Economic Viability Research Articles

Improving Washington Navel orange yield under drought: effects of artificial mulch and shade netting

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the impact of synthetic ground cover and shade netting on Washington Navel orange trees (Citrus sinensis L.) in a semi-arid region to mitigate high temperatures and solar radiation. Over four years (2020–2023), treatments included mulch, shade netting, their combination, and a control. Parameters assessed included nutrient concentrations, physiological traits, growth, fruit quality, and thermal regulation. The combination of mulch and shade netting enhanced leaf nutrient levels, with phosphorus and potassium increasing by 100% and 53.3%, respectively. Leaf area expanded by 82.9%, relative water content rose by 27.7%, and photosynthetic efficiency improved by 136.8%. Fruit set and yield increased by 99.19% and 46.08%, respectively, while fruit sunburn was reduced by 76.78%. Canopy and soil temperatures decreased by up to 17.50% and 19.49%, respectively. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) highlighted improved water use efficiency and tree health with these treatments. These findings demonstrate that combining mulch and shade netting effectively enhances citrus orchard resilience, productivity, and economic viability under drought and heat stress. This sustainable approach is recommended to optimise citrus orchard performance in challenging environmental conditions.

Toward Enhanced Seed Potato Yield: Ultrasonication Techniques for Sustainable Agricultural Development

The study aimed to explore the potential of ultrasonication techniques in seed potato production as a sustainable agricultural innovation. By improving seed potato efficiency and promoting resource optimization, this research aligns with the goals of sustainable agricultural and rural development, addressing challenges such as food security, environmental preservation, and economic viability in rural farming communities. The study was conducted over three years in the central–eastern region of Poland, utilizing a randomized block design with a split-split-plot approach. The main experimental factor was the cultivation technology, which included (a) an innovative ultrasonic pre-sowing treatment method and (b) a traditional cultivation method without such treatment. The secondary factor was the potato varieties. The ultrasonic treatment of tubers was performed using an ultrasonic tub-type device equipped with piezoelectric transducers. Cultivation technology, potato varieties, and weather conditions had a significant impact on the yield of tubers in the seed potato fraction size, the number of tubers in this fraction, and the multiplication coefficient. Additionally, the genetic characteristics of the studied varieties and random environmental factors significantly influenced the weight of a single seed potato tuber and the number of shoots produced by each plant.

Economic Viability and Environmental Benefits of Integrating Solar Photovoltaics in Public Community Buildings

Saudi Arabia relies heavily on fossil fuels for electricity generation, leading to significant environmental challenges, including high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. This study evaluates the environmental and financial impacts of integrating solar PV systems in public buildings, specifically mosques and schools, in the central region of Saudi Arabia. Using machine learning-based forecasting, we analyzed power consumption and solar generation patterns. The results show that the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems could lead to a reduction of 1.02 million tons of CO2 emissions annually and a 48% decrease in net present cost. These findings highlight the potential of solar PV to mitigate environmental harm while offering financial benefits in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy objectives

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Enzymatic Hydrolysis Alternatives for Food Waste Management

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the economic, environmental, and social viability of the enzymatic hydrolysis process for food waste valorization by applying cost-benefit analysi (CBA). Our research was based on the investigation of three scenarios/alternatives for the final product of the enzymatic hydrolysis process and the production of bioethanol, bioactive peptides, and organic acids. Key economic indicators, such as cost/benefit ratios, net present value (NPV), and internal rate of return (IRR), were used to evaluate financial performance. At the end of the CBA, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to highlight the performance of each scenario under varying conditions, including fluctuating costs, benefits, and discount rates. These results indicate that enzymatic hydrolysis offers a significant opportunity for reducing food waste and its environmental impacts and promotes sustainability. Bioactive peptide production was found to be the most environmentally viable option, offering the highest cost-benefit efficiency. In both the optimistic and pessimistic scenarios of the sensitivity analysis, the results revealed that bioactive peptide production is economically viable, while the other alternatives, such as bioethanol and organic acid production, are more sensitive to economic and operational changes. This study revealed that enzymatic hydrolysis, as evaluated through CBA, offers a viable and impactful method for food waste management. It reduces environmental impacts, enhances sustainability, and aligns with the principles of a circular economy. The adoption of such innovative waste management strategies is considered essential for building a more sustainable and resource-efficient food system.

