Environmental Friendly Solution Research Articles

Unveiling symbiotic bacterial communities in insects feeding on the latex-rich plant Ficus microcarpa.

The diversity and health of insects that feed on plants are closely related to their mutualistic symbionts and host plants. These symbiotic partners significantly influence various metabolic activities in these insects. However, the symbiotic bacterial community of toxic plant feeders still needs further characterisation. This study aims to unravel bacterial communities associated with the different species of insect representing three insect orders: Thysanoptera, Hemiptera, and Lepidoptera, along with their predicted functional role, which exclusively feeds on latex-rich plant species Ficus microcarpa. By using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing, the analysis was able to define the major alignment of the bacterial population, primarily comprising Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, and Acidobacteriota. Significant differences in symbiotic organisms between three insect groups were discovered by the study: hemipterans had Burkholderia and Buchnera, and lepidopterans had Acinetobacter. At the same time, Pseudomonas was detected in high abundance in both lepidopteran and thysanopteran insects. Furthermore, these symbionts exhibit consistent core functions, potentially explaining how different insects can consume the same host plant. The identified core functions of symbionts open avenues for innovative approaches in utilising these relationships to develop environment-friendly solutions for pest control, with broader implications for agriculture and environmental conservation.

Techno-economic and environmental analysis of hybrid energy system for industrial sector of Pakistan

The industrial sector of Pakistan is currently facing severe load-shedding, which ultimately affects its unit production. The greater dependency on conventional energy resources (Thermal, Nuclear, etc.) results in higher production costs and environmental pollution. A sustainable, cost-effective, and environment-friendly solution can help the industrial growth of Pakistan. This article proposes an optimal hybrid energy system (HES) for the industrial sector of Pakistan to overcome the mentioned challenges. The proposed HES is developed in HOMER Pro. Three different energy cases (Case I: Existing energy system including a utility grid and diesel generator, Case II: On-grid Biogas system, and Case III: On-grid PV system with batteries) are considered for the Gourmet food Industry in the Sundar Industrial estate, Pakistan. The Load profile of the selected site was calculated through on-site visits and data provided by the designated utility grid feeder. The analysis shows that Case III is more effective than other cases, indicating reduced Net Present Cost (NPC), Cost of Energy (COE), and Operating Cost (OC) to $ 19.2 million, $0.034/kWh, and $ 573,371/year respectively. Moreover, the On-grid PV system with batteries (Case III) provides an environmentally friendly solution by reducing 63.82% \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:C{O}_{2}$$\\end{document} by and 62.22% \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:{NO}_{x}$$\\end{document}. Comparing the sensitivity analysis for various grid sell-back prices ($0/kWh, $0.043/kWh, $0.061/kWh, and $0.09/kWh), Case III is more cost-effective than Case II. The revenue generation in Case III is $128,499.41/yr, considering the supply of excess electricity into nearby small industrial loads at $0.065/kWh, this indicates that installing optimal HES in industries will not only help in overall cost reduction but also support in mitigating environmental pollution and load shedding.

Novel optimal high pressure determination method for CO2 air source heat pump water heater: Experimental study and methodology development

As an efficient and environment-friendly solution to replace traditional fuel-fired boiler, CO2 air source heat pump water heater (HPWH) is widely used in the commercial and residential water heating. In order to achieve the optimal performance of CO2 air source HPWH systems, the effects of electronic expansion valve (EEV) opening and inlet water flow rate on system performance are experimentally studied and the optimal matching of the two parameters are obtained in this study. Then, the relationship between the optimal high pressure and the optimal matching of EEV opening and water flow rate is discussed. Finally, a new parameter, the endpoint temperature difference (ΔTep), is defined and a novel control strategy of ΔTep = 0 is proposed to determine the optimal high pressure. The results indicate that the optimal matching of EEV opening and water flow rate corresponds to the optimal high pressure and the best COPheat of system. A smaller ΔTep corresponding to a better matching degree and a larger system COPheat. The maximum deviation between the high pressure determined by the proposed new control strategy and the optimal high pressure is less than 1.8 %, and the system COPheat under the proposed new control strategy can achieve more than 97.6 % of the maximum COPheat. Therefore, the proposed control strategy in the paper is better than that of the commonly used off-line optimal high pressure correlation and can provide guidance for the efficient operation of the CO2 air source HPWH system.

