. Currently, these power plants utilize geothermal fluid to generate electricity. Although their emissions are lower than those of conventional power plants, gasses such as CO2 and H2S are released into the air from the cooling towers, particularly in flash-type geothermal power plantsTo reduce the emission of CO2 gas released from geothermal power plants, reinjection studies have mainly been carried out around the world. These types of studies require extensive analysis of underground fracture systems, detailed geosciences, and the reservoir studies. However, these studies are considered risky and expensive for most plant operators because possible changes in underground fracture systems may affect the productivity of geothermal production zones. In terms of the environmental impact, hydrogen sulfide is a more harmful gas than CO2. Effective H2S removal methods cannot be widely used, except in areas with extremely high concentrations, because they commonly incur significant costs for plant operators. Effective H2S removal methods are not widely available except for geothermal sites with high concentrations. The fact that local limit values can be exceeded in geothermal power plants with relatively low H2S concentrations, such as geothermal power plants in Türkiye, pushes plant operators to find new low-cost solutions due to high operation costs. For this reason, a treatment method that can be applied at every site and whose cost is not too high has not yet been put forward. However, NaOH is used for this purpose in geothermal fields such as steam-dominated Geyser field to increase the pH values in geothermal wells, which has been producing for a long time.In this study, field tests were carried out with five different chemicals and pure water to examine the reduction of non-condensable gasses in a geothermal power plant located in the Kızıldere (Denizli, Türkiye) geothermal field, one of the most important geothermal fields in the world. According to this, the capture of these gasses is technically possible using chemical methods, with a performance of up to 70 % observed in CO2 gas capture.However, although it is possible to capture 70 % of non-condensable gasses with such chemical methods, the consumable cost of the operation is quite high.

Development of Geopolymer/Activated Carbon Composite Mortar from PLTU Paiton Fly Ash with the Addition of Sidoarjo Mud Waste

Abstract Cement production produces CO2 gas emissions that are harmful to the environment, so the manufacture of geopolymers can be done to substitute cement. Geopolymers are mineral chemical compounds or mixtures thereof consisting of repeating chemical units, such as silica-oxide. This research aims to make geopolymer mortar made from fly ash waste and Sidoarjo Lapindo mud composites with activated carbon to increase compressive strength, reduce moisture and increase CO2 absorption. Broadly speaking, the stages of this research began with preparing tools and materials to make geopolymer mortar, then mix design between fly ash, Sidoarjo lapindo sludge, and activated carbon with the addition of alkali activator, as well as fine aggregate in the form of Lumajang sand, which was then cured at 7, 14, and 28 days. Furthermore, characterization tests carried out for geopolymer mortar are SEM and XRD and testing compressive strength, water absorption, and CO2 absorption. The compressive strength test results showed that of all sample variations, the F100 variation had the highest compressive strength with a value of 17.57 MPa after curing for 28 days. The compressive strength of each sample variation increases with the longer curing time, except for the L100 variation. While in the additive variation group, the compressive strength of the F75C15L10 variation is the highest with a value of 17.43 MPa. In the water absorption test based on the carbon additive variation, it can be seen that the longer the curing time, the higher the water absorption.

Influence of biochar application on carbon dioxide (CO2) emission under soybean crop

Abstract Biochar, an organic solid produced through pyrolysis, exhibits promising potential as a soil amendment. The utilization of biochar as a soil amendment is geared towards the reduction of CO2 emissions and the sequestration of carbon in soil, thus playing a pivotal role in addressing climate change. This research was undertaken to quantify the extent of carbon emissions resulting from various biochar application treatments in soybean cultivation. The field study was structured in a randomized non-factorial design, encompassing five distinct biochar types: rice husk at application rates of 20 and 30 ton ha−1, pulai wood (Alstonia scholaris) at rates of 20 and 30 ton ha−1, and a control group serving as a reference. Each treatment was replicated three times. The quantification of greenhouse gas emissions involved the utilization of a CO2 gas detector (Digital type HT-2000) placed within a chamber measuring 66 cm x 46 cm x 78 cm. The findings elucidated that the application of biochar had a discernible influence on the levels of CO2 gas emissions. Specifically, the application of 30 ton ha−1 of rice husk and 20 ton ha−1 of pulai wood yielded higher emissions in comparison to the control group. This phenomenon is attributed to the favorable environment created by biochar within wetter soil conditions, fostering the proliferation of microorganisms, and subsequently contributing to increased emissions through microbial respiration.

Does economic complexity help in achieving environmental sustainability? New empirical evidence from N-11 countries

In view of the SDGs argued by UNO, it is vital to address the pressing issues regarding sustainable development. The aim of current study is to investigate the impact of economic complexity (ECC) on environmental sustainability. To achieve this aim, we sampled the 25 years of data of Next-11 countries over the period 1995 to 2019. The economic complexity was measured by the economic complexity index (ECI) while environmental sustainability was measured by two proxy variables including CO2 and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The empirical analysis was established by utilizing the unit root test, cointegration test, FMOLS (fully modified OLS) and DOLS (dynamic OLS) models. The estimated coefficient values disclosed that ECC has a negative and statistically significant relationship with both CO2 and GHG emissions in the long run, implying that ECC ensured environmental sustainability. In addition, the analysis reveals that financial development has a negative while economic growth and energy imports have a positive and statistically significant association with both CO2 and GHG emissions. The findings of the current study suggested an important policy regarding the focus on ECC for achieving environmental sustainability in underlying economies. This study provides robustness to the existing literature in alternative data settings (N-11 countries) and by the unique objective of focusing on environmental sustainability.