Efficiency Of Production Process Research Articles

Automated inspection of the tip condition of a welding tungsten electrode

This article introduces an innovative inspection system designed to check the condition of the welding electrode tip. The system combines 2D laser scanning with advanced analytical algorithms, enabling fast, accurate, and automated inspection. Developed PC software controls the synchronized movement of welding electrodes and the scanner, allowing the creation of 3D point clouds representing the surface of the electrodes. These data are analysed to identify deformations, contamination, and surface imperfections. The inspection results are communicated with the welding control system, contributing to improved weld quality and efficiency in industrial production processes. This innovation has the potential to change how the condition of welding electrodes is monitored in industrial sectors.

Utilization of Heat from The Reactor's Outlet Stream in Formaldehyde Production to Reduce Energy Usage in The Heat Exchanger

Global production of formaldehyde has consistently risen over the past ten years, highlighting its extensive industrial applications and high demand across various sectors worldwide. However, its production continues to consume a significant amount of energy. The aim of this paper is to investigate and propose strategies for enhancing energy efficiency in formaldehyde production processes. Specifically, the study focuses on harnessing heat from the reactor's outlet stream to minimize the energy consumption associated with heat exchangers. By analyzing and optimizing the utilization of this heat source, the paper aims to contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices by reducing overall energy requirements and operational costs in formaldehyde production facilities. The process modification was simulated using Aspen HYSYS and the comparison of net-energy between the basic and the modified process is calculated using the net-energy formula. The results obtained that the Net-Energy (NE) value for both basic and modified process is 316,286,815.4 kJ/h and 125,757,792.9 kJ/h. This shows that the modified process has better energy efficiency compared to the basic process as the net-energy value zero. Therefore, this modification enhances the energy efficiency of the formaldehyde production process through methanol oxidation. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).

Migration Component of Cooperation between Russia and Tajikistan

Aim. The article is devoted to the argumentation of the role of the migration component of labor resources, identification of socio-economic consequences of labor migration and development of approaches to its regulation in the interaction between Russia and the Republic of Tajikistan.Tasks. To study the role of Tajikistan in the formation and use of labor resources of Russia, to study the causes and consequences of the transformation of migration processes in the Republic of Tajikistan, to substantiate the prospects for the development of the migration component of interaction between Russia and the Republic of Tajikistan.Methods. The study used: analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction, comparisons and groupings, economic and statistical analysis, evolutionary and historical approaches; used the legislative base and generalized literature sources on the topic of the study.Results. The study revealed a significant role of migration processes in the formation and use of labor resources, as evidenced by the average annual changes in this indicator calculated by the authors for more than a decade. The relevance of the study of the migration component of interaction between Russia and the Republic of Tajikistan is confirmed by its high share in the total migration flow. The article substantiates a set of factors affecting the migration component of labor resources. The main ones include: multipolarity, confirmed by the creation of interstate associations such as BRICS; changes in migration legislation regulating the activities of migrants, both in the host country and in the country of origin; the development of digital technologies, contributing to the expansion of the use of nonstandard forms of employment such as freelancing and platform employment. In the process of the research, the fundamental principles of forming the labor potential of migrants, which, in our opinion, contribute to the improvement of their labor potential, were identified. It is argued that it is advisable to focus attention not only on the organizational and economic efficiency of production processes. The article concludes that in regulating labor migration it is necessary to take into account the transition from the model of standardized employment to individualized employment, which significantly affects migrants and is confirmed by the spread of precarious work among them.Conclusions. This study examines the migration component of interaction between Russia and the Republic of Tajikistan, which is very important for both countries. For Russia, the expediency of migration processes is due to the fact that they contribute to the solution of demographic and related problems, including the replenishment of the labor force at the expense of young and middle-aged people. For the Republic of Tajikistan, migration is part of the state policy on labor market regulation, which is confirmed by current and prospective measures to regulate the labor market in this country. The positive result of interaction between Russia and the Republic of Tajikistan is achieved with a comprehensive approach to solving this problem, providing for statistical substantiation of the need for labor resources, adequate to changing conditions legislative framework, close connection with the sphere of education. Modern computer technologies cause a high degree of digitalization of organizational and labor processes, manifested in the expansion of non-standard, including precarious, forms of employment, which implies the need for their monitoring and regulation.