Porcelain Tea Set Inspired by The Dragon Boat Festival

Hile porcelain making is a symbol of the blend of tradition and modernity, the production of porcelain brings about a dynamic growth in the aspect of sustainability and cultural preservation. The goal of this research is to produce an innovative porcelain tea set with elements of the Dragon Boat Festival. This tea set will combine traditional designs with eco-friendly manufacturing methods and a modern look and feel. Chinese porcelain is counted as the symbol of the most significant meaning of trade on the ground of its delicate processing, which has been the heritage of ancient China. Incorporating dragons and auspicious symbols in porcelain artwork, vessels go beyond being solely decorative items to portray notions of power, wealth, and harmony. The establishment of the newest porcelain manufacturing technology based on ethical standards allow to move toward a green future. The use of eco-friendly materials and technologies with effective waste control strategies helps in the reduction of negative impacts on the environment. This is concurrent with consumers' demand for environment-friendly solutions. Additionally, these positive impacts span the whole supply chain bringing employment, prosperity and climate resilience to communities. This research wishes to add to the ongoing conversation around sustainability in the porcelain industry, concentrating on the interplay between tradition, innovation and environmental responsibility in product development and manufacture.

Multi-criteria optimisation of subcritical wet oxidation for sludge treatment

Subcritical wet oxidation (SWO) is an environmentally-friendly solution for sewage sludge volume reduction. However, little study has comprehensively optimised SWO conditions across various aspects. This study developed a multi-objective model using genetic algorithms (GAs) to optimise SWO conditions, considering sludge deconstruction, emissions, energy balance, and resource recovery. The multi-criteria optimisation approach highlights the significant environmental benefits of SWO, including substantial sludge volume reduction and effective pollutant removal. An in-depth analysis of temperature, reaction time, and severity factor revealed their critical roles in enhancing sludge deconstruction and resource recovery efficiency. GAs predicted optimal conditions at 271 ± 2 °C and 51 ± 1 min, with confirmation experiments showing only 12% discrepancy between predicted and actual outcomes. This study provides practical insights for efficient sewage sludge treatment and sustainable wastewater management.

Deposition morphology and mechanical properties of lean cemented gangue backfill material: Laboratory test and field application

Backfilling mining technology provides an efficient and environmentally-friendly solution for treating additional products (such as tailings, coal gangue and other solid waste) in coal mining process, which are filled into the underground goaf area, thus reducing surface subsidence, roof strata damage, and associated geological disasters. In this study, a novel backfill material called lean cemented gangue backfill material (LCGBM) is introduced, and various experiments, including uniaxial compression tests, creep tests, CT-SEM scanning and reconstruction are carried out to evaluate its mechanical properties and engineering practicability. The test results indicate that the strength and volume fraction of self-compacting cement (SCC) slurry and solid waste aggregate jointly control the uniaxial compressive strength and failure mode of LCGBM, reflecting the bucket effect under the influence of two components. Although the volume fraction of aggregate and SCC slurry is intentionally reduced to control the cost, this cemented granular material shows excellent compressive strength, overall stiffness and long-term bearing capacity in laboratory and field tests. In the process of engineering application, the uniaxial compressive strength of the LCGBM reaches 14 MPa, and the initial setting time is 120 s, which reduces the consumption of gangue aggregate by 35 % and greatly reduces the construction time. In addition, a calculation method of the optimal mixing ratio of raw materials is proposed, which can adjust the strength and volume fraction of SCC slurry according to the optimal mixing range, so as to maximize the utilization of the strength of LCGBM, and reduce the construction time and aggregate of backfilling. The research findings emphasize the potential of the LCGBM in promoting clean and sustainable coal mining practice.

