Energy Production Potential Research Articles

Ecophysiological adaptation and potential of energy production of two halophytes grown in the Red Sea coast of Egypt

Ecophysiological adaptation and potential of energy production of two halophytes grown in the Red Sea coast of Egypt

Ultrafast degradation of Cu(II)-EDTA by peroxymonosulfate activated with polyoxometalate clusters intercalated layered double hydroxides: Simultaneous decomplexation and resourcelization

Technologies used to handle metal pollution are often ineffective for complexed metals, which have refractory biodegradability, high solubility, and strong mobility, posing significant threats to the ecological environment. This work proposed a novel catalytic system for the proper disposal of Cu(II)-EDTA pollution. Polyoxometalate cluster intercalated CaFe layered double hydroxide (LDH-CoPW) prepared through a mild and convenience method was applied to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the degradation of Cu(II)-EDTA and the simultaneous immobilization of the released Cu(II). Compared to direct waste or complex regeneration of catalysts, the application of used LDH-CoPW in clean energy production was proposed to further reduce carbon emissions. Under the combination of 0.1 g/L of LDH CoPW and 0.1 mM of PMS, nearly 100 % of Cu(II)-EDTA was removed within 3 min of reaction time, and 49.6 % of Cu(II) was adsorbed within 60 min of reaction time. The second-order reaction kinetic constants of Co(IV) = O with various probes were confirmed by competition kinetics method. Based on this, Co(IV) = O was identified as the dominant RSs using a scientific probe-based kinetic model. Furthermore, CaFe-LDH did not directly activate PMS but ensured the reactivity of the catalytic system by promoting the redox cycle of cobalt species. Finally, due to the regulation of Cu on the electronic structure of the catalyst, the electrochemical performance of the used LDH-CoPW surpassed that of fresh LDH-CoPW and CaFe-LDH, showing great potential in clean energy production.

Global floating PV status and potential

Abstract Floating photovoltaics (FPV) has been a rapidly growing source of renewable electricity for the past 15 years since first commercial systems were installed. In this work, the insights from SERIS FPV database are shared. This is likely the largest database of its kind and contains the information from 1142 FPV systems in operation, totalling 5.9 GWp, by the end of 2022. Mainland China has been leading FPV installation capacities since 2017 and comprises almost half of the cumulative installed capacity. Similar to land-based PV, FPV installation size has been increasing; the median size has grown from 0.09 MWp in 2013 to 1.40 MWp in 2022, while the median power density has increased from 82 Wp m−2 to 123 Wp m−2 in the same timeframe. The installation cost has fallen simultaneously – the lowest reported was 0.41 USD/Wp in India in 2021. Other pertinent insights from SERIS FPV database include float supplier market share, reported electricity price, water body types and characteristics, as well as its coverage ratio. Finally, the global FPV potential (capacity, energy production, and water saving), for different tilt angles, tracking configurations, and solar panel types are explored. By installing FPV on 10% of the area of 249 717 inland reservoirs, FPV capacity could reach up to 22 TWp and could fulfil the whole global electricity consumption and up to 5% of the world’s water demand. The use of trackers and bifacial panels are advantageous for energy generation in all locations, with trackers increasing specific energy yield of a typical fixed 10° tilt FPV by up to 50% for reservoirs within ± 40 ∘ latitude, while the bifacial gains reach up to 4.5% for all analysed configurations within ± 40 ∘ latitude. The insights from this global FPV market and potential analysis can serve as a reliable reference for FPV stakeholders, researchers, and regulators alike.

Policy implications of implementing residential PV solar energy systems in developing regions

Access to sustainable and reliable energy sources is a pivotal driver of economic development and improved living standards in all regions of the world. This research paper explores the policy implications of implementing residential photovoltaic (PV) solar systems in two developing regions, Jamaica, and Ghana, and emphasizes the role of policy frameworks in shaping the sustainable energy landscape. The study employs a multifaceted approach, combining System Advisor Model (SAM) analysis – which reveals promising energy production potential in both regions, with substantial economic benefits – and a risk assessment to evaluate the feasibility, economic viability, and potential barriers to residential PV solar adoption. Financial assessments indicate competitive payback periods and favorable returns on investment, suggesting that residential PV systems can offer cost-effective energy solutions. Identifying potential barriers to adoption through a comprehensive risk assessment highlights challenges related to policy instability, financing constraints, and technical limitations. Policy recommendations and strategies for mitigating these barriers are proposed to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources in both regions. The findings underscore the potential for solar energy to address energy access challenges while advancing economic development, environmental sustainability, and energy resilience in Jamaica, and Ghana, while offering valuable lessons for similar contexts worldwide.

