Biofuel Research Articles

Biomass Fuel Quality Improvement Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Demineralized Water Pre-treatment and Torrefaction

Biomass Fuel Quality Improvement Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Demineralized Water Pre-treatment and Torrefaction

Direct radiative effects of black carbon and brown carbon from Southeast Asia biomass burning with the WRF-CMAQ two-way coupled model

Black carbon (BC) and brown carbon (BrC) are significant light-absorbing components of particulate matter that impact weather and climate. Biomass burning (BB) and biofuel (BF) emissions in Southeast Asia are key global sources of BC and BrC. This study utilizes the Weather Research and Forecasting-Community Multiscale Air Quality (WRF-CMAQ) model, integrating a BrC module for the first time, alongside the Global Fire Emissions Database Version 4, to assess the direct radiative effect (DRE) of BC and BrC in March 2015 over Southeast Asia. The novel BrC module parameterizes light absorption based on the BB BC to organic aerosol (OA) ratio in each model grid and time step, aligning better with smog chamber experiments than default coefficients. Results show that BC DRE affects clear sky net radiation at the top of the atmosphere, reaching 14.6 W/m2 in Indochina and 5.1 W/m2 in southern China, while BrC DRE reaches 1.9 W/m2. Additionally, BC and BrC DRE induce a cooling effect at the Earth's surface, with the maximum reduction of the clear sky downward shortwave radiation by −36.9 W/m2 and −5.2 W/m2, respectively. BC and BrC lead to a tiny decrease (<0.1 °C) in surface temperature and an increase in upper air temperature. Surface O3 concentration tends to slightly decrease (<1.0 ppbv) due to the DRE of BC and BrC. In comparison to studies using the default coefficient, this result contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the interactions between BC, BrC, and radiation.

Consequences of Indoor Pollution in Children in Latin America.

Indoor air pollution represents a major health problem in developing countries. Common sources of contaminants include biomass fuels, dust mites, mold, and insecticides, which are frequently found in Latin American households due to cultural, geographical, and socioeconomic conditions. Additionally, tobacco consumption and e-cigarette use are both frequent in the region and represent another source of air pollution. Furthermore, agriculture plays an important role in Latin American and Caribbean economies, leading to hazardous environmental exposures for people living in rural areas. Children are more vulnerable than adults to the effects of environmental exposures because of various physiological and behavioral factors. The timing of exposure is also relevant, as the developing lungs are more susceptible during certain periods of growth, and early insults may impact future development. Exposure to indoor pollution, both prenatal and after birth, has been associated with an increased risk of health issues in children, such as growth impairment, respiratory infections, asthma, reduced lung function, and development of adult lung diseases (e.g., cancer and COPD). To understand how childhood environmental exposures affect lung development, with potential long-term consequences and increased risk of diseases later in life, is essential for developing effective prevention strategies.

Potential Analysis of Biomass Briquettes from Sugarcane Milling Waste for Boiler and Generator Turbines Stations

The decrease in sugar productivity was due to insufficient process of the sugar production process such as the low efficiency of boiler machine input energy. This study aims to analyze the potential use of Bagasse Briquetting Fuel (BBF) made from sugarcane milling waste at PT Madubaru as an attempt to obtain the optimal efficiency of boiler machine. Analysis of the effect of the adhesive concentration on the BBF quality was carried out to determine the optimal composition of the use of adhesive materials. Economic analysis was also conducted to determine the economic potential of BBF development. The analysis revealed that the BBF from Sugarcane milling waste has Calorific Value of 17,367-19,497 KJ/kg and density of 0.740-0.915 g/cm3. BBF with an adhesive variation of 1.25% is the BBF with the highest efficiency because it meets the needs of boiler fuel with the least amount of 100.8 tons/day for the operation of 1 boiler machine. The development of BBF from sugarcane milling waste has a selling value of Rp1.390.5,-/kg much lower than the existing biomass fuels found in the market. Keywords: Bagasse briquetting fuel; Boiler machine; Energy efficiency; Renewable energy; Sugarcane milling waste.

