Friendship Choices Research Articles

Biomass-Based Microbial Protein Production: A Review of Processing and Properties.

A rise in population and societal changes have increased pressure on resources required to meet the growing demand for food and changing dietary preferences. The increasing demand for animal protein is concerning and raises questions regarding sustainability due to its environmental impact. Subsequently, scientists seek alternative proteins, such as microbial proteins (MPs), as an environmentally friendly choice. The production of MPs promotes benefits, including reducing deforestation and CO2 emissions. Several microorganism types, such as bacteria, yeast, fungi, and algae, use a variety of substrates for MP production, from agricultural residues to lignocellulosic biomass. These complex substrates, including lignocellulosic biomass, are converted to fermentable sugar through either chemical, physical, or biological methods. Indeed, fermentation can occur through submerged cultures or other methods. However, this depends on the substrate and microorganisms being utilized. MPs have properties that make them versatile and useful ingredients in various applications. Using residues and lignocellulosic biomass as raw materials for producing MPs offers sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and waste reduction advantages. These properties are consistent with the principles established by green chemistry, which aims to conserve resources effectively and operate sustainably in all areas. This review highlights the importance of studying manufacturing aspects and the characteristics associated with MPs, which can be implemented to solve problems and encourage novel methods in the global food/feed industry.

Optimizing of machining parameters for Hypereutectic Aluminium Silicon Alloys A390 with minimum quantity lubrication in turning using vegetable-based nano fluids

Abstract Aluminium alloys are rapidly developing in response to regulatory and industry trends. The automotive industry’s push for lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles has driven the fast-paced development and adoption of aluminium alloys, which have historically been regarded as the automotive production material with the fastest rate of growth. Parts made of aluminium alloys are significantly lighter than those made of steel, which can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, making aluminium an environmentally friendly choice. The high silicon concentration in aluminium silicon alloys A390, which varies from 17 to 18% and has good casting qualities, affects the machinability process. In order to optimise machining settings and determine the aspects that most effect surface roughness, this study looks at the machinability performance, concentrating on the surface roughness of machined surfaces. The cutting parameters employed in this study were a constant depth of cut of 0.1 mm, a feed rate of 0.1 to 0.3 mm/min, and a cutting speed range of 300 to 900 m/min. The turning machining process was performed utilising nano-based silicon dioxide (SiO2)-based fluids combined with palm oil as a lubricant under minimal quantity lubricant (MQL) conditions. Next, a mathematical model was developed to predict outcomes, optimize processes, understand variable relationships, and save time and resources. The effect of machining parameters on surface roughness was investigated using the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The ANOVA revealed that feed rate and speed were important factors. The best settings for minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) were 900 m/min for the cutting speed and 0.1 mm/min for the feed rate. With these settings, 0.451 μm of minimised surface roughness was attained.

Can improving climate change perception lead to more environmentally friendly choices? Evidence from an immersive virtual environment experiment

Rational decision theory assumes that individuals have perfect knowledge of the consequences of their choices and actions. However, this assumption often fails to align with reality, particularly in the context of environmental degradation, where the impacts of actions can be distant in both time and space. Will an enhanced perception of those impacts encourage pro-environmental choices?To explore this question, we designed and conducted an experiment in an immersive virtual reality environment (IVE). After an initial training phase, participants were asked to choose between using a tumble dryer or a clothesline to dry their laundry. Participants in the treatment group received exaggerated feedback during the training phase, experiencing a simulated sudden outbreak of a thunderstorm when they used the dryer. In contrast, participants in the control group did not receive any feedback. The experiment was conducted at two Italian universities, Siena and Pisa, with a total of 270 subjects.The methodological finding is that even less elaborated IVEs can still be effective as experimental tools. The substantive finding is that exposure to exaggerated feedback in an IVE significantly increased the likelihood of choosing a more environmentally friendly action, such as using a clothesline, which involves lower energy consumption.

Optimization of CTS thin film solar cell: A numerical investigation based on USP deposited thin films

CTS (Cu2SnS3) can be used in the next generation of thin-film solar cells due to its non-toxicity, affordability, and natural availability. CTS has a direct bandgap, high absorption coefficient, making it an attractive and environmentally friendly choice for fabrication of solar cells. Ultrasonic spray pyrolysis is used to deposit CTS (absorber layer) and ZnS (buffer layer) films and they are characterized by XRD, SEM and UV–Vis spectroscopy. Based on experimental results, numerical simulation has been performed using SCAPS 1D. FTO/CTS/ZnS/Ag is the structure of device, where Ag act as an electrode. In this paper, a study is carried out to investigate the effects of thickness, doping concentrations in CTS and ZnS layer, working temperatures, bandgap variations, and defect densities on these solar cells. At the temperature of 300K, the proposed cell exhibits a power conversion efficiency of 8.25 %, open circuit voltage 0.4252V, short circuit current 24.82 mA/cm2, FF 78.18 % respectively.

