External Energy Research Articles

γ‐Ray Driven Aqueous‐Phase Methane Conversions into Complex Molecules up to Glycine

Fundamental understanding of initial evolutions of molecules in the universe is of great interest and importance. CH4 is one of the abundant simple molecules in the universe. Herein we report γ‐ray, high‐energy photons commonly existing in cosmic rays and unstable isotope decay, as an external energy to efficiently drives aqueous‐phase CH4 conversions to various products with the presence of oxygen at room temperature. Glycine also forms with an additional introduction of ammonia. Both CH4 conversions and product distributions are modified by solid granules, and a CH3COOH selectivity as high as 82% is obtained when SiO2 is added. Our results point to γ‐ray driven aqueous‐phase CH4 conversions as a likely formation network of initial complex organic compounds in the universe and offer an alternative strategy for efficiently utilizing CH4 as the carbon source to produce value‐added products at mild conditions, a long‐standing challenging task in heterogeneous catalysis.

Polysaccharide Based Self-Driven Tubular Micro/Nanomotors as a Comprehensive Platform for Quercetin Loading and Anti-inflammatory Function.

Quercetin (QR) is a natural flavonoid with strong anti-inflammatory properties, but it suffers from poor water solubility and bioavailability. Micro/nanomotors (NMs) are tiny devices that convert external energy or chemical fuels into an autonomous motion. They are characterized by their small size, rapid movement, and self-assembly capabilities, which can enhance the delivery of bioactive ingredients. The study synthesized natural polysaccharide-based nanotubes (NTs) using a layer-by-layer self-assembly method and combined with urease (Ure), glucose oxidase (GOx), and Fe3O4 to create three types of NMs. These NMs were well-dispersed and biocompatible. In vitro experiments showed that NMs-Fe3O4 has excellent photothermal conversion properties and potential for use in photothermal therapy. Cellular inflammation model results demonstrated that QR-loaded NMs were not only structurally stable but also improved bioavailability and effectively inhibited the release of inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β and IL-6, providing a safe and advanced carrier system for the effective use of bioactive components in food.

Optimization of microwave-assisted drying of scallions (Allium fistulosum L.): A comprehensive study on drying kinetics, energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and thermodynamic properties

This study explores the effectiveness of microwave-assisted drying for scallions (Allium fistulosum L.), focusing on drying kinetics, energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and thermodynamic properties. Scallion samples were subjected to different microwave power levels (136 W and 264 W) and varying sample masses (5 g, 10 g, and 20 g) to assess the drying process. The Page model was identified as the most suitable for describing the drying kinetics, providing a precise fit to the experimental data. The study revealed that higher microwave power levels significantly enhanced the drying efficiency by increasing moisture diffusivity, thereby reducing drying time. The thermodynamic analysis indicated that the drying process is endothermic, requiring external energy for moisture removal, with positive enthalpy and Gibbs free energy values confirming the non-spontaneous nature of the process. Entropy analysis suggested a decrease in molecular disorder during drying. In terms of energy consumption and CO2 emissions, the results highlighted that microwave-assisted drying offers a lower environmental impact, with specific energy consumption (SEC) values demonstrating efficient energy use during the drying process. This study supports the viability of microwave-assisted drying as a sustainable and efficient method for processing scallions. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing drying processes in the food industry, emphasizing the potential for microwave drying technologies to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

High-performance, superhydrophobic, durable photonic structure coating for efficient passive daytime radiative cooling

Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) is an innovative and energy-free cooling technology that automatically cools the surface of an object by reflecting sunlight and emitting heat into outer space without the need for external energy inputs. However, PDRC materials often face issues such as surface contamination and poor long-term outdoor durability. Herein, a photonic structure coating with high PDRC performance, superhydrophobic property, and high outdoor durability was designed and prepared using a phase separation strategy. The photonic structure coating achieves a solar reflectance ∼97.6 % and an average atmospheric window (AW) emissivity of ∼93 %. Under direct sunlight (800 W/m2), the coating exhibits good PDRC performance, with an average temperature drop of ∼13 °C and a maximum temperature drop of up to ∼20 °C. The rough and porous surface of the coating can adsorb air, reducing the solid-liquid adhesion and endowing the coating with super-hydrophobic properties. The incorporation of a small amount of fluoroalkyl silanes into the coating provides water resistance, resulting in a water contact angle (WCA) of ∼155.1° and sliding angle (SA) of ∼2.3°, meeting the need for self-cleaning. Furthermore, the coating exhibits superior durability, including resistance to acid and alkali, UV aging, abrasion, and scratching. All these merits render this photonic structure coating great potential for real-world applications.

Construction of Moiré-like TiO2/polypyrrole electrodes for high performance photo-assisted supercapacitors

There is currently a need for research into using external energy to increase the performance of the supercapacitor in energy storage systems because of their poor energy density. This paper reports the effective creation of photo-assisted supercapacitors with moiré-like morphology using polypyrrole (PPy) and titanium dioxide nano powder to replicate the surface of inexpensive and widely available CD discs. The composite material combines the moiré-like superstructure's strong light trapping property with titanium dioxide's high photo-sensitivity, achieving the aims of boosting light absorption, extending the optical route, and improving capacitor performance under light. By combining morphology construction and external energy interventions to improve capacitor performance, the specific capacitance under light is 509.0 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, 13.1 % higher than the same material without moiré-like morphology (449.9 F g−1). When assemble into a sandwich-structured symmetric supercapacitor, it has an area specific capacitance of 99.42 mF cm−2 and an energy density of 7.28 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 217.4 W kg−1, outperforming typical photo-assisted supercapacitors. The current work suggests a practical and straightforward method for increasing the light absorption efficiency and performance of photo-assisted supercapacitors.

Performance Analysis of a Self-Decarbonizing Combustor

Abstract Hydrogen is envisioned to be a key decarbonization solution for fossil fuel-dependent power generation and aviation industries. At present, a significant fraction of the generated electrical power is derived from natural gas. As such, the external energy needed for hydrogen generation, often sourced from fossil fuels, results in CO2 emissions, compromising overall carbon neutrality. Instead, the processes of hydrogen generation can be energetically coupled with the combustion process, in situ, to eliminate external energy requirements. To that end, a novel self-decarbonizing combustor (SDC) has been conceptualized, integrating methane pyrolysis with the combustion process that can in principle decarbonize many contemporary power generation technologies. The underpinning methane pyrolysis process enables in situ pre-combustion capture of solid carbon, while simultaneously generating hydrogen. Consequently, CO2 emissions resulting from the combustion of processed, hydrogen-enriched fuel are mitigated. This study provides a comprehensive analysis, delineating the operating principle and the effect of some of the important governing parameters on the performance of the self-decarbonizing combustor. These parameters, including fuel temperature, residence time, pressure, and catalysis, are studied in the context of potentially applying the proposed concept to natural gas-based decarbonized electrical power generation. Investigating fuel chemistry, combustion exhaust, and carbon structure and morphology under varying process parameters enhances our comprehension of the SDC. Additionally, its self-sufficient nature eliminates the need for separate hydrogen production, storage, and transportation infrastructure, highlighting its potential as a scalable and realizable technology.