Deconvoluting Soecs – One Cell at a Timeinsights from Single-Cell Analysis of Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells at Topsoe

The escalating need for sustainable energy solutions has intensified research into Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOECs), a cornerstone technology in the green transition facilitating the conversion of electricity into green fuels. Topsoe has made significant strides in the field of green technologies, aiming to revolutionize the production of zero-emission fuels and chemicals, thereby contributing to global carbon emission reduction efforts.Topsoe's commitment to leading the carbon emission reduction technologies by 2024 is demonstrated through the development of its advanced SOEC technology. This technology is central to future Power-to-X plants, providing a highly efficient electrolysis solution that complements downstream processes. The upcoming SOEC manufacturing facility in Denmark, anticipated to commence operations in 2025, epitomizes this commitment. The facility is poised to produce electrolysis cells, stacks and modules, aiming for an annual production capacity of 500 MW, with scalability prospects. Topsoe's comprehensive expertise from electrolyzers to various downstream processes enables the transformation of renewable resources into zero-emission products such as green hydrogen, green ammonia, e-Methanol, and eFuels, marking a significant step towards a sustainable future1.The core of the work presented here entails the in-depth analysis facilitated by single-cell studies, both within Topsoe as well in close co-operation with different research institutions. Historical and ongoing research into single-cell testing, dating back several decades, has provided substantial insights into optimizing cell setup and operational parameters. These studies allow for a detailed understanding of individual cell resistance contributions, crucial for deconvoluting the impact of raw materials and manufacturing steps on the full cell performance and durability. The methodological approach includes a spectrum of techniques from in-situ characterization, such as Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and current-voltage (IV) curves, to pre- and post-mortem analyses using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) etc.Such detailed single-cell level studies are pivotal in addressing the mechanical and electrochemical performance requirements of SOECs, aiming to map them to stack and system performance. Furthermore, the studies delve into the challenges of scaling up these technologies, emphasizing the importance of stress tests and impurity evaluations to enhance system lifetime and efficiency. 1.www.topsoe.com/hubfs/Investor%20Images/Annual%20Reports/Annual%20report%202023/Topsoe_AR_2023_FINAL.pdf?hsLang=en

Bridging Physics-Informed and Data-Driven Materials Designs to Catalyze Deep Decarbonization

Electrifying and decarbonizing key industrial sectors, including chemical and materials industries, as well as transportation and aviation, is a pressing mission of our time. Industrial players and governments worldwide have set ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions, which need to be decreased to net-zero around mid-century in order to address global warming and climate change. For such deep decarbonization, it is crucial to develop unprecedented materials, such as electrocatalysts that can efficiently and steadily produce green chemicals and fuels at scale and generate renewable electricity on demand. In this talk, I will introduce how a joint computational–experimental approach can be established to accelerate catalyst materials design using first-principles atomistic simulations, synchrotron X-ray spectroscopies, and physics-inspired machine learning. I will highlight how mechanistically elucidating and quantitatively controlling the electronic structure of transition metal compounds can effectively alter their chemical bondings, modulate key reaction barriers toward dissolution and electrocatalysis, and thus influence their durability and reactivity, respectively, offering physics-driven guiding principles for optimizing their catalytic performance. Moreover, I will demonstrate how combining machine learning with materials physics can accelerate the discovery of multicomponent oxides—a new class of materials with too-complicated atomic orderings for an exhaustive investigation—through the development of machine-learning models that accurately predict ordering-dependent materials properties by capturing intrinsic symmetries. To conclude, I will discuss new opportunities for further resolving fundamental knowledge gaps between the structural, reaction, and compositional complexities of electrocatalyst surfaces to fully unlock transformative materials design for catalyzing sustainability and decarbonization.