Magmatic Stratigraphy and Platinum Group Element Mineralization at Tweefontein, Northern Bushveld Complex: Evidence of a Complex Intrusion History of Lower, Critical, and Main Zone Magmas

Abstract The Platreef, northern limb of the Bushveld Complex, South Africa, forms one of the world’s largest resources of platinum group elements (PGEs), with additional Ni-Cu-Co mineralization. It is widely considered that the Platreef formed via the emplacement of a series of discrete magmatic units; however, the relationship between this magmatic stratigraphy and the distribution of Ni-Cu-Co-PGE mineralization remains poorly constrained. This study constitutes the first in-depth examination of the Platreef magmatic stratigraphy at Tweefontein 238 KR, located directly north of the Flatreef extension at Turfspruit. Petrology and whole-rock and mineral chemistry define three magmatic units: the Upper Platreef, Main zone finger, and Lower zone transition, each displaying distinct pyroxene Mg# contents (79.6, 71.2, and 88.6 respectively), mineral assemblages, and bulk geochemistries. Updip the sequence thins considerably from >600 to <350 m, and contamination signatures of elevated CaO and FeO increase. However, local contamination is seldom evident in the PGE-bearing Upper Platreef. The intrusion of the overlying Main zone is proposed to have eroded the Upper Platreef considerably in some locations, locally reducing the economic viability of this mineralized horizon. The presented stratigraphy indicates that at Tweefontein (1) the Lower and Critical zone magmas are not necessarily separate and evolve from Lower to Critical over a distinct transitional zone, (2) there is only one main Critical zone unit that is host to the PGE mineralization, and (3) the Main zone not only forms a magmatic uniformity at the top of the Critical zone but also intrudes the Critical zone.

Qinglong Isle Bridge, Yiyang, China: a lightweight composite-girder self-anchored suspension bridge

The Qinglong Isle Bridge is the world’s first self-anchored suspension bridge with a composite stiffening girder constructed using a steel double-box and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). The bridge deck of the composite girder consists of a thin panel (10 cm thick) and longitudinal ribs (12 cm thick) and was constructed using UHPC with a high bending strength and high-durability. The self-weight of the UHPC deck is approximately 30% less than that of the deck of an ordinary concrete composite girder. This reduced self-weight leads to reduced work for other primary structures in the bridge. To improve the crack resistance of the cast-in-place (CiP) joints between the precast deck slabs, an innovative T-shaped design was adopted for the joints and CiP UHPC was subjected to high-temperature steam curing, which reduces the shrinkage and creep effect of UHPC materials in operation. The extensive use of UHPC materials in China has resulted in a gradual reduction in the overall unit price, thereby enhancing the economic viability of steel–UHPC composite girder in construction. Furthermore, the UHPC structure exhibits superior durability, which markedly diminishes the maintenance expenses associated with the bridge throughout its operational lifespan. In comparison with conventional concrete composite girders, steel–UHPC composite girders provide substantial life cycle cost savings.

Sustainable Design of Raft Foundations: Analyzing Embodied Carbon and Cost Impacts

The construction industry is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, necessitating the adoption of sustainable design practices. This study investigates the embodied carbon and cost implications of raft foundations, focusing on the effects of different concrete grades, K300, K400, and K500, and slab thicknesses. A comprehensive methodology, guided by BS EN 15978, was employed to assess the carbon emissions across the product, construction, and end-of-life stages. Additionally, a cost analysis was conducted, reflecting typical construction expenses relevant to the Indonesian context. The findings revealed that increasing the concrete grade consistently leads to higher embodied carbon and costs, with K300 demonstrating the lowest values across all thicknesses. Moreover, thicker slabs exacerbate both the environmental and financial impacts, highlighting the trade-offs inherent in material selection and design choices. The study concludes that a strategic balance between structural requirements, cost efficiency, and environmental sustainability can be achieved by utilizing lower-grade concrete, where high strength is not essential. These insights contribute to the discourse on sustainable construction practices, advocating for informed decision-making in raft foundation design to minimize the carbon footprint while maintaining economic viability.