ANALYSIS OF MODERN METHODS OF TRANSPORTATION OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS BY SPIRAL-SCREW TRANSPORTERS

The article is devoted to the analysis of modern methods of transporting agricultural products using spiral-screw conveyors. The agriculture of Ukraine and the world needs effective technical means capable of comprehensively providing transportation, loading, unloading, storage and processing of various types of products, including bulk, liquid and semi-liquid materials. The research indicates that the existing means do not fully satisfy the requirements for productivity and versatility, as they are metal- and energy-intensive and do not always meet the conditions of complex production tasks. Special attention in the work is paid to promising designs of rodless spiral-screw conveyors, which have increased compactness, energy efficiency, and the ability to transport materials with different physical and chemical properties. The proposed research is based on experimental methods and modeling of the transportation process, which allows to evaluate the parameters and mode of operation of conveyors in different conditions. In addition, analytical expressions are provided for determining performance and calculating optimal parameters that improve planning accuracy and reduce costs. Research results demonstrate the possibility of creating resource-saving technologies for transporting agricultural materials, which ensures increased efficiency in production processes. The proposed innovations are of great importance for the agricultural industry, as they contribute to the development of a modern material and technical base and increase the competitiveness of agricultural products.

ANALYTICAL REVIEW OF THE METHODS AND MEANS OF CONTROLLING ELECTRIC DRIVES OF ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS OF APC

Control of electric drives in electromechanical systems of the agro-industrial complex (APC) is a critical factor in increasing the efficiency and reliability of technological processes that directly affect the productivity of agricultural production. In connection with the introduction of the latest technologies, the growth of product quality requirements and the need to automate processes, modern agricultural technologies require the improvement of electric drive control methods. The relevance of this topic is due to the need to optimize management processes in the agricultural sector to increase productivity, reduce energy consumption, and increase system reliability. The review examines classical and modern approaches to the control of electric drives. Traditional proportional, integral and differential methods ensure the stability of systems and minimize errors, adapting to the conditions of agricultural production. An important role is played by feedback systems that automatically adjust the operating parameters of electric drives in response to changes in external factors. Fuzzy management systems are also an important part, allowing decisions to be made based on expert judgments in cases where accurate data is difficult to obtain. Adaptive management systems capable of changing their parameters in conditions of variability are considered separately, which is especially important in the agricultural sector with its changing conditions. The article also highlights modern intelligent control systems using artificial intelligence, machine learning and remote monitoring, which allow analyzing large volumes of data, predicting resource needs and increasing energy efficiency. Internet-based systems such as SCADA provide operators with the ability to remotely monitor and control equipment in real time, an essential element of modern agricultural production. In conclusion, the control of electric drives in agriculture is aimed at automating and increasing the efficiency of production processes, optimizing the use of energy resources and ensuring the safety of the systems, which makes them an integral part of modern agricultural technologies.

Quality of Short-Link Chains as an Element of Innovation in Mining Industry

In the context of innovation in craning equipment, chains play a key role not only as working elements but also as factors influencing the safety and efficiency of production processes. High-quality raw materials and the selection of a qualified supplier are fundamental to increasing innovation in this field. From an occupational safety perspective, the chain quality used in lifting equipment is crucial. A particularly important operating element in hoists and chain pullers is the chain with short links, which largely determines the safety of the crane employees. The article discusses the basic elements affecting the quality and safety of the chain, pointing out that users of these products should be guided primarily by the certificates and approvals provided by the manufacturers and not just by price when choosing a supplier. Investing in the appropriate materials and technology allows for innovations that can significantly increase operational efficiency and ensure a high level of safety. The use of chains that meet stringent quality standards translates not only into a lower risk of failure but also into longer equipment life, resulting in lower operating costs. Changing the approach to selecting suppliers and raw materials can, therefore, be a crucial step in management innovation.

Towards Flexible Control of Production Processes: A Requirements Analysis for Adaptive Workflow Management and Evaluation of Suitable Process Modeling Languages

In the context of Industry 4.0, Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods are used to maximize the efficiency and flexibility of production processes. The adaptive management of such semantic processes can optimize energy and resource efficiency while providing high reliability, but it depends on the representation type of these models. This paper provides a literature review of current Process Modeling Languages (PMLs). Based on a suitable PML, the flexibility of production processes can be increased. Currently, a common understanding of this process flexibility in the context of adaptive workflow management is missing. Therefore, requirements derived from the business environment are presented for process flexibility. To enable the identification of suitable PLMs, requirements regarding this are also raised. Based on these, the PMLs identified in the literature review are evaluated. Thereby, based on a preselection, a detailed examination of the seven most promising languages is performed, including an example from a real smart factory. As a result, a recommendation is made for the use of BPMN, for which it is presented how it can be enriched with separate semantic information that is suitable for the use of AI planning and, thus, enables flexible control.