Seasonal Harvesting Impact on Biomass Fuel Properties and Pyrolysis‐Derived Bio‐Oil Organic Phase Composition

ABSTRACTThermochemical conversion of giant reed biomass during periodic variations has been carried out in a semi‐batch tubular reactor at 550°C. This study was carried out after the incineration of giant reed along the river banks. Four periodic variations, late spring (HS‐4), late summer (HS‐1), late autumn (HS‐2), and late winter (HS‐3) were considered to investigate the effect of harvest time on biomass fuel properties, pyrolysis product distribution, non‐condensable gas characterization, and bio‐oil organic phase (BOP) fuel properties. The considered biomasses herein had average calorific values of 18.86 ± 0.05, 19.73 ± 0.05, 19.23 ± 0.04, and 18.44 ± 0.04 MJ/kg during HS‐1, HS‐2, HS‐3, and HS‐4, respectively. The biomass, bio‐oil organic phase, biochar, and pyrolysis gas were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GCMS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), micro‐GC, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS). The organic phase of bio‐oil was isolated using a 125 mL separating funnel, allowing natural stratification of the immiscible phases. BOP yield increased from 5 to 11 wt% during HS‐4 and HS‐3, respectively. Higher heating values (HHV) of the BOP ranged from 19.4 ± 0.03 to 22.6 ± 0.02 MJ/kg in relation to the active growth stage and senescence‐dormant phase. Physical and chemical properties (TAN, density, viscosity, water content, and CHNS) and chemical compound groups of organic phase bio‐oil were analyzed. The produced BOP was rich in phenolics for all considered periods. The effect of harvest time showed that biomass and bio‐oil organic phase fuel properties are improved during the senescence‐dormant period. As a result, giant reed biomass should be harvested during autumn to avoid incineration that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and will also reduce the occurrence of artificial flooding.

Development of Bienzymatic Cascade for Direct Bioelectrochemical Ethanol Oxidation with Alcohol and Aldehyde Dehydrogenases

