Consumption Of Non-renewable Resources Research Articles

Development of recyclable bio-based epoxy/acrylate blends for liquid crystal display 3D printing

AbstractBio-based epoxy resins are widely utilized in various application fields such as adhesives, coatings, composites, and electrical components, offering comparable performance characteristics to conventional epoxy resins, including high strength, durability, and chemical resistance. The use of bio-based materials in 3D printing has been receiving increasing attention as a means of reducing the environmental impact of this technology, because most formulations available for stereolithography and digital light processing are generally non-renewable. This study aimed to explore the potential of blending a bio-based epoxy resin with a commercial daylight-curable resin at various msss percentages to enhance the thermomechanical properties of 3D-printed parts while adhering to the working principle of liquid crystal display (LCD) printers. The prepared formulations were initially characterized in terms of their thermo-mechanical properties both before and after post-treatments like photo- and thermal-curing. This procedure facilitated a comparison of the various blends based on their mechanical strength, glass transition temperature, and other pertinent properties. Upon identifying the optimal formulation, 3D-printed samples were produced using LCD printing technology. Calorimetric and morphological tests were then carried out to evaluate the thermal stability and microstructure of the printed parts. Overall, the findings of this study indicate that blending recyclable bio-based epoxy resins with commercial ones can lead to enhanced properties in additive manufactured parts. This approach has the potential to promote sustainability in 3D printing by reducing the consumption of non-renewable resources, while still meeting the standard performance required for numerous applications.

Study on the synergistic effects and eco-friendly performance of red mud-based quaternary cementitious materials

Red mud, as the primary byproduct of processing bauxite into aluminum, raises environmental concerns due to its significant alkalinity and substantial heavy metal content. Addressing the limitations of traditional methods, this study proposes an innovative solution to utilize red mud, steel slag, fly ash, and phosphogypsum together to produce a new type of low-carbon, environmentally friendly cementitious material. Utilizing advanced techniques such as X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy, this study conducted a comprehensive evaluation of cementitious materials, revealing their synergistic mechanisms. Furthermore, artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms were employed to optimize the mix ratio of the quaternary binder, aiming to predict and enhance the material's mechanical strength. Research shows that quaternary cementitious materials outperform traditional binary and ternary materials in compressive strength, hydration properties, microstructure, and environmental performance. Particularly, the increased content of calcium-aluminate-silicate-hydrate and sodium-calcium-silicate-aluminate-hydrate gels and a denser matrix structure highlight the synergistic effect in the hydration reaction of the quaternary system. Through mix proportion optimization, a significant enhancement in compressive strength up to 21.4 MPa is achieved. Environmental assessment shows that the composite material effectively solidifies Na+, with non-renewable resource and energy consumption reduced by 84.7% and 83.8%, respectively, compared to traditional cement, highlighting its environmental and energy-saving advantages. This approach addresses red mud storage, produces green building materials that meet standards, and fulfills resource and environmental goals.

Toward green production practices: empirical evidence from Thai manufacturers' technical efficiency

PurposeThe development of green manufacturing has become essential to achieve sustainable development and modernize the nation’s manufacturing and production capacity without increasing nonrenewable resource consumption and pollution. This study investigates the effect of green industrial practices on technical efficiency for Thai manufacturers.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) to estimate the stochastic frontier production function (SFPF) and inefficiency effects model, as pioneered by Battese and Coelli (1995).FindingsThis study shows that, on average, Thai manufacturing firms have experienced declining returns-to-scale production and relatively low technical efficiency. However, it is estimated that Thai manufacturing firms with a green commitment obtained the highest technical efficiency, followed by those with green activity, green systems and green culture levels, compared to those without any commitment to green manufacturing practices. Finally, internationalization and skill development can significantly improve technical efficiency.Practical implicationsGreen industry policy mixes will be vital for driving structural reforms toward a more environmentally friendly and sustainable economic system. Furthermore, circular economy processes can promote firms' production efficiency and resource use.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the effect of green industry practices on the technical efficiency of Thai manufacturing enterprises. This study also encompasses analyses of the roles of internationalization, innovation and skill development.