External Mechanical Work Versus Energy Expenditure During on-Court Tennis Drills in Elite Adolescent Tennis Players

Abstract Purpose Tennis demands exceptional technical skills, speed, strength and endurance. Previous studies have highlighted the high energy expenditure during tennis drills due to constant directional changes. While metabolic monitoring and player tracking have been used to quantify exercise intensity and movements, mechanical efficiency (ME) in tennis remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate ME in tennis by combining metabolic and mechanical measurements during on-court drills. Methods Ten elite adolescent tennis players (males n = 5, females n = 5) performed a VO2max test on a treadmill and participated in three standard tennis drills, Spanish cross, lateral and inside out. During the tennis drill, full-body kinematics were captured, and energy expenditure was measured using a portable breath-by-breath gas analysis. ME was calculated for each drill, and individual differences were examined. Results Results revealed significant differences in energy expenditure and mechanical work between drills. ME was not associated with VO2max or running speed. highlighting the need to focus on other factors like strength, footwork technique, and neuromuscular training to enhance ME. Conclusion This study underscores the complexity of ME in tennis, with individual variations and where factors like footwork technique, muscular strength and motor abilities might influence ME.

Comprehensive Resilience Assessment Framework for Water Distribution Networks

A novel comprehensive resilience assessment framework for drinking water systems is proposed integrating different resilience perspectives (i.e., robustness, autonomy, flexibility, reliability, preparedness and recovery), oriented by objectives, criteria and metrics, applicable at the tactical level. The resilience assessment framework is applied to a Portuguese real water distribution network, enabling the evaluation of the system’s resilience. The infrastructure dimension is the main contributor to the low resilience results, particularly in terms of infrastructural robustness, as the infrastructure has exceeded the average service life and has low rehabilitation rates. In terms of autonomy, the system highly depends on external water and energy sources. Regarding the service dimension, most of the drinking water available is used for non-potable uses (e.g., irrigation), without alternative sources. The detailed diagnosis identified network area R6 as the priority area. Assets rehabilitation, increasing storage capacity, finding alternative water and energy sources, and minimizing non-potable uses are relevant improvement measures that promote the reinforcement of the system’s resilience. The resilience assessment framework is a very useful tool for the daily and tactical management of drinking water systems.

Electricity Generation at Gas Distribution Stations from Gas Surplus Pressure Energy

At gas distribution stations (GDSs), the process of throttling (pressure reduction) of natural gas occurs on gas pressure regulators without generating useful energy. If the gas expansion process is created in a turbine, to the shaft where an electric generator is connected, then electricity can be obtained. At the same time, the recycling of secondary energy resources is provided, which is an important component in the efficient use of natural resources. The obtained electric power can be supplied to the external power grid and/or used for the GDS’s own needs. The process of generating electricity at the GDS from gas overpressure energy is an environmentally friendly, energy-saving technology that ensures an uninterrupted, autonomous operation of the GDS in the absence of an external energy supply. The power needs of a GDS with regard to electricity are relatively small (5 ÷ 20 kW). Expansion in throttling devices or turbine flow paths leads to gas cooling with a possible hydrate formation. It is prevented via gas preheating or vortex expansion equipment that keeps the further gas temperature at a necessary level. Turbogenerators can be created on the basis of vortex expansion turbomachines, which have many advantages compared to turbomachines of other types. This article studies how gas pressure (outlet: gas distribution station) and gas preheating (inlet: vortex expansion machine) influence turbogenerator parameters. Nine turbogenerator variants for the power needs of gas distribution stations have been assessed.

Theoretical investigation of sustainable CO2 electroreduction to high-value products utilizing N-doped/BN-modified Triphenylene-Graphdiyne catalysts

The potential of carbon-based triphenylene-graphdiyne (tpGDY) and its derivatives for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2R) was comprehensively explored using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Six variants were studied: pristine tpGDY, tpGDY-BN, tpGDY-N01, tpGDY-N02, tpGDY-N08, and tpGDY-BN-B01. Pristine tpGDY, tpGDY-BN, and tpGDY-N08 exhibited exceptional catalytic activity, efficiently converting CO2 into CO and HCOOH without external energy input. Significantly, N-doped tpGDY catalysts incorporating sp2-hybridized nitrogen atoms at the acetylenic sites (tpGDY-N01 and tpGDY-BN-N01) demonstrated remarkable electrocatalytic activity for the targeted conversion of CO2 to CH3OH. This outstanding performance is further corroborated by the low limiting potentials of −0.18 V and −0.27 V for tpGDY-N01 and tpGDY-BN-N01, respectively, highlighting their economic viability. Furthermore, the feasibility of C2 production (e.g., C2H5OH, C2H4 and C2H6) through C–C coupling of *CHO+*CO intermediate was investigated for tpGDY-N01 and tpGDY-BN-N01. DFT calculations suggest these pathways are achievable but require potentials of 0.84 V and 0.71 V for tpGDY-N01 and tpGDY-BN-N01, respectively. This study demonstrates the efficacy of N-doped tpGDY as a metal-free electrocatalyst for CO2 reduction, enabling the generation of both C1 and C2 products. This discovery holds significant promise for the advancement of sustainable CO2 conversion technologies.