In vivo, a variety of enzymatic cascade reactions are working to efficiently and rapidly metabolize biomolecules. Oxidoreductases especially play key roles in biochemical redox reactions such as fermentation, respiration, and photosynthesis, which might lead to efficient conversion of eco-friendly materials and production of useful compounds. Some enzymatic redox reactions can be artificially coupled with electrode reactions, which is called bioelectrocatalysis. Particularly, an electrical communication without any external electron mediators is called direct electron transfer (DET)-type bioelectrocatalysis, which can be an analytical system evaluating kinetic and thermodynamic characteristics of enzymes, and are expected to be applied to biomimetic devices such as biofuel cells, bioreactors, and biosensors.We focused on two DET-type enzymes: alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) from acetic acid bacteria (Gluconobacter oxydans). Both enzymes form heterotrimeric structures composed of the catalytic large subunit, the chaperonic small subunit, and the membrane-bound cytochrome c subunit. They physiologically play key roles in the respiration, and the electrons are transferred from substrates to ubiquinone in the periplasmic space. Although DET activities of ADH and ALDH have been already reported, their three-dimensional (3D) structures remain unknown, which prevents the elucidation of detailed electron transfer pathways and improved DET-type bioelectrocatalysis of ADH and ALDH. In this study, we attempted to establish the bienzymatic cascade for bioelectrochemical 4-electron oxidation of ethanol into acetate via acetaldehyde, using ADH and ALDH.To optimize the surface structure of electrodes for the two enzymes by considering their structural characteristics, we firstly elucidated the 3D structures of ADH and ALDH using cryo-electron microscopy analysis. The 3D structures were reconstructed with a 2.5 Å resolution for ADH and a 2.7 Å resolution for ALDH, respectively. Pyrroloquinoline quinone and four hemes c were resolved in ADH, while a molybdenum cofactor, two iron-sulfur clusters, and three hemes c were resolved in ALDH. Cyclic voltammograms were then recorded at multi-walled carbon nanotube-modified glassy carbon electrodes (CNT/GCs) functionalized with five pyrene derivatives and the enzyme (ADH or ALDH). Regardless of pyrene modification, all prepared electrodes performed clear DET-type ethanol oxidation by ADH and acetaldehyde oxidation by ALDH, respectively, and the 1-pyrenecarboxylic acid (PyCOOH)-functionalized CNT/GC showed the best catalytic properties for both ADH and ALDH.Based on the electrochemical results, PyCOOH-functionalized CNT/GC was selected as an electrode platform for bienzymatic electrochemical cascade. The electrodes were functionalized with a mixture of ADH and ALDH. The molar concentrations of ADH and ALDH (c 1 and c 2, respectively) were variously controlled under the condition that c 1 + c 2 was constant. The apparent DET-type current density for ethanol oxidation reached a maximum around log (c 1 / c 2) = 0.5, which was higher than that at c 1 / c 2 = ∞ (only ADH). Such increase in the DET-type current density indicates that acetaldehyde produced by ADH was subsequently oxidized by ALDH, which means a bienzymatic cascade. A mathematical model for a bienzymatic DET-type cascade reaction was constructed using the experimental results. These calculations indicated that the ratio of the amounts and catalytic constants of the two enzymes was a key factor controlling the performance of the bienzymatic cascade. In addition, the nanostructure of the enzyme-electrode interface which seems to affect diffusion of the intermediate product was also important for improving cascade efficiency.An ethanol/air biofuel cell was finally constructed with a bienzyme (ADH and ALDH)-functionalized bioanode and a bilirubin oxidase (BOD)-functionalized biocathode. The open-circuit voltage, the maximum current density, and the maximum power density were 0.75 ± 0.02 V, 2.69 ± 0.09 mA cm–2, and 0.48 ± 0.01 mW cm–2, respectively. Comparing these characteristics with those of a biofuel cell without ALDH, the performances were improved by ALDH co-adsorption. The ethanol/air biofuel cell worked much better than any other ethanol biofuel cells reported to date. The Faraday efficiency for acetate production of the ethanol/air biofuel cell reached 100 ± 4%, which indicates that the bienzymatic DET-type cascade using ADH and ALDH performed highly efficient 4-electron oxidation of ethanol into acetate. A conceptual diagram of the system is shown in the attached figure.These works will enhance the utilization of biomass fuels and lead to a low-carbon society. These discussions also suggest that the design of the nanostructured interface between the catalysts and electrodes are important for efficient turnover of the intermediate product in the multi-catalytic cascade system. Figure 1

Causes of Ambient Air Pollution in South Asia and Effects on South Asians’ Cardiovascular Health

For years, South Asia has been considered a global hotspot for air pollution. The extreme air pollution in South Asia, which stems from various sources, has been proven harmful to many South Asians&amp;#39; health. In major cities, even simply stepping foot outside can trigger a cough, but over time, inhaling the harmful air pollutants in South Asia&amp;#39;s air can result in the development of a host of cardiovascular diseases, most of which stem from atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque on the arteries wall. Numerous researchers have conducted various studies connecting atherosclerosis to ambient air pollution, proving that the air quality is, in fact, harmful and should be taken action upon. This literature review synthesizes information on the sources that contribute to particulate matter in South Asia and the effect major air pollutants have on South Asians&amp;#39; cardiovascular health. This analysis focuses on major air pollutants&amp;#39; contribution to atherosclerosis progression and discusses conditions that stem from the disease, centering hypertension and coronary artery disease. This review synthesizes predominantly peer-reviewed studies which have been published between the years 2000 and 2024. The key findings suggest that particulate matter stemming from vehicular emissions, burning biomass and solid fuels, industrial and agricultural activities, and soil dust contribute to the unhealthy levels of particulate matter in South Asian countries. Studies also suggest that meteorological factors exacerbate particulate matter concentrations; however, research has shown inconsistent findings. Particulate matter, along with various other pollutants, leads to atherosclerosis progression and, subsequently, other cardiovascular conditions, including coronary artery disease and hypertension. The methodologies in conducting this review involved database searches, library catalog searches, and reference list reviews. This review presents findings on the contribution of particulate matter in South Asian countries and its impacts on South Asian health; however, it also presents the need for further research on meteorological exacerbation of existing pollutants, atherosclerosis progression, coronary artery disease, and hypertension in South Asians in relation to particulate matter exposure.