AquaCrop model to optimize water supply for a sustainable processing tomato cultivation in the Mediterranean area: A multi-objective approach

CONTEXTEfficient irrigation management must consider multiple aspects of cropping systems, such as productivity, water use efficiency, and economic viability. Crop simulation models like AquaCrop are essential tools for analyzing crop responses under different irrigation scenarios. Organizing the model's outputs into standardized parameters allows for a multi-objective evaluation, which can be consolidated into a single index for optimizing irrigation strategies. OBJECTIVEThis study aims to formalize the response of processing tomato cropping systems in Southern Italy to various irrigation regimes and develop a framework to identify optimal irrigation volumes for production, water use efficiency, and economic returns. METHODSAquaCrop was used to assess the effects of different seasonal water supplies on dry yield, water use efficiency, and irrigation water use efficiency. Sustainability was evaluated via the blue water footprint and drainage, while economic sustainability was measured through net income and irrigation economic efficiency. A multi-objective evaluation framework was built, developed to consolidate performance indices into a single multi-aggregated index (Imobj). The AquaCrop model was calibrated and validated using field data, with high accuracy in simulating canopy cover, biomass, and dry yield (NRMSE < 30 %, r > 0.90, and d > 0.97). Polynomial regression was used to model the relationships between irrigation volumes and cropping system variables. Each variable was assigned a truth value (TWi), derived from regression coefficients, statistical significance, and model fit. These values were normalized using a sigmoid function and consolidated into the Imobj index, providing an overall measure of irrigation performance. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSAquaCrop accurately simulated canopy cover, biomass, and dry yield. Multi-objective analysis showed yield and profitability were most sensitive to irrigation changes, followed by drainage, blue water footprint, and water use efficiency. The 500 mm irrigation regime yielded the highest productivity and profitability but negatively impacted water use efficiency and environmental sustainability. Irrigation volumes above 500 mm worsened all water-related variables, while volumes of 400 mm reduced profitability but improved the sustainability. The Imobj index identified that irrigation between 300 mm and 400 mm provided the best trade-off across all evaluated variables. SIGNIFICANCEThis study highlights the value of integrating crop productivity, economic viability, and sustainability into irrigation management. The proposed framework, combined with AquaCrop, offers a holistic tool for optimizing irrigation strategies in agriculture. It emphasizes the need for balanced irrigation that not only maximizes yield but also enhances resource efficiency and environmental sustainability.

A comparative analysis of ozone disinfection mainstream processes in wastewater treatment plants: Exergy and exergoeconomic viewpoints

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis are widely recognized techniques for ozone disinfection. DBD, when using air, emits nitrogen oxides, posing environmental concerns, while an oxygen source elevates costs. Although PEM electrolysis can produce hydrogen and higher ozone concentrations, it demands greater energy and operational expenses. However, comparative assessments of their exergy efficiency and economic viability have been lacking. This study contrasted two ozone disinfection designs for secondary effluent from wastewater treatment plants using exergy and exergoeconomic analyses. The findings revealed that PEM electrolysis showed a higher total exergy efficiency (44.77%) when including hydrogen production, compared to DBD’s 33.16%. However, PEM also exhibited higher exergy destruction (746.6kW) versus DBD (317.0kW), mainly attributed to the ozone generator. Exergoeconomic analysis indicated that the unit product exergy cost of treated water for DBD was 2.62 times higher than for PEM. Considering the economic benefits of hydrogen production, PEM’s net cost is 83.39 USD/h, slightly higher than DBD’s 63.34 USD/h. Notably, the relative cost differences of ozone generators and exhaust gas treatment highlight the potential for optimizing economic benefits. Sensitivity analysis underscored the impact of interest rates and electricity prices. Overall, PEM electrolysis presents a promising alternative for ozone disinfection in wastewater treatment plants, offering higher exergy efficiency and potential economic benefits, especially with hydrogen production. The higher exergy destruction in PEM suggests room for further optimization, particularly in the ozone generator.

Effect of Calcination Temperature on the Transformation of Spent NCM811 into Efficient TMO Electrocatalysts

Abstract The expansion of electric vehicles has increased spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) containing valuable transition metals. Recycling these materials reduces economic costs and addresses resource shortages. Additionally, transition metal-based catalysts derived from spent LIBs can replace expensive noble metal catalysts. This study examines the catalytic performance of spent LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) materials, enhanced by adjusting mixed valence states and defect structures. Increasing calcination temperature transformed the layered structure into spinel and rock salt phases, inducing mixed valence states. Consequently, the optimized NCM catalysts exhibited improved catalytic activity in both the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The ORR onset potential increased by 0.07 V, while the OER overpotential decreased by about 26.9%. In a zinc-air battery, the optimized catalyst demonstrated a discharge capacity of 792.1 mAh g⁻1 and stable performance over 100 cycles. Operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) confirmed Mn as the main active site, with Ni and Co enhancing Mn's activity as electron donors and acceptors. These findings suggest that calcination-induced structural changes and mixed valence states enhance Mn site reactivity, improving catalytic performance. Overall, this study highlights the feasibility of repurposing spent LIB cathode materials into efficient electrocatalysts, thereby improving the economic viability and sustainability of catalyst development.