Low-emissions hydrogen from MCH dehydrogenation: Integration with LNG regasification

Methylcyclohexane (MCH) is a promising organic hydride carrier for hydrogen transport and storage. Recovering hydrogen from MCH is an energy intensive process. An innovative idea of integrating this process with liquified natural gas (LNG) regasification is proposed in this study and demonstrated via modelling and simulation to substantially reduce external energy use. The synergistic benefits are twofold. In addition to providing a cold energy source for an effective high recovery cryogenic flash separation, the organic Rankine cycle based electrical power generation potential from LNG cold energy is fully exploited to reduce/eliminate external electricity demand for hydrogen compression to the high (end use) pressure. The results is a major reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. The proposed design for an integrated LNG-H2terminal can supply (1) 99.99 mol% pure hydrogen to a Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant and (2) commercial-grade natural gas to a gas-grid, both at the desired pressures and temperatures. Subsequently, rigorous simulation-based optimization was performed to minimize external energy inputs.A case study with 100 tph MCH and 100 tph LNG showed that integrating regasification with dehydrogenation produced 6.2 tph of hydrogen while gasifying LNG with a net power generation of 310 kW and a hydrogen recovery cost of 0.282 $/kg H2. Up to 7.3 tonnes of hydrogen can be produced per 100 tonnes of LNG without the use of external power. On the other hand, using external power, up to 11.3 tonnes of hydrogen can be produced per 100 tonnes of LNG without any external refrigeration. Overall, the superstructure proposed in this manuscript provides a generic initial approach for future MCH hydrogen supply chain projects, when considering integrations with LNG regasification plants.

Impact of External Debt and Energy Consumption on Environmental Quality in Somalia

This study investigates the interconnections between external debt, energy consumption, industrialization, and environmental quality in Somalia over the period 1990 to 2019, utilizing the ARDL bounds testing approach. Notably, a positive correlation is found between energy consumption and CO2 emissions, emphasizing the imperative for sustainable practices. In the long run, external debt is observed to have an insignificant impact on environmental quality, suggesting a strategic opportunity for policymakers to channel external funds towards environmentally sustainable projects. Short-term strategies underscore the positive link between decreased industrialization and improved environmental quality, while a cautious approach to external debt is crucial due to its short-term negative impact. The significance of the error correction term underscores the need for adaptive policies. Overall, the study advocates for comprehensive policies integrating sustainable practices and directing external financing towards eco-friendly projects, alongside a capacity building and technology transfer partnerships for environmentally conscious development in Somalia.

Interface Structure Strengthening of a Mesoporous Silicon/Expanded Perlite Microevaporator for Efficient Solar-Driven Interfacial Evaporation.

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation is one of the cutting-edge technologies for seawater desalination and wastewater purification. Herein, a floating carbon-coated silica microsphere/expanded perlite integrated interfacial microevaporator (HEPCL) is reported. The carbon nanolayer allows the HEPCL to have better broadband light absorption performance than natural graphite and graphene oxide. Through the low density of expanded perlite, HEPCL particles can self-float on the water surface and self-aggregate into an integrated whole under surface tension, which enhances the heat collection capacity. The hierarchical porous structure of the HEPCL has a continuous water absorption capacity. Notably, water molecules adsorbed in the HEPCL have a high desorption energy, which reduces the water evaporation enthalpy (1621 kJ/kg), making it easy to remove with external energy. Thanks to the design merits, the HEPCL achieves a water evaporation rate of 1.551 kg m-2 h-1 (efficiency of 94.85%) under 1 sun irradiation and may inspire a practicable solution of water scarcity.