"Revolutionizing Lawn Care: AI-Driven Solar-Powered Humorless Grassland Mower With IoT Integration"

The primary objective of an AI-driven solar-powered humorless grassland mower with IoT integration is to provide an innovative, sustainable, and efficient solution for grassland maintenance, addressing the challenges of traditional lawn care methods while promoting environmental stewardship and technological advancement. Methods: Developing an AI-driven solar-powered humorless grassland mower with IoT integration involves integrating various technologies and methodologies such as AI Algorithm, Solar Power System Design, Robotics and Automation, IoT Integration, User Interface and Control System. Findings: It can vary depending on the specific objectives, implementation, and testing conducted. It can provide valuable insights into its performance, sustainability, reliability, and user acceptance, helping to inform further development and optimization efforts. Novelty: By introducing novel features and approaches in these areas, an AI-driven solar-powered grassland mower with IoT integration can offer unique capabilities and benefits that set it apart from conventional lawn care equipment and contribute to advancements in sustainable landscaping practices. This paper proposes an innovative AI-Driven Solar-Powered Humorless Grassland Mower with IoT Integration. Traditional manual lawn mowing not only demands labor but also contributes to environmental pollution through nonrenewable resource consumption. To address these challenges, our solution leverages advanced technologies to transform grassland upkeep. The mower is equipped with a range of IoT sensors including ultrasonic, proximity, GPS, and cameras. These sensors enable real-time data collection and decision-making, allowing the mower to adjust its mowing schedule based on forecasted data and navigate around obstacles. Furthermore, during periods of poor sunlight or low battery levels, the mower autonomously returns to its self-charging station for recharging. Data collected by the mower can be sent to the cloud for further analysis and storage. Users have the convenience of remotely controlling the mower through a smartphone app or web interface, enabling initiation, termination, or scheduling of mowing sessions from anywhere. Our AI-integrated IoT solution offers a sustainable and efficient approach to grassland maintenance, reducing labuor requirements and environmental impact while maximizing operational autonomy.

Biochar, Clay, Zeolites, and Microorganism-based Methods for Remediation of Heavy Metals

Abstract: The modern world of chemistry needs to find a sustainable solution for the remediation of heavy metals. The method of solving heavy metal problems using abundant and easily available ways is an integral part of green chemistry. This approach stimulates innovation among scientists. These procedures increase performance and decrease the consumption of non-renewable resources, minimizing negative impacts on the environment and less use of harmful chemicals. In this review, we have included some natural ways for the remediation of heavy metals such as Biochar, Clay, Zeolites, and Microorganismbased methods. We have also incorporated the mechanism of action of each of these procedures for the betterment of the reader.

Plant Fiber Reinforced Polymeric Composites for Engineering Applications: A Review

Purpose: Scientists are looking for unconventional materials to achieve sustainable goals and reduce the consumption of non-renewable resources. This review focuses on polymeric composite materials with improved properties and low cost, synthesized from plant fibres and their potential fields of application. Theoretical Framework: Natural fibers, which are globally accessible, play a crucial role in improving thermal and mechanical properties when incorporated into polymers. With remarkable stiffness-density, strength and lightness, fibers stand out as promising, low-cost composite materials for applications in various areas of engineering. The plant diversity of the Amazon makes Brazil one of the largest global producers of natural fibers, providing an opportunity to develop new sustainable technologies. Method/Design/approach: Systematic literature review addressing potential applications of polymeric materials with plant fibers, fiber extraction methods, influence of fiber surface treatments and composite processing, and mechanical properties of polymeric composites with fibers. Results: Polymer composites reinforced with natural fibers are emerging as sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials, driven by their ecological nature, easy availability, low cost and biodegradability. A systematic review of the literature revealed that the mechanical properties of these composites are intrinsically linked to various factors, such as fibre orientation and length, which require careful optimization. In addition, it was observed that surface treatments, such as chemical acetylation and alkaline treatments, play a crucial role in improving the properties of plant fiber reinforced materials. These processes are responsible for removing impurities present in the cell walls of the fibers, such as lignins, waxes and hemicellulose, among others. Given Brazil's significant potential in the production of natural fibers, their application in industrial contexts is promising, offering an environmentally friendly solution for waste management. Thus, it is believed that, in the future, plant fibers will gain even more prominence, possibly effectively replacing the synthetic fibers widely used in the market. Research implications: This work contributes to the development of innovative, low-cost, sustainable materials, capable of minimizing the consumption of non-renewable resources and with potential applicability. Originality/value: The results are promising for the development of environmentally sustainable polymer composites with plant fibers, with wide applications in engineering.