Discarded substrates from soilless hydroponic horticulture as potential amendments for metal-contaminated soils

Soil contamination with metals is a major threat for the environment and public health since most metals are toxic to humans and to non-human biota, even at low concentrations. Thus, new sustainable remediation approaches are currently needed to immobilize metals in soils to decrease their mobility and bioavailability. In this work, we explore the application of discarded substrates from hydroponic cultivation, namely coconut shell and a mixture of coconut shell and pine bark, for immobilization of metals (Cd, Cr, Ni, Cu, Pb, Hg, Sb and As) in a naturally contaminated soil from a mining region in Portugal. The immobilization capacity of substrates (added to the soil at 5% mass ratio) was assessed both individually and also combined with other traditional agriculture soil additives (limestone and gypsum, at 2% mass ratio) and nanoparticles of zero-valent iron (nZVI) at 1–3% mass ratio. The overall results obtained after a 30-d incubation showed that the discarded substrates are a viable, economic, and environmental-friendly solution for metal remediation in soils, with the capacity of immobilization ranging from 20 to 91% for the metals and metalloids studied. Furthermore, they showed the capacity to reduce the soil toxicity (EC50 ∼ 6000 mg/L) to non-toxic levels (EC50 > 10000 mg/L) to the bacteria Aliivrio fischeri.

Laser-induced color reversal on metal surfaces in acetic acid solution

Laser coloring for decoration and visual attraction has been widely used in daily life. To fulfill the requirements of timely correction or modification of colors, color erasure has also become an important part in marking technology. The thickness of the oxide layer and the concentration of oxygen elements are key factors affecting the quality of color erasing. The conventional method is to erase the color in air, which is difficult to remove the oxide film. Acetic acid, as an environment-friendly solution, which provides a low oxygen environment and can undergo chemical reactions with titanium dioxide under laser heating, is selected as a liquid environment for laser-induced color erasure. Oxygen concentration in the erased area decreases from more than 50% to 10%. The color difference ΔEab* between the erased area and original metal surface is around 1.4, which shows almost no difference to the naked eyes. Furthermore, the color difference ΔEab* between laser re-coloring and laser coloring before the erasure is around 1.5, which means that the re-coloring under the same laser processing parameters after the erasure maintains a high level of consistency with the colors initially drawn. Here we successfully realize the reversal process from laser coloring to laser erasure and laser re-coloring on metal surfaces. This technology has considerable applications in the field of anti-counterfeiting and information storage. Meanwhile, acetic acid assisted laser color erasing as a safe and green method greatly improves the erasure quality and enhances the development of laser color marking technology.

Removal of cadmium and zinc from water using sewage sludge-derived biochar

This research reveals the adsorption of cadmium (Cd2+) and zinc (Zn+2) from water using sewage sludge-derived biochar pyrolysed at 700 °C (SSB). The morphology and particle characteristics of SSB were characterised through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), particle size distribution (PSD), fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The adsorption study showed that the optimum contact times for removing Zn2+ and Cd2+ were 80 and 140 minutes, respectively. 95.51% Zn2+ and 97.54% Cd2+ could be removed from spiked solutions featuring 50 mg/L of Zn2+ and 50 mg/L Cd2+, each treated with 25 g/L biochar. The optimum pH of the solutions was 8–9 at a temperature of 40°C, indicating some precipitation of the metal ions at an alkaline pH. The highest adsorption capacity of SSB for Cd2+ and Zn2+ was found to be 3.02 and 2.51 mg/g, respectively, which compares favourably with other adsorbents. The isotherm studies confirmed experimental data to closely follow the Langmuir isotherm model at an R2 value of 0.9846 and 0.9816 for Cd2+ and Zn2+, respectively. The kinetic study confirmed the physical interaction between the adsorbents and the adsorbate. The spontaneous and exothermic nature of the process was confirmed by negative values of change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG) and enthalpy (ΔH). SSB could be regenerated for 6 cycles. Overall, this study explores sustainability, recycling, and waste management by offering SSB as a potentially cost-effective and environment-friendly solution to remove Cd2+ and Zn2+ from water.

