Heating Value Research Articles

Dehydrated Brewery Residue (DBR) can reduce the cost of rabbit production in Brazil, but affects performance, blood nutrients, and carcass characteristics

The study aimed to determine the chemical composition, apparent digestibility of dry matter, energy, and nutrients of Dehydrated Brewery Residue (DBR) for New Zealand White rabbits, as well as evaluate performance, biochemical and immunological blood parameters, carcass characteristics, and meat quality. Two experiments were carried out: digestibility and performance, both in a completely randomized design. In the digestibility experiment, 20 animals of mixed sexes were used, from 45 to 60 days of age, which consumed reference feed (RF) or test feed (TF - 70% RF + 30% DBR). In the performance experiment, 50 mixed-sex animals were used from 31 to 70 days of age. For digestibility, bromatological analyses were made of total dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), ether extract (EE), mineral matter (MM), organic matter (OM), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), gross energy (GE), hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin from samples of feces, feed (RF and TF) and experimental feed (DBR). In terms of performance, the treatments were the basal feed (BF) + four TF, made up of increasing levels of DBR inclusion (10, 20, 30, and 40%). Overall, the apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) of DM was 64.68 ±7.91%, while the ADC of GE and CP were 67.39 ±7.79% and 80.64 ±8.99%, respectively, resulting in digestible energy and digestible protein contents of 3,081 ±356 kcal/kg and 17.97 ±2.00%. There was a linear reduction (P<0.05) in the final weight, daily weight gain, and daily feed intake, but there was a linear reduction in production costs (P<0.05) for both the 31- to 50-day phase and the 31- to 70-day phase. Circulating levels of calcium (P=0.013) and phosphorus (P=0.019) responded in a linear decreasing pattern to the experimental feeds. The same response was observed for slaughter weight, hot and cold carcass weight, yield of skin, head, commercial cuts, and relative weight of edible organs, as well as meat quality, in which the loss of water on thawing (P=0.004) and shear force (P=0.005) indicated less juiciness and less tenderness in the meat. Levels of 10 to 40% DBR in feed for rabbits from 31 to 70 days of age mitigate production costs, but result in a worsening of performance and reduce circulating levels of calcium and phosphorus, reduce carcass weight, commercial cuts, and edible organs, as well as increasing water loss on thawing, and reducing meat tenderness.

Thermodynamic evaluation of an IGCC power plant utilizing allothermal gasification

The present work conducts a comprehensive thermodynamic analysis of a 150 MWe Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) using Indian coal as the fuel source. The plant layout is modelled and simulated using the “Cycle-Tempo” software. In this study, an innovative approach is employed where the gasifier's bed material is heated by circulating hot water through pipes submerged within the bed. The analysis reveals that increasing the external heat supplied to the gasifier enhances the hydrogen (H2) content in the syngas, improving both its heating value and cold gas efficiency. Additionally, this increase in external heat favourably impacts the Steam-Methane reforming reaction, boosting the H2/CH4 ratio. The thermodynamic results show that the plant achieves an energy efficiency of 44.17% and an exergy efficiency of 40.43%. The study also identifies the condenser as the primary source of energy loss, while the combustor experiences the greatest exergy loss.

Combustion Process of Coal–Açai Seed Mixtures in a Circulating Fluidized Bed Boiler

This study investigates the effects of the co-combustion of coal and açai seed in circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boilers, highlighting the increase in thermal efficiency and relevance of a less-polluting source of energy. Using the computer software 1.5D CeSFaMB™® v4.3.0, simulations of the co-combustion process of coal and biomass were carried out in a CFB boiler, obtaining results such as the temperature profile, boiler efficiency and emissions. The work acquired data regarding the equipment in real operational conditions, consisting of the fundamental geometric and operational parameters used in the simulation campaign. The thermal and chemical properties of the fuels were analyzed by carrying out proximate, ultimate, heating value, particle size and specific mass analyses. The model validation was achieved by simulating the boiler in its real operating conditions and comparing the obtained results with the real data; the obtained error was below 10%. Simulations with different fractions of açai seed for energy replacement (10% and 30%) were carried out. As a result, an increase in the average temperature of the bed was observed, highlighting the region immediately above the dense bed. An increase in boiler efficiency was verified from 56% to 85% with 10% açai and to 83% with 30% açai seed. Decreases in SO2 and CO emissions with the insertion of açai were obtained, showing that co-combustion is more complete, while CO2 emissions were increased due to the higher quantity of fuel inserted into the equipment. The fossil CO2 emissions were reduced.

