Sustainable Industrial Development Research Articles

Life cycle assessment of polysilicon photovoltaic modules with green recycling based on the ReCiPe method

Polysilicon photovoltaic (PV) modules are about to enter the end-of-life (EOL) stage on a large scale, and making the exploration of effective recycling methods and comprehensive evaluations their environmental impact through life cycle assessment (LCA) are key issues that need to be urgently tackled. In this study, we innovatively propose a recycling method utilising the green organic solvents 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone (DMI) and deep eutectic solvent (DES). Additionally, an LCA of 1 m2 polysilicon PV modules - from industrial silicon production to waste recycling - was conducted using the ReCiPe 2016 method. The results indicate that the recycling process of polysilicon has the lowest environmental impact (1.02 Pt), whilst the production process has the highest environmental impact (4.22 Pt), leading to greater uncertainty. Sensitivity analyses showed that the sensitivity of the whole process was higher for electricity consumption and global warming (GW). Comparing the green organic solvent recycling to downcycling and landfill further demonstrates that environmental impact can be significantly reduced by employing this green organic solvent recycling approach, providing an important theoretical and practical pathway to promote the circular economy and sustainable development of the PV industry.

Sustainable scheduling of TFT-LCD cell production: A hybrid dispatching rule and two-phase genetic algorithm

TFT-LCD manufacturing process involves Array, Color Filter (CF), Cell, and Module. The Cell process is pivotal in the TFT-LCD production supply chain; it bridges the front-end (Array and CF) and back-end (Module), maintaining a balance of production capacities. Supply from the front-end is transmitted to the back-end, ensuring prompt responsiveness to customer demands. As awareness of environmental conservation grows, implementing sustainable development in the TFT-LCD manufacturing industry has become crucial. Specifically, reducing the machine setup frequency in TFT-LCD scheduling decreases energy consumption during machine operation and wait times and prolongs equipment lifespan by minimizing wear from repeated shutdowns. To tackle the intricate scheduling challenges within TFT-LCD production, this study proposes an intelligent, sustainable scheduling approach that employs a rolling dispatching and line balancing mechanism and a two-phase genetic algorithm (HDTPGA) for Cell scheduling. The goal is to minimize makespan considering product diversity, production constraints, work-in-process balancing, and machine setup frequency. This holistic approach promotes energy-efficient and sustainable manufacturing practices. According to the empirical study, the proposed HDTPGA reduces the makespan by approximately 10% compared to the baseline. Additionally, it reduces the average daily setup frequency of bottleneck stages (ODF and CCT) in the Cell process by approximately 68.25% and 66.25%, respectively. The main contribution of this paper is to propose an intelligent scheduling algorithm to optimize Cell production scheduling in practice. The HDTPGA achieves equilibrium between front-end and back-end production, utilizing an efficient line change mechanism to reduce energy consumption. The enhancement in efficiency not only restricts material waste but also reduces the environmental impact, enabling manufacturers to adopt green production practices and promoting a transition of the entire panel industry toward sustainability.

Population structure and selective signature of Kirghiz sheep by Illumina Ovine SNP50 BeadChip.

By assessing the genetic diversity and associated selective traits of Kirghiz sheep (KIR), we aim to uncover the mechanisms that contribute to sheep's adaptability to the Pamir Plateau environment. This study utilized Illumina Ovine SNP50 BeadChip data from KIR residing in the Pamir Plateau, Qira Black sheep (QBS) inhabiting the Taklamakan Desert, and commonly introduced breeds including Dorper sheep (DOR), Suffolk sheep (SUF), and Hu sheep (HU). The data was analyzed using principal component analysis, phylogenetic analysis, population admixture analysis, kinship matrix analysis, linkage disequilibrium analysis, and selective signature analysis. We employed four methods for selective signature analysis: fixation index (Fst), cross-population extended homozygosity (XP-EHH), integrated haplotype score (iHS), and nucleotide diversity (Pi). These methods aim to uncover the genetic mechanisms underlying the germplasm resources of Kirghiz sheep, enhance their production traits, and explore their adaptation to challenging environmental conditions. The test results unveiled potential selective signals associated with adaptive traits and growth characteristics in sheep under harsh environmental conditions, and annotated the corresponding genes accordingly. These genes encompass various functionalities such as adaptations associated with plateau, cold, and arid environment (ETAA1, UBE3D, TLE4, NXPH1, MAT2B, PPARGC1A, VEGFA, TBX15 and PLXNA4), wool traits (LMO3, TRPS1, EPHA5), body size traits (PLXNA2, EFNA5), reproductive traits (PPP3CA, PDHA2, NTRK2), and immunity (GATA3). Our study identified candidate genes associated with the production traits and adaptation to the harsh environment of the Pamir Plateau in Kirghiz sheep. These findings provide valuable resources for local sheep breeding programs. The objective of this study is to offer valuable insights for the sustainable development of the Kirghiz sheep industry.