Correlation and Regression Analyses of Disease and Agronomic Traits of Ethiopian Mustard (Brassica Carinata A. Braun.) Genotypes

Ethiopian mustard (<i>Brassica carinata A. Braun</i>) is an important oilseed crop with significant potential for food and energy production. The study evaluated 36 genotypes using a 6 x 6 lattice design to analyze correlations and regression among traits, aiming to understand their relationships and identify key traits for developing high-performing varieties. The analysis of variance revealed significant variation (p < 0.001) for traits including seed yield, flowering time, maturity date, disease resistance, thousand seed weight, oil content and oil yield; indicating the potential for genetic improvement. However, traits such as downy mildew resistance, leaf spot and branching showed non-significant variation, suggesting these traits may be more influenced by environmental factors than by genetic differences among the genotypes. Pearson correlation coefficients highlighted significant relationships among traits. Days to flowering (r = 0.687) and maturity (r = 0.029) positively correlated with yield, while disease traits negatively impacted seed yield. Notably, Thousand Seed Weight (r = 0.985) strongly correlated with yield, underscoring the importance of seed size. A multiple regression model explained 99.7% of the variation in seed yield, with a highly significant intercept (1863.35, p < 0.001). Key associations were found with secondary branches (12.32), oil content (-46.79) and oil yield (2.19). This study confirms the potential for improving Ethiopian mustard yield through genetic selection of key traits. It is recommended that breeding programs focus on enhancing seed size and disease resistance while considering environmental factors to maximize yield potential.

Assessing green hydrogen potential and utilization for sustainable energy production in Serbia

The paper provides a comprehensive examination of resources available for the deployment of green hydrogen in Serbia. The assessment encompasses various aspects, including renewable energy potentials, technological advancements, and future projections. The evaluation considers factors such as solar and wind power capacities, which are pivotal for green hydrogen production. Additionally, the study delves into the policy landscape, addressing initiatives aimed at fostering the integration of green hydrogen into Serbia's energy matrix. The analysis combines quantitative data on energy production capacities with qualitative insights into the economic and environmental implications of green hydrogen utilization. While the nation boasts abundant renewable energy resources, challenges such as high production costs and infrastructure limitations hinder widespread adoption. However, with strategic initiatives and technological advancements, Serbia can overcome these hurdles and pave the way for a sustainable hydrogen economy. Assessing Serbia's green hydrogen potential, driven by over 24 095 MWp from solar and 10 750 MWp from wind, highlights the nation's capacity to harness renewable resources, with hydrogen production set to grow from 1915 tons in 2019 to 37 ,123 tons by 2040. The findings aim to contribute to the ongoing discourse on sustainable energy transitions and the role of green hydrogen in Serbia's evolving energy landscape.

Modeling of methane emissions from waste disposal sites at selected Egyptian governorates and potential energy production from waste-to-energy projects

Waste and energy sectors have significant contributions to the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused primarily by the population expansion. Waste-to-Energy (WtE) is introduced to address the issue raised by both sectors simultaneously through utilization of the potential energy stored in municipal solid waste (MSW) as well as offsetting GHG emissions. Limited research have been conducted in Egypt to assess the current situation of MSW management and associated methane emissions. The current study focused on estimating the baseline methane emissions for six Egyptian governorates and determining the energy production potential from WtE projects. To achieve this aim, three scenarios have been assessed: Baseline, Landfill Gas to Energy (LFGE), and Incineration scenarios. Key results revealed that a total of 3.7 million tonnes of methane would be emitted from all studied governorates generated over 50 years. Incineration also found to be more favorable in all governorates in terms of energy production, quantity of avoided GHG emissions, and in terms of economic viability over LFGE. Implementing incineration in all governorates would generate about 5.6 TWh energy annually and could avoid about 5 Mt CO2 eq annually in comparison to LFGE that would generate about 0.6 TWh annually and could avoid about 2.5 Mt CO2 eq annually. In terms of economic viability of WtE projects, while they were generally not economically viable under the assumptions made in the current study, incineration technology deemed promising, but policy adjustments, such as competitive Feed-in Tariff (FiT) rates and the inclusion of gate fees, are necessary. Specific minimum gate fees and FiT were identified for each governorate, providing essential guidance for decision makers to ensure the viability of WtE implementation. This study would support the decision makers in assessing technically and financially feasible options for WtE technologies in the selected governorates.