Optimal scheduling of hydrogen storage in integrated energy system including multi-source and load uncertainties

Demand response (DR) is a crucial element in the optimization of integrated energy systems (IESs) that incorporate distributed generation (DG). However, its inherent uncertainty poses significant challenges to the economic viability of IESs. This research presents a novel economic dispatch model for IESs utilizing information gap decision theory (IGDT). The model integrates various components to improve IES performance and dispatch efficiency. With a focus on hydrogen energy, the model considers users' energy consumption patterns, thereby improving system flexibility. By applying IGDT, the model effectively addresses the uncertainty associated with DR and DG, surpassing the limitations of traditional methods. The findings indicate that in relation to the baseline method, the proposed model has the potential to reduce operating costs by 6.3% and carbon emissions by 4.2%. The integration of a stepwise carbon trading mechanism helps boost both economic and environmental advantages, achieving a 100% wind power consumption rate in the optimized plan. In addition, daily operating costs are reduced to 23,758.99 ¥, and carbon emissions are reduced to 34,192kg. These findings provide quantitative decision support for IES dispatch planners to help them develop effective dispatch strategies that are consistent with low-carbon economic initiatives.

Diffusion coefficient measurements for moving samples under strong magnetic field gradients.

Among the numerous measurements carried out during a well-logging procedure, the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) assessment is one of the fundamental analyses in determining the economic viability of a well for the oil industry. Nowadays, two reliable approaches, Wireline Logging (WL) and Logging While Drilling (LWD), stand out. WL comprises the acquisition of NMR data under static conditions. On the other hand, in LWD, the NMR measurements happen simultaneously with the drilling process, while the NMR tool experiences translation, rotation, and vibration motions relative to the rock formation. In order to comprehend better the NMR response acquired under LWD conditions, a setup emulating an LWD tool was developed, consisting of a single-sided magnet, rf probes, and a mechanical device that emulates a relative sinusoidal movement between the sample and the applied magnetic field. A bulk sample and three representative rocks, Fontainebleau Sandstone, Berea Sandstone, and Indiana Limestone, were investigated. Even though the diffusion coefficient measurements remain neglected for their intrinsic characteristics of data acquisition, the findings demonstrate that the diffusion coefficient parameter of a fluid in a bulk sample or confined in a porous rock can be precise and accurately predicted. In strong magnetic field gradients, the Hahn spin echo is predominantly weighted by the diffusion process, an effect used to measure diffusion coefficients. Under LWD conditions, the diffusion coefficient measurement is considerably affected by signal phase modulation due to sample movement in the presence of strong magnetic field gradients, making this measurement difficult. This article present solutions for correct diffusion coefficient measurements, synchronizing Hahn spin echo experiments with sample movement.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF ADOPTING GREEN BUILDING TECHNIQUES IN FEDERAL CAPITAL CITY, ABUJA NIGERIA

This study employed a Descriptive-Survey Research Design with a mixed-method approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques to assess the socio-economic and environmental impacts of adopting green building techniques in Abuja, Nigeria. Data were collected from primary sources through structured surveys, semi-structured interviews, field observations, and secondary sources, including literature reviews. A multi-stage sampling method was used to select key stakeholders, such as developers, architects, government officials, and property owners. The Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination table was applied to ensure statistical validity. The quantitative data focused on financial metrics, cost analysis, and perceptions of stakeholders regarding green buildings. The qualitative data provided insights into construction practices through interviews and observations. Statistical techniques, including AMOS (Structural Equation Modeling), were applied to analyze key sustainability indicators, economic viability, and policy frameworks. Results indicated that the adoption of green building techniques offers substantial socio-economic benefits. The economic viability of green buildings was highlighted by reduced operational costs, energy savings, and water conservation strategies. The environmental benefits included significant reductions in carbon emissions, improved air quality, and waste reduction. However, challenges such as high initial costs, limited technical expertise, weak policy enforcement, and a lack of awareness among stakeholders were identified as barriers to widespread adoption. The findings suggest that green building practices can contribute to Abuja’s urban sustainability goals, but further improvements in policy, training, and public awareness are necessary to maximize these benefits. Statistical results, such as a Chi-squared/degree of freedom ratio (ChiSq/df) of 2.331, a Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) of 0.916, and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) of 0.066, supported the model’s adequacy. Furthermore, the overall Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the reliability test was 0.956, indicating high internal consistency.