Optimization of prepreg compression molding process for production of structures with recycled carbon fibers

Carbon fibers are widely used in a growing number of industrial sectors. Their high strength to weight ratio makes carbon fibers suitable for high-value-added applications. However, significant environmental and economic problems are related to composite waste disposal and consumption of non-renewable resources for their production. European legislation has imposed more controls on composite materials waste management. Consequently, development of processes for the recovery of the added value of wastes, instead of its simple disposal, is crucial to promoting the application of EU requirements and the realization of a circular economy model. Currently, thermal processes represent the most promising technology in this direction. Thermal processes include pyrolysis, fluidized bed pyrolysis, and microwave-assisted pyrolysis, but only pyrolysis is implemented on an industrial scale in Europe because of its economic viability and technical feasibility. Although the recovery of carbon fibers has reduced cost, compared to virgin fibers, length, orientation, and sizing of the fibers are lost. In this context the challenge is to realize composites reinforced with reclaimed fibers that can compete economically and in terms of mechanical performance with composite with virgin fibers. In this work, prepreg compression molding technique was used to produce a window frame with non-woven fabrics of recycled carbon fibers impregnated with a fast-curing resin. The fibers were coated with a sizing developed by CETMA and compatible with fast-curing epoxy resin.

Bacteria for Bioplastics: Progress, Applications, and Challenges.

Bioplastics are one of the answers that can point society toward a sustainable future. Under this premise, the synthesis of polymers with competitive properties using low-cost starting materials is a highly desired factor in the industry. Also, tackling environmental issues such as nonbiodegradable waste generation, high carbon footprint, and consumption of nonrenewable resources are some of the current concerns worldwide. The scientific community has been placing efforts into the biosynthesis of polymers using bacteria and other microbes. These microorganisms can be convenient reactors to consume food and agricultural wastes and convert them into biopolymers with inherently attractive properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, and appreciable mechanical and chemical properties. Such biopolymers can be applied to several fields such as packing, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, medical, biomedical, and agricultural. Thus, intending to elucidate the science of microbes to produce polymers, this review starts with a brief introduction to bioplastics by describing their importance and the methods for their production. The second section dives into the importance of bacteria regarding the biochemical routes for the synthesis of polymers along with their advantages and disadvantages. The third section covers some of the main parameters that influence biopolymers' production. Some of the main applications of biopolymers along with a comparison between the polymers obtained from microorganisms and the petrochemical-based ones are presented. Finally, some discussion about the future aspects and main challenges in this field is provided to elucidate the main issues that should be tackled for the wide application of microorganisms for the preparation of bioplastics.

Encapsulating Green Infrastructure in Modern Urban Landscape

The growing urbanisation has casted various challenges in building a resilient infrastructure supporting sustainable landscape. The present urbanisation challenges faced around the globe is related to the waste management and mindful consumption of renewable and non-renewable resources. The traditional urban landscape had used the grey infrastructure that in the present scenario is aging and showing incapability of handing disasters. The modern landscapes require advanced technological involvement in a planned manner to have a sustainable future. This review paper considered various studies of economies of rebuilding their landscapes with modern green infrastructural approach with the use of solid waste management, waster management, Government Interventions and the use of AI for a better tomorrow.