Enhancing concrete sustainability by incorporating crushed ceramic tiles as a partial replacement for fine aggregate in concrete mixture

In this study, the possibility of partially replacing ceramic tiles with fine particles in concrete mixtures is investigated in order to increase the sustainability of concrete. Recycling and utilizing ceramic waste are essential because its disposal causes environmental problems. In this study, we examine how the amount of crushed ceramic tile affects many aspects of concrete, such as compressive strength, durability, and environmental impact. According to our research, adding crushed ceramic tiles to concrete reduces waste while also demonstrating promising outcomes in terms of strength and durability, making it a more environmentally friendly choice than using traditional fine aggregates. Utilizing ceramic waste in concrete production offers the opportunity to be cost-effective and environmentally sustainable, advocating for resource efficiency and eco-friendly construction practices. let's break down how we're going to carry out this project in simple terms. First, we'll gather all the materials we need, like regular concrete stuff and crushed ceramic tiles. Then, we'll mix them up in different ways to see what works best. After that, we'll make small samples and test how strong and durable they are. We'll repeat these tests a few times to make sure our results are reliable. Along the way, we'll keep track of everything we do, so we can explain it to others and make sure our project is solid.

Synergistic interactions of biocontrol agents and chemical fungicides enhance the disease resistance in Vigna radiata (L.) against Macrophomina phaseolina-associated with dry root rot

Macrophomina phaseolina, a necrotrophic fungus responsible for dry root rot disease in Vigna radiata L. (greengram) causes extensive yield losses. Biocontrol agents are reported to suppress phytopathogens, mitigate biotic stress, and improve growth and yield of plants. Here, Bacillus subtilis PSB-5 and Trichoderma sp. TD-6 along with chemical fungicides; mancozeb (MZB) and carbendazim (CBZM) were evaluated alone/or in combination for their effectiveness against M. phaseolina-induced root rot disease in greengram. B. subtilis and Trichoderma sp. suppressed phyto-fungal growth by 72 and 78 %, respectively. Both bioagents synthesized indole-3-acetic acid, ammonia, and solubilized insoluble phosphate, released antimicrobial substances including siderophore, hydrogen cyanide, and various extracellular lytic enzymes. Further, efficacy of bioagents and fungicides (at 50 and 100 ppm) were tested (single and combined) against M. phaseolina-infected greengram cultivated in pot soils. While evaluating, bioagents and fungicides increased plant height, biomass, and vigor indices of infected greengram in order: PSB-5 + TD-6 > PSB-5 > TD-6 > MZB + CBZM (100 ppm) > CBZM (100 ppm) > MZB (100 ppm). Further, among treatment, dual inoculation of bioagents (B. subtilis + Trichoderma), maximally increased total chlorophyll (59.4 %), carotenoid (68 %), root phosphorous (69.6 %), root nitrogen (65.7 %), total soluble protein (80 %), soluble sugar (76 %), pod yield (82.3 %) and seed protein (68 %) over infected plants. Moreover, biotic stress-induced oxidative stress biomarkers (proline, malondialdehyde, electrolyte leakage) and reactive oxygen species were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lowered in fungal-infected greengram following fungicides and bioagents application. Furthermore, combined inoculation of bioagents significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced percent disease index (PDI) and increased % protection in biotic-stressed greengram. Besides, bioagents potentially increased disease resistance in M. phaseolina-infected greengram plants by modulating defense responses such as activities of β-1, 3 glucanase, catalase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase, polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase which significantly protected plants from fungal pathogen. Soil populations of pathogen and bioagents declined and considerably increased, respectively, at harvest. Application of antagonistic bacterial and fungal strains enhances greengram resistance to M. phaseolina while concurrently offering agriculture an environmentally friendly choice. Also, these strains can be applied as biocontrol agents in disease suppression over chemical fungicides.

How emissions and distance do influence the choice of eco-tourists?