Systematic Review of Air Pollution in Ethiopia: Focusing on Indoor and Outdoor Sources, Health, Environment, Economy Impacts and Regulatory Frameworks

The varied geography (Bekele, 1996) and rapid economic growth of Ethiopia (World Bank, 2020) might have impact its air pollution patterns, with topography, elevation, and climate variability (Lemma Gonfa, 1996) playing significant roles. Environmental challenges, including deforestation and climate change, also affect air quality. This study offers a systematic review of air pollution research in Ethiopia, providing a thorough analysis of its health, environmental, and economic impacts, regional variations, and policy suggestions. It addresses both indoor and outdoor air pollution, assessing their wide-ranging effects. Data were gathered through an extensive search of peer-reviewed articles, policies, and guidelines using Google Scholar and reputable sources, following PRISMA guidelines. The review highlights critical sources of air pollution in Ethiopia, including indoor biomass fuel combustion and outdoor emissions from traffic and industries. Indoor air pollution, particularly from traditional biomass fuels like wood and dung, affects rural and peri-urban areas, leading to high levels of particulate matter and carbon monoxide. Outdoor pollution, driven by urbanization, industrial expansion, and vehicle emissions, worsens health issues and environmental damage. The study identifies severe health consequences, such as respiratory infections and cardiovascular diseases, with air pollution contributing to premature deaths and rising healthcare costs. Economic analysis highlights the significant costs related to healthcare, lost productivity, and infrastructure damage. Environmental impacts include harm to plant health, soil degradation, and contributions to climate change. Despite initiatives to improve air quality monitoring and regulation, challenges persist due to outdated policies, limited infrastructure, and insufficient data. The study emphasizes the need for more comprehensive research and regulations to tackle air pollution crisis.

Method for Helicopter Turboshaft Engines Controlling Energy Characteristics Through Regulating Free Turbine Rotor Speed and Fuel Consumption Based on Neural Networks

This research is devoted to the development of a method for helicopter turboshaft engine energy characteristics control by regulating the free turbine rotor speed and fuel consumption using neural network technologies. A mathematical model was created that links the main rotor and free turbine rotor speed parameters, based on which a relation with the engine output power was established. In this research, a differential equation was obtained that links fuel consumption, output power, and rotor speed, which makes it possible to monitor engine dynamics in various operating modes. A fuel consumption controller was developed based on a neuro-fuzzy network that processes input data, including the desired and current rotor speed, which allows real-time adjustments to improve the operational efficiency. In the research, based on the flight data analysis obtained during the Mi-8MTV helicopter with a TV3-117 turboshaft engine flight test, improved signal processing quality was obtained due to time sampling and adaptive quantisation methods (this is confirmed by assessing the homogeneity and representativeness of the training and test datasets). A comparative analysis of the developed and traditional controllers showed that the neuro-fuzzy network use reduces the transient fuel consumption process time by 8.92% while increasing the accuracy and F1 score by 18.28% and 21.32%, respectively.

Impact of “Green Fuel Promotion” on Customer Buying Behavior in Indian Retail Fuel Outlets : A Mix-Method Approach Using fsQCA and NVIVO

Impact of “Green Fuel Promotion” on Customer Buying Behavior in Indian Retail Fuel Outlets : A Mix-Method Approach Using fsQCA and NVIVO

Industrial–scale production of various bio–commodities by engineered microbial cell factories: Strategies of engineering in microbial robustness