Repurposing spent biomass of vetiver grass used for stormwater treatment to generate biochar and ethanol

Stormwater pollution is a key factor contributing to water quality degradation, posing substantial environmental and human health risks. Although stormwater retention ponds, also referred to as wet ponds, are commonly implemented to alleviate stormwater challenges by reducing peak flow and removing suspended solids, their effectiveness in removing heavy metals and nutrients is limited. This study evaluated the performance of floating treatment platforms (FTPs) featuring vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides), a non-invasive, nutrient- and metal-accumulating perennial grass, in removing heavy metals (Cu, Pb, and Zn) and nutrients (P and N) in stormwater retention ponds. Furthermore, the potential for utilizing the spent vetiver biomass for generating biochar and bioethanol was investigated. The study was conducted in a greenhouse setup under simulated wet and dry weather conditions using pond water collected from a retention pond in Stafford Township, New Jersey, USA. Two FTPs with vetiver (vegetated FTPs) were compared with two FTPs without vetiver (non-vegetated FTPs), which served as controls. Results showed that the removal of heavy metals and nutrients by the FTPs with vetiver was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the FTPs without vetiver. Notably, vetiver showed resilience to stormwater pollutants and hydroponic conditions, displaying no visible stress symptoms. The biochar and bioethanol generated from the spent vetiver exhibited desirable yield and quality, without raising concerns regarding pollutant leaching, indicated by very low TCLP and SPLP concentrations. This study provides compelling evidence that the implementation of vetiver-based FTPs offers a cost-effective and environment-friendly solution for mitigating stormwater pollution in retention ponds. Furthermore, the utilization of vetiver biomass for biofuel and biochar production supports clean production and fostering circular economy efforts.

Digital Profiler Based On A Low-Cost 3D-Scanner To Evaluate The Hydraulic Performance Of Homogeneous Low-Crested Structures

In order to evaluate the hydraulic performance of breakwaters, mechanical profilers were first used in wave flumes. Vertical bars and rolling wheels have been used to track the breakwater shape. Once surveyed, useful hydraulic parameters were able to be measured (e.g., envelope shape and eroded area). Nevertheless, the methodologies based on mechanical profilers have some limitations: they are intrusive, require specific equipment and are time-consuming. On the other hand, non-intrusive laser scanners can also be used; recent studies proved the feasibility of non-intrusive fast methods of surveying with 3D-scanning, (see Musumeci et al., 2018). These instruments are fast and reliable at capturing the shape of the breakwater in real-time. However, this method did not consider the distortion caused by light refraction. Laser scanners usually require to measure models in dry conditions, which is not efficient in time and resources. Regardless of the drawbacks when using non-intrusive laser scanners as digital profilers, the distortion can be corrected. The data suits for the usage of Neural Networks (NN) that can be trained to correct distortion. This study is focused on Homogeneous Low-Crested Structures (HLCS) which is a new typology of Low-Crested Structures (LCS), made out large quarry stones or concrete armor units that are suitable to reduce shoreline erosion on degraded coastlines and natural environments. HLCS can be classified as reef-type breakwaters and are considered an environmentally-friendly solution that fulfils two purposes: to protect beaches nearby and to enhance coral regeneration and marine colonization, (see Medina et at., 2020). For the correct design of HLCS or conventional LCS, it is required to evaluate both the hydraulic stability and wave transmission (see van der Meer and Daemen, 1994). HLCS are structures without core which may erode under intense wave attack. Breakwater damage and crest freeboard must be estimated depending on incident wave conditions. The breakwater envelope evolves and finds an equilibrium state related to the incident wave conditions in which the crest freeboard and the transmitted wave energy levels may change. The goal of this study is to provide a low-cost non-intrusive methodology based on 3D-scanning to study the hydraulic performance of mound breakwaters, specifically for Cubipod HLCS. This surveying procedure allows to obtain the real-magnitude shape of the envelope of the HLCS, even with a certain water level. The methodology mimics previous surveying techniques and provides relevant hydraulic and structural parameters (crest freeboard, damage, envelope shape, etc.) that can be then used to study the hydraulic performance of breakwaters.