Wind Propulsion Performance Prediction Impact on Bulk Carrier Business Case

Abstract Rising fuel prices, environmental pressures, and regulations including energy efficiency design index (EEDI), energy efficiency existing ship index (EEXI) and carbon intensity indicator (CII) are starting to drive the decarbonization of shipping. Consequently, wind propulsion is revitalized to help reduce CO2 emissions. But under which scenarios does wind propulsion make business sense? And how important is the modelling of the wind assistant propulsion system (WAPS) aerodynamics and the vessel hydrodynamics to evaluate the business case. For the example of a Capesize bulk carrier the economic viability of installing a WAPS is assessed by studying the impact of several parameters. A performance prediction program is set up for a Capesize bulk carrier. Several modelling parameters such the hull side force, propulsive efficiency, WAPS aerodynamic coefficients and force balance degrees-of-freedom are varied to investigate their impact on the resulting WAPS savings. The impact of the WAPS savings is compared with the effect of other parameters driving the economic viability. The impact of WAPS cost, routes, vessel speed and fuel price is investigated to determine the main drivers of the business case. The paper shows the dominant drives for the business case of wind power on a bulk carrier and the role the performance prediction model plays. Understanding the impact of these parameters helps in the decision making and reduces the investment risk. Keywords Decarbonization; wind propulsion; WAPS; performance prediction; bulk carrier; business case

Review on Solar Tower Technology

Abstract: Solar tower technology, a type of concentrated solar power (CSP) system, represents a sustainable and efficient solution for renewable energy generation. It employs a central receiver tower surrounded by an array of heliostats (mirrors) that track and reflect sunlight to a focal point on the tower. This concentrated sunlight generates heat, which is used to produce steam that drives a turbine to generate electricity. Solar tower technology offers significant advantages, such as high thermal efficiency, scalability, and the ability to store thermal energy for power generation even during non-sunny periods. Recent advancements in materials, heat transfer fluids, and energy storage systems have further enhanced its performance and economic viability. This technology holds promise for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a clean energy future.

Optimizing Fly Ash Utilization in Construction: A Simulation-Based Approach to Enhance Sustainability

In light of the ever-increasing environmental footprint of conventional concrete production, particularly its carbon emissions and energy consumption, a search for alternative, more environmentally friendly options have been initiated. Fly ash is one such alternative derived from the combustion of coal, which has significant potential to decrease the environmental impact of concrete. This study aims to explore the compressive strength, carbon emissions, cost, and energy consumption of concrete when cement is partially replaced by different percentages of fly ash. The performance of fly ash-based concrete with replacement levels from 0% to 50% was evaluated using a simulation-based approach. In the results, there is linear reduction in compressive strength with an increase in fly ash content, but also there are immense reductions in carbon emissions by 46% and energy consumption by 33%. The cost of producing concrete was found to reduce with higher replacement levels of fly ash, indicating a potential for cost-effectiveness in high-scale construction works. The results thus show that fly ash-based concrete may present an efficient option for sustainable construction, reconciling environmental gains with economic viability. This work sets the ground for further studies to optimize fly ash use in concrete to increase its sustainability and performance.