Greenhouse gas emissions and net energy production of dark fermentation from food waste followed by anaerobic digestion

There are diverse estimations regarding the carbon reduction effects of alternative hydrogen production technologies. This study assessed the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy balance of a two-stage process combining dark fermentative hydrogen production and anaerobic digestion from food waste using the cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA). The system boundary included collection and transportation, pretreatment and feedstock storage, dark fermentation, H2 purification, anaerobic digestion and heat and power generation and the estimated GHG emission was compared with a single anaerobic digestion of food waste. GHG emission of the biohydrogen production was estimated as 2.48 kg CO₂-eq per kg H₂ without considering avoided emissions from heat and power generation. The environmental impacts were majorly influenced by electricity use. The net energy ratio of the two-stage process was calculated to be 8.18, confirming a net energy gain and the potential GHG emission avoidance for electricity and heat use. Given that the single-stage anaerobic digestion of 16 tons of food waste is replaced by the two-stage dark fermentation process, 76.6 kg CO₂-eq would be avoided. Sensitivity analysis revealed that energy-saving strategies are the most sensitive factors for achieving positive net energy production and low global warming potential.

Assessment of merits and demerits of perpendicular and slanted photovoltaic/thermal facades

This study compares the thermal and electrical energy production potential and wind load assessment of perpendicular versus slanted photovoltaic (PV) facades. The goal is to identify the optimal facade orientation for societal adoption based on energy efficiency and wind load considerations. Using Hybrid RANS/LES models, the aerodynamic performance and energy yield of both orientations are analyzed under varying angles and environmental conditions. The findings show that while the slanted façade is better designed to capture solar irradiance, it produces 4 to 8 % less energy than the perpendicular façade and yields approximately 2 % less exergy efficiency due to wind regime. However, the slanted design reduces wind load by 9.8 %, enhancing structural stability. The maximum thermal energy output of 217 kW is recorded from the perpendicular façade at a wind speed of 1 m/s, while the slanted façade generates a peak electrical power of 68 kW at 8 m/s wind speed. Overall, the perpendicular façade underscores more efficient in equal weather conditions, making it a sustainable choice for PV installation. These results provide valuable insights for architects, engineers, and policymakers in optimizing PV facade design for urban environments.

Design and evaluation of a hybrid offshore wave energy converter and floating photovoltaic system for the region of Oran, Algeria

Introduction. This paper presents the novel design and analysis of a hybrid renewable energy system that combines a wave energy converter (WEC) with a floating photovoltaic (FPV) system for offshore installation, with a specific focus on Oran as a case study. The purpose of integrating these two technologies is to harness both wave and solar energy, thereby maximizing energy output and enhancing the reliability of renewable energy sources in offshore environments. The goal of this study is to develop a hybrid system that leverages the complementary nature of WEC and FPV technologies to maximize energy output and improve reliability. By integrating these technologies, the system aims to overcome the limitations of standalone energy systems. The methodology includes selecting suitable WEC and FPV technologies, optimizing their configurations, and analyzing their combined performance under various environmental conditions. To assess the energy production potential, structural stability, and economic feasibility of the hybrid system, computational simulations and data analysis are employed. This comprehensive approach ensures rigorous testing and optimization for real-world applications. The results demonstrate substantial improvements in energy yield and system resilience compared to standalone WEC or FPV systems. The hybrid system shows enhanced performance, particularly in consistent energy output and structural robustness. These findings indicate that combining WEC and FPV technologies can lead to more reliable and efficient offshore renewable energy solutions. The practical values are significant, providing insights into efficient and sustainable offshore renewable energy solutions. By focusing on Oran, it offers a localized perspective that can be adapted to similar coastal areas globally, contributing to the advancement of renewable energy technologies. The hybrid system’s enhanced reliability and efficiency support the broader goal of sustainable energy development in marine environments, highlighting its potential for widespread application and impact. References 23, tables 4, figures 17.

Turbine system vs engine generator in the production of energy by methane in the pacific of Mexico: a technical, economic, and environmental analysis.