Hybrid solar-biomass residential micro – Combined Heat and Power systems driven by the Partially Evaporating Organic Rankine Cycle – A case study in Southern Europe

In this study, a novel hybrid solar-biomass residential micro – Combined Heat and Power system driven by the Partially Evaporating Organic Rankine Cycle is proposed and its operation is simulated, by applying an in-house numerical model. The simulation tool is applied for a test case in Athens, Greece, where the micro-CHP system operates to cover the annual energy demand of a multi-family building. The proposed cogeneration unit covers 97.10 % and 25.85 % of the modeled building’s annual Space Heating and electricity demand, respectively, by using renewable energy sources. The annual average total energy and exergy efficiencies are equal to 53.33 %, and 10.35 %, respectively, while the power cycle can achieve thermal efficiencies as high as 9.73 %. Competitive Levelized Cost of Electricity (0.072–0.133 €/kWhel), and Levelized Cost of Heat (0.036–0.067 €/kWhth) values are estimated, with a PayBack Period between 5.17 and 9.64 years. The environmental impact of the proposed hybrid micro-CHP is anticipated to be significant, rising to 46.25 kWh of Primary Energy Savings, and 31.22 kg CO2-eq. reduction in carbon emissions per m2 of residence annually.

Investigation into the Fuel Characteristics of Biodiesel Synthesized through the Transesterification of Palm Oil Using a TiO2/CH3ONa Nanocatalyst

Biodiesel is a renewable and sustainable alternative fuel to petrol-derived diesel. Decreasing the operating costs by improving the catalyst’s characteristics is an effective way to increase the competitiveness of biodiesel in the fuel market. An aqueous solution of sodium methoxide (CH3ONa), which is a traditional alkaline catalyst, was immersed in nanometer-sized particles of titanium dioxide (TiO2) powder to prepare the strong alkaline catalyst TiO2/CH3ONa. The immersion method was used to enhance the transesterification reaction. The mixture of TiO2 and CH3ONa was calcined in a high-temperature furnace in a range between 150 and 450 °C continuously for 4 h. The heterogeneous alkaline catalyst TiO2/CH3ONa was then used to catalyze the strong alkaline transesterification reaction of palm oil with methanol. The highest content of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), which amounted to 95.9%, was produced when the molar ratio of methanol to palm oil was equal to 6, and 3 wt.% TiO2/CH3ONa was used, based on the weight of the palm oil. The FAMEs produced from the above conditions were also found to have the lowest kinematic viscosity of 4.17 mm2/s, an acid value of 0.32 mg KOH/g oil, and a water content of 0.031 wt.%, as well as the highest heating value of 40.02 MJ/kg and cetane index of 50.05. The lower catalyst amount of 1 wt.%, in contrast, resulted in the lowest cetane index of 49.31. The highest distillation temperature of 355 °C was found when 3 wt.% of the catalyst was added to the reactant mixture with a methanol/palm oil molar ratio of 6. The prepared catalyst is considered effective for improving the fuel characteristics of biodiesel.

A mini-review for identifying future directions in modelling heating values for sustainable waste management.

Global estimations suggest energy content within municipal solid waste (MSW) is underutilized, compromising efforts to reduce fossil CO2 emissions and missing the opportunities for pursuing circular economy in energy consumption. The energy content of the MSW, represented by heating values (HVs), is a major determinant for the suitability of incinerating the waste for energy and managing waste flows. Literature reveals limitations in traditional statistical HV modelling approaches, which assume a linear and additive relationship between physiochemical properties of MSW samples and their HVs, as well as overlook the impact of non-combustible substances in MSW mixtures on energy harvest. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based models show promise but pose challenges in interpretation based on established combustion theories. From the variable selection perspectives, using MSW physical composition categories as explanatory variables neglects intra-category variations in energy contents while applying environmental or socio-economic factors emerges to address waste composition changes as society develops. The article contributes by showing to professionals and modellers that leveraging AI technology and incorporating societal and environmental factors are meaningful directions for advancing HV prediction in waste management. These approaches promise more precise evaluations of incinerating waste for energy and enhancing sustainable waste management practices.