Increase in the energy efficiency of the biogas production process through vibration activation of heat and mass exchange processes in the bioreactor

Increase in the energy efficiency of the biogas production process through vibration activation of heat and mass exchange processes in the bioreactor

OPTIMIZATION OF OPERATING PARAMETERS OF DIAMOND WIRE SAWING FOR ENHANCING NATURAL STONE EXTRACTION EFFICIENCY

Objective. The aim of the study is to improve the efficiency of natural stone cutting processes using diamond wire saw machines in quarries by optimizing operating parameters, particularly current strength. This will help reduce diamond wire wear, enhance cutting productivity, and decrease energy costs, ensuring the stability and economic viability of stone extraction processes. Methodology. The study was conducted at the Leznykiv Block Quarry using the MKS-55 diamond wire saw machine, whose main parameters include a main drive power of 55 kW, wire speed up to 40 m/s, and a wire length from 20 to 120 m. During the experiments, three levels of current strength were used: 55 A, 60 A, and 65 A, allowing the assessment of this parameter’s impact on cutting efficiency for monoliths of different sizes (6×2 m, 6×3 m, 6×6 m, 6×10 m, 6×12 m, 6×15 m, 6×18 m). Data on wire tension, movement speed, operating duration, and wire temperature were collected and processed using specialized software. The theoretical analysis included mathematical modeling of the effects of operating parameters on the process stability and energy efficiency of cutting. Results. Experimental studies showed that the highest cutting productivity was achieved at a current strength of 55 A for medium and large cutting areas. Maximum productivity (2.8 m²/h) was observed on an area of 108 m², which is 40% higher compared to smaller areas. This is due to the stability of wire tension and even diamond grain wear under optimal settings. Using a current strength of 65 A provided a higher initial cutting speed (up to 3.14 m²/h for an area of 36 m²) but led to wire overheating and significant productivity decrease after reaching an area of 72 m² (2.09 m²/h). This highlights the importance of temperature control to maintain process stability. Scientific Novelty. The study systematically analyzed, for the first time, the effects of various current strength levels on the performance of diamond wire machines in processing monoliths of different sizes. Recommendations for optimal cutting parameters were proposed based on the experimental data and theoretical modeling, taking into account the interrelationship between current strength, wire tension, cutting speed, and temperature mode. This enabled the development of approaches to optimize the cutting process, reducing diamond tool wear and enhancing process stability. Practical Significance. The study’s results can be applied to the setup of diamond wire saw machines at stone extraction enterprises. The most effective mode was found to be with a current strength of 55 A, providing an optimal combination of productivity and wire longevity for medium and large cutting areas. This reduces operating costs, extends equipment life, and lowers energy consumption, which is critical for ensuring the economic efficiency of production processes. Implementing the developed recommendations will improve cutting quality and productivity at stone extraction quarries. Keywords: diamond wire saw machine, stone cutting, cutting productivity, current strength, process optimization, quarrying, energy efficiency, natural stone extraction.

조선시대 인골의 3차원 복원과 디지털 휴먼 제작 연구 : <조선인 이첨지> 제작과정을 중심으로

This study covers the process of creating a digital human based on skeletal remains from the Joseon Dynasty. Utilizing 3D scanning technology and computer graphics, the original form of the skeleton was precisely restored, leading to the creation of a highly realistic digital human. The subject of the study is the skeletal remains from the Joseon Dynasty excavated from the Jin-gwan-dong tombs in Eunpyeong New Town, Seoul. The restoration work was performed using high-resolution 3D scans, Zbrush, and Unreal Engine's MetaHuman Creator. The produced digital human vividly reproduces the appearance and movements of historical figures, exploring its educational and cultural applications. The study found that digital humans have the potential to serve as innovative tools in the preservation and educational use of cultural heritage. The process up to the integration with AI technology was presented. The use of Unreal Engine and MetaHuman Creator especially improved convenience and efficiency in the digital human production process. This technological approach showed that accurate restoration is possible without damaging the original artifacts, compared to traditional manual restoration methods, saving time and costs. This study contributes to the development of the digital heritage field and suggests future research directions. Educational content utilizing digital humans can vividly convey historical figures and events to students and general audiences, maximizing educational effects. Furthermore, digital restoration technology is expected to play a crucial role in preserving, recording, managing, displaying, and disseminating cultural heritage, presenting innovative methods for transmitting the wisdom and culture of the past to future generations.