Empirical analysis of renewable and non-renewable energy resources consumption impact on economic development in Uzbekistan

In this paper the association among renewable, non-renewable energy consumption and GDP growth is analyzed by using the secondary date of The World Bank and International Energy Agency for the period 1990-2021 of Uzbekistan. The paper employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lags (ARDL) model to estimate the long-run and short-run dynamic multipliers of energy consumption variables. Empirical results show that hydropower energy consumption (renewable energy) has a positive effect on GDP growth in the long term. Also, consumption of non-renewable energy resources (coal, natural gas, oil) has a positive effect on GDP growth in the short and long term. In addition, the increase in the consumption of non-renewable energy resources has a positive effect on CO2 emissions, which in turn means that the government should take measures to increase the share of renewable energy resources.

Exploring the environmental and economic impact of fruits and vegetable loss quantification in the food industry.

Population growth has stimulated rising demand for agro-food products and economic activity for many years, negatively impacting the ecosystem and non-renewable resource consumption. Algeria confronts the monumental challenge of effectively choosing how to nourish everyone on a more congested globe. However, food loss is a significant issue that worsens as Algerians' population expands and food consumption increases. In Algeria, food production and processing of food items, which include fruits, vegetables, and cereals, generate a considerable amount of by-products, with no commercial exploitation and a negative environmental impact, generating enormous socioeconomic problems. These by-products are essential sources of products with high levels of added value that can be applied in different sectors. They have no studies to measure the scope of food loss in the Algerian food industry. In this background, our research aims to quantify the loss in the Algerian food industry generated by the transformation of various agricultural products, directly affecting the economy and food availability for the population. The research utilizes a mixed methods approach, including coefficients, production statistics transformed, and data analysis; the findings reveal that a significant portion of fruits and vegetables are lost in the Algerian food industry, suggesting that minimizing food loss can help companies minimize costs and mitigate the adverse environmental effects of food production. Finally, the study proposes practical options to minimize food loss to create a long-term food system in Algeria.

Analysis of the Influence Factors of the Crude Oil Temperature Maintenance System of Solar Sewage Heat Pumps in Cold Regions

Traditional crude oil heating methods that use fossil fuels or electricity have the disadvantages of high consumption of nonrenewable resources, low energy utilization, and high carbon emissions. Therefore, it is urgent to develop green and sustainable crude oil heating technologies. In this paper, a solar synergistic sewage heat pump (SSHS) dual heat source crude oil temperature maintenance system is proposed. The system utilizes clean and sustainable solar energy to heat crude oil while combining sensible heat storage technology and the waste heat utilization technology of a sewage source heat pump to solve the unstable fluctuation of the solar heating problem. A simulation and analysis model is established to analyze the influencing factors of the SSHS, and the optimal operation scheme is provided. The results show that the efficiency of the solar collector decreases and the proportion of crude oil heating increases with an increase in the solar energy guarantee rate, while the unit flow rate of the pump has a large impact on the performance of the sewage source heat pump. In order to avoid energy waste, it is more appropriate to adopt a 30% guarantee rate and an A3 pump unit flow rate, under which the solar collector efficiency is 50.18%, the proportion of solar heating of crude oil is 47.16%, the average temperature of crude oil is 42.59 °C, and the COP of the sewage source heat pump is 4.65. Further increases in the COP of the wastewater source heat pump can be realized by increasing the temperature of the wastewater supply. The results of this study provide a valuable reference for the optimization of crude oil storage heating systems.

Synergistic reinforcement of polylactic acid/wood fiber composites by cellulase and reactive extrusion

In order to overcome the consumption of non renewable resources and serious environmental pollution caused by traditional petroleum based polymers, blending and modifying renewable PLA and wood fibers to replace traditional petroleum based plastics has become a current research hotspot. However, due to the large polarity difference between PLA and wood fibers, the performance of the composite material prepared is not ideal. To improve the performance of polylactic acid/poplar fiber (PLA/PF) composites and simplify the process, this study used cellulase and 2,2 '- (1,3-phenylene) - dioxazoline (PBO) co modification, a safe, environmentally friendly and simple process, to prepare the composites. The results show that the crystallization properties of cellulase and PBO-modified composites will be appropriately reduced, the microstructure shows that the interface of PLA/CF-5.5/PBO is more tightly bonded, and the mechanical test results show that the modified material has excellent mechanical properties. Compared to the unmodified PLA/PF, PLA/CF-5.5/PBO has a 28.85% increase in tensile strength, reaching 63.65 MPa. while its flexural strength reaches 116.07 MPa, representing a 21.45% increase. Surprisingly, the tensile and strength of PLA/CF-5.5/PBO exceeds that of pure PLA, with the flexural modulus showing a significant increase of 43.96% compared to PLA. The above analysis shows that the effect of the two synergistic modification methods is significant, and the research results provide an environmental protection idea for the development of PLA matrix composites with high compatibility, good mechanical properties and good environmental adaptability, and broaden the application scope and value of the composites.