How safe is high-intensity focused ultrasound? An intriguing solution for obstetric and gynecological diseases: A systematic review.

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-surgical and noninvasive treatment modality that depends on external ultrasound energy sources that induce focused mass ablation and protein degeneration in the treatment area via thermal energy penetration under the intact skin. We aim in our study to collectively evaluate the safety of HIFU for the treatment of different obstetric and gynecological diseases in the literature. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases, without restriction on date or language, from the inception of these databases until January 20, 2024. We also examined the references of the included studies in the Mendeley archive for eligible articles. We found a total of 706 studies. After the screening and selection process, 56 participants were included. Our dichotomous outcomes were pooled in our single-arm meta-analysis as risk ratio (RR) and with 95% confidence interval (CI) while our continuous outcomes were pooled as mean change and 95% CIs. Fixed- or random-effects models were applied depending on the heterogeneity detected. Our systematic review and meta-analysis included 56 studies including 11.740 patients. Depending on the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) classification for adverse effects. The results of this meta-analysis for the type A category that did not require clinical intervention found that pain in the treatment site estimated RR with 95% CI: 0.61 (0.33, 0.89), abnormal vaginal discharge 0.16 (0.073, 0.24), low-grade fever (<38 °C) 0.005 (0.002, 0.009). Sensory abnormalities of the lower limbs were examined in 3390 individuals and observed in only 19 patients who experienced gradual relief of symptoms within one month after treatment. Regarding SIR type B, 99 of a total of 6.437 patients had small vesicles and superficial burns with pooled RR and 95% CI: 0.012 (0.007, 0.018). In terms of groin or perianal and lower abdominal pain, our RRs with 95% CIs were 0.1 (0.067, 0.13) and 0.38 (0.25, 0.51). However, vaginal bleeding was detected in only 32 out of a total of 3.017. Major adverse events like lumber disc herniation, thrombocytopenia, and renal failure, were unmentionable. Additionally, our included studies did not record any deaths. HIFU, either alone or in combination with oxytocin or any other enhancing agent, is safe for patients with different gynecological and obstetric diseases. In terms of efficacy, it showed promising results compared with traditional treatment lines. To our knowledge, we are the first and most comprehensive meta-analysis in the literature that has studied the different safety outcomes related to HIFU as a treatment modality for different obstetric and gynecological diseases with a very large sample size, making our evidence strong and less attributed to errors.

The signaling cascade of induction and maintenance of ES cell diapause.

Nutrient deficiency during pregnancy in numerous animal species can induce the state of embryonic diapause. Diapause is characterized by changes in protein and gene expression that minimize the organism's reliance on external energy sources and ensure survival. Remarkably, the systematic changes associated with diapause appear to spare the gene expression program that supports embryonic cells' maintenance in the pluripotent state. The phenomenon of the differentiation "freeze" during diapause can be reproduced in vitro. Mimicking nutrient deficiency by pharmacological inhibition of mTOR induces the diapause-like state in ES cells without affecting ES cell pluripotency. We discovered a connection between mTOR signaling and the chromatin-bound bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) transcriptional regulator BRD4, showing a key role of BET-protein in the induction of diapause-like state in ES cells. mTOR inhibition rapidly and negatively impacts BRD4 binding to chromatin, which is associated with changes in gene expression that can contribute to diapause. Conversely, pharmacological inhibition of BET-protein circumvents the diapause dependence on mTOR inhibition and causes the diapause-like state. BET-repressed diapause-like ES cells retain the undifferentiated pluripotent state, which is associated with upregulation of a functionally linked group of genes encoding negative regulators of MAP kinase (MAPK) signaling and inactivation of MAP kinase. The transcriptional switch-off of MAP kinase following chronic BET inhibition imitates the transcriptional de-repression of MAP kinase negative regulators in response to mTOR inhibition. Mechanistically, suppression of mTOR or BET-protein leads to a profound decline in Capicua transcriptional repressor (CIC) at promoters of key negative regulators of MAP kinase. The discovered mTOR-BRD4 axis in the induction of diapause and the rapid transcriptional shut-off of differentiation program is likely to play a major role in the maintenance of embryonic diapause in vivo, as well as in controlling of the undifferentiated state of various types of stem cells during diapause-like metabolic dormancy.