Enhancing calcium and phosphorus utilization in broiler chickens with phytase in sequential calcium-phosphorus-deficient diets

ABSTRACT In this trial, a 3 × 2 factorial design was implemented with dietary treatments consisting of Diet-1 (1.00% calcium [Ca], 0.45% available phosphorus [P]), Diet-2 (0.80% Ca, 0.35% P), and Diet-3 (0.70% Ca, 0.30% P), alongside two phytase levels: 0 and 5,000 FTU/kg. A total of 540 Ross-308 broilers were used. Significant improvements (P < 0.05) in body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), live weight, carcass weight, and yield were observed in Diet-1 and Diet-2 when supplemented with phytase compared to Diet-3. Gross energy (GE) increased significantly (P < 0.05) with phytase in Diet-1 and Diet-2. Bone ash content was significantly higher (P < 0.01) in Diet-1 and Diet-2, with tibia Ca levels notably improved (P < 0.05) in Diet-1. Phytase supplementation also resulted in significantly elevated (P < 0.05) serum Ca and available P in Diet-1. The application of phytase restored body weight gain, live weight, carcass weight, GE, and tibia P in Diet-2. Overall, the findings highlight the beneficial effects of phytase supplementation on growth performance, bone mineralization, and nutrient utilization.

Effect of Feedstock Blends and Equivalence Ratio on the Thermal Arc Plasma Assisted Co-Gasification of Biomass and Plastic using Air-Blown Downdraft Reactor

Plastic waste is known to cause an emerging environmental pollution, posing risks to both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Co-gasification method is an alternative way to reduce municipal solid waste and plastic waste by converting it into useful gas fuel energy. The present study used empty fruit bunch biomass (EFB), plastic waste of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a feedstock for thermochemical conversion process into syngas fuel energy via plasma co-gasification method. The effect of multiple feedstocks mixture between biomass and plastic and equivalence ratio on the compositions of produced syngas, high heating value (HHV), lower heating value (LHV), cold gas efficiency (CGE) and carbon conversion efficiency (CCE) were critically investigated. A reactor of air-blown downdraft arrangement was used in these experiments. The gasifying agent flow rate of air was set at the frequency range of 10 to 22Hz to achieve equivalence ratio between 0.15 to 0.30. The blending ratio (BR) between biomass and plastic (EFB:Plastic) were set as E90:P10, E80:P20 and E70:P30. The results indicate that H2 and CO composition is typically decrease as ER increase for the mixture of EFB and LDPE. In contrast, the composition of H2 and CO is generally increase as ER increases. However, the maximum value of H2 and CO is dominated by the mixture of EFB and LDPE at any blending ratio and lower ER condition. This is due to the higher element of H, C and O in the raw material of EFB and LDPE compared to PET. This study is crucial in understanding the synergistic effect of co-gasification assisted with plasma reaction between biomass and plastic waste.

Highly efficient lignin depolymerization and enhanced bio-oil upgrading via in-situ hydrogenation: Impact of lignin structure

The inherent structural rigidity of lignin poses a significant challenge to its direct hydrogenation to produce aromatic compounds, requiring harsh reaction conditions. In this study, microwave-assisted hydrothermal liquefication was employed to rapidly generate raw bio-oil under mild conditions, coupled with an in-situ hydrogenation strategy to upgrade its quality. A series of lignin substrates were characterized to establish the relationship between lignin characteristics and aromatic products. Grass lignin can produce low molecular weight bio-oil in high yields (50.4–60.7 %) within 30 min at 180 °C, which is attributed to the abundance of cleavable β-O-4 linkages in its uniform structure. In contrast, softwood lignin with abundant guaiacyl (G) units possessed a robust thermal stability, resulting in a low monomer yield, but a high selectivity to G-type products (97 %). The raw bio-oil was further upgraded through in-situ hydrogenation with Pd catalysts. Low reaction temperatures (60–100 °C) favored the hydrogenation of aromatic aldehydes and ketones to their alcohol products, while high temperatures (100–220 °C) promoted the deep hydrogenation of aromatic side chains to alkyl products. Besides, an upgraded bio-oil with a higher heating value (29.8 MJ/kg) was obtained. Furthermore, the hydrogenation mechanism was investigated through the kinetics of simulated bio-oils. The activation energy follows the order: dimer β-O-4 linkage < monomer aldehyde group < ketone group < CC linkage, which is consistent with the hydrogenation kinetics observed in real lignin bio-oil. Overall, this study highlights the impact of lignin characteristics on subsequent conversion and alsoenhances our understanding of the complex depolymerization/hydrogenation mechanisms during lignin upgrading.