Combining Thermotherapy with Shoot Tip Culture or Cryotherapy for Improved Virus Eradication from In Vitro Actinidia macrosperma.

In recent years, kiwifruit viral diseases have become increasingly prevalent in kiwifruit-producing regions of China, significantly impacting both the yield and quality of kiwifruit. This has emerged as a significant constraint on the healthy and sustainable development of the kiwifruit industry. The use of virus-free propagation materials has been proven the most effective strategy for controlling plant viral diseases. In the present study, shoot tip culture, shoot tip cryotherapy, and their combinations with thermotherapy were established to eradicate Actinidia virus A (AcVA), Actinidia virus B (AcVB), and Actinidia chlorotic ringspot-associated virus (AcCRaV) from Actinidia macrosperma. Additionally, the impact of shoot tip size on virus eradication was evaluated. Among the three confirmed viruses, regardless of the procedure, AcVB was the easiest to eradicate, followed by AcVA and AcCRaV. Combining thermotherapy with shoot tip culture or cryotherapy resulted in a higher virus-free frequency (up to 27.3 and 50%, respectively) than shoot tip culture or cryotherapy alone (0 to 20%). Notably, the combination of thermotherapy and 0.5- to 1-mm shoot tip cryotherapy was shown to be the most effective protocol for virus eradication from A. macrosperma, which produced 50% of regenerated shoots free from all the tested viruses. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on virus elimination from kiwifruit infected with multiple viruses based on conventional shoot tip culture and shoot tip cryotherapy.

Ivermectin-based products in the context of green pharmaceutical analysis

Abstract Background Ivermectin (IVE), a broad-spectrum antiparasitic, is used in human and animal health. Analytical methods for evaluating IVE in pharmaceutical products are found in the literature and in official compendiums. However, the vast majority of them do not have an eco-friendly approach. Objective and Method The aim of this review is to present an overview of existing analytical methods for evaluating IVE in pharmaceutical matrices in the context of Green Analytical Chemistry (GAC) and show possibilities for increasing their greenness. Results GAC is a current alternative to promote sustainable development in laboratories and chemical-pharmaceutical industries, therefore, through its principles, such as reducing the use of aggressive solvents, it is possible to make processes more ecological. However, the vast majority of analytical methods available in the literature and official compendiums do not present an eco-friendly approach. 70% of the methods are by HPLC. Among the various pharmaceutical matrices, the most evaluated are tablets (37%). Of all the solvents used in HPLC, UPLC, HPLC-MS/MS, UV and TLC methods, the combination of methanol and acetonitrile is the most chosen, accounting for more than 50% of occurrences. Conclusions Analytical methods for evaluating IVE-based products can be leveraged within the scope of GAC, bringing sustainable work opportunities to analytical development laboratories around the world. Highlights This review shows an overview of the analytical methods present in the literature and official compendiums to evaluate pharmaceutical IVE matrices, in the context of green analytical chemistry.