The utilization of renewable, non–edible biomass for synthesis of valuable bio–products including bio–fuels, bio-chemicals and bio–polymeric materials, in an environmentally sustainable manner is crucial for addressing the urgent environmental challenges caused by our substantial dependence on fossil fuel resources. In this context, engineered microbial cell factories (MCFs), which are the modified microorganisms, have gained attention and provide biosynthetically optimized pathways for the production of desired bio–commodities using renewable carbon sources. Biosynthetic routes for the production of such bio–commodities can be categorized into three groups based on the chosen microbial host for genetic modification: native, non–native, and artificial pathways. Engineered MCFs are increasingly essential in the pharmaceutical, food, and bio–chemical industries and are being developed to address the growing world population and socioeconomic crisis. Mainly, microorganisms have been utilized in the manufacturing of a range of bio–products including amino acids, carboxylic acids, carotenoids, enzymes, vitamins, plant natural products, biogas, and other biofuels. Furthermore, the implementation of advanced metabolic engineering and synthetic biology tools & techniques enhances the speed, concentration, and efficiency of commercially important substances by modifying the metabolism, carbon–energy balance and eliminating an undesired ATP sink, physiology, and stress response. All these has resulted in rapid growth of industrial biotechnology for production of several bio–commodities. Further, the scale and numbers of bio–commodities is increasing with time. This review summarizes the design of MFCs, selection of microbial strains, metabolic pathways, engineered MCFs for industrial–scale applications, strategies for engineering microbial robustness, commercial restrictions, and their future prospects.

Application of thermodynamic equilibrium modelling to predict slagging and fouling tendencies of bituminous coal and wheat straw blends

The combustion or co-combustion of biomass or alternative fuels is important in the energy sector because of the need to reduce the share of fossil fuels. This article is a continuation of previous studies on the behaviour of the mineral matter of selected fuels during the sintering processes. The blends of wheat straw biomass from Polish crops (WS) with bituminous coal from the Makoszowa mine (BC) were studied. The study included proximate and ultimate analysis and oxide analysis of ash blends with the following composition: 10wt% WS/90wt%BC, 25wt% WS/75wt%BC and 50wt% WS/50wt%BC. Based on the oxide content, a prediction (using FactSage 8.0 software) of the sintering process of the mixtures tested. The following parameters were determined: slag phase content, specific heat at constant pressure, and ash density. The fracture stresses tests were carried out using the mechanical test. Pressure tests were also performed using the pressure drop test method. The test results of all test methods used were compared with each other. On the basis of this comparison, a clear correlation was found between the sintering temperatures determined by the mechanical method and the pressure drop method and the physical properties of the ashes, such as density and heat capacity, as well as the chemical properties, i.e. the content of the slag phase. The results of the presented research are a valuable addition to the previous work of the authors. The goal of this work is to develop a precise and measurably simple method to determine the sintering temperature of ashes. This is an extremely important issue, especially in the case of the need to use a wide range of fuels in the energy industry.

Rice Bran Oil as Emerging Green Fuels: Exploration on Combustion Behaviours of Single Cylinder Diesel Engine (Light-Duty Engine)

In the current work, an experiment was conducted to examine the combustion properties of a single cylinder compression ignition direct ignition engine fuelled with rice bran oil at different engine loads. The investigation focused on the analysis of cylinder pressure and exhaust gas temperature as key factors in combustion. The fuel blends utilized in this study consist of various proportions of diesel and rice bran oil, including 100% pure diesel (RBO00), a blend of 25% rice bran oil and 75% pure diesel (RBO25), a blend of 50% rice bran oil and 50% pure diesel (RBO50), a blend of 75% rice bran oil and 25% pure diesel (RBO75), and 100% rice bran oil (RBO100). Comparisons are made between the results of an experiment using rice bran oil (RBO25, RBO50, RBO75, and RBO100) and a diesel engine (RBO00). RBO00 exhibits a greater heat output per unit mass compared to RBO25, RBO50, RBO75, and RBO100 blends because of the highest value of calorific value (CV) among others blends. Consequently, RBO00 demonstrated a higher measurement of exhaust gas temperature (EGT). One further contributing factor was the increased exhaust gas temperature (EGT), which led to an extended ignition delay, resulting in a lengthier fuel combustion process and the egress of combustion gas from the combustion chamber at higher temperatures. RBO100 achieved the highest cylinder pressure in both 50 % and 100 % engine load settings. The RBO100 blends fuel successfully achieved the optimal cylinder pressure in both 50 % and 100 % engine load conditions. The cylinder pressure for RBO00 (pure diesel) was the lowest at both half and full loads. The observed decrease in peak pressure can be attributed to the decreased cetane number (CN) and oxygen concentration found in RBO00 in comparison to the mixed fuels of RBOs. This will affect the completion of combustion such as wear and tear for the cylinder and piston. Under both 50 % and 100 % engine load condition, the cylinder pressure for RBO00 (pure diesel) was the lowest. In summary, rice bran oil showed superior combustion behaviour compared to pure diesel, and the mixture blends RBO75 and RBO100 can be thought of as ideal in terms of exhaust gas temperature and cylinder pressure.