Product-Service System business model for plastics industry

Traditional business models increasingly less accurately accommodate changes taking place in the market. Growing competition, sharing economy, digital transformation, corporate environmental responsibility, and increasing customer requirements exert pressure on enterprises to change their business mentality. One can easily observe the need for integrated, environment-friendly solutions that generate new value added to customers. To achieve that, we need new business models that would allow to discover new potential in new markets.In the face of dynamic market changes, traditional business models are increasingly less capable of addressing the growing competition, sharing economy, digital transformation, corporate environmental responsibility, and the rising demands of customers. There is a clear need for integrated, environmentally friendly solutions that generate new added value for customers. Achieving this goal requires the development of new business models that enable the discovery of potential in new markets.Therefore, searching for and creating new business models that would stand up to requirements is vital. These problems could be solved by a PSS considered a personalized business model operating in an extended time horizon. PSS is an opportunity to sell product functions and availability, as well as a perspective for multiple uses of products.This paper presents a pioneering attempt to develop a Product-Service System (PSS) business model specifically tailored for the plastics industry. An innovative approach consists in the integration of a machinery and a tool into a production unit and adding an array of services to it. This groundbreaking research, unprecedented in its scale, involved a comprehensive questionnaire-based study conducted across 60 plastics processing plants employing prevalent production techniques. The study is unique in its extensive scope and depth, as such an analysis of PSS business models within the plastics industry has not been previously explored in the open literature. The research methodology applied is thorough, covering a wide range of practical aspects crucial for the effective implementation of PSS in the plastics sector. This paper stands out for its detailed examination of 60 enterprises in the plastics industry, focusing on their interest in 95 services essential for the optimal operation of plastics processing plants and their engagement with representatives from the plastics industry. This extensive study offers valuable insights into the usage of machines and tools in plastics processing, as well as the specific needs, requirements, and challenges faced by businesses in this sector.Results of analyses demonstrate that interest in services differs depending on the size of an enterprise, processing technique, having a toolroom or not, product range, and the duration of breakdowns. A new PSS business model for plastics processing was built based on the analysis of PSS design methods and sectors to which they are addressed, PSS used in practice, plastics processing sector, questionnaire-based studies conducted among plastics processing plants, statistical analyses, advice and consultancy sessions with experts from the investigated industry, finances and trade patterns for machines. Until to date the question of precise design of such a business model for the plastics processing sector has neither been examined nor discussed or evidenced. The paper aims to bridge this gap. The approach to the issue was innovative, based on a questionnaire survey and consultations with experts which allowed to faithfully reproduce the current condition of the investigated sector. In addition, each service added on to the production unit underwent a detailed statistical analysis. The hereto presented business model is extremely comprehensive as it can be used in plastics processing plants of different sizes.

Initial concept and embodiment to develop modular constructed wetland: A unique and promising solution to sustainability transitions in water management

Constructed Wetlands (CWs) were widely used as nature-based solution to effectively remove contaminants from wastewater, while offering benefits for ecological value and landscape services. However, one limited factor for practical applications of CW technology is the conventional construction style, which is a laborious and complex civil engineering. As such, an idea of modular CW (MCW) was proposed and embodiment was made for different scales of treatment wetland projects. This paper introduces the MCW concept and the efforts made to realize it. MCW is a revolutionary approach in wastewater treatment that combines efficiency, adaptability, and environmental sustainability. MCW represents a paradigm shift from traditional CWs, offering a pre-fabricated, modular solution that simplifies the complexities of civil engineering in wastewater management. These prefabricated modular structures, assembled off-site and installed on-site, provide a streamlined, flexible, and user-friendly alternative to conventional CWs. The innovative design of MCWs incorporates advanced substrates and technologies, integrating enhanced processes such as intermittent aeration, tidal flow, and circulating reflux. This novel approach significantly improves pollutant removal efficiency, reduces land usage, and addresses clogging issues through rapid module replacement. The paper comprehensively delved into the structural, substrate, plant, and operational aspects of MCWs. It highlights the environmental and economic benefits of MCWs, emphasizing their role as a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly solution for wastewater treatment. The study concludes by underscoring the potential of MCWs in spearheading new research and development in sustainable wastewater management, marking a new generation in CW systems.