An eco-friendly strategy of cell wall stapling: In situ crosslinking of acrylic acid emulsion impregnated in thermally treated poplar wood

Traditional wood modification methods often result in the release of harmful substances and energy wastage. This study proposes an efficient and environmentally friendly modification strategy for fast-growing poplar wood. The approach involves polymerizing organic linear molecules within the cell wall to form stitches, thereby enhancing the dimensional stability and mechanical properties of wood and increasing its ability to withstand various environments. Poplar wood specimens were treated via a method that combines heat treatment with acrylic emulsion impregnation. The research findings indicated an improvement in the mechanical properties of poplar wood following the combined treatment. Moreover, poplar wood subjected to this treatment approach exhibited a 35.24 % lower water absorption rate after a 7-day water immersion test, and tangential and radial swelling rates of the wood were reduced by 29.66 % and 45.68 %, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy revealed excellent penetration of acrylic emulsion into wood cells; the emulsion infiltrated the wood and adhered to the cell walls, forming a crosslinked network structure. Analysis of the modification mechanism through X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that the successful infusion of acrylic emulsion compensated for the lower mechanical properties of thermally treated wood, thus improving the utilization value of poplar. The acrylic emulsion is an environmentally friendly and harmless modifier, making the modified wood suitable for various applications, including indoor furniture, logistics, and outdoor facilities. This modification strategy enables efficient resource utilization and provides valuable insights for the sustainable development of the timber industry.

Law on environmental protection in tourist villages in the context of sustainable development of the tourism industry: A qualitative case study in Vietnam

After the Covid-19 pandemic, Vietnam's tourism industry welcomed 1.37 million international visitors. For the whole year 2023, the total number of international visitors will reach 12.6 million, nearly 3.5 times higher than in 2022, exceeding 57% of the original target (8 million) and reaching the adjusted target (12 -13 million views). In Vietnam, which a country which is undergoing economic development, this is a good sign for many workers and businesses, but it can create great pressure on environmental protection in many localities with tourist destinations. For example, as a destination attracting foreign tourists in Hoi A City, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, the average amount of waste per day is nearly 100 tons; of which single-use plastic waste accounts for 15 - 23% (Thu Huong 2022). In order to prevent and minimize environmental pollution in tourist villages, the Goverment of Vietnam has issued many different documents such as: Decree No. 08/2022/ND-CP orienting no circulation after 2025 and using single-use plastic products and non-biodegradable plastic packaging in tourist areas and destinations; Decision No. 1316/QD-TTg Project to strengthen plastic waste management in Vietnam also points out that by 2025, 100% of tourist resorts and accommodation establishments will not use single-use plastic products and plastic bags which are so hard to decompose. In addition, the Government has also issued a set of criteria guiding environmental protection for tourism establishments and services in tourist areas and destinations, with instructions on minimizing plastic waste...However, around the issue of environmental protection in tourist villages in Vietnam, there are still problems that need to be solved. Through qualitative analysis method, the authors will analyze and propose solutions to remove regulations related to environmental protection mechanisms in tourist villages, aiming at sustainable development of the tourism industry towards a circular economy in the current period.

Electrochemical Relithiation in Spent LiFePO4 Slurry for Regeneration of Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode.

Recycling spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in a green and economical way is vital for maintaining the sustainability of the LIB industry. However, given the low content of high-value components in olivine-type lithium iron phosphate (LFP), traditional metallurgical processes are economically unfeasible for recycling due to high chemical/energy consumption and labor-intensive procedures. This study proposes a facile electrochemistry strategy to directly regenerate the spent LFP material by an electrically driven lithiation process as a spent LFP slurry (200 g/L) rather than as electrodes. Minimal energy and chemical consumption are achieved by enabling the healing of spent LFP without destroying the original olivine-type crystal structure. The proposed method utilizes mild healing conditions (25 °C for 2 h) and LiCl solution as the only reagent in the regeneration process, significantly lowering the expenses associated with producing cathode electrodes. The electrochemical performance of the regenerated LFP have been dramatically recovered after regeneration, exhibiting a capacity of 151.5 mA h g-1 at 0.1 C and 96.6% capacity retention over 400 cycles at 1 C. This approach demonstrates a high processing capability and offers considerable economic and environmental benefits, making it an eco-friendly option and supporting the sustainable development of the LFP industry.