The Dark Fermentation Hydrogen Production of Mixed Bacterial Strains with Immobilized Cells from Household Waste

Polyurethane sponge particles were employed as bio-immobilized cell carriers for dark fermentation hydrogen production with heating-treated cow dung inoculum from epipremnum aureum waste and kitchen waste. This study explored the performance changes of batch dark fermentation hydrogen production systems under different influent substrates. Different influent total solids concentration and substrate types both had a large effect on the efficiency of the biological hydrogen production process. Based on the combined analysis of hydrogen production efficacy, VFA, and energy conversion efficiency, the optimal influent total solids concentration was 2 g/L and 10 g/L for epipremnum aureum waste and kitchen waste, respectively. For the epipremnum aureum waste, the energy conversion efficiency was 13.6% and the metabolic type was mixed fermentation at a total solids concentration of 2 g/L. For kitchen waste, the energy conversion efficiency was 14.4% and the metabolic type was ethanol/acetic fermentation at a total solids concentration of 10 g/L. The results indicate that epipremnum aureum waste and kitchen waste can be used as substrates for dark fermentation hydrogen production, and kitchen waste performed better than epipremnum aureum waste at the same influent total solids concentration. Compared to other nutrients, both epipremnum aureum waste and kitchen waste also showed better hydrogen production efficacy and energy conversion efficiency. The study can provide a more economical and efficient method for residential household waste recycling.

A Diagnostic Approach to Improving the Energy Efficiency of Production Processes—2E-DAmIcS Methodology

This article presents the issue of energy waste in manufacturing processes, focusing on reducing unnecessary energy consumption and CO2 emissions. A significant challenge in modern production is identifying and minimizing energy waste, which not only increases operational costs but also contributes to environmental degradation. An improvement methodology referred to as 2E-DAmIcS is proposed. A distinguishing feature of the methodology is a risk map of energy waste in the production process. Application of the methodology is demonstrated using the example of a lead–acid battery production process. It is shown that even small but well-diagnosed changes to the process make it possible to significantly reduce energy consumption. The proposed methodology offers practical tools for managers and decision-makers in various industries to systematically identify and minimize energy waste. It highlights the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration among specialists in technology, energy consumption, and statistical analysis to optimize energy use. By applying this approach, companies can achieve both financial savings and environmental benefits, contributing to more sustainable production practices.

A System to Store Waste Heat as Liquid Hydrogen Assisted by Organic Rankine Cycle, Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyzer, and Mixed Refrigerant Hydrogen Liquefaction Cycle

ABSTRACTThis study proposes a system to store waste heat as liquid hydrogen using a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer (PEME) and a mixed refrigerant hydrogen liquefaction cycle. The novelty of this study lies in proposing a waste heat recovery system that stores electricity as liquid hydrogen, consuming less power due to the improved exergy efficiency of the components. The proposed system is analyzed to achieve better efficiency in terms of thermal and exergy efficiencies. Waste heat is used to generate power by an organic Rankin cycle (ORC), produced electricity is utilized in the PEME unit and compressors of liquefaction cycle to produce and liquefy hydrogen, respectively. Codes are written in EES software to simulate the system. Thermodynamic analysis is done in order to achieve better thermal efficiency for the proposed model. Membrane potential at different values of current density is calculated and compared with validate the simulated model. The exergy efficiency of the liquid hydrogen production process is 57%. The exergy efficiency, rate of power produced in ORC, and rate of hydrogen production by the electrolyzer increase significantly by increasing the isentropic efficiency of the turbine. At a temperature of 340 K for the evaporator, the thermal efficiency of ORC is obtained at 8.5%, which is approximately 3% higher compared with that of the previous similar process.