PSI-26 Effects of particle size and enzyme supplementation on the energy value of field peas fed to growing pigs

Abstract An experiment was conducted to determine if particle size and enzyme supplementation affects the digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME), and net energy (NE) contents in field peas fed to growing pigs. Male weaned pigs [n = 30; TN70 × TN Tempo; body weight (BW) = 16.5 ± 0.4 kg] were assigned to 1 of 5 dietary treatments: 4 consisting of 50% peas and a corn-soybean meal basal diet. The experiment was carried out as a completely randomized design with treatments arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial design, based on two particle sizes (500μm, 700μm) and two levels of carbohydrase supplementation (0 g/mt, 1,000 g/mt) to give 6 replicates per treatment. Diets were formulated to meet or exceed NRC (2012) requirements. The study was carried out in 3 consecutive periods, each consisting of 15 d; the first 10 d were for adaptation, followed by 5 d of total fecal and urine collection (marker to marker procedure) to calculate DE and ME of diets. The energy content of peas was determined using the difference method. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. The model included the particle size, enzyme supplementation, and their interaction as a fixed effect. The period was included as a random effect. Least squares means for each treatment were adjusted using Tukey post-hoc test. Dry matter (DM), acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, gross energy, starch, ash, crude protein, and ether extract contents were analyzed to allow for the prediction of NE content of peas. There were no interactions between particle size and enzyme supplementation on dietary energy values. Also, no main effects of particle size and enzyme supplementation were observed. The average DE, ME, and predicted NE contents for peas were determined to be 3,848, 3,735, and 2,691 kcal/kg DM, respectively. In conclusion, enzyme supplementation and particle size did not influence the DE, ME, and NE contents of the peas.

PSI-29 Enhancing growth performance and reducing environmental impact with dietary protease supplementation in growing pigs fed high- and low-density diets

Abstract Exogenous protease has emerged as a promising solution for enhancing protein digestion and utilization in animal diets, offering potential benefits for both animal performance and environmental impact mitigation in pig farming. In a 6-wk trial involving 140 growing pigs [initial body weight (BW) = 24.10 ± 1.66 kg], the effects of dietary protease supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and noxious gas emission were investigated. Pigs were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments in a 2 x 2 factorial design with two levels of nutrient density and 0 or 125 g/ton supplementation of protease. The pigs were blocked by BW and housed in 28 pens with each pen consisting of 5 pigs (3 barrows and 2 gilts). The experimental design employed a randomized complete block design with 7 replicate pens per treatment. The data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, with differences between means assessed using Tukey’s test (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Results revealed no significant interaction (P &amp;gt; 0.05) between nutrient density and protease supplementation concerning growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and noxious gas emission. Pigs subjected to high-density diets exhibited greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) average daily gain (ADG) and gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) compared with those on low-density diets. While protease supplementation did not impact ADG and average daily feed intake (ADFI), there was a tendency towards reduced (P = 0.08) G:F throughout the 6-wk period. Pigs fed high-density diets demonstrated significantly greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy (GE) compared with their counterparts on low-density diets. Furthermore, the inclusion of protease significantly increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) ATTD of GE. However, no discernible differences were noted among diets regarding the ATTD of dry matter and nitrogen. Regarding noxious gas emission, protease supplementation did not significantly affect total mercaptans and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emission. Nonetheless, there was a notable trend towards reduced (P = 0.06) ammonia gas (NH3) emission with protease inclusion. Similarly, nutrient density did not exhibit a significant effect (P &amp;gt; 0.05) on noxious gas emission. In conclusion, the results of the study underscore the importance of nutrient density and protease supplementation in optimizing pig performance and environmental sustainability in swine production systems. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and refine strategies for maximizing the benefits of these dietary interventions.