Analysis of Technological Pathways and Development Suggestions for Blast Furnace Low-Carbon Ironmaking

Under the global dual-carbon background, heightened public awareness of climate change and strengthened carbon taxation policies are increasing pressure on the steel industry to transition. Given the urgent need for carbon reduction, the exploration of low-carbon pathways in a blast furnace (BF) metallurgy emerges as crucial. Evaluating both asset retention and technological maturity, the development of low-carbon technologies for BFs represents the most direct and effective technical approach. This article introduces global advancements in low-carbon metallurgical technologies for BFs, showcasing international progress encompassing hydrogen enrichment, oxygen enrichment, carbon cycling technologies, biomass utilization, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies. Hydrogen enrichment is identified as the primary technological upgrade currently, although its carbon emission reduction potential is limited to 10% to 30%, insufficient to fundamentally address high carbon emissions from BFs. Therefore, this article innovatively proposes a comprehensive low-carbon metallurgical process concept with the substitution of carbon-neutral biomass fuels at the source stage—intensification of hydrogen enrichment in the process stage—fixation of CCUS at the end stage (SS-IP-FE). This process integrates the cleanliness of biomass, the high-efficiency of hydrogen enrichment, and the thoroughness of carbon fixation through CCUS, synergistically enhancing overall effectiveness. This integrated strategy holds promise for achieving a 50% reduction in carbon emissions from BFs in the long processes. Critical elements of these core technologies are analyzed, assessing their cost-effectiveness and emission reduction potential, underscoring comprehensive low-carbon metallurgy as a pivotal direction for future steel industry development with high technological feasibility and emission reduction efficacy. The article also proposes a series of targeted recommendations, suggesting short-term focus on technological optimization, the medium-term enhancement of technology research and application, and the long-term establishment of a comprehensive low-carbon metallurgical system.

Assessing the Role of Forest Grazing in Reducing Fire Severity: A Mitigation Strategy

This study investigates the role of prescribed grazing as a sustainable fire prevention strategy in Mediterranean ecosystems, with a focus on Sardinia, an area highly susceptible to wildfires. Using FlamMap simulation software, we modeled fire behavior across various grazing and environmental conditions to assess the impact of grazing on fire severity indicators such as flame length, rate of spread, and fireline intensity. Results demonstrate that grazing can reduce fire severity by decreasing combustible biomass, achieving reductions of 25.9% in fire extent in wet years, 60.9% in median years, and 45.8% in dry years. Grazed areas exhibited significantly lower fire intensity, particularly under high canopy cover. These findings support the integration of grazing into fire management policies, highlighting its efficacy as a nature-based solution. However, the study’s scope is limited to small biomass fuels (1-h fuels); future research should extend to larger fuel classes to enhance the generalizability of prescribed grazing as a fire mitigation tool.