This paper aims to analyze the potential of energy production using methane from organic waste as a sustainable alternative to mitigate the environmental impact of energy generation from fossil fuels and the generation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW). To carry out the analysis, two technologies were evaluated from technical, economic, and environmental perspectives. The LandGEM model was used to estimate the methane generation potential. The amount of energy produced, along with the respective financial indicators, was also calculated. The results showed that for an average feed of 671,892 tons per year of waste, 6160 ft3/min of CH4 would be generated at a maximum peak in the tenth year, with an annual average of 4735 ft3/min. Additionally, 0.831 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent would be avoided. In terms of power generation, a combined cycle micro-turbine system with an installed capacity of 11.35 MW would be feasible and would yield an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 35% and a Net Present Value (NPV) of $11,608,006 USD. For an engine-generator system, it was not possible to verify profitability due to a significant increase in capital and O&M costs. These results are intended to provide reference information to assist in the decision-making process related to the implementation of projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals within the framework of the 2030 Agenda.

An Analytical Solution for Characterizing Mine Water Recharge of Water Source Heat Pump in Abandoned Coal Mines

Due to tremendous mining operations, large quantities of abandoned mines with considerable underground excavated space have formed in China during the past decades. This provides huge potential for geothermal energy production from mine water in abandoned coal mines to supply clean heating and cooling for buildings using heat pump technologies. In this study, an analytical model describing the injection pressure of mine water recharge for water source heat pumps in abandoned coal mines is developed. The analytical solution in the Laplace domain for the injection pressure is derived and the influences of different parameters on the injection pressure are investigated. This study indicates that a smaller pumping rate results in a smaller injection pressure, while smaller values of the hydraulic conductivity and the thickness of equivalent aquifer induce larger injection pressures. The well distance has insignificantly influenced the injection pressure at the beginning, but a smaller well distance leads to a larger injection pressure at later times. Additionally, the sensitivity analysis, conducted to assess the behavior of injection pressure with concerning changes in each input parameter, shows that the pumping rate and the hydraulic conductivity have a large influence on injection pressure compared with other parameters.

Green integrative large scale treatment of tannery effluent, CO2 sequestration, and biofuel production using oleaginous green microalga Nannochloropsis oculata TSD05: An ecotechnological approach

In this present investigation, the freshwater microalga Nannochloropsis oculata TSD05 was used to demonstrate multiforius environmental applications viz., bioremediation of tannery effluent, carbon sequestration, and green renewable biodiesel production from treated microalgal biomass. The microalga Nannochloropsis oculata TSD05 was exhibited unique heavy metal reduction capabilities and reduced significant amount of heavy metals viz., 96.62% of copper (Cu2+), 99.9% of chromium (Cr3+), 98.36% of zinc (Zn2+), 98.71% of cadmium (Cd2+), 97.96% of lead (Pb2+), 98.88% of Cobalt (Co2+), and 98.76% of nickel (Ni2+). The biosorption capacity rate (qmax) of heavy metals reduction and highest R2 of 97.84% exhibited at 12 days of effluent treatment by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The phytotoxicity analysis was tested againt treated tannery effluent using Vigna radiate, Sapindus muukorossi seeds and 98.45%, 99.05% seeds were germinated. The Nannochloropsis oculata TSD05 microalga was utilized 98.45% of CO2 by biofixation kinetics, 372 mg g−1 of lipid, 3.65 mg mL−1 of biomass and 4.64 mLg−1 of biodiesel were produced. The produced biodiesel was confirmed and identification of 18 fatty acid methyl ester (biodiesel) compounds using GCMS. The recognition of 17 functional groups was identified using FTIR analysis and the microalga Nannochloropsis oculata TSD05 potential for sustainable and renewable green energy production. The potential future application of Nannochloropsis oculata TSD05 is to increase lipid production and biodiesel yield. Scaling up the bioremediation process can also validate these microalga's feasibility for use in wastewater treament. Enhancing heavy metal biosorption and carbon sequestration efficiency through genetic engineering could also maximize environmental benefits.

Materials characterization for Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) production as renewable energy resources

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of key parameters—volatile matter, carbon content, ash content, and gross energy—across various material samples intended for Refused Derived Fuel (RDF) briquette production. Through meticulous examination, promising trends emerge, highlighting optimal material combinations for efficient combustion and heat generation. Samples rich in volatile matter and carbon content, notably those incorporating wood powder, demonstrate elevated calorific values, indicating their potential for effective energy production. Conversely, material combinations with low ash content suggest cleaner combustion and reduced environmental impact. The gross energy analysis further validates the substantial heat generation potential of specific sample combinations, rendering them suitable for diverse heating applications. These findings emphasize the critical role of precise raw material selection and meticulous manufacturing process optimization in producing RDF briquettes with desirable properties. Such briquettes not only offer economic viability but also contribute to environmental sustainability by providing an alternative fuel source with reduced emissions. This research underscores the importance of continued exploration and refinement in the development of RDF briquettes, aiming to meet growing energy demands while mitigating environmental concerns.