Comparative assessment for biodiesel production from low-cost feedstocks of third oil generation

Biodiesel offers a sustainable fossil fuel alternative, highlighting the importance of third-generation feedstocks like macroalgae and waste frying oils (WFO) from palm, sunflower, and corn. This study investigates their physicochemical properties using different feedstocks towards biodiesel standard specifications. The feedstocks were synthesised through transesterification process at operating parameters molar ratio of methanol to oil (3:1–12:1), catalyst concentration (0.5–3 wt %), reaction time (60–240 min), and reaction temperature (55–75 °C). The fatty acid compositions were analysed using GC-Fid shows Azolla filiculoides (54.0 %), Ulva lactuca (56.0 %), WFO palm (56.5 %), WFO sunflower (85.7 %) and WFO corn (82.7 %) biodiesels dominated by unsaturated fatty acids have good physicochemical properties such as densities (872–883 kg/m3), kinematic viscosities (3.52–5.3 mm2/s), cloud points (10 °C to −10 °C), pour points (8 °C to −12 °C), cetane numbers (44.4–57.9), heating values (38.60–41.68 MJ/kg), and iodine values (60.94–129.15 g I2/100 g) meet the specification of biodiesel standards. This study reveals fatty acid profiles significantly impact the physicochemical properties of biodiesel. Among all feedstocks, Azolla filiculoides demonstrating particularly promising characteristics for biodiesel production. These findings advocate for the increased exploration of third-generation feedstocks in the quest for sustainable biodiesel production processes.

Relative fuel property variation of gas-pressurized and conventional torrefaction for biochar performance assessment

Exploring biochar from gas-pressurized torrefaction for solid biofuel production is of great concern for the process performance assessment. This study conducts several relative indexes of biochars produced from gas-pressurized and conventional torrefaction, identifying the merits of the former. The results suggest that a higher pressure is more feasible for reducing biochar volume and enhancing energy efficiency. The results of the relative higher heating value (1.01–1.07) and relative enhancement factor (1.00–1.06) indicate that gas-pressurized torrefaction is more efficient for energy density improvement. Furthermore, gas-pressurized torrefaction dramatically facilitates biochar grindability, with the relative Hardgrove grindability index value ranging from 1.20 to 2.40. The proximate and elemental analysis results suggest that a higher pressure facilitates biochar carbonization and deoxygenation with a higher carbonized component. The energy consumption, efficiency, and expense calculation results imply that gas-pressurized torrefaction is more energy-efficient and cost-saving, with the relative upgrading energy index range of 1.00–1.12.

380 Diet protein concentration does not influence dietary net energy by group housed growing pigs offered ad libitum access to feed

Abstract The objective was to test the hypothesis that net energy (NE) of diets is not increased by reducing soybean meal (SBM) and increasing crystalline amino acids (CAA) in diets fed to group-housed pigs on an ad libitum basis. Two “normal protein” diets with 17 and 14% crude protein (CP) were formulated. One diet was based on corn, SBM, and no CAA and the other diet was based on corn, SBM, and crystalline Lys, Met, and Thr. Four additional diets containing 13, 12, 11, or 10% CP were formulated by reducing SBM and increasing crystalline Lys, Met, Thr, Trp, Val, and Phe. Growing pigs (n = 24; initial body weight = 29.9 ± 2.4 kg) were randomly allocated to 6 calorimeter chambers with 4 pigs per chamber. The 6 chambers were allotted to the six diets using a 6 × 6 Latin square design with six 15-d periods providing 6 replicate chambers per diet. Pigs had ad libitum access to diets throughout the experiment except during the fasting periods. Consumption of O2 and production of CO2 and CH4 were measured, and fecal and urine samples were collected for 6 d after 7 d of adaptation. Fasting heat production (FHP) was determined for 12 h following a 24 h fasting period. Diets, fecal samples, and lyophilized urine samples were analyzed for gross energy (GE) and N. Data were analyzed using contrasts statements to determine linear and quadratic effects of reducing dietary protein. Results indicated that feed intake, fecal and urine GE output, the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter and GE, total heat production (THP), FHP, and retained energy were not different between pigs fed the 17 and the 14% CP diets (Table 1). The respiratory quotient (RQ) of pigs fed the 17% CP diet was less (P = 0.045) compared with the 14% CP diet. Digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) in the 17% CP diet were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than in the 14% CP diet, but NE was not different between these 2 diets. Feed intake, GE intake, and fecal GE output of pigs were linearly (P = 0.044) increased by reducing CP in diets, but reducing diet CP did not affect ATTD of dry matter or GE or urine GE excretion. Total heat production, FHP, retained energy, and DE, ME, and NE were also not affected by reducing CP in diets. In conclusion, reducing CP of diets for pigs by reducing SBM and increasing CAA did not increase NE of the diet when fed to group-housed pigs on an ad libitum basis, and dietary CP does not appear to influence diet NE.