Asymmetric Fe-O2-Ti structures accelerate reduced-layer-FeII “electron” conversion: Facilitating photocatalytic nitrogen fixation

As a green and sustainable method for ammonia production, solar photocatalytic nitrogen fixation (PNRR) provides a new approach to slowing down the consumption of non-renewable energy resources. Given the extremely huge energy required to activate inert nitrogen, a rational design of efficient nitrogen fixation catalytic materials is essential. This study constructs defective Ti3+-Ti3C2Ox to regulate the NH2-MIL-101(Fe) reduced layer-FeII 'electron' transition; meanwhile, the heterojunction interface electronic structure formed by coupling promotes catalytic charges' transfer/separation, while the interface-asymmetric Fe-O2-Ti structure accelerates the response with nitrogen. It is shown that the heterojunction NM-101(FeII/FeIII)-1.5 exhibits a 75.1 % FeII enrichment (FeII:FeIII), which successfully impedes the fouling relationship between the two (FeII/FeIII). Mössbauer spectroscopy analysis demonstrates that the presence of D1-high spin state FeIII and D2-low/medium spin state FeII structures in the heterojunction boosts the PNRR activity. Furthermore, it is found that the defective state Ti3+-Ti3C2Ox modulation enhances the reduced nitrogen fixation capacity of the heterojunction (CB = -0.84 eV) and decreases the interfacial charge transfer resistance, yielding 450 umol·g−1·h−1 ammonia. Furthermore, this study modulates the charge ration of the catalyst reduction layer by constructing a charge-asymmetric structure with Ti3+-deficient carriers; this method provides a potential opportunity for enhancing photocatalytic nitrogen fixation in the future.

Comparison between Bio-PET and PET for food container

The environmental issue of single-use plastic is extremely discussed due to waste accumulation and the consumption of non-renewable resources. This study aims to investigate the properties of bioplastic compared to petroleum-based plastic. Two stages of stretch blow molding were used to fabricate polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and bio-polyethylene terephthalate (Bio-PET) bottles. The shelf life extension of chili sauce paste stored in PET and Bio-PET containers with an oxygen scavenger at 45 ℃ in an accelerated condition was investigated. After twelve weeks, the chili sauce paste stored in the container bottle was observed. PET and Bio-PET bottles without oxygen scavengers were also determined as a control for comparison. The result showed that both PET and Bio-PET bottles with oxygen scavengers could prolong the quality of chili sauce paste similarly, meaning that PET could be replaced by Bio-PET as a chili sauce paste container. Other properties, such as thickness gauge, color, leak test, drop test, and close-open force of the container bottle, were also verified to check the product quality standard.

Circular economy in winter road maintenance: Analysis of contract models for deploying a closed-loop supply chain

In winter road maintenance, abrasives are spread on roads to ensure user safety. These abrasives must be swept in the spring and often end up in landfills. To reduce landfilling and the consumption of non-renewable resources, previous work has demonstrated the potential of reusing collected street sweepings for the production of abrasives. However, the current contractual approach of the linear supply chain requires revision to enable the sharing of financial gains between the road authority and the service provider to achieve a win–win situation, primarily considering the uncertainty in the quantity of abrasives spread, which directly impacts the service provider’s profit. This study proposes two closed-loop supply chain structures and analyzes three contract models. Results from a case study in a highway context in Quebec, Canada reveal that transitioning from a linear supply chain to a closed-loop supply chain generates an average systemic financial gain of 9%. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis on the average quantity of abrasive spread demonstrates that when the road authority buys back reusable sweepings from the service provider at market value, it enables the sharing of a portion of the gain. Consequently, compared to a linear approach, adopting circular economy strategies in the winter road maintenance supply chain mitigates the potential profit loss of the service provider caused by uncertainty.