ABSTRACT Given the growing environmental impact of tourism, understanding how information influences tourists’ sustainable choices is essential. This study focuses on the relatively under-researched area of how information on carbon emissions and travel distance affects tourists’ environmentally friendly choices at destinations across various time intervals. Hypothetical dichotomous questions were employed in three online surveys with 991 participants. T-tests were used to compare the effects of carbon emissions and distance information over eight, five, three, and one-hour intervals. The results indicate that both carbon emissions and distance information positively influence preferences for environmentally friendly behaviour. Additionally, more available time can lead to less environmentally friendly choices. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and tourism stakeholders aiming to foster sustainable practices in the industry.

Insights into catalytic co-pyrolysis of spent coffee grounds and high density polyethylene (HDPE) using acid mine drainage (AMD) treated sludge based catalyst: Analysis of kinetics, mechanism and thermodynamic properties

The present study aims to investigate the catalytic effect of acid mine drainage (AMD) treated sludge based catalyst on the co-pyrolysis of spent coffee grounds and HDPE. The sludge was generated during the treatment of AMD using eggshell and hydrogen peroxide. Theromogravimetric analysis of pyrolysis of spent coffee grounds (SC), HDPE (High density polyethylene), blend of spent coffee grounds and HDPE (SC+HDPE) in the ratio of 1:1, and blended feedstock with sludge derived catalyst (SC+HDPE_AMDC) (1:1 wt. ratio) was conducted at various heating rates of 10 °C/min, 20 °C/min, 30 °C/min and 40 °C/min respectively. Iso-conversional models such as Ozawa Flynn Wall (OFW), Kissinger Akahira Sunose (KAS), Friedman, and Starink were utilized for the determination of activation energy (Ea) of the process. The results showed that using AMD treated sludge based catalyst to the pyrolysis process, enhances its overall efficacy by lowering the activation energy (Ea) (OFW- Ea: 209.11 to 177.14 KJ/mol, KAS-Ea: 208.30 to 173.06 KJ/mol, Friedman- Ea:210.54 to 176.28 KJ/mol, and Starink- Ea:208.60 to 173.44 KJ/mol). Criado's z-master plot (CZMP) method was utilized to analyze the mechanism of the reaction. The pre-exponential factor and thermodynamic parameters were also evaluated. It is concluded that the incorporation of sludge based catalyst (AMDC) lowered enthalpy and randomness of system. Catalytic co-pyrolysis requires less energy, making it more environmental friendly choice for the sustainable processing of biomass and plastics. The present investigation will aid in the design, optimization and scalability.

Peer tutoring as a strategy for inclusive education in primary education: a case study

ABSTRACT This paper studied the degree of inclusion in three primary school groups in Spain, where five students with mild special educational needs (SEN), but without disabilities, were enrolled. The study was based on a multiple-case design, combining observational and self-report techniques before, during and after implementing a peer tutoring programme. Three components of inclusive education were analysed: presence, participation and learning achievement. Within this last component, four specific variables of classroom participation were evaluated: (1) social acceptance rating of peers; (2) social relationships and friendship choices; (3) self-perception of personal, social and school adjustment; and (4) social interactions in learning activities. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analysed. The results show worse inclusion rates for students with SEN than for the rest of their peers in all dimensions. During the peer tutoring programme, an improvement was observed in the presence and achievement of SEN students. However, these improvements were only found in some variables of social participation, in the short term. The implementation of a fixed tutoring programme is a positive but not sufficient measure to generate changes in the degree of inclusion of students with learning disabilities. Finally, the implications for the planning of inclusive collaborative learning practices are discussed.

Let us go with the flow − Impact of a dynamic social norm nudge on parents’ school menu selection

Designing more sustainable school meal offerings not only contributes to environmental protection and climate change mitigation but also promotes children’s health, provides food education, and raises awareness on sustainability issues. The present study, using a between-subject experimental online survey (N = 617), proved the effectiveness of a dynamic social norm nudge in encouraging parents to make more environmentally friendly choices when selecting school menus for their elementary school children. In addition, nudging was more successful in promoting sustainable food choices among parents with lower levels of education and those who are more actively involved and responsible for child-related practices. Disentangling the individual traits that leverage the effectiveness of nudges should allow public entities to fully exploit the potential of these interventions and design tailored approaches for targeted subpopulations.