494 Long-term effects of canola meal inclusion in gestation and lactation diets on sow and piglet performance over two reproductive cycles

Abstract The experiment was conducted to determine the long-term effects of dietary canola meal (CM) inclusion as the main protein source in gestation and lactation diets on sow and litter performance. Sows (n = 68) from two baches were randomly allotted 1 of 2 diets on d 80 of pregnancy. The two diets were a corn-barley and soybean meal control diet (CTRL) and a corn-barley and CM treatment diet (CCM). All diets were formulated to be similar in standardized ileal digestible amino acid and net energy contents. Sow body weight (BW) and backfat (BF) thickness were determined on d 1, 35, 80, and 111 of pregnancy, on d 1 and 21 post-farrowing. Piglets were weighed on d 0 and at weaning (d 21). Data were analyzed using the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4 for a randomized complete block design with repeated measures. Over the two reproductive cycles, dietary treatments did not influence sow BW and BF thickness on d 80 and 111 of pregnancy, as well as d 1 and 21 post-farrowing (P &amp;gt; 0.10). However, sows fed the CCM diet had less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) BW and BF thickness on d 1 and 35 of pregnancy in the second reproductive cycle than sows fed the CTRL diet. The CCM diet decreased gestation gain from d 80 to d 111 of pregnancy compared with the CTRL diet over the two reproductive cycles (P &amp;lt; 0.05). No dietary effect on litter size or litter performance was found during the experimental period (P &amp;gt; 0.10). However, reproductive cycle had significant effects (P &amp;lt; 0.05) on BW gain and BF thickness from d 80 to 111 of pregnancy as well as BW and BF thickness on d 1 of lactation. In addition, litter weight at birth and after cross-fostering were significantly improved during the second reproductive cycle compared with the first cycle (P &amp;lt; 0.05). An interaction between dietary treatment and reproductive cycle on BW gain and BW on d 1 of lactation was observed (P &amp;lt; 0.05). In conclusion, feeding gestation and lactation diets containing CM as the main protein source to sows over two reproductive cycles supported similar sow reproductive and litter performance as the control.

448 Interactive effects of extrusion and particle size reduction of corn on metabolizable energy by weanling pigs

Abstract The objective was to test the hypothesis that there are interactive effects of extrusion and reduction of the particle size of corn on apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy (GE) and digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) when fed to weanling pigs. Six corn-based diets were arranged in a 3 × 2 factorial with 3 particle sizes of corn (i.e., 700, 500, or 300 μm) and two forms (i.e., meal or extruded corn). The daily feed allowance was limited to 3.0 times the energy requirement for maintenance and pigs had free access to water. Pigs [n = 48; initial body weight (BW) = 12.8 kg; SD = 1.32) were housed in metabolism crates and allotted to the 6 diets using a randomized complete block design with two blocks. Fecal and urine samples were quantitatively collected for 4 d following 5 d of adaptation. The statistical model included diet as fixed effect and block as random effect. Contrast coefficients were used to determine effects of extrusion, linear effects of particle size, and the interaction. Results indicated that the ATTD of GE and DE and ME in corn increased by reducing the particle size of corn only if corn was in a meal form, but that was not the case for extruded corn (interaction; P &amp;lt; 0.001; Table 1). Regardless of particle size, the ATTD of GE and DE and ME in corn were increased (P &amp;lt; 0.001) by extrusion. In conclusion, reducing particle size of corn had a positive impact on energy digestibility in non-extruded corn. Regardless of particle size, extrusion of corn increased energy digestibility and DE and ME, which is likely a result of starch gelatinization in extruded corn. However, the effects of reducing particle size and extrusion were not additive, which indicates that it is not necessary to grind corn to 500 or 300 μm before extrusion.