Effect of sustainable/durable composite materials on dynamic performance of aircraft shelters.

Aircraft shelter technology has been evolving over years along with the global technological revolution. They first appeared in the 20th century with the main purpose of protecting parked aircraft. Recently, they are considered a globally important topic in the aerospace field, especially for shielding military aircraft. On the other hand, the civil revolution nowadays is extremely unsustainable. The world is facing vital problems due to the massive consumption of non-renewable resources and pollution of the environment and atmosphere. Sustainability development is not an option anymore; it is the only choice to survive. Therefore, there is a demanding need to push the boundaries of sustainability and go through a green revolution by using Eco-friendly materials and searching for alternatives for non-renewable resources. In this study, sustainable composite materials that are probably used as impact shields in aircraft shelters that are cheaper than typical ones were studied. The applicability of utilizing silica fume and steel slag as partial and full replacements for non-renewable resources in the composite mixture was established. Fiberglass and steel meshes were also implemented as reinforcing elements. The performance enhancement of using such materials in composite mixtures was investigated. Results showed that utilizing silica fume and steel slag enhanced the compressive strength of sustainable composite mixtures by about 9.38%. Similarly, superior dynamic performance was achieved by approximately 800% using different reinforcement techniques.

Investigating determinants of pro-environmental behaviors amongst UAE university students through Q-methodology

Numerous high-tech advancements have established a healthy environment, reduced consumer consumption of non-renewable resources, and reduced the total ecological impact on the environment. Despite this technology, many people still do not have sustainable behavior ingrained in them. Environmental sustainability is threatened by human behaviors, and environmental choices made by individuals are correlated with pro-environmental behaviors. This research focuses on the relationship between people and the environment, the difficulties that have arisen as a result, and the factors that influence university students' pro-environmental behaviors. It explores the factors influencing university students in the United Arab Emirates to have positive environmental attitudes and behaviors using the Q methodology. The results elucidate several discourses, including connections between knowledge and attitude, the importance of formal and informal education, and necessary economic policies and incentives. The results of this research are consistent with those of other recent studies that place more emphasis on attitude than motivation when it comes to changing behavior towards the environment.

Research on the Rheological Properties and Anti-Aging Mechanism of Paper-Black-Liquor-Modified Bitumen

The production process of the traditional paper making process produces a large amount of waste water, known as paper black liquor. It is needed to explore new ways of reusing this waste and replacing part of the base bitumen to reduce the consumption of non-renewable resources, such as petroleum, thus obtaining better environmental, economic, and social benefits. This paper analyses the feasibility of using paper black liquor, which contains a large amount of lignin, as a modifier for bitumen in the paper industry. Samples of modified bitumen were prepared with 15%, 30%, and 45% of the base bitumen replaced by paper black liquor, and a control group of base bitumen was prepared for testing. The samples were subjected to an 85 min short-term ageing test, FTIR scanning test, thermogravimetric test, frequency scanning test, MSCR test, and LAS test. The analysis of the FTIR and thermogravimetric tests showed that the paper black liquor was mainly composed of lignin and some cellulose, and contained a small amount of salts with Na ions; based on the results of the frequency scan, the compatibility analysis of the vGP curve showed that the modified bitumen was more compatible in the high-temperature range after short-term ageing, thus inferring that the water content of the concentrate had an influence on the compatibility, making it necessary to further investigate different optimum water contents to achieve the best performance and benefit. The incorporation of paper black liquor improved the rutting resistance and fatigue resistance of the modified bitumen, and also gave the paper-black-liquor-modified bitumen a better ageing resistance than the base bitumen. While demonstrating the feasibility of using paper black liquor as an bitumen modifier, this study also helps to provide a basis for theoretical applications of biomass materials in the field of road engineering.

Sustainable Design in Building and Urban Environment

The basic objectives of sustainability are to reduce the consumption of non-renewable resources, minimize waste, and create healthy, productive environments [...]