Insights into processes and consequent metal(loid) behavior in dredged estuarine sediments upon electrokinetic treatment

The use and reuse of natural and waste materials after treatment has become increasingly crucial as a means of achieving sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions, and is part of a broader trend towards embracing circular economy principles. This study aims to understand the behavior of different elements (metal(loid)s and non-metals) and minerals during and after electrokinetic remediation (EKR) and to develop an effective approach to monitor its progress and overcome unwanted occurrences. In this regard, estuarine sediments, collected from Tancarville (Seine River estuary, France), were electrokinetically treated using a 64 L laboratory reactor; treatment was done 8 h per day for 21 days. The physico-chemical properties (pH, electric conductivity, and oxido-reduction potential) and current were monitored during treatment. The spatial evolution of the physico-chemical, physical (grain size distribution), mineral (mainly carbonates), organic, and elemental (As, Ca, Cl, Mg, Na, Pb, Sr, Zn, and Zr) characteristics was studied to assess the treatment efficiency. The results showed that the acidic conditions in the anodic sediments caused the dissolution of carbonates (calcite, dolomite, and aragonite), resulting in a considerable reduction in As, Zn, and Pb. Additionally, Cl as well as electric conductivity were significantly reduced from most sediments, which is essential in agricultural practices. Furthermore, materials had precipitated and settled in the anolyte and catholyte chambers, which acted as sorbents for elements that were released from the sediments (mainly Zn and As). Finally, three distinct phases occurred during treatment and were mainly linked to the current intensity and electric conductivity on the one hand, and the dissolution of carbonates and metal(loid) release on the other. This approach can be used to treat sediments and other media to improve the overall efficiency of remediation processes and create an end product with desired characteristics.

Review on Nanomaterials

Abstract: Nanomaterials are rapidly gaining the importance as the most powerful material of this century. The chemical, physical, and the mechanical properties of these materials have enhanced their performances and emerging as the versatile platform that could provide efficient, cost effective and environment-friendly solutions to the global challenges such as water purification, greenhouse gases management and many more. This paper stretches a view about history, applications, benefits, and limitations of nanomaterials.

Experimental Investigation of a Modified Enzyme-Induced Carbonate Precipitation Solution for Sand Production Control Applications

Summary Sand production is one of the major problems that can occur in an oil or gas well. Enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) methods have recently emerged as possible environment-friendly solutions for enhancing loose sand consolidation and preventing it from being produced with the fluids to the surface. This work explores increasing the consolidated sand strength and its treatment procedure using a modified EICP. The study also examines the characterization of precipitation generated by microorganisms using a computed tomography (CT) scan. To consolidate the sand specimen, nine different solutions were prepared. The solutions were a mixture of urea, urease, CaCl2, MgCl2, and xanthan gum in varying quantities. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was conducted to determine the type of calcium carbonate (or CaCO3) polymorph. The morphology of calcium carbonate precipitation in the sand sample was visualized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging. The strength of consolidated samples was determined by the scratch test. The baseline EICP solution was exposed to different curing temperatures, namely, 25°C, 70°C, and 90°C. Out of these temperatures, the sample cured at 70°C showed the maximum strength, while the ones cured at 25°C demonstrated the weakest strength. This outcome emphasizes how crucial temperature control is in determining the strength development of the samples. The results highlight the importance of evaluating how varying curing temperatures affect specimen performance as well as emphasizing the need for accurate temperature control during experimental setups. Interestingly, samples made with a combination of CaCl2 and MgCl2 salts exhibited more strength when compared with EICP solutions formulated with only one type of salt. The consolidated sample that was prepared with xanthan gum with a concentration of 3 g/L showed high strength at 70°C. Notably, this technique offers a cost-effective solution compared with other methods developed to address sand production-related failures in production equipment. Furthermore, CT scans prove to be a valuable tool for investigating the characterization of microbially induced precipitation, including calcite, dolomite, and other minerals. This research underscores the professional approach in evaluating the efficacy of xanthan gum and CT scans in the context of EICP applications.