CLASSIFICATION OF GREEN BUILDING TECHNIQUES APPLICABLE TO THE FEDERAL CAPITAL CITY, ABUJA NIGERIA

This study applied a Descriptive-Survey Research Design with a mixed-method approach to assess the socio-economic and environmental impacts of green building techniques in Abuja, Nigeria. Data were gathered from primary and secondary sources, including structured surveys, semi-structured interviews, field observations, and literature reviews. A multi-stage sampling method identified key stakeholders such as developers, architects, government officials, and property owners, using the Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination table for statistical accuracy. Quantitative data centered on financial metrics, cost analysis, and stakeholders' perceptions, while qualitative data provided insights through interviews and direct observations. Data analysis incorporated statistical methods, AMOS (Structural Equation Modeling), comparative analysis, and content analysis to evaluate sustainability indicators, economic viability, and policy frameworks. The study classified green building techniques in Abuja, focusing on five categories: Energy-Saving and Energy Utilization (ESEU), Water-Saving and Water Utilization (WSWU), Material-Saving and Material Utilization (MSMU), Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), and Site Planning and Land Surveying (SPLS). The findings highlighted the varying performance of 19 techniques in the ESEU category, with Off-Grid Systems (OSG) achieving an average performance of 37.8% and Traditional Grid Systems (TTSG) achieving higher performance levels in most techniques. In the WSWU category, several techniques like WSWU-2, WSWU-3, and WSWU-4 exhibited high performance, with a 100% adoption in TTSG. In the MSMU category, techniques like MSMU-9 and MSMU-10 achieved near-perfect performance in both OSG and TTSG, while others, such as MSMU-13, showed limited adoption. The IEQ category displayed a continuous variation in performance, with significant improvements in TTSG for techniques like IEQ-7 and IEQ-14, which recorded increases of 23.0% and 19.3%, respectively. Finally, in the SPLS category, the performance of techniques such as SPLS-17 and SPLS-26 was exemplary, with full implementation observed. The statistical analysis, including comparisons between OSG and TTSG systems, demonstrated that green building practices could significantly enhance energy efficiency, water conservation, and material utilization. However, challenges such as the limited adoption of renewable materials, inconsistent implementation of water-saving technologies, and inadequate policy frameworks were identified. The findings underline the need for policy improvements, capacity building, and greater public awareness to accelerate the widespread adoption of green building techniques in Abuja. The study’s statistical findings were supported by a Cronbach's alpha of 0.943, indicating high reliability in the research instruments.

Optimizing Fly Ash Utilization in Construction: A Simulation-Based Approach to Enhance Sustainability

Abstract: In light of the ever-increasing environmental footprint of conventional concrete production, particularly its carbon emissions and energy consumption, a search for alternative, more environmentally friendly options have been initiated. Fly ash is one such alternative derived from the combustion of coal, which has significant potential to decrease the environmental impact of concrete. This study aims to explore the compressive strength, carbon emissions, cost, and energy consumption of concrete when cement is partially replaced by different percentages of fly ash. The performance of fly ash-based concrete with replacement levels from 0% to 50% was evaluated using a simulation-based approach. In the results, there is linear reduction in compressive strength with an increase in fly ash content, but also there are immense reductions in carbon emissions by 46% and energy consumption by 33%. The cost of producing concrete was found to reduce with higher replacement levels of fly ash, indicating a potential for cost-effectiveness in high-scale construction works. The results thus show that fly ash-based concrete may present an efficient option for sustainable construction, reconciling environmental gains with economic viability. This work sets the ground for further studies to optimize fly ash use in concrete to increase its sustainability and performance.

A Solution Approach on Reducing Defects in Batik Tanah Liek Production Process of a Small and Medium-sized Enterprise

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) often struggle with implementing effective quality management practices, especially in traditional industries like batik production. These challenges include ensuring consistent product quality to differentiate from competitors and attract customers. This study focuses on addressing quality control issues in small-scale Batik Tanah Liek production, where significant defects persist. The research aims to assess existing practices, identify defect causes, and propose solutions to enhance product quality and reduce rejection rates. These efforts contribute to improving production efficiency and supporting the sustainability of this traditional craft. The study employs a systematic approach combining quality management methodologies, including data collection, problem identification, brainstorming, the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) approach, and actionable recommendations. Data was gathered through a questionnaire to capture perspectives on defects and quality control issues in batik production. Key quality challenges identified include faded batik, torn fabric, and incorrect motifs. Analysis revealed that the primary cause of incorrect motifs is the malfunctioning canting tool, which hinders proper wax application. Additionally, defects in dyeing and boiling processes contribute to fabric fading and tearing, exacerbating quality issues. The findings underscore the need for systematic solutions, such as creating clear work instructions, designing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for process consistency, and implementing preventive maintenance schedules for equipment. By addressing these issues, the study provides practical interventions to improve production quality. These measures not only enhance the economic viability of SMEs but also play a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage of Batik Tanah Liek. The implications of this research highlight the potential for broader adoption of quality management practices in traditional industries to ensure their sustainability in competitive markets.

Manganese Quality Detection in Mining Using IoT

Abstract: Manganese mining operations are fundamental to various industries, and the demand for high-quality manganese ore is ever-increasing. The efficient extraction and processing of manganese ore are not just industrial necessities but also imperative for economic viability and environmental sustainability. This research highlights the transformative impact of manganese detection systems, offering a sophisticated solution to the challenges faced by manganese mining operations. Consequently, this leads to optimized processes, reduced resource wastage, and, ultimately, significant cost savings. It explores in detail the advantages of manganese detection systems in the context of manganese mining. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the technology's capabilities, it aims to guide mining industry stakeholders towards informed decision-making regarding sensor integration.