Evolutionary Game Analysis of Collaborative Prefabricated Buildings Development Behavior in China under Carbon Emissions Trading Schemes

Prefabricated buildings (PBs) are considered a green way to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions in the construction industry due to their environmental and social benefits. However, PBs have obstacles such as high construction costs, immature technology, and insufficient policy incentives, and developers’ willingness to develop them needs to be higher. Therefore, it is necessary to explore how to motivate more developers to develop PBs. In this paper, we first discuss the impact of the carbon emissions trading scheme (ETS) on the construction industry and then consider the heterogeneity of construction developers, introduce a collaborative mechanism to establish a three-party evolutionary game model between the government and the heterogeneous developers, and explore the evolution of the three-party dynamic strategies through numerical simulation. The results show that developers’ initial development probability affects the system’s evolutionary trend, and the developer who obtains more low-carbon benefits plays a dominant role. Further analyses show that critical factors such as market profitability, synergistic benefits, and carbon tax price positively influence the development of PBs, and the influence of synergistic cooperation mechanisms should be especially emphasized. This study provides practical insights into the sustainable development of the construction industry and the government’s development of a suitable carbon portfolio policy for it. Including the construction industry in the ETS is recommended when carbon prices reach 110 RMB/t. At this point, the government can remove the subsidy for PBs, but the behaviors of the developers who participate in the ETS still need to be supervised.

Virus-Free Sweet Potato Industry: Development Status and Production Suggestions

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is an important food, feed, and industrial raw material and new energy crop. Its rich nutritional value and health effects are increasingly being recognized by consumers, and the demand is increasing. However, due to the continuous cultivation of sweet potato over many years, the degeneration of seedlings and the accumulation of viral diseases are important factors affecting the yield and quality of sweet potatoes. This article provides an overview and analysis of the types and hazards of sweet potato virus diseases, the advantages of virus-free sweet potatoes, the scale of virus-free sweet potato cultivation, sweet potato stem tip virus-free production technology, its development status, and the existing problems. Combined with the development of the sweet potato industry across China, relevant development suggestions are proposed to provide a reference for promoting the healthy, stable, sustainable, high-quality, and efficient development of the sweet potato industry.

Enhancing the emulsification and demulsification efficiency of switchable surfactants through molecular dynamics simulation: The roles of surfactant concentration, salinity, and structure

This study aims to investigate the impacts of a surfactant structure, surfactant concentration, and salt content on switchable emulsification processes through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Specifically, we focus on assessing the properties and behaviors of water/tetradecane systems containing CO2-switchable acetamidine surfactant N’-dodecyl-N, N-dimethylacetamidine (C12DMAA) and C18 naphthalene sulfonate (C18PS), both of which are relevant to enhanced oil recovery processes. Utilizing MD simulations, we comprehensively explore the influence of the molecular composition of switchable surfactants, salinity, and surfactant concentration on the reversible processes of emulsification and demulsification in a complex oil/water/C18PS/C12DMAA system. This system can be activated through the injection of CO2 or N2 gas. Various analyses, including molecule mobility, hydration behavior, void volume analysis, a solvent accessible surface area (SASA), a diffusion coefficient, and relative concentration profiles, are employed to gain insights into the emulsification and demulsification processes. Our study reveals that lower surfactant concentrations result in the formation of partial emulsions, while the presence of salt disrupts surfactant hydration and weakens emulsification properties. Additionally, we observe that the impact of hydrogen bonding interactions is less pronounced at lower surfactant concentrations. Furthermore, the MD simulations provided insights into the interplay of a surfactant monomer number and alkyl phenyl introduction with a solvent-accessible surface area (SASA) and a void volume. Understanding these factors is crucial for designing and optimizing emulsion systems, particularly in oil recovery processes. The findings advance our understanding of CO2/N2-switchable surfactants, offering insights into their potential for sustainable development in the petroleum industry. This research contributes to the optimization of switchable surfactants, providing a foundation for improved emulsification processes in enhanced oil recovery applications.