Synthesis and characterization of potato starch as a feasible alternative to the commercial yarn sizing materials

In Bangladesh, surplus potatoes pose challenges, leading to substantial wastage and losses. To mitigate this issue, exploring diverse applications for excess potatoes is crucial. This study focuses on using locally produced potato starch as an alternative sizing material. The potato starch was extracted and employed to size 100% cotton yarns of 12, 20, and 30 Ne counts. Comparative analyses were conducted with commonly used commercial sizing agents, including tapioca starch, one-shot, and Amatrolid 8923. Technical parameters such as size solution viscosity, yarn pick-up percentage, coating quality, hairiness reduction, tensile strength, elongation percentage, abrasion resistance, and coefficient of variation (CV%) were investigated for the different sizing agents. Potato starch exhibited performance on par with commercial agents, yielding favorable results. Particularly for coarser yarns (12 and 20 Ne counts), potato starch outperformed the alternatives, showcasing its efficacy. While one-shot proved most effective for the 30 Ne yarn, potato starch displayed slightly diminished performance due to its higher viscosity. Overall, potato starch emerged as a promising alternative to conventional sizing agents. It surpassed tapioca starch and Amatrolid 8923 across various parameters, reaffirming its potential as a feasible substitute in yarn sizing applications. This study underscores the viability of potato starch in enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of textile production processes.

SELECTION OF TOOLS AND MACHINING PARAMETERS FOR PIPE WALLS

This review paper examines the techniques and factors involved in pipe wall processing, with a focus on the essential technologies utilized in this field. The study revealed crucial elements, such as ASTM A350-LF2 Class 1 carbon steel, renowned for its exceptional mechanical qualities and ability to withstand low temperatures. An exhaustive analysis has been conducted on the chemical makeup of this steel to comprehend its capacity to adjust and endure in various operational environments. The study focused on examining several particle separation processes, including as turning, milling, drilling, and grinding, in order to determine the exact equipment and criteria needed for each technique. The cooling and lubricating process received particular emphasis, with thorough investigation of several agents, including CASTROL HYSOL T15, and their impact on surface quality and tool longevity. The utilization of these compounds has been discovered to substantially decrease tool temperature and enhance machining quality. Upon closer examination of the processing techniques specified in section A-A of the tube wall, it was determined that advanced procedures such as floating plug drawing and micro-sized spiral tube hydroforming were discovered. These techniques allow the attainment of superior surface quality and precise dimensions, which are crucial for guaranteeing the structural integrity of the pipe. Cutting tools, processing equipment, and coolants and lubricants are essential components in the manufacturing of pipe walls. Nanoparticulate cooling and lubrication systems, which are advanced technologies, have demonstrated their effectiveness in minimizing friction and heat during machining. As a result, these systems enhance productivity and prolong the lifespan of tools. According to the article, the essential components for attaining high-quality manufacture of pipe walls are cutting tools, processing equipment, and coolants and lubricants. Additional study is advised to enhance processing parameters, create eco-friendly coolants and lubricants, and utilize artificial intelligence for predictive modeling and optimization of processing. This establishes the groundwork for future research and innovation in the pipe wall production business, with the objective of attaining enhanced efficiency and sustainability in production processes.

DIGITAL TOOL FOR CALCULATING PROJECTED INITIAL RECOVERABLE OIL RESERVES AND OIL RECOVERY FACTOR

In today's realities, digitalization of production activities of companies and enterprises, including those involved in hydrocarbon production, is becoming increasingly important, allowing to create a single digital space for all employees, ensure transparency of the results obtained and provide prompt access to relevant information stored in a single database. The formation of a unified digital space implies the creation of an environment for employees, within which it is possible to use unified tools in solving production tasks. Data transparency eliminates the variability of results, demonstrating each step performed to achieve the result recorded in the database system. A unified database allows you to quickly familiarize yourself with all available relevant information, saving your employees time and effort. All these points are ultimately aimed at improving the efficiency of production processes, as well as optimizing the activities of employees working in different geographical locations, excluding from the work activities such routine processes as: manual recalculation of multiple indicators, search and review of information stored in different sources. Digitalization of production processes implies the use of digital technologies and tools formed on a certain technological basis. Based on the above, the authors have identified the criteria for the effectiveness of digital tools to perform production tasks: reducing the share of routine processes, providing digital transparency and storing results in a single database. The authors of the paper consider an example of digitalization of the oil recovery factor calculation process thanks to the implemented «Target Oil Recovery Factor» tool as part of the implementation of the RN-KIN Express corporate software.The purpose of the work under consideration is to confirm the performance of the implemented digital tool «Targeted EOR Express» (correct calculation of oil recovery factor and initial recoverable oil reserves) by means of retrospective analysis at fields in Western Siberia and Bashkortostan, and compliance with the stated criteria of an effective digital tool.Thanks to the retrospective analysis, the results confirming the accuracy of calculations of forecast values of residual recoverable oil reserves and oil recovery factor were obtained.Based on the results of the work, the implementation of «Targeted EORExpress» tool complies with the general trend of digitalization of production processes and includes all the criteria of an effective digital tool for production tasks.