Bioinspired starch nanofibrous films with tunable hydrophobicity and water adhesion via tannic acid-interfacial self-assembly for food packaging

To address the limitations in water resistance and functionality of existing starch-based food packaging materials, this study developed a new sustainable food packaging material—starch nanofibrous films (SNFs) enhanced with an acylated tannic acid (ATA) interfacial self-assembly coating. Inspired by the unique hydrophobicity and water adhesion properties of rose petals, which effectively control surface characteristics to maintain microenvironmental humidity during food processing and storage, this approach significantly enhanced the water resistance, stability, and mechanical strength of the material. Specifically, the obtained SNFs/ATA exhibited a maximum water contact angle of ∼ 134.1°, tensile strength of ∼ 0.86 MPa, and Young’s modulus of ∼ 43.48 MPa. Moreover, SNFs/ATA showed excellent antibacterial and antioxidant properties, UV-blocking capabilities, and degradability, making it an environmentally friendly choice for food packaging. In practical food preservation applications, cherry tomatoes packaged with SNFs/ATA showed a significant extension of shelf life to 15 days, with a 62.5 % reduction in spoilage rate, a 25.4 % decrease in weight loss, and good quality including pulp firmness, pH, titratable acidity, and total soluble solids. This work demonstrates structurally regulated polyphenol assembly in the preparation of all-natural green biomimetic surface, creating new opportunities for the development of sustainable bio-based food packaging systems.

Utilization of alternative wood particles for modern thermal insulation products

Abstract Thermal insulation materials play a vital role in minimising energy loss in building operation and also affect the amount of greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling. In this context, it is becoming an increasingly important milestone to find suitable thermal insulation materials that not only meet the technical requirements but also minimise their environmental impact. The trend towards the use of eco-friendly materials for thermal insulation reflects the construction industry’s desire to contribute to environmental protection and the transition to more sustainable models of building construction and renovation. For more than 20 years, a number of research teams have been investigating the possibility of replacing synthetically produced materials such as mineral wool and polystyrene foam with natural fibre-based insulation materials. These alternatives include wood as a traditional, easily renewable raw material. This, together with the low energy intensity of processing and manufacturing wood materials, contributes to its low carbon footprint. Compared to traditional synthetic insulation materials, which are often energy intensive to produce, wood is a more environmentally friendly choice. However, with many European countries now facing a potential shortage of higher quality wood, it is necessary to look for alternative sources of wood, including in the field of thermal insulation materials, materials with a lower carbon footprint that can be produced from lower quality wood or from wood waste that would otherwise only have an energy use. The paper is devoted to the study and use of suitable wood waste and secondary raw materials from spruce wood (coarse wood chips, sawdust and wood flour) for the development of modern thermal insulations with the aim of an environmentally friendly and less energy-intensive production process compared to conventional insulants.

Development and mechanical characterization of horse hair with titanium dioxide nanoparticles reinforced polyester composite

This study aims to examine the effects of waste material more especially horse hair as fiber on mechanical and physical properties. Tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness properties of horse hair fiber and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) polyester composite were investigated to determine whether the latter might be used as a new material in various engineering applications for a longer life. To improve the impact resistance of the composite, horse hair fiber is mixed in different ratios with titanium dioxide and polyester as filler. Tensile, flexural, and impact mechanical properties were assessed using the Universal Testing Machine, the Rockwell Hardness Testing Machine, and the Izod Impact Test. Specimens were hand-put up using various fiber weight ratios. The results of this study showed that Specimen 5 showed a tremendous increase in flexural strength (98.87 MPa), tensile strength (91.46 MPa), hardness (115 HV), impact strength (15.98 J m−1), and water uptake (10.18%) as compared to the neat and also with the other Specimens. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the fracture surface in more detail in order to search for failure mechanisms and the dispersion of nanoparticles. SEM micrographs verified the uniform dispersion of the nanoparticles. Results suggest that these composites can be used as a material for a variety of applications, including biological claims that they are a practical, durable, and environmentally friendly choice.

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and biocontrol agents triggered plant defence responses against phytopathogenic fungi and improved rice growth

This study examined the antifungal activity and plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits of 30 beneficial bacterial strains isolated from Brassica campestris (L.) rhizosphere in rice. Among these, the PRB-8 strain exhibited potent antifungal activity against rice pathogens and produced a robust biofilm and a variety of PGP compounds. Based on our results, the PRB-8 showed distinct antifungal activity against fungal pathogens such as Rhizoctonia solani (75 %) > Alternaria alternata (74.5 %) > Sclerotium rolfsii (70 %) > Macrophomina phaselina (68 %) > Fusarium oxysporum (67 %). The isolate PRB-8 also increased the germination efficiency and length of rice seedlings under in-vitro conditions. The isolate PRB-8 was identified as Klebsiella pneumoniae (accession no. MT672588) and the absence of a hydrolysis zone on sheep blood agar plate suggests that PRB-8 is non-pathogenic. Inoculation of PRB-8 to R. solani and F. oxysporum-infected rice seedlings promotes length, dry biomass, and photosynthetic pigments and decreases the disease index in rice. Furthermore, PRB-8 potentially enhanced the defense responses in rice by increasing phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), β-1,3 glucanase, polyphenol oxidase (PPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD), which play a significant role in protecting plants from phytopathogens. Thus, it can be concluded that the use of the PRB-8 strain enhances rice growth and resistance to phytopathogens while simultaneously offering agroecosystems and environmentally friendly choices. Shortly, natural antagonistic PGPR may be used as biocontrol agents to sustainably enhance biotic stress tolerance and global food production.