Ni@CaTiO3 Nanocomposites for Methane Decomposition Into Hydrogen and Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes

AbstractNovel and economic supports were prepared to facilitate the NiO‐reducibility and enrich the hydrogen production from the catalytic conversion of methane. Mixed (CaTi)‐oxides of CaO %=10, 20, and 30 were synthesized by direct compositing of CaCO3 and one‐pot synthesized (TiO2)‐nanoparticles. The developed nanostructures were characterized by a high‐resolution transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), temperature programmed reduction (TPR), and N2 adsorption‐desorption measurements. Practically, (Ni@30 % CaTiO3) the catalyst of cubic morphology, achieved a high hydrogen production ratio of 62.2 %. The incorporation of CaO to TiO2 hindered the formation of NiTiO3@NiCaTiO3 phases and facilitated the fast reduction of NiO‐phase to Ni (as revealed by temperature programmed reduction (TPR) and XRD. The formation of well‐ordered carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as valuable by‐products was also possible by these nanocomposites. The developed catalysts exhibited remarkable catalytic and structural stabilities. These results reflect the effective use of abundant CaO inorganic salt to enrich the H2 production by (CaTiO3) supports for potential and green energy production.

Enhanced photocatalytic performance of CdZnS nanoparticles and attapulgite/carbon nitride composites by carbon quantum dots mediated facilitated charge separation/transfer: Cr(VI) reduction and H2O2 production

In this work, CdZnS@carbon quantum dots/amino-modified attapulgite/carbon nitride (CdZnS@CQDs/M-ATP/PCN), function as Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts, have been successfully prepared by the hydrothermal method. CdZnS@CQDs-1/M-ATP/PCN-1 was optimized toward reduction of Cr(VI) and production of H2O2 under visible light, showing significantly improved photocatalytic performance. After coupling of M-ATP/PCN-1 with CdZnS and a moderate addition of CQDs, the synergistic formation of Z-scheme heterojunctions photocatalytic system effectively enhanced the photocatalytic properties of the composites. The results revealed that the CdZnS@CQDs/M-ATP/PCN catalysts contain rich active centers and suitable energy band structures, which enable them to produce more OH and O2−. Additionally, they also absorb visible light strongly and thus effectively improves the photocatalytic activity. Specifically, the reduction of Cr(VI) by CdZnS@CQDs-1/M-ATP/PCN-1 catalyst was achieved greater than 97.6 %, along with the production of 719.32 μmol·L−1 H2O2. Combining density functional theory (DFT) calculations, experimental test results and characterizations, we find that the excellent photocatalytic performance is attributed to the incorporation of CQDs and the formation of Z-scheme heterojunctions. We have developed a non-precious metal-based efficient Z-scheme photocatalytic system using simple hydrothermal synthesis method, which has a very high potential for energy production, environmentally sustainable remediation, and water purification.

Boosting bioelectricity generation in bioelectrochemical systems with nitrogen-doped three-dimensional graphene aerogel anode

Bioelectricity generation by electrochemically active bacteria has become particularly appealing due to its vast potential in energy production, pollution treatment, and biosynthesis. However, developing high-performance anodes for bioelectricity generation remains a significant challenge. In this study, a highly efficient three-dimensional nitrogen-doped macroporous graphene aerogel anode with a nitrogen content of approximately 4.38 ± 0.50 at% was fabricated using hydrothermal method. The anode was successfully implemented in bioelectrochemical systems inoculated with Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, resulting in a significantly higher anodic current density (1.0 A/m2) compared to the control one. This enhancement was attributed to the greater biocapacity and improved extracellular electron transfer efficiency of the anode. Additionally, the N-doped aerogel anode demonstrated excellent performance in mixed-culture inoculated bioelectrochemical systems, achieving a high power density of 4.2 ± 0.2 W/m², one of the highest reported for three-dimensional carbon-based bioelectrochemical systems to date. Such improvements are likely due to the good biocompatibility of the N-doped aerogel anode, increased extracellular electron transfer efficiency at the bacteria/anode interface, and selectively enrichment of electroactive Geobacter soli within the NGA anode. Furthermore, based on gene-level Picrust2 prediction results, N-doping significantly upregulated the conductive pili-related genes of Geobacter in the three-dimensional anode, increasing the physical connection channels of bacteria, and thus strengthening the extracellular electron transfer process in Geobacter.