Environmental and social performance relationships to firm efficiency: Evidence from the semiconductor industry

Escalating global demand for high-performance computing and smart devices has driven rapid expansion in the semiconductor industry. This expansion raises environmental and societal sustainability concerns among stakeholders. Although there is a growing commitment to environmental and social responsibilities by semiconductor companies, the impact of these responsibilities and initiatives on corporate performance remains unclear—especially with respect to general firm operational efficiency. Thus, this study employs a sample of 129 listed Chinese semiconductor companies and a slack-based data envelopment analysis (SBM-DEA) methodology to examine the relationship between corporate environmental and social performance and firm efficiency. We also investigate how supply chain position—an important industrial characteristic—moderates these relationships. The findings reveal that: (1) China's semiconductor industry efficiency is relatively low, particularly in the chip design sub-sector; (2) there is a positive relationship between corporate environmental performance and firm efficiency; and (3) supply chain position moderates the relationship between both corporate environmental and social performance and firm efficiency. These findings offer important implications for managers and researchers aiming to foster greater semiconductor industry sustainable development.

Ex-ante life cycle evaluation of spent lithium-ion battery recovery: Modeling of complex environmental and economic impacts

The recycling of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is essential for promoting the closed-loop sustainable development of the LIB industry. However, progress in LIB recycling technologies is slow. There are significant gaps between academic research and industrial application, which hinder the industrialization of new technologies and the improvement of existing ones. Here we show a universal model for spent LIB-lithium recycling (SliRec) to evaluate the applicability and upgrading potential across various recycling technologies. Instead of modeling the entire recycling process, we focus on partial processes to enable a comparative analysis of environmental and economic impacts. We find a strong correlation between lithium concentration (LC) and the advancement of recycling technologies, where higher LC is associated with a reduced carbon footprint and increased economic benefits. The implementation of high-level recycling technology can result in an 85.91% reduction in carbon footprint and a 5.97-fold increase in economic returns. Additionally, we explore the effects of technological interventions through scenario analysis, demonstrating that while low-level recycling technology faces more substantial challenges in upgrading, it holds greater potential for reducing carbon emissions (−2.38 kg CO2-eq mol−1) and enhancing economic benefits (CNY 11.04 mol−1). Our findings emphasize the significance of process modeling in evaluating the quality of spent LIB recycling technologies, and can provide comparative information for the application of emerging technologies or the upgrade of existing ones.

Young women’s sustainable fashion consumption in China: A qualitative study using the theory of planned behavior

As the second most polluting industry in the world, the fashion industry has a critical impact on the environment. The development of sustainable fashion is conducive to reducing the environmental pollution caused by the fashion industry. China has the largest consumer market in the world, and the Chinese government and major companies have made considerable contributions to the sustainable development of the fashion industry. However, research regarding young women’s attitudes towards this topic remains under-explored. This study interviewed 30 young women of different ages from different places in China. Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), a semi-structured interview was used as a data collection method, and thematic analysis was adopted for data analysis. This paper discusses young Chinese female consumers’ attitudes towards sustainable fashion and analyzes the motivating factors and hindrance factors affecting the consumption intentions of young Chinese female consumers towards sustainable fashion. The research found that young Chinese female consumers generally hold a positive and supportive attitude towards sustainable fashion. Consumers’ perceptions of sustainable fashion, their self-perceptions, and their level of green awareness all significantly impact their attitudes and purchase intentions toward sustainable fashion. Consumers feel low social pressure, and Chinese society demonstrates a high level of acceptance and praise for sustainable concepts. However, the lack of purchasing channels and choices for sustainable fashion in China and the high cost of sustainable fashion products discourage consumers from making purchases. This study will be beneficial as a reference when the Chinese government makes sustainable policies to guide consumers toward sustainable fashion consumption. This study helps enterprises select target markets in China and formulate sustainable fashion marketing strategies and targeted advertising. This study contributes to increasing consumer awareness of sustainable fashion, as well as providing reference and reflective value when consumers purchase sustainable fashion products. Finally, this study will help promote the development process of sustainable fashion in Chinese society, make contributions to reducing the waste of social resources, promoting the recycling of resources, and improving social conditions, and put forward specific solutions and feasible suggestions for the development of sustainable fashion in Chinese society.