Design and Fabrication of a Bicycle Sprayer

The bicycle sprayer designed for crop spraying is a pragmatic and environmentally friendly choice for small-scale farmers, providing both effectiveness and long-term viability. Engineered to be attached on a regular bicycle, this device enables farmers to easily traverse fields and agricultural area with minimal physical effort. The sprayer features a 20-liter tank, suitable for small-scale farms, equipped with a slide-crank pumping system and a precision nozzle assembly to ensure efficient spraying. Made from lightweight and sturdy materials, it is both cost-efficient and highly portable. The rear wheel's rotation is converted into translation motion of the rod and pump by the use of a slider-crank reciprocating mechanism. The bicycle sprayer doubles as a mode of transportation for farmers or users traveling to and from the farm, enhancing its utility. The bicycle sprayer provides an environmentally-friendly option for small-scale farmers, enhancing crop productivity and minimizing the risks associated with liquid chemicals for farmers or operators. Based on the performance outcome, the recently created sprayer is capable of covering an area of one hectare in one hour. It demonstrates improved spray consistency and achieves a 75% efficiency rate, as confirmed through a sequence of tests conducted on specific farms.

Iron dopant in zinc oxide nanorods-based photoanode using chemical bath deposition method for photoelectrochemical water-splitting

Utilization of zinc oxide as a photoanode in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is cost-effective and environmentally friendly choices compared to noble metals, although some enhancements are required to address the limited light absorption and significant charge recombination. Iron as metal doping and nanorod structure, on the other hand, offers solutions to overcome these limitations. An in-depth study employing iron-doped zinc oxide nanorods using various concentrations of iron fabricated through a chemical bath deposition (CBD) method due to its high-quality results and scale-up feasibility, shows enhanced structures, electrical characteristics, optical properties, charge transfer speed, and overall effectiveness in converting solar energy to hydrogen. This dopant was effectively integrated into the photoanode, resulting in a reduction of the bandgap to 3.19 eV and the creation of nanorods that are both thinner and longer. The photocurrent density for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is 6 mA/cm2, and for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), it is 1.3 mA/cm2. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy shows lower resistance and an improved diffusion coefficient, resulting in reduced energy requirements for hydrogen production. The solar-to-hydrogen efficiency is also reported at 4.7%. This method shows potential for future progress and possible performance improvements.

The gendered maths confidence gap, social influence and social integration

ABSTRACT While there is little discernible difference between girls and boys in maths competence during secondary education, on average, girls have lower confidence in their maths skills. Over time, this difference leads to gendered choices of education and occupation. Research explaining the maths confidence gap focusses on psychological factors and socialisation into stereotypical gender roles. However, how the peer context shapes the self-perception of competence and how this self-image affects social integration and popularity of girls and boys is barely understood. We analyse friendship networks and perceptions of maths confidence in Sweden and Germany to answer these questions using the CILS4EU dataset (N = 7,472) and multi-level, longitudinal network models. We find that maths confidence of girls accurately follows their maths grades and social relations have little impact on girls’ self-evaluation. Boys tend to overestimate their ability and are more susceptible to peer processes; social comparison processes inform boys’ maths confidence. This suggests that math ability is important for boys but socially irrelevant for girls. Concerning friendship choices, we find that boys and girls with higher maths confidence are often more integrated. Thus, we do not find social pressure on girls to adhere to gendered math-stereotypes – the opposite is the case.