Numerical and experimental analyses of hydraulic rams

This study explores hydraulic rams, a technology that exploits the effect of water hammer to pump water without the need for external artificial energy. Although first developed in the 18th century, a comprehensive numerical model elucidating the dynamics of each element, including valve manoeuvres, remains absent. Few authors have contributed specific models, often relying on simplistic approaches like rigid water column theory, or the method of characteristics (MOC) for water hammer equations with either instantaneous valve manoeuvre boundary conditions, or depicting the hydraulic ram as a single-node boundary condition. Some use sophisticated computational fluid dyamics (CFD) based models, primarily for optimizing individual components like the waste valve. Addressing this gap, this work introduces a novel comprehensive numerical model detailing full system dynamic – pipes, junctions, and valve behaviour. Analytical validation and experimental verification, using original laboratory-scale data, affirm the model's reliability. This advance improves understanding of hydraulic ram performance and encourages innovative, environmentally sustainable designs.

Is it possible to realize the catalytic oxidation of toluene on the atomic active site ZnNi/SNC catalysts without external energy?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pose an extremely high risk to both natural environment and human health. The stable conjugated π-bond conformation of aromatic rings make the degradation of aromatic hydrocarbon organic pollutants without relying on external energy remains a great challenge. In this study, toluene was selected as the target pollutant, and constructed sulfur-doped atomic active site catalysts using metal–organic frameworks as precursors. The results showed that ZnNi/SNC-950 could remove toluene up to 99%, with the CO2 selectivity of 12.6%. Ni and Zn were atomically dispersed on the carriers, while S doping modulated the coordination environment of the metal active sites. ZnNi/SNC-950 activates O2 and H2O from the air to produce ·OH, which attacks benzene ring and realizes catalytic oxidation of toluene at room temperature. This work provides a possibility for the degradation of benzene derived VOCs under ambient temperature.

A Super-Hygroscopic Solar-Regenerated Alginate-Based Composite for Atmospheric Water Harvesting.

Global water scarcity is leading to increasingly tense competition across populations. In order to complement the largely fast-depleting fresh water sources and mitigate the challenges generated by brine discharge from desalination, atmospheric water harvesting (AWH) has emerged to support long-term water supply. This work presents a novel alginate-based hybrid material comprised of porous silico-aluminophosphate-34 (SAPO-34) as fast-transport channel medium as well as hydrophilicity and stability enhancer, and graphene-based sheets as light absorber for solar-enabled evaporation, both optimally incorporated in an alginate matrix, resulting in a composite sorbent capable of harvesting water from the atmosphere with a record intake of up to 6.85 gw gs -1. Natural sunlight is solely used to enable desorption achieving increase of the temperature of the developed network up to 60°C andresulting in release of the sorbed water, with impurities content well below the World Health Organization (WHO) upper limits. After 30 cycles of sorption and desorption, the composite hydrogel displayed unchanged water uptake and stability. This work provides an impactful perspective toward sustainable generation of water from humidity without external energy consumption supporting the emergence of alternative water production solutions.