Two targets, one strike: Efficient recovery of lithium and simultaneous removal of impurities from spent LFP batteries via ferric ions assisted air oxidation method

Recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has become urgently imperative to address global environmental issues and achieve sustainable development of new energy industries. Prioritizing lithium and aluminum leaching is an ideal path for recovering lithium efficiently from spent LFP and preparing high-purity battery-grade FePO4. Here, a novel ferric ions-assisted air oxidation method was proposed for the simultaneous leaching of Li and Al. Fe3+ was ingeniously introduced playing two roles: acting as a catalyst for air oxidation and leaching aluminum. 98.8% Li and 95.2% Al are selectively leached under optimal conditions. The thermodynamic analysis indicated that the displacement reaction between Al and Fe3+ dominates the leaching of Al. Furthermore, Cl− can promote the leaching of Al by forming a stable complex [AlCl4]− with Al3+. The reaction course and mechanism were clarified by various characterizations, which indicate that the successful selective leaching of lithium does not destroy the original structure of LFP and the presence of carbon coatings. A cycling process was proposed for enriching the Li+ concentration and reusing Fe3+, and then Li2CO3 with a purity of 99wt.% was successfully prepared. This method demonstrates excellent economic efficiency and environmental friendliness, thus providing a sustainable and low-carbon recycling route for the spent LFP industry.

Global feature capture and spatially-aware neural networks for predicting CO2-flooding performance in heterogeneous low-permeable reservoirs

CO2-flooding can enhance crude oil recovery rates by reducing the viscosity of crude oil, improving the mobility ratio between crude oil and water, and leveraging the swelling effects of crude oil components. Furthermore, it facilitates the sequestration of greenhouse gases, leading to the realization of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), which holds significant strategic importance for mitigating climate change, safeguarding ecological environments, and achieving sustainable development. Consequently, predicting CO2-flooding performance in heterogeneous low-permeability reservoirs holds crucial significance in sustainable energy production. However, the drawbacks of numerical simulation techniques, such as extensive computational resource consumption and prolonged simulation durations, have prompted extensive research into the utilization of artificial intelligence technologies. Prevalent approaches often treat the problem as a time series issue, which proves inadequate for reservoirs lacking historical production data. Furthermore, this methodology is unable to fully exploit the complex implicit relationships between various factors and the prediction target. Our study proposes a novel method for predicting the performance, which stands apart from previous approaches by not treating the problem as a time series issue, eliminating the need for historical production data for each prediction, and can predict various production variables such as gas production, oil production, water production, etc. in a universal manner. We combine enhanced MultiScale Non-local Neural Networks with ConvNet to handle sparse well network matrices with injection-production parameters. Additionally, we employ MultiScale convolutional networks with spatial attention mechanism to address formation permeability fields with spatial distribution features. Experimental results demonstrate the superiority of our approach in accuracy, achieving a prediction accuracy of over 97%. This research provides an innovative and flexible method, making significant contributions to the intelligentization and sustainable development of the petroleum industry, aligned with global efforts to both reduce carbon emissions and neutralize the existing ones.

Reliability and validity assessment of instrument to measure sustainability practices at shipping ports in India

Sustainability has emerged as one of the most critical factors influencing the competitiveness of maritime shipping ports. This emergence has led to a surge in research publications on port sustainability-related topics. However, despite the increasing awareness and adoption of sustainability practices, documented literature on empirical studies with survey and interview data is very limited. Moreover, the existence of validated instruments to objectively assess sustainability through sustainability practices for shipping ports in India needs to be traced. This study contributes by validating an instrument to evaluate objectively sustainability practices in shipping ports by adopting a four-stage process, starting with item identification based on an extensive literature review, instrument evaluation by subject matter experts, assessing of the instrument with suitable content validation indices, and finally evaluating the validity and reliability of the hypothesized theoretical model. For content validation, Content Validity Index, Cohens Kappa coefficient, and Lawshe’s Content Validity Ratio were computed with the assessment by a subject matter expert panel comprising six members from the port industry as well as academicians cum researchers in the field of shipping ports. The content-validated instrument was administered to 200 samples comprising officer category port employees. The measurement model was evaluated and validated using the Confirmatory Factor Analysis to assess the extent to which the measured variables represent the theoretical construct of the study and ascertain the factor structure. The empirically validated instrument met the required guidelines of model fit, reliability, and construct validity measures and was found to be a confirmed model for measuring sustainability practices in shipping ports. Structural Equation Modeling methodology was adopted to explain the variance and the path relationship between the higher-order and lower-order constructs of sustainability. The results indicate that the economic dimensions are the major contributors to the overall sustainability of the port as they drive investments in environmental and social dimensions, leading to overall sustainable development. The study’s findings will be helpful for researchers, academicians, policymakers, and industry practitioners working towards sustainability practices that contribute to sustainable growth and development in the shipping industry.