Role of secondary hydrogen injection on flame stabilization of ammonia/air swirling flames

Ammonia is widely recognized as one of the most advanced hydrogen carriers and can be utilized as a fuel in gas turbines. Premixing hydrogen into the ammonia carbon free fuel system can substantially enhance stable limits, but it significantly promotes cross-reactions, leading to increased NO production. Recent findings related to other fuels suggest that the alternative approach for mitigating combustion instabilities involves introducing minimal pure hydrogen at the chamber inlet in a non-premixed mode. This may introduce a novel approach to stabilize ammonia/air swirl flames by extending the stability through a minimal hydrogen via secondary injection, with minimal impact on increasing nitrogen oxide emissions. In the present study, the flame stabilization mechanism and nitrogen oxide emission behaviors of swirl ammonia/air flames by a secondary hydrogen injection were compared with the premixed ammonia/ hydrogen/air flames. OH-/NO-PLIF and PIV techniques were applied to reveal the lean blow-off characteristics and the reacting flow features. The NOx emissions were measured by the FTIR gas analyzer. The large eddy simulation method with a developed dynamic thickened flame model was employed to further reveal the experimental findings. Experimental results show that the flame stabilization limits are largely depended on the way in which hydrogen is introduced. The secondary hydrogen injection exhibits the stronger enhancement ability for the lean/rich blow-off limits, primarily due to the local diffusion hydrogen flame at the flame root providing more active radicals and higher temperature gases. The NO emission shows an increase with the addition of premixed hydrogen, while in the secondary hydrogen injection, NO emission deteriorates due to higher temperatures, with the NO emission increasing by less than 10% compared with the ammonia flame. In the large eddy simulation analyses, the physical effects of the secondary hydrogen injection enhance the flame stability by increasing the resistance of the flame root to extinction. The heat release rate and the mass fractions of NH and H near the flame root are significantly increased by 2% secondary hydrogen injection. The enhancement of the ammonia decomposition process is stronger with secondary hydrogen injection than with fully premixed hydrogen addition. For 2% secondary hydrogen injection case, the local hydrogen injection to form a non-premixed combustion mode can provide much higher capability to increase the local heat release rate compared to the fully premixed mode.Novelty and significance statement: Introducing small amount of hydrogen to ammonia flame can effectively improving the flame stabilization in a swirl combustor. In this study, it is found that the flame stabilization limits are largely depended on the way in which hydrogen is introduced. Comparing the way of premixing hydrogen in the unburned mixture, a larger effect on blow-off limits extension was found when introducing a separate non-premixed hydrogen at the chamber inlet, which is mentioned as the secondary hydrogen injection. The lean blow-off limits can be extended from about 0.67 to 0.59 when only introducing 2% secondary hydrogen injection by heat value. The NO emission shows in the secondary hydrogen injection, NO emission deteriorates by less than 10% compared with the ammonia flame. A thickened flame model for non-premixed combustion was established and verified adequate with velocity field and flame structure. The mechanisms of enhancing flame stabilization by hydrogen introduction including physical and chemical effects for premixing and injection cases were revealed. Furthermore, the difference in the mechanisms of the two cases was emphasized.

STUDY ON EFFECT OF CHENOPODIUM QUINOA ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, CARCASS COMPOSITION AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF OREOCHROMIS NILOTICUS AND CYPRINUS CARPIO