Effect Local Microorganisms Coconut Pulp in Increasing The Resistance of Red Chilli Plants To Fungus Colletotrichum acutatum J.H. Simmonds

The fungus Colletotrichum acutatum which often attacks chili plants causes anthracnose disease. Farmers generally use fungicides to control this disease. Continuous use of synthetic fungicides will have negative impacts. Plant extracts as an alternative to natural fungicides can be an appropriate and environmentally friendly choice. One of them is the use of Local Microorganisms (MOL). This research aims to determine the optimal concentration of coconut pulp MOL in increasing the resistance of red chilli plants to the fungus Colletotrichum acutatum that causes anthracnose disease. The study used a Totally Randomized Design (CRD) with 6 drugs, namely A (0 ml/water), B (5 ml/water), C (10 ml/water), D (15 ml/water), E (20 ml/water). ml/water), F (25 ml/water). There are four treatments each time. Information was broken down using ANOVA and continued with the Fair Genuine Contrast (BNJ) test at the 5% level (α = 5%). with a level of 5% (α = 5%). The results showed a significant effect on fungal colony diameter, germination period, plant height, plant incubation period, and disease severity. The best concentration of local coconut pulp microorganisms in inhibiting anthracnose disease was 25 ml/l water.

Utilizing a Hybrid Approach to Identify the Importance of Factors That Influence Consumer Decision-Making Behavior in Purchasing Sustainable Products

Consumer decision-making behaviors play a pivotal role in the realm of purchasing sustainable products. It is crucial for businesses to understand the key factors that influence consumers’ choices in this context, especially if they aim to align with eco-friendly trends. Conventional methods are inadequate for accurately and successfully identifying the importance of factors that influence consumers’ decision-making behaviors in purchasing sustainable products and stem from a lack of holistic consideration. Conventional methods, like AHP, surveys, questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups, often do not fully consider the many aspects of consumer behavior related to sustainability. To address this gap, our study aims to (1) employ a hybrid approach, integrating conventional methods with cutting-edge machine-learning technology for predicting consumer’s decision-making behaviors in purchasing sustainable products; (2) demonstrate the practical application of this hybrid approach through the example of green furniture; and (3) provide a practical guide for identifying the importance of factors influencing consumers’ decision-making behaviors in purchasing sustainable products. This study will map out implications for the future of consumer decision-making behaviors in purchasing sustainable products. The hybrid approach to studying consumer decision making in sustainable product purchases, combining quantitative and AI methods. This methodology provides a comprehensive analysis of factors influencing environmentally friendly choices, fostering awareness and informed decision making. Businesses can use these insights to tailor strategies, enhance offerings, and meet the rising demand for sustainable products, contributing to environmentally responsible consumer behaviors and promoting economies of scale for sustainable products and innovation. This holistic understanding is crucial for creating a sustainable and socially responsible marketplace.

Development of bio-based lightweight and thermally insulated bricks: Efficient energy performance, thermal comfort, and CO2 emission of residential buildings in hot arid climates

This study explores the viability of using industrial wastewater sludge (IWWS), generated by the mycelium treatment of dyeing wastewater, for the fabrication of lightweight and thermally insulating bricks. The pulverized IWWS was used at various replacement ratios of 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% of clay. The mixture was subjected to firing temperatures of 700, 800, and 900 °C. The effect of applying IWWS to the brick characteristics is assessed through an examination of the physico-mechanical and thermal properties. The utilization of IWWS resulted in a significant enhancement in apparent porosity (34.4 %), cold water absorption (25.6 %), boiling water absorption (28.5 %), linear drying shrinkage (5.1 %), and linear firing shrinkage (7.9 %) using 20 % IWWS at 900 °C. Furthermore, the density, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity were reduced as the substitution IWWS ratio increased, reaching up to 1662.9 kg/m3, 11.56 MPa, and 0.198 W/m.K., respectively, using 20 wt% IWWS at 900 °C. The effect of fabricated fired bricks (FBs) on the thermal insulation, CO2 emissions, and energy consumption of residential buildings was tested. This is accomplished by using energy modeling tools, such as Honeybee, Ladybug, and Climate Studio (Grasshopper plugins), in addition to Galapagos for optimizing wall design. The suggested wall design is being used in a communal residential building located in two distinct climatic regions, namely Cairo in Egypt and Jazan in Saudi Arabia. According to the projected mean vote (PMV) and anticipated percentage of discontent (PPD) measures, the utilization of fabricated FBs as wall materials exhibits significant improvements in thermal comfort. Furthermore, they lead to a 6 % and 7 % drop in CO2 emissions in Cairo and Jazan cities, respectively, as well as a significant 38.8 % and 39 % reduction in energy consumption in Cairo and Jazan cities, respectively. Therefore, the use of fabricated FBs demonstrates itself as a feasible and environmentally friendly choice for building construction.