Modular Design of DC-DC Converters for EV battery fast-charging

Electric vehicles (EV) are emerging as a viable and environment-friendly solution for the daily commute. However, for a broader utilization of the EV, their autonomy range has to be increased. A well dispersed charging network and a fast and efficient battery charger system becomes one important factor for the success of the EV. This paper addresses the challenges of developing such High Power chargers and proposes a modular, easily scalable and efficient implementation of a switch-mode DC-DC converter for performing the constant-current/ constant voltage battery charging process.

Nine principles of green heritage science: life cycle assessment as a tool enabling green transformation

AbstractThis literature review presents a comprehensive review of life Cycle Assessmernt (LCA), as an emerging tool in the field of cultural heritage research and demonstrate how this tool could be useful to support the development of green heritage science into an environmentally responsible field of scientific endeavour. LCA is a standardised, structured, comprehensive, international environmental assessment tool and a rapidly evolving field of research that leverages and harmonises efforts across many sectors to inform environmentally-friendly solutions and choices. LCA has been growing in importance as an evidence-based tool in the field of heritage science, being used as a decision-support tool at micro level (typically for questions related to specific products/processes) and macro levels (e.g. strategies, scenarios, and policy options). This review explores applications of LCA (and the complementary Life Cycle Cost Assessment (LCC), and Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA)) to a wide array of conservation and preservation actions. The paper also examines challenges associated with the application of these life cycle-based methods in heritage science, in order to put forward a set of recommendations to guide the domain of heritage science towards greener and more sustainable practices and impacts.Based on a review of the principles of green chemistry, green analytical chemistry, green engineering, and nature conservation, the paper also attempts to formulate nine principles of green heritage science, taking into account the complexity of research challenges and the environmental and socio-economic sustainability.

Recent developments in sunscreens based on chromophore compounds and nanoparticles.

Sunscreen formulations have undergone significant advancements in recent years, with a focus on improving UV radiation protection, photostability, and environmental sustainability. Chromophore compounds and nanoparticles have emerged as key components in these developments. This review highlights the latest research and innovations in chromophore compounds and nanoparticle-based sunscreens. It discusses the role of nanoparticles, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, in scattering and absorbing UV radiation while remaining cosmetically acceptable. Chromophore compounds, encapsulated in nanoparticles, are explored for their potential to enhance UV protection by absorbing specific wavelengths of light. Additionally, advances in photo-stability, broad-spectrum protection, antioxidant inclusion, and biodegradability are discussed. The evolving landscape of sunscreen technology aims to provide more effective and environment-friendly solutions for safeguarding skin from the sun's harmful effects.

Super-hydrophilic LaCoO3/g-C3N4 nanocomposite coated beauty sponge for solar-driven seawater desalination with simultaneous volatile organic compound removal.

Interfacial solar steam generation (ISSG) is emerging as a promising, environment-friendly solution for fulfilling freshwater and energy demands. However, a critical challenge for ISSG lies in the presence of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the feedwater which are co-evaporated with water, leading to more enriched concentration in condensed water. Herein, lanthanum cobaltate-graphitic carbon nitride (LaCoO3/g-C3N4, LCO/g-CN) nanocomposite decorated beauty sponge (LCO/g-CN@BS) is proposed as an efficient photothermal/photocatalytic material for solar-driven seawater desalination and simultaneous VOC degradation. The hydrophobic surface of the beauty sponge after LCO/g-CN coating becomes super-hydrophilic, ensuring sufficient water supply and our LCO/g-CN@BS delivers an evaporation rate of 1.94 kg m-2 h-1 under 1 sun irradiation. This LCO/g-CN@BS shows excellent seawater desalination capacity with a self-cleaning ability when employed for saltwater purification for a salt (NaCl) concentration as high as 15 wt%. Moreover, fast photocarrier transfer between LCO and g-CN leads to enhanced photocatalytic degradation of over 90% of phenol simultaneously, which is about 60% for only an LCO-based beauty sponge. This work presents a promising approach to combining novel nanocomposites with microporous structures for efficient solar desalination, offering simultaneous VOC degradation.