Effervescence tablets based on magnetic ionic liquids as simple microdevices for the in situ dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction of urinary biomarkers

BackgroundMagnetic ionic liquids (MILs) have been explored in dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME). Their usage allows to substitute centrifugation and/or filtration steps by a quick magnetic separation. Besides, effervescence-assisted DLLME is one of the most known options to improve the dispersion of the extractant in the sample, while allowing to avoid the consumption of external energy during dispersion. Despite these interesting features, only one study incorporates MILs containing the tetrachloroferrate anion in effervescence tablets. These MILs are highly viscous and liquid at room temperature, thus compromising the stability of the tablets when used as extraction microdevices in effervescence-assisted DLLME, and only allowing their use in the conventional MIL-DLLME mode. ResultsA new class of effervescence tablets containing a Ni(II)-based MIL, that is solid at room temperature, is here proposed. This type of tablets permits their use, for first time, in the in situ DLLME mode, occurring through the transformation of a water-soluble MIL into a water-insoluble MIL microdroplet. This way, the tablet formulation included: the MIL, the metathesis reagent lithium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]imide, NaH2PO4 and K2CO3 as effervescence precursors salts, and Na2SO4 as salting-out and desiccating agent. The method is combined with high-performance liquid-chromatography and both fluorescence and ultraviolet detection, for the determination of monohydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OH-PAHs) and benzophenones (BPs), as biomarkers in urine. The method simply involved the addition of the effervescence tablet to the sample, thus taken place simultaneously the effervescence process and the metathesis reaction, without requiring any external energy consumption. The method presented limits of detection down to 10 ng L−1 for OH-PAHs and to 0.60 μg L−1 for BPs, inter-day relative standard deviations lower than 17 %, and average relative recoveries of 94 % in urine. The determined OH-PAHs contents in urine were between 0.40 and 16 μg L−1, and between 17.8 and 334 μg L−1 for BPs. SignificanceWe have developed the first MIL-based effervescence tablets that are completely solid, thus improving the stability and robustness of these microdevices with respect to previously reported tablets involving MILs, while permitting to perform into the in situ DLLME mode (thus gaining in extraction efficiency). This approach including the MIL-based effervescence tablets constitutes an alternative on-site platform for the analysis of urine, as satisfactory precision, accuracy, and sensitivity are achieved despite not involving any external energy input within the analytical sample preparation setup. This method also constitutes the first application of MIL-based effervescence tablets for bioanalysis.

Renewable energy-powered water desalination and treatment network under wind power and water demand uncertainty: A possibilistic chance-constrained programming

Given the scarcity of freshwater resources, the growing significance of desalination is undeniable. It holds immense potential, particularly in regions grappling with severe water shortages. However, desalination's Achilles heel lies in its voracious energy appetite, requiring roughly ten times more energy than wastewater treatment. Moreover, the prevalent use of fossil fuels in desalination plants poses concerning issues like environmental pollution, fossil fuel depletion, and rising costs. The present study has designed an integrated Water desalination and treatment Network that includes a number of desalination facilities, storage centers, wind farms, and wastewater treatment facilities. The water desalination and treatment network has been structured using a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model, considering uncertainties in wind power and water demand. Employing a chance constraint probabilistic programming approach, this model ensures robustness and balances conservatism with investment attractiveness. It aims to enhance resilience against fluctuations in wind energy and water demand within the water and energy supply chain network. The study applied this model to optimize the locations of desalination plants, treatment centers, and storage facilities. This integrated model ensures autonomy, eliminating the need for external water and energy sources while reliably meeting regional demands. In the context of the Makran coasts case study, our comprehensive mathematical model demonstrates an optimal allocation with 96.67 % attributed to fixed costs and only 3.33 % to variable costs. Moreover, this model precisely optimizes the locations of two desalination centers, two storage facilities, and ten water treatment centers, effectively managing the need for external water resources. Ultimately, through a rigorous sensitivity analysis, we unveiled that the chance constraint parameters have a significant impact on the variable costs.