Application of the integrated well-surface facility production system for selecting the optimal operating mode of equipment

This work is dedicated to the analysis and development of an integrated production system that combines wells and surface facilities to select the optimal operating mode for equipment. The main focus is on studying data analysis methods, as well as collecting and processing information, which ensures high accuracy in process control and optimal use of technological capabilities. The integration of data from various levels of the production chain, from the well to the surface facilities, opens up new opportunities for optimizing equipment performance and improving resource management quality. Integration of wells and surface facilities – The effective integration of wells and surface facilities is crucial for optimizing production processes, minimizing operational costs, and reducing environmental impact. Integrated management systems allow the automation of many processes, providing continuous monitoring of operating parameters, automatic adjustment of settings, and supplying data for quick decision-making. This includes real-time data collection, analysis, and the use of the obtained information to select optimal operating modes, which helps improve both overall efficiency and safety in production processes. In the modern oil and gas industry, the efficient use of equipment at all stages of hydrocarbon production is of particular importance. Optimizing the operation of wells and surface facilities is a key aspect for increasing economic efficiency and reducing environmental impact. In this regard, the development and application of integrated systems that enable real-time control and adaptation of equipment operating modes has become a relevant and significant task.

In Situ Preparation of Highly Active and Selective Fe‐MOF/V–C3N4 for Photocatalytic Hydroxylation of Benzene to Phenol

AbstractThe selective photocatalytic oxidation of benzene to phenol under mild conditions is of great significance for the next‐generation phenol industry. In order to improve the efficiency of the phenol production process, a heterojunction catalyst based on Fe‐MOF/V–C3N4 was synthesized by solvothermal method. Compared with Fe‐MOF and C3N4, the photogenerated charge separation rate of this composite catalyst was significantly enhanced, and the photogenerated electron‐hole complexation was significantly weakened.Under the optimal conditions, the yield and selectivity of phenol were 18.75 % and 96 % respectively, and the photocatalytic activity remained high after four reaction cycles. The improved strategy for this catalyst will provide some new insights for the development of more efficient photocatalysts for the direct hydroxylation of benzene to phenol.

Towards carbon neutrality: asymmetric impact of financial development and digitalization on carbon dioxide emissions in Mediterranean countries

The current research investigates the impact of financial development, digitalization, green trade, manufacturing, and national income on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of six Mediterranean countries (MEDIT-6). The study uses a nonlinear panel quantile regression model with panel data of MEDIT-6 countries from 1994 to 2022. The study asserts that higher financial development will reduce CO2 emissions for MEDIT-6 countries, as it provides more financing options to invest in green energy and potentially curb excessive energy consumption which in turn reduces CO2 emissions. The study also provides evidence that digitalization in MEDIT-6 countries has led to dematerialization, thereby reducing CO2 emissions. Digitalization makes trade and commerce platforms more efficient by facilitating the smooth flow of information and enhancing the efficiency of production processes. The positive relationship between manufacturing and national income and CO2 emissions exhibits a U-shaped pattern, which supports the existence of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. The study shows how the MEDIT-6 countries have been successful in promoting financial development and digitalization, which helps reduce their CO2 emissions. However, it also raises concerns for policymakers as promoting developmental activities such as manufacturing is inevitable, but it comes with environmental challenges such as higher CO2 emissions. The current study contributes to the reservoir of existing literature by providing fresh evidence from the Mediterranean region on the impact of financial development and digitalization on CO2 emissions.Graphical

Resource use efficiency: Developing a generic framework for protein production systems and its application on dairy and fish

Resource use efficiency has become increasingly important as the global demand for natural resources continues to grow, necessitating innovative and sustainable utilization strategies. Despite the availability of tools to quantify resource use and environmental impacts, an integrated assessment of total resource use efficiency remains underdeveloped. Addressing this gap, particularly within the context of the protein transition from animal-based to plant-based sources, this work introduces a novel resource efficiency framework. This framework advances current environmental assessments by enabling the precise calculation of efficiency in protein production processes and process chains based on comprehensive resource utilization metrics. It uniquely incorporates the nature of process inputs, including their renewability and circularity, and supports both foreground and life cycle perspectives at the process and process chain levels. To demonstrate its applicability, two case studies—fish and dairy production systems—are evaluated using exergy and mass analyses.