Heterogeneous catalysts for sustainable biofuel production: A paradigm shift towards renewable energy

In a globalized world, energy remains a critical driver of development. The reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels has led to pollution, health concerns, and accelerated climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions. As fossil fuel reserves diminish, biofuels derived from biomass present a promising and sustainable alternative. Biomass, being abundant and renewable, has the potential to replace fossil fuels, with advances in technology and a focus on green synthesis enabling more efficient and environmentally friendly production processes. Heterogeneous catalysts play a crucial role in biofuel production, significantly impacting the development of more sustainable energy solutions. These catalysts, which operate in a different phase from the reactants, are crucial for achieving high conversion efficiency, recyclability, and minimal environmental impact in biofuel production. Specifically designed to break down lignocellulosic biomass, these catalysts are essential for a carbon-neutral biofuel production process and for driving sustainable development. This article explores the historical development and evolving role of these catalysts in biofuel technology along with a categorization of various catalysts used in biofuel production. The discussion includes an examination of biomass sources and its structural and chemical compositions vital for conversion processes. The application of heterogeneous catalysts in producing diverse biofuels—such as bioethanol, biobutanol, biogas, biodiesel and biohydrogen are analyzed, highlighting recent advancements and improvements in efficiency. Insights and recommendations for future research underscore the indispensable role of heterogeneous catalysts in advancing sustainable energy practices and securing our energy future.

Optimization of C5+ production by CO2 recycle at an integrated Tri-reforming and Fischer-Tropsch process

Integration of Tri-reforming and Fischer-Tropsch processes is a novel approach for conversion of CO2 into C5+ liquid hydrocarbon. Tri-reforming converts CO2 into syngas and does not require external heat source due to methane oxidation reaction that occurs at the beginning of reactor. Fischer-Tropsch synthesis converts produced syngas in the reformer to hydrocarbon fuels. In this research, plug reactors have been modeled in a heterogeneous and one-dimensional form, and the mass and energy equations governing them in steady state have been developed. The accuracy of models is validated with literature data. Then an optimization problem aiming at maximal C5+ production is compiled with specific limitations imposed on operating conditions. Based on the modeling results, 95 % of CO2 produced at Fischer-Tropsch and 92 % CO2 produced at Tri-reforming process is captured and injected into Tri-reforming reactor for conversion into hydrocarbon fuels. Modeling results revealed that the mole fractions of C2-C4 and C5+ at outlet of Fischer-Tropsch are 0.117 and 0.023 which could be purified in separators and used as clean energy carriers. The suggested integrated route for CO2 capture and conversion into green fuels offers both environmental and technical advantages.

Structural, optical, luminescent and magnetic properties of Gd2O3 nanoparticles: A comparative study on the effect of different green fuels in the sol–gel synthesis tactics

In this study, five samples of Gd2O3 NPs (size range: 4–33 nm) were synthesized by five different green facile and diverse natural products acting as reducing & stabilizing agents such as: fresh juices of sugarcane, lemon, tomato & orange fruits and citric acid via self-combustion sol–gel tactics. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman analysis affirmed cubic-C type crystal structure of Gd2O3 NPs prepared using citric acid, lemon juice and sugarcane juice. Mixed cubic and monoclinic phases were observed in Gd2O3 NPs prepared using tomato and orange juices. Notably, NPs of Gd2O3 in quantum dot regime (size: 6 ± 2 nm) were produced in the fresh sugarcane juice mediated synthesis protocol. Fresh lemon juice and sugarcane juice were appeared to be the most efficient green fuel for producing quality samples of Gd2O3 NPs. Optical absorption studies showed that bandgap in these Gd2O3 NPs is strongly dependent on the preparation protocol and type of green fuel. Interestingly, highest and lowest band gap of 4.91 eV and 4.43 eV were obtained for Gd2O3 NPs fabricated with orange and lemon juices, respectively. Photoluminescence (PL) and electron spin resonance (ESR) analysis affirmed formation of Schottky and Frenkel surface defects along with self trapped excitons and oxygen vacancies in these Gd2O3 NPs. Paramagnetic character of these Gd2O3 NPs at 300 K is validated by dc-magnetization and ESR studies. Present study demonstrated that microstructural, optical absorption and photoluminescence properties of Gd2O3 NPs can be easily customized by choice of natural products in the synthesis tactics.