Plant-based protein sources are suitable and profitable for aquaculture. Chenopodium quinoa is one of the pseudo-cereal plants and promising source of protein. A 60-day feeding experiment was designed to check the impacts of C. quinoa seed meal (CQSM) on growth indices, carcass composition and antioxidant activity of Oreochromis niloticus and Cyprinus carpio. Six test diets as I, II, III, IV, V and VI were formed by using CQSM as replacement of fishmeal (FM) at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50%, respectively. Triplicate tanks having 15 juveniles in each were used and juveniles were fed at a diet equivalent to 5% of their live wet weight. Digestibility was measured with the help of feces. In O. niloticus and C. carpio, maximum results for weight gain (13.65g), (14.12g), feed conversion ratio (FCR) (0.98), (0.92), weight gain% (168.80), (199.15), and specific growth rate (SGR) (1.63), (1.21), respectively, were seen at level-III (20%) replacement of FM with C. quinoa seed meal based diet. For nutrient digestibility, best results in O. niloticus and C. carpio were also noticed at 20% replacement of FM with CQSM as crude protein (CP) (68.59), (66.30), crude fat (CF) (65.82) (65.65) and gross energy (GE) (72.36), (65.60), respectively. The antioxidant activity was maximum: 6.56 for O. niloticus and 7.13 for C. carpio at 20% replacement of FM. The findings indicated that the substitution of FM with CQSM up to 20% has a positive effect on fish growth, carcass composition, antioxidant activity and nutrient digestibility. Keywords: Quinoa seed meal, Pseudocereal plants, Fishmeal, Growth performance, Antioxidant activity.

Evaluation of seed oil from Hura crepitans, Trichosanthes cucumerina and Thevetia nerifolia

The oil contents and fatty acid composition of three non-edible seed oils extracted using Soxhlet extraction with hexane as the solvent were presented. The physical and chemical properties of the oils were determined from which cetane number, biofuel potential, higher heating values, and antimicrobial activities were assessed. The dominant fatty acids were 49 % linoleic acid, 37 % pentadecenoic acid, and 38 % cis-10-heptadecenenoic acid for Hura crepitans (HC), Thevetia nerifolia (TN) and Trichosanthes cucumerina (TC), respectively. The seed oils were majorly unsaturated, with HC having the highest degree of unsaturation. Acid value, saponification value, iodine value, and free fatty acids were low compared to many reported values in literature. The cetane values were generally high because the oils have a reasonable amount of saturated fatty acid, with TN having the highest cetane number. The low iodine value and saponification value make the biofuel potential and higher heating value to be high with TN having the highest in both and thus the best seed oil for biofuel. However, TN and HC have no antimicrobial activity to Klebsiella pneumoniae (gram -ve), Staphylococcus aureus (gram +ve), Escherichia coli (gram -ve), Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Candida albican, Rhizopus stolonifer, Fusarium Solani, Aspergillus flavus and Candida tropicalis, while TC has broad spectrum of activity against all tested bacteria and fungi, except Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Novel nano-Y2O3/myristic acid nanocomposite PCM for cooling performances of electronic device with various fin designs

Effective thermal management is critical for enhancing the longevity and operational efficiency of electronic devices. This research introduces a novel cooling approach by incorporating Yttrium Oxide (Y2O3) nanoparticles into Phase Change Materials (PCMs) to improve thermal management in electronic devices. This study focuses on developing nanocomposite PCMs with Y2O3 nanoparticles embedded in a myristic acid (MA) matrix through melting and physical mixing. Nanoparticles were added to MA at various mass fractions: 0.5 %, 1 %, 1.5 %, and 2 %. Structural and morphological analyses were conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and field emission scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FE-SEM-EDX). Thermophysical properties were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal conductivity measurements with the KD2-Pro device. The inclusion of Y2O3 nanoparticles significantly enhanced the thermal conductivity of the PCM, reaching up to 0.229 W/m·K in the solid phase and 0.177 W/m·K in the liquid phase, representing improvements of 43.125 % and 18 %, respectively, over the base PCM. The highest average specific heat capacity (Cp) values in the solid and liquid phases were 1.98 J/g·°C and 2.69 J/g·°C, respectively, for the 2 % nanoparticle-additive sample. DSC analysis indicated slight shifts in phase transition temperatures and a noticeable reduction in latent heat values, from 215 J/g to 202 J/g for solidification and from 209 J/g to 201 J/g for melting. Computational analysis using ANSYS-FLUENT software validated the enhanced thermal dissipation properties of the nanocomposite PCM. Additionally, an examination of fin configurations within the PCM containers revealed that rectangular fins provided superior cooling efficacy compared to trapezoidal ones. This study demonstrates that the development of nano- Y2O3 enhanced MA nanocomposite PCMs presents a promising avenue for applications in electronic device thermal management and thermal energy storage.