Offshore and onshore renewable energy system modelling to meet the energy demand of megacity Istanbul

In this study, a renewable energy system was designed using offshore and onshore energy sources to meet the electricity demands of the megacity Istanbul. Istanbul spends about 11 % of Turkey's consumption according to 2022 data, this electricity fee is generally supplied from fossil fuels, which cause large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. In this study, to increase the usage of clean energy sources, a detailed analysis of the appropriate land was performed to install the necessary wind farms and solar farms, considering the electricity consumption of both the European and Anatolian sides of Istanbul. A new integrated approach using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was presented to determine the locations of offshore and onshore power plants to be installed. The analysis with a new approach took into account important criteria such as land cover, power transmission lines, substations, and settlements of the location. Moreover, HOMER software optimized the power plant’s energy production potential and components to be installed on the European and Anatolian sides. The megacity was considered as two sides, the overall power output on the European side was obtained as 2874.6 GWh/yr in HOMER; however, the Anatolian side was 158 GWh/yr. It was obtained that wind energy had a significant potential to produce electricity throughout the entire megacity. According to the results of the cost analysis, the European side with a cost of electricity (COE) of 0.0105 $/kWh is conspicuous, and the COE of the Anatolian side is 0.015 $/kWh.

A fully coupled thermo-poroelastic model for energy extraction in naturally fractured geothermal reservoirs: sensitivity analysis and flow simulation

The development of a novel method for modelling fluid flow and heat transfer in naturally fractured geothermal reservoirs represents a significant advancement in geothermal energy research. This Study presents a hybrid approach, which combines discrete fracture and single continuum techniques, to effectively capture the complex interactions between fluid flow and heat transfer in geothermal fractured reservoirs. In addition, the incorporation of the local thermal nonequilibrium method for simulating heat transmission accounts for the disparities in temperature between the rock matrix and the fluid, providing a more realistic representation of heat transfer processes. The study also presents a fully coupled thermo-poro-elastic framework that integrates fluid flow and heat transfer to comprehensively evaluate reservoir responses to injection/production scenarios. This coupled approach allows for the prediction of changes in reservoir properties, such as permeability and porosity, under varying fluid pressure and temperature conditions. The application of the proposed model to evaluate a geothermal reservoir’s long-term response to injection/production scenarios provides valuable insights into the reservoir’s behaviour and potential energy production capacity. The sensitivity analysis further enhances the model’s utility by identifying the key reservoir parameters that significantly influence the thermal depletion of the reservoir. Overall, this novel modelling approach holds promise for improving the understanding and management of naturally fractured geothermal reservoirs, contributing to the optimization of geothermal energy extraction strategies.

Honeycomb polypore biomass-derived activated porous carbon nanosheets/graphite/nafion composite: Green and sensitive electrocatalyst for nanomolar detection of Hg2+ ions and water-splitting reactions

The electrochemical strategies with green electrocatalysts propose a selective, steady, and sensitive direction for the trace analytes sensing, hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) applications. Herein, Honeycomb Polypore biomass waste-derived NaOH-activated porous nanocarbon material was synthesized, which performs as a multifunctional electrocatalyst for Hg2+ sensing and water-splitting reactions with the support of graphite and Nafion composite. The optimized nanocomposite shows high electrochemical activity for the redox reaction of Hg2+ in 0.1 M phosphate-buffered saline of 5.0 pH with a lower limit of detection value of 2.309 nM, good stability, reproducibility, and anti-interference activity. For water-splitting reactions, the optimized nanocomposite shows better overpotential values of 0.447 V (HER in 0.5 M H2SO4) and 0.305 V (OER in 0.5 M KOH) at 10.0 mA/cm2 of current density. Also, the lower Tafel slope values of 0.089 V/decade and 0.075 V/decade of the optimum electrocatalyst signify superior proficiency towards the HER and OER activities, respectively. These outcomes validate the materials’ excellent multifunctional activity for Hg2+ detection in different water samples and water-splitting reactions, boosting their potential for environmental safety and energy production.