Dynamic Response and Rock Damage of Different Shapes of Cavities under Blasting Loads

In order to investigate the dynamic response and rock mass damage characteristics of cavities with different shapes under blasting loads, this paper, through a combination of model tests and numerical simulations, studies the stress distribution, strain, failure modes, and blasting fragment size distribution of cavities with different shapes subjected to blasting loads. The results show that under the action of blasting loads, the presence of cavities with different shapes significantly affects the blasting effects and rock mass damage. Spherical cavities exhibit excellent blast resistance, whereas rectangular and triangular cavities are prone to stress concentration at their tips, which in turn promotes rock mass damage and failure. Subsequent analysis of the blasting fragment sizes reveals that rectangular and triangular cavities yield more favorable blasting results than spherical cavities. The research findings provide important theoretical foundations and practical guidance for the design and construction of underground engineering blasting, contributing to enhancing engineering safety and promoting the sustainable development of the underground engineering industry.

Study on instrumental coupler for heavy haul train

As a crucial load-bearing component, coupler’s safety is pivotal for sustainable railway industry development and is extensively scrutinized due to its complex loading environment. However, current research predominantly concentrates on the longitudinal dynamic behavior of couplers, neglecting factors such as nodding and shaking during traversals along curves and ramps. This study proposes an innovative method aimed at identifying multiple loads on couplers, which includes longitudinal tension and compression, lateral shaking, and vertical nodding forces. A theoretical load identification method based on strain sum and difference on coupler shank faces under various loading scenarios is established by finite element analysis. To facilitate accurate measurement, Wheatstone bridges are employed for three-dimensional force measurement, facilitating strain calculation and temperature compensation. The validity of the proposed approach is confirmed through comprehensive validation, encompassing finite element simulation, laboratory experimentation, and vehicle tests. Results demonstrate the robustness of the method, with maximum load deviations of 2.32% longitudinally, 22.52% horizontally, and 19.86% vertically observed during laboratory tests. Results indicate the proposed method’s accuracy and efficiency in heavy haul train coupler load assessment.

Vapor-Liquid Equilibrium of System Comprising Green Solvents: A Holistic Review

Abstract: The design and operation of distillation columns is based on vapor-liquid equilibrium data, which is a necessity for the chemical industry. In recent years, chemical industry has embraced green chemistry and sustainable development. Furthermore, green solvents are more environmentfriendly and cleaner than conventional solvents and thus offer a good alternative. Very limited work has been reported in the literature that focuses on the generation of isobaric/isothermal vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE) data of systems comprising green solvents. In this paper, reported VLE data are explored for three emerging green solvents, such as cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME), γ- valerolactone (GVL), and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MeTHF). Emerging green solvents have favorable environmental, health, and safety characteristics, making them attractive alternatives for a wide range of applications. The study focuses on two critical separations; the extraction of formic acid from Power-to-X chemical processes and purification of acetic acid from chemical synthesis or fermentation processes. Both processes are integral parts of the chemical industry's sustainable development. To facilitate these separations, accurate VLE data for these green solvents with acetic acid/formic acid systems are essential. The paper reviews literature related to VLE data for systems involving these green solvents. It provides insights into the experimental conditions, equipment, analysis methods, thermodynamic models, and error-minimizing functions used in the previous studies. The researchers can refer to this information as a useful reference prior to the VLE experimentation and modeling of systems comprising these three green solvents. Moreover, the paper presents an overview of recent research on green solvents and their applications, illustrating their versatility and potential for various industrial processes. Research efforts are needed to generate VLE data for green solvent systems and support the chemical industry in transitions towards more sustainable practices.